There are lots of things you can do at home to keep your various plumbing systems in tip-top condition. Of course, JM Plumbing is always on hand to assist you with any plumbing problems, but if you follow these tips, you’ll be able to keep your call outs to a minimum, and that’s good news for your hip pocket.

Drains

Your drainage system is the backbone of your house’s plumbing system, and a problem with your drains can cause a whole range of issues. To treat your drainage system well, you need to take care not to pour any fats or cooking oils down them, as over time the fats harden and create blockages.

All drains should also be fitted with strainers, to prevent soap, debris, hair and food scraps from building up in the system.

Whitegoods

The best times to run your washing machine and dishwasher is at night when no other water is being used. This will keep water temperature and pressure high. You also need to inspect supply hoses for signs of weakness, bulge and leaks and check that they are tight and free of leaks.

Toilets

If there is something wrong with your toilet, the first sign will be around the base. If you notice any black or white stains or damaged floor material, you need to call a plumber right away.

Remember, only toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. The sewer system isn’t designed to cope with thins like nappies or cotton buds.

You can also check for leaks within the toilet itself by adding food colour to the water tank. If the colour appears in the bowl, it means there is a leak.

Your toilet should flush easily. If you have to push the lever repeatedly for it to flush, or stop flushing, get new parts. It will make your toilet a lot more efficient, and you’ll save a lot of money.

Bathroom

If you notice any loose wall tiles or leaks in the wall, it’s a sign of water damage. The quicker you call a plumber and get the issue attended to, the less damage you’ll have to deal with.

Outdoor Plumbing

You need to regularly check your gutters and downpipes to ensure they are free of leaves, branches and other debris. Blocked pipes can cause enormous amounts of damage to your roof and home, and regular maintenance will save you from a lot of headaches.

Standing water in your back or front yard is an issue, and it may be a sign of a damaged sewer line. Standing water is a breeding ground for germs and nasty insects like mosquitos, so if your yard isn’t draining properly, you need to attend to it as soon as possible.

Water Heater

Your hot water system should be set at 70°C, but it should be tempered, so the maximum temperature that comes out of your taps is 50°C. The lifespan of a water heater is about 15 years, heaters older than this will be inefficient and are probably costing you money. Check the label on your system to see how old it is.