Essentials You Need to Know About Your Home’s Plumbing
Plumbing systems are complex. If problems occur, they can cause major water damage, spikes in the water bill, and other harmful effects. To avoid these problems and catch them early before more damage can occur, homeowners must learn the basics about their plumbing systems.
Property owners can save money and prevent significant headaches by understanding the ins and outs of a home’s plumbing. Plumbers recommend that homeowners know about water-efficient fixture upgrades, how to identify the signs of a plumbing issue, and why they need maintenance services.
Benefits of Upgrading Old Plumbing Fixtures
One area of plumbing systems homeowners might know the most about since they are used daily is plumbing fixtures. However, while households use faucets, shower heads, bathtubs, sinks, and water heaters daily, they might not know why their fixtures are causing their utility bills to increase.
Older plumbing fixtures can increase a home’s water costs because they use more water than new, water-efficient fixtures. Additionally, water heaters lose efficiency as they age, increasing energy bills. However, installing new water-efficient plumbing fixtures and an energy-efficient water heater, like a tankless water heater, can lead to significant savings.
Homeowners can choose from many types of water-saving fixtures, such as dual-flush toilets or other types of water-saving toilets, low-flow showerheads, low-flow faucets, and faucet aerators. These fixtures use less water and save money while still providing good-quality water pressure.
Signs of Plumbing Problems
Plumbing problems have larger consequences for households than just the inconvenience of losing access to a plumbing fixture. They can also cause significant water damage, high utility bills, and costly repairs. To avoid these problems, property owners need to identify the signs of a plumbing problem as soon as possible so it can be repaired quickly, preventing more damage and costs.
Plumbers recommend homeowners pay attention to changes in their plumbing systems, as these can signal a problem with the plumbing. This can include variations in their water pressure or high water bills. If a home’s water pressure suddenly gets lower than usual, it can signal a leak, clog, or another issue in the system. High water costs mean more water is being used than usual, indicating a leak in the system.
Odd sounds and smells can also indicate a problem with a home’s plumbing system. For example, sounds like gurgling from drains can signal an issue like a blockage or backup in the sewer line, and banging sounds can indicate a water hammer. Foul odors can indicate there is a clog or blockage. Slow drains, such as slow-draining sinks or showers, are another sign of a drain or sewer line blockage.
Routine Plumbing Maintenance
One of the best ways for homeowners to keep their plumbing system operating correctly – and avoid emergency repairs – is to schedule routine plumbing maintenance on their system around once a year. These services allow plumbers to thoroughly inspect a plumbing system and identify problems before they lead to major issues. Routine maintenance also extends the lifespan of the plumbing and can save homeowners money on repairs, early replacement, and utility bills.
Some tasks plumbers will perform during routine maintenance services include:
- Check pipes for signs of leaks, corrosion, or other signs of aging
- Search the house for signs of water damage, including water stains and mold
- Ensure fixtures like faucets, shower heads, toilets, bathtubs, and sinks are operating correctly
- Check the system’s water pressure
- Check for any blockages or clogs in the system. They will also perform drain cleaning services to remove buildups if any are suspected.
- Maintain the water heater, including checking for leaks and corrosion, draining and flushing the tank, and checking the valves and anode rod.
About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains
Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains is a family-owned and operated company serving Cincinnati and the surrounding areas. They offer flat rate prices, free estimates, and the latest technology. Call them today for plumbing services in Cincinnati, OH.