Home Maintenance Tips to Prevent Plumbing Problems

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Plumbing problems can end up causing major damage to your home. While some plumbing issues can occur suddenly due to factors beyond your control, you can take steps to reduce the risk of a few common plumbing problems. Keep the following tips in mind to help keep your home plumbing issues to a minimum. 

Keep Toilets and Drains Clear

Clogs are among the more common plumbing problems you may experience. When a clogged toilet or drain isn’t dealt with, it can lead to serious leaks or water damage. You can prevent clogged toilets and drains by restricting what you flush into the system. For instance, avoid flushing wipes down the toilet, even if they’re labeled as “flushable.” Wipes generally do not break up the same way toilet paper does. Try to keep larger items from falling into shower and sink drains, and consistently remove hair and other debris from around the drains, so they don't have the chance to accumulate in the drainpipe. 

Prevent Pipe and Faucet Leaks

Leaks are one of the more serious plumbing problems that homeowners encounter. Even a minor leak can end up causing severe damage when it goes unnoticed. While faucets can develop leaks as they deteriorate over time, you can reduce wear and tear by carefully and slowly turning the handles on and off. Pipe leaks can be hard to prevent altogether, routinely check for signs of potential leaks. These include a buildup of moisture on pipes or rusty areas. If you suspect you have a pipe leak, consult with a plumber about repairs as soon as possible to prevent a larger issue from developing.

Avoid Running Toilets

Toilets that run constantly can indicate a leak or other problem with the interior components is present. This kind of plumbing problem can be tough to prevent entirely. However, checking your toilet mechanism on a regular basis or testing for leaks using food coloring in the tank can ensure that you catch issues early on. Your toilets may need something as minor as untangling the chain that connects to the flapper valve, to work again properly.

Inspect Your Water Heater

Problems with your water heater might include a lack of hot water or water that isn’t getting hot enough for showers and other household uses. Water heaters can develop problems over time due to damage, deterioration, a mineral buildup or other problems. Inspecting the pressure valve, flushing the tank from time to time and doing other maintenance checks can help lower the risk of these problems.