How to Fix Water Hammer in Pipes

3 COMMON REASONS YOUR PIPES ARE LEAKING

3 COMMON REASONS YOUR PIPES ARE LEAKING

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 …

How to Install an AAV (Air Admittance Valve) for a Sink

The Increasing Importance of the Plumbing Profession

The World Health Organization has declared plumbers the most important front-line health workers around the globe. Most people know from seeing the basins, taps and toilets that of what they are seeing, much of the work is behind the scenes. This “hidden” work meets the essential requirements of our daily lives especially when living in close communities.

Among the objectives upon which the World Plumbing Council was founded is promoting awareness of the plumbing industry’s role in protecting the environment by providing safe, fresh water and sanitation through proper management, care, reuse and conservation of natural resources. The industry also plays a major role in the installation of technologies that address concerns about the depletion of fossil fuels and work toward reducing harmful emissions.

Freshwater is infinite supply on Earth and as the key to life is, without question, our planet’s most precious natural resource. The plumbing industry recognizes the tenuous balance mankind must maintain to guarantee its very existence and embraces efforts to ensure we are preserving every drop possible.

Many of these efforts are well-publicized and countless others go largely unnoticed. Part of the reason for establishing 11 March as World Plumbing Day is to educate the general public about the work the plumbing industry performs every day to conserve the world’s increasingly overstretched sources of drinking water and promote energy efficiency and the increased use of renewable sources of energy.

The professional plumbing industry is poised to make significant contributions to all aspects of water conservation and water reuse. This skill set already exists and can be enhanced through additional training of the young professionals. But a different paradigm must be enacted to include these valuable resources in the solution.

Alter historical approaches to water expansion with new strategy comprised of an integration of conservation and reuse.

If we do not alter our historical approaches to water supply expansion, we will only be able to provide a fraction of the world’s water demand in the next few decades. By 2050, the world population is estimated to increase by 3 billion people, with 100 percent of this growth expected to be concentrated in urban areas. Within 20 years, the projected demand for water will increase between 40 and 50 percent. Although it was universally agreed that the water challenges ahead of us are daunting, the good news is it is not insurmountable.

Conservation and reuse must be done thru a combination of centralized and decentralized approaches.

The strategy must integrate water/wastewater conveyance, water and wastewater treatment, river and surface water cleanup, wastewater and gray water reuse, rainwater harvesting, desalination, and climate change adaptation. With 100 percent of the world population growth occurring in urban areas in the next 30 years, most of the focus was on needed changes to urban water management. The key component of this strategy is to minimize consumption while maximizing recovery through a move toward a hybrid approach of conservation and a combination of centralized and decentralized water reclamation and reuse. The concept applies to all urban areas whether they are rapidly developing cities in Asia or fully developed urban systems in North America.

Plumbing industry largely responsible for the advancing de-centralized conservation and water reuse.

Governing bodies around the world need to make the tough decisions, recognize change is needed, adjust water rates to match real overall costs, implement policies, and inspire the populace to work cooperatively toward solutions. There is enough water to go around and the water technology needed to accomplish our demand goals is already available, proven and widely accessible. The biggest obstacle we have in front of us is the lack of recognition that change is needed. A sustainable water supply is only achievable if all stakeholders in the water loop, including the plumbing industry, are working together.

The plumbing industry will play an essential role in helping stakeholders understand the importance of implementing a key component of the integrated strategy. There will be a need to accelerate the development and installation of high efficiency plumbing systems and components, and standardize the use of decentralized (onsite) alternate water sources, such as rainwater and gray water, in order to offset the need to expand water generation and …

Signs Your Toilet Needs Repaired

Having to repair a toilet is a situation that every homeowner will face at one time or another. As one of the most necessary parts of a home’s plumbing, a broken toilet will need to be resolved quickly. It is always helpful to know the signs that a toilet may be in need of repair so that a small problem does not turn into a bigger and more expensive one down the road. Here are the most important signs to look out for.

