Whether it is a leakage, clog, drip or a frozen pipe, most plumbing problems revolve around pipelines. Since pipelines form the foundation of the plumbing structure in the house, any disruption in the pipes can create a havoc in the house. Repair or replacement of pipes not only cost in terms of money but can be a huge inconvenience for everyone in the house.
If you take a look at the structure of pipes, they are designed to last for a very long time. Depending upon their material and how regularly you take care of your plumbing fixture, a maintained pipeline system can easily last for more than 50 years. Pipelines made from materials such as cast iron have a longer life span and can last for 75 to 100 years. On the other hand, copper lines can easily exceed 50 years. However, today, most of the houses use PVC pipelines, which are not as durable as metal pipes, but with proper care and regular maintenance, they can also easily last for up to 20 years.
Essential Pipeline Maintenance Tips
Regardless of what material your pipes are made up of, if you are a homeowner, you should know how to maintain your pipeline's health. This can help you save costs and trouble in the long run. Let’s take a look at x essential pipeline maintenance tips.
Use Strainers
One of the most common plumbing problems that can affect the pipelines is the clogged drain. Accumulation of leftover food, grease, and oil can easily clog your kitchen pipes while residual soap and hair can block your bathroom drains. As these clogs stay in the pipe for longer, they tend to become harder and exert pressure on the pipes. One of the best ways to avoid clogged drains and the resulting damage to your pipelines is to use strainers.
As you place strainers on your drains, you will notice the accumulation of leftover food particles, hair, and other debris that would otherwise go into the pipes. This way, it becomes easy to collect all these particles from going down the drain, which reduces the risk of clogged drains. With a reduced risk of clogged drains, you can enjoy healthy pipelines for longer.
Avoid the Use of Chemical Drain Cleaners
Whenever you experience clogged drains, it is best to avoid the use of chemical drain cleaners. Commercial available, chemical drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can cause more damage to your pipelines. They work by dissolving the clog, and as a result, poisonous fumes are released that can damage the interior of your pipelines and can be dangerous if inhaled. Regular use of chemical drain cleaners can make your pipes brittle and more prone to cracks and breakage. Apart from damaging your pipeline, once chemical drain cleaners become a part of sewage, they can continue to contaminate the groundwater and pollute the environment.
So if you experience a problem of clogged drains, it is best to call a professional plumber. They have appropriate tools and training using which they can easily dislodge the clog without damaging your pipes. Different techniques, such as using a drain snake or hydro-jetting can help resolve the problem of clogged drains without damaging your pipelines.
Adjust Your Water Pressure
While pipelines are designed to facilitate the flow of water, sometimes water that flows in the pipelines can be a threat to their health and integrity. Water pressure that is too high can put a lot of stress on your pipelines. As a result, your pipelines can be prone to leakages and breakdown. Therefore, it is essential to keep a check on the water pressure in your home. Make sure the water pressure is below 85 PSI. This is the best way to ensure that your pipes stay healthy for longer. If you are not sure how to check the water pressure in your home, you can always call in a professional plumber to gauge the exact water pressure.
Replace Galvanized Steel Pipes
Prior to the '70s, most homes used to have galvanized steel pipelines. Generally, galvanized steel pipelines have an average lifespan of around 40 to 50 years. This means that today most homes with galvanized pipes may be decaying at the moment. If your house was constructed in the 70s and has galvanized steel pipelines, it is about time that you replace them with a copper or PVC pipe.
Don't forget that pipeline replacement is not a DIY task. In case you want to replace the pipes in your home, make sure you call a reliable, professional plumber who can perform this task in the best possible manner.
Insulate Your Pipes
If you live in an area that experiences extreme winters, you would know that pipes may freeze. When the water in the pipes freezes, it expands and exerts pressure on the pipes. Once the water thaws, your pipelines are generally not elastic enough to return to their original shape. This can cause permanent damage to the shape of your pipes. Also, frozen pipes are more prone to leakage.
To ensure the safety of your pipes during winter, it is best to insulate them, so the water that runs in your pipes does not freeze and damage your pipes.
Perform Regular Inspections
It is often recommended that you seek professional plumber services that can perform regular inspections of your pipelines. While many consider it an additional cost, this is a cost-saving tip. Regular inspection of your pipes can help detect any problems earlier and reduce the risk of an emergency plumbing situation in your home. So it is best to be proactive and schedule regular inspections to avoid any unforeseen plumbing situation in your house.
Choose a Reliable Plumber
If you live in Arizona and want to schedule a pipeline inspection, call Mesa Plumbing today. Our trained and experienced plumbers can help resolve all your plumbing problems in no time. Whether you want pipeline maintenance, repair, or replacement, our professional plumbers are just a call away. To know more about our services or schedule an appointment, visit our website, or contact us at 480-832-1660.