How to Handle a Plumbing Emergency

It’s easy to say don’t panic when you’re in the midst of an emergency but, actually, it is good advice. Try to stay calm and follow the following simple steps.

Keep the Leak From Getting Worse

Find the water valve closest to the problem and turn it off so that there is no more water leaking out. If you can’t find the closest one, turn off the water coming in to the entire house.

Minimize the Damage

Get any belongings out of the way of the water that has already leaked out. Dry up what you can with towels, mops, or even a wet/dry vacuum if you have one handy. Make sure that water has not gotten into your electrical system. If so, this should also be shut off and an electrician called.

Call a Plumber

If the leak is a small one and you’re handy around the house, you may be able to fix it. If not, you will want to call a plumber to make sure that it’s repaired properly and won’t just start up again later.

When there’s any doubt as to how bad the leak is, or if it is an indication of a bigger underlying problem such as pipes that need replacing, it’s a good idea to call in an expert. Visit this website for information on emergency plumbing in Carrboro.

3 Signs You Need Backflow Prevention

Backflow refers to water flowing the opposite way, meaning up the pipes rather than down. Since it can result in health issues, it is especially important that you are aware of it when it happens. Here are three signs that you need backflow prevention.

1.    You Can See It

The most typical sign you’ll get is water coming back up out of the drains in your sinks, shower, bathtub or near a sprinkler system. Although this can just be from a simple clog, it can also be from backflow.

2.    Your Drains Smell

Bad odors can result from other issues, but backflow is one of them. It’s a good idea to have a plumber check your system if you’re noticing a strong smell coming from a drain. It could be a sign that unclean water is getting into your system.

3.    The Water Changes Color

Backflow problems will commonly result in a change in water color. Although the most frequently seen discoloration is brown, the water can also be yellow or even pink in color.

If you’re unsure as to whether you have a serious backflow problem, it is a good idea to call in an expert to check in order to avoid any potential health issues. For more information on backflow prevention in Chapel Hill, visit this website.

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What to Do if You Have a Water Leak

It’s easy to ignore a leak if it’s small. But even small ones can become worse, potentially causing damage to your home and belongings. It’s good to know what to do if you have a water leak to minimize problems.

1.    Shut the Water Off

The first thing you’ll want to do is shut the water to the affected area. If you can’t find the proper valve, shut the main water valve off.

2.    Check for Electricity

If the leak is near an electrical outlet, shut off the electricity as well. Even if you’ve stopped the leak, there may already be water in the wiring. You will want to have an electrician check that out once the plumbing situation is sorted out.

3.    Call Your Plumber

Now that the immediate problem has been stopped, you can call a plumber to determine what needs to be done to stop the leak. While you’re waiting, you can start drying up the area with towels and mops. If you have access to electricity, you can also use fans.

Don’t worry that your leak is too small to call a plumber. It’s better to err on the safe side in protecting your home. For more information about a plumbing company in Chapel Hill, you can visit this website.

2016 Plumbing Fixtures to Watch For

Two of the most common areas picked for remodeling are kitchens and bathrooms. They are both places that are perfect for improving functionality along with design. For the best of these innovations, it’s a good idea to have a plumber help install them to make sure you get full advantage of the technology.

Dual Head Showers

One trend that is growing in popularity is having a dual head shower, such as one large shower head coupled with a handset. These designs are increasingly being incorporated with an open floor plan where the shower is not enclosed.

Simple to Shut Off Taps

One of the more frustrating things in the kitchen is having use the sink when your hands are coated with some food substance. New fixtures allow for easy on and off with your elbow, ending the problem of sticky faucets. A similar style in the bathroom reduces spread of bacteria as well.

With all the new and innovative kitchen and bathroom fixtures out there, it just may be time to consider a remodel yourself. When working with plumbing, it’s smart to have an expert help you install new fixtures to make sure it’s done right and working seamlessly right from the beginning. For help with plumbing fixture installation in Pittsboro, visit this website.

Plumbing Tools

It is not advised that you attempt any plumbing jobs on your own. Always contact professionals because they will have the tools needed to get the job completed on time.  

