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From overflowing sinks to standing water in your shower, clogged drains can quickly become a nightmare for homeowners. Do-it-yourself methods often suggest chemical solutions or using a plunger to remove residue buildup. By the time you see the clump of hair, slime, and dirt that comes out of the drain, you’ll wish that you had gone to an expert plumber instead. 

Professional plumbers may use a larger, more intense tool to snake a clogged drain. However, in more severe cases, this isn’t necessarily the most ideal approach because it can risk the integrity of the pipeline. Instead, turn to Express Sewer & Drain for effective hydro-jetting methods that will keep your pipes free of debris.

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This post first appeared on http://www.atozstatewideplumbing.com

A water leak can cause significant damage to your home, as well as increase your water bill. It’s essential to locate and repair a water leak as soon as possible to prevent further damage and save money. Here are some tips on how to find a water leak in your home.

Check Your Water Meter – One of the easiest ways to determine if you have a water leak is to check your water meter. Turn off all the water in your home, including appliances and faucets, and then check the meter. If the meter is still running, it’s likely that you have a water leak.

Inspect Your Water Bill – Another way to determine if you have a water leak is to inspect your water bill. If your bill is significantly higher than usual, it could be a sign of a water leak in your home.

Listen for Sounds – Water leaks can often be heard before they can be seen. If you hear the sound of running water when no water is being used, it could be a sign of a water leak. Try to locate the source of the sound to identify the leak.

Look for Visible Signs – Water leaks can often be seen as well. Look for damp or discolored areas on walls, ceilings, and floors. A water stain is a good indication that water has been leaking into that area.

Use a Water Leak Detector – A water leak detector is a device that can be used to locate water leaks. It works by detecting the sound of water flowing through pipes. Place the device near areas where you suspect a leak, and it will sound an alarm when it detects water flow.

Conduct a Dye Test – A dye test involves adding dye to your toilet tank or sink drain to determine if there is a leak. If the dye appears in your toilet bowl or sink, it’s a sign of a leak.

Hire a Professional – If you are unable to locate the leak or you suspect that it’s in an area that is difficult to access, it’s best to hire a professional plumber. The A to Z Statewide Plumbing crew have the tools and expertise to locate and repair water leaks quickly and efficiently.

Finding a water leak in your home is essential for preventing further damage and saving money. By following these tips, you can identify and repair a water leak quickly and efficiently. Remember, the longer a water leak goes undetected, the more damage it can cause. If you are unable to locate the leak, it’s best to hire a professional plumber to ensure that the problem is resolved correctly.

This post first appeared on http://www.atozstatewideplumbing.com

The human body is approximately 60% water. In some cases, it’s even higher: 75% of an infant’s body is water. This fact makes it obvious that drinking plenty of water is critical for human health. But what about the source of that water? Is your drinking water clean enough to keep you healthy?

There are a variety of water treatment systems available to help ensure that your drinking water is clean. How can you select the right water treatment system? How can you be sure that it’s working properly? And how can you keep it working well in the long term? 

Signs of Water Quality Problems

Many things can indicate that you should get your water quality tested. Consider testing if you notice discoloration or corrosion on and around your water fixtures, an unpleasant smell or taste to your water, or if you or your family members have been ill and you don’t know why—especially pets, who are small and more easily affected by contaminated water. Another reason for concern about water quality is if you live in an older home. 

Sources of Water Quality Problems

Chlorides, nitrates, and arsenic can be absorbed by your water before it enters your home’s plumbing system. An imbalance in pH (acidity or alkalinity) or salinity (salt content) or bacterial growth can all have health consequences. And lead piping was not banned for use in water systems until 1986, so a home older than that may still have a plumbing system that contains lead, which is a dangerous contaminant that can lead to health problems, especially developmental delays in children. 

Solutions to Water Quality Problems

Water treatment systems come in two main configurations: POE or point-of-entry systems, which treat all the water that comes into your home, and POU or point-of-use systems, which treat the water flowing through a specific fixture, such as the kitchen sink. Both types are available for different varieties of treatment that address the specific contamination that is affecting your water. But how can you know what treatment your water needs?

