Summer is coming! Is your plumbing ready?

Here are 6 tips for keeping your plumbing in tip top shape this summer:

• Playing outside means more dirt, and more dirty clothes.
  • Make sure you check your washing machine hoses for bulges, leaks, and cracks.
  • Also be sure to clean out your dryer lint regularly.
  • Finally keep in mind that your machine hoses should be replaced about every 3 years!
• Move your washing machine
  • Move it about 4 inches from the wall to prevent hose kinking and damage, and don’t leave your home when your machine is running.
• Make sure to check your ductwork for condensation. This can cause a backup if the drains are not clear. Leaks in seams can also cause condensation. If you notice problems call us today!
• Summer bbqs can mean lots of food that could end up in your disposal
  • So be careful what you put down your kitchen disposal after your cookout. Most are not equipped to handle cornhusks, celery, banana peels and other fibrous or “stringy” foods. Some other items to stay away from are fats or cooking oils because they form clogs in the pipes.
  • Make sure you Run cold water at full pressure for 15 seconds before and after you put anything down the disposal to flush it through.
  • And NEVER put instant stuffing, potato mixes or similar “just-add-water” foods down the drain—they’ll create an instant clog when you add water. Pasta, rice and eggshells should also be avoided.
• Summer also means TRAVEL!
  • A great way to save money and energy while on your vacation is to turn down the temperature of your water heater and turn up the temperature of your refrigerator.
    • But if you do turn down your fridge make sure you remove highly perishable foods, like dairy, produce and meat first.
• As it goes every season the best defense to ensuring your plumbing systems are running properly is to schedule annual maintenance inspections, and keep on top of your systems before it’s too late, or when you need them most.

The post 6 Summer Plumbing Tips appeared first on Portland Oregon Plumber.

It is HOT outside! You know what that means.. it’s summertime!

Since it’s so hot people everywhere are using more water than they usually do the rest of the year, particularly in swimming pools, watering lawns, and staying hydrated. In fact, water usage in the summer can go up two to four times during the summer months.

Now, with all of the extra strain on our plumbing systems, it’s no surprise that we encounter all types of summer plumbing issues between the ultra-hot months of June through August. Most of these problems can be prevented with proper effort and maintenance. Accordingly, we have compiled some of our best tips below, making sure that  the plumbing in your home will be working properly throughout the summer season.

Are you going away on vacation? Save money by turning your water heater temperature down. If you’re not there to use it, a few degrees difference won’t matter and can save you a substantial amount of money, particularly if you travel frequently. You can also save money by turning the temperature of your refrigerator higher.

Take care of your sprinklers. Often, sprinkler systems get damaged due to carelessness when mowing the lawn or from children playing in the yard. Be sure your sprinklers are working properly to avoid flooding, and if damage does occur, make any necessary repairs immediately.

Fix broken toilets. You know that toilet that makes a funny sound after you flush? Or, perhaps it requires an extra jiggle of handle in order to get an effective flush? That toilet could be wasting gallons of water each day, costing you to flush money down the tube every time you touch the handle. In the summer, toilets in homes with children are on double duty as kids are home from school during the day, so making sure your toilets are working properly is an important aspect of summer plumbing.

Don’t overuse your garbage disposal. In the summertime, sheer convenience can cause us to throw things down the garbage disposal that we wouldn’t normally discard that way. If you’re planning a big summer barbeque, remember that items such as cornhusks and watermelon rinds are better for the trash or compost pile. Also, never pour grease down the drain, as it hardens and can cause major clogs over time.

One of the best ways to make sure your plumbing is ready for the summer is to schedule time for an annual inspection. Casey’s Plumbing is your expert plumbing team is trained to identify problem areas and stop issues before they start. 

The post Summertime Plumbing Tips to Help You Beat the Heat appeared first on Portland Oregon Plumber.

We came across this list of Romantic Recipes to Make for Dinner from Country Living and wanted to share them with you! We hope you find the perfect meal to celebrate with your loved ones this Valentine’s Day!

The post Looking for some Romantic Meal Recipes this Valentine’s Day? appeared first on Portland Oregon Plumber.

As the summer heat slowly begins to arrive, make sure you’re fully prepared for possible problems heat can cause to your plumbing. It’s never too early to get a routine check to make sure you’re all set for the next big heat wave. We came across this post created on http://nuhome.com and wanted to share it with you.

Beat the heat now before it’s too late, check out the five major problems you could encounter below:

1. Air Conditioning Drains

“You may know that you should change your air conditioning filter every six months or so, but when was the last time your air conditioning drain was inspected or cleaned? Summer is the perfect time for mold to start growing, and the drain is the perfect spot. Since it is almost always damp throughout the summer months, mold, mildew, and fungus can take up residence in the pan.

Air conditioning issues can also be caused by deposits building up in the drain over time. This can lead to blockages, which are ideal for further mold growth. Leaving growth unchecked can cause mold spores and gasses to enter your home, greatly affecting your indoor air quality and your family’s health.

A blockage can also result in overflow and leakage. With nowhere to go, water will eventually overflow in the pan and can lead to damage within your home.

Having your air conditioning drain cleaned once a year, especially before summer, can prevent blockages, leakage, and flooding. Ignoring the issue can result in damage to your home’s walls, air conditioning unit, and flooring, especially if it goes unnoticed for some time.”

2. Expanding Pipes and Low Water Pressure

“It’s not only cold weather that can affect your pipes and cause them to expand. Hot summer weather can make your pipes burst just like winter can! One sign that your pipes might be on the edge is a change in water pressure.

Sometimes low water pressure is just an annoyance—like when there’s not enough flow to wash the sand off of you after a day at the beach—but it could also point to a larger problem. Pressure changes can be caused by leaks, corrosion build-up, and water supply malfunctions. If you’re experiencing lower-than-usual water pressure, it may be time to call a professional.”

3. No Cold Water

“With rising temperatures, it’s only normal that water temperatures rise as well. If it’s a blistering hot North Texas day, you may not get the cool water you desire. To combat this, let your water run for a bit longer than usual to get the cold results you’re looking for, but be mindful of any drought warnings. To help conserve water, it might be worth it to sacrifice the temperature.”

4. Shifting Foundations

“Did you know that hot weather can actually cause the ground to move? Shifting foundations and cracking ground can affect your home and your plumbing by putting serious strain on your pipes. They may even expand or contract. Heat can also expand the soil that your pipes sit in, in turn shifting the pipes, often causing them to burst.

Droughts can have the same effects, and summers in Texas are known for dry weather. Lack of water causes the soil to contract and sink, taking your pipes along for the ride.

