Modern comfort starts behind the walls: plan your plumbing before the tile, cabinets, and fixtures go in.
A kitchen or bathroom remodel in Meridian can feel “cosmetic” until plumbing decisions show up on the schedule: fixture placement, drain slope, venting, shutoff access, water heater capacity, and water quality all matter. Cloverdale Plumbing has served the Treasure Valley since 1953, and we’ve seen the same pattern again and again—remodels go best when plumbing is scoped early, inspected properly, and built for long-term serviceability (not just opening-day photos).
Why plumbing planning matters in a remodel
Plumbing is one of the few remodel trades that becomes very expensive to change after finishes are installed. Moving a toilet flange 2 inches, adding a shower valve where framing is tight, or discovering undersized drains mid-project can create delays, added costs, and repeated drywall/patch work. A clear plumbing plan helps you:
• Avoid rework by confirming rough-in locations before flooring and tile
• Improve performance (drain flow, hot-water delivery time, stable water pressure)
• Keep access to shutoffs, cleanouts, and service points for future repairs
• Stay aligned with local permitting/inspection requirements where applicable
Common remodel triggers that warrant a plumber’s input
If any of these are on your wish list, you’ll want plumbing involved early (design phase, not demolition day):
• Converting a tub to a shower (or adding a second shower head)
• Adding a pot filler, bar sink, or relocating a kitchen sink
• Swapping to a wall-hung toilet, bidet seat, or different rough-in size
• Moving laundry, adding a utility sink, or installing an ice-maker/water line
• Replacing older galvanized/copper sections or updating aging shutoff valves
The Remodel Plumbing Checklist (Meridian Homeowners)
Use this as a practical pre-start checklist. If you can answer these clearly, your remodel is much more likely to stay on schedule.
1) Confirm fixture locations and rough-ins (with real dimensions)
Before any pipe is moved, lock in a drawing that shows centerlines and finished-wall measurements for:
• Toilet rough-in (distance from finished wall)
• Vanity drain height, faucet type, and supply locations
• Shower valve height, head(s) placement, and niche conflicts
• Kitchen sink base cabinet size and disposer/dishwasher needs
2) Don’t ignore venting and drain performance
Many remodel problems aren’t “leaks”—they’re slow drains, gurgling traps, sewer odor, or recurring clogs caused by venting and drain layout changes. If you’re moving fixtures, you’re changing how waste and air move through the system. A plumber can verify drain slope, trap placement, and whether your venting approach is appropriate before walls close.
3) Plan shutoffs and access like you’ll live there for 10+ years
Remodels are a perfect time to add or replace local shutoff valves so you can isolate a sink, toilet, or shower without turning off the whole house. Also plan access panels where needed (tubs, specialty valves, or serviceable connections). It’s a small cost now that can save big later.
4) Check water heater capacity and hot-water wait time
If your remodel adds a larger tub, multiple shower heads, or an extra bathroom, your current water heater may be undersized—or simply near the end of its service life. This is also the best time to discuss hot-water delivery (reducing the “wait” for hot water) with options like system layout improvements or recirculation solutions when appropriate.
5) Think about water quality before you install “nice” fixtures
Hard water can shorten the life of water heaters, clog aerators, and leave scale on shower glass and fixtures. If you’re investing in a remodel, it’s a smart moment to consider filtration, softening, or under-sink options—especially if you’ve noticed spotting, buildup, or inconsistent taste/odor.
Quick “Did you know?” facts for smarter fixture choices
WaterSense labeled tank-type toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush (or less), while the federal baseline for many standard toilets is 1.6 gpf. That difference adds up over time in a busy household.
WaterSense showerheads are designed to meet performance criteria while keeping rated flow at or below 2.0 gallons per minute (per EPA specification).
A remodel is one of the best times to upgrade shutoff valves and add cleanouts—because access is wide open and costs are lower than retrofitting later.
Remodel plumbing vs. quick swap: what changes the scope?
| Project Type | Typical Plumbing Impact |
|---|---|
| Fixture replacement (same location) | Often straightforward, but still a good time to update shutoffs, supply lines, and verify drain condition. |
| Relocating fixtures | Changes drain routing, venting, and water lines. Planning and rough-in accuracy become critical. |
| Layout changes + added fixtures | May require capacity checks (water heater, supply sizing) and a closer look at main drains and long-term maintenance access. |
| Older home repipe during remodel | Best moment to replace aging sections and reduce future leak risk—especially if walls are already open. |
If you’re already opening walls, it’s worth having a plumber evaluate supply and drain condition—small preventive updates during a remodel can prevent emergency repairs later.
