As a homeowner, you probably spend little to no time thinking about your plumbing. Unless there is a problem, your plumbing is an essential component of your home that typically goes unnoticed.
However, keeping your plumbing running correctly is important, for your health and your comfort. For this reason, it’s essential to know the basics of plumbing so you can take care of the DIY projects and leave the rest to the professionals.
If you are a homeowner, here are the plumbing basics you should know.
1. Know What Goes Down Your Drain
One of the plumbing basics is to know what can and cannot go down your drain. While many people use their drain as a garbage bag, doing so can cause a lot of damage to your plumbing. Avoid expensive repairs and replacements by using your drain as recommended.
2. Know What Is Flushable
Similar to your drain, it’s important to know what can and cannot be flushed down your toilet. Items like pre-moistened wipes, cotton swabs, napkins, and dental floss will only clog the drain and result in costly plumbing services. Toilet paper and human waste are the only things you should be flushing.
3. Invest in a Few Plungers
While many people think there is only one type of plunger, there are specific plungers for each type of drain in your home. Purchase three separate plungers, one for your toilet, one for your sinks, and one for your bathtub/shower drain. Make sure to never cross-contaminate these plungers.
4. Never Ignore Leaks
While small leaks are common, they can often be an indication of a larger problem. Learning how to fix a small leak will save you a lot of time and money. If you are not able to DIY the leak, consider contacting your local plumber.
5. Know Where to Find Basic Components
Knowing how to use the basic plumbing tools is essential for every homeowner. Many plumbing problems can be DIY’d with the right tools and a little bit of knowledge. Know where to buy the basics, such as a Needle Valve, wrench set, tubing cutter, drain auger, and more.
6. Know How to Turn off the Water at the Main
At times, you will need to turn off your water at the main shut off valve. For this reason, one of the most important things to know is where to find the main and how to shut it off. The main is typically under your kitchen sink, near the water heater, or in a utility box outside.
These Are the Basics of Plumbing Every Homeowner Should Know
By knowing the basics of plumbing, you can avoid headaches, wasted time, and wasted money.
Know what you can and cannot flush or put down the drain. Invest in the basic plumbing tools and specific plungers for certain areas of your home. You should also take care of leaks as soon as possible to avoid a more serious plumbing problem.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be sure to have problem-free plumbing.
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