Even though most residential plumbing systems are designed to be very durable, you will most likely have to deal with at least a few problems over the years. Luckily, with a little bit of diligence and some professional assistance, common plumbing problems won’t bring your life to a grinding halt.
Locate the Main Shutoff Valve
One of the first things that you should do when you move into a new home is locate the main shut off valve. If an emergency ever occurs and you need to prevent water damage, then you must be able to get to that valve as quickly as possible. For most homes, the shut off valve is located near the perimeter of the property, but your valve might be in a different location if you don’t live close to a public street.
Invest in a Plumbing Snake
While ongoing clogs can be caused by major plumbing problems deeper in the sewage system, the occasional clog usually isn’t a big deal. To get rid of most clogs, all you are going to need is a plumbing snake and a good pair of gloves. You can also prevent clogs by keeping debris out of your sinks and toilets. Over time, food debris and hygiene products can clog the sewage line and damage the pipes.
Find a Reputable Plumber
Locating a reputable plumber is another important step that you must take after buying a new home. Most plumbers are going to offer basic residential plumbing services, including unclogging sewage lines, replacing faucets, and fixing minor leaks. Before you hire a plumber, you must make sure that they are fully licensed to work in your state. You might also want to ask them about what types of warranties or guarantees they offer on their work.
Install a Whole-House Water Filter
Even though most municipalities have excellent water treatment facilities, there might still be the occasional contaminant in the city’s water. To keep those contaminants out of your home, you should consider investing in a whole-house water filter. Those filters are usually quite easy to install, and they will make your water much safer to drink.
Learning how residential plumbing systems is one of the best things that you can do as a first-time homeowner. In many cases, plumbing issues can be avoided entirely as long as you properly maintain all of your pipes, faucets, and fixtures.
