When it comes to our numerous home appliances, we all wish they would last forever. Unfortunately though, our major appliances like heating systems, air conditioner, plumbing components, and water heaters take on a considerable amount of wear and tear throughout the years. This means that eventually, they will need to be replaced. The problem is that sometimes it can be tough to know when exactly some of these appliances need replacement, particularly the water heater.
When you are ready to replace the system, or if you fear you need repairs—or even if you’d like to schedule water heater maintenance, you can trust our Palatine, IL plumbing professionals for the job. But given that your water heater is almost certainly hidden from plain view, we want to give you a bit of help in determining when it’s showing signs of failing.
If you haven’t already taken steps to winterize your home, now is certainly the time to do it, before we’re under heavy amounts of snow. Winterizing your home includes fixing any drafts that can lower your HVAC efficiency, making sure your heating system is maintained, and ensuring your pipes are protected.
Have you noticed a seemingly minor clog somewhere in your home? Maybe your kitchen sink drain is a bit sluggish. Or perhaps you noticed your toilet bubbling while using another plumbing fixture. Your first instinct may be to go get some of that liquid drain cleaner you can buy at pretty much any hardware store, and solve your problem that way. Unfortunately, not only is this only a temporary solution, but it can also actually damage your plumbing.
Good plumbing companies often offer emergency services for those times when a plumbing problem simply cannot wait. And let’s face it, leaks, clogs and other major issues very rarely happen at a “convenient” time, let alone during normal business hours. Because your plumbing system is such a vital component to your home, you’re usually unable to just sit on the problem until you can schedule an appointment.
If you’ve lived through even one winter around here, then you know how bitterly cold it gets. With that drop in the temperature comes an unfortunately common winter enemy—frozen plumbing. And, frozen pipes can result in a good amount of damage if not addressed. As water in your pipes freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the walls of the pipes, leading to leaks or even ruptured pipes.