Using these plumbing tips can save you money and prevent costly repairs. For example, knowing where your water shut-off valve is located and checking it regularly saves on future plumbing emergencies.
A dripping faucet can waste gallons of water daily and cost you money. Similarly, regular toilet "check-ups" by plumber Tacoma can stop clogs from occurring and save you money.
Install Water-Efficient Fixtures
Choosing the right plumbing fixtures is one of the easiest ways to reduce water usage in your home. Look for products with the EPA's WaterSense label to ensure you get high-efficiency showerheads, faucet aerators, toilets, and other equipment.
These upgrades are not only undemanding on your wallet but also help the environment by cutting down on the energy it takes to process and heat your household water. Plus, less water consumption around the house means fewer wasteful leaks!
Replace Old Faucets
Leaky faucets can waste gallons of water every day. The same is true for showerheads, toilets, and even pipes. A single dripping faucet might seem harmless, but it can add up to a huge bill over time.
Installing new, WaterSense-certified faucets can reduce water consumption by 20% or more. You can also save water by adding an aerator to existing faucets. These devices screw onto the faucet head and infuse air into the water stream, which makes the water flow more compact but still delivers a strong stream of water.
Aim to replace old, leaky faucets with new, energy-efficient models, and be sure to connect them to the shut-off valves underneath your sink. Ensure the new faucet doesn't have old aerator hoses attached, and make sure the plastic locknuts holding the faucet to the sink apron are tightly screwed in place (this may require a basin wrench).
Check for Leaks
Many households have water leaks that need to be visible. These leaks waste gallons of water per day and can add up quickly. Fortunately, regular plumbing maintenance prevents these leaks and saves money.
If you notice a sudden increase in your water bill, check the numbers on your water meter before and after a time when your household uses little to no water. If the meter reading is higher, you leak.
If you've noticed damp spots in the garden or ceiling, a hissing sound in your bathroom, or a large puddle of water, call a professional to investigate and repair the issue as soon as possible. These plumbing problems will only worsen if not addressed right away. This will also prevent further damage and costly repairs in the future.
Install Drain Strainers
Drain strainers help prevent clogs that can slow water flow and cause overflow. These simple devices are easy to install and can help reduce plumbing maintenance costs by keeping debris out of your drain lines.
Sink strainers typically fit over the drain opening and feature a perforated or mesh-like design that allows water to pass through while trapping debris. These filters are often made from durable materials like stainless steel.
Commercial kitchens often have drains that can get clogged with straws, plastic gloves, and other debris. Installing drain filters can help prevent these items from entering the drain lines and causing costly issues for your business.
Turn Off Your Taps
Besides being environmentally friendly, this simple action saves gallons of water. It also helps prevent water bills from getting so out of hand that someone loses their service. Millions of people have their water shut off every year after falling behind on what they owe.
Leaks can cost you gallons of water daily, especially when not immediately fixed. Check your toilets, faucets, and outside taps for leaks.
Learn
how to turn off your water for emergencies and routine maintenance. You
can find the main valve that serves your house, usually in the basement
or the meter box. To shut off your water, turn the valve clockwise. To
turn it back on, rotate the valve counter-clockwise.
No comments:
Post a Comment
I love reading and responding to comments but in order to get my reply you must ensure you are NOT a no-reply blogger. If you are, here are some quick steps to change that!
1. Go to the home page of your Blogger account.
2. Select the drop down beside your name on the top right corner and choose Blogger Profile.
3. Select Edit Profile at the top right.
4. Select the Show My Email Address box.
5. Hit Save Profile.