Preventive maintenance: keeping your home’s plumbing in optimal condition

Preventive maintenance of plumbing in the home is essential to ensure optimal performance and avoid costly repairs. Here are some key recommendations for keeping pipes in good condition:

1. Regular inspections

Performing regular inspections of visible pipes in the home is critical. Look for signs of corrosion, leaks or moisture in areas such as basements, attics and under sinks. Detecting problems early can prevent further damage.

2. Waste control in drains

Avoid flushing food scraps, oils, grease and non-biodegradable products down the sink or toilet. These materials can cause clogs that are difficult to remove. It is advisable to use grease traps in the kitchen and dispose of solid waste in the garbage.

3. Use of drain guards

Installing guards on sinks, showers and bathtubs helps capture materials that could cause clogs, such as hair and food debris. These devices are easy to clean and significantly reduce the risk of clogs.

4. Regular cleaning with natural products

To keep pipes, clean and free of bad odors, natural solutions can be used. For example, pouring lemon juice down the drains provides a fresh scent and helps to disinfect. Another option is to use coffee grounds, which absorb odors and clean the walls of the drain; it is important to rinse well after use.

5. professional preventive maintenance plumbing.

It is recommended that a professional plumbing checkup be scheduled every 1 to 2 years. A certified plumber can perform a thorough evaluation, detect potential problems and perform preventive cleaning to avoid clogs.

6. Avoid corrosive chemicals

The use of aggressive chemicals to unclog pipes can damage the pipe material, especially if they are made of PVC. It is preferable to use mechanical methods, such as a drain snake, or natural solutions to remove blockages.

7. Watch for signs of trouble

Watch for signs such as water stains, corrosion or changes in water pressure. These can be indicative of plumbing problems that require immediate attention.

Implementing these preventive maintenance practices not only prolongs the life of your plumbing but also contributes to the efficiency of your home’s plumbing system and prevents major problems.