Becoming a homeowner is an exciting, fulfilling moment. However, homeownership also entails serious responsibilities.
Understanding and maintaining your plumbing system can help prevent costly repairs and keep your household running smoothly. Discover a few must-know plumbing tips for new homeowners.
Many people know that freezing weather can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand, which can lead to burst pipes. However, freezing temperatures aren’t the only concern regarding how weather affects plumbing.
Temperature swings are one of the most common causes of water main deterioration. Drastic temperature fluctuations can cause pipes to develop cracks and leaks.
To prevent burst pipes and water damage, insulate any exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas such as the basement, crawl space, or attic. During extremely cold weather, let a faucet in your home drip slowly to relieve system pressure and minimize the risk of frozen pipes.
Another must-know plumbing tip for new homeowners is to use the garbage disposal correctly to prevent clogs and backups. A garbage disposal is a convenient appliance, but it can become a plumbing problem if not used correctly.
Only put biodegradable food waste down the disposal. Avoid putting bones, fruit pits, fibrous foods, coffee grounds, and grease down the drain. One of the best tips for disposing of grease and cooking oil is to let these substances cool and harden before tossing them in the trash.
A small leak may seem insignificant, but it can escalate into an expensive problem. Water leaks not only waste water but can also lead to water damage, mold growth, and increased water bills.
Inspect your faucets, toilets, and pipes regularly for signs of leaking, such as dripping or pooling water. If you discover a leak, either fix it yourself if you have the skillset or call a professional plumber.
If you experience a plumbing emergency like a major leak, you’ll want to go to your main water shut-off valve to turn the water off. The valve supplies your entire home with water, and shutting off the valve can prevent extensive, expensive water damage.
The location of the main water shut-off valve varies between homes. If the valve is inside your home, it will typically be on a wall facing the street. If the valve is outside your home, it’s normally connected near the water meter.
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