If you're a homeowner, you know that plumbing maintenance is important to prevent costly repairs down the road. But what exactly should you be doing to keep your plumbing in tip-top shape? Without the need to call a professional plumber Newcastle, here are 15 preventative plumbing maintenance tips that every homeowner should know:

1. Check for leaks regularly. A small drip can waste a lot of water over time, so it's important to catch leaks early. Check all of your faucets, fixtures and pipes for any signs of leaks and have them repaired as soon as possible.

2. Don't pour grease or oil down the drain. Grease and oil can clog your drains and cause major plumbing problems. Instead, dispose of grease and oil in a sealed container.

3. Don't flush anything other than toilet paper down the toilet. Flushing things like diapers, feminine hygiene products, paper towels and wet wipes can clog your toilet and cause major plumbing problems.

4. Keep an eye on your water bill. A sudden increase in your water bill could be a sign of a leak. If you see a spike in your water usage, check for leaks and have them repaired as soon as possible.

5. Know where your main water shut-off valve is located. In the event of a plumbing emergency, you'll need to know how to turn off the water in your home. Locate your main water shut-off valve and make sure everyone in your household knows where it is.

6. Inspect your plumbing fixtures and pipes regularly. Look for any signs of wear and tear, leaks or blockages. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, have a professional take a look.

7. Don't overload your garbage disposal. Your garbage disposal is not a trash can. Only put small amounts of food waste down the disposal at a time and run plenty of water while it's running.

8. Get your drains cleaned regularly. Over time, hair, soap scum and other debris can build up in your drains and cause clogs. To prevent this, have your drains cleaned by a professional every few months.

9. Replace your shower head every few years. Shower heads can become clogged with mineral deposits, which can reduce water pressure. To keep your shower feeling like new, replace your shower head every few years.

10. Install low-flow fixtures in your home. Low-flow fixtures can save you a significant amount of water over time. To save water and money, install low-flow fixtures in your homes, such as toilets, showerheads and faucet aerators.

11. Don't use chemical drain cleaners. Chemical drain cleaners are harsh on your pipes and can do more harm than good. If you have a clog, try using a plunger or a plumber's snake before reaching for the chemicals.

12. Inspect your septic system regularly. If you have a septic system, have it inspected by a professional every few years to make sure it's functioning properly.

13. Be careful what you flush down the toilet. Only flush human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Flushing anything else, such as cigarette butts or food scraps, can clog your pipes and lead to plumbing problems.

14. Don't dig around your septic tank. Septic tanks are delicate systems that need to be left alone. If you're having problems with your septic system, call a professional for help instead of trying to fix it yourself.

15. Know when to call a professional. Plumbing problems can often be fixed with a little DIY know-how. But if you're unsure of what to do or the problem seems like it's beyond your skills, don't hesitate to call a professional.

Following these preventative maintenance tips can help you avoid major plumbing problems in your home. But if you do run into a plumbing issue, be sure to call a professional for help.