Incorporating Universal Design Into the the Bathroom Shower

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Universal design addresses the need to create living spaces, including the bathroom shower that are accessible to anyone, regardless of their age or physical ability.ÿAccording to the AARP, one in four Americans will be 65 or older by the year 2020. Additionally, 56 million Americans, or approximately 19 percent of the US population, reported having some sort of disability on the 2010 census. These statistics demonstrate the growing need for spaces that comply with universal design standards, and with an increasingly aging and disabled population, it is imperative that designers, architects and plumbers adhere to universal design guidelines in order to accommodate everyone?s needs.

Hansgrohe makes a product called a ?FixFit? wall outlet. When strategically placed and installed with a handshower, it puts the control of the water closer to the bather, something that is vital for individuals who are unable to stand up in the shower. Mounting the FixFit wall outlet closer to the seating area puts the handshower at a height that can be comfortably reached. For care-givers who need to multi-task when caring for individuals in the shower, the handshower can be turned on and off in a pinch, further streamlining the bathing process for both parties.

Hansgrohe?s Raindance Select E 120 AIR Green 3-Jet Handshower is an excellent option for those looking to
incorporate universal design in their homes. The handshower is easily removed from its stationary wall mount and can be paired with an accessible wall outlet, letting individuals with limited mobility easily and independently bathe themselves.ÿIn addition, the Raindance Select offers its users the opportunity to choose between three different spray settings (RainAir, Rain and WhirlAir) by clicking theÿergonomicallyÿplaced ?Select? button. Conventional hand showers require the user to grasp and rotate the spray face when changing settings. Those with limited range of motion in their hands and fingers will find that changing the spray settings by pushing a button is easier and more comfortable to use.

For more information, please visitÿhttp://www.universaldesign.com, a website that is dedicated to providing free access to universal design information.

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

The bidet has been around for centuries, but it’s never quite taken off in American households. However, that may be changing (even though it took a pandemic to do it). So, let’s take a look at bidet history, why it’s growing in popularity across the United States, and how it stacks up against good ol’ TP.

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

How Toilets Work

No item in the American household is more ubiquitous than the modern commode or toilet. Perhaps no one item must be more immediately repaired if made non-functional to keep the home habitable. We will be identifying the 11 most common toilet tank parts. Should the need ever arise, you will be able to diagnose the problem with your toilet, identify the part requiring placement, and proceed with the required repairs ? thus saving time, money and aggravation.A plumber showing up to replace just one or two toilet tank parts will cost you at least $$. The price of those toilet tank parts could be as little as a few dollars. Having a plumber show up to replace those same parts at night, on weekends, or holidays, you can expect that price to double.

The operation of a toilet is somehow simple, yet complex. The function of the bowl, tank, flanges, fillers, rings, nuts, and levers work in unison to create the swirl and the flush to sweep waste from your house. The typical flush cycle actually works something like this:

One thing to keep in mind is that the actual toilet tank parts will vary in different commodes and new parts may have different designs incorporated into them. Regardless, there is enough commonality and interchangeability that repairs with different parts than original are possible and even commonplace.

The flush cycle starts with pushing the flush lever which is mounted on the reservoir. This pulls the chain attached to the flapper valve and gravity causes the water in the tank to flow through the siphon and through the rim holes and into the bowl flushing away the waste. The mass of the water leaving the tank is sufficient, that as it travels the S-bend, it creates a siphon which evacuates the contents of the bowl into the main drain.As the water in the tank leaves, the float valve inside falls, activating the fill valve which opens to let pressurized water back into the reservoir tank. The flapper valve then falls back to the bottom closing the valve. As the water level moves back, the fill valve switches off and the cycle is complete and ready to repeat as necessary.ÿ

water level moves back, the fill valve switches off and the cycle is complete and ready to repeat as necessary.

image by pixabay

The flapper is the barrier between the siphon and bowl and the reservoir tank. It is activated by the flush lever pulling the metal chain attached to it.

The flapper valve sits in this seat which provides a seal so that water does not leak from the tank past the flapper valve.

The flush lever is what activates the flush cycle by being depressed and pulling the metal chain which pulls the flapper valve away from the flush valve seat, allowing water to rush by.

1. Flapper valve

The fill valve has a plastic float surrounding it filled with air and as the water leaves the reservoir, the buoyant float drops down the body of the fill valve activating the valve which is under pressure. As the reservoir tank fills, the plastic float returns toward the top and then disengages the fill valve cutting off the flow when the proper water level is reached.

11 Toilet Tank Parts You Should Know About

This tube travels from the fill valve to the overflow tube.

The refill tube clip is attached to the refill tube and clips it in place on the overflow tube.

Common Problems and Repairs

The overflow tube serves as an open drain pipe should anything go wrong in the tank which would lead to an overfill situation and drains any water above the overflow tube directly away.

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

You head into your shower on a chilly winter morning, turn the handle over to the right, and hop under the stream of water expecting warmth. The unpleasant surprise is that you’re met with cold, chilly water raining down on you. This doesn’t make for a pleasant morning. Now you know that you have a plumbing problem that you need to handle as soon as possible.

