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Your home can be ruined by a bad plumbing problem. The tips in this article will help give you the knowledge you need to start fixing your own plumbing problems.

If you are switching out an old water heater for a new one and you see a pipe connected to the drainage pipe, take the time to connect that pipe. This is probably the re-circulation pipe. It is handy for enabling the most efficient water usage.

The flapper is usually the cause of many toilet problems, so check there first. Flappers do deteriorate over periods of time, and the majority of toilet leaks start with flapper issues. Start by checking that your chain pressure is right, and if it is, you probably have to replace the flapper, since it could be worn.

plumbing contractors Pour baking soda and vinegar down your bathtub drain every month. Afterward, place a washcloth or towel over the top of the drain, to keep the chemical reactions contained. Flush it with boiling water after a few minutes. By following this tip, you should be able to clear all the soap scum, hair, and other grime out of your pipes.

Make sure you put insulation on pipes, and in small areas that get cold during the winter months. You can purchase insulation that will fit pipes from hardware shops. Insulating your pipes will keep your water hot, but even more than that, it will prevent bursting of pipes if they do freeze.

If you have clogged pipes, try cleaning them with an enzyme pipe cleaner. These cleaners have natural bacteria in them, which turn sludge into liquid form that can be easily removed from your pipes. Enzyme cleaners are considered one of the best the market has.

To lower the chance that you will have issues with your toilet, do not approach it like it's a trash can. Never flush paper towels, tissue, diapers, or tampons. These things do not break up correctly and can clog your pipes. Also, be conservative in your use of toilet paper.

If you want to look for floor damage around your toilet, just check the flooring for softness. Sit on the toilet and move from side to side, placing one foot on the ground. As you do, see if the floor lacks sturdiness or feels otherwise soft. You can save money if you notice the problem as soon as possible.

If you have a frozen pipe, turn on the nearest faucet so the water has an escape route when the pipe starts to thaw. This reduces pressure to keep the pipe from bursting, which could prevent a big mess in your home.

Insulate your exposed pipes well. These include those in attics, exterior walls and crawl spaces. You can purchase insulation to wrap perfectly around the pipe. Insulating your pipes will keep your water hot, but even more than that, it will prevent bursting of pipes if they do freeze.

Don't wait until the problem is here to educate yourself. Additionally, performing a bit of routine maintenance easily keeps problems from cropping up when you least expect them. Take the tips you've read here and implement them into your plumbing strategy, preparing you to keep your plumbing in great shape and deal with any problems as they arise.