Q: What should I do if a pipe breaks?
A: Once a pipe freezes and breaks, you run the risk that it will flood your home once the ice thaws. To prevent this, you should urn off the water at the main shut-off valve. If your main valve does nto work, contact your local public works department and request that they shut off your water at the street level.

Q: Is there a way to thaw a frozen pipe?
A: You can try to use a blow dryer or electric spot heater. Never use an open flame to thaw pipes as this may damage the pipe or even start a fire.

Q: What's the best way to prevent pipes from freezing?
A: Wrap and insulated exposed pipes. You may also want to open a faucet and let it drip to keep the water pressure from building up inside the pipe. Open only the faucets connected to pipes you believe are most vulnerable (i.e., those that are unheated or uninsulated). At times when it is exceptionally cold, you can open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around the pipes.

Q: How do I stop water from flooding the floor if my water heater is leaking?
A: First you should turn off the water to your water heater using the shut-off valve for the heater. If you have an electric hot water heater, you should turn off the power to the heater at the electric panel. Make sure all of your hot water faucets are turned off to avoid letting air into the system. You can also drain water from the tank.

Q: I have a small water spot in the center of my ceiling, but it is not near any water sources. Where did this come from?
A: When water leaks into a ceiling, it travels until it reaches a low point and then pools up and comes through the sheetrock. The actual leak could be quite a distance from the water spot.

Q: How often should I have my septic system inspected?
A: Your septic system should be inspected and pumped every three to four years.

Q: My drain seems to be very slow to drain. Why has it slowed down?
A: You should have your drain cleaned to remove the build up of soap scum, grease, hair and other elements.