Laundry Room Plumbing Tips
Our washer and dryer help keep clothing and linens clean for us, but there are ways we can help keep their pipes clean and clear so that they keep working as long as possible without repairs. Here are tips to increase the lifespan of your washer, dryer and utility sink.
CHEMICALS THAT COULD HARM YOUR WASHING MACHINE DRAINS
Your washing machine drains are a pretty important part of your home's ecosystem, especially if your washing machine is connected to a septic tank or greywater system. Here are some common chemicals that could cause problems within your septic system and laundry room plumbing if you put them in your washing machine:
CAUSTIC CHEMICALS
The phrase ""caustic chemicals"" is a grab bag that could mean anything, but in general it refers to things that you wouldn't normally put in your washing machine anyway. The use of certain chemicals such as Benzaldehyde, Diethanolamine, and Chlorine could damage both the pipes and the machine itself.
In addition, some detergents contain phosphates or nonylphenol ethoxylate surfactants, which may contaminate the groundwater around your septic tank and be generally bad for the environment.
COMMERCIAL CLOG REMOVER
Don't use this kind of chemical on your washing machine drains. Not only could it do damage to your unit if it flows back up the pipe, it could also destroy your clothes. If you are experiencing a drainage issue with your washing machine, try to fix it via other means, like installing a drain vent or replacing the drain hose. Make sure your drain hose is free from knots, twists, and turns. If you hose has been damaged or kinked in anyway consider replacing it to prevent future issues.
EXCESSIVE QUANTITIES OF POWDERED DETERGENT
In general, powdered laundry detergent isn't a glaring problem by itself. However, in large quantities, powdered detergent can cause clogs due to clumping. The solution is either use less of the powdered stuff or switch to a liquid.
EXCESSIVE QUANTITIES OF BLEACH
In small amounts, household cleaners like bleach and other harsh substances don't pose an immediate threat to your household sewage treatment system. However, in greater amounts, these chemicals can corrode your pipes and cause harm to the septic tank.
4 TIPS FOR MAINTAINING YOUR LAUNDRY-ROOM PLUMBING
The name of the game when it comes to chemicals in your washing machine is moderation. Don't use excessive amounts of powdered detergent, clog remover or bleach in your system. However, if you think you have any issues with your septic tank or washing machine drains due to the use of caustic chemicals, call your Roto-Rooter local plumber for an assessment.
REPLACE THE SUMP PUMP
If you notice frequent but small leaks in your laundry room, especially if they're below the ground floor, it may be a sump pump-related issue. This device is designed to pump water out of the basement and into your home's main discharge line. If the sump pump is not functioning properly, this water will make its way into your basement and can cause major flooding. Sump pumps are only designed to last about three to five years, and can potentially sustain cracks. Your best bet is to call a professional to check it out.
CLEAR BLOCKED DRAIN LINES
In terms of washing machines, flooding is one of the most common plumbing-related issues you're likely to come across. You can thank all that lint, hair, sand and other debris that caused a backup. You may be able to handle this issue on your own by cleaning out the drain, but to ensure there is no further damage, it's best to contact a professional.
USE DRAIN STOPPERS OR STRAINERS
Consider rinsing out all of the bathing suits and towels in the utility sink prior to putting them in the washing machine. Before you do this, purchase a stopper or strainer to cover the drain, so hair and other debris doesn't accumulate throughout your pipes and slow your system. Since sand is rather fine, particles may escape through the strainer and into the drain, so be sure to shake the suits out before tossing them into the washing machine.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE CHECKUP
Even if your appliances seem to be working perfectly fine, there are certain problems that can only be diagnosed by a trained plumber. To keep those machines running smoothly and thoroughly, schedule regular maintenance checkups with your local Roto-Rotor professional.