Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Your Pipes

Keeping your plumbing in top shape doesn’t have to be a headache. If you follow these plumbing maintenance tips, you can keep your home or business running smoothly and avoid paying a lot for repairs. At All Needs Plumbing, we know how important it is to prevent plumbing problems, so let’s walk through some practical advice that will save you time, money, and stress.

Why Plumbing Maintenance Matters

Regular plumbing care prevents leaks, blockages, and water damage. It also helps your system run efficiently, reducing water bills and extending the life of your pipes and appliances. Over the years, I’ve seen how a little attention up front stops minor issues from turning into emergencies. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Essential Plumbing Maintenance Tips You Can Rely On

1. Inspect Faucets and Fixtures Regularly

Even though leaks are usually small initially, they can become big problems if you don't fix them. Check your taps, showerheads, and other fixtures at least once a month. Look for drips, puddles, or corrosion around the base. Even a slow drip wastes water and can hike up your bills. Replacing worn washers or seals is usually a quick fix that stops leaks before they worsen. If you notice persistent dripping or damage, it’s best to call a professional plumber to avoid further problems.

Pro-Tip: Keep a small repair kit with washers, O-rings, and plumber's tape. It makes quick fixes easier and can save you a callout. But remember, some repairs need a professional touch to ensure they last.

2. Keep Your Drains Clear

One of the most common plumbing problems is drains that won't clear. Avoid pouring grease, oils, or food scraps down the sink because they solidify and cause blockages. Use strainers to remove hair and other things that might get stuck in your sinks, tubs, and showers. 

Once a month, flush your drains with hot water and vinegar. This natural solution helps break down buildup and keeps drains flowing freely without harsh chemicals.

Do not wait if you notice stinky smells or slow draining. Call us to inspect and clear your drains professionally. Early intervention prevents bigger blockages and costly repairs.

3. Maintain Your Hot Water System

Your hot water system works hard daily, so it needs regular care. Over time, sediment builds up inside the tank, reducing efficiency and increasing energy bills. Flushing your water heater once a year removes this sediment and helps your system run smoothly. Also, check for leaks or rust around the unit, which could signal a problem.

Set your water heater temperature to about 60°C. This setting is hot enough to kill bacteria but safe to prevent scalding. If you notice inconsistent water temperature or strange noises from your heater, it’s time to get a professional inspection.

Pro-Tip: If your water heater is over 10 years old or showing signs of wear, call us for an inspection. We often save customers hundreds by catching issues early before they become full replacements.

4. Monitor Water Pressure

Water pressure that’s too high or too low can cause problems. Ideal residential water pressure is between 40 and 80 psi. If it is too high, your pipes and fixtures wear out faster and may leak or burst. Too low, and you’ll notice weak water flow that makes everyday tasks frustrating.

If you hear banging noises in your pipes, known as water hammer, or notice inconsistent flow, it’s likely a pressure issue. We recommend having a professional check your system and install a pressure-reducing valve. This valve keeps pressure steady and protects your plumbing.

5. Know Your Cleanouts

If you have cleanouts, plumbers can clear out clogs in your plumbing system without having to dig up pipes. The number of cleanouts you need depends on your home’s size and plumbing layout. Typically, main sewer lines and long drain runs should have cleanouts at strategic points.

If your home doesn’t have enough cleanouts, clearing blockages can become invasive and expensive. When we service your home, we check if your cleanouts are appropriately placed and accessible. Adding cleanouts can save you time and money in the long run.

6. Prepare for Winter

Cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst, leading to costly water damage. To avoid this, insulate pipes that are out in the open in places that aren't heated, like garages, basements, or under your house. Wrap pipes in heat tape or foam sleeves that insulate pipes.

Before winter hits, drain outdoor hoses and shut off exterior water valves. This prevents water from freezing in the pipes outside your home. If you’re unsure about your winter plumbing prep, call us. We’ll make sure your system is ready for the cold.

7. Watch for Leaks and Corrosion

Leaks don’t always show obvious signs. Check visible pipes, joints, and under sinks regularly for damp patches, rust, or corrosion. Leaks of any size of water can lead to mould growth or damage to the building itself over time.

If you spot any signs, don’t delay. Call us to inspect and fix the problem quickly. If you catch it early, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your home safe.

8. Sewer and Septic Care

If your property has a septic system, you must maintain it regularly. Schedule inspections and pumping every 3-5 years, depending on usage. To keep your system healthy, avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper. Items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, and grease can clog and damage your septic tank.

We can check and fix your septic system so that it works well and you don't have to pay for expensive backups.

9. Backflow Prevention

Backflow devices stop contaminated water from flowing back into your clean water supply. They’re critical for your health and safety, and they require regular testing and maintenance to ensure they work properly.

We recommend scheduling professional backflow testing annually. If your device needs repair or replacement, we can take care of it quickly to protect your water supply.

10. Gutter and Downpipe Maintenance

Blocked gutters and downpipes cause water to overflow and pool around your home’s foundation, leading to leaks and damage to your plumbing and structure. Clean your gutters regularly, especially before heavy rains, to ensure water flows freely.

Inspect downpipes for blockages and clear any debris. If you notice water pooling near your home, it’s a sign your drainage needs attention. We can help with gutter cleaning and repairs to protect your plumbing and property.

FAQs About Plumbing Maintenance Tips

How many cleanouts do you need?

The number depends on your property size and plumbing layout. Generally, main sewer lines and long drain runs should have cleanouts for easy access during blockages. Having enough cleanouts means plumbers can clear clogs quickly without invasive digging.

Does every drain need a cleanout?

Not every drain requires one. Main sewer lines and key drain points should have cleanouts, but smaller drains usually don’t. Cleanouts are most useful where blockages are common or difficult to reach.

What is the highest pressure at which plumbing will still function?

Residential plumbing systems typically operate safely between 40 and 80 psi. Pressures above 80 psi stress pipes and fixtures, increasing the risk of leaks and bursts.

What happens if the pressure is too high in a pipe?

High pressure can cause leaks, burst pipes, and noisy water hammer effects that damage your plumbing system. Over time, it wears out your fixtures and appliances faster.

How can I reduce the water flow in a pipe?

You can reduce water flow by installing a pressure-reducing valve or adjusting faucet aerators and flow restrictors. Fixing leaks also helps maintain proper flow balance and prevents wastage.

What if I want to know more plumbing maintenance tips?

If you want to keep your plumbing in great shape without the stress, we’re here to help. At All Needs Plumbing, we offer a $0 callout fee so you only pay for the service you need. Our 24/7 same-day service means we’re ready whenever you need us, day or night. 

We also offer seniors a 15% discount and $150 off hot water system replacements. Whether you need a quick fix or a full inspection, we’ve got your back. Call us today and experience the peace of mind with expert plumbing care.

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