Think about your last plumbing emergency. Could it have been prevented? Did it prove that hindsight really is 20/20? Luckily, 2020 is also a fresh new year, and you have time to prevent problems by looking ahead.
Here are some suggestions for some plumbing resolutions from your friendly Santa Maria plumbers.
Diet
Your toilet is designed to accept 3 things: #1, #2, and toilet paper. As easy as it is to toss other things in and watch them swirl away, don’t assume they’ll reach their destination. Chances are that they’ll find somewhere to get stuck and back up traffic. Make sure there’s a trashcan nearby to use for dental floss, feminine hygiene products, cotton swabs, paper towels, hair, wipes, and other things. When you see “flushable” on the label of anything that’s not toilet tissue, remember they could be talking about your hard earned money if that item causes a clog.
Exercise
Did you know your garbage disposal wants you to run? Yes, it wants you to run cold water for a full minute after you turn it on. And it wants you run to the trash can or compost bin with things such as banana peels, grease, bones, coffee grounds, corn husks, and other tough or fibrous food waste.
Save More
If you haven’t made sure you’re only using the water you need, this is a great time to check a few water-saving upgrades off your list. Today’s low-flow showerheads deliver a nice variety of spray patterns with good pressure, while modern low-flow toilets take care of business with one strong flush. New appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers are designed to get things clean with much less water. Sometimes, you don’t even use the water you’re paying for. Leak detection saves water, but can also save walls, floors, ceilings, driveways, and other areas affected by sneaky leaks in your home and on your property.
Be Kind
Is your plumbing getting the attention it deserves? Are your pipes protected from freezing? Is sediment being flushed from your water heater every year? Are your drains being treated nicely and not being subjected to harsh chemicals? Is your sewer line safe from tree roots? When you show your plumbing some love, it always returns the favor.
All of us at Griffin Plumbing would like to wish you a wonderful year. May your hearts be full, your drains be clear, and your calls to our team of Santa Maria plumbers be for scheduled upgrades, maintenance, and preventative measures. (But we’re here for your emergencies, too.) Reach us at (805) 934-1949.
