Year: 2021

Year: 2021

Tips for Choosing the Best HVAC Contractor
December 24, 2021 Blog Jeffrey Steeves

Finding a reliable HVAC contractor can be both challenging and annoying. Challenging because there are multiple contractors to choose from, and annoying because you don’t have an objective way to know which company is best to hire. That’s why we share the following helpful tips in getting the right HVAC contractor for your needs.

7 Tips For Choosing The Right HVAC Contractor | My Decorative

  1. Do your homework.

Use your resources to locate a reliable local heating and cooling company in your area. Create a list of potential candidates and call the Better Business Bureau to check the reputation of each company.

  1. Seek referrals.

You may ask your friends or family members who have had a positive experience with a trusted HVAC company in your area. A good friend or relative would surely want you to experience the same.

  1. Read online reviews.

Check trusted review websites like Google Reviews and Yelp for additional help in getting the best HVAC contractor in your area. These review websites don’t filter reviews and make it very difficult to create fake reviews. This makes them a reliable source of information for your HVAC contractor hunt.

  1. Look into professional standards.

Common Mistakes That Can Void an HVAC Warranty – Solano Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.

Reliable contractors are professional in all aspects. They should have prompt and courteous technicians and staff. Also, don’t hesitate to pay a visit to the company’s shop or office. A shop facility will tell you that the company has been in business and really intends to remain in business for the years to come.

  1. Call references.

Ask your prospective HVAC company for customer references and reach out to them. Ask them about the contractor’s performance, and if the project was completed within time and budget.

  1. Ask for verification.

HVAC contractors are ideally required to obtain a license or certification to do business, so be sure to ask your potential contractors for verification prior to bringing them into work for your home or business’s HAVC needs. Technicians should also have to undergo specialized training for installation, repair, and maintenance.

  1. Request a written bid or estimate.

While verbal contact can be acceptable, it’s way better to get the details in writing. Any reputable HAVC contractor would be glad to provide you with a written bid or estimate that they will adhere to. The written bid should include a list of things that need to be done, as well as the price.

How to Boost Air Quality & Air Conditioning Efficiency

A-Better Heat and Air Conditioning have been helping people with all of their heating and cooling needs in Moore, South Oklahoma City, and surrounding areas for years. We have highly trained staff that can complete any HVAC project to your satisfaction.…

How to Find a Good Plumber Near You With Our 7 Trusty Tips for Every Homeowner
December 14, 2021 Blog Jeffrey Steeves

Finding a good plumber or tradesman can be a nightmare, especially if you have an emergency that cannot wait. But it doesn’t have to be! Read further and learn our 7 tips on how to find a good plumber in your area and save yourself the hassle of dealing with cowboys and shoddy workmen.

Table of Contents

  1. The Benefits of Finding a Reputable Plumber
  2. Plumber vs Heating Engineer
  3. A Service Company Vs Local Plumber
  4. How to Find a Local Plumber You Can Trust
  5. In The Case of Plumbing Emergencies
  6. How to Avoid Common Plumbing Scams

The Benefits of Finding a Reputable Plumber

Did you know that water waste in the UK amounts to ~460 million liters each year? The reason is that even the smallest of leaks can waste many liters of water. Leaks can not only cause damage to your and your neighbors’ homes but can also break the bank and have a negative impact on the environment. Hiring a “cowboy” to do the job of a professional will only contribute to these adverse effects. Here are a few reasons why hiring a reputable plumber in your area is worth every penny.

  • Good understanding of the local plumbing needs – local plumbers are familiar with the area, the parking situation, the hardware stores, and the local directives.
  • Short-notice appointments and a one-stop-shop service – hiring a local plumber often mean he can come out quickly and offer you a full-package service – from diagnosing the issue to sourcing materials and completing the job.
  • Valuable advice – an expert can provide helpful tips on how to prevent the issue from recurring. They can help you with trusted recommendations, such as how to upkeep your bathrooms and plumbing installations. You get more value for your money.
  • You support the local economy – buying local is a building block of any good economy. This way, you help hard-working professionals find work and you keep your money circulating locally.

