How to Extend the Life of Your Plumbing System

Plumbing Systems

Nearly all residences and business have a plumbing system. Most people take this system for granted, and rarely put any thought into how it works; until it doesn’t. So what is a plumbing system? A plumbing system is the system of pipes, valves and fixtures that distributes water and removes waste.

Materials

Most modern systems consist primarily of Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes, and brass or copper fittings, although some older systems may contain steel components.

PEX is used to make solid, rigid pipes that are then snaked through the entire house. PEX is long lasting; one piece can be used for an entire house so there are no seams. This reduces the possibility of leaking.

Preventive Maintenance

Even non-professionals extend the life of their plumbing systems in a good working order with just a few common sense activities:

• Never discard fat or oil in your sink. This can cause your sink to clog up.

• Check around your sinks and toilets for leaks. Repair even small leaks immediately to avoid larger problems in the long run.

• Check metal components for signs of corrosion. With copper or brass, you would see green stains; steel would be yellow or orange stains

• Check water pressure, if it is slow this could mean there is buildup in your pipes.

• Run water in your sinks and bathtub, if it is slow this means there is something clogging them. Avoid drain cleaners; try to clear out clogs with snakes before resorting to chemicals.

• Use cold water with your garbage disposal; never put bones, corn cobs or non-food items in the disposal.

• Drain the water heater every few months so that sediment doesn’t build up.

When to call a professional

While preventative maintenance is helpful, some plumbing problems require professional help. So how do you know when to call a plumber? One obvious sign is that you have a clog that you cannot resolve; this might be a clogged drain, or a plugged toilet.

Other things that should prompt you to call a professional include: frozen pipes, low water pressure throughout your home and constantly dripping faucets. These are not only serious problems, but trying to fix them on your own could cause the problem to get worse rather than better, and cost you a lot more in the long run.

Keep your Berkeley plumbing system in top shape with a little help from Albert Nahman Plumbing & Heating. Call us at (510) 876-9725 today!