When was the last time you thought about your plumbing? If the answer is “only when something goes wrong,” you’re not alone. Plumbing issues can feel like they come out of nowhere, leaving you with an unexpected bill and a lot of stress. But the good news is, many of these problems are preventable with a little know-how. Ready to save yourself from costly repairs? Let’s walk through some simple tips to keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly.
Watch What Goes Down the Drain
Think of your drains as the arteries of your home’s plumbing system. What you put down them matters—a lot. Grease, food scraps, coffee grounds, and hair might seem harmless, but over time, they build up and create clogs. Instead of dealing with slow drains or full-blown blockages, take a proactive approach:
- Use drain covers – These simple gadgets catch hair, soap scum, and debris before they can cause trouble.
- Dispose of grease properly – Pour it into a container and bin it instead of letting it cool in your sink. Grease solidifies and can clog your pipes.
- Flush only toilet paper – Wet wipes, even the “flushable” ones, can wreak havoc on plumbing systems. Keep a bin handy for anything that’s not toilet paper.
By paying attention to what goes down your drains, you can avoid slow-moving water and unpleasant surprises.
Regularly Check for Leaks
Leaks are sneaky. They often start small—just a few drips here and there—but they can quickly escalate into a big problem. Not only do leaks waste water (and hike up your bill), but they can also lead to structural damage and mould. So, if you spot any signs, you need to get in touch with a plumber Mornington Peninsula as soon as possible. Here’s how to catch leaks early:
- Inspect visible pipes under sinks and behind appliances. Are there any signs of moisture or corrosion?
- Monitor your water bill. A sudden spike could mean water is escaping where it shouldn’t be.
- Test your toilets by adding a few drops of food colouring to the tank. If the colour shows up in the bowl without flushing, you’ve got a leak.
Addressing these issues early can save you from major repairs down the line.
Understand Water Pressure
Do you love a powerful shower? While good water pressure feels amazing, pressure that’s too high can strain your pipes and lead to bursts or leaks. Most homes need water pressure between 40–60 psi (pounds per square inch). If you’re unsure about yours, a plumber or a simple pressure gauge can help. High water pressure can be regulated with a pressure-reducing valve (PRV), which ensures the flow is just right for your home.
Protect Your Pipes in Winter
If you’ve ever dealt with frozen pipes, you know it’s no fun. When temperatures drop, the water inside your pipes can freeze and expand, causing cracks or even bursts. Thankfully, protecting your pipes in winter doesn’t require much effort:
- Insulate exposed pipes – Foam pipe insulation is affordable and easy to install. Focus on areas like basements, garages, and outside walls.
- Keep a tap dripping – During extreme cold, a trickle of water keeps things flowing and reduces pressure buildup in the pipes.
- Seal drafts – Check around doors and windows near plumbing and block any gaps that could let in icy air.
These small steps can save you from waking up to a very expensive plumbing emergency on a cold morning.
Maintain Your Water Heater
When was the last time you thought about your water heater? Probably not until your hot water ran out. Regular maintenance can extend its life and ensure it’s running efficiently. Start by checking the temperature setting—it should be no higher than 50°C to prevent scalding and save energy. Flushing your water heater once a year helps remove sediment that builds up and reduces efficiency. If it’s been a while since you’ve had it inspected, calling in a plumber for a professional tune-up is worth considering.
Don’t Ignore Noises
Pipes aren’t supposed to sing, rattle, or bang. If yours are making unusual sounds, it’s your system’s way of telling you something’s wrong. Rattling pipes might mean they’re loose and need to be secured. A loud banging, known as a water hammer, often happens when water flow suddenly stops. Installing an air chamber or water hammer arrestor can fix this issue and protect your pipes. Listen to what your plumbing is telling you—it can save you a lot of headaches later.
Know Where Your Shutoff Valves Are
Quick—if a pipe burst in your home right now, would you know how to stop the water? Finding your main water shutoff valve before an emergency happens is crucial. Usually located near your water meter or where the main line enters your house, this valve can save you from gallons of water flooding your home. Test it occasionally to ensure it’s working properly.
Build a Relationship With a Trusted Plumber
Even the best DIY efforts can’t replace professional expertise. By building a relationship with a plumber before you need one, you’ll know exactly who to call in an emergency. Look for someone local, reliable, and well-reviewed. It’s always better to have a professional on hand for the tricky jobs—like sewer line inspections, pipe replacements, or major leaks.
A Final Thought on Prevention
Preventing plumbing problems isn’t about complicated fixes or hours of work. It’s about being proactive and mindful of your home’s systems. From watching what goes down your drains to preparing your pipes for winter, small efforts today can save you from costly repairs tomorrow.
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