How much are you spending on plumbing services? Did you know plumbing services can cost more than bringing out an electrician? Plumbers typically charge an hourly rate, then there are the costs associated with labor and supplies.
Pretty soon, the service call can be in the hundreds or even thousands of dollars. While there will be times when you need to call a plumber Greenly, CO to resolve the problem. You can also take some steps to help save on your overall plumbing costs.
Ask For Trenchless Pipe Repairs
No one enjoys watching their yard be dug up unless the end result is a swimming pool. Unfortunately, this isn’t usually what happens when plumbers are using a backhoe in your yard. When plumbers start digging trenches, you’re usually dealing with a clogged or broken pipe.
If you’re wondering if this is expensive, the answer is yes. Just paying for the backhoe to dig up your property is a hefty expense and the repairs haven’t even started. Before the plumbers start digging, ask about a trenchless pipe repair.
Trenchless pipe repairs require less digging which means your yard hasn’t turned into a complete disaster. Repairs also tend to go more quickly which means you’re saving money on labor costs.
Consider Using Floor Drains
This tip is more for commercial plumbing customers. If your home has a shower, you have a floor drain and you’re probably not going to need one by your toilet. However, it’s a little different in commercial spaces where multiple individuals are using the same restroom.
A floor drain is precisely what its name implies; the drain is located on the floor. If the toilet or sink overflows, the excess water runs easily down the drain, instead of pooling on the floor. Standing water can be a safety hazard and it can also cause additional damage. Best of all, installing a floor drain is an inexpensive procedure that can end up saving you money on plumbing and repair costs.
Replace Outdated Fixtures
You may not care if your plumbing fixtures meet current home décor standards. Chances are, your primary concern is whether or not the fixtures work. Even a slight leak may not bother you, as long as you still get hot and cold water.
However, there are a few reasons why it makes sense to replace your outdated fixtures. Newer ones are more efficient so you can see significant savings on your water bills. Replacing things like handles and washers can also extend the life of your fixtures, reducing the need for expensive plumbing repairs.
You may even want to think about going touchless. A touchless faucet can reduce the spread of germs, minimize the need for repairs, and help you conserve water.
Go Eco-Friendly With Minor Repairs
Okay, what’s the first thing you think of doing when you have a clogged drain? Your answer is probably either calling a plumber or reaching for a bottle of drain cleaner. Some clogs can only be removed by a professional plumber, which usually applies when the clog is further down in the pipe.
Drain cleaner can be effective at removing small clogs but this solution has risks. The chemicals in drain cleaners are caustic and can damage your pipes with repeated use, and the chemicals are also hazardous to the environment.
Even though you should skip traditional store-bought drain cleaners, this doesn’t mean your only option is to call a plumber. You can unclog your drain using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. These common household items are cheaper than drain cleaners and won’t harm your pipes or the environment.
Consider Installing a Backflow Assembly
If you’re on a septic system, backflow can be a constant worry. Backflow typically occurs when a clog, usually in your potable water line, causes a sudden drop in water pressure, which can result in water backing up in other parts of the house.
You can take steps to avoid this issue, and the resulting mess, by installing a backflow assembly. The assembly works to prevent issues with backflow caused by drops in water pressure. Another benefit of installing the assembly has to do with safety. Having backflow spilling onto your floors can create a health hazard. Not to mention, it takes time and effort to clean up the mess.
Hopefully, these tips can help you save money on your plumbing costs. However, there will be times when you need a professional to repair your plumbing issues. Remember to ask for trenchless repairs if your underground pipes are the problem and ask about any additional steps you can take to help protect your home’s plumbing system.