Water Quality Testing

In order to select a treatment that will resolve your water quality problem, you need to know exactly what’s in your water. With professional water testing in Orlando, you can have a complete and detailed breakdown of exactly what your water contains. This will allow us to help you select the right treatment system for your home. 

Water Treatment System Care

There are two critical things that need to be done when you have a water treatment system in place in your home. The first is that your water should still be tested regularly. This will reassure you that the system is working properly, alert you if there’s a problem with the system and contaminants are not being removed, and keep you aware of any new sources of contamination that you weren’t treating for with your current system. The second critical thing is water treatment system maintenance. This may include filter replacement, cleaning and disinfecting the system, and removing any mineral deposits that have built up. With continued care, your water treatment system can ensure that you and your family are drinking fresh, clean water. 

Contact Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. today and reach professionals with the training and experience your home deserves.

The post It’s Important to Test Your Water Treatment System: Here’s Why first appeared on Modern Plumbing Industries Inc. Blog.

This post first appeared on https://www.modernpi.com

Your furnace needs repairs and it’s got you wondering if it’s time for a replacement.  Furnaces are expensive and no homeowner looks forward to when their furnace is too expensive to repair and replacing it is inevitable.

It makes sense that you’d want to spend as little money as possible. However, no homeowner wants to purchase a brand-new furnace and end up not being happy with their purchase! Not that a new furnace is going to need furnace repair in Wayne, NJ; we’re talking about performance here. 

Lower-priced furnaces aren’t very energy efficient which means they’ll cost more to run over the course of their lifespan. Homeowners who have a bit more to spend when it’s time to buy a new furnace wonder just how much more they should spend. Let’s review high-efficiency furnaces to determine if it’s right for your home.

What Is a High-Efficiency Furnace?

A high-efficiency furnace is aptly named: it’s a furnace that runs extremely efficiently. Compared to standard systems, it’ll use less energy to operate, therefore saving you money on your utility bills. 

A furnace’s efficiency is determined by its AFUE rating which stands for annual fuel utilization efficiency rating. For example, a furnace with an AFUE rating of 83% means that for every dollar spent, 83 cents will go toward heating your home and 17 cents will be wasted. Take a look at this chart from Energy.gov.

Mid-Efficiency Heating Systems:

• Exhaust fan controls the flow of combustion air and combustion gasses more precisely
• Electronic ignition (no pilot light)
• Compact size and lighter weight to reduce cycling losses
• Small-diameter flue pipe
• 80% to 83% AFUE

High-Efficiency Heating Systems:

• Condensing flue gasses in a second heat exchanger for extra efficiency
• Sealed combustion
• 90% to 98.5% AFUE

How Much Money Does a High-Efficiency Heating System Save?

Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer to this question. Your furnace’s efficiency depends on several factors besides its AFUE rating such as:

• How well is your home’s insulation?
• What condition is your ductwork in?
• Where is the furnace located?
• What’s the cost of utilities in your area?
• Was the furnace properly installed by professional HVAC technicians?

The easiest way to get an idea of just how much you stand to save is to use a furnace efficiency calculator. You’ll need to enter factors to determine your current furnace’s efficiency. Then compare it to furnaces with higher AFUE ratings to get an idea of your potential savings.

In a nutshell, high-efficiency furnaces make sense when:

• You live in a cold climate 
• You don’t plan to sell your home for at least ten years
• Your local energy costs are higher than average
• You can apply state and government rebates and tax credits to your purchase

The Bottom Line

We know researching your new furnace can be a confusing and stressful process. It doesn’t have to be! We can advise you on the best furnace for the specific needs of your home and family. We can also tell you which rebates and tax credits you may qualify for. 

Contact MarGo Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc. to schedule furnace services today.

The post Can A High-Efficiency Furnace Save Money? first appeared on MarGo Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc..

This post first appeared on https://margoplumbing.com

Living in Ottawa means that you may encounter some common plumbing problems due to the cold weather and other conditions. From burst pipes to frozen water lines, a lot of homeowners experience these issues at one point or another.

 

Fortunately, there are ways to prevent and fix these plumbing problems so you can avoid costly repairs. In this resource, we’ll discuss 10 common plumbing problems faced by Ottawa homeowners and how they can be solved quickly and effectively. We’ll also go over some tips on how to prevent them from happening in the first place. So if you live in the nation’s capital, read on for more information!

