These plumbing tips will help you keep your pipes and home plumbing faucets and fixtures in good working order.

​

​

​

Turn Valves On and Off

Make sure you turn off main water supply and fixture valves periodically to make sure they don't get stuck. You want to be sure you're never in the position of not being able to turn your water supply off during an emergency or repair.

​

Inspect Pipes Annually

You should examine your distribution and drainage pipes for signs of leaks each year. You may find clues that your pipes are leaking along the length of the pipe or around fittings or fixtures. Signs of leaks may include rust, corrosion, and mineral deposits.

​

You'll also want to check the insulation of your hot water pipes periodically, and replace any open or damaged areas of insulation. Another plumbing tip includes replacing aerators on faucets several times each year. Give us a call if you are unsure or need some guidance. We are glad to help!

​

Low Shower head Pressure

​

If your showerhead is clogged with years of build-up from mineral deposits in the water and spurting water, it may need a thorough cleansing. To begin cleaning your shower head, you first must remove the head. Before you start using the pliers to loosen the head, wrap the chrome parts in a towel or something of that nature. Wrapping the parts in a towel will keep the pliers from scratching the chrome.

​

In order to clean the shower head once it has been removed, heat vinegar (do not boil) and pour it into a container. Place the shower head in the vinegar and let it soak for 10 to 12 hours. Check the holes on the shower head. If you see that some of the holes are still clogged, use a very thin wire and poke each hole before rinsing. Once you have cleared all of the holes, rinse the shower head vigorously with hot water. For those stubborn mineral deposits, try scrubbing the shower head with a small brush such as a toothbrush.

​

Flushing your Hot Water Tank

​

Electric water heaters: be sure to turn the power off at the main service entrance box (circuit breaker or fuse box). If it's gas: turn the red temperature dial to vacation. At the top of the water heater tank is the cold water inlet valve. Turn it off. At the bottom of the tank is a hose bib (drain valve). If you have a floor drain, place the end of the hose in the floor drain.