Plumbing questions, answered

Usually mineral buildup in the pipes, a hidden leak, or a failing pressure regulator. A quick inspection tells us which.

Once a year is a good rhythm. Homes over 40 years old, or with hard water, do better with a check every six months.

Insulate exposed pipes, let faucets drip on freezing nights, keep the house at 55°F or warmer, open the cabinet doors under sinks, seal drafts, and shut off and drain outdoor spigots before winter.

Shut off the main water supply, open faucets to relieve pressure, turn off electricity if water has reached outlets, then call us. Photograph the damage for your insurer.

Hair, grease, soap scum, food scraps, wipes, mineral buildup and tree roots. Drain covers and careful disposal go a long way.

We would skip them. Harsh chemicals can damage older and PVC pipes. Try a plunger or drain snake first, then call us.

At least once a year, or every six months with hard water or heavy use.

No hot water, strange noises, puddles around the unit, or falling pressure are the usual signs.

A sudden jump in the water bill, low pressure, damp spots, mold, noises in the walls, or a meter that keeps moving when everything is off.

Put a few drops of food coloring in the tank and wait 10 to 15 minutes without flushing. If color shows up in the bowl, the flapper or fill valve is leaking.

They reduce scale, protect appliances, improve taste and smell, and are gentler on skin and hair.