Are you preparing for your annual spring clean? Don’t leave your plumbing behind this spring – a little maintenance goes a long way!
Here are the spring clean plumbing tips you don’t want to miss out:
- Faucets
Calcium build-up/limescale deposits from your faucets can damage the rubber washers that seal the fixtures – creating leaks.
First, clean the outside of the faucet by wiping it then soaking a rag in white vinegar. Wrap the rag around the problem areas and secure them with elastic bands – let them sit for at least an hour. Wipe the faucet clean with a wet sponge or cloth.
Then, clean the inside by filling a sandwich bag with white vinegar and secure it to the end of the faucet with an elastic band. (Faucet should be fully submerged so as much vinegar is inside as possible). Leave this to soak for at least an hour and then wipe clean – allow the inside to dry before running the water.
- Shower Head
Clean mineral deposits from your shower heads as it leads to reduced water flow. Start by filling a plastic bag with white vinegar (or a natural cleaner). Secure the bag over the shower head and leave it to soak for at least an hour. Remove the bag and scrub the shower head with an old toothbrush to ensure deposits are removed.
- Toilet
Did you know? There is a correct way to flush a toilet! If your toilet requires you to hold down the handle in order to flush – your tank parts may be worn. If you have to jiggle the handle to stop the water from running, it is time to replace or repair broken parts in your toilet bowl. Quick fixes are possible to do yourself, but if there is a larger problem call a plumber.
Spring is also a perfect time to check your toilet for hidden leaks! Add 6 drops of food colouring to your tank, if colour appears in the bowl within half an hour there is a hidden leak.
- Drains
Treat your drains to a DIY natural drain cleaner this Spring! Mix 1 cup of vinegar and 1 cup of baking soda. First, pour boiling water down the drain to loosen any blockages. Wait 15 minutes, and then pour the mixture down the drain, letting it sit for a further 15 minutes. Finally, rinse the drain with more boiling water. Even if the drain isn’t blocked this will help you to avoid a clog in the future.
- Garbage Disposal
To clean your garbage disposal first ensure it is switched off. Put 6 ice cubes in the chamber followed by 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 3 thin lemon slices, and 2 tablespoons of bleach. Top it off by adding 6 more ice cubes. Ice helps to break up any food stuck in the disposal while the other ingredients kill germs and leave a fresh smell. Turn on the disposal without water until you hear the grinding stop, then with the motor still running flush with cold water for 30 seconds.
Adding these plumbing tips to your spring cleaning checklist will freshen your plumbing up – ready for a new year!
