How To Avoid Plumbing Emergencies

Plumbing problems can not only be a nuisance, but they can also be costly and time consuming to repair. Not to mention the health risks that they can pose to you and your family. Sometimes plumbing emergencies cannot be avoided. In those types of situations you should contact a licensed, certified, plumbing professional as soon as possible. If you do need an emergency plumber right away, the best way to find one is to search online. If you’re in DC for instance, just type DC emergency plumber into your favorite search engine. But there are also a few simple tips that you can use to avoid plumbing problems in the future.

 

Preventative Plumbing Maintenance

 

Regular plumbing maintenance can prevent common plumbing problems like clogged drains or leaking faucets. For example, the easiest way to prevent a clogged drain is to avoid pour cooking oil down the drain in your kitchen sink. Pour the used cooking oil into an empty milk carton or can and throw it in the garbage.

 

Garbage Disposal Maintenance

 

Another easy way to prevent plumbing problems in your home is to routinely maintain your garbage disposal. It’s easy to maintain your disposal if you follow these simple tips. Don’t let food build up in your garbage disposal. This can not only cause bad odors but the acids from food can corrode the pipes. Use cold water when you run the disposal and run it for at least thirty seconds to ensure the waste is flushed away. If the disposal jams, turn it off right away. Then wait for several minutes before trying to reset it.

 

What Not To Put In Your Garbage Disposal

 

You should only use your garbage disposal to dispose of food waste. Never put metal, plastic, string or rubber bands in it. And you should never put flour or cooking oil down it either. And you should also avoid putting peels in the disposal.  They can easily build up and clog your pipes.

 

Preventing Odor In Your Disposal

 

Use a mixture of bleach and hot water to deodorize your disposal. Fill your sink with hot water, then add a cup of bleach and let it sit for ten minutes before draining.  Not only does this deodorize your sink, the bleach sanitizes it, too.

 

Use Drain Screens

 

 

 

Another simple way to prevent clogged drains is to use a drain screens. Drain screens are inexpensive, and are usually made of plastic or metal. You place them over the drain in your sink or bathtub, and they catch food, hair, soap, or other small items that can clog the drain. But remember to empty, rinse, and replace the drain screens regularly ,too.

 

Baking Soda

 

You can also prevent your drain from becoming clogged by mixing one quarter cup of baking soda, warm water, and vinegar. Let the mixture sit in the drain overnight before draining. Doing this procedure once a month can help eliminate the need for harsh drain cleansers and will be safer for both your family and the environment.

 

Faucet Handles

 

In order to ensure that your faucets don’t leak, make sure the handles aren’t too tight. Don’t crank the faucet too hard either because that will wear down the washers of the faucet over time.

 

Washing Machine Hose Screens

 

Just like a drain screen, a washing machine hose screen can make your washing machine last longer. A professional plumber can install screens on both the cold and hot water hoses so that the pumps and valves of your washing machine don’t get clogged.  These are just a few of the things that you can do around your home to help prevent plumbing emergencies.

 

 

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Why Sewer Services Are Important

Sewer services are important because they keep the plumbing system of your home or business running safely and efficiently. Without quality sewer service, you’re putting the health and safety of your family, customers, or employees at risk.

 

Types Of Sewer Services

 

There are a wide variety of sewer services that reputable plumbing companies offer. Some examples of commonly offered sewer services include things like pipe rodding, preventative maintenance, leak repair and noise elimination services, as well as the use of specialized underground cameras to pinpoint drain and sewer issues that are invisible to the naked eye.

 

Holiday Plumbing Help

 

With the holidays right around the corner, it’s important to make sure your plumbing system is in working order. Here are a few simple tips to avoid time consuming, costly and embarrassing plumbing problems during the holiday season when your house is filled with guests.

 

Kitchen Plumbing Tips

 

One of the most important things to remember when it comes to kitchen plumbing is to never pour cooking oil down the drain. This can clog the pipes or cause serious damage to your home’s plumbing system. You should also avoid putting kitchen waste down your garbage disposal. Another invaluable tip is to run your dishwasher or wash machine in the evening to save hot water for you, your family, and your holiday guests to use.

 

Bathroom Plumbing Tips

 

When you have a house full of out of town guests, there’s bound to be a lot of showers taken and a lot of toilets flushing. And this can take a serious toll on the plumbing in your bathroom. Here are a few simple tips to keep your bathroom plumbing running smoothly. Avoid taking showers one right after another. Instead spread them out throughout the day. If you have to take a shower right away, try to wait at least ten minutes between showers. You may also want to turn up the water heater to ensure there is enough hot water for you and your guests to use. However, the temperature of your water heater should not exceed one-hundred-and twenty five (125 degrees) Fahrenheit so you don’t burn yourself or your guests. If your shower has weak water pressure, fill a plastic bag with a cup of vinegar and place it over the showerhead. Let it soak overnight. In the morning remove the bag and use an old toothbrush to remove any mineral deposits that are left behind.  This may help remove any buildup and get the water flowing correctly.

