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Your plumbing system almost doesn’t stop working. Some of them can work for several years while others need to be replaced sooner. In this article, you’ll know how long your plumbing appliances last and what you can do to extend their lifespan. If you need any plumbing service in Arlington, TX, don’t hesitate to contact one of our plumbers.

Plumbing Pipes

Knowing the type of plumbing pipes installed in your home gives you an idea as to how long they last. If you just bought your new home, try checking the home inspection report, as it might have information about the type of plumbing system you have. Otherwise, get professional plumbing service in Arlington, TX, for assistance. A plumber can help you get that information.

On average, brass, iron, and steel pipes can last up to 50- 70 years. Copper pipes can last up to 80 years, while PVC piping can only last 50 years or less. Exactly how long depends on whether or not you properly maintain them.

Effective Pipe Maintenance

You can extend the lifespan of your pipes with proper maintenance. Below are our tips:

Reduce Water Pressure

High water pressure can strain the pipes and may eventually lead to leaks in your plumbing. Get professional plumbing service so a plumber can help you regulate water pressure in your pipes.

Prevent Clogging

Call a professional plumbing service for drain cleaning. Plumbers are equipped with drain cameras that they can use to check the interior of the pipes and get rid of any clogs. As a homeowner, make it a point to also take care of your pipes by not throwing grease, food particles, and other debris as that can potentially damage your plumbing. Also, never resort to buying chemical-based drain cleaners as they are not permanent solutions to clogging. Instead, get a plunger for resolving minor clogs. If you can’t get rid of the clog, ensure that you get a professional plumbing service for assistance.

Insulate the Pipes

Burst pipes can lead to flooding in your home. And you know that water damage can cost you thousands of dollars in repairs, replacements, and restorations. Thankfully, you can prevent water damage by insulating the pipes during winter. You can buy an insulating blanket at your local hardware store, or you can get professional plumbing service in Arlington, TX so that a plumber can assist you.

Soften the Water

If your hard water has a high concentration of minerals, we suggest that you get a professional plumbing service so a plumber can help you install a water softener for your home. Water softeners are incredibly beneficial, and they can help extend the lifespan of your pipes, water heater, and other household appliances.

Never Ignore Minor Problems

Most plumbing emergencies occur when the homeowner neglects minor repairs or other plumbing issues. If you suspect a problem, make it a point to resolve it at the soonest possible time. Then, get a professional plumbing service in Arlington, TX, so a plumber can help you diagnose the problem and discuss the best way to fix it.

Other tips:

1. If there are exposed pipes in the basement, insulate them too and make sure that you don’t use them for a hanger rod.
2. Know where the shut-off valves are just in case there are plumbing emergencies. Turning off your water mains on time can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and replacements.

Water Heaters

When you install the tank-type heaters, they should last up to 12 years, depending on how you maintain them. Tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient, and they also last longer — up to 20 years. Heat pump heater can last up to 10 years.

Water Heater Maintenance

Do you want to extend the lifespan of your water heater to save money? These maintenance tips don’t only boost your appliance’s lifespan but also improves its efficiency, saving you money every month on your utility bills.

Flush the Water Heater Tank Every Year

Sediment build-up in your water heater can waste energy and decrease its lifespan. Ensure that you flush out the sediment buildup at least once a year or more when there is a high concentration of hard water in your area. Also, you need to periodically check your water heater tank to see if there are no signs of leaks or other problems. Remember, it will cost you a fortune in restorations if you fail to maintain your heater. If you can’t maintain them, at least get professional plumbing service regularly so a plumber can do a proper inspection of your water heater.

Test the TPR Valve

This valve opens when the pressure in the tank is high, and this thing works, or there must be catastrophic damage. The first thing you need to do is shut off the power first and the cold water. The next step is to place a bucket under the pipe that’s connected to the TPR. Lift the valve to let out some water and then let go. When the water keeps flowing, you need to drain the tank and call a plumber for a replacement valve. You need to replace it when the valve is stuck or doesn’t open.

Insulate the Pipes

If you bought an old water heater tank, you might need to also insulate the tank and save energy. Modern heaters usually have the insulation already. For the pipes, you need to insulate them to also save energy.

Check the Anode Rod

Make it a point to replace the anode rod every three to five years, so the tank doesn’t corrode faster. Schedule a regular plumbing inspection so your plumber can also check this for you every year.

Toilet

Your toilet can last up to 50 years, but not all of its components. When you’re having issues with the bathroom, contact a plumber so they can determine whether some of its internal components need replacing or not.

