There are just some things you should leave to an expert. One of the most common industries this phrase applies to is undoubtedly plumbing. When it comes to plumbing problems in the home, these are things every homeowner or renter should know. Prevent problems at the root of their source, and call a plumber when you need to. These are common things plumbers wish you knew from the get-go. It’s time to become aware:
1. Use of chemicals
When a drain problem arises in the home, it’s common for homeowners or renters to grab the closest bottle of Drano and pour away. Bad idea! Do not reach for chemicals, especially if you don’t know whether or not they’re compatible with your sink’s makeup. Chemicals can be very harsh on drains and dangerous for you to handle. The best thing you can do to prevent drain build up is to clean your drain as you go, and not wait until it’s clogged to address the problem. Keep grease and hair out of your drains.
2. Use of toilet drop-in fresheners
While they may make your toilet bowl temporarily fresh, the real lasting effects of drop-in toilet bowl fresheners are counterproductive for your bathroom’s overall integrity. Prevent problems from the start. Drop-in toilet bowl fresheners will cause wear and tear on the toilet’s parts over time. Not to mention, drop-in fresheners can later get stuck in the piping.
3. Not treating your toilet like a garbage
Just because something is labeled “flushable,” does not exactly mean it is. Do not trust the tag that says it. Ultimately, they can block the drain pipe. You know, those feminine care products, personal-cleaning wipes, toilet bowl scrubbers, or even cat litter – it can cause problems in the future. When you can, do not flush these items. Throw them in the garbage. That’s where they belong. A plumber would advise that you keep a small waste basket near your toilet to encourage this process.
4. Installing a proper leak protection system
As a homeowner, you should be especially considerate of this. If you are a renter, this is something you should make your landlord aware of, for yourself or future tenants quality appliance assurance. It costs a fair price to install such a system, and prevents ample future expensive damage in the future. A proper leak protection system acts as an alarm and main-water shut-off if a leak occurs in your place of residence.
5. Knowing when your hot water heater is outdated
Everyone should know how to determine whether or not their water heater is outdated! How can you do this? A common analysis of your water heater’s age is all you need. If your water heater has been around 8-12 years, you can pretty much guarantee it’s outdated. Consult a professional if you’re seriously unsure, but we advise skipping right to the installation process of a new one if you know it’s been around for this period of time.
