April 25 is National Plumbers Day and we want to help you celebrate with some advice on how to save money on plumbing repairs.
It might sound strange to celebrate Plumbers Day with tips on how to avoid calling a plumber, but we just think there are times when you really need us and times when you don’t. In fact, the best way to save money on plumbing help is to minimize the need for calling us in the first place.
A good place to start is with the drains in your house. Problem drains are often the result of an excessive buildup of grease, soap, hair, and other debris. If you keep drains clean on a regular basis, it’s less likely you’ll need to call a plumber to clear them.
Here are a few tips for keeping drains clear:
- Don’t pour grease down the kitchen drain. While grease is still liquid, pour it into an old can or container, wait for the grease to solidify and then toss it out with the trash.
- If grease accidentally reaches the drain, rinse it down with cold—not hot—water.
- Clear the drains at least once a month with a combination of baking soda and salt (about ¼ cup each). Sprinkle the mixture down the drain and follow it with a teakettle full of boiling water.
- For bathroom sinks, install screens or drain covers to prevent hair from clogging the drain.
- If you really want to celebrate National Plumbing Day—and save money in the process—consider replacing high-use water fixtures, like toilets, showerheads, and faucets, with new water-saving models.
- To unclog the toilet—another kind of drain—shut off the valve behind the toilet and use a ball-type plunger until the water flushes. If it doesn’t try pouring a bucket of water quickly down the drain and repeat plunging.
- Once a month, plug each sink and fill with water. Then unplug the drain to let the volume and weight of the water flush drain lines.
