While it’s always a good idea to have a licensed professional plumber on standby, you should still understand your home’s plumbing system. Simple maintenance can prevent certain issues from happening in the first place. You should also know how to handle an emergency, such as an overflowing toilet. Here are six plumbing tips any homeowner should know.

Know Where Your Home’s Shut-Off Valves Are Located

There may come a time when you need to turn off your home’s water supply. For example, you may encounter a burst pipe at some point. Because much property damage can occur quickly, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. Be sure that you know the location of the main water shut-off valve. In most instances, you can simply turn this valve clockwise to completely stop the flow of water.

Don’t Abuse Your Drains

Be sure to take care of your drains. Clogs often stem from people rinsing food down the kitchen sink. Coffee grounds, potato peels, eggshells, and bones can all cause a blockage. However, grease tends to be the biggest source of obstructed drains. Contrary to common belief, you should avoid using chemical drain cleaners when encountering a clog. Not only do these corrosive products damage pipes, but they are also quite toxic. A viable option is to have your drains professionally cleaned by a licensed plumber.

Be Careful About What Your Flush

A toilet is not meant to double as a garbage disposal. Flushing the wrong things will eventually cause a serious blockage. Some items not to flush include medications, diapers, paper towels, dental floss, and bandages. You should also avoid the use of ‘flushable’ wipes. Although these wipes may be advertised as more suitable for your plumbing system, they can become stuck in the drain. A great approach is to toss your wipes into a lined trash can.

Don’t Ignore Leaks

Always take leaks seriously. A seemingly minor dribble can cause more destruction than you may think. Repairing structural damage from a leak can cost thousands of dollars. You should also consider that leaks often cause utility bills to skyrocket. Yet another problem is that pests, including cockroaches and termites, are drawn to plumbing leaks.

Install a Hair Catcher in the Shower

Over time, a lot of hair can collect inside your shower drain. When hair combines with soap scum, this can create a sticky glob that’s especially difficult to get rid of. To help prevent an unnecessary headache, opt to install a hair catcher over the shower drain.

Call a Professional Plumber

While there’s nothing wrong with being a do-it-yourselfer, there are certain tasks that you should leave to the professionals. Allowing a certified plumber to handle the job will save you a lot of stress. Plumbers can repair leaks, install water heaters, clean drains, connect pipes, and much more.

Summary

Homeowners should have a basic understanding of their plumbing system to prevent and manage potential issues. Knowing where the main water shut-off valve is located, being mindful of what goes down drains, and avoiding flushing inappropriate items are essential steps to maintaining a healthy plumbing system. Minor leaks should be addressed quickly to prevent costly damage and pest problems. Simple additions like a hair catcher in the shower can prevent drain clogs, saving time and hassle. While some tasks are manageable, a licensed plumber should handle complex repairs and maintenance to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Published by: Josh Tatunay