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You might need a permit to modify or repair any portion of your plumbing system, including drainage lines, depending on where you live. In some areas, simple replacements of existing drain lines don’t require a permit. We recommend asking your drain pipe installer or your local building department about permitting requirements. In many cases, only certified plumbers can pull plumbing permits, so you’ll usually need to leave the permit application to your professional. The fee for the permit will be passed to you on your project bill, though.

Flex is necessary for soldering copper pipe. This acidic paste attracts the solder, pulling it deeper into the joint so the solder fills all the gaps between the two metal fittings. While many solder products contain small amounts of flux, you need to apply the additional flux paste to ensure you achieve a water-tight fit between the two copper pipes.

While frozen pipes will eventually thaw on their own as temperatures rise, it is not safe to let this happen unattended. As the ice blockage melts, water can become trapped, building up extreme pressure within the pipe. This pressure can cause the pipe to burst, leading to severe water damage, costly leaks, and serious damage to your plumbing system. It is best to handle frozen pipes as quickly as possible. If you do not see any visible damage, you can try to slowly warm the pipes by increasing warm air circulation or applying warm towels. However, if you spot any leaks or damage, you should call a plumber immediately. The best course of action is always to take preventative measures to stop pipes from freezing.

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.