9 Plumbing Protection Tips for Homeowners

Do you have a plumbing problem and need help right now? Call us at Formica Plumbing & Sewer Co. at (440) 485-3850!

As a homeowner, you want to do your part in keeping your plumbing system in optimal condition. Large or complex repairs always require service from trusted plumbers in University Heights, OH. But you can perform a few simple maintenance tasks on your own.

When you regularly perform plumbing maintenance, you’ll increase the lifespan of most components like faucets, pipes, and drains. Plumbing protection also saves money while preventing serious damage. At Formica Plumbing & Sewer Co., we developed a list of simple plumbing protection tips we recommend for all homeowners.   

#1 Educate Yourself About Your Plumbing

You should understand your plumbing system, what it needs, and how it functions. Even grasping the basics will improve how you work with your home’s plumbing. Learn where your plumbing lines lead and how different valves connect.

Education prevents you from making costly mistakes. Even small mistakes can have massive consequences that could require expensive repairs.

#2 Self-Inspect Your Pipes

Every few months, you should thoroughly inspect your pipes. Check any exposed piping for signs of a leak. You can do this by:

• Running the water that connects to the area
• Watching for water dripping from the pipes
• Looking for signs of water damage including stains, mold, or warping
• Examining pipes for visible cracks or fractures 

Normal wear and tear often cause minor corrosion or damage to pipes. But even small leaks require immediate service. By catching leaks quickly, you’ll prevent extensive structural damage from occurring over time. 

#3 Clog Prevention

Since debris flows down drains through wastewater, it regularly creates buildup. The buildup clogs your drains, which prevents water from flowing out of tubs or sinks. Clog prevention allows your sinks to function properly.

If you ever pour grease down your kitchen sink, start depositing it in a trash receptacle instead. Grease hardens and causes some of the most stubborn clogs. Use drain grates over all your drains to catch food, hair, and other debris.

Occasionally, you may need a drain cleaner to dissolve a clog deep in your system. Some DIY solutions work well. Otherwise, you may need a stronger solution from a retail store. 

#4 Use Your Garbage Disposal with Caution

Garbage disposals can’t handle all substances that wash down the drain. Certain items can make the blades dull or get tangled in them. Start throwing these items in the trash rather than down your garbage disposal:

• Eggs
• Bones
• Grease
• Vegetable or fruit peels
• Starches that soak up water
• Coffee grounds

#5 Clean Your Faucets

Water isn’t the only substance that comes through your faucets and showerheads. Water heaters can allow some mineral buildup to come through. The wet, dark parts of a faucet also provide an excellent habitat for mold to grow.

You can prevent this buildup by occasionally cleaning each faucet with vinegar. If you can easily remove a faucet or showerhead, let it soak in white vinegar overnight. Then, use a small brush to wipe any debris from the inside.

If you can’t remove the parts, heavily spray them with vinegar. Avoid using them for a few hours so they can soak. Then, clean any substances away with a brush. 

#6 Know the Location of Each Shut-off Valve 

In an emergency, you need to shut your water off to prevent severe water damage. Your plumbing system should include one main valve that controls the entire system. You should also have a valve that controls each individual fixture.

Familiarize yourself and your family with each valve’s location. Learn which way to turn them. If a pipe bursts, you can prevent extensive damage with this plumbing protection tip. 

#7 Have Appropriate Tools on Hand

At Formica Plumbing & Sewer Co., we recommend that every homeowner have a few plumbing tools on hand. You might already have a few of these stored beneath your sink. Peruse the list below and make sure you have each of the following tools. 

• Goggles prevent wastewater from splashing into your eyes. Always use them when working with your plumbing. 
• Drain covers prevent unwanted substances from entering your drains and pipes. 
• Drain snakes can reach deep inside a drain to remove clogs. 
• Vinegar is a non-corrosive cleaner and clog remover. 
• Use gloves anytime you need to reach inside a drain. 

#8 Protect Pipes During Cold Temperatures

While this tip seems obvious, it always bears repeating. In Ohio, winter temperatures often dip below zero. Cold temperatures put your plumbing system at risk of frozen pipes.

When below-freezing temperatures head your way, make sure you do the following:

• Leave cabinets open so heat can circulate around plumbing fixtures.
• Run appliances, like dishwashers and washing machines, at night to encourage hot water flow.
• Insulate exposed pipes with foam covers.
• Let each faucet drip throughout the night.
• Never turn your heat off when you travel.

If you think you may have frozen pipes on your hands, turn your water off and call a plumber. Doing so might save your home from serious structural damage.

#9 When in Doubt, Always Call Our Reputable Plumbers

If you aren’t sure where a problem originates, you need professionals to assess the situation. Never try to do complex plumbing repairs or installations on your own. You might end up with more severe problems.

Many home insurance policies offer covered repairs. You might avoid paying full price for quality plumbing services. If you forgo a licensed plumber or attempt to solve an issue on your own, you might lose important coverage advantages.

Only a reputable plumber has the training and equipment to tackle these issues. 

Choose Formica Plumbing & Sewer Co. for Impeccable Service

With Formica Plumbing & Sewer Co., you have more than the average plumbing service in University Heights, OH. You can also learn more plumbing protection tips including maintenance for plumbing fixtures and fittings. You have peace of mind, a satisfaction guarantee, and skilled professionals who focus on quality service.

As a family-owned company, we understand the importance of a home that supports your family. Call us at (440) 485-3850 for plumbing protection service.