 

 

Frozen Pipes

 

Another plumbing hazard to avoid in the fall and winter months is frozen pipes. In order to keep your pipes from freezing, make sure they are installed in a well-insulated location. You should also make sure the location is properly heated. Outdoor pipes should be buried below the frost line. All your pipes should also be covered with pipe sleeves. And finally, let the faucets drip in extremely cold temperatures to keep pipes from freezing. If your pipes are already broken or frozen, the first thing you should do is turn off the main water line in your home to prevent flooding. The next thing you should do is contact a certified, licensed plumbing professional to fix the problem as soon as possible.  Choosing one known for DC sewer services and drainage issues will be a good choice.

 

 

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Damaged Sewer Warning Signs

Most of us have experienced our fair share of plumbing issues. Clogged drains, no hot water and leaky toilets can all seem like the end of the world in the moment. The bathroom is actually a complex system that involves a lot of working parts to run smoothly; for some reason, however, when even a minor issue in the bathroom arises we take all of this for granted and take tremendous pity on ourselves. In stressful times the most helpful thing is often a little perspective. So the next time you have a plumbing emergency in the bathroom, understand that it could be worse. It could be sewer damage. For the fortunate people who have never experienced sewer damage, and the potential health and financial risks that come with it, be thankful that you haven’t had such misfortune. While they are not as common as the more routine bathroom plumbing issues that were listed above, they can strike at anytime—it is important to be vigilant.

 

Beware Symptons

 

Below is a list of symptoms that may indicate that your underlying (literally) problem is sewer damage. Of course, if you are experiencing any of the following damaged sewer warning signs, it’s urgent that you contact a DC sewer services company or trained professional before it becomes a more serious health or financial issue. Keep in mind that the older your house is, the more susceptible you may be to a problem originating with your sewer line. Especially if you know you have a copper sewer pipes or drain lines.

 

Backups

 

Sewage backups will usually occur in and below the lowest sitting drain in your bathroom. Whether or not it is a problem with the sewer or a simpler clog in the drain is a matter of frequency and location. If the backup occurs frequently, for example, every time you run the drain or every time you flush the toilet, it is likely a problem with the main sewer line, since all of your bathroom pipes run through it. If the problem is clearly limited to only one drain, you may be in luck and only have a single clogged drain. That is a problem that can be solved without a trained professional—all you need is good enough eyesight to read the instructions on the back of a bottle of drain cleaner and some elbow grease along with a plunger.

 

 

Odors

 

Smelling sewer gas is a clear indication that there is a problem with your sewer line. These odors are not only unpleasant, they can actually be a health hazard for you and your family. If you are experiencing consistent sewer gas odors, it’s important to contact a professional to nip the sewer line issue in the bud.

 

Mold

 

In the same vein as odors, mold is another indication of sewer line problems that is both unpleasant and unhealthy. If mold is forming on the walls of your bathroom it may be due to a crack, rupture or puncture of the sewer line behind it.

 

Others

 

There are many other indicators of a sewer line problem. These include septic waste, rodents, insects, foundation cracks, sinkholes, lawn indentations, slow drains and more. Any nagging plumbing issues that you’ve been unable to solve on your own may require the investigation of a plumber to rule out these potentially hazardous problems.

 

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Common Plumbing Emergencies

There might be no such thing as a plumbing problem that isn’t an emergency. It’s hard to believe that we have only had running water for a fraction of human history. Almost immediately after we invented complex plumbing systems, it didn’t take long for nearly every human being in a developed country to become completely entitled to a functioning plumbing system in their house twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. Any interruption to a house’s water flow, or any intrusion of said water flow onto a part of the house it isn’t supposed to be, and our worlds come crashing down. As with any kind of emergency, the most common reaction to such a problem is, “Why me?”  Well, when it comes to plumbing emergencies, it helps to have a little perspective. It isn’t just you. Plumbing emergencies occur with relative frequency. What follows is a list of some of the most common plumbing emergencies. If you’ve experienced them all, congratulations—you are a true plumbing problem pioneer. If you’ve never experienced any, knock on wood (and go check your bathroom!). Some of the following problems may be fixable yourself, but others might require the help of a DC emergency plumber.

