Top Plumbing Tips Straight from a Licensed Plumber

April 28, 2025 at 12:28 PM EDT

American Rooter & Drain

When your sink starts gurgling like it's haunted, your toilet refuses to flush, or your shower turns into a sad drizzle, there's one person who instantly becomes your new best friend—a plumber. Whether you're knee-deep in water or just trying to avoid your next plumbing disaster, getting advice straight from the pros can save you a ton of time, money, and stress. That’s why we’ve gathered some top tips from the experts at American Rooter & Drain to keep your home’s plumbing running smoother than a new faucet.

Let’s dive into some practical plumbing wisdom that’ll make you feel like a DIY hero—without the messy surprises.

1. Don’t Ignore the Small Stuff

That slow-draining sink? The constantly dripping faucet? Yeah, they might seem like minor annoyances now, but give them time and they’ll turn into full-blown problems. A drip can waste hundreds of gallons a year (not to mention the added dollars on your water bill). A slow drain could be a sign of buildup that might one day block your pipe completely.

Bottom line? If something seems off, it probably is. Call in a plumber before it snowballs into something much worse.

2. Know Where Your Shutoff Valve Is

This is one of those “should be obvious but often isn’t” tips. When a pipe bursts or a toilet starts overflowing, you need to know how to stop the water—fast. The main water shutoff valve is typically located in your basement, crawlspace, or on an exterior wall. Make sure every adult in your home knows where it is and how to use it. Trust us, in an emergency, this knowledge is worth its weight in gold. If you ever find yourself in a real mess and need an emergency plumber, being able to say, “I already turned off the water” is going to make their job—and your day—a lot easier.

3. Be Kind to Your Drains

Think of your drains like the digestive system of your house—they work hard, but there’s only so much they can handle. Avoid dumping fats, oils, and grease (FOG) down your kitchen sink, as they can harden and clog pipes over time. In the bathroom, install hair catchers in shower drains and avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper. That means no wipes, cotton balls, or those “flushable” things that aren’t actually flushable.

Taking care of your drains means fewer late-night panics and fewer calls to your local plumber.

4. Know When It’s Time to Call in the Pros

Sure, YouTube tutorials are great, and there’s something satisfying about fixing things yourself. But some jobs—like installing a new water heater, rerouting pipes, or dealing with sewage backups—are best left to the professionals. Trying to DIY something you’re not confident in could cost you more in the long run.

That’s where American Rooter & Drain shines. Their licensed team handles complex plumbing issues safely and efficiently, so you don’t have to risk turning your home into a water park.

5. Keep an Eye on Your Water Pressure

Low water pressure might seem like just a minor nuisance (who likes a weak shower?), but it can actually be a sign of deeper issues, like hidden leaks, corroded pipes, or sediment buildup in your system. On the flip side, high pressure might feel amazing, but it can strain your pipes and appliances over time.

A quick pressure check using a $10 gauge from your local hardware store can help you spot problems before they become disasters. And if you need someone to take a closer look, a plumber nearby from American Rooter & Drain can help diagnose the issue with precision.

6. Don’t Skip Regular Maintenance

Plumbing isn’t “set it and forget it.” Like any system in your home, it needs regular checkups. Having your plumbing inspected once a year can help catch small issues before they become major headaches. Professionals like American Rooter & Drain offer inspections and maintenance plans that keep your system in top shape year-round.

This is especially important for older homes with aging pipes—staying proactive can prevent those unexpected (and expensive) repairs.

7. Upgrade When It Makes Sense

Still rocking that 20-year-old water heater or a toilet that sounds like it’s about to launch into orbit? Upgrading to newer, more efficient models can save water, energy, and money. Plus, many modern fixtures come with built-in safety features and longer lifespans.

Talk to a local plumber about options that suit your home and budget. They can walk you through everything from low-flow toilets to tankless water heaters.

Wrapping It Up

Plumbing problems don’t wait for a convenient moment to strike. That’s why it pays to be informed and prepared. Whether it’s spotting the signs of trouble early, knowing when to DIY vs. call a pro, or keeping your system in check with regular maintenance, a little plumbing know-how goes a long way.

And when things get tricky? Call American Rooter & Drain—they’ve got the tools, the expertise, and the kind of friendly service that’ll make you glad you didn’t try to fix it with duct tape and a prayer.

So keep these tips handy, treat your pipes with care, and remember—when in doubt, call a pro before it all goes down the drain.

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Company Name: American Rooter & Drain
Contact Person: Support
Email: Send Email
Phone: (208) 402-8033
Address:1005 Commercial Way
City: Caldwell
State: ID
Country: United States
Website: https://www.idahosplumber.com/

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