Utility bills are a fact of life, but you do have control over how much you put out each month. If you are paying a water bill, you know that costs can get surprisingly high. Water isn’t cheap, and in some locations, it’s quite expensive. If you are a growing family that takes showers, does multiple loads of laundry weekly and waters the lawn, you likely have a water bill that’s higher than you would like. You might think there’s not much you can do about it, but there are strategies that can help you significantly reduce your water bill. Here are eight ways to do it:

There are two keys to using less water: Equipment and habits. While changing habits takes work, it doesn’t involve buying or replacing anything, it just requires vigilance on your part. As far as equipment goes, most are a one-time purchase that will pay for themselves quickly by helping you save big on water bills. 

1. Saving Money In The Bathroom

Your current toilet, shower and faucets may be using up to 41 gallons per person, per day. This is a significant use of resources. You can lessen this by replacing your toilet with a low-flow toilet and shower head, and more efficient faucets. These improvements will pay for themselves over time, and will consume far less water.

Bonus tip: Take shorter showers,  you can save several gallons of water by trimming 5 minutes off your shower time. 

2. In The Laundry Room

Upgrading your washing machine to an energy-efficient model can save a significant amount of water. A certified energy-star model may use up to 50% less water than your current model. This is a huge difference, and these newer models perform better, as well.

Bonus Tip: Washing clothes when they aren’t dirty is a common occurrence. Many articles of clothing can be worn more than once, and towels can be reused, as well.

3. Saving Money While Washing Dishes

Ideally, your home has a dishwasher. Washing dishes by hand uses considerably more water than using the dishwasher. An Energy Star dishwasher will save about 30% more water than a conventional dishwasher, and ends up being about 80% more efficient than washing dishes by hand. If you have to wash dishes by hand, don’t just let the water run. This is probably one of the biggest water wasters. Fill the sink with water, and fill a clean tub for rinsing.

4. Saving Money In The Yard

Your outdoor watering habits could be costing you the most. Evaluating the water used for maintaining your lawn and landscaping could result in big savings. It’s estimated that up to 55% of your water is used outdoors. 

You can take steps to reduce this. One option is to work with a landscape designer to create a more water-friendly outdoor space. This may include installing a more efficient drip system that waters the base of the plants instead of simply dousing the foliage. Much of the water used in sprinkler systems simply evaporates or blows away. Tearing out lawns and replacing them with indigenous plants and low-maintenance landscaping can drastically cut your water consumption.

5. Greywater Reuse Options

Water used in your household can be recycled. Examples of greywater include shower, faucet and even laundry water that can be used for toilet flushing. This happens via a sanitary pipe that keeps the water separated from city potable water pipes and runs it to your toilets. This method can save up to 7,000 gallons of city-supplied potable water per year. 

6. Consider Stormwater Reuse

An alternative to greywater reuse is stormwater reuse. This is an easier option that involves collecting stormwater via rooftop drums that can collect and distribute water for landscaping irrigation. There are more sophisticated systems as well, and this may be a good option depending on the rainfall in your area.

7. Radiant Heating Systems

Newer radiant heating systems are being developed to use water more efficiently. These close-looped systems use less water and thus save you money. As it is, radiant floor heating tends to be more energy efficient than baseboard heaters etc. You lose less heat through ducts and out the window. Newer systems have even more energy-saving features. Closed systems recirculate water to heat your home more efficiently, and use less water. 

8. Improved Water Meters

New water meters have been developed that can detect leaks and give you detailed information on your water usage that can help you change habits and use less water. Smart meter technology can save you money by detecting leaks that can be draining water and increasing your bill. Smart meters are also more sensitive than traditional water meters. They allow you to see where the majority of your water is going, and empower you to use water more efficiently.

There are multiple ways to save water on a daily basis. While replacing fixtures and appliances may initially cost you money, these are short-term expenses that will only save you money in the long run. Not only that, but you will be conserving water, one of our most precious resources. Check into local conservation programs that may assist with things like appliance replacement and landscaping services designed to save water. You may be able to get assistance for energy-saving expenses.

Call America’s Plumbing Co. today to learn more about our services!

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Clogged drains can be a frustrating nuisance, but having a dirty drain during the holidays could mean bursting pipes in your home. The winter season already puts enough strain on your plumbing, freezing your pipes and wearing down your water heater. No homeowner wants a home flooded from a burst pipe, which is why it’s important to keep your drains clear this holiday season.