Step-by-step: How a well-run plumbing remodel typically flows
Step 1: Scope the goals and pain points
Identify what you’re changing (layout, number of fixtures, tub-to-shower conversion, water heater changes, water treatment). The clearer the scope, the more accurate the schedule and pricing.
Step 2: Rough-in plan and coordination
Plumbing rough-in should coordinate with framing, electrical, HVAC, and cabinetry. A common remodel setback is a beautiful cabinet plan that leaves no room for a trap arm, vent route, or valve access.
Step 3: Drain and water line work (before finishes)
This is when the “behind-the-wall” decisions happen: pipe routing, venting, valve placement, and future service access. Done right, you won’t think about it again—because it just works.
Step 4: Finish installation and testing
Fixtures are installed, connections are tested, and details are confirmed: hot/cold orientation, trim alignment, leak checks, drain performance, and proper operation under real flow conditions.
Meridian & Treasure Valley angle: what local homeowners often run into
In Meridian-area remodels, two themes show up frequently:
• Busy household demand: Multiple morning showers, dishwashers, laundry, and kids’ routines can expose borderline water heater capacity or slow hot-water delivery.
• Drain reliability: Kitchen and main-line issues often become obvious when you remodel and start using new fixtures heavily. If you’ve had repeat clogs or slow drains, it may be time for professional drain cleaning or hot water jetting before (or during) your remodel schedule.
Ready to plan your remodel plumbing the right way?
If you’re remodeling in Meridian and want a dependable plan—rough-in accuracy, clean workmanship, and clear communication—Cloverdale Plumbing can help. We handle remodel and new construction plumbing, fixture installation, pipe repairs, drain solutions, water heaters, and water treatment throughout the Treasure Valley.
FAQ: Plumbing Remodels in Meridian, Idaho
Do I need a permit for a bathroom or kitchen plumbing remodel in Meridian?
It depends on what’s being changed. Simple like-for-like fixture replacements may not require the same steps as relocating drains, changing venting, or adding new plumbing lines. A local plumber can help you determine what’s needed for your specific scope and coordinate work so it’s inspection-ready when required.
Can I move a toilet, shower, or sink anywhere I want?
Not always. Drain slope, venting routes, and structural framing can limit placement—especially in slab or tight floor systems. Many “simple” layout changes are possible, but they need planning so you don’t create slow drains, siphoned traps, or access problems.
What’s the most common plumbing mistake in a remodel?
Finalizing finishes before confirming rough-in dimensions and valve locations. For example: tile goes up, then the shower trim doesn’t fit cleanly or the valve ends up too deep/shallow. A clear rough-in plan prevents those costly delays.
Should I replace old pipes if the walls are open?
If piping is aging, corroded, or has a history of leaks, open-wall access can be the most cost-effective time to repair or replace sections. A plumber can evaluate what’s worth updating now versus what can reasonably stay.
How can I reduce the chance of clogs after my remodel?
Choose quality fixtures, confirm proper drain sizing/venting during rough-in, and consider proactive drain cleaning if you’ve had recurring issues. For homes with grease buildup, root intrusion, or scale, hot water jetting can restore pipe capacity more thoroughly than a simple snaking in the right scenarios.
Glossary (Remodel Plumbing Terms)
Rough-in
The phase when supply and drain/vent piping is installed in walls/floors before finishes (tile, drywall, cabinets).
Trap
The curved section of drain pipe under sinks and other fixtures that holds water to block sewer gases.
Vent (plumbing venting)
Piping that allows air into the drain system so water flows correctly and traps don’t siphon dry.
Cleanout
An access point on a drain line that allows service equipment to clear blockages or inspect the line without removing fixtures.
Hot water jetting
A professional drain-cleaning method that uses high-pressure hot water to remove grease, sludge, scale, and other buildup inside pipes.
Helpful next steps: If your remodel includes new fixtures, drain changes, or a tub-to-shower conversion, schedule plumbing early so your design is buildable, serviceable, and ready for finish work.
