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TIPS TO AVOID CALLING A PLUMBER FOR AN EMERGENCY Maintaining your water and drainage systems smoothly in your home can potentially save you money on future repairs, especially if you don't have to call a plumber!  KNOW YOUR MAIN SHUT-OFF LOCATION Newer homes often have individual shutoff valves for each water line, while many older homes do not. In such cases, you may need to shut off the water at its source. Doing this quickly can save on plumbing and repair costs. BEWARE OF "FLUSHABLES" Toilet paper is designed to disintegrate, but many so-called "flushable" items are not. Modern toilets use less water, which may not provide enough pressure to clear these items. It's better to discard them in the trash than pay for a plumber to remove clogs. Flushable wipes aren't flushable GREASE DISPOSAL Never pour grease down your sink or toilet as it can solidify and clog your drains. DIY MONDAYS Mondays are typically the busiest for plumbers due to DIY projects gone wrong over the weekend. To avoid having to wait on a DIY emergency fix, know what you're doing and have the right parts and tools in hand or you might consider consulting a plumber first. WINTERIZING OUTDOOR TAPS Frozen pipes can burst and leak when they thaw. To prevent this, leave outside taps open, shut off the indoor valve, and disconnect hoses during the winter if you leave the property for more than week.
HOLIDAY PRECAUTIONS Turn off your main water supply when away for extended periods to avoid potential flooding from any leaks. HOT WATER TANK MAINTENANCE Drain and flush your hot water tank annually to prevent sediment build-up, which can increase energy costs and shorten the tank’s life. Replacing a tank can cost between $800 and $3,000 depending on its size and type.
TOILET HANDLE ISSUES If you find yourself jiggling the toilet handle, consider replacing the flap valve or the entire mechanism. Parts are inexpensive and easy to install, whereas a plumber may charge a few hundreds for the job. RUNNING TOILETS A toilet that keeps running after the tank fills can usually be fixed by adjusting the float and fill valve to reduce water intake. Ensure the chain isn’t too long and doesn’t keep the valve open. GARBAGE DISPOSAL JAMS Clearing a clogged garbage disposal is often straightforward with the included Allen wrench. Regular cleaning with borax and vinegar can keep it running smoothly.  PIPES ARE NOT CLOTHESLINES Hanging items on plumbing lines can cause them to bend or break, leading to leaks and the need for repairs. WASHING MACHINE HOSES Replace standard rubber washing machine hoses with durable, no-burst hoses to prevent leaks and potential water damage. HAIR AND DRAINS Prevent clogs by keeping hair out of sink and bathtub drains. Regular cleaning can avoid the need for a plumber. PRE-PURCHASE PLUMBING INSPECTIONS Consider a plumbing inspection before buying a home. For a couple of hundred dollars, a plumber can check for damaged pipes or obstructions, potentially saving thousands in future repairs.  LEAKS Don’t ignore small leaks. Addressing them early can prevent extensive damage and mold growth. CHEMICAL CLEANERS For a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to harsh chemical cleaners, use a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water to clear clogs. GETTING QUOTES Always get multiple quotes for plumbing jobs and insist on a fixed price rather than hourly rates. Be wary of unusually low estimates and always get a detailed written agreement. TOILET GURGLES If your toilet gurgles, it might indicate a blocked vent pipe or sewer line. Try using a plunger on the toilet and other drains before calling a plumber. ASKING FOR ADVICE Plumbers can often provide additional advice and check other issues once they are onsite. Don’t hesitate to ask. REGULAR MAINTENANCE Keep your plumbing system in good condition by routinely cleaning drains, descaling aerators, and checking for leaks. Regular maintenance can help avoid costly plumber visits. |
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