Expert Answers to Common Plumbing & Heating Questions

When there’s a problem with your heating or plumbing system, your first question is — what should I do?

Our experts at Service Today field hundreds of questions from homeowners about their plumbing and heating systems each year.

Here are four of the most frequently asked plumbing questions and four of the most frequently asked heating questions and the answers to solve them.

Most Common Plumbing Questions

What Is Clogging My Drain?

Drains can get clogged or be slow to drain by any number of things like hair, soap scum, or, in the case of a kitchen drain, items that a garbage disposal can’t handle, like stringy vegetables or grease.

While it’s tempting to try to clear a clog with harsh chemicals, it’s better to try a mixture of white vinegar and hot water to try to resolve the issue.

Clogs can be deep into the pipes and require an auger or drain snake to resolve. Because of the potential for these tools to damage your pipes, it’s best to call in a professional for drain cleaning to clear a challenging or persistent clogs.

Slow drains at several locations within the homes could indicate a larger issue within your sewer line and require immediate professional attention.

Why Do I Have a Change In My Water Pressure?

If your water pressure is low but your neighbor isn’t having the same issue, then the trouble isn’t with the water supply.

It could be as simple as using too many water-demanding appliances at one time, like a washing machine, shower, and dishwasher.

If that isn’t the case, then the cause of your change in pressure can be leaking or corroded pipes, a clogged water line, or a failing pressure regulator.

In most cases, your plumber can diagnose the cause of your water pressure issue and recommend a fix.

Where Is My Main Shut-Off Valve?

In a major plumbing emergency like a burst pipe, the first thing a homeowner needs to do is shut off the water supply to the home. Knowing where the main water shut-off valve is ahead of time can limit costly water damage.

A water shut-off valve is most often in a basement or crawl space near the water heater. If you have trouble finding your shut-off valve, a plumber can help you locate it.

What Can I Do About a Running Toilet?

After you flush, does your toilet seem to continue to fill the tank? Do you know that a running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons per year?

A running toilet can be caused by a decaying or cracked toilet flapper, a kink in the chain that lifts the flapper, or an issue with the float ball or float arm. Diagnosing and replacing a problem with these components can fix the issue.

Most Common Heating Questions

What Can I Do If My Heater Stops Working?

If your heating system suddenly stops working, try these troubleshooting steps:

• Check the thermostat settings and batteries.
• Ensure the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
• Replace or clean the air filter.
• Verify that the pilot light is lit if you have a gas system.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, call a professional HVAC technician for further inspection and heating repair.

What Type of Heating System Is Best for My Home?

The best heating system for your home depends on factors such as climate, budget, and energy efficiency. Common heating systems include the following:

• Furnaces are the most common heating systems.
• Heat pumps are a great option for mild climates.
• Boilers can be powered by gas or oil.
• Ductless mini-splits offer energy-efficient zoned heating and cooling.
• Geothermal systems use ground-source heating and cooling to keep your home comfortable year-round.

Consulting with a professional HVAC technician can help you install the right heating system for your home.

How Often Should I Change My Air Filters?

Your air filters play a big role in the air quality of your home and the efficiency of your heating system.

Generally, you should swap out your air filter every three months. Variables that could cause you to change them more often include:

• Pets
• Allergies
• Living in an area with air pollution or dust
• High HVAC usage

How Can I Lower My Heating Bill?

To reduce heating costs, consider the following energy-saving tips:

• Regularly replace air filters to improve efficiency.
• Use a programmable thermostat to control temperatures when you’re away.
• Seal gaps around doors and windows to prevent heat loss.
• Ensure your home is well-insulated.
• Schedule regular maintenance to keep your system running efficiently.

Request Heating & Plumbing Services From Service Today!

It can be challenging to keep up with your home’s heating and plumbing system. When you have a question about your home’s plumbing and heating, turn to the experts at Service Today. We’re always open and your best resource for your home’s heating and plumbing needs.

Call now to book heating or plumbing services in Talbot, New Castle, or Delaware County.