Plumbing Mistakes to Avoid
Keeping the plumbing operational is difficult enough, but in most homes, the people living there make it harder for themselves. Most homeowners have bad plumbing habits, making it harder to keep things working well. In the new year, homeowners should set a goal to stop standing in the way of progress. This year, we resolve to stop these three bad habits that make plumbing worse.
Relying on Chemical Drain Cleaners
When drains clog, most homeowners reach for a chemical drain cleaner. Chemical drain cleaners are available almost anywhere, so it can be easy to believe that they will work and fix a drain problem for less than a plumber's charge. However, the risk of using chemical drain cleaners is too high.
Chemical drain cleaners are so harsh that they can damage piping. The corrosive chemicals readily react with metal in the piping. The chemical reaction can be so strong that it can weaken and damage the piping, requiring serious repairs. On top of that, chemical drain cleaners often fail to remove the offending clog.
Homeowners should call a professional for drain cleaning instead of using these dangerous and largely useless chemicals. Professionals can quickly and safely clean drains and eliminate the possibility of damaging the plumbing.
Forgetting Plumbing Maintenance
Plumbing maintenance is necessary to ensure the soundness of the plumbing system. Too often, homeowners neglect this responsibility. When plumbing maintenance is neglected, drains are more likely to clog, expensive repairs are more likely, and the water heater will sustain damage. Why not schedule professional plumbing maintenance instead of allowing the entire system to suffer?
Plumbing maintenance addresses potential points of failure in a plumbing system. To help with a water heater, a plumber will drain the water heater and flush it to remove solids interfering with heating. During this procedure, they will examine the anode rod to ensure it protects the system from corrosion. For plumbing maintenance, they will verify the water pressure in the home, look for leaks, and inspect piping. Homeowners can enjoy a more reliable, longer lasting, more efficient plumbing system and water heater by having maintenance performed yearly.
Putting the Wrong Things Down Drains and Toilets
The biggest bad habit to break regarding clogged drains and sewer lines is to stop putting incompatible materials down the drains. Drains and sewer lines can handle a lot, but when they get bombarded by things in the waste stream that they have a hard time handling, clogs are sure to result. To prevent drain and sewer line clogs and keep the sewer line safe:
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Never put grease down the drain.
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Don't put food scraps and items in the sink.
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Keep hair and debris out of drains with hair catchers and routine drain cleaning.
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Remove trees and vegetation growing near sewer lines.
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Only flush waste and toilet paper.
About Swick Home Services
Swick Home Services can help homeowners resolve their issues. They offer expert advice, service, and a price match guarantee, making plumbing services more affordable. Call today for plumbing services in Marquette, MI.
