Proper plumbing system maintenance preserves water quality, averts leaks, extends equipment lifespan, and prevents pipe damage leading to costly repairs down the road. It also enhances overall home functionality. But, easy-to-ignore plumbing is often neglected until problems arise. Don’t wait for the headaches of dirty water, flooding, high utility bills, or even property damage be proactive. Here are tips to effectively maintain plumbing and keep things running smoothly for years.
Inspect annually
Make a full plumbing inspection an annual ritual, perhaps each spring. Walk through your home visually checking the following:
- Exposed pipes under cabinets and sinks for corrosion and leaks
- Water pressure at all fixtures to ensure adequate PSI
- Faucet aerators for mineral buildup clogging flow
- Showerheads for scale or low pressure
- Toilets for stability, flushing power, leaks
- Water heater for corrosion, odd sounds or smells
- Supply hoses behind appliances for bulges indicating imminent bursts
Also, inspect key external components like main shut-off valves, sewer vents, irrigation systems, outdoor spigots, and well equipment if you have a private well. Catching minor drips early prevents escalation into serious issues. Jot down any observed problems for proactive repair.
Test water quality
Water quality impacts not just consumption, but also plumbing system corrosion and scale accumulation. Have water tested annually for contaminant levels and pipe-damaging mineral content. It might reveal the need for filtration systems or pipe linings to counter corrosion. Testing via private labs or public utilities ensures safety.
Clean fixtures
Apply non-abrasive bathroom, sink, and tub cleaners to prevent mineral scale buildup on fixture surfaces. Soaking showerheads in diluted vinegar periodically removes existing scale, so the spray flows freely. Confirm toilets flush vigorously at least monthly and use chemical treatments for any residue. Cleaning keeps fixtures functioning properly and looking their best while also removing grime before it cements on permanently.
Unclog drains
Clogs from hair, soap residue, and other gunk are inconvenient and cause pipe backups. Prevent this by pouring hot water mixed with baking soda and vinegar down drains monthly to break up the gunk. Use plastic drain snakes monthly to manually pull out accumulated debris. For stubborn clogs, try an enzymatic drain cleaner monthly to dissolve blockages without harsh chemicals. Routinely unclogging drains prevent overflowing sinks or toilets requiring expensive roto-rooter service.
Check supply hoses
Braided stainless steel hoses linking water lines to appliances and fixtures last longer than plastic but still need inspection. Check visible portions for bulges indicating imminent bursts. Replace any suspect hoses right away to prevent ruptures that cause flooding and water damage.
Insulate pipes
Insulating exposed water pipes with pre-split foam tubing limits heat transfer keeping water hotter as it travels to fixtures. It lowers costs for water heating the biggest household energy expenditures. Insulation also protects pipes from freezing in frigid weather.
Hire plumbing pros
Some plumbing service maintenance like sewer line video inspections, pipe leak tests, whole-house repiping, trenchless sewer repairs, or major fixture upgrades are best left to licensed pros with specialized tools and expertise. Knowing when to call in experts prevents amateur missteps and provides warranty protection on work performed. Maintaining positive ongoing relationships with local plumbing companies also means you’re never stranded without help in emergencies. They prioritize supporting past customers.