Plumbing Tips

Q: How can I have safe drinking water at home?

A: One solution is reverse osmosis. You can install a pump/filter to your sink and have safe, clean, sodium-free, refreshing drinking water at your disposal.

Q: What should I do before I leave our summer house for the season?

A: You should turn off the main water source and repair or replace any leaky faucets. Also, you may want to consider installing a “snifter valve” which will allow you blow out the waterlines by using an air compressor. By blowing out the excess water, you will prevent any water from getting trapped in the lines and possibly freezing.

Q: Should I use a water softener?

A: You do not NEED to but, to help eliminate soap scum from your dishes and appliances, you should. A water softener will remove the calcium from your water which can be the cause of pipe erosion. By preventing pipe erosion and eliminating calcium buildup, you are also giving your skin a break (allowing it to stay soft).

Q: Is there a way to manually increase the pressure in my showerhead?

A: Yes, by removing the water saving flow restrictor that is installed in the showerhead. No need to call a plumber.

Q: What do I do if I want to increase the water pressure in my entire house?

A: For the entire house, use a booster pump which can be installed on the main waterline. You can gauge this device and build the water pressure up to your desired strength. By using a booster pump, you will also eliminate the loss of pressure to other fixtures when they are used simultaneously.

Q: How can I inspect my drains for clogs?

A: There is a special device that a plumber uses called a “see snake” that can fit down your pipes and see any potential blockage problems or pipe repair issues. It is better to see the potential problems before the drains become completely clogged and will need to be taken apart to fix.

Q: I want to change my toilet, but which one do I choose to replace it?

A: There are several brands and models out there, but remember that the new high efficiency toilets will help save money and future plunging. Choose a brand name toilet like American Standard for superior flushing power and reliability.

Q: Should I worry about my washing machine hoses?

A: Yes, the standard for replacing a washing machine or dishwashing machine hose is about once every four years. Do not try to fix a leaky hose with duct tape, rather go buy a new hose and replace it. This will save time and money, not to mention potential flooding later.

Installing toilets

Some tips to know while you or your plumber is installing a new toilet.

1. Make sure the water supply is turn off. You may think this is common sense, but so many get into the moment of changing the toilet, they forget minor things. I say this, only because I have seen it happen with Professionals.

2. Make sure the drain pipe is plugged up with an old rag or other material, so the gas fumes from the sewer to do not seep into your bathroom.

3. Make sure a new wax ring is used. This will ensure the best seal.

4. Make sure the floor flange and bolts are not damaged. If so, have them changed to ensure the toilet is properly secured to the floor.

5. Make sure the the nuts on the bolts protruding from the toilet are only hand-tighten. If too tight, the toilet may crack from the pressure.

6. Make sure that if a two-piece toilet is being installed, that the rubber washer is placed in between the two pieces. This prevents leaks.

7. And don’t forget the toilet seat. Most toilets do not come with the seat, so it has to be purchased separately.