If your home is experiencing major changes in its foundation, you’ll likely see cracks in the walls, especially in the corners.

You can help the soil by watering or placing plants around the perimeter of the foundation. Plants can help moderate the temperature of the soil while also holding the ground together more effectively with roots.”

5. Clogged Toilets

“June, July, and August mean the kids are home for the summer! It can also mean more friends and family visit for BBQs and the Fourth of July. This leads to an increase in bathroom use and, sadly, can tend to lead to clogged toilets.

Regularly check how your toilet flushes and have a good look at the base. This can reveal signs of water damage, stains, and rolled vinyl, which are all evidence of a leak. Make sure to have a trash can in your bathroom as well to make sure your guests don’t throw paper towels, sanitary items, and more into the toilet.”

Discovering Leaks

It’s very important to report the leak to a professional plumber as soon as it is discovered.

Check your yard and home regularly for any signs of excess water. Soft floors, warped cabinets, and washing machine hose ruptures are all signs of a leak. Also make sure to monitor your water bill for any inconsistencies.

If you’re unsure whether a leak has occurred, try turning off the water in your home, and record the water meter. After a few hours, check the meter again. If the usage has increased, that may be evidence of a leak.

For major leaks, turn off your water, and contact a professional as soon as possible. Allowing any leak to run free can result in extensive damage to your walls, appliances, flooring, yard, basement, and more.

Are any of these problems occurring in your home?! Don’t worry we can help – Contact Us now!

The post Solve These 5 Summer Plumbing Problems Before It’s Too Late appeared first on Portland Oregon Plumber.

Cathedral Park Jazz Festival

As if the park beneath the St. Johns bridge weren’t sweet enough on a midsummer’s evening, just see how hot it is with professional jazz sweeping over you like a breeze off the Willamette.

July 14-16; Cathedral Park, Portland; free; jazzoregon.com/cpjazz

Stephanie Yao Long/staff/2006

Portland Highland Games

Kilted tough guys who would give William Wallace a run for his money compete in traditional Scottish games, throwing big stones and logs while pipers, fiddlers, drummers and dancers keep things lively.

July 15; Mt. Hood Community College, Gresham; $8-$17; phga.org

Kristyna Wentz-Graff/2015

 

The Big Float

Inner tubes are the watercraft of choice when thousands splash into the Willamette River, disembarking for a downriver beach party in the name of a river safe for recreation.

July 15; Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Portland; $5-$10; thebigfloat.com

Stephanie Yao Long/staff/2014

GRAAND Kinetic Challenge 

Engineering artists drive pedal-powered sculptures over road, sand dunes, a mud bog and a river in the most creative race you’ll see all summer.

July 15-16; Corvallis; free to watch; davincidays.org

 

Forest Grove Concours d’Elegance 

Car shows are always a hit in summer, but Forest Grove’s ever-classy Concours d’Elegance takes classic car appreciation to the next level. Celebrating 100 years of Lincoln automobiles this year, the show also features a special category for Woodie Wagons.

July 16; Pacific University, Forest Grove; $7-$20; forestgroveconcours.org

Stephanie Yao Long/staff/2016

SeaDog Nights and Gypsy Carnival

You’ll get swept away to a life at sea when this immersive pirate and gypsy encampment sets sail. Pirate games and performances only add to the immersion already under full sail in the costumes, ships and camping quarters set up by devoted SeaDogs. Yo ho!

July 20-24; Cheadle Lake Campground, Lebanon; prices vary; seadognights.com

 

PDX Pop Now!

There’s more to Portland’s music scene than Modest Mouse and The Decemberists, and this fiercely local festival is determined to make that known. Promoting Portland musicians with two days of music under the Hawthorne Bridge, PDX Pop Now! is one of the best ways to tune in to what’s spinning here in town.    

(Pictured: Portland MC Mic Capes performs with the Resistance at PDX Pop Now! at Audio Cinema on July 19, 2014.) 

July 21-23; AudioCinema, Portland; free; pdxpopnow.com

David Greenwald/staff/2014

DuneFest

You won’t mind getting some grain in your shoes when sand drag races, freestyle shows and a special nighttime group ride come to the mecca of Oregon sand motorsports.

July 26-30; Winchester Bay, Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area; $30 for single day, $20-$45 for festival pass; dunefest.com

Bruce Ely/2006

Oregon Brewers Festival

Craft beer aficionados know no home like Portland’s waterfront come the last weekend in July. With more taps than a Fred Astaire movie, you’re bound to find a new brew – or a few – to call a favorite. And kids will have their own fun at the handcrafted soda garden.

July 26-30; Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Portland; free admission, starting at $7 to drink; oregonbrewfest.com

Stephanie Yao Long/staff/2016

Three Days of Aloha

A lot of people dream of taking a trip to Hawaii in the summer. But thanks to this Hawaiian festival and celebration, no trans-Pacific flights will be necessary to take in a healthy splash of island culture and color.

July 27-29; Vancouver; free festival, but some activities have fees; hawaiianfestivalpnw.com

Portlandia Mermaid Parade

Portland’s first mermaid parade certainly turned heads as it…um…flopped down the waterfront in 2016. And it’s coming back with even more sequins, shell tops and smiles this year.

July 29; Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Portland; free; portlandiamermaidparade.com

Randy L. Rasmussen

 

AUGUST

The festivals keep coming, along with a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience a total solar eclipse in Oregon.

 

 

Pickathon

With genuinely great music, genuinely great people and a genuinely great setting (read stages in the woods with hammocks hung all around), Pickathon is the antidote to the typical music festival. Visit the hosting farm’s horses between sets, or just kick back on an open hay bale. It’s all about the balance between rocking out and relaxing.

Aug. 3-6; Pendarvis Farm, Happy Valley; $125 for single day, $155-$310 for festival pass; pickathon.com

Dillon Pilorget/2016

Tualatin Crawfish Festival

Even though most folks call them crawdads here in Oregon, the freshwater crustaceans are no less tasty at the Tualatin Crawfish Festival, where live music, a crawfish eating contest and a new fireworks show will have you clapping your claws.

Aug. 4-5 Tualatin Community Park; free Aug. 4, $5 Aug. 5; htcraceseries.com/event/crawfish-festival    

 

Astoria Regatta

Sailboat races and a boat parade are just a skiff in an ocean of goings-on at this coastal celebration that’s packed to the crow’s nest with tradition and history.

Aug. 9-13; Astoria; most events are free; astoriaregatta.com

 

 

Bridge Pedal

This ever-popular bike ride travels over seven of Portland’s bridges – including the car-free upper decks of the Fremont and Marquam bridges – for unprecedented views of the city.