 

The Benefits of Having a Water Softener System

The term hard water is used to describe water that contains an excess of minerals. Although hard water is not generally a health concern, there are benefits to having a water softener system.

Extends the Life of Your Plumbing

Hard water can leave deposits in plumbing systems that can cause both clogs as well as corrosion over time. Softening the water can therefore extend the life of both your fixtures and your pipes.

Extends the Life of Your Appliances

Just as mineral deposits building up can corrode your plumbing, it can also have a similar affect on appliances that use water such as dishwashers, laundry machines and water heaters. Softening your water can result in having to repair or replace these appliances less frequently.

Improves Cleaning

Hard water can leave spots on clothing and dishes after using it to clean them. In comparison, soft water helps to remove soap better. As a result, both you and your clothes will feel cleaner. Softer water can also mean that less soap is necessary to do the same job. In addition, you won’t have to scrub off soap scum left on tile, tubs, sinks and showers.

Having a water softener system installed on your home can make your life easier and save you money in a number of ways. To learn more about getting a water softener in Triangle, see this website.

Reasons to Install a Water Filtration System

Although many people only think about having clean drinking water, there are many more reasons to install a water filtration system. Here are just a few of them to take into consideration.
  
Clean Drinking Water

Of course, the most important reason is to have clean drinking water for your family. A filter will save on plastic bottles, reduce cost and also allow you to be sure exactly what is in your water, something that you can’t know for certain when using bottled water.

Clean Bathing Water

Most tap water is chlorinated and may also contain other chemicals and heavy metals, creating bathing conditions that are less than ideal. They can make skin conditions like eczema worse, and can also exacerbate asthma.

Extend Life of Pipes, Laundry Machines, Clothing and More

Clean water will also extend the life of your pipes and any appliances that use water such as laundry machines and dishwashers. It also helps to extend the life of your clothing as chemicals can be deposited on them and the chlorine in tap water can cause colors to fade before their time.

If you’re thinking about having the water in your home filtered, you can make an appointment to learn more so you can make an informed decision. For water filtration system installation in Apex, take a look at this website for more information.

Fresh, Clean Water

If there is any change to the water you get out of your sinks, whether it changes color or emits a powerful odor, you should contact a professional plumber right away. 

How to Tell If You Have a Slab Leak Problem

A slab leak is a leak that has formed in a pipe underneath your building. These leaks can be more difficult to detect than other kinds because the symptoms are not as noticeable. However, pay attention to any changes around your house so that you can get a plumber out to your home to inspect.

High Jumps in Water Bills

For the most part, your water bills should be about the same price every month. You will likely take notice if your bill is excessively high one month. If there is no obvious reason for why you are paying more for water, then see if you have a slab leak issue.

Sound of Running Water

When you are sitting at home, do you ever see the noise of water running? Unless the sink is still turned on, there is no reason for that sound to be present. It could be the result of a pipe in your foundation leaking and causing water to flow toward the baseboards.

Puddles

A wet spot on your floor is never good. If no one spilled anything, then it is likely the result of a slab leak.

In order to fix this problem, you are going to need professionals to come out. Go to this website for efficient slab leak repair in San Marcos.

Reasons to Install a New Heater Before Winter

Fall is the best time of year to get a new heater. You will likely be using it quite often during the winter, and you want to ensure you have a great heater working before the temperature really starts to drop.

Take Care of Rising Heating Costs

A heater provides your home with warm air, but it also does a lot to increase your energy bills. As bad as that sounds, it is even worse if you have an old heater that wastes energy. If you have had your current heater for 10 years or more, then look into getting a new, energy efficient one. You can enjoy hot air and lower bills.

Easier to Install Now

Another reason why you want to install a new heater now is that it will be easier on the professionals you hire. If snow is already falling, then the experts are going to have to contend with the elements while trying to install your heater. The entire process can take longer than usual because the company has to wait until the snow has stopped falling.

Never go a second without a working heater and get it installed before you will be using it all the time. For a great heating installation and water heater repair in Carlsbad, visit this website.

AC and Heating Units

It is good to get your HVAC units inspected at least once a year. This will let you know if you need to put in any replacement parts and how much life you can still get out of the items. 

