Prevention is always better than treatment. Preventive maintenance is a great way to save money in the plumbing industry and lower your utility bills. These seven easy steps are preventative maintenance for your home’s water supply.
PREVENTION OF THE TOILET
Toilets are visited every day, but you don’t often remove the tank cover to inspect its components. It’s a good idea to inspect the supply, fill and flush values as well as the supply lines for corrosion. Leaky toilets can be costly due to wasted water.
DON’T GET HEATED OVER YOUR WATER HEATER
Do you ever feel the cold on your shoulder when your water heater is on? This could be because your heater has accumulated sediment which makes it less efficient. It is essential to drain the heater and flush it annually in order to increase its performance and longevity. To detect potential problems, it is important to inspect the shutoff valve of your water heater and the piping.
CHECK FOR LOW DRAINS
Slow-moving Drains can indicate larger problems. If they’re slow-moving, you can flush them with vinegar and hot water. Clogging your pipes with force or chemicals can cause damage. Clear drain P-traps under your sink to prevent clogs.
FIX LEAKY FAUCETS AND SHOWERHEADS
If saving money and protecting the environment sound good to you then fixing your leaking faucet is a smart move. A household that leaks can cause 180 gallons of water per week. Check that your faucet handles don’t leak when you turn off the water. Check for leaks from the faucet handles or the shower-heads.
SIGNS OF THE YEAR
While outdoor sprinklers and pool lines can be free-flowing in summer, they can cause problems with your plumbing system if winter is not prepared for. Outdoor fixtures should be added to your preventative maintenance checklist. You should turn off the outdoor water supply, and insulate them as soon as it gets too cold.
UNDER PRESSURE
Check your water pressure gauge regularly. Do not set it at an excessive level. This can cause excess pressure in your plumbing system. Make sure your regulator is working properly to maintain a controlled pressure.
MISSING CAULK
Caulking in bathrooms creates a waterproof barrier between the flooring and walls. Make sure to inspect the bathtub, sink, and shower for missing or damaged caulk.