5 Tips to Help Maintain Your Plumbing
With so many of us staying home as much as possible, our plumbing systems are being put to the test. Here are a few tips to keep your plumbing maintained. These small steps can help you avoid any future downtime and prevent costly repairs.
What can I flush down the toilet?
Toilet paper. End of list.After doing your business, the only product that won’t harm your plumbing is good old-fashioned toilet paper. The market is filled with misleading products that claim to be safe to flush, but these items are the main causes of drain blockages. Wipes, even so-called “flushable” wipes, quickly block up piping and require professional services.
Even too much toilet paper can cause problems. There are inexpensive and easy to install bidet attachments for your toilet that make clean-up easy and allow you to save that precious toilet tissue. They also provide you with that same out-of-the-shower clean feeling every time you go!
How can I be proactive to avoid issues with my plumbing?
1) Exercise Your Valves
Valves (the little knobs situated where your pipes meet the wall) require regular maintenance to prevent degradation and leaks. If you exercise your valves once a year by simply turning them off and on, they will last 10x longer. This practice will also give you the peace of mind of knowing that the valve will function in the case of a plumbing emergency. Be sure to check the condition of the supply hoses connected to the valves while you’re at it.
2) Flush Your Water heater
Water heaters are known for building up sediment and rust at the bottom over time. To prevent this from becoming a problem, flush out your heater once a year. To do so, simply attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and let the water drain for several minutes. This will add year to the life of your heater, and will allow it to run more smoothly.
3) Flush Your Drains
While we are flushing, let’s upgrade all the drains in the house. To flush a sink pipe, fill the sinks with hot water (the hotter the better). Once full, let it drain all at once. This will fill the pipe and provide it with a strong current of water, flushing out food debris and grease that cause build-up, which can lead to blockages.
What else should I know about?
1. Drain Treatment
There are environmentally friendly drain treatment solutions available. These solutions are non-corrosive emulsifiers that help break down tough grease, debris and other build-ups that lead to blockage.
2. Garbage Disposal
The garbage disposal often gets overlooked. But with a little trick, you can keep the blades sharp, remove grease build up and prevent the presence of bad odors. Simply put a lemon or lime inside the disposal, turn the faucet on, and let the disposal do the work. The acidity from the fruit will eat away any grease and leave you with a fresh natural citrus scent.
3. The Building Control Valve
Most importantly, everyone in the home should know where the building control valve is. This valve shuts down the water supply to the house. In an emergency, the control valve should be closed to prevent any flooding or water damage. Make sure to find it before you need it. It can usually be found on the outside of your home.
For more information or if you have any questions , check out our website www.watermenplumbing.com, You can also shoot us an email –Info@watermenplumbing.com
Office: 855 398 3656 Cell: 954 997 5797
Watermen Plumbing Inc.
“When your plumbing needs care, trust Watermen to be there”
Serving Broward and Dade county.
Proud members of the Greater Hollywood Chamber of commerce
