If you own a home, plumbing will be an issue at some point.  Even newer homes can develop problems.  Whether it is a simple leaky faucet or replacing the refrigerator, it is important to do research before you start your project or to call a professional for help. Here are some tips you can use around the house:

• Prevent your pipes from freezing.  When the weather cools off, your pipes can become at risk for freezing.  If you are going out of town turn your faucet on so that it drips slightly.  The movement of water through the pipes will help to prevent a freeze without drastically increasing your water bill.  You can also insulate your exposed pipes using a thick foam cover that can be purchased at the hardware store.  You can even use newspaper and insulating tape to protect your exposed pipes.
• Replace a tub faucet.  If you want to update your bathroom an easy way to do it is to replace your bathroom faucets.  To get started simply remove the cap, unscrew the handle, and then remove the escutcheon.  You may need a deep-socket wrench to help you loosen the packing nut if you are working with a compressed faucet.  Make sure the water is turned off before you start.
• Fix a clogged drain.  This is a common plumbing problem. Whether in the bathtub or kitchen sink, most homeowners will have a clogged drain from time to time.  Hair, food particles, and even grease can create a clogged up drain.  In order to correct it remove any visible hair or debris.  Next use a chemical that is designed for unclogging drains. You can buy this at the grocery store or hardware store.  If that doesn’t work, you may need to rent a snake that can be placed down the drain and used to unclog it.
• Leaking pipe.  A pipe that is leaking is most homeowners plumbing nightmare.  If you have one, it is best to call the professionals.  If you know where the leak is coming from you can try to fix it on your own but be very careful.  Turn off the water before you attempt any repairs.  There are some epoxy solutions now that can fix a simple leak. They come in a tube and even in a tape like form.  Visit your hardware store to purchase it.  If the leak is coming from a larger area, you will need a professional plumber to replace the pipe.

  Before you start doing plumbing work around the house, it is a good idea to get a bid from a professional plumber.  You may find that the time you spend doing research and figuring it out would be better spent working, while you pay a professional to take care of your plumbing needs.  If you decide to proceed on your own, be careful.  You could accidentally cause more damage that would be costly to repair.  For more information or to schedule an appointment call our office today.