Strange Noises After Flushing

Clogs and blocks in any part of the plumbing including drains and vents can cause new sounds. Gurgling, bubbling or sucking sounds usually indicate a problem. If you notice any of these sounds suddenly occurring, it usually means a call to your plumber is in your future.

Frequent Clogs

There is nothing more frustrating than a toilet that is constantly clogging, overflowing, or running slowly. Improper use of the toilet including flushing items such as paper towels, baby wipes, feminine products, or anything except for septic friendly toilet paper and waste, can cause clogging. However, if you are using the appliance correctly and still experiencing frequent clogs, it may be time for service.

Constantly Running Toilet

Occasionally the flapper on the inside of the toilet will become jammed, causing the toilet to continually run until the toilet is fixed. Many times this is a quick one time fix that can be done without help, but if the toilet has a habit of running for long periods of time after flushing, it may need a more extensive repair. A constantly running toilet can waste water and cause utility bills to increase, so it is important to fix the problem.

Noticeable Damage

Homeowners should be in the habit of regularly inspecting their toilets for any noticeable damage on and around the toilet. If there is any rust or corrosion, or if there are any cracks, a repair will be needed. Cracks in the bowl of the toilet need attention as these can cause leakage and risk damage to flooring and other parts of the home.

Pools of Water

Any pools of water around the toilet should be immediately investigated. Pooling water can cause structural damage as well as become a health hazard to your family. Leaking water can be a drain on your budget, and lead to mold and foul odors, so you should call your plumber at the first sign of a leak.

Multiple Flushes Needed

If your toilet needs more than one flush to eliminate the contents, or if you need to hold the handle down until the flush is complete, this may be a sign of an imminent toilet repair. The problem may be traced back to one of many different root causes so the plumber will need to diagnose the source of the issue before making the repair. Often the handle may just need to be fixed, but it may be a more complex problem such as overall low water pressure.

Investing in a New Toilet

In many cases, a quick repair can get your toilet back to perfect working condition. However, there may be a time when a toilet replacement may make more sense both financially and practically. Investing in a new toilet can be a wise decision that can improve your quality of life and help you save money on water bills.

Many new toilets are designed with water conservation in mind. Homeowners with toilets older than the 1990s should consider replacing their toilets with appliances that use less water. Many people also choose to replace toilets to increase the aesthetic appeal of their bathroom. There are many sleek and attractive models that can add to the beauty of the room.

Toilets will also need to be replaced when the damage or cost of repair is too high. Leaks or rust that has spread too far will likely necessitate a replacement. After inspecting your toilet, the technician will be able to provide helpful advice to enable you to decide whether to go ahead with a repair or to purchase a new toilet.

Your toilet is an important part of home comfort. One of the best ways to …

How to Remove Rust Stains From Toilets, Tubs, and Sinks

Rust stains on porcelain or enameled cast-iron sink, toilet, bathtub, or shower pan are common occurrences. They can be caused when a metal object such as shaving cream can is left to sit wet on the surface, but can also be caused by galvanized steel plumbing pipes bleeding rust onto the surfaces or because iron-rich hard water dries onto surfaces.

The good news is that it’s possible to remove bathroom rust stains without a significant amount of time and effort. For the best results, ditch the bleach-based bathroom cleansers—these may actually worsen stubborn stains—and give one of these tried-and-true methods a go.

Bar Keepers Friend

Bar Keepers Friend, in both powder and liquid forms, is an extraordinarily effective method for removing rust stains from bathroom fixtures. Bar Keepers Friend will safely remove rust stains and mineral deposits from all toilet bowls and metallic faucet finishes. And, according to the manufacturer, it may also be used to remove stains from sinks, bathtubs, and shower basins made of stainless steel, porcelain, Corian, fireclay, ceramic, acrylic, copper, glass, enameled cast iron, fiberglass, and solid-surface materials.

