Looking after your plumbing doesn’t need to be complicated. With a few simple checks and habits, you can save money, avoid emergencies, and keep your home running smoothly. Here are seven practical plumbing tips every homeowner in Whitstable, Folkestone, and across Kent should know.
1. Know Where Your Stopcock Is
Your stopcock (main water shut-off valve) is the first thing you’ll need in an emergency. Find it now (usually under the kitchen sink or in a utility room) and test it once a year to make sure it works.
2. Fix Dripping Taps Quickly
A small drip might not seem like much, but it can waste hundreds of litres of water and increase your bills. Most dripping taps only need a new washer or cartridge — a simple and inexpensive fix.
3. Keep Drains Clear
Avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps down the sink. In bathrooms, use a drain strainer to catch hair and soap scum. Prevention is always easier (and cheaper) than unblocking pipes later.
4. Check for Hidden Leaks
Turn off all taps and appliances, then watch your water meter. If the small silver spindle is still rotating, you may have a hidden leak. Catching this early can save you from costly water damage.
5. Bleed Your Radiators
If radiators are cold at the top but warm at the bottom, they need bleeding to release trapped air. A radiator key is all you need, and it helps your heating system run more efficiently.
6. Insulate Exposed Pipes in Winter
Pipes in lofts, garages, or outdoor spaces can freeze and burst in cold weather. Wrapping them in foam insulation is a quick DIY job that prevents expensive emergencies.
7. Book an Annual Boiler Service
Your boiler is the heart of your home’s heating system. Having it serviced once a year by a Gas Safe engineer keeps it running safely, efficiently, and reduces the risk of breakdowns.
✅ Final Word
These simple plumbing tips can help you avoid costly problems and keep your home in great shape. But if you ever run into something you’re unsure about, it’s always best to call a professional.
📞 Need a Reliable Plumber in Whitstable, Folkestone, or Kent?
At Empro Plumbing, we provide expert plumbing and heating services — from leak detection to boiler servicing and emergency repairs.
👉 Call us today on 0800 830 3636 or email jobs@emproplumbing.co.uk for fast, friendly, and reliable help.
