Residential Plumbing Services

1. Prevent Clogs with Drain Screens

Install drain screens in your kitchen sinks, bathtubs and showers to catch food scraps, hair, soap and other debris that can lead to clogs. Regularly clean them to keep water flowing smoothly.

2. Flush Drains with Hot Water Regularly

Once a month, flush your drains with hot water to help break down grease and soap buildup. This simple step can prevent blockages and maintain good water flow in your pipes.

3. Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain

Never pour grease, oils or fats down your kitchen sink or garbage disposal. These substances solidify as they cool, leading to stubborn clogs. Instead, dispose of grease in a container and throw it away.

4. Inspect for Leaks Early

Regularly check under sinks and around water-using appliances for signs of leaks. Small leaks, if left unnoticed, can cause significant water damage over time. If you notice any, have them repaired promptly.

5. Know the Location of Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve

In case of a plumbing emergency, knowing how to quickly turn off the main water supply is crucial. Locate your home's shut-off valve and ensure that everyone in your household knows how to use it in an emergency.

6. Install Water Hammer Arrestors

If you hear a loud banging noise in your pipes when you turn off water quickly (often referred to as "water hammer"), consider installing water hammer arrestors. These devices absorb the shock of water movement and protect your plumbing.

7. Maintain Your Water Heater

Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency. Also, inspect the temperature setting and adjust it to 120°F to prevent scalding and improve energy efficiency.

8. Be Cautious with Drain Cleaners

Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage your pipes and worsen clogs. Instead, opt for natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar or a professional drain cleaning service.

9. Check for Signs of Pipe Corrosion

Older pipes, particularly those made of galvanized steel or copper, can corrode over time. Keep an eye out for discolored water, low water pressure, or leaks, which are common signs that your pipes may need replacement.

10. Protect Pipes from Freezing in Winter

In colder climates, take preventive measures to avoid frozen pipes. Insulate exposed pipes, particularly in attics, basements and crawl spaces, and let faucets drip overnight during extreme cold spells to keep water moving.

11. Test Your Water Pressure Regularly

If your water pressure seems too low or too high, consider testing it with a pressure gauge. Ideal water pressure ranges from 40 to 60 psi. If it's outside this range, have a professional plumber adjust it to avoid damaging your plumbing system.

12. Regularly Inspect Your Toilet for Leaks

A running toilet can waste gallons of water every day. If your toilet is running, check the flapper and flush valve for wear. Replacing these components is often a simple fix that can save you money on your water bill.

13. Be Mindful of What You Flush

Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Avoid flushing items like wipes (even "flushable" ones), paper towels and feminine hygiene products, as they can clog your pipes and cause serious blockages.

14. Consider a Water Softener

If you live in an area with hard water, installing a water softener can help protect your pipes and appliances from mineral buildup. Hard water can cause scale accumulation in pipes, water heaters and dishwashers, leading to inefficiency and damage.

15. Schedule Annual Plumbing Maintenance

Schedule an annual plumbing inspection with a licensed plumber to catch potential issues early and ensure that everything is working as it should. Preventive maintenance can save you money by avoiding costly repairs down the line.