Edmond Plumbing Tips and Tricks for Homeowners in Our Community
Living in Edmond, Oklahoma is a joy – from our friendly neighborhoods to the changing seasons. However, those same local conditions can give our home plumbing a workout. Edmond’s weather swings from hot, humid summers to chilly winters (with average July highs around 93°F and January lows near 31°F ), and we occasionally face severe cold snaps or heavy thunderstorms. Our soil is rich in clay, which expands and contracts with moisture, sometimes shifting pipes underground . We also have fairly hard water in this region (water with lots of minerals) that can leave scale in pipes and appliances . In short, Edmond homeowners deal with a unique mix of climate and soil factors that can impact plumbing.
Whether you live in an older home near downtown/UCO or a newer development like Oak Tree on the north side, it pays to know some plumbing basics. In this friendly guide, we’ll cover practical plumbing tips and tricks tailored to Edmond. From preventing frozen pipes in winter to spotting sneaky leaks and knowing when to call a plumber, these tips will help you protect your home. As your neighbors (and local experts at A&T Mechanical), we want to help you keep your plumbing running smoothly year-round. Let’s dive in!
Edmond’s Unique Plumbing Challenges (Climate, Water & Soil)
Edmond’s local environment plays a big role in how we care for our plumbing. Here are a few local factors to keep in mind:
Seasonal Temperature Swings: Edmond sees scorching summers and freezing winters. It’s not unusual for us to hit the 90s°F in summer and then drop below freezing in winter . In fact, while our winters aren’t as harsh as up north, it does get cold enough for pipes to freeze – especially those in unheated areas like garages, crawl spaces, or attics . Preparing your plumbing for both extreme heat and cold is part of life here.
Heavy Storms and Rainfall: Oklahoma thunderstorms can be intense, with sudden downpours dumping large amounts of water in a short time. This can easily overwhelm drainage systems around homes. In Edmond, basements (for those who have them) and low-lying foundations are especially prone to flooding or leaks during heavy rains. That’s why having proper drainage is so important here to help keep water from sneaking into your home.
Clay-Rich Soil: Much of central Oklahoma, including Edmond, has clay-rich soil that expands when wet and shrinks when dry. This constant shifting can put pressure on underground water or sewer lines, sometimes causing misalignments or cracks over time. If you ever notice unexplained damp spots in your yard or a sudden spike in your water bill, it might be a sign that shifting soil has damaged an underground pipe.
Hard Water: Edmond’s water supply, like much of Oklahoma, tends to have hard water — meaning it contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. While it’s safe to use, hard water can leave behind mineral deposits in your plumbing. Over time, you may notice white or chalky buildup on faucets and showerheads, reduced water flow from scale inside pipes, and sediment buildup in water heaters. Hard water can even shorten the lifespan of appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. It’s a quiet plumbing issue that many local homeowners don’t realize is affecting them.
Mix of Old and New Homes: Edmond has a blend of historic homes and modern constructions. In older neighborhoods near the center of town — like around the UCO campus or original downtown — homes may still have galvanized steel or cast iron pipes, which can corrode or rust over time, leading to leaks or discolored water. Newer subdivisions, such as those in north Edmond like Oak Tree or developments toward Arcadia, typically use PVC drain lines and PEX or copper water lines, which resist corrosion better. Still, all homes — old or new — require maintenance. Older pipes may be prone to leaks, and even newer plumbing, while durable, still needs care since PEX is freeze-resistant but not freeze-proof.
Tip 1: Protect Your Pipes During Edmond’s Freezing Winters
When winter hits Edmond, freezing pipes are one of the biggest concerns for homeowners. If water in your pipes freezes, it expands and can cause pipes to crack or even burst — leading to expensive water damage. The good news is you can prevent frozen pipes with some simple precautions:
Insulate Exposed Pipes: Identify any water lines that run through unheated or drafty areas (attics, garages, crawl spaces, outdoor walls). Wrap these pipes with foam pipe insulation or sleeves. Don’t forget the little lines like those under sinks on an exterior wall. A bit of insulation goes a long way in keeping your water flowing when temperatures drop. The City of Edmond specifically advises insulating pipes in crawl spaces and attics and even using heat tape on outdoor exposed lines.
