Granted, it can be challenging to maintain good plumbing in a home with relatively new pipes, but a house with old pipes is even more daunting. Old pipes are often made of galvanized steel, cast iron, or even clay. However, keeping your plumbing relatively problem free with ancient pipes can be done. Here are some ways to do it.
Never Use Harsh Cleansers
Harsh cleansers not only attack the clogs that build up in pipes, they attack the pipes themselves. Eventually, this leads to rust and corrosion. Enough rust and corrosion can cause a pipe to rupture, leading to a plumbing disaster. Instead, flush your pipes with a solution of vinegar and baking soda or an enzyme cleaner.
Keep Drains Debris-Free
Be careful of what you flush down your drains. Only flush bodily wastes and toilet paper down the toilet, even if the item claims that it’s flushable. Don’t put grease or oils down the drain. Cool oils and grease then pour them from the pan or pot into a disposable container, and toss it in the garbage can. Screens over the drains also trap particles that can lead to clogs. Clean out the screens over the garbage can.
Plumbing
Unfortunately, there’s going to come a time when only a professional plumber can help with a problem. This can be repair of old pipes or clearing out clogs that are too stubborn for you to deal with. Eventually, you’ll need your pipes replaced, and this is a job for a professional.
Know Where Your Shut Off Valve Is
If you do need to make a repair to your plumbing, you need to know where the shut off valve is. Incoming water is under pressure. If you unscrew a fixture or joint without shutting off the water completely, you can unleash a geyser that’s hard to shut down. Most shut off valves are in the basement or in a utility area, though some are in your yard or even in the sidewalk in front of your house.
Look for Leaks
Sometimes leaks are easy to find. You may open the cabinet beneath a sink and simply see water dripping from a connection in a pipe. Other signs may include warped walls or floors, dripping sounds, or wet spots. You might be able to fix the leak yourself, but if you feel it’s too much of a job for you, call a plumber right away.
There are homes whose plumbing pipes have been functioning well for over a century. You may not want pipes that are that old, but you do want the ones you have to last a good long time. These tips will do much to see that that happens.
