Buying your first house is an exciting experience. This next step is crucial when starting a family or investing. However, there are plenty of responsibilities that you should consider when buying your first home, and might even need a new homeowner guide to help you navigate the ins and outs. One of those grey areas is getting to know and maintain your plumbing system.

Many homeowners don’t know what they are getting into with their plumbing. They assume calling a plumber is the best option whenever something goes wrong. Likewise, they spend thousands of dollars each year trying to keep up with repairs and replacements.

Although this may not solve the problem, it’s never a bad idea to consider using handy household plumbing tips. This is why we’ve compiled essential plumbing tips every homeowner should know.

Find Your Shut Off Valve

Knowing this will save you plenty of time in case of an emergency. Also, finding your shut-off valve is handy for when a plumber may come over to do some maintenance work. The location of your drain and sewer access points may be a handy thing to know as well. These are normally located somewhere around the home, whether inside or outside. Keep in mind that condos and apartments may not have their shut-off valves. This information will save you plenty of time and headaches in the long run.

Know What Should Not Go Down a Toilet

Homeowners often use their toilets as trash cans. As a result, they end up with nasty clogs and costly repairs. Keep in mind, that the only thing that should be going down your toilet is toilet paper. Other things like baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, band-aids, and paper towels should be disposed of in a different matter. In the case of putting things down your toilet, knowledge is power.

Ignoring Leaks is a BAD idea

A simple leak may not seem too bad. Maybe the tub or sink faucet is dripping just a bit. Not so fast. These drips, if not taken care of, can add up to costly repairs and a much higher water bill. Calling a plumber, or fixing the leak yourself, should always be done right away. With how dry Arizona can become in the summer, saving any amount of water is a good idea.

Don’t Over Tighten Fittings

This is a very common mistake we see homeowners make almost every day. If you consider yourself a “Do It Yourself” specialist, keep this in mind when messing with your plumbing. Over tightened fittings can lead to stripped screws and broken bolts, which can make things difficult for you in the future.

Remember the phrase “hand tight is just right”. Or you can simply call a professional plumber to handle it for you.

Use Plumbers Tape

Plumber tape is an extremely helpful tool homeowner can use to avoid leaks in their plumbing. To use plumbers’ tape correctly, simply wrap it around the connecting end pieces three times before sealing it.

This method should prevent your fittings and joints from becoming leaky. Remember, white tape of this nature is used only for plumbing, whereas yellow tape is only used for gas. Likewise, knowing this will prevent accidents from occurring in your home.

Call Christian Brothers Air Conditioning Plumbing Electrical

Christian Brothers Air Conditioning Plumbing Electrical specialize in every field of plumbing. When things get too hard to manage on your own, give us a call!

We have knowledgeable, helpful technicians who can aid you in answering any questions or repairing any problems. Call us at (623) 201-5066.

Are you interested in reading more about Plumbing Basics and Helpful Maintenance Tips? Click here.

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