How to Tell if You Have a Slab Leak

Sometimes, determining if you have a leak underneath your slab can be difficult, especially if you don’t quite know what signs to look for. While it’s always best to trust the professionals with repairs of these natures, there are a few key signals you can look for to determine whether calling in the cavalry is a necessary step. Some of these include:

•    A water heater that’s running more often than normal or a water meter that’s spinning faster than you’re accustomed to. These can be great indicators that your water’s escaping the pipes somewhere.

•    Warm or wet spots present on the floor. These can be due to the pooling of water beneath the slab below and resulting condensation.

•    Soft spots in the floor that might be a result of the wood rotting away due to the leak.

•    The sound of water running through pipes when no faucets or other water-using appliances are turned on.

•    New cracks located in your home’s walls or floors, which could indicate that there’s been a leak present for a long while and it’s beginning to compromise the integrity of your home’s structure.

These are just some of the most common symptoms that you may have a leak beneath your slab. To learn more about slab leak detection in San Marcos, visit this website.

When to Replace Your Water Heater

While there are many individuals who believe in the value of repairs over replacements, the fact still remains that sometimes it will become necessary to replace appliances like your water heater. There are many issues that simply hiring a professional for repairs can remedy, but there are a handful that necessitate a complete replacement to keep things running smoothly in your home. If you’ve experienced any of the following symptoms, it may be time to look for a new water heater:

•    Pooling water around the tank itself is never a good sign. This could indicate a fracture or leak in the tank itself. These leaks can be difficult to locate, as they sometimes open and close with the heating and cooling of the tank itself, and is therefore difficult to repair or patch. Replacement is usually the correct course of action.

•    If you experience rusty water whenever you’re using warmer settings on your appliances, it could indicate that your water heater’s insides are rusting away. This issue cannot be reversed, necessitating replacement.

•    An outdated water heater might still work, but has a higher potential for problems. If your heater’s life expectancy is long past, it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient model.

These are some of the most common reasons why you may want to consider replacing this important appliance. To learn more about water heater installation in Poway, visit this website.

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Why a Grease Interceptor Needs Regular Cleaning

Your grease interceptor, or “grease trap” as it’s commonly called, is one of the key pieces of equipment in your food service establishment. Although you’re careful to ensure that you don’t deliberately pour grease, cooking oils or food wastes down your drains, some lipids will inevitably enter your waste water. The grease trap is what catches them before they exit your facilities and go into your sewage system.

How It Works

A grease interceptor works by separating the water from the fats, oils and grease (collectively known as FOGs). Water comes into the unit via a flow regulator, which is intended to keep it from flooding the trap. As it cools, the FOG content solidifies and floats to the surface while other debris sinks to the bottom of the interceptor. This cleaned water enters another compartment through a crossover pipe, where further solids are removed before discharging it into the sewer system.

Common Problems

However, grease traps need routine cleaning and maintenance to stay operational. Once the unit full, the equipment will be unable to separate the water from the lipids. If this happens, grease will eventually back up the unit and build up within its pipelines, rendering it nonfunctional. Other problems, such as clogs in the incoming, outgoing and crossover lines, are a possibility.

Regular cleaning is the key to prevent these and other problems with your grease trap. Your septic and grease trap technician should be able to prescribe a cleaning schedule. Visit this website for more information about grease interceptor cleaning in Soquel.

3 Reasons to Have Septic Tank Inspections

You might not think much about your septic tank. It runs silently in the background — or rather, underground — to take care of your family’s waste water. Without regular inspections, however, you won’t know about any major problems building up inside your system until it’s too late. If you’ve accidentally allowed grease, food solids or other materials into your drains or exiting water, this is especially true. So, consider these three major reasons you need to maintain a routine inspection regimen.

•    Solids buildup: Even if you’re very careful about what you allow down your drains or in your waste water, some solids will still exit your home and end up in your septic tank. These form a sludge layer at the bottom that must be periodically removed.

•    Prevent costly repairs: An inspection permits you to detect potential problems sooner rather than later, and correct them before they get worse.

