What your plumbing is trying to tell you – and what to do about it.
A running toilet usually means water is leaking from the tank into the bowl. The most common culprits are a worn flapper that no longer seals, a fill valve that won't shu…
Read more →If only one faucet or shower is weak, the fix is usually a clogged aerator, cartridge or shower head – mineral buildup from Michigan's hard water is the top cause. If pre…
Read more →Bathroom sinks slow down from hair, soap scum and toothpaste in the P-trap. Kitchen sinks clog with grease, coffee grounds and food. Over time these form a lining inside …
Read more →Put a bucket under the drip and move furniture and electronics. If the ceiling is bulging, poke a small hole in the center to release the water before it collapses. Shut …
Read more →Every drain has a P-trap that holds water to block sewer gas. If a floor drain, guest bathroom or basement sink isn't used for weeks, the water evaporates and the smell c…
Read more →Michigan's hard water leaves mineral sediment at the bottom of the tank. Water trapped under it boils and pops as the burner heats it. Flushing the tank once a year preve…
Read more →If only hot water is brown, the inside of your water heater tank is rusting – flushing may help, but a rusting tank is near the end of its life. If both hot and cold are …
Read more →The dip tube sends cold water to the bottom of the tank. If it breaks, cold water mixes at the top and you get lukewarm water after a few minutes. It's a cheap part and a…
Read more →Insulate pipes in crawl spaces, garages and exterior walls. Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor spigots. Keep the thermostat at 55°F or higher even when away, an…
Read more →Plumbing emergencies rarely happen at convenient times. Look for a plumber who answers the phone 24/7 and can give you a real arrival window, not 'sometime tomorrow'.…
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