Most people don’t think about plumbing until there’s a problem. And by then, it’s often too late. A plumbing emergency can be a costly and stressful experience. That’s why it’s important to know some basic tips for avoiding them in the first place. In this blog post, we will discuss 11 tips from a professional Winston-Salem plumber for avoiding home plumbing emergencies. Follow these tips and you’ll be able to keep your home safe and your wallet intact!
Tips from a Winston-Salem Plumber
Winston-Salem is a great city, but like any other urban area, it has its share of plumbing problems. If you’re a homeowner, then you know that these problems can arise without warning and cause all sorts of headaches. But there are some things you can do to avoid these emergencies altogether. Here are 11 tips from a professional Winston-Salem plumber:
Have Your Plumbing Inspected
You should have your home’s plumbing inspected at least once every two years. However, there are some situations where you may want to schedule an inspection sooner. If your home’s plumbing system is more than 50 years old, it will require more routine maintenance. Homes should also be inspected before and after they’re sold.
Watch Your Drains
Be mindful of what goes down your drains. Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain, as this can lead to clogs. Similarly, don’t put coffee grounds or eggshells down the garbage disposal, as these can also cause clogs.
Fix Leaks Immediately
If you notice a plumbing leak, don’t wait to fix it. The longer you wait, the worse the problem will become. Not to mention, leaks can waste a lot of water and increase your water bill. So if you see a plumbing leak, call a Winston-Salem plumber like Bodenheimer Plumbing Services right away to have it fixed.
Don’t Flush Foreign Objects
This should go without saying, but don’t flush anything down the toilet except human waste and toilet paper. Flushing foreign objects can lead to serious clogs that are very difficult (and expensive) to fix.
Know Your Water Pressure
Your home’s water pressure should be between 40 and 60 psi. Anything higher than that can cause damage to your pipes. If you’re not sure what your home’s water pressure is, have a Winston-Salem plumber come out and check it for you.
Install a Water Softener
If your home has hard water, then you should install a water softener. Hard water can damage your plumbing and lead to costly repairs down the line. A water softener will remove the minerals from your water, making it easier on your plumbing.
Replace Worn Out Pipes
If any of the pipes in your home are more than 50 years old, they should be replaced. This is especially true if they’re made of cast iron or galvanized steel. These materials are prone to corrosion, which can cause all sorts of problems.
Avoid Putting Too Much Stress on Your Pipes
Your pipes can only handle so much stress. So avoid putting too much strain on them by overloading your washing machine or running your dishwasher when it’s not full. These things put unnecessary stress on your plumbing and can lead to leaks or breaks.
Be Careful What You Plant
When you’re planting trees or shrubs near your home, be careful not to plant them too close to the sewer line. The roots of these plants can grow into the sewer line and cause clogs. If you’re not sure how far away from the sewer line to plant something, ask a Winston-Salem plumber for advice.
Install a Backwater Valve
If you live in an area that’s prone to flooding, you should have a backwater valve installed. This will prevent floodwaters from entering your home through the sewer line and causing serious damage.
Know Where Your Shut-Off Valves Are
In the event of a plumbing emergency, it’s important to know where your shut-off valves are. That way, you can quickly turn off the water to your home and prevent further damage. Every homeowner should know where their shut-off valves are located.
Bodenheimer Plumbing Services in Winston-Salem, NC
Your plumbing needs are important to us. At Bodenheimer Plumbing Services, we offer residential and commercial plumbing services as well as emergency services. From sewer lines to installation services, toilet repairs to clogged drains, we can take care of all your plumbing needs. Trust the Triad’s trusted plumbing company for over 80 years to get the job done right. We offer a wide range of plumbing services to Winston-Salem, NC residents and the surrounding regions. Whether you need a simple repair or a complete replacement, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