 

Clogged Toilets, Bathtubs And Drains

 

Clogged toilets, bathtubs and drains are perhaps the most common problem. One way you know a problem is common is if the solution is seemingly ubiquitous. There are drain cleaning, clearing and unclogging problems in the aisles of not only every home improvement store, but nearly every grocery store and drug store as well. Most of these clogs can be taken care of with these over-the-counter products; however, a persistent clog, or a clog that seems to affect multiple drains in your bathroom—both the toilet and the sink, for example—may be indicative of a larger problem with your sewer line, as all of the individual plumbing lines in your bathroom lead to a primary sewer line. If this is the case, all the drain cleaner in the world won’t help you and you’re better served leaving it to the professionals.

 

Leaking Faucets And Toilets

 

 

Leaking faucets and toilets are interesting problems because the initial stress they cause is unrelated to the appliance or fixture itself. Most people are simply horrified at the sight of standing water anywhere in their home outside of a sink or bathtub. Even a small puddle on the bathroom tile can cause people to react as if they’re weathering a tsunami. Only after a towel has dried up the standing water do these people get around to assessing the actual source of the problem, the leaking faucet or toilet itself. If the leak is caused by an overflow it can usually be taken care of yourself. If the water is coming up from a drain or up from under the toilet or sink itself, though, it is again time to call a real plumber.

 

Hot Water Problems

 

Nine times out of ten, no hot water is a temporary problem. Either you or someone else has used up the hot water reserves, or there is a temporary malfunction of the system. Occasionally, however, no hot water indicates a more serious problem with the hot water heater or a problem with the larger electrical system. Again, don’t hesitate to call a plumber and get to the bottom of things.

 

 

 

 

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DIY Bathroom Remodeling Tips

Many people would hesitate to admit it, but when it comes to the idea of remodeling any of the rooms in your house, the design and implementation of the plan is usually done with other people in mind as much as it is with yourself in mind. When you’re remodeling your kitchen, sure, you might tell yourself that you’ll be able to utilize the counter space and open walkways to move more freely and easily about the kitchen as you cook for yourself everyday and finally kick the habit of ordering too much takeout. The reality, however, is that somewhere in the back of your mind you understand that while your plans to become a gourmet chef may or may not pan out, you will definitely be having friends over for a get together and will want to show off your remodeled kitchen. The same goes for the dining room and certainly for the exterior of your house. The bedroom and bathroom remodeling jobs, however, need to be undertaken with a confident understanding in what you personally (or you and your family) are comfortable with. This article will focus on bathroom remodeling projects. Specifically, bathroom remodeling projects that are relatively simple and can be carried out by even the most novice home remodelers out there. While the bedroom may be the primary source of relaxation (due to a little, third-of-our-life thing called sleep) the bathroom is not far behind.

 

Shower Storage And Rods

 

 

Due to our busy lifestyles, the shower is quickly surpassing the bathtub as the luxury bathroom item of choice. More and more people are choosing to renovate their bathrooms with more spacious showers, some are even having multiple shower heads installed, or installing a shower that doubles as a sauna. While these ambitious projects are best left to professional contractors or veteran do-it-yourselfers, there are a few shower upgrades you can make on your own. One of these upgrades is an improvement of your shower’s storage situation. There is a diverse array of shower storage products available at home goods stores which offer a variety of attachment styles by which they affix to your shower and a variety of shapes and sizes of containers to actually hold your shower items. While your shower may already have a small indentation for a bar of soap, this often isn’t enough. A new shower rod is also a popular and quick way to improve your shower experience. Many people are choosing curved shower rods in an effort to provide a more spacious shower without having to get out the toolbox.

 

Lighting

 

Changing the lighting situation in your bathroom can have a dramatic impact on the feeling and functionality of the room. Bathroom lighting needs to find that elusive balance between being too dark to see all of the important things that happen in the bathroom and so bright that you are overwhelmed and the feeling of relaxation is diminished. Multiple lights operated by different light switches and lights with a gradual increase/decrease in brightness are effective ways to attain this balance.

 

Professional Help

 

Of course, when it comes to implementing any serious changes in the bathroom it is best to call a DC bathroom remodeling professional. Other things like installing new fixtures or tiling may be able to be accomplished by DIY enthusiasts, but when it comes to the plumbing solutions that often need to be considered in a remodel, it is best to at least get the input of a pro.

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Water Heater Options

Most people individually consume far more than they produce. Despite this being true, most individuals do not consciously label themselves as “consumers.” Though the reasons for this lack of labeling may be many and varied, one reason people do not label themselves consumers may be rooted in the term’s perceived negative connotations. Of course, this doesn’t have to be the case. In fact, there is a movement towards becoming what is sometimes referred to as a “conscious consumer.” Not only does this movement exist today through publications like Consumer Reports, it has historically been able to gain traction among a much larger segment of the public.

