Top 10 Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Whether you’ve just bought your first home or you’ve been living in Lubbock for years, taking care of your plumbing can save you time, money, and a whole lot of headaches. At Cotton City Plumbing, we believe that a little know-how goes a long way when it comes to protecting your home’s pipes and plumbing systems.

Here are the Top 10 Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner Should Know:

1. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is

Before an emergency strikes, make sure you know where your main water shut-off valve is located. In most Lubbock homes, it’s found near the water meter or where the main line enters the house. Turning this off during a major leak can prevent thousands of dollars in damage.

2. Don’t Use Your Toilet as a Trash Can

Flushing wipes (even “flushable” ones), paper towels, feminine hygiene products, or cotton balls can clog your pipes and strain your septic or city sewer system. Stick to toilet paper only.

3. Protect Pipes During Cold Snaps

While Lubbock doesn’t often get hard freezes, it does happen—and fast. When the temps drop, insulate exposed pipes (especially in garages and exterior walls) and let faucets drip overnight to keep water flowing and avoid freezing.

4. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

Liquid drain cleaners may seem like a quick fix, but they can damage your pipes over time. Instead, use a drain snake or call a professional from Cotton City Plumbing for safe, effective clearing.

5. Fix Leaks Right Away

Even a small drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water a year—not to mention it could be a sign of a larger issue. Don’t ignore that leaky faucet or running toilet. Early fixes prevent bigger problems.

6. Use Drain Screens

Hair, food scraps, and debris can clog drains quickly. Drain screens in your sinks and showers are a cheap and effective way to prevent buildup.

7. Don’t Pour Grease Down the Drain

Cooking grease may go down as a liquid, but it hardens in your pipes and causes blockages. Instead, let it cool and dispose of it in the trash.

8. Know the Signs of a Sewer Line Problem

Slow drains, gurgling toilets, or foul smells outside your home may be a red flag. Cotton City Plumbing offers camera inspections to catch sewer issues before they turn into expensive repairs.

9. Be Mindful of What Goes in Your Garbage Disposal

Avoid putting stringy vegetables (like celery), eggshells, coffee grounds, or pasta into the disposal. Always run cold water while it's in use and give it a few extra seconds to clear.

10. Schedule Regular Plumbing Check-Ups

Just like your HVAC or roof, your plumbing system needs a little routine attention. A yearly inspection from a trusted local plumber (like us!) can spot potential problems before they escalate.

Trust Cotton City Plumbing—Lubbock's Go-To Plumbing Experts

We’re proud to serve the Lubbock community with honest, high-quality plumbing services. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or a full repipe, Cotton City Plumbing is here when you need us most.

Need to schedule a maintenance call or have questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us today!