Understanding the Benefits of Plumbing Maintenance
As every homeowner knows, houses require a lot of upkeep to stay in good shape and function the way they’re supposed to. One area of the home that often gets overlooked for basic maintenance and upkeep is the plumbing system. This system encompasses all of the home’s supply and drainage pipes and every fixture, from toilets and faucets to the water heater and dishwasher.
All of these distinct but interconnected parts of the plumbing system can develop a range of problems over time due to everyday use. A clogged drain, a water leak, low water pressure, a lack of hot water, or other plumbing issues that plague homeowners can occur over time. Luckily, routine maintenance can help prevent plumbing issues, which is good news for homeowners and their wallets. This article will discuss three key ways in which plumbing maintenance benefits homeowners.
It Helps the System Run Smoothly and Safely
The first reason to keep up with plumbing maintenance is that it makes for a safer, more functional home. Plumbing emergencies like burst pipes or sewage backups can harm the house and everyone in it. The former can cause flooding and severe water damage, potentially compromising the home’s structural integrity and causing the growth of harmful molds. The latter can carry hazardous bacteria and diseases.
Maintenance can help improve home safety by preventing these nightmare scenarios while also keeping the plumbing system free of less serious issues. Periodic drain cleaning will help prevent clogs, patching minor leaks can help water pressure stay high, and servicing the water heater will ensure the home always has hot water. These are just a few examples of how routine maintenance helps make life easier.
Prolongs the Life of the Plumbing System
Another benefit of regular plumbing maintenance is that it helps the system’s components last longer. For instance, a common problem like a water hammer (sudden fluctuations in the water pressure inside supply lines) can damage valves and pipes over time. However, a simple maintenance check can catch this problem early and prevent it from doing more damage.
But this doesn’t just apply to pipes and valves. Maintenance can also prolong the life of the home’s major plumbing-connected appliances. A home’s water heater, in particular, requires annual maintenance to have a chance of reaching its full life expectancy. Suppose the tank isn’t flushed regularly to remove the sediment buildup, or the anode rod isn’t replaced before it’s depleted. In that case, the tank can corrode, requiring the whole water heater to be replaced potentially years before its time.
Saves Money on Repairs and Utilities
One more great reason for homeowners to maintain the plumbing systems in their homes is that it can save them money! Since routine inspections and maintenance checks can reveal issues early, homeowners can pay a small amount for minor repairs and maintenance instead of shelling out for major repairs or all-out replacements of expensive parts. And since preventative maintenance helps appliances and plumbing components last longer in general, replacements will be fewer and further apart.
Well-maintained plumbing systems and appliances will also operate more efficiently, resulting in lower utility bills. Simply catching and fixing hidden pipe leaks can dramatically impact water usage, but combined with a perfectly-tuned water heater and a problem-free plumbing system, the savings can be truly amazing. In many cases, annual maintenance visits from a trusted plumber will virtually pay for themselves!
About Hancock & Son Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning
Hancock & Son Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is a family-owned business that provides its neighbors in Salisbury, MD, and the surrounding areas with top-of-the-line service and clear communication. They offer 24/7 emergency service, honest pricing, and personalized service options. Call them today for plumbing services in Salisbury, MD.
