You’ve been working hard all year long on your home, but did you know that there is plumbing maintenance that you should be doing too?

Plumbing seems like a huge and difficult job to many people, but we may be giving maintenance more credit than it deserves. The number one preventable cause of plumbing issues is not maintaining the pipes in the first place.

If you want to learn about how to avoid the most common errors during plumbing maintenance, then you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to tell you about seven of the most common errors and how to avoid them.

Read on to learn more about residential plumbing maintenance errors.

1. Not Running a Faucet Regularly to Prevent Mineral Buildup

Minerals such as calcium and magnesium can build up in pipes and can block and corrode pipes. To avoid this, it’s important to regularly run the water in your home.

Running the hot and cold water at each sink a few times a month can help keep shut-off valves in working condition. Also, running the shower, dishwasher, and other appliances that use water can help as well.

Additionally, keeping any drains clear is important, and using a drainage system cleaner will enhance the effectiveness. Regularly running and checking faucets for any unusual sounds or smells can prevent future repair costs due to mineral buildup.

2. Not Cleaning Visible Drains

Plumbing maintenance errors have the potential to lead to serious property damage, so it’s important to be aware of common mistakes to avoid them. Poorly maintained drains can create huge problems, such as:

• clogs
• bad odors
• corrosion

To prevent these common plumbing issues, drains should be inspected routinely and cleaned using a combination of a plunger and a drain snake.

In areas of the house that are prone to debris, a routine cleaning regimen should also be followed. Such as running hot water or even pouring a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Doing these activities regularly will prevent costly repairs from a clogged drain or corrosion damage from not being adequately cleaned.

3. Not Cleaning Out P-Traps

P-traps are an integral part of any plumbing system, as they provide a seal to prevent sewer fumes from entering your home. If not emptied regularly, P-traps can become clogged, leading to back-ups and potential water damage.

To avoid this, homeowners should inspect their P-traps once a month. If the P-trap is heavily clogged and unable to be cleaned, it may be necessary to replace the trap with a new one.

Cleaning and maintaining your P-traps regularly is an essential step that should never be neglected to ensure your pipes, drains, and water systems are functioning properly.

It is important to properly maintain your plumbing system and to call 24/7 plumbing services right away when necessary. Doing so will ensure prompt attention to your plumbing system’s needs and help keep your home safe and comfortable.

4. Forgetting to Flush Water Heaters

Over time, sediment and scale can build up in the heater, constricting the flow of water. Reducing the overall efficiency of the system, and causing the heating element to shut off much more frequently.

The best way to avoid this common error is to periodically flush your water heater. This can be done by draining a few gallons out of the bottom of the tank.

For best results, be sure to use a hose and drain the water outdoors, to avoid flooding your basement or other areas of the home. It’s important to note that, to achieve optimal performance and reduce the risk of potential damage.

5. Ignoring Leaky Faucets and Toilets

Even if the leak appears minor, it should be addressed to avoid large-scale water damage and plumbing maintenance costs. All faucets and toilets should be checked regularly for any signs of leakage.

If a leak is present, it should be addressed immediately. It is also important to ensure that all pipes are properly installed and in good condition. If a pipe is leaking, it is essential to contact a professional plumber to repair or replace the offending pipe.

Finally, it is important to stay proactive by regularly checking for signs of any potential plumbing issues. Regular maintenance and quick action are key to avoiding costly repairing plumbing systems.

6. Not Checking for Corrosion on Pipe Connections

Corrosion can lead to trapped contaminants such as rust, scale, and sediment. These trapped contaminants can cause blockages, reduced water pressure, and costly repairs down the line.

To avoid corrosion and associated problems it is important to have regular plumbing inspections for pipe connections. Visually inspect connections for signs of corrosion and make sure to check for exterior and interior pipe integrity.

If any corrosion is present, make sure to repair the area or replace pipes if necessary. It is also important to use new connectors and make sure they are properly sealed with Teflon tape.

It is also helpful to invest in a pipe protection system that is designed to keep water contamination from entering your water supply. Taking these steps will help you avoid costly repairs caused by corrosion.

7. Not Running Hot and Cold Water for Several Minutes

This can create costly damage over time, as water can become trapped in the pipes, leading to rust and corrosion. To avoid this, make sure that you run hot and cold water for several minutes each time you turn on the sink.

Taking this extra step will flush the system, ensuring any debris and sediment are cleared away before it has a chance to accumulate and damage the plumbing. Doing this also helps to ensure that the hot and cold water lines remain balanced and the water heater runs efficiently.

In addition, it’s a good idea to inspect your plumbing system quarterly, paying careful attention to the pipes, water heater, and sink valves for signs of wear and tear. With regular maintenance and proper care, you can avoid hefty repairs caused by neglect.

Common Residential Plumbing Maintenance Errors

Learning what residential plumbing maintenance errors to avoid, and how to fix them, is essential for home plumbing. By addressing the errors regularly, you can ensure the longevity of your plumbing and ultimately prevent larger, more expensive plumbing problems.

From ensuring your P-traps are in the right position, to regularly checking for leaky fixtures and pipe insulation. Taking care of your plumbing is key to avoiding expensive and tedious issues.

Keep reading our blogs for more advice on how to maintain your home and keep it in good condition for years to come.