Emergency plumbing jobs can be quite expensive. Forbes says plumbers may charge anywhere from $100 to $500 (CAD 135 to CAD 670) per hour for such jobs, and some add fees of hundreds of dollars if you need emergency work at night or during the weekend.

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Luckily for homeowners, regular plumbing maintenance can help reduce the chance of expensive emergencies arising. Here are the top benefits of plumbing maintenance.

1. Better Water Pressure

Plumbing system maintenance can keep all the inner workings of your home’s waterways clear and clean.  When everything is working well — from supply pipes to showerheads — your water pressure tends to be higher than it is when things aren’t working well.

General plumbing maintenance that supports good water pressure provides a number of benefits for your household, including:

• Better quality of life. Relaxing in a shower with the right water pressure offers an experience that is better than taking a shower without good water pressure. It provides massage relief for your muscles and can help you rinse your body and hair better.
• Time savings. Better water pressure means you’re not waiting around for the tub to fill or for a pot of water to boil the spaghetti in.
• Cleaner dishes. More water pressure can make it easier to clean dishes, especially if you’re tackling manual dishwashing jobs.

2. Fewer Leaks

When it comes to plumbing and maintenance, a major benefit is a reduction in leaks. When you check your systems regularly, you can identify weak points or issues and correct them before water starts seeping through from pipes or fixtures.

Plumbing maintenance also ensures that you find those small leaks before they become big leaks. That can mean a small inconvenience and expenses rather than a big problem, such as mold growing under your floors or structural problems because water has weakened beams or flooring.

3. Reduce Utility Costs

A top plumbing maintenance tip for homeowners is to get their systems checked regularly. This can help you reduce your utility costs by finding and stopping small leaks. Even a small leak can mean you’re using many gallons of water you wouldn’t otherwise use, resulting in potentially hundreds of dollars in utility costs every year.

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4. Safer, Healthier Water and Home

When your plumbing is in good repair, your water is generally safer. For example, if any of your pipes are corroded or damaged, pollutants and chemicals could be making their way into your water without you knowing it. That can present both short-term and long-term health hazards for your family.

If your fixtures or pipes are leaking, even a little bit, it can result in mildew and mold growth. This can occur inside your walls, beneath flooring and in other areas that you can’t see and may not know about. Over time, mold and mildew can create a toxic environment in your home that is disastrous for your health. If the problem gets bad enough, you may not be able to correct it and may have to leave your home. However, some plumbing preventative maintenance can keep you from ending up with such results.

5. Reduced Chance of Emergency Repairs

Finally, as previously mentioned, plumbing maintenance substantially reduces your chances of needing emergency repairs. This can save you a lot of money, but it also provides peace of mind. You can live your life, invite friends and family over and know that your plumbing is likely to hold up to whatever you throw at it.

Should You DIY Plumbing Maintenance?

If you have some basic understanding of plumbing and are fairly handy, you can do some plumbing maintenance yourself. For example, you can check for leaks around your fixtures or install a new faucet in the bathroom. However, it’s typically a good idea to call on a professional to handle larger maintenance and repairs.

If you buy new plumbing fixtures, such as a shower, bathtub or water heater, ask about maintenance and warranty plans so you know what’s covered. Consider investing in a plan to cover plumbing services, especially if they include seasonal inspections.

Your dishwasher saves you time and gives your dishes a squeaky-clean finish that’s hard to match when washing by hand. But what do you do when your dishwasher isn’t performing the way it should?

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The last thing you want when you have a mountain of dishes in the sink or guests coming over is a faulty dishwasher. Fortunately, performing some routine maintenance can help reduce the chances of the most common issues, and it can even extend the life of your machine.

Common Dishwasher Problems

These dishwasher issues can be prevented with a few simple maintenance steps:

• Dishwasher not draining or draining slowly
• Water leaks
• Spots on dishes
• Bad odor
• Poor water pressure
• Broken racks

Regular Dishwasher Maintenance Tasks

Check out these five tips for maintaining a well-running dishwasher.

1. Scrape Your Dishes Before Loading Them

Dishwasher quality has improved over the last several decades, so it’s no longer necessary to “pre-wash” your dishes before loading them. However, scraping large or loose food particles from your dishes can help prolong the life of your dishwasher and prevent a variety of issues.

To determine if this is an issue for you, look for:

• Trapped food particles or grease. This can leave your dishwasher drain clogged.
• Spray nozzles that are blocked. This reduces the pressurized water coverage on your dish loads and affects cleaning performance.
• Food and grease lodged in the crevices of your dishwasher. This debris can decompose and create a foul smell.

2. Check Your Hoses and Gaskets

The hoses and gaskets are an often overlooked area of dishwasher maintenance. If they’re degraded, you could find yourself with a leaky machine that causes damage to your floors. It’s important to look over any of your seals and connections to make sure there are no splits in your lines, that hoses are connected securely and gaskets are still intact and pliable.