Aug. 13; Bridges across Portland; providence.org/bridge-pedal    

Dave Killen/staff/2016

PDX Adult Soap Box Derby

The DIY downhill dash at Mt. Tabor is a summer highlight for anyone who enjoys unadulterated good times. Catch garage engineers from Portland and beyond as they pilot creative homemade gravity cars and try their darnedest not to crash.

Aug. 19; Mt. Tabor Park, Portland; free to watch; soapboxracer.com

Dillon Pilorget/staff/2016

Banks BBQ and Tractor Pull

Get pulled in to one of Oregon’s great small towns by its annual agriculture sports extravaganza. If the all-ages tractor pull doesn’t make you want to become a farmer, the combine destruction derby will.

Aug. 19-20; Sunset Park, Banks; $5-$13; bankssunsetpark.com/bbq

Stephanie Yao Long/staf/2016

Total solar eclipse

Oregon lies right in the path of this summer’s hotly anticipated total solar eclipse. Festivals, campouts and celebrations are popping up all over the state. But as long as you’re outside somewhere in the path of totality at 10:15 a.m. on Aug. 21, you should be able to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event. Just make sure to protect your eyes.

Aug. 21; locations across the state; free; for more information, read The Oregonian/OregonLive’s coverage at oregonlive.com/travel. 

 

Airshow of the Cascades

Once the eclipse viewing crowds clear out of Madras (which will be one of the best spots in the country to watch the solar eclipse), there’ll still be plenty of reason to look to the sky. Catch stunt pilots of all stripes putting on a show in the wide-open spaces above central Oregon.

Aug. 25-26; Madras Airport; $5-$30; cascadeairshow.com

Faerieworlds

Strap on some wings and let your inner faerie fly at this music festival set among the woods, with mystical melodies washing over the costumed crowd.

Aug. 25-27; Horning’s Hideout, North Plains; $45 for single day pass, $50-$125 for multi-day passes without camping; faerieworlds.com
 

Beth Nakamura/staff/2016

Oregon State Fair

Summer events don’t get much more quintessential than the state fair. It’s the granddaddy, with all the rides, music, animals and wacky food that have kept families coming back for over 150 years.

Aug. 25-Sept. 4; Oregon State Fairgrounds, Salem; $1-$8; oregonstatefair.org

Mike Zacchino/staff/2016

 

MusicfestNW Presents Project Pabst 

When two big music festivals join forces, good times are bound to be had, and good tunes are bound to be heard. Beck, Iggy Pop and Nas are among the names rounding out the eclectic lineup in the second year of a combined MusicfestNW and Project Pabst festival.

Aug. 26-27; Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Portland; $65 for day passes, $99 for weekend pass; portland.projectpabst.com

Dave Killen/staff/2016

Dahlia Festival 

Just like the blooms to which it’s dedicated, the Swan Island Dahlia Festival wows with more dahlia colors and breeds than you ever would have guessed existed. Take a stroll through 30 acres of dahlia fields or find some inspiration in three rooms full of arrangements.

Aug. 26-28, Sept. 2-4; Swan Island Dahlias, Canby; free; dahlias.com

Motoya Nakamura

 

SEPTEMBER

The Oregon State Fair and Dahlia Festival continue through Sept. 4, and summer festivals continue through the end of September.

The Bite of Oregon

Oregon’s top chefs and restaurants form a foodie haven worth fasting for. The celebration of Oregon and its culinary bounty has new dates and a new location, but should still bring the goods to take a bite out of your end-of-summer blues.

Sept. 1-4; Rose Quarter, Portland; $5; biteoforegon.com

Dave Killen/staff/2015

Roy Webster Cross-Channel Swim

Say goodbye to summer with a splash by swimming 1.1 miles across the Columbia River. Or say goodbye to the people nuts enough to do it and stay warm and dry while watching from the shore.

Sept. 4; Hood River; $62-$81; hoodriver.org/roy-webster-cross-channel-swim

Jamie Francis/2012

Rose City Comic Con

While larger comic book conventions stray farther into pop-culture territory, Portland’s homegrown (and growing) con stays true to the genre while welcoming enough general geek culture to keep things fun for everyone. Adam West, “Wierd Al” Yankovic and Tom Kenny, the voice of SpongeBob Squarepants, are among this year’s celebrity visitors.

Sept. 8-10;  Oregon Convention Center, Portland; $5-$40 for day passes, $65-$199 for weekend pass; rosecitycomiccon.com

Mark Graves/staff/2016

Shrewsbury Renaissance Faire 

Party like it’s 1592 with Elizabethan minstrels, artisans, jousters and bards in a Renaissance village fit for a queen.

Sept. 9-10; Kings Valley, Oregon; $5-$11; shrewfaire.com

 

Cycle Oregon

The weeklong bike adventure heads for the mountains this year. Looping through the Central Oregon Cascades, you’ll ride past (and over) many peaks and alongside lakes and rivers. But the real showstopper comes on Day 3, when you make it to Crater Lake. It’s a tough ride, but you’ve got all summer to prepare.

Sept. 9-16; Starting and ending at Tumalo State Park; $999; cycleoregon.com

The Bite of Oregon

Oregon’s top chefs and restaurants form a foodie haven worth fasting for. The celebration of Oregon and its culinary bounty has new dates and a new location, but should still bring the goods to take a bite out of your end-of-summer blues.

Sept. 1-4; Rose Quarter, Portland; $5; biteoforegon.com

Dave Killen/staff/2015

Roy Webster Cross-Channel Swim

Say goodbye to summer with a splash by swimming 1.1 miles across the Columbia River. Or say goodbye to the people nuts enough to do it and stay warm and dry while watching from the shore.

Sept. 4; Hood River; $62-$81; hoodriver.org/roy-webster-cross-channel-swim

Jamie Francis/2012

Rose City Comic Con

While larger comic book conventions stray farther into pop-culture territory, Portland’s homegrown (and growing) con stays true to the genre while welcoming enough general geek culture to keep things fun for everyone. Adam West, “Wierd Al” Yankovic and Tom Kenny, the voice of SpongeBob Squarepants, are among this year’s celebrity visitors.

Sept. 8-10;  Oregon Convention Center, Portland; $5-$40 for day passes, $65-$199 for weekend pass; rosecitycomiccon.com

Mark Graves/staff/2016

Shrewsbury Renaissance Faire 

Party like it’s 1592 with Elizabethan minstrels, artisans, jousters and bards in a Renaissance village fit for a queen.

