Nothing Puts a Damper on Holiday Festivities Like a Plumbing Emergency
An emergency is, by definition, something that is impossible to plan for. Still, there are ways to reduce the chances of a plumbing emergency. These tips include taking steps to avoid having pipes burst, dealing with a malfunctioning water heater, and keeping toilets and sinks from clogging. Luckily, these things are fairly easy to do and don’t require much expertise. Read on to find out how to avoid a plumbing emergency this holiday season.
Busted Pipes
A frozen pipe isn’t the only cause of a busted pipe. Even a small hole in a pipe behind the wall can cost thousands in damages before it is noticed. But some signs precede a busted pipe. The most common is a water hammer. It’s easy for homeowners to tell when they have an issue with a water hammer because it causes a loud banging sound (hence the name). This is usually caused by high water pressure, water in air chambers, or pipes that aren’t properly fastened.
Old plumbing can also lead to busted pipes. Homeowners with plumbing older than 25 years should consider repiping to prevent future issues.
Malfunctioning Water Heater
Aside from busted pipes, winter seems to be the perfect time for water heater failure. This is unfortunate because there’s nothing like a hot shower when it’s a little chilly outside. Luckily, many water heater issues can be solved quickly and easily. The first thing homeowners should do if they have an issue with a water heater is to determine the last time it was flushed. A common issue with water heaters is the buildup of sediment inside leading to leaks, strange noises, and malfunctions.
If the water heater isn’t producing hot water, it’s always a good idea to check the circuit breaker first. Sometimes no hot water means that a heating element has failed. If so, it’s time to call a professional plumber to address the issue.
Clogged Toilets or Sinks
Clogs are perhaps the easiest plumbing emergency to head off— and the most common. For those homeowners entertaining guests during the holidays, make sure everyone (especially the little ones) knows what does and does not go into the toilet and the sink. This is done tastefully with a decorative sign in each bathroom or a simple chat shortly after the company arrives.
Those who want to go the extra mile can hire a professional to clean the drain pipes beforehand to ensure a smooth and pleasant holiday season. Nowadays, plumbers can clean the pipes without the risk of damaging them. This process is called hydrojetting, and it uses high-pressure water to clean any partial clogs out, so the plumbing works fine under the higher-than-normal use of the holidays.
Of course, having a professional plumber check the health of a plumbing system before the holidays are in full swing is a great way to prevent emergencies and embarrassment.
About C & D Plumbing Inc.
For 10 years, C & D Plumbing Inc. has been happy to serve Fort Lauderdale, FL. They are a family-owned business with a focus on customer satisfaction. Their licensed and insured techs perform excellent workmanship and provide excellent communication and upfront pricing on every job. Call them now for plumbing services!