DO
Run water at full pressure when using garbage disposal.
Periodically remove and clean all aerators.
Inspect and test toilets for leaks annually.
Open and close all cutoff valves twice a year.
Check caulk line on walls around tubs and showers regularly.
Shut off all outside valves in wintertime.
Open sink cupboard door on outside walls in severely cold weather.
Oil parts in toilet tanks that are above water level.
Open drain on water heater twice a year to remove sediment.
Turn off hot water system when leaving for extended peiods of time.
Teach children to always turn cold water on first and hot water off first.
DON'T
Put disposable diapers into the toilet.
Dispose of baby wipes in the toilet
- whether they claim to be biodegradable or not.
Use 'flushable' wand-type toilet bowl cleaners
- they contain small plastic parts which become lodged in the trap.
Dump 'flushable' cat litter into the toilet
or drain.
Put coffee grounds in your sink drains.
Hang a knick-knack shelf over your toilet. Shelved items may accidentally fall into and become lodged in the toilet.
Pour hot water into the toilet. It will crack the bowl.
Put any mechanical cleaning device in your toilet tank.
Keep wastebaskets under the sink. Bumping drain pipes causes leaks.
Dispose of feminine hygiene products in toilet.
Run the dishwasher if disposal is full of food waste.
Use drain cleaners containing lye.
Use toilet tank lid for a shelf.
Pour fats or cooking oils into your sink drain.
Place cornhusks, artichokes, onion skins, celery, or other high fiber material in a disposal.