Hidden beneath your lawn, your sewer line silently manages your home’s waste — until it doesn’t. From mysterious wet spots in the yard to unexplained odors, the signs of sewer line trouble can be easy to miss but potentially devastating. Several signs could indicate the need for sewer line repair. “A unique one that very…

Insulating your water pipes is a simple yet effective way to prevent heat loss and protect your home from the damage caused by frozen pipes during winter. Insulating hot water pipes can reduce heat loss, which raises your water temperature 2 to 4 degrees Fahrenheit higher than uninsulated pipes, according to the Department of Energy.…

Choosing the right well pump is essential for a constant and reliable water supply. A well that’s less than 25 feet deep needs a shallow well jet pump; wells up to 100 feet need deep well jet pumps; and deeper wells of up to 400 feet need submersible pumps. Choosing the right pump ensures better…

Common toilet problems, such as persistently dripping water or a leaky wax seal, can often be resolved with DIY fixes — sparing you the cost of hiring a plumber. While home warranty companies usually cover certain toilet issues, such as septic system pump concerns, many common problems can be easily fixed in just a few…

Epoxy putty, wrap tape and pipe repair clamps are just a few DIY solutions for repairing a leaking pipe. However, these remedies should only be used as a temporary fix until a licensed plumber can make proper repairs, advised Mark Bowers, owner and operator of Bowers Home Inspection in Billings, Montana. Hiring a professional allows…

Proper hot water heater maintenance can extend the life span of your unit, preserving its efficiency for bathing, dishwashing and laundry. Yet, “people often don’t think about their water heater until it stops working,” said Brian Hubbard, operator of Hubb Plumbing in Snellville, Georgia. Most preventative maintenance can be completed on an annual or seasonal…

Whole-house water softener system costs typically range from $600 to $800 if you’re shopping at a major home improvement retailer such as Lowe’s. High-end models can cost as much as $3,500, depending on features such as size, type, maximum grain capacity and extras such as carbon filtration, remote monitoring and WiFi capability. Some water softeners,…