Household plumbing is one of those things that can be confusing at best and challenging at its worst. If you're not particularly experienced with plumbing issues, you may not always know how to deal with things when they arise. Here's a look at some of the things that you should understand when it comes to your home's plumbing system and the issues that you might encounter.
Slow Leaks Are Still Leaks
Sometimes, you fall into a false sense of security about a leaking faucet. It's easy to tell yourself that the faucet leak is a slow one and that a dripping faucet really isn't a big deal. The truth is that even just a persistent drip can be problematic. Not only does that drip increase your water consumption and cost unnecessarily, but it also causes wear and tear on your plumbing fixtures and pipes. This can lead to premature repair and replacement needs, which ultimately costs you more than necessary. That's why you should call a plumber right away if you see even a small leak.
Hot Grease Is Never Okay For Your Drain
Another important thing to know is that hot grease is never safe to pour down your drain. You might think that, because it's liquid, it's no big deal. However, it's only liquid because it's hot. As that grease runs down the drain, it is going to cool. When it cools, it solidifies on the inside of the pipe walls. That causes narrowing in the pipes and encourages debris to get stuck in the grease. You should avoid putting grease down the drains in any form. If you already have done so, reach out to a local plumber to clear the lines with proper professional cleaning.
Flushable Wipes Are Not A Friend To Your Plumbing
Flushable wipes are heavily marketed as a flushable alternative to baby wipes, and they are labeled as safe to flush. Most plumbers will tell you that, while they may technically be safe to flush, they are a hazard for your drain system and the municipal water system as well. Flushable wipes are not made of the same materials that toilet paper is, so they don't break down nearly as quickly or as effectively. With regular use, this leads to clogs and accumulated wipes in the lines which can ultimately lead to clumps in the water treatment plants, too.
These are some of the most important things for you to know when it comes to your home's plumbing system. Talk with a local plumbing service today for more help and information.
