Homeownership involves keeping up with regular maintenance such as ensuring the plumbing system is in good condition and functioning properly. While people rely on their plumbing to accommodate their daily lives, most rarely consider its care and upkeep unless an issue develops.

Simple tasks can help prevent issues with your drains, pipes, and other components. For complex problems, it’s important to contact a plumbing professional in your local Durham area.

Companies like Benjamin Franklin Plumbing are highly trained and experienced and come equipped with specialized tools to diagnose and repair virtually any plumbing issue.

Plumbers like these not only repair the system, but they’re also available for emergency plumbing situations, inspect and maintain the system, and perform new installations.

Simple Plumbing Maintenance Tasks

The plumbing system and fixtures can last a long time with adequate care and upkeep. Routine inspections and regular maintenance are much more cost-efficient than dealing with plumbing emergencies and the associated damage.

Fortunately, there are simple tasks you can take care of to prevent common problems, like clogs or leaks and reduce the need for costly repairs.

Visit – 9 Preventive Plumbing Maintenance Tips | Amica Insurance – for preventive plumbing maintenance tips. Consider adding the following to your household maintenance checklist.

Inspect for leaks

Periodically check the house for leaks to avoid water waste. Even a small leak can increase utility costs by consuming a large volume of water.  Major appliances are all potential sources for small leaks that can lead to extensive damage and costly repairs.

Low pressure or a sudden spike in usage are signs of hidden leaks. If you suspect a leak in the home but can’t find it, it’s important to contact a plumbing professional. Neglected leaks can attract pests, such as carpenter ants and termites and compromise the home’s structural integrity.

Slow moving drains

When a sink drains slowly, it’s usually due to a buildup of debris, such as soap scum, hair, or food particles. Before the drain becomes completely blocked, there are a few affordable ways to clear the clog and get it flowing again.

Removing and cleaning the stopper could resolve the issue. Another solution to try is a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water. If these remedies are ineffective the clog is likely deeper in the drain and will need to be removed by a professional.

Plumbers have specialized tools and the latest technology to help detect and clear blockages from any location.

Homeowners must understand that drains are narrow and can become clogged easily if not properly maintained. Basic items, such as food particles, soap, hair, and grease buildup and block bathroom and kitchen drains.

The wrong type of toilet paper or too much of it will clog pipes. Mesh drain covers are recommended in the sinks and bathtubs to keep hair and other debris from blocking the drains.

Chemical cleaning solutions

Many homeowners turn to chemical drain cleaning solutions when they have a slow-moving drain or a blocked drain. These often offer a fast fix but usually only temporary and it rarely completely clears a clog. This means repeating the process to keep the drain flowing.

Because these solutions contain caustic chemicals, continued use can lead to damaged pipes. Instead, plumbers recommend using a plunger or drain snake to dislodge the blockage. If these are ineffective, contact a plumber for a more aggressive approach that won’t damage the system.

Insulating pipes

There’s a common misconception that frozen pipes are an issue only for households located in cold-climate regions. In fact, the homes that are most at risk are those that are in the warmer regions because homeowners typically don’t properly insulate against freezing temperatures.

Pipes in unheated areas, such as the attic, basement, and crawlspaces need extra protection against extreme temperatures. Pipe insulation sleeves can fit over exposed pipes to reduce the chance of freezing. You should also winterize and insulate swimming pools, inground sprinklers, and hot tubs to prevent damage.

Exposed pipes

Many causes of leaks, such as rusted or corroded pipes, occur over time and with consistent abuse.

In some cases, homeowners will hang laundry or other items from exposed pipes in their utility rooms. This can weaken the pipes; they’re not designed to support this weight. You want to regularly inspect these exposed pipes for signs of deterioration or damages.

Warping, rust, or condensation on the exterior is a sign of a problem that a plumbing professional must immediately address. Go here for tips for talking with your plumber.

Final Thought

These are simple tasks that homeowners can do to proactively care for their plumbing system. Most problems, however, will require the help of a licensed plumber in Durham, North Carolina.

If you discover a broken pipe or a leak, contact a qualified professional to have it quickly and efficiently repaired. That’s the best way to prevent costly water damage.