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Plumbing Company in Chantilly

How to Find a Good Plumbing Company

Any problems with the plumbing network in your home could often put you and your family members in a tight spot. It could be an emergency situation for many. The problem with plumbing issues is that it may happen out of your eyesight. In other words, the plumbing work may be damaged behind your walls, beneath the kitchen or toilet flooring and other such concrete structures.

Identifying the problem in the first place could be out of bounds for many of us. Hence, we may have no other option but to take the help and assistance of professionals to identify the problem and then have it rectified. In other words, we should not waste any time in identifying the right plumbing company Chantilly as soon as possible.

But it is not easy to shortlist and then select the right plumbing professionals. This is basically because of two reasons. To begin with, we do not have even the basic idea about problems that could be happening beneath the floors or behind the walls as far as plumbing networks are concerned. We will come to know of it only, when the seams burst and water and muck starts flowing out into our living rooms or even common spaces in big apartments.

Secondly, if we look around the internet, we can easily come across dozens of plumbing repair and maintenance companies. Each one makes tall claims and therefore, making the right choice often may become quite tough and confusing. Unless we are able to make an informed and knowledgeable decision, it is obvious that we may end up making the wrong choice.

The next few lines are devoted to some common tips and suggestions that could help us in choosing the right plumbing company from the dozens that are trying to establish a toe-hold in a highly demanding and competitive market situation

1. Checks Their Credentials

This is the first and foremost step that you must take as a customer before you shortlist the plumbing company. Make sure that the plumber or the company has the required qualifications and credentials to work in your house. It is mandatory in most states for plumbers to have an operating and working license.

Ensure that the licenses that are with the plumbing companies or individuals are valid and in force. Check with the local government agencies and if you find that they make licensing mandatory for plumbers. If the answer is yes, insist on the plumbing service providers to show their valid licenses. If not, it would be better to stay away from such companies or individuals for obvious reasons.

2. Are they professional?

Professionally Licensed Plumber

Any good plumber should be professional apart from being competent and skillful in his or her jobs. There are many ways in which the plumbers can exhibit their professionalism. It always pays well to have a close look at the way in which they dress, the way in which they interact with their prospective clients and the way in which they negotiate rates and deals with clients.

They should be able to explain adequately the reasons as to why they are a better choice when compared to other such plumbers in and around Chantilly. As a prospective client, you should feel comfortable and confident talking to the plumber and be reasonably sure that they are skilled, competent and capable of handling the plumbing problem that you may have.

3. Do they have the right infrastructure?

Always look for plumbers who are able to showcase the right infrastructure for identifying, repairing, maintaining and overhauling plumbing networks. Most leaks or cracks in pipes and other such networks happen deep under the floors or beneath the walls. Unless the plumbers have the right ultrasonic devices, they may not be in a position to pinpoint the impacted area easily.

They could end up wasting their and your time. The right infrastructure, tools and machines are also needed for repairing the damage efficiently and to the complete satisfaction of the clients.

4. Do they have insurance?

Professional Plumbing Contractor

Always choose only those plumbing companies who have the required insurance coverage. The insurance coverage should be total and comprehensive. This is vital because it protects and indemnifies the customers in case of any damages and even injuries that could happen to workers while they are working on the site trying to set things right as far as your plumbing issues are concerned.

Make sure that you check on the correctness and validity of the insurance policies and never go by what the plumbing companies have to say. Seeing is believing.

5. Don’t cut corners on quality

When you research and go through the due diligence process, you will come across many plumbing companies who may be ready to offer their services for a song. While this may look quite attractive from the financial point of view, make sure that they are capable of delivering quality services. Never cut corners on materials, quality of work and other such things because once plumbing work has been done, redoing it again will be expensive and have many problems.

Let it not be a case of being pennywise and pound foolish. Look for competitive plumbing services but not the cost of quality.

6. Adherence to timelines

A Punctual Plumber

Most plumbing works are emergencies and therefore as customers it is quite obvious that we will be looking at urgent and time bound solutions. The same is also the case when it comes to laying new plumbing networks or even whenever there is a need for proactive and preventive maintenance. Take inputs and feedback to ensure that the plumbing professionals whom you are planning to choose have a good track record of completing their job thoroughly and efficiently within the timelines that they have promised to their clients.

7. Pay Importance to Reviews & Customer Feedback

It is quite normal for plumbing companies to blow their own trumpets. While many of their claims may be true and factual, it is always better to have it verified by an independent third-party source. The best option would be to look for customer reviews, feedback, star ratings, etc. However, make sure that the feedback, reviews and star rating are original and not paid for. Look for independent sites or forums where many customers post their honest feedback.

Conclusion

Choosing a good plumbing company in Chantilly can be simple if you are able to follow the above tips. They are proven, time-tested and are based on facts rather than opinions and hearsays. Plumbing repair costs big money and therefore make sure that you are able to get the best value for money. Finally, be proactive with plumbing issues and contact a good plumbing company even if you come across some minor problems. Delays and procrastination may cost customers dearly.

 

Fairfax Plumbing Services

5 Common Plumbing Emergencies

 

Emergency plumbing have made our lives a lot easier by providing fast and convenient plumbing services at any time of the day or night. You can now request a plumbing emergency service around the clock on weekends and even public holidays.

One of the most surprising things about this type of services is that the services offered are always the same as the normal plumbing services provided during normal business hours. Most plumbing companies charge a small fee for emergency plumbing services to cover overtime plumbing technicians and other miscellaneous costs incurred outside of business hours.

But, it’s definitely worth the extra service fee as you get same-day plumbing services and avoid serious plumbing problems in your home. Plumbing companies usually post their emergency number on their website to make local service calls.

As we all know, there is no specific time or situation that plumbing emergencies occur. Hence, it would be best if you had a permanent solution when you encounter such a problem. With Fairfax Plumbing services, you can be sure of finding the perfect solution to many problems with just one click. With the best plumbing solutions available now, the job is much easier, less cumbersome, and hassle-free.

