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You don’t need to remove sediment from your water well. Sediment in your water well is normal. The problem is when the sediment enters your water supply. In this case, look into your pump. The size and placement of your pump can lead to sediment in your water. If it’s too big, it’ll overwork and stir up the sediment at the bottom, pulling it into the pump. If it’s too low, it will pull up the sediment that’s settled at the bottom. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual well maintenance to check and test for cleanliness, mechanical problems, and contaminants.

Copper pipes are the safest type of pipe for carrying drinking water because they won't leach chemicals into your drinking water. However, for the best water quality, you should use copper pipes with lead-free joint material. The next best options for carrying drinking water are CPVC and PEX pipes.

If you use copper pipes for drinking water, you should check your water’s pH level. If it has a pH value lower than seven, you'll need to balance your water acidity with a purifier to avoid corrosion that could affect your drinking water quality. 

If you try a drain snake and various DIY methods for unclogging drains to no avail, bring in a professional plumber to assess the situation. Also, if multiple drains in your home are backing up or you smell sewage, a visit from a plumber is best. You can expect your drain cleaning costs to fall around $250, and this can include an assessment of what’s caught in your plumbing and if there’s a larger, underlying problem. You should also consider calling a pro if you need to snake a toilet, as DIYing this could lead to a cracked fixture.

Whether an earthquake gas shut-off valve is required depends on your location and circumstances. Certain cities, states, and even insurance providers mandate them, especially in areas with high seismic activity. In California, for example, while laws vary by county, most jurisdictions require a valve to be installed in newly constructed homes or when a home is sold or renovated. The Los Angeles Municipal Code specifically requires a licensed contractor for installation. Even if not required by law, installing a seismic shut-off valve is a wise safety measure. These devices automatically cut off the flow of gas during an earthquake, which can prevent gas leaks, fires, and explosions. It is recommended to check with your local building department for specific laws regarding installation, permitting, and inspections, and to ensure the valve you install is on your city's list of approved models.