Tuesday, September 9, 2014

Leaky Faucet? Tips On How You Can Fix Minor Problems

By Steve Manlapas


Plumbing that is in good working order is a critical component of a clean, safe, and happy household. However, sometimes your plumbing will need attention and calling a plumber may not be a viable option due to costs or time of the year. Read this article for some great advice for fixing up your plumbing at home.

Anchoring your pipes can eliminate the hammering and squeaking noises caused by loose pipes and fitting. Exposed pipes will have to be anchored. You may need the assistance of a professional in the case that the pipes are contained within a floor or ceiling.

Having your septic tank pumped out on a regular basis will keep it functioning properly. Septic systems can back up when the septic tank builds up sediment. This can even result in the septic system failing altogether. It will cost some to have the septic tank pumped, but it would cost much more to have it cleaned, repaired or replaced due to sewage back up.

Make sure the job gets done by not paying your plumber until you are satisfied, and the work is completed. You may be required to put some money down before a job is started, but never pay the total cost until you know the job has been completed correctly. You need to know the plumber did what he promised before he is reimbursed for the entire amount.

Don't put fat, grease and other oils into the drain. When they cool down, they get hard and that will cause clogs in your sink drains. They'll also muck up your garbage disposal and cause it to be less efficient. Be sure to get rid of oil products away from your sink.

Do special checks on your sink overflow holes to ensure they are not becoming clogged. Overflow holes are used in case the sink starts to overfill, which may not seem like a big problem--until it is. When you do periodic checks for any other problems or repairs that are needed, take the time to clear the holes that are there to protect you from overflow.

Think about what plumbing work you need, then schedule them all at once. You might be tempted to have a plumber come out for every little thing that happens, but kicking the can on some issues until you have a list means you can save a few bucks. Most plumbers have an hourly rate and a flat rate for the trip: asking a plumber to fix multiple problems in one trip is cheaper than calling them more than once.

Be sure that the overflow holes don't clog up. These passages allow your sink to fill up without overflowing onto your floor, and if they're blocked that can cause you a major headache. Clear overflow holes when doing periodic checks for problems and plumbing issues that should be addressed.

Don't use your toilet like a trash can, and you minimize potential problems. Under no circumstances flush cotton balls or swabs, paper towels, diapers, sanitary pads or other materials that will not dissolve. These items can cause major clogs. Also, try to use the smallest amount of toilet paper you can.

Steer clear of drain cleaners whenever possible. The chemicals found in drain cleaners are very corrosive, and can end up damaging your pipes if you use them too much. If your drain frequently blocks, then call a professional to see what the real problem is, and get it solved once and for all.

As evidenced in this article, there are several techniques you can start utilizing to improve, fix, or maintain your plumbing. Using this advice for your plumbing needs saves you the money you would spend on a plumber.




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