Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is My Water Pressure So Low?
Low water pressure can be caused by several factors, including clogged pipes, a faulty pressure regulator, mineral buildup, or hidden leaks. It’s especially common in older homes with outdated plumbing. If you're noticing consistently low water pressure throughout your house, it’s best to have a professional plumber inspect the issue and identify the root cause.
What Should I Do if I Have a Burst Pipe?
A burst pipe is a plumbing emergency. First, shut off your main water supply to prevent further damage. Then, turn off electrical appliances in the affected area and call a licensed plumber immediately. If safe, try to contain the leak with towels or buckets and document any water damage for insurance purposes.
How Can I Prevent My Drains From Clogging?
To avoid clogged drains, never pour grease or oil down your kitchen sink. Use a drain strainer to catch hair and debris in the bathroom. Regularly flush your drains with hot water, baking soda, and vinegar to help clear minor buildup. For long-term prevention, consider scheduling annual professional drain cleaning.
When Should I Replace My Water Heater?
Most water heaters last 8–12 years. Signs it's time to replace yours include inconsistent hot water, rumbling noises, rusty water, or visible leaks. Newer models are more energy-efficient and can save you money on utility bills over time. A licensed plumber can help assess if a repair or replacement is best.
When Should I Replace My Toilet?
When updating the plumbing fixtures around your house, you might overlook the toilet. However, it’s important to be aware of symptoms that can indicate it needs to be replaced. Some signs to watch for are if it starts to clog more often, if it’s using more water than it needs to, if there are cracks in the unit, and if it’s showing signs of aging.
How Do I Keep My Garbage Disposal Running Properly?
To prevent your garbage disposal from clogging and malfunctioning, it’s important to keep it properly maintained. This can include not putting hard food, starchy items and stringy foods down the disposal. You should also run water down the drain when you’re using it, and grind up ice once a week to keep the blades sharp. You can also remove bad odors with lemons to keep it smelling fresh.
How Do I Prevent Hair From Clogging My Shower Drain?
Do you need to frequently remove hair blockages from your shower drain? There’s an easier solution than pulling out hair clumps all the time - you can install a screen over the drain. This collects the hair before it goes into the pipe. Just clean it out every couple of weeks to keep the water flowing properly.
When you need plumbing or HVAC services, call Hancock & Son Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning at 410-749-1000 for repairs in Salisbury, MD. We are locally owned and operated!
