More Ways to Pet-Proof Your Plumbing

More Ways to Pet-Proof Your Plumbing

Are you worried that your pet’s antics are causing plumbing problems in your home? You’re not alone. Fortunately, there are easy ways to make sure these issues don’t occur. In this blog, you’ll find simple but effective solutions to pet-proof your plumbing. So, read on for more ways to protect your plumbing and your wallet!

Install Pet-friendly Faucets

Installing pet-friendly faucets is an easy way to protect your plumbing from potential hazards caused by furry family members. While it may look like any other standard faucet, pet-friendly faucets have been designed and engineered with durability to withstand wear and tear that can be caused by even the most playful of pets! The traditional aerator has been replaced with a stainless steel screen designed to not only filter out any sediment or deposits, but also prevent your pet from accidentally clogging the spout with their paws.

Several different models are available that accommodate different styles, sizes, finishes and designs so you will be sure to find one that fits your home and decor. Not only does this type of faucet offer protection for your plumbing, but it can also provide convenience for you if you have a large or elderly pet who needs easier access to their water. Having a pet-proof faucet will help make all aspects of life easier for you, your family and all four-legged members included!

Secure Loose Pipes

Some common causes of plumbing damage in the home are large and small animals that run around activating pipes, scratching at walls and chewing through pipes. This kind of damage can be especially hard to fix as it is often hidden away from view.

Secure loose pipes under sinks and floor joists with cable ties or metal clamps to keep them from shifting over time. This will prevent accidental stress on your piping system, as well as prevent pet access to unsealed connections or exposed areas where chewing could occur. If the pipe is missing a section, replace it immediately with new rubber couplings, clamps and plastic tubing so that you can re-establish a safe connection between your drainpipes, toilets and other plumbing components.

It’s also important to check that there is no sign of chewing or gnawing along any exposed pipe sections. Anywhere chewed or torn should be treated with plumber’s putty or an epoxy solution which are both available at most hardware stores. The putty will fill any cracks keeping access points air-tight while the epoxy provides an extra protection layer against potential water leakage through a damaged area.

Use Strainers in Drains

When dealing with pet hair, one of the most important steps you can take to pet-proof your plumbing is to use strainers in drains. You can easily find plastic strainers at your local hardware store and they are an invaluable tool in combating clogs caused by animal fur.

Simply place the strainer into a drainpipe or the hole of a sink and carefully remove it when necessary. This will catch any rogue strands of fur before they make their way deep into the plumbing system and cause more trouble down the road. Make sure to check your strainers regularly for clogs and replace them if needed.

Install Toilet Lid Locks

To protect curious kids and pets, consider installing toilet lid locks to keep the contents of your tank sealed off. Toilet lid locks can be purchased in a variety of sizes and styles and are installed along the sides of the toilet lid with two screws. This locks the hinge in place, leaving no space for children or furry family members to lift it up.

Be sure to use extra caution when installing these locks as not to over-tighten and crack the porcelain. If you have an unnoticed plumbing issue due to a pet’s curiosity, contact your local plumber for help.

Consider a Water Fountains for Pets

One of the best ways to ensure that pets stay hydrated while preventing water damage to your plumbing system is through the use of a pet water fountain. A pet water fountain can be easily installed in any bathroom, kitchen or other area where your pet might need access to fresh water.

Generally, these fountains are integrated with an adjustable valve, which allows you to control the amount of water that is dispensed. This helps limit accidental flooding and other plumbing problems caused by an overzealous animal drinker.

In addition, many models also come with built-in filtration systems that remove impurities from the water for a fresher, more enjoyable drink for your furry friends.

Finally, pet fountains are typically self-contained units which means that they won’t require any modifications to pipes or drains in order to install and operate – making them easy and quick solutions for pet owners who want an efficient way to keep their home safe from additional evaporation damage caused by animal drinking habits.

Conclusion

To keep your home from becoming a pet-proofed plumbing disaster, here are some tips to remember:

  1. Know your pets and how their size and habits can affect your plumbing
  2. Inspect for and fix any existing problems before they become an issue
  3. Maintain drains regularly with a clog-dissolving solution or enzymatic drain cleaner
  4. Keep pipe insulation around all pipes, water heaters, and other equipment
  5. Invest in pet traps to catch any animals attempting to access pipes
  6. If required, install a backwater valve or sump pump to help protect against flooding
  7. Teach your pets the house rules (for example, leaving the toilet alone)
  8. Keep toilet lids closed when not in use
  9. Consider buying pet-proof covers for faucets and knobs

Following these tips will help ensure that regardless of whether you have cats or dogs (or both), your plumbing stays secure and that you don’t have any surprises due to pet-proofing gone wrong!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some ways to pet-proof plumbing?

There are several ways to pet-proof your plumbing to prevent any damage or messes. First, be sure to keep pet bowls away from the sink and toilet. Also, check your pipes regularly for cracks or leaks. Finally, consider purchasing a pet-safe drain cover to keep hair and other debris from clogging the pipes.

Is there anything I should be aware of when it comes to pet hair in drains?

Yes, pet hair can quickly clog drains and cause major problems. Regularly check your drains for pet hair and be sure to clean them out regularly. Additionally, consider purchasing a pet-safe drain cover to help prevent pet hair from clogging the pipes.

Are there any pet-safe products I can use to help prevent plumbing problems?

Yes, there are several pet-safe products available that can help prevent plumbing problems. For example, you can purchase a pet-safe drain cover to help keep hair and other debris from clogging the pipes. Additionally, there are drain cleaners and pipe sealants that are specifically designed for use with pets.