Didn’t know most of these! Can save a lot of money and time!

Preventing clogs is far easier than clearing them, and plumbers know several ways to keep drains clear. Regularly using baking soda and vinegar can keep your drains naturally clean. These substances react to break down build-up without harsh chemicals. Plumbers often recommend a drain trap for hair in bathroom drains and using a biological drain cleaner to keep kitchen drains free from grease. They also advise against using chemical drain cleaners, as these can corrode pipes and cause more harm than good over time.

Rattling pipes can be more than just a nuisance; they may indicate underlying issues. Plumbers use simple yet effective techniques to quiet these disturbances. The cause is often ‘water hammer’, which occurs when shut-off valves close suddenly. Installing water hammer arrestors can absorb the shock and silence the noise. Additionally, securing loose pipes with clamps or insulating them with foam can reduce vibration and eliminate banging sounds.

Water heaters are significant household investments, and extending their lifespan is beneficial for any homeowner. Plumbers recommend regular maintenance, such as draining the tank yearly to remove sediment build-up. Installing an anode rod can also prevent corrosion inside the tank, and setting the thermostat no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit helps reduce energy use and avoid overheating issues.

Many homeowners are surprised by the variability in plumbing costs. Plumbers explain that factors such as accessibility, the age of a home, and local building codes can all influence pricing. Older homes may require more work due to outdated pipes, and the complexity of the job affects labor costs. Similarly, emergency calls and after-hours services can significantly increase charges, so scheduling preventive maintenance can be a cost-effective strategy.

Frozen pipes are a common disaster in colder climates, but plumbers employ several strategies to prevent this. Insulating pipes with foam sleeves is a straightforward method. More advanced techniques include installing heat tape or cables along vulnerable pipes to keep them warm, and ensuring that unoccupied homes have their heating systems set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit during colder months to prevent freezing.