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Life is stressful enough without worrying about your home’s plumbing. Considering that plumbers can cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 per hour plus the cost of replacement parts, the consequences of not taking care of your pipes, faucets, and drains can add up quickly.
Plumbing problems are bound to happen eventually no matter what you do, but if you take reasonable precautions against a few common problems, residential plumbing repair Virginia Beach VA will be a lot less hassle and money when the time comes.
Clogged Drains
Avoid pouring fats and oils down the drain in your kitchen; these cause solid blockages when they cool and harden. When it comes to your toilet, only flush waste and toilet paper. Baby wipes, paper towels, tampons, and cleaning pads don’t break down completely and are the quickest way to backed-up pipes. Even so-called “flushable wipes” should not be flushed. Clean out your shower drain regularly to avoid clogs, especially if you have long hair.
Frozen Pipes
Pipes can easily freeze and burst during the winter months when ice causes pressure buildup between the blockage and the faucet. Leave your faucets just barely dripping to relieve this pressure and maintain water flow. Pipes in cold basements and attics may need to be covered with insulated sleeves to avoid freezing. Leave the cabinets underneath your kitchen and bathroom sinks open, especially at night, to expose them to the warmth of the rest of the room.
Hard Water Buildup
Hard Water is water that has a high mineral or calcium content. While it’s good for your teeth, it’s bad for your pipes. Minerals can build up in pipes and around faucets, resulting in loss of water pressure. Clean your showerheads and aerators with diluted cleaning-grade vinegar to dissolve these buildups and occasionally pour some down your drains.
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