10 Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner in North Georgia Should Know
Being a homeowner in North Georgia comes with its own set of challenges, from humid summers to chilly winters. While your plumbing may not be the most exciting thing on your to-do list, it sure is one of the most important. A little effort now saves you from major headaches and hefty repair bills down the road. To help you stay ahead of the game, we’ve rounded up 10 practical plumbing tips just for you.
1. Know Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
Quick! A pipe bursts and water is spraying everywhere. What do you do? Run for the shut-off valve! Every homeowner should know where it’s located. Typically, it’s near the water meter or where the main water line enters your home. Turning it off quickly in an emergency saves your home from water damage and saves you money on repairs.
2. Inspect for Leaks Regularly
Leaky faucets or running toilets might seem like minor annoyances, but they waste a ton of water and money if left unchecked. Take a walk around your house every few months and check underneath sinks, around faucets, and even outdoors. Catching leaks early prevents bigger problems later.
3. Be Kind to Your Drains
Treat your drains with care! Avoid tossing grease, coffee grounds, or fibrous foods (like celery, meat marbling, and broccoli) down the kitchen sink. And in the bathroom, invest in hair catchers for your shower. These small habits help prevent clogs and save you the hassle of having to snake your drains every few months.
4. Prepare for Freezing Temps
North Georgia winters may not be extreme, but freezing temperatures can still wreak havoc on your pipes. Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas like basements or attics, and disconnect outdoor hoses when temps drop. If it gets really cold, leave your faucets on a slow drip overnight to keep water flowing and avoid frozen pipes.
5. Don’t Ignore Low Water Pressure
If your shower suddenly feels more like a drizzle, it’s time to investigate. Low water pressure is often caused by mineral buildup in your pipes or fixtures. Try cleaning your showerhead first, and if that doesn’t help, give the pros a call to troubleshoot the issue.
6. Flush Your Water Heater
Your water heater works hard every day to keep your showers warm and your clothes clean. Over time, sediment builds up inside, which reduces its efficiency and lifespan. Flushing your water heater at least once a year helps keep it running like new. Bonus tip? Set the thermostat to 120°F to avoid scalding while saving energy.
7. Install a Sewer Line Cleanout
If your home doesn’t already have a sewer line cleanout, consider having one installed. It provides easy access to your sewer line in case of a clog, saving time and money if you run into trouble. Professionals can help you get set up with all that you need.
8. Use Quality Fixtures and Materials
Tempted to grab the cheapest faucet or showerhead at the store? Think twice. Investing in high-quality fixtures upfront saves you money by lasting longer and requiring fewer repairs.
9. Don’t Overload Your Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals are tough, but they have limits. Avoid overloading yours with large amounts of food at once, and steer clear of hard items like bones, eggshells, or fruit pits. Run cold water while your disposal is operating to help keep it clean and functioning smoothly.
10. Schedule Regular Inspections
The best way to prevent plumbing disasters is to stay ahead of them. Periodic plumbing inspections catch small problems before they snowball into major repairs. Riverstone Plumbing offers thorough inspections to help you keep your system in top shape. Think of it like taking your car in for a tune-up, but for your house!
Why Partner with Riverstone Plumbing?
Sure, these tips are helpful, but sometimes you just need an expert to step in. That’s where we come in. With our experienced team and friendly service, Riverstone Plumbing has been helping North Georgia homeowners tackle everything from minor leaks to major overhauls. Bring us a plumbing emergency or plan ahead with proactive maintenance, we’re here to help no matter what.
Taking care of your plumbing may not be the most attractive thing in the world, but it’s one of the smartest things you can do as a homeowner. With a little know-how and help from Riverstone Plumbing, you can keep your home running smoothly and stress-free.
Got a plumbing question or need professional help? Give Riverstone Plumbing a call today!
FAQs
How often should I check for plumbing leaks in my home?
It’s a good idea to inspect for leaks at least once every few months. Small leaks, like a dripping faucet or running toilet, wastes water and leads to bigger problems if ignored. Keep an eye on your water bill for unexpected spikes as well, because that’s likely a sign of a hidden leak.
What’s the best way to prevent clogs in my drains?
To prevent clogs, avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps down the drain. Use drain covers to catch hair and debris, and periodically flush your drains with cold water to keep them running smoothly.
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