10 Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner Needs to Know

Welcome to Four Seasons Plumbing’s guide to mastering the basics of home plumbing. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or new to managing your own property in Asheville, NC, maintaining a reliable and efficient plumbing system is crucial for keeping your home running smoothly. As the best plumbers in Asheville, we’re here to share our top ten plumbing tips that every homeowner should know. From routine maintenance to emergency fixes, these tips will help you prevent problems before they start and ensure peace of mind when it comes to your home’s plumbing.

1. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is

   
   One of the most crucial pieces of information for any homeowner is the location of their main water shut-off valve. This valve controls the water supply to your entire house, and knowing where it is can be a lifesaver in case of a plumbing emergency. In most homes, you’ll find the main shut-off valve near where the main water line enters your house, often in the basement or crawl space. Take a moment to locate this valve and make sure everyone in your household knows where it is and how to use it.
   Tip: Practice turning the valve on and off once a year to ensure it’s working properly and doesn’t get stuck when you need it most.

2. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

   While it might be tempting to reach for a bottle of chemical drain cleaner when you’re faced with a clog, these harsh products can do more harm than good. Chemical cleaners can damage your pipes, especially if used frequently. They’re also harmful to the environment and can be dangerous if they come into contact with your skin or eyes.
   Instead of chemical cleaners, try these alternatives:

   • Use a plunger
   • Try a drain snake or auger
   • Pour boiling water down the drain
   • Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar

   If these methods don’t work, it’s time to call in the best plumbers in Asheville. At Four Seasons Plumbing, we have the tools and expertise to clear even the toughest clogs safely and effectively.

3. Don’t Ignore Small Leaks

   
   A dripping faucet or a small leak under the sink might seem like a minor annoyance, but ignoring these issues can lead to bigger problems down the line. Not only do small leaks waste water and increase your utility bills, but they can also cause water damage to your home and create an environment for mold growth.
   
   If you notice a leak, no matter how small, it’s best to address it promptly. Sometimes, a simple tightening of a connection or replacement of a washer can solve the problem. However, if you’re unsure about how to fix it, don’t hesitate to contact the best plumbers in Asheville, NC, at Four Seasons Plumbing.

4. Be Mindful of What Goes Down Your Drains

   Your drains are not a catch-all for household waste. Being mindful of what you put down your drains can prevent clogs and keep your plumbing system running smoothly. Here are some things to avoid putting down your drains:

   • Grease and cooking oils
   • Coffee grounds
   • Eggshells
   • Large food particles
   • Hair
   • Flushable wipes (despite their name, these can clog your pipes)

   In the kitchen, use a strainer in your sink to catch food particles, and dispose of grease in the trash rather than down the drain. In the bathroom, consider using a hair catcher in your shower or tub drain.

5. Maintain Your Water Heater

   Your water heater is an essential part of your home’s plumbing system, and proper maintenance can extend its life and improve its efficiency. Here are a few tips for maintaining your water heater:

   • Flush the tank annually to remove sediment buildup
   • Check the pressure relief valve regularly
   • Insulate the tank and pipes to improve efficiency
   • Set the temperature to 120°F to prevent scalding and save energy

   If you’re not comfortable performing these tasks yourself, the Asheville-trusted plumbers at Four Seasons Plumbing can help with water heater maintenance and repairs.

6. Don’t Overload Your Garbage Disposal

   
   A garbage disposal can be a convenient kitchen appliance, but it’s important not to overload it. Your disposal is designed to handle small food particles, not large amounts of waste. To keep your garbage disposal in good working order:

   • Run cold water when using the disposal
   • Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods down the disposal
   • Don’t put non-food items in the disposal
   • Clean the disposal regularly with ice cubes and citrus peels

   If your garbage disposal is jammed or not working properly, don’t try to fix it yourself. Contact the best plumbers in Asheville at Four Seasons Plumbing for safe and professional repairs.

7. Insulate Your Pipes

   If you live in an area where temperatures drop below freezing, insulating your pipes is crucial to prevent them from freezing and bursting. Focus on pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. You can use foam pipe insulation, which is inexpensive and easy to install.
   
   In addition to insulating your pipes, here are a few more tips to prevent frozen pipes:

   • Keep your heat on, even when you’re away from home
   • Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes
   • Let faucets drip slightly during extremely cold weather

   If you’re concerned about your pipes freezing, the best plumbers in Asheville, NC at Four Seasons Plumbing can assess your system and provide recommendations.

8. Be Careful What You Flush

   Your toilet is designed to handle human waste and toilet paper – nothing else. Flushing other items can lead to clogs and expensive plumbing repairs. Here’s a list of items that should never be flushed:

   • Wipes (even if they’re labeled “flushable”)
   • Cotton balls or swabs
   • Dental floss
   • Feminine hygiene products
   • Medications
   • Cat litter

   Remember, if it’s not toilet paper or human waste, it doesn’t belong in your toilet. Keep a small trash can in your bathroom for easy disposal of non-flushable items.

9. Know How to Spot Signs of a Sewer Line Problem

   
   Your sewer line is a crucial part of your home’s plumbing system, carrying waste away from your home. Problems with your sewer line can be serious and expensive to repair, so it’s important to know the signs of trouble. Watch out for:

   • Multiple drains backing up at once
   • Gurgling sounds from drains
   • Foul odors coming from drains
   • Wet spots in your yard
   • Lush patches of grass in your lawn

   If you notice any of these signs, don’t delay in calling the plumbers Asheville homeowners trust. At Four Seasons Plumbing, we have the equipment and expertise to diagnose and repair sewer line issues quickly and effectively.

10. Schedule Regular Plumbing Maintenance

    Just like your car needs regular oil changes, your plumbing system benefits from routine maintenance. Regular check-ups by a professional plumber can catch small issues before they become big problems, saving you money and headaches in the long run.
    During a maintenance visit, a plumber will:

    • Check for leaks
    • Inspect your water heater
    • Test your water pressure
    • Examine your sewer line
    • Clean drains as needed

    At Four Seasons Plumbing, we offer comprehensive maintenance services to keep your plumbing system in top shape. Our experienced technicians will thoroughly inspect your system and provide honest recommendations for any necessary repairs or upgrades.

Take Action Now for a Smooth-Running Plumbing System

While these tips can help you maintain your plumbing system and prevent common issues, it’s important to remember that some plumbing problems require professional attention. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always best to call in the experts.
As the best plumbers in Asheville, Four Seasons Plumbing is here to help with all your plumbing needs. From routine maintenance to emergency repairs, our team of skilled professionals is committed to providing top-notch service to homeowners in Asheville, Hendersonville, and the surrounding areas.
Remember, taking care of your plumbing system isn’t just about avoiding problems – it’s about ensuring the comfort, safety, and efficiency of your home. By following these tips and partnering with a reliable plumbing service like Four Seasons Plumbing, you can keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly for years to come.
Don’t wait for a plumbing emergency to strike. Contact Four Seasons Plumbing today to schedule a maintenance check-up or to address any plumbing concerns you may have. Our friendly, professional team is always ready to help, providing the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is in good hands.