How a Small Plumbing Drip Could Cost You Thousands

A small drip or leak in a pipe may not seem like a threat but it can be costly if you don’t have it repaired. Many people will procrastinate fixing a drip or leak in their plumbing or use a “quick fix” to temporarily delay a real repair. If you have a pipe under a sink with a drip and put a bucket under it or just wrap it with plumber’s tape, it could cost your thousands of dollars down the road. The same is true for a toilet base that is leaking or other drips from plumbing fixtures.

If you ignore or put a temporary fix on plumbing leaks or drips, you could regret it later. Water is corrosive and it will continue to seep through any loose fitting or hole in plumbing if not repaired correctly. While plumbing tape or catching drips can minimize damage temporarily, eventually a small leak can lead to a pipe bursting or a major water leak. If you are not at home when this happens, it can cause:

  • Flooding in your home
  • Ruined floors, ceilings, walls and furniture
  • Extensive, emergency repairs needed for plumbing and your home
  • Mold invasion that can cause health problems and require expensive removal

While a plumbing repair may seem expensive at the time, it is much more cost efficient than what can occur if you procrastinate or use a temporary fix. It is worth the investment to correctly fix pipe leaks, dripping faucets, leaking water heaters and other plumbing issues immediately. In the long run, it can save you thousands of dollars in home repairs and prevent unexpected plumbing emergencies in the future.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing, Inc.
106-M Oakgrove Road
Sterling, VA 20166
(703) 435-4441

Water Quality Testing for Homes with Wells

If your home uses a well, you want to ensure your water is healthy and safe to drink. It is possible for contaminants to seep into ground water or for old plumbing pipes to emit toxins into your water. Periodic quality testing for your well water can ensure the water you use for drinking, cooking and washing is safe for your family.

There are many factors that can affect well water. Chemicals used in agriculture or landscaping can be absorbed in large quantities into the ground water, tainting the water supply. Harmful bacteria like e. coli can containment your water. Old pipes can contain lead and release small amounts of lead in the water. Testing is the best way to know your water is safe.

Water Testing and Purification

A standard water quality test can be used to ensure your well and plumbing are providing healthy water for your home. You can buy a water testing kit or call a local plumber to perform a comprehensive test on your water supply. Testing once a year can alert you to health problems with your water. In between testing, you want to ensure your water is safe. Using a water purification or filtering system can remove many toxins from your water, helping improve the taste and safety. Your local plumber can install a water filtration system that will purify the water you use for drinking and cooking to keep your family’s health protected.

Water is one of the basic elements you depend on for health. Keep the water that comes into your home free from toxins by performing routine quality testing and using a reliable filtration system for your consumable water.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(404) 973-2471

3 Important Water Heater Maintenance Tips

When was the last time you performed maintenance or service on your water heater? Many people never perform the needed maintenance and may be at risk of a water heater breakdown. While water heaters do not need much service, an annual tune-up can help prevent problems and extend the life of your appliance. Here are three water heater maintenance tips that can help minimize the risk of leaks and premature failure.

  1. Check the pressure release valve. The pressure release valve on water heater tanks is vital to maintaining the correct pressure. When the temperature or pressure become too high inside the tank, the valve releases water. This should be checked to ensure it is working at least once a year and replaced if necessary to avoid pressure build-up that can cause tank leaks or explosions.
  2. Drain the tank. The tank of a water heater can fill with mineral sediment that can cause damage to the inside of the tank. Draining the tank once a year can rid the tank of these minerals, helping your water heater last longer and run more efficiently.
  3. Replace the anode rod. Water heaters have an anode rod that attract minerals to reduce rust and corrosion of the tank. These rods are meant to rust and corrode, needing to be replaced every few years to continue protecting the tank.

Some homeowners choose to perform water heater maintenance on their own, while others call their local plumber. Either way, performing maintenance can help increase the lifespan of water heaters and prevent damaging leaks. If your water heater does need repair, call your local plumber for assistance.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing, Inc.
106-M Oakgrove Road
Sterling, VA 20166
(703) 435-4441

Water Fixtures for Your Outdoor Living Space

As summer comes closer, more and more time is spent outside. Families gather on their patios to eat dinner and friends are invited over for pool parties. If you enjoy relaxing and entertaining in your outdoor living space, you want to make it simple and convenient to access water. Here are some water fixtures to consider adding for your outdoor living area.

Outdoor Kitchen Sink

If you have a outdoor kitchen or grilling area, an outdoor sink can make cooking and cleaning easier. No more bringing dirty utensils and pans inside to make a bigger mess – you can clean your grilling and outdoor cooking items outside. Plus, you have access to water for cooking, drinking or washing without going inside.