•    Determine a pumping schedule: Depending on your household’s volume, septic tanks should be pumped every three to five years. An inspection helps determine when this needs to be done for your system.

In most cases, your septic tank should be inspected once per year. However, your septic maintenance professionals can recommend the most optimal schedule for you. Visit this website to learn more about septic inspections in Santa Cruz.

Installing a Grease Trap Helps Your Sewage Lines

If allowed to flow with your water, excess cooking oil enters sewage lines, building up solids that cause flow problems and unpleasant odors. A grease trap catches it before exiting your pipes.

3 Steps To Take When You Have A Plumbing Emergency

A plumbing emergency may make you panic, but fear not. Here are the 3 steps you should take immediately if you have a plumbing emergency.

Shut Off Your Water

Shutting off your water can help reduce the risk of further damage to your home. Even a small leak can cause plenty of damage so as soon as you notice leaking water, take action. If you know where the water is leaking from, then shut off the water for that specific fixture. If you don’t know exactly where the water is coming from, shut off the main water valve to your home.

Clean Up Immediately

Standing water can mean disaster for your floors and the internal structure of your home. As soon as you’ve stopped the water from coming in, start getting as much of the water out of your home as you can before it can cause even more damage.

Call For Help

Call in a professional plumber as soon as you can! They can find the problem and fix it, so that it doesn’t happen again and you can move on with the cleanup.

A little thinking ahead now can help in the case of a disaster in the future. Learn where your shut off valves are located, know what steps to take and learn more about emergency plumbing in Encinitas by visiting this website.

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3 Signs You Need To Replace Your Water Heater

Many homeowners may not know when they need to replace their water heater. They may wonder if those noises it makes are normal, or how old is too old for a water heater? If you want to know what is going on with your water heater, here are three signs that you need to replace your unit straightaway.

Age

One of the biggest indicators that you may need to replace you water heater is simply the age of the unit. It is recommended that units older than 10 be replaced as soon as possible in order to prevent possible damage from a failing water heater.

Standing Water

If you observe water around the base of your water heater, especially after showering or doing laundry, there may be a leak in your tank. This means you need to replace your water heater immediately, as a leak in the tank cannot be fixed.

Noises in the Night

Having a noisy water heater is not a good sign. Failing heating elements may be misfiring, and sediment buildup that is disturbed when heated can cause thuds and thumps as well. These noises could be a sign of internal damage as well as aged materials that need to be replaced.

Ignoring these problems could mean a loss of hot water or even damage to floors and surrounding areas from a leaking tank. To learn more about water heater replacement in Carlsbad and to understand your options when it comes to replacing your water heater, please visit this website.

3 Reasons You Should Hire A Commercial Plumber

Plumbing issues can cause real headaches for homeowners, and many individuals believe that they can save money and time by trying to solve the problem themselves. But before you start messing around with your pipes and drains, here are three reasons you should skip the DIY and hire a commercial plumber.

Blocked Sewer Line

A blocked sewer line is one problem that your handy plunger just isn’t going to fix. There may be a blockage in the main line from tree branches or a major clog that requires a professional to remove. Attempting to fix this on your own could damage your pipes or sewer line.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can make doing dishes, laundry or showering an experiment in patience. But before you fiddle with anything, call a commercial plumber. They know what to look for when it comes to low water pressure.

No Hot Water

Taking a cold shower is no walk in the park, and even though you want it fixed right away, this is something that you should leave to the professionals. While having no hot water is likely due to your water heater, a professional plumber can determine just what exactly is the problem and how to fix it.

There are times when it is better to trust a professional than to attempt a DIY—and saving your plumbing is one of those times. To learn more about commercial plumbing in San Marcos, please visit this website.

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3 Smart Reasons to Install a Water Softener

Have you given much thought to the quality of your water? Hard water has a higher concentration of minerals, which can affect the taste as well as the condition of your skin, clothes, plumbing, and even some of your appliances. A water softener can remove those impurities for better household water. If you are thinking about having a water softener installed in your home, here are three smart reasons why you should.

1.    Better Taste

Hard water can have a mineral taste which some people may find unpleasant. Water that has gone through a softener tastes better, which is good news for anyone who is concerned with hydration.

