Navigating homeownership comes with its fair share of responsibilities, and plumbing maintenance is often overlooked, especially by new homeowners. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed if you’re not well-versed in how plumbing systems operate or what preventative measures to take.

Once you settle into your own home, taking care of these systems falls squarely on your shoulders. This reality often hits hard only when a plumbing issue arises.

Here’s a look at some of the most frequent plumbing maintenance missteps that new homeowners tend to make.

1. Neglecting Inspections

Having a dedicated plumbing maintenance plan is crucial for any homeowner. Regular inspections can help you identify minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs.

It’s essential to establish a relationship with a reliable plumbing service. This becomes your go-to resource for not only unexpected issues but also routine inspections. Skipping this can lead to bigger problems down the line.

A professional plumber will assess your entire plumbing system for signs of damage or deterioration. They can pinpoint any potential drainage concerns and provide solutions, effectively helping you address issues before they arise. A proactive approach can protect your plumbing setup, ultimately saving you both time and money.

Aim to have a plumbing maintenance check at least once a year. The investment in these services pales in comparison to the savings you’ll reap by preventing significant issues.

2. Leaving Water On When Away

One common oversight is forgetting to switch off the water supply when leaving home for an extended period. If you’re planning to be away—whether for a vacation or a business trip—it’s wise to turn off your water supply.

Some might think it’s acceptable to leave a faucet running during winter, assuming it will prevent pipes from freezing. While this concept might make sense, it can be problematic. Not only does it waste water, but it also increases pressure within your plumbing system, which can lead to wear and eventual costly repairs.

For the sake of your pipes and your water bill, only leave the water running when necessary.

3. Ignoring Drain Cleaning

It’s easy to adopt the “out of sight, out of mind” mindset when it comes to plumbing, particularly with drains that aren’t visibly accessible. However, neglecting drain maintenance can lead to significant clogs.

Accumulated debris from hair and various products can easily obstruct your drains. To prevent buildup, make it a habit to check your drains and clean them monthly.

By steering clear of these common plumbing pitfalls, you can enjoy peace of mind and maintain the integrity of your home’s plumbing system.

4. Overlooking Plumbing Problems

One common pitfall for new homeowners is overlooking plumbing issues. Perhaps you’ve noticed a minor leak or heard strange noises when turning on the tap.

It’s easy to dismiss these signs and move on with your day. However, even the tiniest plumbing inconvenience has the potential to escalate into a much larger issue.

That’s why addressing plumbing repairs should be a top priority for homeowners. The moment you spot a problem, it’s crucial to take action.

You can’t always tell if it’s just a simple fix or something more serious. Continuing to use your plumbing without addressing these signs could lead to more significant damage.

5. Neglecting Water Filters

Another aspect that may have slipped your mind is your water filters. These filters play a vital role in catching debris before it affects your water heater or dishwasher.

Without proper filters in place, both appliances could suffer damage. Many homeowners forget to replace these filters, allowing them to deteriorate over time.

This oversight can lead to your water heater or dishwasher needing early replacement—a costly expense that could be easily avoided with a routine filter change.

It’s advisable to replace the filters every few months. If you’re uncertain whether it’s time for a change, just take a look; if it looks dirty, it probably needs to be replaced.