Most homeowners work hard for their money, and the last thing any of us wishes to do is watch our money go down the drain because of a plumbing problem that could be avoided. It’s not hard to save when you’re well-informed about common plumbing issues and how to avoid them.
Plumbing Tips to Save Money
Keeping up with your home’s plumbing maintenance helps homeowners stay ahead of potentially expensive emergencies! It’s definitely going to be easy to save money on plumbing with our helpful plumbing tips.
Prevent Drain Buildups
Clogged drains cost money. Oftentimes, drains end up clogged and homeowners use harsh chemicals to try and clear the clog. However, chemicals damage the pipes, and this means your home is more susceptible to a plumbing emergency. And a plumbing emergency means a professional is required, costing homeowners hefty repair bills.
To help reduce the risks of clogged pipes, try these simple tips:
- Place strainers over your drains in order to filter out hair, soap, toothpaste, personal hygiene products, food, and other debris.
- Once a month, pour a cup of baking soda along with a cup of vinegar down the drain. It helps prevent buildups.
- Never pour hot oil down the drain. Once it cools down, it solidifies and ends up clogging drains as it builds up each time you pour oil down the drain. Instead, pour hot oil into a container, let it cool, then throw it out in the garbage.
Check for Leaks
Leaky faucets and toilets cost homeowners a ton of money on their water bills. Plus, small leaks can lead to water buildup, which can cause mold and bacteria. There’s also the threat of wood rotting.
Once water has done its damage, it often requires hiring professionals to fix the problems and that can end up costing big bucks. Finding the leaks sooner, rather than later, is a great way to save money on plumbing!
Water Heater Temperature
Many homeowners don’t realize a water heater doesn’t have to be set at such a high temperature. The recommended temperature range for a hot water heater is 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Depending on the type of water heater you own, and the health benefits of those living in the home. More often than not, 120 degrees is sufficient to kill germs, and save you money.
If your hot water heater is over 15 years old, consider updating to a more energy efficient, eco-friendly model, and save even more money on your bills!
Replace Shower Heads & Sink Faucets
It might seem like a crazy money saving plumbing tip, because of the upfront cost to replace all the faucets and shower heads in your home. We absolutely understand the hesitation to trust this money-saving tip.
However, once you replace older fixtures with eco-friendly ones that help control water usage, you’ll save money on your water bill. Reducing water usage means a lower monthly water expense.
Turn Your Sink, Bath and Outdoor Faucets Off Properly
It’s one of the simplest plumbing tips to save money. Many homeowners don’t turn their faucets and spigots off completely, and the dripping water really does add up on monthly water bills. If you find that you turn the knobs completely off, but the faucets are still dripping – it’s probably time to repair them or replace them with those eco-friendly faucets from the above money saving plumbing tip.
Call Your Local Licensed Master Plumber
Sometimes, plumbing emergencies happen even if you do everything right and follow all the plumbing tips experienced plumbers share with you. When you find yourself in a plumbing emergency, the licensed master plumbers at Motor City Plumbing and Drain have your back!