A sump pump removes water from basements and crawl spaces as well as moisture from other sources such as air conditioners. Most people do not even think about their sump pump until it stops working properly. When the rainy season is upon us, It is not the time to find out your sump pump has gone on the fritz. Checking for problems, and regular maintenance can help to ensure that it is working correctly.

Read More

Virtually all water heaters eventually require maintenance or repairs, regardless of whether the model is gas or electric. However, untrained individuals should not attempt to make such repairs without assistance. Instead, homeowners should familiarize themselves with the signs of a failing water heater and contact a professional for further advice if they suspect the water heater is malfunctioning. Below are some of the most common signs that a water heater is failing:

Foul Odor

There is a broad range of reasons for a malfunctioning water heater, but one of the most common signs that repairs are needed is the presence of a foul odor. Sediment build-up in the unit is typically the cause of such an odor, the latter of which may come and go or be a constant smell in the home.

If the house is connected to a public water source, the water likely contains chlorine from a nearby treatment plant. Nevertheless, the purifying effects of the chlorine may be hindered by sediment build-up. Therefore, if one detects such an odor, he or she should immediately contact a professional who can check for leaks or flush the heater’s tank to eliminate sediment.

Read More

You should never pour grease or oil down the drain. When the grease or oil cools, it will solidify. This will clog your pipes. It can also cause odors to develop in your sink. Clogs can lead to many other plumbing issues. Fortunately, there are many things that you can do with your cooking grease.

Pour the Grease in a Mason Jar

After the grease has cooled off, you will need to pour it in a mason jar. If you do not plan on using the grease again, then you can throw it in the trash. You can store the grease in a cabinet if you want to use it again.

Read More

Your garbage disposal is a useful tool. If it is working properly, then it can make it easy for you to dispose of food waste. It also helps keep your drains unclogged. However, there are several things that you will need to do in order to maintain your garbage disposal.

Use a lot of Water

You will need to run water every time that you use your garbage disposal. After you have finished your garbage disposal, you will need to let it run for an additional 20 seconds. If there are any particles left over after you finish using your garbage disposal, the water will get rid of them.

Read More

Toilets are one of those items that we take for granted. They’re always there when we need them and we seldom think that they might need repaired or replaced until one day, a calamity strikes.

This is one area where some preventive maintenance can avert a future calamity and all of its repercussions. If your toilet has cracks, it wobbles, you notice water around the base or on the floor under the tank, or it’s not flushing efficiently, your beleaguered toilet may need some attention.

Read More

Clogged toilets are as inevitable as death and taxes – and no more welcome in your home. But virtually all of us have to deal with this particular fact of life from time to time. In some instances, it’s possible to deal with the problem yourself without calling in a professional. All that’s required – when it’s successful – is a bit of know-how and a few basic household supplies.

Read More

Homeowners sometimes panic when they find out about a broken water main. So it’s a good idea to understand how to detect a water main break, what causes it and what your options for dealing with the problem are.

Read More

There are myriad causes of low water pressure. In standard housing environments it could mean that pipes have become so corroded that flow is being restricted, or it could be the sign of an impending disaster in the form of hidden or unknown leaks. Read More

Kitchen sink drains take a beating; they get worked hard on a daily basis. Even with the aid of a garbage disposal or sink strainer, grease and food particles still manage to make their way down the drain creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Bathroom drains are abused less, but they are not immune to odor issues. Soap scum, dead skin, hair and other stuff accumulates and gets trapped. That layer of rotting gunk in your overflow pipe will eventually emanate a foul odor.  Another nasty problem — noxious sewer gasses can make their way into your home if the plumbing is not maintained properly. Read More

Sump pumps operate to push water away from the foundation of your home to prevent flooding. As fluid approaches a set level, the water is expelled outside through a pipe away from your basement area. The pump is generally located in a hole (sump hole) in the lowest level of your house. It is attached to your waste water drain. Water that enters the bottom floor is forced out through the sump pump into your wastewater system preventing flooding and damage. Read More