Signs of a damaged hose or gasket include:

• Hard water deposits at hose connection sites. This presents as a chalky white substance on the edge of your hose and connectors.
• Signs of water damage below or behind your dishwasher. These could be indications that leaks are occurring regularly, and you will need to find the source.
• Leaking or pooling water at the front of your dishwasher. This can be a sign of a worn door seal.

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3. Clean Mineral Deposits

Unless you have a water softener, the water that runs through your dishwasher is carrying a variety of minerals that may harden to create limescale within your dishwasher. Limescale builds on itself, so these deposits can easily clog spray nozzles and hoses, reducing water flow through the entire system. It can also put extra wear on your hoses and gaskets, reducing their flexibility and making them less effective.

A good water softener is the best preventative measure, but you can also run a vinegar cycle through your dishwasher to reduce limescale buildup and scrub at the deposits you can see. This is also effective for eliminating mold and mildew.

You may have limescale issues if:

• Your dishes come out with hard water spots.
• Your dishes are coming out dirty. Check the spray arm and nozzles for mineral deposits from your water. Take a safety pin and gently clear the debris from the nozzles.
• You see a white, chalky substance along the edges of your door seal. Clean this regularly to maintain the integrity of the seal.
• Your dishwasher is not draining completely. Limescale can also build up inside pipes and hoses, slowing wastewater outflow.

4. Check the Coating on the Dish Rack Tines

Some dishwasher racks are made of metal and coated in plastic to protect them from rusting. Any chips or cracks in this coating allow water inside to the metal and should be addressed immediately.

To see if your racks need to be resealed, look for:

• Silver or dark spots or lines along the rack wires. Coatings are usually done in light colors to make it easier for you to see any damage.
• Rough or uneven spots in the smooth coating, possibly indicating a new crack or worn area.

5. Clean Your Screen Regularly

Most dishwashers have a screen installed to catch loose silverware, broken glass bits and large food particles to protect hoses and pipes from being clogged. It’s important to check this screen to ensure it is clear to allow easy flow when your dishwasher drains.

Possible indicators it’s time for your screen to be cleaned include:

• A bad odor. This may be coming from rotting food trapped in the screen.
• Slow drainage. Limescale on the screen can cause this.

Dishwasher Maintenance Improves the Life of Your Machine

Performing routine maintenance tasks is the best way to maximize the lifespan of your dishwasher and ensure optimal performance through every cycle. Although your dishwasher isn’t going to last forever, it’s important you can count on it to clean your dishes well without causing damage to your floors or plumbing. Taking the time to go through these maintenance actions is the easiest and most cost-effective way to get the most from your machine.

Have you ever gone to make yourself a snack or grab a drink from the fridge only to open the door to a soggy mess? You notice drips of water on the shelves. There’s condensation in and around the bottom of the fridge.

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You may be worried your appliance is on the fritz. However, a refrigerator sweating usually isn’t as serious as it looks.

Why Is There Condensation in My Fridge?

A small amount of refrigerator sweating is normal. Warmer air from outside the fridge creates moisture on the inside. When the moist air meets the cold shelves and the inside of the door, that moisture turns into water. If you have a large family and the door is open and shut frequently, it can lead to a humid refrigerator and items in the refrigerator sweating. There are other reasons you may notice moisture inside your fridge:

• Poor door seals. Faulty door seals allow warm air to leak inside your fridge. This can lead to a buildup of condensation.
• Overloaded fridge. If your fridge is too full, the air can’t flow properly, which causes high humidity levels.
• Faulty thermostat. If you notice food isn’t as cold, or the temperature inside your fridge keeps rising, it could indicate a faulty thermostat.
• Hot climate. If you live in an area where it’s unusually warm, it’s more common to find a buildup of condensation inside your fridge.

How Do I Stop Condensation in My Fridge?

Once you understand why it’s happening, you may be able to stop your refrigerator sweating and prevent a repair call.

• Limit the number of times you open the door. When you do open the door, don’t stand with it open for extended periods while you try to find a snack.
• Examine the door seals to make sure they aren’t cracked or damaged. Worn-out seals can cause food to sweat in the refrigerator and make your fridge work harder. When your fridge works overtime, it can cause an increase in energy costs.
• Use a small outdoor thermometer to check the interior refrigerator temperature and adjust as needed. According to the USDA, the ideal temperature for the inside of your fridge is 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Clean out your fridge and throw away expired and unnecessary items. Organize the contents in a way that air can circulate freely between items.
• Avoid placing hot leftovers in the fridge. Allow the items to cool before putting them inside.

Why Is the Food in My Refrigerator Sweating?

