Whole-house repiping is something that will have to happen eventually. All piping materials have a limited lifespan. That being said, there’s a difference between replacing piping in a house that needs to be repiped and having to deal with an expensive repiping project due to a lack of maintenance. If you’re looking to avoid the latter, here’s what you can do today to prevent full repiping tomorrow.
Be Vigilant and Identify Hidden Wear Early
While you may need to call professionals in for hard-to-reach areas, you can see many high-risk sites yourself. These include under sinks, washing machine lines, and basement or crawlspace lines. Look for signs of degradation, such as warping, dampness, mustiness, flaking, and corrosion. Catching minor pipe issues early can prevent them from expanding into a full repiping project.
Identify Problems in Your Water Bill
Have you noticed that your water bill is significantly higher lately? Are you still using the same amount of water as you normally would? If so, a spike in your water bill could indicate that there’s a broken pipe somewhere. Take care of this as soon as possible by reaching out to a plumber who can conduct a full system inspection.
Avoid Using Harsh Chemical Drain Cleaners
It’s not uncommon for you to handle a clogged drain on your own. The problem lies in the products that you use. There are many drain cleaners on the market that use harsh chemicals to clear drains. While this won’t ruin your pipes immediately, it can eat away at pipes over time. This leads to premature degradation. It’s best to use natural cleaners or other means. The best option is to have a plumber do it so they can preserve the health of your pipes.
Maintain All Plumbing Elements in Your Home
Regular maintenance is what keeps your plumbing in quality condition. Cleaning aerators and shower heads in white vinegar can help prevent back-pressure and keep water running smoothly. There are other things you will need a professional to take care of. Another example of essential maintenance is flushing your water heater, which you won’t want to do on your own.
Regulate Water Pressure
High water pressure (beyond 80 psi) is damaging to your plumbing. It causes stress and pinhole leaks at joints. Installing a water pressure regulator at your main line helps keep pressure down. Take care of this sooner rather than later to avoid further strain.
There will come a time for a full repiping of your home, but this shouldn’t happen because your pipes fail. Prevent a full repiping project by following the maintenance and monitoring tips offered above. When you need repiping services in Charleston, SC, contact C&C Myers.