D. Rohde Home Services has served Dutchess, Ulster, and Orange Counties with professional plumbing installations and repairs for years. Many of these problems are preventable with the right preventive care. This is how to stay on top of the most common plumbing problems.
1. Clogged Drains and Sewer Backups
Clogged drains rank among some of the most common calls that we get. Grease builds up, soap residue, or even tree roots can create some major blockages. If you notice sinks draining slowly or hear gurgling in your toilets, do not wait till it gets worse.
Pro Tip: Avoid chemical drain cleaners. While they do offer what seems like a quick fix, in the long run, they will eat away at your pipes. Don’t worry, though – professional drain cleaning from a local plumber will provide a safe, long-term solution.
2. Leaky Pipes and Fixtures
Corrosion of pipes and the wearing out of fixtures usually bring about leaks. What might appear as a little drip can, in fact, waste hundreds of gallons of water a year while driving up your utility bills.
Pro Tip: Look for water stains on the ceiling, paint bubbling, or unexplained increases in the water bill. These are generally some of the early signs of hidden leaks.
3. Water Heater Trouble
Hot water is a necessity that should always be available and reliable-most notably during our cold winter seasons. If you notice rust-colored water, wildly varying temperatures, or strange banging and rumbling from the tank, it’s telling you that the water heater needs some attention.
Pro Tip: Schedule a yearly maintenance check for your water heater. Flushing out sediment can help increase its life and keep it running efficiently.
4. Frozen Pipes
Freezing temperatures are typical throughout the Hudson Valley, so there is always a risk of frozen pipes. If water inside your plumbing freezes, it expands, which is why pipes can burst, causing major water damage to your home.
Pro Tip: Insulate pipes in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces before winter sets in. It’s much easier – and cheaper – to prevent frozen pipes than it is to deal with the mayhem that follows.
As far as plumbing is concerned, it is always cheaper to take preventive maintenance measures rather than have everything overhauled during emergencies. Regular inspections, professional drain cleaning, and a water heater service once a year can save homeowners thousands of dollars and quite a few headaches.
Whether it’s a minor little drip or a major service, we’re here to keep your home running smoothly all year.
Call us today to schedule your preventative plumbing maintenance.