One of the primary advantages of renting a home is having a landlord who will handle routine plumbing maintenance and repairs. However, as a renter, you also have an obligation to take care of the pipes and any appliances that came with the property, or risk being liable for any damages.

The Plumbing Source, one of Cleveland, OH’s most established and well-respected team of plumbers, encourages everyone who rents a home to remember a few crucial tips:

• Clean The Garbage Disposal: Most garbage disposals require very little maintenance beyond occasional cleaning and some attentive use. In general, all you have to do is throw in some ice cubes, then turn on the unit for a few seconds while running water through it. During normal use, avoid running coffee grounds, fibrous vegetables, and grease through the disposal.
• Keep The Dishwasher Clean: Over time, minerals from water and food particles start to accumulate in your dishwasher, making it less efficient and leaving an unsightly residue on your dishes. Cleaning your dishwasher every couple of weeks can keep your dishes clean while preventing maintenance issues down the road.
• Learn The System: In an emergency, you may not be able to wait for a plumber or your landlord to show up — especially if water is rushing into the property. When you move in, find out where the water shutoff valve is, and make sure those on each appliance are working correctly. You should also ask whether your landlord contracts with an emergency plumbing service company that you should call if something goes wrong.

Since 1985, The Plumbing Source has been providing high-quality expertise to Cleveland area homeowners and businesses alike. Visit their website to learn more about their team of highly skilled plumbers and broad array of services, or call (877) 768-7239 to request a quote today. You can also connect with their team on Facebook and Twitter.