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Reviewed by a licensed residential plumber with over 10 years of field experience.
For first-time homeowners, understanding the plumbing and what to do if there are issues is crucial. Over time of owning a home, there will be minor plumbing issues that need to be handled, and there may be larger issues that require fast help. Knowing how to prevent potential problems and what to do when anything goes wrong makes a big difference and can help prevent significant damage to the home. All first-time homeowners should know the following about plumbing before moving into their new home.
Know About Vital Components
It’s a good idea to know the plumbing system layout in the home in case anything goes wrong. It’s not necessary to know where every pipe is, but homeowners should know where their main water shut-off valve is, their water heater, and any drain and cleanout locations.
Quick Tip: Learn how to locate your water shut-off valve and label it clearly for emergencies. This Old House Plumbing Guide can help.
If there is a leak or burst pipe in the home, the water can be turned off at the main shut-off valve right away to prevent further damage before hiring a plumber for help. If there is any issue with the water heater, knowing where it is and how to turn it off can be crucial. Plus, beginners will want to know where the drain and cleanout locations are so they can handle backups that may occur.
Have Basic Plumbing Tools on Hand
First-time homeowners may not have a large collection of tools yet, but they will want to pick up a few to keep at home in case of a plumbing issue. These include a plunger, an adjustable wrench, a pipe wrench, plumbers’ tape, and a drain snake (auger).
Toolkit Essentials: Check out our Homeowner Plumbing Toolkit Guide for specific product recommendations.
These basic tools can come in handy if any plumbing issues need to be fixed or to stop them from getting worse before a plumber can arrive. Depending on the home, the plumbing may have a unique handle on it by the meter. A specialized tool may be needed to be able to turn the water on and off. A wrench can work in a pinch, but the tools needed are inexpensive and can be easier to use if they are required.
Know What Issues Beginners Can Fix
Beginners are able to fix a lot of potential issues on their own, though it is a better idea to leave it to the plumbers if they are worried about making it worse or if there is any risk to doing the repair. Some of the most common repairs for beginners to tackle on their own include the following.
Leaking Faucet
A faucet typically leaks because there is a worn-out washer or cartridge. The homeowner can turn off the water to the faucet, take it apart, and replace the part. It is also possible to replace the faucet completely if they’re ready for a new one.
Running Toilet
A toilet that runs often or continuously is wasting a significant amount of water, but there is an easy fix. Use a toilet repair kit to replace the toilet flapper or other internal components to get the toilet working again. Here’s a guide from Family Handyman.
Clogged Drain
If the sink or shower is clogged, a drain snake or auger can be used to fix it. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can end up causing significant damage to the pipes over time.
Take Care of Preventative Maintenance
Preventive maintenance makes a huge difference in keeping the plumbing system working, and homeowners can do a lot of it on their own. Some preventative maintenance tips all beginners should know include the following.
- Keep Drains Clean – Clean hair from drains regularly to prevent them from building up.
- Cover the Pipes – Any exposed pipes can be insulated.
- Water Heater Flushing – The water heater should be flushed annually to remove sediment.
- Keep an Eye Out for Leaks – Check weekly for visible leaks so they can be handled fast if they’re detected.
Learn more in our full Plumbing Maintenance Checklist.
Know When to Call a Plumber
Though there is a lot first-time homeowners can do to keep their plumbing working, there are times when a pro is needed. Hire a plumber if any of the following are detected:
- Water Backing Up – This indicates a clog deep in the pipes, so it won’t be as easy to reach or fix.
- Water Stains or Mold – This could indicate a hidden leak, so professional assistance may be needed.
- Pipes Inside Walls are Leaking – This can be far more challenging to fix, so homeowners will want to make sure it’s done right.
- Water Heater is Leaking – The water heater can be dangerous to fix, so it’s better to have the pros handle it.
- Water Pressure is Low – There could be a major issue with the home’s plumbing, so it’s best to have a professional take a look.
Always keep a local, licensed plumber’s contact info in your phone or posted in the kitchen.
How to Save More Water
Water can be expensive in many areas, and homeowners may want to make sure they’re doing what they can to preserve it. There are a number of things they can do to make sure the plumbing is as efficient as possible, including the following.
- Use Low-Flow Shower Heads – These are designed to preserve as much water as possible while still offering a fantastic shower experience. EPA WaterSense recommends models.
- Use Low-Flow Toilets – The low-flow toilets use a lot less water but still flush effectively.
- Fix Potential Leaks Fast – Leaks waste a lot of water, so fixing them fast helps preserve as much water as possible.
- Opt for Water-Efficient Appliances – These appliances use much less water compared to traditional appliances, so they can help homeowners save even more.
If you’re a first-time homeowner, take the time to learn as much as possible about your plumbing system. This can help you prevent potential issues, keep the system running effectively, and know what to do if anything goes wrong. Have the number of a plumber handy in case anything does need to be fixed, so you can get fast help. If you aren’t sure if something is working or you notice anything wrong and aren’t sure how to fix it, call a plumber for help right away.
Disclosure: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional advice. Always contact a licensed plumber when in doubt.
