7 Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner Should Know (Don’t Need to be a Pro!)

(Even If You’re Not a DIYer)

In all honesty, plumbing is one of those things most people ignore until something goes wrong. But the truth is, understanding a few simple plumbing basics can save you in preventable damage and future repairs.

At Hotshot Plumbing, we believe every homeowner should be equipped with practical knowledge, not just when there’s an emergency. Here are 7 easy, research-backed tips every homeowner should know to keep their home in top shape.

1. Locate Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Before You Need It

In a plumbing emergency, time is everything. A burst pipe can release up to 10 gallons per minute and the longer you wait, the more damage you face. Knowing where your home’s main water shut-off valve is (and how to use it) can mean the difference between a soaked floor and a flooded home.

Hotshot Tip: Most shut-off valves are located near the perimeter of your house — in a basement, crawlspace, garage, or where the main water line enters the home.

2. Be Mindful of What Goes Down Your Drains

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), clogged pipes are one of the most common reasons homeowners call a plumber and 80% of the time, the cause is preventable.

Avoid flushing or pouring down:

• Cooking oils and grease (they harden in pipes)

• Coffee grounds

• “Flushable” wipes (they don’t break down like toilet paper)

• Hair and soap scum (install strainers to catch these)

Even chemical drain cleaners, if overused, can corrode your plumbing. Instead, try enzyme-based cleaners or call a pro for safe snaking.

3. Toilet Running Constantly? Try the Food Coloring Test

A silently leaking toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. That’s money down the drain, literally.

Here’s an easy DIY test: Add a few drops of food coloring to your toilet tank. Wait 10–15 minutes. If color appears in the bowl without flushing, you’ve got a leak. This is  likely a worn flapper or faulty fill valve.

Fixing this is usually simple and costs less than $20 in parts.

4. Monitor Your Water Pressure — It Impacts Everything

Most homes should have water pressure in the range of 40–60 PSI. Anything above 80 PSI is considered too high and can cause premature wear on your plumbing, appliances, and fixtures.

To test pressure, pick up a $10 pressure gauge from any hardware store and attach it to an outdoor spigot. If it’s too high, consider installing a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) to extend the lifespan of your entire plumbing system.

5. Insulate Your Pipes — Even in Mild Winters

Pipe bursts from freezing aren’t just a northern problem. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, burst pipes are one of the top five causes of home damage, and even a 20°F night can cause exposed pipes to crack.

Insulate exposed plumbing in:

• Garages

• Crawl spaces

• Attics

• Exterior walls

Foam pipe sleeves are cheap, easy to install, and protect your home from massive water damage.

6. Watch for Subtle Warning Signs

Many plumbing issues start small. Knowing what to look for helps you act before it gets worse.

Common early signs:

• Gurgling drains (air trapped due to blockages)

• Bad odors from sinks (possible sewer gas leak)

• Damp drywall or ceilings (slow leaks behind walls)

• An unexplained spike in your water bill

Don’t ignore these. They’re often symptoms of bigger, hidden issues like slab leaks or main line clogs.

7. Build a Relationship with a Trusted Plumber

You don’t want to be Googling “plumber near me” in the middle of a leak. The best time to find a reliable plumber is before there’s a crisis. Look for licensed, insured professionals who are local, responsive, and transparent with pricing.

That’s where Hotshot Plumbing comes in — trusted by homeowners for quick service, fair pricing, and honest advice.

Final Thoughts: Small Steps = Big Savings

Being a smarter homeowner doesn’t mean becoming a plumber. It just means staying informed and proactive. The more you know, the less you’ll have to stress when something goes wrong.

Have questions or want a quick plumbing inspection for peace of mind? 

📞 Call Hotshot Plumbing today or book online and keep your home flowing smoothly.