Plumbing Tips That Will Help You Save Money

Keep Your Home’s Plumbing System Running Like New

There are a few things regarding plumbing that every Bluffton, SC homeowner should be aware of. Regardless of how long you’ve lived in your home or how recently it was purchased, it’s never too late to learn about the plumbing system in your home. With a little care and attention, you can prevent common plumbing problems, like burst water pipes or clogged drains. If your plumbing system is neglected, small issues can lead to costly repairs that wreak havoc on your property.

The best course of action is to less essential preventative maintenance skills to keep your plumbing in excellent condition, save on your water bill and avoid costly damages and repairs. R.S. Andrews is here to help you make the most of your plumbing with tips that keep more money in your pocket. 

Watch Out For Potential Leaks

The first step in reducing your plumbing costs is to check for leaks in your house. Unchecked, they can cause substantial water damage and negatively affect the plumbing system. Leaks can cause mold growth in your home that may lower indoor air quality, cause paint to peel and damage wood and carpet. Leaks are a surefire sign that a pipe needs to be repaired or, more likely, replaced. The leak should be tended to as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Most leaks happen on or near fittings like showerheads, faucets and toilets. You should regularly examine these areas for any signs of leaking water and replace any component that leaks continuously. It’s important to also inspect areas that can be easily overlooked, like basements, beneath sinks, cabinets and laundry rooms. 

Catching a leak early may give you time to reseal or tighten the pipe. If the leak is severe and beyond home repair, always call a professional to get the issue fixed swiftly and safely. For fast service, give us a call at 843-706-5090 !

Install A New Water Heater

On average, water heaters last about ten years, after which most homeowners opt to invest in a long-term solution by replacing the outdated hot water tank. Newer models are more energy efficient and run a lower risk of needing obsolete parts for repair. 

When you need a new unit, R.S. Andrews will help you find the water heater that meets the needs of your home so you never have to worry about cold showers or high water bills. On-demand or tankless water heaters may be a good fit for your home if you’re looking to save on annual utility bills. We’ll help you understand your options and find the right match for you and your family. 

Always Clean Your Drain

Most homeowners don’t regularly clean their drains and wait until the water drains slowly or not at all to take action. At this point, the pipe is so clogged that it will have to be disconnected and cleaned manually. However, a preventative maintenance plan for all of your home's drains will help you avoid this problem. All you need are a few materials that you probably already have at home. 

Baking soda and vinegar make for a simple but powerful cleaning solution that will work through your drains and clear blockages. Start by pouring one cup of baking soda into the drain opening, followed by about a cup of vinegar. The fizzing solution is a great, cheap way to keep your drains clean and clear. 

Use A Low-Flow Showerhead

Although most showerheads get the job done, they often waste a significant amount of water. To save water and money, consider switching out your standard showerhead for one designed to produce a low flow. These models may reduce water usage by as much as 40%! This not only helps you save on water costs but makes a positive contribution toward green initiatives.

There is a common misconception that low-flow showerheads may not provide the same shower experience as other models and styles. While it’s true that earlier versions had a lower pressure, current versions are comparable to traditional showerheads in both pressure and overall performance. Today’s low-flow showerheads combine tiny apertures and air mixing for higher pressure and a more enjoyable shower.

Replace Outdated Faucets

Faucets are important not only to your sink’s aesthetic, but its functionality. They’re an important component in altering the rate of water flow, which could be hurting your water bill. Outdated faucets could be costing you money by running excess water and inadequately controlling the flow rate. Consider replacing your home’s faucets with newer, eco-friendly designs that assist in cutting water flow by up to 30%!

Schedule Plumbing Inspections

Unless you're a licensed plumber, it's always a good idea to have the number of a reputable local plumber in your phone book. Fixing a plumbing issue on your own could lead to even bigger repairs and the risk of personal injury.

Scheduling routine plumbing inspections can avoid future problems and ensure your systems continue to function as they should for years to come. Having a plumber examine your home’s systems is the best way to be sure there are no hidden problems on the brink of becoming a huge headache to deal with. At R.S. Andrews, our plumbers will make recommendations for repairs and work with you to plan a preventative maintenance approach that meets your needs.

Your Trusted Plumbing Experts in Bluffton, SC

We’re here for all your plumbing needs, wherever you are! We serve Bluffton, Beaufort, Hilton Head Island, Savannah, Pooler and surrounding South Carolina areas. Whether you need installation, replacement, repair or maintenance, we’ve got you covered. Give us a call at 843-706-5090 to schedule service!