Moving into a new place is exciting. You’ve got fresh walls, your own space, and a to-do list that never seems to shrink. Amid the excitement of paint colors and furniture shopping, plumbing might not steal the spotlight, but it deserves a place near the top of that list. After all, a few small steps today can help you avoid issues like water damage in the future.
S and J Plumbing is committed to educating folks on how to care for their plumbing, so we're here to explain the top homeowner dos and don'ts. We'll also go over why you should turn to us for all of your plumbing service needs. From drain cleaning to sump pumps and even emergency assistance, we do it all.
Now, let's go over what you can do to keep your plumbing in tip-top shape all year round.
Tip #1: Learn Where the Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is
Think of the shut-off valve as your emergency brake. It cuts off the water supply to your home if a pipe bursts or a major leak pops up. Knowing where this valve is can save you from watching water flood your hallway while you scramble to figure out what to do. Most valves sit near where the main pipe enters your house — sometimes in a basement or utility closet. Once you find it, give it a turn every few months to keep it from getting stuck. If it’s rusty or doesn’t budge, call in a plumber to check it out before it becomes a real problem.
Tip #2: Know What Should & Shouldn’t Go Down the Drains
Your drains handle a lot, but they’re picky. In the kitchen, avoid rinsing cooking grease, coffee grounds, or food chunks down the sink. These can cling to pipes and slow down drainage over time. In the bathroom, stick to toilet paper — everything else belongs in the trash. Even wipes that claim to be “flushable” often lead to backups. Tossing the wrong stuff into the wrong drain can lead to clogs, weird smells, and expensive repairs. And if someone in the house is a fan of chemical drain cleaner, remind them how it can speed up pipe corrosion.
Tip #3: Get Familiar With Your Water Heater
The water heater doesn’t ask for much, but it quietly runs behind the scenes to keep your showers warm and your dishes clean. Every new homeowner should know where it is, how old it is, and what type they’re working with — tank or tankless. Over time, sediment builds up in the tank and affects water heating. That buildup can cause rattling noises or uneven temperatures. Flushing the tank once a year helps keep things running smoothly. If you’re not sure how to do that, an S and J Plumber can walk you through it during a regular inspection.
Tip #4: Know the Signs of Hidden Leaks
Not every leak makes a dramatic entrance. Some sneak in through walls or ceilings and hang out quietly, causing damage while you go about your day. Keep an eye out for damp spots, peeling paint, or strange smells. Watch your water pressure, too — if the shower suddenly feels weaker than usual, a leak could be at play. Slow leaks can lead to mold or structural issues over time. Spotting problems early can save you a lot of money and stress.
Tip #5: Build a Relationship With a Local Plumber
Establishing a connection with a reliable local plumber before an urgent situation arises offers invaluable reassurance and preparedness when dealing with your property's complex plumbing system. Instead of scrambling during a stressful emergency, you will have a trusted professional ready to call, someone familiar, perhaps even with your home's specific setup through previous maintenance visits.
Why Partner With S and J Plumbing
S and J Plumbing isn’t just about fixing what’s broken. We take pride in helping homeowners stay informed and comfortable in their space. We speak human, not plumbing jargon. Our team treats every home with respect, like it’s our own. Whether it’s time for an inspection or you’re seeing signs of water damage, our plumbers bring years of experience and a calm, helpful attitude. We’re local, we’re reliable, and we’re ready to roll up our sleeves whenever you need a hand. No guesswork, no nonsense — just solid service and honest advice.
Want More Plumbing Tips? Call Us Today!
You don’t have to know every inch of your plumbing system to stay ahead of problems. With the right information and a solid support team, homeownership gets a whole lot less stressful. If you’ve got questions about pipe maintenance, pressure issues, or anything else we mentioned, we’re just a phone call away.
No matter if you’re curious about your water heating setup or wondering if that dripping tap is worth a fix, we’re happy to chat. What are you waiting for? Contact us now and let S and J Plumbing care for every plumbing fixture in your home.
