How Plumbing Maintenance Keeps Your Pipes In Top Condition For Years To Come
Plumbing maintenance might not be your top priority right now, but you shouldn’t overlook it because it plays a critical role in keeping your pipes in perfect condition. Regular inspections and upkeep prevent common issues like clogs, leaks, and corrosion, to mention some.
If you want to ensure your pipes remain useful for many years to come, then you should never ignore their care, regardless of the type of property you have.
Here’s how plumbing maintenance can make a big difference in your pipes.
How Long Do Different Types Of Pipes Last?
Before delving into the role of plumbing maintenance, it’s essential to grasp the lifespan of different types of pipes.
The lifespan of your home’s plumbing pipes depends on the materials they’re made from, the quality of installation, and how well they've been maintained over the years.
Let’s check some of them:
- Copper Pipes: They can last anywhere from 50 to 70 years thanks to their durability (copper is a strong material known for its corrosion resistance and antimicrobial properties). You can use copper pipes for hot and cold water supply without any problem.
- Galvanized Steel Pipes: They were very popular before the 1960s, and they usually last up to 50 years. However, they’re prone to corrosion and rust, meaning that they can cause leaks and water discoloration over time.
- PVC Pipes: These are used in newer homes because of their cost (they’re cheaper than other options). While they can resist some pressure, they’re still vulnerable to extreme temperatures, so you might need to replace them after only 25 years if used in high-stress areas.
- PEX Pipes: They’re among the most popular right now thanks to their ease of installation, durability, and resistance. They’re made of flexible plastic that can resist both hot and cold water. Their lifespan is usually between 40-50 years, although they’re still being observed because their commercialization is still new.
Top Benefits Of Plumbing Maintenance Services
Hiring professional plumbers is the best way to guarantee a successful plumbing check-up, especially if you don’t want to call the plumber at the last minute in the worst-case scenario.
Now let’s see below why it’s so important to get routine plumbing inspections.
- Cost savings: The most important thing here is avoiding the worst…not just to avoid flooding at home, but also to avoid a painful bill to pay. Catching minor issues before they escalate can save hundreds, if not thousands, in repairs. Small leaks and clogs may go unnoticed but can cause extensive damage over time, leading to costly pipe replacements or even structural repairs.
- Better water quality: Pipes can accumulate rust, mineral deposits, and bacteria over time, and as you can guess, that ends up in your tap water. You surely don’t want to take a shower or brush your teeth with rusty water. Routine checks help spot these issues early, ensuring the water you drink and bathe in is as clean as possible.
- Energy efficiency: Did you know that leaks and mineral buildup can reduce the power of your water heater, making it work harder than it should? In short, your water heater could be using more energy than expected, increasing your power bills by a lot. By maintaining pipes and fittings, you can help your water heater run more efficiently, which lowers utility bills and reduces your carbon footprint.
- Increased property value: A well-maintained plumbing system is a big selling point, especially if you want to sell your home soon. Buyers are more likely to make an offer on properties with a proven history of regular maintenance, knowing they’ll face fewer unexpected repairs down the line.
- Peace of mind: Last but not least, you also get peace of mind with regular inspections because there’s no guessing whether a hidden leak is causing unseen damage or whether your pipes are in top shape for the coming season.
Proactive Measures: How Plumbing Maintenance Services Preserve Your Pipes
While proactive maintenance significantly reduces the likelihood of emergencies, unforeseen issues can still appear at any time. In that case, emergency plumbers are the best option to address immediate problems.
Nonetheless, relying solely on emergency services is a reactive approach that may result in more extensive damage and costly repairs.
In other words, we still encourage you to keep plumbing check-ups scheduled so you can forget about any emergencies when they can be avoided.
DIY vs. Professional Plumbing Maintenance: When To Call the Experts
Some homeowners may be tempted to undertake plumbing maintenance as a DIY project to cut costs.
While basic tasks like cleaning sink traps can be handled independently, a full maintenance routine requires the expertise of professional plumbers. That’s because they can offer you these benefits:
- Experience and knowledge regarding different types of plumbing systems and their issues.
- Specialized tools and equipment that allow them to conduct thorough inspections and address problems effectively.
- Professional plumbing services include different tasks, such as leak detection, pipe repairs, and pipe replacements.
Ready To Extend Your Pipe’s Life? Schedule Your Plumbing Check-Up Today
The lifespan of your pipes is tied to the level of care and attention they receive. Investing in routine plumbing maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your pipes but also saves you money, improves water quality, and offers peace of mind.
If you need help with your plumbing systems, contact us at Smith’s Plumbing today. Our team of professional plumbers is ready to help you with the best course of action for your pipes!
