As a homeowner, you have a lot to manage and worry about.  Plumbing issues can arise unexpectedly and disrupt your daily life, causing unnecessary stress and expenses. With some proactive measures and regular upkeep, you can minimize the risk of encountering plumbing emergencies:

  • Regularly Inspect and Maintain Plumbing Fixtures: Perform routine checks on all your plumbing fixtures, such as faucets, toilets, and showerheads. Look for signs of leaks, corrosion, or drips. Addressing small issues promptly can prevent them from becoming major problems later. Additionally, ensure that all fixtures are properly sealed and functioning as intended.
  • Be Mindful of What You Flush: Educate everyone in your household about what can and cannot be flushed down the toilet. Flushing items like wet wipes, cotton balls, or feminine hygiene products can lead to clogs and blockages in your sewer lines, potentially causing a plumbing emergency. Stick to flushing only toilet paper and human waste.
  • Watch Your Water Pressure: High water pressure might seem advantageous, but it can put unnecessary stress on your pipes and lead to leaks or bursts. Install a pressure regulator to maintain a safe water pressure level, typically between 40-80 psi (pounds per square inch).
  • Prevent Frozen Pipes in Winter: During colder months, take precautions to prevent your pipes from freezing. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas, like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. When the temperature drops significantly, let faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing and reduce the risk of freezing.
  • Avoid DIY Fixes for Major Plumbing Issues: While it’s tempting to try fixing plumbing issues yourself, major problems are best left to professional plumbers. Mishandling complicated repairs can exacerbate the situation and lead to more significant emergencies. Save the DIY for simple tasks like unclogging drains using a plunger.
  • Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections: Hiring a licensed plumber for annual or bi-annual inspections can catch potential problems before they escalate. A professional can identify hidden leaks, deteriorating pipes, or other issues that may not be immediately visible to an untrained eye.
  • Know Your Main Water Shut-off Valve: In case of a sudden plumbing emergency, knowing the location of your main water shut-off valve is crucial. Familiarize yourself with its location and ensure everyone in your household knows how to turn it off. This quick action can minimize water damage and give you time to call for professional assistance.

Regular maintenance, being cautious with what goes down your drains, and knowing how to respond during critical situations will help you keep your plumbing system in top condition.

And when a plumbing emergency does happen, call Justin Dorsey Plumbing. With 24/7 service and NO after-hours fees, our experienced team can come inspect and repair the issue quickly and efficiently.