Proactive Plumbing Maintenance: How to Prevent Common Plumbing Issues

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure – a saying that applies to everything, including your plumbing system. Regular proactive plumbing maintenance keeps your systems in great shape and prevents the stress of thinking about your system’s current condition. Here are a few things to watch out for to avoid common plumbing issues.

Regular Inspection and Maintenance

A routine check for leaks, corrosion, or wear and tear on your faucets, showerheads, pipes and valves ensures the quick detection of minor issues. For instance, detected leaks are quickly repaired and won’t turn into major problems that can cause severe water damage or enormous plumbing bills later.

Be Mindful of What Goes Down Your Drains

Clogged drains are an expensive problem for any homeowner. Kitchen drains should be kept clear of grease, food scraps and non-flushable items to prevent blockages. Installing drain screens or strainers in both kitchen and bathroom drains can catch debris. And, if you’re unsure about what’s causing the clog in your drains, a regular plumbing inspection reveals the problem and solution.

Monitor Water Pressure and Quality

High water pressure may feel great during a shower, but it can stress your plumbing system and increase the risk of leaks. Homeowners should ensure their system’s pressure is within a safe range (40-85 psi) to protect pipes and fixtures. If hard water is an issue, consider installing a water softener to prevent buildup in your pipes and eventual damage due to high pressure from blockage. 

Educating Your Household

Preventative plumbing maintenance isn’t solely the plumber’s job; it’s a collective responsibility. Educating all household members about proper water usage and the importance of not flushing down non-flushable items can go a long way in preventing toilet clogs and other plumbing issues.

Proactive Use of Plumbing Products

Resisting the temptation to use chemical drain-clearing products for every small clog is vital. Overdependence on these solutions can erode your pipes over time. Instead, opt for manual clearing methods or call a professional plumber to prevent damaging your system. For hard water issues, once again, water softeners are a must to keep everything clean and free from blockage and water damage.

Insulation and Seasonal Preparation

It’s always wise to insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas of your home to prevent them from freezing during cooler months, especially if you’re leaving for warmer climates. Proper insulation also helps maintain water temperature and reduces the strain on your water heater.

If you need high-quality plumbing services or a professional for routine inspections, you can always count on us at Plumber Near Me. Call us at (407) 446-5220 or fill out this contact form to get an estimate.