Categories Plumber

10 Must-Know Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner Should Follow

plumbing tips

Every homeowner can benefit from practical plumbing tips to keep their home running smoothly and avoid costly repairs. Whether you’re a new homeowner or have years of experience, these plumbing tips will help you maintain your system, prevent emergencies, and save money. Beis Plumbing, serving the St. Louis area, shares these essential plumbing tips to keep your home in top shape.

1. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is

One of the most important plumbing tips is to locate your main water shut-off valve. In an emergency, shutting off the water quickly can prevent major damage. According to the American Red Cross, water damage claims are among the most common insurance claims in the U.S.

2. Prevent Clogged Drains

Avoid putting grease, coffee grounds, and food scraps down the kitchen sink. Use drain screens to catch hair and debris in the bathroom. Regularly cleaning your drains is one of the best plumbing tips for preventing blockages.

3. Fix Leaks Promptly

Even a small leak can waste a significant amount of water. The EPA reports that household leaks can waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water annually nationwide. Address leaks as soon as you notice them.

4. Insulate Pipes in Cold Weather

Frozen pipes can burst and cause extensive damage. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as basements and garages, to prevent freezing during winter.

5. Don’t Ignore Slow Drains

A slow drain can be a sign of a developing clog. Use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to clear minor blockages, or contact a professional if the problem persists.

6. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical cleaners can damage your pipes and harm the environment. Opt for natural solutions or call a plumber for stubborn clogs.

7. Test Your Water Pressure

High water pressure can strain your plumbing system and lead to leaks. Use a pressure gauge to check your home’s water pressure and keep it within the recommended range (generally 40-60 psi).

8. Maintain Your Water Heater

Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup and extend its lifespan. For more information, visit Beis Plumbing’s Water Heater Services page.

9. Be Careful What You Flush

Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Items like wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products can cause serious blockages.

10. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections

Annual inspections by a licensed plumber can catch small issues before they become big problems. Preventative maintenance is one of the most valuable plumbing tips for homeowners.

Bonus: Join a Plumbing Maintenance Plan

Consider joining a maintenance plan, like those offered by Beis Plumbing, to receive discounts, priority service, and regular checkups. Learn more about their Home Service Maintenance Plans.

Why Trust Beis Plumbing?

Beis Plumbing is locally owned, fully licensed, and committed to customer satisfaction. Their team offers same-day service, 24/7 live answering, and flexible financing options. Hundreds of positive reviews and an A+ BBB rating make them a trusted choice for all your plumbing needs.

Contact Beis Plumbing for Expert Help

If you need help with any plumbing issue, don’t hesitate to contact Beis Plumbing for fast, reliable service.

Author beisplumbing 0 Comments
Categories Plumber

The Ultimate Guide to Basement Flooding Prevention

Basement Flooding

The Ultimate Guide to Basement Flooding Prevention

Basement flooding is one of the most frustrating and expensive home disasters a homeowner can face. From ruined furniture and damaged walls to the risk of mold, a flooded basement isn’t just a nuisance, it’s a serious threat to your property’s value and safety. The good news? Most causes of basement flooding are preventable with the right preparation and professional help.

Common Causes of Basement Flooding

Understanding why basements flood is the first step to preventing it. Some of the most frequent culprits include:

  • Sump pump failure – A faulty or overwhelmed sump pump can’t remove water quickly enough. 
  • Foundation cracks – Water seeps in through gaps in your basement walls or floor. 
  • Poor drainage – Gutters and downspouts that direct water too close to the home create pooling near the foundation. 
  • Sewer backups – Heavy rains can overwhelm city sewers, sending wastewater back into your home. 

How to Prevent Basement Flooding

The best way to protect your basement is with proactive maintenance and smart upgrades. Here are the most effective solutions Beis Plumbing recommends:

  • Install or upgrade a sump pump – This is your first line of defense against rising groundwater. 
  • Add a battery backup system – In case of a power outage during a storm, your sump pump will still work. 
  • Consider a backwater valve – This prevents sewage from backing up into your home during heavy rain. 
  • Schedule regular plumbing inspections – Catch small issues before they become major problems. 
  • Keep gutters and downspouts clear – Direct water at least 6 feet away from your foundation. 

