Clogged Drain:

Sooner or later drains get clogged. If a sink drain is slow to drain, hot water can be used to flush it for a few minutes. Often this will clear the drainpipe. If not, a chemical drain opener can be employed; just be sure to flush the chemical from the drainpipe by running water for several minutes. If a drain is completely clogged, a plunger might do the trick. If there is a strainer on the sink, remove it, then pump the plunger up and down over the clogged drain. Overflow pipes should be plugged before using the plunger. If it doesn't work then you can try to access the pipe through the clean out. The clean-out plug can be removed, but be sure to set a pail underneath the trap pipe section. Sometimes even a screwdriver inserted through the clog a few times will clear it. Hot water should always run though your drain while you're unclogging the pipes. If all else fails, contact a plumber.

Pipe Bursts:

Flooding of an area due to either burst pipes or sewer backups must be dealt with promptly. If the heater is still running, turn off the main water valve as quickly as possible. The source of the flooding can then be fixed by a professional. Once the area has dried out, health and safety is of the utmost importance. Have all affected areas thoroughly cleaned in order to inhibit the growth of disease-causing organisms. A qualified plumbing professional is your best option for addressing a plumbing emergency such as flooding.

Freeze Prep:

Freeze preparation is common for people who live in areas prone to freezing in the wintertime, but many people do not know how to adequately protect their pipes and plumbing. Insulation should surround all pipes that are in interior walls and attics. Pipes jackets can be placed around pipes to adequately insulate them. Some areas are only vulnerable for short periods of time. In this instance, blankets wrapped around exposed outdoor pipes can keep them from freezing. Allowing faucets to drip when there is a hard freeze can keep them free of ice as well. For more information about freeze preparation consult a plumbing professional.

Gas Line Leaks:

Gas lines distribute gas to most buildings at low pressure. Pipes that run under the street carry natural gas while pipes that run from storage tanks can carry propane. The propane storage tanks may be located behind a building or, as in the case of older tanks, are buried underground. Both types of gas may be distributed throughout a house by pipes. Black iron or galvanized lines are used for natural gas, while propane is distributed in copper lines. Some communities prohibit the use of copper pipes due to the risk of leaks or damage. As long as the equipment is installed and maintained properly, gas lines are perfectly safe. A smell is added to both types of gas so that leaks can be easily detected. Only professionals should repair a gas leak.

Household Water Line Compliance:

Household water lines are connected to the municipal water main. However, if these lines need to be hooked up or repaired, the water utility company probably won't be able to do the job. Since the water line is on your property, it is considered your personal responsibility. It is legal for you to run the water service line yourself, if you do so according to the plumbing codes in your states. However, if you hire someone to run the line for you, they are required by law to have a state plumber's license. In any case, the actual connection to the municipal main must be made by a licensed plumber. This rule is for safety reasons. Consequently, most people use a professional plumbing service to install, connect, and maintain their household water lines to make sure that all work is done to code and with all safety guidelines being followed. For more information about your household heater lines or state plumbing codes, call your local water utility or a plumbing in your area.

Hydro Jetting:

Hydro jetting is a high pressure drain cleaning method that clears difficult, blocked drains and pipes. The high pressure jet cleaning is suitable for the clearing of storm and sewage drain lines combined. It has the ability to break through pipeline defections, concrete slurry and other miscellaneous items, including tree roots, cans, bottles, plastics, silt, soil and timber particles. Cleaning is achieved by a range of pressure jet heads which are propelled through drain lines by water thrust. The heads are designed for pipe sizes ranging from 50mm to 600mm in diameter. Hydro jetting equipment is usually available through plumbing companies and drain cleaning services. For further information about hydro jetting or to receive an estimate for this service, contact a plumber in your area.

Replacing Old Pipes:

Eventually older homes can require new pipes. The older galvanized pipe is durable but corrosion is always a possibility. Some homes have copper pipes, but copper pipes have become a very expensive option over the years. Plastic or PVC pipe has become the pipe of choice when installing new plumbing. PVC is light weight, inexpensive and corrosion free. If you are considering replacing your old pipes with new pipes, it can be quiet a job and quite an expense. For more information about new pipes, consult a plumber or plumbing supply company.

