The plumbing system is one of the most important parts of your home. Taking care of it and making sure everything works properly can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with DIY plumbing repairs.
Fortunately, there are a few simple things every homeowner can do to keep their plumbing in tip-top shape. Here are 12 handy tips that will help you take control of yourplumber Newcastle situation:
Understand the Shutoff Valves
Before engaging in any plumbing DIY project, it is important to know which shutoff valve controls each appliance or fixture in your home. This way, you can turn off the water supply to that particular appliance if needed during maintenance or repairs.
Check for Leaks
If a leak occurs, immediately turn off the water supply to the area and inspect for loose connections, frayed pipes, or worn-out seals. Make sure to tighten all of these components if you find them before turning on the water again.
Unclog Sinks and Drains
Clogged sinks and drains are common plumbing issuesfaced by many homeowners. To unclog them, you can use a plunger to remove any clogs that may be blocking the pipes. If this does not work, you can also try using baking soda and vinegar or a snake auger to loosen the obstruction.
Clean Out the Drains
Properly cleaning out your drains on a regular basis is important for maintenance purposes. Pour boiling water down the drain at least once a month in order to melt away grease and soap scum buildup that could eventually lead to clogs if left untreated.
Repair Leaky Faucets
Leaking faucets are another common plumbing problem faced by many homeowners that need to be addressed quickly before it causes water damage in the home. To repair it yourself, you will need to first turn off the water supply, then unscrew and inspect for faulty components. Once you have identified any problems, make sure to replace them before turning the water back on.
Install a Water Filter
Installing a water filter in your home is essential for ensuring that the water being used is safe and healthy for your family. This can also help reduce sediment buildup in pipes or fixtures, which can cause clogging or corrosion over time.
Maintain Your Hot Water Heater
Regular maintenance and inspection of your hot water heater are important as they can prevent costly repairs and extend its life span. Make sure to check for leaks, rust spots, loose valves or connections, and other signs of wear and tear.
Install a Backwater Valve
Installing a backwater valve in your home can help protect it from flooding due to sewer backups. This will also reduce the risk of contaminated water entering your home, which could lead to health issues if not addressed properly.
Insulate Hot Water Pipes
Insulating hot water pipes is important for reducing heat loss and energy costs as well as preventing frozen pipes during colder months. Make sure to use foam pipe insulation that is specifically designed for hot water pipes in order to make the most out of this DIY project.
Test the Sump Pump
It is important to test your sump pump regularly in order to make sure it is functioning properly. This can be done by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit and ensuring that the pump turns on and empties the water quickly.
Check for Water Pressure Issues
Checking your home’s water pressure is important for making sure it is not too low or too high, as either can lead to problems down the line. To do this yourself, you will need an inexpensive pressure gauge that attaches to your outdoor hose bib.
Know When to Call in Professional Help
While there are many plumbing DIY projects that homeowners can take on themselves, some may require professional help due to safety hazards or lack of knowledge or experience with certain tasks. If you find yourself in this situation, it is best to hire a licensed professional who can properly assess and address the issue.
Overall, taking on basic plumbing maintenance projects yourself can help you save time and money while ensuring your home’s plumbing system is in proper working order. While some tasks may be more difficult than others, most homeowners should have no problem at all tackling these DIY projects with relative ease. Just make sure to equip yourself with the right tools and supplies before you begin any project to ensure you are tackling it safely and correctly. Additionally, when in doubt or if the task is beyond your abilities, don't hesitate to call in professional help for guidance or assistance.
