How To Avoid Extensive Plumbing Repairs
Of all the things a homeowner can do to maintain their home, plumbing repairs are not something to put on the back burner. Plumbing repairs should be done before a leak or a clog forms, but it most often is left until there’s an emergency situation. All that trouble from water leaks, flooding, or sewage waste backing up into the house can be avoided if you are able to tell what plumbing repairs need to be done beforehand.
As professional Des Moines plumbers, we have years of experience in recognizing plumbing problems. We enjoy helping homeowners learn about their plumbing systems and how to take care of them before they cause problems. Here are a few key tips about plumbing repairs and how to recognize that you need them.
How To Find Out If You Already Need Plumbing Repairs
Every homeowner will check out their property from time to time to take note of problems that need to be repaired. It’s a good idea to do this on a regular monthly basis so you can keep an eye on things and know when it’s time to get them fixed. The plumbing system shouldn’t be overlooked.
Check all your pipes, faucets, fixtures, and connections every month for leaks. Also, take note of any corrosion that leads to leaks. Also thoroughly check the water heater area. If there is a leak, call for plumbing repairs right away because the problem will only worsen. If corrosion is forming, you can go ahead and call a plumber or keep an eye on the process. Be aware that at any time the fixture, connection, faucet, or pipe can bust open with a leak.
Corrosion problems are due to the sediments in the water supply. A water softener can be installed to prevent corrosion. It’s much more frustrating to replace a section of pipe than it is to prevent the problem from happening.
Preventing Plumbing Repairs
There are several steps you can take to prevent plumbing repairs. Here are some maintenance tips that will go a long way to preventing problems. As we mentioned, the first step is to check the plumbing system out thoroughly every month. Here’s how.
1. Check for leaks.
Even the smallest leak can turn into a torrential flood if not caught early enough. The resulting damage can cost a pretty penny, therefore it is important to check all pipe lines, especially those areas that lack insulation. Get in contact with a Des Moines plumber to inspect your plumbing system if you need help locating trouble areas. They can give you tips on how to maintain your system.
2. Drain and insulate.
One of the most important tips for areas that experience harsh winters, draining and insulating pipes prevents any water that gets trapped in those pipes from freezing, expanding, and then cracking, breaking, or bursting said pipes. Frozen pipes are one of the most common plumbing repairs we are called out on. Without draining and insulating, you risk very expensive and intensive plumbing repairs.
3. Weatherproof trouble areas.
It is also important to look out for areas containing exposed plumbing. Doorways, windows, and vent fans should be checked to make sure their seals remain tight. If a seal is loose, you can use caulking to prevent your home plumbing from freezing.
4. Insulate exposed pipes.
Again– insulate, insulate, insulate. Insulating your pipes is easy and inexpensive but does so much to protect your plumbing system. It can be as easy as installing foam tubing or towels around your pipes and can help your water heater retain heat (and therefore lower those pricey energy bills). Pipes near electrical sources should be insulated with electrical heating tape.
5. Keep indoor pipes warm.
Just because outdoor insulation is being stressed, don’t forget about your indoor pipes. Indoor pipes can also freeze in cold weather, so doing things such as opening cabinet doors to expose your pipes to your home’s heat can help prevent internal home plumbing issues. If you leave for vacation, don’t turn off your heat completely. Also, by letting indoor faucets drip when temps outside dip below 30 degrees may make your water bill go up slightly, but the cost is minuscule when compared to the high cost of replacing burst pipes and the clean up that goes along. Call H & H Plumbing, Inc. today!