When you need plumbing service, we’re the team who can help you with your water heater in Paradise Valley, AZ. If you’re struggling with cold water, we’re here to help you figure out exactly what’s going on today.

The Cause of Your Water Heater’s Cold Water

There are quite a few reasons why your water heater might start producing cold water. Here are a few of the most relevant reasons.

Mineral Build-Up

If you’ve talked to a professional about water heater troubles in the past, then you’ve probably heard about mineral build-up. It’s something that plagues water heaters that aren’t routinely serviced. Mineral build-up occurs because of the natural mineral level that exists in the municipal water supply. These minerals naturally deposit over time and calcify as the water heats and cools. This is what creates mineral build-up. If there’s enough of it in your hot water tank, it can actually prevent hot water from getting to you easily. This results in you feeling cool water from your faucets.

A Bad Heating Element

Electric water heaters have a heating element that kicks off the entire process. If your heating element begins to degrade, it will have trouble actually performing its job. You might notice the temperature of your water cool down and dip over time. Put the replacement of this part into the hands of professionals: we’re the only ones who can guarantee satisfactory results. 

A Broken Thermostat

One reason that you might run into cold water is a broken thermostat. Most water heater thermostats keep the water between 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The setting within this range typically depends on the needs of your home. Although this is where the setting should lie, it is possible for things to go wrong and get off track. 

If you notice that your thermostat setting has dipped below the 120 mark, then you can turn it back up. If you keep running into the problem of it dipping below this mark, then it’s time to contact a professional. There’s something wrong with your thermostat and we can help you fix it. 

The Importance of Professional Service

We know just like you know that plumbing problems are no quick fix. When your water heater can’t deliver, our team members will be there to fix it. We’re able to do this because we understand the ins and outs of water heater service. You can rely on us to fix anything that’s gone wrong. 

We’ll also be by your side for maintenance and replacement services. Water heater maintenance is vital whether you have a tank or tankless model. We can also help you choose a new unit when you’re ready to upgrade.  

Contact The Trusted Plumber to schedule an appointment for water heater service.

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

It’s a new year, and for some people, that means it’s time for a new look (for their bathroom and kitchen, that is). If you’re in the market for a bathroom or kitchen remodel in Sacramento, California, you may be interested in some of the hottest trends. Of course, some of these looks are also timeless, so they’ll look just as good in your home 50 years from now as they will tomorrow. So, let’s get to the looks!

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The post Staying Warm While Waiting For Repairs appeared first on Cool Touch Air Conditioning & Heating.

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

Your home’s plumbing system is out-of-sight and out-of-mind. That is until there is an issue.

An overflowing toilet or a backed-up sink drain can throw you into a tailspin. But before you panic over your plumbing, check out these tips to determine if you have a true plumbing emergency or if you have a plumbing problem that can wait.

Can You Stop the Flow of Water?

When it comes to overflowing toilets or a sink leak, simply shutting off the water source to that fixture can immediately stop any damage and buy you some time to schedule a professional to fix the problem.

Is the Leak a Trickle or a Flood?

For leaks that are more of the drip variety, grab a bucket and catch the water so you can hold off to make a scheduled repair.

If your leak fills the bucket quickly, it’s better to call that emergency number and get a plumber out quickly.

Is There a Health Issue?

Water is essential, especially when health-compromised people are living at home.

When access to water is diminished due to a plumbing issue or your water heater is malfunctioning, those issues can be considered emergencies.

Can You Do Without the Plumbing Fixture?

While inconvenient, broken toilets or clogged sinks can be marked “out of order” until you can schedule a plumber to take a look at the issue.

Did Your Pipe Burst?

Burst pipes can release thousands of gallons of water and cause massive damage to your home.

If you cannot stop the water supply to the burst pipe, or you have to shut off the main water supply to the entire house, it’s time to call in an emergency professional.

Do You Smell Gas Coming From Your Water Heater?

If you smell gas, respond immediately as this is an emergency situation.

Water heaters can explode if the water pressure is too high or the relief valve is broken. Call in a professional.

Is Your Water Heater Leaking?

In this case, turn off the power source and shut down the water supply to the water heater.

Start to drain the tank and call a professional to make an appointment for a repair.

Are Multiple Toilets Backed up at the Same Time?

Multiple toilet backups can indicate a blockage in your main sewer line. A blockage can force raw sewage back into your home.

This is a plumbing emergency and should be addressed immediately.

Did Your Sump Pump Stop Working?

Sump pumps are designed to automatically turn on when needed to remove excess water from the home. Without proper maintenance, they can malfunction.

However, this is not an emergency unless you are in a flooding situation. Turn off the pump and try some simple sump pump maintenance tasks.

Are You Hearing Knocking or Banging Noises Coming From Your Pipes?

Pipes and plumbing can make some strange noises that might scare you but most often aren’t an emergency.

Check out this list of strange plumbing sounds and what they mean.