Plumber vs Heating Engineer

How to Vet a Good Plumber

Have you ever wondered what the difference between a plumber and a heating engineer is? Plumbers deal with the water fixtures and pipework around the home. If you have a leak or a drip, you call them to fix it for you. They can install or repair showers, sinks, and toilets, and unblock a sink or a toilet. However, if you have an issue with your boiler or central heating, you need a heating engineer. They maintain, install, and repair boilers, gas appliances, and radiators. Some plumbers are also heating engineers and vice versa. The same can’t be said about a handyman vs plumber, though.

All heating engineers have completed specific training and are legally required to be on the Gas Safe Register, which allows them to work on boilers and other gas appliances. But you can’t trust every boiler engineer that knocks on your door. Some tradespeople may appear to be unqualified for specific tasks and cause further damage to your home.

A Service Company Vs Local Plumber

While it is tempting to hire a local tradesman from the yellow pages and pay a lower rate, it is worth examining the idea from all sides. For example, a one-person business would find it difficult to complete a complex project on time because they would work on their own. You would have less control over their work and no way to verify if they are as good as their ad claims or if they have proper insurance.

Hiring a recognized company comes with a lot of benefits. Foremost, it is certainly much easier to check the company’s reputation and track record online. Companies have large teams of experts, working not only Monday to Friday, but weekends, late nights, and bank holidays included. So you can rely on them whenever you need any help. In addition, it is easier to communicate with companies, since they have a dedicated Customer Service department. They can arrange your service and handle any requests or specific issues. You could easily hold them accountable for their work as opposed to individuals that become difficult to find if things go south. Not to mention that companies are committed to improving their services at all times.

You …

Top 5 Plumbing Tips That Save Money
November 19, 2021 Blog Jeffrey Steeves

Top 5 Plumbing Tips That Save Money

Reducing water waste and maintaining your plumbing system can help you save substantially over time. Besides lowering your water bills, effective plumbing maintenance can also prevent major breakdowns that can put a big dent in your wallet. Check out these five money-saving plumbing tips for your Burleson, Texas, home:

Turn Off Your Taps Properly

If you have a dripping faucet, you may think the amount of water wasted is negligible. However, in some cases, a faucet can drip at a rate of up to 15 gallons a day. You can reduce water waste in your home by making a conscious effort to turn off your taps all the way. If a faucet continues to leak despite being fully closed, repair or replaces it. As a result, you’ll prevent wasting water and leaking money down the drain.

Use Low-Flow Shower Heads

Replacing conventional showerheads with low-flow models can significantly reduce daily water utilization. Low-flow showerheads are available in most hardware stores, and they’re easy to install. If you want to further lower your utility bills, you can set a shower time limit in your home.

Find and Fix Hidden Leaks

While some water leaks are easily noticeable, others are hidden and require some investigating. To find out if there are any hidden leaks, turn off every tap and appliance and check the water meter to see if it’s running. If the meter continues to run, it’s a sign you have a hidden leak somewhere in your home. In this case, you should hire a plumber to locate and fix the leak.

Prevent Buildups in Drains

Many homeowners don’t pay attention to their drains until they become clogged or damaged. To keep your drains in good working condition and prevent buildups, pour a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar into them at least once a month. Avoid using a drain cleaner that contains harsh chemicals because it can damage your pipes and harm the environment. In the bathrooms, place strainers over the sink, shower, and bathtub drains to prevent soap and hair from getting into the pipes.

Another thing to bear in mind is you shouldn’t pour cooking grease down drains. When the grease solidifies, it may stick to the insides of the pipe and build up over time, resulting in a clogged drain. Instead of pouring grease down the drain, you can pour it into a metal can, let it cool and solidify, then dispose of it.

Check the Toilet

Your toilet is a plumbing fixture that uses a lot of water. Therefore, you should make sure it’s in good condition. If you hear gurgling sounds coming out of your toilet, you may be dealing with the main drain problem. This issue is likely to occur if you live in an older home with a main drain made of clay. As underground roots grow, they may penetrate or put pressure on your pipes, which causes your toilet to make gurgling sounds. If you have a gurgling toilet, contact a plumber before your main drain breaks.

In addition, you should check your toilet for leaks. You can do this by dropping food coloring into the water tank. If you see the coloring seep into the bowl within 15 minutes, it means your toilet is leaky. Call in a plumber to repair the leak as soon as possible so you can prevent water waste.

