Taking proactive steps toward maintaining your plumbing can save you from unexpected issues and costly repairs. With the new year right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to make some plumbing resolutions that will help keep your home’s water systems running smoothly.
As you make your resolutions for the new year, here are ten plumbing tips for homeowners worth adding to your list for a stress-free 2024.
1. Keep an Eye on Water Pressure and Water Quality
Water pressure is a silent indicator of your plumbing system’s health. Low pressure might signify a hidden leak, while high pressure can damage your pipes over time. If you haven’t yet, it’s best to invest in a pressure gauge sooner than later to check and maintain optimal levels regularly.
Additionally, pay attention to water quality. Rust-colored water or a strange odor could signal issues that need immediate attention.
2. Protect Your Pipes
A little prevention goes a long way in maintaining your plumbing system. With this, insulate exposed pipes during colder months to prevent freezing and potential bursting. This simple step can ensure plumbing safety and save you from the headache of dealing with water damage and costly repairs.
3. Flush Responsibly
Your toilet’s efficiency relies heavily on responsible use. Improper flushing habits can lead to clogs, backups, and costly repairs.
With this, non-biodegradable items such as wipes, cotton balls, and dental floss should be disposed of in the trash. These materials can accumulate in the pipes, forming stubborn clogs that require professional intervention.
4. Take Better Care of Your Drains
Hair, soap, dirt and debris can accumulate in drains over time, leading to slow drainage or clogs. Investing in drain screens is a practical way to catch hair and other particles before they cause issues. It also helps to flush drains with hot water regularly and invest in drain cleaning services to keep your drains functioning effectively.
5. Use Your Disposal Properly
The garbage disposal is a handy kitchen appliance that helps break down food waste, preventing it from clogging your drains. However, improper use can lead to issues such as clogs, foul odors, and damage to the appliance itself.
This new year, resolve to be mindful of what you put into your garbage disposal. Avoid disposing of hard or fibrous materials like bones, fruit pits, and coffee grounds, as these can damage the disposal blades. Grease can also solidify and build up in the pipes, so it’s best to dispose of it in a separate container and throw it in the trash.
6. Clean and Maintain Your Water Heater
Sediment buildup is a common issue in water heaters, especially in areas with hard water. Unfortunately, it can reduce heating efficiency and potentially cause damage. Scheduling an annual flushing of your water heater prevents sediment buildup and keeps your water heating equipment operating at peak performance.
It also helps to schedule professional inspections regularly. A licensed plumber can assess the overall condition of your unit, identify potential issues, and provide expert water heater solutions.
7. Check and Repair Leaks Immediately
Leaky faucets and pipes seem minor, but they can lead to significant water waste and damage over time. Address leaks promptly to conserve water and prevent potential structural damage to your home.
8. Schedule Annual Inspections and Routine Maintenance
Prevention is vital to a new year free of plumbing mishaps. Schedule annual inspections with a professional plumber in Overland Park to catch potential issues before they become emergencies. Routine maintenance, on the other hand, can extend the life of your plumbing system and save you from unexpected headaches.
9.Prepare for the Seasons
Each season brings its own challenges for your plumbing system. Before winter sets in, insulate pipes and ensure your heating system is in good condition to stay warm, dry, and comfortable through the season. Check for leaks in outdoor hoses and sprinkler systems in warmer months to avoid water wastage and unnecessarily high water bills.
10. Know the Right Plumbers To Call In Case of Emergency
Despite all precautions, emergencies such as a burst pipe, a sudden leak, or a malfunctioning water heater can still happen. Knowing who to call in these situations can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major disaster.
The right emergency plumbing service understands the urgency of the situation and offers round-the-clock availability. More importantly, they are licensed, insured, and experienced in handling various plumbing issues, enabling them to diagnose and resolve problems efficiently.
Enjoy a Peaceful 2024 Free From Plumbing Issues with bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Overland Park
As you work toward a stress-free new year, remember that a well-maintained plumbing system is vital in achieving a harmonious household. These plumbing tips for homeowners are not just a checklist; they’re a roadmap worth following to safeguard your home from unexpected issues and ensure a worry-free 2024.
Besides taking better care of your plumbing system, having a reliable partner to call upon when emergencies strike is crucial. Bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Overland Park stands ready to be that partner for you. With our vast range of expertise and 24/7 availability, you can count on us to ensure plumbing safety and meet your home’s unique needs no matter the time of day.
Make the smart choice for your home – contact us today to schedule your plumbing repair or maintenance. Our certified plumbers will gladly help you start the new year with confidence in the condition of your plumbing system.
