Plumbing systems are designed to work quietly and reliably in the background. Tenants favor a home with excellent living conditions, and this includes the requirement of a fully functioning plumbing system. It is the responsibility of the landlord or property manager to provide habitable living space with working plumbing facilities. This includes hot and cold running water, working fixtures, and a connection to a sewage system. Tenants are responsible for operating the plumbing system appropriately. By working together and sharing the responsibility through education, proper maintenance, and practicing the following tips, major plumbing issues can be avoided.
DIY Clog Prevention
Common plumbing problems concerning drains, sinks, and showers can be prevented with some quick proactive measures. The following are fairly simple and don’t take much of your time & effort. If you want to avoid calling in an expert, make sure to try these out.
- Remove your drain screen regularly and keep them clean and unobstructed.
- Periodically pour hot water down the drain to prevent blockage.
- Prevent any food or food by-products from going down the drain.
Invest in Regular Maintenance
Regular plumbing system maintenance helps to ensure that small problems don’t turn into costly disasters. Many professionals offer frequent plumbing maintenance services on a weekly, monthly, quarterly, and yearly basis. Getting your faucets, pipes, and taps checked regularly can save you from expensive repair & restoration.
Seasonal plumbing maintenance tips
- Water heaters benefit from annual maintenance such as getting flushed and tested.
- Inspect and test all water shut-off valves to make sure they work during a repair.
- Check that all sinks and tubs drain properly. Clear out p-traps if necessary.
- Check the faucets and sinks for any leaks or drips. Check for signs of water damage.
Take Blockage Seriously
Plumbing systems will inevitably experience clogs over time. A stubborn blockage can severely affect the plumbing system’s efficiency and cause structural damage due to water damage. Resolving blocked drains quickly is very important to prevent damages from escalating. You can attempt to dislodge the clog with a plunger or auger, but make sure not to overdo it. You may risk damaging the fixture. Do not hesitate to get in touch with your nearby plumbers. Plumbers are equipped with specialized equipment and can easily tackle large or small blockage problems efficiently.
Educate The Tenants
Many tenants have never owned a home and are unfamiliar with how to maintain a healthy plumbing system. Educating your tenant about a proactive approach can easily prevent countless plumbing issues from occurring. Most plumbing problems are preventable. Make sure to discuss some of the most common plumbing problems with your tenants and offer them tips to avoid them.
- Never pour grease or food by-products down the drain..
- Don’t flush “FLUSHABLE” wipes.
- Explain how to shut off the water to each fixture and the location of the main shut-off valve.
- Provide tenants with a basic toilet plunger and drain covers.