Sept. 9-10; Kings Valley, Oregon; $5-$11; shrewfaire.com

 

Cycle Oregon

The weeklong bike adventure heads for the mountains this year. Looping through the Central Oregon Cascades, you’ll ride past (and over) many peaks and alongside lakes and rivers. But the real showstopper comes on Day 3, when you make it to Crater Lake. It’s a tough ride, but you’ve got all summer to prepare.

Sept. 9-16; Starting and ending at Tumalo State Park; $999; cycleo

We hope you can take advantage of some of the great events on this list! And remember if a plumbing emergency strikes we are here to help!

We are Your Portland Plumbing Experts.

The post 2017 Summer Events Guide: Ideas for your Oregon Bucket List appeared first on Portland Oregon Plumber.

Gas water heaters are the most common type found in this area. The image above is a blow-up (no pun intended) of a typical gas water heater. Both gas and electric water heaters will have a cold water inlet on one side and the hot water outlet on the other side. Every homeowner should familiarize themselves with the water and gas inlet shut off valves. If you have a leak, rupture or some other emergency, you’ll need to know where to shut the unit off. For the gas unit, make sure you not only know WHEN to shut off the gas and water but also, practice to ensure you’ll be able to contain the heater if an actual emergency occurs. Some older valves can be very tight and hard to shut off.

 

Relighting your pilot light:  

There is one final thing to remember – DO NOT RELEASE the pilot button immediately after the pilot lights. The thermo-couple needs to heat up sufficiently to create a small electrical charge. This small electrical charge is what keeps the magnetic valve serving the pilot light. So after you see it light, count to 120 and then, SLOWLY release the pilot button. If the pilot remains lit, Voilà! You did it! Now just rotate the on-off control valve to the “ON” position and prepare for a loud “whoosh!”. The sound is simply the water heater coming on and is normal.

 

 

The post Gas Water Heaters: Most common problems explained to regular people. appeared first on Portland Oregon Plumber.

Parts of Oregon will experience a total solar eclipse on Aug. 21, 2017.

 

 

The post Portland and Oregon Solar Eclipse Guide appeared first on Portland Oregon Plumber.

The cold weather will be here before you know it. Now is the time to make sure your plumbing is ready for winter. Here is a plumbing maintenance checklist to guide you through some basic winter prep tasks before it gets too cold:

Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

• Drain exterior water lines and open taps (in cold areas) – these spots are often forgotten, but can freeze and cause all kinds of problems when the temperature drops. 
• Insulate water lines that are subject to freezing – pipe wrap is the simplest way to accomplish this. Pipe wrap is inexpensive and easily found at home stores such as Home Depot or Lowe’s.
• Check the condition of the water heater – How’s your water heater? Take the time to inspect it. We show you how here.
• Check plumbing system and fixtures for any evidence of water leaks – Water leaks are a killer for your water bills. Check out these simple techniques and become a leak detective. “How To Find A Water Leak In Your House.“
• Confirm proper operation of your sump pump (if applicable) – Remove the sump pump extension hose before temperatures dip too low.
• Clean gutters of debris – Pine needles are a particular gutter clogger in the Northwest. Clean out those gutters! 
• Clean your downspouts – The cleanest gutters on the block won’t help your house’s foundation if the downspout is clogged. Test your downspout’s function by pouring a bucket of water in your cleaned gutter and observing the flow. 
• Pool/Hot Tub checks – Take care of the pool’s chemicals, make certain that the maintenance heater is working properly, and follow the directions provided to you by your pool/hot tub contractor. 

 
This should set you up for smooth plumbing sailing this winter. 

Energy Saving Bonus

The Energy Trust of Oregon is a fantastic resource for helping you save energy year-round. The Trust is offering free Energy Saver Kits for PGE, Pacific Power, NW Natural and Cascade Natural Gas customers. The kits include high-performance showerheads and faucet aerators, as well as Energy Star® CFL’s. Order your kits today by going to www.energytrust.org/esaverkits or call 1-866-691-1766.

The post Plumbing Maintenance Checklist: Get Ready For Winter appeared first on Portland Oregon Plumber.

How To Inspect Your Water Heater

Before You Start

1. Have a bucket, hose, gloves, goggles, and protective clothing ready. Protect yourself from burns!
2. Know where your Temperature/Pressure valve is located. 
3. Know where your cold water inlet is located.
4. Know where the electric or gas shut off is located.

Know your water heater

How To Inspect Your Water Heater Part 1: The Basics:

Do a visual inspection of your water heater.

1. Are there any leaks? Look under the heater where the drip collection pan is (for raised water heaters.) If your water heater is on the floor look around the bottom area. Do you notice any sediment? Any standing water?
2. Look under and around the Temperature/Pressure relief valve. Any leaks?  Corrosion? Obstructions?
3. Check the pipes leading in and out of the water heater. Again, any leaks? Rust? Corrosion?
4. For electric water heaters: Check the heating element. 
5. For gas water heaters: check the venting system. Is there any damage to the vent piping? Any obstructions? Make sure anything flammable or corrosive is away from the vent system to prevent fires. Also, check the pilot light. A weak flame, split flame, or a fully yellow flame means that your pilot light needs to be repaired or adjusted.
6. Listen: Are there any strange noises coming from your tank? Noises such as whistling or crackling? 

How To Inspect Your Water Heater Part 2: The Bigger Stuff:

1. Turn off the electricity or gas to the heater before you start.
2. Check the Anode Rod – The Anode Rod is your water heater’s defense against rust and corrosion. If you have hard water, checking them more often may be in order. The condition of the anode rod can tell you if your tank has corrosion occurring inside.
3. Drain and flush the tank. Click on the link for a past post instructing you on how to do this. Sediment can collect in the bottom of the tank, which can shorten the life of your water heater. 
4. Inspect the Temperature/Relief Valve If the T/P valve ever discharges boiling water or steam, shut off your water heater immediately and give us a call. This is a safety problem. 

• • Be sure the electricity/gas is shut off
  • Shut off the cold water inlet 
  • Position the bucket to catch run off
  • Pull the trip lever on the valve. You should hear a slight hissing noise of air escaping or see some water vapor exit. If this does not happen, the valve likely needs replacing.

If you have any trouble at all, we happy to answer your questions give you some suggestions for how to inspect your water heater safely. Additionally, we are happy to guide you through how to inspect your water heater, or have one of our plumbing professionals do it for you. If you determine you need a new hot water heater, we want to be your go-to plumber. We proudly install Bradford White Water Heaters, and our water heater warranties are the best in the business. Read all about what makes Casey’s the best here.

503-620-9111 (West Side: Beaverton, Lake Oswego, Tigard and surrounding areas)

503-253-0030 (East Side: Gresham, Troutdale, West Linn and surrounding areas)

The post How To Inspect Your Water Heater appeared first on Portland Oregon Plumber.