We are now going to look at some of the most common plumbing emergencies that a homeowner can experience.

 

The five most common plumbing emergencies

The toilet is overflowing

Clogged Toilet

Whether your toilet is clogged or the float mechanism isn’t working properly, the first step is to stop the water flow. The water valve is located at the bottom of the water pipe on the toilet side and should be turned fully counterclockwise. Once the water stops flowing into the toilet, the mechanism’s clogging or failure can be cleared.

Clogging a toilet can be as simple as a solid vertical plunger. More severe obstructions may require a drill bit to remove debris blocking the flow of water. Once the blockage is cleared, reset the float mechanism and open the water valve.

Drain a clogged sink

The best way to avoid clogging the drain is to avoid getting grease, coffee, and other items down the drain. However, even the most cautious owner sometimes has to deal with this inconvenience. If using a plunger to remove material from the drain doesn’t work, a perforator (or “snake”) may be required. The auger is easy to use with a little practice and perseverance.

Pipes have burst

Leaking Pipes

Sometimes, the cause of pipe bursts over the years is corrosion. If the pipe bursts, turn off the water supply immediately. If possible, remove furniture or other items to prevent further damage.

Leaky pipes

If the leak is flowing from the seal, first tighten the seal with a wrench. Keep in mind that tightening one joint may relax another joint. If water comes out of the hose or faucet, the rubber patch can correct the problem.

Sump pump issues

Defective Sump Pump

If the sump pump is not working properly, remove the strainer to ensure that debris does not obstruct the impeller’s movement. If the impeller is clean, the pump may not be receiving enough power, or it may have a defective float switch.

 

Don’t postpone plumbing repairs

Sometimes we’re too relaxed and don’t know the importance of getting repairs done on time. If you delay these repairs, you could end up spending a fortune on it. You need to make sure that any plumbing issues are fixed before it’s too late.

 

Save money

Fixing any plumbing issues promptly will save you a lot of extra money. If your water bill is too high, you can consult a licensed plumber to determine what the problem is.

 

Can I fix it myself?

If you have the knowledge and skill for fixing simple issues, like a leaky faucet or shower head, then why not. However, if it’s not done correctly, there is a risk of turning it into a bigger issue. It is advisable that you call a licensed plumber to fix any plumbing issues.

 

Why choose us?

We offer the best plumbing service in any residential or commercial areas. Our services are very reasonable and our plumbers are licensed. Thus, we only guarantee high-quality solutions for every repair and installation. Call us at (703) 570-6992 to find more information.

Top Plumbing Services in Arlington VA

Steps to Find the Source of Rusty Water

Many homeowners are used to drinking and using clean water to wash clothes and utensils. Some may take household water for granted until they notice discolored or rusty water in their systems. Unfortunately, there are many things he or she cannot fulfill without clean water.

No one will feel thrilled to see dirty or brown water when he or she turns on the faucets. The good thing is that he or she can still bring rusty water back to its former clean or clear liquid condition. Rust, an oxidized iron, is the biggest threat to many households in the USA.

Rusty water pipes are also a worry among many water experts. It’s a problem many supply water systems are going to face in the future. Despite many towns and cities across the United States spending billions of money cleaning water sources from rivers and lakes, rust is still a major problem.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires that water leaving the city’s water plant be tested for bacteria commonly caused by rust. Microorganisms such as legionella and cryptosporidium thrive in degraded and rusty water systems. Contaminants like copper, arsenic, and lead are also common.

Finding the source of rusty water is not an easy undertaking for many homeowners in Arlington, Virginia. Corroded water should not be easily confused with anything else. This contaminated water has a bad or metallic smell, and that comes with a reddish-brown color.

Many homeowners may notice the bad odor and the brownish color, but finding the source of the problem is not that easy. Why fret when help is a stone throw away. This is a task best left to professionals, and he or she should not have any reservations seeking top plumbing services in Arlington VA.

 

Find the Source of Rusty Water- Step to Follow

No homeowner wishes to use dirty or rusty water to wash clothes, utensils, or for drinking purposes. Red flags will go up in his or her head, and it’s clear there is something that needs to be addressed, and as soon as possible. Working with a top professional plumbing services provider is a decision any homeowner in Arlington, VA, and surrounding areas will never regret.

This is an individual with the right plumbing skillsets, experience, and willpower to lend a helping hand. He or she will do anything possible to guide you in finding the source of rusty water. In light of this, here are a few steps to guide a homeowner in this pursuit. Have a look:

1. Do Small Tests

Soap Hardness Test

There are a number of tests one can do and ascertain the source of rusty water. Hardness soap test is common, but procedures such as kitchen faucet aerator test and toilet flush tank inspection test can save the day stress-free.

The test one chooses to work on will work perfectly. However, it’s best if he or she runs cold water for a few minutes into the system and ascertain where the colored water is coming from. Go on and run hot water and figure out whether the system one uses is delivering rusty water. The sample from the test will clear any doubts he or she has about the color and odor of the water.

2. Check for Failing Water Heater

 Rusty Hot Tap Water

If one uses hot water at home or has installed a water heater, he or she should test whether it’s the hot water that it’s rusty. Turn on the hot water tap and sample the color or odor of the water.

If the water is colored or has a bad smell, the water heater could be the problem. The system may be aging, or the homeowner hasn’t flushed it for a while. Sediments may have built up in the hot water tank, and they are now affecting the color and quality of the water.

3. Check for Aging Pipes

If rust is appearing in all the faucets in a home, the entire system needs immediate attention. This is a serious problem resulting from rusting pipes or residues in the pipe system.

Run water via the pipes and sample it for bad smell or discoloration. If the water is no longer clear and smelly, then the pipes are corroded, and water flowing through them will become contaminated.