Disconnect Hoses & Protect Outdoor Faucets: Before the first hard freeze, disconnect garden hoses from outdoor spigots. Drain the hose and store it. Turn off any dedicated shutoff valve for exterior faucets (many Edmond homes have a shutoff inside for outside taps) and then open the outside faucet to let any remaining water drain out. Finally, install an inexpensive foam faucet cover over each outdoor spigot. This keeps cold air from seeping into the faucet and pipe. A frozen garden hose or spigot can transmit ice into your plumbing, so this step is crucial.
Seal Drafts and Close Gaps: Cold wind whistling through cracks can freeze pipes near walls. Check around areas where pipes enter your home (like cable holes, dryer vents, etc.) and seal any gaps or cracks with caulk or spray foam. Even a small opening can let in a lot of cold air. Also, keep your garage doors closed if there are water supply lines or a water heater in the garage — you’d be surprised how many burst pipe calls happen because an open garage allowed the laundry room pipes to freeze.
Keep Your Home Warm (Even in Cold Snaps): It’s tempting to lower the thermostat to save on heating bills, but don’t set it too low in freezing weather. Keep your thermostat at 55°F or higher even if you’re away. Consistent warmth throughout the house helps all those hidden pipes inside walls and cabinets stay above freezing. Also open up cabinet doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks on very cold nights. This lets the warm room air circulate around the pipes. If you have any rooms that stay colder (perhaps an addition or a bonus room above a garage), consider using a fan or space heater safely to keep air temps up.
Let Faucets Drip (When It’s Extremely Cold): On the coldest nights, especially if we get an ice storm or teens °F, let a couple of faucets trickle water overnight. You don’t need much — even a slow drip can relieve pressure in the line. Running water is less likely to freeze, and an open tap gives any ice somewhere to expand without bursting the pipe. Yes, it wastes a bit of water, but it’s cheaper than a huge repair bill. Target faucets on exterior walls or furthest from where water enters your house. (Pro tip: Collect the dripping water in a jug or bucket to use for plants, etc., so it’s not totally wasted.)
What if a pipe still freezes?
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, Mother Nature wins. If you turn on a tap in the morning and nothing (or only a trickle) comes out, you may have a frozen pipe. First, find and shut off your main water valve immediately — before the ice thaws — in case the pipe cracked and begins leaking. Your main shutoff is usually located near your water meter or where the water line enters your house. Turning it off will protect your home from flooding once the blockage melts.
Next, try to safely thaw the pipe: open the faucet it feeds, and gently warm the frozen section of pipe. You can use a hair dryer on low, a heat lamp, or wrap the pipe in warm towels. Never use an open flame (like a torch) — that’s a fire hazard and can damage the pipe. Start from the faucet side and work back toward the frozen area so melting water can drip out. If you aren’t able to locate or access the frozen spot, or if you discover a leak, call a professional plumber. A&T Mechanical handles plenty of burst pipes each winter — we can help fix the pipe and get your water back on. The key is to act fast and limit the damage.
By taking these winter precautions, you’ll significantly reduce your risk of frozen pipes. Edmond winters can be unpredictable, but a little preparation will keep your home safe and dry even when it freezes outside.
Tip 2: Spot the Signs of Hidden Leaks Early
Not all plumbing problems are as obvious as a burst pipe. Some leaks start small and hidden — inside walls, under floors, or underground — and can persist for weeks or months before you notice. Hidden leaks waste water (raising your bills) and can cause mold, rot, or structural damage over time. It’s important to be vigilant and catch leaks early. Here are some tell-tale signs of a hidden leak in your home:
Unexplained High Water Bills: Keep an eye on your monthly water bill. If you notice a sudden spike in usage (and you haven’t filled a pool or irrigated a new lawn recently), it’s a red flag. An unexpectedly high water bill is often one of the first signs of a hidden leak in your plumbing. Basically, if you’re paying for water you didn’t know you used, that water might be leaking out somewhere unseen.
Musty or Moldy Odors: A persistent musty smell in a certain room or area of the house can mean water is accumulating out of sight. Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments. If you sniff out a mildew scent or even spot mold growing on walls or baseboards, it could indicate a hidden pipe leak soaking that area. Don’t just cover up odors with air freshener — investigate the source.