If you have high levels of condensation on the inside of your fridge, you may notice that not only is your refrigerator sweating, but the food packages seem to sweat, too. It’s typically the same condensation effect causing this. When you place leftovers on a shelf, let them cool to room temperature first. If you place warm containers, it can cause moisture and then water to form. Also, wrap items carefully in foil or place them inside a plastic storage bag. Uncovered foods tend to release more humidity, which can result in sweating.

Some refrigerators have humidity control levels in certain drawers. Placing produce and other fresh food in high-humidity areas can sometimes lead to sweating.

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Why Is There Condensation Outside of My Fridge?

A refrigerator sweating on the inside tends to be more concerning than moisture on the outside. Occasionally, you may notice the outside of your fridge is wet to the touch, and here’s why.

• Door seals. Split, cracked or broken door seals can cause water inside and on the outside of the fridge.
• High-room humidity. If your kitchen is warm or humid, it can cause the exterior of the fridge to feel moist if the surface is much colder.
• Damaged insulation. Older refrigerators or ones with damaged insulation may allow cold air to leak. This can cause exterior moisture buildup.

How Do I Stop Condensation on the Outside of My Fridge?

A few simple adjustments to your fridge are usually all that’s needed to eliminate exterior moisture. Start by placing a portable dehumidifier near the fridge to reduce humidity in the room. Make sure there’s at least 1 inch of space between your fridge and surrounding walls for maximum airflow. Finally, open the doors and inspect the seals. If you notice any damage, replacing the seals can make a huge difference. If you think insulation may be a culprit, contact a professional to schedule a repair.

While it may seem that mold growth only happens in the summer when the weather is warm, that’s not exactly the case. The right conditions for mold can occur in any season, regardless of what the temperature is like outside. Cold weather can even create an ideal environment for mold growth in certain situations.

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Does Mold Grow During the Winter?

Mold can grow in the winter and just about any season or weather. As long as the right conditions are met in terms of excessive moisture and humid environments, mold will grow. Cold weather does not kill mold. All really cold temperatures do is cause the mold spores to become dormant. This means that when the temperature levels rise up again, the mold spores will begin to spread again. It’s best to prevent mold from growing in the first place, and that starts with maintenance before and when winter arrives.

There are even certain types of mold that can adapt to winter conditions and thrive. Cladosporium, Alternaria and Penicillium are common indoor molds that can appear in the winter.

Causes of Mold Growth

Poor Ventilation

A lack of sufficient ventilation is often the main cause of mold growth during the winter. Since most homeowners seal up their homes before winter arrives to try and keep the heat inside, this can have unintended consequences when there is a lack of adequate airflow.

High Humidity

If humidity levels rise dramatically in your home, it results in condensation on damp surfaces like the windows, bathrooms, attic, crawlspaces and basement. The longer the condensation stays in these areas, the higher the likelihood that mold will grow. Adding an exhaust fan to your kitchen and bathroom can help reduce condensation. You can also clean these areas and get rid of moisture routinely, but you’ll want to find the source of the condensation, which is more than likely the result of insufficient ventilation.

You might have windows and doors closed for a long period of time when it’s cold, which prevents fresh air from coming inside. Sometimes, there simply aren’t enough roof vents on the roof, preventing sufficient circulation and leading to mold in the attic. If you sense that your attic feels very hot or there is lots of condensation on your attic walls, it’s worth getting your attic and roof inspected by a professional who can determine if additional vents are needed.

Poor air circulation leads to high humidity levels and condensation on your walls, windows and pipes. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, you should keep the humidity levels in your home between 30 and 50 percent. You can prevent mold growth in the first place by ensuring that your house has a good ventilation system that keeps humidity and moisture levels at a minimum. A ventilation system can also safeguard your roof, extending its longevity.

Lack of Insulation

If your home insulation isn’t properly installed, it can block the soffit vents responsible for letting outside air inside. Too much insulation can also block attic vents and air ducts that transport air from the HVAC system around your house. This is a common issue with improperly installed insulation and can cause all sorts of other problems as well.

If you think your vents are blocked off, you can use a leaf blower to blow the air and try to push the insulation out or call a contractor to do it for you to prevent further issues.

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Leaky Roof

Roof leaks can happen at any time, and if the winter months in your area come with harsh storms or hail that can damage your shingles, it can lead to a breach. As water enters your attic, this excessive moisture can nurture mold growth along the walls, especially the insulation. Unfortunately, when this happens, your options are quite limited. You’ll need to call a roofer to inspect the roof, repair any leaks and assess any water damage in the attic.

If your insulation has received extensive water damage, you may also need to get it replaced. That’s why it’s often best to have a professional contractor inspect your roof and make sure it’s in good condition before winter arrives.

Drafty Windows

The roof isn’t the only place that can allow water to seep inside your home. Take a look at your windows and look for gaps or cracks. Leaky pipes or pipes with condensation can be sneaky places where mold appears, and they aren’t always the most noticeable since they’re often out of sight. Have a plumber inspect your pipes to check their condition. You can also install insulation around the pipes to reduce condensation.

