Correct Old Mistakes This New Year With These Tips!
New Year's resolutions may not be something everyone does, but every homeowner should take good care of their home's plumbing system. Many of the most time-consuming plumbing repairs can be avoided by proper maintenance and not abusing the system. Below are some of the common mistakes people make when trying to deal with their home plumbing. The next few paragraphs will discuss these errors, why they are a problem, and what to do about them.
Mistake #1: Using Liquid Chemical Drain Cleaners
It is tempting when a problem drain clogs again to run to the nearest department store and pick up a chemical drain opener that promises to clear that clog with no fuss. The drain opener may clear the clog, but other problems can result from using chemicals in the drain pipes. Corrosion is the main thing to be concerned about. The chemicals that break up the clog don't stop there; they can eat away at the pipes themselves, causing pitting and weakening the structure. This corrosion can make the pipes more prone to clogging because foreign bodies in the drains are more likely to catch on the rough surface of the corroded pipe. The best way to get rid of a clog is to use a pipe auger or hydro-jetting, which uses water pressure to clear the clog.
Mistake #2: Neglecting Water Heater Maintenance
Water heaters are a silent partner in the comfort and workings of any home. Cold showers are just one problem that results from a neglected water heater. It makes it more difficult to clean clothes and dishes and makes hand and face washing a bracing experience. Likewise, a malfunctioning water heater is about more than just hot water. It can cause foul odors, rust-colored water, and clogged pipes. Keeping a water heater in working order is vital to the proper function of a household. Hiring a professional is essential because of the appliance's chance of injury or mishandling. A list of regular water heater maintenance tasks will convince the average homeowner.
- Checking the anode rod
- Checking and cleaning the heating element or heat source
- Checking the tank for cracks or corrosion
- Flushing the tank
- Tightening pipe fittings
- Tightening electrical connections
- Testing the PRV or pressure release valve.
Mistake #3: Do-It-Yourself Plumbing Repair
Many images come to a person's mind when one asks what could go wrong with DIY plumbing repair. Sewage-covered kitchens and basements ankle-deep in water rise in vivid color in the mind of many a plumber from what they have seen of the aftermath of such attempts. Though even these pictures may not deter a homeowner, perhaps some practical reasons will. They are listed below:
- Time Cost: Homeowners use free time for such projects, while professional plumbing services are all business.
- Financial Expense: Though DIY work is often done to save money, it can cost much more than the original cost if mistakes or injuries occur.
- Insurance: Plumbers and plumbing technicians are covered by their insurance, so the homeowner will not be financially responsible if there is an accident.
- Experience: Plumbing technicians are trained for their jobs, and for someone to call themselves a plumber, they must pass a stringent battery of exams. They know what they are doing and do not have to learn along the way as a DIYer would.
About Captain Rooter Emergency Plumbers Chicago
Captain Rooter Emergency Plumbers of Chicago, IL have served the Greater Chicago Area for over twenty years. They offer 24/7 emergency service and free estimates. Call today for more information about their state-of-the-art flood control systems and plumbing services.
