Plumbing repairs can be expensive, especially if you’re not prepared. Taking simple steps to prevent problems like clogged drains, low water pressure, and leaky toilets can help you save money in the long run.
While some plumbing issues are easy for DIY-ers, others require the expertise of a professional plumber. Try these tips to avoid costly plumbing repairs:
Turn off the Water
Using less energy is always a good idea. Setting your thermostat to the right temperature, turning off lights when not in use and unplugging appliances are easy ways to do this. However, it is also important to reduce your water consumption in order to save money on your monthly utility bills.
Leaky faucets are a huge source of wasted water and can add up to hundreds of dollars in lost money each year. Even a single drip a day is enough to waste gallons of water, so having a plumber check for and fix leaks is essential.
Another way to help save money is by installing water efficient fixtures throughout your home. Low-flow showerheads, toilets and faucets will cut down on your water usage without you even noticing. This is the best way to cut down on your water bills and keep your home’s plumbing in great shape.
While it is a great idea to collect and reuse water, you should always turn off your faucets when not in use. Leaving your water on while brushing your teeth, shaving and lathering up in the shower can add up to gallons of wasted water each day. It’s essential to develop the habit of turning off your water while performing these tasks and getting in the habit of catching and reusing water to lower your bill.
During warmer weather, it is also a smart idea to drain your washing machine, dishwasher and water heater before you leave. This will help prevent any clogs or leaks from occurring while you are gone. For extra peace of mind, you can also pour plumbing anti-freeze into each drain and in each toilet bowl before you leave.
It is also a good idea to insulate your pipes. This is especially important if you live in a cold climate. In addition to saving you money on your utilities, it can also prevent frozen pipes and costly repairs.
Turn off the Faucets
Leaving faucets running while doing laundry, brushing teeth, and washing dishes can add up to gallons of wasted water in a single day. This can add up to significant costs over time, especially if you have a high water bill. Turning off the faucets can help you save money, and it’s a simple habit that’s easy to get into.
One of the biggest causes of high water bills is leaks in your home’s plumbing system. It’s important to regularly check for and repair leaks, as they can waste a lot of water over the course of a year. A small leak from a dripping faucet can end up costing you up to 15 gallons of water a day. If you notice a sudden spike in your water bill, it’s a good idea to start checking for hidden leaks.
It’s also a good idea to keep a water bottle in your fridge so you can easily fill up when you’re thirsty without having to run the tap. You can also try reducing your shower times or turning off the tap while you’re brushing your teeth, which will help cut down on your water usage.
Another great way to conserve water is by installing touchless faucets throughout your home. These faucets shut off with the wave of a hand, making them perfect for families with young children who can often leave a sink running when they’re washing hands or playing in the tub. They also conserve energy by shutting off automatically, so you don’t have to use any extra energy to keep the water running.
It’s also a good idea to clean out drains and pipes every so often to avoid build-up, which can lead to clogs and leaks. To do this, simply pour a cup of boiling water down each drain once a week to remove any built-up hair or grease. You can also try using an aerator on your sink faucets, which will reduce the amount of water that comes out while still providing plenty of pressure. You can even pour plumbing anti-freeze into each sink and toilet drain once a year to prevent the lines from freezing in the winter.
Clean Drains
Many homeowners give their drain system very little thought until something goes wrong. But a bit of preventative maintenance and cleaning can keep your drains running smoothly and save you money in the long run.
The main function of your drains is to dispose of wastewater from your home, but they also serve as a conduit for food, grease, hair, dirt, soap residue, and other debris. Over time, this grime can build up in your drain pipes and cause clogs that strain your plumbing and lead to costly repairs. To reduce the amount of grime in your drains, flush them regularly with boiling water or baking soda and vinegar.
In addition to preventing clogs and keeping your plumbing working properly, drain cleaning can eliminate unpleasant smells that permeate your home. These odors are often caused by a combination of sewage gas, mildew, and mold that seeps through the cracks in your pipes. Regular drain cleaning, done by good plumbers akin to the Akron plumbers, can reduce or eliminate these odors for good.
When you walk down the cleaning aisle at your local grocery store, you’ll find a variety of products that claim to clean your drains and pipes. While some of these chemicals may get the job done, they can also be damaging to your pipes and the environment. Using these harsh chemicals can result in pipe corrosion, blockages, and even ruptured pipes.
Having your drains cleaned by a professional plumber can help you avoid these issues and save you money in the long run. Professionals use tools that can break up and remove stubborn clogs without causing damage to your pipes or drain system. They can also detect leaks in your sewer lines and water pipes, saving you money on expensive repairs down the road.
To flush your drains with baking soda and vinegar, simply pour a cup of each down the drain. This will help dissolve and loosen the grease, mineral deposits, and other grime that has built up in your pipes. To prevent clogs, never put cooking grease down the drain, and place strainers over your sink, shower, and bathtub drains to stop hair, soap scum, and other debris from entering the pipes.
Install Water-Sense Fixtures
Your plumbing system is responsible for transporting water, an essential resource, throughout your home. However, if your plumbing isn’t properly maintained, you can expect to spend a lot of money on repairs. Fortunately, you can prevent costly plumbing issues by following these handy tips.
Investing in new fixtures can be expensive, but you can save money by choosing models that have earned the EPA’s WaterSense label. This designation means that the toilets, showerheads, and faucets meet the EPA’s performance specifications for water efficiency and conservation.
These products are available in many styles and price points, so you can find a fixture that meets your aesthetic and budget needs. Plus, the EPA estimates that replacing old inefficient faucets and aerators with WaterSense-labeled ones can save up to 700 gallons of water and enough energy to power your hair dryer each year!
Upgrading your showerhead can save you up to four gallons of water each time you take one. The EPA also reports that reducing your toilet flow rates can reduce your water consumption by up to 30%. In addition, installing a smart irrigation controller with weather-sensing technology can help you reduce outdoor water usage even further.
Installing Water-Sense fixtures isn’t just about saving money, it’s also about protecting our most precious natural resources. As our water supply is becoming increasingly limited, we need to conserve as much of it as possible. This is why the EPA created the WaterSense program. The program is similar to EnergyStar for appliances, but it applies to plumbing fixtures.
If you’re thinking about building a new home, consider asking your builder to incorporate ENERGY STAR and WaterSense-qualified fixtures. These programs are closely aligned and achieving both can be a relatively easy feat.
Your plumbing system is the heart of your home, so it’s important to keep it running smoothly. If you have any concerns about the health of your plumbing, contact a trusted plumber for assistance. A reputable company can provide you with the advice, installation services, and maintenance needed to ensure that your plumbing systems runs efficiently for years to come!