Solve Your Plumbing Problems With Same Day Service

Knowing the difference between a plumbing problem and a true emergency can save you money and anxiety. At Len The Plumber, we can help determine if you’re having an issue that needs to be addressed right away or if you can schedule a more convenient service call.

Contact us online or call (800) 950-4619(800) 950-4619 for fast, same day service seven days a week!

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

You flush your toilet, wash your hands, walk away, and you don’t think much of it. You walk by your bathroom again later on and it still sounds like the toilet is still flushing… what’s going on?

Your toilet should stop running after its normal flush cycle. If your toilet is still flushing and no amount of jiggling the handle or messing with the toilet makes it stop, then it’s time to enlist the help of a professional. 

It’s time to improve your plumbing in Orlando, FL. The first step to fixing your toilet is figuring out the source of your problem. The second step is finding a reliable HVAC company that can perform the repair. Let’s get into everything you should know below…

What’s Causing Your Toilet Problem

There are a few problems that may contribute to a toilet issue like this. You should check for the following:

A Problem with the Float

The water level inside of your home’s tank is controlled by an adjustable float. The problem comes when the float isn’t where it’s supposed to be. If the float is too low, you’re going to notice that you have a weak flush. If your water is set too high, this is when you’re going to notice that your toilet starts running continuously. 

It’s easy and low risk to figure out if you’re dealing with a water imbalance. Just flush your toilet and see where the water stops. Once you realize you have a definitive problem, our professionals can come out to your home and fix your float problem.

The Flapper is Leaking

Your toilet’s flapper is what’s in charge of sealing the drain. If the flapper is dirty, broken, or even warped, then it means that you’re going to deal with continuous flushing. If you look up this problem online, you’re going to see a lot of articles and even videos instructing you to DIY. Quality toilet repair needs to be handled by a professional. We know it might seem simple, but professional service is always worth it.

The Chain is Broken

Your flapper chain connects your flush lever and your flapper. If the chain is compromised or disconnected, your toilet isn’t going to be able to perform its job. Our professionals can pinpoint the problem and solve it ASAP.

Where Can You Find a Professional You Can Trust

It’s incredibly important to find the right plumber who can perform your toilet repair. Figuring out what’s gon=ing on is half of the equation, but finding the right professional to make your repair worthwhile is the crucial other half. Our professionals are ones you can rely on. We’re trained, licensed, and we have the experience necessary to make sure that your toilet is in proper shape. 

We understand that DIY attempts and amateur work are tempting. They both promise to save you money and a considerable hassle. In reality, this type of work is only going to cause you ongoing problems. Professionals will get you the work you deserve. 

Contact Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. to schedule an appointment for your toilet care.

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

It’s been a minute since we talked about maintenance! Truth be told, our phone lines have been constantly lit up by calls for repairs, so maintenance tends to take a backseat during this season of heavy heater usage. We get it, you just want to make it through the rest of the heating season unscathed and keep your home comfortable for the foreseeable future, right? Well, depending on how new and effective your heating system is, maintenance could be the best call right now.

We understand, late maintenance doesn’t sound like much of a good idea for your heating in West Orange, NJ, does it? If you skipped an appointment this year, you might as well wait until next year, right?

Well, this blog post is here so that we can show you why that might not be as good an idea as you think!

Late Maintenance Is Better Than No Maintenance

The first and most important point we need to tackle today is the fact that late maintenance is always better than no maintenance at all. It’s estimated that we lose up to 5% of our heating efficiency every year we skip maintenance, which can compound to a pretty substantial amount you might end up paying on your utility bills. Basically, maintenance is the only proven way to avoid this kind of increase in energy consumption.

Also, it’s important to think about the longevity and condition of your system. The more consistently the system is maintained, the better off it will be for the long term. This means it will last longer and provide your home with better results.

A Reminder of the Benefits That Come From Maintenance

If that wasn’t enough to convince you to call us for maintenance, then here are a few other great benefits that come from contacting a professional team for a tune-up!

• Higher efficiency levels. Maintenance helps keep your heating system efficient. This will result in lower utility bills throughout the years and more savings in your pocket!
• Minor repairs being made. Every maintenance appointment allows our professionals to make some minor adjustments and repairs before they become serious problems. Nope, we don’t charge extra, it’s all part of the service unless we have to replace a part or provide extended repairs beyond the appointment.
• Addressing upcoming problems. If we notice something wrong, we’ll say something! This can help you prepare in the future for a repair need that will need to be addressed. We can even schedule your future repair that moment and give you an estimate as to how much it will cost!
• Better system performance. Well-maintained heating systems perform better than ones that are neglected. This means you’ll get more powerful heat from your air vents.
• Peace of mind. Sleep easier every night knowing that a professional has given you the green light on your heating system. This peace of mind is almost worth the cost of maintenance itself!

Ready to get maintenance done on your system? Then call our team and schedule an appointment.

Contact MarGo Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc. for effective HVAC results.

The post Late Season Maintenance Is Still a Great Idea first appeared on MarGo Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc..

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