Noisy Pipes:

Noisy pipes can be fixed with a little troubleshooting. First, check to see if the pipes are anchored properly. Brackets around the pipes into the joists can help achieve this. Sometimes air gets in the pipes causing loud clanging to occur. Drain the water from the pipes to alleviate this situation. If the noise persists, check the radiator valve. If you have exhausted all options and still cannot find the source of your noisy pipe, consult a plumbing specialist.

Dripping Faucet Repair Pointers:

Before working on any faucet, turn the water off and open the lines to drain into the sink. Cover the sink with a towel or cloth to protect it from scratches and to prevent the small parts from going into the drain. Faucets usually leak because of old gaskets or 0-rings, and corroded valve seats. Take the faucets apart by removing the handle, unscrewing the packing nut beneath the handle, and exposing the rest of the stem. Examine the stem. If the thread is badly corroded or worn, take it to a retailer and get a new stem to match. Clean the stem if dirty. Now, look at the washer. If the washer is squeezed flat or has a groove worn in it, replace it - this should stop any dripping. Take the washer with you to your dealer to ensure an exact match in size and style. Remember, the single most common mistake people make is not taking the faucet or the part to be replaced with them when buying the new parts. If these simple repairs don't fix leak, you need to call a plumber for further assistance.

Copper Piping Benefits:

Today, the plumbing systems in most homes, particularly older homes, use galvanized piping. These are essentially iron pipes coated with zinc. In time, this coating deteriorates, exposing the iron which then rusts and clogs the flow of water. This rust builds up inside the pipes and causes the build-up of foreign material throughout the system. When drawing water from galvanized water pipes, particles of rust, zinc, and other contaminants flow into your drinking water. These contaminants also clog the pipe internally, stopping the flow of water to fixtures. By re-piping your home with copper water piping, you eliminate the problem of corrosion and end up with cleaner water and better water pressure. Professional plumbing services may offer free estimates for re-piping your home, and some companies even specialize exclusively in copper re-piping. Ask for plumbing referrals from family or friends who may have had their piping replaced, or just call around to get estimates from local plumbing services in your area.

Replacing Water Heaters:

One of the most common household plumbing projects is replacing a water heater. Normally, the first sign of a heater problem is water dripping from the bottom of jackets. This indicates that the tank has corroded through. First, begin heater removal by turning off the gas or electricity to the heater. Drain the heater. On a gas heater, separate the vent pipe from the draft hood. Next, remove the heater from its water piping and dispose of it at a dumpsite. Position the new heater so your piping - particularly a gas vent pipe - will reach most easily. Install the heater's new draft hood. Many have legs that insert into holes on the heater's top. Now you can make the hot and cold water connections. The easiest way often is using copper flex - connectors, available from your dealer. How the hot water piping is handled depends on the type and size of the piping in your home. If you have any trouble with installation, consult a professional plumber in your area.

Reverse Osmosis Filtration:

Reverse osmosis filtration is a method of filtering water down a nearly the molecular level. This is done by forcing water through a highly advanced thin plastic membrane. Water molecules are slowly forced through the pores in the membrane, and then stored in a reservoir holding tank until needed. Larger molecules are pushed past the pore openings and down to a drain. These membranes are manufactured to reject up to 99% of certain dissolved solids from water. Reverse osmosis water is one of the purest forms of water that can be made without the use of chemicals or heat. Recent advancements in technology have allowed reverse osmosis systems to be made at an affordable price for the homeowner. A properly maintained system will reduce total dissolved solids; reduce salts such as sodium, nitrates heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and mercury. To install or service a reverse osmosis system in your home, contact a plumber company in your area with reverse osmosis system experience.

Ejector Pump Systems:

In older homes, rural homes, or other homes that may not be able to connect to the municipal sewer system, a sewage ejection system is necessary to dispose of wastewater. There are several considerations with the ejector pump system. First, you'll properly want a two pump system in case of overflow. Second, you should also have an electric alternator system to equalize the pump usage. You'll also want to make sure you have a high level override to start the second pump if the first one does not work or cannot keep up with the flow. There should also be an alert light and/or bell to warn of a potential overflow, and it should be connected to the water supply so that in the event of a malfunction of power failure, the water flow will be cut off so no plumbing can be used, and therefore you will not get flooded. The pump is usually recessed into the floor or basement. If you need help installing or replacing a sewage ejector pump, contact a professional plumber in your area.

