Ask Riley

For those times when you need a quick plumbing question answered we have supplied a list of common issues home owners may run into:

Frozen Water Pipes
Before winter, disconnect all garden hoses outside and turn off the shut-off valve. This is especially important with anti-freeze valves. Failure to do so will trap water in the faucet body, which then can freeze. Water pipes that are exposed to freezing temperatures or drafts, should be covered with insulation. During extreme conditions keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate near plumbing and let the faucet trickle a small stream of water as moving water is less likely to freeze. [back to questions]

Water Heater
Drain some water from the tank by attaching a hose bib and running water until clear. This will remove sediment from the bottom of the tank increasing efficiency and extending its life. For safety purposes never set you thermostat on your water heater above 120°F. High temperatures greatly increase risk of scalding. We recommend you replace your water heater every ten years. [back to questions]

Clothes Washer
The hoses to your washer become weak over time and can burst without notice. Make it a habit to turn off the water supply valves to the washer when you are done using it and replace the hoses annually. [back to questions]

Clogged Drains
To help prevent clogged drains do not rinse fats, cooking oils, coffee grounds or pieces of veggies down drains. In case of a clog, the first remedy to try should always be a plunger. Never use a plunger on a plugged drain after you have already used a chemical drain cleaner. Chemical drain cleaners may do the trick, but they are caustic and can damage steel or cast iron pipes increasing your chances of a leak along with the clog. [back to questions]

Old Water and Waste Pipes
Many older homes have steel water pipes that slowly become filled with rust and corrosion restricting the water flow. The waste pipes may be made of cast iron or steel which rusts out and cracks. If you remodel or are making home repairs that require opening up walls or floors always upgrade the plumbing in the process. Exposed pipes in the basement can be replaced at any time and should be replaced before you get a major leak. [back to questions]