Ways To Avoid Damaging Your Plumbing System
A home’s plumbing system sometimes suffers from benign neglect because people don’t worry much about it. The pipes and drains operate without any troubles. The same is true of the fixtures. So, why worry? Things work without problems until, one day, they don’t. Then, we realize how important it becomes to keep a careful eye on the plumbing system in your home. Things can go wrong even when we try to be diligent. Unfortunately, not everyone practices the best habits for taking care of a plumbing system. A homeowner might also commit more than a few mistakes known to damage pipes, drains, and more. Doing so creates both unnecessary costs and hazards. Here are some things to think about to avoid causing damage.
Relying on Corrosive Drain Cleaners
Corrosive chemicals can do a lot of damage to drains. When sinks become clogged, however, people rush to pour chemical drain cleaners down into the pipes. They could do so time and time again, not realizing they are potentially damaging the metal.
Even worse, they could be pouring the wrong kind of cleaners to deal with a particular clog. Drain cleaners intended for the sink should not be flushed down the toilet. People don’t always read the labels, however, and rush into taking the wrong action. The result may prove costly if excessive damage results.
Allowing Pipes to Rust and Corrode
Over time, pipes may suffer from corrosion. If the metal pipes are replaced on time, some disasters could be avoided. However, allowing the problem to persist could lead to leaks springing up everywhere and drains crumbling. Now, expect to spend a lot of money to cover the repair and replacement work.
Sometimes, the corrosion problem might not be as obvious. Rusted valves, for example, may not move, but the owner may even know since he or she isn’t in the habit of turning the valves on or off. When an emergency breaks out and the valves don’t work, the homeowner learns how dire circumstances are. [Company_name] handles a wide range of plumbing services. South Charleston locals can call and ask about leaks or faucet repairs and more.
Leaving Pipes Unattended and Unprotected
Homeowners who leave a property unoccupied, even for a short period, should take steps to protect the plumbing. Shutting off the water at the curb and draining the pipes could prevent serious problems. In the winter, pipes are at risk of freezing. With no water in the drained pipes, there won’t be any expanding ice that would shatter the copper lines. Taking the extra step of insulating the pipes could add even further protection against freezing.
Even in moderate climates, it might be best to shut the water off when going away from home. A pressurized leak could occur and run until discovered. If that takes several days, the damage could be extensive.
Be Wise With Disposals
Please understand that plumbing systems have limited disposal options. Certain things should not be flushed down the toilet because they can cause clogs or other problems. Also, even the most durable garbage disposal has its limitations. Some may think they can get rid of virtually any refuse from the kitchen by dumping it down the disposal. Instead, they end up with terrible clogs and, possibly, a ruined garbage disposal.
Don’t abuse the plumbing system, or else the chances of damage increase. With damage comes regrettable expenses related to the necessary repair.
Fix Obvious Problems Without Delays
Ignoring what seems to be a minor problem could lead to disaster in the not-so-distant future. For example, a leaky faucet could send moisture into the air that creates corrosion. Rust is never the friend of any plumbing system and, in particular, other fixtures in the house. Moisture in the air can also cause damage to the walls and the ceiling, which further drives up repair costs due to extensive damage.
Dealing with a plumbing problem as soon as possible could make things easier for the budget-conscious homeowner. Pretending things aren’t as bad as they are, however, may prove highly regrettable.
Don’t hesitate to call Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling in South Charleston to request a routine or other plumbing work. Heating, cooling, and even home remodeling work is available for customers. The business first opened in 1950 and maintains a long reputation for helping people in the local area.