Sewer Line Cleaning:

Cleaning is the starting point for all phases of sewer maintenance and rehabilitation. If you have ever attempted to clear a clogged drain, you know how difficult it can be when the clog is significant. Cleaning a sewer line is even more difficult due to the wide variety of conditions that exist within the sewer system. Up to 95% of sewer line's hydraulic capacity can be restored by successful cleaning process. High powered water jets, high velocity vacuum units, and strong chemicals are the most common tools used in sewer line cleaning. This equipment is built to remove foreign materials such as sand, grease, rocks, roots, and other debris from the sewer. Most homeowners choose to hire a professional company or ask your friends and neighbors for referrals.

Sewer Line Specifications:

When working on the sewer lines from your home, keep in mind that your city or county will have codes and requirements on what materials you may use and how the work must be done. If you're planning on working on the sewer lines yourself, you should call you local water utility and get a copy of all the codes and requirements you'll need to be aware of. These will likely include restrictions on what types of pipes and connections you can use, the size of those pipes and connectors, and the angle the depth at which they may be installed. In addition, you will likely need to apply for a permit from the city. Improper connections, materials, or methods can end up costing you money in fines and repairs. Due to the regulations, most homeowners choose to have a professional plumber or septic company reform any repairs or installations related to the municipal sewer system. If you go the professional route, you'll want to call around first and get estimates on the proposed job. It may also help to get referrals and advice from friends or neighbors who may have similar work done on their sewer lines.

Pipe Bursts Responsibilities:

Different situations can cause a sewer line to back-up eventually leading to the need for a new one. Roots can crack the pipe and damage the line. If the line is on your property, you are generally responsible for the problem; if the line is on city or county property, then their plumbing crew will generally responsible for installing the new line. It is always wise to check with the city or county before calling a plumber. Sometimes a partial pipe replacement is in order - other times a trench must be dug and the whole line from the house to the main sewer will have to be replaced.

Sump Pumps:

Sump pumps are water pumps that are placed in an excavated hole whether in the basement or around the perimeter of a house. As the groundwater level rises, the hole fills up. The sump pump activates and pumps the excess water through piping away from the house. There are several types of sump pumps: submersible, pedestal and water powered. The submersible type features a pump that is submerged in water. The pedestal type has a motor placed above the water level. The water-powered type relies in water pressure to power the pump rather then electricity. Installing a sump pump can be save your home from hundreds or even thousands of dollars of damage. The only thing required is some regular maintenance and cleaning of the pump.

Replacing Toilets:

There are several types of toilets on the market. There is one piece, two-piece and pressure assisted flush toilets, as well as ADA compliant toilets for commercial use and persons with disabilities. Toilets can range widely in price. The more expensive ones usually feature expensive chrome or gold touches. Almost all toilets will eventually experience problems such as a clog or a leak. A plunger is always a good idea to keep on hand for fixing simple clogs. A leak can be detected by placing a few drops of food coloring in the tan - not the bowl. After about 30 minutes if the water in the bowl has the same color in it, the tank is leaking and the flapper may be replaced. For more information about toilets, consult a plumber.

Back Up Toilets:

If your toilet is backed up, first try a plunger and flush simultaneously. If this does not work after repeated attempts, a plumber's snake may need to be used. This is a long flexible metal rope that can be "snaked" down the drainpipe of the toilet to loosen clogs. If the water level is low, try to fill a plastic bucket with warm water and pouring it from three feet above the toilet in the bowl, then flush to see if that has helped. For more information about dealing with a clogged toilet, consult a plumber.

Runny Toilets:

Running toilets cannot only be a nuisance, but they can cost you money in wasted gallons of water. Usually the problem is due to the chain on the flapper getting caught up or knotted on itself and the flapper staying open. Sometimes the chain on the flapper breaks so that a new flapper assembly is necessary. Other times the running toilet is due to the shut-off float in the tank, which sometimes lifts too high in the tank, preventing the valve from shutting off completely. To fix this you can adjust the screw in the ballcock until the float stops the water at the correct level. The float should float rub the side of the tank or any other parts. For more information about running toilets consult a plumbing professional.

