Modern plumbing is one of those things we tend to take for granted – and yet where would we be without it?
It can be a real headache when things go wrong. It can be a major inconvenience, and then there’s the expense of getting a plumber in urgently to fix the problem!
So here are five things every home owner should be aware of, if you want to keep your plumbing and drainage flowing freely.
- Replace your Flickmixer every 10 years
The trusty tap has been replaced by the Flickmixer in many homes, particularly in the kitchen.
While it’s a great invention, allowing us to control both the temperature and volume of water easily, there is a downside.
Over time, the hoses deteriorate and a sudden break or leak could cause costly damage to your kitchen, carpets, etc. So check the hoses under your sink periodically, and don’t hesitate to replace them if you know they are nearing their ‘use by’ date or notice signs of wear and tear.
- Your Toilet is not a Rubbish Bin
Some people seem to think their toilet is a convenient rubbish bin which empties at the touch of a button. So much easier that lugging a wheelie bin out to the kerb, right? Wrong!
Items like wet wipes, cotton balls, sanitary products, kitty litter, used band aids and cigarette butts are NOT biodegradable. Disposing of them in your toilet can cause a major blockage in your pipes, as well as clog up our sewerage treatment plants.
- Don’t pour Oils or Fats down the Sink
Again, it might seem convenient – a case of out of sight, out of mind.
Unfortunately oils and fats solidify in the cool underground environment of your pipes and drainage.
A better idea is to allow oil or fat left over from cooking to cool slightly before pouring into an old jar. You can then store the jar in your fridge and when full, simply throw it in the rubbish bin.
- Pipes can be Fixed Without Digging
There is some good news if you do happen to have a major blockage in your pipes.
Once upon a time excavation would have been the only solution, ruining your gardens and landscaping in the process. Now however there are options like CCTV drainage cameras and jet rodding to unclog drains – a lot more efficient and affordable!
- Don’t make the mistake of trying to save a few bucks with DIY Plumbing
It could end up costing you a lot more in the long run as:
- you won’t be covered by home insurance;
- it could void your appliance warranty;
- and when you go to sell your home, you could be in for a fine, delays, or even a collapsed contract.
Modern plumbing is pretty amazing – at the turn of a tap we have clean water for drinking and cooking, and piping hot water for bathing and washing.
But instead of taking it for granted, remember these tips and you’ll find that it pays in bucket loads!
Photo by Matty Sievers on Unsplash
