1. Don't Let Plumbing Problems Get The Best Of You - This
Advice Will Help!
If a problem arises, many want to fix it themselves, so it's a good idea to learn maintenance
tips. This article problem helps with both so that people may be prepared for all kinds of
plumbing emergencies.
You should be aware of the location of the main valve for water cut-off on your property. You
can locate a water meter close to it. Usually toilets, sinks and other fixtures have cut-off
valves of their own. You will want to make your family aware of the location of each valve,
and add markings that give directions on how to shut each one off whenever an emergency
arises.
Metal expands and if your home has copper pipes, when hot water goes through them, they
will expand a little. When this happens, the pipes will not fit into the pipe hangers, and will
end up grinding against them. In the long run, this could damage those pipes. In order to
prevent potential damage, wrap tape around loose pipes before putting them back in their
hangers.
Use lots of cold water when you run your garbage disposal. Cold water helps the blades stay
sharp and keeps the disposal running smoothly. Hot water can liquify grease and cause it to
collect in the drain, and that can clog the pipes.
Check your toilet regularly for leaks. Put food coloring in your toilet tank to test the toilet for
leaks. If you see the coloring after a few seconds, you will know that there is a problem with
your toilet that needs immediate attention.
Place a strainer on top of every drain so that you collect all debris that has the ability to clog
the drain. Your kitchen sink strainer must be cleaned whenever it catches anything. Bathtub
strainers need regular cleaning as well.
Flood alarms are becoming more common among homeowners. Flood alarms are similar to
regular smoke detectors. They are battery-operated devices which sound an alarm when
they come into contact with water. Flood alarms can protect your home from potential
flooding or damage caused by water leaks.
Choose a drain cleaner wisely. Some of them contain strong chemical agents that will
damage your pipes. Make certain the one you buy is a brand known for pipe safety. Some
chemicals will kill the bacteria your plumbing system needs to function properly and could
even be harmful to humans.
Fix issues related to low water pressure that are a result of a buildup of sediment by
cleansing the aerator. You need to remove, disassemble, and clean the aerator with vinegar

2. and a small brush. Thoroughly rinse off the aerator, put it back together and place it back on
the faucet. Removing obstructions from the aerator should allow for increased water
pressure.
Infrequently used valves can stiffen with age and become inoperable. You can use
penetrating oil to maintain them and turn the valves every once in a while so that they do not
stick.
Take breaks if you are doing repairs outside in the sun. When you are focused on work while
outside, it can be dangerous if you forget about the sun and heat.
After reading through that, you ought to be a bit excited to start experimenting and handling
your own plumbing. Blocked drains