Our Best Plumbing Tips For Your Home

Owning a home means taking care of all its essential systems, and your plumbing is no exception.

While licensed professionals handle most of the work, there are a few simple steps you can take to maintain your home’s plumbing between visits from your friendly neighborhood plumber.

#1. Avoid using harsh chemicals in your pipes. Chemicals poured down your toilet, including bleach or those blue odor-removing tablets, can degrade rubber parts, leading to costly repairs. Additionally, these chemicals pose a serious risk to anyone working on the pipes. If splashed, they can cause injury to the eyes or skin.

#2. Anchor squeaky or knocking pipes with clips or brackets. If your pipes make noise, consider securing them with clips or brackets rather than drilling holes. Attach the pipes to beams or joists in your home. If the pipes are difficult to access, call a plumber to assist.

#3. Watch for water around your home. Keep an eye on floors—especially in the basement or around the toilet and sink—for signs of leaking. Address leaks immediately to prevent further damage. Small leaks may be easy to fix, but more complex issues may require a plumber to identify and repair.

#4. Don’t pour fats, oils, or grease down the drain. These substances can solidify and cause backups, resulting in costly messes. Instead, dispose of them in the trash or take them to a grease/oil depot. Occasionally pour boiling water down the drain to help clear any residual fats or oils.

#5. Keep drains clear with baking soda and vinegar. Once a month, pour a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar down your drains. This helps break up debris and buildup. Follow it with a pot of boiling water (careful to avoid splashes) to clear any residue.

#6. Use a “hair catcher” in your drains. These inexpensive tools (available at dollar stores) prevent hair from clogging your pipes and are an easy way to avoid future plumbing problems.

#7. Protect your pipes from freezing in the winter. If you’re leaving your home during cold months, turn off the water and drain your pipes before you go. This prevents frozen water from expanding and causing a pipe burst.

Summary

Owning a home is a great privilege and part of the American Dream. But it also comes with the responsibility of proper maintenance. These “Handy” tips will help you keep your home’s plumbing—and your home—in top shape! For expert assistance, call Handyside.