As a homeowner, plumbing is one of those things that’s easy to overlook until something goes wrong. A leaky tap, a blocked sink, or – worse – a burst pipe can all cause a fair amount of disruption and, let’s be honest, stress. However, there are plenty of ways to avoid the more serious and costly plumbing issues that can arise if you keep an eye on things and follow some expert tips. The best part? Many of these tips are straightforward, easy to implement, and can save you time and money in the long run.
Let’s dive into some essential plumbing tips to help you maintain your property and avoid unnecessary plumbing emergencies.
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13 Plumber’s Tips to Effectively Maintain Your Property
While 13 might be unlucky for some, you’re in luck when it comes to these plumbing tips from our professional plumbers. By following these simple yet effective recommendations, you can keep your property’s plumbing in top shape and avoid costly repairs down the line. Let’s dive in!
1. Know Where Your External Stop Tap Is
One of the most important things any homeowner can do is know where their external stop tap is located. This valve is your first line of defence in a plumbing emergency, particularly in the event of a burst pipe or a major leak. Knowing how to access it and turn the valve clockwise will allow you to quickly stop the flow of water and prevent further damage.
If you’re unsure where it is, it’s a good idea to check your home’s plumbing layout or ask a plumber during your next service. Keeping this knowledge at your fingertips could save you from extensive water damage.
2. Don’t Overuse Chemical Drain Cleaners
It can be tempting to reach for a bottle of chemical drain cleaner when your sink or shower starts draining slowly. However, these harsh chemicals can actually do more harm than good. Over time, they can corrode your pipes, especially if you use them frequently. This could eventually lead to costly repairs.
Instead, try natural alternatives like a homemade baking soda and vinegar solution. It’s safer for your pipes and just as effective at clearing minor blockages. If the blockage is stubborn, you may want to invest in a drain snake or contact a professional plumber for more complex tasks.
3. Avoid Frozen Pipes by Insulating Unheated Areas
Frozen pipes are a common issue during the colder months. The last thing you want is to wake up to a burst pipe and find water all over your kitchen floor. Preventing frozen pipes is straightforward with some simple insulation.
Unheated areas, such as attics, basements, or crawl spaces, are more prone to freezing, so make sure these areas are properly insulated. Consider wrapping pipes with foam sleeves or using heat tape to keep the water supply running smoothly even in freezing conditions. This little step could save you a lot of headaches later on.
4. Be Mindful of What Goes Down Your Drains
It’s easy to forget that some things we use daily shouldn’t end up in the kitchen sink or toilet. For example, greasy residue can build up in your kitchen drain over time, causing a blockage. Similarly, flushing items like wet wipes or too much toilet paper can lead to a blocked toilet or a clogged drain.
A good rule of thumb is to avoid putting anything down the drain that isn’t water or food waste. If you have a blocked sink, use a drain snake or consult a plumber to clear it rather than relying on chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful to your pipes.
5. Fix Leaky Faucets and Worn-Out Washers
Leaky faucets are not only annoying but can also waste a significant amount of water over time. A single drip per second adds up to around 3,000 gallons of water per year – which can have a noticeable impact on your water bill.
The culprit is often a worn-out washer, a small yet essential component that helps form a tight seal. Replacing washers is a relatively simple task, and keeping your faucets in good condition will not only stop the leaks but also prevent water waste. If you’re not sure how to replace a washer, a plumber can help – or you can look up a tutorial for an easy fix.
6. Don’t Ignore Slow Drains
A slow drain might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can be an early sign of a bigger plumbing problem. Blocked drains can quickly escalate into major plumbing issues, particularly if left unchecked. The sooner you address a slow drain, the easier (and cheaper) it will be to fix.
If you notice a slow drain in the shower, kitchen sink, or anywhere else, try using a drain snake to clear the blockage before it becomes more severe. For kitchen sinks, be mindful of what you’re putting down – grease, coffee grounds, and food scraps can all contribute to a slow drain.
7. Inspect Your Water Heater Regularly
Your water heater or boiler is one of the most important appliances in your home, so it’s worth inspecting it periodically to ensure it’s functioning properly. Check for any signs of rust or leaks around the tank, and be aware of any strange sounds coming from the unit. Sediment can build up over time, causing inefficiency and even damage, so it’s a good idea to have your water heater serviced regularly by a professional plumber.
Also, if you have a gas water heater, make sure the pilot light is burning properly, as an unlit pilot could cause gas leaks.
Read More: What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme & How Does It Work?
8. Avoid Plumbing Problems with Regular Maintenance
Prevention is always better than cure. Regular maintenance of your plumbing system can help identify issues before they turn into costly repairs. Schedule an annual plumbing inspection with a professional plumber to check for leaks, test the water pressure, and inspect pipes for potential issues. This will help keep your plumbing system running smoothly and reduce the chances of a major plumbing problem arising unexpectedly.