 

Do A Little Research

 

The first step toward becoming a conscious consumer is understanding the options you have available before purchasing. Too often, people simply default to whatever option a salesperson presents or whatever option they observe or hear about from fellow consumers. A smarter consumer takes the time to understand their options and, most importantly, the difference between the options and which option might thus work best for their unique, individual situation. When it comes to purchasing things like cell phones, advertising and socio-cultural trends make the different options obvious to consumers. With less flashy items, people may not understand that there are different purchase options at all. Here is a look at one of those purchase items: the water heater. There are actually many water heater options available to consumers and each may be beneficial depending on an individual’s circumstances.

 

Conventional Storage

 

Conventional storage water heaters are the most popular option. They involve a storage container which offers a ready-supply of hot water. Conventional storage water heaters work by maintaining hot water at the top of the tank that is released when the hot water tap is turned on—cold water then comes in through the bottom of the tank to replace the lost hot water. They may be powered by a variety of fuel sources including natural gas, propane, fuel oil and electricity. One drawback to these systems is that because they maintain a constant supply of hot water, they use energy even when hot water is not being used.

 

Tankless

 

 

Tankless water heaters, otherwise referred to as demand-type water heaters, provide hot water only when needed. This solves the aforementioned problem of energy loss inherent in conventional storage water heaters. With tankless systems, when the hot water is turned on, cold water fills the unit which is then heated by either gas or electricity. Another benefit of these systems is that the supply of hot water they provide is constant, rather than limited to the certain stored amount in a conventional system. A drawback to a tankless system is its constant heating of a smaller water supply limits its flow rate.

Heat Pump

 

Heat pumps are usually used in a home’s HVAC system to heat and cool the home, but they may also be used to heat water. Sometimes they function as the sole source of hot water, other times they operate as a supplement in a multi-part system. Heat pumps work with the heat that already exists (has already been generated) within a home’s energy system. Heat pumps use electricity to move heat where it is needed, rather than heat the water directly. Heat pumps can be multiple times more energy efficient than conventional water heaters, which work against the electricity of the house rather than with it.

Other types of water heaters include solar powered water heaters, tankless coil, and indirect water heaters. Another aspect of being a conscious consumer, of course, is proper maintenance of your purchases. Contact a DC water heater repair company if you think you may be interested in installing, upgrading or maintaining your water heater.

 

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Considerations That Come Before Plumbing Renovations

Many people would like to begin the process of remodeling their bathroom. Often, for quite some time long before the physical remodeling process begins, people have been imagining the finished product in their head. They have thought about what it would be like to have a brand new shower. This shower might have all the modern, luxury amenities that showers are able to be equipped with now. Before the first nail is struck with a hammer, many people in the early planning process of a bathroom remodeling job are already imagining how relaxing their new shower will be each morning and how effective it will be in preparing them for the day ahead. These bathroom remodeling fantasies might also include visions of brand new fixtures, or maybe even a new countertop surface. A lovely new soaking tub may be in the works for some, while others dream of dual sinks.  For some, a brand new toilet might be high on the wish list. For the more environmentally-conscious, perhaps the toilet is a newer model equipped to deliver the water efficiency benefits that newer toilets can now provide.

 

Fantasy Must Turn Into Reality

 

At some point, however, the enjoyable planning phase must evolve into concrete action, and the remodeling job has to actually begin. And the work isn’t even the most unpleasant part of the bathroom remodeling process. Once the tools come out of the box, it’s all downhill from there. No, often the most difficult part of the bathroom remodeling process is the consideration of the plumbing aspects of the job. Many people do not initially factor this into their vision for the very simple reason that you can’t see a bathroom’s plumbing. But the most luxurious shower and most efficient toilet are nothing without a solid plumbing system to keep them functioning optimally.

 

Plumbing Systems Must Be Considered First

 

 

The first main plumbing consideration to be investigated and planned is the actual plumbing system, its location, and whether it needs updated and/or moved to accomplish the remodel.  The best way to go about this is to draw up a plan showing how you would like your bathroom remodel to look.  Then have your plumber look it over & tell you what all will be involved to reach your end result, and make sure the changes you propose are feasible.

 

Consulting A Plumber Saves Hassles

 

After you both agree on a doable plan, realistic not just physically and spatially, but also within your budget, then you are set to begin.  Spending this time with a professional plumber before work commences will save you many headaches, time, and money in the long-run.  Remodeling and upgrading your bathroom should leave you pleased and happy, not disappointed and broke.

