Tip to Help Extend Your Plumbing Lifetime

Avoid pouring cooking grease or oil down the sink. These substances solidify as they cool, creating blockages in your pipes. Instead, let them cool in a container and dispose of them in the trash.

For your bathroom, use hair catchers in your shower and tub drains to prevent hair buildup. Also avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste. Wet wipes, feminine hygiene products, and paper towels can quickly clog the system, even if labeled as "flushable."

Maintain water pressure at a safe level

Who doesn’t love strong water pressure in the shower? However, high water pressure can put undue strain on your pipes, joints, and fixtures. Over time, this pressure can weaken pipes and lead to leaks or bursts.

What’s a safe water pressure level? The ideal water pressure for a home or business is around 40-60 psi (pounds per square inch). If you’re unsure about your current pressure level, you can purchase an inexpensive pressure gauge from a hardware store and test it at an outdoor spigot.

If your water pressure is consistently higher than 60 psi, consider installing a pressure regulator to keep it in check. Not only will this prolong the life of your pipes, but it will also reduce water wastage and lower your water bills.

Insulate the pipes

When temperatures drop, unprotected pipes are at risk of freezing and bursting. A burst pipe can cause significant water damage in addition to the cost of the plumbing repair. Insulate exposed pipes, especially those located in colder areas like basements, crawlspaces, and garages. During particularly cold spells, keep cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

Schedule regular plumbing service and inspections

Regular plumbing service and maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your pipes but also helps you avoid emergency plumbing situations. A professional plumber can:

• Check for leaks, corrosion, and water pressure issues,
• Examine the water heater for efficiency and signs of wear,
• Inspect drains for blockages or slow drainage,
• Evaluate the condition of your pipes, and
• Recommend any necessary repairs.

Don’t wait until disaster strikes. Have a plumber in Richmond Hill inspect your plumbing system once a year to get ahead of the curve. Residents in the area can call Mr. Rooter Plumbing to schedule a convenient appointment or request urgent assistance.