While you’re looking for leaks and other plumbing problems around your home, check your HVAC system for water leaks. A clogged condensate drain line is the most common cause of water leaks in air conditioners. It can cause your equipment to malfunction and lead to extensive property damage. If the condensate line of your HVAC system has clogged or become damaged, contact us for more information.…

Toilet Troubleshooting: Fixing The Faulty Flush
October 18, 2021 Blog Jeffrey Steeves

Toilet Troubleshooting: Fixing The Faulty Flush

Imagine this: you’re trying to flush the toilet – emphasis on trying because it simply won’t budge. At this point, you’re probably exasperated and wondering what the problem is, especially if there is no obvious clog or blockage. That you can see, at least. One of the reasons this happens is that it simply isn’t getting enough water. Alternatively, one of the interior components could be malfunctioning. If you’re in search of a quick fix, we’ve got good news: just follow our lead!

Unclog That Concealed Clog

Clogs are the most common reason why your toilet has trouble flushing. This sticky situation usually results from a user attempting to flush something that shouldn’t go down the bog. Toilet paper is good to go, but flushable wipes could cause problems down the plumbing line. Plungers and toilet augurs can unstick the clog. The flange plunger will do the best job since it creates a tighter seal.

Inspect the Handle and Chain Mechanism

Suppose that there is no clog. In that case, an unforeseen blockage is not the problem. The true culprit could be the handle and chain mechanism. When the chain gets disconnected, it stops the flushing lever from working. On the other hand, the chain might be too long or too short.

Meanwhile, extra-long chains won’t snap the flapper up, and the flush doesn’t happen when the flapper doesn’t move. But if the chain is too short, the flapper won’t close all the way. This means that you’ll hear the fixture continue to run, and it can’t refill itself. Pull the lid off the tank and look at the chain. You might need to resecure it if it has come undone.

Force the Flapper to Stop Flapping

The flapper is the inlet valve that moves water from the tank into the toilet bowl. Worn-out flappers are easy to replace. Once you have a new one, turn off the water supply. Empty the tank and then remove the old flapper. Put the new one in its place and then reattach the chain. If you live in an apartment or townhouse rental complex, dealing with this is as easy as putting in an online maintenance request.

Attempt to Fix the Overflow Tube

One last suggestion we have for you involves the overflow tube. Cracked or damaged overflow tubes draw water in instead of letting it run past. Take out the old overflow tube and put in a new one instead!

All of Your Plumbing Needs from Master Plumbing

Give Alpha Plumbing Services a call at (301) 650-9100, or contact us online to get more information on how our expert plumbers can help you with just about anything plumbing-related! We have received Angie’s List Super Service Award recognition for plumbing and drain cleaning every year since 2007, in addition to the Best Plumber award from Best of Bethesda. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured, and our service is unparalleled. Give us a call today—you won’t regret it! To see examples of our projects, follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

 

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Why You Should Never Pour Grease Down the Drain
October 4, 2021 Blog Jeffrey Steeves

Hold it right there! Don’t even think about pouring that bacon grease down the drain. We get it – it’s a hot, oily mess. But it can cause serious issues when poured down your kitchen drain. So, what in the world are you supposed to do with it?

Grease in Our Sewers | Falls Church, VA - Official Website

Why Is Grease Bad for Drains?

Grease solidifies once it cools off. Sure, it might flow out of the pan and down the drain, but in a few minutes the grease solidifies in the pipes and acts as a sticky trap for gunk and debris. Over time this blockage can clog the pipes or slow the drain. Grease also wreaks havoc on local sewer systems and septic tanks. Significant amounts of grease in sewers have even clogged neighborhood sewer systems.

What to Do with Leftover Cooking Grease

Bacon grease, duck fat, lard – any grease that is solid at room temperature should stay far away from your drains. Cooking oils that are liquid at room temperature, such as olive oil, vegetable oil or canola oil, should also never be poured down the drain. Here’s what to do with both after you’re done cooking.

Grease – If the grease is still hot, simply pour it into a dedicated grease jar or can. A mason jar works well, or you can make a disposable grease can by removing the lid of a soda can with a can opener. When the jar or can fills up, simply scoop out the solid grease into the trash bin or throw out the entire can. You may also leave the grease in the pan, wait till it solidifies, and then wipe it out with paper towels.

