In the flowing rivers of home maintenance, plumbing holds its steady course as an essential stream. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or just starting to navigate the waters of property care, there’s always something new to learn. That’s why The Otter Guys, your friendly neighborhood experts in heating, air conditioning, and plumbing, are here to share some pearls of wisdom. Here are six plumbing tips that can keep your home’s waterworks running smoothly, and maybe even save you from an unexpected call to the pros.
Tip 1: Know Your Main Water Valve’s Location
Water disasters don’t wait for a convenient time to strike. Knowing where your main water shut-off valve is located can be the difference between a quick fix and a flood. Make sure everyone in the household is aware of its location and knows how to turn it off in case of an emergency.
Tip 2: Prevent Clogs Before They Happen
The best way to deal with a clog is to avoid it altogether. Use drain strainers to catch hair in the shower and keep food scraps out of the kitchen sink. Remember, your toilet isn’t a second garbage can—keep it clog-free by flushing only waste and toilet paper.
Tip 3: Be Gentle with Your Fixtures
Plumbing fixtures are not meant to be hangars for heavy wet towels or clothes. Use hooks and bars to keep the weight off those pipes. And when it comes to turning taps or flushing toilets, a gentle hand is all that’s needed—over-tightening can damage the seals and handles.
Tip 4: Learn the Art of Plunging
A plunger can be your first line of defense against a clog. For best results, use a flange plunger for the toilet and a cup plunger for sinks and tubs. A little bit of plunging finesse can often clear up minor blockages without any additional fuss.
Tip 5: Don’t Ignore Drips
That small drip from a faucet might not seem like much, but it can add up to gallons of water wasted each day. Often, the fix is as simple as replacing a washer or a cartridge. Tending to a drip early on can save water and prevent a more serious leak down the road.
Tip 6: Insulate Your Pipes
Insulating your pipes isn’t just for those chilly Charlottesville winters; it helps reduce heat loss as water travels from your heater to your faucet or shower, saving you energy and money. Plus, it’s a great way to prevent your pipes from freezing and potentially bursting when the mercury drops.
Do You Need Plumbing Help?
While these tips can help keep your systems in check, sometimes you need to call in the experts. Whether you’re faced with a perplexing plumbing puzzle, or you just want some advice on keeping your systems in tip-top shape, reach out to The Otter Guys. We’re here to ensure that your plumbing flows as smoothly as the rivers of Virginia. Call today.
