Pipes and wires are like our home’s circulatory system. They’re the ones responsible for keeping the flow of water, waste, and electricity in our homes. Good piping and electrical systems are very beneficial because these can help save the homeowners from hazards.
But because pipes and wires are hidden in plain sight, it is not easy to troubleshoot or check whether something is wrong unless we actually start to experience it. So as homeowners, we must also do our share in securing our pipes and wires even if the professionals have already safely tucked them away.
Below are some tips that you can do to maintain the health of your pipes and wires and keep your home and family safe.
Let’s start with the pipes:
- CLOG PREVENTION
Food, hair, debris, and other items may get stuck in your pipes and cause serious trouble when ignored. Make sure that you have trash bins beneath your sinks and discipline everyone at home to dispose of food and other waste properly. Avoid flushing cigarette butts, q-tips, cotton balls, and feminine products in the toilet. Attach strainers to your shower floors and sinks to catch hair and other particles that may build-up in your pipes.
- CLEAN FAUCET AERATORS AND FILTERS
Faucet aerators are the mesh tips found on each faucet. Every once a while, take the aerator off and clean it to prevent water blockage. Filters, on the other hand, are used when you have a water softener or an ice maker. It helps make your water cleaner and protects your home’s pipes. Like aerators, it is also important to clean filters regularly to avoid dirt piling up in your pipes.
- INSULATE YOUR PIPES DURING WINTER MONTHS
Pipes are prone to freezing, cracking, and bursting during winter months, especially if your pipes are copper. Insulate your pipes to prevent them from freezing and minimise condensation. Lower your water temperature and drain the water line completely to avoid freezing and bursting of pipes.
- SHUT OFF THE MAIN WATER SYSTEM BEFORE GOING ON VACATION
If you plan to go on vacation or leave the house for days, and you don’t want to come home to water leads and flooding, make sure to shut off the main water system. Shut off the hot water heater too to keep the appliance from overheating.
Electrical wires also need proper care and attention. You may do so by doing the following:
- BUYING THE RIGHT PARTS
Make sure you purchase and install parts that are compatible with your home wiring. Avoid buying cheap parts and always go for quality.
- INSTALL A JUNCTION BOX
All wires should be joined and held together by an accessible junction box. Avoid taking shortcuts by splicing wires together and concealing them in your walls without it.
- NEVER OVERLOAD
Overloaded outlets, extension cords, or even the electrical load may be very hazardous and cause fires.
- REPLACE OLD OR WORN-OUT WIRES
Wires deteriorate over time, so when you notice yours are showing signs of it, call for a professional electrician to help you replace your wires.
Most of all, you must never ignore minor issues and concerns on your pipes and wires. It is easy to ignore little fixes or repairs but these can grow and create bigger damage to your home. Schedule for regular professional plumbers and electrician services. Have them visit your home at least once or twice a year to ensure that your plumbing and electrical systems are in great shape.
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