Video Sewer Inspection:

Sewer maintenance companies can use cameras to inspect your sewer pipe, water mains, drain lines, and water wells. Using these camera systems, a video picture is transmitted to a control module, where a VCR records a permanent record. The cameras can fit into ducts as small as 1.5 inches in diameter. Video inspection insures there are no breaks, defective pipe, or "ponds" in the line, which would cause maintenance problems later. A small transmitter can pinpoint from above exactly where the camera is so that instead of digging randomly, there can be precision excavation exactly where the problem is, saving a lot of money, time, and mess. Also, cameras allow cleaning services to focus cleaning energy on the section of pipe that is plugged up. The video tape record also gives homeowners proof of a problem if they need it in the near future. For video inspection of your water or sewer lines, call a plumber or sewage company in your area.

Broken Water Heater:

If the water heater isn't heating, first check the thermostat to make sure it's set to the correct temperature. The fuse or circuit breaker box is another good place to look. Check the heater too - they usually have a reset button. If it's a gas powered water heater, check the thermostat and the pilot light. If the pilot light has gone out it will need to be re-lit. If you're going to relight it yourself, be careful to follow the manufacturer's instructions. If simple troubleshooting cannot solve the problem consult a plumbing specialist.

Water Heater & Leak Immediate Actions:

Water heater failures and leaks necessitate immediate action. First, shut off the water supply. Next, try to find the source of the leak. A common leak source is the drain valve on the bottom of the unit. Sometimes the pressure relief valve on the top of the heater releases excessive steam. Sometimes a leak is due to a corroded tank, which calls for complete replacement. If it is impossible to determine the source of the leak be sure to shut off the power or the gas source, and contact a plumbing specialist.

Low Water Pressure:

Low water pressure is commonly found in older homes and those located high on a hill. If the main shut off valve to the home is not completely open, this could be the source of the problem. Sometimes the aerators on the sinks, tubs and showers become clogged so that they reduce the water pressure significantly. New heads on the showers can boost water pressure. Sometimes flushing out the plumbing system (best done by a professional) can help increase the water pressure. A plumber may also recommend increasing the size of the water service line. For more information about low water pressure, consult a plumbing professional.

Being Proactive:

When you find or suspect that there is "something wrong" with your plumbing system, it is always best to be "proactive" in your approach. Things such as extremely "hot water", unusual smells or noises can all be beginning signs of bad things to come. By addressing these issues when you first suspect then, you can sometimes avoid some major problems in the future.

Bathroom Emergency Assistance:

The bathroom commode is stopped up, and the sewer is backed up. Most building codes require licensed plumbers to do all repairs on sewer problems. You will want one that has quick and efficient 24-hour service, and sure to ask if the job is guaranteed, especially if new items have to be installed. Always ask for a price quote over the phone, or a free estimate. Also ask if there is an extra charge for late night, weekend or holiday emergencies. Up-to-date plumbers clean sewers by electric rooter. Some plumbers have gone high-tech and have an in-line video camera service that views the problem quickly.

Plumbing Credentials:

When selecting a plumber for an emergency situation, or for non-emergency work, there are already legal guidelines in place to help you. In order to operate a plumbing business in most states, individuals are required to have a plumber's license, or some other form of certification. This means that the consumer is assured of a certain level of competence. You should also look for a plumber that belongs to a trade organization on a voluntary basis. Often, if you have a grievance, you can complain to a trade organization. Check with the Better Business Bureau or the Chamber of Commerce located within your city for any complaint history on a particular plumber. Reputable plumbers should also have a list of customers you can contact for references. Finally, talk with a few plumbers and do some research on the subject. The more you know, the better your final decisions will be.

