With the cooler weather on the way, is your home in order? You may have had cause to wonder about some odd noises from the water heater or a drain that is not as quick as it should be. Then there is the matter of your outdoor plumbing and when was the last time it was given an once over ahead of the rains?
We at Red’s On Time Plumbing are used to fielding such questions from homeowners here on the Central Coast; we have been doing so since 1982. Being a family firm with more than one generation involved, and fully licensed and insured, we have a good sense of what the season will do to homes in our part of the country. We put in time serving Atascadero, San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles and environs. Should you wish to discuss a concern, give us a ring at (805) 669-2706.
There is no better time than fall on the Central Coast to nip small things in the bud. Some tips to put you in good shape follow.
Check Your Water Heater Before You Have To
Your water heater will be under more of a strain as the mercury falls. One that has been unobtrusive through the summer can begin to show its years when the demand is on. It is prudent to turn your attention to it this season.
A couple of items to consider:
- Any rumbling or popping is likely sediment in the tank
- Inspect the base for moisture or a leak
- See how long hot water takes to come on at the faucet
- Verify the temperature is set to something sensible, 120 degrees or so
- Fittings and connections should be free of rust or corrosion
If the unit is of a certain vintage or not performing, you would rather find out now and not be without hot water on a chilly morning. We do our share of servicing and replacing water heaters on the Central Coast.
Get Your Drains in Order for the Holidays
You will be cooking more as fall gives way to the year’s busiest season. The kitchen drains are hard put to it when you have guests and the meals are larger. A slow drain will not improve with that sort of traffic.
Some simple habits are worth it:
- Do not put grease or oil in the sink, it will clog your pipes
- Use the garbage disposal with plenty of water
- Coffee grounds, fibrous peels and food scraps should not go down the drain
- Be on the alert for any water backing up in the tub or sink
- For persistent slowness, a professional cleaning is in order
When basic measures will not dislodge a clog, let us do the job and spare you the trouble. We provide drain cleaning for commercial and residential clients in the region.
Make Ready for the Rain
The wetter side of the Central Coast comes with the cold months. Your sewer lines and outdoor plumbing ought to be examined before it starts to rain.
- Put the garden hoses away to leave the outdoor faucets open
- Look for a drip or two at the spigots
- See if there is standing water by the foundation or drainage in the yard is sluggish
- Tree roots have a way of making their way into sewer lines and causing a backup
- Gurgling from the toilet or a number of slow drains are telltale signs of a problem with the sewer line
All too often these problems are not apparent until they are an emergency. An inspection is called for if you have any doubts. We can put you at ease as to what is going on underground.
Gas Lines and Water Quality
Heating use will pick up, so the safety of your gas lines is of some importance. Smell gas or think there is a leak and make a call, we can inspect the connections.
Then there is the question of water treatment. Hard water is not uncommon on the Central Coast and can be a nuisance to your appliances and fixtures. If you are in any mind about whether it is worthwhile for your home, we can have a word about it.
We Are Here for You
Our emergency hours mean you can count on Red’s On Time Plumbing day or night for an urgent repair. We are among the few in the area to extend free estimates and stand behind transparent pricing. For those who need it, HCP provides financing with installment options. We are BBB certified with an A+ rating.
Do not let a minor matter get out of hand this fall. Call us at (805) 669-2706 and our family will see to yours.