How to avoid Plumbing Emergencies

Handyman Pros Radio Show

This show is all about saving you time, money and aggravation. These tips can help you avoid plumbing emergencies.

• Monitor your water bill

o Look for increased billing, can indicate a problem

• Watch What you put in your Drains and Toilets

o Just because the packaging says it’s flushable does not mean it’s flushable

o Watch the FOG (fats, oils and greases), hard items, chemicals

o Avoid harsh drain cleaning chemicals, corrode and melt pipes, damage septic systems

• Do regular inspections

o Look for drain leaks under sinks, washing machine hoses, sink connections, ice maker connections, toilet connections

o Check your PRV Valve

o Water filter maintenance

o Water around toilet (toilet seal)

• Test your emergency systems

o Hot water relief valve

o Sump pump

o Main water shut off valve

• Check your water heater

o Drain regularly

o Change the anode rod

• Prevent frozen pipes

o Wrap exposed pipes with insulation or heat tape

o Flow water on extremely cold nights

• Turn off main water shut off valve when traveling