CHECK OUT SOME PLUMBING TIPS

Musty smell coming from your bathroom or basement? This could be a symptom of sewer gas leaks. Speak to your plumber about replacing your gasket. If you notice a loud banging sound after your washing machine or faucet shuts off, you're probably experiencing 'water hammer'. This noise is actually costing you money and is a warning sign of future damage! Don't risk a painful burn. Consider installing anti-scalding valves on faucets or shower that run hotter than they're supposed to.

Faucets with washers should be turned off finger tight to increase the life of the cartridges. You don't need to crank them off with all your might. You may actually do more harm than good. Annual maintenance of your water heater is just as important as changing the oil in your car. Not only will you add years of use, but you'll also be surprised what had built up over time. Do you have a sump pump installed in your basement? What if it fails? Install a water alarm to help you prevent flooding. If you have a water softening system, have your plumber ensure all the fittings are working properly. This helps prevent excessive chemicals from entering your water supply, which could pose a health risk. Buying a new home? You may want to use Drain Vision to look inside the property's main line. Don't inherit somebody else's plumbing problems! Before winter hits, be sure to turn of the water supply to you outdoor hose from inside your home. Then, drain the line by opening the hose valve outside. This will prevent freezing and unnecessary damage. Learn where your main water shut off valve is and shut it off whenever you're leaving for extended periods of time.

Do your kids always leave the water running? Consider installing a hands-free faucet! If you find yourself having to always double or triple flush, a pressure assisted toilet may be the answer. Many toilets have an anti-siphon ballcock installed, but excessive wear and tear could result in your tank losing more water than it's supposed to be saving. Have a plumber inspect your toilet for maximum efficiency. Install a timer for your electric water heater, so it only turns on at peak times such as when you're home. No need to waste hot water unnecessarily. If you're heading out on vacation or leaving your home for a few days, consider shutting off your water main. This will help prevent damage in case of a leak. Be sure to also power off your electric water heater. If your fixtures are slow to drain, consider having your drain lines cleared before the holiday season. This can save you embarrassment and avoid clogs. Consider replacing your older plumbing fixtures. Today, most fixtures are much more energy efficient and offer real savings on your hydro bill.