Plumbing damage is always a pain to deal with, but luckily, there are some steps you can take to help prevent the inconvenience and cost of plumbing issues around your home. Here are some simple tips to help you maintain a healthy plumbing system.
Regular Inspections
Conduct routine inspections of your plumbing system. Look at all the exposed pipes in your home and check for leaks, hairline cracks, rust, discolouration, and signs of corrosion. Check your water heater and boiler or furnace as well, and look for anything unusual. If you catch a minor issue like rust or corrosion, you can get it fixed and keep it from becoming a bigger problem.
Check for Leaks
Regularly inspect faucets, shower heads, and pipes for leaks. Even a small leak can lead to significant water damage over time, posing a threat to the structural integrity of your home. By proactively identifying and repairing leaks, you can prevent the gradual accumulation of water-related issues, ultimately safeguarding your home from significant (not to mention expensive) damage. Regular leak checks help maintain the functionality of plumbing fixtures and increase the longevity of the entire water distribution system.
Monitor Water Pressure
If you don’t already have one, install a pressure regulator to control water pressure. High water pressure can strain pipes and fixtures, leading to leaks and bursts. Make sure that you monitor your water pressure and don’t ignore it if something seems off.
Take Care of Your Drains
Be mindful of what goes down your shower drains and sink drains. Avoid putting grease, hair, or food scraps into sinks and toilets. Use drain strainers in showers and kitchen sinks to catch debris. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage pipes. Instead, use a plunger to remove clogs. For more information, see our tips to prevent clogged drains.
Know the Location of Shut-Off Valves
Familiarize yourself with the location of shut-off valves for water supply throughout your home. This knowledge is crucial in case of emergencies. Many homeowners don’t know where their water shut-off valves are located until it’s too late. If you suddenly have a pipe burst or another plumbing emergency, it’s important to turn off the water as soon as possible to reduce the amount of water damage. Make sure you know where your home’s main water shut-off is located and how to use it — this could save you a ton of time and damage in the event of an emergency.
Keep Trees and Vegetation Well-Maintained
Trees and shrubs add beauty to your yard, but they can wreak havoc on your plumbing system if not properly maintained. Tree roots naturally seek out water sources, and your underground pipes are prime targets. Over time, these roots can infiltrate your plumbing, leading to blockages and potentially expensive repairs.
Regularly trimming back trees and vegetation near your home is a crucial step in your plumbing preventative maintenance plan. Also, consider consulting with an arborist to determine which types of plants and trees are best suited for planting near your home’s plumbing system. Not only does this help prevent root intrusion, but it also guarantees that your garden remains lush and beautiful without compromising your plumbing.
Regularly Monitor Your Water Bill
An unusually high water bill is often the first sign of a hidden plumbing issue. It could indicate a leak in your plumbing system, which might be occurring out of sight, such as in your walls or underground. Neglecting these warning signs can give rise to more severe damage over time, such as mold growth and structural issues.
One of the easiest plumbing safety tips is to check your water bill on a regular basis. Make it a habit to review your bill each month. Making this simple task a part of your plumbing maintenance checklist can help you catch problems early and save money on repairs. If you notice a sudden spike that doesn’t correlate with your household’s water usage, it’s time to contact a professional plumber for assistance. Attempting plumbing repairs without the proper tools or expertise can cause more issues in the long run.
At JJ&A Mechanical, you can trust our plumbers to complete the job safely. We handle hazardous materials with care and wear proper protective gear at every job site. We’ll perform a plumbing camera inspection to identify any hidden leaks or issues within your pipes.
Perform Routine Checks on Your Appliances
The plumbing systems in our homes are more than just pipes; they contain various appliances like water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines. Regularly checking these appliances for any signs of wear and tear can prevent unexpected breakdowns and water damage.
Pay particular attention to your water heater, as it plays a crucial role in your home’s daily comfort. Look for signs of leaks, rust, or unusual noises. Scheduling regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your water heater and make sure it operates efficiently. Don’t forget to check the hoses and connections on your washing machine and dishwasher as well. A small leak can quickly turn into a major issue if not addressed promptly.
Invest in Water Detection Devices
Water detection devices, also known as leak detectors, are invaluable tools for maintaining plumbing safety in your home. These devices alert you to the presence of water in areas where it shouldn’t be, such as basements, laundry rooms, or near appliances. Early detection can help you address leaks before they cause significant damage.
Installing water detection devices is a key component of any plumbing maintenance checklist. These devices are relatively inexpensive and can be placed near water heaters, sump pumps, and other vulnerable areas. Some advanced models can even be connected to your smartphone, providing real-time alerts no matter where you are. There are many plumbing safety tips to consider, but this one, in particular, can give you peace of mind and protect your home from potential water damage.
Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
While gutters and downspouts are often associated with roofing maintenance, they also play a critical role in your plumbing system. When gutters are clogged with leaves and debris, they can overflow, leading to water pooling around your home’s foundation. This excess water can seep into your basement or crawl spaces, causing a range of plumbing issues, including mold growth and structural damage.
Regularly cleaning your gutters and downspouts is an essential part of your plumbing preventative maintenance plan. Aim to clean them at least twice a year, in the spring and fall. If you live in an area with heavy foliage, you might need to do this more frequently.
Ultimately, one of the best plumbing safety tips is to clean your gutters and downspouts. Also, consider installing gutter guards to curtail the amount of debris that enters your gutters.
Need a Plumber in Vancouver? Contact Us Today!
There are many plumbing safety tips that you can use to keep your drains, plumbing system, and septic system in top condition. For instance, when you maintain your garbage disposal, clean your kitchen sink drain regularly, and keep your eye on potential problems, you can continue to enjoy a worry-free home. However, despite your best efforts at home plumbing maintenance, sometimes professional help is necessary. JJ&A Mechanical is here to assist with all plumbing work, from routine maintenance to emergency repairs. Our experienced plumbers are equipped with the latest tools and have the necessary health and safety training to tackle any plumbing issue.
Don’t wait for a small problem to turn into a big headache. Whether you need a thorough plumbing camera inspection to locate hidden leaks or a tankless water heater service to keep your hot water flowing, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to schedule an appointment in Vancouver, BC, and experience the importance of plumbing maintenance firsthand!