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You should flush your water heater at least once a year, with some experts recommending a schedule of every six to 12 months (e.g., once in the spring and fall). The ideal frequency depends on several factors.

If your area has hard water with high mineral concentrations, you should flush the heater more often—typically every four to six months. Additionally, a water heater that is used frequently may require more frequent flushing than one that is used less often.

Regular flushing is important because it removes sediment buildup from the bottom of the tank. This maintenance helps improve the heater's efficiency, extend its lifespan, and prevent issues like clogs, overheating, and increased energy consumption. You can either learn to perform this task yourself or arrange for a service plan with a professional plumber.

Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, pipes are considered one of the best pipe types for drains and vent lines due to their low price point, lightweight material, corrosion resistance, and installation ease. But copper has long been considered the best piping option due to its durability. For many homeowners, though, the price of copper can be cost-prohibitive.

Water backing up in your bathtub could be a clog in the bathtub drain, but it could also signal a problem somewhere else in your plumbing system. Blocked vent pipes caused by leaves, bird nests, or other debris,  along with blocked sewer lines that are damaged or have tree roots could cause backups in various fixtures. 

Snaking a toilet is similar to clearing sinks and bathtubs, but there are unique circumstances where you’d have to drain, disassemble, and remove the toilet to fix the clog. For stubborn clogs in the toilet trap, a toilet auger—designed with a shorter cable and a protective plastic encasing—can navigate the tight bends and clear the clog without risking damage to the porcelain.