Plumbing Remodels in Caldwell, Idaho: A Homeowner’s Guide to Stress-Free Bathroom & Kitchen Upgrades
April 17, 2026Plan your remodel around the plumbing—not around surprises
A beautiful remodel should feel exciting, not risky. In Caldwell and across the Treasure Valley, many kitchen and bathroom upgrades run into the same obstacles: aging shutoff valves, undersized drains, hidden leaks, “mystery” venting, and water heaters that struggle to keep up with new fixtures. This guide breaks down what to think about before you pick tile and faucets, how to keep your project on schedule, and when it’s smart to bring in a licensed plumber—so your finished space looks great and works reliably for years.
Cloverdale Plumbing has served the Treasure Valley since 1953, helping homeowners and businesses plan remodel plumbing the right way—from fixture swaps to full reroutes, water heater upgrades, drain cleaning, and water treatment solutions.
What counts as a “plumbing remodel” (and why it matters)
A plumbing remodel can be as simple as replacing a toilet and vanity, or as complex as relocating a shower, adding a kitchen island sink, or converting a tub to a walk-in shower. The more you move fixtures and walls, the more your project depends on correct drain slope, venting, supply sizing, and access for future service.
Remodels usually fall into three buckets
1) “Swap-in” updates: New faucet, new toilet, new shower trim, new garbage disposal—same locations, minimal piping changes.
2) “Reconfigure” updates: Moving a vanity, adding a second sink, changing shower size/layout, adding a pot filler, adding a utility sink.
3) “System” upgrades: Replacing old supply/drain lines, correcting venting, adding water softening/filtration, upgrading the water heater for better recovery and capacity.
Permits and inspections in Caldwell: what homeowners should know
Permitting is the part no one wants to talk about—until resale, insurance, or a surprise inspection comes up. The City of Caldwell provides building and trade permit information and plumbing permit resources through its Building Safety/Building & Trade Permits pages, including a plumbing permit form. If you’re remodeling, it’s smart to confirm what applies to your exact scope (fixture swap vs. relocation, adding a new line, water heater work, and so on).
A practical way to think about permits
If your remodel changes how the plumbing system functions (new fixture locations, new drains, new venting, water heater replacement, or new water/sanitary lines), assume permits and inspections may be required and verify early. It’s much easier to schedule inspections during rough-in than to open finished drywall later.
Idaho also regulates plumbing licensing and permits at the state level, and the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) notes that homeowners may purchase permits in certain situations for work on their primary/secondary residence (rules vary by locality and scope). When in doubt, ask your plumber and the local building department before work begins.
Did you know? Quick facts that can save a remodel
Old shutoff valves fail at the worst time.
A “simple” faucet install can turn into a water emergency if the angle stop won’t close or breaks when touched. Replacing valves proactively is a low-cost move that protects new cabinets and flooring.
Hard water can shorten water heater life.
Mineral scale buildup can reduce efficiency, increase noise, and accelerate wear. Many Treasure Valley homeowners pair remodels with water treatment or scheduled maintenance to help protect new plumbing and appliances.
A “pretty” fixture can still perform poorly if the piping is wrong.
Slow tub fills, weak shower pressure, gurgling drains, or sewer odors usually trace back to supply sizing, venting, or drain configuration—not the fixture brand.
Common remodel choices (and what they mean for your plumbing)
| Upgrade | Plumbing impact | Best time to address it |
|---|---|---|
| Tub-to-shower conversion | May require drain relocation, new valve height, updated venting, and proper waterproofing coordination | Before framing and backer board |
| Double vanity | Additional supply branches and drain sizing/vent review to prevent slow drains | Rough-in stage |
| Kitchen sink relocation / island sink | New drain routing under slab/crawlspace, vent strategy, and cleanout access | Before cabinet order is finalized |
| New shower system (multiple heads/hand shower) | May need larger supply lines, pressure balancing, and adequate water heater capacity | During fixture selection |
| Water heater upgrade | Sizing, venting (if gas), safety components, and code-compliant installation details | Before drywall close-up (if moving lines) |
Step-by-step: how to plan plumbing for a Caldwell remodel
1) Start with function: what do you want the room to do better?
Faster hot water at the shower? Better pressure? More storage? A quieter drain? Write down the problems you’re solving. This prevents “design-first” choices that create expensive plumbing work later.
