A new year means new beginnings, including ensuring your plumbing system has a fresh start! The beginning of the year is the perfect time to get into the habit of proper home maintenance. Integrating a plumbing checklist into your monthly routine can help you avoid the frustration of a leaking pipe, broken faucet, or both.
Here’s what should be added to your New Year plumbing checklist:
Check For Leaks
Did you know that fixing these pesky leaks could help you save up to 10 percent of your water bill? While having a leaking faucet is more of an inconvenience than a plumbing emergency, those drips add up. It’s therefore essential that checking for any leaks should be first on your checklist, with the bathroom and kitchen the first areas on your to-do list. If you suspect a leak, begin by inspecting your toilets, faucets, showerheads, bathtubs, pipes under the sink and around appliances. Check for any signs of water around pipes, corrosion or rust, unusual sounds such as hissing, or mildew or mould in places that shouldn’t be damp. Ensure your inspection extends to your outside areas, as irrigation systems, outdoor faucets, hose connections, and gutters can be one of the many culprits.
Water Pressure
Erratic and low water pressure can be a major inconvenience as it slows down basic tasks. Having adequate water pressure ensures a steady and consistent flow of water that meets the demands of daily activities such as showering, washing dishes, and doing laundry. To maintain optimal water pressure, you should regularly assess and address potential issues by conducting a water pressure test. If you suspect your water pressure could be low, purchasing a pressure gauge, which you can attach to an outdoor faucet, will help provide you with a reading. Standard residential water pressure typically ranges from 2 to 4 bars in the UK.
Regularly Check for Drain Clogs
For any signs of slow drainage, keep an eye on the drains throughout your home, including sinks, showers, and tubs. If you notice water taking longer than usual to clear or hear gurgling sounds, it could indicate the early stages of a clog. Addressing minor clogs promptly with drain cleaners or natural solutions can prevent more severe blockages that may require professional assistance. Hair, soap scum and food waste are just a few of the major causes of blocked drains. Install drain strainers in sinks and showers to help catch hair and other debris before they enter your drain pipes while regularly cleaning your shower grates. Additionally, try and avoid throwing oil and grease down your drains, disposing of it outside or adding it to compost.
Keep Your Pipes Cosy
Proper insulation helps prevent pipes from freezing during colder months, reducing the risk of bursts and water damage. Inspect the insulation around pipes, especially those in unheated or exposed areas, ensuring it’s in good condition for those cold months. For added security, you may want to speak to a plumbing professional to help you find out what you can do to help “winterise” your pipes.
Schedule a Plumbing Inspection
Consider scheduling an annual or bi-annual plumbing inspection conducted by Clearpath Drainage. Having a thorough check is a great way to make sure there are no leaks or concerns that may pop up in the future, ensuring your plumbing system is in optimal condition. This proactive approach can save you from unexpected and costly repairs, providing peace of mind and maintaining the long-term health of your plumbing system.
We’re ready to help you keep your home running smoothly this year! Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.
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