There are many reasons that people often overlook the plumbing systems of their homes. First, the primary plumbing fixture in the home is the toilet, a device intended for waste removal only. Yes, there are sinks and pipes that bring in essential and life-giving water, but with the rapid onset of the popularity of bottled water, most families do not associate the water they pull out of their taps with the water that keeps them alive.
But the plumbing system of any house is actually a rather wondrous thing, and a reasoned, well-thought-out optimization plan can make the whole system work better and save you significant money each and every month without requiring the assistance of a plumber. Here are a few things you can look to in your plumbing system to ensure it is working at its peak performance.
Snaking The Lines Regularly
One of the easiest things you can do to head off plumbing problems before they begin is to regularly snake all of the lines in your home and on your property for clogging and drainage issues. Purchase a plumbing snake from your local hardware or big box home improvement supply store and keep it handy. Every couple of months, take a Saturday morning to snake all of the drains and ensure that nothing builds up in the pipes. An efficient flow of water coming into and out of your home is crucial.
Have The Septic System Flushed Before It Backs Up
The best way to head off a septic system plumbing disaster is to have the septic tank pumped and flushed long before it backs up. Usually a septic tank needs to be flushed every five to eight years depending on the nature of your property and tank, but getting it flushed every four to seven years can work wonders for the rest of your plumbing system.
Make Sure That The Main Inlet Valve Is In Good Working Order
Always make sure that the main water supply valve that comes into your home is in good working order, does not leak, and does not have any obvious wear or damage. It is a good idea to check on the main water valve at least once a year, and if you live in especially cold climates, before and after the winter season as well.
Consider An Electric Water Heater
A large portion of the plumbing and electrical resources of your home are devoted to simply making water hot. This requires a dedicated water line and a large water heater tank that automatically fills itself and then waits until the water is dispensed. An electric water heater, on the other hand, heats the water as it goes through, making the entire process much more efficient.