5 Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Did you know that the most common plumbing repairs involve clogged drains, leaky faucets, and running toilets? Labor is the largest portion of plumbing fees. The good news is you can be proactive and possibly eliminate plumbing issues if you know what to look for and how to properly maintain your drains.

We reviewed homeowner surveys and researched hundreds of repair calls. Here are the top five plumbing tips every homeowner should know.

Avoid Clogs: Avoid using harsh chemicals to unblock clogs; instead, use a plunger and/or drain snakes. Prevent clogs altogether by using drains in the kitchen sink to catch food and in the shower to trap hair. Only flush toilet paper and resist the urge to flush baby wipes and other cleansing wipes—even if the label says it is environmentally friendly. And do not pour grease down the drain. The New York Environmental Protection has a great article on how you can properly dispose of grease.
Check for Leaks: Set a reminder on your phone or digital calendar to check quarterly under sinks and shower heads for leaks. It is less costly to repair minor leaks and drips yourself by replacing a cracked fitting or cleaning a clogged showerhead. And sometimes a leaky toilet is due to a worn flapper—which is an inexpensive maintenance repair that can be easily replaced.
Main Water Shutoff Valve: Regardless of whether you are a renter or homeowner, it is imperative that you know where the main water shutoff valve is located. If there is an emergency, you do not want to wait around for an emergency plumber to arrive. (If you’re a renter, water damage is usually only covered if you have a separate flood insurance policy.) Water lines typically run into the house from the street side of the property. The Spruce shares excellent information on how to locate your main water shutoff valve.
Insulation: Be aware of the weather conditions—especially in the winter. Consider insulating exposed pipes, seal air leaks, keeping your thermostat steady, open cabinets, and winterize outdoor spigots by draining them and/or disconnecting hoses. Lastly, allow a slow, steady drip from faucets when temperatures are in freezing conditions.
Washing Machine Hoses: Washing machine hoses should be replaced every three to five years. Check the owner’s manual of your machine to confirm the manufacturer’s recommendation. Hose leaks are common when they dry out and rot, and neglecting the replacement can end up being a costly plumbing repair—especially if your unit is located on an upper floor.