Properly maintaining your plumbing system isn’t only about conserving water. It can avoid serious situations that can be inconvenient and costly. Plumbing emergencies and many repairs and premature replacements are often preventable. You can therefore save quite a bit of money with these essential plumbing tips:
Don’t Ignore a Leak
Plumbing leaks are more common than you think. On average, leaks waste close to 10,000 gallons of water a year per household (and 10% of homes leak at least 90 gallons/day), according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. That not only accounts for small leaks in pipes, fittings, and connections. Even a dripping faucet can waste a significant amount of water. To save money, have that leaky faucet fixed by a professional and turn the tap off all the way. Water can drip if it is left only slightly open.Clean Your Drains
Don’t wait until a drain is clogged to maintain it. It’s a good idea to put strainers over a sink, shower, and bathtub drains to prevent a buildup of soap and hair. Blockages can strain your plumbing and cause drainage, pressure, and leakage issues that can ultimately lead to expensive pipe failures. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners or pouring cooking grease down a drain. And on a monthly basis, use baking soda and vinegar to prevent buildup and help keep your drains working.Maintain Your Toilet
The toilet has many moving parts and uses a lot of water. You can therefore save money by:- Addressing gurgling sounds, as they indicate a main drain problem such as a blockage or intruding tree roots.
- Check for leaks by putting food coloring in the tank; if the color reaches the bowl, call a plumber for leak repair.
- Flushing only toilet paper and nothing else down the toilet.