Throughout our years of experience, we’ve handled virtually every plumbing situation. As professionals, we always try to give our clients advice on how to keep their plumbing system in top shape. In doing so, our team also noticed that some homeowners believe common myths that result in damage to their plumbing system.
We jotted down various plumbing Do’s and Don’ts so you can avoid misleading advice.
Plumbing Do’s
Check if you have Lead Pipes
Lead Pipes were commonly used in the 1900s for home plumbing systems. They have a life expectancy of 100 years but can pose a health risk when lead seeps into your drinking water. It’s no wonder that California decided to prohibit its use for residential purposes. You can quickly recognize lead pipes in your home as they have a dull grey surface and can easily be scratched by metal.
If you’re not sure if your home has lead water pipes, you can have the water tested. There should be no more than 15 parts per billion of lead content. If your results determine a higher content than 15ppb, call a licensed plumber to place those pipes.
Know your pipes before using chemical cleaners
Although we generally advise not to use drain cleaners, we recommend knowing what type of pipes your home has if you choose to use them. Using a drain cleaner for PVC pipes can result in catastrophic damage and you may need sewer repair services. Using a multi-purpose drain cleaner that is safe for all pipes may not be as effective.
Let water down your garbage disposal when in use
Garbage disposals are prone to blockage due to the high amount of waste that is flushed. To prevent drain clogging, we recommend that you have water running down your garbage disposal when using it. This will make it easier for waste to make its way through your pipes and reduce build-up.
In case of an emergency, shut off the water
If you have a plumbing emergency that is causing water to return up the drains, shut off the water and call a professional plumber. You can cause more damage to your home if water begins to flood your home.
Plumbing Don’ts
Never put grease down your drain
Flushing grease and oils down your sink can easily cause your drain to clog. As it begins to harden, grease and cooling oils catch waste that washes down the sink and begins to block your pipes.
Don’t flush “flushable” wipes
So-called “septic safe” wipes may claim that you can flush them down the toilet, but we noticed that they clog drains easily.
Don’t use toilet bowl fresheners
The high bleach content in a tablet cleaner can damage your toilet bowl. Bleach causes the parts in your bowl to break prematurely and require replacing.
Don’t pour coffee grounds into your sink
To all you coffee drinkers around the world, please don’t pour your coffee grounds down your sink. Coffee grounds do not break down when they are in water and instead clump together. That’s where the problems arise for you. The clumps cause blockages and with back up your lines and you’ll end up calling professionals like us to help. Instead of throwing the coffee grounds to the trash, use them as fertilizer for a garden. You’ll see your plants grow and fill with life.
Your plumbing is vital in providing your home with the safe delivery of clean water. As professionals, we want to help homeowners prevent common mistakes that result in costing them hundreds for plumbing repairs. Having a clogged drain, no hot water, or leaking faucet is relatively common but shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you need help with any plumbing issues, we’re here to help!
