Your home offers the security and protection you need from hazardous weather and all the dangers of the world. And in return, it only asks for a bit of care and maintenance on occasion. But many homeowners are unaware of the five greatest hazards that can create significant plumbing issues and costly repair bills. Knowing how to protect your plumbing from these problems can add years of trouble-free service and eliminate some very nerve-wracking and unpleasant events around your home.
Tree Roots
You are sure to love the beauty and added value that large trees bring to your property. But what you won’t embrace is the potential damage they can inflict on your water and sewer lines. The root system of the average deciduous tree is a mirror image of the canopy. So the roots reach as far in every direction as the branches and leaves. And if your trees are formally shaped and trimmed, the roots can extend far past the outline of the branches. That entire area is a hazard for any pipes. Tree roots grow right around pipes of all sizes and will eventually crush them. The result is sewage or water leaking into your yard and clogs in your water supply line or sewer line. Select strategic locations for your trees, away from all water and sewer lines.
Kitchen Grease
The grease and oil from cooking should never find their way into your drain lines. The oil coats the inside of the pipes and turns into a sticky, smelly goop that traps food waste. Soon you are noticing water standing in your sink and a foul odor coming from the drain. And it is all because of the used cooking oil that you washed down the drain.
Septic Issues
No one ever wants to have a clogged toilet. The potential for a nasty mess is enormous. To avoid that moment of panic when the toilet does not flush correctly, never flush anything but human waste and toilet paper. All other paper products, feminine hygiene products, tissues, and trash will create very stubborn clogs.
Properly Dispose Of Garbage
Even if you have a garbage disposal in your kitchen sink, it is no place for large pieces of food waste. The disposal is only meant to grind up the tiny pieces of debris rinsed from dishes and cookware. Large pieces of meat, vegetable peels, eggshells, coffee grounds, and the like are sure to create clogs in your sink’s drain line. In addition, use your bathroom trash can for all dental floss, tissues, cotton balls, and other trash. Never flush those items unless you are looking for a reason to call in your favorite plumber.
Old Water Heaters
Old water heaters that have not been adequately drained and flushed can lead to many plumbing issues in your home. From the sediment they introduce into the water lines and fixtures to the water leaking on your floor, old water heaters can be big trouble. With a life expectancy of 10 – 15 years, these units should be drained and flushed each year as part of their annual service. If you have not been keeping up on that care, know that a ten-year life span is about all you can expect from your water heater. When it starts to show signs of its age, consider a replacement to avoid future costly issues, including water damage to your home.
At the first sign of any issues with your home’s plumbing, call (701) 402-6643. The licensed plumbers from A-1 Plumbing will arrive quickly to locate the problem and provide a free no-obligation price quote before starting any repairs.