Happy New Year! As we dive into 2025, let's take a quick look at some easy ways you can keep your home running smoothly in the new year. One crucial area that often gets overlooked is plumbing. This year, why not make a commitment to care for your plumbing system? By focusing on these five new years Plumbing Resolutions, you can ensure your home remains in excellent condition all year through!
1. Schedule Regular Plumbing Maintenance
Just like your car needs routine check-ups, your plumbing system requires attention too. Scheduling annual maintenance appointments can help catch potential issues before they escalate, saving you from pricey repairs later on. Our team of professionals can detect leaks, evaluate water pressure, and conduct a thorough assessment of your entire plumbing system. For instance, a routine inspection could identify a small leak that, if ignored, might lead to water damage costing upwards of $5,000 to repair.
2. Monitor Your Water Usage
Water conservation is more important than ever (as the drought of 2024 reminded us!). Not only does being mindful of your water use benefit the environment, but it can also decrease your utility bills. Start by investing in a smart water meter, which allows you to track usage in real-time. For example, if you typically use 12,000 gallons a month, a spike to 15,000 could indicate a hidden leak. Taking these steps not only helps the planet but can save you hundreds annually on your water bill.
3. Update Old Toilets and Fixtures
Older toilets and fixtures can waste a significant amount of water. In 2025, commit to replacing outdated plumbing elements in your home. Modern low-flow toilets can use as little as 1.28 gallons per flush compared to older models that can consume up to 3.5 gallons. Additionally, water-efficient faucets can reduce flow rates by 30% or more without sacrificing performance. By making these upgrades, you can conserve water, which may lead to savings of around $200 per year on your water bill.
4. Learn Basic Plumbing Skills
Gaining basic plumbing skills can empower you to address minor issues without needing to call a plumber. Learn how to unclog a drain, fix a leaky faucet, or shut off the water supply during an emergency proves invaluable the longer you own a home. Many local hardware stores offer workshops, and there are countless free tutorials online as well such as the ones we post right here on Tio's Tips! (But make sure you are learning from reputable sources. Not every Tik-Toker is a legit resource.) Practicing these basic skills can save you time and money. For example, fixing a minor leak promptly could prevent water damage costs that could exceed $1,000.
5. Ensure Proper Drain Care
Taking care of your drains can prevent clogs and potentially expensive repairs. Resolve this year to be more conscious about what goes down your drains. Avoid pouring grease down the kitchen sink, and install drain screens in the bathroom to catch hair and debris. Additionally, consider monthly maintenance treatments using eco-friendly drain cleaners to keep your pipes clear and prevent buildup. Regular drain maintenance can lead to a significantly reduced risk of major plumbing issues down the line.
Celebrate a Year of Plumbing Care
By embracing these five resolutions to start, you can make a substantial difference in your home's plumbing system throughout 2025. Regular routine maintenance appointments, mindful water usage, modern fixtures, basic plumbing skills, and proper drain care will not only help prevent major issues but also enhance your home's overall efficiency. As you celebrate the New Year, commit to keeping your plumbing in great shape. Your home will be grateful for it (and so will your bank account)!
Happy New Year! We look forward to helping you keep your Plumbing & HVAC systems in tip top shape in 2025. Call or Email anytime for info.
All the best -Tio (info@crossroadsnjny.com)