Plumbing is one of those things homeowners often don’t think about—until something goes terribly wrong. From burst pipes to clogged drains, plumbing emergencies can lead to costly repairs and major stress. However, many of these issues are preventable with just a bit of care and routine plumbing services. Whether you’ve recently dealt with a plumbing disaster and want to avoid a repeat or you’re simply being proactive, knowing how to prevent plumbing emergencies is important.
In this article, we’ll discuss practical steps you can take today to keep things running smoothly and help you avoid that urgent call to a plumber in NYC.
Know and Test Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
When a pipe bursts or a fixture starts gushing water, every second counts. Being able to quickly turn off the water can minimize damage and save you from thousands in repairs. That’s why one of the most important steps is knowing where your main water shut-off valve is, and making sure it works.
You’ll usually find it where the water line enters your home, often in the basement, crawl space or utility area. Turn the valve every few months to prevent it from getting stuck, and make sure every member of the household can operate it confidently in an emergency.
Avoid Pouring Grease or Food Down the Drain
Grease and food waste might disappear down the sink, but they don’t go away. Grease solidifies as it cools, sticking to pipe walls and collecting debris over time. That buildup eventually restricts water flow and leads to clogs that can back up your whole kitchen.
Instead of dumping grease down the drain, pour it into a container and throw it in the trash once solid. Scrape food scraps into the garbage or compost bin and use a sink strainer to catch anything else.
Don’t Ignore Slow Drains
A drain that takes forever to empty is often a red flag. While it may seem like a minor annoyance, it usually signals a growing blockage. Left unchecked, that slow drain could turn into a full-blown backup that damages floors or walls.
Cleaning slow drains regularly with a drain snake or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can help keep them clear. Stay away from chemical cleaners—they may work short-term, but can corrode your pipes with repeated use.
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Inspect for Leaks Regularly
Small leaks tend to hide under sinks, behind toilets, and near appliances. Because they’re not always visible, they can quietly cause wood rot, mold, and structural damage. The longer a leak goes unnoticed, the more expensive the repair becomes.
Check around toilets, under vanities, near your water heater, and around exposed pipes every few weeks. Keep an eye out for wet spots, rust, musty smells, or an unexplained increase in your water bill.
Be Mindful of What You Flush
Toilets are designed to handle waste and toilet paper—nothing else. Flushing wipes, dental floss, cotton pads, or even paper towels can clog pipes and cause backups that affect the entire system.
Despite being marketed as “flushable,” many wipes don’t break down properly and can tangle with other debris. To prevent blockages, keep a small trash bin near the toilet and educate household members on what should and shouldn’t go down.
Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections
Routine maintenance goes a long way in preventing unexpected issues. A professional inspection can reveal early signs of corrosion, pressure problems, or slow leaks before they become emergencies.
Even if everything seems fine, having a plumber in NYC perform a yearly check-up gives you peace of mind. They can offer tailored advice based on your home’s plumbing system, saving you time and stress in the long run.
Need Help With Plumbing Services in NYC?
If you’re dealing with recurring leaks, clogs, or water pressure issues, a quick DIY fix might not always be enough. At Setup NYC, our experienced plumbers deliver expert plumbing services in NYC that keep your home protected and your systems running smoothly. From routine maintenance to emergency repairs, we handle it all with care and precision.
Protect your home from costly water damage—contact us today to schedule your service!
