Tag: plumber

10 Frequently Asked Questions on Plumbing by New Homeowners

Oct 01, 2020

10 Frequently Asked Questions on Plumbing by New Homeowners

  • Plumbing
common plumbing questions answered by America's Plumbing Co

Plumbing is one of the major systems in a home.  As a new homeowner, you’ve probably asked yourself several questions already about the plumbing.  Keep in mind the regular maintenance of the plumbing system can extend the life of the equipment.  It will also improve the cost of energy used in the household.  Here are a few things you need to know from America’s Plumbing Co so that you can enjoy trouble-free plumbing.  

1. Why is flushing my toilet so noisy?

The noise is caused by restricted water flow when the tank refills.  You’ll need to check the main shutoff valve to the tank. Make sure it’s completely opened. The ballcock assembly regulates the water filling into the tank.  If parts are damaged or worn it prevents the ballcock from operating properly.  You may need to replace the parts or the entire assembly.

2. How do you avoid frozen pipes?

Severe cold weather causes water to freeze and expand bursting the pipes. Pipes inside the house close to the exteriors walls where there is no heat that needs to be insulated to avoid freezing.  Before the cold weather hits, drain the pool, sprinklers, and water spigots. Keep the outside values open so the remaining water can drain out. Then close the interior shut off valve leading to the faucets and install a faucet insulator.

3. What’s the difference between hard water and soft water?

Falling rain starts out as soft water. When it hits the ground it picks up minerals – chalk, lime, calcium, and magnesium and becomes hard water. Over time hard water builds upscale deposits clogging the pipes and preventing the flow of water. Additives are used to convert hard water to soft water. The most noticeable differences are the suds. Soft water lathers better without leaving hard water spots.  Soft water also uses less soap or detergents.

4. What can I put down the garbage disposal?

Always use cold water when operating the disposal. Coldwater keeps the oils in foods from solidifying.  It’s easier for the disposal to chop up the food and move it through the pipes. Cut large pieces into smaller portions before putting them into the disposal. It prevents the blades from jamming. Avoid coffee grinds. They accumulate in the pipes blocking the water flow. 

5. Why do I keep having drainage backups and problems?

There may be solid material in the pipe causing the clog. Hair, grease, or paper products in the drain systems are usually the cause. Tree roots are notorious for growing around the pipes and crushing them. Structural damage to the pipes caused by age or exterior damages blocks the flow of water. Heavy rains or melting snow can also overload drain capacities causing the back-ups. 

6. Why do I hear noises such as banging and rattling in my pipes?

A broken strap that holds the pipe in place causes the rattling noise as water moves through the pipe. You’ll need to locate the noise to re-strap and insulate the pipe. If the noise is coming from behind the wall – the wall needs to be opened. Check the water pressure. Pipes have PSI ratings. Too much pressure can cause noises or damage the piping.

7. Why do we run out of hot water so quickly?

Could be the number of users in the household using water at the same time?  The water tank may also be too small to accommodate the household.  The dip tube in a gas water heater could be broken.  Electrical water tanks have a heating element that can burn out.

8. When showering, why does the water pressure drop, and what causes the temperature change when someone else turns on a faucet or flushes a toilet?

Each of these actions triggers the flow of water. The water distribution at the same time causes the water pressure to drop.  One solution depends on the type of shower control valve. The valves can reduce or eliminate temperature fluctuations. Thermostatic mixing valves automatically balance the hot and cold water.  It prevents drastic fluctuations in shower temperature when someone turns on a faucet or flushes the toilet.

9. How do I get rid of the bad taste in my water?

Home filtration systems can reduce the bad taste in hard water from the tap.  These systems remove the chlorine and odor.  Carbon filtrations help to remove the hydrogen sulfide that smells like rotten eggs.  Reverse Osmosis water filtration systems also remove the chemicals from the tap water.  Most systems are low maintenance.

10. Why does my toilet keep running?

After each flush, a lever opens the flapper in the tank.  The flapper falls back into place when the water level drops. The flapper acts like a plug allowing the tank water to refill on each flush.  If the chain is too long the flapper won’t open for a full flush. A short or tangled chain prevents the flapper from closing to refill the tank.

If you think your plumbing needs repair, call the experts at America’s Plumbing Co! We’re ready to help you today! 

By admin

Water Heater Options

Sep 01, 2020

Water Heater Options

  • Plumbing
Sacramento water heater installation by America's Plumbing Co

Tips For Choosing a New Water Heater in Sacramento

Choosing a new water heater in Sacramento can seem like an overwhelming task. Luckily, America’s Plumbing Co. can help! There are many factors to consider when choosing your new water heater such as: 

  • Tank style
  • Size
  • Fuel type 
  • Energy efficiency 
  • Cost

Tank Style

There are two main options for water heaters in Sacramento today: tankless water heaters and conventional tank heaters.