When You Should Clean Your Drains

Plumbing problems can be frustrating, and a dirty drain can disrupt your daily activities. It might be tempting to overlook one clogged drain, but a clog left untreated can result in costly damages. Your plumbing is complicated, but you can avoid most plumbing catastrophes by thoroughly cleaning your drains and routine maintenance. The more you clean your drains, the better, as it never hurts to be proactive with your plumbing. Clogs however, can happen despite how often you clean your drains, which is why it’s important to know the warning signs of a dirty drain. To prepare your drains this holiday season, here’s what to watch for.

• Water starts to back up. When using the faucet, bathtub, or shower, the water should always drain. Water should never go up your drains, but if you notice after flushing a toilet or running the faucet that water starts to back up versus drain down, it could be a clogged drain.
• Foul odors. One of the most unpleasant warning signs of a clogged drain is the foul odor of sewage. A drain that’s clogged accumulates all the waste that’s flushed down the drains until the odors come back out the drains. Kitchens with garbage disposal can also be notorious for foul sewage odors, especially when enough food particles build up inside your drains.
• Odd sounds. Listen carefully to your drains. When a drain is blocked, water is then forced through small spaces or to change course which can result in bubbling or gurgling sounds. If you start to hear odd gurgling sounds from your drain, it’s time to clean your drains. 
• Frequent clogs. Clogs can be a common plumbing problem, but if they happen often enough, it could be caused from a clogged drain. Some clogs can be resolved with a plunger or drain cleaner, but if you notice the same fixture keeps clogging regardless, you’ll need a plumber to professionally clean your drains.
• Multiple clogs at the same time. Not all clogs require calling in a plumber, but multiple clogs at once is problematic. If you notice multiple different fixtures have clogged all at once, it means there is a clog deeper inside your sewer line and requires a professional drain cleaning.
• Slow drains. A slow drain is one of the most common signs of a clogged drain, as no water fixture should have a slow drain. Watch your sinks and water appliances. If you notice it takes more time than usual to drain the sink or your washer or dishwasher is still full after the cycle, it’s time to clean your drains.
• Fruit or drain flies. Any buildup of food or waste inside your drains will attract flies. Tiny fruit flies are more than just an annoying pest; they can become a health risk, and are usually attracted to the scent of a clogged drain. Drain flies are another pest to watch out for, as they like to breed in drains and sewer lines. If your home has some clogged drains, you might start to notice drain flies buzzing in your bathroom.

How to Clean Your Drains and Keep Them Clogged Free

Knowing when to clean your drains is a good place to start, but it’s best to start habits that keep your drains clean and prevent future clogs. A clogged drain left untreated can result in costly plumbing problems, but luckily they can be avoided with proper care and cleaning practices. Here’s what you can do to keep your drains clean this holiday season.

• Avoid chemical drain cleaners. Although chemical drain cleaners can be an easy and instant fix for some clogs, they’re incredibly toxic and eat at your pipes over time. There are several non-toxic drain cleaners available such as vinegar and baking soda, which work naturally well to eliminate odors and flush down any stuck waste.
• Avoid flushing down food waste. Garbage disposals are great if you have them, but contrary to what you might think, you only want a minimum amount of food waste going down there. Most foods will clog your drains and break down the blades. Kitchen sinks without a garbage disposal are even less equipped to handle any food waste that goes down the drain. Do your best to avoid flushing food down by scraping and rinsing your plates. Avoid flushing down fats, greases, oils, and starchy foods.
• Use drain strainers. It’s not just food waste that clogs your drains, but hair, soap scum, and other random debris. This is why it helps to place drain strainers on top of your drains. Make sure to periodically clean out your drain strainers so that your drains can drain properly.

Keep Your Holidays Fun and Festive with Clean Drains

A clog can be a frustrating plumbing problem, but the winter season adds the additional threat of your pipes freezing. No homeowner wants a flooded home in the dead of winter; that’s why it’s important to keep your drains clean and clear this holiday season. Not all clogs, however, can be cleaned yourself, and that’s where the professionals come in. A licensed plumber can treat your drains and guarantee your holidays stay dry and happy. Don’t wait until you smell sewage, call a plumber today for a holiday drain cleaning. 

Since 1999, we’ve been providing high-quality plumbing at reasonable rates. Through hard work coupled with a combination of outstanding leadership, experienced plumbers, and a clear vision for the future, America’s Plumbing Co. has been able to provide clients with the top-quality affordable drain cleaning at a price you can afford. Drains, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, sinks, and water heaters are just a few of our areas of expertise. Call America’s Plumbing Co. today to learn more about our services!

