We often take for granted a plumbing system that delivers drinkable water and expels waste. When something in that system goes awry, it can be extremely inconvenient and potentially dangerous. 

Regularly inspecting the system can help spot issues before they become major problems, but it's equally important to practice good plumbing behavior.

There are different materials used for plumbing pipes: copper, PVC, galvanized steel, and PEX, to name a few. Some are used only for water supply, drainage, or sewer lateral (the underground pipe connecting the house to the sewer drainage system), while others are versatile and can be used for all three. 

Some pipe materials were popular for decades before being replaced by better options, and some had problems almost from the start of being introduced into residential plumbing (looking at you PB piping, which was used between 1978 and 1995). Lead, cast iron, galvanized steel, and Orangeburg piping were all widely used at different times, and each has its issues.

Nothing lasts forever when it comes to transporting water and sewage. Some of those older materials (for instance, cast iron and galvanized steel) are now reaching their end-of-life stage if they haven't already been replaced.

Often, in older homes, you might find some pipes have been replaced and others not yet, so you have a hodgepodge of pipe materials. It’s good to know what you have to gauge when pipes might need to be replaced and possibly plan for it, as repiping can be pricey.

✓  Know Your Water Shut-Off Valves
Locate the main water shut-off valve and mark it with something colorful so it can be quickly identified by anyone in the house. Twice a year, test all water shut-off valves to make sure they work properly and aren’t stuck in an open or closed position. However, don’t force a stuck valve; you could break it. Try using a penetrating oil first. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the valve.

Don’t forget to also test shut-off valves for appliances like a clothes washer, dishwasher, or refrigerator with a water dispenser or ice maker.

✓  Know Your Water Pressure
You can easily check your incoming water pressure using a hose bib gauge. The gauge is inexpensive and available at most hardware stores. When attached to an outdoor spigot (use the one that’s closest to the incoming water line), the gauge reads the pressure level, which should fall within the range of 40 to 80 psi. Ideally, the water pressure within the house should be 50 to 60 psi. Higher pressure can strain pipe connections, flexible pipes/hoses, and water-using appliances.

✓  Know Your Pipes
Know what type of pipes you have. Different pipe materials are more prone to corrosion from certain chemicals. In general, chemical drain cleaners for clogs are not recommended for any type of pipe. Also, avoid storing chemical cleaning products under a sink. Fumes from the cleansers can corrode pipes over time.

✓  Know Your Water Heater
Know what type of water heater you have and how to adjust the temperature. The temperature should be set to at least 120 degrees F to prevent bacterial growth. If there are household members with compromised immune systems, you might want to consider setting it to 140 degrees F. This can also create more steam in your shower if you need that. Setting the temperature any higher than 140 can increase the risk of scalding, plus it wastes energy.

If you’re going to be away for an extended period and have a tank water heater, consider lowering the temperature so you’re not paying to keep a tank of hot water at the ready when no one is there. If you’re gone for a long time, consider draining the tank and turning off the water heater. 

✓  Check For Leaks 
Regularly check all fixtures and visible pipes for leaks, and repair as soon as possible. Also, repair dripping faucets or constantly running toilets. These can add up to a significant amount of water usage and a high water bill.

✓  Use Drain Strainers
Use strainers to catch hair and food particles.

✓  Watch What Goes Down the Drain
Don’t drain grease or fats down a drain. Don't pour boiling water down drains; if you must (like when draining pasta), turn on the cold water so the water in the pipes isn't super hot. Garbage disposal or not, don’t send a bunch of rice or pasta down the drain. Both can continue to expand when in water and contribute to a clogged pipe. Don’t put fibrous foods in a garbage disposal. In general, chemical drain cleaners like Drano or Liquid Plumbr are not recommended, and don’t flush “flushable” wipes, cotton balls, dental floss, or anything other than toilet paper down a toilet. If you’re on a septic system, don’t flush feminine hygiene products.

✓  Flush Drains
Once a week, pour several cups of hot (not boiling) water down the kitchen and bathroom drains. This can help prevent clogs by melting grease and soap scum. 

✓  Insulate Pipes
Insulate any pipes that run through unfinished spaces, such as a crawl space, unfinished basement, or garage, to prevent freezing. 

✓  Winterize Outdoor Faucets
If you live in an area with freezing winters, make sure to disconnect and drain any garden hoses. If you don’t have frost-free outdoor faucets, hopefully, you have shut-off valves for each exterior faucet. Shut off those valves and open the faucet(s) to drain any remaining water. If you don’t have frost-free faucets or shut-off valves, use insulating faucet covers to protect faucets. 

✓  Test Your Water
If you have a well, you should have your well water tested annually. Test it more frequently if you have young children or if anyone in the house is pregnant or nursing. If you’re on city water and have any concerns about your water or have a household member with special health needs, get your water tested.

✓  Know Your System
If you’re on a septic system, know what type it is and the location of the tank, drain field, and all piping. Never drive a vehicle over any part of your septic system. Same goes for all parts of a well system. 

 ✓ Know Who To Call
Keep the contact information of a trusted plumber handy.