We all love a bit of do-it-yourself projects to either save some money or feel empowered to fix that leaky tap for yourself.
Here are some top plumbing tips to consider before you end up costing yourself more money!
- DRAIN CLEANER IS NOT YOUR FRIEND
- Contrary to what the many supermarket products tell you on the TV and on their labels; these cleaners can be extremely corrosive and actually erode your pipes especially if you have copper or iron pipes. This means that tiny holes can form in your pipes causing a small leak that can build up overtime which is bad news for your home!
- Top tips: some sinks have the ability to pull off the cover, reach into the drain and twist the trap left to open and remove hair debris etc. Failing that, you can try some baking soda (1 tbsp), vinegar (1 tbsp) and warm water (500mls) a couple of times. If they don’t work, head to the nearest homeware shop for a “pipe snake” although do proceed with caution!
2. TURN OFF THE WATER
- When you discover a leak or dripping tap before you go to investigate or unscrew anything; make sure you turn off the water supply first. This is different for every home although usually this is under the sink, hotpress, in a garage or utility room.
- Top tip: avoid using anything sharp near pipes as you may do irreparable damage, also make sure you have a large basin or buckets and plenty of old towels nearby in case you are met with a surge of water
3. KEEP IT LEVEL
- It seems easy just to pop in pipes in any good place that they can’t be seen or use less pipe to save a little bit of money. Ever wondered why your shower pressure isn’t a powerful or the tap doesn’t run as fast as before or your toilet isn’t flushing properly. Gravity has a lot of impact on your pipes
- Top tip: always make sure any pipes you are laying or changing are fully level using a spirit level device, even the slightest of unevenness can have a huge strain on your plumbing system causing drops in pressure and even leaks!
4. SEAL IT UP
- When you are attaching two pipes together, it is so important to make sure it is air tight otherwise the smallest of gaps, allows for water to flow very easily and ruin your entire house.
- Top tip: depending on the seal type it is important to use the right seal e.g. plumber’s tape, putty or appropriate washers. Make sure to get good advice on the best one!
Afraid to go messing at your plumbing system? (we don’t blame you). Call or whatsapp us on 087 276 8007 for a free quote and/or to discuss all your plumber needs.