If you find mold, you can kill it with a combination of water and bleach or vinegar. Just ensure that you identify the main source of its growth to fully get rid of it, or call a professional to come and take a look.

You might not give much thought to your water heater, but, like most things, water heaters get a lot more attention when they stop working properly. How can you tell if your water heater is having issues — even before something goes wrong?

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Beyond the obvious (your hot water isn’t working), there are actually quite a few signs your water heater is going out. Learn what these symptoms might mean for the health of your machine.

Broken Water Heater? Check For These 5 Common Problems:

Inconsistent Water Temperature

One way to know that your water heater is not working as it should is if you’re experiencing inconsistent water temperatures. Inconsistent water temperature could signal an issue with the thermostat, but it could also point toward a problem with the heating element, which is a bigger issue to address. However, if your water is not staying heated for long enough, it may mean that nothing is actually broken; you just need a bigger tank. If inconsistent heating continues to be an issue with your water heater, have a licensed plumber come out to inspect the situation further.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is another possible warning sign that your water heater is acting up. Although other factors can influence water pressure, if you notice the water pressure from your taps is lower than usual when the warm or hot water is running, the issue is likely with buildup in your water heater. Sediment collects inside the water heater over time, causing blockages and lower flow. To fix this issue, you could call in a plumber to either clean the supply lines or replace the pipe. If you have a newer model water heater, you might want a plumber to try cleaning and flushing the sediment from the pipes first to see if that fixes the problem.

Discolored Water

If your water starts to look murky or rusty, it may be a warning sign that your water heater is corroding. If a water heater tank begins to corrode, rust can build up pretty quickly, causing discolored water that doesn’t taste good. Although it’s likely not harmful, this rust can damage your appliances. Plus, no one wants rusty, murky water to shower or wash dishes with!

Before replacing the entire water heater, you can try replacing the anode rod and see if that solves the problem. Anode rods are steel wires that have other components — like magnesium and aluminum — that help prevent corrosion in standard tank water heaters. However, they typically wear out faster than the water heaters themselves, meaning you’ll probably need to replace your anode rod every three to five years, depending on your water quality and usage.

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Strange Noises

Water heaters make some noise as part of their regular functioning, but if you start hearing unusual sounds coming from your water heater, it may signal that your water heater needs some work. If you hear a rumbling or banging sound, you could have sediment buildup in your tank that needs to be flushed out. Excess sediment buildup can also cause a popping sound. In addition to flushing out your tank, replacing your anode rod might be in order.

A crackling or hissing sound, on the other hand, may indicate moisture buildup in a gas water heater. In an electric tank, it may mean something is obstructing the tank’s heating element. If this is the case, you may need to drain your tank or call a professional for further assistance.

Whistling or high-pitched screeching sounds (yikes!) are usually related to pressure adjustments in your tank. If they continue, you may want to double-check that your pressure valves and your temperature valves are adjusted properly. If you aren’t comfortable addressing this on your own, you can call in a technician to come take a look.

Eggy Smell

An eggy smell in your water is no fun, and it’s often a sign that your water heater is not working properly. Although other water issues, like sulfur bacteria in your water supply, can also cause your water to smell like eggs, if the issue is specific to your warm and hot water supply, then you can assume the problem stems from your water heater. Sulfur bacteria love the warm, wet conditions of a water heater tank. The bacteria can build up in your tank, causing that unpleasant rotten egg smell.

Although it doesn’t mean that your water heater is broken, an eggy smell is something you’ll want to remedy ASAP. To kill the sulfur bacteria, some people suggest shocking the tank with bleach. This can be a little tricky to do, so you may want to try raising the temperature of your tank temporarily instead to kill the bacteria. You can also try replacing your magnesium anode with one of a different material. Aluminum rods tend to produce less sulfide bacteria than magnesium rods, which might be helpful if your water is prone to developing that sulfur smell.

Broken Water Heater No More

If your water heater is exhibiting any of the warning signs above, it’s best to address them promptly to avoid bigger problems down the line. The good news is that many of these issues can be fixed without having to replace your water heater entirely, meaning you can get back to enjoying dependably hot showers again without breaking the bank.

The holidays are an exciting time of the year when people celebrate with friends and family, exchange gifts and spread cheer and positivity. However, the fast pace of holiday preparation can also lead to mishaps like falls from high places, Christmas tree fires and undercooked turkeys.

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Thankfully, many holiday accidents can be easily avoided by following safety measures, double-checking instructions and simply taking the time to slow down. Read on to learn more about common holiday accidents and how to avoid them this season.

What Are the Most Common Home Accidents That Happen Around the Holidays?

