Plumbing Habits That Save You Money & Start the New Year Right
As we welcome the new year, many of us are making resolutions about saving money and improving our homes. While checking your plumbing might not top your resolution list, at Nichols & Phipps, we've seen how developing good plumbing habits can save homeowners thousands of dollars annually. Let's explore how you can protect your home and wallet in the year ahead.
Essential Monthly Checks You Can Do Yourself
Your plumbing system works hard every day. Like any hardworking system, it needs regular attention. Here are the key areas to monitor:
For Your Drains:
- Check all drains for slow drainage or unusual sounds
- Run hot water down drains for a minute to help dissolve buildup
- Clean drain strainers regularly
- Listen for gurgling sounds, which often signal problems
For Your Water Heater:
- Check the temperature setting (120°F is optimal)
- Listen for unusual noises that might indicate sediment buildup
- Look for signs of leaks or corrosion
Not sure what to look for? Our experienced technicians at Nichols & Phipps can show you exactly what to check during your next maintenance visit.
Warning Signs That Need Professional Attention
While regular maintenance helps, certain signs should prompt an immediate call to our team:
- Unexplained increases in water bills
- Persistent drain clogs or slow drainage
- Water stains on walls or ceilings
- Unusual sounds from pipes or water heater
- Low water pressure throughout the house
- Wet spots in the yard that might indicate underground leaks
Don't wait until these minor issues become major problems. Our experienced plumbers can diagnose and fix issues before they lead to expensive emergency repairs.
Smart Upgrades That Pay For Themselves
Looking to make long-term improvements? Our experts at Nichols & Phipps can help you choose and install money-saving upgrades:
Water-Efficient Fixtures:
- Low-flow showerheads (pays for itself within 1-2 years)
- Dual-flush toilets
- Modern faucet aerators
Smart Technology:
- Leak detection systems
- Automatic shutoff valves
- Water monitoring devices
Breaking Expensive Bad Habits
Over years of service, we've seen how certain habits can lead to costly repairs. Here are the top mistakes to avoid:
1. Ignoring Small Leaks
- A single dripping faucet wastes thousands of gallons yearly
- Minor leaks often signal bigger problems
- Early repairs are always cheaper than emergency fixes
2. Using Chemical Drain Cleaners
- Damages pipes over time
- Creates more expensive problems
- Often masks larger issues
Let our professionals clean your drain with safe, effective methods to protect your pipes.
Professional Maintenance: Your Best Insurance Policy
Annual professional maintenance typically costs $200-300 but can prevent thousands in emergency repairs. Our comprehensive service includes:
- Complete plumbing system inspection
- Water heater efficiency check
- Leak detection
- Drain and pipe inspection
- Pressure testing
- Professional recommendations for cost-effective upgrades
Start Saving Today with Nichols & Phipps
Making better plumbing habits isn't just about preventing problems – it's about protecting your home and budget. Our experienced team will:
- Create a customized maintenance schedule
- Show you what to monitor between professional visits
- Recommend cost-effective upgrades
- Handle repairs promptly and professionally
- Help you avoid expensive emergency calls
Ready to make this your most efficient year yet? Contact Nichols & Phipps at (703) 670-8519 to schedule your comprehensive plumbing inspection. Let's work together to protect your home and save money in the year ahead.