The traditional tank heater will be installed in a basement or laundry room since the tanks tend to be larger in size. These heaters work by storing hot water in a tank that is pumped to wherever the tap has been turned on in your home. They can vary in efficiency depending on the fuel source (natural gas, oil, electric, propane). This is likely the model installed in your home right now.

A tankless water heater, commonly called a “on demand” unit, is much smaller than a tank heater. They are hung on the wall which frees up floor space in basements in laundry rooms. They are less expensive to run than traditional tank heaters since they only heat water when you need it. There is no heat loss from water sitting in a tank waiting to be used. These units are easy to adjust and allow for more efficient hot water usage. 

Size of Your Tank

This metric applies only if you are installing a conventional tank water heater in Sacramento. The size of your water heater will be greatly affected by the individual needs of your home. If you have a large home and plan to install a traditional water tank style heater, the amount of people living in the household will determine the size you choose. A household of 1-2 people may only need 23-33 gallon tank, while a family of 5 or more will need a tank capable of holding upwards of 56 gallons. It is important to choose the right size so that your family has hot water shower after shower!

Fuel Type

It is important to know how your tank will be heated. Many water heaters are compatible with a range of fuel types such as electric and natural gas. Some heaters work best with natural gas, while others can be modified to run on solar power.  It is important to talk to your water heating specialist about the fuel demands of the model you decide to buy. 

Energy Efficiency 

Investing in a new water heater will increase the efficiency of your water heating system no matter the option you choose. If your water heater is over 10 years old, an update to your system will immediately improve efficiency. No matter which type you choose for your home, look at the EF rating first. The EF rating determines how efficiently a unit converts energy into heat and how much heat is lost during storage. Tankless on-demand systems are more efficient than conventional tank models overall. They do not lose heat during storage since water is only made when needed- no tank to lose any heat! They can be up to 30% more efficient than the traditional tank unit. These units also tend to be more durable and having a longer lifespan the the holding tank models. 

Cost

This consideration will be the most crucial to homeowners installing a water heater in Sacramento. A new unit is a major investment in your home and quality of life. Choosing a heater that will satisfy your needs while operating in a cost-efficient manner will be critical. It is important to review the different type of models, their efficiency, and maintenance costs in order to choose the right heater. You should work with an America’s Plumbing Co water heating technician in order to ensure that the right water heater is being installed. 

By admin

5 Benefits of Water Jetting

Jul 15, 2020

5 Benefits of Water Jetting

  • Plumbing
Sacramento water jetting service by America's Plumbing Co.

Water Jetting in Sacramento

America’s Plumbing Co.

Maintaining your plumbing in Sacramento can be hard work, especially when it comes to stubborn clogs. While some clogs are an easy fix, thanks to a plunger or drain cleaner, other clogs are hidden deep somewhere in your home’s plumbing or main sewer line. Unfortunately, not every clog can be fixed on your own. For the more intense clogs, you’ll need professional help. While a plumber may suggest a few different tricks, water jetting by America’s Plumbing Co. is the best choice.

Why Water Jetting Benefits Your Plumbing

Clogs are a common plumbing problem, but if left untreated, they can cause severe damage to your plumbing. Debris can still accumulate inside your plumbing, no matter how well-maintained, and accidents do happen. That’s why you want to use the best method when it comes to cleaning and clearing your drains and plumbing. While it may be tempting to use other methods such as a snake or drain cleaner, they’re not as safe or effective as water jetting. Clean plumbing that’s clear or clogs is a priority all homeowners should strive for, here’s how water jetting can help.

  • It’s effective at cleaning and clearing pipes. Water jetting uses a high-pressure hose to blast water through your plumbing lines. The combination of high-pressure and water makes for a very effective method at cleaning and clearing any obstructions inside your pipes without causing damages. While other methods such as snaking, may remove the obstruction, water jetting fully removes everything out of the line.
  • It saves you money. While it may cost more money to water jet your plumbing versus other methods, it saves you costs further down the road. Clean and clear plumbings can help prevent other plumbing issues as well such as a cracked pipe or leak, which can be costly to repair.
  • It’s a clean plumbing method. Your plumbing and sewer line are full of toxic contaminants, and the more time your plumber spends on your plumbing, the more there’s a chance of coming into contact with said harmful contaminants. Water jetting is fast and effective, which means less time the plumber has contact with the sewage inside your plumbing. Water jetting also spares you and your plumber the trouble of digging underground or cutting your walls to access your home’s plumbing.
  • It’s good for the environment. Unlike chemical drain cleaners, which can be an easy fix but are very toxic for your health and the environment, water jetting is just highly pressurized water. When using a water jet to remove any clogs, the only stuff that gets flushed down the pipes are water and whatever is clogging the pipe.
  • It can prevent future problems. Since water jetting thoroughly cleans and clears your plumbing, it can prevent future clogs and other plumbing problems for a longer period of time than other methods. Since plumbers usually do a camera inspection before they water jet your plumbing, they can detect and treat other potential problems before they get worse.