2) Confirm what can stay where it is (and what can’t)
Keeping a toilet or sink in the same location usually reduces cost and timeline risk. Moving fixtures can still be a great choice—just plan for drain routing, venting, and access panels where needed.
3) Decide early on water heater and water quality upgrades
If you’re adding a larger tub, multiple shower outlets, or a second bathroom sink, your hot water demand may increase. This is also the best time to consider a water softening or filtration system to help protect new fixtures and reduce scale-related maintenance.
4) Plan for service access (future-you will thank you)
Remodels sometimes “bury” important components behind tile or cabinetry. Good planning keeps shutoff valves accessible, provides cleanouts where appropriate, and avoids placing critical connections where they can’t be reached without demolition.
5) Schedule drain cleaning or hot water jetting before the big finish work
If your home has slow drains or recurring clogs, address it before new finishes go in. For some situations, professional drain cleaning or hot water jetting can restore proper flow and reduce the risk of a backup during (or right after) your remodel.
Helpful local services from Cloverdale Plumbing:
Local angle: remodel plumbing in Caldwell’s mix of older and newer homes
Caldwell neighborhoods span decades of construction styles. That matters because plumbing materials and layout practices changed over time. Older homes may have shutoff valves that don’t fully close, drain lines with buildup, or venting that doesn’t match modern expectations. Newer homes may be more standardized but still run into issues like hard-water scale, garbage disposal jams, or mainline clogs after landscaping/root growth.
Two remodel moves that pay off in the Treasure Valley
• Add (or replace) accessible shutoffs: Especially for vanities, toilets, and the kitchen sink. It’s a small detail that prevents big damage.
• Think about water quality: If scale buildup is a recurring issue, a properly selected water softening/treatment setup can help protect water heaters, fixtures, and appliances long after the remodel dust settles.
Ready to remodel with fewer surprises?
Whether you’re updating a bathroom in Caldwell or planning a full kitchen refresh, getting the plumbing plan right early helps protect your budget, timeline, and finished materials. If you need a second opinion, a rough-in plan, fixture install support, or help with drains/water heaters/water treatment, Cloverdale Plumbing is here to help.
FAQ: Plumbing remodels in Caldwell
Do I need a plumbing permit for a bathroom or kitchen remodel in Caldwell?
It depends on scope. If you’re relocating fixtures, adding new plumbing, changing drain/vent piping, or replacing major equipment, permits and inspections are commonly required. The City of Caldwell provides plumbing permit resources through its Building Safety/permit pages. When the scope is unclear, confirm with the Building Safety Division before work starts.
Can I keep my fixtures in the same place to reduce costs?
Usually, yes. Keeping drains and vents where they are often reduces labor and avoids structural changes. Even with “same-location” upgrades, it’s still smart to replace failing shutoffs and verify the drain is flowing properly before closing up walls.
Why does my shower remodel sometimes require bigger water lines?
Multi-function showers (rain heads, hand showers, body sprays) can increase flow demand. If the supply line is undersized, you may see weak pressure or inconsistent temperature. A plumber can help match your fixture choices to your home’s supply capacity.
Is drain cleaning worth doing before a remodel?
If you’ve had slow drains, backups, or frequent clogs, yes. Clearing buildup before new cabinets, flooring, and tile go in can reduce the risk of a messy (and expensive) problem shortly after the remodel is done.
Should I think about water softening during a remodel?
Many homeowners do. Water treatment upgrades are easier when walls are open and you’re already improving the home. It can also help reduce mineral scale on fixtures and support better performance from water heaters and appliances over time.
Glossary (remodel plumbing terms, explained)
Angle stop (shutoff valve): The small valve under a sink or behind a toilet that shuts water off to that fixture.
Rough-in: The phase when supply/drain/vent piping is installed before finishes (drywall, tile, cabinets).
Venting (plumbing vent): Piping that balances air pressure in the drain system to help fixtures drain properly and to reduce sewer odors.
Cleanout: An access point on a drain line used for clearing clogs and inspecting the line.
Hot water jetting (hydro jetting): High-pressure hot water used to remove grease, scale, and buildup from drain/sewer pipes—often used for stubborn or recurring clogs.
