Top 7 Plumbing Tips Every Omaha Homeowner Should Know

1. Protect Your Pipes During Omaha Winters

Cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and burst—one of the most common and expensive issues in Omaha. Preventing this starts with proper insulation and awareness.

Here’s How to Protect Your Plumbing System When Temperatures Drop

• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, and crawl spaces.
• Keep a steady temperature in your home, even when you’re away.
• Let faucets drip slightly during freezing nights to relieve pressure in the pipes.
• Disconnect outdoor hoses and shut off exterior water lines before winter arrives.

Frozen pipes can lead to significant water damage and costly repairs, but with preventive care, you can greatly reduce the risk.

2. Keep Drains Clear to Prevent Clogs

Clogged drains are another frequent issue in Omaha homes, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. While it might be tempting to use chemical drain cleaners, these products can damage your pipes over time. Instead, consider safer alternatives and good habits to prevent buildup.

Simple Ways to Keep Your Drains Clear

• Avoid pouring grease, oil, or coffee grounds down the sink.
• Use drain strainers to catch hair and soap scum in showers and tubs.
• Flush drains monthly with a mixture of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar.
• Schedule professional plumbing maintenance for deep drain cleaning.

Keeping your drains clean not only prevents clogs but also improves water flow and helps maintain the longevity of your system.

3. Watch for Early Signs of Problems

Many serious plumbing issues start small. Catching them early can save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars in repair costs. Omaha’s older homes, in particular, may have aging pipes that are more susceptible to leaks or corrosion.

Be on the Lookout for

• Slow drains or recurring clogs.
• Low water pressure in faucets or showers.
• Water stains or damp spots on walls, ceilings, or floors.
• Unexplained increases in your water bill.
• Strange sounds coming from pipes or your water heater.

If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s best to contact a professional plumber right away. You can schedule a service with Two Men and a Snake to inspect and repair your system before small issues become emergencies.

4. Maintain Your Water Heater

Your water heater works hard year-round, especially during cold Omaha winters. Regular maintenance keeps it efficient and extends its lifespan. Sediment buildup in the tank can reduce heating efficiency and cause corrosion, which may lead to leaks or even tank failure.

Here Are a Few Ways to Maintain Your Water Heater

• Flush the tank annually to remove sediment and debris.
• Inspect the pressure relief valve for proper operation.
• Check the anode rod every few years to prevent rust inside the tank.
• Adjust the thermostat to 120°F for energy savings and safety.

If your water heater is over 10 years old or struggles to meet your household’s needs, consider consulting a local plumbing professional about a replacement. Energy-efficient models not only perform better but can also lower your utility bills.

5. Schedule Regular Inspections

Routine inspections are one of the best ways to prevent unexpected plumbing failures. Even if your system seems to be working fine, a professional plumber can spot hidden issues you might miss—such as small leaks, corrosion, or blockages in hard-to-reach areas.

What an Annual Inspection Typically Includes

• Checking water pressure and flow rates.
• Inspecting all visible pipes for leaks or wear.
• Testing drains and toilets for proper function.
• Examining your water heater and other fixtures.

By staying proactive, you can avoid costly emergency repairs and maintain peace of mind knowing your home’s plumbing is in great condition.

6. When to Call Professional Services

While DIY maintenance is helpful, certain issues require professional expertise. Attempting to repair complex problems yourself can lead to further damage or even safety hazards.

Situations Where You Should Contact a Professional Plumber in Omaha, NE

• Burst or leaking pipes.
• Sewer line backups or blockages.
• Persistent low water pressure.
• No hot water or water heater failures.
• Major fixture installations or replacements.

The experienced team at Two Men and a Snake is equipped with advanced tools and local expertise to handle all types of residential plumbing challenges quickly and efficiently.

7. Adapt Your Plumbing Care for Omaha’s Local Conditions

Omaha’s weather and infrastructure make regular plumbing care especially important. The city’s combination of cold winters, hard water, and older systems means that pipes, drains, and water heaters often experience higher stress.

What You Have to Do to Adapt Your Maintenance to Local Conditions

• Install a water softener to reduce mineral buildup in pipes and appliances.
• Check your sump pump before spring rains to prevent basement flooding.
• Inspect exterior faucets and irrigation systems after winter for damage.

These simple steps can help you keep your system resilient against Omaha’s seasonal changes and environmental factors.

Keep Your Plumbing Reliable With Local Experts

For trusted service and expert advice, turn to the team at Two Men and a Snake. Whether you need preventive maintenance, emergency repairs, or help improving your plumbing’s efficiency, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and keep your home’s plumbing in excellent condition in Omaha, NE.