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Home hints
Helpful tips you can try on your own
Save energy, prevent costly repairs and know exactly what to do in a plumbing emergency.
1Windows & doors
- Repair broken or cracked glass and re-putty older windows.
- Check that windows close properly and locks pull the sashes together.
- Make sure doors close properly; repair doorknobs, latches and striker plates.
- Weatherstrip windows, doors and attic accesses; caulk frames from the inside with clear, pliable caulk.
2Other air leaks
- Fit fireplaces with a tight-sealing damper and keep it closed when not in use.
- If you rarely use the fireplace, a chimney block eliminates heat loss.
- Caulk foundation cracks and openings.
- Make sure kitchen and bathroom vent dampers close properly.
3Lights & hot water
- Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs — and look for utility rebates.
- Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators.
- Set your water heater to 120°F.
- Repair leaking hot water faucets, tanks and pipes.
4Bigger energy savers
- Install a programmable or smart thermostat that adjusts to your schedule.
- Insulate attics (especially under 7 inches), walls and floors over unheated spaces.
- Add storm windows, including basement windows.
- Considering a new furnace or boiler? Ask us about high-efficiency options and utility rebates.
1Know your shutoff valves
- Everyone in the family should know where each fixture's shutoff valve is — and the main valve for the house.
- Fixture valves are usually under sinks and toilets or behind appliances like washers. Turn clockwise to close.
- The main valve is where the water line enters the house — in Michigan, usually just inside the foundation wall in the basement or crawl space.
2A leaking or broken pipe
- Turn off the main shutoff valve right away to prevent water damage.
- Make a temporary repair to stop the leak.
- Have the pipe replaced as soon as possible — call us.
3A stopped-up sink
- Shut off any faucet or appliance (like the dishwasher) draining into the sink.
- Clear the clog with a plunger or snake.
- Don't use chemical drain cleaner if the drain is completely blocked.
!Pro tip
- If your main valve needs a wrench, keep a labeled one right next to it.
- If the main valve itself is defective, call your water utility — they can shut off water at the street.
- For anything you can't handle, call Kentwood at (616) 949-3695 — emergency service is available.
1In general
- Fix leaky faucets promptly — a leak can waste about 20 gallons a day and ruin the faucet.
- Don't use caustic drain openers on a completely clogged drain; they can damage your pipes.
- Drain a few gallons from your water heater periodically to remove sediment and extend tank life.
- Wrap outdoor or crawl-space pipes with heat tape or insulation to prevent freezing.
2Kitchen & bath
- Never rinse fats or cooking oils down the drain — they solidify and cause clogs.
- Run plenty of cold water with your garbage disposal and don't overload it.
- Keep bones, corn husks and stringy, fibrous foods out of the disposal.
3Seasonal checklist
- Fall: schedule a furnace or boiler tune-up and replace your filter.
- Winter: change humidifier pads and keep an eye on exposed pipes.
- Spring: test your sump pump before heavy rains.
- Summer: have your AC checked before the first heat wave.
✓Need filters or pads?
- We stock furnace filters and humidifier pads for most systems.
- Call the office or send a request with your size — we'll have them ready.
- Or let us handle it during your next maintenance visit.
Need service? We'll be there.
Talk to a real person in our Kentwood office — not a call center. Emergency after-hours service is available when you need it most.