Whether we are concerned about our health, our motor vehicles or our homes, there is no doubt that prevention is better than cure. If we care for ourselves by eating correctly, exercising and getting sufficient rest, we are more likely to stay fit and healthy. If we check the oil and water, and service our cars regularly, they will last longer and run more efficiently. And if we maintain our homes, they will be more comfortable to live in and won’t suddenly cost us hefty repair bills.
Exactly the same principle relates to the plumbing systems within our homes and other buildings. If we take steps to prevent things from going wrong, and take immediate action as soon as we become aware of plumbing problems, we are less likely to be faced with plumbing emergencies that disrupt our lives and cost a lot of money to fix.
If you think about any plumbing system you will realise that there are different elements that make up the whole. In general, there are the:
- water supply pipes,
- drains and waste pipes,
- gutters and downpipes,
- hot water system, and the
- fixtures and fittings.
Ten preventative plumbing tips to help avoid problems
- Check the visible joints in water supply pipes regularly, and if they begin to leak, have them repaired immediately.
- Where you can’t see water supply pipes, either because they are buried in the ground or concealed in walls, under the floor or in the ceiling, watch for signs of damp that could indicate leaks. Never ignore damp patches.
- Treat your drains with respect and don’t flush unnecessary material down the toilet, like disposable nappies, tampons or cigarette butts. Never pour oil down the kitchen sink, and if you find hair in the grates over bath and basin traps, remove it and throw it in the bin.
- Be aware of any odours that come from drains because this usually indicates a partial blockage.
- If sinks, basins and toilets drain more slowly than usual, you probably have a blocked or partially blocked drain. Take action immediately to prevent overflows or flooding.
- Don’t plant trees near drains and underground water pipes because tree roots have an uncanny way of finding even the smallest cracks and growing into drains. Tree roots are the most common cause of blocked drains.
- Keep gutters and downpipes clear of leaves and other debris so that you don’t cause unnecessary damage to the gutters and downpipes, or to the exterior of the house that could be swamped in heavy rain. Leaves and debris that is washed out of gutters can also end up in drains, adding to blockages.
- Use hot water heaters according to the manufacturer’s instructions and call in a plumber immediately if a heater is not operating efficiently. Elements and valves do sometimes need to be replaced.
- Keep your sanitary ware spotlessly clean to prevent any type of build-up that could damage the surface – especially the inside of the toilet bowl.
- If your taps begin to drip, change the washers so that you don’t waste water.
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