Plumbing skills are an advantageous addition to anyone’s skill set. Doing so illustrates that you are concerned with appropriate maintenance, and so you are willing to maintain order with your own time, sweat and hands. This is something that should be admired. With plumbing you can be an expert and still learn new tricks; there is always something to be gained or improved on. The following hints and tips can help you get started.
To eliminate the possibility of having frozen pipes, maintain a constant temperature in your home above freezing, and be certain to adequately insulate those pipes that are out in the weather. Pipes have the potential to freeze if the surrounding temperatures are below the freezing mark. If pipes do freeze, the best possible scenario would include taking time for the pipes to thaw and any frozen water to drain. But, they could also burst, causing a mess and a large repair bill.
To prevent your frozen pipes from bursting, leave the nearest faucet on to give the water a way to escape. This assists you in relieving pressure within the pipe, and could stop any bursting from occurring, which can prevent additional damage to your home.
Having your septic tank pumped out on a regular basis will keep it functioning properly. This will keep sediment from hanging out in your tank and eventually causing there to be a backup in your home. Hiring a professional to pump out your septic tank is costly, but it is far preferable to the damages that could be incurred if the tank becomes backed-up or inoperative.
If your toilet happens to be clogged, and the plunger is not working, you can pour a bucket of hot water down the toilet, but be sure to pour it from a height that is waist level or above so you do not flood the bathroom. Repeat this once your water goes back to a lower level.
You should make sure not to put oils down the drain, such as grease and fat. When they cool, they’ll harden and clog your drain. This is primarily true if you are someone who has a garbage disposal; the fats will make the blades go slower and less freely. To keep your kitchen pipes clear, never dispose of grease down your sink drain.
If your house uses well water and there are orange or pink stains in tubs or sinks, it’s because of the iron level in the water. This can be remedied by using a water softener which can be purchased at a shop, or a company can pay a visit to your home and handle the situation for you.
You may have already had the tools and the time, but now you have a new set of knowledge and a few additional tips to use on your plumbing network! Fabulous! The tips above were made to improve your plumbing skills, so you can continuously learn and develop into a more skilled plumber. You may have even found a new “regular” or favorite idea for your plumbing jobs.