10 Easy Plumbing Tips That Will Help You Save Money

There are a number of measures you can take to prevent or avoid unnecessary loss of water—and money as well. Saving money on your water bill requires taps and pipes that are working as they should and the use of water only when it’s needed, among other things. Below are a few suggestions that should help you save water and money.

1. Fix Minor Problems Before They Get Out of Control

Ignoring plumbing problems, however minor, could end up costing you significantly in terms of repairs and replacements. Always fix minor problems immediately before they cause major plumbing problems. Whether it’s a leaking faucet or pipe, get them fixed as soon as possible.

2. Look for Salaried Plumbers as Opposed to Those Whose Aim Is to Sell Services

If you are looking for a plumber, always go for full-time, salaried plumbers with experience and qualifications. The disadvantage of using plumbers who are paid on commission is that you are likely to pay more since their main interest is to make the highest possible commission.

3. Get a Plumbing Company That Offers Above and Below Ground Services

Hiring a plumbing company that takes care of all your plumbing needs, both on the ground and under the ground, makes a lot of economic sense.

4. Turn Off Dripping Taps

A dripping tap can waste over 15 gallons of water every day and run up your yearly water bills by up to $100. Always make sure you turn off the tap all the way. If the tap still drips, call in your plumbing company for a replacement or repair.

5. Install Low-flow Showerheads

Conventional showerheads tend to waste a lot of water. One can end up using as much as 42 gallons of water with a conventional showerhead. Installing low-flow showerheads may not be met with approval by some of the family members, but the lower water bills will be more than worth the sacrifice.

6. Look for Hidden Leaks

While some leaks are easy to spot, others are hidden and will require some kind of detective work to discover them. To establish whether you have a hidden leak in your plumbing system, record the water meter reading when water is not being used. After some time, come back and check the meter again. If it has moved, then you most likely have a leak somewhere in your system.

7. Regularly Get Your Drains Unclogged

Most people neglect to unclog their drains until the situation gets out of hand. To keep them from clogging up, you can pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar once every month. Make every effort to keep your drains clear of debris or any chemical that may corrode them.

8. Fats and Oils Should Be Kept Out of Drains

Fats and oils should never be poured down the drains. The problem with fats and oils is that once they cool off, they solidify and stick to the lining of the drains. With time, they block the entire pipe. Rather than pour oils, fats, and grease into the drain, keep them in a heat-resistant container, let them solidify and then throw them into the green bin.

9. Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing

When pipes get frozen, they can crack and burst. To avoid this problem, insulate your exposed pipes. This will potentially save you a lot of money in terms of repairs and replacements.

10. Only Flush Toilet Paper, Nothing Else

The only object that should be flushed down a toilet is toilet paper. Avoid flushing down anything else as they will most likely clog up your system, requiring costly repairs.

Having a burst pipe or a clogged system can be a nightmare. Luckily, you can always call your plumbing company to come to your aid.