The plumbing system in your home is vital for providing fresh, clean water and sanitation. Unfortunately, it can be easy to take this system for granted until something goes wrong with it. If you go online and look for “blocked drain plumber near me”, you will find that plumbers all over the place are busy fixing plumbing problems. 

Regular maintenance can help ensure that pipes and fixtures work correctly, avoid major emergency repairs, and extend their lifespans. Here are some best practices for maintaining your plumbing system throughout the year: 

Conduct Regular Inspections 

Conducting regular plumbing inspections can prevent unexpected issues that can lead to costly repairs down the road. An inspection can detect problems such as slow drains, strange noises, and changes in water pressure. It can also help keep water usage low, contribute to water conservation, and extend the lifespan of fixtures. 

Additionally, conducting regular inspections can help homeowners maintain the value and safety of their homes. Minor plumbing issues like clogged drains can turn into costly problems that can damage the home’s structure. Similarly, leaks can waste water and lead to higher utility bills. Addressing these issues early on can prevent unnecessary usage and help reduce utility bills. It can also prevent environmental hazards like mildew growth and protect the health of the occupants. 

Clean Your Drains Regularly 

Drain cleaning is one of the most important preventative plumbing maintenance tasks you can perform. This is because dirty drains can restrict water flow and lead to costly repairs and waste. 

Clogged drains are often caused by food scraps, coffee grounds, hair, and other items that can build up over time and cause a major clog. Regular drain cleaning can help reduce the number of clogs you experience each year. 

In the kitchen, make sure to only flush food waste down your drains. Also, don’t use your toilet as a trashcan. Things like cotton swabs, sanitary products, and plastic can all clog your toilet lines and cost you big money. Always keep a wastebasket in the bathroom for disposing of these items. This will also help you avoid costly leaks in your home’s pipes. 

Install a Water Heater 

Fall is an important time to protect your plumbing system from freezing temperatures. Insulating pipes prevents them from bursting when the temperature drops, preventing costly repairs and damage to your home. This is especially important for exposed pipes in garages, attics, and outdoor areas. 

Another key preventative measure is to install drain screens that catch hair, food particles, and other debris from entering your pipes. These inexpensive devices are

easy to install, and they significantly reduce the risk of clogs. 

Additionally, you should regularly conduct maintenance on your water heater. This includes draining the tank and removing sediment from the bottom of the unit. It is also a good idea to install carbon monoxide detectors. These devices will alert you to the presence of dangerous gases in your home and save lives. 

Install a Water Softener 

Installing a water softener can prevent the buildup of hard water minerals in your pipes and plumbing fixtures. It can also help to extend the life of your plumbing and reduce your water usage. 

Before starting the installation, find your water main shut-off valve and close it to prevent water flow during the process. Next, choose a location for the water softener. It should be near the main water line and have access to a power outlet and a drain for wastewater during regeneration. It should also be protected from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight. 

Finally, make sure you have the appropriate tools like pipe wrenches and tubing cutters. Use Teflon tape to seal threaded connections and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. After the water softener is installed, test it for leaks. 

Install a Water Filter 

A water filter removes harmful germs and chemicals that can damage your pipes and appliances. It also helps soften your water, reducing the need for harsh cleansers. 

A plumbing professional can check your water pressure and ensure it isn't too high or too low to meet your needs. This prevents sagging or burst pipes and ensures your appliances aren't under too much stress. 

Check for leaks frequently, as even small ones can waste large amounts of water and result in higher utility bills. Educate your family on the importance of never flushing non-flushable items, such as cotton balls or wipes, and make sure they know how to shut off your water supply in case of an emergency. Keep an eye on your water meter to spot any sudden increases in usage, as this may indicate a leak or clog.