Home Plumbing Maintenance Tips

A well-functioning plumbing system is the unsung hero of any home. It ensures we have clean water for our daily needs and a reliable drainage system to keep our surroundings hygienic. Yet, plumbing often remains out of sight and out of mind until an issue arises. Instead of waiting for a leaky faucet or a clogged drain to catch you off guard, it’s wise to adopt a proactive approach to home plumbing maintenance. By investing a little time and effort into regular upkeep, you can prevent major disasters and save both your money and sanity in the long run.

In this article, we will explore essential home plumbing maintenance tips that every homeowner in Canada should know. 

From simple do-it-yourself tasks to knowing when it’s time to call in the professionals, we’ll cover a range of strategies to keep your plumbing in top-notch condition. Whether you’re a new homeowner looking to understand the basics or a seasoned one aiming to enhance your plumbing knowledge, this guide will equip you with valuable insights. So, let’s dive in and learn how to maintain a healthy plumbing system that will serve you well for years to come.

Regularly Check for Leaks in Your Home Plumbing System:

you should routinely inspect your plumbing fixtures, pipes, and appliances for any signs of water leakage. Even a small leak, if left unattended, can lead to significant water wastage, higher utility bills, and potential damage to your home.

Here’s how you can implement this tip:

1.  Faucets and Fixtures: Check all faucets in your home, including kitchen and bathroom sinks, showerheads, and outdoor faucets. Look for any visible drips or puddles around the base when the faucet is not in use.

2.  Pipes: Inspect the pipes under sinks, in basements, and crawl spaces for signs of moisture. Even a minor dampness could indicate a leak. Also, check for any discoloration or bulging on the pipes, which might signify a hidden leak.

3.  Appliances: Examine appliances that use water, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators with ice makers. Look for any water accumulation or moisture near these appliances.

4.  Toilets: Listen for running water in your toilet after it has been flushed. Also, check around the base of the toilet for any water seepage, as well as inside the tank for signs of leaks.

5.  Outdoor Areas: Inspect hoses, sprinkler systems, and outdoor faucets for leaks or pooling water. Outdoor leaks can often go unnoticed and cause substantial wastage.

6.  Water Meter: Periodically check your water meter, especially when no water is being used in your home. If the meter continues to run, it could indicate a hidden leak in your plumbing system.

Inspect Water Pressure:

Monitor the force at which water flows from your faucets and showerheads. Maintaining the correct water pressure is essential for the efficient operation of your plumbing system. Here’s how you can understand and manage water pressure effectively:

Understanding Water Pressure:

P in pounds per square inch (psi). Normal residential water pressure usually falls between 40-80 psi. If the pressure is too high, it can strain your pipes, appliances, and fixtures, potentially leading to leaks. On the other hand, if it’s too low, it might indicate a problem in the supply line or a hidden leak in your plumbing system.

How to Inspect Water Pressure:

1.  Use a Pressure Gauge: You can purchase a water pressure gauge from a hardware store. Attach it to an outdoor faucet and turn on the water to get an accurate reading of the pressure.

2.  Check Faucet Performance: If you notice unusually low water pressure in one or more faucets, it could indicate a localized problem, such as a clog or mineral buildup in the aerator.

3.  Monitor Shower Performance: In the case of showers, low water pressure can affect the quality of your shower experience. Pay attention to changes in water pressure and flow.

Managing Water Pressure:

1.  Pressure Regulator Valve: If your water pressure is consistently too high, consider installing a pressure regulator valve. This device can be added to your main water line to reduce excessive pressure.

2.  Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure about the ideal water pressure for your home or if you suspect issues with the supply line, it’s advisable to consult a professional residential plumber. They can assess your system and recommend necessary adjustments.

3.  Address Leaks: Sudden drops in water pressure might indicate a leak in your plumbing system. If you notice unexplained changes in pressure, it’s important to investigate the issue promptly to prevent further damage.

Prevent Clogs:

Prevent plumbing problems like slow drains and backups by being careful about what you put down your drains. Here’s how.Preventing Clogs:

1.  Use Drain Guards: Place drain guards or strainers in sinks, showers, and bathtub drains to catch hair, soap scum, food particles, and other debris. Empty these guards regularly to prevent buildup.

2.  Dispose of Grease Properly: Avoid pouring cooking grease or oil down the kitchen sink. Instead, put grease in a container and throw it in the trash. Grease can block pipes if poured down the drain

3.  Be Mindful of Food Waste: Before washing dishes, scrape food scraps into the trash or compost bin. Don’t let big food bits go down the kitchen drain to prevent clogs.

4.  Limit Toilet Paper: Use an appropriate amount of toilet paper and avoid flushing excessive amounts at once. Never flush items like wet wipes, cotton balls, dental floss, or sanitary products, as they can easily clog pipes.

5.  Regular Cleaning: Keep your drains clear by cleaning them naturally. Pour boiling water, then a mix of baking soda and vinegar down the drain. Wait a bit and rinse with hot water. It stops buildup in the pipes

6.  Educate Household Members: Ensure everyone in your household understands what can and cannot be flushed or washed down the drains. Educating family members or roommates can prevent accidental clogs caused by improper disposal of items.

7.  Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners: Chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes over time and may not effectively remove clogs. Opt for natural, non-toxic alternatives like baking soda, vinegar, and hot water for minor clogs.

8.  Regular Maintenance: Think about getting regular professional drain cleaning, especially for older homes or if you often have clogs. A plumber can use special tools to clear out debris from your pipes

Maintain Water Heater:

To keep your water heater efficient and safe, regular maintenance is key. Here’s what you need to do.

