Tulsa Plumbing 101: 6 Things Every Homeowner Should Know About Their Plumbing Problem System

Karney Plumbing
Jun 30
2 min read

Updated: Jul 12

Whether you’ve just moved into your first home in Tulsa or have lived in the same neighborhood for 20 years, understanding your home’s plumbing system is essential. At Karney Plumbing, we know that most plumbing disasters start with minor, preventable issues.

Here’s a breakdown of six key plumbing insights every homeowner should know—plus tips to avoid common (and costly) problems.

1. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is

Imagine a pipe bursts in your kitchen. Every second counts. Do you know how to shut the water off?

Tip: Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve—typically in the garage, basement, or where the main line enters your home. Label it clearly and show your family members.

2. Watch for Signs of a Hidden Leak For Plumbing Problems

Leaks don’t always leave puddles. Sometimes, the signs are subtle:

Unexplained spike in your water bill
Musty odors
Warped flooring or bubbling paint
Low water pressure

Karney Plumbing offers leak detection services using thermal and acoustic tools to find leaks before they become expensive repairs.

3. Don’t Ignore a Slow Drain

A slow-moving sink or tub drain may seem like no big deal. But it often means a buildup inside your pipes—or worse, a deeper clog in your main line.

Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage pipes. Instead, use a drain snake or hire a professional for safe and effective clearing.

4. Protect Your Pipes Year-Round

Tulsa’s winters can bring freezing temperatures that put your pipes at risk.

Prevention tips:

Insulate pipes in crawlspaces and garages
Disconnect outdoor hoses in the fall
Let faucets drip during freezes to keep water moving

A burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in damage—but is easily avoidable with simple steps.

5. Water Heaters Need Maintenance, Too

Water heaters often get ignored—until they stop working. Don’t wait for a cold shower to give yours some attention.

Recommended every 6–12 months:

Flush sediment buildup
Test the pressure relief valve
Inspect for rust or leaks

We offer affordable water heater checkups and replacements, including tankless systems for energy savings.

6. Don’t Wait on Small Repairs

A dripping faucet, constantly running toilet, or unusual gurgling sound might not seem urgent—but they all indicate bigger issues down the line.

Fixing problems early can save hundreds, not to mention your peace of mind.

Trust Tulsa’s Local Plumbing Experts

When it comes to your home, you deserve a plumbing team that’s fast, honest, and experienced. At Karney Plumbing, we’re proud to be a trusted name in Tulsa for over three decades.

Licensed & insured technicians✔️ 24/7 emergency service✔️ Fair, upfront pricing✔️ Family-owned and operated