A surprising number of plumbing calls we get could've been avoided with a few simple habits. Here's our running list of the things worth doing — and the things worth never doing — if you want your plumbing to last.
Why small habits matter more than you'd think
Plumbing systems are forgiving right up until they aren't. A pipe that's been slowly stressed by the wrong habits for years can fail all at once, usually at the worst possible time. The good news: most of what keeps a system healthy is genuinely simple, and none of it requires special tools.
Do
- Know where your main water shut-off valve is, and check that it still turns freely
- Run water occasionally in guest bathrooms and rarely-used fixtures to keep traps sealed
- Have your water heater flushed every year or two to clear sediment buildup
- Fix small drips as soon as you notice them — they rarely get better on their own
- Use drain strainers in showers and kitchen sinks to catch hair and food scraps
Don't
- Don't pour grease or cooking oil down the kitchen drain, even with hot water running
- Don't flush anything other than toilet paper, including "flushable" wipes
- Don't use chemical drain cleaners regularly — they can corrode older pipes over time
- Don't ignore slow drains, assuming they'll clear themselves
- Don't plant trees or shrubs directly over your sewer line
Quick tip: A five-minute monthly walkthrough — checking under sinks, near the water heater, and around outdoor spigots — catches most small leaks before they become expensive ones.