When it comes to maintaining a comfortable and functional home, a well-maintained plumbing system is essential. However, many homeowners in New Zealand often find themselves unsure of how to tackle basic residential plumbing tasks or when to call a professional plumber for assistance. In this blog post, we will share the top plumbing tips that every homeowner should know. By following these guidelines, you can save time, money, and avoid potential plumbing disasters. We’ll cover essential plumbing terminology, how to prevent common plumbing issues, the importance of regular maintenance, and when to call a professional plumber for help.

Know Your Plumbing Terminology

Before diving into plumbing tips, it’s essential to familiarise yourself with common plumbing terminology used in New Zealand. This will help you communicate more effectively with a plumber if you need to call one for assistance.

A device that controls the flow of water from a pipe. In other countries, it may be referred to as a faucet.

The gutter system that collects rainwater from the roof and directs it away from the building. Also known as guttering.

The abbreviation for water closet, which is another term for a toilet.

The water pressure provided by the local water supply company to your home.

A device that prevents sewer gases from entering your home through the drain by creating a water seal.

A valve that controls the flow of water into a cistern, such as the one in your toilet.

Insulation material wrapped around pipes to prevent heat loss and freezing.

A tank that holds water for flushing toilets or supplying water to appliances.

By understanding these terms, you can more effectively communicate with plumbers and better understand your home’s plumbing system.

Preventing Common Plumbing Issues

Prevention is better than cure, and this principle applies to plumbing as well. By taking simple preventive measures, you can avoid many common plumbing issues that homeowners often encounter.

Avoid putting grease, fats, and oils down the sink, as they can solidify and clog your drains. Instead, dispose of them in a separate container.

Use strainers in your kitchen sink and bathroom drains to catch food particles, hair, and other debris that can cause blockages.

Inspect your home’s spouting and downpipes regularly to ensure they are free of debris and functioning correctly. Clean them as needed to prevent water damage to your property.

Regularly check your water pressure with a pressure gauge. High water pressure can damage your pipes and appliances, while low water pressure may indicate a leak or other plumbing issue.

Insulate your pipes with pipe lagging, particularly those located in unheated areas such as basements, garages, and crawl spaces, to prevent freezing and bursting during winter months.

Importance of Regular Maintenance

Regular plumbing maintenance is essential to ensure your home’s plumbing system remains in good working order. By performing routine checks and addressing minor issues, you can prevent costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your plumbing system.

Schedule an annual plumbing inspection with a professional plumber to assess the overall health of your system, identify potential issues, and perform necessary repairs.

Periodically check for leaks by inspecting your pipes, taps, and appliances for signs of water damage, mould, or moisture.

Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup and ensure it functions efficiently. This can also extend the life of your water heater.

Clean your taps’ aerators and showerheads regularly to remove mineral deposits that can affect water flow and pressure.

Test the functionality of your toilet’s flush mechanism and ensure that the cistern fills and stops at the appropriate level. Adjust the ballcock as necessary to prevent overflows and conserve water.

By performing regular maintenance, you can keep your plumbing system in optimal condition and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While some minor plumbing issues can be resolved by homeowners, it’s essential to know when to call a professional plumber for assistance. Attempting to fix complex problems without proper knowledge or tools can lead to more significant issues and even damage your plumbing system.

Call a plumber if you notice a sudden drop in water pressure, as this may indicate a hidden leak or damaged pipe.

If your drains are frequently clogged or emit foul odours, a professional plumber can diagnose and resolve the issue.

For the installation or replacement of water heaters, it’s crucial to enlist the help of a professional plumber to ensure proper installation and adherence to local building codes.

If you experience a sewer backup, call a plumber immediately, as this can pose significant health risks and require specialised equipment to resolve.

When dealing with frozen or burst pipes, a professional plumber can help mitigate damage and repair the affected pipes.

Knowing when to call a professional plumber can save you time, money, and prevent further damage to your home’s plumbing system.

A well-maintained plumbing system is essential for any homeowner in New Zealand. By understanding common plumbing terminology, preventing plumbing issues, performing regular maintenance, and knowing when to call a professional plumber, you can ensure your home’s plumbing system remains in good working order. This not only saves you time and money but also contributes to a comfortable, functional, and safe living environment. By keeping these top plumbing tips in mind, you’ll be better equipped to care for your home’s plumbing system and tackle any plumbing challenges that come your way.