Over the years, the world has experienced hundreds of disasters. Whether they are natural calamities or economic crisis, mankind has survived all. But what about pandemics. They have been the most difficult ones to get through. They are unpredictable, last longer and result in huge losses; monetary and non-monetary.
The recent wave of COVID-19 is one of them. To this date, COVID-19 has affected 2.73 million people around the world and resulted in the death of 192,000 people. The virus has crushed economies, and with millions of people staying at home, the world is on a hold since over a month. And interestingly, we don’t know how long will it last.
We don’t know till when the schools will remain closed. We are also unaware of how long the earning members of the family stay indoors. And we don’t even know whether they will ever go back to the job or not. In these times of uncertainty, when incomes are stagnant and more and more people are losing jobs and means of living, no one wants to afford an extra expense. But when the entire family is at home 24/7, this means that there is extra pressure on the plumbing system in your house. And plumbing repairs is definitely a huge expense which no one wants to bear at this time.
One of the best ways to deal with plumbing problems is to be proactive. Whether it is a leakage or a clog, in testing times where maintaining social distance is the norm, you need to be proactive. Below are some of the tips you need to make sure so that you can avoid any major plumbing issues and survive these testing times.
Clogged Toilet
A very common plumbing issue is clogged toiles. One of the best ways to avoid clogged toilets is to make sure you don’t throw anything in the toilet which is not water soluble. Anything which can dissolve in the water will not clog the toilet but tissue papers, toys and cutlery can will definitely clog your toilet. With kids at home, this means the adults of the family have an added responsibility. They need to watch out what is going in the toilet. Apart from being watchful, it is important to educate your children about what should and shouldn’t go in the toilet.
Clogged Drains
With so many people using plumbing system in the house, it is almost impossible to prevent a clogged drain. Hair, shampoo and soap can block your drains and create a mess in the house. But before you call in a professional plumber to deal with the situation, we recommend that you try a few DIY techniques including snaking. If your problem gets resolved in the short run, then you can always call a professional plumber when conditions improve.
Garbage Disposal
When kids and adults are quarantined at home, munching and meals are never ending. And with that the loads of dishes. Ultimately, the garbage disposal in your kitchen is the appliance which needs to work the most. To prevent any trouble with your garbage disposal, avoid throwing remains of food in your kitchen sink. Also, make sure, you clean it after every use by running through cold water. In case there is any issue with your garbage disposal, avoid using any DIY techniques as it can further damage the appliance. One of the best ways is to contact an emergency professional. However, don’t forget to take adequate COVID preventive measures when someone comes into your house.
Check for Leakages
Pipes
Always keep a check on all your plumbing fixtures and fittings. Whether it is a pipe under the sink or a connecting water supply to your washing machine or dishwasher, just keep a check to avoid any disaster. It is also a good idea to keep a small toolbox in your house through which you can manage minor repairs of a leaking pipe.
Faucets
But pipes are not the only plumbing fixture which leaks. Even faucets can leak and that dripping is not just irritating but can also damage the wooden cabinets in your kitchen or bathroom. And when everyone is at home all the time, the use of faucets increases drastically. Some of the most common issues with the faucets apart from leaks may include.
- Worn out O-rings
- Sediment build up which results in spraying
Outdoor Valves
Please make sure that the valves outside the house are properly closed and are not leaking. Leakage in these valves can built pressure in the pipes and they can burst. Moreover, small leaks can also be dangerous. The water from minor leaks can seep through the ground and corrode the pipes. So make sure that the outside valves and hoses are properly shut. Avoid using them regularly for now.
If you cannot manage the issue of leakage, then calling a plumber is inevitable. However, don’t forget to call a professional who can get the job done in no time so that you and your family get a minimal exposure from an outsider.
Water Heater Insulation
Water heaters are an essential today. Regardless of the weather, we need it every day. To bring more efficiency, most of the water heater brands provide insulating sleeves. When fixed properly, this added layer of insulation saves power, maintains water temperature for longer and reflects in reduced energy costs.
If you already have water heater insulation, make sure it is properly fixed so that you can enjoy its benefits. However, if you don’t have one, don’t worry. Now is not the right time to invest in one. But hopefully, when COVID-19 subsides, don’t forget to invest in one.
The Right Professional
If calling in a professional plumber is inevitable, then only go for Mesa Plumbing. We are a licensed, emergency service provider who can deal with all sorts of plumbing situations in no time. To know how we operate in these testing times, call now at 480-832-1660 or visit our website.