New year’s resolutions are an opportunity to develop new habits, new ideas, new whatever-you-want. For us, the biggest thing to focus on each year is how we can better help and serve the communities we live in by providing the best response times, latest technology, and so on. Part of our goal to be a better plumbing service provider includes working to provide better direction and advice to help the people in our community take care of their own plumbing.

On that note, we’ve put together this list of ten plumbing new year’s resolutions to help you to best take care of your plumbing and, in turn, both your home and self.

Don’t ignore little problems

A leaking faucet, pooling around a toilet, or weird banging sounds from pipes can all be the small signs of bigger problems. When it comes to plumbing, most problems aren’t a big deal… until they are.

When plumbing problems are a big deal, they can cost a lot of money and do a lot of damage. Cut them off at the head and address them as soon as you notice them.

Keep your pipes cozy  

Pipe insulation is a necessity that many homeowners don’t think about until it’s too late. Even in the warmer climes of Texas, making sure your pipes have insulating sleeves in case of especially cold winters can be a small investment that saves you a big headache down the line.

Treat your garbage disposal more kindly

Remember that garbage disposals aren’t garbage cans. Don’t put coffee grounds, fibrous vegetables, bones, pits, or other items that can damage the blades down the disposal. Never pour oils or grease down your disposal either, because once it cools, it will solidify. That will be bad. Be nice to your garbage disposal and it’ll be nice to you.

Be more eco-friendly

Did you know that just turning off the water in the sink when you brush your teeth can save thousands of gallons of water a year? Do the world (and your wallet!) a favor by paying more attention to the amount of water you use.

Give your water heater the attention it deserves

Water heaters are easy to forget about because you barely ever see them. Make sure you get your water heater properly flushed with the help of a professional at least once per year.

Pay attention to your water quality

Have you noticed that your skin, hair, or hands have gotten dry or cracked? Maybe the water in your home is too hard and you could benefit from installing a whole-home water filtration device.

Stop treating your toilet like a trash can

Toilets aren’t made to handle anything other than… the stuff that’s supposed to go down toilets. Never flush toiletries or garbage. Try putting a trash can right next to your toilet instead, just in case you’re ever tempted.

Invest in an inspection

Have a technician to your home once per year to give everything a once over. They can clear your drains and let you know if there are any concerns you should pay attention to. These visits won’t cost a lot and they can help you avoid otherwise unseen trouble.

Get some drain guards

A few dollars spent now will save you a big headache down the line. Drain guards are non-intrusive, cheap, and they can help you keep clog-causers from sliding down your drain.

Know the best company to call in case of emergency

In our opinion, that would be us. The team at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Dallas has the experience, know how, and technology to solve any plumbing problem you may face quickly and efficiently.

You don’t have to adopt all of these resolutions (though we’d be really impressed if you did), but just one or two can make a big difference.