10 Essential Plumbing Tips Every Burlington Homeowner Should Know

As New England's weather constantly challenges our home's plumbing systems, knowing these essential tips can save you from costly repairs and emergency calls. At Kirkland and Shaw Plumbing and Heating, we've served Burlington and surrounding communities for years, and we're sharing our expert knowledge to help you maintain your home's plumbing system.

Prevent Frozen Pipe Disasters

Living in Burlington means dealing with harsh winters. Protect your pipes by:

• Insulating exposed pipes in unheated areas
• Keeping your home heated to at least 55°F, even when away
• Opening cabinet doors under sinks during extreme cold spells
• Letting faucets drip during severe cold snaps

Know Your Main Water Valve

Every Burlington homeowner should locate their main water shutoff valve immediately. This valve is typically in your basement or where the main water line enters your home. Being able to quickly shut off your water during an emergency can prevent extensive water damage.

Water Heater Maintenance

Signs You Need Water Heater Replacement:

• Age over 10 years
• Rusty or discolored water
• Strange noises from the tank
• Inconsistent heating
• Visible leaks

Smart Drain Practices

Keep Your Drains Healthy:

• Never pour grease down kitchen drains
• Use strainers in all sinks
• Avoid chemical drain cleaners
• Run cold water while using garbage disposals

Winter Preparation

Before Cold Weather Hits:

• Remove and store outdoor hoses
• Close outdoor hose bibs
• Check for drafts around pipes
• Schedule a heating system inspection

Toilet Maintenance

Prevent costly repairs by:

• Only flushing toilet paper
• Avoiding "flushable" wipes
• Checking for silent leaks with food coloring
• Replacing old flappers when needed

Watch Your Water Pressure

High water pressure can damage appliances and pipes. Install a pressure reducer if your pressure exceeds 80 PSI.

Regular Inspections Matter

Schedule annual plumbing inspections to catch small issues before they become major problems.

Energy Efficiency Tips

• Install low-flow fixtures
• Fix leaky faucets promptly
• Consider tankless water heater options
• Insulate hot water pipes

When to Call a Professional

Contact Kirkland and Shaw at (781) 272-2670 when you notice:

• Multiple slow drains
• Unusual plumbing sounds
• Water heater issues
• No hot water
• Frozen pipes
• Sewer line problems

Our experienced team provides comprehensive plumbing and heating services throughout Burlington and surrounding communities. From routine maintenance to complete system installations, we're here to keep your home's plumbing running smoothly. Need professional plumbing or heating service? Contact Kirkland and Shaw Plumbing and Heating at (781) 272-2670 for expert assistance with all your plumbing and heating needs.