You could save a lot of time and money by learning how to fix plumbing issues yourself. Doing so illustrates that you are concerned with appropriate maintenance, and so you are willing to maintain order with your own time, sweat and hands. That’s called getting things done the right way. Like with any other skill set, you can always add and improve. Below are a few tips that will help you out.

In order to prevent any pipes within your home from freezing, you should never let the home temperature get below freezing. Always insulate pipes exposed to elements. Pipes will freeze if they are exposed to temperatures below freezing. If they do freeze, you are looking at some time before they can thaw out, thus you will have to wait for running water. However, they could burst, and that could make a mess and result in a big repair bill.

You need to know your plumbing tools as well as how they are used so your plumbing efforts are always positive. Read your manuals and books, either online or at the library, to teach yourself do it yourself plumbing. Plan thoroughly before attempting a repair. Mistakes can be very expensive to fix.

If you have a clogged toilet and a plunger is not helping to clear the blockage, if the water level is low, pouring a bucking of boiling water from a height into the toilet bowl could resolve the problem. Once the water level gets low again, repeat the process.

Sifting drainers are available for any size drain to prevent items larger than a grain of sand going into your pipes. Clean the kitchen sink strainer any time something collects in it. Those in the bathtub should be cleaned out periodically, as needed.

Overflow Holes

Regularly check your overflow holes to make sure they’re not clogged. Sinks use overflow holes if they start to overfill, and this isn’t usually a problem, but it can be. Make cleaning debris from the overflow holes part of your regular routine of maintaining your plumbing and checking it for problems and required repairs.

Run cold water in your sink when you turn on the garbage disposal. The cold water will help keep the blades nice and sharp and will allow for a much smoother disposal. Hot water liquifies grease and causes it to buildup in the drain, causing clogs in the pipes.

You can drastically reduce your utility bills with the installation of shower heads designed for better efficiency. Most of the hot water we use is in the shower. By installing energy-efficient shower heads for a few extra dollars, you can save up to $100 or more a year per shower head in your house.

Clean the lint trap in your dryer. This saves you from potential problems, including the prevention of fires. Also, check the lint trap to see if there are telltale signs that lint may be leaking into your pipes through holes and tears.

If you want to save a lot of time and money on plumbing repairs, prevention is the best weapon you have in your arsenal. Clogged drains are a major problem that often requires professional help. This is because pipes can retain and trap hair, and other particles, very easily. Put drain covers over your bathtub and sink drains to keep loose hair from going down the drain or into your pipes. It’s far simpler to clean the screen than to remove a hair clog in the pipes.

Now you have the necessary tools, the knowledge and skill set needed to apply to your own plumbing system. That is outstanding! The tips in the article were brought together to help you with your plumbing problems and keep you informed about plumbing issues. Plumbing is an area where the learning never stops. You might have found a great idea or a new “regular” when it comes to your plumbing jobs.