 

For more information on the specific cost of the remodeling job you may be planning or for an assessment of what remodeling might be possible in a particular bathroom space, contact a DC plumbing renovations company and make an appointment to have a professional plumber come out and take a look at what you have along with your design plans.

 

 

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An Intro To Commercial Plumbing

 

Plumbing is any system that conveys fluid for a wide range of applications using pipes, valves, fixtures, and or tanks. Plumbing trades are trades that work with plumbing. Some examples of plumbing trades are plumbers, pipefitters, and boilermakers.

 

Types Of Plumbing Systems

 

There are many different types of plumbing systems. Residential and commercial are the two most commonly known plumbing systems. But there are many other types of plumbing systems such as institutional, light industrial and industrial plumbing systems.

 

Differences between Residential and Commercial Plumbing

 

There are some important differences between residential and commercial plumbing. The first difference has to do with size. Commercial plumbing, typically used for businesses has more pipes and outlets than residential plumbing, which is used for homes. The second difference between commercial and residential plumbing has to do with space. Commercial plumbing has to deal with more floors of space than residential plumbing.

A home usually has no more than two floors of plumbing to attend to whereas a business has many. Commercial plumbing also has a wider variety of problems and solutions than residential plumbing does.

 

Standards

 

Commercial plumbing also has different standards for their products than residential plumbing does. Commercial plumbing products are built to last longer and will typically need to be repaired less frequently than residential plumbing products.

 

Commercial Plumbing as a Career

 

The current annual salary for a commercial plumber is just over forty-three thousand one hundred dollars. The average hourly salary for a commercial plumber is about twenty dollars. But these numbers will vary depending on the plumber’s level of education and experience, as well as their location.

 

 Commercial Job Description

 

 

So what exactly does a commercial plumber do? A commercial plumber’s job is to install and maintain large-scale waste removal and water supply systems for businesses, including repairs and replacements.

 

Commercial Plumbing Maintenance

 

Some common maintenance tasks for a commercial plumber include things like unclogging drains, and repairing or replacing pipes, broken water or sewer lines.  Replacing fixtures, along with repairing and installing water heating systems, and water conditioning systems are also in their repertoire.

 

Commercial Lease Repair Obligations

 

You should have a licensed, qualified experienced commercial plumber on standby for your business because most commercial leasing agreements place the repair obligations on the tenant or business owner.  You want to be sure the plumber you hire will perform work and use parts that are up to code and within zoning regulations.

 

How to Find Reputable Commercial Plumbing Services in Your Area

 

If you’re trying to find commercial plumbing services in your area, the best way to go about it is to do an online search. For instance, if you’re in the DC area simply type in the keywords DC commercial plumbing services into your preferred search engine. This is fast and easy and will most likely help you find the plumbing services that you need for your business. If an internet search doesn’t give you the information that you’re looking for, ask a colleague or a supervisor for a recommendation.

 

 

 

 

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Commercial Plumbing 101

How do you know if your business needs a commercial plumber? Commercial plumbers serve a variety of different types of businesses. Some examples of businesses that require commercial plumbing services are restaurant and bars, hotels, motels and resorts, health clinics and hospitals, sports arenas, malls, grocery and convenience stores, gas stations, schools, colleges, and universities as well as public buildings and airports. In short, virtually every type of business requires some sort of commercial plumbing services.

 

 

Examples of Commercial Plumbing Services

The services that a commercial plumber can provide are very similar to those provided by a residential plumber. Some examples of commercial plumbing services are things such as: unclogging, cleaning, and hydro jetting drains, repairing sewer system backups, repairing and replacing sewer lines, as well as plumbing diagnosis and inspection. Professional commercial plumbers can use special underground camera to detect problems that are invisible to the naked eye.

 

Water Line Installation, Replacement and Repair

 

A licensed, certified, commercial plumber can also install water lines for your business as well as repair or replace them if necessary.

 

Plumbing Repairs

 

A commercial plumber can also provide general plumbing repairs for your business. These repairs can include anything from leaking or frozen pipes to water heater repair and replacement to overall plumbing system maintenance. And if an unexpected plumbing emergency arises at your place of business, commercial plumbers often provide emergency services too.

 

Strange Noises

 

If you hear any noises that are out of the ordinary in your place of business, it could mean you have a blocked pipe somewhere. If you can’t find the source of the sound, contact your commercial plumber to address the problem before it turns into an emergency situation.

 

Emergency Situations

 

Emergency plumbing situations can endanger the health and safety of your employees and customers. They can also cost your business money if plumbing issues force you to close the business for repairs. So it’s a good idea to stay on top of routine maintenance tasks to avoid emergencies if you can. Your customers and staff will thank you.