Outdoor Shower

There are many great reasons to add an outdoor shower. If you have a pool, it is a convenient way to rinse off chlorine after a swim. Secondly, there is nothing more refreshing than showering outside on a beautiful, sunny morning. For those with dogs, outdoor showers are an easy way to keep your furry friends clean without making a mess in your bathrooms.

Fountains or Waterfalls

Adding water features like fountains or waterfalls can help create a relaxing and beautiful backyard. They also cool the air and invite butterflies and birds into your yard. Plumbing can supply the water needed to create ponds, fountains, water walls and waterfalls that improve the ambiance and landscaping at your home.

Start planning your new water fixture additions to improve your outdoor space now. Your local plumber can install your new water fixtures for function and convenience while you are enjoying time outside this summer.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(404) 973-2471

Will Lowering Hot Water Temperature Save on Energy?

Your hot water heater can contribute a sizable amount to your energy bills each month. Tank water heaters keep dozens of gallons of water hot and ready for use, but this comes at a price. One way to reduce the energy used by your water heater is to lower the temperature setting. However, it is not the only way to lower your hot water bill. Here are some tips for reducing the cost of hot water in your home.

Reset the Water Temperature

You can set the water temperature on tank water heaters, which can reduce energy use. An efficient setting is 120 degrees. This is hot enough to kill bacteria yet takes less energy to maintain.

Use Less Hot Water

Simply using less hot water is a good way to reduce your energy costs. Shortening showers, using cold water for laundry and not running hot water down the drain can all help reduce the amount of hot water used and decrease energy bills.

Use Insulation

An insulating blanket over a hot water tank can help reduce heat loss. This can be helpful when trying to conserve energy.

Hot Water Heater Maintenance

Like most appliances, hot water heaters work more efficiently when they are maintained. Flushing once a year and replacing components when needed can help reduce energy use. Keep in mind that water heaters that are 10+ years old are most likely less efficient than newer models. Replacement can help with lowering energy bills.

By keeping the water temperature setting lower and following these tips, you can see a difference on your hot water energy costs. Talk to your local plumber about scheduling routine water heater maintenance or explore replacing your old heater with a new, efficient model.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221

Danger of Tree Root Sewer Line Invasion

Safely snuggled under your lawn are your sewer lines, whisking away the water and waste from your home. You depend on your sewer lines to keep doing their job day in and out, but they may be in danger. There could be an enemy stealthily moving underground to attack your sewer pipes. Are your sewer lines in danger of tree root invasion?

The beautiful trees in your yard that offer shade, windbreaks and privacy can be a big problem for your sewer lines. Trees need moisture to survive and their roots stretch out from their trunk base to find the moisture they need. Sewer lines are an enticing source of water, especially those made with jointed pipes. Tree roots can find tiny cracks in joints to squeeze through and access the interior pipes. Once a small root is inside, it can grow and apply pressure to the pipe, causing serious damage. In addition, the roots can clog the inside of your sewer lines, causing sewage backups.

Do You Have Tree Root Problems?

If you have large trees in your yard and older jointed sewer lines, you may want to have your pipes inspected. Many sewer/septic companies offer digital camera inspections. This method can view your sewer lines from the inside and detect any tree root issues. If there are tree roots that have infiltrated your sewer lines, hydrojetting performed by your sewer professional can remove the roots and clear the pipe.

It is important to understand the danger of tree roots to sewer lines. Avoid planting new trees near your sewer lines and proactively have your pipes inspected to detect any root penetration before it causes serious damage.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221

Save Water and Energy with a Hot Water Recirculating System

Do you need to run your hot water for your shower a few minutes before it you finally can enjoy a hot shower? If you have a larger home, the pipes coming from your water heater can be long, filled with cold water. All that water is wasted when it goes down the drain. A solution to save on water waste and help lower energy costs is a hot water recirculating system that can be added to your existing plumbing system.

How Do Recirculating Systems Work?

There are a few different types of hot water recirculating systems. There are pumps that can be installed under sinks or over water heaters that deliver instant hot water to selected fixtures. A cross-over valve at the point of the fixture can be also used to deliver the hot water. The benefit is quick access to hot water when you need it, without wasting cold water in the hot water lines. The water in the lines is recirculated by the pump, keeping it in your plumbing instead of going down the drain.

There are on-demand, instant and traditional hot water recirculating systems. All offer quicker hot water without wasting the water in the lines. This can save thousands of gallons of water every year and help reduce energy costs. For those who want to save money off their utility bills or just care about limiting water waste, these devices can be an excellent addition to their plumbing system.

