Last Updated: February 25, 2026 — Reviewed by Brian Hayes, Licensed Master Plumber
Plumbing problems are generally sudden-onset disasters that appear out of nowhere, and ruin your night, your bathroom—and your dinner party.
To avoid embarrassing and utterly inconvenient plumbing problems, heed the below advice about how to stay ahead of your plumbing problems with these plumbing maintenance tips.
Plumbing Problems Avoidance: Plumbing Maintenance
There are a number of ways to get ahead of your plumbing problems—and all of them involve plumbing maintenance. Use the tips below as a plumbing maintenance checklist to help you ‘stay ahead’:
1. Check your Main Shut-Off Valve
Your plumbing disasters are only as bad as your main shut-off valve, so ensure it is in perfect working order with regular testing. Look for any leaks or drips, as these are signs that there will be a problem in the near future (–a problem that you can get ahead of!). Keeping your main shut-off valve in good condition is especially important if you want to avoid floods (which will be of critical importance to you if you, like most of us, don’t have flood insurance!).
2. Fix Leaky Faucets
Leaky faucets only get worse over time so nip them in the bud immediately.
3. Slow Drains
Clear slow-draining drains to avoid further clogging, as clogging will worsen over time and cause stop throughout your piping system. A quick snake now is significantly better than digging up the pipes later!
4. De-Calcify your Aerators
Faucet aerators calcify over time and block water flow (which can cause a myriad of issues, including flooding), so decalcify them at least once a year. If you have hard water you may need to do this twice a year. A quick wash and rinse should work, but for tough build up try a little CLR.
5. “Is your toilet running?–then you better go catch it!”
The above might be a cheesy joke, but it is good advice. Fix leaky toilets before they leak onto the floor and weaken both the floor and the seal.
6. Clean your Drains
To avoid drain buildup, give your drains a quick cleaning once a month with a homemade (generally much better for the environment and easier on your plumbing) or store-bought drain cleaner.
For more tips on how to keep your plumbing in tip-top shape—bookmark our blog. If your plumbing is past the point of maintenance and it needs professional help, then call Hayes today for help.
Additional Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I call a plumber for plumbing problems?
You should call a licensed plumber for plumbing problems when the issue persists after basic troubleshooting, involves water pressure changes, or requires access to pipes behind walls. Hayes Plumbing serves Oshawa, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington, and Pickering.
How much does plumbing problems cost in Durham Region?
The cost of plumbing problems in Durham Region depends on the complexity of the job and parts required. Hayes Plumbing provides upfront pricing before beginning any work so there are no surprises.
Should I try DIY or hire a professional for plumbing problems?
While minor issues can sometimes be addressed with DIY methods, plumbing problems often requires a licensed plumber to ensure the work meets Ontario plumbing code. Hayes Plumbing is fully licensed, WSIB certified, and BBB accredited.
Need help with plumbing repairs or installations? Hayes Plumbing & Bathroom Renovations serves Oshawa, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington, and Pickering. Contact us or call (905) 576-3043 for a free estimate.
