How Plumbers Can Help Maintain Your Plumbing
System
Since indoor plumbing became the norm, plumbers have been responsible for installing and
maintaining pipes, toilets, faucets, and appliances. They work from blueprints and architectural plans to
design systems, lay pipes, and ensure all installations meet regulations and standards.
Regular maintenance from a qualified plumber can help prevent costly repairs in the future. For example, a
small leak in a pipe can quickly become a major problem if left untreated.
Pipes
Your pipes are vital for carrying fresh water into your home and wastewater out, but they can also be the
source of many plumbing issues. Leaks and clogs can cause significant damage and lead to costly repairs
if not caught early on. Regular inspections and maintenance by a plumber can help catch these issues
before they become major problems.
A plumber can inspect your piping for signs of wear and tear such as leaks, rust, or corrosion. This can
help ensure that your water is safe to drink and use. It is also important to have your pipes regularly
cleaned to prevent clogs and slow drainage.
Older homes may have cast iron piping which can rust and contaminate the water supply. Plumbers can
replace these with modern piping which is more durable and will last longer. Pipes made of cross-linked
polyethylene (PEX) are popular among DIY homeowners due to their flexibility, ease of installation, and low
cost. These can last up to 50 years.
Fittings
Pipe fittings connect different types or sizes of pipes or tubing and serve a variety of purposes, including
branching, redirecting, regulating, controlling and throttling. They are available in a wide range of
configurations, finishes and materials.
Plumbers often use press fittings, which create a strong connection without the need for flames or heat.
They are also safer than welded or soldered pipes, and reduce the risk of human error during welding or
brazing, which could leave pipes with an incorrect or incomplete connection.
Other types of fittings include tees (which are T-shaped with two outlets angled at 90 degrees), couplings,
unions, and eyes. A wye differs from a standard cross in that it has curved inlets, making it suitable for
connecting drains that feed back-to-back fixtures. It is also used in long-distance pipeline applications. In
addition to these main components, it's important for homeowners to know the location of their shut off
valves, especially in an emergency. It is also a good idea to regularly inspect plumbing for leaks, corrosion,
and damage.
Fixtures
Almost every home or building needs plumbing fixtures for disposal of waste and the delivery of water.
These include toilets, sinks, showerheads, bathtubs, and faucets. They come in various models and styles
to suit the aesthetics of a space.
Some of these fixtures may be simple and straightforward, while others are quite complex. While you
can try DIY installations on certain fixtures, complex tasks should be left to professionals. This ensures
that your plumbing is up to code and avoids costly repairs in the future. Hire a professional for plumbing
issues like a blocked drain in Canberra.
It is also important to maintain your plumbing fixtures regularly. This helps prevent clogs, which can affect
the flow of water and cause damage. You can do this by following some easy tips like using filters, cleaning
drains with natural products, and avoiding flushing items that aren’t meant for toilets such as cotton balls,
feminine hygiene products, and coffee grounds. Also, remember to check for leaks and other problems
regularly and call in a plumber if you spot any issues.
Water Heaters
You rely on your home’s plumbing system to provide fresh water and eliminate waste, but daily use causes
natural wear and tear. This can lead to problems such as leaks, clogged drains and high water bills.
A plumber can perform maintenance to keep your plumbing functioning at its best. For example, they can
clean out drains and inspect fixtures for signs of clogs or damage. This prevents issues from worsening
and saves you money in the long run.
A plumber can also test your water heater for proper function and cleanliness. They can flush out your unit
to remove sediment that reduces efficiency and shortens the lifespan of your water heater. They can also
test your pressure release valve to ensure it works properly. This ensures that your water heater can
release excess pressure without leaking or bursting. Leaks are a significant problem for residential
plumbing systems, leading to gallons of wasted water and expensive repair bills. A plumber can detect and
fix these leaks to prevent costly damages.
