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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.

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.

If the outside temperature drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, it will take around six hours for your pipes to freeze—and they might even burst. That’s why keeping your mobile home’s temperature around 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit is necessary, even if you’re leaving it vacant for the winter. In addition, having ample skirting around the mobile home's underbelly will help keep pipes insulated during the winter. 

Bleach is generally not recommended for your shower drains. Although diluted bleach can technically help clean your drain, it will not unclog your pipes. In fact, bleach can harm your plumbing system because it’s so powerful. The bleach can change the color of your sink and even corrode metal pipes and fittings.

Often, people reach for bleach because it's already in their house. But it's worth getting a plunger or a drain snake for the job instead. It'll be a lot less money to buy a new plunger than to pay a plumber to repair or replace damaged pipes.