How to Avoid Leaking Pipes
In Your Home
Having a dry home is a comfort we often take for granted. However, a leaking pipe can quickly turn tranquility into turmoil. This is especially true here in Indianapolis, where our weather can make a pipe leak a serious pain in the you-know-what.
Avoiding the trouble of a pipe leak can be easy if you’re proactive. By following a few preventative measures, you’ll be able to keep your pipes in excellent condition and avoid costly water damages.
Get Your Pipes Inspected & Maintained Regularly
Just as you take your car for regular tune-ups, your plumbing system benefits from inspections and maintenance. At least twice a year, give your plumbing system a thorough once-over, checking for signs of rust, drops of water, or moisture around the connections. Don’t forget to inspect the less obvious places, like basements, attics, and under sinks.
Any signs of clogs or water damage will need to be tended to quickly in order to minimize the impact. Things can get icky in our hot and humid summers, when mold and rot can grow fast.
Properly Insulate Your Pipes
Summers aren’t the only threat. The frigid winters of Indianapolis can easily cause unprotected pipes to freeze and burst. That’s why insulating your pipes is one of the most effective preventative measures to guard against catastrophic leaks.
Pipe insulation can be found at most home improvement stores and is simple to install. The foam tubing should be fastened into place to ensure a snug fit that retains as much heat in the pipes as possible.
Be Careful About What Goes Down the Drain
Just because you have a garbage disposal doesn’t mean it’s a free-for-all in your kitchen sink. Certain items, like cooking grease and coffee grounds, can build up over time and cause blockages.
These clogs can increase the pressure inside pipes, leading to leaks or breaks. To prevent this, dispose of grease and food waste properly, and consider using a drain strainer to catch debris.
Use Chemical Drain Cleaners Sparingly
Whether it’s when faced with clogs, or simply a matter of maintenance, many homeowners will fall back on chemical drain cleaners as an easy fix. The bad news is, they can cause more harm than good. These harsh chemicals will eat away at your pipes over time, creating openings for leaks. Instead, use a plunger or a plumber's snake to dislodge clogs, opting for the chemicals only for the most stubborn. Or better yet, call in a professional.
Only Hire Professional Plumbers
Faulty work can directly lead to pipe leaks. So whether it’s your neighborhood handyman or your jack-of-all-trades friend, it’s best to pass on help from anyone who’s not a professionally-trained plumber.
By only hiring someone who is fully qualified, you’ll be able to count on sound installations and repairs. A certified plumber can spot issues that might escape an untrained eye, carry out full fixes, and advise on how best to maintain your system.
Here at Hamm & Sons Plumbing, we not only have the necessary expertise and experience, but also the right tools to do the job properly. We’ll be able to identify the root cause of a problem, provide an effective solution, and offer guidance to prevent future leaks.
When it comes to pipe problems in Indianapolis, Hamm & Sons Plumbing is your trusted partner, providing efficient and professional service when you need it most. Remember, prevention is key, but if leaks happen, expert help is just a call away. Contact us at 317-202-9853 to set up an appointment or request 24-hour emergency service.
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