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A garbage disposal is a great appliance to have. But contrary to popular belief, most waste should never go down your garbage disposal. Unfortunately, plumbing problems can be common, and your disposal system is no exception. Like any appliance, your garbage disposal needs routine cleaning and maintenance to function properly. A garbage disposal is a great appliance to have, but contrary to popular belief, most waste should never go down your garbage disposal. Unfortunately, plumbing problems can be common, and your garbage disposal is no exception, especially with many of us in our kitchens lovingly crafting delicious holiday meals. Like any appliance, your garbage disposal needs routine cleaning and maintenance to function properly. 

How You Can Prevent a Busted Garbage Disposal

Your garbage disposal helps to prevent clogging by breaking down food waste into smaller pieces, but it can easily be overwhelmed with food, grime, or a lone spoon. A garbage disposal can easily break down without proper maintenance, as it has several parts susceptible to damage. To ensure your kitchen drain is clog free, here are five simple ways to take it easy on your garbage disposal.

• Mind what you put down the disposal. A good rule of thumb is to avoid flushing down as much food waste as possible, as most foods are notoriously bad for your garbage disposal. Fats, oils, and greases harden with cold water and can easily cause a blockage inside your drain. Avoid starchy foods such as pasta or rice, as they soak up water and expand inside your pipes. Stringy fruits and vegetables can wear down the blades by wrapping themselves around the blades. Hard items that you can’t break down with your teeth, such as bones and seeds, should never go down your disposal either.
• Clean often. Being mindful of what you flush down the disposal is important, but so is routine cleaning. Frequently cleaning your garbage disposal helps to ensure the blades and drain are clear of any obstructing materials. One of the best methods to clean the system is flushing it down with some vinegar and baking soda. Never use any cleaning chemicals such as bleach or a chemical drain cleaner, as they can help harden grease and eat through your plumbing.
• Grind thoroughly. Whatever does get flushed down the disposal should have adequate time for grinding. Make sure with every use that you run the disposal long enough to avoid any leftover food waste that can sit and cake over time. Flushing down ice cubes and citrus peels is a good way to maintain the blades.
• Flush after use. Another easy trick to avoid clogging is by flushing enough water after every use. Make sure to flush some water down with the food waste when the disposal is in use to help push the waste down. Running water down the drain after using the disposal for a few seconds helps to ensure nothing remains on the blades or just inside the drain. It’s best to flush food down with cold water; it hardens the food waste, making it easier for the blades to break it down.
• Turn off your disposal before any action. Garbage disposals can be a safety hazard, which is why you should always make sure it’s off before taking any action. Never stick your hand down the disposal. Use tongs or pliers if you need to pull something out.

The Warning Signs of a Damaged Garbage Disposal

Accidents happen, no matter how well you’ve maintained your garbage disposal. Knowing when it’s time to call in a plumber however, can be tricky. Your plumbing can be complicated, but the good news is that there are plenty of clues if the problem is with your garbage disposal. If your garbage disposal is damaged, it’s best to act quickly. If you think it’s time for a repair, here are a few warning signs to watch out for.

• It’s tripping your circuit breaker. Garbage disposals use a lot of wattage which means that ,when in use, you may experience some flickering lights or a slight power surge. If, however, your garbage disposal starts to trip the circuit breaker, there could be a wiring issue with either the disposal or your home’s electrical panel.
• It makes loud, unusual noises. If something is wrong, you’ll definitely hear it, as the sound of metal on metal is very unpleasant. Loud, unusual noises are usually an indicator of a loose part or damaged part, and require urgent repair. 
• It’s leaking. Unfortunately, a leaking garbage disposal can mean the entire unit needs to be replaced, especially if there is a crack in the disposal itself. Watch out for signs of a leak, such as any dark or wet spots on the floor and cabinets.
• It’s not working, period. The most obvious sign of a damaged systemis when it stops working entirely. The good news is that most disposal issues are easy fixes which rarely require an entire replacement.

Your Garbage Disposal Works Hard Enough

A disposal is a fantastic kitchen appliance and it deserves proper care and maintenance. No homeowner wants to deal with the cost of replacing the garbage disposal, especially when it can be avoided. Keeping your kitchen drain clear and clean sometimes requires the help of a licensed plumber. Stay clog-free by treating your disposal right. Call a plumber to inspect your plumbing today.

Since 1999, we’ve been providing high-quality plumbing at reasonable rates. Through hard work coupled with a combination of outstanding leadership, experienced plumbers, and a clear vision for the future, America’s Plumbing Co. has been able to provide clients with the top-quality affordable plumbing at a price you can afford. Drains, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, sinks, and water heaters are just a few of our areas of expertise. Call America’s Plumbing Co. today to learn more about our services!

Or check out our stellar Google reviews! 

