Professional Plumbing Tips And Tricks

Knowing a few “tricks of the trade” can help you in a pinch when a plumbing issue may arise.  The following hints can save the day, or at least help prevent a major problem.

 

Fixing A Leaky Faucet

 

Leaky faucets are annoying, wasteful, and counterproductive.  Luckily, they can be fixed relatively easy the majority of the time.  To start you’ll want to turn off the water to the faucet and cover the drain to prevent pieces and parts from falling down in there.  Next, determine what kind of faucet you are fixing, maybe it’s a ball or cartridge faucet for example.  After that, you need to unscrew each handle and then remove the nut using a wrench.  The next stop on the list would be pulling out the stem followed by removing the seat washer.  After that, you can replace the seat washer with a new one and reassemble everything back together.  If you have a certain type of faucet like a ball faucet then you will most likely need to buy a replacement kit to replace several parts in order to properly resolve the problem.

 

How A ShopVac Can Save The Day

 

A shopvac is an inexpensive machine that could help you a huge amount in several situations, especially when it comes to plumbing concerns.  Shopvacs are an excellent tool in trying to unclog any type of drain as well as providing a quick way to clean up a large amount water from a basement flood or leaking pipe.  Let’s say your ring or an important piece of jewelry just accidentally fell into the kitchen sink, a shopvac provides a good chance of using suction to retrieve the object for you.  Shopvacs are even great with cleaning out fish tanks, aquariums, and just hard to reach areas.

 

 

Main Water Line Advice

 

The main water line is the most important aspect when it comes to using water for anything in your home.  From washing the clothes to taking a shower, to using the dishwasher, it’s all powered by the main water line.  Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever and eventually one day the main line will go bad and need some type of fixing or replacement.  Since the water line is almost always below ground and not visible, it can be difficult to detect any type of problem developing before it becomes a full-blown catastrophe leaving you without water for several days or more along with a hefty cost.  A good idea is to schedule a professional camera inspection of the main line about every two years.  This is an excellent way of staying on top of the condition of the line and allows you to be sure that a massive problem isn’t right around the corner.  Over time rust, sediment buildup, and tree roots can pose large threats to the condition of the main water line.  Keep large shrubs and trees away from the line, and don’t plant any nearby.  If you are experiencing issues and are not sure whether or not to replace the line, it’s usually best to let a professional assess the situation and form a plan to best protect your plumbing from large scale problems now and in the future.

 

 

 

If you experience an issue with your pipes or plumbing on any level, don’t hesitate to give a professional a call that specializes in plumbing, from DC sewer inspection to water heater replacement, to help get everything fixed and working smoothly.

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Making Plumbing Add Value To Your Home

Sometime we don’t think about the many ways that plumbing can add value not only to our lives, making them easier and more enjoyable, but it can add value to our homes, as well.  The following three ways can help add value, add enjoyment, and/or add savings to your bank account.

 

Jetted Tubs

 

It’s probably safe to assume that most people can benefit and enjoy soaking in a hot jetted tub from time to time.  There are several known health benefits of using jetted tubs such as providing relief for sore muscles and helping ease certain types of injuries.  Jetted tubs can also provide a relaxing experience to help you unwind, relieve stress, and even loosen you up after intense physical activity. It is also proven that soaking in a hot bath for 10-15 minutes before bed can help you get a better night’s sleep.   A lot of people look for a garden tub, jetted tub, or soaking tub when buying a house, so it is a good idea to include them in your remodel of new build, as they add to the resale value of the home.

 

 

Walk-In Bathtubs

 

If you struggle with mobility, balance, or have a disability that makes stepping over the traditional bathtub side dangerous then installing a walk-in bathtub could make all the difference.  Buying and installing one of these safer and convenient designs comes with a price, however, if you can afford it, they can offer great benefits and safety features.  They provide a nice sized enclosure with a swinging water tight door to open and close, making the trip in and out a breeze.  The only downside is waiting for the tub to fill when inside and then waiting for it to completely drain when done so you can open the door.  They also provide a seat inside so you can be seated if you like while bathing for your comfort and convenience.  These walk-in bathtubs usually start around $2,000 and can go all the way up to $10,000.  They can also add value to your home when included in a bathroom remodel. If you have any questions or concerns about plumbing, sewer, appliances, or gas lines don’t hesitate to contact a professional who is qualified as a DC master gas fitter.

 

 

Solar Power And Water Heaters

 

 

With modern technology today, we have the luxurious opportunity of switching from traditional methods over to energy efficient methods.  This can save you a large amount of money spent on energy along with also greatly reducing the number of harmful carbon emissions into the environment.  Many people use solar panels to power the main electrical grid of their home which is great.  However, some people are now using solar power for everyday household appliances.  Water heaters are larger units that are used every day and can add up quick in costs if overused or used incorrectly.  By switching to a solar powered water heater, you have the potential of saving up to 50-80 percent of the total yearly water heater budget.  Solar powered appliances are also a great way to boost your homes resale value as well.

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Important Plumbing Tips And Hints

Keeping a few tips in mind, concerning your plumbing, can be helpful especially when you are in a pinch.  Read on for some advice on frozen pipes, clogged shower drains, and appliances.

