Owning a home is both a joy and a responsibility. And when it comes to plumbing, preventive measures can save homeowners from unwelcome surprises, unwanted expenses, and a lot of stress. At Americana Plumbing, we offer commercial, residential, and emergency plumbing service in Tujunga, California, and nearby locations. Keep reading for tips on how you can keep your system in great shape long-term.
Avoiding Clogs and Backups
- Mind what goes down the drain: Be conscious of what you’re putting down your sinks and toilets. In the kitchen, avoid disposing of grease, coffee grounds, and food particles in the sink. Grease can solidify and block pipes, while other materials can accumulate and cause clogs.
- Use drain screens: Install drain screens in your kitchen sink and bathroom to catch food particles, hair, and other debris. They are inexpensive and can prevent many potential blockages.
- Run hot water: After using the sink, allow the hot water to run for a few seconds. This will help to push any lingering particles down the drain and prevent buildup.
- Don’t flush everything: Only toilet paper should be flushed down toilets. Even products labeled as ‘flushable’, like baby wipes and sanitary products, can cause blockages in the plumbing system.
- Clean drains regularly: Using natural solutions like baking soda followed by vinegar can help keep your drains clean and free of build-up. However, avoid chemical cleaners as they can corrode your pipes over time.
Regular Inspections
Even if everything seems to be working perfectly, scheduling routine inspections is an essential preventive measure. Professional plumbers in Tujunga can uncover issues you might not be aware of. Small leaks, early signs of rust, or a slight decline in water pressure can be indicators of bigger problems down the line. While it might seem frequent, having a professional inspection annually is a good rule of thumb. This ensures your system is checked thoroughly, from water heaters to sewer lines. Nowadays, a plumber in Tujunga will have access to technologies like video pipe inspections. This method provides a clear view of the inner state of your pipes and can pinpoint any issues accurately.
Recognizing the Early Warning Signs
- Slow drainage: If your sink or bathtub is taking longer than usual to drain, it’s a clear sign that a clog is forming.
- Unpleasant odors: If you smell sewage or any unpleasant odor around your drains, it could indicate a blockage or issue in the sewer line.
- Odd sounds: Gurgling noises from your drains, toilet, or even from pipes can indicate a blockage or air in the pipes.
- Change in water pressure: A sudden drop in water pressure can be due to a leak, blockage, or even a problem with the local water supply.
- Discolored water: Rusty or brownish water indicates rust in the pipes or an issue with the water heater. If the water has a strange smell or taste, it could be due to bacterial growth and needs immediate attention.
- Increased water bills: A sudden spike in your water bill might mean there’s a hidden leak somewhere in your home. Even if you don’t see or hear any signs of a leak, the increased bill can be a tell-tale sign.
Do You Need a Commercial, Residential, or Emergency Plumbing Repair in Tujunga, CA?
Have your pipes or plumbing fixtures caused a lot of disruption in your household or business? Don’t wait for things to get worse. Call the specialists at Americana Plumbing today. Our plumbers in Tujunga are always ready to help our local property owners get the most from their systems. Contact our office for more information or to schedule a time for your next professional plumbing service in Tujunga, California, or a nearby community. We offer drain cleaning, clogged drain line repair, sewer repair, trenchless sewer line replacement, pipe repair, leak detection, water leak repair, water heater repair, tankless water heater installation and all other plumbing services in Tujunga, CA area.
