Plumbing Tips for Renters
Running ice through the disposal once or twice a month helps keep the blades clear of any gunk and functioning correctly.
Renters are more restricted in how they can care for their homes, usually having to defer to the landlord for all major issues, which can be a slow process. This is incredibly challenging with plumbing issues, as malfunctioning issues significantly hinder everyday life. The following tips detail everyday maintenance tips to avoid plumbing issues altogether.
Keep the garbage disposal clean
Running ice through the disposal once or twice a month helps keep the blades clear of any gunk and functioning correctly. Avoid putting vegetables like celery and carrots down the disposal, as their stringy composition could clog the blades. If the disposal stops working, try the reset button before declaring it broken.
Only flush toilet paper
Some toilets and plumbing systems are more susceptible to problems than others. Don’t put anything except toilet paper in the toilet system. While it may not seem like more bulk than toilet paper, paper towels and feminine hygiene products can easily clog plumbing systems and should be thrown away instead.
Keep the sink clear of debris
To keep sinks clear and prevent backing up, use draining products, white vinegar, or baking soda every 2 to 3 months. These products can help dissolve any build-up and keep drains running smoothly. Avoid putting moisturizer, grease, fat, and shaving creams down the sink, as these tend to cause build-up.
Clean the dishwasher
It may sound counterintuitive, but the dishwasher itself must also be cleaned. To keep the dishwasher in working order, rinse off dishes in the sink before placing them in the dishwasher. This prevents unnecessary food build-up in the machine. Additionally, wipe out the dishwasher every few weeks to dispose of what build-up inevitably accumulates. Finally, when running the dishwasher, use the proper amount of liquid detergent or just one tab to prevent a soap overflow. If the dishwasher leaks, call the landlord, as this issue requires professional assistance.
Call the landlord if smells linger
If a bad smell comes from the drains in a rental home, it could be due to several reasons. If all the above steps have been tried and the smell persists, there could be a more significant problem with the plumbing. If this is the case, contact the landlord about having a plumber inspect the problem.
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.
