If you have ever had a plumbing issue before, then you know how inconvenient it can be. Everything in your home, especially your kitchen and bathroom, can be at a standstill if there is a major plumbing issue. This is why it is essential to take care of your home’s plumbing. This article explores some plumbing tips homeowners need to know to both maintain their home’s plumbing and avoid major plumbing issues. 

Plumbing tips homeowners should know

Your home’s plumbing will be in good shape and you will be able to keep plumbing issues at bay if you have some tips to guide you. Here are some helpful tips for every homeowner:

Use strainers always

The use of strainers for your sinks cannot be overemphasized. Even if you are careful, some food particles and items can escape into the drain. Over time, this can cause drain blockage. Strainers are essential for both the kitchen and the bathroom. Things like hair and other kinds of dirt should not go into your drain always. 

Maintain your strainers

It is one thing to use strainers in your sinks always, it is another to maintain them. Ensure that you always clean your strainers to avoid accumulating dirt in them. 

Clean your drains with natural cleaners

Using items like vinegar and baking soda or mild soap to clean your drain is a better option than using harmful chemicals. The chemicals in some chemical-based drain cleaners can damage the pipes over time. Although some may promise fast cleaning, they can threaten the integrity of your pipe and impact their longevity. Also, these chemicals can be harmful to your health.

Avoid flushing things that can block your plumbing

Not everything is flushable. Even some things that are deemed flushable may clog your drain. Things like sanitary pads, diapers, etc. are not safe for your plumbing. It is also essential to avoid flushing mop water through your toilet. If there is much accumulation of sand and dirt in your mop water, it is better to dispose of it in an open space than flushing it through your toilet because it can block your plumbing.

Avoid pouring oil or grease down the drain

One major plumbing issue homeowners experience is clogged drains. Oil or grease can congeal and block the drain. Also, elements like grease and oil can attract dirt and build up over time, causing drain blockage. 

Inspect your plumbing routinely 

Having a routine for inspecting your plumbing is a pro tip that most homeowners do not know. Look out for dirt, cracks, leaks, and other situations that can damage the pipes. Cleaning and flushing the pipes regularly is essential. If there is leakage or cracks, it is advisable to fix them on time before they expand into larger damages that will necessitate more expensive repairs. Its advisable to contact a reliable plumber near you to handle any plumbing issues you discovered during your inspection

Know the kind of water in your environment

An important aspect of plumbing maintenance that is often ignored is the kind of water that flows through your pipes. If the water in your area is hard, it can impact your plumbing. But knowing what it is will inform you to be proactive and protect your plumbing. For instance, hard water can cause damage to your water heaters, pipes, washers, and so on. Regular cleaning and water treatment will be appropriate in this situation. And you can only make the right move if you know you have hard water.

Use water filters

Water filters are essential as it helps prevent dirt and impurities that can harm your plumbing system as well as your health. If the water in your area is impure or hard, a water filter is the right way to go. Aside from keeping your plumbing working well and lasting long, it saves you the cost of repairs and helps you save your money.

Always have the right plumbing supplies

You can have a plumbing kit at home for emergency situations. If you happen to have a clogged pipe for instance, a plunger will be handy. If you are dealing with your sink, a cup plunger will save the situation. If the clog is in your bathroom drain, a flange plunger will be the perfect tool at the moment. You should have other plumbing supplies like pliers, bucket, hand auger, and different types of wrenches. 

Know the water system in your home

Knowing the water system can save you in plumbing emergencies. For instance, knowing where your water shut-off valve is located is essential. You might need to turn it off in an emergency. The main shut-off valve might be close to the main water line or water meter. 

Replace damaged things on time

Instead of fixing a plumbing material, buying a new one might be the right thing to do. If your pipes are beyond repair, repairing them and reusing them can be putting your entire house in danger. Sometimes, plumbing issues can be avoided if there is a total replacement of things that cannot be reused. If you are considering the cost of replacement, then you should know that dealing with the damage yourself might be more expensive. 

Know when you cannot solve it the DIY way

Although there are some plumbing issues that you can handle on your own, you should know when the DIY way is not the best way. Sometimes, it is essential to invite a professional plumber to handle some situations. For insurance, if you cannot go about cleaning your pipe without damaging anything, it is advisable to invite professionals for expert plumbing maintenance. Some leakages are better fixed by professionals as well. 

Conclusion

The home’s plumbing is not as complicated as some people might think. Sometimes, the lack of an essential plumbing tip is the root of some plumbing issues. Keeping your strainers clean and using them always, avoiding flushing things that can block your pipes, and maintaining routine check-ups can save your plumbing. Repairing your damaged plumbing on time is also helpful for curtailing the situation. It is also advisable to know when you have to invite a professional to handle the plumbing issue.