Pipe Gripes - HELP Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric

Easy Fix For A Leaky Toilet

Did you know?

Leaking Toilets Cause More Water Waste Than Any Other Fixture in the Home!

You know the sound. The one that sounds like your toilet is constantly running.... running your water bill way up that is! Did you know that your toilet could be leaking even when it’s not running? A silent toilet leak will waste from 30 to 500 gallons of water per day! Worse than this, the leak that you can hear will waste much more.

Such wastage can normally be attributed to an incorrect water level adjustment or to a leaky flapper. What is a flapper? A flapper is a rubber mechanism in your toilet tank that is the moving part of the flush valve. It seals water into the tank and allows the water to exit the tank when you flush.

Try the “dye test” to see if you have a leaky flapper

You probably don’t think that your toilet leaks. But, there is one sure way to find out. Put some food dye (any color) in the tank part of the toilet and leave for 15 minutes. When you return, look into the toilet bowl to see if there is color in the water. If you see the color in the bowl, it is time for a new flapper. Besides the color, if you can hear or see the water running, it’s time for a new flapper.

How the flapper works:

The flapper valve is the mechanism inside your toilet tank that controls the flush. When you push on the handle, the lever lifts a chain that then lifts the flapper valve. The valve covers an opening in the bottom of the tank that allows the water to flow down into the bowl and creates the flushing action.

In order to change the valve, you need to do a few things.

1. Empty the tank of water so that you can work.

2. Find the shut off valve that is located on the water line that supplies your toilet. Turn it off, and then flush the toilet one time. The tank should empty as normal with the flush, but will not refill.

3. Get a pair of cheap latex gloves and a small container for the old flapper, to make the process  easier.

4. After you remove the device, your best bet it to remove the old flapper valve and take it with you to the hardware store. Try to select a new flapper that matches your old one as close as possible. If your flapper is one of the hard-to-find ones, you may need to contact the manufacturer of your toilet for a recommendation. If you only have one toilet, it’s a good idea to keep the old flapper handy until you’ve found a suitable replacement.

What to do next:

5. While the flapper is out, take your finger and move it over the seating surface of the flush valve. If the surface is rough, get some 400 grit wet or dry sandpaper and lightly go over the entire surface. Repeat the process until the surface is smooth. For toilets with a flat seal type of flapper, simply slip it off the piston or other holding device and replace it with a new one.

6. After installing the new flapper, run the “dye test” again to assure you have no leak. If the leak persists, you are probably going to have to replace the entire flush valve.

(Flickr Photo By homespot hq)

Solving Hot Water Boiler Problems

Got boiler problems? Cincinnati heating and cooling experts Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating &  Cooling are here to help. Hot water boilers are used in hydronic heating systems, in which hot water is distributed through a home’s pipes and delivered to rooms via a radiator or baseboards. These boilers may be powered by natural gas, fuel oil, or propane.

While boilers are generally reliable, they have more parts than a forced air furnace and may experience problems related to the water circulator pump, expansion tank, or another component. Some common boiler problems and their related causes/repairs are as follows:

Loud pipes

Possible causes: Trapped water in return lines or faulty circulator

Possible repairs: Circulator repairs requiring a service technician; adjustment of return line or radiator slope

Poor heating performance

Possible causes: Mineral deposits in heat exchanger or boiler (for gradual changes in performance) or improper water level (for sudden changes)

Possible repairs: Boiler flush; adjustment of water level and pressure

Boiler not producing heat

Possible causes: No power to boiler, thermostat malfunction, low water level, or burner malfunction

Possible repairs: Resetting of tripped circuit breaker; replacement of blown fuse; adjustment of water level and pressure; relighting of standing pilot; troubleshooting of electronic ignition system or thermostat

Water leakage around boiler

Possible Causes: Faulty pressure relief valve or circulator (pump), or leaking water pipe connection

Possible Repairs: Circulator repairs requiring a service technician; replacement of pump seal or valve; repair to leaky connection

Photo By: spierzchala

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3 Reasons to Call a Plumber

Plumbing Repairs: What Does It Mean to "Sweat" Pipes?

Plumbing Repairs: What Does It Mean to “Sweat” Pipes?

