Buying a home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming-especially when it comes to the things you can’t see, like the plumbing. While fresh paint and new floors may catch your eye, it’s the pipes, valves, and drains behind the walls that can cause the biggest (and most expensive) headaches if something goes wrong. As a new homeowner, a little plumbing know-how goes a long way in protecting your home-and your wallet.
Before you move in, it’s smart to connect with professionals who can help you get ahead of problems. If you’re in Central Indiana and want peace of mind from the start, consider reaching out to some of the best licensed plumbers in Indianapolis. A licensed pro can spot issues during a walk-through and help you make a smart plan for upgrades, repairs, or regular maintenance.
Here are the essential plumbing tips every new homeowner should know before settling into their home.
1. Locate the Main Water Shutoff Valve
This should be your first step in any new home. Knowing where the main water shutoff is located can save you from major water damage during a leak or burst pipe. In most homes, the valve is located in the basement, crawl space, or near the perimeter wall where the water line enters the house.
Pro tip: Turn the valve off and on a few times to make sure it works smoothly. If it’s stuck or corroded, replace it right away.
2. Inspect for Active Leaks
Do a full check of all sinks, toilets, tubs, and exposed pipes before you move your furniture in. Look under cabinets and behind appliances for signs of water stains, corrosion, or musty smells. Even a small drip can lead to mold or rot-and once your home is fully moved in, leaks become harder to spot and fix.
Check for:
- Water pooling under sinks or toilets
- Damp spots in the basement
- Rusty valves or pipe joints
- Dripping from the water heater
3. Test the Water Pressure
Water pressure that’s too low can be annoying. Too high? That can actually damage your fixtures and appliances. Attach a simple pressure gauge to an outdoor spigot or laundry tub and check the PSI. Ideal household water pressure is between 40-60 PSI.
If it’s too high (above 80 PSI), install a pressure-reducing valve. If it’s too low, you might have a clogged pipe, partially closed shutoff, or even a leak.
4. Check the Age and Condition of the Water Heater
Hot water is something most people take for granted-until it’s gone. Your water heater is one of the most important plumbing systems in your home, and it pays to know its age and condition before you rely on it.
What to look for:
- The manufacture date (usually on the label)
- Signs of rust, leaks, or sediment buildup
- Whether it meets the size needs of your household
Most water heaters last 8-12 years. If yours is older or showing signs of wear, budget for a replacement soon.
5. Know What Not to Flush or Drain
Flushing or draining the wrong things down your plumbing can lead to clogs, backups, or worse-sewer line issues. Even products labeled “flushable” (like wipes) can wreak havoc on your pipes.
Never flush:
- Wipes (baby, makeup, cleaning)Feminine products
- Grease, oil, or food scraps
- Hair, floss, or cotton balls
Place a simple mesh screen over shower and sink drains to catch hair and soap scum.
6. Check the Sewer Line-Especially in Older Homes
Many homes, especially those built before the 1980s, have aging sewer lines made of clay or cast iron. Tree roots, cracks, and years of buildup can clog or collapse the line, leading to backups and major repair costs.
A camera inspection of the sewer line before you move in can save you thousands. It’s one of the most overlooked yet critical steps for new homeowners.
7. Inspect Outdoor Spigots and Hose Bibs
Your home’s plumbing extends beyond the walls. Check exterior spigots for leaks, cracks, or signs of freeze damage-especially in colder climates. If water leaks around the handle or drips when shut off, replace the washer or the whole bib.
Install a frost-free spigot if you’re in an area with freezing winters to prevent burst pipes.
8. Test All Toilets for Leaks and Efficiency
Toilets are a common source of hidden leaks. Put a few drops of food coloring in the tank and wait 15-30 minutes without flushing. If the color shows up in the bowl, the flapper is leaking and wasting water.
Also check:
- For rocking or loose bases
- Continuous running
- Weak flushes
Fixing these issues early prevents water waste and more expensive repairs later.
9. Learn Basic DIY Fixes
You don’t need to be a plumber to handle small issues. Learn how to:
- Turn off your water main
- Unclog a drain with a plunger or drain snake
- Replace a toilet flapper
- Fix a dripping faucet
Having a basic plumbing tool kit on hand is a smart move. Include a wrench, plunger, plumber’s tape, and a drain auger.
10. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Even if everything looks great now, plumbing issues can pop up with time. Scheduling a yearly inspection with a licensed plumber can help you catch small problems before they become big ones. Ask them to check:
- Pipe condition
- Valve function
- Water heater performance
- Drain flow and venting
It’s a small investment that pays off in peace of mind.
11. Plan for Emergencies
Finally, be ready for the unexpected. Plumbing emergencies happen-burst pipes, leaks, frozen lines. Keep a list of emergency contacts, including a 24-hour plumber, and make sure everyone in the house knows where the water shutoff is.
Also:
- Learn how to shut off water to toilets and sinks individually
- Store towels and a wet/dry vacuum in case of leaks
- Know what’s covered by your homeowner’s insurance
Being prepared turns a disaster into a fixable situation.
Conclusion
Owning a home comes with a learning curve, but plumbing doesn’t have to be scary. Knowing how your system works, what to look for, and when to call a pro can help you avoid major headaches down the line.
Start by checking your home’s plumbing before move-in day. Fix what’s small, plan for what’s old, and get regular check-ups on the rest.
