As we enter the New Year, it’s a common tradition for many to create New Year’s resolutions in order to help better multiple aspects of their lives. Today, we are seizing this opportunity as your local plumbing company to encourage you to do the same for your plumbing system. It may sound silly, but setting new resolutions for better plumbing practices in order to keep your plumbing system in tip-top shape is a wise move. Dealing with issues like a high water bill or a malfunctioning water heater can be a hassle. We’re sure you want to start the year off strong. By following a few simple steps, such as fixing leaks now and being mindful of what goes down the garbage disposal, you can ensure that your plumbing system remains in excellent condition throughout the year. So, take a moment to explore eight practical ways to establish better plumbing practices, as recommended by your experts at Upper Arlington Plumbing & Drain.
- Water Bill- One of the best ways to catch plumbing problems early on is by keeping an eye on your water bill. If you see a sudden increase in water usage without any changes in your household, it could be a sign of a leak or other issue. By regularly checking your water bill, you can catch and fix these problems before they become expensive and disruptive.
- Leaks- Let’s start the year off right by taking care of any existing leaks right away. Not only do neglected leaks waste water, but they could also be a sign of underlying issues with your plumbing system. And you know what happens if we let minor plumbing problems go unchecked – they can turn into bigger headaches down the line. So, keep in mind that leaks can sneakily go undetected under sinks, outdoor fixtures, appliances, and even around toilet bases. If you’re currently dealing with any of these issues, it’s crucial to make resolving them a top priority. And if you’re not dealing with any type of leak, that’s fabulous! Let this point serve as a reminder to stay vigilant for them throughout the year.
- Drain Cleaners- It’s quite common that most store-bought drain cleaners have highly toxic chemicals in them. Not only are these substances dangerous to have around kids and bad for everyone’s overall health, but they can also mess up your pipes. Yep, no matter what your pipes are made of, those household drain cleaners that dissolve your clogs actually dissolve your pipes, too. So, as a homeowner, it’s probably a good idea to skip the DIY route and go ahead and call in the pros like Upper Arlington Plumbing & Drain for the extra stubborn clogs.
- Drain Screens- If you want to avoid those annoying clogs in your sink and shower drains, using drain screens is a great idea. These nifty contraptions are pretty affordable and do a fantastic job of catching hair, food particles, and other debris. By doing so, they prevent those nasty blockages from building up. Just make sure you give them a good clean regularly so they stay clear and odor-free!
- Toilets- When your toilet keeps running non-stop, not only does it waste water, but it could also indicate a larger issue. So, it’s important to address the issue right away to prevent water waste and potential damage to your toilet. And while we are on the topic, if any parts of your toilet are worn out, now’s the perfect time to replace them. That includes the flush handle, toilet seat, or even the float ball inside the tank.
- Water Heater- It’s important to regularly flush and drain your water heater to get rid of sediment buildup. This should be done at least once a year; this simple maintenance task helps improve efficiency and extend the lifespan of your water heater. Also, don’t forget to check and adjust the water heater’s temperature setting to make sure it’s not too high or too low for safe and optimal use. Finding the right balance can save you money on energy bills and make sure your water heater works efficiently.
- Garbage Disposal- Not all food scraps are okay to throw down your kitchen sink. Tossing the wrong stuff down the drain can cause extreme clogs and mess up your system. So, it’s smart to steer clear of hard stuff like bones, fruit pits, and fibrous foods like celery or banana peels. Instead, think about composting or just putting them in the trash.
- Plumbing Maintenance- Just like we go for annual check-ups with the doctor, our plumbing systems also need regular maintenance. By investing in a professional plumbing inspection at least once a year, you can proactively identify and address any potential issues before they turn into bigger and costlier problems. Plus, regular inspections help uncover areas of water or energy wastage so you can find more efficient and cost-effective solutions.
So, to sum it up, if you want to boost the durability and functionality of your plumbing system, try incorporating these eight habits into your routine. It’s important to remember that being proactive and mindful about maintenance is key to keeping your plumbing in good shape. Don’t wait for a plumbing emergency to strike before taking action. Let’s start the New Year right by committing to these simple yet effective plumbing resolutions. Here’s to an amazing year ahead with fewer plumbing issues and better plumbing habits in 2024! Cheers!
We are thrilled at the thought of servicing your home’s plumbing system in the new year! Call Upper Arlington Plumbing & Drain today at (614) 363-1924, or schedule an appointment by clicking here!