Keeping up with your home’s plumbing system isn’t just about avoiding major repairs. It’s also about protecting your water quality, conserving resources, and making sure everything works as it should. In Bridgeport, where seasonal changes can be tough on pipes, staying ahead of issues with routine maintenance can save you time, money, and stress. At Midstate Plumbing & Air , we’ve put together these practical plumbing maintenance tips to help you take better care of your home.
Annual Plumbing Inspections: Catch Problems Early
A yearly plumbing inspection is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious damage. During an inspection, we take a close look at your sinks, pipes, outdoor fixtures, and other components to check for signs of corrosion, condensation, or wear. Identifying issues like a pinhole leak or a loose fitting can prevent costly repairs and water damage in the future.
Backflow Testing: Protect Your Water Supply
A backflow prevention device protects your home’s drinking water by stopping contaminated water from flowing backward into the clean water supply. This type of reversal, called backflow, can occur when there’s a sudden drop in pressure in the municipal water system. This is often due to a sewer system issue, nearby hydrant use, or a break in the main water line. Without a working backflow preventer, your home’s plumbing could pull in wastewater.
If your home has an irrigation or sprinkler system, it likely has a dedicated backflow preventer installed where the system connects to your plumbing. This device is separate from any backflow protection on the home’s main water line.
Your backflow devices should be tested by a professional regularly. If the device’s certification is no longer valid or it has been several years since the last test, it’s time to schedule service. Our plumbers will check each device to ensure it’s operating correctly and make any necessary repairs or replacements, giving you peace of mind that your water supply remains clean and safe.
How to Care for Your Drains
If you have several slow drains in your home, it may be a sign of a deeper blockage in your plumbing system, not just a single clogged pipe. Over time, buildup from soap, grease, hair, and debris can collect inside your drain lines, narrowing the passage and making it easier for clogs to form. In some cases, tree roots can even invade underground pipes, leading to recurring drainage issues.
Many homeowners reach for store-bought chemical drain cleaners to solve the problem. However, they do not address the underlying issue and can corrode your pipes, leading to long-term damage. To maintain your plumbing, the best course of action is to contact us for professional drain cleaning.
We use specialized tools and techniques like hydro-jetting to clear clogs and remove buildup throughout your plumbing system. This not only restores proper drainage but can also help prevent backups and water damage.
We also recommend installing and regularly cleaning drain screens in sinks, tubs, and showers. These simple barriers catch hair, food scraps, and other debris before they enter your pipes, helping to prevent everyday clogs.
Water Heater Maintenance Tips
Hot water is essential for bathing, cleaning, and washing dishes, but your water heater needs regular care to stay reliable. Most tank-style units last about 10 to 15 years, and routine flushing helps remove the sediment that can shorten their lifespan.
During a maintenance visit, we flush the tank and check components like the anode rod, which prevents rust inside the unit. We also verify that the thermostat works correctly and is set to a safe, efficient temperature, ideally between 120°F and 140°F. A well-maintained water heater is more reliable and reduces your monthly utility bills.
Plumbing Insulation: Protect Pipes and Save Energy
Adding insulation to exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like crawl spaces or garages, helps prevent freezing in winter and heat loss year-round. Wrapping your hot water heater in an insulating blanket can also reduce standby heat loss. Our team can assess which parts of your system would benefit most and recommend the right type of insulation.
Contact Your Local Plumbing Experts
Whether you’re dealing with leaks, slow drains, low water pressure, or just want to stay ahead of problems, Midstate Plumbing & Air is here to help. We offer professional plumbing services including inspections, maintenance, and repairs throughout Bridgeport and the surrounding area.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced plumbers.