If you are interested in learning more about hot water recirculating system options, contact your local plumber. They can discuss the different options available and find the best solution for your home.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(404) 973-2471

Long-Term Plumbing Problems from Unexpected Freezing

Not all plumbing problems from unexpected freezing weather are immediately noticed. In areas unaccustomed to cold weather, many homeowners may have frozen or burst pipes during the cold snap. These usually cause major leaks and flooding that require emergency plumbing repairs. But there may be other long-term plumbing problems that could cause problems down the road.

Outdoor Spickets

Outdoor spickets that were not covered or insulated during the freezing weather may have had water freeze in the pipes. This can cause small cracks that may not cause issues until the spicket is used. Once the cold weather is gone, check outdoor spickets for leaks.

Pipes in Garages or Crawl Spaces

Like outdoor spickets, pipes in unheated areas like the garage or crawl space could have damage from freezing. Inspect these pipes and look for small leaks that need repair.

Sewer Lines and Septic Equipment

Pipes and septic equipment underground can be damaged from freezing. It is important to look for signs of underground leaks or sewer line problems. Wet spots, soil erosion or bad odors in the yard near sewer lines, septic tanks or drain fields could alert homeowners of pipe damage.

Irrigation, Pools and Other Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures

Any outdoor plumbing that was not completely drained and prepared for cold weather could be damaged during freezing weather. Inspect all pumps and equipment for damage when it is time to start using pools, spas, water features and irrigation systems.

Many people may not realize they did have damage to their water line from unexpected cold spells during the winter until spring. It is important to watch for signs of issues and call an experienced plumber if repairs are needed.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing, Inc.
106-M Oakgrove Road
Sterling, VA 20166
(703) 435-4441

5 Ways to Reduce Clogs in Your Plumbing

When your kitchen sink or bathtub are slow to drain, it is usually a sign a clog is forming in the pipes below. Sticky residue builds up on the inside of the pipes and food, hair and other items collect in these spots, slowly creating a blockage. To reduce the occurrence of clogs in your pipes, make a few changes how you maintain your drains. Improve the drains in your home and reduce calls to your local plumber with these five tips.

  1. Add drain strainers. Use strainers in your kitchen sink and bathtub/shower drains to keep hair, pieces of soap and food debris from going down the drain.
  2. Stop using bar soap. Most bar soaps are made with congealing fats. Switch to liquid soaps to keep the fats in bar soaps from coating the inside of your pipes.
  3. Add a garbage disposal. If you do not have a garbage disposal, consider adding one. Those with 1/2 to 1 HP are the best at grinding food finer to reduce clogs in your kitchen drain pipes.
  4. Keep grease out of your drains. Never rinse out a greasy pan in your sink. First, pour the grease into a container and then wipe the pain with a paper towel. Grease is usually the culprit when it comes to kitchen drain clogs.
  5. Be careful what you flush. Do not flush cotton balls or swabs down the toilet, or anything with plastic, cardboard or rubber. Anything that is not biodegradable should not be flushed.

Make sure to educate everyone in your family on how to reduce clogs to keep your plumbing pipes clear. If you do get a clog, let a plumber handle the removal to protect your pipes from damage.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221

Red Flags to Look for When Hiring a Plumber

Whenever you hire someone to work in your home, you want to know you are hiring a trusted, experienced professional. Plumbing companies are plentiful, but not all offer the same quality of service. If you are researching plumbers, there are a few red flags that can alert you to possible issues. These red flags can help you avoid hiring the wrong plumber for the job.

No Local Phone Number

If the plumber has an out-of-town area code or only has a 1-800 number, look a little closer. Where is the company based out of and are they local? There have been instances where companies come into a town, posing as local contractors, scamming people out of their money before they quickly leave town. Make sure the company you hire has a local address, phone number and location.

Bad or No Reviews

Check out the reviews online for a company. Keep in mind that one bad review can happen, even to the best contractors. However, if there are no good reviews or a pattern of bad reviews, this is a bright red flag to avoid this plumber.

Licensed and Insured

You want to make sure any plumber you hire is legitimate. They should have a contractor number through the state and carry insurance to cover their employees and any damage. This is quick to check – most reputable plumbers have their contractor license number on their website that you can verify through your state’s business licensing agency.

Checking a plumber’s background can save you time, money and frustration in the long run. Make sure to vet your plumber to avoid hiring the wrong company to perform your next plumbing project.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing, Inc.
106-M Oakgrove Road
Sterling, VA 20166
(703) 435-4441