Almost every homeowner has a plumbing problem at some point. While hiring a professional for plumbing repairs is usually ideal, many routine plumbing maintenance jobs can be completed by yourself. Simple maintenance may keep your pipes, drains, and other plumbing components in good operating order and prevent serious plumbing problems.
Homeowner Plumbing Tips:
Locate the Main Water Shutoff Valve in Your Home
Locate the water meter and main supply valve as soon as you move into a new home. The main shutoff is nearly always at the exterior perimeter of your home and is almost always on the ground floor, basement, or crawl space. The shutoff valve is most likely near the water heater or under the kitchen sink if you have a slab foundation. Turning off the water can save thousands of dollars in property damage in an emergency.
Locate Separate Supply Valves
Most fixtures and appliances, such as water heaters, dishwashers, toilets, and sinks, have supply valves. Check that each supply valve is simple to switch on and off. In the event of a failure, turning off a single supply valve may be sufficient to prevent flooding. Each supply valve should be tested yearly to ensure that it turns readily and functions appropriately. If they do not turn or begin to leak when turned, contact Plumbers in La Crosse, WI to have the parts changed.
Put Together a Plumbing Emergency Kit
A few essential tools can help you with minor plumbing issues or buy time while you wait for a plumber. A plunger, drain snake, screwdriver, paper towels, bucket, and rags are necessary. Duct tape can be used to make a temporary repair in case of a minor pipe leak.
Stop an Overflowing Toilet Right Away
Nothing is more terrifying than seeing the water level in a toilet bowl rise. If you suspect an overflow, open the tank and close the flush valve. This will stop the water flow and give you time to solve the issue.
Examine for Toilet Leaks
Toilets are frequently the source of costly water leaks. A few drops of food coloring in your toilet tank is an easy technique to check for a leak. Allow an hour or two. Examine the dish to determine if the food coloring has gotten into the water. If this is the case, you leak. Typically, replacing the flush valve seal solves the problem.
Be Careful What You Put Down Your Drains
The most straightforward approach to avoid clogged drains is to be mindful of what goes down them. Except for human waste and toilet paper, never flush anything down the toilet. Water and soap are the only items that should go down the sink and tub drains. Hair and soap are significant causes of clogged shower drains. Hair and other objects can tumble down the drain if you use a drain cover in your shower or bathtub.
When Should You Hire a Professional?
While following these steps will help prevent difficulties, most households will encounter a plumbing issue that necessitates the services of a licensed Plumbers in La Crosse, WI at some point. Call a professional immediately if you detect a significant leak, broken pipe, or backed-up sewage in your home to avoid costly property damage.
