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Plumbing problems are the ultimate unwelcome house guests—they show up unannounced, wreak havoc, and leave you scrambling for solutions. But here’s the good news: with a little proactive care and know-how, you can prevent most plumbing issues before they even start. Think of this guide as your “plumbing prevention toolkit,” designed to keep your pipes, drains, and fixtures in tip-top shape.

Respect Your Drains

Your drains aren’t trash cans, but they sure are treated like it sometimes! To avoid clogs: Refrain from pouring grease, coffee grounds, or food remnants into the kitchen sink. Instead, transfer the grease into a container and dispose of it in the trash.

Drain strainers are installed in sinks, showers, and bathtubs to catch hair, soap residue, and other particles.

Running hot water through your drains weekly can help dissolve grease and soap buildup.

For an added boost, combine ½ cup of baking soda with ½ cup of vinegar, pour it into the drain, and let it sit for 15 minutes before flushing with hot water.

It’s like treating your pipes to a refreshing cleanse!

Know Your Water Pressure

Water pressure that’s too high might feel like a luxury shower, but it’s secretly stressing out your pipes. Eventually, this can lead to leaks or even cause pipes to burst. To protect your plumbing system, you can use a pressure gauge, which is typically found at hardware stores, to measure your home’s water pressure. The recommended range is generally between 40-60 PSI. If the pressure is excessive, you may want to install a pressure regulator.

It’s a small expense that could prevent major issues down the road.

Keep Your Pipes Protected from the Cold

Winter weather can be tough on plumbing, especially when temperatures dip below freezing. Frozen pipes can lead to more than just inconvenience—they can rupture and cause significant water damage. To safeguard your pipes, make sure that any exposed ones in unheated areas such as basements, garages, and crawl spaces are adequately insulated.

During severe cold, let faucets trickle to help prevent freezing.

Open the cabinet doors beneath sinks to let warm air circulate around the pipes.

Also, if you’ll be away from home for an extended time during the winter, set your thermostat to no lower than 12°C (54°F) to prevent your pipes from freezing.

Stay on Top of Small Leaks

A dripping faucet or a tiny puddle under your sink might not seem like a big deal, but ignoring them can lead to costly repairs down the road. Regularly inspect your home for potential leaks by checking for water stains on ceilings or walls.

Check beneath sinks for any signs of moisture or pooling water.

Check your water bill for unexplained spikes—this could signal a hidden leak.

Promptly fixing leaks helps save water and preserves the condition of your plumbing system.

Be Gentle with Your Toilet

Toilets are tough, but they’re not invincible. Flushing inappropriate items can lead to significant blockages.

Stick to the three P’s: pee, poop, and (toilet) paper. Avoid flushing:

  • Wet wipes (even if they say “flushable”)
  • Cotton balls or swabs
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Paper towels

If you have little ones, consider installing a childproof toilet lid to prevent any “oops” moments with toys or other objects.

Maintain Your Water Heater

Care for your water heater regularly. Since your water heater plays a crucial role in ensuring a comfortable shower, it’s vital to keep it in good condition.

  • Flush the heater once a year to remove sediment buildup, which can impact its performance and lifespan.
  • Adjust the temperature to approximately 49°C (120°F) to avoid burns and improve energy efficiency.
  • Every few years, check the anode rod to help prevent rust from damaging the tank.

Schedule Regular Plumbing Checkups

Just like your car needs routine maintenance, so does your plumbing system. A plumbing professional can spot potential issues you might miss, like worn-out parts or slow leaks. Aim for an annual inspection to catch problems early.

Invest in Quality Fixtures

While it may be appealing to save money with less expensive faucets and fixtures, using low-quality materials can result in more frequent repairs and replacements. Opt for trusted brands and durable materials—they’ll pay off in the long run.

Know Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve

In the event of a plumbing emergency, turning off your home’s water supply promptly can help prevent significant damage. Ensure that everyone in your home is aware of its location and how to operate it.

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

Plumbing issues rarely resolve themselves. Being proactive means addressing small concerns before they escalate into bigger problems. Got a faucet that won’t stop dripping? Fix it. Hearing strange noises from your pipes? Investigate. Don’t wait for disaster to strike!

A Little Effort Goes a Long Way

Preventing plumbing problems isn’t about making drastic changes to your daily routine—it’s about taking small, consistent steps to care for your home’s plumbing system. With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll save money, reduce stress, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a trouble-free plumbing system.

So roll up your sleeves, grab that baking soda, and show your plumbing some love. Your pipes will thank you!