4. Sample Rusty Water Appearing Out of Nowhere

 Brownish Water

If rusty water is present or appearing in all samples or out of nowhere, the problem is likely with the main water source. As a resident of Arlington, VA, and experiencing brownish water, the local pipe systems that supply clean water to homes may be the problem.

Check with the local government officials and inquire about the problem. Work with them and find a safer water source as rusty water is never safe for use.

 

Hire the Services of Top Plumbers

Iron or any related contaminants in water can be harmful. Rusty water can host bacteria that are dangerous to users. Contaminated water will expose users to different skin conditions as well as harm one’s internal organs.

If a homeowner notices a change in color or smell of the water, it’s wise to seek immediate professional help. Rusty water is a common problem in a lot of areas. The risk of using this water is real, and one should not accept to face such a problem.

If one experiences rusty or yellowed water at home, there is no need to fret but take immediate actions. The best way to solve this problem and stay safe is to seek top plumbing services. A homeowner will get an opportunity to work with well-trained, experienced, licensed, and certified plumbers.

A licensed plumber is the best to work with because this is an individual who knows the area well and eager to help. The plumber will take the necessary steps and find out where the rusty water is coming from. He or she will determine what needs to be replaced or repaired.

A reliable plumbing service provider will determine whether the pipes or water heater needs urgent replacement or repairs. He or she will monitor the issue and continue to address it until the homeowner has clean and safe to use water.

Don’t be discouraged and stress if it’s hard to find the source of rusty water. Get in touch today and work with plumbing professionals who know how to fix problems that cause rusty water.

Plumbing Company in Chantilly

What Is The Best Temperature To Set Your Water Heater

One of the must have appliances in every home is a water heater. We all know how it gives off warm water when in the showers and that is exactly what you would want when you will take a shower and it is pretty cold outside. It would feel great to have a nice hot shower and you would have the entire room all to yourself. It is like a warm feeling deep down inside you and you will not know what you would need to do next.

The best temperature for your water heater would be more or less 120 degrees. It is what experts say so you should not argue with that. Besides, you would want nothing more than for you to not spend too much for it when the electricity bill arrives. It is called taking care of what you invested in and the water heater is one of them. After all, it takes up a huge portion of your electricity bill so better do your part.

 

Cost Efficient

Water Heater Saves You Money

It is just the right amount of temperature so you won’t need to pay a huge amount of money each month for your electricity bill. We all know how that would make you feel a bit bad about yourself especially since you need to spend for a whole lot of other things in your house. It would be better if you won’t pay much for it so that you would have more money to spend on other bills that you pay in your home.

 

Safe for Elders and Children

When you have elderly people and children in your house, it would be better if you would set it at 120 degrees. If it is a bit higher than that, you know there is a chance for them to get several burns on their skin. That would cause you to go to the nearest hospital to have them checked out. As they say, the rest is history and you will rather have your kids always be safe at home. It is like not having them play outside without any supervision.

The kids are not mature enough for them to be going around and doing things that they are not supposed to. They are not aware that the water is too hot and they may not even want to shower because of that. The same goes for people who are over the age of sixty. The truth is they would think they are still good with the hot water but it should not be that hot for them or else they would end up suffering a lot of damage to their skin.

 

Best for Those Who Live Alone

Solo Living

When you live alone and you don’t really mind anybody else, you know you would want to keep the electricity bill down as much as possible. The lower the temperature is, the more you will save. It does not really have to be that hot when the weather outside your place is a bit cooperative. Thus, better just keep it at a standstill so that you know you won’t need to pay much when the next electricity bill arrives.

It is pretty discomforting to be alone but it gives you all the sense of freedom. For example, nobody is going to complain when you decide to go out in the middle of the night. It is all about finding the right person and you know you would have given it your all no matter what happens. The water heater certainly plays a huge part in making things right for all the people that live in the house.

 

Safe for Low Immune System

Person with Low Immunity

Those who get sick often should consider raising the bar a little. For example, putting the temperature up to 140 degrees would help. The last thing you would want to happen is to get sick and be unproductive each day. You will be forced to sit home and not get paid.

Until then, you can work on your immune system by exercising regularly and eating the right food. When that happens, you know you would want to be on top of the world. It is not about eating what you want all the time. After all, it should be about giving all the people their due when you could just do it. Besides, you can’t just let time pass by without doing anything. You must go to the nearest nutritionist for the best food that you can eat.

When you experience problems with your water heater, be reminded that this is not one problem you can afford to do yourself. You would be better off enlisting the help of a plumbing company in Chantilly. After all, they have been training for a long time so they would know what to do in a situation like that. Ask them for advice about the best temperature to set your water heater and they would be more than happy to lend a hand.

Better check out the reviews of each plumbing company that you arrive with so that you will end up with a good one. We all know how you can’t afford to hire a bad one or else your water heater will suffer in the process. When that happens, you would want nothing more than to give props to those people who would love to give you the props that you deserve. It won’t be long before you will arrive with a someone deserving.

Professional Drain Cleaning

5 Benefits of High-Pressure Drain Cleaning

Drains get clogged now and then, especially in areas where there is a lot of human activity, such as showers or sinks. A clog in the drainage system will lead to many drain issues. Common clogs in most drains are debris, sludge, soap, food, grease, or tree roots.

Getting a clog in a drainage system is a stubborn problem; most commercial and residential property owners hate dealing with occasionally. Many don’t just hate this issue because they don’t know how to go about unclogging drain systems, others don’t have the right equipment or resources to tackle blockage.

There are notable signs a homeowner needs drain cleaning. This will include slow draining than usual due to clogged drains. Overflowing toilet when one flushes is a common issue in many homes and also mean the drainage pipes need further attention.

When water starts backing up instead of going down the drain, there is a block that he or she has to deal with. This is an emergency drainage issue that needs immediate professional drain cleaning services.

Bad odor is also a common sign that a drainage system needs cleaning. This bad smell means something is stuck in the drainage pipes and has to be unclogged to avoid health-related complications.

