Eight plumbing essentials every homeowner should know
Dealing with plumbing issues as a homeowner can be a real pain. To help prevent emergencies, make sure you follow these eight tips.
Rightio Plumbers share eight plumbing essentials that can help you prevent many common problems and save yourself from hefty repair charges.
1) Locate your property’s stopcock
Every homeowner should know where their home’s main water shut-off valve, also known as the stopcock is situated. Usually found under the kitchen sink or in a utility area, turning it off can prevent serious water damage in the event of a burst pipe or a major leak.
2) Inspect drains regularly
Hair, soap, grease and even food pushed down the bathroom and kitchen drains, can cause significant blockages. Prevent the hair and debris build-up by using drain catchers and regularly cleaning your sink and shower. A simple mixture of bicarbonate of soda and vinegar can help deal with a clogged sink and keep your drains clear and odour-free.
3) Check for hidden leaks
A leaking toilet or tap can waste a lot of water and increase your bills. To check for toilet leaks, add a few drops of food colouring to the tank. If the colour appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak that needs fixing.
4) Replace appliance hoses
After a few years, appliance hoses wear out. To avoid sudden bursts and water damage, its advisable to check and replace washing machine and dishwasher hoses after every 3-5 years.
5) Install water softeners
Limescale growth in pipes and appliances due to hard water, is a common issue across the UK. For plumbing systems to have longer life, installing water softeners is a worthwhile investment.
6) Book your annual boiler service
The boiler being a vital part of your home’s plumbing system, its advisable to get it regularly serviced by Gas Safe certified engineers. This not only ensures the boiler’s efficiency but also reduces the risk of breakdowns and extends its lifespan.
7) Prepare for plumbing emergencies
Keep a basic plumbing toolkit, including a plunger, pipe wrench, plumber’s tape, etc. Knowing how to use these tools can help you tackle minor plumbing issues before they become a major problem. Most importantly, keep handy the contact information of a reliable tradesman. In the event of a plumbing crisis, such as a burst pipe, certified plumbers can be a valuable resource.
8) Get plumbing and drainage cover
If you’re not confident in your DIY skills, and don’t have the time and money to throw at last-minute repairs, plumbing and drainage cover can be perfect for you. With unlimited callouts, parts and labour costs covered for, you don’t have to worry about unexpected plumbing costs and know that an expert plumber is always a call away when needed.
Avoid expensive home breakdowns
Properly maintaining your plumbing system is essential to avoiding costly and inconvenient breakdowns. By sticking to these expert recommendations, you can significantly reduce the chances of plumbing issues and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-functioning home.