According to the product’s material safety data sheet, the ingredients in Bar Keepers Friend include mineral feldspar, sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (a common detergent), and oxalic acid. Because it is much less abrasive than cleaners such as Ajax or Comet, Bar Keepers Friend is less likely to scratch surfaces. However, the main active ingredient, oxalic acid, can cause skin or eye irritation, so you should wear gloves and use this product carefully.

Shaw’s Pads

Shaw’s Pads offer a chemical-free, septic tank-friendly approach to rust removal. Equipped with a simple handle and scouring cloth, Shaw’s Pads work on the “elbow grease” principle: simply wet the pad and scrub stains away. Use Shaw’s Pads to remove toilet rings; rust, calcium, and lime buildup; grey, green, and brown water residue; algae and chemical stains on pool tiles; and hard water and well-water residues.

Unlike pumice stone or abrasive cleaners, Shaw’s Pads will not scratch any surface. They do, however, require a bit more effort to remove stubborn stains.

Pumice Stick

Pumice scouring sticks work particularly well for removing rust stains from porcelain. Use pumice sticks to gently scour away mineral deposits, rust, and other stains and scale from sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers. They can be used to remove rust and unwanted paint from metalwork, piping, tile, masonry, and concrete, too. Made from 100 percent natural pumice, a soft volcanic stone, these sticks are safe for dermal contact and use and storage around children and pets.

Zud Scouring Cleanser

Zud cleanser is another product that employs oxalic acid and a potent combination of abrasives made up of finely ground quartz and pumice to zap rust stains on contact. Available in both liquid and powder form, Zud dissolves rust, mineral stains, hard water deposits, and soap scum. And, according to the manufacturer, it may be used to clean copper, brass, bronze, chromium, iron, pewter, and stainless steel.

Simply squirt or sprinkle Zud directly onto rust stains and brush using a toilet cleaning brush or plastic scouring pad. Then, add water to ensure that the Zud solution covers the entire area. Add more Zud where the solution is missing. After the solution has been set for about 60 to 90 minutes, clean the area with the brush and rinse away the solution.

Zud is a slightly more abrasive cleaner than Bar Keepers Friend but is considerably gentler than Ajax or Comet.

The Works Limassol

The chief active ingredient in The Works Limeosol is hydrochloric acid, which instantly removes rust, hard water stains, and mineral deposits from appliances, bathroom fixtures, cement, brick, vinyl, siding, fiberglass, PVC, and other materials on contact—no scrubbing required. The Works is tried and true: it’s been around for more than 50 years. And, even though it contains a dangerous chemical, it’s long been a celebrated favorite among homeowners and home service professionals alike. The Works Limeosol is not recommended for use with septic systems, as the chemical will interfere with the biological breakdown of wastes.

Take precautions if you use LImeosol, as this is a caustic chemical that will sting …

Hotel Plumbing Management: How to Optimise It

Don’t Neglect Tool Maintenance

Does this sound familiar? It’s the beginning of the workday, and you already feel behind schedule. Or maybe it’s the end of a long shift, and you just want to get home. But it is also what typically leads to tool maintenance getting overlooked.

Tool maintenance is critical to the safe use and longevity of your equipment. Along with minimizing tool wear and tear, proper maintenance can enhance efficiency and make tools easier to control and use. For example, with proper maintenance, sharp cutting tools take less effort to cut, are less likely to bind and will cut more quickly.

To help you keep your tools in prime shape, here are answers to some frequently asked tool maintenance questions:

What are some general tips for keeping tools working longer?

Before using a tool for the first time, read the manual. Then, periodically during the life of the tool, reference the manual for best use practices. Understanding how a tool is supposed to work and what to look for when it isn’t functioning properly can go a long way in enhancing its longevity. You’ll also want to wipe down tools after each use and regularly lubricate any moving parts indicated by the manual.

How often should tools be checked for needed maintenance?

