Do You Have an Exceptional Plumber?

November 20th, 2012 Posted in Choosing a Reputable Plumber
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How do you know what is standard performance in a plumber and what is considered outstanding service?  If you realize what is above the standard expectations, you will know when you have someone to recommend to others.  On the other hand, if you know what is expected, you will recognize when a plumber fails to provide good service.

Emergency Service

While a good plumber should provide same-day service, an exceptional plumber will respond to emergency calls after hours and on weekends.  There are certain situations that really just can’t wait. And repairs are often needed when it is most inconvenient. A customer-service oriented plumber will work outside of regular hours to accommodate a busy schedule.  While he may charge a higher fee, it will be reasonable.

The plumber should offer some kind of guarantee for his work.  To take it a step further, they should give you the option of a replacement or your money back if the problem is not solved.  Many plumbers limit it to a replacement.

Pricing

The exceptional plumber probably won’t be the cheapest, but his prices will be reasonable.  They will provide an estimate upfront so you can decide whether to proceed with the repairs.  If you compare the plumber with others in his area, you should find some that are higher and others that are cheaper.

Gives Advice

A customer-service oriented plumber will take the time to give advice on which water heater to buy or why one type of faucet is better than another even if you won’t be using their services for this particular job.  An exception plumber isn’t just doing a job; he’s building a relationship.

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Choosing the Right Faucet for Your Shower

November 20th, 2012 Posted in Bathroom Remodeling
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If you are upgrading your bathroom or are in the process of bathroom remodeling, you will want to pay special attention to the fixtures since they can add to the design of the room or just look out of place.  Besides the design, you will have to think about function with the shower faucet.  Here are some tips to help you decide on the right shower faucet for your new bathroom.

The Finish

You have several finishes to choose from with the fixtures.  Besides the traditional chrome or stainless steel, you also have bronze, nickel, and brass.  Select one that will fit in with the rest of your décor; also look for high-end options to prevent scratches.

The Water Flow

No longer do you have to get that unpleasant burst of cold water in the middle of your shower.  Today’s faucet has controls that affect both the water flow and the temperature for a more precise, comfortable shower.  Another benefit is that they often have scald protection for safety with children or the elderly.  You can also purchase an energy efficient low flow shower head and faucet that uses less water and will save you money on your water bill and on your energy bill.

Other Options

You can choose from a fixed showerhead or one that is hand-held.  The hand-held kind can also function as a fixed head with the option to hold for bathing children.  Another decision is if you want one control for hot and cold water or two.  This is a personal decision as to which you prefer.

When you select a shower faucet, you need to know what size to buy to fit your current pipes.  Installation of a new shower faucet is usually beyond the skills of the homeowner.   For best results, ask your plumber to help you with your selection and to install the faucet for you.

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Choosing a Sump Pump

November 20th, 2012 Posted in Sump Pumps and Ejector Pumps
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A wet basement is the breeding ground for all kinds of problems.  Water in your basement can cause damage to the foundation, which is very expensive to repair.  You can also end up with mold and mildew in the walls of your home after they have been wet.  A sump pump can prevent water damage and other issues associated with water in the basement.

A sump pump is designed to work automatically to keep the water from building up.  When the pump detects water in the basement, it should come on without your intervention.  It will then shut off when the water is gone to prevent the motor from burning up.  It is a good idea to have a battery backup in case the electricity is lost during a storm so that the sump pump can keep working.

You have two types of sump pumps to choose from that will remove the water from your basement.  The first type is the pedestal that sits above the water.  This unit is easy to service if it should have a problem because it is convenient to access.  The second type of sump pump is the submersible.  This pump sits down in the water out of the way.  The benefit of this type is that it is usually more powerful and can get the water out faster.  It is safe to use this type of pump in your home because its engine is sealed to prevent any water from getting inside.

If you are tired of dealing with water in your basement, contact your local plumber to install a new sump pump system.  Your plumber can recommend the best kind for your application and handle the sump pump installation and maintenance.

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Ways to Conserve Water and Energy with Your Bathroom and Kitchen Appliances

November 20th, 2012 Posted in Faucet Repairs
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Water is the most abundant resource on the planet, but that doesn’t mean it should be wasted. Finding ways to conserve your use of water can save you money on your water bill and on your energy bill. There are several ways you can do this in your home.

  • Run your dishwasher and washing machine only when they are full.
  • Replace an old showerhead or faucet with efficient low flow faucets and showerheads.
  • Look for appliances that have different load sizes for less water use.
  • Take short showers.
  • Replace old toilets with modern low flow toilets.
  • Reduce the amount of rinsing you do if you have a new dishwasher.
  • Periodically check your plumbing system for leaks.

