What to Do if You Have a Frozen Water Pipe

December 5th, 2014 Posted in Water Line Repair
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Every year, when the coldest days of winter hit, there are thousands of people who end up with frozen water pipes. Some of the worst problems happen in areas where cold weather neither common nor expected, leaving many pipes exposed to the elements without any insulation. If you turn on your water after a very cold night and find very little to no water coming out of the faucet, there’s a good chance you have a frozen pipe.

Finding and Thawing a Frozen Water Pipe

One of the toughest issues with a frozen water pipe is determining which pipe has been affected. The first step is attempting to turn on the water in different areas of your house. If all your sinks are not working or have very low flow, you may have a frozen water main. If only one area of the house seems to be affected, a localized frozen pipe is likely the culprit.

The best places to look are areas which are exposed to cold air, such as in a crawl space or in your garage. You can try touching the pipes to feel whether they feel extremely cold. If you are able to find a pipe that is frozen, turn off the main water supply. Then. turn on the hot water faucets in the affected sinks. Often just the flow of water will thaw the pipes.

Although some frozen pipes can be thawed with running water or exposing the pipe to heat from a hair dryer or space heater, many will need a professional plumber to unthaw them safely. Heating a frozen pipe too quickly can burst a pipe, causing even more damage to your plumbing and water damage to surrounding property. It is best to let a professional find and fix your frozen pipes, ensuring the issue is resolved completely.

Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.
2120 McDaniels Bridge Rd SW
Lilburn, GA 30047
(770) 736-8283

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Caring for Your Garbage Disposal

December 5th, 2014 Posted in Garbage Disposals
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Anyone who has a garbage disposal knows how handy these little mechanisms can be for homeowners. They make cleaning up after a meal so much easier, grinding up the little pieces of food that get left behind. While they are nifty devices, they also need special care to keep them working properly. Overworking them or not maintaining them will cause garbage disposals to breakdown, something no one wants in the middle of the holiday season.

3 Ways to Care for Your Garbage Disposal

There are a few ways to care for your disposal to keep it working properly. Most of garbage disposal problems are caused by operator error, usually overworking the motor until it gets clogged or burns out. Here are three rules to keep in mind when it comes to keeping your garbage disposal in working order.

  1. Be careful what you put into your disposal. Garbage disposal are not meant to handle all types of garbage. No non-food substances should ever be put into the disposal, and even the acceptable types of food come with some limitations. Keep hard foods like fruit peels, coffee grounds and tough or fibrous vegetables out of your disposal.
  2. Always run water when using the disposal. If the disposal is on, your cold water should be running, also. Always run cold, not hot, water while running your garbage disposal to flush items down the drain.
  3. Keep it clean. You will need to clean out your disposal occasionally. Make sure the device is off and carefully wipe the blades and seals with a thick cloth. You can also run ice cubes through the disposal with tiny pieces of citrus peel to clean the blades and get rid of odors.

Once you are used to living with a disposal, you’ll want a malfunctioning disposal repaired quickly. If your garbage disposal does jam or stop working, call in your local plumber. They may be able to fix the problem or can install a new device.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing Inc
Sterling, VA
(703) 435-4441

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Are Your Water Pipes Prepared for the Next Cold Snap?

December 5th, 2014 Posted in Water Line Repair
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It’s already been a cold winter in many parts of the country, even though December is only the beginning of the cold months ahead. If you haven’t already done so, now is the time to ensure your water pipes are ready for freezing weather. It only takes one cold snap to freeze your pipes, leaving you with no water and the possibility of an expensive burst pipe repair. Frozen pipes can often be prevented with just a little insulation, making this investment worth the effort and expense.

Insulating Water Pipes

If you live in an area prone to cold weather, you most likely already have insulated water pipes. However, freezing weather can and often does happen even in milder climates, and can do a number on your plumbing. The best solution is to add some insulation to your exposed pipes in order to give them protection during those winter cold snaps before the temperatures plummet. There are a few supplies you will need, like:

  • Insulating heat tape
  • Pipe sleeves
  • Newspaper

Any of these can help protect exposed pipes for areas which aren’t prone to long periods of freezing weather. Wrapping the pipes in crawl spaces, unheated basements and garages, plus any outdoor pipes for pools or spas, is good protection against an unexpected cold snap.

If you do end up with a frozen water pipe this winter, be careful when trying to thaw the pipe. Never expose the pipe to direct flame from a torch or other fire; always use a moderate heat source such as a space heater or blow dryer. Be aware that too much heat applied too quickly can cause the pipe to burst. In many cases, it is best to call in your local plumber to fix a frozen pipe so that they can inspect all your pipes to ensure that there’s no lingering damage.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(678) 873-7934

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Give Your Kitchen Plumbing an Upgrade for the Holidays

December 5th, 2014 Posted in Kitchen Plumbing Repairs
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After getting through the first holiday of the season, you may be wanting to add some kitchen plumbing items to your holiday wish list. Maybe your garbage disposal is beginning to wear down or your kitchen sink has fixtures that are leaking. Since these are items you use everyday, they are worthy of upgrading before the next big holiday arrives.