The act of soldering pipes is known in plumbing circles as “sweating” pipes. Sweating is performed when a section of copper pipe in a home’s plumbing system is damaged and needs to be replaced, or if a new section of pipe is required to be installed to lengthen or redirect an existing pipeline.

Professional plumbers are very well-versed in the endeavor of sweating pipes. But with the right tools and a little instruction, handy homeowners can often take on at least small pipe sweating jobs on their own.

Pipe Sweating Basics

Before beginning plumbing repairs or plumbing equipment adjustments of any kind in your home, make sure the water is shut off to the area in which you’ll be working. The basic tools you will need for a pipe sweating undertaking are:

• A hacksaw or a copper pipe cutting tool
• A file
• A wire brush
• Some fine sandpaper or steel wool
• A flux brush or toothbrush
• Flux paste or soldering paste
• A roll of lead-free plumbing solder
• A propane torch

First, make sure all sections of pipe that you’ll be working with are completely dry. If there are any burrs or rough edges around the ends of the pipes after cutting them, file them down and use sandpaper or steel wool to smooth the edges. You can also insert your wire brush inside the pipes to smooth those areas.

Next, use your flux brush or toothbrush to apply the flux or soldering paste evenly around the insides and outsides of the cleaned pipe ends. Then fit the pipes together and slightly rotate them to insure a tight seal. At this point, heat up the connection by evenly passing your propane torch over it. Then remove the torch and apply the solder. The solder should begin to run around the circumference of the pipe, aided by the heated flux or soldering paste. Apply more solder to areas that it has not yet covered.

At this point, let the joined area cool down. You should then have a firmly connected section of copper pipe. A plumbing supply outlet will usually carry everything you’ll need to complete a pipe sweating project. With a little practice, plumbing projects such as these should be no sweat!

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

3 More Reasons to Call a Plumber

As discussed in our previous blog post, “3 Reasons to Call a Plumber,” there are certain plumbing jobs for which the skills of a trained professional are necessary. In this blog post, we discuss three more situations where it is best to call a plumber (rather than trying to fix the problem yourself).

Frozen pipes/flooding

Frozen pipes are a major plumbing problem that can happen during the wintertime, causing flooding and considerable property damage. If your pipes freeze, the first thing you need to do is shut off the main water valve. Then, inspect the pipe to see if it has any cracks or has burst (though it will probably be obvious if it has burst). If there are any cracks or breakage, call a plumber right away. Even if you don’t see any cracks, it is best to call a plumber, who may recommend replacing a section of pipe rather than trying to thaw it.

Low water pressure

Low water pressure throughout the house may indicate one of several problems. These include obstruction (such as debris or rust) at any point in the water line from the meter to the faucet aerators, low pressure from the city supply (or well), and others. A good plumber has the tools to diagnose the problem and address it.

Tub or shower valve replacement

Tub replacement and shower valve replacement are both big jobs that exceed the capabilities of the average do-it-yourselfer. For example, with shower valve replacement, there are numerous shower valve options and it can be difficult to choose the right one. Additionally, it is possible to damage the shower walls during the replacement process. A professional plumber will help you select the right materials and complete the job without causing damage.

If you’re looking for a plumber to complete one of these or any other plumbing job, be sure to choose a reputable plumber that is well known and trusted in the community.

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

3 Reasons to Call a Plumber

Handy people can complete minor plumbing repairs themselves if they have the right tools. However, certain situations call for the services of a certified plumber. Be sure to call a plumber for any of the following home plumbing problems.

You have no hot water

This can be a difficult problem to troubleshoot and fix yourself. An issue with the hot water heater is likely to blame, but working on your own hot water heater is not recommended unless you have a lot of experience with such repairs.  Also, numerous things can go wrong with a hot water heater other than a leak – the appliance could have a bad heating element, overload switch, thermostat, or thermocoupler burner (on gas heaters). A blown fuse or tripped circuit could also be the problem. Save yourself the hassle of extensive troubleshooting and tricky repairs by calling a plumber.

Permits are required

When you need to do plumbing work that requires a permit, it is important to hire a professional who knows the building codes and the procedures to complete the necessary inspections. Plumbing situations that may require a permit include drain line replacement, water heater replacement, re-pipes, and plumbing remodels (moving plumbing to a different location).