Plumbing Estimates:

When a contractor provides an estimate on plumbing work, a homeowner wants to know if the estimate is fair. The first thing you'll want to do is get an idea of how much material will be needed and the local prices of it, so you can determine if the estimate is valid. You should select your prospective contractors carefully, asking for references and seeking referrals from friends and neighbors who have had the same work done. Most contractors today do not charge for coming out and looking at the job and giving you an estimate. Don't be afraid to get several estimates if you have the time to do so. However, be sure you are clear that you want a written estimate and that you will expect a written contract for the work. One thing you will want to be sure and have clear, both verbally and in writing, is when the job will be done and how long it will take. Also, if the work is going to be done while you are not home, make sure the contractor is bonded.

Basic Plumbing 101:

PLUMBING WORKS ON THE PRINCIPLE OF PRESSURE, VACUUM AND GRAVITY. PRESSURE BUILDS UP IN THE PIPES AND IS RELEASED BY OPENING A FAUCET. THE PRESSURE BEHIND THE WATER PUSHES IT THROUGH THE PIPES. LIKEWISE, THE VACUUM CREATED BY OPENING THE FAUCET PULLS THE WATER THROUGH THE PIPES. GRAVITY KICKS IN TO REMOVE WASTE WATER THROUGH THE DRAINS AND SEWER LINES. TAKE A LOOK AT THE ROOF OF YOUR HOME, SEE THE PVC PIPE VENTS ABOVE THE ROOF? THE VENTS SERVE TWO PURPOSES IN YOUR PLUMBING SYSTEM. THE FIRST ONE IS THAT WHEN YOU USE THE SINK, SHOWER, OR TOILET, THEY DRAW AIR INTO THE LINES AND FORCE THE HEATER ON DOWN THE DRAINS. THE SECOND PURPOSE IS THAT THEY LET THE METHANE GAS, OR SEWER GAS ESCAPE OUT OF THE TOP THE TOP OF THE ROOF AND DISSIPATE INTO THE ATMOSPHERE.

Master Plumber Credentials:

If your plumber is a master plumber, he or she spent a great deal of time not only on the job, but in the classroom as well. Master plumber regulations vary from state to state. But, for the most part, applicants for master plumber certification must first possess a journeyman plumber license for two years and be actively employed in plumbing for two of the last five years. To retain a license, the master plumber must take a specified number of hours of continuing education courses each year. In addition, Master plumbers are required to be citizens of the United States of have their first papers. They must be 21 years of age and of good moral character.

Plumbing Permits:

Plumbing permits are required if you are going to replace or build new fixtures, drains, vents, sanitary sewer taps, drain lines, or water systems. Permits are issued by calling the Department of Buildings and Inspections, Plumbing Inspection Section. If a licensed plumber will be doing the work, he or she is required to secure the permit. In almost every case, plumbing work must be done by a licensed Master Plumber, licensed Journeymen Plumber, or a registered Apprentice Plumber which is licensed by the city. However, if you as a homeowner are doing the work yourself, and you live in single-family residence and plan to remain there for at least one year, you may sign an affidavit to that effect and obtain a permit through the Department of Buildings and Inspections. Of course, all work must be performed in accordance with the City Building Code and State Plumbing Code. If you are unsure whether or not you will need an inspection, contact the Department of Buildings and Inspections, Plumbing Inspection division.

Commercial Plumbing:

Commercial establishments require special attention from plumbers. Businesses that use a lot of water, including restaurants and car washers, require plumbing and hauling of liquid waste. Many companies provide underground line detection of metallic, or non-metallic pipes, and of gas pipes, so that when a business is built or expanded, one will not be dug into by accident.

Tree Root Damage:

Tree roots are often one of the biggest problems faced by a homeowner when it comes to their drains. They can cause blockages, breaks and even backup floods within the house. And since the problem is usually below ground it can be both difficult and expensive to find and fix. But, a professional plumber has some treatment options and services available. The traditional method is to use a power auger with a special root-cutting bit. A cable is inserted into the pipe or drain until it reaches the tree root. Then the auger and its bit are moved back and forth to gnaw away at the root. Once the root is completely cut through and effectively removed, the pipe is then flushed out with water to remove any debris. A newer method now available features a chemical which is pumped into sewer lines and pipes and acts as a weed killer to kill the tree root. This method also prevents re-growth for years to come. With the traditional method of auger and bit, re-growth can occur by next spring. Most of the compounds used are biodegradable and will not harm the tree overall, except for the offending root. Consult with your choice of plumber for additional details on this subject.