Stains, Spots, or Wall/Ceiling Damage: Keep an eye on your walls and ceilings, especially in corners or near bathrooms. Brownish water stains, bubbling or peeling paint, or sagging drywall are classic indicators of a leak behind the scenes. Likewise, warped or buckling hardwood floors or laminate can signal water coming up from below. If a particular area of wall or ceiling stays wet or discolored even after drying it, there’s likely a plumbing line leaking in there.
Damp Patches in Yard or Basement: If you have an underground leak (such as in the main water line to your house or in a buried pipe), you might notice unusual wet spots in the yard. For instance, a patch of grass that’s always soggy even when it hasn’t rained, or ground that is mossy or sunken in one area. Our shifting clay soil can make pipes crack and leak underground, so a mysterious damp plot of lawn could mean a water line issue. Similarly, if you have a basement or crawl space, check occasionally for puddles or signs of moisture on the floor or along foundation walls.
Reduced Water Pressure or Air in Lines: A moderate leak might not drop your water pressure dramatically, but if you notice one fixture’s pressure has dwindled over time, it could be a supply line leak feeding that area. Also, if you turn on a faucet and it sputters (air coming out) now and then, and no one was working on the plumbing, air could be entering the lines through a leak. It’s subtle, but worth paying attention to.
Tip 3: Combat Hard Water and Mineral Buildup
If you’ve lived in Edmond for a while, you might have noticed some white, chalky buildup on your faucets or shower glass, or even experienced your water heater element burning out faster than expected. That’s the effect of our hard water. As noted earlier, Edmond’s water often contains high mineral content. Those minerals (mainly calcium and magnesium) precipitate out as scale over time. Here’s how to mitigate hard water issues in your plumbing:
Consider a Water Softener: A water softener system treats your incoming water and removes a lot of those hardness minerals (through an ion exchange process). This can be a bit of an investment, but it pays off by protecting your entire plumbing system. Softened water reduces scale buildup in pipes and appliances, meaning your water heater, dishwasher, and washing machine will likely last longer and run more efficiently. You’ll also notice your soap lathers better and less soap scum in sinks and tubs. Many Edmond homeowners install softeners for these benefits. If a whole-house softener isn’t in the cards, even a smaller point-of-use filter (like on your showerhead or sink) can help with scale at that fixture.
Routine Descaling and Cleaning: There are simple home remedies to manage mineral buildup. For fixtures like faucet aerators and showerheads that get clogged with white deposits, remove them periodically and soak in vinegar overnight. Vinegar (acetic acid) dissolves mineral scale. You can also run a vinegar solution through coffee makers or humidifiers to descale them. For your water heater, manufacturers recommend flushing it about once a year to remove sediment. Sediment is hardened minerals that settle at the bottom of your tank, which can cause popping noises and reduce heating efficiency. In fact, the City of Edmond’s utilities department suggests draining a quart of water from your tank every 3 months as a maintenance step to flush out sediment that impedes heat transfer. You may not manage it that often, but doing a full drain-and-flush annually is a great idea. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, have a professional do a water heater tune-up. This can significantly extend the heater’s lifespan.
Protect Your Fixtures: Hard water doesn’t just affect hidden pipes — it’s visible on our sinks, tubs, and tile. To keep faucets and fixtures shiny, use a gentle cleaner that’s made for removing mineral deposits. Avoid harsh chemicals that could corrode finishes; often a 50/50 water-vinegar solution does the trick for routine cleaning. Also, be mindful of any appliance that boils water (kettles, tankless water heaters, etc.) — they are prone to scaling. Regular maintenance or cleaning of those is important in our area.
By addressing hard water, you’ll prevent many slow-brewing plumbing problems. Your pipes will have better flow, your water heater won’t have to work as hard, and you’ll see fewer of those crusty white stains. Plus, you’ll enjoy softer water for bathing and cleaning. If you’re unsure about what solution is best, A&T Mechanical can test your water hardness and recommend options. The main thing is to stay ahead of the mineral buildup before it becomes a bigger issue.
