Just like you take care of your own health by eating right, exercising and getting regular check-ups, so must you do the same to keep your plumbing healthy. Small steps can prevent a lot of big problems.
You’ve got to commit to these steps on a regular basis to really reap the benefits. Here are our expert tips on how to make sure that your plumbing is “healthy” year round, starting today.
Start by Flushing the Water Heater
Did you know that there are many benefits to flushing your water heater? Over time, the minerals in your water can create sediment which will eventually cause corrosion and other problems for your system. The sediment will eventually rest on the bottom of your tank, impacting the unit’s ability to heat. Flushing it out at least once a year will help remove the sediment, which will extend your water heater’s life and reduce your energy bills as well.
It’s an easy DIY job, or you can always call us for help.
Drain Filtration Options
It’s very common for hair to accumulate in your drains (especially in the shower and tub). That buildup of hair cause drain clogs, which is unsanitary and inconvenient. One way in which to keep your drains healthy is to use drain filters, which effectively block hair and other debris from going down the pipe. They are installed over top of the drain.
Clean Out Your Faucets
Cleaning your faucets from calcium and other hard water spots doesn’t just make them look nice, it helps them work better by removing any impediment to the flow. You should also clean the aerator, which is a mesh screen over the tap that removes the minerals from the water. Ideally, this may take place once a month. You just unscrew the faucet and remove the aerator inside. Soak the aerator in vinegar in a bag for about 5 minutes and then use a toothbrush or something similar to remove stubborn debris.
Make Sure Your Water is Safe
It’s a good idea to get your water tested periodically to make sure that it is as safe as possible. Unfortunately (especially with older homes that have older pipes) sometimes undesirable things (like lead) seep into your tap water. That’s important to your physical health and to your plumbing health too.
Installing a water filtration system at the source will purify your water and remove those contaminants.
Drain Cleaning: Get Rid of Bacteria
Cleaning your drains out not only improves the flow of water and eliminates clogs before they have a chance to form, and it’s also a great way to remove any bacteria that might be festering within your pipes.
Depending on what’s gone down your pipes and how long it has been sitting there, this residue could be a breeding ground for bacteria- which is certainly not going to help your health.
We’re your Manassas, VA plumber of choice. Call Reddick and Sons at (703) 348-9881 today.