An excellent way to start the new year is to create a list of resolutions to remind you of the things you want to improve on. Of course, a resolution is not about personal development all the time. It can also be about home improvements, including your home’s plumbing system.

With this in mind, it’s time to take a second look at your plumbing system and see if you can find ways to improve it. Ideally, if you have the budget, you should consider getting a plumbing upgrade.

Common Plumbing Problems

Before listing down your New Year plumbing resolution, it’s best that you first identify the common residential plumbing problems. Here are some of the things you should watch out for:

1. Leaky Pipes

The winter season can inflict severe damage to your plumbing pipes, causing them to leak. When water freezes during the cold months, its volume increases and results in an increase in pressure. When this happens, the pipe will likely burst. Insulating your pipes in winter should prevent this from happening.

2. Dripping Faucets

Dripping faucets often result from water pressure, worn-out parts, or cracked and loose fittings. The problem, although minor, should not be ignored because it can lead to the deterioration of plumbing fixtures, mold growth, higher water bills, and wasted resources.

3. Clogged/Slow Draining Sink

This plumbing problem is quite common, especially during the holidays when people do lots of cooking. Although many modern sinks have garbage disposals, huge chunks of leftover food can damage a garbage disposal’s blades, preventing the machine from grinding food particles.

4. Running and Clogged Toilets

Just like dripping faucets, clogged toilets can result from faulty components. The flap may already be worn-out and can no longer effectively cover the part of the toilet where the water flows, causing water to pass through continuously.

There are other reasons generally efficient toilets become runny. For instance, people think anything made of paper can be broken down by the water and flushed safely. It is not always the case. Sanitary napkins, wet wipes, and thick toilet paper are made of different materials and should not be thrown down the toilets. Otherwise, a clog will ensue.

5. Faulty Water Heater

The usual causes of water heater problems are corrosion, sediment buildup, improper installation, and broken electrical connection. Be mindful of the signs that your heater needs replacement, including discolored water, strange noises, irregular water temperature, and tank rust. Consider doing a water heater flush initially to remove any debris and follow this up with a consultation with an expert plumber.

6. Low Water Pressure

Like other plumbing problems, low water pressure can be brought about by various factors. The most common culprit is an issue with your water service provider, which might be performing maintenance works. Other possible causes are a failing water regulator and clogged or leaking pipes.

New Year’s Resolutions For Your Plumbing System

As a way of caring for your plumbing system and extending its lifespan, you can consider the following:

1. Limit the usage of drain cleaners.

These products contain chemicals that speed up the corrosion of the materials that comprise your plumbing pipes. Professional plumbers attest that drain cleaners only temporarily solve your drainage problem.

The chemicals in drain cleaners can also affect the good bacteria in your septic tank—this help breaks down solid waste, allowing sewage to drain safely.

2. Consider using drain catchers.

The use of drain catchers not only minimizes the chances of large and insoluble materials falling down the drain but it also encourages homeowners to do regular drain cleaning. Adding drain catchers to the sink can likewise help prolong the life of your garbage disposal.

3. Stop flushing toilet paper.

Many people think that because toilet paper and wipes are generally soft, they can be easily broken down when flushed down the toilet. These products, along with cotton balls and sanitary napkins, contain materials that can clog the drain over time. An alternative would be to place a waste bin inside your bathroom for toilet use.

4. Observe proper garbage disposal.

Garbage disposals offer the convenience of grinding food particles into fine pieces so these can pass through the drainage easily. However, when there is too much debris, the machine can slow down or end up totally damaged. Also, stop throwing bones, coffee grounds, and vegetable skins down the disposal. These can damage the blades responsible for breaking down food particles.

5. Reduce water waste.

Observe proper water usage by turning off the taps after use. Recycling gray water from dishwashers and collecting rainfall for gardening are also excellent means of conserving water.

6. Perform regular plumbing maintenance.

Seek professional plumbing service regularly to ensure that your plumbing remains in top shape. An experienced plumber won’t only spot and fix minor damages in your pipes, but he can also advise on how to prevent major plumbing mishaps.

7. Consider upgrading your home plumbing.

Home plumbing should be provided with better parts functionality if you want to continue living comfortably. Some plumbing upgrades you may want to consider include:

• Foot-Activated Sink – Often used in the restaurant industry for convenience, it allows you to turn on the faucet with a press of the foot.

• Pot Filler Faucet – This is an excellent help for cooking enthusiasts. A pot filler faucet features a stretchable hose that enables you to take the faucet wherever you need it.

• Dual-Flush Toilet – This offers a half-flush function for liquid waste and a full-flush version for solids. Depending on the model, a dual-flush toilet can also have a specialized handling system.

• Ceiling Bathtub Filler – This is a new attraction for contemporary houses. It’s similar to the standard tub filler, but rather than being floor-mounted, it is installed on the ceiling. Many ceiling-mounted bathtub fillers include a lighting fixture to underscore the area’s aesthetics and can become part of a shower remodeling project that you might want to consider in the future.

Plumbing upgrades may entail costs, but these will help you save money in the long term. For best results, get advice from a professional plumber on the best way to upgrade your plumbing for the home.

Key Takeaway

Winter won’t treat your plumbing system kindly, so disaster is likely to happen if you don’t maintain it. After the holidays, it’s best to do a little checking and consider making a resolution to improve your plumbing as the new year comes in.

While modern plumbing can withstand damage caused by the weather, there are still those that need to be inspected regularly. Schedule a maintenance check as soon as the Christmas season ends. Doing so can help you prevent a plumbing disaster from happening. Plumbing upgrades should be seriously considered as this can ensure better water flow into the house, among other benefits.

Absolute Electrical Heating and Air can give you the best plumbing upgrade this new year.

Plumbing maintenance should be done at least once a year. If you are already planning to do this at the start of 2023, let Absolute Electrical Heating and Air lead the way. Our team of experts that offer top-notch plumbing in Denver, CO, can help you start the year right by taking a close look at your plumbing. If warranted, we can offer you an upgrade for more comfortable living at affordable terms. Give us a call now.