9. Watch Out for Blocked Toilets
A blocked toilet is one of those plumbing problems that can’t be ignored. While it’s tempting to keep flushing, continuing to use a clogged toilet can cause the water to overflow, leading to a mess you’ll need to clean up and potential water damage.
If you do experience a blocked toilet, avoid using chemical drain cleaners. Instead, grab a plunger or drain snake to try and clear the blockage yourself. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact a plumber to avoid causing further damage.
10. Be Careful with Your Water Meter
Your water meter is a useful tool for monitoring your water usage and detecting any hidden leaks. If your water bill suddenly spikes without explanation, it could be a sign of a hidden leak somewhere in your plumbing system.
To check for leaks, take a reading of your water meter, then turn off all water appliances in the house and check the meter again after a few hours. If it’s moved, it’s likely you have a leak somewhere in your plumbing that needs addressing.
11. Use the Right Tools for the Job
Having the right tools for basic plumbing tasks is essential for preventing damage to your pipes and fixtures. A pipe wrench, for instance, can be used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts, but using the wrong size or type of wrench could cause damage. It’s also important to make sure you have basic plumbing tools such as a plunger, pipe tape, and a drain snake on hand.
Investing in the right tools will save you time and effort and allow you to handle smaller plumbing issues more effectively.
12. Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Proper Drain Covers
Drain covers are often overlooked, but they’re essential for preventing debris and foreign objects from blocking your drains. They can also protect your pipes from large objects being flushed or washed down by mistake.
Ensure that your drains – both indoors and outdoors – are fitted with good-quality covers that fit properly. Regularly check them to make sure they aren’t damaged or obstructed, which could cause drainage issues over time.
13. Call in the Experts When Necessary
Some plumbing and home renovation tasks, like fixing leaky pipes or dealing with complex drainage problems, are better left to the professionals. While regular maintenance is something you can handle on your own, don’t hesitate to call a plumber if you’re dealing with an issue that’s beyond your skill set. Trying to fix complex plumbing problems without the right expertise can lead to more damage and ultimately higher repair costs.
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Plumbing Tips When Moving Home
The previous owners of your home may not have had their plumbing systems checked in years. Plumbing systems that have not been well maintained become damaged easily, this can cause issues such as leaks which can cause severe damage to your home, including mould. Here is our plumbers’ checklist for your new home!
Find out the date of the last boiler servicing
The estate agent or solicitor should be able to source this for you. Get a copy of any related paperwork, even if the boiler has been checked within the last 12 months, it’s a good idea to book a visit from a Gas Registered plumber. Also ensure you get the paperwork for the installation/purchase of the boiler to see whether the manufacturer’s warranty is still valid.
Find the internal stop tap and gas shut off valve
Probably one of the most important checks to be made when moving into a new home. Avoid any disasters by finding out where your water and gas supply comes into your home – you may need to turn them off in an emergency.
Look out for leaky taps and toilets
Leaky taps, toilets and radiators will not only cost you money but are extremely annoying and if left can cause long term issues. Any leaks may also be a sign of low water pressure. Check your toilet, taps and radiators, if they are making a funny noise or you can see water damage, contact a plumber who will diagnose the issue.
Check gas appliances
Faulty gas appliances are dangerous as they could cause a carbon monoxide leak. If there are any gas appliances in your new home, such as gas ovens, hobs, or radiators, its important you get to know more about our Gas Safe engineers and have them check safety and other precautions, as well as make any necessary repairs or replacements.
Check to see if your home has lead pipes
Lead piping is no longer used in new water pipes as lead can cause harm to human bodies at high exposure. If your home was built before the 1970’s, it’s worth checking your piping or contacting a plumber to do so.
Look to see if you have an outside tap
If your new home has outside space, then check to see if an outside tap has been installed. If you want an external tap, it’s worth getting one installed by a professional plumber.
Check all your pipes are insulated
During the winter months, it’s common for pipes to freeze up. When moving into a new home, check that your pipes have been lagged and are protected from cold weather such as rain, snow and ice. You should also ensure that your hot water tank is properly insulated.
Related Reading: How To Layout & Install Plumbing in a New House
Looking for Professional Plumbing & Home Renovations in Essex?
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Plumbers Tips FAQs
How can I prevent frozen pipes in winter?
Insulate pipes in unheated areas, keep your heating on at a low temperature, and let taps drip slightly during freezing weather to keep water moving. If you’re away, ask someone to check your home to avoid burst pipes.
What should I do if my drain is blocked?
Try using a drain snake or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar before resorting to chemical drain cleaners, which can damage pipes. If the blockage persists, it’s best to call a plumber to prevent further issues.
How can I reduce my water bill?
Fix leaky faucets, install water-efficient fixtures, and be mindful of water waste—such as running taps unnecessarily. Regular plumbing maintenance can also help detect hidden leaks that might be costing you money.