As a homeowner, caring for your plumbing system plays a key role in ensuring that your family can safely drink water, take showers, and do laundry. Maintaining the fixtures, pipes, and water treatment systems are all important steps for keeping the plumbing efficient. If you’re looking for ways to save on repair costs and water bills, here’s what you need to know. 

4 Tips for Maintaining Your Residential Plumbing

1. Flush Organic Items Only

Whether you use your local sewer system or a septic tank, it’s critical to only flush organic items down the toilet. That means tossing items like baby wipes and feminine hygiene products in the trash to prevent pipe clogs and keep the waste management system flowing.

2. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals

When you have a clog, don’t douse the drain with harsh chemicals like drain cleaners. Unfortunately, these intense mixes can corrode the pipes and alter septic bacteria, requiring a complete tank pumping to return it to working order. Instead, clear out the pipe with a plunger. If that doesn’t work, reach out to a plumbing professional.

3. Keep an Eye Out for Leaks

Loose pipes, improper seals, and rust can all cause plumbing leaks. Prevent simple drips from becoming floods by inspecting your system every week. Peek into the cabinets under the sink and walk through the basement to examine the pipes. Look for watermarks and mold growth, as these point to leaks in the system.  

4. Flush the Water Heater Annually

Water heaters garner sediment at the bottom that must be flushed out yearly to ensure the system can properly heat and move warm water throughout the home. Have a plumber handle this task. They will hook a water source up to the drain spout and flush out the contents of the tank. This process will remove the debris, preventing corrosion and clogging.

If you’re a homeowner looking for a trustworthy, affordable plumbing company, contact McGuire Plumbing & Heating in New London County, CT. We offer over 30 years of experience and provide everything from boiler maintenance to clog removal services. Call us at (860) 376-3388 or visit our website to learn more about our services.