A plumbing system is an intricate network that delivers water and waste throughout a building. It is vital to keep it in good working order to save money on energy costs, prevent pipe leaks, and avoid major damage. 

Making a few simple maintenance tasks part of a routine can extend the life of pipes and fixtures. For example, regularly pouring baking soda down drains can prevent clogs. If you go online and look for “blocked drain plumber near me” you will see that maintaining your plumbing system is important. 

Check for Leaks 

Leaks are a major source of water waste in households. According to the 2016 Residential End Uses of Water Study, the average household loses about 17 gallons per day due to indoor leaks. Fortunately, they’re fairly easy to detect and fix. Start by reading your water meter when no one is using water inside the home. Return two hours later and if the reading has changed, you have a leak somewhere in your plumbing system. 

Regularly check the back of cabinets and under sinks for signs of mold or foul smells that could indicate a leak. Also, inspect all accessible connections at your water heater, pumps and washing machine hoses for discoloration or oxidation – these are clear signs of slow leaks. 

Fluctuations in your home’s water pressure can also indicate problems. A professional plumber can evaluate your home’s plumbing and ensure all water fixtures are working properly. They can also provide recommendations on how to save energy costs and conserve your home’s precious water supply. 

Drain Your Water Heater 

The adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” couldn’t be more true when it comes to your plumbing system. Leaks, clogs and other problems can cause water damage to your home and lead to expensive repairs. But with a little preventative maintenance, you can keep your plumbing systems working smoothly for years to come. 

One of the most important things you can do to maintain your home’s plumbing is to drain your water heater on a regular basis. This helps remove sediment that collects on the bottom of the tank and causes it to work inefficiently. 

You can do this by shutting off the water to your home and then using a garden hose to drain the tank. Make sure you have a bucket or bin nearby to catch the water. You’ll also need a wrench to turn off the gas valve at the top of the tank and a screwdriver to loosen the drain valve. 

Tighten Faucets and Valve 

The plumbing system in your home provides a constant supply of clean water, heats

it for washing and sanitation, and delivers it to appliances like dishwashers. Most systems can last a long time without problems if they receive regular maintenance. Preventative care is much less expensive than dealing with plumbing emergencies and repairing water damage. 

Leaks are the most common plumbing problems, and they can waste a lot of water and increase your water bill. To avoid leaks, you should regularly check for water stains and puddles around sink drains, toilets and tubs. 

If you notice a faucet leak, first turn off the water supply. Then, remove the handle using a screwdriver or hex wrench. Apply masking tape around the edge of the decorative cap to protect it, then loosen the set screw underneath. Then, loosen the adjusting-ring tension to stop a handle leak. Lubricate the valve with penetrating oil if it doesn’t respond to cleaning. 

Don’t Flush Anything Other Than Toilet Paper 

Putting anything other than toilet paper into your plumbing system is a surefire way to get a clog. While a little hair, cotton and grease may not seem like a big deal, they can build up over time and create a clog that could cost you a lot of money to repair. 

Similarly, "flushable" wipes should never be sent down your drain. Despite the enticing label that says they pass the test, these products don’t break down like toilet paper and can cause a costly clog. Instead, put a wastebasket in the bathroom and dispose of these items correctly. 

Taking care of your home’s plumbing system is important to avoid costly repairs and protect our precious water supply. By following these simple tips, you can prevent a variety of plumbing problems and keep your family healthy and safe.