If you’ve just bought a new home, plumbing problems are probably the last thing you want to think about. But, it’s better to prevent problems now than spend a lot of time later trying to fix them.
Protecting your plumbing is relatively easy and could save you considerable money down the line. We list some basic plumbing tips below to help you.
Locate Your Water Main Shut-off Valve
You’ll want to find the main shut-off soon after you move in. If a pipe were to break, you’d need to be able to quickly turn off the water supply to your home to avoid costly damage.
Finding the shut-off valve may require some searching since it’s location varies. It is often located near the water heater, in the basement, in a crawl space, under the kitchen sink, or outside. You can shut off the water by turning the valve clockwise, although you may need a meter key if the valve is outside.
Keep Your Drains Clean
It pays to be careful about what you allow down your drains. Hair and other debris can clog your pipes, possibly requiring a call to the plumber. Using a drain catch can help prevent this problem.
You can also avoid clogs by not putting items such as coffee grounds, potato peels, fat, or eggshells in your garbage disposal. It’s best to watch what you flush down the toilet as well. Flushing baby wipes, tissues, or feminine hygiene products can result in a clog or even pipe damage.
Protect Your Pipes
It’s essential to protect your pipes from cold weather. If your pipes freeze, cracks may form in the pipes as the water expands. Then, as the ice thaws, water will leak through the cracks.
There are precautions you can take to avoid this. Insulate any exposed pipes with pipe sleeves. If there is a risk of your pipes freezing, turn your faucets on enough to drip. You could also have us winterize your pipes. We will carefully wrap your pipes and make sure your plumbing is prepared for any kind of winter weather.
Don’t Use Liquid Drain Cleaner
It may be really convenient to use a drain cleaner when you have a clog. But, these cleaners can damage your pipes, causing you more problems. Using a snake to clear the drain is a better approach. You can purchase a drain snake at most hardware stores.
Another option would be to try a homemade drain cleaner. Pour ½ cup baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Wait 10 to 15 minutes and run very hot water down the drain; repeat as necessary. If these steps don’t clear your drain, call your plumber.
Contact Us
If you are facing a water damage problem which may be spreading, do not hesitate. Call us before the damage is expensive and severe. Every passing day could cause damage to your belongings, structure, and your family’s well-being. RestorePro has been handling water damage problems successfully since 1997, serving residential and commercial clients throughout Eastern Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire. With years of experience and state of the art equipment, we offer first-rate water damage restoration services.
We are available 24/7 for 365 days a year. Call us anytime at 1-800-847-0114. We look forward to hearing from you! You can also visit us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RestorePro911/