Get matched with top haulers in Washington, CT

Sewer line care is a great time to give a little TLC to the rest of your home's plumbing. A bit like a car, each part of your plumbing works in tandem: One weak pipe affects the whole system.

Consider either winterizing your pipes before the first frost or prepping your plumbing for summer. If you spot an issue, factor in the cost to replace your home's pipes at the same time. A clog in your main sewer line could be the answer, but contacting a plumber near you sooner rather than later can keep costs low.

Make sure you're calling in the right expert to help repair and/or clean your crawl space. A serious issue may require multiple experts that include a local mold remediation pro, an HVAC pro, a foundation pro, and a plumber. You should also consider using a nearby junk removal service to avoid handling debris that could be covered in mold, fungi, rot, or asbestos.

The most affordable way to get rid of junk often involves a do-it-yourself approach, especially if you don't have a large amount of debris. Start by sorting your items into categories: donate, recycle, sell, or trash.

• Donate or Sell: Usable goods can be donated to local charities. You can also list items for free or for a low price on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.

• Use Municipal Services: Your city's regular garbage collection or bulk pickup days can be the cheapest option. However, be sure to check community guidelines for quantity limits and accepted materials. You can also take recyclables to a city drop-off center.

• Haul it Yourself: If you have a truck or suitable vehicle, loading the junk and taking it to a local transfer station, public dump, or waste disposal facility is a very cost-effective method.

If a DIY approach isn't possible, consider these options:

• Rent a Dumpster: You can rent a dumpster, fill it yourself, and the rental company will haul it away. This is a good middle-ground if you can do the labor but don't have a vehicle for transport.

• Hire a Junk Removal Service: While typically the most expensive choice, hiring a professional junk removal team is the most time-efficient and requires the least effort from you. This is a good solution if your city's services won't accept the items or if you are unable to move them yourself.

In some areas, tipping garbage and recycling workers around the holidays is a kind and common practice. Tipping between $20 and $50 once a year is a kind gesture for a team you've gotten to know or who does an exemplary job. While tipping junk haulers and waste management pros is not expected, it is a great way to show your appreciation.