Running toilets, sometimes referred to as a toilet with a  “phantom flush”, are often simple to repair. As shown above, there is a flapper that sits on the flush valve. This flapper, when activated or flushed, allows the water in the tank to displace the water in the bowl, thus “flushing the toilet”.   

Eventually these flappers will wear out, become warped, etc., causing water to leak in to the bowl. Once the water level gets down to a certain level, the fill valve does what it’s supposed to do – refill the tank. The sound of a running toilet, or refilling the tank, is what is sometimes referred to a a phantom flush.   

If the flapper is the culprit, you can remove it and take it to your local plumbing supply house where they can sell you a new one. There are other situations that can cause a toilet to run, but by far this is the most common one.

Water leaks can cost you untold dollars. Consider the following information from the Environmental Protection Agency…

The Facts on Leaks:

• The average household’s leaks can account for more than 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year, or the amount of water needed to wash 270 loads of laundry.
• Household leaks can waste more than 1 trillion gallons annually nationwide. That’s equal to the annual household water use of more than 11 million homes.
• Ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day.
• Common types of leaks found in the home include worn toilet flappers, dripping faucets, and leaking shower heads. All are easily correctable.
• Fixing easily corrected household water leaks can save homeowners about 10% on their water bills. 
• Keep your home leak-free by repairing dripping faucets, toilet flappers, and shower heads. In most cases, fixture replacement parts don’t require a major investment.
• Most common leaks can be eliminated after retrofitting a household with new WaterSense labeled fixtures and other high-efficiency appliances.

Toilets:

• If your toilet is leaking, the cause is often an old, faulty toilet flapper. Over time, this inexpensive rubber part decays, or minerals build up on it. It’s usually best to replace the whole rubber flapper-a relatively easy, inexpensive do-it-yourself project that pays for itself in no time.
• If you do need to replace the entire toilet, look for a WaterSense labeled model. If the average family replaces its older, inefficient toilets with new WaterSense labeled ones, it could save 13,000 gallons per year. Retrofitting the house could save the family nearly $2,400 in water and wastewater bills over the lifetime of the toilets.

For any help or questions, please call,

 503-620-9111

The post Spooky Plumbing Leak Facts – Stop the Phantom flush! appeared first on Portland Oregon Plumber.

Can Your Plumbing Handle A Holiday?

You probably don’t give your plumbing much thought when you’re getting ready to host an event. You may clean and organize your house top to bottom, but I bet you just assume your plumbing is going to come through for you when you need it.

Except when it doesn’t. Unfortunately, sometimes your plumbing breaks down at the worst possible times. For example, when twenty people are coming over to your house for Thanksgiving. Here are the most likely plumbing problems that could ruin your holiday, and what you can do to prevent disaster.

Your garbage disposal

Your garbage disposal will go on strike if you do any of the following:

• Throw too much food into it at once. This can back up your disposal and potentially damage the blades.
• Pour grease or fat into the disposal. Grease and fat can also clog your drain once it’s cooled and hardened. This makes it more difficult for your disposal to work effectively. So, what can you do with the grease? Check out these ideas. 
• Put bones in the disposal. This will definitely cause it to jam. Even little tiny ones.
• Other foods to avoid putting down your disposal: fruit pits, seeds, celery, egg shells, coffee grounds, and pasta. 

 Before you begin your major food preparation:

• Sharpen up your blades by dropping ice down your disposal.
• If you suspect you have sludgy backup in your drain, try combining the ice with rock salt. Let cold water run over the ice/rock salt combination for five to ten seconds, and then run the disposal. If you don’t have rock salt on hand, household vinegar should do the trick. 
• To deodorize the disposal, we recommend tossing a few orange and lemon peels to help cut any lingering odors.
• If you find yourself stuck, check out our tips on how to unjam your disposal here: How To Unjam Your Garbage Disposal.

Your toilet

No one likes to talk about this one because, well, it’s your toilet. However, the last thing you want is your toilet backed up or worse – overflowing – when you have guests. Too much toilet paper, and too many “flushable wipes” can really mess with your toilet’s ability to stay unclogged. 

Prepare your toilet for an increase in use:

• Clean it thoroughly. Make certain that the jets under the bowl are clean and cleared of any buildup. If the jets are clogged, the toilet can’t flush at full power, which keeps you from clearing out the clog. If it’s been awhile since you’ve checked all the way under the lid, you may need to don some gloves and a small scrub brush to get in there and unplug those jets.
• Remind the children coming to your house what an appropriate amount of toilet paper looks like for the job. (You may need to remind a few adults, too!)
• Flushable wipes. Rethink these. As handy and convenient as they may be, they are also a big culprit in toilet backups. They simply don’t break down like they claim. If you have them, we encourage you to throw them in the garbage instead. Your toilet, not to mention your neighborhood sewer system, will thank you.
• Have your plunger, towels, and a bucket within close proximity in case disaster strikes. 
• Familiarize yourself with your toilet. Read up on it here: A Tour Of Your Toilet.

Your hot water heater

If your guests are spending the night, chances are they will be taking a shower or bath at some time. Make sure your hot water heater can take the heat!

Get Your Water Heater Ready:

• Set the temperature to a reasonable and energy efficient 120 degrees. If you have smaller children staying with you, a higher water heater temperature can result in scalding and burns. Keep them safe!
• A few days before your guests arrive, take a little time to inspect and flush your water heater if you haven’t done that recently. We explain how here: How To Inspect Your Water Heater and here: How To Drain Your Water Heater.
• Make sure your guests can get the hot water they want quickly. Something as simple as pipe wrap can help get the hot water where you need it faster. Give us a call and we can guide you if that’s an option you would like look into.

Don’t forget: if disaster strikes, we are available 24/7 to take your calls. 503-620-9111

Be ready for company and focus on the important things: family, friends, food, and fun!

The post Company Is Coming. How’s Your Plumbing? appeared first on Portland Oregon Plumber.

Is Your Plumbing Ready For Guests?

You probably don’t give your plumbing much thought when preparing to host company. You may clean and organize your house top to bottom, but you likely simply assume your plumbing is going to come through for you when you need it. 

Except when it doesn’t. Unfortunately, sometimes your plumbing breaks down at the worst possible times. For instance, when you have twenty people coming over to your house for Thanksgiving. Here are the most likely plumbing culprits that could ruin your holiday, and what you can do to prevent disaster.