Everything to Know About Drain Cleaning

There are many amazing and practical ways to tackle blockage in a drain system. The method he or she settles for means a lot when it comes to cleaning a drain. However, it’s advisable to go for a method that will effectively get rid of frustrating blockage.

Drain cleaning methods vary from the most basic to professional ones that involve the use of different tools. The good news is that it’s best to leave all drain cleaning projects to professionals. Commercial and residential property owners in Fairfax should not have reservations looking for plumbing professionals and have their drains cleaned.

Working with the best Fairfax plumbing and heating professional is a wise decision he or she should never regret. However, it’s wise to go for a well-trained, experienced, insured, and licensed drain cleaning expert. This is a professional well-acquainted with the latest and advanced drain cleaning methods and high-tech equipment.

Traditional methods such as the use of augers and snakes were common. When used properly and by the right person, these tools worked miracles in clearing up simple clogs. They made it easy to avoid inconvenient drain cleaning emergencies.

The good news for many Fairfax homeowners is that advanced and environmentally friendly drain cleaning solutions are the best option. One can opt for high-pressure drain cleaning to unblock clogs in their drainage systems. This is a drain cleaning method that involves the use of a flexible hose connected to an adjustable nozzle that emits water to break down debris, soap, grease, sludge, and hardened deposits.

Even if the drainage system has been invaded by tree roots, hydro-jetting can also aid flash these debris away into the main sewer system. Significantly, through high-pressure drain cleaning, it’s easy to clean pipelines and ready them for use. It is a great drain cleaning solution applicable to both commercial and residential drain and sewer lines.

Know the Benefits of High-Pressure Drain Cleaning

High-pressure drain cleaning gets the drains cleaned perfectly. But a homeowner should opt for the services of the best plumbing company. A look at the top five benefits of high-pressure drain cleaning will also guide a homeowner in his or her endeavors. They include:

1. Quicker Than Other Methods

 High-Pressure Blast of Water

High-pressure drain cleaning is an exceptional method that makes it easy to clear blockage quicker than any other method. One does not have to poke and push the clog out of the drain as this is a tedious and tiresome task. When he or she opts for high pressure drain cleaning service, the time for an average service will depend on the drain section the professional is working on.

He or she can take at least two hours to clean a number of manholes in a drainage system. Less time will be wasted if the expert decides to undertake a CCTV inspection to locate the blockage and then immediately embark on drain cleaning.

2. Efficient Method to Clean Drain Lines

Drainage lines easily get clogged with sediments, soap residue, fats, grease, mineral deposits, sanitary paper towel, and other waste products. This thick sludge is hard to remove using traditional drain cleaning methods.

Through high-pressure cleaning, the expert one hires will unclog the drain lines and clean them properly. It’s a perfect method if a homeowner is undertaking further repair and restoration of the drainage pipes. Engineers will use high-pressure technique to clean the pipes thoroughly before undertaking any kind of renovation project.

3. Environmentally and Economically Safe Method

Hydro Jetting

High-pressure drain cleaning is the safest and most economical way to clean drain or sewer lines. There is no heavy or big equipment involved to immaculately clean the drain pipes. This method will also not damage drain pipes or the nearby property.

No drilling is involved or major inconveniences that might lead to extra drain cleaning service costs. All a professional need are some high-pressure blasts of water to perfectly clean the drain. In essence, hydro-jetting is a cost-effective technique that does not require multiple and costly chemical treatments to clear a clog.

4. Comprehensive and Thorough Results

A homeowner should not have any hesitations pushing out clog into the main drainage system. However, some waste like grease, tree roots, coffee grinds, and other kinds require different techniques to remove them. Luckily, high-pressure drain cleaning is one of the effective techniques to use and clear blockage.

It’s a technique used by a lot of plumbers to clear debris thanks to the nature of high-pressure water stream. As the high-pressure water spins in multi-directions through the pipes, it also swirls the waste inside the drain systems leaving the pipes flawlessly cleaned. The end results will be clean pipes that don’t require regular cleaning or cause slow draining.

5. Effectively Decreases Bad Odor

Clogged Drain Causing Bad Odor

When the drainage system is not working as expected, a homeowner is easily susceptible to awful smells. These bad odors are from the clogs in the drain lines, and when a homeowner ignores it, dangerous bacteria can accumulate.

The build-up of bacteria can lead to illness, especially if the smell is coming from the kitchen or bathroom. The bad odor is not good for the occupants of a house and no one wants to live in a stinking house. High-pressure drain cleaning is the best way to get rid of bacteria and bad smells as well as leave the drain lines fresh and clean.

Seek High-Pressure Drain Cleaning Services

A clogged drainage system can spell calamity to any home or business premises. It’s best to make sure possible drain waste is cleaned by professionals and regularly to keep the systems in the best condition. Whenever, a homeowner has issues with clogged pipes or drains, it’s best to work with licensed plumbers who are well trained and can clean your drains and plumbing system thoroughly.

New Water Heater

How To Choose A New Water Heater

Every household out there is in need of a water heater. However, on most occasions, we have to face major issues with the water heaters we purchase within one year of usage. The main reason for these issues to happen is that we did not make proper research prior to buying one for your house.

In this article, we have mentioned some useful information that will help you to choose a new water heater without any problem whatsoever. But first, we will take a look at the different types of water heaters available on the market.

 

Water Heater Types

Standard Tank Water Heaters

These types of water heaters are used in commercial and residential areas extensively. The water within the tank is heated up regularly for providing a large amount of hot water. It has been found that standard tank water heaters have the ability to store between 20 and 80 gallons of water and come with safety equipment like pressure-relief valves that have to be inspected at regular intervals.

These types of water heaters are available in gas as well as electric versions and will help to minimize the use of energy because of the high-efficiency burners and additional insulation facilities.

