Your home’s plumbing is a complex system that brings in fresh water, heats it for washing, and distributes it around your house. But despite the complexity, it’s not too difficult to keep your plumbing in good working order and avoid some of the more common problems.
Whether you’re in the market for new plumbing fixtures or are dealing with a simple leaky faucet, there are many plumbing tips that can help you save money and time. Here are a few to consider:
Measure Everything You Buy
If you’re installing a new faucet or sink, you’ll need to measure its length, width, and circumference. This will ensure that it’s the correct size for your plumbing pipe and your sink. If you don’t take the time to measure, you’ll probably end up with a faucet that’s too short or a sink that’s too long.
Insulate Your Pipes
When the weather gets cold, pipes are prone to freezing. This can cause them to burst, resulting in costly repairs and flooding your home. To prevent this from happening, all exposed pipes in your garage and crawl space should be insulated.
Use a Holstered Toolkit
Every homeowner should have a plunger, pipe wrench, and drain snake at the ready. These tools are a lifesaver when you’re dealing with clogged drains, leaking faucets, and other small plumbing issues.
Test Your Water for Minerals
A water test can tell you if your tap water is too acidic or contains too many minerals that can clog your toilet, shower, and sink. It can also let you know if you need to install additional filters, softeners, or other products.
Clear Your Work Area
Before a plumber arrives, clear any cluttered areas around your plumbing. This will make it easier for him or her to reach the parts they need.
If possible, try to find the source of the problem before calling a professional. If you can’t find the problem, call a plumber right away.
Fix Invisible Leaks
If you notice a leak in your wall or ceiling, it may be impossible to pinpoint the exact spot where the water is coming from. It’s important to find the leak as soon as you can, though, so that you can repair it before the issue worsens.
To find the leak, look for areas where the walls or ceiling are discolored or puckered. It’s also a good idea to cut a hole in the wall or ceiling where the leak is, and put on a repair sleeve to stop the flow until you can hire a plumbing Shreveport LA.
When a plumber arrives, ask him or her where the main water valve and water heater are located in your home. This will make it easier for the professional to locate the necessary components and get started on the job.
It’s also a good idea to show the plumber where the hot and cold water faucets are, and the main water line in your home. This will help the plumber locate his or her tools easily and quickly, which will allow them to complete the job more efficiently.
