Home Improvement

How to Make Your Pipes Last Longer

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Pipes in your homes can last a long time, especially when regularly maintained and taken care of. Their lifespan depends on the material that they are made from. Brass pipes can last anywhere from four decades to as long as 70 years while copper pipes can last up to 50 years or even more. Galvanized steel pipes last shorter at around 20 years but with proper care can last up to 50 years. Cast iron pipes on the other hand can maintain their efficiency up to 75 years while PVC pipes are said to last a lifetime.

However, despite these numbers, there are many factors that can prevent these pipes from lasting longer than their estimated lifespans. All the water that enters your pipes wears it out in time. Debris and other mineral factors that enter your piping system can cause your pipes to deteriorate faster. To avoid these, as well as the huge costs that come with pipe replacements, you should take an effort in taking care of your pipes. Here are some tips you can follow to help your pipes at home or at work last longer.

Set Your Water Pressure at the Right Level

You can control the settings of the water pressure in your household. Although it seems convenient to enjoy high-pressure water in your homes, this can be detrimental to your pipes. Constant exposure to high-pressure can damage your pipes faster than it should be. You can ask your local Sydney plumber to set your water pressure levels at a safe level. Ideally, your home’s PSI should stay below 85. It would be best to install a water pressure gauge on your piping system to be able to keep a close eye on the water pressure changes in your property.

Avoid Using Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners are usually used in households to remove or push clogs down the drain. However, some chemicals are bad for specific types of pipes, even if they work best. If you are unsure if the chemicals you are about to use might be damaging your pipes, it would be better to refrain from doing so. One of the most common, but also dangerous types of chemicals used in cleaning bathrooms, kitchen sinks, and tubs is hydrochloric acid. If they sit or stay longer in your pipes, they might end up eating them away.

If possible, use a plunger or a plumber’s tool before trying our chemicals in removing clogs in your drains. It would be also best to ask a professional on the type of chemical cleaning compound that is safer for your pipes as well as bathroom and kitchen fixtures.

Fix Leaks as Soon as Possible

Pipe leaks, especially the ones that are not attended to immediately, can escalate to bursts that are not only bad for your pipes but for your property in general. There is no such thing as a small leak and a big leak. Pipe leaks should be treated equally and should be resolved as soon as possible.

Failure to address leak issues, in your pipelines as well as your plumbing fixtures may compromise the whole integrity of your plumbing system. Leaks can practically wear down your pipe. Pipes located underground are also subject to debris and root penetration if left unresolved for a long time. Have your pipes regularly checked by a plumber to ensure that no leaks are present. If you also notice drastic changes in your water bill, despite the absence of drips and obvious leaks in your home, you might have to call a professional plumbing team to check and inspect your piping system.

These tips are the most general but very useful practices you can apply to your homes and properties in Sydney to extend the lifespan of your pipes. Make the most out of your investment by having them regularly checked by a professional.

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