10 Ways to Improve Your Plumbing System

Fit Pipe Insulation

One of the easiest ways that you can improve you’re plumbing system’s efficiency is to insulate your water pipes.

By doing this, you can significantly reduce heat loss, allowing you to lower your water heater temperature without affecting the water temperature at the tap.

Conversely, in colder temperatures, pipe insulation can help to keep your pipes from freezing and cracking from the expansion of ice. It might not stop standing water from freezing, but insulation will increase the time for freezing to occur.

This simple and relatively cheap trick can save you money on your energy bill, reduce water waste while waiting for hot water to reach distant taps and protect the pipework. At Logic4training, we make sure to insulate our pipework correctly and you can too!

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Check Your Water Pressure

Maintaining optimal water pressure is essential for protecting your plumbing and ensuring efficient appliance performance. In the UK, ideal household water pressure typically ranges between 2-3 bar, with a flow rate of 10-15 litres per minute considered sufficient for most modern fixtures.

Testing Methods

Pressure Gauge Test

For accurate readings, attach a water pressure gauge to an outdoor tap or washing machine valve. Turn off all water sources, secure the gauge, and fully open the tap. A reading below 1.5 bar indicates low pressure, while anything above 5 bar may risk pipe damage.

Litre Jug Flow Test

Place a measuring jug under any tap and time how long it takes to fill at full flow. Multiply the amount collected in 6 seconds by 10 – results under 10 litres per minute suggest low pressure that may need professional assessment.

Maintenance Tips

• Test your water pressure twice a year, especially after plumbing upgrades
• Install a pressure-reducing valve if readings exceed 4 bar
• Address sudden drops in pressure immediately, as they may indicate leaks or issues with the mains supply

Contact a qualified plumber if you notice:

• Weak shower flow despite clean filters
• Noisy pipes when taps are turned off
• Fluctuations between hot and cold water supplies

Regular monitoring helps prevent costly repairs and ensures your plumbing system operates efficiently alongside any home improvements.

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Don’t Overuse Chemical Drain Cleaners

Whilst there is a time and place for chemical drain cleaners, a lot of them are incredibly strong and limiting their use will benefit your pipes in the long run. If you use them frequently, your pipes are more likely to experience corrosion, which could lead to bigger, more costly repairs.

For showers, common blockages will be caused by hair and so whilst it’s not particularly pleasant, a simple solution is to remove the hair with something like a flexible drain sink cleaning brush or rod. Regularly carrying this out will prevent blockages and the need to use a chemical drain cleaner.

For a kitchen sink, whilst commonly overlooked, pouring half a cup of baking soda and half a cup of lemon juice down the drain and letting it sit for 15 minutes is a great alternative to harsh chemical drain cleaners. Yes, it isn’t as strong and so it might not live up to a chemical drain cleaner’s ability to unblock a sink. But if you regularly use chemical drain cleaners, it might be worth using baking soda and lemon juice until the strong stuff is actually needed.

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Fix Dripping Taps As Soon As You Notice Them

Whilst a dripping tap might not seem like a big issue, you could end up wasting a lot of water without realising it. The worst thing is that they’re relatively straightforward to fix!

Firstly, you will need to understand that a dripping tap is generally caused by a worn washer or O-ring in traditional taps or a damaged ceramic cartridge for monoblock lever taps. Therefore, it is important to distinguish which type of tap you have.

Type of taps

• Traditional taps – Generally turn on by turning the handle multiple times.
• Monoblock lever taps – Often just a single handle that lifts and rotates.

Tools needed to fix a dripping tap

• An adjustable spanner.
• Screwdrivers – it is best to have both a Flathead and a Phillips to hand, as your tap would generally be either one of these.
• A set of small Allen keys.
• The necessary replacement washer, o-ring or cartridge.

Steps to fixing the dripping tap

1. Turn off the incoming water supply to the taps or property

   Under the sink, you might be able to see an isolation valve that can be turned with a flathead screwdriver to stop any water from going to the tap. If you can’t find the isolation valve, you may need to turn off the incoming mains water. This can be done by turning the stopcock, which is usually found under your kitchen sink.

2. Plug in the sink drain

   This will stop any small parts from going down the drain.

3. Remove the tap handle

   Using a screwdriver or Allen key, carefully remove the screw holding the tap handle in place. On traditional taps it’s normally underneath the decorative hot/cold cap on top of the handles, while in a lever tap it’s often a tiny screw hidden under the hot and cold indicator.

4. Expose the valve or cartridge

   Now that you have the handle removed, you should be able to see the valve or cartridge. To be able to access the faulty component, with an adjustable wrench, you will need to unscrew the valve or cartridge in a counterclockwise direction. Hold the spout of the tap to stop it from spinning.

5. Replace the faulty part

   Lift out the stem and gently replace the faulty washer or o-ring. If you have both replacement parts, you may want to consider replacing both. For monoblock lever taps, you would replace the cartridge.

