Taking the time to understand the basics of your home’s plumbing system can pay huge dividends in the future.
As a homeowner, you should know the basics of your home’s plumbing system. Taking the time to understand your home’s plumbing system and appliances can pay significant dividends in the future. In reality, most homeowners rarely contact a plumber unless something is wrong, like a pipe leak, broken water heater, or damaged garbage disposal. Keep reading more about the basics of your home’s plumbing system.
Know the Location of Your Shut-Off Valves
As part of the basics of your home’s plumbing system, you should know where your shut-off valves are and how to turn off the water in case of a plumbing emergency. In addition, you’ll want to shut off the water without going to the street’s main meter.
Also, you can typically find shut-off valves in the utility area, in your garage, or on the outside wall. Even though some older houses might still have a gate valve, it’s usually the red wheel type. As a side note, don’t forget to turn off your water if you’re going on a vacation.
You Should Also Know Your Water Meter
Every homeowner should know where to locate their water meter and how to turn it off. Your water meter is part of your home’s plumbing system. You can check your home for any water leaks from your water meter. Almost every water meter has a triangle or round dial known as a leak indicator.
In addition, if you think your home is consuming too much water, turn off all the water in your home, wait for a few minutes and check the dial on your water meter. You’re fine if it stops. If it keeps moving, your home has a water leak.
Know How to Reset Your Garbage Disposal
Moreover, know how to reset the garbage disposal. Gently depress the red reset button on the bottom of your garbage disposal. If the button does not stay pulled back, wait ten minutes to try again. Additionally, keep cold water running when you turn on the garbage disposal. It should run again. Otherwise, contact B&D Plumbing if you’re unable to reset your garbage disposal. Since 1986, this small, local company has provided plumbing services to the Washington, DC, Central Maryland, and Northern Virginia area.
Get in Touch With B&D Today!
Dealing with any plumbing concerns that require a professional to step in? Struggling with an absolute plumbing emergency that can’t wait? Let B&D Plumbing know. B&D Plumbing Inc. services the greater Washington D.C. metropolitan area, including Maryland and Northern Virginia. Get in touch with us by calling (301) 595-1141 or follow us on social media including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. As a small, family-owned business, we understand how important your home is—and we offer exceptional service that matches!