Your garbage disposal

Your garbage disposal will likely revolt if you do any of the following:

• Throw too much food into it at once. This can back up your disposal and potentially damage the blades.
• Pour grease or fat into the disposal. Grease and fat can also clog your drain once it’s cooled and hardened. This makes it more difficult for your disposal to work effectively.
• Put bones in the disposal. This will definitely cause it to jam. 
• Other foods to avoid putting down your disposal: fruit pits, seeds, celery, egg shells, coffee grounds, and pasta. 

Before your company arrives and you need your disposal to be working in tip top shape:

• Sharpen up your blades by dropping ice down your disposal.
• If you suspect you have sludgy backup in your drain, try combining the ice with rock salt. Let cold water run over the ice/rock salt combination for five to ten seconds, and then run the disposal. If you don’t have rock salt on hand, household vinegar should do the trick. 
• To deodorize the disposal, we recommend tossing a few orange and lemon peels to help cut any lingering odors.
• If you find yourself stuck, check out our tips on how to unjam your disposal here: How To Unjam Your Garbage Disposal.

Your toilet

No one likes to talk about this one because, well, it’s your toilet. However, the last thing you want is your toilet backed up or worse – overflowing – when you have guests. Too much toilet paper, and too many “flushable wipes” can really mess with your toilet’s ability to flush completely. 

Prepare your toilet for an increase in use:

• Clean it thoroughly. Make certain that the jets under the bowl are clean and cleared of any buildup. If the jets are clogged, the toilet can’t flush at full power, which keeps you from clearing out the clog. If it’s been awhile since you’ve checked all the way under the lid, you may need to don some gloves and a small scrub brush to get in there and unplug those jets.
• Remind the children coming to your house what an appropriate amount of toilet paper looks like for the job. (You may need to remind a few adults, too!)
• Flushable wipes. Rethink these. As handy and convenient as they may be, they are also a big culprit in toilet backups. They simply don’t break down like they claim. If you have them, we encourage you to throw them in the garbage instead. Your toilet, not to mention your neighborhood sewer system, will thank you.
• Have your plunger, towels, and a bucket within close proximity in case disaster strikes. 
• Familiarize yourself with your toilet. Read up on it here: A Tour Of Your Toilet.

Your hot water heater

If you are entertaining overnight guests chances are they will be taking a shower or bath at some time during their stay with you. Make sure your hot water heater can take the heat!

• Set the temperature to a reasonable and energy efficient 120 degrees. If you have smaller children staying with you, a higher water heater temperature can result in scalding and burns. Keep them safe!
• A few days before your guests arrive, take a little time to inspect and flush your water heater if you haven’t done that recently. We explain how here: How To Inspect Your Water Heater and here: How To Drain Your Water Heater.
• Make sure your guests can get the hot water they want quickly. Something as simple as pipe wrap can help get the hot water where you need it faster. Give us a call and we can guide you if that’s an option you would like to investigate.

Don’t forget: if disaster strikes, we are available 24/7 to take your calls. 503-620-9111

Get your plumbing ready for company ahead of time so you can focus on the important things: family, friends, food, and fun!

The post Get Your Plumbing Ready For Company appeared first on Portland Oregon Plumber.

How do you keep your pipes from freezing? There’s always a possibility of  frozen pipes when temperatures skid to the 32 degrees-and-below mark. Here are a few tips on how to keep your pipes from freezing, and what to do if disaster strikes:

Keep Your Pipes From Freezing:

• Let your faucets drip overnight, particularly uninsulated pipes located on an exterior wall. Lukewarm water is your best bet.
• Keep cabinet doors to those areas open to allow the heat from your house to circulate around pipes near exterior walls.
• Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature both day and night.  Experts recommend setting it no lower than 68 degrees. 
• Know where your main valve and water heater valves are, just in case.
• Consider investing in pipe wrap. Pipe wrap is a relatively inexpensive and easy way to help keep your pipes from freezing. Pipe wrap as the added benefit of preventing heat loss throughout the season. 

Monitor Your Pipes For Signs Of Trouble:

• The first sign of your pipes freezing is reduced water flow from a faucet. Check the flow before you go to bed and when you wake up.
• Check your pipes around unheated areas, exterior walls, and crawl spaces. They tend to be the most vulnerable.
• Check for drafts and caulk areas near pipes where you feel cold air coming in.

If Your Pipe Freezes:

• Inside, a hair dryer can do a great job of warming up the pipe. Just make sure you’re not standing in water!
• Heat water on your stove and soak towels in the hot water, then wrap your frozen pipe in the towels. Start with the portion of the pipe nearest the faucet.

If Your Pipe Bursts:

• Turn off your water at the main valve.
• Call us! We’re here to help, seven days a week : Westside (Beaverton, Lake Oswego, Tigard and surrounding areas): 503-620-9111 Eastside (Gresham, Troutdale, West Linn and surrounding areas): 503-253-0030

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It’s time to winterize your plumbing! Be ready for the cold that’s coming and prevent water disasters, such as flooded basements from burst pipes,

It’s Time To Winterize Your Plumbing, Portland!

Many of the water disasters that were the result of a freeze, could have been avoided with some basic winter maintenance. One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is to either put it off too long or perform the task incorrectly.

Standard outside faucets with winterization shut off valves. 

 

If you have a garage, there is a good chance that there is an outside hose bibb or hydrant, attached to it along with a service valve located somewhere in the garage (usually somewhere in close proximity to the water heater – see below).

 TYPICAL BALL AND WASTE SERVICE VALVE

As you can see, the Anti Siphon Valve above has a pin protruding out of the spout. After performing the earlier steps, the last step is to push this pin to the side and hold it until the water is drained. On some vacuum breakers like the one above, will have a ring to pull down or lift up. Use the same instructions for these as well.

Here are all the steps, in order to winterize your outside hydrant…

• Close the service valve (see above).
• Disconnect garden hose from outside faucet and leave it disconnected for the season.
• Open the outside faucet and leave it open.
• Return to service valve and open the “waste cap”. After making sure that the gasket is not stuck and blocking the flow, place the cap back on the drain loosely.
• And then finally, return to the outside hydrant and exercise the Anti Siphon Valve (see above).

Clearly, it’s no wonder so many end up with broken pipes even though they thought they prepared properly. Again, the most common mistake made when winterizing the above outside hydrant, is that some or all of the above steps are not performed properly.

Frost Proof Hydrants

 

If you have a frost proof hydrant, the only thing you need to remember to do is to disconnect the garden hose connected to it. This is because a frost proof hydrant has a long stem that will actually stop the water on the heated side of the house. So when a garden hose is left attached, the faucet barrel cannot drain.

If you have left the hose connected all winter and are unsure if there is damage, simply turn it on. If it froze up, the barrel is likely cracked and will leak inside the wall, only when the valve is turned on.

