It is getting to be that time of year again when we’re visiting friend and family or they are visiting us, and one of the worst things we can experience is having everyone in one place and needing to send out a call to plumbers in Chelsea, MA. It is a big disruption to our holidays and can set us back financially during a time of year most people are already stretched to their spending limits. Still, it does happen. Some of these problems can be avoided. To help you keep an eye on things and keep your cool this season, York Plumbing & Drains has provided this list of three of the most common calls for plumbing repairs in Massachusetts.
MA plumbers get plenty of calls for no hot water, especially during the colder months. In some cases, with the increased traffic in our home, the hot water heater just may not be big enough to supply the extra hot water that everyone is using. Typically once every six to twelve months, you should drain your hot water tank, so it does not build up sediment, which can reduce the amount of water the tank can hold as well as the unit’s ability to heat. If this happens frequently, you may look at replacing your water heater with a new one or even a tankless water heating system. You may also find that a pilot has gone out and needs relit. Most units have instructions on the side on how to relight the pilot light. Follow those instructions. If the pilot light keeps going out, it could be due to the water heater not having enough breathing room. Make sure there is proper ventilation in the area surrounding the water heater.
Most people have faced clogged drains at one point or another. This could be due to putting things in a drain that are too big or have a tendency to build up over time including hair from shaving, kids with toys, and grease in the kitchen. Do not pour grease down the drain. Instead, pour it into a container with a lid so that it can be disposed of in the trash. When it comes to shaving, invest in a hair trap for the drain, so hair is caught before it goes down into the plumbing. If you do have a clogged drain, be very careful about liquid drain cleaners. These can build up, splash back and cause chemical burns, cause reactions and even toxic gas being combined with other chemicals in the clogged pipe. Pipe snakes are nifty tools…for experienced plumbers. Those who have not been trained in the proper use of pipe snakes can cause bigger problems, pushing items further down and even breaking pipes.
When we notice our pipes are leaking, our heart drops a little. If it is just a small leak, we may try to ignore it for a little while. This isn’t a good idea, because that constant flow of water behind walls and in cabinets can lead toward rotted wood, ruined drywall or sheet rock, and even mold build up. The pipe may be able to be patched. Or, a section of pipe may need replaced entirely. If you plan on doing the repairs yourself, be sure to use the proper type of pipe, seals, and sealing materials. Using the wrong ones can lead to the pipe failing again in the near future.
Some plumbing repairs can be completed by a general handyman—those of us who have a big tool chest and know how to use the tools inside of it. On the other hand, if you are not familiar with plumbing repairs, it probably isn’t something you want to tackle on your own. Failing to repair or install plumbing properly can lead to a whole host of problems. If you are in need of emergency plumbing services or need new plumbing installed, but haven’t done it before yourself, you are probably best off calling upon experienced plumbers in Chelsea MA.
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York Plumbing and Drains
18 Emerald Road
Nahant, MA 01908
Phone: (781) 521-8164