Tips to Extend the Life of Your Plumbing System

An ounce of prevention throughout the year can go a long way toward keeping your plumbing in good shape, from clogged drains, blocked kitchen sinks, and slow draining bathtubs to leaking toilets and busted pipes, and nobody wants to live in a house reeking with toilet water.

Here are some tips to prevent plumbing issues from occurring.

Be Careful With Plumbing Cleaners

Over the last decade or two, research has revealed that popular plumbing cleansers can cause pipe damage. As a result, many customers have shifted to more basic and gentle DIY plumbing cleaners. While these cleaners can help prevent pipe damage, they can also be overused. Using any cleaner too frequently might cause the walls of your pipes to deteriorate.

Keep in mind that you must only use cleansers to remove any stuck-on debris from your pipes. If no dirt or debris needs removing, the cleaner will work on the pipe itself. DIY cleansers will chew through your pipes much more slowly than harsh chemicals, but they will eventually eat through them. It would be best if you used pipe cleaners gently to avoid damaging your pipes. 

Avoid Flushing Flushable Wipes

While flushable wipes appear to be a good idea, they cause severe issues with your plumbing. When flushable wipes mix with water, they degrade in sewer systems. Unfortunately, this is a slow process. As a result, flushing a lot of wipes can block your pipes and septic tank.

A clog in your septic tank might result in more than a backup. Bacterial growth can occur, causing your tank and pipes to deteriorate. If this happens, you will want the services of a trained plumber to unclog the system. In extreme circumstances, your septic tank may need to be excavated and replaced.

Stop Throwing Grease Down Your Drain

Another common cause of drain clogs is grease. While it may appear to wash away, it sticks to your pipes like glue, causing them to become sticky and rough. Every imperfection in your pipe might cause water to slow down and trap food particles. This form of obstruction will only worsen with time. Furthermore, it reduces the diameter of your pipe, making it more likely to impede water flow and pressure.

Many individuals gather and dispose of grease in old jars. Check your town's ordinances to find the recommended disposal methods. Many towns have designated drop-off locations where you may properly dispose of trash. Grease disposal in this manner will significantly extend the life of your plumbing system.

Make Sure to Repair Minor Plumbing Issues Immediately

Fix minor plumbing issues as soon as possible if you want to avoid serious plumbing issues. Minor problems, such as leakage, can quickly escalate into much more significant issues. The pipes in your house are all connected. A problem in one part of your house can lead to more significant problems elsewhere. Many of these modest adjustments are also inexpensive. If you wait for a big problem to happen, it will cost you more to get it fixed, especially if you need emergency service.

Always Keep your Drain Clean

The most common problem with plumbing is clogged drains and pipes. You can avoid this by keeping your drains clear and cleaning them every after use. Not only does this stop the restriction of water flow, but it also stops large clots from forming hair, and other debris can ball up into major clots if you let it gather up, but keeping the clean drain every day will ensure you a functioning and clean drain. 

Following these tips will help you avoid plumbing issues. Keep in mind that prevention is always better than cure. Another tip to get your pipes cleaned easily is installing HVAC access doors and panels to ensure you will have safe and easy access. Getting your pipes rodded and camera’d is also easy, contact your local plumber and they’ll be happy to help.

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson