Bathroom Maintenance Leads to Less Problems
The bathroom is probably the most frequently used room in a home. So, it is definitely a room that should be well maintained. We’ve all been there – the toilet won’t flush, or water starts to slowly pool in the tub. From the toilet to the showerhead, the sink to the drains, bathroom maintenance is crucial to keeping the peace in your home.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top plumbing maintenance tips for your bathroom and how best to prevent problems in the future.
Where to Start with DIY Plumbing Maintenance
Did you know that the average household wastes nearly 10,000 gallons of water each year just from leaks? That's a lot of water going down the drain! In fact, 10% of homes waste 90 gallons or more every single day.
Regular plumbing maintenance can help keep things running smoothly and save all that wasted water. Not to mention reduce your water bills. Check out more info from the Environmental Protection Agency.
Fix a Simple Clog with a Plunger
When the water starts filling your sink, tub, or toilet and refuses to go down, you most likely have clogged drains. This can be caused by a buildup of hair, soap scum, food particles, or other debris that obstructs the pipes. In many cases, a plunger can fix the problem. Plungers create a seal around the toilet bowl and use pressure to dislodge clogs, allowing water to flow through.
But they usually can't completely clear the blockage, especially if it's a tough clog or deeper in the plumbing. In those cases, you might need some extra tools or call in a pro to get things flowing smoothly again.
Although drain cleaners are generally safe for occasional use, they can damage some pipes if overused. Dealing with clogs on a regular basis can get old quickly and it's most likely time to call a professional plumbing services.
Check Seals and Caulking
The seals and caulking around your bathtubs, shower heads, sinks, and toilets are important for preventing water leaks. Over time, these materials can crack, letting water seep through and possibly damage the surrounding areas. Regularly check and replace worn or damaged seals and caulk to prevent water damage in your bathroom.
The other benefit to sealing your bathroom plumbing properly is the improved water pressure, especially for your shower. If you maintain a clean and sealed shower head you'll see increased water pressure and improved water use.
Check Under Your Bathroom Sink
It is easy to forget about the pipes under your bathroom sink until there's a problem. Regularly checking these pipes for leaks or damage can prevent bigger issues later. Look for any corrosion, water stains, or mold growth around the pipes and address any problems immediately.
Clean Your Bathroom Exhaust Fan
An often overlooked aspect of bathroom maintenance is the exhaust fan. Dust and dirt can accumulate on fan blades, reducing effectiveness and potentially causing overheating or malfunction.
Cleaning your exhaust fan as part of your plumbing maintenance schedule can help prevent such issues and improve air circulation in your bathroom.
Check for Signs of Mold or Mildew
Mold and mildew thrive in damp, warm spots and can cause problems for your home and health if ignored. Here's how to spot them:
- Visible growth: Look for dark spots or patches on walls, ceilings, floors, or other surfaces.
- Musty odor: A musty smell can indicate mold or mildew.
- Water stains: Water stains on walls or ceilings may hide leaks and mold.
- Allergic reactions: Sneezing, coughing, and watery eyes might be due to mold or mildew.
- Warped or discolored surfaces: Warped wood or stained fabrics could be signs of mold or mildew.
- Humidity levels: High humidity invites mold and mildew; a dehumidifier can help.
- Recent water damage: Leaks, floods, or condensation can lead to mold growth.
If you find mold, address it quickly and dry affected areas. Poor ventilation, especially in places like bathrooms and basements, encourages mold growth. If your home has had mold issues before, check regularly.
To keep your home mold-free, fix leaks, keep things dry, ensure good ventilation, control humidity, and clean often. By staying vigilant, you'll maintain a healthy living space.
Clean Everything Else
In addition to cleaning your bathroom fixtures and surfaces, regularly check the toilet tank, water supply valves, and drain traps. These areas can accumulate buildup or debris over time, causing potential issues with your plumbing system. By keeping these areas clean and well-maintained, you can prevent plumbing emergencies from arising in the future.
Having Plumbing Problems? Contact a Professional Plumber!
Even with regular maintenance, some bathroom plumbing issues just sneak up on you. When that happens, don’t stress—just call us at Fix-it Rite in Sacramento. We’re great at fixing those tricky bathroom problems.
Whether it's a toilet, sink, shower, or any plumbing issue, give Fix-it Rite a ring at (916) 363-6022. We’ll send one of their expert technicians anytime, day or night, to get things back in order for you.