You should always follow the instructions in each tool’s manual for maintenance. However, a good rule of thumb is to inspect and maintain your tool before each use. Additionally, look for chips or dings and other wear and tear that could interfere with operation during use. Pay attention to any changes in operation that could be fixed with some routine maintenance.

What maintenance is overlooked within some specific categories of plumbing tools?

Jetters: Take time to clean the letter tips. Remove the tips and flush the letter hose of any debris or particles. At RIDGID, we find that many repair returns can be attributed to this issue alone. Also, when storing machines for the winter, ensure water is removed from the entire system. RV anti-freeze can be used to protect the system.

Drum Machines: Ensure that the auto-feed is functioning properly. The feed handle and feed rollers should move freely and not bind.

Sectional Machines: The clutch handle should move freely and should stop cable rotation when released.

Cables: Maintain lubrication on cable couplings so that drain cleaning tools are not lost down the pipe.

Hand Tools: Keep tools clean and free of any grit and keep cutter wheels, pins and rolls lubricated.

How do you decide if maintenance can be handled on your own or if a tool should be sent in for repairs?

Cleaning and lubricating tools can always be done by the user and often replacing worn parts like cutters, dies, etc. can be handled by users as well. The product manual should provide instructions for basic types of tool services. Depending on how comfortable the user is with the necessary steps, they can decide whether to handle the repair themselves or take it to an authorized repair center.

For machines, any electrical issues (ground fault interrupter failure, for example) should be sent to an authorized repair center. Anything else not addressed by the product manual should also be done by an authorized independent service center for the tool. This maintains the integrity of the product.

The secret to long tool life, in short, is: Keep your tools clean, lubed, and drain cleaning machines free of standing water. Follow the manual and keep an eye out for any irregularities. When in doubt, visit an authorized service center.

About the Author

Doug Corlett is the manager of the RIDGID Factory Service Center. RIDGID is a global manufacturer of more than 300 dependable and innovative tools, trusted by professional trades.…

Hudson Plumber Offers Tips When Hiring A Plumbing Company In Florida

A plumber in Hudson Florida is offering Floridians tips on what to look when hiring a plumbing company for their residential plumbing needs so they can get back to living a great life in the Florida sun.

1. Experienced Plumbers on Staff and a Dedication to Quality Customer Service

Today, having access to a trusted and dependable plumber is essential to keeping your home in the best condition possible. As a matter of fact, knowing where to turn when a plumbing problem arrises is important to saving money and preventing water damage. History has shown that the faster a leak is corrected, the better it is in terms of stopping water damage.

Having a Florida plumber that homeowners can depend upon should always be just a call away. This is especially true if there is an after hours emergency. Being able to call in a technician in the middle of the night can save your home from costly damage. While there are a number of plumbing companies that offer this type of service, only a handful deliver when it comes to timely service and fair pricing. One company in particular that has consistently outshined the competition in this regard is KBR Plumbing in Hudson FL. With experienced plumbers on staff and a dedication to quality customer service, this is the the company to call day or night. 

2. A Simply Precautionary Pipe Inspection at Least Every Two Years

From a leaky faucet to a broken main, no job is too big or too small. One important aspect of home plumbing is that of having routine water line inspections. This is a smart way for homeowners to catch problems long before they become much more serious. Expert plumbers are able to find and isolate pipe related issues long before they become a serious leak or line break.

Many professionals in the home maintenance business recommend having a simply precautionary pipe inspection at least every two years or perhaps even annually as a way to protect your home over the short and long term. This inexpensive and simple step is a great way to enjoy peace of mind and to prevent potential serious water damage. Best, of all when you work with a local plumbing pro in this way, you know that you have someone to call if there is ever a major pipe problem. 