Accidents are fairly common during the festive season, with one of the main contributors being a rushed pace to ensure the house is decorated, presents are wrapped and food is prepared in time for the celebration. Here are some of the most common home accidents that occur during the holiday season:

Falls From High Places

Whether it’s your job each year to string the holiday lights along the roof edge or up the staircase, or you’re in charge of placing the star or angel on the top branch of the Christmas tree, falls are extremely common. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control, thousands of people experience falls each year due to holiday decorating from dangerous heights.

Slipping on Ice

For those who live in colder regions, snow and ice can lead to serious slip-and-fall accidents and ruin your holiday plans. Melting snow can drip down off roofs and gutters or freeze on the ground, creating slick patches of ice that people are often unaware of until it’s too late.

Fires Caused by Lights and Candles

The Consumer Product Safety Commission says fires caused by Christmas tree lights and holiday candles can lead to significant injuries and property damage costs during the holidays. These fires often occur when homeowners leave burning candles unattended during parties or throughout the evening to enhance the overall holiday ambiance. The combination of damaged holiday lights and dried-out tree needles can lead to sparks that ignite entire trees in a short period of time.

Cooking Accidents

Common cooking accidents that can happen during the holidays include kitchen fires due to leaving cooking food unattended on the stovetop, scalds and burns caused by fryers and food-borne illnesses from consuming undercooked food or food that’s been sitting out for too long without proper temperature control.

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How Can You Prevent Holiday-Related Accidents?

While holiday mishaps can sometimes happen through no fault of your own, taking safety precautions while decorating, cooking and even shoveling the front walk can significantly lower the chance of serious accidents occurring. Here are some tips to help you enjoy this holiday season while avoiding unfortunate incidents:

Take Precautions When Working at Height

When hanging holiday lights or placing the top decoration on the tree, designate someone to spot you by holding the ladder to keep it secure. If your roof is significantly high off the ground, consider wearing a safety harness for additional protection. It’s also important to wear nonslip shoes to prevent slipping as you climb the ladder and when you’re up on the roof.

De-Ice

If your front wall or driveway is prone to ice during the holiday season, you can help prevent slips and falls by applying ice melt or rock salt to ice patches to create traction while melting the ice. There are also non-chemical options, such as plain sand and mats made with non-skid materials, that can be placed on your walkways after snowfalls.

Prevent Fires

While holiday lights are beautiful when left on overnight, it’s important to check all light sockets for fire hazards such as frayed wires and broken bulbs. If you’d like to display your holiday lights into the late-night hours, consider using a timer so they shut off automatically.

Only use candles on stable surfaces that are resistant to heat and fire, and make sure to extinguish all flames before turning in for the night. If you’re buying a fake Christmas tree, purchase one that’s fire-retardant. If you’re using a natural tree, check the water level on a daily basis and replenish it when necessary.

Cook Carefully

To keep your kitchen safe during the holidays, never leave food cooking on the stovetop unattended, and be sure to check on anything baking in the oven on a frequent basis. If you’re deep-frying a turkey, set the fryer up outside and follow the instructions carefully to prevent oil overflows. To avoid food-borne illnesses, make sure that turkeys and other poultry reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). If you plan to set up food on a buffet table, use warmers to keep appetizers and other dishes warm and place cold items over trays of ice.

Thanksgiving and all its casseroles, meats and treats are notoriously hard on the pipes inside your body. But the holiday can also wreak havoc on the pipes inside your home — so much so that plumbers have a name for the abnormally high-call day after Thanksgiving: Brown Friday. (Ew!)

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Broken garbage disposals, backed-up showers and monster clogs in the kitchen sink are nothing to be thankful for. Keep these three tips in mind this holiday to prevent plumbing problems.

1. Skip the Garbage Disposal

Even in the best of times, your garbage disposal can get bound up by fibrous foods, such as celery, rhubarb, potato skins and onion peels. On Thanksgiving, the threat is only compounded by starchy leftovers like stuffing, rice, baked beans and mac ’n’ cheese. These expand when they get wet, creating a carby clog in your drain. In trying to dispose of a plentiful bounty of waste, you run the risk of overburdening your machine. This can lead to burnout (a concept many of us who are thankful for these few days off are all too familiar with) and a call to your plumber.

Your best bet is to treat your sink as if you don’t have a garbage disposal at all. In fact, don’t even tell your kind, dish-washing guests that you have one, lest they get any ideas. Instead, put a strainer in the drain to catch particles and empty scraps and leftovers straight into the trash can.

2. Remember: Oil and Water Don’t Mix

If you get nothing else from this, just please take away this essential piece of advice: Grease has no place in your drains.

Anything greasy — like frying oil, fat, meat drippings and melted butter — is only a true liquid while it’s hot. And during that state of matter, you might believe that it’s perfectly fine to pour it right down the drain. But, at some point, you’re going to run some cold water in the sink. This could cause that grease, which hasn’t made it all the way out of your plumbing system, to harden. Over time, it can clump together, creating an impenetrable ball of fat only a plumber can remove.

