Every home depends on its plumbing. It delivers clean water for drinking, cooking, and washing, and it also helps keep indoor temperatures steady. Because repairs and replacements can be costly, routine maintenance is the best way to head off problems before they start.

Try these plumbing maintenance tips:

• Check your faucets often. A dripping faucet wastes a surprising amount of water and can push up your utility bills. If you spot a drip, try tightening the nuts or swapping out the washers. If it keeps dripping, it may be time to call a plumber.
• Clean your toilets regularly. Calcium and lime deposits can build up inside toilets and make flushing harder. A vinegar and baking soda mix works well: pour 1 cup of vinegar into the tank and let it sit for 30 minutes, then add 1 cup of baking soda, cover the bowl, wait a few minutes, and flush.
• Inspect your pipes regularly. If you find a leak, fix it promptly. Leaks can harm walls and floors and can also drive up your utility bills.
• Keep your drains clean. Hair, food, and other debris can clog drains over time. Clear them with a plunger or a drain cleaner.
• Add a water filter. A filter can remove impurities such as chlorine, rust, and lead, improving the taste of your water and helping protect your health.