As the holiday season comes to an end and we start packing away the decorations, it’s important not to overlook the state of our home plumbing. With the increased use of sinks, toilets, and showers during this time, it’s common for plumbing issues to arise after the holidays. To help you avoid costly emergencies, we’ve compiled a list of 6 after-Christmas home plumbing tips that will keep your pipes running smoothly and your wallet happy.
Keep An Eye On Your Drains
With the hustle and bustle of holiday cooking and cleaning, your drains may have taken quite a hit. Watch out for signs of trouble such as slow drainage or water pooling. These could indicate lurking clogs waiting to cause major issues. A simple solution to address minor blockages is to pour hot water down the drain, this often helps to break up the clog. For a more eco-friendly and pipe-friendly option, consider using a bio-enzyme-based drain cleaner. This can effectively clear away blockages without the harsh effects of chemical-based cleaners, safeguarding your pipes from potential damage.
Inspect Your Pipes for Leaks
Don’t let the Christmas frenzy make you overlook the crucial task of examining your home’s pipes for potential leaks. Such unnoticed leaks, regardless of their size, could escalate into bigger issues that hit your pocket hard. Be observant for tell-tale signs of leakage like moisture beneath the sink, staining on the ceiling, or an unexpected hike in your water bill. Spotting these signs early on will enable you to take immediate action, nipping the problem in the bud before it snowballs into a major calamity. So don’t delay, promptly rope in professional assistance to mitigate any further damage. It’s a small step that could save you significant time, money, and stress down the line.
Protect Your Pipes from Freezing
In the aftermath of the holiday festivities, the dropping temperatures could pose a frosty threat to your home’s plumbing system. Particularly in unheated areas of your house, the water inside your pipes is susceptible to freezing, and this can result in disastrous pipe bursts. You can take action to shield your pipes from this icy hazard by insulating them properly and maintaining a warm environment within your home. Also, allowing a gentle stream of water to flow from the faucets connected to exposed pipes can play a significant role in averting freezing. Don’t let the winter chills wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing – take these proactive measures and keep potential plumbing nightmares at bay.
Maintain Your Water Heater
The yuletide season often means an uptick in hot water usage in your home. This extra demand can leave your water heater a little worse for wear. After the holidays, it’s a smart move to check on your water heater’s well-being. One simple but effective measure is to drain several gallons of water from the tank. This action will dislodge any accumulated sediment and optimize the efficiency of your water heater. Additionally, keeping a vigilant eye on the temperature setting is crucial. Make sure it doesn’t exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This not only prevents scalding accidents but also contributes to energy conservation. Regular maintenance of your water heater is key to ensuring its longevity and preventing unexpected malfunctions.
Don’t Ignore Minor Problems
Post-Christmas, it’s easy to let the little plumbing inconveniences slide, especially after the holiday frenzy. However, neglecting these small issues can be a costly mistake. Even something as seemingly trivial as a leaky faucet, a continuously running toilet, or unexplained low water pressure can balloon into major headaches if not addressed in a timely manner. Proactive action is your best bet to maintain the health of your plumbing system and save yourself from hefty repair bills. So, as the New Year begins, make it a resolution to not dismiss these minor plumbing troubles. Instead, tackle them head-on and keep your plumbing system operating at its best.
Call Crown Plumbing Service
There’s a limit to what DIY can accomplish when it comes to plumbing. In those situations, where the problem surpasses your understanding or skills, don’t shy away from enlisting the services of a professional plumber. Embarking on a complex repair job without the necessary knowledge could result in further damage, escalating repair costs and even put your safety at risk. Bear in mind, a seasoned plumber has the expertise and the right tools to quickly and efficiently tackle your plumbing issues. Ensuring the smooth operation of your plumbing system might mean setting aside your tool belt and turning the task over to a pro. So, don’t let the fear of a plumbing challenge dampen your spirits, with the right expert on your side, you can confront any plumbing obstacle with confidence.
