5 Avoidable Plumbing Problems

Nobody ever wants something to go wrong with the plumbing in their home or business. Alas, even the most well maintained plumbing systems will likely experience an issue from time to time. Having said that, there are a number of plumbing problems that can easily be avoided. We wanted to talk about five different plumbing issues you should be keen to avoid, and how you can do so.

5. Leaking Faucets

Do you have any leaky faucets or pipes around your home or business? Leaky faucets can cause unnecessary increases in your water bill, and shouldn’t be allowed to persist. You can avoid leaky faucets and pipes by having your system regularly serviced by a professional plumbing company in Maryland. You can avoid high water bills by calling your plumber whenever you notice you have a leaky faucet.

4. Avoid Clogs by Not Putting Unapproved Things Down the Drain

If you’re having a new system installed, you should be able to ask your plumber what is approved to go down your pipes. If you have an existing system, a plumber would be able to examine your pipes and tell you what you’re able to put down them. Generally, things like sanitary wipes, paper towels, and diapers are not able to be flushed, and should instead be disposed of in a trash receptacle.

3. Having a Backup for Your Sump Pump Can Prevent Disaster

If you have a basement or cellar, there’s a pretty decent chance you have a sump pump that works to prevent flooding. In Maryland, with the Chesapeake and all of its tributaries, flooding can be a serious issue in many areas. If your sump pump is running properly, then you have little to worry about, but what if it fails? Many Marylanders have a complete backup sump pump that only kicks in if the first one fails. It’s also a good idea to have a plan in case of a power outage, with either a backup generator or having a non-electric mechanical sump pump.

2. Don’t Abuse Your Garbage Disposal

When used correctly, a garbage disposal can be quite a handy appliance. Abusing it by putting the wrong things down it, can lead to it malfunctioning or breaking completely. Only food should be put down the garbage disposal, and certain things like egg shells, fat, onion skins, potato peels, and coffee grounds cannot go down a garbage disposal. Just doing this will help you avoid down time with your garbage disposal.

1. Working with an Amateur Plumber Can Prove Problematic

When looking for a Maryland plumber, you should always look for one who is experienced and licensed. Working with an amateur plumber may be able to save you a few bucks upfront, but in the long run, you definitely want a professional working on your pipes, someone you can depend on. At Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating, we’ve been providing home and business owners in Maryland with our plumbing services for years, and can help you as well!