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Email Us:
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Email Us:
thomas@beardedplumber.com 
A well-maintained plumbing system is essential for any home. Regular upkeep can prevent major issues, reduce the need for emergency plumbing repair, and ensure your plumbing system works smoothly year-round. From checking for leaks to maintaining water pressure, these essential plumbing maintenance tips will help you keep your home’s plumbing in top shape and avoid unexpected expenses.
Leaks can lead to significant water damage and increase your water bills. Regularly inspecting your plumbing system for leaks is a simple way to prevent bigger issues. Check under sinks, around toilets, and near water heaters for any signs of dripping, rust, or pooling water. Even small leaks can worsen over time, so it’s best to repair them early.
Also, keep an eye on your water meter. If you notice an unexplained spike in usage, it could indicate a hidden leak. Contact a professional plumber for a thorough inspection if you suspect a leak.
Clogged drains are a common plumbing problem that can lead to slow drainage, foul odors, and even pipe damage. To prevent clogs, avoid pouring grease, food scraps, coffee grounds, or other debris down the kitchen sink. Use a drain screen to catch hair, soap, and other particles in bathroom drains.
Regularly flushing your drains with hot water can help clear away residue. For a natural solution, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water. This simple routine can help keep your drains clear and reduce the need for frequent plumbing repairs.
Water pressure that’s too high or too low can indicate a problem with your plumbing system. Excessive water pressure can strain pipes and fixtures, while low pressure might be a sign of a hidden leak or blockage. Use a water pressure gauge to check the pressure regularly; ideal home water pressure ranges between 40 and 60 PSI (pounds per square inch).
If you notice pressure issues, it’s best to consult a plumber, as adjusting pressure may involve replacing parts like the pressure regulator or checking for blockages. Maintaining the right pressure can extend the life of your plumbing and prevent costly repairs.
Water heaters are often overlooked until they malfunction, but regular maintenance can extend their life and improve efficiency. Flushing your water heater annually removes sediment buildup that can affect performance and energy efficiency. Sediment buildup can also cause odd noises, corrosion, and reduced heating capacity.
To flush your water heater, turn off the power supply, connect a garden hose to the drain valve, and empty the tank. Consult your water heater’s manual or consider hiring a plumber if you’re not comfortable handling this task. Regular maintenance helps your water heater work more efficiently and reduces the likelihood of a breakdown.
If you live in an area with cold winters, protecting your pipes from freezing is crucial. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as the basement, garage, or crawl space, to prevent freezing and bursting. Burst pipes can lead to extensive water damage and plumbing repair costs, so taking preventative action is essential.
Pipe insulation sleeves or wraps are affordable and easy to install. You can also leave faucets slightly open during extreme cold to keep water moving through the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing.
Over time, mineral deposits and sediment can clog faucet aerators and showerheads, reducing water flow and affecting water pressure. Unscrew the aerators and showerheads periodically and soak them in vinegar to dissolve buildup. This simple step keeps your fixtures clean and ensures efficient water flow.
Cleaning aerators and showerheads also improves water quality and reduces strain on your plumbing system, helping prevent issues that could require more extensive repairs.
Even with preventive measures, some buildup can still accumulate in your drains over time. Scheduling regular drain cleaning with a professional plumber helps keep your drains clear, preventing blockages and unpleasant odors. Professional drain cleaning methods, such as hydro-jetting, remove stubborn clogs and improve the overall health of your plumbing system.
Routine drain cleaning is particularly beneficial for households with heavy usage or older plumbing systems, helping prevent blockages and emergency plumbing repairs.
Toilets are designed to handle waste and toilet paper — anything else can cause clogs and damage your plumbing. Avoid flushing wipes (even those labeled “flushable”), feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, and other non-degradable items. These items don’t dissolve in water and can lead to serious blockages.
Educating family members about what’s safe to flush is a simple step to maintain a clog-free plumbing system. If you experience recurring toilet clogs, it may be a sign of a larger issue, such as a blockage in the sewer line, and may require professional plumbing repair.
Hidden leaks can occur in areas like behind walls, under floors, or even underground, often going unnoticed until they cause visible damage. To detect hidden leaks, check for signs like discolored walls, unexplained dampness, or mold growth. Another effective method is to check your water meter: take a reading, avoid using any water for a few hours, and then check the meter again. If the reading has changed, you may have a hidden leak.
If you suspect a hidden leak, contact a plumber promptly for an inspection to prevent costly water damage.
A comprehensive plumbing inspection by a professional plumber is an excellent way to catch potential issues early. During an inspection, a plumber will check all aspects of your plumbing system, including pipes, fixtures, drains, and water heater, to ensure everything is in good working order.
Regular inspections can identify issues that may go unnoticed, helping you avoid emergency plumbing repair and extending the life of your plumbing system. Many professionals recommend an annual inspection, especially for older homes or homes with high water usage.
Proper maintenance is essential for preventing common problems and extending the life of your plumbing system. By following these simple tips — from leak detection and drain cleaning to water heater maintenance and pipe insulation — you can reduce the need for costly plumbing repair and enjoy a worry-free plumbing system.
For professional assistance with maintenance, repairs, or inspections, contact Bearded Plumber. Our experienced team offers reliable plumbing services to keep your home’s plumbing in top shape year-round. Let us help you maintain a safe and efficient plumbing system with expert care.