 

The Shower Drain And How To Unclog It

 

The bathtub drain is never a concern as long as the water keeps steadily going down like it’s supposed to.  Unfortunately, there are instances where substances and debris can cause the water to get backed up and sometimes even completely clogged.  First off, let’s discuss the list of things that should never go down the drain in the first place.  Large amounts of dirt, hair, sand, and other semi solid substances that clump together will all pose a potential threat of clogging the drain.  Next, if you start to notice that the water is going down slower than normal, you can try some boiling water in the attempt to loosen up the buildup.  If you get no results then the next step would be to try a drain cleaner to see if it will dissolve the buildup.  If that method also fails to work then you might consider trying a shopvac in the attempt to suck the debris up out.  If all of those options fail then the last option to try would be using a plumbers snake to attempt to break up and clear the debris further down.  If you have no luck with any of the options listed then you may need professional help to get the problem totally solved.

 

 

Preventing Pipes From Freezing

 

A frozen pipe can become a major problem in the blink in the eye, costing you large amounts of money, damage, and time to fix.  Thankfully, there are plenty of prevention methods to save your pipes from freezing and breaking.  First, if you live in a climate where the seasons change and you get freezing weather then you must take action before those low temperatures hit.  By turning off and winterizing all outdoor faucets and hoses, you are eliminating the possibility of lines freezing and busting since there will be no water in them to freeze.  Next, if you have water lines in the basement, garage, or crawl space, then properly insulting the lines with heat-tape or thermostat controlled heat cables will help protect them.  Another important thing to do is to make sure the building’s temperature never gets below 55 degrees. If a pipe does happen to freeze it is best to call a professional, since a frozen pipe with high pressure and massive temperature changes can create a dangerous situation.

 

Understanding Your Appliances

 

Over time the appliances and units in your home become older and develop a higher chance of breaking or not working correctly.  If you have an older model air conditioner and water heater for example, then may be missing out on power output, productivity, efficiency, and money that could be saved over time.  If you haven’t made any upgrades on appliances in many years then it might be time to invest in some new modern technology to help you get the most bang for your buck. Newer energy efficient models not only save energy each day, but also help you save on your electric and water bill.  They are also reliable and durable while offering new features and settings to fit your exact needs.  After you see what upgrades are available and make your choice, contact an experienced professional that offers DC plumbing upgrades.  They can run new water lines or gas lines, if need be, and talk to you about plumbing system upgrades, as well.

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Plumbing Hacks To Save You Some Money

Everyone wants some ideas to save money.  Here are some helpful ways to save some green and maintain your plumbing systems at the same time.

 

Prepping Your Plumbing For A Long Trip Away

 

When you are planning on leaving your home for an extended period of time there are some very important preparation measures to take to avoid coming home to a catastrophe and ruined appliances.  First off, check for any visible leaks throughout your home to avoid water damage/large water loss.  Second, if your water heater has not been flushed in a while then it is wise to flush it before leaving to prevent sediment build up.  A couple good tips to use regarding the freezer/refrigerator are turning off the automatic ice maker to prevent malfunction and throwing food away to prevent it from spoiling and creating moldy unsanitary conditions.  Also, cleaning your gutters before you leave is an excellent practice to direct water away from your roof and home, decreasing chances of build-up, mold, and water damage.  Next, be sure to check and turn off all outdoor sprinklers and faucets so you don’t return to an overly high water bill caused by excess water and energy usage.  Lastly, if possible, turn off the main water supply to your home to prevent a giant water leak destroying everything inside.

 

The Major Problems With A Leaking Toilet

 

 

Toilets are certainly an important factor in day to day living anywhere you go and should be monitored regularly to decrease the chance of a problem arising.  Too often someone can have a leaking toilet for a long period of time and not even know it.  However, the amount of water wasted from a leaking toilet in a year could fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool.  That could also explain why the bills are higher than they need to be.  Luckily, checking a toilet for a leak is relatively simple, quick, and accurate.  To check for a leak simply remove the tank lid and drop roughly 10 drops of food coloring in the tank.  After waiting 10 to 15 minutes check the bowl to see if the food coloring is in there.  If it is then you indeed have a leak and will need to have it professionally fixed.  Your next step should be contacting a DC sewer and drain professional as soon as possible to help get the problem resolved and bring the water wasting to a halt.

 

Benefits Of Installing New Energy Efficient Units

 

Every day people are striving for newer more advanced methods, practices, and technology.  In the world of plumbing advancements, there are always newer more efficient appliances and units being installed to save time and money.  For example, new energy efficient washers and dryers can save a lot on energy bills each month while also holding their value.  Another example would be new low-flow shower heads and toilets to cut way back on water used per flush/shower.  By learning what energy efficient units have to offer you may realize just how much money, energy, water, and time you could save by updating your appliances and units.  When it comes to any aspect of plumbing, the more you learn the more you can enjoy your home hassle free.