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Most of us forget our homes conceal intricate plumbing systems. We expect our home plumbing to function as designed. Yet it is possible to improve home plumbing efficiency with some proactive measures. The tips outlined below just might prevent a nasty problem from rearing its ugly head down the line in the form of a broken plumbing fixture that must be repaired or replaced. Abide by the advice set forth in this article and you will rest easy knowing you’ve done your part to prevent frustrating and costly home plumbing problems.

Why These Plumbing Tips and Tricks Matter

Before digging into the nitty-gritty of home plumbing advice, it is prudent to explain why the average homeowner should take heed of such knowledge. Incorporating the wisdom outlined below has the potential to ward off repairs and replacements, decrease your utility bills and extend the lifespan of your plumbing fixtures and appliances. After all, a home plumbing system that is neglected will eventually decrease in performance across time. You can do your part to prevent time-consuming and expensive plumbing problems by taking matters into your own hands with the relatively minor tricks and tips explained below.

1. Water Heater Maintenance

An annual inspection of your water heater will ensure that it is operating at peak capacity. This maintenance session will also guarantee that the water heater doesn’t have any flaws that could lead to plumbing problems. Furthermore, maintenance gives a water heater aficionado the chance to tune up the unit and ensure everything is in proper working order.

2. Avoiding Liquid Drain Cleaners

Though it is tempting to pour liquid drain cleaners down your drains, doing so could create some plumbing nightmares. Heat is generated due to the fact that the majority of liquid drain cleaners function by generating a chemical reaction within the drain pipe. This heat can cause some nasty damage to the pipe. The chemicals will rest on the clogged area, creating the potential to weaken or even melt the pipe. When in doubt, do not hesitate to call a plumber to rectify the problem.

3. Maintaining Gutters so That They Don’t Lead to Leaking and Flooding

Your gutters matter a great deal when it comes to preventing costly, time-consuming water-related problems. Be sure to maintain and check your gutters on a regular basis to ensure they are completely clear. Clogged gutters are more likely to generate a backlog of water that has the potential to cause flooding and leaks.

4. Insulating Your Water Heater

One of the best ways to save money in the context of home plumbing is to maintain the water heater. Insulate your water heater and you will save a considerable amount of money. Even if the insulation decreases the water heater’s temperature by a few degrees, you will enjoy some nice savings over time. Do not let your water heater reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Insulating a water heater can even be as simple as applying a water-heater blanket. This insulation will allow for minimal energy to be used when warming water each time a faucet is turned on.

5. Investigating and Addressing any Water Pressure Problems

If you notice any water pressure problems, do not neglect them! Water pressure problems can spiral out of control to the point that they devolve into uber-expensive repair or replacement projects that eat into your savings. Have a professional plumber examine your home plumbing’s nuances and allow him to implement the proper solution. This way, you’ll remedy the water pressure issue before it creates an even more serious problem.

6. Investigate and Address Poorly Smelling Drains

If you notice any of your home’s drains emit an odor, don’t let it slide. An odorous drain is a sign that something is wrong with your plumbing. Drainage systems are engineered in a manner that should prevent venting within the home. Perhaps there is an issue with the water trap. Maybe there is a design flaw or a venting problem. Lean on a professional plumber for an accurate diagnosis and repair.

7. Maintain/Tune up Your Washing Machine, Dishwasher, and any Major Plumbing Appliances Before it’s Too Late

Scheduling a tune up of your washing machine, dishwasher and other main appliances once a year will greatly reduce the odds of a costly breakdown. These machines become less efficient as time progresses. A tune up will improve their performance, heighten efficiency and possibly even ward off a repair or replacement that busts your budget.

8. Installing Drain “Strainers” in Kitchen Sink Drain and Shower Drain

Strainers aren’t only for pasta. Use strains in your kitchen sink and shower and you’ll prevent a buildup of hair that clogs your drains. No one wants to deal with a clog so be proactive by relying on a strainer that collects hair and other gunk before it can create an extremely frustrating and costly problem.

9. Check Your Toilet Flapper

A leaky toilet can waste a ton of water and consequently, your hard-earned money. Take a look at your toilet flapper to determine if there is a leak. If a leak exists, it will repeatedly spur the fill valve to send water to the tank. You can test the toilet flapper by dropping some food coloring in the tank. Let it rest idle for half an hour. Then check the toilet bowl. If the bowl is colored with the same hue as the food coloring, there is a leak. It might be possible that debris or other sediment has accumulated around the flapper. Dislodge this debris before committing to replacing the toilet flapper. 