3. Inspect the Water Meter to See if the Meter is Running 

A Hudson, Florida plumbing contractor with experienced and reliable technicians should always be just a call away. That said, as a homeowner there are some things that you can do to keep your home safe also. For example, every few months it is good practice to good through your entire home and inspect water lines and connections. Look at all appliances and each water connection to find any drips or leaks. Also check the water main and the water meter.

Look for soggy sections of your yard, which may indicate that a water main is leaking or broken. Inspect the water meter to see if the meter is running excessively even with all water outlets turned off inside and outside the house. This is perhaps one the simplest ways to detect an otherwise undiscovered leak. Look under all cabinets in the bathroom and kitchen to spot any drips or leaks that may have developed since your last visual inspection. 

4. Having Work Completed by a Licensed Technician

Homeowners sometimes choose to attempt a plumbing repair on their own, however this may not always be the best option. As a matter of fact, it could end up costing the homeowner more money if the job is not done correctly. When you hire a plumber Hudson Florida homeowners trust and respect, you know that the work will be done professionally and correctly the first time around. In short, nothing compares to having a pro do the work.

Even a simple leaky faucet, if improperly repaired could spell disaster. When an expert does the work, you have peace of mind and work that comes with a full warranty. That means that if there are any issues with the repair, that someone will be out to check …

How to Detect Plumbing Problems That Commonly Cause Water Damage

How to Detect Plumbing Problems That Commonly Cause Water Damage

Water damage in your home is caused by one of two sources – water coming in from the exterior or issues with the plumbing system causing water leakage from the interior. Statistics state that the average water damage claim is around $8,000. Homeowners can avoid these expensive problems by keeping a close eye on certain areas and keeping up with regular maintenance.

Under the Kitchen Sink

You will find supply lines and drain pipes under the kitchen sink. Both of these elements can cause damage when worn out, cracked, or broken, but it is the supply lines that present the greatest danger. Filled with pressurized water, a crack in these pipes can produce a continual stream of water that will soak everything in the area very quickly.

Checking for potential problems is simple. Touch the pipes for moisture, especially around any elbows and seals. This is often where the plumbing can grow weak or spring a leak. It’s also worthwhile to have a look at the bottom of the cabinetry, watching for discoloration and spongy spots on the laminate. If you can see any of that your plumbing may have already leaked and there is a risk of mold and mildew spreading.

Behind the Toilet

A toilet overflow is one common cause of water damage. When something is blocking the drain and the toilet is flushed or running a backup can easily spill onto the floor damaging walls, framing, and cabinetry. But there is another area of potential danger in your bathroom.

Behind the toilet, there are supply lines very similar to those found under the kitchen sink. They may be chrome, PVC, stainless steel, or copper. Many are braided for flexibility and the pipe is actually quite short in length. Feel around the connections for any moisture or sweating, as this can be your first clue that a problem exists. Even braided plumbing can burst, crack or split and cause serious damage in the bathroom.

In the Laundry Room

Many newer homes place the laundry appliances in an area that is finished (second-floor laundry rooms, for example). Although this is much more desirable for the appearance and comfort of the room, it spells serious trouble if there is a leak. Large pans that are plumbed in with drainpipes can be placed underneath your washer to avoid problems. Those pans will not be of any help if the plumbing behind your washer breaks, leaking water into the room and potentially through the walls to damage the framing, drywall, and even the electrical.

Water and leak detection devices are wise things to include in laundry rooms, especially those that are located on the second floor or main floor above a finished basement. Often connected to the main water valve, these detectors will automatically turn off the main valve and stop the flow of water, reducing the total amount of damage incurred. Look for products with a simple design and dependable history to properly protect your laundry room from potential leaks.

Problems in your plumbing system could be the source of major damage to your home and possessions. Look under the kitchen sink, behind the toilet and in the laundry room to discover the common problems. Keep a close eye on these areas in order to catch problems early and consider simple, reliable leak detectors for even better protection. Your home is worth the effort it takes to properly monitor the plumbing for any sign of an issue.

Posted by: Diana…