Wait for grease to cool before pouring it into an empty can or other disposable container. Then, dispose of it in the trash. If you’re worried about tossing too much liquid, you can freeze it first. If you have a large volume of frying oil, consider purchasing a grease disposal system or disposable grease bags.

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3. Keep Tabs on Your Guests’ Bathroom Habits

No matter if you have overnight guests for the better part of the week or some drifters blowing in and out for dinner and dessert, they’re going to need to use your bathroom. And at the risk of sounding like you’re trying to micromanage your guests’ hygiene routine, you’re going to want to set some ground rules.

Here’s what we suggest:

• Wait at least ten minutes between showers. This will give your drains time to clear and your water heater time to catch back up.
• The toilet is for toilet paper and human waste only. Everything else (cotton swabs, food, wrappers, face wipes, diapers, etc.) should find its way to the bathroom trashcan.
• Flushable wipes are — get this — not flushable. Despite the branding, they just don’t break down like toilet paper does. So, the TP-only rule stands.
• Let ’er drip! If you have certain faucets you keep dripping to avoid pipe freezing, let your guests know this is not a water-wasting oversight on your part.

Whether you type these up in an aggressive font and post the list opposite the toilet or just kindly ask your guests to respect your pipes is up to you — just make sure they know what’s up.

An Ounce of Prevention…

Of course, good plumbing maintenance year-round can lessen the shock to the system that is a houseful of guests and a kitchen full of food. But these tips should help you get through Brown Friday as uneventfully as possible.

And listen: Your local plumber (who’d like to enjoy their holiday, too, mind you) is practically begging you to heed this advice. And if you don’t? Well … At least they’ll get to collect sky-high emergency plumbing callout fees for services rendered on a holiday or the weekend. Your choice.

If you’ve ever experienced a sudden drop in water pressure or noticed strange odors or tastes in your hot water, it’s time to wonder if the water in your home is healthy. Water heaters are an essential part of most people’s homes, so they need to be maintained.

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However, over time, water heaters can suffer from sediment buildup and other contaminants that affect water quality and the heater’s efficiency. A crucial tool in the fight against poor water quality is the filter.

What Is a Water Heater Filter?

A water heater filter is a device designed to remove sediment, minerals and other impurities from the water supply before they enters your water heater. It’s primarily thanks to the filter that you can enjoy fresh water for showers and washing dishes. These filters help prevent scale buildup, improve water quality and prolong the life span of your heater. They typically come in the form of cartridges or filter systems installed on your heater’s incoming water line.

How Often Do You Need to Replace a Water Heater Filter?

Water heater filters typically need to be replaced every six to 12 months to maintain optimal performance. However, this timeframe can vary depending on factors such as water quality, usage and the type of filter installed. Regular replacement helps ensure efficient filtration, preventing sediment buildup and maintaining your water’s quality. Some high-capacity filters may last longer before needing replacement, but you should still monitor their condition regularly as there’s no guarantee of longevity. Keeping up with scheduled replacements ensures your water heater continues to deliver clean, high-quality hot water while prolonging its life span.

How Much Does a Water Heater Filter Cost?

The cost of a whole-house water heater filter can vary depending on factors such as the brand, type and features. Not including labor, you can expect to pay between $15 and $250 (CAD 21 and CAD 339), according to data from HomeGuide. This is an annual figure, as ideally, you should replace your filter every year to ensure optimum efficiency.

More Related Articles:

• Why Is My Tankless Water Heater Banging?
• How to Flush Your Tankless Water Heater: A 7-Step Guide
• A Tankless Job? Decide Whether a Tankless Water Heater Works for Your Home
• How to Install a Tankless Electric Water Heater: A 10-Step Guide
• How Much Does It Cost For a Tankless Water Heater?

Are There Different Kinds of Water Heater Filters?

Yes, there are several types of water heater filters available, each with its own set of features and benefits. Let’s look at the most common types, what makes them unique and their price ranges:

Sediment Filters

Sediment filters address a broad spectrum of impurities found in water, including sand, dirt and rust, effectively safeguarding your water heater from these damaging particles. With prices typically ranging from $15 to $65 (CAD 21 to CAD 88) for one to three units, sediment filters offer an affordable yet effective solution for improving water quality and protecting your water heating system.

Carbon Filters

Carbon filters have an exceptional ability to target specific contaminants, particularly chlorine, odors and organic compounds. Unlike sediment filters, which trap particles, carbon filters chemically absorb and neutralize impurities in the water. This unique filtration process not only enhances water clarity but also improves its taste and odor, resulting in a more enjoyable hot water experience. As with sediment filters, prices for one to three units typically range between $15 and $65 (CAD 21 and CAD 88).

