Plumbing Tips for First-Time Homeowners
Buying your first home is exciting—but it also comes with a lot of new responsibilities. One of the most important (but often overlooked) systems in your house is your plumbing. As first-time homeowners in Seattle quickly discover, small plumbing issues can turn into costly repairs if ignored.
At Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing, we’ve helped thousands of Seattle homeowners keep their plumbing in top shape. Here are some essential tips to help you protect your home, save money, and avoid unexpected plumbing headaches.
🧰 1. Know Where Your Main Shut-Off Valve Is
If you only remember one thing from this list—make it this. Your main water shut-off valve controls the flow of water into your entire home. In an emergency (like a burst pipe), knowing where it is can save you thousands in water damage.
Seattle Tip: Shut-off valves are usually found in basements, crawl spaces, garages, or where the water line enters the house.
🧼 2. Be Kind to Your Drains
Avoid treating your drains like trash cans. Never pour grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps down the kitchen sink—even with a garbage disposal. In bathrooms, use drain screens to catch hair and soap scum before they build up.
Avoid store-bought chemical cleaners—they often cause more harm than good and can corrode your pipes.
🛁 3. Learn the Signs of a Hidden Leak
Watch out for:
Musty smells or mold around sinks or walls
Unexplained spikes in your water bill
Water stains or warped flooring
These could be signs of a slow leak behind the walls or under the floor—something that’s common in older Seattle homes.
🚿 4. Don’t Ignore Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure might seem like a minor annoyance, but it can signal bigger issues like:
Corroded pipes
Mineral buildup
Hidden leaks
A faulty pressure-reducing valve
If your shower suddenly feels more like a drizzle, it’s worth having a pro take a look.
🪠 5. Keep a Basic Plumbing Toolkit
You don’t need to be a DIY pro, but it helps to have the essentials on hand:
Plunger (for toilets and sinks)
Adjustable wrench
Pipe tape (Teflon tape)
Bucket and rags
Flashlight
Drain snake
These tools can help you handle minor issues before they become major ones.
🔥 6. Check the Age of Your Water Heater
Most water heaters last about 8–12 years. If yours is older (or came with the house), it might be time to consider a replacement before it fails—especially if you notice rust-colored water or strange noises.
Newer models, including tankless water heaters, are more energy-efficient and reliable.
🌧️ 7. Schedule a Sewer Line Inspection
In Seattle, many homes still have old clay or cast-iron sewer lines that are vulnerable to tree roots and collapse. A video camera inspection can catch problems before they cause a backup.
If your home is over 40 years old and hasn’t had an inspection, it’s a good idea to get one.
🧠 8. Build a Relationship with a Trusted Plumber
Having a reliable plumber you can call before things go wrong is one of the smartest things a new homeowner can do. Whether it’s a leaky faucet or a sewer line emergency, knowing who to call saves time and stress.
🏠 Take Care of Your New Home from Day One
Owning your first home is a big milestone—and protecting your plumbing is a smart way to preserve your investment. With the right habits and a little proactive care, you’ll avoid surprises and enjoy your home with confidence.
📱 Need a plumbing checkup or have a question? Contact us today.
We’re here to help—rain or shine.
Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing – Proudly Serving Seattle Homeowners for Over 100 Years
