5 Plumbing Services and Maintenance Tips That Will Keep Your Plumbing in Tip-Top Shape
If you wish to keep your drains flowing, regular plumbing inspections by a plumber are necessary. That is why it is helpful to schedule inspections annually and make sure that you take advantage of specific services. The following maintenance services and tips should help you maintain your drains, pipes, and appliances so that they work well for you.
1. Have the Plumbing Technician Check for Leaks
This service is essential if you want to make sure that everything flows well. Signs of active leaks include puddling, moisture condensation, or mould and mildew. When inspecting for leaks, a plumbing professional will also check for signs of corrosion. You, as a homeowner, should note any presence of limescale around the shower heads or faucets. If corrosion is substantial, it may mean that the pipes should be replaced. Replacement is essential if you want to avoid issues, such as backups and flooding at a later date.
2. Have the Water Pressure Checked
The water pressure in a building or home should never be higher than 80 pounds per square inch (psi) or 40 psi. In plumbing, psi refers to the measure of the pressure of liquids in pipes, also called the hydraulic pressure. If a building has two stories, the psi is frequently higher, whilst the water pressure is lower on the higher tiers. If the pressure is too high, it can damage the pipes, whilst too low of pressure makes it difficult to shower or perform other plumbing-related activities. For more information, you may appreciate the resources available at Express Rooter.
3. Make Sure the Water Heater Is Operating Properly
The water heater in a home should be inspected regularly or preferably annually. The heater should be checked for leaking, as well as temperature fluctuations. In addition, the overflows and safety valves should be assessed. Any issues that involve safe operation should be resolved immediately. If your water heater is over 12 years old, you should also consider replacing it. Whilst it may seem to be in good condition now, it should still be replaced, as a breakdown is more likely to occur when an appliance has been operating for too long.
4. Inspect the Drain with a Camera for Obstructions
Another valuable plumbing service is using a survey camera. Today, drains can be inspected with a camera to ensure that they are working properly and are free of obstructions. If a pipe is damaged or an obstruction is noted, it can be fixed with a trenchless pipe repair – a repair that will prevent excavation and, basically, a mess. Today, repairs of this type are more streamlined and they allow homeowners to remove blockages or repair pipes with a minimum of disruptions.
5. Power Jet the Drains to Clear Them of Debris or Buildups
If a drain is running sluggishly, power jetting the line is an excellent solution. Not only does this service prevent backups and flooding, it ensures the longevity of your pipes and lines. If you want to keep the water flowing freely through your drainage system, you should have your plumbing power jetted once or twice a year. You need to schedule the service more often if you use your plumbing a good deal. For example, if you operate a restaurant, you should have this service performed more frequently.