How You Can Prevent Stubborn Clogs

While water jetting is wonderful for your plumbing, the best you can do for your plumbing is to prevent having to resort to water jetting in the first place. While clogs can be a common and frustrating problem, there’s much you can do to prevent clogs from happening in the first place. Actively preventing clogs not only spares you or your plumber from removing them, but it also helps your plumbing last longer and function better. To spare yourself the trouble of another pesky clog, here’s what you can do to keep your pipes clear and clean.

  • Don’t overwhelm the garbage disposal. While the garbage disposal is a wonderful, handy kitchen appliance, it can only handle so much food waste. The truth is that most food waste should never go down the disposal in the first place. Avoid flushing down any fats, oils, and greases as they can cool and solidify inside your drain. Starchy foods such as rice and pasta will expand and create a clog-inducing mush inside your plumbing. Eggshells and coffee grounds are also problematic, creating a sand-like consistency inside your drain which can make for a nasty clog.
  • Avoid flushing non-waste materials. The only things that should go down your drain are waste and toilet paper, but there are a few items that try to market themselves as flushable. While they may be labeled as flushable, avoid flushing down any wipes and feminine products, as they can seriously backup your plumbing.
  • Use drain strainers. One easy way to prevent clogs is to start using drain strainers. A drain strainer helps to catch what can easily slip down the drain and cause a clog over time, such as food waste, soap scum, and hair.

Don’t Let a Stubborn Clog Spoil Your Day

Clogs can be a pain, but with the right unclogging methods, they don’t have to be. Water jetting your plumbing is not only an effective way to remove any clogs, it’s safe, clean, and thorough. Your drains deserve to stay clean. If you’re stuck with a stubborn clog, it’s time to call in the professionals. Don’t wait until your home’s backed up with sewage, have America’s Plumbing Co. water jet your plumbing today.

Contact us today for service! 

By admin

Benefits of Garbage Disposal Installation

May 29, 2020

Benefits of Garbage Disposal Installation

  • Plumbing
Drain cleaning by America's Plumbing

Have you had clogged kitchen drains in the last couple of years? Does your garbage smell like old food waste? The solution to both of these problems, as well as many others, is getting a garbage disposal installed in your home. If you’ve been debating about getting a garbage disposal, let the plumbers at America’s Plumbing Co. show you the benefits of this small but mighty appliance. 

Four Benefits of Garbage Disposals 

  • Keep your drains clear. The biggest advantage of having a garbage disposal is its ability to prevent drain clogs. When large food scraps enter the drain, they can bind together and block pipes. When you have a garbage disposal, the blades breakdown this food waste into small pieces that easily pass through.
  • Reduce bad odors in your kitchen. If your garbage cans have been emitting foul odors and causing your kitchen to smell, then garbage disposal installation is your savior. Instead of food waste sitting in the garbage for days, decomposing and rotting, it will be immediately transported out of your kitchen. So long to bad smelling trash cans!
  • An environmentally friendly choice. When you eliminate food waste by the garbage disposal, you are also reducing the carbon footprint of your home. Instead of food waste sitting in a landfill, it will be sent through the sewage system and filtered quickly. Garbage disposals also reduce the amount of waste that needs to be transported by truck to landfills. This further reduces the emissions needed to process the waste. 
  • Cleanup is a breeze. Gone will be the days of scraping food scraps into the garbage and meticulously preventing any food particles from entering your drain. Small food scraps that you’d normally spend extra time cleaning off can now be sent into the disposal and broken down. There are some foods to avoid such as grease, eggshells, banana peels, and animal bones, but most other waste can be processed by the disposal. 

Call America’s Plumbing Co Today For Service

A garbage disposal is an affordable appliance that can make your life easier in your Sacramento home. They are installed by a professional plumber and are reliable kitchen appliance when treated properly. Let America’s Plumbing Co help you enjoy the benefits of a new garbage disposal by scheduling an appointment with us today!

By admin