2.    Safer for Your Household

Hard water can increase the need for maintenance for your plumbing system, washing machine, and dishwasher. When minerals found in hard water build up in your appliances and pipes, you may need more frequent repairs.

3.    Gentle for Skin and Clothing

Water that is tough on your plumbing can be even tougher on your clothes and skin. With a water softener, your skin may be softer and have fewer problems due to dryness. Your clothing may also last longer because the fibers have less damage from your water supply.

Is it time for you to break the hard water cycle? If you want more information about the benefits of water softener installation in Monterey, please visit this website.

A Professional Knows

A professional plumber has the expertise and equipment to find and resolve issues anywhere on your property. You may want to have your pipes inspected to find small problems before they get worse. 

How to Tell if You Have a Leak

How can a small drip turn into a big problem for homeowners? Leaks in your home can require major repairs if you are unable to find them. Here are a few ways to know if you have a leak in your plumbing system.

Changes in Pressure

Have you noticed that your water pressure seems weaker? One of the main causes of changes in water pressure can be a leak in your plumbing system.

New Sounds

Drips from faucets or under sinks are a clear indication you need repairs, but other odd noises can also mean you have a leak. If you hear water running but are not using water in your house, do not ignore it.

High Water Bills

Pay attention to your monthly water bills to see if your usage has increased. If your bill is going up but you are not doing anything differently, you may have a leak somewhere in your home.

Take a Look Outside

Leaks can even occur from your house to your water supply. Check your yard for standing water or wet patches that are unrelated to recent rain.

You may want to monitor your water meter periodically to see if your usage is higher than it should be. If you need more information about leak detection in Pacific Grove, please visit this website.

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5 Signs Your Garbage Disposal Need Repair

Your garbage disposal conveniently lets you dispose of peels and other food waste. Unfortunately, if it experiences certain problems, your garbage disposal may need to be repaired.

1.    Water Draining Slowly

If you are noticing the water in the sink is draining slowly, this may be due to food particles being stuck in the disposal, thereby impeding the movement of the water. Standing water can be inconvenient and dangerous.

2.    Bad Odor

Instead of breaking apart the food, so it can be disposed down the drain, a broken garbage disposal may leave the food stuck in it. Over time, that food can rot, producing a stench in your kitchen.

3.    Leaks

A puddle of water found underneath your sink may be due to your garbage disposal leaking. Since this water is often dirty, it can be dangerous, damaging various items and even attracting unwanted pests and bacteria.

4.    Strange Noises

While it is common for your garbage disposal to make a loud noise as it breaks down the food, it shouldn’t be making grinding noises that sounds like metal is clashing against metal. This might mean that the part that cuts the food into little pieces is not working properly.

5.    It Doesn’t Turn On

There might be a problem with your garbage disposal wiring, preventing it from even turning on. In this case, your garbage disposal may have burned out.

Your garbage disposal can experience problems and may need to be replaced. Please visit this website for more information on garbage disposal repair in Castroville.

When to Replace Your Water Heater

Your water heater often makes aspects of modern living like taking hot showers or conveniently washing your dishes and clothes possible. Therefore, if your water heater is experiencing problems, it may be time to replace it.

Leaks

If your water heater starts to leak, it may be difficult to repair the problem. Instead, having it replaced may be the best solution. This way, the likelihood that an abundance of water may pour out of the heater and onto your basement, potentially causing serious damage, may be significantly reduced.

Age

Sometimes, it may be cheaper or more convenient to have your water heater repaired. Unfortunately, if it is more than ten or fifteen years old, the required parts may be not be available, or it may be too much of a hassle to repair an old water heater. In this case, it may be better to just get a new one.

Energy Efficiency

Maybe your water heater is working just fine or only experiencing minor problems. However, you may still want the benefit of a new, modern heater. Water heaters are often being designed and manufactured to use less energy than old heaters. As a result, you can save money on your energy bills. Furthermore, using less energy can also benefit the environment.

Your water heater is usually very useful, but it may need to be replaced at some point. Please visit this website for more information on getting a water heater replacement in Monterey.