As a homeowner and a plumber specializing in new construction for two decades at the time, my experiences had predominantly revolved around the excitement of new builds and the intricacies of commercial projects. Little did I know, a late-night emergency would not only test my limits but also offer a profound lesson in the realms of home maintenance and the unforeseen value of professional intervention. This narrative isn't just about a personal misadventure with a backed-up drain; it's a journey through recognizing the signs of potential home disasters and understanding when and how to call upon professional
help. From my unexpected crisis to the essential maintenance tips every homeowner should know, I invite you to explore the insights gleaned from a night that started with laundry and ended with lessons in plumbing, preparedness, and the unforeseen cost of neglecting routine
maintenance.
The Incident
Late one night, I went downstairs to do laundry halfway down the stairs, I noticed a smell; it caught me by surprise. As I turned the corner with a slight sinking feeling in my stomach, what I saw was very disturbing, and at the same time, a sense of exhaustion came over me. My laundry room was now a pond of dark gray water, almost black, with white soaking wet tissue everywhere. I knew exactly what had happened: my main house drain was backed up—the sewer. My first thought was,
*CRAP *
Following my profound first thoughts, I immediately realized I, in all my plumbing experience, had never cleared a drain. Not only that, but I owned no cleaning equipment. I needed a professional. I am a professional! Not this kind, though; I needed help.
Calling in the Pro
Hey!... I work for a plumbing company with a twenty-four-hour service department. So I made the call. That sinking feeling came back; what are my work buddies going to think about me having to call a plumber to fix my problem? I prided myself on being a good tradesman, but this was beyond me. Michael Jackson answered my call; he was the on-call
plumber that week. Not the Pop sensation. He was a slender white male, approximately fifty years old, a service professional, very good at what he does. Saving homeowners in their worst plumbing moments and restoring peace in the home. He immediately quoted pricing, Wow! No favors. $330.00 just to come out after hours plus the drain cleaning fee. Long story short, Michael was a very experienced technician, and it still took over three hours and several specialty tools to clear the drain.
It was an expensive night.
Lessons Learned
Reflecting on a Late Friday Night Disaster: Key Home Maintenance Lessons
The unexpected ordeal I faced taught me several invaluable lessons
about homeownership and the preventive measures that can
significantly avert potential crises. Here are the insights and practical
tips I've gathered, structured to help you navigate home maintenance
more effectively:
1. Embrace Scheduled Maintenance:
Regular check-ups aren't just for healthcare; they're crucial for your home's health too. Staying on top of scheduled maintenance tasks can prolong the lifespan of essential systems and prevent unexpected disasters.
Heating and Cooling Systems: Regularly change your furnace filters to boost efficiency and extend the system's life. Filters are typically located near the furnace, and changing them monthly is advisable. Set a monthly reminder on your phone as a prompt.
2. Pay Attention to Exteriors:
Paint and Roofing: Keep an eye out for chipping paint, bare spots, and roofing issues. These can be early signs of bigger problems. Addressing these early can save costly repairs down the line. For roof inspections or repairs, always consult a professional to ensure safety and quality work.
3. Manage Vegetation Thoughtfully:
Large trees near your home, especially those close to sewer lines, can cause significant issues, such as plumbing backups. Consider the potential risks of root infiltration and consult with professionals about tree removal when necessary.
4. Ensure Easy Access for Maintenance and Emergencies:
Plumbing: Knowing the location and depth of your septic tank, as well as raising the septic lid to grade for easy access, can save time and money during service calls.
Utilities: Familiarize yourself with the main water shutoff, whether your water heater is gas or electric, and where to find the breaker panel or gas shutoff. An A-9 valve on the gas meter allows technicians to quickly restore gas service after repairs, underscoring the value of knowing your home's utility setup.
Conclusion:
Preventative measures and a bit of knowledge go a long way in averting home maintenance disasters. While embracing DIY for some tasks is beneficial, recognizing when to call in professionals is equally important. For those moments when expert intervention is necessary, choose a trusted service provider who values your home as much as you do, such
as Glenrose Service. By taking these lessons to heart, you can protect your home, ensure its efficient operation, and enjoy peace of mind knowing you're prepared for whatever comes your way.
P.S. Spring Alert: A Pro Tip to Save You Over $500 in Plumbing Repairs and Avoid Potential Water Damage
As spring approaches and we eagerly anticipate using our outdoor hose faucets, a word of caution is warranted. Before you turn that tap, take a moment to ensure you're not about to unleash the aftermath of winter's freeze. Frozen pipes can sneakily thaw, leading to potential leaks or bursts that were lying in wait. Here’s how to proceed safely and avoid an
expensive surprise:
Inspect Before You Activate: Before using your hose faucets for the first time post-winter, visually inspect the area for any signs of damage or leaks.
Listen Carefully: As you gently turn on the water, listen for any unusual sounds that might indicate a leak within the walls, such as dripping or running water when all taps are supposed to be off.
Check for Leaks: Keep an eye on the faucet and connected pipes for a few minutes after turning the water on. Any leaks, however small, can indicate a problem.
Proceed With Caution: If you discover any leaks or damage, turn off the water supply to that faucet immediately and consult a professional plumber. Addressing the issue early can prevent more extensive and costly damage down the line.
By approaching your springtime preparations with this level of caution, you can potentially save yourself from incurring significant plumbing repair costs and avoid water damage to your home. Stay vigilant and enjoy the warming weather without worry!
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