Post By Admin
January 21, 2025Plumbing maintenance isn’t rocket science, but here’s the catch: ignoring it can drain your wallet faster than a leaky faucet!
While plumbing maintenance service ensures safer and more reliable results, it might not fit everyone’s budget in today’s economy.
That’s why learning some basic DIY plumbing maintenance is a game-changer. Stick around, and you’re good to go!
10 DIY Plumbing Maintenance Tips
Without further ado, let’s unleash the plumbing tips you might have never heard of before. Thank us later!
1. Know Your Plumbing System
Not every tip will work for every home. Do you know how your pipework runs or where your main water valve is?
Getting familiar with your plumbing system is the first step in proper house plumbing care.
Spend time identifying key components so you can DIY plumbing projects with confidence (and the right approach).
2. Check for Leaks and Clogs Frequently
Notice a weird smell in your bathroom or slow-draining water? These are signs of clogged drains or hidden leaks.
Regularly inspect your pipework for damage, and don’t ignore smelly drains in the bathroom. Quick drain maintenance will prevent you from wasting time and money.
3. Always Have Basic Plumbing Tools Handy
Would you cook without knives or pans? Of course not! The same goes for plumbing.
That’s why every homeowner should own a plunger, drain snake, or auger.
Got a stubborn clog? Use a drain snake for quick fixes. Having these tools ready means you can fix emergencies without hesitation.
4. Don’t Trust Everything Natural
Sure, baking soda and vinegar sound like safe cleaning hacks, but they can actually harm your plumbing system.
Baking soda or vinegar might corrode your pipes or cause blockages over time. So, stick to proven drain maintenance methods that are safe for your house plumbing, such as commercial drain cleaner. Your pipes will thank you later.
5. Avoid Tossing Strange Objects into Drains
Ever been tempted to rinse away cooking grease or flush random objects? Stop right there!
Foreign items clog drains faster than you think. Pipework maintenance will be harder to do. Stick to disposing of waste properly, and you’ll keep your plumbing in top condition.
6. Invest in High-Quality Plumbing Fixtures
Cheap fixtures may save you money upfront, but they’ll cost you in the long run.
Investing in durable plumbing fixtures reduces the need for frequent replacements and ensures smoother operation. High-quality fixtures are the unsung heroes of house plumbing.
7. Insulate Your Pipes
Do your pipes freeze during colder months? Insulating them can prevent cracking and bursting.
Pipe insulation is a simple DIY plumbing trick that saves money on repairs and improves efficiency.
This is especially helpful if you live in areas with unpredictable weather.
8. Flush Your Water Heater
When was the last time you flushed your water heater? Minerals build up over time and of course, it reduces its efficiency.
To maintain hot water flow and extend the heater’s lifespan, flush it annually. It’s a must-do step in house plumbing care.
9. Install Drain Strainers
How often do you clean hair or food scraps from your drains? Installing strainers catches debris before it becomes a problem.
This small investment makes drain maintenance easier and prevents clogs. No more nasty surprises!
10. Test Your Water Pressure
High water pressure might feel great, but it’s terrible for your plumbing. Over time, it stresses your pipework, leading to leaks.
Use a pressure gauge to test and adjust if needed. Proper water pressure protects your plumbing system and saves money on repairs.
FAQ about Plumbing Maintenance
How much does pipe maintenance cost?
The cost of pipe maintenance varies depending on the type of service and your location. On average, plumbing maintenance ranges from $150 to $400 in Australia.
DIY plumbing can save you money if you already have the tools, but make sure you know what you’re doing to avoid mistakes.
How often should pipes be maintained?
It’s best to inspect and maintain your pipes at least once a year. Regular drain maintenance and leak checks ensure your house plumbing remains in good condition.
If your home is older or has frequent plumbing issues, consider more frequent inspections.
How often should a plumbing stack be cleaned?
Once every two years is a good start. If you notice slow draining or unpleasant odours, it might be time for a cleaning sooner.
Regular cleaning is the easiest thing you can do yet effective enough to prevent more complicated issues.
Should you snake your drains annually?
Yes, snaking your drains once a year is a good idea!
However, if you notice frequent blockages or slow drainage, you may need to snake your drains more often. Or, consider professional help.
Conclusion
Plumbing maintenance isn’t as tricky as it sounds—it’s really about keeping an eye on the basics. Check for leaks, avoid clogging your drains, and have the right tools on hand.
That said, we all hit a point where DIY just isn’t enough. When that happens, Neighbourhood Plumbing is here to lend a hand. Give us a call, and let’s chat about how we can help. We’re just around the corner!
About the Author
From unclogging the toughest drains to repairing leaking toilets, Ricky is a seasoned plumber who has brought his craftmanship to homes across Melbourne. He is passionate about sharing plumbing tips just as much as he is about fixing your plumbing issues. So, when your taps or pipes begin leaking, you know who to call.