Cooking Oils – Allow the cooking oil to cool off before you do anything with it. If there is less than a cup of oil, pour it into the trash can on top of a few paper towels. This may not be an option if you’re dealing with large amounts of oil. If you need to dispose of more than a cup, pour the oil into a container and reuse it next time you’re frying. Or you can save plastic jugs with screw tops to collect used cooking oil in and throw the entire container away when it’s full.

What If I Already Poured Grease Down the Drain?

What to Do if You Pour Oil Down the Drain: Tips to Avoid Clogs

Our plumbers recommend the most eco-friendly drain preventative there is! BioChoiceES® is the safe, natural alternative to caustic drain cleaning chemicals that helps prevent drain build-ups by degrading organic materials such as soap scum, fats, oils, and grease buildup.

Call Expert Drain Cleaners

What Are The Causes Of Blocked Drains For Drain Cleaning Services? | My  Decorative

If you’ve been pouring grease down your drain for years, then you might need professional help. This grease is likely holding on to debris that is clogging your pipes and requires professional cleaning. Call us to unclog your drains and clean your pipes. You can also request an estimate on our homepage. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is a locally owned and operated company. Our plumbers understand that plumbing service is about not only your pipes but also your satisfaction. We won’t begin work until we give you a complete diagnosis and the best options to get it fixed, followed by an upfront flat rate price; that’s the Mr. Rooter guarantee.…

Dishwasher Won’t Drain? 8 Steps to Fix It
September 2, 2021 Blog Jeffrey Steeves

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One of the most common problems reported to plumbers by homeowners is when a dishwasher won’t drain. While it can be scary to open the dishwasher door and see standing water at the bottom, it isn’t always a plumbing emergency. In fact, you may be able to correct the problem yourself without professional help. 

What to Do When Your Dishwasher Won’t Drain 

If draining your dishwasher is an issue, here are eight simple techniques to try at home.

1.  Run the Disposal  

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A full garbage disposal or an air gap in a connecting hose can prevent water from properly draining out of the dishwasher. Simply running the disposal for about 30 seconds may fix the issue.  

2. Check for Blockages  

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Check the bottom of the dishwasher to make sure that an item or pieces of food haven’t fallen from the rack to block the water flow 

3. Load the Dishwasher Correctly 

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Make sure you’re loading the dishwasher correctly. Read the manufacturers’ instructions or owner’s manual for tips and directions on how to load dishes for best results. 

4. Clean or Change the Filter 

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You may have a clogged dishwasher filter that’s preventing water from draining. Many homeowners don’t realize that dishwasher filters need to be cleaned regularly. Check your owner’s manual to see where the filter is located on your dishwasher, and for instructions on how and when to clean it. For many dishwashers, the filter can be found on the inside bottom of the appliance. 

5. Inspect the Drain Hose 

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Check the drain hose connecting to the sink and garbage disposal. Straighten any kinks that you may see, which could be causing the problem. Blow through the hose or poke a wire hanger through to check for clogs. Make sure the hose seal is tight, too. 

6. Double-check the Drain Valve 

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Inspect the drain valve found on the valve bracket, often located at the bottom of the machine. Push on the valve to make sure it moves freely and isn’t stuck. 

7. Try Vinegar and Baking Soda 

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Mix together about one cup each of baking soda and vinegar and pour the mixture into the standing water at the bottom of the dishwasher. Leave for about 20 minutes. If the water is draining or starting to drain at that time, rinse with hot water and then run the dishwasher’s rinse cycle. That may be enough to help loosen any clogs or debris that are preventing the dishwasher from draining properly.  

8. Listen to Your Machine While It’s Running 

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Listen to your dishwasher while it’s running a cycle. If it doesn’t make the usual operating sounds, particularly if it’s making a humming or clicking noise, the drain pump and motor may need replacing. If this occurs, it may be time to call a professional for help.  

How to Properly Drain a Dishwasher 

If you need to clear standing water at the bottom of a dishwasher, here’s how to drain it: 

  • Line the floor under the dishwasher with towels or newspaper.  
  • With a measuring cup or a large ladle, scoop the water from the bottom into a bowl or the sink.  
  • When the water becomes too shallow to scoop, soak up the remaining moisture with a cloth or paper towels. 

Always make sure that you’re using the right type of dish detergent per the manufacturer’s directions, to avoid clogging the drain. Taking some preventative steps to keep your dishwasher running smoothly can also help you avoid drainage issues in the future. 

