Renovating your home is exciting, but it can be overwhelming to consider all the changes you want to make. It’s easy to forget about your plumbing among the new paint colours, hardware, and furniture. However, ignoring your plumbing can lead to major problems down the line. Don’t risk costly repair bills and headaches, take care of your plumbing before you start any major renovations. Trust a professional or at least do some research before jumping in to ensure everything is working efficiently and effectively. Here are a few plumbing things to consider when remodelling your home:
Call a plumber if you have a leaky faucet
If you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, it’s high time to call a plumber. Leaks from faucets use up considerable amounts of water and can eventually cause significant harm to your property. Not to mention, you’ll end up with a bit of a mess along with costly wasted water bills. According to Brisbane based AK Gas & Plumbing, the most crucial thing is that these leaks can create an environment in which mould and mould spores propagate, making the air inside your home unhealthy for all those who breathe it. Don’t take chances with your health and well-being, make the call to a plumber right away.
Replace broken plumbing fixtures
When you’re remodelling a bathroom, it’s important to replace any broken plumbing fixtures such as showerheads and toilets. Consider replacing sinks and tubs if they’re old or damaged. Also, if the drain is slow-running or clogged up with hairballs, it’s probably time for a replacement too.
Fix clogged or broken drains
Having a clogged drain can be a real pain. There are a few DIY methods to fix it. Firstly, grab an old-fashioned plunger and give it a go until you hear water gushing through again. If that doesn’t work, pour some chemical drain cleaner down the sink, just read and follow the instructions carefully. And if those attempts fail to solve the problem, consider calling a plumber if it’s a serious issue like tree roots or broken pipes. Don’t suffer from a clogged drain any longer, try these simple fixes today.
Replace copper pipes with PVC pipes
To improve energy efficiency in your plumbing system at home, switch out copper pipes with PVC pipes. They’re more resistant to corrosion from acidic water conditions found in bathrooms due to soap dispensers containing lye products like detergents. These products attack metals over time and cause them to rust away slowly. Eventually, they can break apart completely without warning. So, if there are any other plumbing fixtures like this in your home, now is the time to replace them before something happens unexpectedly down the road.
Check your toilet for leaks
As a common plumbing fixture in homes, toilets can be quite expensive to repair. But, with a simple check for leaks, you can save yourself the headache and the cost. Add a drop or two of food colouring into your toilet tank and wait for about 30 minutes. If the colour spreads into the bowl, then there is a leak. If it doesn’t, you can rest assured that everything is alright with your toilet.
Repair any damaged or worn piping
If you’re dealing with a small leak or a big crack, fixing your worn plumbing can save you money in the long run. Neglecting it could lead to leaks and damage to your home. Expert plumbers can replace damaged pipe parts or patch up cracks to keep water out of your walls and prevent future problems.
Check your water pressure
Check your water pressure to avoid potential plumbing issues. It could save you from major plumbing issues down the line. Check your water meter’s pressure gauge – above 60 PSI and you’re good to go. However, if it reads below 60 PSI, especially between 40-50, your pipes and fixtures could be in trouble. It’s best to call a plumber immediately to avoid any further damage.
Replace your hot water heater if it’s old
Don’t wait until a disaster strikes to recognise the importance of taking proper care of your hot water heater. A unit that hasn’t been serviced in over five years can pose a serious safety risk, potentially causing damage to your home or even starting a fire.
If your tankless model is more than a decade old and has been overlooked for regular maintenance, it’s time for a replacement. Don’t risk enduring a chilly winter night without a reliable source of hot water. Invest in a new model today for your peace of mind.
Install an energy-efficient water heater
Water heating is a significant energy user in your home. It’s crucial to select an efficient water heater that meets current building codes. Upgraded models consume less than half the energy of older ones, which translates to hundreds saved on energy costs annually. Additionally, you may be eligible for federal tax credits when purchasing such models. Choose wisely and save.
Takeaway
A well-functioning plumbing system is crucial for any home. Poor maintenance can lead to damage and expensive repairs in the future. By implementing these tips and ensuring your pipes are in good condition, you can avoid the headaches of an outdated or inefficient system. Keep up with today’s standards by taking care of your plumbing.
