Plumbing tips every homeowner should know

Know where your water shut off valve is

Knowing where your mains water shut off valve, also known as stopcock is located could literally save you thousands. In the event of a burst pipe or a major leak, turning off the valve will stop the water supply to your house, and minimise the damages to your property.

It is normally located in the cupboard under the sink or maybe the basement. If you can't find it, a good idea is to ask your neighbours, as similar properties normally have it at the same place. And you can use the time to make some new friends as well!

Clean your shower drain

We know it's one of these gross jobs, and we know it takes time, and who even wants to do it, just after they've taken a refreshing shower? But a build-up of hair can cause a serious blockage in your drain, and you'll end up paying for something you could have avoided. Make a habit of de-clogging the shower and bath drains from hair after every use, and pour a mixture of bicarbonate of soda and cider vinegar down the drain every few months.

If you still end up with clogged drains, you might need to call a drainage expert . They'll not only unblock your drain but give you some advice on how to avoid a next visit.

Don't throw grease down the sink

Grease and oils solidify when in contact with cold water, and can clog the pipes causing enormous amount of damage. Instead, pour the hot oil and grease from your roasting and frying pans into a designated container and discard of it in the regular bin. Great way to further use leftover plastic containers.

Spot a leaking toilet

A leaking toilet can add pounds to your water bill. An easy way to check for leaks is to put a drop or two of food colouring in the toilet tank. If you notice the water in your toilet bowl has changed colour in the next half an hour - you have a leak.

Replace hoses

Your appliances such as dishwasher and washing machine need regular hose replacement. A worn off hose can break and cause damage to your property. We recommend replacing hoses every 3-5 ears.

Clean your taps and shower

We bet you didn't know that! Mineral build up is an issue for shower heads and taps but one that can be easily avoided. A good preventative measure is to fill a small bag with vinegar and tie it around the faucet or shower head overnight. In the morning you can just scrub off the build-up. Problem solved!

Prepare for the winter

This one of the essential plumbing tips for homeowners with their own gardens. When temperatures start going down (mid-October to mid-November) make sure to disconnect your garden hoses from the outdoor tap. Drain the hoses, and put them away for winter, and make sure to drain the tap, and turn it off as well. Any water left in the pipes can freeze, expand and cause damage to your plumbing system.

Additionally, consider the ideal temperature for your home during winter. "The perfect temperature for your home might be lower than you think" which can help you save on heating costs and prevent undue stress on your plumbing system.

Protect your home from rainwater damage

Don't forget to safeguard your home from potential damage caused by rainwater. For tips on protecting your property from such risks, check out our blog, "Rainwater can damage your home. Here is how to protect it".

Think about a Plumbing and Drainage cover

If you're not confident in your DIY skills, and don't have the time and money to throw at last-minute repairs, a Plumbing and Drainage home cover plan can be perfect for you. This way you'll know an expert plumbing engineer can be on the way as soon as needed.

This is especially important if you're moving into a new home. Check out our blog "Moving house: The complete checklist" for more tips on ensuring your new home is in top shape.

Smart house repair hacks

In addition to professional services, there are simple DIY hacks you can use to address minor issues. For example, check out our blog, "Smart house repair hacks using only household objects", for clever solutions to common problems using items you probably already have at home.

Keep a plumber's number handy

Even if you don't have a home cover plan, it is still worthy to have a number at hand when you need emergency professional repair - how about 0800 068 7245 .

The Importance of Safety

Finally, while you're ensuring your plumbing is in good shape, don't forget about overall home safety. Check out our blog on "The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide: How to Protect Yourself" to learn how to keep your home safe from this silent but dangerous threat.