There are few things more annoying than a plumbing problem. You don’t realize just how good we’ve got it with indoor plumbing until your sink’s drain slows to a drizzle or your toilet starts overflowing.
“Hair, grease, food scraps, you name it,” said Al Fagundes, founder and CEO at A. Fagundes Plumbing and Heating. “It ends up causing a blockage.”
Plumbing issues are common and often go unaddressed for far too long. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average household wastes nearly 10,000 gallons of water every year due to leaks alone. Just imagine every drop of water adding up on your utility bill.
Now, you might think that addressing plumbing issues requires an expert and that you’ll have to fork out hundreds if not thousands of dollars for their time and labor. First of all, here’s a little spoiler alert: Performing maintenance costs way less and saves you lots of money down the line. But secondly, many common problems can be addressed with some simple tools and know-how.
These expert-backed tips will help you prevent common plumbing disasters, extend the life of your fixtures, and potentially save thousands in emergency repair costs.
Shower drains often get clogged with hair.
Use strainers on drains
One of the most common plumbing-related problems homeowners run into is clogged drains. Fagundes says clogs are one of the biggest issues he sees when making house calls.
Luckily, there is an extremely simple and affordable tool that helps significantly reduce the risk of blockages: drain strainers. These sieves, usually made out of stainless steel or silicone, cost just a few bucks and can be placed over the drain of your sink or shower, catching hair, grit, food debris and anything else that might cause a problem. While it’s not a particularly fancy tool, it can save you from clogs that cost hundreds of dollars to remove if a plumber has to show up and take care of it for you.
Be mindful of what you flush
Another way to avoid clogs is to think about what you’re putting down the drain in the first place. While clogs can just form over time, they happen more frequently because we put things down the drain that aren’t supposed to be there.
And it can have an impact beyond just your pipes. According to the EPA, fat, oil and grease are a major cause of sewer overflows. “Avoid pouring grease down the drain,” Fagundes says. Instead, let any of these materials cool, put it in a container and throw it in the trash.
He also recommends homeowners “be mindful of what you’re flushing down the toilet.” One common item that gets flushed that shouldn’t is flushable wipes. Despite the label, most wipes don’t break down as easily as toilet paper and can cause serious plumbing issues. Unlike toilet paper, which disintegrates quickly in water, flushable wipes remain intact for much longer, leading to clogs in household pipes. It’s especially a bad idea if you have a septic system.
Avoid liquid drain cleaners
If you have a clog, you might be tempted to reach for liquid drain cleaner for a quick and easy fix. It’s easy to understand why: All you have to do is pour a little down the drain and let it dissolve the blockage. But Fagundes doesn’t recommend it.
“These products might work for a quick fix, but personally, I’m not a big fan of the liquid stuff,” he says. “It’s harsh on your pipes and can cause more damage in the long run.”
Most liquid drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals. In addition to breaking down clogs, it can weaken and corrode pipes over time. That’s especially the case in older plumbing systems. They also pose potential environmental concerns if not disposed of properly.
Have the right tools on hand
Instead of liquid drain solutions, you should make sure that you have the right tools on hand for dealing with clogs, blockages and pipe backups. Luckily, those tools are usually affordable and accessible. In fact, you might already have some in your home that you can put to use should you run into a plumbing problem.
“A good old-fashioned snake or auger is usually a better option for tackling clogs,” Fagundes says. “For simple clogs, a plunger can often do the trick. And don’t forget about that trusty drain snake — it’s a must-have for any homeowner.”
With these tools, all you have to do is insert it into the drain, work the handle to push through the blockage, and then either break it up or pull it out to clear the pipe depending on the tool you’re using.
Check for simple fixes first
A plumbing problem might make you want to call a professional immediately, but take a deep breath. Common issues like leaky faucets or running toilets can be resolved without professional help.
For example, let’s say you can hear your sink drip, drip, dripping. “Leaky faucets are another common issue homeowners run into,” Fagundes says. “Sometimes it’s an easy fix, like replacing a washer.”
And if you hear your toilet continue running? You can check a couple quick solutions before needing to call in the cavalry. “Usually, it’s the flapper not sealing properly or the fill valve not shutting off,” Fagundes explained. “Again, often an easy fix for a homeowner willing to learn.”
By tackling these minor issues themselves, homeowners can save money on service calls and prevent small problems from turning into costly repairs. “A little DIY know-how can save you a service call,” Fagundes says.
The master plumber we spoke to suggests a drain snake over harsh chemicals.
Know where your shut-off valves are
If you find yourself dealing with a particularly bad plumbing issue — you’ve got standing water, an active leak or a pipe burst, for instance — the first thing you’re going to want to do is shut off the water to minimize the damage. That means knowing where your shut-off valves are.
Your main water shut-off valve is typically located near where the water line enters your home, while individual shut-offs are often found under sinks or behind toilets. Look for little knobs on the pipes that will cut off the flow of water.
Being familiar with these valves ensures you can act fast in an emergency, reducing the time water continues to flow and limiting potential damage to your home. It’s a simple but essential step in protecting your property and avoiding extensive water-related problems.
Address leaks early when possible
This might sound simple, but it’s a big one: If you see a leak, don’t leave it be. Addressing leaks early is crucial for homeowners to prevent further damage and costly repairs. Even a small leak can quickly escalate, causing water damage, mold and weakening the structure of your home. This is where tools like a smart water leak detector can pay for themselves by warning you when a leak occurs and shutting off the valves automatically.
By repairing leaks promptly, you protect both your plumbing system and your home’s foundation, avoiding the need for expensive repairs down the road. Early detection and action are key to maintaining a healthy, functional home.
Plunging the shower drain is another chemical-free way to get things moving.
Don’t be a hero
While there are plenty of things that you can fix on your own when it comes to plumbing issues, it’s also important to know your limits.
“As for when to call a pro, use your best judgment,” Fagundes says. “If it’s a simple leaky faucet or a clogged toilet, you might be able to handle it yourself. But if you’re dealing with a major leak, a burst pipe or anything involving your sewer line, don’t hesitate to call a professional.”
Try to fix what you feel comfortable with, but don’t make the situation worse. “Trust me, sometimes it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to plumbing problems,” Fagundes says.
Are any flushable wipes safe to flush?
Despite the branding, most flushable wipes aren’t safe to flush. Even the ones labeled as “flushable” often won’t break down and can clog your pipes or septic system. It’s usually best not to risk it since there’s no industry standard or regulation around what counts as “flushable.”
What’s the most common cause of a slow drain?
According to Fagundes, a drain that’s draining slowly is usually caused by clogged hair. Using a snake can help clear the blockage out and a drain strainer can help prevent it from happening in the first place.
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