Outdoor Plumbing Maintenance Tips

Dealing with outside plumbing can be a challenge, especially if you have a large area to maintain. Outdoor plumbing systems can include everything from faucets to drains, septic tanks, sewer lines and more. It's important to keep a vigilant eye on your outdoor plumbing maintenance because inclement weather can cause damage to your system without your knowledge. Check out the following outdoor plumbing tips to help you keep your system in tip-top shape.

Outdoor Faucet Tips

• Check all faucets and hose bibs to make sure water flows freely. If an outdoor faucet is barely dripping or if there is leakage the first time the hose is turned on, a pipe may have cracked and needs to be repaired.

• It's important to winterize outdoor faucets and pipes to prevent them from freezing. Frozen pipes can expand and crack.

• If the water pressure on your outdoor faucet is inconsistent (e.g., fine one day and not great the next), there could be debris blocking the opening. There are several potential culprits, including the washer, the spigot, the inside valve, the aerator, or the inside of the faucet spout.

If you need help with any sort of outdoor faucet repair or maintenance, Roto-Rooter can help. Call 1-800-768-6911 or book an appointment online.

Clogged Outdoor Drain Tips

• Ensure yard drains, gutters and downspouts are free of leaves and debris.

• Remove leaves and debris from window wells.

• Check for birds' nests that may have been built in plumbing vent pipes, like the ones from the dryer to the outside.

• A twice-a-year application of Roto-Rooter® Root Destroyer can retard the growth of roots in your drain line. Simply pour the recommended dosage into your toilet bowl and flush the product into the line.

For those who don't feel confident in diagnosing and fixing a clogged drain – or those who simply don't have time! – call Roto-Rooter's drain cleaning service at 1-800-768-6911.

Septic System Tips

• Septic tanks should be inspected and pumped every three to five years to help prevent costly replacement of the filter field. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, replacing or repairing a malfunctioning system can cost $3,000-$7,000!

• Add Roto-Rooter® Septic & Cesspool Treatment to your septic system every four to six months to maintain a healthy, free-flowing system.

• Maintain a detailed record of all septic system maintenance visits, as well as repairs, permits, pumpings and inspections. Also keep a sketch of your septic system's location and any other pertinent information with your file.