1. Flushing Anything Other than Toilet Paper
Your plumber has a message: stop treating your toilet like a trash can! Everyone knows toilet paper should be the only thing flowing down the porcelain throne. However, a few people still use flushable wipes and paper towels when flushing. Newsflash: they don’t belong there! They may say “flushable” on the packaging, but that’s a sneaky marketing ploy. In reality, they don’t dissolve as easily as good old tissue paper, which can cause major clogs and wreak havoc on your plumbing system. And let’s be honest here – who wants to deal with a backed-up toilet? Trust your plumber’s advice and stick to the basics for a smooth, clog-free flushing experience.
2. Disposing of Used Cooking Oils in the Sink
Refrain from draining grease or oil into the sink. Why? These slippery substances might seem harmless, but once they slide down your pipes, they can cause quite a mess. Imagine this: grease and oil cool down and harden inside your pipes, like when chocolate hardens in the fridge. Now, picture your pipes clogged up, water struggling to flow through like cars stuck in a traffic jam. That’s what happens! Your friendly plumber hopes you’ll keep those pipes clear and free-flowing by tossing grease and oil into the trash instead of down the drain. It’s a small change that can save you from the big headache of a clogged drain!
3. Using Chemical Drain Cleaners
Chemical drain cleaners are a quick fix for minor clogged drains, and don’t let anyone tell you any different, including so-called plumbing professionals. Branded drain cleaners such as Liquid Plumr or Drano have been around for over 60 years, clearing millions of slow-moving drains. They are safe for pipes, chrome, porcelain, and other finishes. However, homeowners use them for the wrong reasons. They are not meant for clogged toilets or deep clogs in a plumbing system. Use these products as directed, and you will never have a problem with the product.
Sodium hydroxide is the chemical found in most branded drain cleaners; it is a strong alkaline chemical compound. It is often used as a drain cleaner because of its ability to dissolve and break down organic materials that can clog household drains, such as grease, hair, and food particles. When used properly and in the recommended amounts, sodium hydroxide can effectively clear clogs in drains.
With Any Household Cleaner, Use As Directed
However, handling sodium hydroxide carefully and following safety instructions when using it as a drain cleaner is important. It can be hazardous if not used correctly. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind:
- Wear protective gear
- Ventilate the area
- Read and follow instructions
- Only use only on recommended materials
- Storage as directed
Sodium hydroxide can effectively clear household drains when used properly and cautiously. It is important to follow safety guidelines to avoid harm to yourself, your plumbing, and the environment. If you are uncomfortable using strong chemicals or have concerns about their impact on your plumbing, consider alternative methods for unclogging drains or consult a professional plumber.
4. Every Homeowner Needs to Know How to Locate Their Main Water Shut Off Valve
The main water valve in your home can stop water flow if an emergency should occur. Yet, many households need to familiarize themselves with its whereabouts or how to use it. Knowing where this valve hides and how to turn it off is like having a safety net for your home. In case of a burst pipe or an uncontrollable leak, swiftly shutting off the main water supply can prevent extensive damage. Your plumber hopes you’ll take a few moments to locate and familiarize yourself with this crucial valve, ensuring you’re prepared to tackle any plumbing crisis like a pro.
5. You’re Not Utilizing a “Hair Catcher” in Your Shower
Think about implementing a “hair catcher” in your shower. These little gadgets might seem small, but they’re mighty in preventing a big problem—clogged drains. It’s quite a common scenario that your hair effortlessly finds its way down the drain while enjoying a refreshing shower. But here’s the catch—a hair catcher acts like a shield, trapping those stray hairs before they become a plumbing nightmare. Your plumber hopes this simple addition to your shower routine will save you from dealing with pesky clogs and plumbing issues. It’s an easy fix that can keep your drains flowing smoothly, letting you enjoy your showers without worry!
6. Don’t Skip Your Plumbing Water Heater Maintenance
Your plumber emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance for your water heater. Paying attention to the servicing of this appliance within your home is imperative. Over time, sediment buildup and mineral deposits can accumulate within the water heater, potentially impacting its efficiency and longevity. Refraining from routine maintenance will decrease performance or malfunctions, disrupting the consistent hot water supply. You can contribute to your water heater’s optimal functionality and extended lifespan through annual servicing, such as flushing the tank and inspecting components. It’s a proactive measure that assures reliable and efficient performance for your comfort and convenience.
7. Don’t Attempt to Repair Broken Pipes Using Duct Tape
This may surprise you, but we’ve seen it many times before: a homeowner attempting to mend a broken pipe using duct tape. For some, it might seem like a quick and easy fix. However, using duct tape to repair a broken pipe is not even a good temporary solution to the problem. Pipes endure immense pressure and stress, and duct tape lacks the durability and resilience required to withstand these conditions. Furthermore, using duct tape to patch broken pipes doesn’t address the underlying problem and can result in leaks, water damage, and potential flooding. Rely on professional plumbing expertise and suitable materials for a lasting and safe repair to provide the integrity and functionality of your plumbing system.
8. Putting Excess Strain on Your Garbage Disposal
The design of the garbage disposal system aims to simplify kitchen cleanup; it’s necessary not to strain or misuse it. Harsh or non-biodegradable items, such as fibrous foods, grease, oils, or large quantities of solid waste, can strain or damage the disposal mechanism. Overloading it with items beyond capacity can cause blockages, mechanical issues, or even complete breakdowns. Your plumber suggests using the garbage disposal sensibly, primarily for biodegradable food scraps, for its efficiency and longevity. Treating it with care and mindfulness will save you from costly repairs and maintain a well-working kitchen disposal system.
9. Avoid DIY Plumbing Methods
To save a few bucks, it might be tempting to do-it-yourself (DYI) for most plumbing issues, but it often leads to bigger issues. Plumbing systems are intricate, and mishandling them without proper knowledge can exacerbate issues, causing leaks, water damage, or even health hazards. Plus, most plumbing problems require special tools and expertise to fix correctly. Your plumber’s wish is for you to rely on professional expertise for plumbing concerns, guaranteeing safe, effective, and long-lasting solutions that safeguard your home and save you from unnecessary stress and expenses. But don’t let that stop you from resolving minor plumbing issues such as a slow-moving sink, replacing a toilet flapper, or a clogged toilet.
10. Don’t Forget to Schedule Regular Maintenance Checks
Your plumber stresses the essence of regular maintenance checks for your plumbing system. Remember to consider the significance of these routine checks, as they play a role in preserving the health of your pipes and preventing potential issues. Your plumber recommends scheduling an annual visit to check the following:
- Water Pressure
- Water Heater Flush
- Check Your Shut Off Valves
- Check Your Home For Water Leaks
A regular maintenance check once a year is necessary to have a professional assess the condition of your system. These check-ups serve as a preventive action, allowing the identification of any minor concerns and addressing them before they escalate into more significant problems. At Murrieta Plumbing, we prioritize your system’s durability and efficiency by offering routine maintenance check-ups. With scheduled visits every few months, our expert plumbers meticulously inspect pipes and fixtures for potential issues.
In Need of Plumbing Help? Murrieta Plumbing is at Your Service
Murrieta Plumbing is your go-to solution for various plumbing services, catering to diverse needs with expertise and precision. From routine maintenance checks to intricate repairs and installations, our experienced team can handle everything. With a commitment to excellence, trust us to deliver top-notch service, securing swift and effective resolutions for your plumbing issues. Contact us today and rest assured that your plumbing requirements are in capable hands, providing peace of mind and a smoothly functioning plumbing system.
