AlyssaAre you new to owning a home? We’ve partnered with Shafer Services Plus to compile a cheat sheet of plumbing and HVAC tips that every homeowner should know. Shafer Services Plus has been serving San Antonio since 1884 and is a leader in building and servicing San Antonio’s public and private heating, cooling and plumbing framework. Shafer has taken care of The Alamo, Tower of the Americas, Witte Museum, and thousands of local homes! Here are some simple tips that will help you as a homeowner.
Know Where Your Main Water Shutoff Valve is Located
Leaks are one of the most costly emergencies that can damage your home. If one occurs, you’ll need to shut off your water supply immediately. In San Antonio, your shutoff is usually outside as part of the water meter. If you can’t turn it off by hand, a wrench will help. What happens if you’re not home? Thankfully leak detection systems can be installed to sense leaks, automatically shut off your water supply, and notify you.
How to Clear a Slow Drain
Did you know drain-clearing products like Draino can damage your pipes? If your bathroom drain is slow, try pulling out any accumulated hair, which is often a source of obstruction, with a hand snake, coat hanger, or plunger. Then, pour warm water mixed with about a half cup of vinegar down the drain to clear everything out.
Be Aware of What You Put Down the Kitchen Sink
Rice, eggshells, coffee grounds, grease, and oils are big no-no’s for your kitchen sink. To keep these items out, use a small strainer that covers the drain.
Drain and Inspect Your Water Heater Once a Year
This helps remove sediment that builds up over time and causes clogs.
How to Find Out If Your Toilet is Leaking
Does your toilet sound like it’s been running non-stop? If the answer is yes, open the tank and add a few drops of food coloring. If the color appears in the bowl during the next 30 minutes, you have a leak.
Change HVAC Air Filters
One of the simplest, most effective ways to keep your HVAC running efficiently and at peak performance is to change your air filter every one to six months depending on your model.
Don’t Neglect Your Outdoor HVAC System
Maintaining landscaping around your HVAC unit does more than making your yard look beautiful, it helps your HVAC system perform well and have proper airflow. Shrubs, trees, plants, and other foliage should be about three feet away from the unit. As leaves fall on and around the unit, clear them away.
Don’t Close Your Vents (it doesn’t save you money)
Closing vents in less-used rooms actually increases your energy costs because your system will have to work harder to maintain the comfort levels in your home. If you only want to heat or cool certain areas of your home, talk to an HVAC expert about creating different zones.
More helpful tips can be found on Shafer Service’s blog at www.shaferservices.com. Should you need an expert to come to your house, Shafer Services Plus is on hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Shafer also provides you with multiple solutions to fit your budget.
P.S. We are giving away a Pro Plus Advantage Plan (nearly $1,000 value!) and an amazing, Shafer gift basket. Visit our Instagram page to enter!
This blog post was sponsored by Shafer Services Plus.