The main sewer line is blocked

If the toilet is backing up into the sink and shower, the main sewer line is likely backing up. Oftentimes, the line is blocked somewhere between your house and the street, possibly by encroaching tree roots. It is not a good idea to try to fix this yourself. A good plumber will be able to find and fix this clog for you without even having to dig up your yard!

Not sure which plumber to call? Try out Thompson Electrical, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, a trusted plumber in the Greater Cincinnati area for more than 80 years. Even if you don’t have one of the above emergencies, you might benefit from one of our “plumbing tune-ups.”

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

Fixing a Water Heater Gas Leak

While water pipe leaks are a pesky problem that can cause damage in your home, gas pipe leaks are a potential safety hazard requiring immediate attention. Therefore, if there is a leak in the flexible brass gas line your water heater, you need to correct it right away. Fortunately, this common problem is relatively easy to fix. Read on to learn how.

Significance

Gas leaks in the home can lead to asphyxia, which occurs when your body does not get enough oxygen. This condition can cause breathing troubles, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and in severe cases, death.

Detection

Although natural gas is naturally odorless, an odor is added to it so that individuals can detect leaks. The main signifier of a water heater gas leak will usually be a gas odor around the appliance or in the home.

Materials Required

Copper pipe

Flexible, polymer-coated brass gas line

Time Required

About 30 minutes

Steps

1. Turn off the gas. When troubleshooting a water heater, it is also a good idea to turn off the power and the water to the appliance as well.
2. Take out the threaded pipe that goes from the temperature pressure relief (TPR) valve.
3. Replace the threaded pipe with a new copper pipe. The new pipe should be threaded at one end only so that you do not mistakenly cap the end off.
4. Remove the gas line.
5. Replace the gas line with the new flexible, polymer-coated brass gas line. Make sure that the new line terminates no closer than 6 inches to the ground, and no farther than 2 feet off the ground.
6. Make sure all connections are tight, and turn the gas back on.

For any pipe gripes or appliance gripes that you can’t fix yourself, enlist the services of a trusted plumbing and electrical contractor.

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

 

(Photo via Flickr)

When Should Pipes Be Replaced?

Whether you just bought a home, have lived in your home for years, or are just curious about the lifetime of the pipes in your home, it is a good question to be asked: when should the pipes in a home be replaced?

In older homes, pipes that need to be replaced start discoloring the water and lower the water pressure. However, you can easily prevent that from happening by knowing a little about the piping in your home.

Pipes in your home are made of different materials and serve different purposes depending on where they are located. Supply piping is usually made of brass, which can last 40-70 years, copper (50 years), or galvanized steel (20-50 years). Drain lines are made of cast iron (75-100 years), or polyvinyl chloride or PVC, which lasts indefinitely.

Keep in mind that if you know the pipes in your home are older than any of the numbers listed above, they might not need replacing. If the pipes were well-taken care of, they could last longer than average lifespans. Of course, if the pipes have been damaged or not taken care of, they might not last as long as predicted.

Keep an eye on exposed piping, look for warning signs that they need to be replaced. Check exposed pipes in the basement or crawl spaces for discoloration, flaking, stains, or anything irregular. Any leaks can also be a sign of trouble. If you see these signs, call a plumber to do an inspection.

Replacing pipes in a 1,500 square foot home with two bathrooms can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000 and calls for construction work, so you don't want to replace anything until it's necessary. Keep an eye out for signs of corrosion and take care of your piping, so it'll last as long as possible.

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

 

(Photo via Flickr)

Will Commercial Drain Cleaning Solutions Damage your Pipes?

Every homeowner experiences the occasional clogged drain in a kitchen or bathroom sink. When a faucet is turned on and the water in the sink bowl inches north instead of draining southward, many homeowners head directly to the store to purchase a commercial drain cleaning product. But is this always the best solution? And can these products cause damage to pipes?

A Look at Commercial Drain Cleaners

The most common materials used for the pipes underneath sinks these days are PVC and copper, but galvanized steel or iron pipes still exist in some older homes. Regardless, commercial drain cleaners are relatively safe for most types of pipes, as long as they are not overused.

However, some homeowners believe that the more drain cleaner they use, the more successful their drain cleaning endeavors will be. This philosophy is not correct! In fact, pouring excessive amounts of these cleaners into sink drains can have a negative effect on piping, and may very well lead to more severe plumbing problems.