 

Customer Service

 

Just like with a residential plumber, a commercial plumber should provide exceptional customer service. A reputable commercial plumbing company should offer upfront pricing, convenient appointment times, guarantees on workmanship and parts, and should never charge overtime. A commercial plumber should also be bonded and insured. And of course they should always wear a uniform.

 

How to Find a Commercial Plumber in Your Area

 

If you’re trying to find an experienced commercial plumber for your business, you can always perform an online search. For example, if you’re looking for a DC commercial plumber, simply type those words into your preferred search engine. You can also ask your colleagues or your supervisor for a qualified recommendation. If you take this advice into account, you’re sure to find the right commercial plumber for your business.

 

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Common Services Offered By Professional Plumbers

A professional plumber can provide a wide variety of plumbing services and repairs for your home or business. While doing plumbing repairs yourself may save you money, there are some plumbing tasks for which you should hire a professional plumber. Hiring a licensed certified plumbing professional ensures that the service or repair is done correctly. And it also eliminates the need for extra repairs if you make any mistakes doing the job yourself.

 

Correcting Code Violations

 

A professional plumber should be aware of all the plumbing codes in your area. And therefore your plumber can correct any plumbing code violations that may be present in your home or business.

 

Pressure Correction

 

If the water pressure in your home or business isn’t just right, it can cause serious problems. A professional plumber can correct any issues with water pressure that may arise.

 

Drain Cleaning

 

A professional plumber can also clean any clogged drains or pipes in your home or business. Many companies also offer pipe rodding and hydro jetting services.

 

Catch Basin Cleaning and Pumping

 

A catch basin (also commonly called a storm drain) collects rainwater and transports it to local waterways. These catch basins require cleaning and pumping. A plumbing professional can do this for you as well.

 

Water Heater Installation and Repair

 

Whether your water heater is a modern tank less version or a traditional one a professional plumber can provide routine maintenance and repairs to your water heater. Typically this needs to be done before cold weather strikes. A professional plumber can also install a brand new water heater in your home or business if necessary.

 

Water Filtration Installation and Repair

 

If your home or business has a water filtration system, an experienced plumber can repair it. Or if you want to install a water filtration system, a seasoned plumbing professional can do that too.

 

Faucet and Fixture Installation and Repair

 

 

Got a leaky faucet in your kitchen or bathroom? Or maybe you need brand new faucets or fixtures installed in your home? No problem? Call a professional plumber to do this task for you quickly and efficiently.

 

Gas Pipe Repair and Installation

 

A licensed professional plumber can also install or repair gas pipes in your home or business.  Switching from electric to gas stoves is no problem for your plumber.  They can run new lines in your kitchen, or even outside to a gas grill or fire pit.

 

Drain and Water Supply Leaks

 

If you have a leaky drain or water supply a plumber can replace or repair it for you with ease.  Sometimes leaks are harder to fix then they first appear.  A professional plumber can get the repair done quickly and correctly the first time around.

 

Other Plumbing Services

 

A professional plumber can also help you with flood control, pump installation, problems with overhead sewer systems as well as complete any full or partial plumbing system upgrades in your home or business.

 

Looking For a Plumbing Company in DC

 

It’s easy to find a reputable plumber in your area. To find the right plumber to make repairs or perform plumbing services for your home or business, do a quick online search. If this doesn’t give you the information you’re looking for, you can always ask a friend, family member, or a co-worker for a recommendation.

 

 

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Plumbing Codes

Have you ever wondered why plumbing is so complicated? Why should you hire a seasoned plumbing professional instead of doing the work yourself? The answer is that all plumbing tasks must be completed according to a code. And these plumbing codes differ depending on the city and state where you live. A certified, licensed plumbing professional knows and understands the complex nature of plumbing codes. Hiring a professional plumber can eliminate potential problems that can occur if your plumbing service or repair isn’t completed according to the specific plumbing codes in your area.

 

What Are the Plumbing Codes Where I Live?

Consult the local building department to find out about specific plumbing codes in your area. The professional plumber that you hire to provide plumbing services or perform repairs should also be aware of these plumbing codes. So your plumber should be able to answer any questions that you may have. You can also use the internet to search for information about plumbing codes and repairs in your area. If you live in DC for instance and you need plumbing repairs, simply search DC plumbing repairs.

 

Plumbing Codes That You and Your Plumber Should Know

 

One of the most important issues related to plumbing codes has to do with ventilation. Proper ventilation allows your pipes to run efficiently and prevents toxic fumes from entering your home.

 

Fixtures

 

Fixtures are another important issue related to plumbing codes. Plumbing fixture should not be placed too close together. This is especially important to remember in smaller rooms in your home such as bathrooms where space is limited.

