There are so many things to consider when it comes to doing your own plumbing that it can often be hard to figure out where to start. This article’s tips will help you turn into a better plumber.
If your pipes are making a racket, there is a simple way to quiet them down. Exposed pipes need to be anchored. Pipes that are contained within the floors, walls and ceilings may need to be attended by a professional plumber.
Frozen Pipes
Don’t let your house temperature drop to below freezing and make sure to insulate anything that is exposed to the outside elements to prevent frozen pipes. It is easy for pipes to freeze whenever the mean temperature near the pipes drop below freezing. In the best situation, it can take hours for frozen pipes to thaw and water to run freely again. However, your pipes can explode, as well – making a huge plumbing bill.
If you have a pipe that freezes, you should turn on the faucet that is close to the pipe; this way, the water has a place to go. This will help relieve pressure in pipes to prevent them from bursting, which may prevent bigger damage for your home.
Ensure that a septic tank is emptied approximately five yearly, and make sure it is properly maintained. This will prevent sediment from piling up in your tank, which could cause it to overflow into your home and yard, or even cause the entire septic system to fail. Pumping a septic tank might cost a lot of money, but it will cost your more money to clean any back up in sewage you may have had, and replacing your septic tank costs even more!!
You need to know your plumbing tools as well as how they are used so your plumbing efforts are always positive. Research the project you are going to attempt online, and read the manuals that come with the tools before you use them. Make sure that, before you jump in and start taking things apart, you plan your plumbing repair first.
Do not use harsh chemicals to clean or treat your toilet. These products will reduce the smell, but they will also cause problems with the rubber gaskets. Over time, the damage will accumulate and could eventually stop the toilet from functioning at all.
Never reach into a garbage disposal that you think isn’t working. Garbage disposals can be dangerous, even when they are turned off. It’s advised to obtain a diagram, possibly off of the Internet, that depicts your machine in accurate detail.
Avoid putting grease, fat, and other oils down your drain. As they cool off, they can solidify and effectively create clogs and blockages in your drains. Oils are especially damaging to garbage disposals. Dump your oil outside or in a container that you throw out with the regular trash.
Garbage Disposal
Run lots of cold water whenever you use your garbage disposal. The helps sharpen the blades and clears out the drain mechanism. Running hot water down the drain while you are using the garbage disposal can cause the drain to clog from any grease that is in there liquefying.
You now know that while plumbing may seem intimidating, it is really not that complicated. Once you understand the basic principles, the rest is easy as screw, twist, and flush. Finding the most effective ways to tackle indoor plumbing lies in research and trial and error.