10 common plumbing problems faced by Ottawa homeowners and how they can be solved quickly and effectively

 

1. Frozen pipes:

Frozen pipes are a common plumbing problem in Ottawa, especially during winter when temperatures drop significantly. If you notice any frozen pipes in your home, it’s important to thaw them out as soon as possible to prevent further damage or burst pipes. To do this, open all of the faucets connected to the pipe and use a hairdryer on its lowest setting to slowly thaw the pipe from one end to another.

 

2. Clogged drains:

Clogged drains can be caused by a variety of factors such as hair, grease, or food particles getting stuck in the drainpipe. To unclog a drain, you can use a plunger or an auger (also known as a plumber’s snake). If you’re unsure of how to use these tools, it’s best to call a professional.

 

3. Low water pressure:

Low water pressure is usually caused by mineral deposits or corrosion buildup inside the pipes. To fix this issue, you can try using a vinegar and baking soda mixture to clean out the pipes and restore the water flow. If that doesn’t work, then it might be time to call in a plumber for further assistance.

 

4. Leaky faucets:

Leaky faucets are usually caused by worn-out washers or seals on the handles and valves of your taps. To fix this problem, first turn off the water supply to your taps and then unscrew the handles and valves. Replace the washers and seals, reassemble the faucet, and then turn on the water supply again.

 

5. Running toilets:

Running toilets are usually caused by a malfunctioning flapper valve inside the tank. To fix this issue, simply replace the flapper valve with a new one and make sure it’s installed properly so that it can create an effective seal when closed.

 

6. Burst pipes:

Burst pipes are often caused by extreme temperature changes in Ottawa or corrosion buildup inside the pipes. To repair a burst pipe, you need to first shut off the main water supply to your home and then call in a professional to repair or replace the pipe.

 

7. Sewer backups:

Sewer backups are usually caused by a blockage in the sewer line or tree roots growing into the pipes. To fix this problem, you need to call in a professional plumber who can clean out the pipes and remove any debris causing the backup.

 

8. Slow draining tubs:

Slow draining tubs are usually caused by soap scum buildup inside the drainpipe or a clog that can’t be reached with a plunger or auger. To fix this issue, you can use a chemical cleaner to dissolve any build up and clear out any clogs in your drains.

 

9. No hot water:

If your hot water is not working, it’s usually caused by a malfunctioning water heater. To fix this issue, you can try resetting the breaker or check to see if the pilot light has gone out. If that doesn’t work, then it might be time to replace your water heater or call in a professional plumber for help.

 

10. Dripping taps:

Dripping taps are usually caused by worn-out washers or seals on the handles and valves of your taps. To fix this problem, first turn off the water supply to your taps and then unscrew the handles and valves. Replace the washers and seals, reassemble the faucet, and then turn on the water supply again.

 

As you can see, there are several common plumbing problems that Ottawa homeowners may face. If you find yourself dealing with any of these issues, it’s best to call in a professional plumber for assistance. A professional plumber will be able to quickly diagnose and repair the problem so that your home is free from plumbing woes!

The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist For Your Plumbing System

Is your spring cleaning in full effect yet? When you start making your ultimate spring cleaning checklist, don’t forget to add your plumbing system to the list! We’ve made it easy for you, and listed out the most important “to-do” items to start checking off. Here are the top 6 items to add to your spring cleaning checklist.

1. Check For Toilet Leaks

First on the list, make sure you are checking your toilets! Toilets can leak for days or even weeks without you knowing because the leaks aren’t always very obvious. While spring cleaning, try the “food coloring” trick. Drop some food coloring into your tank and wait about 30 minutes. If the water in your toilet bowl doesn’t run clear, that means you have a leak and should have a professional plumber out to your residence quickly.

2. Make Sure Drains Are Cleared

Next, check your drains. If you have any blockages or clogs in your drains, it can cause poor water flow and other problems. While tempting, avoid using chemical drain cleaners or bent wire hangers to clear the blockages and clogs yourself. Homemade contraptions can actually cause more harm to your pipes. Instead, invest in professional drain cleaning to help clear your drains quickly, effectively, and safely.

