As you think up your New Year’s Resolutions, your plumbing probably isn’t at the top of your list. However, making a few changes to your daily routine and being aware of certain issues could help save you time, stress and, most importantly, money in the long run. So, in 2019, keep these tips in mind for healthier plumbing.
There are plenty of objects that make their way down your sink drains that really shouldn’t. Foreign objects can lead to clogs, slower draining and even damage to your home’s pipes. In general, if you’re uncertain about whether or not it can go down the drain, don’t. Liquids are typically fine and flow through pipes like they’re supposed to. Conversely, solids are never a good idea.
It might be tempting to rinse bits of food off your plate and let them shoot down your drains, but these can build up over time and not only lead to clogs, but also cause some rather unpleasant smells. Furthermore, certain chemicals and cleaning products can pose a danger to the environment and even corrode your pipes. Always check before sending something down the drain.
If you’ve ever experienced a clogged tub, you know it’s not fun. Standing in rising water as you shower is just gross. All of the dirt and grime you’re washing off can cling to your tub, long after the water finally drains, leading to unsightly and smelly rings and scum. You can prevent this and other plumbing issues with a few simple tricks.
For one, if your tub doesn’t have a drain catcher, it might be a good idea to invest in one. These help prevent hair from making their way down the drain and causing gross clogs. If you do have a catcher, you can always switch it out for a more effective one. Another great way to help your shower drain is to pour some unclogging solutions down on a regular basis. This helps prevent build-up and keeps water flowing freely.
Winter is a rough time for your home’s plumbing. One of the biggest issues is that pipes can freeze as the weather gets colder. This can prevent water from flowing freely, or in other cases, pipes can even crack or burst. This can all lead to costly repairs. But, with a little preparation, you can avoid these issues.
You can find pipe insulation at your local hardware or plumbing supply store. It’s cheap and easy to apply. This insulation could limit your pipes’ exposure to cold conditions and keep them from freezing. Other things you can do include allowing hot water to run through your pipes when the temperature is especially cold, and keeping your cabinet doors open to allow warmer air to circulate around exposed pipes in your bathroom or kitchen.
If your plumbing problems are too big to handle on your own, give us a call. Our team of trained specialists have seen it all. Contact Terry’s Plumbing to get your home running smoothly throughout 2019.