What You Can Do If You Have A Plumbing Problem

Check the floor and/or wall to see if any tiles are loose. Loose tiles are often indicative of a

leak, so press down gently to ascertain whether or not they "give." Consider loose tiles to be

an early warning system so you can schedule a repair right away.

When cleaning fiberglass tubs and sinks, you should only use cleaners that are non-

abrasive. These include mild soaps like dish-washing liquid or laundry detergents. These

non-abrasive cleansers are also gentler on your pipes and don't contain as many harmful

chemicals.

If you wake one morning and a pipe has frozen, use a hairdryer to warm it. It is one of the

safest ways to thaw the frozen pipes on your own. It will save you from the dangers of the

other methods that could be used, as well as the cost of calling a plumber.

If your toilet has sewage back-up, then there is a block somewhere along the branch line that

connects the sewage and main lines. If you can't manage this blockage, a plumber can put a

snake through to clear it out.

You should be aware of the location of the main valve for water cut-off on your property.

There will be a water meter there or nearby. Also, locate additional shut off valves for toilets,

sinks, washers and any other device that runs off of your water supply. Inform all the

members of your family where they can find the valve, and also show them how to shut them

off if they are leaking.

Don't use your toilet as a trash can in order to avoid problems. Keep away from flushing

improper items down the toilet, like cotton balls, diapers, paper towels, or feminine hygiene

products. These types of items can clog your toilet as they do not dissolve. Additionally, use

the minimum amount of toilet paper required to clean up after you are done.

Clean your plumbing system often to ensure it doesn't get blocked up. Toilet drains and pipes

that flow outside are especially prone to getting blocked by roots, so it is critical to take the

time to clean those out.

Insulate your exposed pipes well. These include those in attics, exterior walls and crawl

spaces. Insulation can be wrapped around pipes, and is available at any hardware store. It

will prevent the bursting of freezing pipes, as well as, keeping the hot water warmer on it's

way to your shower or sink.

If you wish to use a pipe cleaner to clear out your clogged pipes, look for one that is enzyme-

based. The natural enzymes in these cleaners dissolve the clog, turning it into liquid, freeing

it from the pipes. Enzyme cleaners should be your first choice.

If you notice even a hint of water inside your walls, immediately turn off the water supply and

phone a plumber at once. This may indicate that your plumbing is seriously damaged. These

problems can lead to mildew, mold, or even flooding.

Check any loose tiles for water damage evidence. Pressing softly against the wall or floor

tiles can tell you if any don't push back as hard as the rest, and soft spots could be warning

signs of a leak. melbourne plumber