From Guest Blogger Lizzie Weakly: How to Make Sure your Plumbing is Energy Efficient After a Cold, Harsh Winter

Plumber

A harsh winter can take a serious toll on a residential plumbing system. In addition to cold temperatures, months of heavy use can result in sediment buildup, damaged insulation, rust, mold, and a variety of other issues. This is why all homeowners should take some time every spring to make sure their plumbing system is running as efficiently as possible.

Check for Leaks

A single leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water and cause thousands of dollars in damage within just a few months. Luckily, checking for leaks is a relatively easy process. After the weather has begun to warm up, simply turn off all of your faucets and appliances, check your water meter, and then wait a few hours. If the meter continues to move during that time, then you most likely have a leak.

Inspect Your Water Heater

Plumbers can take care of major water heater repairs, but it is never a bad idea for homeowners to inspect these appliances a few times a year. The first thing you will want to look for is water damage on the walls or floor near the water heater. You should also make sure that the pilot light is running cleanly and the system is not making any unusual noises. Changes to the taste, smell, or appearance of your tap water are all signs that your water heater might be damaged.

Update the Faucets and Shower Heads

For families that really want to improve the efficiency of their plumbing system, there are some simple upgrades that will drastically cut back on water consumption. High-efficiency faucets and shower heads utilize small screens to slow the flow of water. On average, these products will reduce water usage by 60 to 70 percent.

Professional Seasonal Maintenance

The final step in this process is to contact a local plumbing company such as A Bailey Plumbing. No matter how thorough homeowners might be, most do not have the tools and expertise to check for damage or efficiency problems deeper in the system. Scheduling seasonal maintenance calls will allow you to avoid catastrophic leaks and clogs while keeping your plumbing system running smoothly.

Your plumbing system is one of the most important components of your home, and it doesn’t take much for a small leak to turn into an expensive problem. These maintenance tips will help you protect your pipes and keep them running efficiently throughout the year.