Looking for an affordable home warranty plan? Here’s where to start: 

Types Of Pumps and Potential Issues
August 26, 2021 Plumbing Jeffrey Steeves

The most common way current homeowners in Greenville, SC acquire their portable water supply is by tapping into private wells. One of their top picks for this particular way is to get their water supply from below ground since they are less likely to run dry at any given time compared to other sources like rain or crowded wells. After searching for a viable spot to construct these wells, an artificial source called a pump is then inserted on the top of the well which helps saves consumers money because it draws up mostly free spring water that’s abundant in area with underground reservoirs. All three types of well pumps are important to know about if one plans on installing one without any professional help so be sure you read on below about them!

Centrifugal Pumps

Shallow wells that are no deeper than 25 feet require a different kind of pump to be installed. Centrifugal pumps only work for wells with such depth as it can generate enough suction power to lift the water up the surface under its own steam. These units consist of a pipe which is inserted into the well and lies down next to the water column. The reason centrifugal pumps cost less and are easier to maintain lines in their smaller size and overall ability to be able to fit in tighter spaces.

Submersible Pumps

Submersible pumps are a popular choice of well pump as they can be used in deep and shallow wells. They aren’t affected by water pressure due to their waterproof nature, which makes them a suitable option for shallow wells too. Their powerful suction pumps allow them to transport water for a longer distance without requiring electricity, meaning they’re particularly useful in cases where the surface water level is higher than the underground water level, such as when it’s raining or flooding.

Jet Pumps

This pump comes in 2 different types, the deep well and shallow well jet pump. The shallow well jet pump is most like a submersible pump in that it shares the same properties and has its suction length max out at 25 feet. It has simpler mechanical systems than its counterpart, thus it requires little maintenance. If you’re anti-budget, this is the version for you!

Water Storage

You shouldn’t be dependent on your pump for delivering water pressure to specific fixtures all the time. For instance, it’s not there to power up the toilet every time you flush it. To ensure that toilets operating under pressure, some pumps first transfer water into a commonly-used above ground or below ground tank . Air bladders within the tanks are able to repeatedly compress when water is pumped in. Hence, all of this happens more quickly than it might if this was done manually by another valve pressed by another household member using another fixture somewhere else at home.

Pump Service & Repair

If your pump is constantly running, there may not be a DIY solution. When a well pump is turned on, the pressure switch opens and closes with a clicking sound. If you hear a lot of clicking while there is no water running, you have an issue outside the house and will need to engage a professional and find plumbers in Maine if you are in that region to help.

It could be a damaged water line from the well to the home, a poor check valve right above the submersible pump at the bottom of the well, a bad connection leaving the well casing, or even a broken water line inside the well casing. Each of these issues necessitates the assistance of a professional.

It’s wise to work with an expert when making the decision of which well water pump will best suit your needs. In Greenville county contact One Call Plumbing Greenville Location for repair or replacement of your well pump. You should always gather as much information as possible about equipment before making a purchase to avoid spending money on something that may not be ideal for your system. To visit One Call Plumbing simply visit:

Reasons You Should Find a 24 hour Plumber Ahead of Time
August 24, 2021 Blog Jeffrey Steeves

Accidents occur and when something happens to your plumbing unexpectedly, you’ll want it repaired immediately. Ideally, hiring a plumber is a decision you should weigh carefully. However, most people do this in haste in most cases because they only hire a plumber when an emergency arises. Even then, you shouldn’t hire a plumber simply because the person’s name is the first in the directory.

Remember, your plumbing system is an essential part of your home and you need to know that a qualified person will handle it. When hiring an emergency plumber, you must have sufficient time to research the company otherwise; you’ll end up with more problems instead of the solution you’d expected.

Fortunately, you can count on Plumber Parkland to address your plumbing needs. Here’s why you need to conduct due diligence first.

To establish whether the plumber is Licensed

 

Unfortunately, most homeowners don’t ask this question only to face the repercussions later. Taking your time to research a plumber will help you establish whether the plumber has extensive training. Hiring a licensed plumber will ensure you don’t spend unnecessary money later.

Bear in mind that licensed plumbers are those who are registered with a governing body at the local or state level. A license proves that the person you’re dealing with can actually do what the plumber says he can do.