Tip 4: Keep Drains Clear and Free of Clogs
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing hiccups, and they’re not fun to deal with. The good news is a little prevention goes a long way. In Edmond (where we have a mix of older cast iron sewer lines in some areas and PVC in newer ones), clogs typically happen from what we put down the drain rather than the pipes themselves. Here’s how to keep things flowing:
Be Careful What You Put Down the Kitchen Sink: Grease is the enemy of your kitchen drain. After cooking bacon or frying foods, it’s easy to want to wash the grease away with hot water, but as soon as that grease cools in your pipes, it solidifies into a nasty clog. Oils and fats are not water-soluble; they will harden and coat the inside of your drain lines. Over time, this builds up and catches other food particles until your sink is slow or blocked. Instead, pour cooled fats/oils into a container (or let them harden in a tin foil lined bowl) and throw it in the trash. Use a paper towel to wipe greasy pans before washing. Likewise, foods like coffee grounds, eggshells, rice, and pasta should not go down the sink — they can lump together or swell and stop up the pipes. If you have a garbage disposal, feed waste slowly and with plenty of water running. When in doubt, toss it out (in the trash) rather than in your drain.
Use Drain Strainers: Hair is the top culprit for bathroom drain clogs. Invest in a couple of inexpensive mesh drain strainers for your bathtub and shower. These catch hair and prevent it from going down the drain. Clean them out regularly (a somewhat gross but necessary chore). This simple habit can save you from that dreaded ankle-deep water situation in the shower. In bathroom sinks, try to keep dental floss, cotton swabs, and hair clippings out of drains — they seem small but can snag and accumulate. A strainer or even a bent piece of wire (to fish out hair clumps periodically) works wonders.
Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners: When faced with a slow drain, many people reach for over-the-counter liquid drain cleaners. Use caution here. Occasional use for minor clogs might be okay, but frequent use can actually damage old pipes (and even newer PVC can be warped by harsh chemicals). These products often contain lye or acid which can eat away at pipes and they usually only clear a portion of the clog (the rest can get pushed deeper). It’s better to use a plunger or a hand-crank drain snake (called a drain auger) for stubborn clogs. If you can’t clear it with those tools, it might be time to call a plumber rather than repeatedly dumping chemicals. Tip: A mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water can sometimes clear and deodorize minor clogs naturally.
Keep Your Sewer Line in Mind: All your home’s drains ultimately lead to the main sewer line. Especially if you live in an older Edmond home with clay or cast iron sewer pipes, tree roots can be a threat. Big, beautiful trees in our yards have roots that seek water and can infiltrate tiny cracks in sewer lines. Over years, they can form massive root balls that block your sewer. If you notice multiple fixtures backing up at once (like flushing the toilet makes the shower gurgle, or all your drains are slow), it could be a sewer line clog. That’s beyond a DIY fix — you’ll need professional help to clear roots or obstructions. Installing a root barrier or having periodic sewer line clean-outs can prevent a major backup. Also, avoid planting trees directly above or near your sewer lateral if you can help it. Sewer backups are not just inconvenient; they’re hazardous to your health (due to sewage exposure), so preventive care is key.
By being mindful of what goes down drains and performing a little routine upkeep, you can avoid most common clogs. However, if you do get a stubborn blockage that you can’t clear with a plunger or small snake, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. A professional can clear the clog without harming your pipes and also check if there’s a bigger issue. Remember: a drain that clogs repeatedly, despite your best efforts, may indicate a deeper problem (like a tree root or collapsed pipe). It’s better to address that sooner than later.
Tip 5: Know When to DIY and When to Call an Edmond Plumber
We’re all for homeowners gaining DIY confidence — there are plenty of minor plumbing fixes you can handle yourself. Changing a washer in a leaky faucet, unclogging a simple drain, or installing a new showerhead are tasks many can do with a little guidance. However, it’s equally important to know your limits. Certain situations call for a professional to prevent further damage or ensure safety. Here are some guidelines on when to call a plumber:
Emergencies and Major Leaks: If a pipe bursts or you have water suddenly gushing where it shouldn’t, turn off your main water valve and call a plumber immediately. Time is critical in a water damage situation. The sooner a professional can repair the pipe, the less harm to your home. Similarly, if you suspect a gas leak (for homes with gas water heaters or appliances) — get out and call the gas company or 911. Gas and water line emergencies are definitely pro-level jobs.
