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5 Things Every Plumber Wants You to Know

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A professional is typically a call away when it comes to making a plumbing repair or installing a new fixture in your home. With years of experience in the field, there’s a reason why they’re a go-to source for many homeowners across the country.

And in a conscious effort to help protect the plumbing in your humble abode and prevent any potential problems from forming, there are a few things that every plumber wants you, their trusted customer, to know.

5 Essential Plumbing Tips to Know

1. Don’t Neglect Your Sump Pump

While these helpful devices are automatic and operate independently, that doesn’t mean that they don’t need some human assistance every-so-often. To make sure that your device works to its fullest potential in your home, you’ll need to clean out its screen about every three months (or less).

Additionally, make sure that you test your sump pump (after each screen cleaning) to ensure that it will work properly when you need it the most. If you feel that something isn’t working correctly with your device, consider calling your plumber to have them assess, and repair, the issue.

2. Protect Your Plumbing Pipes

The “veins” of your home, also known as your pipes, need to be paid extra attention all year round. Failure to do so can result in having a major plumbing problem on your hands — which could have been avoided if a closer eye was kept on them.

To help stay in the clear, make sure that you:

  • Check for signs of a pipe leak (i.e., wet spots on the floor, mildew on the walls, etc.).

  • Call your plumber when you see a noticeable change in water pressure.

  • Wrap your pipes with foam insulation to better protect them from frigid temperatures.

  • Make sure to winterize your home’s outdoor plumbing, in autumn, each year.

3. Be Careful of What You Flush

When it comes to your toilet, only toilet paper and human waste can be disposed of — nothing else. While it may seem tempting to try and flush other odds and ends, doing so can cause a severe blockage — and worse, even sewer pipe damage.

Before attempting to flush something out of the ordinary, make sure that these items never come in contact with your “throne”:

  • Paper towels

  • Feminine hygiene products

  • Cotton products (i.e., cotton balls)

  • Napkins

  • Dental floss

4. Take Care of Your Water Heater

Just like a sump pump, it may seem as if your water heater can take care of itself — but that couldn’t be further from the truth. As it turns out, there are a few essential things to add to your “checklist” to ensure that your water heater will be in tip-top shape for years to come.

For starters, it’s essential to know the age of your water heater. If your unit falls anywhere between the 8 to 12-year range, you may need to consider having a new model installed. Another thing to consider is that your storage tank water heater should be flushed and maintained by a professional at least once a year to continue optimal performance.

5. Always Hire a Professional Plumber

Nowadays, it may seem tempting to hire any amateur plumber you stumble upon — such as “a friend of a friend.” And although their pricing and availability may seem convenient, there’s a chance you could be left with a plumbing disaster down the road if the wrong step is taken during your appointment.

When you need to have a project completed with the utmost ease and skill, always count on a professional, licensed plumber for the job. Not only will they have the educational backing and experience, but they’ll be able to provide you reassurance and peace of mind — always a plus.

Professional Plumbing Services in Knoxville

If you run into a problem with your home’s plumbing, heating, or cooling, and prefer to forgo the DIY route, our technicians are here to help! Visit our website to learn more about the services that we offer here at Pipe Wrench Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, Inc. or call (865) 583-3957 to speak with a representative directly.

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Trusted Plumbing & HVAC Expertise

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Locally Owned & Operated

We are proud to continue our decades-long tradition of serving our neighbors throughout the area.

Female Led

Our exceptional leadership focuses on customer service and reliable results for all your plumbing and HVAC needs.

Trusted Plumbing & HVAC Expertise

As active members of Nexstar Network, our team receives cutting-edge training in the latest industry practices.

Same-Day Service Guaranteed

Don’t wait until tomorrow. With our same-day service, we’ll be there when you need us.

Finest Products & Materials Available in the Industry

We deliver unmatched craftsmanship and products for solutions you can depend on for years to come.

Commitment to Community

As a proud member of the Knoxville community, we are invested in the comfort and well-being of our residential and commercial neighbors.