Plumbing problems are never fun – whether a clogged drain or a burst pipe, they always seem to happen at the most inconvenient times. As the adage goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That’s why we’ve enlisted the help of a seasoned plumber to share some insider tips on how to keep your plumbing system running smoothly. From avoiding common mistakes to implementing easy maintenance routines, these tips will save you time, money, and the headache of a plumbing emergency.

Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

If you have a clogged drain or your drain is moving slowly, you might be tempted to use a chemical drain cleaner. Although these products may help in the short term, they rarely remove the clog entirely. The only way to guarantee a consistently free-flowing drain is to continue using them. Furthermore, the caustic chemicals used in most drain cleaners are harmful to your plumbing.

If one of your drains is clogged, you can use a plunger to get it out. If you cannot remove the clog, contact a plumbing service to do it safely.

Regularly Check Your Water Meter

When did you last check your household water usage? When many people are in the house, it’s easy to forget to double-check. Checking your water meter once a week will help you minimize water wastage. This way, you can respond quickly before it’s too late.

If you see a sudden increase in water consumption, it could be a sign of a problem with the plumbing, and you should contact a plumbing service immediately.

Check for Leaks

Make it a habit to frequently check for water leaks in and around your house. Leaks, no matter how minor, waste water and drive up water costs. A dripping faucet can waste up to eight gallons of water daily. Some estimates put the daily water loss from a running toilet at 200 gallons. Small leaks from appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators, water heaters, and washers can quickly add up to thousands of dollars in repairs from water damage.

Signs of concealed leaks include a drop in water pressure or an unexpected increase in water consumption. Call a plumber if you think there may be a leak in your home but can’t find it. Leaks, especially undetected ones, can lead to costly repairs. They can also invite unwanted visitors like termites and carpenter ants.

Take Steps to Prevent Clogs

Clogs are more than an annoyance. The additional stress of backed-up water puts pressure on your sewer pipes, reducing their useful life. Watch what you put down your drains to prevent clogs. This includes not flushing anything besides human waste and toilet paper, as well as not putting food scraps or hair down the sink drain or bathtub drain.

Put screens over your shower and bathtub drains, and remove as much hair as possible once every few weeks to avoid clogs. Don’t pour liquid grease down the drain. Instead, pour it into a sealable container and throw it away when it cools. Grease is only in liquid form when hot. It cools and solidifies as it goes down the drain. If you continue pouring grease down the drains, they will stop working.

Scrape food into the trash before cleaning dishes, even if you have a disposal. When using a garbage disposal, be mindful of what you put in it and run plenty of cold water to prevent clogs and backups.

Check Water Pressure

Water pressure in residential plumbing systems should typically be between 40 and 50 psi. Too much water pressure puts stress on your plumbing system. Pipe joints become more vulnerable to bursting due to high water pressure. If your water pressure is low, it could be a symptom of a leak in your plumbing.

To check the water pressure in your house, you can use one of several different pressure gauges. If your water pressure is too low or too high, contact a plumbing service to rectify the issue.

Test Your Sump Pump

After a heavy rain, the last thing you want to do is go down to your basement and find it flooded. Ensure your sump pump is ready for any weather changes by dumping a pail of water into the pit and waiting for it to drain. If not, contact a plumber immediately so they can replace it. A sump pump is a good investment even if you don’t live in a flood-prone location. The cost of fixing a flooded basement is much more than the cost of installing a sump pump.

Inspect Exposed Pipes Regularly

The damage that leads to plumbing leaks, such as corroded or rusted pipes, usually develops over time. Pipes deteriorate from use and age. Homeowners often weaken basements and utility room pipes by hanging clothes and other objects. The weight of even a few pairs of pants or shirts would be too much for plumbing pipes to handle.

It’s essential to check for corrosion and leaks in any exposed pipes in your home regularly. Rust, warping, and water droplets on the exterior of pipes are all signs of an issue that requires a call to a professional plumbing service.

