Your plumbing system is one of the most essential parts of your home. It brings in fresh water, heats it for washing and distributes it throughout your home.
But if not maintained properly, your plumbing system may start to fail. That could be a costly repair to fix, as well as cause serious damage to your property.
1. Install a Water Heater
A plumbing system needs regular maintenance to function properly and stay in good condition. Failure to do so can lead to expensive repairs and replacements, which adds up over time.
The good news is that a new water heater can be installed on a budget and with a little effort. In addition, it can help you save money in the long run by helping to avoid unnecessary leaks, clogs and other plumbing problems.
Before you start working on the installation, shut off the utilities that feed your old water heater. This can include electricity and gas, depending on the type of water heater you’re installing.
Next, move the old unit out. If necessary, use an appliance dolly to lift the unit and place it in a truck or trailer.
Once the old heater is out, connect a new electric or gas supply line to the unit. Choose galvanized steel pipe, rigid copper or flexible water connectors for your lines.
Attach a relief valve to the hot- and cold-water supply lines. You can also install a draft hood to vent hot exhaust air from the water heater. Fit the hood to the water heater’s vent opening per manufacturer instructions and local code requirements.
2. Install a Drain Cleaner
A good plumbing system is essential to your home – it brings in fresh water and takes away waste from your property. However, it can be costly to repair if you don’t take care of it properly.
Fortunately, there are several ways you can maintain your plumbing on a budget. One way is to prevent plumbing issues from occurring in the first place.
When you see any of the signs of a plumbing problem, such as slow drainage or the need to plunge your sink, it’s important to call a plumber right away. These minor problems can lead to major repair bills if left unattended, so it’s better to fix them early than later.
You can do this by regularly checking your plumbing system for signs of damage and wear and tear. This is an affordable, easy way to protect your home’s plumbing from expensive repairs down the line.
You can also try a liquid drain cleaner to remove minor clogs. These products often use oxidizing agents that attack organic material like hair or food, which helps remove the clog.
3. Install a Water Filter
If you’re a DIYer who can follow instructions and have plumbing experience, installing a water filter on your own is an easy and affordable way to get clean water in your home. However, if you don’t know how to cut into your pipes or connect them properly, hiring a plumber is usually the best bet.
Before deciding to install a filter, it’s important to consider where your plumbing pipes are located. Ideally, you’ll want to set up the filter near your main shut-off valve in a basement or utility closet.
When it comes time to install the filter, be sure to read all installation instructions carefully and follow them exactly. It’s also a good idea to flush your water system for a few minutes afterward so that you can remove any debris or clogs.
Once the filter is installed, it should be changed every three to six months depending on how often you use it and the type of water it filters. It’s also a good idea for homeowners with well water to add a water softener or conditioner alongside the filter system.
4. Install a Water Softener
A water softener is an excellent way to save money and keep your pipes in great working condition. However, installing one can be a bit tricky. If you have little plumbing experience and aren’t confident enough in your ability to do the job, it may be best to hire a professional to handle the installation for you.
There are various types of water softeners, ranging from ion exchange to reverse osmosis systems. The type you need will depend on your home’s size and water use. It’s best to consult with a plumber who can provide you with recommendations and personalized cost estimates for your needs.
Most water softeners have 2 main components: a mineral tank and a brine tank. The mineral tank contains resin beads that hard water passes through; an ion exchange occurs, resulting in softened water.
The brine tank holds sodium or potassium chloride, which is used to recharge the resin. It’s important to locate the mineral tank and the brine tank in a dry, level and non-freezing area (35-100 degrees F).
When it comes to installing a water softener on a budget, it’s a good idea to check your local prices and consult with an experienced plumber who can recommend the best option for your household. A general contractor can also help you avoid costly mistakes during the installation process, which could lead to more extensive repairs.
5. Install a Backflow Prevention Device
Having a backflow prevention device installed on your home can help you save money on repair bills in the long run. These devices work to keep non-potable water from mixing with your drinking water.
These backflow preventers rely on a series of check valves that are assembled to prevent any backflow from happening. These devices work like one-way gates, allowing only water to flow through them in one direction.
There are several different types of backflow preventers, so it’s important to determine what type is best for your situation. Some of these devices are more expensive than others.
Backflow prevention devices are required on a variety of water-based systems, such as fire-protection systems. This prevents water from mixing with the city’s drinking water and potentially contaminating it with contaminants, such as bacteria or chemicals.
It’s a good idea to get your backflow preventer tested at least once every year. This can help you determine if it’s working properly and if there are any leaks in the system. Getting this done is a small investment, but it can prevent you from dealing with costly plumbing repairs in the future.
6. Install a Clogged Drain Cleaner
Keeping your plumbing system in good shape can help extend its lifespan, prevent leaks and save you money on repairs. Regularly performing maintenance, such as cleaning your pipes or flushing the water heater, can also help.
Clogged drains occur when debris – from food particles to hair and small objects – builds up inside your pipes. They also get clogged by minerals and dirt that build up over time.
There are several DIY options to unclog a drain that are safe and environmentally friendly. These include poured boiling water, baking soda and vinegar, and drain cleaners.
Pouring boiling water can be especially effective for a clog that forms in the center of your pipe near the drain opening. However, it is not recommended to use this method if your drain is made of PVC pipes, as the heat could damage them.
Another option is to buy a clogged drain cleaner that’s specifically designed to clear clogs in toilets. These products are EPA-certified and come with instructions that help you avoid clogs. When these cease to work however, it’s best to find a plumber across Sydney to effectively solve the issue.
7. Install a Garbage Disposal
Plumbing is a crucial system in your home that brings in fresh water, heats it and distributes it throughout the house. This intricate system can be easy to take for granted, but it’s important to keep your home’s pipes in top condition.
A garbage disposal can help you dispose of food waste without clogging your pipes or creating kitchen odor. They’re also a great way to protect the environment by keeping trash out of landfills.
If you’re planning to install a garbage disposal, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow them. This will ensure that your new garbage disposal will operate properly and safely.
Whether you’re installing a garbage disposal for the first time or replacing an old one, be sure to turn off the circuit breaker underneath the sink before starting the project.
Next, lay the new garbage disposal down under the sink and connect its plug-in power cord to its outlet. You’ll also need to run the wires for the disposal up to the switch you want to control it from.
8. Install a Water Filter
Water filters are a great way to improve the quality of your home’s water. They can remove some contaminants and also address odors and tastes.
If you’re a handy person with a moderate amount of plumbing knowledge, you can install a whole house water filter on your own. However, if you don’t have the right skills or if you’re unsure about whether you can do the job correctly, it’s best to hire a professional plumber.
First, mark a section of pipe in the main line where you want to place the filter. Then, cut away enough pipe to accommodate the filter and any connecting fittings.
Next, hook up the tubing from the water filter to the water supply and the new faucet. Wrap Teflon tape clockwise around the threaded fittings to prevent leaks.
If the water supply is copper or galvanized, consider installing a grounding clamp to keep the electrical ground intact. Then, secure a length of heavy-gauge copper wire across the filter from clamp to clamp. This will ensure that the filter doesn’t break the electrical ground path and cause any problems.
