These helpful hints should help keep the plumbing in your bathroom running efficiently:

• Once a week run hot water down the drain in the shower and sink to help keep them free-flowing.

• Repair leaky faucets to avoid further damage to the fixtures and faucets.

• Tubs and showers should be fitted with strainers that catch hair and soap chips. Clean the strainers regularly.

• To remove unsightly mineral deposits on your shower head, put one cup of vinegar in a plastic bag and place it over the shower head.
  • Hold it in place with a twist tie and let it soak overnight.
  • In the morning, remove the bag and wipe off the mineral deposits with a damp cloth.

• Do not use your toilet as a wastebasket. Do not flush facial tissue, sanitary products or diapers as they do not dissolve and can clog the lines.

Test your toilet for leaks:

Check the water level in the tank to be sure that water isn’t overflowing by way of the overflow pipe. (The pipe in the middle of the tank with small piece of tubing connected to it).

• If water is running into the overflow pipe, adjust the fill valve until the water stops approximately one inch below the top of the overflow tube (there may be a water level mark stamped on the side of the tank)
• Test the flush valve mechanism by putting  a few drops of food coloring into the tank.
• Check the bowl after 15 minutes. If the water has changed color, the ball or flapper is leaking and needs to be replaced.
  • This can save you hundred of gallons of water or dollars per year!

Showerhead Maintenance:

Showerheads develop uneven spray when the holes become clogged with mineral deposits. Regular cleaning will improve flow and extend the life of your showerhead.

• Unscrew the swivel ball nut. You’ll need an adjustable wrench of channel-type pliers. (Protect your finish by wrapping the jaws of the tool with masking tape.)
• Unscrew the collar nut from the shower head.
• Gently clean the outlet and inlet holes using a thin wire.
• Flush the head with clean water.