Know Where the Water Shut-Off Valve Is

Turning off the main water valve is essential when it comes to leaks. A broken washing machine hose or overflowing toilet can swiftly flood a home with hundreds of gallons of water. It is crucial to know where the emergency shut-off valves are and how to use them. The individual shut-off valves in each bathroom fixture, such as the toilet and sink, should be checked for wear and replaced as needed. It’s also wise to install a main water shut-off valve that’s easy to access and use.

Get Ahead of Plumbing Problems: Hire a Professional Plumbing Service

Taking care of your plumbing system doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little effort and help from an expert plumber, you can avoid the hassle of dealing with plumbing emergencies and keep your system running smoothly for years. Remember, prevention is always better than cure!

But, if you find yourself in a plumbing pickle, fear not! Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott is just a phone call away. Our team of skilled professionals is ready to tackle any plumbing issue, big or small. So, don’t hesitate to reach out and let us take care of the dirty work. Your peace of mind is our top priority.

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How A Professional Plumbing Company Can Save You Time And Money

Plumbing issues can be a major headache for homeowners. From leaky faucets to burst pipes, these problems can cause significant damage to your home and disrupt your daily routine. While some homeowners may be tempted to tackle these issues independently, the risks of DIY plumbing can far outweigh the potential rewards.

The Risks of DIY Plumbing

It’s risky and costly to attempt to fix your plumbing issues. Without the proper training and equipment, you may end up causing more harm than good. Homeowners make common mistakes when tackling plumbing problems. Such errors can lead to severe problems in the plumbing system, contributing to the possibility of water damage.

The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Plumber

Hiring a professional plumbing company has the following benefits:

Access to Specialized Tools and Equipment

Professional plumbers have access to specialized tools and equipment to make repairs more efficient and effective. They have the latest technology and equipment to quickly diagnose and fix plumbing issues. Their tools are efficient and cause no damage to the plumbing since professionals use them for the right tasks.

Preventative Maintenance

A professional plumbing company may offer preventative maintenance services to help you avoid future issues. They identify and fix potential problems before they become major, saving you money on costly repairs. This is a great way to ensure that your system operates smoothly for a long time.

Saves Time

Hiring a professional plumber saves you time. They have the expertise and experience to quickly diagnose and fix plumbing issues, allowing you to return to your daily routine. Since experts are used to tackling such cases, they do it effectively at a faster rate.

Saves Money

Hiring an expert plumber may seem costly, it can save you some money in the long run. Identifying issues before they worsen will help you save money that would otherwise have been used to fix them.

Safety

It may be dangerous to handle plumbing issues without the proper training and equipment. A professional plumber has the knowledge and training to handle plumbing issues safely and effectively.

Code Compliance

Professional plumbers are familiar with local plumbing codes and regulations. They will ensure your plumbing system is up to code and compliant with local regulations. Conformity with building codes helps prevent unhealthy and dangerous conditions.

Emergency Services

Plumbing emergencies can happen at any time and can be disruptive and costly. Professionals have the resources and expertise to handle emergencies quickly and effectively, minimizing the damage to your home. They know the right equipment needed during emergencies.

Warranty

Many professional plumbers offer warranties for their work. This means that if something goes wrong after the repair, they will come back and fix it at no additional cost to you.

How to Choose the Right Plumber

It’s essential to choose the right plumber to fix your plumbing issues. Hiring the wrong plumber can lead to costly repairs and further damage to your plumbing system. Considering the following factors will ensure you make the right choice.

Licensing and Insurance

When selecting a plumber, it’s important to choose one that is licensed and insured. This will protect you in the event of any accidents or damages that may occur during the repair process. A licensed plumber, backed by the plumbing industry, guarantees the highest workmanship standard. A plumbing license certifies that a plumber has been properly educated and has undergone the necessary training. It’s also a legal indication that a company can offer plumbing services.

Experience

Look for a plumber with experience in the plumbing issue you’re experiencing. It takes years of studying, working, and training to achieve the expertise level for a particular job. Experience helps plumbers develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in stressful situations. An experienced plumber will have the knowledge and expertise to improvise and fix a problem. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott has experienced professionals to care for your plumbing needs.

