Prevent Horrifying Plumbing Situations This Halloween

A Potential Plumbing Emergency is Frightening

A plumbing emergency can be scary and stressful for any homeowner. Whether there’s a clogged toilet or a backflow issue in the sink, plumbing issues can’t be ignored. Rather than wait for emergency services, a few preventative measures may do the trick. Here are some helpful tips to prevent common plumbing problems.

Drain Cleaning

Routine drain cleaning will help keep pipes free from debris, food, and hair. Many homeowners make the mistake of thinking everything is fine if their lines are working. However, even if the pipes technically work, slow draining may signal a clog is forming.

Keeping drains clear will help prevent clogged sinks and even clogged toilets. It also prevents slow drainage and rotting pipes. Plumbing companies offer drain cleaning services that are the most effective at preventing clogs, but homeowners can also help keep drains clean.

Plumbers do not recommend using liquid drain cleaners to clear pipes because the chemicals used in them are harsh and can corrode and damage the pipes. Using basic kitchen ingredients can clean pipes without wearing away metal. Pouring baking soda and then vinegar into drains will successfully keep lines clean. After approximately 10 minutes, homeowners can flush the drain with warm water. 

How To Prevent Clogged Toilets

Knowing what can and can’t be flushed is important to avoid clogged toilets. Toilet paper is the only thing that should be flushed down toilets. People should not flush baby wipes, tissues, napkins, paper towels, or anything besides toilet paper. 

This tip is also important for preventing issues with a septic system because for homes with septic systems, everything that is flushed or put down a home’s drains will end up in the septic tank. When the wrong things go into the system, clogs can form, and the septic tank will fill up faster, requiring premature septic tank pumping, septic tank cleaning, or other septic services. 

Low-flow toilets are environmentally friendly and can significantly reduce the water bill because they use less water. Unfortunately, using less water also means the toilet may be unable to handle flushing large amounts of toilet paper at once. Using less toilet paper or flushing twice to reduce the amount of toilet paper flushed can help prevent toilet, septic, and sewer line clogs.

Water Heater Maintenance

Water heaters help keep the plumbing system supplied with hot water. However, corrosion can occur if the water heater tank is overrun with sediment and minerals, and drainage pipes can become blocked. If not treated, cracks in the piping can eventually lead to a burst and the need for a premature water heater replacement.

Water heater maintenance from a plumber helps prevent issues with the water heater. It will also improve the system’s efficiency, lowering energy bills. A qualified professional will flush the water heater tank during maintenance to remove the sediment and minerals that can cause problems. 

Water heater maintenance also increases the unit’s lifespan, which saves homeowners money on premature replacements. During a tune-up, plumbers will also inspect the water heater, and any issues can be caught and fixed before they get worse and lead to a plumbing emergency.   

Honest Abe’s Home Services

Honest Abe’s Home Services provides high-quality solutions for Osage Beach residents’ toughest plumbing, heating, and AC problems. They offer flat rate pricing, advanced technology, and 24-hour emergency services. Call them today for plumbing services in Osage Beach, MO.

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