Simple Maintenance Tips Year-Round

Preventing basement flooding isn’t just about big upgrades; it’s also about smart habits. Each season, make it a point to:

  • Test your sump pump to ensure it activates and drains properly. 
  • Inspect for foundation cracks and have them sealed if needed. 
  • Check that downspouts and grading move water away from your home. 

These small steps go a long way in keeping your basement dry.

Why Call Beis Plumbing?

At Beis Plumbing, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating basement flooding can be, and we know how to stop it. Our licensed team specializes in sump pump installation, sewer line protection, and waterproofing solutions designed for homes in this area. We’re local, experienced, and ready to help before trouble starts.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Basement flooding can happen fast, but so can prevention. If you’ve noticed signs of moisture, haven’t checked your sump pump recently, or just want peace of mind, schedule an appointment with Beis Plumbing today. Contact Beis Plumbing.

Author beisplumbing 0 Comments
Categories Plumber

Got Low Water Pressure? 7 Possible Reasons Why

Low Water Pressure

Nothing is more frustrating than turning on a faucet or shower only to get a weak trickle instead of a steady stream. If you have low water pressure, it could be due to a variety of factors, from simple fixes to more serious plumbing issues. Below are seven common reasons why your water pressure might be lower than normal—and what you can do about it.

1. Clogged Pipes

Over time, mineral deposits, rust, and debris can accumulate inside your pipes, reducing the flow of water. If only certain fixtures have low water pressure, the issue might be isolated to a specific pipe. However, if the entire home is affected, you may need professional pipe cleaning or even repiping.

Signs of Clogged Pipes:

  • Reduced water pressure in specific faucets
  • Discolored water or visible sediment
  • Gurgling sounds in the plumbing system

2. Faulty Pressure Regulator

Some homes have a pressure regulator, which controls the flow of water from the main supply. If this device fails, it can either increase or decrease pressure unexpectedly.

How to check: Attach a water pressure gauge to an outdoor spigot. Normal household water pressure should be between 40-60 PSI (EPA). If your reading is too low, your pressure regulator may need adjusting or replacing.

3. Municipal Water Supply Issues

If your neighbors are also experiencing low water pressure, the problem may be with the city’s water supply. Repairs, maintenance, or even high water demand during peak hours can affect pressure.

What to do: Contact your local water provider to see if they’re experiencing issues.

4. Corroded or Aging Pipes

Older homes with galvanized steel pipes are especially prone to corrosion, which restricts water flow over time. If your home is 50+ years old, corroded pipes could be the culprit.

Warning Signs of Corroded Pipes:

  • Frequent leaks
  • Rust-colored water
  • Gradual drop in water pressure over time

If you suspect corrosion, a plumber can assess whether repiping is necessary.

5. Water Leaks in the Plumbing System

A hidden leak can divert water away from your faucets, leading to low water pressure. Leaks can occur behind walls, under floors, or in your main water line.

How to test for leaks:

  • Turn off all water fixtures in your home.
  • Check your water meter; if it continues moving, you likely have a leak.
  • Look for wet spots, mold, or unexplained increases in your water bill.

6. Partially Closed Main Shutoff Valve

If you’ve recently had plumbing work done, your main shutoff valve may not have been fully reopened. A partially closed valve can restrict water flow to your entire home.

Fix: Locate your home’s main shutoff valve (typically near the water meter) and ensure it is fully open.

7. Issues with Your Water Heater

If low water pressure only affects your hot water, the issue may be your water heater. Sediment buildup inside the tank can clog pipes and reduce water flow.

What to do:

  • Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment.
  • If the problem persists, you may need a new unit.

How to Restore Water Pressure in Your Home

If you’re dealing with low water pressure, start by checking valves, testing for leaks, and cleaning fixtures. For more serious issues like pipe corrosion or regulator failures, it’s best to call a professional.

Call Beis Plumbing for Expert Help

Still struggling with low water pressure? Beis Plumbing can diagnose and fix the problem, ensuring your water flows smoothly again. Contact us today for a professional inspection!

Author beisplumbing 0 Comments