Reputation

Check the plumber’s reputation by reading reviews and requesting referrals from friends and family. A creditable plumber will have positive reviews from satisfied customers. For your business or home to have consistent access to water, you should have a reputable plumber on speed dial. Finding out which plumbing company in your area can handle your emergency and maintenance repairs is crucial. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott is a highly reputable firm that provides quality plumbing services.

Availability

Plumbing issues can happen anytime, so choosing a plumber who is always available when needed is crucial. Search for a plumber that offers round-the-clock emergency services. You can ask whether the company has employees on standby to handle emergencies.

Response Time

In addition to availability, consider the plumber’s response time. A plumber that can respond quickly to emergencies can minimize the damage to your home and save you money in the long run. Hiring a local plumbing company is essential for a crisis to be handled on time. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott arrives quickly at local client premises during emergencies.

Pricing

While price shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision, choosing a plumber that offers fair and transparent pricing is essential. Look for a plumber that provides upfront pricing and doesn’t charge hidden fees.

Guarantees and Warranties

Choose a plumber that offers guarantees and warranties on their work. This will give you peace of mind knowing that if something goes wrong after the repair, they will return and fix it at no additional cost.

Communication

Choose a plumber that communicates clearly and effectively. They should be able to explain the issue and the repair process in a way you can understand. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott communicates with clients effectively when delivering plumbing services.

Additional Services

Consider a plumber that offers additional services, such as preventative maintenance and emergency repairs. This can save you money on costly repairs and ensure your plumbing system is well-maintained.

Our company, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott, offers professional plumbing services to suit your needs. Our employees are experts with relevant professional qualifications and years of experience. Call us today for more information.

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Understanding The Lifespan Of A Water Softener With A Professional Plumber

Do you keep calling a plumber to replace your water softener every few years? It can be frustrating, time-consuming, and expensive. If this seems to be a recurring problem, it’s time to look at the factors that could be affecting your water softener’s lifespan. Maybe it is your water source, the age of your water softener, or other factors at play. In this blog post, we will discuss these factors in detail and find out how they affect the lifespan of your water softener.

Build Quality

The quality of materials used to make your water softener can affect its durability. Water softeners made from quality materials like stainless steel are likely to last for years longer than those with flimsy parts. Water softeners have different components, such as control valves, resin tanks, and brine tanks. Over time, the components can wear out due to exposure to hard water, poor maintenance, and regular use.

However, if the components are of high quality, they can withstand even harsh conditions and continue operating well for years. A water softener with quality construction is less likely to develop leaks or other problems that can damage your plumbing or property. This will save you money on repairs and prevent inconveniences caused by a malfunctioning water softener. So, investing in a quality water softener is crucial, even if it means spending more money. You will enjoy long-term benefits like low maintenance costs and quality drinking water.

Quality of Maintenance

The quality of maintenance can significantly affect the durability of your water softener. Good maintenance helps keep your water softener running smoothly and prevents issues that can lead to failure. Maintenance tasks include replacing the filter, cleaning the resin tank, inspecting the control valve, and checking the brine valve. Neglecting these tasks causes a buildup of minerals and other contaminants, which can make the water softener’s components struggle.

Furthermore, if you don’t maintain your water softener, your unit will decrease efficiency and use more energy. In the worst-case scenario, your water softener can suffer irreversible damage, making it unusable.

The good thing about regular maintenance is that it helps you identify issues early and take necessary measures before the issues worsen. If you want your water softener properly maintained, hire a qualified plumber for routine inspection and maintenance. They will keenly follow all the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance, do regular inspections, and fix any issue your appliance is experiencing.