Leaky Pipe Steps:

If you have a leaking pipe, there are a few things you can do while you wait for the plumber's arrival. The first step is to shut off all water at the main valve, which is usually found near your water meter. Then, open all faucets to run water out of the pipe. The nest step, if possible, is to track down the source of the leak or the location of the pipe. If it is an exposed pipe and the water has not stopped leaking, you may want to try a temporary repair yourself. The first step is to examine the leak. If it is a large leak, you could use a section of rubber hose. Split the rubber hose length wise, so you can fit it around the pipe, and then use some flexible wire to wrap around the hose in one inch increments. Twist the ends of the wires with pliers to tighten the hose and seal the hose around the section of the pipe with the leak. For smaller leaks, a sharpened pencil and some heavy tape may be all you need. Push the pencil tip into the hole, and then break the tip off. The soft graphite should expand the size of the hole and thereby seal the leak. Then bind the area of the leak with pipe repair or duct tape. In most cases, it's not a good idea to switch the water back on until the leak has been fixed by a plumber.

Frequently Asked Questions:

One of the most frequently asked questions that we receive is "When should I repair or when should I replace my plumbing fixtures"? Although there are no "pat" answers here are a few basic guidelines that might help you:

• Is the existing product still in "style" or even a "quality" product to begin with? Many times the products are "dated" or the product was a "cheap" alternative to begin with when they were 1st chosen.
• With the high cost of labor these days, would it cost the same or even more to make a repair and still end up with an old fixture?

Our Sales Staff or Service Techs can assist you in making these decisions as we have for more than 4 generations. Please remain on the phone and ask one of our Customer Service Reps for information with regards to repairing or replacing your plumbing fixtures.

Where to buy Plumbing Supplies:

There are many huge home repair supply warehouse open to public today. Several of them even have seminars available to teach you to do your own repairs. In addition, the parts available for repairs at these centers come with easily understood instructions and diagrams for installation. The price is usually reasonable when compared to the high charges you will incur if you pay for a plumber's time to do the repair. Since plumbing is designed for safety and health reasons, it is important that you install any replacement fixture exactly as before. Otherwise, you risk letting your dirty water and clean water mix, which will cause serious health and disease problems. The first thing to do, of course, is to turn off the water in the house, so that you don't flood things with the first turn of your wrench. Also, most installation instruction will indicate the proper tool to use for the installation procedure. If you do not have the proper tool, it may involve a lot more time on your part to do the repair. It might also be impossible for you to do the repair, if the tool needed is specialized and something only a plumber might have. Carefully study the diagram to insure that you have the proper sequence of the repair parts, such as having the rubber washers placed correctly in faucet repairs.

Hot Water Pipes in Kitchen Pointers:

The plumbing fixtures in your kitchen will consist of the hot water pipes leading from your hot water heater and cold water pipes that carry off the dirty water and refuse from your garbage disposal. In addition, there are faucets and drains in your sink, dishwasher, and perhaps your washer and dryer if they are located in a storage area off your kitchen. The most common problem with any of these fixtures is leakage, which can occur because they are either improperly installed or become worn with age. Whether or not you decide to do any necessary repairs yourself or call a licensed plumber will depend upon your experience with such problems, as well as the time you have available to do the repairs. There are many huge home repairs supply warehouses open to the public today. Several of them even have seminars available to teach you to do your own repairs. In addition, the parts available for repairs at these centers come with easily understood instructions for installation.

Do-It-Yourself Pointers:

When it comes to do-it-yourself projects of any kind, including plumbing, the first safety tip is this: know yourself before you attempt to repair or install anything in your home. Are all you thumbs, a poor judge of alignment, shy with tools, impatient? If you answered to yes to any or all these questions, do yourself a favor and seek professional help. Better safe then sorry.

