Having to call your Saskatoon plumber every time a drain in your home gets clogged can become time-consuming, and frustrating, not to mention very expensive. Your drains may work right now, but clogs can happen at any time. Though plumbing codes, normal plumbing maintenance, and good drain pipe materials can keep the rate of clog formation to a minimum, most people do not have the advantage or the ability to decide what plumbing materials are to be used. No one thinks about plumbing maintenance until there is a clogged drain. Clogged drains can create severe water damage to a home’s structure (such as the wiring) and can be a potential health risk. Problems caused by a clogged drain can be avoided by taking the necessary steps of drain maintenance to prevent clogs from occurring. Remember, prevention is not only easy to do but can save you a lot of money in the long run!

Tip 1: When cleaning up after dinner, run hot water through the drain to prevent grease buildup and hard water deposits. Once every few days, to really prevent buildup in your pipes, first put in a half cup of baking soda, followed by a half cup of vinegar, and then wash it through with boiling hot water.

Tip 2: Check your bathtub stoppers every three months for hair and buildup of biofilm (a mixture of bacteria, food particles, soap residue, and body oils that hardens as layers begin to build up and lead to a clogged drain) and see if the stopper needs to be replaced due to wear and tear. Once a week, fill the bathtub halfway to three-fourths full (while the stopper is in the drain) and then pull out the stopper. The weight and volume of the water will fill the pipe and will flush the drain line.         

Tip 3: Have your home plumbing system regularly inspected for maintenance from the team at JOB Heating and Air. As a preventative measure, at least once a year, hire a plumber to snake your home’s drain lines for any buildups that can lead to a clog. For major connections, such as your septic tank or your main pipe to the sewer system, have periodic inspections. Small roots that penetrate a drain pipe can be cleaned up before it turns into a big problem. If regular inspections are not performed by a plumber, the roots can become entrenched in the drain pipe and will have to be replaced altogether. 

Tip 4: Special clog prevention for kitchen sinks includes: removing all kitchen waste from the sink; not pouring coffee grinds down the sink; not pouring grease down the sink; and catching all food from falling down the sink.

Tip 5: Most plumbers will tell you to avoid using chemical-based cleaners as clog prevention on a regular basis as they can corrode metal pipes after a while. A natural cleaner is an enzyme/bacteria-based cleaner. Once poured down a drain, it creates colonies of good bacteria that destroy bad bacteria that cause clogs in your drains. Use natural-based cleaners at night, just before everyone goes to sleep – large amounts of water used after the cleaner can get rid of the good bacteria before it has had time to work.

JOB Heating & Air Conditioning is a Trusted Saskatoon plumbing company. We show up on time, deliver on budget and we leave the work area cleaner than when we arrived! At JOB we take pride in our plumbing services in this city and surrounding area, so nothing means more to us than testimonials from our clients as their preferred plumber in Saskatoon.

Check the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve:

The temperature and pressure relief valve is a safety feature that is designed to release pressure if the water in the tank becomes too hot or the pressure becomes too high. To test it, lift the lever and let it snap back into place. If water flows out of the valve, it’s working properly. If not, it’s time to replace it.

Drain the Tank:

Draining the tank helps remove sediment and minerals that can build up over time, reducing the efficiency of your water heater. You should drain your tank once a year to remove this buildup. Simply attach a hose to the drain valve and run the water into a drain or bucket until it runs clear.

Check the Anode Rod:

The anode rod is a metal rod that is designed to corrode instead of the tank. If the anode rod is worn down, the tank is more likely to rust and leak. To check the anode rod, remove the access panel and inspect the rod. If it’s less than a quarter inch in diameter, it’s time to replace it.

Insulate the Tank:

Insulating the tank can help reduce heat loss and increase the efficiency of your water heater. You can buy a pre-cut insulation blanket for your water heater or wrap the tank with insulation.

Regularly Check for Leaks:

Check the tank and connections for any signs of leaks. If you notice a leak, it’s important to have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

In conclusion, regular water heater maintenance is essential for ensuring that your water heater lasts for many years to come. By following these tips on maintaining your water heater, you can keep it in good working condition and prevent costly repairs and safety hazards. If you are unsure about how to maintain your water heater properly, it’s best to consult JOB Heating & Air Conditioning is a Trusted Saskatoon plumbing company. They can inspect your water heater and make necessary repairs or replacements to ensure it works properly.

JOB Heating & Air Conditioning is a Trusted Saskatoon plumbing company. We show up on time, deliver on budget, and leave the work area cleaner than when we arrived! At JOB, we take pride in our plumbing services in this city and surrounding area, so nothing means more to us than testimonials from our clients as their preferred plumber in Saskatoon.

Understanding the Common Culprits

Sediment Buildup in the Tank

A Faulty Thermostat

A Malfunctioning Heating Element

Issues with Electrical Components

Improperly Sized Water Heater

Keeping your water heater in top shape via preventative maintenance is crucial to ensure that your water heater remains in excellent working condition. Regular inspection and servicing can identify and fix minor issues before they turn into significant problems that could end up costing you a lot in repairs or replacements.

One of the easiest things you can do to maintain your water heater is to flush the tank regularly. Sediment buildup leads to reduced efficiency and shortened lifespan. Flushing the tank will remove any accumulated mineral deposits, ensuring that your water heater can operate optimally.

Another important preventative maintenance step is to check and replace faulty valves, such as the temperature and pressure relief valves. These valves regulate pressure and temperature, so if they aren’t functioning correctly, your water heater could be at risk of becoming over-pressurized.

It’s also essential to check and replace anode rods. Anode rods are sacrificial rods that attract bacteria and minerals, preventing them from corroding your tank walls. By periodically inspecting and replacing them, you can extend your tank’s lifespan and avoid expensive replacements.

Finally, remember to check for leaks regularly. Even if you don’t notice any visible signs of leaks, such as water pooling around the tank, it’s possible for leaks to occur inside the tank, leading to rusting and corrosion. As you can see, preventative maintenance is crucial to ensure that your water heater runs smoothly and efficiently. By taking these easy steps towards the health of your heater, you’ll enjoy hot water in your home for a long time to come.

Calling in a Professional

Find Perfection Plumbing online here check out their listing- Perfection Plumbing are Trusted Saskatoon Plumbers

The Importance of Water Supply Shutdown and Understanding the Potential Hazards:

Winter Getaways and the Risk of Burst Pipes:

Steps to Properly Shut Off the Water Supply

Conclusion

Find Perfection Plumbing online here check out their listing- Perfection Plumbing are Trusted Saskatoon Plumbers