Water Pressure

Water pressure is yet another significant factor affecting a water softener’s lifespan. If the water pressure is too high, it can lead to excessive wear and tear, causing the system to deteriorate rapidly. In contrast, low water pressure can cause water to remain stagnant, leading to buildup and a shorter lifespan. It is recommended to keep your water pressure between 20-125 PSI per manufacturers’ recommendations and consider installing a pressure regulator to keep the pressure at optimal levels.

Size of Water Softener

Another essential aspect that impacts the lifespan of a water softener is its size. Every household has its water usage, and installing an appropriately sized water softener based on water usage is essential. If the water softener is smaller than required, it can cause excessive wear and tear over time, resulting in a shorter lifespan. It’s important to consult a plumbing professional to ensure the size is accurate for your household’s needs.

The Level of Usage

The level of usage of your water softener also matters. If you have a large household, your water softener will have to work harder and process more water, leading to wear and tear. A constantly working water softener may not last as long as one used less frequently. Hence, it’s important to choose a water softener that’s suitable for your household’s needs.

Water Quality

If your home uses hard water, the mineral content and impurities can impact the efficiency and lifespan of your water softener. Excess levels of minerals and contaminants cause the water softener to work harder to remove the minerals. Over time, the resin bed in the water softener becomes less effective and needs more regeneration cycles. This will cause it to wear faster together with other components. Furthermore, the minerals can clog the water softener and cause it to malfunction, reducing its lifespan. That’s why it is good to have your water regularly tested by a plumber to ensure no excess minerals or impurities can damage your water softener. While it may seem expensive, it will save you the hassle and costs of frequent repairs and replacements in the long run.

Type of Salt

The type of salt plays a role in how long your water softener lasts. Water softeners use salt to regenerate the resin bed and remove minerals that cause water hardness. Always ensure your unit uses the right type of salt. Using the wrong type or poor-quality salt can cause problems that can reduce the lifespan of your water softener. For example, it can cause the resin bed to become clogged, reducing its effectiveness. Furthermore, the impurities in the salt can cause buildup and corrosion in the control valve, brine tank, and other parts of the unit.

Therefore, use the correct type of salt and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the type of salt to use. You can call a plumber to help you get the right type of salt for your specific water softener model.

Hire Us Today for Water Softener Replacement

If your water softener has served you for more than 10 to 15 years and is starting to reduce its efficiency, it might be time to replace it. Water softeners ensure water is safe for your health, appliances, and plumbing. If you are sure your water heater needs a replacement, hire the experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott. Our professionals have years of experience installing and servicing water softeners for homeowners. Call us, and we will help you with water softener replacement and maintenance.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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Not Sure Whether You Need A Water Softener In Your Home? Here Are Signs It’s Time To Call A Plumber To Install One

Water is an essential element of our daily lives. We use it for drinking, cooking, washing, and many more. However, the water quality we receive in our homes may vary depending on its source. The hardness or softness of water is an essential aspect that often goes unnoticed yet matters a lot. While drinking hard water is safe, it may have adverse effects on your home’s plumbing and appliances in the long run. In this blog, we will discuss the signs that indicate that you need to install a water softener in your home.

Clogged Pipes

When your plumbing pipes are clogged by mineral buildup from hard water, they can cause several issues, including reduced water pressure, water damage, increased energy costs, sewer backup, and pipe damage. Hard water has minerals that accumulate inside the pipes and slowly reduce water flow, leading to clogs. With a water softener, all the minerals in your water will be removed to prevent clogs in the pipes.

However, knowing that a water softener may not prevent all clogs is good. Some clogs can be caused by food particles, debris, and hair, which can accumulate in your pipes even when the water is soft. To ensure your pipes are clog-free, a plumber maintains them regularly. Regular maintenance will prevent clogs and keep your plumbing working smoothly.

Increased Rust and Corrosion on Plumbing

Rust and corrosion on your plumbing can indicate excess calcium and magnesium in your water. When minerals are present in your water, they react with the metal in your fixtures and pipes, causing them to corrode and malfunction.

