Common Fall Plumbing Problems and How to Avoid Them
Fall means a return to school routines, cooler weather, and the beginning of the holiday season. The excitement starts to build from the first time you see a changing leaf. Things get busy in September and seem to only accelerate as you approach the new year. You don’t have time for plumbing problems. Here’s how to avoid some of the most common fall plumbing issues.
Water Heater Failure
As the outdoor temperature drops, the water flowing into your water heater gets colder. The greater the temperature difference between incoming water and what you need to shower, the harder your hot water heater must work.
As you run the dishwasher and do laundry, more cold water flows in, mixing hot with cold. The harder your system works, the greater the wear on your unit. Insulate exposed pipes to protect them from dropping temperatures and flush your water heater once a year.
Clogged Drains
When leaves pile up in the yard, they can block outdoor drains. Your home’s main sewer line and inside water fixtures connect to outdoor drains, so a clog could cause water to back up into your house or rainwater to form pools that seep in. If debris continues to flow into the drain pipe, you may need special tools to remove it. Install a drain cover and schedule regular maintenance to keep drains clear.
Slow Kitchen Sink Drains
When you wash dishes, fats, and oils rinse down the drain and often stick to pipes. Over time, food debris builds up and can keep water from exiting. As you clean up after football parties, Thanksgiving, and other holiday traffic, your kitchen sink can start to drain slowly. Run hot water down your drains every time you use them to prevent buildup. If your sink starts to drain slowly, call a plumbing expert before it turns into a plumbing emergency.
Rivers Plumbing, Heating and Air has been providing exceptional plumbing for Pleasanton home and business owners since 1979. Contact us for all your plumbing needs.
Sources:
https://www.riversinc.com/pleasanton-plumbers/
https://www.duaneblantonplumbing.com/3-common-fall-plumbing-problems/