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Clogged drains are a common plumbing problem that can cause water backups, odors, and damage to your pipes. To prevent clogged drains, you should:

○ Avoid putting grease, oil, coffee grounds, egg shells, hair, or other solid items down the drain.
○ Use a drain strainer or screen to catch any debris that may go down the drain.
○ Run hot water down the drain after each use to flush away any residue.
○ Clean your drain regularly with baking soda and vinegar or a natural enzyme cleaner.

To fix clogged drains, you can try:

– Using a plunger to create suction and dislodge the clog.
– Using a plumber’s snake or auger to reach and remove the clog.
– Using a chemical drain cleaner to dissolve the clog, but be careful as these products can be harmful to your pipes and health.

Preparing your plumbing system for winter or summer can help you avoid frozen pipes, leaks, bursts, and high water bills. To prepare your plumbing system for winter, you should:

○ Insulate your pipes with foam or fiberglass sleeves to prevent them from freezing and bursting.
○ Disconnect and drain your outdoor hoses and faucets to prevent them from freezing and cracking.
○ Keep your thermostat at a consistent temperature above 55°F to prevent your pipes from freezing.
○ Open your cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around your pipes.
○ Run a trickle of water from your faucets to keep water flowing through your pipes.

To prepare your plumbing system for summer, you should:

– Check your sprinkler system for leaks, cracks, or broken heads and adjust the timer according to the weather and water restrictions.
– Check your water heater for leaks, corrosion, or sediment buildup and flush it if needed.
– Check your faucets, toilets, and showers for leaks and fix them as soon as possible to save water and money.

Saving money on your water bills can help you reduce your environmental impact and lower your monthly expenses. To save money on your water bills, you should:

○ Fix any leaks or drips in your faucets, toilets, showers, or pipes as soon as possible as they can waste gallons of water per day.
○ Install low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets that use less water per flush or flow.
○ Replace your old water heater with a new, energy-efficient model that heats water faster and uses less energy.
○ Use cold water for washing clothes and dishes as it uses less energy than hot water.
○ Turn off the water when brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing your hands as it can save up to 8 gallons of water per day.

Maintaining or repairing your water heater, faucet, toilet, or other plumbing fixtures can help you extend their lifespan, improve their performance, and avoid costly breakdowns. To maintain or repair your plumbing fixtures, you should:

○ Check your water heater for leaks, corrosion, or sediment buildup at least once a year and flush it if needed.
○ Check your water pressure and temperature regularly and adjust them if needed.
○ Replace your water heater’s anode rod every 3 to 5 years to prevent rust and corrosion.
○ Check your faucet for leaks, drips, or low water pressure and replace the washers, aerators, or cartridges if needed.
○ Clean your faucet aerator regularly to remove any mineral deposits or debris that may clog it.

○ Check your toilet for leaks, running water, or flushing problems and replace the flapper, fill valve, or flush valve if needed.
○ Clean your toilet bowl and tank regularly to prevent stains, odors, or bacteria growth.
○ Check your showerhead for leaks, low water pressure, or clogs and replace the washers, gaskets, or filters if needed.
○ Clean your showerhead regularly to remove any mineral deposits or debris that may clog it.

If you need any help with maintaining or repairing your plumbing fixtures, Lawrence Plumbing in Vandergrift, PA can provide you with any plumbing service you need. Just contact us at (724) 236-0524 or fill out this Online Form to get a free estimate.