Plumbing Maintenance Tips (and How Warranty Plays a Role)

Plumbing is easy to overlook when everything is working, but small issues can quickly become big problems. A dripping faucet wastes thousands of gallons of water a year, a slow drain may be the first sign of a sewer blockage, and a water heater failure can leave you dealing with both water damage and expensive replacement costs.

What makes plumbing problems tricky is how fast they can escalate. A minor leak can damage cabinets, floors, or walls, while clogs and backups can affect multiple areas of your home. These are more than just inconveniences; they can disrupt daily life and create unexpected financial strain.

The good news is that regular maintenance helps prevent many of these problems. And when a breakdown does happen, a home warranty plan from ARW Home gives you a reliable way to manage repair costs without the stress of an emergency expense.

Common Plumbing Issues

Every home is vulnerable to plumbing problems, from the predictable to the unexpected. Knowing what to look for helps you act quickly before a small issue becomes a bigger one. Some of the most common problems include:

● Dripping faucets: This is often caused by worn-out washers, O-rings, or seals. A slow drip may seem harmless, but it can waste over 3,000 gallons of water a year, driving up your utility bill and signaling early pipe wear.
● Running toilets: This is usually the result of a faulty flapper, fill valve, or float. Along with being noisy, a constantly running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons per day and cost you over $70 per month if ignored.
● Low water pressure: This can stem from sediment buildup in pipes or faucet aerators. But more seriously, it may indicate a hidden leak behind walls or even corroded plumbing lines.
● Clogged drains: Hair, grease, soap scum, and even children's toys are common culprits. Multiple slow drains at once could point to a larger issue in your main sewer line.
● Water heater problems: If your water suddenly turns cold, rusty, or you hear popping noises from the tank, that's a sign of sediment buildup, a failing heating element, or impending system failure.

By recognizing these signs early, you can reduce the risk of extensive water damage and higher repair costs.

Simple Plumbing Maintenance Tips

Preventive care is the best way to keep plumbing systems in good condition. Small, consistent habits often save you from bigger problems later.

Here are a few to add to your home care routine:

● Check under sinks and around toilets for moisture or mold. They are typically early signs of leaks.
● Avoid chemical drain cleaners. While they may work fast, it could damage PVC or older metal pipes over time. Opt for enzyme-based cleaners or a manual snake instead.
● Clean faucet aerators and showerheads every few months. Soaking them in vinegar can break down hard water mineral buildup that affects flow.
● Flush your water heater once or twice a year to remove sediment. This improves efficiency and prevents internal corrosion.
● Use drain screens in showers and sinks to catch hair, food particles, and debris before they form clogs.
● Know where your main water shut-off valve is. In an emergency, shutting off the water quickly can prevent extensive damage.

Taking these steps helps extend the life of your plumbing and lowers the risk of costly emergency calls.

When to Call a Plumbing Professional

Even with good maintenance habits, not every problem is a DIY fix. Certain signs mean it is time to call in a licensed plumber.

You should seek professional help if you notice:

● Low water pressure throughout the home
● Sewer odors coming from drains or basements
● Water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors
● Unexpectedly high water bills without increased usage
● Frequent toilet backups or gurgling drains

These issues often point to bigger problems hidden behind the walls or underground. A professional can diagnose and fix the issue before it causes serious damage.

The Cost of Ignoring Plumbing Problems

Plumbing issues don’t resolve themselves; they escalate. What starts as a minor inconvenience can quickly spiral into expensive damage if left unchecked.

● A slow leak can damage drywall, insulation, and flooring, creating mold and structural issues.
● A clogged drain can progress into a sewage backup, flooding parts of your home.
● A water heater that is not maintained can rupture and flood your space.

According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of a water heater repair ranges from $222 to $985, while a full replacement costs between $600 to $2,500 for a traditional tank and $1,400 to $3,900 for a tankless model. If you’re dealing with major sewer line damage, repair costs can easily reach $5,000 or more, not including restoration of flooring, drywall, or landscaping.

How a Home Warranty Can Help

Even with good maintenance, plumbing systems eventually fail. A home warranty helps cover repair or replacement costs from normal wear and tear, making breakdowns easier to manage financially. With ARW Home, you’re not left scrambling to find a contractor or comparing emergency rates.

With ARW Home, you can expect:

● Access to licensed plumbers in your area
● 24/7 claim support to schedule service fast
● Transparent pricing with a flat service call fee

Instead of paying out-of-pocket for each repair, you pay a predictable fee, depending on your plan.

What Home Warranty Plumbing Coverage Includes

A home warranty is a service contract that covers repair or replacement costs for appliances and home systems that fail from normal wear and tear. Unlike homeowners' insurance, which protects against events like fire or flooding, a home warranty is designed to cover the things that break down from everyday use.

Plumbing coverage typically includes:

● Interior water and drain lines
● Pipe leaks or breaks
● Toilet mechanisms
● Plumbing stoppages (when included)
● Water heater components
● Sump pumps (with certain plans)

With ARW Home, you can also add protection for septic systems, well pumps, and exterior water/sewer lines, items that often aren’t covered by standard plans or city utilities.

For a full breakdown of plan options, visit the ARW Home Warranty Plans page.

What a Home Warranty Does Not Cover

While home warranty coverage offers valuable protection for your plumbing system, it is just as important to understand what is not included. Many homeowners are surprised when a repair is denied, not because the plan failed, but because the issue falls outside the scope of coverage.

