Whether you just bought your first house, or you’re an experienced homeowner with a few properties under your sleeve, there are some plumbing tips you should know.

Problems with your plumbing system are bond to occur at some point, and knowing what to do can be crucial in preventing damage to your property. There are numerous plumbing tips for homeowners out there, since everyone has had to deal with a plumbing issue at some point in their life.

To make it easier for you, we asked our expert plumbers choose the plumbing tips for homeowners, which they deem most useful.

Best Plumbing tips for Homeowners

• Know where your water shut off valve is

Knowing where your mains water shut off valve, also known as stopcock is located cold 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 neighbors, 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 coloring in the toilet tank. If you notice the water in the toilet bowl has changed colour in the next half hour – you have a leak.

• Replace Hoses

Your appliances such as the 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 years.

• Clean you Faucets and Shower

We bet you didn’t know that! Mineral build up as an issue for shower heads and faucets but one can be easily avoided. A good preventative measure is to fill a small bag with vineger 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 the 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.

• Keep a Plumber’s number handy

It is always a great idea to have a number at hand when you need emergency professional repairs – how about 01727 730590? That’s our number, we’re trusted plumbers in St Albans and surrounding areas.