Buying a home brings many added responsibilities and a wealth of learning opportunities, from plumbing repairs and drain cleaning to water heater options. If you're a new homeowner, you may not know about the added upkeep that isn't always necessary in an apartment or condo. The following guide will help familiarize you with some plumbing basics. 

What Should First-Time Homeowners Know About Plumbing? 

1. Learn What You Can Put in Your Garbage Disposal

It may seem like your garbage disposal can handle anything and everything, but that isn't the case. Items like grease, fat, and oils can clog the drain if they enter the disposal. Bones or broken slivers of glass can damage the blades and should be disposed of elsewhere. Foods that expand when wet, like pasta and rice, shouldn't go down the disposal. 

2. Know Where Your Main Shut-Off Valve Is 

Sometimes, turning the water off in your home is vital to avoid flooding. For example, if there is a plumbing emergency, like a major water leak, knowing the location of your main water shut-off valve is vital for avoiding extensive damage. Typically, it is in the basement, crawl space, outside by the utility box, or under the kitchen sink. Your home inspector can point it out for you before you move in. If you have already had your inspection, it should be noted on the report. 

3. Clean Your Drains Often 

Keep drain buildup from accumulating in the sink and shower by performing routine maintenance. This is especially true if you live in a home where most people have long hair. You can use a hand drain snake to remove hair and buildup from your sink and shower drains. If that doesn't work, you can try using a plunger to suction up debris. In general, it's better to avoid liquid drain cleaners since their harsh chemicals can deteriorate your plumbing, doing more harm than good. 

Keep the plumbing in your new home in ideal condition with services from Mullins Plumbing in Crowley, TX. This family-owned and -operated business installs water heaters, detects leaks, fixes water fixtures, and unclogs drains at affordable rates. Visit them online for a complete list of services, or call (817) 297-2511 to request a quote.