From clogged drain lines to low water pressure, problems with your residential plumbing system can cause major disruptions to your family’s daily routine. Adjusting behaviors and taking steps to maintain equipment will keep your plumbing system protected and your household on track. To prevent performance hiccups and irreversible damage, here are a few ways to take better care of your plumbing system.

3 Strategies to Avoid Plumbing Problems

1. Be Mindful of What’s Put Down Drains

Toilets should never be used as replacements for trash cans, as non-biodegradable materials can get stuck in the drain lines and cause severe blockages. Cotton swabs, dental floss, feminine hygiene products, and medications are a few items commonly found in bathrooms that should be placed in trash containers after use. Hair can end up in the shower drain when bathing, so remember to scoop gunk out of drains before it can accumulate. In the kitchen, certain substances should never be poured down the sink, including cooking grease and oils from food residue. The liquids will dry and harden in drains and cause clogs.

2. Replace Old & Damaged Components

Making sure the residential plumbing system is up to code will keep problems at bay. If you live in an older home, outdated pipe materials and installation techniques could put the entire system at risk of failing. Have a professional inspect water pipes, service lines, and any other components for damage or red flags they don’t meet modern standards. Replacing equipment will help the entire system last longer.

3. Monitor Water Heater Performance

From washing clothes to taking showers, a water heater makes it possible to perform a variety of tasks. Problems with the appliance can impact water pressure and cause additional issues. If the tank starts to rust, for example, it could spring leaks and cause water damage inside your home. Sediment buildup could also puncture equipment, resulting in the need for replacement. You can have equipment drained every season to prevent sediment buildup. You can also check for a rotten egg smell, as the stench could indicate equipment needs to be drained and cleaned, as could low water pressure.

Whether you have clogged pipes, outdated equipment, water heater problems, or additional residential plumbing concerns, the team at GNG Plumbing and The Hardware Store will help. Based in Orange Beach,  AL, the plumbers at this locally-owned business bring 30 years of experience to each service call and will diagnose problems and provide solutions to keep your system protected. They also sell hardware products to use for DIY projects. To schedule plumbing service in Orange Beach, Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, or Perdido Key, call (251) 974-5630. Visit the technicians online to learn more about the work they perform and their customer commitment. Become a Twitter follower for more residential plumbing advice.