Nearly all homeowners experience a plumbing problem at some point in their lives. These are some plumbing tips that will help you keep your home running smoothly.
The plumbing system in your home is a complex system that heats water for washing, brings it back to the tap and distributes it throughout the house. It’s so easy to have access to water and sanitation that it’s almost a given, except when something goes wrong.
City Supply, a Plumbing Supply Store distributor with more than 70 years experience, is the oldest in the country. Since 1946, when it opened its first Houston store, City Supply has been a trusted supplier to plumbers, schools districts, government institutions, and corporations. It is the direct distributor for some of the most well-known names in plumbing such as TOTO and State Water Heaters, Spartan Tool and Chicago Faucets, Sloan Valve, and Spartan Tool.
It’s easy to maintain your plumbing and avoid common problems like leaks, broken pipes and clogs. Sinks and toilets can last decades, so most fixtures are durable.
These plumbing tips can help you avoid unexpected problems and headaches.
1. Do not flush that
Toilet paper and your waste are the only things you should flush down a toilet. Toilet bowls are not trash cans. This means that things such as sanitary products, plastic, hair, cardboard, and cotton swabs can build up and cause a serious clog. If you don’t want to spend a lot to have a plumber clean out your sewer line, place a wastebasket inside the bathroom.
2. Look out for tank leaks with food coloring
Are you concerned about your toilet tank getting into the bowl? Put some red food coloring into the tank, and wait for it to dry. To prevent water from seeping into your bowl and reduce your water bills, replace the tank ball.
3. Stop an overflowing toilet from ruining your life
There is nothing more frustrating than watching the water level rise slowly in your toilet bowl. Open the tank and turn the flush valve down if you feel it is about to overflow. This will stop water from leaking and give you the time to fix the problem.
4. Clear a blocked toilet with soap
Are you lacking a plunger? To clear a blocked toilet, you don’t necessarily need one. You can usually clear a blocked toilet by adding hot water to the bowl and using soap. Make sure you get as hot water as possible from the tap. Once the water is boiling, add the liquid soap to the bowl. You can add liquid soap to the water, but don’t be afraid — you shouldn’t overdo it. Hot water will dissolve the clog, and soap will get it moving again.
5. Vinegar to clean showerheads
Shower heads can become clogged over time with mineral deposits. These mineral deposits can cause them to become less efficient or even block their flow. For 24 hours, soak the showerheads in vinegar to remove any mineral deposits. If this doesn’t work, it’s time for a new showerhead.
6. Get rid of your water heater
You should flush your water heater once a year to remove any mineral sediments. It will last much longer if you do this. It will make banging noises if it isn’t flushed properly. This is the water bubbling up from the sediment layer on the tank’s bottom. The tank can rust if sediment buildup is not addressed.
You should flush your water heater every year and change the anode rod once every five years. If you take care of your water heater, it will last for a very long time.
7. Install mesh drain covers
Clogs can be caused by hair, soap chips and other debris that fall into your drains. You can save time by using mesh drain covers for your bath, sink, and shower to prevent clogs.
8. Check for leaks regularly
Running toilets and leaky faucets can lead to high water bills. It is easy to fix them and save money. Be diligent in repairing them.
There are many causes for plumbing leaks. You should inspect all pipes that are exposed in your home for any signs of decay or damage. A qualified plumber should be contacted if you see rust, warping or water drops on the outside pipes.