How to avoid Plumbing Emergencies

This show is all about saving you time, money and aggravation.  These tips can help you avoid plumbing emergencies.
• Monitor your water bill
o Look for increased billing, can indicate a problem
• Watch What you put in your Drains and Toilets
o Just because the packaging says it’s flushable does not mean it’s flushable
o Watch the FOG (fats, oils and greases), hard items, chemicals
o Avoid harsh drain cleaning chemicals, corrode and melt pipes, damage septic systems
• Do regular inspections
o Look for drain leaks under sinks, washing machine hoses, sink connections, ice maker connections, toilet connections
o Check your PRV Valve
o Water filter maintenance
o Water around toilet (toilet seal)
• Test your emergency systems
o Hot water relief valve
o Sump pump
o Main water shut off valve
• Check your water heater
o Drain regularly
o Change the anode rod
• Prevent frozen pipes
o Wrap exposed pipes with insulation or heat tape
o Flow water on extremely cold nights
• Turn off main water shut off valve when traveling