Avoid Plumbing Emergencies With These Tips

Water is a powerful force and even a leak can damage the whole structure of your house. Repairing damages can be very costly so it’s best to always check your house for possible plumbing issues. Neglecting something as basic as maintaining the water tank can lead to very troubling situations. Follow these basic steps on how to avoid plumbing emergencies and save yourself the cost of repairs.

  • Regularly inspect and maintain your water heater tank. Drain out all the water twice a year to eliminate any sediment or mineral build up. A broken water heater is very costly and troublesome to replace. Try and prolong your water heater’s life with regular maintenance.
  • Always check for leaks. Best way to do this is to turn off all taps in the house and check your water meter for any movement. If it is moving, there is most likely a leak somewhere in the house. If you suspect a leak, immediately switch off your main water valve and call in a licensed plumber to check the pipes inside your walls. Leaks can promote the growth of molds in your house.
  • Use drain cleaners moderately. The chemicals in the drain cleaners can corrode your pipes so use sparingly. You can use other alternatives if you really want to clean your sink pipes often. Try using baking soda with white vinegar and hot water to clear up any clogs. It is also advised to use a rubber plunger before resorting to any chemical cleaner.
  • One of the more common plumbing emergencies is toilet problems. Toilets are prone to overflow. Check inside the closet tank for any obstruction to the float arm. Make sure the flapper valve can close after every flush. If this continues to be a problem, you must replace the components in the tank immediately to avoid wasting water. If the toilet drain is clogged, use a rubber plunger to try and break up the clog. If this doesn’t work, better call in the help of a professional.
  • To avoid freezing of your water pipes in the winter, let them drip. Letting your water flow will release any pressure build up that might have occurred due to freezing. Make sure your pipes are installed inside the house and not outside where they are exposed to cold temperatures. Re-route pipes that are highly at risk of freezing. Frozen water can split or burst your pipes resulting in serious damage.

If an emergency has already occurred, like a burst pipe for example, first thing to do is to always turn off the main water valve to stop any excess flow and prevent flooding of your house.  Make sure you know where the main valve is located and you’re familiar with how it works. Call a plumbing contractor that offers 24-hour emergency plumbing service to help you remedy the situation.

Author Bio: Zack Bauer is a blogger and web consultant for various companies that specialize in home improvement, organization, landscaping, and pest control. He enjoys carpentry and other home projects. For your emergency plumbing needs in Sydney, visit Spicnspanplumbing.com.au.

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