Life is busy as a homeowner. There is always something to take care of. There is also the challenge of finding ways to cut your homeowners’ costs, a common challenge here in San Jose, CA.
Preventative maintenance for your plumbing system is a great place to start bringing costs down. Staying on top of your plumbing means significantly reducing the chance of leaks, even slab leaks.
Not to mention that you can also avoid costly water damage and personal stress. Here are some of our best tips for you to get started.
The Dangers of Chemical Cleaners
You do what you can in a hurry to get rid of a stubborn clog, which means reaching for a commercial drain cleaner for many homeowners.
While those cleaners certainly can remove the clog at hand, they also do a great deal of damage to your pipes in the process.
The residue from these cleaners builds up over time and can cause pipes to weaken and crack, eventually leaking. You are way better off having a professional drain cleaning done regularly to prevent clogs from forming.
Find Leaks Quickly
Generally speaking, you’ll minimize water damage and repair costs if you find a small leak before it has a chance to develop.
You also have wastewater, even with a small leak, so your water bills will go up. So, to keep costs down, become a leak detective.
Inspect all the visible pipes and fixtures in your home. Do you see any moisture or evidence of water? How about mold growth or peeling paint or wallpaper?
If so, call your plumber. It’s possible to have a leak behind the walls or under the floors. Look for damp spots or hear rushing water behind the walls.
Water Pressure is Key
Want to know what causes many water leaks? Stress on your pipes. No question, having elevated water pressure is one thing that will emphasize your lines.
Test it out if you get consistent readings that are 60 psi and up. Then, you may want to have a pressure regulator installed.
Corrosion Threat
Another problem you may encounter is corrosion because it attacks your plumbing and causes leaks.
You can slow this process down by putting in a water softener, reducing the proportion of harsh minerals in your water. Also, run water often; standing water is more likely to cause corrosion.
Other than leak prevention, there are different ways that smart plumbing choices can help you save money, like with eco-friendly plumbing fixtures that minimize waste.