How to Avoid Summer Plumbing Disasters
Summer is the season of fun. Along with warmer temperatures come backyard parties and vacations. One thing that shouldn’t come along with the summer is problems with the plumbing. Summer plumbing issues tend to waste money, cause damage, and put a damper on fun plans.
Instead of risking ruining a good time this summer, take some advice from local plumbers. With these simple tips, homeowners can have peace of mind during the summer that there won’t be plumbing disasters in their homes.
Keeps an Eye Out For Leaks
Water leaks in residential plumbing are the single biggest wastage of treated water in the country. It is estimated that every home has at least one leak that wastes several dollars per month in water and sewer costs. While that may not sound like too big of a deal, costs can add up. Additionally, undetected leaks can lead to bigger problems like:
- Mold overgrowth
- Insect problems
- Rotting wood
- Warped floors
- Structural problems
Homeowners should make an effort to inspect plumbing for leaks regularly, like at the beginning of each season. With summer just now starting, take a quick look at the exposed plumbing, including fixtures and piping under cabinets. By catching these problems early, homeowners can save money on bills and prevent the problem from spreading any further.
Throw the Grease in the Garbage
If a plumber is asked what the simplest habit is for stopping kitchen drain problems, they will say properly discarding cooking grease. A popular misconception about kitchen plumbing is that garbage disposals handle cooking grease. This is entirely false. Garbage disposals only handle incidental food debris that makes it down the sink. They were never intended to handle the disposal of cooking scraps or grease.
When cooking, grease turns into a liquid because it melts at high temperatures. This can give cooks a false sense of security that compels them to pour it down the sink. Instead of taking chances with the kitchen plumbing, develop the habit of discarding food waste in the trash can. If grease is poured down the drain, it will quickly cool and reharden on the inside of pipe walls causing a nasty clog.
Flush Drains Regularly
Drain clogs are a great way to ruin a cookout. Even though the cooking and socializing are done outdoors, everything is always brought inside for cleanup. Additionally, a clogged bathroom drain can lead to a traffic jam in the bathroom that can ruin an evening.
To prevent clogs in the kitchen drain and other drains around the home, flush them regularly. This can be as simple as running water down the drain as debris is washed away in the kitchen sink. For more deliberate measures, homeowners can use the old baking soda and vinegar trick to prevent scum from building up on the inside of the piping.
However, homeowners should avoid chemical drain cleaners since they can often do more harm than good. When homeowners frequently flush drains, pipe clogs can be a thing of the past.
About Henco Plumbing Services
Henco Plumbing Services is a family-owned and operated business that has provided the community of Vancouver, WA, and the surrounding areas with award-winning service for over ten years. They offer same-day service, flat-rate pricing, and financing is available. Call them today for plumbing services in Vancouver, WA.
