Goals to Set in the New Year

Keep the Plumbing Reliable by Kicking Three Bad Plumbing Habits

Each new year presents people with the opportunity to make some changes. Inspired by the opportunity for a fresh start, everyone is setting goals to help make the coming year successful. For homeowners, resolutions can include taking steps to help the home operate smoother and cheaper. When it comes to plumbing, there are several opportunities for success. 
So often it is bad habits that undermine goals, which is true with a home’s plumbing. Here are three bad habits that homeowners should break to protect the plumbing in their homes. 

Using Liquid Drain Cleaners

When minor clogs occur, the first thing that most homeowners try is liquid drain cleaner. Chemical drain cleaners are cheap and easy to use so the option is tempting. However, chemical drain cleaners have the potential to cause far more damage than they can fix. Most chemical drain cleaners are incredibly corrosive, so much so that they can melt plastic piping and eat holes in metal piping. The resulting bills from plumbing repairs will dwarf the cost of proper drain cleaning so professionals always recommend their services first. 

Ignoring Plumbing Maintenance 

The plumbing system is integrated all over the home and can be broken down into three main components. First is freshwater plumbing, which carries water for use. Second is the drainage system that removes wastewater. Third, the water heater that provides hot water for cleaning and bathing. Each aspect of the plumbing has unique needs and hazards that should be addressed on a regular basis to ensure problems are avoided. Plumbing maintenance aims to address each of these facets of plumbing so homeowners have a reliable plumbing system. 

Technicians start by inspecting visible pipes to check the freshwater plumbing. They will look for signs of corrosion that can cause pipes to fail. They will also look for leaks that drive up monthly water bills. During this portion of the inspection, they will also test the water pressure and check the regulator for proper operation. 

For the drainage system, plumbers will perform routine drain cleaning on tubs and sinks to remove debris that may cause blockage. P traps may be cleaned, and if the sewer line is dirty, hydrojetting may be recommended. If problems are common with the sewer line, plumbers may use cameras to inspect the line. 

Finally, water heater maintenance is done by draining and flushing the tank to remove solids. This enables better efficiency and keeps bills low. Technicians will check the anode rod for signs of corrosion and inspect the electrical parts of the unit for operation. 

Not Paying Attention to What Goes Down the Drain 

The biggest collection of bad habits that homeowners have is with the drains. Drains and sewer lines should only handle waste and wastewater. Nearly every other type of waste should be discarded elsewhere to prevent it from forming clogs. In the kitchen, put all food waste in the trash, especially grease. In bathrooms, hair catchers should be installed in tubs, and only waste and toilet paper should be flushed. By keeping debris out of drains, nearly all drain clogs can be avoided so that homeowners rarely have to call for professional drain cleaning. 

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical touts a fast response for emergencies and regular plumbing service. Owners can take advantage of their service agreements to avoid plumbing problems and save money in the new year. Call today for plumbing services in Lansing, MI. 

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