Hey Lancaster County homeowners! Joe the Plumber here. Let’s talk about something that’s easy to overlook but can save you a lot of time, money, and headaches—plumbing maintenance. Just like your car needs regular oil changes, your plumbing system needs routine checkups to keep everything running the way it should. Ignoring small issues now can lead to costly repairs, wasted water, and even major home damage later.
Let’s dive into some easy maintenance tips you can tackle yourself—and how we can help if bigger problems pop up!
Joe’s Plumbing Maintenance Checklist
Keeping up with a few simple tasks can prevent bigger plumbing problems down the line.
Inspect Faucets and Fixtures
- Look for drips and leaks in sinks, showers, and outdoor spigots.
- Fixing a leaky faucet can save hundreds of gallons of water every year!
Check Your Drains
- Slow drains can be a sign a clog is starting.
- Use a drain snake or a baking soda and vinegar solution to clear small blockages.
- Skip chemical drain cleaners—they can corrode your pipes over time.
Look Over Exposed Pipes
- Check under sinks, in basements, and crawl spaces for leaks, moisture, rust, or water stains.
- Catching small leaks early prevents bigger (and more expensive) issues.
Test Your Water Heater
- Set the temperature to 120°F to avoid scalding and save energy.
- Drain and flush your water heater once a year to remove sediment buildup.
- Listen for strange noises like crackling or rumbling—that could mean calcium buildup inside the tank.
Prepare for Cold Weather
- Disconnect and store garden hoses before freezing temperatures hit.
- Shut off exterior water supplies.
- Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas.
- On very cold nights, let a faucet drip to keep water moving and prevent freezing.
Monitor Water Pressure
- Low pressure could signal a hidden leak or buildup inside your pipes.
- High pressure can stress your plumbing—consider installing a pressure regulator.
Take Care of Your Garbage Disposal
- Avoid grease, coffee grounds, eggshells, and fibrous foods.
- Run cold water while using it.
- Clean it regularly with ice cubes and lemon slices.
When It’s Time to Call a Pro
Even with regular maintenance, some issues require professional help. Call us if you notice:
- Persistent low water pressure
- Spikes in your water bill
- More than one slow or clogged drain (could be a sewer line issue)
- Discolored or foul-smelling water
- Water pooling near your home’s foundation
Joe the Plumber
is Here for You
We don’t push regular maintenance contracts—we think that can feel a little pushy. But if you ever want a professional set of eyes on your plumbing system, we’re happy to come out. We can inspect everything, let you know the age of your water heater, and help you prioritize what should be addressed—without any pressure.
Need a hand? Call Joe the Plumber at (717) 581-7407 for inspections, repairs, or plumbing help in Lancaster County and the surrounding areas. Let’s keep your pipes in top shape!
