Many appliances in your home, such as washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators, rely on water systems. Garbage disposal units and water heaters also require a consistent supply of water to function properly. If these appliances malfunction, they can damage the water systems. Here’s how a plumbing company can help you if your appliances are impacting your home’s water system:
Impact of Appliances on Water Systems
Dishwashers, washing machines, and water dispensers can develop cracks, causing high energy bills, mould growth, and water damage. Malfunctioning appliances cause backflow contamination and increased water consumption, necessitating help from a plumbing company. Appliances can also affect water systems in the following ways:
Water Pressure Problems
Your home’s water systems operate at a specific pressure and flow rate regardless of the water demand. If you run several appliances at the same time, the pressure and flow of water go down. An example is when you run the dishwasher and washing machine while in the shower, the pressure of water in the shower lowers.
Drainage Problems
If the dishwasher doesn’t properly rinse the dishes, food particles enter the drainage systems and cause blockages. Blockages also occur when oil and grease from a dishwasher enter the pipes. If the lint trap of your washing machine malfunctions, lint from clothing enters the drainage system and causes clogging. Washing machines release detergent residue and soap scum that combine with other items in the pipes to cause clogging. Other things from washing machines that can cause clogging include hair and small items like coins or buttons.
Sediment Buildup
Hard water causes sediments to build up on the hoses and filters of washing machines, while minerals in hard water affect the internal components of dishwashers. This will cause the dishwasher to perform poorly and slow water flow in the washing machine. Sediment also damages the filters and water lines of refrigerators with ice makers and water dispensers. This causes discoloration of the ice and affects the taste of the water in the dispenser.
How Plumbing Companies Will Help
A plumber will diagnose and repair problems in appliances that cause water leaks. If an appliance can’t be repaired, the plumber replaces it with a new one. Here are other ways plumbers can solve water system problems caused by appliances:
Water Pressure Regulation
Plumbers install pressure-reducing valves and pressure gauges to control the pressure of water from and into appliances. If the appliances damage valves in the water systems, plumbers identify these valves and replace them. If the water pressure is too low, plumbers can clean fixtures, install pressure-boosting devices, and drain waterlogged air chambers.
Drain Cleaning
When food particles from the dishwasher cause blockages, plumbers use enzymatic cleaners to get rid of the organic particles. Plumbers also use chemical cleaners to remove grease that may have accumulated in the water systems. When the plumber can’t pinpoint the cause of drain blockage, they use video cameras to determine the location and type of clogs. They can then use techniques such as hydro jetting or mechanical augers to break up and remove particles that have accumulated in the pipes.
Backflow Prevention
Backflow from some appliances can contaminate water and cause problems throughout the plumbing system. A plumber instals an air gap to separate the appliance from the water supply outlet. Plumbers also use pressure vacuum breakers or atmospheric vacuum breakers to reduce the risk of backflow contamination from appliances.
Regular Maintenance
Many manufacturers recommend regular maintenance and inspection to provide optimum functionality. Plumbers routinely check the temperature setting of appliances such as laundry machines and dishwashers and adjust them accordingly. If the dishwasher or washing machine has screens or filters, plumbers will remove the filters and clean them. The plumber also checks the drainage system to determine whether there is debris from appliances. As the appliances become older, the plumber checks for signs of corrosion, wear, and tear. If they notice a worn-out part, they replace them immediately. To prevent leaks from appliances, plumbers check and repair gaskets and seals of washing machines and dishwashers.
Work With a Reputable Plumbing Company
Proper flow of quality water in a home is necessary for various chores such as showering and dishwashing. If you have old or broken appliances in your home, they can damage or reduce the efficiency of your water systems. When this happens, contact a plumbing company to help you quickly and efficiently solve the issue.
