You probably don't think about your plumbing much, but it’s something you need to maintain regularly to keep your home or business running smoothly. Maintaining plumbing is essential for preventing leaks, repairs and breakdowns. It saves you time and money in the long run by preventing unnecessary plumbing problems and helping you find problems before they cause damage or become a costly emergency. But keeping your plumbing in good working order doesn't have to be a hassle. In fact, investing in regular plumbing maintenance can save you time and money in the long run by preventing costly repairs and breakdowns. In addition to helping you avoid unplanned plumbing repairs and extended outages by catching problems early on, investing in regular maintenance will also help you extend the life of your plumbing fixtures, pipes and equipment to reduce replacement costs further down the road. The best ways to maintain your plumbing are discussed below.
One of the first things you should do when you move into a new home or business is change the oil in your plumbing system. Plumbing oil is a thick, sticky substance that helps lubricate and protect moving parts inside your water supply, drains and other plumbing fixtures. You should change the oil in your plumbing system once a year or every 6,000 miles (10,000 km). Even if you only drive short distances, it’s important to change the oil in your plumbing system to prevent leaks, breakdowns and other costly plumbing problems.
You can tell if your plumbing is in good working order by regularly checking the water pressure and volume in your home or business. If you notice any sudden changes in pressure or volume, or the flow of water seems irregular, it could mean there’s a problem with your plumbing lines. If you notice a water flow that’s lower than expected, you may have a leak that could result in extensive water damage and a costly repair. And if you notice a water flow that’s higher than expected, you may have a broken or faulty water heater appliance. If you notice irregularities in water pressure or volume, it could be a sign of a more serious issue, such as a broken main water line, or an issue with your water supply (e.g. from a nearby construction site).
Leaking water is one of the most common plumbing problems. Even a small drip can add up to significant water damage over time, so it’s important to check your plumbing system regularly for leaks and drips. You can do this by running a hose from your outdoor spigot to a bucket placed in a spot where you can see any drips. If you find a drip, turn off the water supply to the affected area and contact your local plumber. They can help you identify the source of the problem and repair it.
You should also change the soap and cleaners you use in your home or business every six months or whenever they run out. Over time, these products can build up residue and cause buildup and blockages in your drains and pipes. This can lead to backups and costly plumbing repairs in the future.
You should also change the toilet seat and cover in your home or business every two to three years. Over time, the seat and cover can become worn, cracked or broken, allowing waste to leak into the toilet bowl. This can lead to costly repairs and an unpleasant bathroom experience.