how to clean water line

Plumbing

The answer to 'how to clean water line' is to regularly flush and disinfect your water lines to remove buildup and prevent contamination. This involves shutting off the main water supply, opening faucets to drain the lines, and using a chlorine-based solution to disinfect the system. It's recommended to do this at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice any changes in water pressure, taste, or odor.

To clean your water lines, first locate the main water shut-off valve and turn it off. Next, open all the faucets in your home to allow the water to drain from the lines. Once the lines are empty, mix a solution of 1 cup of household bleach per 1 gallon of water. Use this solution to fill the water lines, then let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour. Finally, turn the main water supply back on and run the faucets until the chlorine smell dissipates.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1

    Shut off the main water supply

    Locate the main water shut-off valve and turn it off to stop the flow of water.

  2. 2

    Drain the water lines

    Open all the faucets in your home to allow the water to drain from the lines.

  3. 3

    Mix a chlorine solution

    Mix a solution of 1 cup of household bleach per 1 gallon of water to disinfect the water lines.

  4. 4

    Fill the water lines

    Use the chlorine solution to fill the water lines, then let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour.

  5. 5

    Flush the system

    Turn the main water supply back on and run the faucets until the chlorine smell dissipates.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my water lines?

It's recommended to clean your water lines at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice any changes in water pressure, taste, or odor.

What if I can't get the chlorine smell out of my water?

If the chlorine smell persists after running the faucets, you may need to flush the lines further by running them for an extended period of time.

When should I call a professional plumber?

If you're unsure about how to properly shut off the main water supply or are uncomfortable working with chlorine solutions, it's best to call a professional plumber to handle the water line cleaning.

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