No one understands a plumbing system as well as licensed plumbers in Red Oak. So, who better to get advice from than the local experts? With these tips and tricks, you can learn how to keep your plumbing in great shape and what to do when things go wrong.
How to Handle Clogs
Perhaps the most common plumbing issue is a clog. Despite the frequency of this issue, most homeowners don’t know how to handle a clog.
If you have a clog in your pipes, your first step should be to reach for the plunger. However, a plunger only works on shallow clogs and may not fix your issue. In this case, avoid the temptation to grab a drain cleaning chemical. Harsh chemicals may ruin your pipes and result in a plumbing emergency.
One tool you can safely use is a drain snake. If your clog is small and shallow enough, the drain snake could catch the blockage and remove it. When all else fails, it’s time to call the plumber. Some clogs are deep in the pipes and may even require sewer pipe repair.
Be Nice to Your Toilet
It’s not uncommon for plumbing troubles to start with the toilet. All too often, objects that don’t belong in your plumbing system go down the toilet. Whether it’s a baby’s toy or a “flushable” wipe, the item doesn’t break down like toilet paper.
The toilets of today use less pressure to flush, which means objects are even more likely to get stuck. Avoid putting anything but toilet paper in your toilet, or you will need a plumber.
Troubleshoot Your Hot Water
If you’re not happy with your hot water, don’t live in discomfort. Waiting to take action about your hot water heater is a mistake and could result in complete failure. Before your tank stops working, take some steps to troubleshoot it.
First, know your type of heater. If you have a gas heater, it uses a pilot light. The light could go out, which would make you lose hot water. On an electric tank, the breaker could trip and result in no hot water.
If your issue is hot water running out before you’re done with a shower, consider the size of the tank. It might not be large enough for your household. Unfortunately, the only way to fix this is to consult with a plumber and install a new water heater.
You can also check the temperature setting on the tank. At times, the dial gets moved and is at a lower than ideal setting. Check your service manual to find out how to adjust the temperature on your tank safely.
Your Pipes Can Freeze Over
In the winter, your pipes are vulnerable. If you don’t take steps to protect your pipes, you might be unlucky enough to experience damage from a burst frozen pipe. When the temperature in your home drops below 68 degrees, you’re at an increased risk for frozen pipes. This is because your pipes don’t always feel heat from the heater.
To prevent frozen pipes, use insulation on your pipes. You can also open cabinet doors to allow heat to reach your pipes. If you won’t be home during a cold snap, take even more steps to protect your plumbing.
Know Your Plumbing
When you first move into a home, take the time to know your plumbing. You should find out where the shut-off valve is, what type of water heater you have, and other important plumbing details. If you decide to remodel your home, look at her plumbing before you close up the walls.
By knowing your plumbing, you can act quickly in an emergency. Consider the example of a plumbing leak. If you have water gushing from a pipe, you need to turn off the water. You won’t have time to look around for the shut-off valve. Although the valve is usually located in a basement, it can be in another location.
Knowing your plumbing can also help you with repairs. When you call a plumber about a problem, you should be able to explain the issue. This saves them time and saves you money.
Fix Leaks Immediately
Why let a leaky toilet or faucet drip your money down the drain? In addition to wasting your money, a leaking faucet also could be the sign of a more significant plumbing issue. If you don’t do anything about the leak, you could have trouble.
If your toilet leaks, a worn flapper could be the issue. Replacing the flapper is something you can do on your own. Meanwhile, a leaking faucet could be more difficult to fix. You may need a new fixture and the help of an experienced plumber.
Your Plumbing Needs an Annual Inspection
Every year, you should have a plumbing inspection. As time passes, clogs form, and leaks occur. While these issues are minor at first, they develop into serious plumbing problems.
An annual inspection allows you to catch potential issues before they cost you in damage. In the end, the maintenance your plumbing receives makes all the difference. A plumber knows how to identify clogs, corroded pipes, and any other details that need attention. With their help, you can keep your plumbing working well all year long.
There’s No Shame in Calling Licensed Plumbers in Red Oak
When it comes to their plumbing, people tend to take a DIY approach. But plumbing systems are complex and demand an experienced hand. There’s nothing wrong with calling Combat for help.
Using a plumber benefits you in many ways. For one, you save yourself time. You don’t need to spend your weekend troubleshooting an issue. Secondly, you can ensure the job is done correctly. You don’t have the tools or experience a plumber has, and that makes it harder for you to perform a repair. Finally, you save money. A botched repair job costs you more money than an original repair.
If you want more tips or need help with your plumbing, call our licensed plumbers in Red Oak.