Tankless Water Heaters

Mounted Tankless Water Heaters

These are actually mounted on walls which heat the water according to the demands instead of storing a large amount of preheated water. In fact, tankless water heaters are able to provide 3 to 5 gallons of water every minute. As compared to the conventional water heaters, these devices will not be storing large amounts of water.

Instead, these consist of heating coils which will be able to heat the water quickly on demand as long as power is available. Tankless water heaters are available in gas and electric models just like the standard ones.

Compared to the standard tank water heaters, the tankless heaters are somewhat more expensive although they are more energy-efficient. Thus, helping you save a considerable amount of money in the long run. It has also been found that tankless water heaters can last for more than 20 years, unlike standard water heaters which have a typical lifespan of approximately 10 years.

 

Choosing A New Water Heater

What size is exactly required by you?

Water Heater Temperature

Water heaters are available in various sizes these days depending on the volume of hot water you require. You need to consider a number of factors for figuring out the ideal size of a water heater.

Optimum Flow Rate: The maximum flow rate is one of the most important factors which help to figure out the size of water heaters. Flow rates which are included in the manuals of the appliances provided by the manufacturers are measured by gauging the volume of water which flows through a supply line or faucet over a period of 1 minute. Any water heater you purchase must mention this particular feature.

Gallons of Water Utilized: Just like flow rate, the gallons of water which are available are an essential consideration for figuring out the size of water heaters. For calculating the total number of gallons used, you simply need to add together the gallons needed by a faucet over a period of one hour and make sure that the water heater is able to produce that volume of water.

This is roughly the value of the maximum flow rate multiplied by 60. Although standard tank water heaters might be able to provide adequate gallons for satisfying your requirements, they should not be drained completely and must also be refilled constantly. A bigger water heater might be required for providing water flow constantly over time. However, it is possible for tankless water heaters to provide hot water at all times.

Temperature Rise: Although the temperature of the incoming water supply is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, it can be warmer or colder depending on the water source and the season. The flow rate will be lower in case the temperature rises higher, and this makes bigger water heaters ideal for high temperature as well as high-demand situations.

 

Other Things to Consider

Electric Gas Water Heater

Water heaters are available in electric as well as gas models, and the main differences depend on the existing energy hookups, your financial budget, local utility expenses, and sustainability goals. You need to consider a number of factors while buying a water heater.

Available Power Sources: In case no gas source is available in your area, a gas water heater will be quite expensive to set up. Prices for electricity as well as gas might fluctuate according to the season or your area and must be considered while choosing a water heater.

Power Outages: It is possible for gas water heaters to operate at the time of power outage since the coil or flame powered by gas goes on flowing.

Energy Efficiency: Look for an “Energy Guide” sticker on a new water heater. It will provide you an estimated operating cost on a given scale. A higher number usually means that it will use less energy.

Price: Electric water heaters can prove to be less costly; however, it will be pricier to operate them. The cost of installation of both versions is almost identical unless it is imperative to install gas piping. Tankless water heaters usually have higher upfront expenses.

You depend on water heaters for everything including cleaning, cooking, and bathing. Therefore, it is one of the most essential components of most residences at present. However, in case these appliances begin to malfunction or break down completely, there is no need for you to lose your mental peace.

You can always go for emergency plumbing services in Arlington VA for providing you with help. Highly trained and experienced plumbers will be able to identify the issue accurately and make the necessary repairs. So, do not give any second thoughts and get in touch with us today.

 

5 Plumbing Myths That Can Cost Money 1

5 Plumbing Myths That Can Cost Money

Plumbing is an important part of the house, and maintaining it can get tricky as an owner. This becomes particularly true when the issue is not noticeable at the initial stages. Which household problem is most common in plumbing? Leaky pipes, dripping faucets, clogged toilets and drains, leaky toilets are among the most common issues in household plumbing.

How can you estimate the cost of plumbing? You can get the best estimate on a plumbing job by getting the base rate per hour on the plumbing you need. It could be from basic jobs like fixing leaky faucets to fixing a pipeline. Evaluate how many hours of work you will need and calculate the overall price.

You may be using household hacks loaded on the internet or following your friends or family’s advice to keep the plumbing pipes clean. However, they can impact your finances in the long run. In this article, we will see 5 plumbing myths that can cost you money.

 

5 Plumbing Myths

Lemon down the drain freshens your plumbing drains

 Lemon Squeezed Into Kitchen Drain

Myth Busted: It’s said that a lemon squeezed into your kitchen or bathroom drain can make your sink smell fresh for a couple of days. However, this will not unclog, clean or protect your drains. On the contrary, excessive citric acid into the drain due to lemons can eventually rust your plumbing pipes resulting in cracks and leaks in the pipe. This implies you will need frequent maintenance for your plumbing systems.What You Should Do: Avoid using citrus juices in the kitchen or bathroom drains to prevent corrosion of pipes. If there is a bad odor coming from your plumbing drains, have it checked by a licensed plumber immediately.

 

Anything can be flushed in a toilet bowl

Myth Busted: People often feel that the toilet bowl is an all-flushing bowl. Just because its outlet is wide-mouthed does not mean that anything can be flushed through it. Flushing anything recklessly can clog your toilet and overall bathroom plumbing system. A clogged toilet drain can cost a lot for a fix-up.

Avoid flushing down items in the toilet bowl like:

  • Paper towels
  • Feminine hygiene items
  • Makeup
  • Cotton swabs
  • Oils
  • Grease
  • Coffee grounds
  • Hair
  • Diapers

What You Should Do: It is important to dispose of feminine hygiene items, makeup, paper towels, and hair strands into garbage bins to avoid the toilet drain clogging. Certain items labeled flushable such as a baby wipe, also should be avoided being flushed as they do not decompose or break down in the water.

Note: A product (given as flushable) can be flushed after determined with a small test. Take a bowl filled with water. Put this product in water submerged in it. After an hour, take a stick and swish it around. If the product breaks and almost dissolves, then it is a flushable product. If not, it should be thrown in a garbage bin. They are potential pipe cloggers.

