Having good working plumbing is an important part of managing your home. There are many reasons why calling a plumber might not be an option, and in some cases it is not even necessary. This article lays out some effective tips for repairing and maintaining your plumbing.
Noisy pipes is an easy do-it-yourself project. You must anchor any type of exposed pipe. If pipes are located in the floor, ceiling or walls, you might want to have a professional help you complete the project.
Know your plumbing tools and exactly how to use them before you start on any plumbing repair. Read all of the equipment’s manuals and read up as much as you can on plumbing projects. When planning on repairs, plan on having a plan.
Do not use harsh chemicals to clean or treat your toilet. While they may be effective deodorizers, they can damage rubber parts in your toilet. If they become too damaged, your toilet will not operate properly.
You can pour baking soda down a drain followed by some vinegar if you want to keep drains clear. This should be done once a month, and a cup each of baking soda and vinegar should be used. Afterward, place a washcloth or towel over the top of the drain, to keep the chemical reactions contained. After letting it sit for a few moments, clear the pipes out with a gallon of boiling water. This procedure will clear the hair and soap scum out of your pipes.
Always have cold water running when you are using your garbage disposal. The helps sharpen the blades and clears out the drain mechanism. Avoid using hot water, as this will liquefy grease, causing it to build up in the drain and obstruct your pipes.
Superior quality is important when it comes to shower fixtures. Most times, people tend to think that it is alright to purchase the most inexpensive shower head they could find. Cheap shower heads have a tendency to break easily, so make sure you get what you pay for.
When water pipes freeze, the damage can be extensive and costly. Thankfully, you can prevent your pipes from freezing. Insulate the pipes that run outside with proper material. When the temperature dips, you should also make sure your garden hoses are disconnected and that your exterior faucet is shut off. Be proactive about this and save on future repair bills.
If you have grout caught in your line, it’s most likely impossible for you to clean yourself. You can attempt to break up some of the grout which works to help the line go a bit smoother. This works better with plastic than metal pipes. Yet keep in mind that it is probably going to take professional work to eradicate this problem for you.
As this article helped point out, there are numerous ways you can choose to fix plumbing on your own. By utilizing these tips in your home, you can not only fix your plumbing in an emergency, but you can also cut costs by reducing the need for a professional plumber.