 

Size

 

Another important consideration when it comes to plumbing codes is the size.  Plumbing codes determine the right size for vents, drains, and supply lines.  In plumbing, size does matter; it can effect many things like water pressure and noise, among others.

 

Proper Materials

 

 

Another key element of plumbing codes has to do with using the proper materials when performing plumbing services or repairs. Most plumbing codes will require plumbers to use copper piping for supply lines and PVC piping for drains.  Pex, when used correctly, is often allowed nowadays, as well.

 

Water Pressure

 

The water pressure in your home is also very important. If pressure isn’t just right it could cause problems in your home. If the pressure is too low you may need to invest in a pump to boost the pressure. And if the pressure is too high, your plumbing professional might need to install a pressure reduction valve.

 

Structure of Home

 

Plumbing services or repairs must not compromise the structural integrity of your home. Sometimes plumbing codes require you or your professional plumber to reinforce joists or to install protective plates over pipes.

 

Drain Pipe Slope

 

Plumbing codes require that drainpipes must slope at one quarter inch per running foot. Code also mandates that vent pipes slope at one eighth inch per running foot of pipe.  These stipulations keep everything flowing correctly, and help reduce back-ups.

 

Priming of Pipes

 

Plumbing codes also require all pipes to be primed. A certified licensed plumbing professional will use purple primer to do this so that it easy to see that pipes have been primed and are in compliance with codes.

These are just a few of the considerations related to plumbing codes that are crucial when your plumbing professional is performing plumbing services or making plumbing repairs in your home.

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Plumbing 101: Good Help and Green Cleaning

Plumbing is very important to the health and safety of your home and family. So it’s crucial that you know how to find out whether or not a plumber is qualified to provide plumbing services for your home or business.

 

Contracts and Estimates

 

A skilled and experienced plumbing professional should have no problem providing you with sample contracts or estimates for you to review. Many companies even offer free estimates.

 

Licensing

 

Never let anyone claiming to be a plumber perform services or conduct repairs to your home without verifying that the company and the plumber are licensed first. Bonding and insurance are also key factors to consider when selecting a plumber. Bonding means that the company will protect you if doesn’t finish the job or doesn’t follow through on financial obligations.

 

Years of Experience

 

A qualified plumber should be able to prove his years of experience and know the history of the company. It’s important to do research on your own and find this out. Don’t rely solely on the company to provide you with this information. Check to see if the company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) too. But again, this shouldn’t be the only factor that you consider when you select a plumbing professional.

 

Professionalism

 

A plumber should be professional and courteous to customers. Make sure they are upfront with you about pricing. And they should also talk you through every step in the service and repair process. And be sure they are willing to accommodate your busy schedule as well.

 

Proper Material Use

 

An experienced plumber will also know the proper materials to use in order to provide the highest quality services and repairs to your home or business. For example, a qualified, licensed plumber knows that the best materials to use for pipe installation and repairs is a combination of copper and PVC. These materials are easy for the plumber to work with as well as being safe for your home and family. They are also less expensive and more durable than other types of pipes. These are just a few of the things that you need to look out for when you’re choosing the right plumber for your home or business.

 

Searching For a Plumber in Your Area

 

If you’re looking for DC plumbing services for example just do a simple online search. Or ask friends or family for a recommendation. This will ensure that you find the right qualified plumbing professional for your home or business.

 

Green Cleaning Tips

 

Keeping your home or business clean is just as important as keeping your plumbing systems running efficiently. Using a few simple green and environmentally friendly cleaning tips can save you time and money. Green cleaning gets your home or business clean without using harsh chemicals that can be hazardous to your health.

 

Green Toilet Cleaning

 

An easy and green way to clean your toilet is to use a half a cup of vinegar and a spoonful of baking soda. Combine these two ingredients and pour them into the toilet bowl. After thirty minutes, clean your toilet with a toilet brush.

 

Sparkling Sinks and Vanities

 

 

To clean your sink or vanity in an environmentally friendly way, use a spray made from a combination of two cups baking soda, a half a cup of dish soap, one cup of water and half a cup of vinegar. To clean fixtures use a combination that’s one part vinegar and one part baking soda.

 

Showers and Tubs

 

To clean your shower and tub, you can also use a combination of baking soda and dish soap. Using these simple cleaning tips will give you a cleaner, greener home.

http://plumberindc.com/plumbing-101-good-help-and-green-cleaning/

Fun Facts about Plumbing

You might not give much thought to the plumbing system in your home or business. But you shouldn’t take it for granted because it’s essential to the health and safety of you and your family. So here are some fun facts about plumbing to keep in mind. These bits of tips and trivia just might make you laugh and jog your memory about the importance of plumbing in case you ever forget.

