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As a season of renewal and rejuvenation, spring is an excellent time of year to take stock of the condition of your home and make improvements. As you perform your annual deep cleaning, don’t neglect your plumbing system. From fixing clogged drains to checking for leaks, here are three simple steps that you can take to make sure this key part of your home stays in tip-top shape. 

How to Spring Clean Your Plumbing

1. Address Your Fixtures

Over time, minerals like calcium and magnesium in your water can accumulate on your faucets and showerheads, especially if you have hard water. The resulting stains and deposits, collectively called lime scale, aren’t only aesthetic problems — they can also interfere with proper flow or create cloudy water. Take a slightly moist, clean rag and a solution of either vinegar, lemon, or dish detergent diluted in water and rub the exteriors and bases of all your fixtures. You should also gently remove and scrub your aerators — the small mesh screens at the end of your faucets — with a toothbrush dipped in your cleaning agent. Typically the aerator can be twisted off easily, but if you’re having trouble, call a plumber for help.  

2. Inspect for Leaks

clogged drainsGo around to each fixture in your house, turning them on and off. Stick around for about a minute and inspect each one closely. Are there any slow drips from the faucets or pipes? Look around your home for signs of water damage, like discoloration or bubbling paint in your ceilings or walls. Leaks can have many causes, from damaged or loose components to clogged drains channeling water incorrectly. It’s safest to call a professional for a thorough inspection. 

3. Address Slow Drains

If the water in your sink or tub lingers long after use, a clogged drain is probably the culprit. Avoid chemical clog treatments, as the harsh ingredients in these solutions can corrode your pipes. Instead, try snaking the drain. If this DIY tactic doesn’t work, the obstruction could be too deep or too tough. Call a professional for the most thorough cleanings and long-lasting results. 

 

Are you ready to give your plumbing system a little springtime overhaul? Turn to the experts at American Rooter in Watertown, CT. They’ve served the community since 1980, and they’re proud to offer a wide range of services to improve the condition of your residential plumbing system. From leak repairs to clogged drain clearance, they’ll handle it all. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or give them a call at (888) 863-4638.

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