Our plumbing systems allow us to have access to running water and also to nice warm heating in the colder winter months. It is important that you regularly maintain the pipework in your homes to ensure that you have access to both water and heat when you need it. There are a number of ways that you can maintain your home’s plumbing, and here are a few quick tips to get you started.
Chemicals – make sure that any chemicals that you are using to clean your sinks are appropriate for their use. It is always best to stick with reputable companies as certain chemicals can damage your pipes. Soda Crystals can be a great option if you are looking to clean out your sink as they dissolve in the water and do not leave any residue behind.
Clogs – it is important to regularly check your plugholes for blockages. This is usually indicated either by a foul smell coming from the sink or by a slow water flow down the plughole. There are various ways that you can remove a blockage. Prevention is often better than cure, and you can buy plug traps that prevent food and hair from entering your sink pipes.
Frozen pipes – can become a real issue in the winter months, and it is essential that you look at ways in which you can insulate your pipes. There are materials that can be used for insulating internal pipes as well as those that are external.
Toilets – only flush toilet paper down your toilets as other items such as sanitary products and nappies are notorious for clogging up the system. They sit in the drains and start to create all manner of gases that can then cause problems later on.
Trees – if you have trees near the boundary of your home, it is worth checking to make sure that the roots do not damage your drainage pipes. Tree roots will seek out water anywhere they can find it, and this includes inside your drains.
Pipes – make sure that you check your pipes and replace any Copper Pipe Connectors that may have eroded. You can find them from reputable companies like //watkinspowis.co.uk/products/copper-pipe-fittings-and-press-systems/. Also, check the pipes for any evidence of leaks and have a plumber come and repair this for you.