Residents of Corvallis frequently contend with several kinds of plumbing predicaments. Typical among these are the clogged drains that result from the accumulation of debris—everything from hair to soap to the food that somehow gets past the kitchen sink's trap. Another familiar plumbing problem, the leaky faucet, almost always comes down to a worn-out washer or seal. And then there's the "hard" water that flows from the taps in some parts of the county. Hard water causes two kinds of trouble: it makes plumbing appliances work less efficiently and it causes all sorts of problems in the bathroom.

Ensuring that pipes do not freeze during the colder months of Corvallis requires some proactive measures. One of the most effective is to insulate exposed pipes with either foam insulation or heat tape. While this is a good step for many homes, it is crucial to understand that not all homes have exposed piping. For the most part, heat doesn't travel that well, so if you're relying solely on the insulation to keep your pipes warm, it's probably not going to work in areas where insulation is needed just to keep warm air from escaping.

If you think there might be a water leak in your house, you should move fast to limit the damage. The first step is to shut off the water supply so that no more water can get out of the pipes and into your house. Then, look in all the likely places around sinks, toilets, and appliances for any signs of damage that might indicate a leak. If you can't find anything yourself, you might want to call in a plumber. There's a good chance he or she can find the leak fairly quickly and get it fixed.

Your water heater demands regular maintenance if it is to achieve two important outcomes: efficient operation and longevity. The heater does not have any moving parts, so half of the maintenance work is just keeping the area around the tank clean. Check the sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank, and if there is any, it is time to drain and flush the tank. Note, too, the temperature setting on the thermostat; it should be around 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Finally, check the anode rod (if you have one); it should not be more than half corroded. Replace it if necessary.

Your water may smell or taste odd for a few reasons. It's most likely to happen if your water is hard, but it can happen with any type of water. The minerals responsible for hard water can create some strange tastes and smells. What's weirder is that they can create tastes and smells *in the water*, *in the pipes*, or just in your *imagination* (as your brain tries to make sense of what's *not right* sensory-wise). It also might not be your plumbing or your imagination. It could be the water itself. Here are some possible culprits that can affect the *actual* and *figurative* taste of water.

Replacing old plumbing with new, more efficient plumbing can reduce water use in a home with both preserved performance and integrity. Depending on the existing systems, low-flow showerheads and faucets, high-efficiency toilets, and other "water-savvy" fixtures can cut indoor water consumption by as much as 30 percent, according to the EPA. Beyond performance, the true potential savings is in the depth of where these technologies reach. LEED-certified homes that make use of smart technologies and sensors can potentially save 75 percent of the water that's used in a typical home.

It is a good rule of thumb to have a professional inspect your plumbing system at least once a year. Regular inspections can help catch potential problems and allow you to fix them before they turn into big issues. If your house has plumbing that is older, you may want to have it inspected more frequently, like every six months, and definitely have it checked if you notice any changes in the color, smell, or pressure of your water.

A failing septic system shows several signs. Drains work slowly, and odors emanate from the drain field. Backups occur in the home, and the lawn over the septic system is excessively green and wet. Any or all of these symptoms may signal an imminent septic system failure. If you are experiencing any of them, you need to call an expert to figure out what is going on. You might also want to call your lawn care service and ask them to discontinue any treatments that involve chemicals, since those could be toxic to the bacteria in your septic system.

In Corvallis, the material composition of pipes dictates their lifespan. Copper pipes can last over 50 years, while PVC pipes typically have a lifespan of 25 to 40 years. Galvanized steel pipes, however, only last about 20 to 50 years when used as plumbing. Regular inspections of the plumbing infrastructure can help determine its condition, as well as when the replacement of any ahead-of-schedule items might be necessary to avoid leaks or bursts.

Although some straightforward plumbing tasks can be managed by do-it-yourself enthusiasts—unclogging a drain, for instance, or replacing a showerhead—more complex problems should be handled by professionals.Trying to repair significant plumbing problems without the right expertise and equipment can result in damaged systems, larger issues, and expensive fixes.Recognizing the boundaries of your know-how is critical when it comes to plumbing because errors can lead to disastrous water outcomes.If you are unsure about how to perform the plumbing task, calling in a licensed plumber is always a safe bet. A certified contractor will guarantee that the work is done properly and is up to code.