Pre-existing issues

If a problem already existed before your coverage began, it will likely not be eligible for service. For example, a water heater that was leaking when you signed up would not qualify for repair. This is why it is best to enroll before problems arise.

Improper installation or code violations

For coverage to apply, systems must be installed properly and meet current building codes. A dishwasher installed without a permit or outdated pipes that no longer meet standards may not be covered.

Damage from neglect or poor maintenance

Home warranties are designed to cover breakdowns caused by normal wear and tear. They do not cover failures due to skipped maintenance or misuse. A burst pipe from unprotected outdoor spigots or a clogged drain from grease buildup would typically fall outside the plan.

Exterior water and sewer lines

Most base plans do not include water or sewer lines that run from your house to the street. Since repairing underground lines can cost thousands, ARW Home offers optional add-on coverage for this type of system.

Cosmetic or incidental damage

Warranty coverage focuses on repairing the core issue, not cosmetic finishes or secondary damage. For example, a leaking pipe inside a wall may be repaired, but repainting or replacing flooring afterward would not be included unless your plan specifies it.

Tip: Always review your plan’s terms and conditions to confirm what is covered and what may require an add-on. ARW Home makes this information easy to access, and representatives are available to answer questions.

Home Warranty vs Homeowners Insurance

Many homeowners assume they’re fully protected just because they have homeowners' insurance, but these two types of coverage serve very different purposes.

Here are the key difference:

Home warranties and homeowners insurance provide different types of protection. Both are valuable, but they serve different purposes.

● A home warranty covers breakdowns caused by wear and tear, such as a leaking pipe, clogged drain, or broken sump pump.
● Homeowners insurance covers sudden disasters, such as storm damage, fire, or theft.

Together, they provide broader protection so you are covered both for unexpected disasters and for everyday breakdowns.

Cost Considerations and Potential Savings

Plumbing repairs are often expensive, especially when they come without warning. Typical costs without a warranty include:

● Water heater replacement: $900 to $1,800
● Drain line repair: $225 to $1,100
● Sewer line clog repair: $200 to $600
● Septic tank repair: $600 to $3,000
● Sump pump replacement: $650 to $2,000

By comparison, ARW Home plans start around $29.99 per month with a $125 service fee per claim. Even one covered plumbing repair each year can make the plan pay for itself.

How to Choose the Right Home Warranty Company & Plan

Not all home warranty plans are the same. If you are comparing providers, it helps to focus on a few key areas: transparency, flexibility, and service quality. The right company should make it easy to understand what you are paying for and deliver reliable help when you need it most.

Clear coverage terms

Look for a provider that explains exactly what is included and excluded. A good plan will outline covered components such as plumbing lines and water heater parts, while also noting any limitations or situations that require add-on coverage.

Customizable plans

Every home is different, and your plan should reflect that. The best providers let you add or remove coverage for systems like septic tanks, well pumps, or exterior lines, so you are only paying for the protection you actually need.

Flat, predictable fees

Avoid companies that use variable deductibles or confusing “trade call” charges. ARW Home, for example, uses a simple $125 service fee per claim with no hidden surprises.

Reliable contractor network

Check that the warranty company works with licensed, pre-screened technicians in your area. Fast response times and qualified professionals are especially important when you are dealing with urgent plumbing problems.

Strong reputation

Customer reviews are one of the best ways to gauge reliability. Look at sources like ConsumerAffairs or the Better Business Bureau to see how providers handle claims. ARW Home has more than 15 years of experience and offers U.S.-based support around the clock.

Reputation and reviews

Research customer feedback on sites like ConsumerAffairs or Better Business Bureau. ARW Home has over 15 years of experience and offers U.S.-based support for claims 24/7/365.

Add-on options for plumbing

If your home relies on a septic system, private well, or has older plumbing, make sure the provider offers add-on coverage for those higher-risk areas. Not every company does.

If you are unsure which plan fits your household best, you can explore options or request a personalized quote through the ARW Home Plans page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are home warranties worth it?

Yes, for many homeowners, a warranty offers peace of mind and real savings. If your plumbing or appliances are more than a few years old, the risk of an unexpected breakdown is high. A single covered repair can easily offset the annual cost of your plan. Plus, warranties make it easier to budget by replacing surprise expenses with predictable service fees.

How much does a home warranty cost per month?

Most home warranties range from $30 to $85 per month, depending on the provider, plan tier, and whether you include add-ons. ARW Home plans start around $29.99/month, with optional plumbing-related add-ons like septic system coverage, water/sewer line protection, and sump pumps available for a few dollars more.

Do home warranties cover pre-existing conditions?

Typically, no. Home warranties are designed to cover breakdowns due to normal wear and tear after the contract begins. Pre-existing issues (especially if they’re known or visible) are usually excluded. That’s why it’s smart to enroll before a problem arises.

Can I get a home warranty for an older home?

Absolutely. In fact, older homes often benefit the most from warranty coverage. As systems age and manufacturers’ warranties expire, the risk of failure increases. ARW Home covers systems regardless of age, as long as they’re in good working condition when the plan starts.

What’s the difference between a home warranty and homeowners' insurance?

Homeowners' insurance covers major damage from accidents, weather, or disasters. A home warranty covers the wear-and-tear breakdowns of things like your plumbing, water heater, or appliances. They’re different tools, but together, they offer fuller protection for your home.