When it comes to keeping your plumbing in pristine condition and avoiding plumbing problems, staying on top of your plumbing maintenance is a must. You have probably heard the saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”, right? Well when it comes to preventing plumbing mishaps, prevention is the key word. Most plumbing problems can be prevented with the right preventative care and proper usage. However, life gets busy, and for most people, their plumbing maintenance isn’t necessarily at the forefront of their thoughts, that is until they are faced with a massive plumbing issue. Here are some important areas you don’t want to neglect.
Leak Detection
Leak detection is an important part of your plumbing maintenance. Unchecked leaks can cause a lot of damage, leading to more expensive repairs and even health risks. In addition, a plumbing leak can potentially waste thousands of gallons of water over time. The longer it goes, the more water it wastes, affecting your pocketbook. As part of your plumbing maintenance you should make it a point to familiarize yourself with the signs of a leak. This includes:
- The sound of rushing, running, or dripping water
- Unexplained pools or puddles of water
- Visible signs of water damage
- The smell of mold or mildew
- Higher than usual water bill
In addition, you should inspect the areas that are more prone to leaks this includes: faucets, showerheads, toilets, water heaters, and water supply lines. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, make repairs right away. If you suspect a hidden leak, contact your plumber to conduct a more thorough investigation.
Water Heater Flush
Both tank storage and tankless water heaters require regular maintenance in order to operate in the most efficient and effective manner. Tank storage water heaters typically last 10-12 years, while tankless water heaters can last around 20 years. Staying up to date on their maintenance helps increase the longevity of your water heater, which allows you to get a bigger bang for your buck. Both tank storage and tankless water heaters should be drained and flushed at least once a year. This helps remove sediment buildup that accumulates over time. Sediment is a natural occurrence, and is the result of mineral deposits, like calcium and magnesium, that exist in your water.
To reduce the buildup, water heaters should be drained and flushed once a year. This allows them to heat water more efficiently, effectively, and helps protect the integrity of your water heater. Excess sediment buildup can cause wear and tear to both tank storage and tankless water heaters, however tank storage water heaters are more susceptible to damage from sediment.
Drain Cleaning
Annual drain cleaning is a great way to keep plumbing problems at bay. Over time a filthy sludge can form inside of your pipes, which can collect grease, hair, and other debris that make their way down the drain. Eventually this can obstruct the flow of water, which can leave you with sluggish drains, back up issues, and clogs. Having your drains professionally cleaned at least once a year helps reduce the build up and keeps your drains functioning the way they should be.
Schedule Your Plumbing Maintenance Today
With summer kicking off, now is a great time to have your plumbing maintenance done. If you suspect there is an issue, don’t put off repairs, this can only allow the problem to fester leading to a more extensive problem. Contact Lesco Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling today to schedule your plumbing inspection today!
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