10. Stop any Leaky Appliances

Leaky appliances create annoying noises and set you back financially. A dripping faucet has the potential to waste upwards of 15 gallons worth of water per day. There is no sense in paying for that water when you get no use from it. Remedying leaky appliances has the potential to save you hundreds of dollars on your annual water bill. Reach out to a professional plumber to fix the leak and you’ll save plenty of money in the long run. 

Since 1999, we’ve been providing high-quality plumbing at reasonable rates. Through hard work coupled with a combination of outstanding leadership, experienced plumbers, and a clear vision for the future, America’s Plumbing Co. has been able to provide clients with the top-quality affordable plumbing at a price you can afford. Drains, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, sinks, and water heaters are just a few of our areas of expertise. Call America’s Plumbing Co. today to learn more about our services!

Or check out our stellar Google reviews! 

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By admin

How often do you really think about breathing? Unless you’re out of breath or you can’t catch your breath, probably not much. It’s just something your body does automatically without you focusing on it.

Your plumbing system is the same way. It just works quietly in the background, doing its job. Just like sudden shortness of breath though, you don’t really pay much attention to your plumbing until there’s an issue. It’s only then you realize that you don’t really understand much about your plumbing system and have no idea how to fix whatever the issue may be.

It’s best not to wait until that point. You may be in a panic, so you’ll call the first plumber you can find and schedule them immediately. As a result, you may be inundated with extra charges, like emergency fees. Yes, your plumbing system is fixed (for now), but at what cost?

Why Many Homeowners Avoid Their Plumbing Systems

When most people think of their plumbing system, they think of their toilet, and who really wants to go into the toilet? No one. However, by ignoring the plumbing and pretending it’s working fine when it’s leaking, the pipes are straining, or there’s some other issue, a homeowner is doing themselves a huge disservice.

There are a multitude of issues that can crop up if a homeowner ignores their ailing plumbing system for too long:

• The high costs of emergency calls to a local plumber.
• The high costs of a monthly energy bill.
• Contacting a local plumber at the first sign of trouble because a homeowner can’t discern between minor and serious plumbing issues.

Even though it was likely an issue the homeowner could have fixed themselves had they familiarized themselves with their plumbing system, they didn’t know that, so they spent money unnecessarily anyway. These small fixes add up over time.

Remember that leak we mentioned before? Yes, it starts as a leak, but eventually the pipe will burst, flooding the home with stinky, backed-up water. That could be hugely expensive and catastrophic for a home. Whole rooms might have to be ripped out and redone completely, which is both time-intensive and very costly. 

Parts of the Plumbing System: The Basics

Okay, so you’re definitely ready to learn more about your plumbing system now. Start with the various parts. Here are some to know:

•  The water main valve – This controls water flow.
• The cut-off valve – This controls the sink, toilet, washer, etc.
• The water meter – This can give you a read on the overall system’s health.
• The water pressure regulator – Like the water meter above, this lets the homeowner know their water pressure levels. 
• Valves for gas, electricity, and heated water – These control those resources and can be turned on and off as needed. 

The sewer and water lines connect outside, often underground, and act as a means for water to travel to and from the house. Contact the local water company to ask about where your water comes from. Take some time to take off the toilet lid and get to know what’s inside. Do the same with your septic system if you have one.

The Benefits of Learning How a Plumbing System Works

Yes, this is a lot to remember and a lot of work, and it’s not very pretty work, either. However, by learning more about your plumbing system, you’re doing your family and your home a big favor. Here’s why.

• You can make an informed decision about whether your plumbing system is energy-efficient. If it’s not, you can get it replaced or upgraded so it is, which can save you in monthly utility and energy bills.
• You won’t have to worry about pipes bursting and creating massive leaks in the house. At the first sign of a small leak, you’ll know what to do. That means you can rely on your local plumber less, which also keeps money in your pocket.
• You’ll feel safer, and you’ll be happy that your family is safe, too. You can go to bed at night knowing your home’s secure. You can’t put a price on that kind of feeling.

You know what to do. Although it’s not a glamorous job, by taking some time to understand how your toilet, septic tank, and plumbing system works, you’re prolonging the life of this system, saving money, preventing leaks, and learning to be handier around the house to boot. Although often ignored, your plumbing system is a crucial part of your home’s structure, and it’s one that will pay back dividends once you familiarize yourself with it.

Since 1999, we’ve been providing high-quality plumbing at reasonable rates. Through hard work coupled with a combination of outstanding leadership, experienced plumbers, and a clear vision for the future, America’s Plumbing Co. has been able to provide clients with the top-quality affordable plumbing at a price you can afford. Drains, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, sinks, and water heaters are just a few of our areas of expertise. Call America’s Plumbing Co. today to learn more about our services!

Or check out our stellar Google reviews!

By admin