Plumbing Tips, Guides & Articles

Keep vulnerable pipes warm by insulating them with foam pipe insulation. Let faucets drip slightly during freezing nights to maintain water flow. Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to reach pipes underneath sinks. Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor water valves. In extreme cold, consider using heat tape on exposed pipes.

Low water pressure can result from mineral buildup in aerators, partially closed shut-off valves, or corroded pipes. Start by cleaning your faucet aerators. Check that your main water shut-off valve is fully open. If pressure is low throughout the house, call a professional—it may indicate internal corrosion or leaks in your plumbing system.

For homes connected to municipal sewer systems, a sewer line inspection is recommended every 2-3 years, especially for older homes. For homes with septic systems, inspection should occur every 1-3 years depending on usage. Camera inspections are quick, non-invasive, and reveal root intrusion, cracks, and blockages before they become emergencies.

Chemical drain cleaners are harsh and can damage pipes, especially older galvanized or cast iron pipes. They're also hazardous to handle. Professional hydro-jetting is safer and more effective. If you use drain cleaner, follow instructions carefully, ventilate well, and flush thoroughly with hot water. For stubborn clogs, call a plumber.

Hydrogen sulfide gas (which smells like rotten eggs) can come from your water heater, reactions in your pipes, or contaminated groundwater. If it only appears from hot water, your water heater anode rod may be the culprit—this is replaceable. If it's in cold water too, contact your water utility. A plumber can install filtration or aeration systems to address the issue.

Tank water heaters typically last 8-12 years with proper maintenance. Tankless water heaters last 15-20+ years. Hard water and lack of maintenance shorten lifespan. If your water heater is approaching 10 years old, consider replacement before failure. A failing heater can flood your home or leave you without hot water unexpectedly.