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5 Signs It's Time to Replace Old Plumbing

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You probably don’t walk around with the idea of upgrading your plumbing on the brain, but it’s actually something you should think about for the wellbeing and efficiency of your home. It’s definitely no fun to run into a plumbing issue, so work against the possibility of one by keeping an eye out for telltale signs of plumbing problems. Read below about the signals to look for! 1. Water Discoloration Whenever you notice that the water coming out of your pipes or tap is discolored, it should be a red flag. It’s something that should raise concern especially if you don’t have well water or live in a rural area. Dark water could indicate pipe corrosion, which means that as your water flows through the pipes, it picks up rust along its journey. If this condition is left untreated, mineral deposits could build up, leading to a clog. The continuous pressure that a clog can put on your pipes could lead to an eventual burst. That means large-scale damage costing much time,...

What to Know When Working With a Professional Plumber

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Sometimes, you need professional help. Before you hire a plumber, make sure you know what to expect, what they can’t do, and what you can actually DIY to fix your own plumbing problems. Get prepared for your plumber's visit and work with them the right way so you’ll end up paying less and getting more out of the professional you pick. When you know how to work with a professional plumber, you’ll end up having a better experience that’s less expensive. Use a Pro First and foremost, make sure you choose a professional plumber or company. Ask if they have a license, and if it's a master's license or a journeyman's license. Make sure they are fully insured, which protects both you and the plumber. Ask if any warranty or guarantee comes with the work. Some companies will give a one-year warranty on all work, for example. You can also do a quick check online for the company and see if there are negative reviews or ratings about them. Plumber Prep Plumbers can't...

How to Use a Plumbing Snake

A plumbing snake is typically used as a last resort to unplug household drains. These handy devices work by digging their way into the obstruction and ultimately pulling it out. Some snakes can even be used with an electric drill for added power, which is useful for stubborn clogs. If you have a sink that is giving you trouble, here is a guide on how to use a plumbing snake to remove the plug. Step 1 - Prep Sink Clear the sink of anything that is over the drain. This includes any screens or hair traps as these will interfere with the snake. Remove these items — and make sure they are clean — and set them aside for later. Step 2 - Use the Snake Grab the snake by the handle and slide the other end into the drain. You should rotate the snake in a clockwise direction as you push it further into the sink. If you feel some resistance, use both hands to keep pushing it deeper. Another trick is to keep the handle of the snake as close to the drain opening as possible. This g...