As you can see, this faucet has a long stem designed to stop the water on the heated side of the room. After turning this valve off, the excess water left in the faucet drains on out of the 6″ to 30″ barrel. But if you have a garden hose connected, it cannot drain and thus will freeze and break during harsh weather. (SEE BELOW)

When this happens, the faucet will leak every time you turn it on to use it.

So again, if you have a frost proof faucet REMEMBER TO DISCONNECT YOUR GARDEN HOSES BEFORE THE FREEZING WEATHER SETS IN.

FOUNDATION VENTS

Another common oversight when preparing for winter weather is leaving the foundation vents unprotected. These vents must be open in the warmer weather to allow your home to breath

But during the winter, they must be blocked to prevent arctic winds from freezing your pipes. No matter how well you insulate your pipes, if the arctic winds are allowed to enter the crawl space, they will simply take longer to freeze, but freeze they will!

APPLY VENT COVERS FROM THE OUTSIDE
OR FROM THE INSIDE

Of course, if all this is more than you want to tackle, you can always hire a professional.

For your plumbing preparations, give us a call! We’ll always be there for you.

If you just need a little advice, feel free to call Caisie Breen at 971-563-9418.

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How To: Unjam A Garbage Disposal

You can unjam a garbage disposal yourself, without a master plumbing certification. Jammed garbage disposals can be quite a nuisance especially when they clog up your kitchen sink. The good news is that it is often a simple task to unjam the disposal.  

As you can see from the image, a disposal will jam, or stop turning, when a foreign object such as a bone becomes caught up in the impeller blades.

You know your disposal is jammed if it makes a humming sound when the switch is turned on and it is not turning inside. If there is no sound when the switch is turned on, the unit probably became too hot and turned itself off.  

Pressing the reset button on the bottom side of the disposal will restore power to the unit and it can be turned on again to see if it is still jammed. 

If it is still jammed, you will need to use a tool in an effort to unjam it. 

Note: never put your hand inside a garbage disposal and *always* turn the power off at the electrical panel while performing any repair work.

You can, however, insert a broom handle or similar object, and try to move the blades back and forth. Better yet, you can use a 1/4″ or 5/16″ Allen wrench. Simply insert the wrench from below and work it back and forth until it frees up. If it doesn’t free up, the disposal is bad and will need to be replaced. 

For a short garbage disposal video provided by Ace Hardware,  click here. 

Remember: grease, oil, fat, fruit pits, seeds, bones, pasta, egg shells and stringy vegetables like celery can really do a number on your garbage disposal. Many of these types of items can be composted. Give composting a try! To get started, visit the Oregon Metro page to learn more. 

 For questions or to schedule a plumber to come out,  please call…503-620-9111 for the West Side, including Beaverton, Lake Oswego, Tigard and Hillsboro, or call 503-253-0030 for East Side locations, including Gresham, Troutdale, West Linn and Clackamas.

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Did you know you should drain your water heater occasionally? It’s an often overlooked home maintenance step, but one that can save you costly repairs.

How To: Drain Your Water Heater

Over time, sediment collects in the bottom of your water heater. Here are the steps to drain it and help keep it in perfect working order for as long as possible:

1. Turn off the power or gas to the appliance.
2. Turn off the cold water supply (that feeds the water to the tank.)
3. Attach a hose to the drain valve near the bottom of the tank.
4. Turn the valve to open it, and direct the water into a drain. Plan ahead for this step by making sure that you have a way to drain the water.
5. Turn the water back on for a minute or two to flush out any sediment remaining in the tank.
6. Close the drain valve, open the cold water supply to fill the water heater back up.
7. Relight the pilot light or flip the power back on.

This is a perfect weekend project that won’t take very long, but has the potential to save you money and headaches in the future. If you have elderly family members, it’s a very kind gesture to help them with this home maintenance task and has the potential to save them money and stress. Take a few hours on a Saturday and drain your water heater. You’ll be glad you did!

If you have any questions about how to drain your water heater, we’ll be happy to help you. At Casey’s, we proudly install Bradford White Water Heaters. For information about Casey’s best-in-the-business water heater warranties and any other questions you may have, give us a call at:

503-620-9111 West Side: Beaverton, Lake Oswego, Tigard

503-253-0030 East Side: Gresham, Troutdale, West Linn

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Ready for some DIY plumbing this weekend? Faucet aerators are small appliances installed on the end of faucets. They help with the efficiency of your faucet by introducing air flow into the water stream. Adding or replacing a faucet aerator is a small, inexpensive way to reduce water use and save money on your water and heating bills. 

Parts of Faucet Aerators

There are several parts to an aerator that all work together. An aerator is comprised of a washer, a flow restrictor, mixer, bushing, a screen, outer housing, and an aerator body. The screen is where you will likely find your flow problem. 

Replace Or Clean?

The biggest clue your faucet will give you is low water pressure. If it seems like the flow of water has changed over time, check your faucet aerator first. Sediment and dirt can build up on the aerator screen. This doesn’t necessarily mean you will need to replace the aerator. Frequently, aerators can be cleaned and reinstalled. However, you will need to remove the aerator in order to find out.

How To Clean Faucet Aerators

First things first: get your supplies ready. The only real supplies required are a pair of pliers and a shop rag. Many faucet aerators are hand-tight, so you may not even need the pliers. 

If you determine that you DO need the pliers, we suggest putting the shop rag around the aerator so the pliers won’t scratch the surface. That way, if you determine that it simply needs cleaning, you haven’t ruined it with the pliers on the metal.

Unscrew the aerator, and check for buildup. The dirt and goo most often collects in the mixer and the screen. Cleaning this is pretty simple: rinse it off with a little white vinegar (1 cup), baking soda (1/2 teaspoon), and water. Then scrub off the really stuck-on stuff with an old toothbrush. You should be good to go! Reassemble the unit, and screw it back on the faucet.

How To Replace Faucet Aerators

If you find, after taking the aerator off, that it’s too far gone – corroded, stripped, etc. – it’s time to get a new one. Faucet aerators are inexpensive, and can be purchased at Home Depot or Lowe’s. Once you have the new unit ready, gather up your essentials and get to work. Faucet aerators should screw on to the faucet head without too much effort, but be careful not to overtighten it. Start with a strong hand-tightening, and then test. If it’s leaky or otherwise not working properly, use the pliers – again with the rag – and gently tighten the aerator down.

There you have it! a very inexpensive, simple repair that can save you money and save water. 

We are here for you! If you have trouble, give us a call. We’re happy to offer you advice on what to do. We are available 24/7 to help you with your plumbing emergencies.