You can reduce the amount of water you use with low-flow toilets, showers, and faucets.  Also don’t leave the water running while you are using it such as when you brush your teeth or clean the dishes.

You can also lower your electric bill by being more conservative with your use of appliances.  Here are some suggestions.

  • Lower the setting on your water heater.
  • Run appliances for the shortest amount of time possible, such as with washing machines or dishwashers.
  • Wash clothes in cold water.
  • Look for energy efficient appliances even if you have to pay a little more.
  • Follow the directions on use for all appliances, including the type of product you use in them to allow them to work more efficiently.

Contact your local plumber to install the water and energy efficient appliances that you need.  Your local plumber can also suggest the right faucets to buy and which products will benefit you the most.  If you have a trusted plumber, listen to their advice on which appliances and items to choose.

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Why Your Appliances Would Appreciate a Water Softener

November 20th, 2012 Posted in Water Softener
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If you notice a white residue on your shower walls or your dishes, you may have hard water deposits.  However, you only see a small part of the problem of hard water.  What you don’t see can be even more costly.  Hard water contains calcium, magnesium, and other minerals that harden and can cause many problems on your appliances.

Water Heater

Hard water leaves a build-up on the heating element in your hot water heater as well as along the walls inside the water heater.  This will cause the element to burn out sooner and need to be replaced.  When it builds up too much, you will need to replace your water heater.  It also takes longer for the water to heat due to the build up of minerals inside the water heater.

Washing Machine

Deposits also build up on the inside of a washing machine, causing the hot water to run slower until it doesn’t run at all.  Hard water also prevents clothing from getting as clean as they should because the deposits interact with the soil on the clothes and prevent it from dissolving.  The clothes will also feel scratchy and stiff and may be uncomfortable to wear.

Appliances lose their efficiency with hard water deposits and can consume more energy to do the same amount of work.  They will also wear out sooner than normal and need replacement.  Having hard water in your home can be an expensive mistake.

If you have hard water, installing a water softener can improve the efficiency and life of your appliances.  Your local plumber can help you choose one and install it in your home.

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What’s The Best Solution For Rusty Water?

November 7th, 2012 Posted in Water Softener
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If you have rusty water, the kind of water that leaves those lovely orange-brown stains in your toilets, tubs and sinks, the first step in fixing it is knowing where it is coming from. For some areas of the country, if your home is on a well, you know exactly where it is coming from. However, if you don’t have a well or iron-laden water is not normal in you area, most likely it is coming from within your home. 

There are two main ways rusty water can enter your faucet: your well water or your water heater. Figuring out which one is causing the issue is the next step.

  • Water heater. If your water heater is older, this may be your problem. First try flushing it out to see if that fixes the problem. It may be time to get a new water heater, maybe a tankless version that does not hold water so it does not rust.
  • Well water. If your water is rusty do to the water coming from a well, you need a water softener and/or an iron filter to get the rust out of your water. The amount of rust and other minerals in your water will determine the type of softner or filter required. Have your water tested for hardness by a professional and seek out expert advice on the proper filtration system needed for your particular problem.

Once you have the problem corrected, do a thorough cleaning of your plumbing fixtures to remove the rust deposits with the assurance that the rust stains will not be returning.

 

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Is Your Water Safe to Drink?

November 7th, 2012 Posted in Water Filtration
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While most tap water is safe to drink, there is no way to be sure unless it is tested. Many cities still have lead piping and many old houses have it as well. There are other contaminants that can find there way into your tap water and be harmful to your family. The best way to be sure is to have your water tested.

What Should Water Be Tested For?

Depending on where you live and what industry is near by, there is several possible contaminants that could possibly get into your water supply. A water test will only tell you if certain elements are in your water. For example:

  • Agriculture. If agriculture areas are near by, testing for pesticides would be important.
  • Private well. Testing for bacteria and nitrates is very important when you receive your water from a well.
  • Lead. Regardless of the age of your home, testing for lead is always important.

Trihalomethanes (THMs). If you are on city water that uses chloride, make sure they test for THMs or test for them yourself. These are chemicals that can cause miscarriages in pregnant women.

Although there are home water tests, these only test for certain substances. The best way to test your water is to call a professional plumber who can have your water tested for specific contaminants. Otherwise, the generic tests may not test for the particular elements in your area.   Since clean healthy water is essential to our every day lives, it is worth the time and money to find out exactly what is in the water you drink, cook and bathe with daily.

Your plumber can also help you select and install a whole house water filter that can remove most common contaminants and help ensure your water supply is clean and safe.

