10 Essential Plumbing Tips for Temecula & Murrieta Homeowners

Having a reliable plumbing system is crucial for a smooth-running home. Whether you’re dealing with a clogged drain, leaky faucet, or water heater issue, these plumbing tips will help you to prevent plumbing problems, save you money, and avoid costly repairs. Below are 10 must-know plumbing tips to help homeowners maintain their pipes, drains, and fixtures while preventing emergencies.

1. Locate and Shut Off Your Main Water Valve

Knowing where your main water shut-off valve is can prevent severe water damage in case of a burst pipe or major leak. In most homes, it’s near the water meter, basement, or outdoor foundation. Turning off the valve immediately can save thousands in plumbing repairs and water damage costs.

2. Fix Small Leaks Before They Get Worse

A leaky faucet or small pipe leak may seem minor, but over time, it can waste thousands of gallons of water and increase your water bill. Leaks can also indicate hidden pipe damage, leading to costly plumbing system failures.

If you notice dripping faucets, water stains on walls, or unexplained moisture, call a professional plumber for leak detection services before the issue escalates.

3. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

Many homeowners rely on chemical drain cleaners, but these can corrode pipes over time, leading to expensive drain repairs. Instead, try:

• Using a plunger for minor clogs
• A drain snake (plumbing auger) to remove stubborn blockages
• Enzymatic drain cleaners that break down debris naturally

For tough clogs, professional hydro jetting services provide a long-term solution without harming your plumbing system.

4. Prevent Clogged Drains with Simple Maintenance

Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing issues. Prevent them by:

• Installing drain strainers to catch hair and debris
• Never pouring grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps down the sink
• Running hot water and baking soda monthly to break down buildup

If your drains frequently clog, a licensed plumber can perform drain cleaning to prevent slow drainage and backups.

5. Check Your Water Pressure to Prevent Pipe Damage

High water pressure may seem beneficial, but it can put excessive strain on pipes, leading to leaks or pipe bursts. Ideal water pressure should be between 40-60 psi.

To check water pressure:

• Attach a water pressure gauge to an outdoor faucet
• If pressure is above 80 psi, install a pressure regulator to protect your plumbing system

6. Fix Running Toilets to Save Water

A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water daily. The issue is often due to a faulty flapper valve, worn-out float, or a broken fill valve.

To check for a silent leak, put a few drops of food coloring in the tank. If color appears in the bowl within 30 minutes, your toilet is leaking and needs repair.

7. Know What Not to Flush

Toilets are not trash cans. Even “flushable” wipes can cause major clogs in your sewer line. The only things safe to flush are toilet paper and human waste.

Never flush:

• Baby wipes (even “flushable” ones)
• Paper towels and cotton swabs
• Feminine hygiene products
• Grease, food scraps, or cat litter

If your toilet clogs frequently, call a plumber for toilet repair or drain cleaning.

8. Protect Pipes from Freezing in Cold Weather

In colder climates, frozen pipes can burst and cause expensive water damage. Prevent this by:

• Wrapping exposed pipes with pipe insulation
• Letting faucets drip slightly on freezing nights
• Keeping cabinet doors open to allow warm air to reach pipes

If your pipes freeze, call a plumber for emergency pipe thawing and burst pipe repair.

9. Maintain Your Water Heater for Efficiency

Your water heater needs regular maintenance to prevent breakdowns.

• Flush the tank annually to remove sediment buildup
• Check the anode rod every 2-3 years to prevent rust
• Set the temperature to 120°F to prevent overheating and excessive energy use

If your water heater is over 10 years old, consider upgrading to a tankless water heater for better efficiency.

10. Schedule Professional Plumbing Inspections

Many plumbing issues start small and go unnoticed. A licensed plumber can detect hidden leaks, deteriorating pipes, and early signs of drain blockages before they turn into costly repairs.

An annual plumbing inspection ensures your home’s water supply, drainage, and appliances remain in top condition.

Keep Your Plumbing System in Top Shape

By following these plumbing tips, you can reduce costly repairs, lower water bills, and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.

If you’re experiencing leaks, clogs, or water heater issues, don’t wait—contact Inland Empire Plumbing Pros for fast, reliable plumbing services in Temecula and Murrieta.