6. Reassemble & turn on the water supply

   With the new part(s) installed, reassemble the tap in the reverse of how you took it apart, making sure not to overtighten any of the components. Once the tap is securely reassembled, slowly turn on the water supply and check to see if you still have a drip.

If the tap is still dripping after replacing the faulty parts, you should contact a plumber to have them look at it. Alternatively, our Property Maintenance might be of interest to you. The courses cover basic plumbing, such as fixing dripping or leaky taps, basic electrics, general repairs, decorating, site safety, damp prevention and energy efficiency.

By learning these skills, you can not only save money on minor household repairs but also gain a better understanding of your home’s plumbing systems.

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Use a Water Softener If Necessary

If your home is in a hard water area, installing a water softener can significantly improve your plumbing system’s efficiency and protect your appliances. Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, which can lead to limescale buildup in pipes, fixtures, and appliances. This not only reduces water flow but also increases energy consumption, as appliances like boilers and water heaters must work harder to heat water.

Benefits of Water Softeners

• Prevents Limescale Build-Up: Softened water eliminates mineral deposits, extending the lifespan of plumbing systems and appliances.
• Improves Efficiency: A 1mm layer of limescale can increase energy consumption by up to 7%, costing households an extra £200 annually

By using a water softener, you can protect your plumbing system, save on energy bills, and enjoy softer water that’s kinder to your skin, hair, and appliances.

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Install A Water Filtration System

With the technology improving and prices decreasing, it is becoming increasingly more popular to install whole-home or partial-home water filtration systems in the UK.

Water filtration systems for homes remove impurities, pesticides and particulates from your water supply, improving taste, odour, and overall quality. They can also extend the life of your plumbing fixtures and appliances by reducing mineral buildup. These systems can range from compact under-the-sink devices to whole-house installations that treat water at the point of entry, using various methods such as activated carbon, reverse osmosis, or UV light to eliminate contaminants like chlorine, sediment, and harmful microorganisms.

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Fit A Smart Leak Detection System

Modern smart leak detection systems can alert you to potential problems before they become major issues. These smart devices work via a range of sensors that vary in complexity and can detect even small leaks, helping you save water and prevent costly damage to your home.

In-line smart leak detection systems can even automatically shut off your water supply if a significant leak is detected. With systems varying from £10 all the way up to over £1000, there is a wide range to suit different needs.

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Use Water-Efficient Appliances

Installing water-efficient appliances is an excellent way to reduce water consumption without sacrificing performance. These fixtures, including taps, showerheads, and toilets, can reduce water usage by up to 60% compared to traditional models. Look for products with the Unified Water Product Label to ensure you’re choosing the most efficient options.

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Fit A Dual Flush Toilet

Dual flush toilets offer two flushing options: a reduced flush for liquid waste and a full flush for solid waste. It is important to know that dual flush toilets can be more costly to initially fit, and they rely on the user knowing which button corresponds to which flush type and utilising them appropriately. However, this feature will allow you to use only 3 litres of water instead of 6 and create a drastic saving of water over time.

When choosing a dual-flush toilet, look for models with the best Unified Water Product Label rating to maximise the water savings.

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Install A Rainwater Harvesting System

While this may not be for everyone, as it can be time consuming and expensive but installing a rainwater harvesting system can lead to a significant reduction in mains water consumption.

Rainwater harvesting systems are designed to collect rainwater for non-potable uses like garden irrigation and toilet flushing, which can significantly reduce your mains water consumption. A basic system can be as simple as a water butt (outdoor storage unit) connected to your roof gutter’s downpipe, while more advanced systems can supply water throughout your home.

As there are many options when it comes to rainwater harvesting systems, it’s best to think about how you will use the non-potable water. From here, you can decide on how extensive you want the system to be.

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By implementing even just a couple of these suggestions, you can significantly improve your home’s efficiency, reduce your utility bills, and contribute to water conservation efforts. Remember to consult with a qualified plumber before undertaking any major plumbing projects to ensure they’re carried out safely and effectively.

FAQs

How much water can I save by installing low-flow fixtures?

Low-flow fixtures can reduce water usage by up to 60% compared to traditional models. For example, a low-flow showerhead can save up to 160 litres of water during a 10-minute shower.

Are tankless water heaters suitable for all homes?

While tankless water heaters can be highly efficient, they may not be ideal for homes with very high hot water demand. Consult with a plumbing professional to determine if a tankless system is right for your home.

How often should I have my plumbing system inspected?

It’s recommended to have a professional plumbing inspection at least once a year. This can help identify potential issues before they become major problems and ensure your system is operating efficiently.

Can I install a greywater system in an existing home?

Yes, it’s possible to retrofit a greywater system in an existing home, but it may be more complex and costly than installing one in a new build. Consult with a specialist to determine the best approach for your property.

How do I know if my home’s water pressure is too high?

High water pressure can damage pipes and fixtures over time. If you notice banging pipes, leaky faucets, or running toilets, you may have high water pressure. A plumber can measure your water pressure and install a pressure-reducing valve if necessary.