Don’t Fall Victim To Summer Plumbing Disasters!
Every homeowner will have to face some plumbing issue eventually. Valves and fixtures wear out, gunk accumulates and clogs drains, pipes get damaged, and spring leaks - it’s just the nature of the beast for problems to arise over time. And when these issues develop unseen, they can culminate in a sudden large-scale plumbing catastrophe that seems to come out of nowhere - a sewage backup, a burst pipe, etc. Talk about spoiling the summer vibes!
The good news is one can avoid these nightmare scenarios with some basic preventive measures. This article will outline three simple, easy-to-implement tips to stop plumbing issues in their tracks!
Watch Out for Signs of Leaks
Plumbing leaks are among the most insidious plumbing issues homeowners can face. Not only can they waste loads of water (and money!), but they can also seriously harm the home, especially if not caught quickly. Water damage, mold growth, foundation erosion, and wood rot are just a few possible consequences of an unchecked plumbing leak. Fortunately, homeowners who know what to look for can spot leaks before they get out of hand.
Abnormally high utility bills, low water pressure, and the faint hiss of running water (when no water is supposed to be running) are common indicators of a hidden pipe leak. Wet spots, water stains, or warped wood under sinks or near fixtures may indicate a loose pipe fitting or worn drain seal. Mold growth, unpleasant odors, or trickling/dripping sounds may indicate a cracked drainage pipe. When in doubt, homeowners would do well to hire their preferred local plumber to perform a thorough plumbing inspection and leak detection service.
Never Put Oil or Grease Down the Drain
A pipe clog is another plumbing issue that can sneak up and wreck the summer fun. The most common cause of clogged pipes is the grease that has congealed or glommed onto existing obstructions inside the home’s drain pipes. This often happens in the home’s sewer line, the main pipe that carries all of the home’s wastewater into the city sewer system or septic tank.
The solution is to avoid putting grease and cooking oil down the drain - at least as much as possible. Instead, any grease or oil ready to be thrown out can be cooled and put in a disposable container with a sturdy seal. The container can then be placed in the trash or taken to a local recycling center that accepts used oil and grease.
Clean the Drains Regularly
On top of grease and oil, other gunk can build up inside drain pipes and cause clogs - hair, soap scum, dirt, food particles, etc. - so it’s important to keep the drains as clean as possible.
One way to do this is to flush drains with baking soda and vinegar. The acetic acid in the vinegar will help kill bacteria and eat away at grime, while the fizzy chemical reaction with the baking soda will help break up obstructions. After letting the mixture do its thing for 15-20 minutes, homeowners can pour hot water down the drain to flush the loosened debris. One can do this every 2-3 months or as often as homeowners like.
For kitchen sinks with garbage disposals, homeowners can put a few cups of ice cubes and a bit of citrus peel down the drain and run the disposal. The ice will scrape bits of food and grime while the citric acid kills bacteria and releases a fresh scent.
However, one drain cleaning method that homeowners should avoid is using popular chemical drain cleaners. These contain acidic substances that can damage the plumbing and cause serious burns if mishandled - and they aren’t exactly environmentally friendly. On the other hand, the methods listed above are safe, effective, inexpensive, and frequently used in routine plumbing maintenance.
About Anytime Plumbing Inc.
Anytime Plumbing Inc. has been the go-to resource for HVAC and plumbing services in Las Vegas since 1982. They offer free estimates, unbeatable warranties on parts and services, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every call. Their trustworthy licensed, insured experts are available 24 hours a day for emergencies, so don’t hesitate to call for drain cleaning and leak detection in Las Vegas, NV!
