Whether you’ve just built or bought a new house or even renovating your own humble abode, it’s important to pay careful attention when plumbing a new house. Improper installation or lack of maintenance can lead to costly repairs on top of expenses you’ve paid already. We’ve compiled a list of must-read tips for plumbing in your new house.
- Locate the Main Water Shutoff Valve: Know where it is and how to shut it off if there’s a leak, flood, or other plumbing emergency. Turning off the supply can prevent a lot of water damage in your new home. All members of your household, if they are old enough and able, should know how to operate the water shutoff valve.
- Keep the Pipes Protected: During Oklahoma winters, the weather can fluctuate wildly. If the water freezes in the pipes, it can expand and crack them, causing flooding and plumbing issues throughout your home. Adding pipe sleeves or other insulation can prevent this.
- Look for Existing Leaks: Check for signs such as standing water, dampness, stains on ceilings and walls, low water pressure from faucets and showerheads, and sounds of running water. Toilets, faucets, washing machines, and hose bibs are common leak points to check.
- Waterproof Your Basement: To prevent groundwater problems, install a sump pump or French drain. Clean the gutters, install downspout extensions, and adjust the grade of your yard so it pitches away from the house. If there are water-using appliances in your basement, install high-quality hoses.
- Install a Whole Home Leak Detection System: It monitors your plumbing system and appliances while tracking water flow. If something isn’t working right or there’s a leak, it will sound an alarm.
- Practice Safety When Doing DIY Work: If you tackle plumbing projects but are not trained, learn where every pipe, valve, and fixture is. Read warning labels on any products used and turn off the electricity if working near a power source or appliance. Wear goggles, earplugs, facemasks, and gloves to protect yourself.
- Install Strainers in Shower/Tub Drains: Hair, soap, shampoo, and other things can clog drains and block your pipes. You can avoid this by installing a strainer that fits over each drain.
- Make Sure Every Connection Is Tight: Whether you install a pipe, fitting, or a washing machine, dishwasher, or ice machine, check that every connection you make is tight and leak-free.
- Know How to Maintain Your Toilet: Lots of plumbing issues arise due to improper toilet usage. The only item you should flush is toilet paper. Call a plumber as soon as there’s evidence of a leak, or use food coloring in the tank to see if it enters the bowl; if so, schedule professional leak repair.
- Schedule an Inspection: Any home should have a plumbing inspection before move in. Hidden leaks, clogs, or other issues can be found before they cause major damage. A plumbing inspection can save you a great deal of money.
- Call for Help: Many plumbing issues require specialized products, tools, and equipment to address. Not to mention years of experience that allows a plumber to correct problems quickly and anticipate any difficulties along the way.
Contact Quality Heating Cooling Plumbing Today
Located in Glenpool, OK, we can perform a plumbing inspection on your new home, help with installation during a remodel, or replace failed components. We’re also available for emergency service whenever you need us. Call 918-205-8515 for 24-hour emergency service or to ask any plumbing-related questions.