Plumbing Remodels in Nampa, ID: A Homeowner’s Guide to Avoiding Leaks, Slow Drains, and Surprise Rework
March 24, 2026Plan the pretty part—and the parts you’ll never see
A kitchen or bathroom remodel is usually about finishes: tile, cabinets, fixtures, lighting. But in the Treasure Valley, the plumbing behind the walls and under the floor often decides whether a remodel stays stress-free—or turns into a string of call-backs for leaks, odors, and stubborn clogs. This guide walks Nampa homeowners through the plumbing decisions that protect your investment, keep inspection surprises to a minimum, and help your new space work as good as it looks.
What “plumbing remodel” really includes (and why it matters)
Plumbing remodel work is more than swapping a faucet. It can include moving supply lines, resizing drains and vents, replacing aging shutoff valves, upgrading water heater capacity, and confirming your sewer line can handle new layouts. Done right, it prevents the common “finished remodel, constant problems” scenario—especially when older piping, mineral buildup, or previous DIY work is involved.
Key remodel checkpoints: water, drains, and venting
1) Supply lines: pressure, shutoffs, and future access
Remodels are a perfect time to add or replace quarter-turn shutoff valves, eliminate mystery “no shutoff” situations, and improve access for future servicing. If you’re redoing vanities, laundry rooms, or kitchens, ask where shutoffs will live after the cabinets go in. A hidden shutoff you can’t reach isn’t much help during a leak.
2) Drain lines: slope, diameter, and avoiding chronic slow drains
Many “new fixture, slow drain” complaints come down to drain slope, undersized piping, or a venting issue—not the fixture itself. During a remodel, your plumber can verify proper fall, correct pipe sizing for the number of fixtures, and whether older sections are partially restricted by buildup.
3) Venting: the invisible system that prevents gurgling and sewer odors
When vents are missing, blocked, or incorrectly tied in, you may notice gurgling, trap siphoning, or occasional sewer smell—sometimes weeks after the remodel is “done.” If you’re changing the layout (moving a sink, shower, or toilet), venting should be verified as carefully as drain routing.
Step-by-step: how to remodel without plumbing regrets
Step 1: Decide what’s staying put—and what must move
Keeping fixtures in the same general locations usually reduces cost and risk. Moving a toilet, shower, or kitchen sink can require rerouting drains and venting (and sometimes opening more floor/wall area). If you want a new layout, get the plumbing plan evaluated before you order cabinets or finalize tile.
Step 2: Inspect what you can’t see (before walls close)
A remodel is the rare moment when plumbing is exposed. This is the best time to assess old shutoffs, questionable fittings, previous patchwork repairs, or drain sections that are due for replacement. If your home is older, a proactive pipe repair or replacement now can prevent a leak that ruins brand-new finishes later.
Step 3: Choose fixtures based on function, not just style
A sleek faucet or rainfall showerhead may have specific flow and pressure needs. Toilets vary in flush performance and rough-in requirements. A professional plumbing fixture installation helps ensure compatibility with your rough plumbing so you’re not stuck with returns, adapters, or weak performance.
Step 4: Prevent clogs before they start (especially kitchens)
If you’ve had recurring kitchen clogs, a remodel is a great time to address the “why,” not just the symptom. Grease buildup, old galvanized sections, and partially restricted lines can keep causing trouble even after a shiny new sink goes in. When needed, professional drain cleaning or hot water jetting can restore full pipe diameter and improve flow—without guessing.
Step 5: Coordinate inspections and permit requirements early
In Idaho, plumbing work commonly requires permitting and inspection through the appropriate authority, and homeowner permits have limitations (for example, they typically apply to work on a primary or secondary residence—not commercial buildings). Aligning your remodel timeline with required rough-in and final inspections prevents delays when you’re trying to close walls or set fixtures. (Your plumber can help you understand what applies to your project and location.) (dopl.idaho.gov)
Did you know?
Nampa’s water hardness is often lower than nearby cities—but minerals still matter.
Hardness varies across the Treasure Valley. Even moderate hardness can contribute to scale in water-using appliances over time, especially water heaters. (aquatell.com)
Annual water heater maintenance can reduce “sudden no-hot-water” moments.
Many pros recommend flushing tank-style water heaters regularly (often annually) and inspecting the anode rod periodically to help extend equipment life. (nearbyhunt.com)
Hydro jetting isn’t just “stronger snaking”—it cleans the pipe walls.
