Your Easton Plumbing FAQ: Questions For A Thriving Home And Community

Traditional tank water heaters in Easton generally last between 8 and 12 years, while tankless models can often exceed 15 years. The varied climate in Easton, with its hot, humid summers and cold winters, can impact their lifespan.

Annual water heater tune-ups are key to keeping things running smoothly. Think of it like a car, a yearly check-up, especially flushing out that sediment, really helps. Our Easton water can be tough on them — it just makes them last longer and work better overall.

Beyond the typical lifespan, watch for these signs that your water heater might be nearing the end of its service in your Easton home:

• Banging noises (often due to sediment buildup)
• Discolored or lukewarm water
• Visible leaks around the base of the tank
• Rust-colored water
• A complete lack of hot water

If you notice any of these, it’s time to consider a repair or replacement.

Slab leaks happen in the water pipes underneath your home’s concrete foundation. It’s a big deal here in Easton because ignoring them can really cause a mess. We’re talking serious damage to your foundation, floors, and even mold.

Keep an eye out for weirdly high water bills, warm patches on the floor, the sound of running water when everything’s off, or cracks in the foundation. These are all clues. Since slab leaks can lead to a lot of trouble and need special tools to fix, it’s definitely a job for a pro.

Easton winters are tough on pipes. To keep them from freezing, remember to drain outdoor lines, like those for pools or sprinklers, and disconnect and store outdoor hoses. Shut off the indoor valves to your outdoor faucets, but leave the outside faucets open to drain. Insulate pipes in chilly spots like attics or garages. A simple trick? Open kitchen cabinet doors at night to let warm air get around those pipes.

If you suspect a frozen pipe, turn on both hot and cold faucets and gently apply heat with an electric heating pad or hairdryer (never an open flame). If you observe a leak during thawing, immediately shut off your main water line. For unreachable frozen pipes or burst pipes, call a professional plumber like The Longacre Company immediately.

Common culprits for clogged drain include:

• Hair
• Soap residue (especially from fatty soaps)
• Foreign objects
• Tree root intrusion in older pipes
• Mineral buildup

While it might be tempting, avoid using liquid drain cleaners as they can damage your pipes over time. For stubborn or recurring clogs, professional drain cleaning services are the most effective and safest solution. To prevent clogs, remember to use drain screens in showers and tubs, and avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds and food scraps down your kitchen sink.

Low water pressure can be a frustrating issue for Easton homeowners. It can stem from various problems, including mineral buildup or corrosion within your pipes, or even a wasteful water heater leak. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a partially closed main water shutoff valve.

If you’re experiencing consistently low water pressure throughout your home, it’s best to have a professional plumber diagnose the cause and recommend the appropriate solution.

Annual maintenance is key to extending your water heater’s lifespan and efficiency in Easton’s climate. This includes flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup, which can reduce efficiency and lead to premature failure. A professional plumber can also inspect for corrosion, leaks and ensure all components are functioning correctly.

Beyond the advice given for burst pipes, consider these additional preventative measures for Easton’s cold snaps:

• Ensure proper insulation in attics and crawl spaces.
• Seal any cracks or holes in the home’s exterior.
• Install heat tape or cable on vulnerable pipes.

Tip: If you plan to be away during winter, consider setting your thermostat no lower than 55°F (13°C) to keep your pipes from freezing.

A plumbing assurance program, like the one offered by The Longacre Company, is a subscription service designed to give Easton homeowners peace of mind. These programs typically include annual maintenance (like water heater flushing and a comprehensive plumbing system inspection), exclusive discounts on future repairs and priority scheduling for service calls.

By proactively addressing small issues before they become expensive emergencies, an assurance program can save you money and hassle in the long run.

While minor issues like a leaky faucet O-ring might be a DIY fix, anything more complex, such as persistent clogs, significant leaks, low water pressure issues or new plumbing installations, should always be handled by a professional.

Poorly executed DIY plumbing can lead to much larger and more expensive problems down the line. For emergencies like burst pipes, main water line clogs or water heater failures, immediate professional intervention is crucial to prevent extensive damage.