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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.

Yes, pipes can freeze during the winter months. If temps dip below 20 degrees Fahrenheit for six or more hours, your insulated pipes are more at risk, while uninsulated pipes can freeze if temps fall below 32 degrees for around 12 hours. Exterior pipes are more likely to freeze than interior pipes. The best way to prevent freezing pipes is by insulating your pipes, keeping your home’s temperature above 55 degrees, opening cabinets and doors containing pipes to promote circulation, dripping faucets, and disconnecting hoses.

The most expensive part of adding a bathroom will always be the wet areas, such as the toilet, sink, and shower. Considering a half bathroom won’t have a shower, you’ll save quite a bit of money there versus adding a full bath with a shower or tub. Using qualified professionals is a requirement when dealing with plumbing and electricity, so while you can do some of the addition yourself, leave these two to the pros.

A pipe burst will cause a portion of the water flowing into your home to escape through the damaged area, but some water is still likely to flow to your plumbing fixtures. If you’re noticing reduced water pressure or the slow flow of water from your sinks, you might have a burst pipe on your hands, especially if the weather is particularly cold outside. When in doubt, call in a plumber to inspect your system and check for leaks.