Hot water jetting (hydro jetting) can remove grease and buildup that a basic cable may punch through without fully clearing, making it useful for recurring kitchen or mainline issues.
Quick comparison: common remodel plumbing upgrades
| Upgrade | Best for | What it prevents | When to consider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quarter-turn shutoffs | Kitchens, vanities, laundry | Panic shutoff situations, slow drips turning into damage | Any time cabinets are being replaced |
| Drain line cleaning / jetting | Recurring clogs or slow drains | Call-backs after remodel, backups under heavy use | Before final fixture install (when access is easiest) |
| Selective repipe / pipe repair | Older homes or visible corrosion/previous patches | Leaks behind new tile/drywall | When walls/floors are already open |
| Water heater assessment | Added bathrooms, larger tubs, busy households | Running out of hot water, premature heater failure | If your unit is aging or demand is increasing |
Tip: If you’re unsure where to start, a plumbing inspection during the planning stage often saves money compared to correcting issues after finishes are installed.
A Nampa-specific note: remodel timelines and “real life” use
In Nampa and across the Treasure Valley, remodels often happen while the household keeps running—kids’ baths, laundry, dishes, guests, work schedules. That’s why reliability matters as much as design. If you’ve had even one plumbing scare (a water heater leak, a sewer backup, or a mystery drip), build a little prevention into the remodel plan:
• Keep shutoffs accessible, labeled, and tested.
• Don’t ignore slow drains—address them before the new vanity and flooring go in.
• If you’re upgrading to luxury fixtures (multiple shower heads, big soaking tubs), confirm supply sizing and hot water capacity early.
• If your water heater is near end-of-life, replacing it proactively can be less disruptive than an emergency failure. (dowsclimatecare.com)
Related services that support a smoother remodel
If your remodel plan includes any of the items below, these pages can help you understand options and timing:
Remodel plumbing planning
Layout changes, new fixture locations, and rough-in planning for kitchens, bathrooms, and additions.
Drain performance upgrades
Great before you close walls and cabinets—especially for kitchens and main lines with recurring issues.
Pipes, fixtures, and water heater work
Smart upgrades during a remodel, when access is easiest.
Ready to remodel with confidence?
Cloverdale Plumbing has served Treasure Valley homeowners for decades, and we know how to keep remodel plumbing practical, clean, and built to last—so your new space doesn’t come with new headaches.
FAQ: Plumbing remodels in Nampa, Idaho
Do I need a permit for plumbing changes during a remodel?
Many plumbing installations and alterations require a permit and inspection. Requirements can vary by jurisdiction and project scope, so it’s best to confirm early—especially if you’re moving drains/vents or installing new lines. (dopl.idaho.gov)
If my drains are “fine,” should I still consider cleaning them during a remodel?
If you’ve never had a backup and drains are fast, you may not need it. But if you’ve noticed slow kitchen drainage, periodic gurgling, or recurring clogs, cleaning (and in some cases jetting) before installing new cabinets/fixtures can reduce the odds of a messy backup after the remodel.
How do I know if my water heater can handle a new bathroom or upgraded shower?
It depends on household size, fixture flow rates, and whether the remodel adds simultaneous hot water demand (two showers at once, larger tubs, etc.). A plumber can evaluate your current unit, recovery rate, and whether a maintenance plan or replacement makes more sense.
What’s the difference between drain snaking and hot water jetting?
A cable (snake) often creates a path through a blockage. Jetting uses high-pressure water (sometimes heated) to scour buildup from the pipe interior—helpful for grease, sludge, and recurring restrictions.
Should I replace shutoff valves during a remodel?
If valves are old, stuck, corroded, or hard to reach, a remodel is the ideal time to replace them. New quarter-turn shutoffs improve safety and make future maintenance much easier.
Glossary (quick, plain-English)
Rough-in
The in-wall/under-floor plumbing installed before drywall, cabinets, and fixtures go in.
Trap (P-trap)
The curved pipe under sinks that holds water to block sewer gases from entering the home.
Vent (plumbing vent)
A pipe that brings air into the drain system to help wastewater flow correctly and protect traps from siphoning.
Hot water jetting (hydro jetting)
A drain-cleaning method that uses high-pressure water (sometimes heated) to remove buildup from inside pipes.
Anode rod
A sacrificial metal rod inside many tank water heaters that helps slow tank corrosion.