 

Cleaner tablets for Toilet bowl cleans and saves effort and time

 In-Tank Toilet Cleaner Tablet Used

Myth Busted: Cleaner tablets clean your toilet bowl with less effort; however, these bleach-infused cleaners will result in crucial repairs. They mask the smell with bleach, but in reality, the scum is underneath it and you may have to scrub more. These tablets are placed in a water tank that may harm the flushing mechanism in time. They have ingredients that can jam the mechanism due to deposits in the water tank and the pipes.

What You Should Do: Spend some time cleaning/brushing the toilet to avoid long-term and huge expenses to repair the toilet.

 

Drain cleaners clear the clogs efficiently

Myth Busted: Drain cleaners are often considered a quick fix for clogged sink or drain. The ingredients within the drain cleaner are harmful and damaging to plumbing pipes. It is important to remember that these drain cleaners are meant for minor clogs and not major plumbing issues. They are for short-term fixes but not meant for long term fixes. By using them, you mask the underlying, more significant plumbing issue.

What You Should Do: Drain cleaners are for minor clogs. They can be used for buying time until a professional comes to check and fix the underlying issue. A plumber can inspect the core of the issue.

 

If stuff is going down, there is no clog

Pasta Going Down The Drain

Myth Busted: You often feel that there is no problem as long as the stuff is drained into the pipe. However, it is essential to remember that certain foods like rice, pasta, etc., bloat within the drains. They eventually result in pipe blockage and a bad smell in the drain. Over time the food gets caught into the previous build-up and result in drain clogs.

What You Should Do: Use sufficient water to drain the kitchen sink. Eliminate the solid food into a wet garbage bin. Regular plumbing service and maintenance should be done to avoid long term issues. This way, there is no unseen build-up in the pipes.

 

Conclusion

Considering the above myths that are busted with reality/facts, it is essential to stay away from myths that can damage your plumbing framework costing you more than ever. Regular plumbing service and maintenance can keep you from potential plumbing issues in time and getting a professional plumbing service will help you do this at reasonable costs.

Chantilly plumber services are the best, reliable, and professional who can deal with all your plumbing issues, service, and maintenance. Remember, expert plumbers can inspect, evaluate, and analyze the source of the problem. They fix the problem after thorough analysis with quality materials. With ever-growing household plumbing issues that can hinder your regular works in a big way, their services will help you to get back on track with your routine.

A right and healthy plumbing framework are equally essential for a household or any construction to have a peaceful living. Stay away from the potential plumbing hazards caused by ignorant myths to keep you off from draining money to fix drain pipes.

Basic Plumbing Tools For Your Home

Plumbing Tools That Homeowners Should Have

As a homeowner, it’s wise to take the initiative to understand a home plumbing system. These will include being knowledgeable about potable water supply systems and the drainage system. One should not wait until a plumbing emergency occurs, whether big or small, to learn about house water supplies or drainage pipes.

Knowing this, one will know how to make a dozen fixes to his or her plumbing systems. It will also make it easy to know when to call plumbers and communicate effectively on the issue at hand. With a solid foundation of plumbing knowledge and basics, a homeowner will know how to fix a few common plumbing issues. These problems may include:

  • Faulty faucets
  • Clogs
  • Toilet issues
  • Sewer issues
  • Leaking pipes or fixtures
  • Faulty sump pump
  • Faulty water heater
  • Low water pressure

Some of the plumbing issues may be complex and demand professional guidance. Fret no more if looking for plumbing help in Fairfax, VA, and surrounding areas. There is an emergency plumber Fairfax VA who is more than willing to lend a helping hand and guidance handle challenging plumbing problems.

 

How to Go about DIY Plumbing Project – What More to Know

Plumbing issues can be tricky to DIY. But then again, one can make a few fixes if he sets the mind on the problem at hand. A homeowner will need a few skillsets to DIY plumbing projects without making things worse.

Most importantly, if one has the skills to excel at the task at hand, he or she will need the right tools. There are excellent plumbing tools a homeowner must-have. They include:

 

Plunger

Plunger Tool for Plumbing

Every homeowner out there in Fairfax, VA, and in other parts of the world, should have a plunger. This is an essential plumbing tool that helps undertake different tasks at home. He or she can use a plunger to unclog toilets, sink or shower drains.

 

Auger and Snake

If one does not have a plunger at home, a hand auger can save the day and have the water or waste flowing again using a hand auger and snake. These are remarkable tools to unclog showers, tubs, sinks, and drains.

 

Wrenches

Wrench Tool for Plumbing

There are different types of wrenches one should have at home. For instance, a pipe wrench is a must-have tool that helps tighten, loosen, and replace pipes. It comes with adjustable jaws that can fit into almost any size pipe.

Basin wrench helps fix broken faucets at home. Its long handle is comfortable on the hands and makes it easy to tighten or loosen faulty or leaking faucets.

An adjustable wrench is a must-have type of wrenches that aids tighten down on any bolts and nuts. A strap wrench is an excellent tool if one is not dealing with projects that involve high-pressure water at home.

Duct Tape

Upon investing in the best wrenches in the market, don’t forget that these tools are best used with duct tape. This tape helps keep the wrench from leaving gouges or marks when tightening or working on pipes.

Duct tape is a flexible plumbing tool that should not miss in any tool kit. It’s a stop-gap solution, especially when a homeowner notices a leak in a pipe that is leaking water out. Pick a type that guarantees a long-lasting adhesive and is resistant to weathering. Using duct tape, one will create an airtight and waterproof seal and fix leaks before the problem worsens.

 

Pliers

Pliers Tool for Plumbing

A lot of twisting, pulling, loosening, and tightening or grabbing is involved in plumbing projects. A homeowner with the necessary skillsets for plumbing should not miss pliers in his or her toolkit.

