Owning a new home is always a milestone worthy of celebration, but it also comes with its own set of responsibilities. As a new homeowner, one of the most important things you’ll need to learn is how to care for your plumbing system.
From understanding how to prevent common issues like leaks and clogs to knowing when to call a professional, keeping your plumbing in top shape is key to promoting your home’s stress-free and efficient status.
Here are some expert tips from Solace Plumbing Heating & Air on how to achieve just that.
1. Know the Location of Your Main Shut-off Valve
Imagine coming home to a burst pipe and not knowing where to shut off the water supply. This every homeowner’s nightmare becomes a little more scary if you fail to prevent major flooding and water damage— something that can be totally avoided by something as simple as turning off your main shut-off valve.
This major pipe component controls the water supply to your entire home, and in the event of an emergency, shutting it off quickly can stop further water damage.
The valve is typically found in the basement, crawl space, or outside near your water meter. Take a moment to locate it, and ensure everyone in your household knows where it is. You’ll be glad you did when the unexpected happens.
2. Learn How to Prevent Clogs
Clogs are one of the most common plumbing problems in any home, and they can happen when you least expect them. The key to avoiding clogs is being mindful of what you’re putting down your drains. In the kitchen, avoid pouring grease, fat, or coffee grounds down the sink. These can build up in your pipes and cause a serious blockage.
In your bathroom, soap scum and hair are the usual culprits, so investing in drain covers can prevent these clog-causing materials from going down the drain in the first place. A little prevention goes a long way in keeping your drains clear and your plumbing in good shape.
3. Maintain Your Water Heater
Your water heater works hard every day to keep your home comfortable. Whether it’s providing hot water for your morning shower or filling the dishwasher, it’s crucial to give it some TLC to ensure it lasts. Regular maintenance, like flushing out the sediment buildup, is key to improving your unit’s efficiency and extending its lifespan.
Don’t forget to check the temperature setting on your water heater as well—setting it too high can waste energy, overstrain your unit, and lead to scalding. A safe temperature is around 120°F (49°C). If you’re unsure how to maintain your unit, don’t hesitate to call a plumber to give it a tune-up.
4. Never Overload Your Garbage Disposal
A garbage disposal is a practical upgrade to your plumbing system that can protect your sewer line from food blockages, but it’s not invincible to premature breakdowns. Overloading it or putting the wrong items down the disposal can lead to jams and malfunctions. Avoid putting hard items like bones, pits, or large food scraps down the disposal, and always run cold water while using it to help break down food.
If your garbage disposal starts acting up, don’t force it to work. If it’s jammed or making strange noises, a quick inspection by a professional plumber can save you from having to replace it.
5. Know How to Detect Leaks
Leaks are sneaky, and it’s possible that by the time you notice them, they may have already caused a lot of damage. Keep an eye out for signs of hidden leaks, like water stains on surfaces or walls, mold growth, or musty smells. You might also notice a sudden increase in your water bill, which can be a sign that water is being wasted somewhere.
If you suspect a leak, don’t wait for it to worsen. Addressing leaks promptly by having them repaired can prevent costly damage down the line. Depend on a skilled plumber to plug early leaks before they spiral into more major trouble.
6. Have Your Water Quality Tested
As a new homeowner, you want to be sure the water coming into your home is safe to use and consume. Testing your water quality is an easy way to detect any issues with hard water, bacteria, or contaminants. Many water testing kits are available, but if you prefer professional help, a local plumber can test your water and suggest treatments to improve its quality.
Improving your water quality can also protect your pipes from mineral buildup, which can affect water flow and cause long-term damage to your plumbing system. One option is to install a water softener or water filtration system at home.
7. Never Use Drain Chemicals
We’ve all seen the commercials for chemical drain cleaners promising to clear out tough clogs in no time. However, these chemicals can harm your pipes, especially if they’re used too often. Prolonged and constant use can corrode pipes and cause leaks or even cracks.
So, instead of depending on these nasty chemicals, try tested natural drain cleaners like the classic baking soda and vinegar solution. Consider calling a plumber to handle the issue professionally if you have a tough clog.
8. Be Mindful of the Winter
Freezing weather can really mess with your plumbing, especially if you live where temperatures drop below freezing. Frozen pipes are a big worry since they can burst and cause a ton of water damage. To circle around this serious trouble, make sure to insulate any exposed pipes in unheated spots like basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
If you’re going to be away for an extended period, keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F (13°C) to rule out the risks of freezing pipes. It’s always better to be cautious than to deal with the headache of burst pipes.
9. Know When To Call a Professional
There are plenty of minor plumbing issues you can handle yourself, but some problems are best left to the experts. If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog, low water pressure, or anything that seems out of the ordinary, don’t hesitate to call a reliable plumber. A professional can diagnose the problem, make a necessary plumbing repair, and give you peace of mind knowing the issue is fixed right the first time.
Pair With Solace Plumbing Heating & Air for Hassle-Free Plumbing Help
Owning a home means taking care of a lot of things, but with the right plumbing knowledge, you can keep things running smoothly. On top of that, you don’t have to tackle your plumbing crisis alone; there are top-rated local plumbing companies you can ask for assistance with.
If you ever run into a problem beyond your DIY skills, don’t hesitate to reach out to Solace Plumbing Heating & Air. Our seasoned plumbers are ready to handle any pipe issue with ease, from drain cleaning to major repairs. We will be at your front door without the prolonged waiting time and restore your plumbing in order just as fast as we arrive.
Call us today, and get the proper plumbing protection for your new home!
