How To Save Money By Extending the Life of Your Plumbing Fixtures
By Landon Irvine, SameDay Heating & Air, Plumbing and Electrical
Maintaining the plumbing systems in your home is essential for avoiding costly repairs. Extending the life of your plumbing fixtures, specifically, can save more money that most homeowners realize.
Here are some key maintenance tips that every homeowner should follow to keep their plumbing in top shape.
1. Avoid Putting Eggshells and Coffee Grounds Down the Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals can handle a lot, but eggshells and coffee grounds are a big no-no. These materials can gum up your drain over time.
Eggshells create tiny particles that stick to the disposal blades, while coffee grounds can build up like sludge, leading to blockages. Always scrape these items into the trash or compost instead.
2. Run Plenty of Water After Using Your Disposal
A simple yet often overlooked step is to run lots of water after using your garbage disposal. This helps flush out any leftover particles and prevents clogs from forming.
Ideally, run cold water for at least 15-30 seconds after using the disposal. Doing this regularly helps maintain smooth water flow through your drain system.
3. Avoid Using Chemical Drain Cleaners
It might be tempting to reach for a chemical drain cleaner like Drano when you have a clog. But these products are harsh and can damage your plumbing.
The chemicals can erode your pipes over time and cause problems for professionals when they need to work on them. Instead, try using a plunger or a drain snake for minor clogs. If that doesn’t work, it’s best to call a plumber.
4. Install a Water Softener If You Have Hard Water
In areas like Utah, hard water is a big issue. The minerals in hard water can cause buildup inside your pipes, reducing water flow and damaging your fixtures.
Installing a water softener can extend the life of your faucets, showerheads, and water heater. Without one, mineral deposits can form inside your water heater, causing it to fail prematurely.
5. Inspect for Leaks Regularly
Even small leaks can turn into big problems. Regularly check under sinks, around toilets, and near water heaters for signs of leaks or moisture.
If you notice rust, corrosion, or water puddles, call a plumber right away. Catching leaks early can save you from more expensive repairs down the line.
6. Winterize Your Plumbing
Before winter hits, make sure your pipes are ready for the cold. Remove hoses from outdoor spigots and ensure exposed pipes are insulated.
Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to costly repairs. A simple fix, like adding pipe insulation or heat tape, can prevent this.
7. Schedule Regular Drain Maintenance
Preventing clogs is easier than fixing them. Schedule regular drain cleaning or inspections to keep things running smoothly.
Over time, debris and grease can build up inside your pipes, leading to slow drains or backups. Regular maintenance, like camera inspections, can help detect problems before they become serious.
