Maintaining a functional plumbing system is crucial for any homeowner. From preventing costly repairs to ensuring your home runs smoothly, a little knowledge and care can go a long way. At CITYWIDE Plumbers, we believe that informed homeowners are empowered to avoid common plumbing issues and keep their systems in top condition. In this guide, we share our top 10 essential plumbing tips to help you save time, money, and stress. Whether you’re a new homeowner or a seasoned one, these tips, combined with CITYWIDE Plumbers’ expert services, will keep your plumbing system running smoothly.
Call now for a free consultation: 02038928545
1. Know Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
Every homeowner should know the location of their main water shut-off valve. In the event of a burst pipe, severe leak, or other plumbing emergency, turning off the water supply can prevent extensive damage. The valve is typically located near the water meter, in a basement, or outside near the property line.
How to Apply: Familiarise yourself with the valve’s location and test it periodically to ensure it works. If you’re unsure where it is or how to operate it, contact CITYWIDE Plumbers for assistance. Our team can also install accessible shut-off valves for individual fixtures to make emergency shut-offs easier.
2. Avoid Flushing Non-Flushable Items
Toilets are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper only. Flushing items like wipes, sanitary products, cotton buds, or nappies can lead to serious blockages in your plumbing system or the main sewer line, causing backups and costly repairs.
How to Apply: Place a bin in your bathroom for non-flushable items and educate household members about what can be flushed. If you suspect a blockage, CITYWIDE Plumbers can clear it using advanced tools like CCTV drain surveys and high-pressure water jetting.
3. Use Drain Guards to Prevent Blockages
Blocked drains are a common issue, often caused by hair, soap scum, grease, or food waste. Installing drain guards in sinks, showers, and bathtubs can catch debris before it enters your pipes, reducing the risk of clogs.
How to Apply: Purchase mesh drain guards from a hardware store and clean them regularly. For stubborn or recurring blockages, CITYWIDE Plumbers offers professional drain cleaning services to restore flow and prevent future issues.
4. Don’t Pour Grease Down the Drain
Cooking grease, oil, and fat can solidify inside pipes, leading to stubborn blockages that are difficult to clear. Over time, grease buildup can also cause pipe corrosion, resulting in costly repairs.
How to Apply: Collect grease in a container and dispose of it in the bin once cooled. For kitchen drains prone to grease buildup, pour boiling water weekly to keep pipes clear (avoid this for porcelain sinks to prevent cracking). If grease causes a blockage, CITYWIDE Plumbers can use high-pressure water jetting to remove it.
5. Insulate Pipes to Prevent Freezing
In colder months, uninsulated pipes in unheated areas like garages, lofts, or exterior walls can freeze, leading to cracks or bursts. A burst pipe can release hundreds of litres of water, causing significant damage.
How to Apply: Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape on exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas. Keep your home heated to at least 10°C during winter, even when away. If a pipe freezes or bursts, CITYWIDE Plumbers provides 24/7 emergency repairs to minimise damage.
6. Check for Leaks Regularly
Even small leaks can waste thousands of litres of water and cause structural damage or mould growth. Common signs of leaks include damp spots, mould, higher water bills, or a musty smell.
How to Apply: Monitor your water bill for unexpected increases and check under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances for signs of leaks. For hidden leaks, CITYWIDE Plumbers uses advanced tools like acoustic sensors and thermal imaging to detect and repair them without invasive methods.
7. Maintain Your Water Heater
A well-maintained water heater ensures a reliable supply of hot water for showers, washing dishes, and laundry. Sediment buildup, faulty thermostats, or worn components can reduce efficiency or cause breakdowns.
How to Apply: Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment (turn off power and water supply first). Check the thermostat setting (50–60°C is ideal). For complex issues or upgrades to energy-efficient tankless models, CITYWIDE Plumbers offers expert maintenance and installation services.
8. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections
Regular inspections can catch potential issues like worn washers, minor leaks, or pipe corrosion before they become major problems. Professional maintenance extends the lifespan of your plumbing system and saves money in the long run.
How to Apply: Book an annual inspection with CITYWIDE Plumbers. Our team checks pipes, fixtures, and appliances, using tools like CCTV cameras to identify hidden issues. Regular maintenance ensures your system remains efficient and reliable.
9. Be Cautious with DIY Repairs
While minor fixes like replacing a tap washer or plunging a drain can be done at home, complex issues like pipe repairs or boiler maintenance require professional expertise. Incorrect repairs can worsen the problem or damage your system.
How to Apply: Stick to simple DIY tasks and leave major repairs to professionals. CITYWIDE Plumbers provides expert services for issues like leaking pipes, faulty boilers, or sewer line blockages, ensuring safe and lasting solutions.
10. Upgrade to Water-Efficient Fixtures
Water-efficient taps, showerheads, and toilets can reduce water usage, lower your bills, and benefit the environment. Modern fixtures are designed to maintain performance while using less water.
How to Apply: Look for WaterSense-labeled products when upgrading fixtures. CITYWIDE Plumbers can install low-flow taps, dual-flush toilets, or tankless water heaters to improve efficiency without sacrificing comfort.
Why Choose CITYWIDE Plumbers?
At CITYWIDE Plumbers, we’re committed to helping homeowners maintain their plumbing systems with expert advice and professional services. Our fully qualified, insured team is available 24/7 for emergencies, from burst pipes to blocked drains. We use cutting-edge technology, such as trenchless pipe repair and CCTV surveys, to deliver efficient, minimally invasive solutions. Whether you need routine maintenance or urgent repairs, CITYWIDE Plumbers is your trusted partner for all plumbing needs.
By following these top 10 tips, you can prevent common plumbing issues and keep your home’s system in excellent condition. For professional support or to schedule a service, contact CITYWIDE Plumbers today. We’re here to ensure your plumbing system runs smoothly year-round.
Call now for a free consultation: 02038928545