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14/Jun/2025

Buying a new home is a huge milestone - and an exciting one! You’ve probably got a list of things to decorate, furniture to buy, and projects to start. Before you get too comfy, though, don’t forget about something super important that’s mostly hidden behind walls and under floors: your plumbing.

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blogdetail1 Jun 14, 2025
6 Plumbing Maintenance Tips for New Homeowners

Buying a new home is a huge milestone - and an exciting one! You’ve probably got a list of things to decorate, furniture to buy, and projects to start. Before…

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blogdetail1 Jun 07, 2025
My Toilet is Leaking! Now What?

The humble toilet is typically taken for granted and overlooked. That is, until it starts acting up. Suddenly, that reliable porcelain throne becomes a source of frustration. Whether it’s a…

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Your plumbing system is what keeps clean water flowing into your home and dirty water flowing out. It helps you cook, clean, bathe, and stay healthy. Like any part of your house, however, it needs a little care and attention to work properly. Taking good care of it now can save you a ton of time, money, and stress later.

In this brief article brought to you by Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we share some tips to help you better care for your BIG investment. If you'd rather consult a trained plumber, feel free to call or message Mr. Rooter and get in touch!

TIP 1: Find and Learn to Use the Main Water Shut-Off Valve

If a pipe bursts or a big leak starts, then you’ll need to shut off the water fast enough to avoid major damage. That’s why it’s so important to know where your main water shut-off valve is - and how to use it.

In most homes, it’s located near where the main water line enters your house. This could be in the basement, garage, or even outside near your foundation. Give the valve a turn every now and then to make sure it doesn’t get stuck over time. In fact, label it clearly so anyone in your household can find it in an emergency.

TIP 2: Watch for Leaks; Even the Small Ones

A slow drip may not seem like a big deal, but even a drip per second adds up to over 2,000 gallons per year... and we can't forget the water damage. It might lead to mold growth and ruin cabinets or walls all while making your water bill creep up month after month.

Don't wait for a puddle of water to collect under your feet. Keep your eyes - and ears - peeled for signs of trouble, including but not limited to:

  • Water stains on ceilings or walls
  • Peeling and/or bubbling paint and wallpaper
  • Dripping faucets
  • Running toilets
  • Sound of water running when all taps are OFF
  • Soggy patches in the yard
  • Smell of mold and mildew
  • Water bills creeping up despite same usage

Call a plumber in North Port if you notice any of these warning signs. A quick repair today can save you from thousands of dollars worth of water damage and headache later on. The professionals at Mr. Rooter are always ready to help.

TIP 3: Be Kind to Your Drains

Not everything should go down the drain - even if it fits, or even if marked "flushable". Grease, coffee grounds, food scraps, and hair are some of the most common things that clog pipes, but those 'flushable' wipes are especially deceiving and risky.

Remember, the only things you should flush are toilet paper and human waste. No kitty litter. No hygiene products. No paper towels. As for the sinks, do NOT pour used fats or grease down the drains. These will harden in the drainline and nurture big blockages.

TIP 4: Know the Age and Condition of Your Water Heater

It's easy to take for granted, but your water heater plays a huge role in keeping you comfortable. Just imagine being forced to take cold showers or wash dishes and laundry with freezing water.

Water heaters require routine maintenance, but it's important to know how old the water heater is. If the unit is over 15 years old, for example, you might find yourself scheduling repair after repair as the components wear and break down.

Replacing an outdated water heater doesn't just save you from those seemingly endless repairs. It lets you take advantage of advanced features, better safety measures, and improved efficiency and effectiveness.

TIP 5: Insulate Pipes in Cold Areas

If you live in a place where it gets cold in the winter - even just at night - then you ought to know that your pipes could freeze. That's not all: frozen pipes can burst and cause major water damage. Pipes in garages, basements, or crawl spaces are most at risk.

You can buy inexpensive foam pipe insulation from a hardware store to protect them. Moreover, remember to let faucets drip a little overnight and keep cabinet doors open under sinks to let warm air circulate if a cold snap is coming.

TIP 6: Schedule a Plumbing Inspection

Inspections are not just for before purchasing the property. It’s always a good idea to have a licensed plumber inspect your plumbing system once a year. They can check for hidden leaks, slow drains, and aging parts that might need attention before they become full-blown problems.

Hire a Uniformed Plumber Today

Whether you're considering some plumbing upgrades for your new home or need emergency plumbing repair service in Sarasota, the dedicated team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing is always ready to help. Call or message us today to speak with a live representative and let us know how we can help.

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