Give Your Kitchen Plumbing an Upgrade for the Holidays

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 helpĀ  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

Refrigerator Ice Maker Maintenance

Hot days create a need to have plenty of ice on hand for iced tea, lemonade and other cool, tasty beverages. Nothing makes this easier than having a built-in ice maker in your refrigerator. Most models come equipped with at least the option to have an ice maker added to the freezer for quick and convenient ice access. Still, these devices do require maintenance and repair to keep the ice flowing on those hot summer days.

Ice Maker Maintenance

Like any appliance which works day in and day out, your ice maker needs regular maintenance. This is especially important since you are ingesting the ice made by your device. Some regular maintenance items include:

  • Cleaning the supply lines. Every few months you should flush and inspect your water supply lines. You can do this by disconnecting them and checking them for cracks or pinched areas on the line, then rinsing them thoroughly with hot water. You can disinfect them by adding about a tablespoon of bleach to a gallon of hot water and pouring it through the lines, then rinsing.
  • Replace the water filter. Many ice makers have a built-in water filter which needs to be replaced to keep ice tasting great. Check the manufacturer’s information to determine how often to replace, usually about every six months. If you do not have a water filter for your ice maker, talk to your local plumber about adding one to improve the safety and taste of your ice.

If your refrigerator did not come with an ice maker, but has the option to add one, your plumber can help you get a kit installed and plumbed into your water supply. In no time at all, you will have fresh, ready-to-use ice for all your cold beverages.

Posted on behalf of Seagraves Plumbing Septic & Sewer

Why Choose a Double Basin Sink for Your Kitchen?

If you don’t have a dishwasher in your kitchen (the mechanical appliance type), then having a double basin sink, with both basins the same size, in your kitchen is just good common sense. This will allow you to comfortably wash dishes on one side of the sink while rinsing them on the other. Even if you have a dishwasher, this may be what you’d prefer if you’d rather wash your larger pots and pans by hand. Today you have the option of a double basin sink with two differently sized basins, one larger for washing pots with a smaller basin for food preparation. In fact, triple basin sink options are available today as well.

Existing cabinetry, counter and under-the-counter space will play a role in what type of sink you decide to purchase. One option, if going with the double basin, is to purchase a cover for the second basin that can also serve as a cutting board. A double basin sink will take up more room underneath your countertop. Of course, deeper sinks will take up even more space. How much under-the-counter space you have in your existing cabinetry is an important factor because a double basin sink will require the kitchen plumbing for two drains. Before purchasing your sinks, consult with your local plumbing professional to make certain you get the best product to meet your individual needs.

Your kitchen space, its appliances and features, should all combine to enable you to prepare and cook food with the least amount of effort. How you cook, how you work and prepare, and how you clean up your kitchen will all be considerations in whether or not two sinks in your kitchen is a must have.