Paying attention to your household water usage can end up saving you a considerable amount of time and money in the long run.
But this is easier said than done. Regular maintenance and upkeep can lower your monthly bills and reduce the need to enlist the professional help of an external plumber. Of course, if you have any doubts with regards to what needs doing, your first step should be searching for an expert plumber in Shadow Hills to diagnose and repair the problem for you. Continue reading to familiarise yourself with a number of plumbing tips to help you save money.
- Turn your taps off
Whilst this may sound like an obvious point, you would be surprised how many homeowners forget to turn their taps off both partially and fully. A dripping tap may not amount to a great deal of water wastage in the short run, but it can quickly add up. If left untreated for as little as 24 hours, a tap can drip at a rate of up to 15 gallons per day. This can seriously impact the final cost of your water bill at the end of the month. By making a conscious effort to turn your taps off fully each time, you can relax knowing you won’t be hit with an unexpected bill or invoice down the line.
- Unclog your drains
As well as being a nuisance, clogged drains can lead to a number of serious plumbing problems down the line if left unchecked. With most homeowners disregarding their drains until they become clogged, performing regular checks can prevent any blockages from materializing ahead of time. Pouring a mixture of water, baking soda, and vinegar down your drains once a month can protect your pipes from the gradual build-up of hair or debris. A drain cleaner is a great emergency solution but should never be used on a regular basis due to the dangers of harsh chemicals and pollutants. Alternatively, you can install one of TubShroom’s bathtub hair catchers to seize any stubborn human or pet hair before it has the chance to damage your pipes.
- Replace old taps
If your tap requires upkeep or maintenance on a regular basis, it may be time to start shopping around for a replacement. The life expectancy of a standard tap is typically between 15 to 20 years. As well as maximizing functionality, this is also a great way to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom without shelling out for an entire remodel. Subtle changes can make a big difference. A brand-new tap can also have an impact on water flow. You must consider this when you are issued with your latest monthly water bill. Several manufacturers offer a wide range of eco-friendly designs so your taps can not only look good but do well too.
- Inspect your toilet
It may sound like an unpleasant task but inspecting your toilet can save you a considerable amount of time and money in the long run. A faulty flapper valve, for example, can enable more water to push through than what is necessary. This can lead to a discernible increase in the cost of your water bill over time.
A plumber can inspect your toilet for any underlying issues and give you advice on how to prevent overflow, poor performance, and blockages. Most toilets operate at full capacity for around 10 years. If your toilet is older than this, you may benefit from an upgraded model.
- Install low-flow sinks, toilets, and showerheads
Low-flow appliances are designed to function with less water than standard bathroom appliances. They may cost more to purchase and install but can end up cutting your utility bills in half over time. It is worth remembering, however, that a low-flow showerhead may suffer from low water pressure with less water traveling through the aerator at any given time. With sinks requiring less water pressure than showers and toilets to get the job done, investing in a low-flow sink can be a great way to lead a sustainable lifestyle and save money.
- Repair any cracks or leaks
While a minor crack may not seem like a big deal at first, it can become a major problem down the line. Any cracks or leaks must be repaired at the earliest convenience to prevent excess water wastage as well as further damage to the structural integrity of your home. If you are unsure how to tackle the problem early on, a professional plumber should be able to impart expert advice and point you in the right direction.
Plumbing problems are amongst the most time-consuming and expensive issues you will be forced to contend with as a homeowner. To prevent any long-lasting damage and cut down on your monthly utility bills, there are a number of steps you should take on a regular basis. These include turning your taps off, unclogging your drains, replacing old taps, inspecting your toilet, installing low-flow sinks, toilets, and showerheads, and repairing any cracks or leaks.
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