The Importance of Regular Plumbing Maintenance: Avoiding Home Disasters

Owning a home in Orange County is a major responsibility and part of that responsibility is maintaining the plumbing system. Oftentimes a home’s plumbing system is ignored until a problem arises but neglect can lead to costly repairs and even health-related risks. We will discuss the importance of regular home maintenance and how it can prevent plumbing emergencies from causing homeowners unnecessary stress and aggravation.

Understanding The Basics Of Your Plumbing System

Plumbing systems are responsible for carrying clean water into your home through the use of water service lines. They simultaneously remove wastewater via the drainage system to keep your home clean and sanitary. Over time plumbing pipes systems suffer wear and tear leading to deteriorating pipes and the shortened lives of plumbing fixtures. Some of this damage is visible while other damage is hidden behind walls and ceilings potentially affecting the integrity of your home. Keeping your water and drainage pipes in good order will help prolong the life of plumbing fixtures, water-using appliances, and your entire plumbing system.  

The Important Role Maintenance Plays

Through regularly scheduled inspections of plumbing systems homeowners have the opportunity to find potential problems before they have the chance to develop into plumbing emergencies. It is easier and less costly to repair a clog than it is to face the consequences of a burst pipe. An overall inspection of water service lines, the drainage system, and related fixtures and appliances will ensure your home is functioning at full capacity.

Ongoing maintenance can keep pipes free of corrosion preventing low water pressure, and unappealing drinking water, and can help extend the life of your water-using appliances by not needing to replace them sooner than is recommended. A maintenance program will also save money on costly emergency repairs as these will be reduced or eliminated. Maintenance also saves money since wasted water from cracked pipes, dripping faucets, and running toilets are lessened keeping your entire plumbing system healthier.

Hidden leaks can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth. If this condition goes unaddressed serious health problems can arise. Mold spores become airborne and are breathed in creating respiratory issues and other health-related problems. 

A well-functioning plumbing system is good for the environment too. Keeping your home free of leaks and other plumbing issues your home’s infrastructure will remain intact reducing the need for construction and the filling of landfills. Proper waste removal practices keep water from becoming contaminated and are another major contribution to a healthier and more sustainable environment.

Tips To Avoid Disasters

The best tip is to make home maintenance a scheduled and adhered-to practice. Regular visual inspections of exposed plumbing such as pipes under a sink or water failures in and around plumbing fixtures are essential. Education is also necessary so homeowners have the skills to recognize the signs of hidden problems so they can be addressed promptly.

There are many ways a homeowner can positively influence their plumbing systems. In the kitchen developing proper waste removal practices for grease, fats, and oils as well as fibrous foods will help keep drains clear of clogs. Eliminate egg shells, coffee grinds, and hard-to-grind food waste such as bones to keep your plumbing system performing properly.

In the bath, install drain guards to catch hair and avoid disposing of oily bath products down drains. Become knowledgeable about the Dos and Don’ts of what is permitted to be disposed of in the toilet to keep drains free of clogs and running smoothly. Toilets are not trash cans so be mindful of flushing practices.

Conclusion

Regularly scheduled maintenance may appear unnecessary and a waste of time but in the long run you will reap the benefits of maintaining your plumbing system. Early detection of plumbing issues will prevent water waste and costly repairs and save money on monthly water bills. A well-functioning plumbing system is good for your health, your peace of mind, and the sustainability of the planet. Be a smart homeowner and proactively invest in your home’s plumbing system. You will be glad you did!