While most of us are still in shock that 2015 is over (what?!), some of us have already begun planning for 2016 and looking for ways to improve. New Year's resolutions typically entail staying fit or saving money. While we can’t help you with the former, we can make saving money easier. Here is a list of plumbing resolutions to convert your home to a more eco-friendly plumbing system, help prevent plumbing emergencies, and basically save you money in 2016.
- Consider having a plumbing inspection, or even better, an ongoing plumbing service agreement. Having a plumber complete a whole home plumbing inspection makes sure everything is running correctly and there are no leaks or possible emergencies down the line.
- Pay attention to possible problems. Hammering noises, slow drains, water that isn’t as hot as it used to be can all signal potential problems that can end up as expensive emergency calls. This year, make your resolution to contact a plumber as soon as you notice something is wrong instead of waiting until it is too late. Plumbing issues only get worse (and more expensive) as time goes on.
- Have your water heater checked. Water heaters need regular maintenance. Contact a plumber to inspect and, if needed, flush it to make sure it is functioning at its peak operating efficiency and performance levels. You don’t want to get caught without hot water.
- Wise up to your plumbing system. Know where all of the important points are located, including your sewer access points, the primary water shut-off valve, and the valves for your various water-using appliances like the dishwasher and washing machine. When an emergency occurs you will be able to quickly shut off water to the damaged area without unnecessarily interrupting water flow to the rest of the house.
- Watch what you put down your drains. The best way to avoid drain clogs is to be careful of what you put down your pipes. Make sure to clear your plates into the garbage before you rinse them in your kitchen sink and use drain traps to catch problematic items in your sinks and tubs. In addition, never pour grease or oils down your drains because they can easily lead to clogs.
- Don’t use your toilet as a wastebasket. Your toilet should only be used for toilet paper and human waste. Everything else (such as paper towels, cotton balls, floss, and personal hygiene products) should be tossed in the trash. By following these rules, you can greatly reduce the chance of clogging your toilets.
- When buying new appliances, including water heaters, look for Energy Star.
- If you are replacing toilets, install low-flush toilets to help control water usage.
- Upgrade your kitchen and bathroom faucets. Not only will new faucets brighten up your room, changing to faucets that use less water can save you money on your water bill.
- Stay on your toes during extreme weather. Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing and excess rainfall can overwhelm a testy sump pump, so pay attention to the forecast.
- Finally, teach your family how to save money and the planet with simple changes to their routines. Tell the kids not to let the water run when brushing their teeth, and encourage them to take shorter showers. Load up your washing machine and dishwasher so that you aren’t running them on half-full loads. Lastly, don’t water the lawn when rain is in the forecast. You’ll see lower water bills before you know it.