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Jetted Tubs: Air Jets Vs. Water Jets

November 7th, 2012 Posted in Bathroom Remodeling
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Nothing beats climbing into a hot bathtub that has pulsating water to soothe away the stress of the day. Both air and water jetted tubs can give you wonderful massaging benefits, but there is a big difference in how they work and need to be maintained.  

Air Jets

The air jet tubs are a great option for families with small children and for those who want a tub with less maintenance. Although they do not give as vigorous of a massage and can be noisier than their water jet counterparts, they do have other benefits. 

  • Less maintenance. Air jets do not need extra cleaning as often, as they come with an automatic blow dry function that removes moisture.
  • Safety. Air jets do not use suction so small toys and even your hair will not get pulled into the system. You can also have a small amount of water in the tub and not worry about damage to the system if you need it to bathe a small child.
  • Bath Oils. You can use bath oils and salts with most air jet tubs. 

Water Jets

For adults that want a deeper massage, water jets are the way to go. However, there are some drawbacks. They do need to be cleaned every two to three weeks with a jet cleaner and you cannot use bath oils or salts with these tubs. They also use suction, which can pull small items into their system. But they do have some great benefits: 

  • Hydrotherapy. These are the types of tubs that would be used in hydrotherapy by a physical therapist, making them wonderful if you have regular aches and pains.
  • Quiet time. Water jet tubs are not as noisy and have less splashing then air jets, making it a more relaxing experience. 

Once you decide on the tub that is the best option for your home, a professional plumber can help you with your bathroom remodeling and install the tub for you. Then get out your rubber ducky and enjoy your water massage!

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The Master Bath of Your Dreams

November 7th, 2012 Posted in Bathroom Remodeling
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If you are planning a bathroom remodel for your master bath, take the time to look at your options when it comes to the focal point of a “bath” room, your tub and shower. There are so many phenomenal products out there to help you achieve the master bath of your dreams!

Showers 

If this is the bath of your dreams and you have the room, creating a separate shower and bathtub is optimal. A large shower with room to move, even to sit down, can make your morning shower a delight! Consider these options for your new shower: 

  • Rain showerheads. These large showerheads can be situated off the wall or even directly above you, giving you the sensation of a waterfall coming down upon you. Their large water pattern encompasses all of you, not just a small cone of spray.
  • Multiple-spray. Get clean from all angles with the new multi-spray designs. These have water heads coming from above, each side and even below to give you a full body cleansing.
  • Benches. Adding a small seat into your shower is not just for those who have disabilities. Being able to sit and relax in your shower can be a great experience for anybody.

Bathtubs

Having a wonderful shower is one thing, but most dream master baths would not be complete without the ultimate bathtub. Whatever your tastes and preferences, there are many to choose from.

  • Claw foot. The deep, beautiful claw foot tub is always a favorite.
  • Jetted. Having the duel sensation of hot water and a massage can soothe away any aches, pains or stress.
  • Garden. The large garden tubs are fantastic to stretch out and enjoy a relaxing soak.

Your dream master bath can only be limited by your imagination, and of course, your budget and space. Discuss what options you can do within your space with your plumbing contractor to make the most of all three.

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Newest Options In Kitchen Sinks

November 7th, 2012 Posted in Kitchen Sinks
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When adding a new kitchen sink to your home, there are many considerations. There are literally thousands of options, ranging from the mounting style, the material, and then a large variety of sizes and shapes. Kitchen sinks can range anywhere from your standard off the shelf version for less then $100 all the way up to several thousand dollars for custom designed masterpieces. The newest options on the market take design, function and durability all into consideration. 

The Galley Sinks

These are for those who spend time in the kitchen. If you are a heat it and eat it kind of family, you may not have a need for this deluxe version of the kitchen sink. These sinks are large rectangle sinks that are more of a workstation then just a sink. They are double tiered and come with many options including cutting boards, colanders and stainless steel bowls that slide across the sink. Basically, home chef’s dream sink! 

Prep Sinks

With more homes having islands in their kitchens, prep sinks or also referred to as entertainment sinks, have become very popular. These smaller sinks are great to have on an island so that you can rinse and chop all in one area. 

Apron Sinks

The old farmhouse sinks were technically apron-front sinks, coming out from the counter and with the exposed front of the sink. However, many different types of sinks now come with apron-front designs, with the front of the sink exposed and coming out about 1 inch beyond the counter.  

A good quality sink should last many years, even decades. Take the time to choose the on that will work best for your home and your family. Before buying, make sure you discuss the sink installation with your plumber, so they can alert you to any plumbing changes that will need to be made as part of the installation. 

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