Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
Homeownership comes with a lot of responsibilities, and maintaining your plumbing system is one of the most important. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a first-time homeowner, understanding plumbing basics can help you avoid costly repairs and frustrating issues. Here at Royal Flush Plumbing, we’ve put together 5 plumbing tips that will save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Know Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
In case of a plumbing emergency, like a burst pipe or severe leak, shutting off your home’s water supply quickly is crucial to avoid extensive damage.
Familiarize yourself with the location of your main shut-off valve. It’s typically near where the water line enters your home—often in the basement, garage, or an exterior wall. Teach everyone in your household how to turn it off if necessary.
Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
Chemical drain cleaners may seem like a quick fix for clogs, but they can actually damage your pipes over time, leading to more expensive repairs in the future.
Instead of reaching for a bottle of harsh chemicals, try natural methods like using a plunger, drain snake, or a simple DIY mix of baking soda and vinegar. If the clog persists, let Royal Flush Plumbing handle it with professional tools and expertise.
Know What's Flushable
Toilets aren’t trash cans. Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Items like wipes (even “flushable” ones), paper towels, and sanitary products should be disposed of in the trash, not the toilet. Many products labeled as “flushable” actually aren’t. Protect your pipes and avoid costly clogs by sticking to the basics.
Maintain Your Water Heater
A well-maintained water heater is key to enjoying hot water and preventing costly breakdowns. Neglecting your water heater can result in poor efficiency, higher energy bills, and potential failure.
To keep your water heater running smoothly, flush it at least once a year to remove sediment buildup. Also, adjust the thermostat to 120°F (49°C) to avoid wasting energy and prevent scalding accidents.
Call 770-GO-ROYAL
With a little preventive care and regular maintenance, your plumbing system can run smoothly for years to come. That said, not every plumbing problem is a DIY fix. Some issues are complicated or dangerous, and it’s often best to leave them to a professional plumber. This is where Royal Flush Plumbing comes in.
If you’re unsure about a repair or notice something out of the ordinary, don’t hesitate to call Royal Flush Plumbing anytime, day or night, at 770-GO-ROYAL.
