Small Drips Can Become Big Expenses

February 12th, 2014 Posted in Faucet Repairs
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A dripping faucet or leaky pipe may not seem like a big problem, or one which requires particularly urgent attention. It may seem easier to put a bucket under a leaky pipe or live with the annoying drip than actually fixing the problem. These minor plumbing issues may seem small, but if left unchecked, they can become bigger and more expensive problems than you may realize.

Fixing Drips Now Can Save You Money Later

Most minor drips and leaks are an easy fix. In most cases, the culprit is usually just a small crack or worn out washer which needs to be replaced. A plumbing professional can make quick work of leaky pipes and dripping faucet repairs and can help you avoid substantial expenses in the long run.

  • Higher water bills. Even a small leak, drip or running toilet can make your water bill go up each month. Over time, the added expenses on your water bill may be much more than it would have been just to call a plumber when the problems first started.
  • Water damage. A small leak or drip is only going to get worse over time, and will not rectify itself. Eventually, the small drip will become a big leak, which can cause expensive water damage in your home.
  • Bigger problems. A drip or leak may be a sign of bigger issues. Getting a professional out to fix the small problem could prevent bigger and more expensive problems down the road, especially if the plumber uncovers a serious underlying issue.

Never procrastinate when it comes to drips and leaks in your plumbing. A call to your plumber today could save you time, money and headaches in the future.

Posted on behalf of Kiddco Plumbing

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Protect Outdoor Water Pipes From Freezing

February 12th, 2014 Posted in Water Line Repair
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One of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face during the winter months is the possibility of frozen pipes. The most vulnerable pipes are those which are located outside the home, like outdoor faucets or those located in an unheated storage building or garage. These water lines are exposed to more extreme cold, typically are not heated and need extra protection to keep them from freezing and bursting under pressure.

Insulating Exposed Pipes

Any pipe exposed to the elements needs insulation to prevent freezing. During cold weather, outside faucets should have the water valve turned off and all water drained before insulating the pipes. All pipes should be wrapped in insulation or heat tape to keep them protected. A secondary precaution is to wrap plastic over the insulation to protect the pipes from moisture.

In addition to pipes which are directly located outside, make sure to protect pipes in garages, out buildings and even those in the home which are on an outside wall. It only takes one cold night to freeze a forgotten pipe, and cause damage to your plumbing. Make sure you check and insulate all pipes that have even the slightest exposure to the cold weather outside.

Even insulation does not always prevent all frozen pipes. If you suspect that a pipe is frozen, you need to shut the water off to the affected pipe before thawing. The pipe may be already cracked, so when it thaws, the water can flow out of the crack unchecked. This can be dangerous if you use an electrical device to thaw the pipe, and can cause severe damage to your home. In such cases, it’s best to have a professional attend to potentially frozen pipes in order to avert the worst of the trouble.

Posted on behalf of Shawn Bynum, Bynum Plumbing

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Be Prepared For Plumbing Emergencies

February 12th, 2014 Posted in Emergency Plumbing
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When a plumbing emergency happens, you need to act fast to prevent further damage to your home. A burst pipe can quickly go from a fairly inexpensive fix to very costly water damage in your home. In a plumbing emergency, every second counts. Knowing how to handle these emergencies beforehand can save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars by allowing you to act quickly and effectively.

Plumbing Emergency Basics

There are many different types of plumbing emergencies, including clogged or backed up drains. However, the one that can do the most damage in the least amount of time is a burst pipe or broken water fixture. If water is spraying unchecked into your home, it can do extensive damage in a very short period. In such a situation, you need to know how to stop the flow of water as soon as possible.

  • Shut off the water supply. You need to know how to shut off the water supply to your home. This can be done two ways, either at the city water meter, which generally requires a plumbing key, or at the main water valve that is usually located where the water main enters the house.
  • Individual valves. In addition to the main water valve, there are several individual valves throughout your home. These can be under the sinks, behind toilets and near any major water appliance.

First and foremost, when a pipe bursts or a fixture is spraying water, cut off the water supply either to that particular area or to the whole home in order to prevent major damage while you await professional attention. The next step is to call your local plumbing professional to get the problem resolved. By being prepared, you can prevent a small problem for turning into a big expense with quick thinking.

Posted on behalf of Tony McAdams, A-1 National Sewer and Drain

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Is It Time To Replace Your Water Heater?

February 12th, 2014 Posted in Water Heaters
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In most homes, the water heater is an appliance which can do its job for years on end without needing repairs or much attention at all, making it an easy one to forget about until a problem arises. Unfortunately, when a water heater does need repair or replacement, it can be an eye-opening experience.

When Your Water Heater Needs Replacing

Most water heaters can last anywhere from ten to twenty years, depending on the type and how well they are maintained. Annual maintenance can make a big difference in the life of your water heater, and can also give you a bit of warning for the approaching need for replacement. Although some issues may be able to be repaired, once a water heater is over tenyears old, it may not be worth repairing. Some signs that your water heater should be replaced include:

  • Leaks. Water heaters can corrode and spring a leak. Once this happens, replacement is usually the only feasible option.
  • Metallic water. If your water has a metallic smell or taste, this is a sign that it may be time to replace the water heater.
  • Rusty water. Changes in the color of your water may be signs that there is rust building up inside the tank of your water heater, a sure sign you should be considering replacement.
  • Loud noises. If your water heater is making loud popping or cracking noises, they could be caused by extensive mineral deposits building up around heating elements and other working parts. In such cases, replacement is usually the best and safest course of action.

The best way to know for sure if it’s time to replace your water heater is to schedule an inspection by your local plumber. If the water heater is still viable, your plumber can perform annual maintenance which can help it last a few more years. If it is time for a new model, a professional plumber is also capable of helping you choose the best model for your home and lifestyle needs.

Posted on behalf of Seagraves Plumbing 

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Pamper Yourself With A Luxury Shower

February 12th, 2014 Posted in Bathroom Remodeling
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A hot shower can be one of the best parts of your day. Whether you’re trying to wake up in the morning or to clean and relax your body after a tough day, a shower can do wonders for both your body and mind. Why not take this wonderful experience to a new level by adding a luxury shower to your home? A bathroom remodel including a large walk-in shower with multiple heads at different angles can turn your daily shower into a spa-like experience while adding to your overall property value.

Luxury Shower Options

The trend in new showers is making them larger, with more shower heads. This gives you the option of having water flowing from several angles and sources, targeting multiple points for the best experience. One of the most common layouts is a large rain shower head in the center of the shower area, with several smaller shower heads positioned on the surrounding walls. This gives a full-body experience which just can’t be duplicated with a single shower head. Some other options that are popular amenities to a luxury shower include:

  • Music. Waterproof speakers mounted inside the shower allows you to enjoy your favorite music while relaxing in your luxury shower.
  • Bench. Add a marble or stone bench inside the shower so you can sit or lie down for a steam room spa experience.
  • Frameless glass doors. A frameless glass shower is the ultimate in contemporary design, and one of the most popular trends in bathroom design.

Everyone deserves a little luxury in their life. If the shower is your place to relax and unwind, make it even better with an upgraded remodel. Talk to your local plumber about how you can make your dream shower a reality.

Posted on behalf of Kiddco Plumbing

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