Plumbing Upgrade Ideas

Your local plumber can help you get your kitchen upgraded for the holidays, often including kitchen appliances. Many plumbers can install or move gas lines that are needed for stoves, as well as install standard plumbing fixtures. Here are a few of the upgrades that could make your next gathering run a little smoother:

  • New kitchen sink or fixtures. Is your kitchen sink in need of replacement? Or maybe you just want a newer version that is easier to use? Your local plumber can replace leaking nozzles or faucets, plus upgrade the entire sink.
  • Dishwasher replacement. If your dishes look like they needed to be washed again after going through the dishwasher, maybe it is time to upgrade to a new model. There are many energy efficient options that can also save money off your energy bill.
  • Kitchen appliances. Want a new gas range or a larger refrigerator with an icemaker and water feature? Have your plumber help  you get these installed before the next set of guests arrive.

Give yourself the gift of a fully functional kitchen this holiday season. These upgrades are a better investment than most of the presents that are on most people’s lists and will keep on giving back to you for years to come!

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing Inc
Sterling, VA
(703) 435-4441

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Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for Your Home?

December 5th, 2014 Posted in Tankless Water Heaters
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Many homeowners are converting to tankless water heaters when the time comes for a replacement. There are plenty of great reasons to invest in these efficient appliances, which can save on energy bills while providing an endless supply of hot water. However, not every household will appreciate the benefits of these newer models. Before you invest in a new water heater, consider whether tankless is the best option for you and your family.

Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

Traditional tank water heaters work by heating a large supply of water, storing it for use in a holding tank. There are a few problems with this method which can make it less than ideal for some households. First, the water must be kept hot all the time, whether anyone is using hot water or not. Secondly, there is a limited supply of hot water, which can be frustrating in a large household. Lastly, due to the fact that the water is stored, there is always a chance of a leak in the tank which can cause major damage to the home.

Tankless water heaters address all these problems. The pros of owning a tankless version are:

  • lowered energy costs since water is only heated as it is needed, making them much more efficient
  • no limit to the amount of hot water you can use at one time
  • No tank that can spring a leak and cause a flood in your home

On the other side of the coin are the cons of a tankless heater, These models tend to cost more initially, even though they usually pay for themselves through energy savings. Also, there can be a lag in time while the water is heated, although usually it is a very short time.

If you are considering a new tankless water heater, talk to your local plumber about the pros and cons of these newer models. While they are a good investment for many people, you may be among those who prefer to stick with a tank water heater.

Posted on behalf of:
Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.
2120 McDaniels Bridge Rd SW
Lilburn, GA 30047
(770) 736-8283

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Is Your Toilet Not Flushing Right?

December 5th, 2014 Posted in Toilets
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While it’s not generally considered polite to engage in toilet talk, when talking about plumbing, it’s acceptable. The fact is, we all depend on our toilets to do their jobs, day in and day out. There are few things that can start your day off worse than finding that your toilet is not flushing properly, or worse, not at all. While a clogged pipe is often the cause, there are a few other things you can check before calling in the plumber.

Slow Flushing

Often a toilet may be flushing, just doing so slowly or only part of the way. While this can mean a clogged pipe, it can also be an issue with your tank. If the tank is not filling all the way up, there may not be enough water to properly flush the tank.

To determine whether the tank is the problem, take the lid off to look at the water level and interior of the tank. If the water level is low, the ballcock or float maybe engaging too soon, stopping the water flow. This can be adjusted so the tank fills to a higher level. If there’s an abundance of mineral build up, this can also affect the float. Try cleaning the mineral deposits out, then see if the toilet flushes correctly.

If there doesn’t seem to be any issue within the toilet, most likely you do have a clog in your pipes. You can try plunging out the clog if it’s close enough to the toilet, but you may need to call in your plumber to resolve the problem.

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

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Leaky Sinks Can Lead to Bigger Problems

December 5th, 2014 Posted in Drains
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We’ve all dealt with a leaky sink at one point or another. Either the faucet gasket stops working, or a small drip appears under the sink. It may not seem like a major concern, yet if left unfixed, it could lead to bigger and more expensive problems. If you have a leaking sink, consider the possible damage that can result from procrastinating about repairs.

Damage Caused by Leaky Sinks

The most common leak problem in sinks is often a dripping faucet. While this may be annoying and waste water, it rarely causes any other problems. The dripping water just goes down the sink and is drained safely away from other areas of your kitchen or bathroom. It’s when the leak is located around the base of the faucet or under the sink that real damage can occur. This excess water can cause extensive damage, including:

  • Water damaged vanity or counter. The dripping or leaking water can destroy wood or particle board, which is commonly used in vanities or counters, causing thousands of dollars in damage.
  • Water damaged floors, walls or ceilings. A dripping pipe under your sink could cause water to pool on your flooring, ruining the subfloor, the attached walls and even the ceiling below if in a second story room.
  • Mold damage. Even a small amount of water can attract mold growth. Mold can be hazardous to your family’s health, plus cause damage to the surfaces upon which it grows.