By installing a water softener, you can protect your plumbing from rust and corrosion and extend its lifespan. Also, you should be aware of other factors that cause rust and corrosion to your plumbing, including age, exposure to chemicals, and increased wear and tear. If your plumbing is old and showing signs of damage, a water softener might not fully help reduce rust and corrosion. In this case, you will need to call a plumbing professional to replace your home’s plumbing.

Water Stains

When you start seeing water stains on your tubs, sinks, and toilets, it is a sign of excess minerals in your water. If you use hard water in your home, mineral deposits will be left on surfaces whenever you finish a chore. By installing a water softener, all the minerals can be removed, helping prevent the buildup of scale and stains on your surfaces. Days after installing a water softener, you will notice that your surfaces and fixtures appear cleaner and need less cleaning. Therefore, if you are experiencing water stains in your home, contact a professional plumber to install a water softener.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure in your home can be caused by a few issues, including clogs in your plumbing, leaks, faulty fixtures, issues with the municipal water supply, and hard water. The latter affects your plumbing in many ways and can cost you a lot in repairs and replacements. Hard water causes buildup in your pipes, restricting water flow and lowering water pressure.

So, if your home is experiencing low water pressure, it is good to have a plumbing professional test your water for hardness to determine if mineral buildup is the cause. If your professional identifies hard water as the cause, they will install a water softener to prevent future plumbing issues and improve water quality.

Dry Skin

The high levels of minerals in hard water can strip the natural oils from your skin and hair, leaving your skin dry and dull. By installing a water softener, all the minerals can be removed to keep your skin healthy. Softened water is gentle on the skin and ensures you don’t lose your natural oils when you shower.

Also, remember that other factors can lead to dry skin. Such factors include harsh soaps and exposure to environmental factors like sun and wind. But if you notice persistent dryness and your home has hard water, call a plumber to install a water softener.

Stiff, Scratchy Laundry

Stiff and scratchy are uncomfortable to wear. Hard water contains minerals like magnesium and calcium, and when they accumulate in your laundry, your clothes will feel stiff and scratchy even after washing. Furthermore, the minerals can also lead to a buildup of soap scum, making clothes appear dull and minimizing their lifespan. Improve the quality of your laundry today by hiring an expert to install a water softener.

High Utility Bills

Hard water and scale deposits can build up in your plumbing, stressing the appliances. Scale buildup reduces the efficiency of your appliances and can increase utility costs. Also, hard water can weaken your dishwasher, water heater, and washing machine. Therefore, hiring a plumber to install a water softener would be best if your energy bills are rising and your appliances have reduced their efficiency.

Frequent Plumbing Repairs

Lastly, frequent plumbing repairs are another sign your home needs a water softener. Hard water causes mineral buildup in your plumbing fixtures and pipes. When the buildup accumulates too long, your pipes and fixtures will be affected, forcing you to do repeated repairs. Once you install a water softener, the mineral buildup will be reduced, and you won’t have to do frequent repairs.

Hire Us Today for Water Softener Installation

While hard water does not put your health at risk, the stress on your plumbing can cost you a lot on repairs. Make the right choice today by investing in a water softener. If you want a water softener in your home, let Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott help you. We provide water softener repair and installation services. Besides water softener installation, we fix malfunctioning water heaters, inefficient sump pumps, cracked water pipes, and clogged drains. Hire us today for professional assistance.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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Wondering Which Water Purification System A Plumbing Company Should Install In Your Home? Here Are Options Available

Water is essential to human life; we all want to drink clean, safe, and healthy water. Clean water is a fundamental requirement for our daily routines, such as drinking, cooking, cleaning, and bathing. With so many water purification options available today, you may find it hard to decide which one is best for your home. This blog post will explore some of the available water purification systems you can install in your home, helping you make an informed decision when consulting a plumbing company.

Reverse Osmosis System

Reverse osmosis is a filtration system that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants from water. The system is ideal for households with high dissolved solids, heavy metals, and other impurities. Reverse osmosis systems can treat all types of water, including well, tap, and hard water. They remove 90-99% of impurities from water, making it safe and healthy for consumption. Reverse osmosis systems are best suited for households that require large volumes of purified water, like a large family and are easy to install with the help of a plumbing company.

