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Plumbing problems can end up causing major damage to your home. While some plumbing issues can occur suddenly due to factors beyond your control, you can take steps to reduce the risk of a few common plumbing problems. Keep the following tips in mind to help keep your home plumbing issues to a minimum.
Clogs are among the more common plumbing problems you may experience. When a clogged toilet or drain isn’t dealt with, it can lead to serious leaks or water damage. You can prevent clogged toilets and drains by restricting what you flush into the system. For instance, avoid flushing wipes down the toilet, even if they’re labeled as “flushable.” Wipes generally do not break up the same way toilet paper does. Try to keep larger items from falling into shower and sink drains, and consistently remove hair and other debris from around the drains, so they don't have the chance to accumulate in the drainpipe.
Leaks are one of the more serious plumbing problems that homeowners encounter. Even a minor leak can end up causing severe damage when it goes unnoticed. While faucets can develop leaks as they deteriorate over time, you can reduce wear and tear by carefully and slowly turning the handles on and off. Pipe leaks can be hard to prevent altogether, routinely check for signs of potential leaks. These include a buildup of moisture on pipes or rusty areas. If you suspect you have a pipe leak, consult with a plumber about repairs as soon as possible to prevent a larger issue from developing.
Toilets that run constantly can indicate a leak or other problem with the interior components is present. This kind of plumbing problem can be tough to prevent entirely. However, checking your toilet mechanism on a regular basis or testing for leaks using food coloring in the tank can ensure that you catch issues early on. Your toilets may need something as minor as untangling the chain that connects to the flapper valve, to work again properly.
Problems with your water heater might include a lack of hot water or water that isn’t getting hot enough for showers and other household uses. Water heaters can develop problems over time due to damage, deterioration, a mineral buildup or other problems. Inspecting the pressure valve, flushing the tank from time to time and doing other maintenance checks can help lower the risk of these problems.
Terese Ferrara is a long-time resident of the Bay Area and has been a partner with The Goss Real Estate Group for many years. She and her husband raised their two daughters in San Jose, where she successfully continues to build her real estate career.
After earning a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University, she went on to teach in the San Jose Unified School District for 9 years. Transitioning to real estate was a logical choice, utilizing her patient demeanor to educate all levels of buyers and sellers. Knowledge and experience demonstrate her vested interest in delivering the highest level of care and professionalism to every client. She consistently strives to exceed her client’s expectations throughout the entire real estate transaction and remains a trusted advisor long after each close.
As a board member on KW Bay Area Estates’ Associate Leadership Council (ALC), she aids in support of culture and professional development strategies for over 180 associates. Terese is also a Director for the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors Foundation, which supports community service initiatives in Silicon Valley.
Terese is the consummate real estate professional dedicated to providing unparalleled service to her clients through ongoing training and education, keeping her on top of the dynamic market and latest real estate trends. Her high-touch approach coupled with honesty and integrity support her commitment to her client’s real estate needs.