Water pump pliers or tongue-and-groove pliers are an incredible set of slip knot pliers a homeowner should be well-acquainted with. They are used to hold bolts and nuts, grip irregular-shaped objects and hold different pipes in place.

Another type of pliers to have close by are the needle-nose pliers, great for reaching into tiny and cramped spaces when undertaking dozens of plumbing fixes.

 

Caulk Gun and Caulk

As a DIY enthusiast, a caulking gun is a must-have. The caulking around bathtubs and showers start to crack over time, and one needs the right tool to do the necessary repairs. One needs the best caulk or sealant and the right tool to apply it seamlessly.

A caulking gun makes it easy to seam or join sealing. With this gun, one will comfortably inject the right amount of caulk. This gun comes with an ergonomic design that makes it easy to handle it comfortably when applying sealant.

The specialized nozzles guarantee high precision when applying caulk without it dripping everywhere. A homeowner will reduce wastage as this gun controls the amount of caulk he is applying.

It’s economical, and he or she does not end up wasting a huge amount of the sealant. The caulking gun tube also makes it easy to clean the tool when changing caulk for another plumbing DIY project.

When shopping for the best types of caulking guns, decide between the ratchet (traditional caulk gun), electric or manual, and drip or drip-free designs. Pick the easy to use, efficient, and durable caulk gun on sale.

 

A Hacksaw

Hacksaw Tool for Plumbing

One will need a reliable tool to cut through metal or plastic pipes. A hacksaw is the right tool to cut through bolts, nuts, and screws. Keep a supply of different blades in the toolbox.

Tape Measure

When dealing with DIY plumbing projects, one needs to take the exact dimension to ensure proper repairs. A tape measure is an essential tool that helps a homeowner avoid costly measurement errors in length and distance.

Call the Best Emergency Plumber in Fairfax VA Today

When armed with the best plumbing tools and a few skillsets, a homeowner can fix some minor plumbing system problems. However, in the event of a plumbing emergency, it’s wise to seek emergency plumber services.

He or she needs to call nearby professionals. Significantly, if a minor fix seems to worsen or persists, calling an emergency plumber in Fairfax VA is a wise decision.

Our experienced, trained, licensed, and insured plumbing experts are happy to lend a helping hand on a 24/7 basis. Call the best emergency plumber today and get a free plumbing quote, and get started with the plumbing project at hand.

 

Reasons Why You Should Never Pour Grease Down The Drain 2

Reasons Why You Should Never Pour Grease Down The Drain

Apart from being detrimental for your health, grease is likewise bad for the drainpipes as well. You might have heard that it will be okay in case grease is poured down the drain so long as it is done with dish soap or hot water. According to some individuals, a blockage will not be caused in case liquid cooking oils are poured down the drain.

However, in reality, grease should never be poured down the drain. In the following paragraphs, we will take a look at the harmful effects caused by oil on the drain of your residence. We will likewise mention some alternative methods for getting rid of all these materials.

 

What can happen once grease is poured down the drain?

Being fluid, it is quite simple to pour grease down the drain. Nevertheless, it is going to solidify when the temperature of the grease becomes low, and this will form a clog which you’ll find quite tough to remove. Although you might be unaware of the issue, a time will arrive when the accumulation of grease in the pipes can result in a blockage as well as other plumbing issues.

The problem will become worse in case the grease does not stick to the pipes and instead, flows right into the sewers. This is where oil from all the restaurants and households in your area is going to combine. These formations of grease will break down over time to form glycerol and fatty acids.

The fatty acids are going to form fatbergs (which are actually compounds resembling soaps) after binding with calcium within the sewers. When there is an increase in the sewer level, the fatbergs are going to cling to the ceilings of the sewer where they will be increasing in size, thus blocking the whole sewer pipe in the long run.

A fatberg will be able to grow to a size which will be limited by the sewer’s size only. In the year 2019, a fatberg having a dimension of 210 feet ended up blocking a drain in Sidmouth, Britain. As a matter of fact, in excess of 8 weeks was taken by the sewer team for dissecting this huge mass of fat.

 

How to dispose of grease correctly

It is possible for oil, grease, and fat to form a clog within pipes even though the oil is fluid at the normal room temperature. However, in case it is not possible for you to pour the stuff down the drain, how will you be able to dispose of used olive oil, lard, or bacon grease?

 

Cooking oil

Pouring Cooking Oil

After making use of coconut, olive, sunflower, or avocado oil for cooking, wait until the oil has cooled down. Following this, soak up this oil using paper towels prior to washing the pan. The paper towels must be thrown in the trash can. However, disposal with paper towels can prove to be quite costly and wasteful in case you have used plenty of oil.

Instead, the oil has to be poured into a glass container with a lid for reuse in the future. In case you do not have any intention of using the oil once again, it has to be poured into a disposable container having a screw top (for instance, a soda bottle). Throw the container away once it becomes full.

 

Grease

Pouring Grease Drain

Wait till the grease within the pan solidifies after cooling down. Following this, get rid of the grease from the pan with the help of a spatula and it should be thrown in the trash. Make use of a paper towel for soaking up any leftover fat or oil within the pan.

In case a substantial amount of grease has to be disposed of, make it a point to pour the grease into a container while it is hot and liquid as well. Once the container becomes full, it can be either emptied into the trash or the container can be thrown away. On most occasions, restaurants usually have a selected container for oil.

What will happen in case grease is already poured down the drain?

The majority of the individuals are not aware of the issues that can be caused by grease within a drain system. In case you have poured oil unknowingly down the drain, it might be feasible to get the oil out of the drainpipes into the sewer system.

Boiling water has to be poured down the drain for liquefying the grease within the pipes. While you are pouring boiling water down the drain, the hot water tap has run for flushing the liquefied fat. It is a fact that the emulsification of water and oil is allowed by the surfactant molecules, and for this reason, dish soap has to be poured down the drain as well as along with the boiling water.

