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The best homemade drain cleaner is baking soda. Baking soda can be used along with vinegar or lemon juice to create a strong and effective homemade drain cleaner that is safe for your home’s pipes.

To unclog your drains using baking soda and vinegar or lemon juice, pour one cup of baking soda then one cup of white vinegar or lemon juice down the drain. Allow this to sit for an hour then pour down a few cups of boiling water. If this doesn’t work the first time, repeat as necessary.

If your homemade drain cleaner isn’t working, call an experienced provider of drain cleaning plumbers near you to take a look. A professional plumber will be able to determine what is causing the clogged drain and how to fix it.

In colder climates, water inside the pipes can freeze. When water freezes, it expands, which can cause the pipe to crack or burst. This is especially common if the pipes are not properly insulated or if there are sudden drops in temperature.

Unfortunately, hot water heaters don’t last forever. On average, a traditional hot water heater will last about 8 to 10 years in Leduc. However, as this is based on the average lifespan, your tank may last only 7 years or it could last 11 or more with proper care and maintenance. The lifespan of a unit will depend on several factors including location, the type of water tank, water quality, the quality of installation, and how it is maintained. You can ensure that your hot water heater lasts as long as possible by scheduling regular hot water tank maintenance to ensure that it is in top working condition. Leduc plumbing services companies can help by providing Service Partner Plans and scheduled yearly water heater maintenance.

Installing a water softener doesn’t take too long when a professional technician is completing the installation. As long as no unforeseen setbacks or problems are encountered, a professional plumber should be able to install a water softener in about two to three hours. Choosing to have your water softener installed by an expert is a good idea, as this will ensure that it is installed and working properly, helping to prevent problems down the road. In addition, water softeners are available in various makes and models and an experienced technician can help you find the best system for your home and your family.

There are several preventive measures you can take:

• Insulate your pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, garages, and crawl spaces.
• Keep your home’s thermostat set to a consistent temperature, even at night and when you’re away.
• Allow faucets to drip slightly during extremely cold spells to keep water flowing.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

There are several common signs that your hot water tank may stop working. Consider calling a water heater services company to take a look at and repair or replace your unit if: 

1. Your unit is getting old. The average water heater will last 8 to 10 years. 
2. Your water smells or is discoloured. For example, if the water looks rusty the unit may be corroding. 
3. You hear loud noises coming from your hot water heater. Loud popping or crackling sounds can mean sediment has built up in the tank.
4. Your tank is leaking or you notice water around the water heater.
5. Your hot water tank no longer provides enough hot water.
6. The water pressure has gone down and is not sufficient.

The amount of time it takes to get hot water from a new water heater depends on the size and type of hot water heater. A properly and professionally installed gas hot water heater will provide hot water most quickly. An average 40-gallon heater will only take about 30 to 40 minutes to provide heat water, while you can expect hot water from a larger tank (80-gallons) in approximately 60 to 70 minutes. Electric hot water tanks, on the other hand, will take a little longer. For an average 40-gallon electric heater it will take about 60 to 80 minutes and for an 80-gallon tank about 2 hours.

The time it takes to repair a burst pipe can vary based on the location and severity of the break. A simple repair might take a few hours, while more complex situations could require several days. Water damage restoration, depending on the extent of the damage, can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. It’s crucial to address water damage promptly to prevent mold growth and further structural issues.

Remember, in the event of a burst pipe, it’s essential to act quickly to minimize damage and ensure the safety of everyone in the home.