Congratulations on purchasing your first home in the Cowlitz County area! While homeownership brings excitement and pride, it also comes with new responsibilities, especially when it comes to understanding and maintaining your plumbing system.
Many first-time homeowners face unexpected challenges, especially in the older homes in Cowlitz County. This comprehensive guide will help you understand your home’s plumbing system and prevent costly repairs that many new Longview homeowners encounter.
7 Critical Plumbing Tips Every New Longview Homeowner Should Know
1) Locate and Test Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Today
Water damage is one of the most expensive home repairs in the Pacific Northwest. Knowing exactly where your main water shut-off valve is located could save you thousands in emergencies.
Where to find it in Longview homes:
- Most commonly found in basements or crawl spaces
- Sometimes found near the water meter or in utility rooms
- In newer Longview developments, often installed in garage utility areas
Pro tip: Test your water shut-off valve every six months to ensure it operates smoothly. In Longview's damp climate, valves can become still or corroded.
2) Understand Your Water Heater’s Age and Maintenance Needs
Your water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your new home, especially during our cool, wet winters.
What Longview homeowners should check:
- Manufacturing date (found on serial number sticker)
- Signs of corrosion or rust, particularly at connection points
- Presence of a pressure relief valve (essential safety feature)
- Current temperature setting (120°F is recommended)
Traditional tank water heaters typically last 8-12 years in Longview’s water conditions. If yours is approaching this age, it's time for a replacement. Energy-efficient models, like a heat pump water heater, can save you thousands in utility bills over their lifetime.
3) Identify Your Home’s Plumbing Materials and Their Lifespan
Longview’s housing stock spans many decades, and your home’s pipes may reflect building practices from different eras.
Common pipe materials in Longview homes:
- Galvanized steel (common in pre-1970s homes, 40-50 year lifespan)
- Copper (popular in 1970s-2000s homes, 50+ year lifespan)
- PEX (common in newer Longview homes, 40-50 year lifespan)
- Cast iron drain lines (found in many older Longview neighborhoods)
Warning signs of aging pipes in Longview properties:
- Rust-colored water, especially after returning from vacation
- Inconsistent water pressure throughout the house
- Recurring leaks or persistent damp spots
- Visible corrosion on exposed pipes
Many Longview homeowners benefit from partial repiping, focusing on the most vulnerable sections first.
4) Address Slow Drains Before They Become Major Clogs
Drainage issues are particularly common in Longview due to our soil conditions and mature tree roots.
When dealing with slow drains:
- Try enzyme-based drain cleaners, like our Bio-Choice product
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that can damage older pipes
- Consider annual drain cleaning maintenance to prevent buildup
- Be especially vigilant during fall when leaves and debris can enter exterior drains
For Longview homes in established neighborhoods with large trees, consider a camera inspection of your sewer line to check for root intrusions.
5) Know Whether Your Home Uses Septic or Sewer Systems
Longview and the surrounding areas have a mix of municipal sewer connections and private septic systems.
For septic system owners:
- Locate your septic tank and drainfield on your property
- Schedule regular pumping every 3-5 years with a Longview-certified provider
- Be mindful of what goes down your drains (avoid grease, coffee grounds, and non-biodegradable items)
- Watch for soggy spots in your yard, which could indicate septic issues
For sewer-connected homes:
- Understand where your responsibility for the sewer line begins (typically at the property line)
- Consider installing a backflow prevention device, especially in low-lying Longview neighborhoods
- Be aware of the age of your sewer lateral connection
6) Know When to DIY and When to Call a Longview Professional
While some plumbing tasks are suitable for homeowners, others require professional expertise, especially given Longview’s unique plumbing considerations.
Safe DIY plumbing projects:
- Replacing faucet washers and aerators
- Installing new showerheads
- Clearing simple sink clogs
- Replacing toilet flappers and fill valves
When to call a licensed Longview plumber:
- Water heater issues (especially gas models)
- Leaks inside walls or under concrete slabs
- Sewer line problems or persistent backups
- Repiping projects or major fixture installations
- Any plumbing work requiring permits in Cowlitz County
7) Schedule a Comprehensive Plumbing Inspection
Even if your home passed inspection during purchase, a dedicated plumbing assessment can provide valuable insights specific to Longview’s conditions.
A professional plumbing inspection will:
- Evaluate water pressure throughout your home
- Identify potential problem areas before they fail
- Check for code compliance issues common in Longview’s older homes
- Provide a prioritized list of recommended upgrades or repairs
- Help you create a maintenance schedule appropriate for your home’s age and system
Longview-Specific Plumbing Considerations
Longview homeowners face unique plumbing challenges due to our regional characteristics:
- Hard water deposits: Longview’s municipal water contains minerals that can gradually affect appliances and fixtures
- Cold weather precautions: Despite our mild climate, Longview does experience occasional freezes requiring pipe protection
- Older infrastructure: Many neighborhoods have aging water and sewer mains that can affect your home’s plumbing
- Seasonal issues: Heavy winter rains can test drainage systems and reveal vulnerabilities
Contact Longview’s Trusted Plumbing Professionals
Have questions about your first home’s plumbing system? Noticing warning signs that something isn’t right? Our experienced Longview plumbers understand the unique challenges of homes throughout Cowlitz County.
We offer specialized services for first-time homeowners, including comprehensive plumbing inspections, maintenance plans, and 24/7 emergency support for those unexpected situations.
Contact us today to schedule your Longview home’s plumbing assessment and gain peace of mind about your new investment.