Westside: (Beaverton, Tigard, Lake Oswego) 503-620-9111

Eastside: (Troutdale, West Linn, Gresham) 503-253-0030

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It’s rainy season around here, and that means wet. Everywhere, and on everything. One of the drawbacks of our temperate but moist climate is mold growth. Mold loves it around here. If you have any leaks, cracks, or plumbing troubles you have yet to find, mold growth could be your first clue that something is “off.” The situation may arise, also, where you’ve had a plumbing disaster and now everything is wet; perfect conditions for mold to make an appearance. Here are a few steps you can take to prevent mold growth and stay dry all season.

How To Prevent Mold Growth

• Inspect and repair leaks. This includes your plumbing and water heater. Check for leaks or excess moisture behind your washer and dryer, under your refrigerator, and the back corners of your bathrooms.
• Dry wet areas immediately. Don’t give those spores a chance!
• Use fans in your bathrooms and/or open windows to ensure ventilation. We recommend keeping your bathroom fan on for thirty minutes after showering.
• Consider a dehumidifier for your basement if you have one.  Basements are a prime location for mold growth. 
• Clean and repair your gutters. After a rainy period, inspect them, and take a look at your ceilings. Any brown spots or drips? Sometimes this problem can be solved with a simple gutter cleaning.
• Monitor indoor humidity. Do your windows, walls and pipes have condensation on them? Dry them immediately and increase air flow around your home by opening doors between rooms, keeping closet doors open, and running an exhaust fan.
• Take a look at your crawl space. Is your sump pump in good working order? Do you have waterproofing in place? Prevent mold growth in your crawl space to keep your foundation strong.
• Direct water away from your home. Check for proper drainage and make sure the ground around your foundation is sloped away. Call a professional if you find that it isn’t. There are steps you can take to keep your foundation dry.
• Cover or insulate exposed pipes.

How To Clean The Mold You Have

We recommend cleaning the moldy areas with water and detergent, or a solution of bleach and water: 10% bleach to 90% water. Let the areas dry completely. Wear a mask, goggles and gloves! If repairs are required for the areas, making certain the surfaces are completely dry before repair or repainting is important. Paint applied over moldy surfaces tends to peel. 

Is It Your Plumbing? Call Us!

We’re here for you 24/7 to answer your questions and lend you a hand. If you find the source of mold is related to a plumbing problem, we’ve got your back! Remember: to prevent mold growth in your home, start with your plumbing. It could be a simple fix!

503-620-9111

Source: EPA’s Mold Guide

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Spring Plumbing Tips

We found this awesome article on JustCallHeritage.Com..

Spring has sprung, which means it’s time to do some “Spring Cleaning” for your home’s pipe and drainage systems. Here are 15 quick and simple Spring Plumbing Tips to protect your home against plumbing problems:

1. Check faucets for drips or leaks. Make repairs to save water.
2. Check toilets for hidden leaks. Add six drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. If the toilet is leaking, color will appear in the bowl within 30 minutes
3. Ensure that all drains have strainers to prevent hair, soap and debris from clogging the drain lines.
4. Inspect toilet tank and bowl for cracks or leaks.
5. Exercise water supply valves under sinks and toilets to prevent them from sticking.
6. Make sure toilets flush properly. If the handle must be held down for a thorough flush or jiggled to stop the water from running you may need to replace worn tank parts. They’re inexpensive and you’ll notice a lower water bill.
7. Check the temperature setting on the water heater. It should be set no higher than 120°F to prevent scalding and reduce energy use.
8. Carefully drain several gallons from the water heater tank to flush out corrosion causing sediment, which reduces heating efficiency and shortens the life of the heater. A great Spring Plumbing Tip.
9. Consider replacing a water heater more than 15 years old. (The first four numbers of the serial number represent the month and year it was made.) Newer water heaters are more energy efficient
10. Pour a gallon of water into infrequently used drains (including floor drains) to fill the trap and prevent odors from entering the house. Slow floor drains should be snaked to ensure they will carry away water quickly in the event of a flood.
11. Check exposed pipes under sinks and in the basement for signs of leaks.
12. If your home has a sump pump, make sure it operates properly by pouring a few buckets of water into the sump pit. The pump should quickly turn on, discharge the water then shut off without any problems.
13. Install a backflow valve in the floor drain if you live in an area where sewers sometimes back up into homes. This device will prevent future backups
14. Make sure yard drains, gutters and downspouts are cleaned out, open, and free of debris.
15. Check faucets and hose bibs to make sure water flows freely. If an outdoor faucet drips or if there is leakage inside your home the first time the hose is turned on, you may have had a frozen pipe that cracked and needs to be replaced.

This list of Spring Pluming Tips is just a handful of the useful services and solutions that Heritage can provide your home this spring. If you are interested in the full run down of our plumbing service you can check them out here or you can schedule a service maintenance of your plumbing and drain systems by calling us!

Check out more articles just like this – http://justcallheritage.com/plumbing/15-simple-spring-plumbing-tips-save-money 

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Summer is coming! Is your plumbing ready?

Here are 6 tips for keeping your plumbing in tip top shape this summer:

• Playing outside means more dirt, and more dirty clothes.
  • Make sure you check your washing machine hoses for bulges, leaks, and cracks.
  • Also be sure to clean out your dryer lint regularly.
  • Finally keep in mind that your machine hoses should be replaced about every 3 years!
• Move your washing machine
  • Move it about 4 inches from the wall to prevent hose kinking and damage, and don’t leave your home when your machine is running.
• Make sure to check your ductwork for condensation. This can cause a backup if the drains are not clear. Leaks in seams can also cause condensation. If you notice problems call us today!
• Summer bbqs can mean lots of food that could end up in your disposal
  • So be careful what you put down your kitchen disposal after your cookout. Most are not equipped to handle cornhusks, celery, banana peels and other fibrous or “stringy” foods. Some other items to stay away from are fats or cooking oils because they form clogs in the pipes.
  • Make sure you Run cold water at full pressure for 15 seconds before and after you put anything down the disposal to flush it through.
  • And NEVER put instant stuffing, potato mixes or similar “just-add-water” foods down the drain—they’ll create an instant clog when you add water. Pasta, rice and eggshells should also be avoided.
• Summer also means TRAVEL!
  • A great way to save money and energy while on your vacation is to turn down the temperature of your water heater and turn up the temperature of your refrigerator.
    • But if you do turn down your fridge make sure you remove highly perishable foods, like dairy, produce and meat first.
• As it goes every season the best defense to ensuring your plumbing systems are running properly is to schedule annual maintenance inspections, and keep on top of your systems before it’s too late, or when you need them most.

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