How to Maintain a Toilet

To avoid other inconveniences and stressful problems, ensure that you know how to properly maintain your toilet. Below are our tips.

Clean It Regularly

Unless you have a smart toilet that cleans by itself, there is a need to regularly clean your toilet with a mild cleaner. Using vinegar and baking soda or mild soap can do the trick. Cleaning your toilet allows you to spot any problems, and it will, of course, keep your bathroom smelling clean and fresh. Should you suspect a problem, don’t hesitate to get a plumbing service so a plumber can help you resolve it.

For unclogging the toilet, use proper plumbing tools only, never a chemical drain cleaner. If you don’t know how to use plumbing tools, then get a professional plumbing service instead.

Fix a Leaky Toilet

You can waste hundreds of gallons of water when the toilet leaks, and yet some homeowners still choose to ignore it. It’s essential that you get professional plumbing service immediately to help you fix the problem. Otherwise, you may end up with higher water bills the following month.

To check for toilet leaks, you’ll need to drop some food coloring in the tank. Wait for a few minutes, and then make sure no one else uses the water in your home. Check the toilet if the water changes color. If it doesn’t, then there is a toilet leak. Call a plumber right away for an inspection.

Be Mindful of What You Flush in the Toilet

If there are children in your household, educate them on how to use the toilet properly. They need to only flush human waste and not tissue paper or small toys. Knowing how to properly care for a toilet extends the lifespan of your plumbing.

Sump Pumps

Sump Pumps can prevent flooding in your basement. This device has an average lifespan of about ten years. The exact number of years depends on maintenance performed.

How to Maintain the Sump Pump

The tips below ensure your sump pump runs efficiently and also extends its lifespan.

Get to Know Your Sump Pump

Familiarize your sump pump and know the brand, model number, how old it is, where you can get replacements for the parts, and any existing issues. You can use that information if you get a professional plumbing service for your device. As much as possible, read the manual, especially on how to properly maintain your sump pump. Maintaining your device extends its lifespan.

Check Your Sump Regularly

To know if your sump pump still works, check it periodically, ideally at least once a month or if there’s a coming storm. First, connect the sump pump to a power source and then pour water into the sump pit. Ensure that the water is high enough to activate the float switch and then turn on the sump pump. If it doesn’t work, call for professional plumbing service in Arlington, TX, so a licensed plumber can thoroughly inspect it and then fix the problem.

Deep Cleaning the Sump Pump

Like all the other appliances in your home, the sump pump needs to be deep cleaned too. First, turn off the sump pump and use the garden hose for rinsing the pump. You may use a putter knife to help you get rid of any debris on the pump. Next, wet vacuum the sump pit and dry it properly. When it’s dry, reattach the pipe and plug it into the power source for checking.

Note: if you don’t know how to do this, it’s best to call a plumber instead.

Know Common Problems with your Sump Pump and How to Resolve it

You may encounter some problems with your sump pump, and it’s best to know how to resolve it, although we always recommend that you get professional plumbing service so a licensed plumber can inspect it for you.

Strange noises in the sump pump are an indication that there might be worn-out parts in the device while grinding or rattling noises could mean that the impeller is either jammed or damaged. If the pump turns on and off, the problem could be the wiring. When it excessively vibrates, the impeller may be deformed. An oil leak is a sure sign that a sump pump is failing. Keep in mind that this is just a guide, and only the plumber can give you a proper diagnosis of the problem. To ensure the issue gets resolved permanently, call a plumbing service. An experienced plumber can check your sump pump and fix the problem. Rest assured, it will be good as new.

Get a Backup Pump and Batteries

If you live in an area that gets a lot of storms or when it’s storm season, we highly suggest you get backup batteries and a sump pump. Do this, especially when you store a lot of stuff in the basement. Flooding in the basement can be costly, but you can avoid it when you take extra precautions. The backup batteries and pump ensure that it can prevent flooding in the basement when the power suddenly goes out.

Don’t Ignore Minor Issues

We’ve already discussed common problems you may encounter with your sump pump and their causes. The next step would be to call a plumber for help. Never postpone any repairs as your device may suddenly shut down. It will be costly for you, especially when you don’t have any backup batteries and a sump pump. If there is a problem, call for help right away.

Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth

Do you need plumbing service in Arlington, TX? Our plumbers are always ready to help. We are open 24/7 and are never late. We also guarantee exceptional plumbing service on every appointment. You can always rely on us when it comes to any plumbing repairs, maintenance, or installations. Call us today for an appointment.