3. Maintain Your Water Heater

Once a year, you should plan to have your water heater professionally drained, flushed and maintained. As the water runs out of the tank, so will the sediment that has accumulated and built up inside. This can eventually cause your tank to rust and corrosion, which will impact your unit’s efficiency. That’s why it’s so important to invest time and money into having your water heater maintained.

4. Inspect Your Sump Pump

April showers bring may flowers. They can also bring flooding if you’re not careful! Before any rain makes an appearance, check your sump pump’s ability to operate. Over time, gravel, pebbles an dirt can get caught in your pump and make it unable to operate efficiently. You can have a professional plumber assess its condition this spring. Your plumber should also be able to tell you any additional things you should consider adding to your sump pump in order to avoid flooding.

5. Clean Your Garbage Disposal

Your garbage disposal works hard for you – now is the time you work hard for it! Garbage disposals are designed to break down waste, but over time, it can collect food scraps, bacteria and other debris. Not only can this cause your garbage disposal to work inefficiently, but it can also cause your kitchen to smell. A simple garbage disposal cleaning will help keep it working well for you. However, remember to never put your hand down the disposal – even if it’s off!

6. Check Your Pipes

Your toilet isn’t the only thing that can experience leaks. Make sure you’re checking all the pipes around your house – inside and outside – for any signs of visible leaks. If you spot anything off, such as musty smelling rooms, wet spots, foundation cracks, mold and mildew, high water bills, or damaged ceilings, walls, and floors, don’t wait. Contact a professional right away.

Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Plumbing Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your plumbing needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your plumbing appointment by visiting us online here.

The post The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist For Your Plumbing System appeared first on Cool Touch Air Conditioning & Heating.

This post first appeared on https://www.thetrustedplumber.com

Believe it or not, the official start of spring is here. When seasons change, many homeowners will begin to realize some of the effects the winter months had on their home—broken pipes, cracked hose bibbs, sump pump failures, etc. After a cold winter, you may be ready for warmer weather, but most importantly, is your home’s plumbing?

Here are a few quick tips for you to consider this spring:

1. Clear debris from places such as your downspouts and any area surrounding your sump pump discharge line.
   • With any additional snow melting and upcoming rain, it’s very important to inspect your sump pump discharge line to make sure nothing is clogged or blocked.
2. Test your sump pump! All too often, we see flooded basements due to sump pump malfunctions. We advise that you follow these tips to test your system.
3. Inspect your property for blockages or obstructions that could prevent any remaining melting snow from draining.
4. If you can, clear debris, such as leaves, twigs, etc., from your gutters so water can drain appropriately.
5. Visually inspect your outside pipes for leaks and damage.
   • This is especially important for your hose bibb, also known as an outdoor faucet, although it might be a little early to turn your outside water back on. Once the weather gets a bit warmer, this is definitely something you’ll want to keep in mind.

While this is a short list of spring plumbing tips, they’re important to keep in mind! If you need a plumber this spring, you know who to call. With Len The Plumber’s many service locations, we provide same day service, seven days a week, with no extra charges for evening or weekend appointments.

This post first appeared on https://lentheplumber.com

If you own a commercial property, one of the things you absolutely want to avoid is water damage. It’s costly and unsanitary, and it can bring your business grinding to a halt.

What if you do encounter an alarming plumbing problem in your commercial building? Here are our recommendations.

1: Water Waste

If your water usage is higher than you expect, an expert in commercial plumbing in Orlando can help to track down where that water’s going and whether you have a leak. They can also recommend low-flow fixtures that reduce water use dramatically.

2: Leaking Fixtures

Wear and tear at faucets can lead to minor leaks, and those drops add up. Ten drips a minute will use 500 gallons of water in a year! Having fixtures tightened helps immensely.

3: Worn Connections

The most vulnerable points in your plumbing are not the pipes themselves, but the places where pipes are connected. If these connection s wear out, a prompt replacement can save you from major water damage.

4: Broken Pipes

This is less common, but it does occur. If you suspect that a pipe has broken, turn off the water to that part of the building if you can, and call a plumber immediately.