If you have a leaky sink, don’t wait to have it repaired. Your local plumber can quickly get the issue resolved, saving you from larger problems in the future.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(678) 873-7934

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Little Known Plumbing Facts About Common Household Products

December 5th, 2014 Posted in Plumbing Maintenance
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There are many common products which may be in your home, posing a risk to your plumbing. In fact, some of these products are even designed to be used with sinks or toilets, yet can be damaging your plumbing every time you use them. To protect your plumbing and avoid the necessity for expensive repairs and replacements, here are a few facts about some household products that may be harming your plumbing.

  • Soap. Yes, you read that right. Your everyday hand soap can be damaging your plumbing fixtures. When you wash your hands and grab the faucet with your soapy digits, that soap left on the handle can be ruining your hardware. Ever see little bubbles or peeling fixtures? This can be caused from soap; wipe off the faucets after you use them with soapy hands.
  • Toilet tank cleaners. Those little in-tank cleaners for your toilet may not be cleaning anything at all. Many of these products only bleach the deposits, and don’t remove them. So while you think your tank and toilet are being cleaned, they are accumulating build up. Take the time to scrub down your tank and toilet instead.
  • Chemical clog removers. Most plumbers will agree that the chemical clog remover is one of the most harmful products you can put down your drains. These chemicals can damage your plumbing while doing little to completely remove any clog. Use a plunger or snake to remove clogs, or call in a professional!

Ask your local plumber about other little known facts regarding your plumbing which may surprise you. These professionals have seen it all when it comes to plumbing problems, and can offer you some money saving advice!

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing Inc
Sterling, VA
(703) 435-4441

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Thanksgiving Weekend Was a Busy Time for Plumbers

December 5th, 2014 Posted in Clearing Clogged Pipes
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Did you know that the day after Thanksgiving is one of the busiest days of the year for plumbers? In homes all across the country, “Black Friday” took on a new meaning as drains became backed up and toilets overflowed, ending up a call to a local plumber to come fix the problem. It is no mystery why this happens every year. The plumbing fixtures can only take so much food and waste before they become clogged and cause a holiday mess.

Avoiding Holiday Plumbing Problems

What is true during the rest of the year is even more important during big holiday meals and gatherings: watch what you put down the drain! Potato peelings, gravy, turkey drippings and a host of other holiday foods are common culprits which clog many homes after the Thanksgiving meal. With more holidays on the way, now is a good time to review what should not go down your kitchen sink.

  • Peelings and tough vegetables. Even with a garbage disposal, peeling and other parts of many vegetables are too fibrous to put down the drain. Throw away or compost peelings, along with leftover vegetables, to avoid clogs.
  • Grease and fat. Do not rinse the turkey or gravy pan in the sink. The grease from these will congeal in the pipes, collecting debris until they form a clog. Scrape out pans into the garbage before rinsing.
  • Leftovers. Get in the habit of scraping and wiping off all plates into the garbage or compost container before washing them. Even a little bit of food on each plate can add up to a bunch of debris going down the drain when you have several guests.

Just remember that your plumbing can and will get clogged if too much food goes down the drain. However, even the most careful holiday host can still end up with a clogged sink after a big holiday meal. Make sure to have your favorite plumber on speed dial, just in case!

Posted on behalf of:
Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.
2120 McDaniels Bridge Rd SW
Lilburn, GA 30047
(770) 736-8283

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What Type of Water Treatment Do You Need in Your Home?

December 5th, 2014 Posted in Water Filtration
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If you have a well system or have had problems with your water quality in the past, you may be wondering what type of water treatment is best for use in your home. While there are several different treatment and whole home filtration systems available, the type that is best for your home and family will depend on several factors. To narrow it down, here are the basic types and how they are used to improve water quality.

  • Reverse Osmosis. To remove water contaminants, a reverse osmosis system flows pressurized water through a membrane. This will remove many minerals, chemicals and organisms from the water. Often, these systems are often paired with a filtration system which removes even more impurities.
  • Ionization or softeners. For homes with hard water with heavy mineral content, a water softener or ionization system may be used. These replace minerals such as calcium or magnesium with ions.
  • Filtration systems. Water filtration systems can help remove organic contaminants from water, such as some metals, chlorine or chemicals. Most filtration systems are designed to work with water that has already been treated through either a city water system or home water treatment.

To decide what type of water treatment or filtration you need for your home, the first step is to have your water tested. Your local plumber can professionally test your water, and offer advice about what systems would be best to clean and protect the water in your home. Every home and region is different when it comes to water treatment needs, so having a professional opinion is advised to get the healthiest water for your family.

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

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