Persistent Clogs or Slow Drains: A one-time clog is fine to tackle with a plunger. But if you have a drain that clogs repeatedly or multiple drains slow at the same time, you could have a serious blockage deeper in your plumbing. For example, a sewer line clog won’t yield to that plunger. The Better Business Bureau notes that if you’ve tried the usual fixes and water still isn’t draining, it’s time to bring in a plumber. Professional plumbers have motorized augers and camera inspection tools to clear tough clogs and see what’s going on. This can save you a lot of time and frustration compared to pouring chemicals or snaking for hours with no success.
Hidden Leaks or Water Damage: As we discussed earlier, if you find signs of a hidden leak (high bills, mold, wall stains, etc.), calling a plumber for leak detection is wise. Chasing a leak behind drywall isn’t a fun DIY — you could end up cutting multiple holes. Pros have specialized equipment to find leaks with minimal invasion. Also, something like a slab leak (a leak in the pipes under your concrete foundation) is definitely not DIY — it requires expertise to fix with the least disruption.
Plumbing Upgrades or Installations: Planning to replace your water heater? Installing a new toilet or a whole-house water filter? These are situations where a licensed plumber can ensure the job is done correctly and up to code. For instance, water heaters in Edmond must be installed with proper pressure relief valves, drain pans, seismic strapping, etc., and if it’s gas, the gas line hookup must be perfect. A&T Mechanical has licensed plumbers who do this every day, so you get peace of mind and avoid potential costly mistakes. Plus, if you install something yourself and it leaks or fails, it could void warranties or cause insurance issues. It’s often worth having a pro handle big-ticket installations.
Anything Involving the Main Lines: This includes your main sewer line, main water supply line, or any work out by the street. The City of Edmond is responsible for water up to your meter, but beyond that, it’s on the homeowner. Repairing a broken main line or replacing a sewer line section is a large job requiring excavation and permits. Always call a plumber (and usually, the city for utility locates) for these scenarios. And remember, Oklahoma law requires you to call 811 (Call OKIE) before digging to avoid hitting utility lines — another reason to have professionals handle it.
In short, use your best judgment. If a plumbing task ever feels over your head, or if a quick fix isn’t fixing it, bring in a trusted plumber. There’s no shame in asking for help — that’s what we’re here for! It’s better (and often cheaper in the long run) to get a proper repair than to inadvertently make a problem worse with a DIY attempt. As a rule of thumb, prioritize safety and preventing water damage. If those factors are in play, make the call.
“Don’t hesitate to call, even if you just need advice.”
We’re part of this community, and our goal is to help you keep your home safe and comfortable.”
Conclusion: Your Trusted Edmond Plumbing Partner
Maintaining a home in Edmond comes with its plumbing challenges, but with these tips, you can stay ahead of many common problems. Being proactive — from winterizing your pipes to checking for leaks and practicing smart plumbing habits — will save you stress and money over time. Remember, a little prevention (like insulating pipes or flushing your water heater) can prevent big headaches down the road.
That said, you don’t have to handle everything alone. A&T Mechanical is proud to be a locally owned company right here in Edmond, and we’re always ready to lend a hand. We live and work in this community, so we understand the unique plumbing issues Oklahoma homes face. If you have questions or run into a plumbing problem — big or small — feel free to give us a call. We’re happy to offer advice or come out and take a look.
For professional help or even just peace of mind, you can reach out to A&T Mechanical anytime. Our experienced, friendly plumbers will treat you like a neighbor — because you are one! Whether it’s an emergency burst pipe on a freezing night, a pesky leak you can’t pin down, or just a routine inspection to make sure everything is in order, we’ve got your back. Contact A&T Mechanical (Edmond’s trusted plumbing and HVAC team) by calling (405) 810-8891 or visiting our website to schedule service.
Thank you for reading our Edmond plumbing tips — we hope you found them helpful. Taking good care of your home’s plumbing means more comfort, lower bills, and fewer unwelcome surprises. Here’s to happy homes and trouble-free pipes! And remember, we at A&T Mechanical are here to help keep your plumbing running smoothly, season after season, so you can focus on enjoying all the great things about living in Edmond. Stay safe and water-wise, neighbors!