Though your plumbing is mostly out of sight and it operates quietly, maintaining it is vital. A plumbing system that is cared for properly brings clean water that’s free of corrosion and pathogens. It sends water through pipes with the right pressure and keeps water bills from suddenly skyrocketing. A well-maintained plumbing system can even keep the air inside the building healthy. Leaking pipes add moisture to that air. This encourages mold and damp rot, which can be expensive to get rid of. In the end, a plumbing system that works correctly is less prone to emergencies such as bursting pipes that can damage or even destroy the ceilings, walls, and floors in a home or place of business. Here are some safety tips when it comes to your plumbing.

Know Where the Shutoff Valves Are

Your fixtures should have shutoff valves that can stop the flow of water if a pipe bursts or leaks. There’s also a main shutoff valve that stops all fresh water from entering your building. Your plumber should be able to tell you where these valves are located.

Be Careful With Harsh Drain Cleaners

Ideally, you should never use harsh drain cleaners when trying to dissolve a clog in a drain pipe. Overuse of these cleaners can erode the pipes over time and cause them to leak. Gentler methods such as baking soda and vinegar flushed with hot water are preferable. If the clog persists, it’s time to call the plumber.

Be Careful of Items Flushed Down the Drain

Materials such as fats, types of paper other than toilet paper, and other items that don’t easily break down shouldn’t be flushed down your drains, including your toilet and garbage disposal unit. The labels of some items, such as tampons, may even say they’re flushable, but they’re not. When in doubt, put suspicious items in the garbage can. Oils and grease can be poured in a disposable cup first. The instruction manual that comes with your garbage disposal unit will tell you what you can and can’t put into it.

Have Your Pipes Insulated

A professional plumber can easily insulate your plumbing pipes to keep them from freezing in the winter. This is especially important if your pipes run through an unheated area of your building such as an untreated basement or crawlspace. Water in pipes expands when it freezes, and this can cause the pipes to burst and then leak when the water melts.

Have Your Pipes Checked for Leaks

Now and then you should schedule a plumber to come and check your pipes for leaks. You may suspect a leak if your water bill spikes, if your water pressure isn’t where it ought to be, or if you feel wet or hot spots on your floors or your walls. When leaks are detected, a plumber should repair them quickly.

Call Us for More Plumbing Safety Tips

It’s important for your safety to make sure your plumbing system is operating as it should, without leaks or other problems. To learn more about safety in either residential or commercial plumbing in Indianapolis, IN, simply call up our professionals at JW’s.