Plumbing Tips & Home Maintenance Advice
At Bigfoot’s Plumbing, we believe the best plumbing service starts long before something breaks. That’s why we’re sharing simple, proven tips to help you keep your home’s plumbing system running smoothly year-round — saving you money, stress, and water.
💧 Licensed • Local • Reliable
Serving Wake Forest, Rolesville, Youngsville, and the surrounding Triangle area.
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🚿 1. Flush & Service Your Water Heater Annually
Most homeowners don’t realize their water heater should be flushed once a year to prevent sediment buildup. Over time, minerals in your water collect at the bottom of the tank or inside the tankless heat exchanger, reducing efficiency and heating power.
Why it matters:
- Extends lifespan of your water heater
- Keeps water heating faster
- Prevents premature corrosion and leaks
Pro Tip: Tankless systems require annual descaling to stay under manufacturer warranty. We offer affordable yearly maintenance plans to handle it for you.
💧 2. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is
In an emergency (like a burst pipe or broken washing machine hose), the difference between $200 in cleanup and $5,000 in damage often comes down to how quickly you shut off the main water.
Tip:
- Locate the main shut-off valve (usually near the meter or where the main enters the home).
- Tag it with a label so everyone in your household can find it fast.
- Test it twice a year to ensure it still turns easily.
🚽 3. Don’t Treat Your Toilet Like a Trash Can
Even “flushable” wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products don’t break down properly — leading to clogs and pipe damage.
Only flush:
- Human waste
- Toilet paper
Everything else belongs in the trash. If you hear gurgling or see water rising in your toilet or shower, it’s time to call a plumber before the problem spreads.
🧊 4. Protect Pipes from Freezing in Cold Weather
While winters in Wake Forest are mild, freezing nights can still cause pipe bursts — especially in crawlspaces and exterior walls.
Prevent frozen pipes by:
- Disconnecting garden hoses each fall
- Insulating outdoor spigots and exposed piping
- Keeping heat above 55°F when away
If a pipe bursts, shut off the main water supply immediately and call us at 919-395-7479.
💦 5. Watch for Hidden Water Leaks
Small leaks can quietly waste hundreds of gallons each month — and lead to structural damage or mold growth.
Warning signs:
- Unexplained high water bills
- Musty smells or soft drywall
- Constantly running toilet
- Water meter spinning when fixtures are off
If you suspect a hidden leak, we can perform non-invasive leak detection using sound and moisture sensors before it becomes a major issue.
🧱 6. Replace Old Cast Iron or Galvanized Pipes
Homes built before the 1980s often have cast iron or galvanized steel plumbing. Over time, these pipes corrode from the inside, causing reduced flow, rust-colored water, or complete collapse.
Our Recommendation:
Upgrading to modern PEX or PVC piping improves water quality, flow rate, and resale value — while preventing future leaks under the slab or behind walls.
🔥 7. Test Your Backflow Preventer Annually
Backflow devices keep contaminated water from entering your drinking supply — and Wake County regulations require annual testing.
If you own a home with irrigation, a fire sprinkler system, or commercial space, schedule your backflow test each year for safety and compliance. We’re fully certified to test, repair, and report your results to the local water authority.
🧰 8. Avoid Store-Bought Drain Chemicals
Those “fast-acting drain openers” often cause more harm than good — eating through your pipes and damaging seals.
Instead:
- Try a natural mix of baking soda and vinegar for minor clogs
- Use a plunger or drain snake for tougher ones
- Call a pro if it happens repeatedly — you may have buildup or root intrusion deeper in the line
We use safe, professional-grade drain cleaning and video inspection to fix the real issue, not just the symptom.
💧 9. Schedule Preventative Plumbing Inspections
A routine plumbing inspection once a year helps identify small issues before they turn into emergencies — like weak water pressure, worn valves, or early signs of corrosion.
Our inspection checklist covers:
- Water heater health
- Leak detection
- Fixture seals and shutoff valves
- Water quality testing
- Drain line flow
We’ll give you a full report and maintenance recommendations for peace of mind.
🏠 10. Know When to Call a Licensed Plumber
DIY fixes are great — until they aren’t. If you’re seeing repeated leaks, slow drains, or fluctuating water pressure, don’t ignore the signs.
A licensed plumber can:
- Spot deeper system issues
- Save you from costly water damage
- Ensure all repairs meet North Carolina code
When in doubt, call Bigfoot’s Plumbing. We’re local, licensed, and always upfront about pricing.
Our Promise
Cal Hardy, Owner & Licensed Plumber
“Plumbing shouldn’t be mysterious or stressful — we’re here to help homeowners understand and protect their systems.”
Bonus Tip — Save $25 on Your First Service
We love helping our neighbors take care of their homes. New customers can save $25 on any service when they mention code FIRST25.
Serving Wake Forest • Rolesville • Youngsville • North Raleigh • Franklinton • Wakefield