Scale Inhibitors

Scale inhibitors, also known as phosphate filters, focus on preventing the accumulation of scale within the system. They target the mineral deposits responsible for scale buildup. The inhibitors utilize advanced technologies, such as polyphosphate treatment or reverse osmosis, to alter the chemistry of the water. This process effectively inhibits the formation of scale on heating elements and internal surfaces. Prices for scale inhibitors can vary considerably, but you should expect to pay in the region of $117 (CAD 159) for a system and around $73 (CAD 99) every time you need to replace the cartridge. Although costly, scale inhibitors can be invaluable over time, as they can prolong your water heater’s life span and its optimal performance.

All CAD conversions are based on the exchange rate on the date of publication.

When the summer heat sets in, every household has its own way of dealing with the oppressive temperatures. Some fire up the air conditioner or employ a fleet of fans. Others retreat to the much cooler basement and vow not to emerge until autumn arrives.

This May Also Interest You: No AC? No Sweat. Here’s How to Keep Cool

No matter how you choose to keep cool during the dog days, here’s everything you need to know about air conditioners, fans, dehumidifiers and more — all in one convenient spot.

Buying an Air Conditioner?

If you’re in the market for a new air conditioner, you probably have a few questions on your mind, the main one being how much it’s going to cost. On average, expect to pay between $5,000 and $12,000 for a new central air unit. Find more pricing information here. See also: What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

In your AC search, you may come across some acronyms you’re unfamiliar with. Here’s the crash course on SEER ratings (a metric of energy efficiency) and everything you need to know about British Thermal Units, a measurement of cooling power.

Not all the rooms or sections of your home may be ducted for central air conditioning. You can add a ductless mini split AC instead. If you’re a renter (or just want to cool a small space), try a floor-standing portable model or a window unit.

You can save yourself a chunk of change if you can repair your system instead of replacing it. Read more: Should I Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Air Conditioner Maintenance

Like any other HVAC system, your air conditioner needs some TLC in order to keep running properly. If you’d rather pay someone to do the work, check out our maintenance cost guide. Otherwise, keep these how-to guides handy when performing routine maintenance yourself:

• Got Central Air? Use This Top-to-Bottom Air Conditioner Maintenance Checklist
• How to Clean Your AC Filter in 7 Simple Steps
• Replacing Your HVAC Filter is a Breeze! Follow These 7 Steps
• How to Clean a Window AC Unit: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Clean an Air Conditioner

Dehumidifiers

Did you know that turning on your dehumidifier can help keep your home a little cooler? This is especially true if you live in a particularly muggy area. Here are five more reasons you need a dehumidifier.

Ceiling Fans

A cool breeze from up above is a great way to keep air moving in bedrooms and living areas, even if you don’t have an air conditioner. Whether you’re installing a new fan or trying to troubleshoot the one you’ve got, we’ve probably written about it. Here’s every article we have on ceiling fans:

• What’s the Span of Your Fan? Here’s How to Measure for a Ceiling Fan
• How to Install a Ceiling Fan
• How Much Does It Cost to Install a Ceiling Fan?
• Where There’s a Wobble, There’s a Way: How to Fix a Wobbly Ceiling Fan
• How to Wire a Ceiling Fan
• How to Remove a Ceiling Fan
• 4 Ways to Clean Your Ceiling Fan (No. 3 Is Pretty Clever)
• As the Seasons Change, So Should the Direction of Your Ceiling Fan
• Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans

Whether you live in the city, the suburbs or a rural area, there are trees that are going to need trimming — and not just at Christmastime. Tree trimming and removal is an important consideration, not just for aesthetic reasons but to protect people and property from serious harm. Neglecting proper tree maintenance can be dangerous — but so can doing it yourself without proper knowledge, skills and equipment.

This May Also Interest You: Basic Lawn Care and Maintenance Tips

Like anything involving your home’s electrical system or major plumbing systems, tree maintenance is one of those homeownership obligations you should consult an expert about before attempting yourself. Read on to learn all about what you can expect to pay for professional tree trimming and removal services.

Tree Trimming Prices

The average cost of having a tree trimmed is $420 (CAD 574), according to LawnLove. Generally, the price will range between $75 and $1,600 (CAD 103 and CAD 2,188).

Prices typically depend on the height of the tree. Trimming a tree less than 30 feet high costs between $100 and $430 (CAD 137 and CAD 588). For a tree that’s 30 to 60 feet tall, plan to spend $160 to $760 (CAD 219 to CAD 1,040), and $430 to $1,870 (CAD 588 to CAD 2,558) to trim a tree over 60 feet. Topping a tree (a controversial practice, we should point out) will cost $250 to $1,300 (CAD 342 to CAD 1,778).

