How to Keep Bathroom Plumbing in Excellent Condition
Drains exposed to the elements are more likely to collect hair and soap scum.
The bathroom has more plumbing fixtures and pipes than any other part of the home, meaning most of the water goes to the bathroom. It takes diligent work to maintain the household’s bathroom plumbing, including the sinks, toilets, bathtubs, showers, cold and hot water lines, and drain pipes. Homeowners should be aware of what practices can help keep their bathrooms in solid shape to avoid any inconvenient plumbing issues.
Only flush toilet paper
A toilet should not be used to flush any trash besides toilet paper. Items like paper towels, facial tissues, feminine hygiene products, and baby wipes should not be flushed, as they can absorb water and expand quickly, which could cause a blockage in the pipes. Any item that isn’t toilet paper should be thrown into the trash can.
Install drain covers
Drains exposed to the elements are more likely to collect hair and soap scum. It’s also easier for small objects to fall open drains and clog pipes. Install a mesh drain cover to protect the pipes from the most common causes. Drain covers should be cleaned regularly to prevent slow drainage.
Avoid chemical cleaners
A drain cleaner is not recommended if the bathroom has a slow or clogged drain. The effects of acidic chemicals in drain cleaners are temporary and not permanent. Commercial cleaning products can also cause damage to the drain pipes, which could lead to corrosion. Call a professional plumber immediately if a drain clog cannot be cleared with a plunger or a hand-cranked drain snake.
Replace old pipes
Homes built before 1970 likely have old plumbing material in the bathroom. Expert plumbers recommend replacing steel, lead, and iron pipes. All of these materials are susceptible to corrosion and breaking down. Lead pipes can pose a danger to drinking water lines.
Routine maintenance and drain cleaning
Drain cleaning is more than a service that can be called in an emergency. This excellent preventive and maintenance service ensures the bathroom plumbing systems remain in top condition. Plumbers can also check for other issues, such as leaks and damaged components, that may need to be fixed or replaced during drain cleaning.
No homeowner wants to deal with sudden plumbing issues that render a bathroom useless. Avoid common plumbing mistakes and enact routine maintenance to prevent plumbing catastrophes. If any issues arise, contact a trusted professional immediately, as they can resolve these issues before they become severe.
Simba Plumbing offers residential and commercial plumbing services to Phoenix and surrounding areas. We are family-owned, meticulous and provide affordable, transparent pricing. Call us at 602-962-3537.
