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Buying your first house is a major life achievement, but it also means taking responsibility for the upkeep and maintenance of your new home. Because the plumbing is one of the most expensive and important systems in your home, learning how to take care of your pipes can prevent serious disasters and major repair bills later on. Here are a few strategies to keep in mind.

How New Homeowners Can Avoid Plumbing Issues

1. Get an Inspection

The home inspection will let you know whether there are any serious issues with the pipes, but it may not detect potential issues around the corner. A thorough inspection from a plumbing professional will identify any immediate problems hiding in your walls along with minor issues that may be building toward major headaches.

2. Find the Water Shutoff Valve

plumbingA broken pipe can dump hundreds of gallons of water into your home in a matter of minutes, so every second counts. In most cases, shutting off water to the entire house is the best solution, so locate the main shutoff valve so you’ll be prepared to act if a disaster occurs.

3. Be Careful What You Put Down the Drain

Cooking grease, coffee grounds, and food debris cling to the edges of pipes, eventually causing blockages that can be difficult to dislodge. You should also avoid putting celery, chicken bones, or fruit pits in the garbage disposal, as these may damage the blades.

4. Keep the Shower Drain Clear

It doesn’t take long for hairballs to accumulate in the pipes, so clean the shower drain several times a week. A drain catch makes cleanup much easier and keeps anything but water out of your pipes.

 

If you’ve just bought your first house, trust the professionals at Silver Tree Plumbing & Heating to keep your pipes in peak condition. Their team has over a century of combined experience serving homeowners throughout Minnesota’s Dakota County, delivering exceptional results on everything from routine inspections to emergency repairs. Visit their website for an overview of their plumbing services. To schedule a service or request a free estimate, call their offices at (651) 319-4200 today.

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