How to Maintain Your Home’s Plumbing System: Easy Tips for Homeowners

Regularly Check for Leaks

Small leaks can lead to major water damage and expensive repairs. Regularly inspect your plumbing system for any signs of leaks.

• Check Faucets: Look for drips or slow leaks around faucets and showerheads.
• Inspect Pipes: Examine exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, or under sinks for signs of corrosion, moisture, or water stains.
• Monitor Water Meter: Check your water meter when no water is in use to ensure that it’s not running, which could indicate a hidden leak.

Keep Drains Clear and Clean

Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. Regular maintenance can help keep them clear and prevent backups.

• Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain: Grease can solidify and block your pipes. Instead, dispose of it in the trash.
• Use Drain Screens: Install mesh screens over drains to catch hair, food particles, and other debris.
• Clean Drains: Use a natural drain cleaner (like a mixture of baking soda and vinegar) monthly to keep pipes clean and odor-free.

Insulate Pipes

Frozen pipes can burst in the winter, leading to significant water damage. Insulating your pipes is a simple and effective way to prevent this issue.

• Apply Foam Insulation: Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape on exposed pipes in unheated areas like the attic, basement, or crawl spaces.
• Let Faucets Drip: During extremely cold weather, let faucets drip slightly to relieve pressure in the pipes and prevent freezing.

Test Water Pressure

High water pressure can put excessive strain on your plumbing system, causing leaks, pipe damage, and even appliance malfunctions.

• Check Water Pressure: Use a pressure gauge to check your home’s water pressure. The ideal pressure is between 40-60 psi.
• Install a Pressure Regulator: If your water pressure is too high, consider installing or adjusting a pressure regulator to maintain safe levels.

Maintain Water Heater

Your water heater requires routine maintenance to operate efficiently and avoid unexpected breakdowns.

• Flush the Tank: Sediment can build up in the bottom of your water heater tank, reducing efficiency. Flush the tank annually to remove buildup and keep your system running smoothly.
• Check Temperature Settings: Set your water heater to 120°F to prevent scalding and save energy.
• Inspect for Leaks: Periodically check the water heater for signs of leaks around the base or valves.

Maintain Sump Pump

For homes with basements, a sump pump is essential for preventing flooding.

• Test the Pump: Regularly test the sump pump by pouring water into the pit to ensure it activates and drains water effectively.
• Clean the Pump: Keep the pump clean and free of debris to prevent clogging, and ensure the discharge pipe is clear.

Know Where Your Main Shutoff Valve Is

In case of a plumbing emergency, it’s crucial to know where your home’s main water shutoff valve is located.

• Locate the Valve: Typically found near the water meter, the valve can be turned off to stop the flow of water to the entire house.
• Test the Valve: Periodically turn the valve on and off to ensure it’s working smoothly in case of an emergency.

Prevent Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots can invade underground pipes, causing blockages and leaks.

• Keep Trees Away from Pipes: Avoid planting trees or large shrubs near sewer lines or water pipes.
• Have Regular Inspections: Schedule professional plumbing inspections to check for potential root damage in your pipes.

Use Proper Drainage for Appliances

Appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and water softeners are connected to your home’s plumbing system and should be regularly checked.

• Inspect Hoses: Check hoses connected to dishwashers, washing machines, and ice makers for wear and tear, and replace them if necessary.
• Clean Filters: Regularly clean appliance filters to prevent clogs in the system.

Schedule Regular Professional Inspections

While homeowners can handle many aspects of plumbing maintenance, regular inspections by a professional plumber are essential to catch potential problems early.

• Annual Plumbing Inspection: Hire a licensed plumber to inspect your plumbing system, water heater, and appliances for signs of wear or potential issues.
• Maintain Plumbing Records: Keep a record of inspections and any repairs made to track the overall health of your plumbing system.

By regularly maintaining your plumbing system, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure that your home’s water system runs smoothly for years to come. From checking for leaks and cleaning drains to insulating pipes and maintaining your water heater, these easy tips will help you stay on top of your home’s plumbing needs. If you encounter any issues or need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact a plumber for help.