Plumbing Hints

Nations Home Warranty

Galvanized pipes have a coating on the inside that protects them from rusting. Over time harsh drain cleaners will eat away the coating and eventually the pipe itself. 

Fix a slow drain: pour in 1/2 cup of baking soda, add 1/2 cup white vinegar and follow with a pot of hot water when it stops bubbling.

Tubs and showers should be fitted with strainers that catch hair and soap chips. Clean the strainers regularly. 

Garbage Disposal:

• No bones and always use cold water
• Use small pieces of citrus fruits to freshen
• Though ice does not sharpen the blades as commonly mistaken, it does knock off debris and keeps it cleaner.
• Freeze lemon juice and grind small pieces in the garbage disposal – smells good and disinfects, too.

In a plumbing emergency, you’ll need to stop the flow of water quickly. To do this, you and each member of your family need to know the location of the shutoff valve for every fixture and appliance, as well as the main shutoff valve for the house, and how they operate. Operate these valves at least once a year to prevent seizing.

Souce: Sharon Harrison, Nations Home Warranty

About Tom Branch

Tom Branch has written 597 posts in this blog.


Have you ever just met someone, but felt you like you'd known him for years? That's what most people experience with Tom. He has a knack for making folks feel right at home. After 21 years in the Air Force, loyalty and honesty are the foundation of everything Tom does. In addition to being a Texas Real Estate Broker, Tom is a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) and a Short Sales & Foreclosure Resource (SFR).