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Main water shut-off valves last 10 to 20 years on average, though they can sometimes last longer. This depends in part on the material you choose. Brass valves are very durable, but more expensive bronze or stainless steel valves may last even longer. Main water shut-off valves often fail due to aging internal parts, such as rubber washers. However, corrosion and sediment buildup also contribute to valve failure. If purchasing a home at least 10 years old, you may want to replace the main water shut-off valve soon to avoid potential problems.

Brown stains in your toilet bowl are most likely limescale. Limescale happens from lime being left behind from hard water evaporating. Once dried out, the minerals also catch dirt and bacteria which eventually accumulate into the brown or blackish stain you see in your toilet. To remove thick and hard limescale from your toilet, use a mixture of vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda, and scrub with a metal scrubbing brush.

When water stops flowing from your outdoor spigot, always begin by making sure it's been opened for the season. Winterized hose bibs need to be turned back on from the indoor water source in the spring. Other culprits when fixing an outdoor water spigot include:

• Debris blocking the pipe

• Broken washer

• Loose and leaking packing nut

• Issues with your home's water supply

Call a local plumber if you are not able to find the issue by opening the water valve or checking the washer and packing nut. There could be a problem further up the pipe that needs attention.

The first step to clearing the air in a line is to locate the cause. This is usually a blockage in either the drain or the venting system. Once you clear the issue, flush the system by actually flushing the toilets repeatedly. This should allow the trapped air to escape, thus clearing the lines. Don’t be surprised if there is increased bubbling as the air makes its way through the system.