Home plumbing is one of the hardest working systems there is. Not only does it ensure that water flows to where it needs to be; it also guarantees that waste is flushed away from your home. A good plumbing system is invaluable, which is why problems can be catastrophic and expensive.
You don’t want to wake up one morning and discover that your kitchen or bathroom is flooded. Regular maintenance is important to ensure that your plumbing system remains in good condition. If a component needs repair, fix it immediately or call a professional to do it for you. Getting professional help is ideal if you think you can’t handle the problem on your own. In some cases, however, small problems can be easily fixed without the help of a pro.
For serious plumbing problems around Chantilly, plumbing services are readily available to ease your burden. But for simple issues such as leaks, spare yourself the spending and the hassle by solving these simple home plumbing problems:
Slow Flow
Drains are important when it comes to getting rid of wastewater, so you want them to work efficiently and effectively. A slow drain can be a sign of blockage—especially in your bathroom. Check your shower or tub drains for hair, as these are the major causes of clogging. The best way to get rid of hair build-up is using a zip-tool or a drain snake. A plunger is also an effective tool for drain unclogging.
Sinks can also be accused of having slow drains. You can use these same tools by simply removing your sink drain’s pop-up. Slide the zip-tool down the train and begin unclogging.
Freezing Point
Now that winter is literally coming, it’s time to prepare your home for the cold weather, including your water pipes. These components of your plumbing system may freeze once the temperature outside your house goes down to zero degrees Celsius or lower. If you have pipes on your lawn, shut off the valve to prevent water from freezing inside the pipes.
You can also winterize your pipes by wrapping them with foam sleeves, newspapers, or heat tapes. This will add a layer of insulation that will protect the pipes against extremely low temperatures.
Under (Low) Pressure
Nothing ruins a nice shower quite like weak water pressure. Water pressure is another common plumbing conundrum that is surprisingly easy to fix. Low water pressure can be attributed to a few reasons—not the least of which is old pipes.
Old pipes—especially in older homes—tend to corrode and bend, which can cause leaks. However, your shower can also be the cause of the inadequate water pressure. Simply dismantle your showerhead and clean it thoroughly using a toothbrush soaked in vinegar. This gets rid of any build-up that may occur over time.
Nobody wants a broken plumbing system. It’s so inconvenient, not to mention costly to repair if left unsolved. But with these simple tips, you can cut off unnecessary spending and keep the water flowing in your pipes. You can enjoy the benefits brought about by the plumbing system for longer.
