Plumbing Facts That Every Homeowner Should Know
Owning a home comes with the understanding that you need to have basic knowledge of how to solve plumbing issues or at least know some preventative measures.
15/07/2024
As a homeowner, you know that plumbing problems can occur at any time. Equipping yourself with basic plumbing knowledge will not only prevent future issues but also make fixing plumbing issues easier and simpler.
Know Your Home's Shut-Off Valve
If you own a home, understanding shut-off valves is crucial. They regulate water flow to various plumbing fixtures such as faucets and washing machines.
Types of Shut-Off Valves
The Home Depot hosts a wide range of shut-off valve types. Among the most acclaimed products is the BrassCraft 1/2 in. Compression Inlet x 3/8 in. Compression Outlet 1/4-Turn Angle Valve.
Proper Disposal and Drain Maintenance
Garbage disposals should be run every few days, even when not in use. Proper operation entails running them for several seconds in conjunction with cold water, which helps to keep the blades fresh, eliminating the risk of rust and washing away remnants of food.
Avoid pouring grease into your drains; they can solidify and cause severe blockages. Rather lets grease harden, wrap in newspaper or paper towels and dispose of it in the trash.
You should also avoid using commercially available drain cleaners or bleach for unclogging due to their potentially harmful effects upon reactivation of your garbage disposal. Rather than using such corrosive materials, it's more advisable to use natural cleaning techniques that can effectively eliminate bacteria without putting your safety at risk.
Importance of Regular Leak Checks
Annual plumbing inspections are vital for your home's health and regularly checking your plumbing for leaks ensures no unpleasant surprises during home inspections.
Don't ignore that dripping tap - it's not just annoying but wastes water and increases your bill.
A proactive approach to maintaining your home plumbing system guarantees longevity. This includes regular leak checks and immediate remedial action when needed.
In spite of their cosmetic mundane nature, regular leak checks should not be underestimated. They serve as the first line of defense in ensuring your home's plumbing health. Treat minor plumbing problems proactively. It provides reassurance that even more damaging, and costly, complications will not follow.
Regular plumbing maintenance is key to a healthy household environment. Remember, the earlier a problem is detected, the easier – and cheaper – it is to rectify.
Monitor Your Water Pressure Regularly
Monitoring your home's water pressure regularly helps prevent various plumbing issues, especially in view of the constant reduced or cut-off water supply issues inflicted by many municipalities around the country.
What Issues Does High Water Pressure Cause?
High water pressure can cause leaks in your plumbing system due to the excessive force. This may result in water damage and inflated water bills. Many household appliances like dishwashers and washing machines operate within specific pressure ranges. Excessively high water pressure can cause these appliances to malfunction or fail prematurely.
The phenomenon known as 'water hammer' can also occur due to high pressure when the flow of water is suddenly stopped. This shock wave can cause loud banging noises and further damage pipes and joints.
Accelerated pipe corrosion is another consequence of high water pressure, potentially leading to leaks and additional damage. Furthermore, the leaks and dampness caused by high pressure create a conducive environment for mold and mildew to thrive.
How Can I Check for High Water Pressure?
You can use a water pressure gauge to measure the pressure at an outdoor faucet or at your water meter. High water pressure is indicated by a reading above 80 PSI or call a plumber to check for high water pressure if you suspect this to be a problem.
What Are Some Solutions for High Water Pressure?
A Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) is a device that regulates your home's water pressure. This valve can be installed by a plumber to help manage excessive pressure conditions.
Expansion tanks are an effective remedy for reducing undue stress on your pipes and appliances by absorbing excess pressure. Some whole-home filtration systems also come with pressure-regulating components to manage high water pressure.
What Preventative Measures Can I Take?
Regular maintenance of your pipes and appliances can identify potential issues early. By continually tracking your home's water pressure, you can detect changes before they escalate into significant problems.
Tips to Maintain Your Hot Water Geyser
Having a well-maintained geyser ensures continuous hot water supply in your home. Notably, regular maintenance boosts its efficiency and extends its lifespan.
- Testing the Temperature-Pressure-Release (TPR) Valve: To ensure safety, regularly test your TPR valve. This process involves momentarily lifting the valve's tab to release some water. If water continues to flow, you might need to replace the valve.
- Checking the Anode Rod: The thickness and condition of your anode rod matters. If it's less than ½ inch thick or coated with calcium, replace it for optimal functionality.
- Adjusting the Temperature: Keeping your tank's temperature at around 50-55 degrees C in summer and 60-65 degrees C in summer promotes energy efficiency. For prolonged absences, consider lowering the thermostat to save more on energy costs.
Maintaining your hot water geyser not only saves you money on energy costs but also ensures a consistent hot water supply for your household activities.
Your Plumbing Epilogue
As a homeowner, you've now learned a few preventive measures and will know when it is time to to call professionals.
Remember that every drop of water saved counts to make your home more efficient and sustainable.