 

Fact or Fiction

 

It’s a commonly held belief that water in toilets flushes clockwise in some parts of the world, and in the opposite direction in others. In fact this has nothing to do with location and everything to do with the way the toilet’s rim jets are facing. Any toilet can flush in either direction.

 

Famous Plumbers

 

Albert Einstein once said that if he could live his life over again he would’ve been a plumber. So he was named an honorary member of The Plumbers and Steamfitters Union. Other famous plumbers include Mario and Luigi of the Super Mario Bros Nintendo games. These two fictional plumbers have been featured in over two hundred games since the game’s invention in the mid nineteen-eighties.

 

Toilet Paper Talk

 

 

A recent study was conducted to find out whether people put their toilet paper on the holder with the flap in the front or in the rear. The study which cost one-hundred thousand dollars to complete concluded that three out of four people have the flap facing the front of the holder.

 

Entomology of the Word Plumbing

 

The word plumbing and all the variations of the word come from the Latin word for lead, plumbum. This is because pipes used to be made of lead. The abbreviation for the element of lead on the periodic table of elements is also Pb, and it is based on the same word. During the Vietnam War President Nixon tasked “plumbers” to investigate intelligence leaks.

 

Toilet Time

 

The average person spends three years of their life sitting on the toilet. That’s longer than a person spends on vacation. Imagine what else you could accomplish using all that time. A British king even died by falling off of a toilet! Be careful the next time you take a seat!

 

How to Find a Qualified Plumber in Your Area

 

A plumber in your area might not know all these fun facts about plumbing but that doesn’t mean that he or she isn’t qualified to provide the necessary plumbing services or repairs to your home or business. If you’re looking for a plumber in DC for example, do a simple online search to find the right plumber for you. Or you can also ask your friends, family or colleagues for a recommendation. No matter how you find a skilled, experienced plumber, these humorous facts about plumbing are sure to remind you just how important plumbing is.

http://plumberindc.com/fun-facts-about-plumbing/

Why Plumbing Is Important

You may not give the plumbing system in your home or business much thought. Even though some of us may take indoor plumbing for granted, it’s still a luxury in many places. But why is plumbing so important? Proper plumbing can prevent the spread of illness and diseases such as cholera and dysentery. These diseases are spread through contaminated water, and some parts of the world like Zaire in Africa were still grappling with them as recently as 1994.

 

Plumbing becomes even more important in cities where the population is large. For example, in Chicago, during the early nineteenth century, the population grew so much that too much waste flowed directly into Lake Michigan. Plumbing advances to prevent these waterborne diseases only came about in the late nineteenth century. Think about that next time you go for a swim at the beach.

 

Water

 

Plumbing ensures that water is clean and safe for bathing. Plumbing is essential for the health and well-being of your family. It’s a modern convenience that we often take for granted without meaning to. But without it we’d be living in a very different world.

 

Innovation and Sustainability

 

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that The United States could save three trillion gallons of water and up to seven billion dollars per year just by switching to eco-friendly plumbing products like low-flow toilets and aerated showerheads. Using water more efficiently reduces energy costs for homes and businesses. And it also makes the world greener and preserves water, which is a finite natural resource.

 

Plumbing as a Career

 

 

Another reason that plumbing is essential is because it provides a viable career path for many people. There’s a constant need for skilled plumbing professionals to install plumbing equipment or make regular plumbing repairs in homes and businesses.

 

Regular Maintenance

 

The importance of regular plumbing maintenance for your home or business cannot be understated. Staying on top of plumbing maintenance tasks can prevent costly and inconvenient problems in the future.

 

Common Plumbing Problems That Require Regular Maintenance

 

Some areas in your home that require regular plumbing maintenance and inspections are toilets, tubs and showers, and pipes. Water heaters should be checked regularly as well.  Their pressure relief valves should be tested once a year, and sediment should be flushed out, also, to prevent build-up.

 

Plumbing Emergencies

 

It’s important to have a plumber that you can trust in mind for emergencies that may arise in your home or business.   They are inevitable, and having a number handy can make a stressful situation easier.

 

How to Find a Plumber in Your Area

 

Use the internet or your local phone book to find a plumber in your area. You can also ask your friends, family or neighbors for a recommendation if you’re in a bind. If you’re in the D.C. area for example, simply Google DC plumbing company to get you started in your search. Don’t take your plumbing for granted! You never really appreciate something until you have to go without it in an emergency situation. That’s why it’s so important to maintain the plumbing system in your home or business. Think about that the next time you take a hot shower or flush the toilet.

 

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