The start of a new year is the perfect time to make significant improvements to your home’s systems. When it comes to your plumbing, you can kick things off with a clean garbage disposal, a leak-free faucet, or a new high-efficiency showerhead. To help you get started, the pros at Sal Manzo Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Inc. have suggested some essential plumbing resolutions to keep your home running smoothly all year long.

Resolution 1: Stop the Leaks

The EPA estimates that the average household loses 10,000 gallons of water every year to simple leaks. Make this the year you put a stop to water waste. Check these common culprits:

• The Toilet Flapper: If your toilet runs constantly, it’s likely a worn-out flapper. This simple rubber seal is easy to replace and prevents hundreds of gallons from leaking into the bowl.
• The Showerhead: A dripping showerhead is often just a loose connection. Tighten it to the stem and use Teflon tape for an extra-secure, leak-proof seal.
• Leaky Faucets: Usually caused by a deteriorated washer, O-ring, or gasket. Replacing these small internal components can save you significant money on your monthly water bill.

Resolution 2: Refresh the Garbage Disposal

Give your disposal a fresh start by cleaning it with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then flush it with cold running water. To keep it working efficiently throughout the year, resolve to keep grease, large animal bones, coffee grounds, and eggshells out of the sink entirely.

Resolution 3: Practice Drain Discipline

Prevent clogs before they happen by being mindful of what goes down your drains. Avoid flushing “”flushable”” wipes, as they do not break down like toilet paper and are a leading cause of major sewer backups. For minor clogs, keep a plunger and a drain snake handy to avoid the use of harsh, corrosive chemicals.

Conclusion

Small changes in your plumbing habits can lead to big savings and fewer emergency repairs. By tackling these resolutions, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your home’s infrastructure is protected. If you run into a problem that a plunger can’t solve, our team of experts is only a phone call away.