Although dish soap and hot water might assist in getting rid of the grease from the pipes, it is nevertheless going to accumulate within the sewer system. Moreover, it might not be able to eliminate the problem entirely.

 

Communal effort

It is a fact that it is possible for raw sewage to spurt from all the manholes within the locality in case a water authority is not able to deal with a fatberg successfully. For preventing this situation, it is imperative for the restaurant owners and the homeowners to work together for preventing the accumulation of grease within the sewer system. Even though your own drain might not be blocked by grease, it is your responsibility to help in preventing sewer issues in your locality.

What has to be done for avoiding clogged drains?

Bacon Grease

In case you have ended up making some grease by frying bacon, you should allow it to become solidified within the pan or it should be poured into a jar for solidifying there. The grease can be then wiped up using a paper towel. One delicious way for reusing bacon grease will be to fry an egg by making use of bacon grease.

Take the help of professional drain cleaners

Professional assistance might be required in case you are pouring grease down the drain for quite some time. This grease is going to hold on to the debris which is blocking the pipes and needs professional cleaning. For this, you need to come in touch with the best Arlington plumbing services for unclogging the drains and cleaning the pipes. Our plumbers are quite experienced and technically equipped given that they have rendered their services for a significant amount of time successfully. Therefore, do not give any second thoughts and call them today.

 

 

 

 

Shower Drain Blockage

Steps To Unclog A Shower Drain

A number of different things from a major obstruction in your sewer line, to a small blockage in the pipe can cause clogged shower drains. Our team that does plumbing services Chantilly advise that you investigate the cause of the blockage sooner rather than later to prevent avoidable damage. Once you determine the source of the problem, you can even fix it yourself or contact one of our team to fix it for you.

 

Identifying a blocked shower drain

Following a shower if you notice the standing water drains slowly and it takes several minutes for it to clear, this is a sign that your shower drain is clogged.

Any unpleasant odors coming from the drain is another indication of a blockage as the buildup of debris has stuck to the inner wall of the pipe. Ignoring a blocked shower drain could result in water seeping through your shower joints and can be a cause of bathroom flooding.

If your shower has any issues in its caulking or grout, the standing water could work its way into your walls resulting in a more serious structural damage.

 

Common causes of shower drain blockages

Clogged Shower Drain

Hair, dirt and soap scum can easily build up in your showers drain and cause blockages. Longer hair can be troublesome as when this combines with soap it sticks to your drains wall more easily. If left unattended, this obstruction will continue to build up eventually and can completely block the passage of water. If you are continually experiencing blockages in your shower drain and after many attempts to repair them fail, this may show a more serious issue with your main sewer line.

 

Our plumbing experts in Chantilly recommend these methods to clear a blocked shower drain.

There are many different methods you can use to clear your shower drain of accumulated soap scum and hair. It’s important to note that using these methods without knowing the extent of the blockage could cause more serious damage being caused.

While effective for clearing smaller are less serious blockages, you first need to be able to identify the extent of the problem. Open the top of your shower drain and remove any debris that you see. Taking a torch, shine it down the drain to see if you can identify any blockage. If you can see a blockage, then the following methods can be useful for clearing it. If no blockage is evident, then it’s advisable to contact our plumbing team in Chantilly as you may be in need of a more professional aid.

 

Try to unblock your shower drain naturally

White Vinegar and Baking Soda

Most of us have memories of small science experiments in school involving white vinegar and baking soda, and we can remember how volatile these were. Using the natural chemical reaction caused by mixing these two can help you naturally clear your blocked shower drain.

  • Boil a kettle and pour in the contents down your clogged drain
  • Mix a 1/2 cup of vinegar and 1/2 cup of baking soda and pour this down the drain.
  • Let the mixture sit in the drain for 15 minutes and then flush it one more time with another kettle of boiling water
  • If you want to make a more powerful mixture, you could try adding a cup of salt to a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar and pouring this down the drain. Once again letting it sit for 15 minutes and flushing it with another kettle of boiling water

 

Clearing a blocked shower drain using a hanger

Sometimes blockages can be removed instead of flushed out.

  • Open a hanger to its full length create a small hook on one end and push it into the drain opening until you snag the clog.
  • Remove the clogged by pulling the hanger upwards and continue to repeat this process until it removes no more materials.
  • Pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain if the water is still backing up you could try unblocking it using the natural method listed above, or by using one or both of the next two methods

 

Unclogging a shower drain using a plunger

Plungers may be an old school plumbing tool, but they’re still highly effective at removing blockages from shower drains.

  • Take some petroleum jelly and rub it on the rim of the plunger because this will create a better seal.
  • Place the plunger directly over the drain opening.
  • Fill the shower until the plunger’s lip rim is covered.
  • Push the plunger up and down in a rapid but control manner for a few minutes this could create enough suction to push any clog through the drain.
  • Once you’re finished pour boiling water down the drain.

 

Unclogging a shower drain using a plumbing snake

Drain Plunger

At this point if none of the methods listed above have helped unblock or unclog your shower drain you may want to consider contacting a professional plumber. If you want to try one more method, you could consider getting a plumbing snake. This device is effectively a portable auger that is inserted into showers drains and can be used to either snag or break up blockages that may be further down the drain pipe.

  • Insert the plumber’s snake into the drainpipe and continue to push it downwards until it encounters the clog.
  • Cranking its handle counterclockwise will help you grab the clog, continuing to crank it will remove the clog from the drain.
  • If you believe there are more blockages further down, you can repeat this process until it clears the shower drain.

If none of these DIY methods listed above prove successful, we advise that you contact our Chantilly plumbing experts and we will be happy to assist. The easiest way to avoid difficult blockages is to perform regular maintenance.

If you’re suffering from persistent blockages this could indicate a major problem with your sewer line. Our team can use different technology including power jetting to clear any of these blockages. Remember, our team has decades of experience in drain cleaning and maintenance, as well as mainline sewer repairs and they’re all fully licensed and insured professionals.