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Version: 2026.08.01

Plumbing

Your home's plumbing system delivers clean water and removes waste efficiently. Understanding how it works and maintaining it properly prevents costly repairs and water damage.

Gas Smell?

If you smell gas, leave the home immediately and call the gas company. Do not flip switches or create sparks.

Know Your Shut-Offs​

Knowing where to turn off water quickly can prevent major damage.

LocationTypeWhen to Use
Mechanical room (near meter)Main water shut-offEmergencies, extended absences
Behind/below toiletsIndividual fixtureToilet repairs
Under sinksHot and cold valvesFaucet repairs
Near meterMain gas shut-offGas emergencies (requires tool)
Near each applianceIndividual gas shut-offAppliance service

Routine Maintenance​

TaskFrequencyTime Required
Clean faucet aeratorsEvery 3 to 4 months5 minutes each
Test sump pump (if applicable)Seasonally10 minutes
Check for leaks under sinksMonthly2 minutes
Disconnect outdoor hosesBefore first freeze5 minutes
Run unused fixturesMonthly1 minute each

Aerator Cleaning​

Clogged aerators cause reduced water flow and dripping. To clean:

  1. Unscrew aerator from faucet tip
  2. Rinse screen and remove mineral deposits
  3. Reinstall

Preventing Clogs​

Toilets

Avoid flushing:

  • Excessive toilet paper
  • Diapers, sanitary supplies
  • Q-tips, dental floss
  • "Flushable" wipes (they're not really flushable)
  • Paper towels
Garbage Disposal
  • Always run cold water when using (helps solidify grease for grinding)
  • Never pour grease down (it solidifies in pipes)
  • Run water for 15 seconds after grinding stops
  • Avoid fibrous foods (celery, corn husks)
  • Don't overload - process small amounts at a time
Drains
  • Use strainers to catch hair
  • Don't pour grease or oil down drains
  • Periodically clean pop-up stoppers
  • Run hot water after dishes to help clear residue

Exterior Faucets (Critical!)​

Your exterior faucets (sill cocks) are freeze-proof, BUT only if hoses are disconnected.

Winter Preparation

You MUST remove hoses before freezing weather

If a hose stays attached:

  • Water in hose freezes and expands
  • Expansion travels back into pipe
  • Pipe breaks (often inside wall)
  • Damage not discovered until spring

Running Toilet Fix​

Check these common causes:

  1. Float too high - Adjust so valve shuts off completely
  2. Float rubbing - Should move freely, not touch tank sides
  3. Chain too tight - Prevents rubber stopper from sealing
  4. Worn flapper - Replace if deteriorated

Dripping Faucet Repair​

  1. Shut off water at valve under sink
  2. Remove faucet stem
  3. Change the insert or cartridge
  4. Reinstall stem
  5. Use same type/size replacement parts

Sump Pump Care​

If applicable to your home - Not all homes have sump pumps.

How It Works​

  1. Perimeter drain runs around foundation
  2. Collects water and channels it to sump pit
  3. When water reaches a certain level, pump activates
  4. Pump removes water via discharge line

Testing Your Sump Pump​

Test periodically, especially before rainy season:

  1. Pour 5 gallons of water into the sump pit
  2. Pump should turn on automatically
  3. Water should be pumped out
  4. Pump should shut off when water level drops

Sump Pump Maintenance​

  • Keep discharge clear - Remove debris, don't plant near discharge line
  • Check during storms - Pump may run frequently (normal)
  • Consider backup - Battery backup protects during power outages
  • Know your limits - Pump cannot operate without power

Troubleshooting​

No Water Anywhere​

  1. Check main shut-off at meter - must be OPEN
  2. Check individual shut-offs - must be OPEN
  3. Contact water department for area outages

One Fixture Leaking​

  1. Check caulking and grout around fixture
  2. Confirm shower door/tub enclosure closed properly
  3. Turn off water supply to that fixture
  4. Use other facilities and report during business hours

Toilet Backup (One Toilet)​

  1. Shut off water supply (valve behind toilet)
  2. Use plunger to clear blockage
  3. If needed, use a drain snake
  4. Within 30 days: contact Classic Homes. After 30 days: contact rooter service

Sewer Backup (Entire Home)​

  1. Within 30 days: contact Classic Homes
  2. After 30 days: contact rooter service
  3. Move belongings to prevent damage
  4. Contact homeowner insurance if items are soiled

Sump Pump Not Working​

  1. Confirm it's plugged in
  2. Check circuit breaker - must be ON
  3. Test operation with 5 gallons of water
  4. If it doesn't activate, contact service professional

What to Avoid​

warning
  • Don't use chemical drain cleaners regularly - Can damage pipes over time
  • Don't ignore small leaks - They become big problems
  • Don't pour grease down drains - Causes clogs deep in pipes
  • Don't use tank cleaning tablets - Products like Tidy Bowl damage seals and gaskets
  • Don't leave pressurized hoses attached - Even in summer, can damage faucets

Extended Absence Preparation​

When away for extended periods:

  1. Shut off main water supply
  2. Open faucets to relieve pressure
  3. Consider draining water heater (see manufacturer instructions)
  4. Keep heat at minimum 62°F in winter
  5. Have someone check periodically

Cleaning Fixtures​

Fixture TypeCleaning MethodAvoid
All fixturesNon-abrasive cleanersScouring pads, steel wool
Stainless steel sinksSoap and water, dry to prevent spotsBleach, leaving produce on surface
Fiberglass (tubs, shower pans)Non-abrasive cleanser, spongeSteel wool, scrapers
Chrome/brass fixturesSoft cloth, mild soapAbrasive cleaners

Warranty Coverage: See Plumbing System Standards and Sump Pump Standards for coverage periods and exclusions.