It’s important to note that numerous plumbers don’t operate with a license and numerous homeowners presume that all plumbers should have one. Therefore, it’s worth asking this question during your research. The problem with working with an excellent plumber who’s unlicensed is that his work might not pass inspection and there’s little recourse since you hired him in the first place

Thankfully, you can count on our licensed plumber Parkland Fl who follows state regulations on how the work is conducted and follows local building and safety codes.

Establish the Level of Experience and Services Offered

One of the challenges with emergency service is that a plumber should think fast and develop rapid solutions to the problem. No institution can teach this repair work properly. Rather, it takes hands-on experience in various situations to train a plumber to tackle the demands of emergency circumstances.

You’re better off looking for contractors and plumbers with an extensive history like 24-hour plumbers in Parkland who can back up their skills.

The type of services offered is associated with experience because it implies that the professional can draw from numerous plumbing jobs to establish the best service to handle your emergency. For instance, our plumbers offer numerous services, so we have a wide range of tools to fit whatever situation.

Pricing

It’s important you establish the pricing of your prospective plumber. Beware that numerous plumbers build contract clauses that state that homeowners will be responsible for any reasonable expenses to accomplish the task.

When obtaining an estimate, ensure you establish whether the total being quoted is a flat rate that won’t change due to labor expenses or whether the plumber is charging an hourly rate plus the material cost. The drawback with the second choice is that while the cost of materials is fixed if the job takes longer, the price will continue increasing while you cover labor costs.

The prospective plumber should provide a reasonable and precise estimate of the work that needs completion. It should also be in wiring before any work takes place. Ensure you understand what you’re obtaining before you sign an agreement.

Payment Policy

Conducting research will allow you to establish whether the payment policy is in line with your expectations. You should always inquire when the plumber expects payment and the proportion of the total amount he wants upfront.

If the prospective plumber demands 100% of the cost before the task begins, walk away. Some plumbers use a milestone system where you’re expected to pay a certain proportion once a particular task is complete.

After a specific number of weeks, you’ll pay a certain segment of the total amount. Milestones are frequently better because you only issue payment upon completing certain tasks. While time payments can work, if the plumber is slow, you might end up paying too much for too little.

While …

How to Fix Water Hammer in Pipes
August 13, 2021 Blog Jeffrey Steeves

Plumbing Repair

Water hammer is a plumbing condition that is all too familiar. It’s an annoying sound like a bang that verges on startling. And while you may want to wish it away as simply one of those harmless everyday sounds, it can eventually damage your plumbing system. Learning the basics of water hammer and fixing it can save you thousands of dollars in repairs down the road.

How You Know If You Have Water Hammer

Water hammer, or hydraulic shock, is both a sound and a sensation. You’ll be shutting off a faucet when a quite audible bang vibrates up the pipes. Because sound is vibration, it’s often strong enough so that you can feel it under your hand as you hold the faucet or the handle. You may even see the faucet slightly jump.

The shock of water hammer can even cause dishes and glasses in cabinets to vibrate. You may also hear the sound resonate within the house’s inner structure.

What Causes Water Hammer

Water hammer happens because water is shut off quickly. While sink, tub, and shower faucets can cause water hammer, more often clothes washers and dishwashers cause water hammer because they can shut off water faster than by hand. These appliances use solenoid valves, which can close off in as fast as 30 milliseconds.

The alarming sound is caused by the sudden stoppage of water flow. This causes the water supply pipes to bang against studs, joists, beams, or even against other water supply or drain pipes.

Tip

Although you don’t hear it as loudly, water hammer can also be an issue with plastic water supply pipes, such as CPCV and PEX. And the potential danger for pipe damage still exists. If you have open areas where plastic plumbing pipes are exposed, watch the pipes for signs of movement and flexing when someone abruptly turns off faucets. Water hammer in plastic pipes also calls for remedy.

Methods for Fixing Water Hammer

Air Chambers

If you’ve ever seen mysterious lengths of 12-inch capped pipe extending from the supply pipes, these are air chambers meant to quieten water hammer. Filled with air, each pipe acts as a shock absorber for the water that comes to a sudden halt. Air compresses; water does not. This means that the air in the chamber acts as a cushion for the water.

This simple solution requires advanced plumbing skills for installation. Plus, air chambers can fill with water over time, so the pipes may occasionally need to be drained.

Tip

Water supply pipes always must be properly secured. So, it’s always a great idea to replace broken or loose straps as a part of a proper house maintenance schedule. When possible, replace with cushioned pipe clamps made of steel and soft EPDM rubber.