1.  Flush the Tank: Removing sediment buildup is vital for your water heater’s efficiency. Periodically, drain a few gallons of water to flush out the sediment, ensuring your heater works well.

2.  Check the Pressure Relief Valve: Your water heater’s pressure relief valve prevents excess pressure. Test it occasionally by lifting the lever to let out some water. If it doesn’t work or keeps leaking, it might need replacement.

3.  Insulate Older Heaters: If you have an older water heater, consider insulating it with a water heater blanket. This insulation reduces heat loss and can save on energy costs, especially in colder climates.

4.  Set the Right Temperature: Set the thermostat on your water heater to a safe and energy-efficient temperature, typically around 120°F (49°C). This prevents scalding accidents and saves energy by not overheating the water.

5.  Check for Leaks: Check your water heater often for leaks, rust, or corrosion. If you see water around the base or any damage, get it inspected and fixed right away to avoid problems.

6.  Inspect the Anode Rod: Water heater tanks have a component called an anode rod that attracts corrosive elements, protecting the tank from rusting. Check the rod annually and replace it if it’s more than 50% corroded. This simple step can significantly extend the life of your water heater.

7.  Schedule Professional Maintenance: Consider having your water heater professionally inspected annually. A pro plumber can perform a thorough check, including examining the electrical or gas components, ensuring proper ventilation, and verifying the overall condition of the heater.

8.  Consider Tankless Water Heaters: If your water heater is getting old, consider switching to a tankless one. They give you hot water instantly, are energy-efficient, and need less maintenance than regular tank heaters.

Insulate Pipes:

Insulating your pipes is a practical and cost-effective way to protect your plumbing system, especially in colder climates. Proper insulation helps prevent frozen pipes, reduces heat loss, and conserves energy. Here’s how you can insulate your pipes effectively:

1.  Identify Vulnerable Pipes: Determine which pipes in your home are exposed to cold air, such as those in unheated basements, attics, crawl spaces, or along exterior walls. These pipes are more susceptible to freezing and should be a priority for insulation.

2.  Choose the Right Insulation Material: Many insulation options are out there, like foam pipe sleeves, fiberglass, and rubber. Foam sleeves are easy to install and insulate well. Just pick the right thickness for your pipes.

3.  Seal Gaps and Cracks: Before adding insulation, seal gaps in walls, floors, or ceilings near pipes. Use caulking or spray foam to keep out cold air, ensuring your pipe insulation works properly.

4.  Insulate Both Hot and Cold Water Pipes: Insulate both hot and cold water pipes. Insulating hot water pipes not only prevents heat loss but also ensures that hot water reaches your faucets more quickly, reducing water wastage.

5.  Pay Attention to Outdoor Pipes: Outdoor pipes, such as those leading to garden faucets and sprinkler systems, should also be insulated. Use outdoor pipe insulation or heat tape specifically designed for outdoor use to protect these pipes from freezing temperatures.

6.  Proper Installation: nstall insulation meticulously, covering all areas without gaps. Secure it with tape or zip ties tightly to prevent exposure. Pay extra attention to insulating pipe elbows and joints for thorough coverage.

7.  Consider Pipe Heating Cables: In extremely cold regions, consider installing pipe heating cables. These cables provide additional heat to the pipes and can prevent freezing in the harshest winter conditions.

8.  Regularly Check and Replace Insulation: Insulation can degrade over time. Periodically check the condition of the insulation, especially after extreme weather conditions. Replace any damaged or worn-out insulation promptly to maintain its effectiveness.

Schedule Professional Inspections:

Regular professional inspections of your plumbing system are essential for ensuring its optimal performance and longevity. While DIY maintenance is valuable, a trained plumber can identify hidden issues and provide expert solutions. Here’s why and how to schedule professional inspections for your plumbing system:

1.  Prevent Costly Repairs: Regular inspections allow plumbers to detect minor problems before they escalate into major issues. Addressing these concerns early can save you from costly repair services and potential water damage to your home.

2.  Ensure Safety: A professional plumber can identify potential safety hazards and faulty water heaters. Regular inspections help maintain a safe environment for your family by ensuring all plumbing fixtures and appliances are in proper working condition.

3.  Maintain Efficient Operation: Professional plumbers can optimize your plumbing system’s efficiency. They can identify and fix leaks, adjust water pressure, and ensure all components are functioning at their best. This not only conserves water but also reduces your utility bills.

4.  Extend Appliance Lifespan: Appliances like water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines benefit from regular inspections. Proper maintenance and early detection of issues can extend and increase the lifespan of these appliances, saving you money in the long run.

5.  Expert Diagnosis: Plumbers have the expertise and specialized tools to diagnose complex plumbing problems accurately. Whether it’s identifying the source of a mysterious leak or diagnosing issues with your sewer line, a professional inspection provides expert insight.

6.  Compliance and Regulations: Plumbers are well-versed in local building codes and regulations. During an inspection, they can ensure your plumbing system complies with these standards, avoiding potential legal issues in the future.

7.  Tailored Recommendations: Based on their assessment, plumbers can provide personalized recommendations for your specific plumbing needs. Whether it’s upgrading fixtures for water efficiency or replacing outdated pipes, their advice can enhance your system’s overall performance.

8.  Regularity is Key: Schedule professional plumbing inspections annually or biannually, even if you don’t currently notice any issues. Prevention is key to avoiding unexpected emergencies, and regular inspections form a crucial part of your home maintenance routine.