A reverse osmosis system can be installed under the sink or countertop as a point-of-use system. Also, it can be installed as a point-on-entry system to purify all the water coming into your home. Contact a plumber today to help you install a reverse osmosis water treatment system.

Activated Carbon Filters

This water treatment system uses activated carbon to remove impurities from your water. Activated carbon is a porous material with a large surface area that allows it to trap and absorb chemicals and contaminants. Activated carbon filters pass water through a bed of activated carbon, which traps and removes contaminants such as sediment, chlorine, and volatile organic compounds. The activated carbon absorbs all the contaminants through adsorption, where contaminants and impurities stick to the surface of carbon particles.

Remember that a carbon filter can lose effectiveness the more it becomes saturated with contaminants and must be regularly replaced by a plumber. Using the carbon filter longer than the rated lifespan can cause impurities to be flushed into your water. Before purchasing a carbon filter, check whether it can be replaced and the frequency of replacement.

Chlorination

This is the common and oldest method of water treatment. Chlorination is adding chlorine to your water to disinfect and make it healthy for consumption. Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant that kills viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens present in the water. It is mostly used in homes, especially those that get water from wells. Chlorination may help oxidize and remove some odor-causing substances, including hydrogen sulfide and iron. However, for the method to remain effective, professionals from a plumbing company must frequently maintain the chemical feed pump. Also, the chemical reservoir must be filled, and the pump must be inspected regularly for worn parts.

Water Softeners

A water softener helps soften hard water by removing the minerals that cause water hardness. Calcium and magnesium interfere with the cleaning action of detergents and soaps and cause scale buildup in the water pipes, fixtures, and water heaters. Furthermore, the water treatment method can also remove manganese, iron, and other heavy metals.

By removing all the minerals, a water softener improves the quality and usability of the water in your home. To operate efficiently, the resin tank needs to be periodically flushed by a plumber with sodium chloride solution. In some water softeners, the tank is automatically recharged when the electronic sensor detects that the resin needs recharging, making operation easy. Some softeners must be recharged manually and serviced regularly by an expert. Before choosing a water softener for your home, look for a model that doesn’t need much maintenance.

Ultraviolet Disinfection System

An ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system is an ideal water treatment system that uses ultraviolet light to disinfect water by killing microorganisms such as viruses and bacteria. UV disinfection exposes water to ultraviolet light, which damages the DNA of microorganisms and prevents them from reproducing.

A UV disinfection system effectively treats many microorganisms and is used as the final step in the water treatment process. It can be used to treat a wide range of water sources, including municipal water, well water, and surface water. Also, UV disinfection systems are less expensive than other water treatment methods, and they don’t require much maintenance.

Ion Exchange Systems

This water treatment system uses a resin bed to exchange ions in water, removing impurities such as minerals, heavy metals, and organic compounds. During the ion exchange, undesirable ions in the water are replaced with more desirable ones using a chemically treated resin. The process effectively removes impurities such as copper, magnesium, lead, and calcium from the water. Depending on your needs, you can hire a plumbing company to install this water treatment method under the sink or countertop.

Because ion exchange systems don’t use chemicals, they are safe and environmentally friendly. Still, they can be customized to treat specific types of water, depending on the contaminants present. If you want to install an ion exchange system in your home, contact a plumber who is familiar with the installation and operation of this water treatment method. Avoid installing it yourself, as you can compromise its effectiveness.

Contact Us!

As a homeowner, you must ensure your home has safe drinking water. The water should be safe for you and your plumbing to avoid issues caused by water quality. Because there are many water treatment systems in the market, you must be careful before deciding. If you need help choosing the right water treatment system, consult the professionals at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott. With the help of our plumbing professionals, we will help you get the right and effective system for your home. Remember, safe and healthy water intake is a fundamental aspect of healthy living, and a good water purification system will ensure you get just that.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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