May is National Home Improvement Month – the perfect time to wipe that home maintenance “to-do” list. And while you’re doing your spring cleaning, don’t neglect your pipes. American Water Resources has compiled a simple list of five ways you can make sure your home plumbing looks and works great.
Keep the drains free, but no chemicals:
If you have a clogged drain in your home, don’t turn to chemical cleaners. They can eat away at your pipes and ultimately damage them beyond repair. One way to solve the problem is to pour hot water down the drain.
For persistent blockages, pour a cup of baking soda and a cup of white vinegar down the drain, followed by three cups of boiling water, and wait for the bubbles to dissolve in the solution. If all else fails, try mechanical means like dipping or snaking, or hire a plumber to snake the drain and remove any debris blocking the line.
Keep your pipes squeaky clean:
Limescale deposits can be unsightly and destroy your hot water pipes. If your pipes are sluggish from limescale, empty half the water in your water heater and add some limescale remover. Then fill the hot water tank again and let the mixture rest for a few minutes. Flush your pipes by running hot water through all of the faucets until the water is clear and bubble free.
Soften your hard water:
Like many cities, Philadelphia has “hard water” – meaning the water supply contains a higher percentage of naturally occurring minerals (usually calcium and magnesium). This build-up can show up as a white build-up in your faucets, shower heads, and water with appliances and potentially shorten the life of your plumbing.
The only way to completely get rid of hard water problems is to install a water softener. But they can be expensive and add to your utility bills. An alternative is to use plain white vinegar to remove the mineral build-up from fixtures and appliances such as coffee makers. White vinegar can also be put in the dishwasher and washing machine to prevent residue from building up on your dishes and clothing.
Keep your sewers clear:
Your sewer pipe is a pipe that connects the pipes in your house to the municipal sewage system and removes household waste. A clogged sewer can return to your home and no one wants this mess.
The best way to avoid clogging is to have them cleaned and serviced regularly by a plumber. Have a plumber do your home wastewater treatment every few years. This process typically costs between $ 125 and $ 200 and removes tree roots and other materials that have worked their way into pipes.
Check your homeowner’s insurance policy:
Break down your current policy and update what it does and doesn’t. Consider signing up for a protection program to cover issues resulting from normal wear and tear that may not be covered by your home insurance. Home protection programs are available through American Water Resources. Visit AWRUSA.com/details to learn more and what programs are available in your region. This investment protects your time, money and safety in the event of a plumbing emergency.
American Water Resources offers the peace of mind and low cost with any combination of programs that will protect your home from unexpected repair costs related to your plumbing, HVAC, or electrical systems. American Water Resources uses locally licensed and qualified contractors to serve its customers in 43 states through a variety of programs.
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