While any home can experience plumbing problems, problems can occur more frequently in older homes. This is because homes that are decades old have older plumbing systems, with weaker pipes, corroded seals, and thicker buildup.
The good news is that you can save money on repairs and maintain a better plumbing system by following a few key practices.
Pay Closer Attention to the Debris You Flush
A home that has been around for generations can provide a traditional living experience and a charming aesthetic. Unfortunately, this type of dwelling also comes with old house plumbing issues. Drain blockages are especially problematic in older houses since grease, food scraps, and other debris can build up on the pipe walls over the years.
While this is one of the most frustrating of the common plumbing problems, you can still take steps to minimize it. Make sure your family knows which items they can safely flush or rinse down the drain. For instance, aside from human waste, the only other item you should flush down a toilet is toilet tissue.
If you have a garbage disposal, only deposit soft and biodegradable food scraps into the unit. Avoid putting these items into the unit:
- Bones
- Large food scraps
- Starchy foods
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells
- Non-food items
You’ll also want to avoid pouring grease or oil down any drain.
Regularly Inspect for Leaks
Water leaks are also very common plumbing issues. Even a small leak can lead to significant moisture damage and mold growth in your kitchen or bathrooms.
Watch for leaks beneath your sinks and in other hidden areas. As soon as you see a leak, call a plumber for immediate repairs. When you don’t repair a leak promptly, the leaking water can damage the seals and cause the pipes to erode or rust.
Flush Your Water Heater Annually
A poorly maintained water heater can cause plumbing issues at home. The sediment that builds up on the bottom of your water heater can affect the efficiency of the unit and cause damage to the plumbing pipes.
Schedule an appointment with your plumber to flush the water heater once a year. This will expel the sediment and allow your plumber to inspect the unit.
Use a Water Softener to Prevent Sediment Buildup
Mineral buildup causes many common plumbing issues in older homes in Massachusetts. You might not even notice that mineral deposits are affecting your plumbing system until the problem becomes severe. At that time, you’ll see a white or lime-green discoloration around your faucets and showerheads. You might also notice less water flow or lower water pressure.
In addition to clearing away grease and debris, professional drain cleaning will remove the buildup of mineral deposits. This service helps you prevent many of the plumbing issues that mineral accumulation can cause, like corrosion and burst pipes.
Protect Your Home Against Plumbing Issues Today
Endless Energy provides a comprehensive range of plumbing services to homes old and new throughout Derry and the surrounding area, from drain cleaning to water heater repair. Whether you need emergency repairs or a free estimate to update your plumbing, contact us for reliable services today.