Plumbing Terms to Know:

A correctly designed and installed home plumbing system is practically trouble-free. Should problems occur, however, there are standard methods for dealing with them. It will help if you know the terminology of the different areas of your plumbing, so you can knowledgeably find repair information in your own "how to" books or talk to your local plumber confidently. The main term you should know is the water shut off valve. This will shut down all of the water in your house prevent any further damage from a leak or other problem. Always know where this is located and how to turn it off. At each fixture in the drain passages, there is what is called a trap. The trap retains water that acts as a seal to prevent gases, bacteria, and vermin from entering the house. The trap becoming plugged is a common cause of overflow. Main vents serve toilets and secondary vents serve other fixtures, extending through the roof. Some systems have revents connected to the main or secondary vents. These are called soil pipes and are 3 inches or larger in diameter. Every system contains plugged openings called cleanouts. They provide access to blockage removal.

Faucet Leak Pointers:

There are hundreds of faucet designs on the market, and it's up to you to choose which style suits your needs; however, on the inside, the valves that control the water are based on one of these four types. Compression valves are the traditional systems on two handle faucets. Rotating the knob or handle raises the stem and opens the flow of water. Washers beneath the stem wear out over time but are easily replaced. Ball valves contain a slotted metal or plastic ball that aligns with the hot- and cold-water inlets when rotated by the faucet handle. Exclusive to single handle faucets, ball valves are reliable but time consuming to fix. Choose a metal valve over plastic. Sleeve cartridge and drop in a new one, and ceramic disk valves; these are the latest in faucet technology. Available in both single and double handle models, they are made of two disks in a sealed cylinder that allow water flow when aligned. This system is extremely durable and easy to repair.

Water Heater Maintenance Pointers:

The water heater in your home is the most used and also the most neglected appliance you own. Since it is also one of the most expensive items to replace, for just a fraction of the cost of replacement you could and should provide some basic maintenance to help extend not only its life but also its efficiency.

Since your water heater is nothing more than a "collection tank" where all "bad stuff" settles to the bottom, all manufacturers recommend that you "clean and flush" your water heater at least annually.

Aramendia Plumbing can provide that service for less than 1/5 the cost of replacement and sometimes less than that if we are at your home performing other tasks. Once we have installed our "special flushing mechanism", it will take the homeowner less than 5 minutes to flush out their own water heater, should they decide to do. It will be as simple as hooking up a garden hose.

Homeowners Insurance:

Water and sewage damage can be two of the most destructive elements that can occur inside or outside your home. When you first experience a major plumbing leak or flood, it is best to take care of the immediate problem like turning off the source of the damage. Next it is recommended that you contact the proper professional service personnel that can assist in the clean up, repair or replacement of the situation.

Many homeowners carry "Homeowners Insurance" to help minimize their expenses that can be involved with major loss of property. We recommend that you contact your insurance agent and inform them of the situation. As professionals who deal with this situation on a daily basis, they can guide you along the process of finding solutions for your problems. Your agent will become your partner in this time consuming process as it can some time to get back to normal. Since all insurance companies have "individualized coverage" it is highly recommended that you inquire of your agent as to the coverage that you may have on your home.

Annual Cleaning and Flushing of Water Heater:

It's easy to ignore the plumbing system in your home since most of the time it is very reliable. However, there are a few things that can and should be done to help keep your system trouble free. The annual "Clean and Flushing" of your water heater, periodic maintenance to your drainage system and the replacement of the "wear and tear" items in your plumbing fixtures are a few of the things that should be done to keep your system performing properly. For more information call us, and one of our representatives will assist you.

Installing Tub and Showers:

One of the most accessible home repair plumbing projects is fixing or installing tubs and showers. Generally, these projects don't require and digging, municipal codes, or dangerous equipment. Most home improvement and hardware stores have all the tools, books, and accessories needed to complete a bathtub or shower installation or repair. The job may be as simple as cosmetic tiling job or as complex as installing or building a custom shower stall or bathtub. First, make sure you have all the equipment you need to finish the job, and then consult a home repair book or talk with a home repair book or talk with a home repair expert to make sure that you understand every step of the job before you start it. Professional contractors or plumbers can also perform tub and shower repairs, but you'll want to make sure to call someone trustworthy with good references. Ideally, you'll want to talk to people that have worked for you in the past and possibly even take a look at their work before hiring them.