Transitioning from renting to owning means that you can’t call the landlord to fix a leaky toilet. That responsibility now falls on your shoulders.
Every home experiences a clogged drain and dripping faucet, but not every plumbing problem requires calling a professional. There are a few plumbing tips new homeowners need to know that will give you the capability to handle any plumbing surprises.
If you’ve never owned a home before, recognizing water leaks can be difficult. But knowing the signs can help you find them earlier and fix them faster, since intervening early with leaks can keep damage at a minimum. Signs that your home is experiencing a water leak include:
Cleaning your drains regularly can prevent your drains from clogging. Without it, drains become clogged with hair and debris pretty easily. You can purchase drain cleaner or make your own solution from white vinegar and dish soap. If a drain is already clogged, you can loosen debris with a plunger or a plumbing snake.
Knowing where the water valve is located is vital for homeowners in case of an emergency such as a burst pipe. If something like that happens, you’ll need to shut off the water fast. Shutoff valves are directly behind toilets and sinks, but the house’s main water valve is usually located in basements, utility closets, or on the exterior of your house.
Do you live in a region that experiences plummeting temperatures in the winter? It’s a good idea to weatherproof any water pipes on exterior walls with foam sleeves, heating tape, and by leaving cabinets open so warm air can circulate. Doing so can prevent frozen or burst pipes during harsh winter weather.
These basic plumbing tips new homeowners need to know will give you confidence to tackle any small plumbing problem. Before you know it, you’ll be considering larger plumbing projects, like remodels!