Owning your first home is an exciting milestone! Once you start decorating and adding those personal touches, it really begins to sink in that the house is all yours. But before you pick out furniture and paint colors, it’s important to give your home’s plumbing system some attention too. Don’t worry – this beginner’s guide breaks down all the basics of plumbing you need to know as a first-time homeowner.
Locate the Water Shut-Off Valves
- Main Shut-Off Valve: This valve is usually located near where the main water line enters your home, often in the basement or garage. It controls the water supply to the entire house. In an emergency like a burst pipe, quickly shutting off the main valve can reduce water damage.
- Fixture Shut-Off Valves: Check under sinks and behind toilets for shut-off valves that control the water supply to each fixture. Knowing where these are allows you to shut off water to a problem sink or toilet only.
Have Your Plumber’s Number Handy
- Save the number of a trusted, local plumber (like W.J. McNabb) in your phone and post it somewhere visible. That way you can reach them for emergencies 24/7.
- Before an emergency arises, establish a relationship with a consultation or minor repair. Discuss servicing your specific plumbing system. If the home you are purchasing is preowned, then a consultation and inspection by a certified plumber is an ideal way to ensure that you don’t receive a surprise the first time you take a shower!
DIY Preventative Maintenance
- Monthly Drain Flushing: There are many DIY methods to drain flushing, some tricks you may find are to use boiling water mixed with baking soda, or chemical drain cleaners. These methods, while they may work in a pinch, are not good for your plumbing, and can lead to damaged drainpipes which will require extensive repairs. Try using drain snakes or sink plungers to clear blocked drains in your home.
- Hair Catchers: Place drain covers in showers and sinks to catch strands before they clog pipes. You would be surprised how much hair ends up getting caught in these drain covers but don’t worry, your hair still looks great!
- Toilet Repairs: Replace flappers, fill valves, bolts, and gaskets when needed to prevent leaks. If you need help with a leaky toilet, W.J. McNabb is your go-to plumber to solve issues promptly and get your toilet flushing perfectly again.
- Check Water Pressure: Turn on several faucets at once and take note if the water flow seems unusually low. This can indicate buildup or other issues needing attention.
Owning a home comes with a lot of new responsibilities, but you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. For both routine maintenance and unexpected plumbing issues, the team at W.J. McNabb is here to help. Our licensed plumbers have the experience to diagnose and repair any problem. We also offer maintenance plans to keep your pipes and drains running smoothly for years to come. Our top priority is outstanding service, so you have one less thing to worry about as a new homeowner. If you need any kind of plumbing assistance for your new home, don’t hesitate to give W.J. McNabb Plumbing a call today!