Water Saving Devices

A range of water-saving regulations went into effect in 2011. This law requires that toilets use no more than 1.28 gallons of water per flush. Flushing twice is occasionally necessary. Even though you flush twice on occasion, rest assured that overall, you are saving water. Hold the lever down for 3 seconds to ensure the full release of water. Not doing so can result in blockages and overflowing toilets.

Flow restrictors are manufactured into most faucets and all showerheads and may not be removable. In compliance with the law, showerheads use only 1.75 gallons of water per minute or less.

Aerators

Even though your plumbing lines have been flushed to remove dirt and foreign matter, small amounts of minerals may enter the line from the city water pipes. Aerators on the faucets strain much of this from your water. Occasional cleaning of the aerators on your faucets (normally every three to four months) will restore the proper flow of water.

Cleaning Fixtures

Follow manufacturer’s directions for cleaning fixtures. Avoid abrasive cleaners or strong chemicals, especially those using lye or bleach.

Toilets

Your toilet is meant to dispose of human waste and normal amounts of toilet paper only.  The main causes of toilet clogs are domestic items such as disposable diapers, paper towels, rags, sanitary supplies, q-tips, dental floss, combs and children’s toys. You can usually clear clogged toilets with a plunger, or if worse with a plumber’s assistance.

If your home required a sewage pump for plumbing fixtures located below the main sewer line, special attention should be taken not to flush thick quilted toilet paper, paper towels, female products, disposable diaper wipes, matches or other items that could obstruct the pump.  Your home has an alarm attached to the sewage ejector pump, which will sound if the pump is not working and the holding tank is full. If the alarm sounds, verify that the sewage ejector pump has power before contacting a plumber. Never use the plumbing while the power is out or the pump is not working.

Garbage Disposals

Garbage disposals are designed to get rid of a limited amount of soft organic matter washed from dishes and cooking utensils. Never put paper, bone, woody matter, meat or grease down the disposal.  Most organic matter should be composted. Use frequently to avoid clogs and always use plenty of cold water when running the disposal. Allow the water to run 10-15 seconds after shutting off the disposal. Improper use of the garbage disposal is a major cause of plumbing blockages.

Extended Absence

If you plan to be away for an extended period, always maintain the heat in your home above 65 degrees to prevent damage.  It may also be necessary to run water in all sinks, tubs, showers and flush toilets to stop the back flow of sewer gases due to evaporation of water in plumbing traps.

If you have basement plumbing, run water and flush toilets on a regular basis to keep the backflow valve in operational order. If your home is vacant for a prolonged period of time, have someone attend to this maintenance.

Freezing Pipes

In unusually frigid weather, open cabinet doors at sinks, to allow warm air to circulate around pipes. Never use an open flame to thaw a frozen pipe.

Leaks

If a major plumbing leak occurs, the first step is to turn off the supply of water to the area involved. As a precaution, shut off the main water supply, then contact a plumber.

Low Pressure

Occasional cleaning of the aerators on your faucets (normally every three to four months) will allow for the proper flow of water. Also, your home may be equipped with pressure reduction valves. Although the water department controls the overall water pressure, it is typically reduced below 90 PSI with a pressure regulator.

Outside Faucets

Outside faucets are frost-free hose bib mechanisms, but in order for this feature to be effective, you must remove hoses during cold weather, even if the faucet is located in your garage. If a hose is left attached, the water that remains in the hose can freeze and expand back into the pipe, causing a break in the line. Repair of a broken or frozen line that feeds an exterior faucet is a maintenance item. In unusually frigid weather or if you will be gone for an extended period over the winter months, you should install insulated hose bib covers as a preventative measure. If the hose bib is located on an unheated wall, turn the water supply off at the shut off, usually located in the garage.

Running Toilet

Use a licensed plumber for plumbing repairs.

Shut-Offs

Your main water shut off is usually located in your garage, ground floor closet, or in the basement storage closet. You use this shut-off for major water emergencies. Each toilet and sinks also have water shut off valves.

Stainless Steel

Clean stainless steel sinks with soap and water to preserve their luster. Avoid abrasive cleaners as these will damage the finish. An occasional cleaning with good stainless steel cleaner (widely available in grocery and hardware stores) will enhance the finish.

Appliance Supply Lines

For frequency of supply line replacement; please refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations and the requirements of your homeowner’s insurance coverage.

Toilet Tank Care

Avoid exposing the toilet to sharp blows or heavy objects, which can cause chipping or cracking. Avoid abnormal pressures against the sides of the tank as this could crack the tank at the points where it is attached to the bowl. Do not use drop-in toilet bowl cleaners in the tank because the chemicals can damage the plumbing fixtures.