Now that spring is here and summer is just around the corner, it might be time to start thinking about some spring cleaning. However, spring cleaning doesn’t stop at clearing out your wardrobes and doing some dusting. Your plumbing system will also need inspecting to identify any potential issues and prevent faults occurring in the future. This article will look into the key points you need to remember when cleaning your plumbing systems.
Check for Leaks
If you have a dripping tap or your taps aren’t producing as much water as they should be, this could be the sign of a leak. Make sure you check exposed pipes, as they can freeze in cold conditions and they may have frozen during the colder months. Some leaks and problems can be easily fixed, but if you’re unsure about how to tackle them, contact a professional.
Drains
Check your drains for blockages – these are particularly common in areas like bathrooms and showers, as they can get blocked by hair and soap. Installing a strainer in your drains can prevent these blockages from happening again. Consider pouring some water into drains that aren’t used much, as this can help prevent odours from standing water and other materials entering your home.
Check Temperatures
Make sure that the maximum temperature on your water heater does not exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit or 49 degree Celcius. This will help you increase your home’s energy efficiency and also prevent people from scalding themselves on excessively hot water.
Replace Old Appliances
If your water heater is more than 15 years old, consider buying a replacement. Older boilers take longer to heat up your home, requiring and wasting more fuel, thus using more energy. Newer models are much more energy efficient, meaning your water heats more quickly, which in turn helps cut your energy bills.
Outside Drainage
Drains on the outside of your home are particularly susceptible to blockages, so check them regularly for leaves, dirt and other materials. Cleaning these drains out can be quite a time consuming job, but it can make a huge difference to how easily water flows through your home. Birds can also make their nests in plumbing vents, so make sure to carefully remove them to avoid your drains blocking up completely.
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Here at VHL, we are a leading supplier of expert plumbing services to customers throughout London including Harrow & Notting Hill. Our highly skilled, knowledgeable and experienced team can be with you at short notice to carry out both large and small scale plumbing work. Our experts are fully registered and accredited and we offer a 24/7, year-round emergency call out service for the situations that cannot wait. For more information, get in touch with us today and we’ll be more than happy to help.