How to Extend the Life of Your Plumbing System
Few people spend much time thinking about their plumbing systems. However, plumbing system failure can result in thousands of dollars in damage. While plumbing problems can be expensive, it is relatively simple to avoid some of the most common causes of plumbing system failure and to extend the life of a plumbing system. By being observant and having a Vancouver plumber make routine inspections, home and building owners can prevent many problems from occurring.
Water Hardness
Hard water is a common problem in many areas. The term hard water refers to water that is high in mineral content, generally calcium and / or magnesium. When present in a plumbing system, these minerals work as an abrasive to scour the insides of pipes. Over time, this abrasion will weaken pipes and fittings and leave sediment in faucets and appliances. Sediment most commonly causes problems in water heaters, washing machines and dishwashers. Home or building owners may become aware of hard water by seeing water deposits in faucets, sinks, toilets and bathtubs. If a plumbing system has hard water, it can be corrected by the addition of a water softening system.
Addressing Sounds
Many Vancouver homeowners grow accustomed to hearing sounds in their plumbing system and take no action. However, this can be a serious mistake at pipes generally should not make any sound. Sounds can be caused by a number of problems including loose pipes moving and banging into other objects, pipes swelling and shrinking as pressure fluctuates or due to leaks or drain pipes that drain slowly. The movement of the pipes causes stress on the pipe which will eventually lead to pipe failure. When a home or building owner hears the plumbing system making noises, he or she should call a professional plumber to diagnose and correct the source of the noise.
Maintaining Drains
Over time, all drain pipes will accumulate deposits. While these deposits will allow water and sewage to pass through the pipe, the deposits will continue to build over time. Eventually the deposits will cause the drain to slow and eventually stop working altogether.
A clogged drain pipe can quickly cause extensive damage to a home or other building, especially if the pipe carries sewage out of the home. To prevent drain pipe failure, drain pipes should be periodically inspected by a plumber and cleaned if it is needed. Sewer lines should be snaked every few years to prevent clogs from tree roots and other problems.
Keep your Vancouver, BC plumbing system in top shape with a little help from Lambert Home Comfort. Call us at (604) 734-0890 today!
