Posts by Brian Wear

Pipes are essential to your water and plumbing system but can be surprisingly fragile. Anything from overtightening a water line to dumping too much grease down your kitchen drain can cause you plumbing frustrations, even if it seems like the pipes should be able to handle it. Whether you’re a homeowner or a tenant, here…

Your refrigerator is one of the biggest energy sinks in your home. It runs 24/7, and cold air rushes out every time the door is opened. This is especially true for older models, which don’t have the advantage of recent energy-efficiency measures. Even newer models are susceptible to poor energy utilization since bits and pieces…

You may want control in raising your water heater temperature in your home for many reasons. Maintaining a higher temperature can help eliminate bacteria like Legionella in your water supply and can allow for longer hot showers. However, extreme caution should be exercised any time you raise temperatures. Manufacturers recommend that tank style water heaters…

Take a look at your plumbing system. No matter where you look — under the kitchen sink, in your basement, or around your water heater — you’ll see a system of U-bends, L-bends, and PVC or metal pipes that are connected in a complex pattern. Sometimes these connections use PVC with thick sealant and adhesive…

Flooding from a leak or a burst pipe can cause a lot of damage. Upon discovering the mess, you may be tempted to make repairs and clean up the scene immediately, but this can actually ruin your chances of settling an insurance claim in your favor. Understand and prepare for the insurance process before facing flooding damage…

Backflow is a potentially serious problem that can affect your home water supply’s usage, which can harm you and anyone else who may reside on your property. It is important to understand how to prevent it, recognize it, and to contact a professional plumber before small problems escalate. Backflow and Prevention Backflow is simply the reversal of…

Having a vacation rental spot is fun and can provide a little extra income, allowing you to rent it out to visitors that need a temporary stay. There is a little extra work owners need to consider to keep it running well with minimal problems, especially since vacation homes are often not tended to year-round.…

With spring in full swing and summer on its way, gray days of icy roads and windy afternoons will be just a memory. In spring and summer, trees cast shade on your neighborhood, and the smell of sweet blossoms is already on its way. But did you know that your trees have been busy all…

The snow has melted, and spring is in the air! The air is finally getting warmer, the days are getting longer with more daytime light, and landscaping is likely at the top of your to-do list. Now is the perfect time to consider servicing your sewer system, so you don’t have to worry about it…

Gas lines are an essential part of keeping your home warm and providing your plumbing with the heat it needs to operate properly. Unfortunately, gas leaks can occur outside of your home that will not only decrease your heating efficiency but also put your home at a serious risk. That’s why it is essential to…