Our home’s plumbing is not necessarily something we consider when it comes to “caring” for our house.  There are many ways we abuse this necessary home system every day without realizing it! No one wants to go days without the convenience of plumbing, nor do we want to pay the bill that comes with plumbing repair. Keep the following in mind to keep your plumbing running smoothly: 

 

  • Know where your main water shut-off valve is located and know how to turn it off in case of burst pipes.  This can at least prevent flooding, though it will not solve the running water issue. 
     

  • Consider investing in a leak protection system that will sound an alarm when it detects leaks.  The cost to install such a tool can save big money in water damage repair costs. 
     

  • Just because there are drains in our sinks and tubs does not give free rein over what goes down those drains! Items that should not go down the drain include paint, medications, household chemicals, coffee grounds, and raw flour.  
     

  • There are products we use as part of our daily hygiene routine that are not good for plumbing, according to this article from Apartment Therapy. 
     

  • Garbage disposals are great tools but must be used properly. Grease or oil of any kind, eggshells, and bones are all on this list of what not to put into the disposal. 
     

  • Check washer hoses often and replace every them five years. 
     

  • If your water heater is more than ten years old, consider replacing it. They have an average lifespan of 8-12 years and using them longer than that can cause sediment to clog the hot water pipes. 
     

  • Items labeled “flushable” should just be thrown in the garbage can. These items do not break down quickly and clog drains, as well as septic and sewage systems. 
     

  • Using drain-clearing chemicals can do more harm than good, especially if you use them often as they corrode the pipes. If a plumber has been called, let them know that there are chemicals in the pipes so they can protect themselves from chemical burns. 

 

The plumbing in our home is one of those out-of-sight-out-of-mind things, so there is not much thought given to it until it breaks down. Taking care of the pipes to, from, and inside our house is the best way to avoid clogged or damaged lines, as well as adding longer life to this important home system. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: state farm