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Four Signs You Need Sewer Line Repair

A sewer system is crucial in maintaining a hygienic and a healthy home. However, various issues can lead to sewer problems. The most common cause of sewer line issues is the invasion of tree roots into the sewer line, which can lead to clogged lines. Another reason is the waste that’s flushed down your toilet causing a clog. In other cases, there may be no at all clog; but the sewer pipes may break down due wear and tear and aging. A drain problem can lead to sewer backup coming out of the drains. In such a situation, the result may be significant damage to your home and also a costly sewer line repair or replacement. In case you see or suspect a potential sewer issue, call accompany providing DC sewer services for inspection immediately. The inspection can save you from the escalating sewer and plumbing problems.

 

 

Slow Drains

 

If your toilet, sink or bathtub is not draining properly even after the sewer line clean up, you may be having some underlying issues such as tree roots or cracks invading your sewer pipes. A slow drain is an indication that something is forming up in the sewer system which may lead to a sewage backup. You should avoid using chemicals in solving slow drainage issues since the chemicals only will eat away the pipes causing more damage.

 

Sewer Backups

 

 

 

Sewer blockages and backups typically occur in the lowest open drain due to a blockage in the sewer line. If you are experiencing a sewer backup every time you run water down your bathroom drain or sink, the most common problem is likely to be in your main sewer line since all your pipes rely on it to drain properly. If the backups are limited to a single drain, then your problem could be isolated to that particular drain. You can seek the services of a professional plumber to clean your pipes, and the drains will work properly once more.

 

Foul Smell From The Drains

 

If you can smell sewer odor in your home, it is a clear sign that there is a crack somewhere in your sewer line. A sewer is typically air-tight everywhere apart from the vent stacks on the roof that allows the sewage to move downhill. So you should never experience any foul smell unless there is an opening or a crack in your sewer system.

 

Cracks In The Foundation And Sinkholes

 

Extreme signs of sewer system deterioration may include foundation problems like cracks, settlements, and sinkholes. If the mainline that runs under the slab develops a leak that remains unattended for an extended period, a crack will develop in your foundation. The void may lead to foundation issues such as cracks, settlements in the building or worst cases a sinkhole. If you spot any of these problems, you should contact a foundation repair specialist as soon as possible.

In conclusion, in case you are experiencing some of these signs of a potential sewer issue, or you want to prevent sewer problems from escalating, plan for a professional to inspect your system. Plumbing systems can terribly fail if left unattended causing extensive damage to your home. There are many methods of repairing sewers out there so you should ensure to seek the advice of a DC sewer service before you make any decisions.

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Reasons To Call An Emergency Plumber

Plumbing emergencies are inevitable in our homes and offices, and they mostly occur at the most inconvenient time.  Your water heater may stop heating water once you enter your shower. Your dishwasher may break down when you are cleaning up dishes after dinner.  Your toilet may start running, or the drain may clog when you are leaving for work, or one of your pipes may leak or burst during the night. Before you contact an emergency plumbing service in case of such situation, you should turn off your water supply. In the event of a leaky faucet, broken pipe, or faulty water heater, ensure that you discontinue the flow of water. Turning off the supply of water will reduce water wastage and prevent high charges on your monthly water bill. However, by doing this, you will also prevent any flooding event if there is a severe leakage.

Most popular plumbing services will provide you with the best emergency repairs, replacements, and maintenance to help you avoid damage in case of a leak or clog. If an emergency occurs, it is comforting to have a plumbing service on speed dial to fix your plumbing issues before they worsen. Here are reasons to call an emergency plumber to your home or business.

 

Gas Leaks

 

If you happen to smell gas or suspect a gas leak in your home, you should first switch off the main valve and then call an emergency plumber. If you leave a gas leak unattended, it can lead to serious injury and massive damage to property. So it’s important to contact an emergency plumber immediately you smell gas.

 

Sewer Backups

 

The sewer line is responsible for removing all the waste from your home and piping it to the sewer that’s beneath your street. In case your sewer is invaded by tree roots or becomes corroded, it can break, and this calls for the attention of a professional plumber. You can identify a sewer backup by clogged drains, uneven levels of water in the toilets, stains in the basement and a foul smell in your home. In case you find yourself experiencing any or all these signs, you should contact a DC emergency Plumber to investigate the situation as soon as possible.

 

Broken And Leaking Pipes

 

 

If you experience broken or leaking pipes, you should first turn off the main water valve and then contact an emergency plumber. If you can’t locate your main water valve, contact a plumber to check out your home and also enlighten you on the valves to turn off in cases of emergency. Broken or leaking pipes should always be repaired or replaced by a professional. To fix the leaks temporarily, you can put rags around the leaking pipes and buckets under the dripping pipes to collect the water and prevent further damage.

 

Broken Heating System

 

Central heating issues often become emergencies if they happen during cold seasons and especially in homes with older people, young children, or people with severe health conditions. Some of the heating problems can be fixed quickly, such as an empty oil tank, a thermostat that’s switched off and a tripped circuit breaker. If you check all these and can’t find the reason behind the heating system failure, the next step is to call an emergency plumber.

In conclusion, if any of these emergencies happen to pop up in your home, contact a DC emergency plumber for professional help without hesitation. Listen to any advice given to you by the plumber and take care of the plumbing situation before help arrives.

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