Here at bizify, we work with businesses across several industries. Today, we are bringing you an essential guide on maintaining a robust plumbing system, courtesy of Squires And Duran, North London's premier plumbing specialists.
The health of your home's plumbing is vital, not only for comfort but also for ensuring the efficiency and longevity of your systems. From the water heater to the kitchen sink, every component plays a crucial role. In this blog, we'll share professional insights on how to keep your plumbing in top condition, including regular inspections, clearing your drains effectively, and managing water pressure. Let’s dive into how you can prevent common issues with the expert advice from North London's best plumbers.
Regular inspections are the cornerstone of preventative plumbing maintenance. By scheduling routine checks with professionals like Squires And Duran, you can catch and address minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs. During an inspection, experienced plumbers will examine your pipes, taps, toilets, water heater, and other critical components. They look for signs of wear, leakage, corrosion, and improper function. Homeowners are encouraged to undertake professional inspections at least once a year—however, if you live in an older home or have frequent plumbing issues, consider increasing this frequency. Regular feedback from a professional can save you from the hassle and expense of emergency repairs.
A common yet avoidable problem many homeowners face is clogged drains. Here are some tips from Squires And Duran to keep your drains clear:
Avoid Chemical Cleaners: While it may be tempting to use chemical drain cleaners for quick fixes, these often cause more harm than good. They can erode your pipes and lead to leaks. Instead, use boiling water mixed with a little vinegar and baking soda for a natural solution.
Watch What You Flush: Prevent drain blockages by being mindful of what you flush down your toilets and sinks. Avoid disposing of cooking fats, oils, coffee grounds, and non-decomposable items in the sink. In the bathroom, ensure only toilet paper goes down the toilet—no wipes, even if they say 'flushable'.
Use Drain Guards: Simple mesh screens can catch hair and other debris, preventing them from clogging your bathroom drains.
Implementing these straightforward habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of clogs and maintain clear, functional plumbing.
Proper water pressure is crucial for your plumbing system’s efficiency and longevity. Too high pressure can lead to damaged pipes, leaks, and blown seals, while too low pressure can affect the quality of your daily water use. Squires And Duran recommend using a pressure gauge to monitor your home’s water pressure regularly. The ideal pressure should be between 40-60 psi. If your pressure is outside this range, consider installing a pressure regulator or consulting with a professional. Regular monitoring and adjustment can prevent many common plumbing problems, ensuring your system runs smoothly and efficiently.
To protect your home from the significant risk of frozen pipes, a common issue in North London's colder climate, Squires And Duran recommend a few essential winter precautions. First, insulate your exposed pipes—whether outside or in unheated areas like basements and attics—with foam padding sleeves or insulating tape to guard against the cold. Maintain a consistent temperature in your home, day and night, to prevent overnight temperature drops that can cause pipes to freeze. Allow faucets connected to exposed pipes to drip slightly; this prevents pressure buildup inside the pipes and reduces the risk of them bursting. Additionally, inspect your home for any cracks or openings where cold air could enter and come into contact with pipes, using caulk or insulation to seal these areas securely. Following these steps will drastically reduce the likelihood of encountering disruptive and costly frozen pipe issues.
Your water heater is a critical component of your home's comfort system, providing hot water for both sanitation and heating purposes. Squires And Duran recommend regular maintenance to keep it running efficiently and safely:
Annual Inspections: Have your water heater inspected by a professional at least once a year. This check should include examining the tank, the condition of the anode rod, and the thermostat.
Flush the Tank Regularly: Sediment build-up can affect the efficiency of your water heater. Flushing the tank annually helps maintain its efficiency and longevity.
Check the Pressure Relief Valve: This safety feature prevents excessive pressure and temperature in the tank, and it should be tested regularly to ensure it is functioning properly.
Adjust the Temperature: Setting the water heater to a temperature of 50 degrees Celcius reduces the risk of scalding and helps conserve energy.
Proper maintenance will not only extend the life of your boiler but also improve your home's energy efficiency and safety.
We have been working alongside the team at Squires and Duran for many years now and have seen first-hand the great work they do. The quality of their work and the friendliness and professionalism of their team are what drive us to recommend them so heavily.
Whether you need routine maintenance, are struggling with a specific issue, or are considering a full system upgrade, our expert team in North London is here to provide reliable, efficient, and swift service. Partner with us and experience the peace of mind that comes from having a professional, customer-focused plumbing service at your call. Let Squires And Duran be your go-to for all things plumbing—where quality service and customer satisfaction are always our top priorities. Call us today!
