3 Common Plumbing Mistakes to Watch Out For
The new year is a time for hope and planning about the goals and accomplishments people want to achieve during the coming year. It's a good time to reflect on the year past and to arrange for the best upcoming year possible. Unfortunately, things like the plumbing system don't realize that the year is starting anew. It's up to homeowners to take care of the plumbing system to prevent those headaches that seem to throw years into disarray both in terms of time and money. Luckily, there are three things homeowners can do (or not do) to prevent plumbing issues.
The Use of Liquid Drain Cleaners for Clogs
Using liquid drain cleaners to clear plumbing clogs is one of those things that most homeowners do without realizing how much damage they're doing. While these chemical drain cleaners' easy and convenient use is appealing, they tend to do more harm than good. If allowed to sit too long in the pipe, or if they're overused, these "cleaners" can eat away at the pipe, which can cause seriously expensive plumbing issues down the line. These chemicals can also end up in the groundwater, which can cause harm to plants, animals, and humans — even in small quantities.
There are a few other ways to clear drain clogs without using these chemical drain cleaners. The use of hot water poured down the drain works well. Pouring baking soda and then vinegar down the drain can also cause a "natural" chemical reaction to help clear clogs. There's also the use of handy plumber's snakes for more stubborn drain clogs.
Shirking Water Heater Maintenance
It's no stretch to consider the water heater the workhorse of the plumbing system. And since it does much of the heavy lifting, it's important to take good care of it. This means regular water heater maintenance. Every tank-style water heater should be flushed once or twice a year to remove sediment, which can cause serious damage if left unchecked. It's also important to check the anode rod, look for leaks, and ensure that the heating element or fixture is in good condition.
Trying Your Hand at DIY Plumbing Repairs and Installations
While there's certainly something to be said for learning a few DIY plumbing basics, certain tasks are best left to the professionals. The homeowner can easily do things like clearing a clogged drain with a plumber's snake. But other jobs, such as installing fixtures, replacing pipes, or locating leaks, should be done by trained plumbers.
Homeowners attempting these jobs without professional training may end up costing themselves lots of time and lots of money if things don't go as planned. That's why it's a good idea to contact friendly plumbing professional for any big plumbing job.
About Miracle Plumbing Inc.
Miracle Plumbing Inc. has been serving San Jose, CA, with pride since 1992. Their highly trained technicians are known for their excellent workmanship and customer service. They provide upfront pricing and always have a fast response. Contact them today for plumbing services.