Plumbing problems are one of the biggest headaches for homeowners. If a leaky pipe is not noticed in time, it can cost a lot of water damage in the surrounding areas. It is both a messy and costly job to clean up. Although you can never predict where a leak will develop, there are things that you can do to minimize these problems. Preventing problems before they appear is the best approach. Read this article for some good ideas on how you can avoid plumbing disasters.
- If you live in an area where the ground can freeze, your pipes are at risk of rupturing. When water freezes in the pipes, the added pressure in the pipe can cause it to crack. An easy way to prevent this is to wrap your pipes before the ground freezes. Do this when you notice the weather starting to turn colder and colder. The wrap will insulate the pipes and prevent the water inside from freezing over. Do not wait until you see frost because you put your pipes at risk if you wait that long.
- Check your pipes regularly for leaks. You should not wait until you see a problem before you do that. A leak usually starts out small, if the leak remains unchecked, you can risk a pipe burst. By the time you see signs of water where there is not supposed to be water, you know that the leak must have gone on for a while. Catching a leak early can prevent major problems from developing. Sitting water can cause major damage to the foundation or floor of your home. Therefore, check your pipes on a routine basis.
- A common area for leaks is the area underneath your sink. Your indoor plumbing gets old over time. Leaks can form around the areas where the pipe sections are joined. Do not keep your clutter underneath your sink area. Try to keep that area organized so you can quickly spot a leak if one develops. Another advantage to keeping that under-the-sink area tidy is that if you do have a bad leak, it would be easier for you to clean up.
- As your plumbing fixtures get old, sometimes they can spring a leak. However, you do not have to assume that you have to purchase new fixtures right away. Sometimes the leak is due to a crack in the washer. All you have to do is remove the head of the fixture and replace the washer. You can try this method on your leaky faucets or showerheads.
- Mineral deposits can accumulate on your shower head and affect the water flow. You can clean it effectively by using some vinegar. Remove the shower head, and immerse the head into a bowl of vinegar. Let that sit overnight. In the morning, the mineral deposits can be easily cleaned off.
In a lot of cases, plumbing problems can be averted if you pay attention to regular maintenance. Keep these simple tips in mind to keep your plumbing in good working order.