A well-maintained plumbing system can reduce the risk of costly repairs in the future. This can be especially helpful for facility managers who are looking to reduce operating costs on metered water lines.

Regular maintenance can also help prevent clogs, which can be costly and frustrating. Here are a few important plumbing maintenance tasks to keep in mind:.

Clogged Drains

If you’ve ever had to deal with clogged drains, you know how frustrating and inconvenient they can be. Besides being a major inconvenience, they can also lead to major water damage and even mold infestations.

The good news is that clogged drains are usually preventable. You can start by keeping a plunger handy in the bathrooms and kitchens, but you should also invest in a plumbing snake, which is a coiled wire that you can twist down your drains to break up and remove blockages.

Another important tip is to watch what you put down your drains. Certain items like hair, grease and soap scum can build up and clog your drains over time. You should also avoid flushing items down your toilet that aren’t meant to be there, such as kitty litter or coffee grounds.

Finally, you should plant trees and other large plants well away from your sewer pipes to minimize the risk of root intrusions into your lines. With the right prevention measures, you can avoid costly drain clogs and other pipe problems.

Leaky Faucets        

The drip, drip, drip of a leaky faucet is more than an annoying annoyance. The constant flow of water can wreak havoc on fixtures and lead to expensive repairs or replacements. It can also put a strain on local water supplies and lead to higher utility bills.

A number of factors can contribute to a leaking faucet, from water sediment to worn-out seals. A regular cleaning of the interior components of your sink can prevent many problems. You should also keep the water pressure at a normal level to avoid overworking the seals.

Before beginning any repairs on your faucet, shut off the water supply by locating the valve under the sink. Make sure to cover the drain with a rag or old towel to catch any small parts that may fall down the pipe. Once the water is off, you can begin disassembling the faucet. Make sure to keep a wrench or screwdriver nearby to remove the handle, packing nut and stem. Have a bottle of distilled white vinegar on hand to clean any mineral deposits that you discover on the internal components.

Sediment Buildup

Sediment in plumbing is a serious issue that can cause major disruption to your home life. It can restrict water flow and clog drains, and it also provides a food source for bacteria. Fortunately, you can prevent sediment buildup in your pipes with proactive measures like preventing leaks and installing water-softening systems.

Sediment can enter a building’s water supply from a variety of sources, including erosion, soil contamination and construction sites. While sediment itself isn’t dangerous, if it’s contaminated with pathogens or pollutants, drinking it can lead to health issues.

To get rid of sediment in your water heater tank, turn off the hot water supply valve and open the drain valve. Then, open the hot water faucets in your home to release air pressure and allow the sediment to flow out of the tank. Once the sediment is flushed from your home, pipe lining will keep it from returning.

Water Heater

The water heater is an essential household appliance that ensures a steady flow of hot water for showers and bathing, washing dishes and clothes, and more. A well maintained water heater helps reduce energy bills while also keeping families safe and comfortable.

On average, a water heater lasts around ten years, but regular professional maintenance can help extend its lifespan. Draining and flushing the tank regularly helps prevent sediment buildup, which can impede its efficiency and cause it to fail sooner than it should.

During routine maintenance, a plumber in Canberra can test the pressure relief valve, which is the fail-safe that prevents the temperature of the water in the tank from reaching dangerous levels. This simple step can help protect the longevity of your water heater and reduce energy costs while preventing costly water heater repairs in the future. Water heaters are an integral part of your home, and they work silently in the background to provide a steady supply of hot water for showers, laundry, and dishwashing.