5: Slow Drains

If this occurs throughout your building, it may be a system-wide issue that only a professional plumber can diagnose and treat. Video pipe inspection to pinpoint issues or hydro jetting to clear the whole drain system may be called for.

6: Blocked Sinks

If a single drain is blocked, you can try using a sink plunger or hand-cranked drain snake to sort it out. If that doesn’t work, a plumber’s tools are much more effective, such as a motorized auger that is like a superpowered version of your drain snake.

7: Clogged Toilets

This is one of the most distressing problems a property owner can face. If there’s any risk of overflow, shut off the water to the toilet immediately. A plumber can sort out the immediate problem as well as make recommendations for how to reduce the risk that it will happen again.

8: Water Heater Issues

There are strict legal requirements about hot water temperatures in commercial buildings and even stricter ones for buildings that contain food service establishments. If your water heater is leaving something to be desired, a plumber is the person for the job.

9: Expansion of Plumbing

If you’re adding a bathroom, updating a kitchen, or expanding the plumbing in your building in any other way, our team can help you with the planning and installation so you get the results you want.

10: Gas Line Work

Plumbers don’t just work on water pipes! Many of the same tools and skills are required for gas plumbing, and it’s critical for your safety and for adhering to legal requirements that your gas line work is done by licensed professionals.

Contact Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. today and reach professionals with the training and experience your commercial property deserves.

The post 10 Common Commercial Plumbing Problems and What to Do first appeared on Modern Plumbing Industries Inc. Blog.

This post first appeared on https://www.modernpi.com

When it comes to plumbing, you probably think immediately of drains, pipes, faucets, and wrenches. You might know that plumbers service water-related items in your home such as your water heater.

But did you know that addressing issues with water quality is another skill in a plumber’s toolbox?

When you think about it, it makes sense that plumbers would be concerned about the quality of your water. That’s because problems with your water can cause damage to your plumbing system and appliances.

Even more concerning is the fact that poor water quality can contribute to issues with your health and your home comfort.

Learn about the various water treatment options that are available in your home. A plumber in Clifton, NJ can check the quality of your water and recommend a system to improve it if needed.

Reverse Osmosis

A whole house reverse osmosis system works by pushing water through a semipermeable membrane to remove any contaminants and impurities. This is the same technology that a desalination plant uses to turn saltwater into freshwater. Reverse osmosis systems can remove lead, pesticides, fluoride, pharmaceuticals, bacteria, and arsenic. 

The main benefit of this system is that it’ll make your drinking water–and your cooking!–taste a lot better. Hard water deposits on your faucets, showers, and countertops will be eliminated.

Your washing machine and dishwasher will do a much better job of getting your clothes and dishes clean. A reverse osmosis system will also protect your plumbing and appliances from the effects of hard water.

Water Softeners

A whole house water softener system tackles the hard water that is found in much of New Jersey. Hard water has too much calcium and magnesium which is apparent in your tap water. It’ll taste faintly metallic and although these minerals aren’t harmful, they don’t taste great and can affect your cooking.

It’s difficult for soap to dissolve in hard water. That’s why homes with hard water have crusty, hard water deposits on shower heads, faucets, and countertops that are aesthetically unappealing. It’ll also cause soap scum buildup in your showers, tubs, and sinks. Your clothes won’t feel as clean because the laundry detergent can’t dissolve as well as it should. That’s also the reason for those spots on your dishes. 

UV Water Purifiers

UV water treatment systems utilize ultraviolet light. These simple systems are installed at the apex of your household water supply. This allows the water treatment system to purify your entire water supply through the use of ultraviolet light.

Your home’s water is protected from bacterial contaminants and other dangers even if the civic water system were to become compromised. However, UV water purifiers can only kill off microbiological pollutants such as viruses and bacteria. Inorganic solids and chemicals are not removed with this type of system. 

Trust A Professional Plumber With Your Home’s Water

Only an experienced plumber can install a water treatment system in your home. We can advise you on the best type of system for your home after testing your water. We’ll also be there for any maintenance and repairs your new water treatment system may need. 

For your water system needs, contact MarGo Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc. today.

The post Water Treatment Options For Your Home first appeared on MarGo Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc..

This post first appeared on https://margoplumbing.com