Be wary of individuals who propose topping a tree to reduce its height. Topping can lead to greater problems than are posed by a “too-tall” tree. Indiscriminate topping of a tree removes too much of the leaf-bearing crown. Because leaves produce food for the tree, this loss can lead to starvation, with the tree becoming vulnerable to disease and insect infestation. Limbs die and break off. The tree is more prone to decay and will probably have to be removed in the near future. If the tree is healthy and its location doesn’t pose a threat to people or property, talk with a professional arborist before deciding on any action.

What Are the Most Expensive Trees to Have Cut Down?

The height and diameter of the tree will determine the cost of trimming or cutting down a tree. Oak trees can grow to 50 feet and higher and can be massive. To cut down an oak tree can run $380 to $1,160 (CAD 520 to CAD 1,587) — not including stump grinding, cleanup and hauling away debris. Pine trees can grow to 150 feet but usually fall within 50 to 100 feet. Plan to spend $475 to $1,450 (CAD 650 to CAD 1,983) to have a pine cut down. Cutting a palm tree will cost you $310 to $475 (CAD 424 to CAD 650).

If you’re clearing land and have several trees to remove, you might contact a logging company. If you have enough healthy trees, smaller companies might remove the trees for free. Keep in mind that you’ll need to be able to tell them the type and size of the trees that need to be removed.

Tree Removal Prices

Tree removal can cost you $385 to $1,070 (CAD 527 to CAD 1,464) and usually runs around $850 (CAD 1,163). The cost of tree removal is calculated at $9.50 to $14.50 (CAD 13 to CAD 20) a foot. How difficult the removal is expected to be and the accessibility of the tree are the determining factors in computing the cost.

If you want to have a tree taken down, depending on the size of the tree, you may want to contact a specialist to take care of removing the debris and the tree from your property.

1. There are three levels of service for tree removal:

2. Basic service is simply cutting the tree down.

3. You can also contract for the tree to be cut and all debris removed from your property.

The most complete (and most expensive) is to have the tree cut, tree stump ground and removed and all debris hauled away.

Be sure to verify in advance which level of service you’re contracting for.

When Is the Best Time to Prune a Tree?

First off, before beginning to prune any tree or shrub, sterilize your saw and clippers, as you don’t want to transfer any disease to a healthy tree. Make sure you know what you’re doing, and check with an arborist if you need information. An arborist is interested in what’s best for the tree and how to manage problems with trees without unnecessarily extreme measures.

Prune all deciduous trees (trees that lose their leaves seasonally) when they’re dormant — usually in late fall or winter. If you prune trees in the spring when they begin to leaf, they’ll run sap and may not heal at the cut, resulting in the tree being vulnerable to disease and insects and leading to long-term damage.

Occasionally, you might want to trim lower branches off an evergreen to make the space beneath it accessible. If you want to trim lower branches off a pine tree, it should be done in early spring, just before new growth starts or as it’s just starting; you can also trim a pine tree in mid-summer, as they’re semi-dormant at that time. When trimming branches, be sure not to trim all the way to the trunk; leave half an inch to an inch of the branch on the tree. A cut-up against the trunk may not heal — and pine trees can die quickly if the trunk bark is compromised.

Prune palm trees in the spring — and only remove the dead and dying fronds. As tempting as it may be, don’t trim green fronds. Shaping isn’t necessary, and removing healthy fronds can result in irreparable damage to the tree.

What Special Precautions Should Be Taken When Trimming a Tree?

You should never attempt trimming or removing a tree that requires the use of a ladder. Should you need to remove higher branches and limbs, use a pole saw. Before using a pole saw, be sure you read the instructions and check the safety mechanisms. You need to confirm that you know how to safely use the pole saw and that the safety mechanisms work properly.

Other tree trimming precautions include:

• Never trimming near power lines; leave that to the professionals
• Never attempting to trim or remove a large tree close to a structure that could be damaged by falling limbs, branches or the trunk
• Always having another person nearby to secure the area and make sure you stay safe
• Never standing directly under a limb you’re trimming — a large limb falling is life-threatening

If a dying or dead tree could damage power lines when falling, contact the power company. They may prefer to remove the tree before it falls and takes out the power lines.

What Will I Pay to Have Shrubs Trimmed?

If you’re only trimming shrubs, the price tag is much more pocketbook-friendly. According to HomeGuide, the cost of trimming shrubs is calculated either by the labor-hour or by the number of shrubs to be trimmed. The cost per hour may run $40 to $75 (CAD 55 to CAD 103). If calculated by the shrub, you’ll pay $5 to $35 (CAD 7 to CAD 48) for each shrub.

If you want to rejuvenate shrubs, you can substantially cut them back in early spring or late winter. That’ll result in the shrubs not blooming for a couple of years but will greatly improve their long-term health.

Spring-blooming shrubs can be trimmed right after they finish blooming. Fall-blooming shrubs can be cut in the spring, before bloom or buds begin to form.

All CAD conversions are based on the exchange rate on the date of publication.