Tips to avoid a summer plumbing emergency
We're enjoying a beautiful start to summer in Eastern Connecticut. School's out, and schedules are a little more flexible. We've already received a lot of calls to repair plumbing problems that were put off until nicer weather. Outside spigot repairs were our most popular service at the start of warmer temps. Now that the kids are home, we're starting hear about toilet issues and faucet problems. Your local Andover CT plumber would like to share some tips to avoid a summer plumbing emergency.
Clogged toilet
Whether you have children home for the summer or entertain frequently, your toilet gets a lot more use during the summer. We've pulled everything from rubber duckies to dentures to toothbrushes out of toilets. We suggest keeping the back of your toilet clear of any decorations or storage items. In addition, a waste basket for sanitary products placed within easy reach is a good idea for guests unfamiliar with your home.Bonus tip: "Flushable" wipes seem like a great idea. However, they are NOT actually flushable! Despite what the packaging says, the wipes don't break down like toilet paper does. They can clog your toilet or septic system. If you're on city sewer, your taxes could go up because they clog the equipment that treat your water. The repair cost gets passed on to you, the taxpayer!
Jammed disposal
Mmmmmm....one of the joys of summer is driving through your Andover CT neighborhood and smelling someone grilling. Drum sticks and BBQ spare ribs are staples around here. Add some corn on the cob and watermelon slices, and you're ready to feast! Avoid spoiling the meal with a plumbing emergency. Be sure to throw all bones, rinds, and cobs into the trash can. Your garbage disposal can jam or burn out with food waste like that.Bonus tip: Freeze vinegar into ice cubes. Run the cubes down your garbage disposal periodically. This will keep the blades sharp AND kill odor-causing bacteria.
Leaky faucet
Just like your toilets see more use this time of year, your faucets have to keep up. An outside faucet gets maxed out from gardening, dog and car washing, and water play. Because it's exposed to the elements, it can leak outside or inside. We suggest a frost-free outside faucet installation. Your kitchen or bathroom faucet may be leaky because of a worn out gasket. This is a simple plumbing repair.Bonus tip: If you have low water pressure in only one faucet of your home, it might be the aerator. Increased use raises the chance that food or soap is clogging it up. First, remove the small screen where the water comes out of the faucet. Then, clean it clear out the gunk and put it back on. Your water pressure should return to normal after!
Your local Andover CT plumber
Rapid Service LLC wants all of our neighbors to enjoy their summer. We know that a plumbing emergency can pop up even if you've done your best to avoid it. And some things are out of anyone's control! Your local plumber is here to fix it fast and keep it from ruining your summer plans. Please call 860-228-1036 for emergency plumbing service. Additionally, our professional plumbing team provides repairs and installations for Andover CT homeowners and the surrounding towns.Find more tips and tricks on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest!
