Plumbing Maintenance

Even the most non-handy homeowners or renters have a few essential tools on hand to cope with minor plumbing emergencies. Many times, a clogged toilet or slow drain may only require a little elbow grease and a plunger to fix the problem. If you’re handy around the house (which I'm not), you can generally tackle a small repair such as changing out a worn washer or replacing a drain cover. However, bigger plumbing repair jobs need professional attention from Pro N Stall. Trying to repair some common issues such as slow drains or leaking toilets by yourself could lead to bigger problems later.

One way to prevent costly repairs to your home is by having a regular maintenance schedule. Since many issues with your pipes sneak up on you, a thorough inspection is key to catching small problems before they grow. Hidden leaks in sink drains or below water heaters are more than just a nuisance; over time, they can cause structural damage. Water that seeps into sheetrock or plaster contributes to mold growth. Porous tile or wood flooring can discolor or warp when wet.

Many routine maintenance tasks are simple do-it-yourself jobs. An inspection is the foundation of any maintenance schedule. You use your sinks and tubs daily, but you might not notice minor concerns unless you set aside time for an inspection. Go through your home and take a look at your plumbing. Examine all exposed pipes, including under sinks and behind toilet tanks, for any signs of moisture. On a humid day, some condensation on a cold metal pipe is normal, so note any dampness and check the pipes again when the home is cooler. Check for signs of corrosion on brass or copper fittings; corrosion occurs more rapidly on damp metal, so corroded connections could reveal a slow leak.

Turn on water faucets in sinks, showers and tubs to monitor water pressure. Some variation between different faucet styles and purposes is normal, but all of them should have a steady flow. Note how quickly the water drains after you test the faucet, too; slow drains could mean a clog waiting to happen. While you’re making your rounds, flush toilets to ensure they don’t run or leak at the base, a sign of a faulty wax seal.

Inspections from a plumber like Pro N Stall in Nashville will give you a more in-depth look at your home’s pipes and drains. Your inspector will check the water heater, garbage disposal and every area of your home’s plumbing system. More thorough assessments might include remote video inspection of pipes, lead testing and filter system inspection.

After a thorough inspection, remove and clean aerators on faucets and shower heads. Sediment can build up and slow water flow. If you opt for professional plumbing maintenance, Pro N Stall will take care of this step and others for you. Some of the maintenance duties a licensed plumber can perform include:

• drain treatment to maximize flow rate
• cleaning of garbage disposals and water heaters
• pressure tests to detect hairline leaks
• water pressure assessment and adjustment

You don't have to undergo all of your houses plumbing problems alone. Call Pro N Stall, the professionals in Nashville and beyond at 615-471-1122 to schedule a maintenance visit today! 

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