The clock is ticking…slowly counting down the days, hours and minutes until we welcome in 2023. You are probably making your resolutions for the New Year already. But while you are putting your list together (and checking it twice?), remember to be nice to your plumbing systems by making – and keeping – these 12 resolutions.
- Don’t wait for small problems to become large problems. If you notice a leaky faucet, water around the toilet, or banging pipes, deal with them before they become bigger, more expensive problems. Fix it yourself, or call a plumber.
- Have a whole house plumbing inspection. Problems may exist even if you don’t see them. A thorough inspection can spot those undetected problems so that you can resolve them before they become huge problems.
- Make sure your sewer line is clear. You don’t want water flowing in your basement. Get your sewer line rodded and treat yourself to a video inspection to spot potential problems.
- Be kind to your garbage disposal. It’s a garbage disposal (or disposer) – not a garbage can. Do not put coffee grounds, fibrous vegetables, bones, or pits down there as they can damage the blades. Also, no oil or grease, as they will solidify and do damage.
- Same with your toilet. Only toilet paper and human waste. Anything else can clog the pipes.
- And same with your pipes. Just like you, they get cold in the winter. Insulate them to protect them from freezing and bursting.
- Also, for your pipes, in extremely cold weather, open cabinets to warm pipes that are exposed to the frigid air. And in that freezing weather, keep your faucets open to let a bit of water trickle out. While that might add to your water bill, it will help prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.
- Save water. Shower instead of bathe. Turn off the faucet while you are shaving or brushing your teeth. Wash the dishes in the dishwasher rather than by hand, but only full loads in both the dishwasher and the washing machine.
- Also, save water by investing in WaterSense faucets, toilets and showerheads.
- Flush your water heater to get rid of sediment and buildup.
- Use drain catchers in your sinks, shower and bathtub to prevent chunks of food, hair, etc. from going down the drain and creating clogs.
- Get a battery backup sump pump to prevent flooding if the power to your main pump goes out.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric for Reliable Plumbing Services
Ravinia Plumbing can help you with all your plumbing needs, from conducting a whole house plumbing inspection to routine maintenance and installation to 24/7/365 emergency service. We’ve been in business since 1928, and we’ve made a name for ourselves as one of the most trusted and reliable plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical companies in Chicagoland. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.
