With fast-spreading COVID-19 variants and defeating attempts of “vaccationalism”, can we say that 2021 has been a catastrophic failure? But, well, at least we get to make a fresh start in 2022.
A new year means new opportunities, new habits, new ideas and… new resolutions. Even if more than half of all resolutions fail, it’s a tradition to grab the opportunity of turning over a new leaf. While finances, fitness, diets might go on the top of your list, why don’t you give your plumbing systems some more attention?
Don’t Waste Water
We’ve heard it too often, isn’t it? And, when you don’t live in a drought-prone area, saving every drop of water doesn’t matter anymore.
It takes a lot for water to get to your tap and even if you live in a water-rich area, there’s so much more at stake than just a few gallons wasted. Impact on carbon footprint, air quality and depletion of resources depend on the choices of individuals like you and me. Choices like:
- Installing low-flush toilets
- Installing energy-efficient faucets
- Using the dishwasher and washing machine only with full loads
- Turning off the tap when shaving or brushing
Be More Kind To Your Garbage Disposals
Keep in mind that your garbage disposals are not garbage cans. Some food scraps may whisk down the drain quickly, but don’t fall victim to the myth that garbage disposals can chop through anything – from big clumps of coffee grounds to egg shells, banana peels and large bones. And, don’t even think of throwing in grease and oils because once cooled, they can solidify and damage the blades down the disposal.
Another myth that you have to stay away from is using lemons to clean garbage disposals. Here, you have a non-corrosive and more effective method to keep your disposal smelling fresh and looking clean.
Don’t Treat Your Toilet Like A Trash Can
People have a frequent misconception that they may flush flushable wipes or sanitary items down the toilet since they are labeled as “flushable.”
This prevalent misconception is causing major issues for both plumbing pipes and plumbers. How? When flushed, wet wipes contain a type of plastic that does not degrade like toilet paper. Even if they pass through the drain without incident, they can build up in your pipes and cause clogs. In Australia, for example, flushable wipes are now one of the leading causes of plumbing obstructions. And, it is good to note that these flushable wipes are inflicting significant harm to Australia’s ecology. When these wipes get up in the water, they can be eaten by aquatic species, causing them to perish.
As a result, it is critical to remember this golden rule: do not flush anything other than toilet paper and your own waste!
Keep Pipes Cozy
When the weather is very cold outside and brings plummeting temperatures, your pipes could be affected. And, I don’t think anyone would want to deal with burst pipes during freezing seasons.
So, why don’t you make this the year you give your pipes a little extra love? Wrap insulation over exposed pipes to protect them from freezing and breaking. You may also see a plumber about how to winterize your pipes.
Face Those Little Problems
A leaking faucet, water gathering around a toilet, or strange pounding sounds from pipes are all symptoms of larger problems. When it comes to plumbing, most issues aren’t a huge concern… until they become one.
When plumbing problems are severe, they may cost a lot of money and cause extensive damage. Remove them at the head and deal with them as soon as you see them.