Water Hammer Arrestors

A water hammer arrestor improves on the idea of the air chamber by adding a chamber filled with gas or air that’s sealed with a piston or a diaphragm. The diaphragm separates the water and the gas or air.

What Is a Diaphragm?

In plumbing, a diaphragm is a flexible disc that responds to pressure to form a seal, stopping water flow. Diaphragms are often made of various kinds of rubber, along with other materials.

water hammer arrestor is often spliced into the point where the water supply tube/hose meets up with a shutoff valve. With this method, no pipes need to be cut or sweated back together. Push-fit water arrestors are also available.

Tip

Look for water arrestors that are combined with a valve. Sometimes, space may be an issue, so be sure to purchase a water arrestor that fits the space.

Water-Pressure Regulators

Water hammer can also occur when the overall pressure of the main water pipe entering the building is too high. Normal water pressure runs between 40 and 60 psi (pounds per square inch), and above this, the high pressure could be the source of water hammer. Very high pressure above 100 psi can also damage appliances.

In this case, installing a water-pressure regulator can solve water hammer issues. Where possible, it’s better to install the water-pressure regulator at the location where the main water supply enters the home

3 COMMON REASONS YOUR PIPES ARE LEAKING
August 9, 2021 Blog Jeffrey Steeves

3 COMMON REASONS YOUR PIPES ARE LEAKING

3-Common-Reasons-Your-Pipes-Are-Leaking--A-Plumbing-Service-Can-Help-_-Jacksonville,-FL

If you own a home, you know that plumbing leaks happen, but what you may not understand is why they happen. There are a good handful of reasons why they occur, and understanding them may help you prevent them in the future. While you will still need to call a plumber when you notice a leak in your Jacksonville, FL home, your aim should be to prevent future leaks.

Plumbing leaks are an odd thing because sometimes they are hidden behind walls, under sinks, and in the basement. To the untrained eye and everyone but the plumbing service, it can seem like leaks come out of thin air. One day you may be sitting in a dry home and the next day you are sitting in one with a notable leak. This is what makes them so annoying to deal with.

Depending on where the leak may be coming from, it can even seem like its sole purpose is to annoy you. No one likes a dripping faucet or a leak that appears to stop and then come back like you are playing some obnoxious version of tag with your plumbing system. This is why you should always call a plumbing service if you suspect a leak because it will not fix itself on its own.

While you may not want to hear it, almost all pipes will leak eventually because at the end of the day they are just metals that corrode and deteriorate like anything else. While piping is usually made of every strong piping that is much less likely to break, it still has a lifespan attached to it. One way you can lengthen that lifespan is by keeping good plumbing habits and having a plumbing service out for an annual inspection. That said, there are a few things that can impact how long it takes for that leak to pop up. Here are just a few.

Clogs

Any plumbing service in Jacksonville, FL will tell you that clogs are one of the number one reasons why pipes leak before their lifespan is up. Both partial and full clogs prevent water from flowing the way it is supposed to lead to an increased amount of water pressure inside of the pipes. Pipes are not designed to deal with sustained extra pressure over time, and eventually, that pressure takes its toll on the pipe walls and in areas where seals are used to help create one long piping system.

Eventually, that pressure is too much for a pipe or seal to handle and a small leak pops out to relieve some of the pressure. The leak is not always noticeable, as even a small leak can relieve enough pressure that the pipe is then able to take the sustained pressure. This is one reason it is very important to call a plumbing service when you have a clog in your home because while you may only be concerned about breaking the clog up, the plumber will know to look for any other damage that clog may have caused in your plumbing system.

It is also important to remember that a small leak can cause a large amount of damage over time. While you may not immediately notice that a pipe is leaking, when your paint starts to bubble or mold starts to grow you will wish you paid more attention to the signs of a leaking pipe. If you have any indication that there may be a small leak hiding in your home, it is important to call a plumbing service.

Broken Seals

Almost every major home appliance has a seal at the point that water from your home plumbing system connects to them. If you have a washing machine, a refrigerator with an ice maker or water fixture, or a water heater in your basement then you have an appliance that may eventually need some attention from a plumber. The seals that are placed on the connection points are not meant to last forever, because that is virtually an impossible task.

If you have not looked at the joint in years, now is a good time to go inspect …