3 Common Plumbing Mistakes To Avoid This Year
Modern plumbing systems have improved greatly in the past ten years but are still susceptible to damage. Luckily, most of these issues can be prevented at no extra cost to homeowners.
Toxic Drain Cleaners
Most people do not assume chemical drain cleaners cause toxins to destroy the pipes. Unfortunately, even “light” commercial cleaners can eat away at piping material over time. To avoid corrosion and expensive repair jobs, homeowners are encouraged to make their own drain cleaner solution.
A simple mixture of baking soda and boiling water will clear out kitchen and bathroom drains. This includes shower drains that may experience small blockages due to soap and hair. Slowly pouring the mixture down the drain and waiting fifteen minutes before rinsing will remove existing clogs and prevent new ones from forming.
Commercial drain cleaning solutions often add fragrance to make the drains smell nicer once cleaned. Homeowners can do this the natural way by adding lemon juice to the mixture.
A plumber should handle larger blockages deep inside the pipes. Drain snakes generally do not work for tougher clogs and may cause more damage. Hydro jetting services can thoroughly clean the entire system in a way that no drain cleaner can.
Neglecting Basic Plumbing Maintenance Services
In addition to natural drain cleaning, homeowners are expected to get professional maintenance services for their plumbing systems once a year. A clogged sewer line is difficult to detect with the naked eye and may only be visible with a plumbing inspection camera.
Plumbing maintenance services cover a variety of components. A general plumbing assessment will give professionals a good idea of a plumbing system's future lifespan. A licensed technician will check the drains, water pressure, and water heater.
Water heaters typically last ten years but may last longer if small cracks can be repaired with simple water heater maintenance. Plumbers also inspect the septic system and garbage disposal to ensure waste is properly handled.
A full maintenance inspection usually takes one to two hours to complete. During this time, household members do not need to leave the house. If repairs are needed, a professional will inform the homeowners before work is completed so they can decide whether or not they’ll get the services.
Flushing Tissues
Bathroom tissue is the only tissue that should ever be flushed down the toilet. Even extra thick bathroom tissue can cause problems for eco-friendly toilets that use less water. To avoid sewer line clogs, household members should throw heavier materials in the trash.
Sanitary napkins, bathroom wipes, and plastic can cause tough, hard-to-reach blockages. A drain snake can sometimes remove these items, but specialized tools are often needed to dislodge the object fully.
Sinks can also become clogged from draining the wrong substances. Although grease and butter are not fully formed masses, their sticky texture can trap smaller particles of food inside the drain. Even if a garbage disposal has been installed, fish and chicken bones need to be thrown in the trash to avoid clogged drains.
About Lodder Brothers Limited
Lodder Brothers Limited specializes in commercial and residential plumbing systems. Homeowners can expect personalized services, honest advice, and transparent pricing with every service call. To save $10 on any service, residents of Guelph, ON, are encouraged to book online. Call them today for plumbing services in Guelph, ON.
