Plumbing Tips for First-Time Homeowners

Congratulations on joining the ranks of homeownership! You are now embarking upon a journey that will require you to assume responsibility for every element of your new abode. One vital aspect is plumbing maintenance, and if this is all new territory for you – don't worry! Here are some helpful tips to set you off in the right direction.

Know where and how to shut off the water

When plumbing disasters arise and you have no idea how to shut off the water, it can be downright terrifying. To make sure that your home's water supply is managed appropriately, you must discover the main shut-off valve. This control manages all of the water throughout your property, and it is usually located outside in a protective utility box. For more specific problems, you can find shut-off valves located close to appliances and features like toilets and sinks. These will help narrow the cause of an issue without having to turn off all water in your home simultaneously.

Water heater

Oftentimes, we don't pay attention to our water heater until a problem arises. Unfortunately, by the time this issue occurs, it's sometimes too late. Be sure you are aware of the age and condition of your current water heater and make it a priority to keep up with its maintenance. Doing so will ensure that unexpected issues don't leave you in hot water!

Keeping your drains in check

When you move into a new home, it can be difficult to ascertain the quality of its plumbing - even if the property is brand new. New construction doesn't always equate to good construction. A sewer camera inspection provides a valuable glimpse into the inner workings of your plumbing system, allowing you to gain an understanding of any existing or potential issues. By being proactive you can save yourself a great deal of money on plumbing repairs by scheduling regular inspections. Additionally, you should take responsibility in this process and avoid putting things down the drain that don't belong there to prevent any further financial burden. Things you shouldn't put down the drain to save your pipes and garbage disposal.

•       grease, fats, and oils
•         eggshells
•         coffee grounds
•         starchy, fibrous food
•         flour
•         medicine

Watch what you flush

We may be lured to flush certain items down the toilet, believing that this one time won’t have any negative effects. However, it can lead to devastating long-term consequences. Even a tiny object can cause an obstruction – some objects must never come into contact with plumbing systems!

•         baby wipes
•         feminine products
•         flushable wipes (even if they say you can)
•         paper towels
•         cotton balls
•         dental floss

Winterize your pipes

Despite residing in a typically temperate area, living through an unexpected cold snap can wreak havoc on your residence. Without preparation for such extreme temperatures, you may be left with a home flooded by bursting pipes. To protect your pipes from freezing temperatures, ensure you insulate the reachable pipes with pipe sleeves, disconnect and drain garden hoses before the winter season begins, and use frost-free faucets along with their covers during this period. Most importantly keep your home warm to maintain a safe temperature for all water lines within.

Items you should have for a plumbing emergency

You can never predict when a plumbing emergency will strike, so it's wise to keep some essential items in your home at all times. This way you'll be prepared if the worst should happen! Here is a list of items to have handy

•         5-gallon bucket
•         plumbers’ putty
•         multiple plungers because not all do the same job
•         duct tape
•         pipe wrench
•         adjustable wrench
•         channel-lock
•         screwdriver set
•         flashlight
•         gloves

Chemicals

Drain cleaners cannot distinguish between debris, which is obstructing your plumbing system, and the actual pipes themselves. So, they eat everything. Also, chemicals can remain in one place for too long and cause unthinkable damage to your pipes. Especially if they are older or weathered, drain cleaners may have catastrophic impacts on your plumbing system. Therefore, it is critical to take the necessary precautions when using any type of drainage cleaner.

Before the chemical route, why not adopt an effective, natural approach to unclogging your system? A plunger is always an excellent starting option. If this still isn't successful, then consider using a sewer snake or an auger available at any store that sells plumbing supplies; alternatively, you can rent one too! An even simpler solution would be pouring down half cup each of baking soda and white vinegar followed with hot water. Either way, these are all effective techniques for resolving such issues. But if that doesn’t work you can always call your local plumber to help.

Becoming a homeowner can be both thrilling and nerve-wracking all at once. Taking proactive steps to nip any plumbing problems in the bud helps lessen that anxiety and having an expert plumber like Duncan Plumbing Solutions on speed dial doesn't hurt either!