How Can I Make My Pipes Last Longer?

Knowing how to make your pipes last longer can save you serious money. Every shower, load of dishes, and flush puts your plumbing to work, and that system never gets a break. However, all that wear and tear can cause real damage if you are not careful. Here is how to protect your plumbing and keep it in top shape for years.

Watch Your Water Pressure

Low water pressure is annoying in the shower, but high water pressure is the bigger threat. When the pressure in your pipes runs too high, it strains the plumbing and the connections. In severe cases, it can even make a pipe burst. For that reason, keep your home’s water pressure below 80 psi. If it keeps climbing past that number, call a plumber to install a pressure-reducing valve.

All Leaks Are Bad Leaks

Even the smallest, most harmless-looking leak can wear out your pipes early. Think of it this way: a slow drip still keeps your plumbing working around the clock. Any water moving through the system slowly erodes the lining and the connections. Because small leaks only grow, the damage grows right along with them. Repair leaking faucets and pipes as soon as you spot them.

Think Before You Flush

There is a reason your bathroom has a trash can: you cannot flush everything down the toilet. Anything you send down a drain travels into the maze of pipes below your home. Wet wipes, feminine products, grease, and food simply do not belong there. Flushing these items clogs your pipes, and a small issue can quickly turn into a big one.

Hard Water Wears Pipes Down

Many North Georgia homes have hard water, which carries extra minerals. Over time, those minerals form scale inside your pipes and fixtures, which narrows the flow and shortens the life of your plumbing. Therefore, if you notice chalky buildup, weak flow, or spots on your dishes, a water softening system can protect both your pipes and your appliances.

Protect Your Pipes Before a Freeze

Winter is hard on North Georgia plumbing. When temperatures drop below freezing, the water inside your pipes can freeze, expand, and burst, and a burst pipe is one of the most expensive emergencies a homeowner can face. Fortunately, a little preparation in the fall prevents most of it.

• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated spots like crawl spaces, garages, and the attic.
• Disconnect and drain garden hoses, then shut off the water to outdoor hose bibs.
• On the coldest nights, let a faucet drip so water keeps moving through the pipes.
• Open the cabinet doors under sinks so warm air can reach the plumbing.
• Find your main water shutoff now, so you can stop the flow fast if a pipe does burst.

For a full checklist, the American Red Cross offers helpful guidance on preventing frozen pipes.

Pipes Love Preventative Maintenance

Of course, no matter how careful you are with your plumbing system, every pipe needs attention at some point. It is far better to fix small problems early, before they turn complicated and costly. Annual preventative maintenance, such as checking your water pressure, inspecting for leaks, and flushing your water heater, is one of the best ways to stop plumbing issues before they start.

Armor Plumbing can tackle any pipe problem that comes your way, and even the toughest jobs are no match for our skilled team. When you want an experienced local plumber who treats your home with care, our licensed plumbers have the tools and training to keep your pipes in great condition. Connect with us online to find out how we can help make your pipes last longer.