Most commercial drain cleaners either use enzymes or caustic chemicals such as lye (sodium hydroxide) to dissolve or eat away at clogs caused by hair, soap scum, mineral deposits and other materials. Some of these products work faster than others, but for relatively minor clogs they can be effective.

But using more than the recommended amount of caustic chemical drain cleaners can weaken PVC piping, and can also cause damage to metal pipes, especially if any corrosion is already present. Additionally, these products can prove to be rather impotent on larger, more stubborn clogs.

Other Solutions

Before running out to the store in search of a commercial drain cleaner at the first sign of a clog, there are other unclogging methods that a homeowner can try. Among these are using a good old-fashioned plunger to attempt to dislodge the clog, or using a plumbing snake or “auger,” if one is available.

Homemade solutions such as pouring a mixture of vinegar, baking soda and boiling water into a stopped up drain and letting it sit overnight has also been known to work out some clogs. But if all else fails, and the clog seems to be winning the battle, it may be time to call in the professional plumbers to address the problem and prevent the possibility of further damage.

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

Home Plumbing: The Differences between Greywater and Blackwater

Most people are not familiar with the term, “greywater.” And if you mention the word “blackwater,” a majority of folks might think you’re talking about a popular song. However, these two diverse types of water exist right under our noses. Actually, they exist under our feet, over our heads and within our walls as they continuously course through our home plumbing systems.

Clean or “potable” water comes into a home and is distributed to various fixtures and appliances within the dwelling. These include sinks, toilets, showers and apparatuses such as washing machines, dishwashers and hot water heaters.

Greywater, also referred to as “sullage,” is water that drains from sinks, bathtubs, dishwashers and washing machines after it is used. Basically, greywater is the wastewater that results from household use.

Blackwater is basically sewage, or water containing human waste that is flushed down toilets. In some cases, wastewater from dishwashers, garbage disposals and kitchen sinks is also considered to be blackwater.

Greywater and blackwater are often processed and treated separately. Blackwater contains harmful bacteria not considered fit to be reintroduced into the environment for purposes other than creating fertilizing and composting material. This is not to say that blackwater absolutely cannot be recycled. However, the process is quite involved and expensive.

On the other hand, greywater does not contain the pathogens and contaminants present in blackwater. Therefore, it is immanently more capable of being reused. In fact, there is a growing trend toward recycling greywater so that it can be used around the house for purposes such as watering the lawn and garden and washing the car or even flushing toilets.

Homeowners interested in finding out more about greywater and the various treatment systems available for recycling it should consult with area plumbing contractors or contact their local plumbing supply company. By reusing greywater, homeowners can conserve water and reduce their water bill as a result.

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

 

(Photo via Flickr)

What Temperature Makes Pipes Freeze?

Depending on where you live, you’ve probably already experienced some cold nights this season. But what’s cold enough to threaten your home for frozen pipes?

In general, you should be thinking about your pipes freezing when the temperature drops to 20 degrees or below. However, there are some variables to consider.

Homes that are built for colder weather, in the northern part of the country, for example, might have insulation that will prevent pipes from freezing even in 20 degree weather. Homes in the southern region, that might not be built for freezing temperatures, could suffer from frozen pipes at temperatures warmer than 20 degrees.

No matter where you live, pipes that are exposed to the elements, say outside or located in an un-insulated attic or basement could also freeze at higher temperatures. Wind also plays a factor, since the temperature could be one number, but the wind chill creates another, lower number which could affect your pipes.

The best way to prevent your pipes from freezing and eventually lead to cracking or bursting is to insulate them. This could be in the form of insulating the room they are in (the attic or the basement), protecting the pipe itself with a sleeve, or keeping your house a little warmer.

If you’re leaving your house for an extended period of time, leave the temperature in your house warm enough to protect the pipes. Another prevention method is to drain the water system so there is no water in the pipes that could freeze. Do this by turning off the main valve and turning on all of the faucets in your home until there is no water coming out.

If you have pipes in unprotected areas, let the faucets for those pipes drip, making sure that the hot and cold are turned on. While the water inside these pipes might still freeze, the drip allows any built-up pressure in the pipe to be relieved.

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.