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26
3 Fall Plumbing Tips - For a Safe and Efficient Home
Seasons have different effects on plumbing. As the winter season approaches it is necessary to take steps to protect your plumbing from the risks this season may bring. Being aware of these risks and following some simple tips can save your home, and you, from a lot of frustration.
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Pipe Protection:
If you have a trip planned, it is vital that you take proper safety measures regarding your plumbing while you are gone. Rather than turning off the heat altogether, set it to a temperature of 45-55 degrees.
This temperature setting will keep the water in the pipes from freezing which is a serious hazard. The ice may cause the pipes to burst causing flooding in your home and gallons of water to be wasted. Consider keeping cupboards with water pipes open to allow the warm air to circulate around these pipes while you are away as well.
Checking around your residence for any uncovered exterior pipes and getting them insulated from a plumber right away helps to protect them also. Even if your exterior hose bibs are frost free, water can freeze in them and crack the bib causing a plumbing leak once the bib thaws.
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Maintenance of Water Heaters:
Water heaters are used the most in the fall and winter seasons. Taking the time to ensure that your water heater is functioning properly will ascertain that it is in good shape to perform properly. You simply cannot afford the water heater to break down when it is freezing outside.
Hire the services of a professional plumber to flush out your heater if you are not experienced in doing so. He will check the anode rod and, if needed, can replace it to keep corrosion and minerals from building inside the tank. Avoid setting the temperature higher than 125 degrees. You may turn it up a notch through the winter but too high and you might scald yourself and pay for needless use of energy.
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Appropriate Disposal Usage:
Fall calls for family get-togethers and parties with friends. Garbage disposals sure come in handy but inappropriate usage can get them clogged causing damage which in turn affects your sink.
Always throw away the majority of food scraps since too much may overload your disposal. Also, run cold water for a few seconds before using it. Avoid starchy, greasy and fatty foods as these end up clogging and harming the blades and never throw in bones or beans.
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Other small points to keep in mind:
Remember to cover your crawl space vents, make sure that the outside hose is disconnected and all fixtures are shut off and cleaned. Clean all gutters from leaves and pine needles to allow the melting ice and snow to drain freely. And last but not least, check and repair all leaking faucets. Keeping your Bend Home free from plumbing problems this fall should be a goal for all homeowners.
These tips from Einstein Plumbing and Heating will save your home from plumbing troubles throughout this winter season.