Tag: maintenance plumbing

Water heaters last an average of 8 to 12 years, but their lifespan can vary significantly depending on maintenance. Keeping your water heater in top shape prevents surprise breakdowns, boosts efficiency, reduces energy costs, and extends the system’s life. Simple, routine care can save you thousands in repairs or replacements down the road. 

In this blog, we’ll share five water heater maintenance tips that can help extend the life of your unit while improving its performance.

5 Water Heater Maintenance Tips to Extend Its Lifespan

  • Flush the Tank Annually to Remove Sediment Buildup

One of the most important aspects of water heater maintenance is ensuring that sediment doesn’t build up inside the tank. Over time, minerals from the water—like calcium and magnesium—can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, especially if you have hard water. This sediment buildup can lead to inefficient heating, causing the heater to work harder and use more energy to heat the water.

Flushing the tank annually is an easy way to remove this buildup. It helps maintain water heater efficiency by ensuring the heating elements are not covered in sediment. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Turn off the power to your water heater. If it’s electric, shut off the power at the breaker box. For gas heaters, turn off the gas valve.
  2. Shut off the water supply to the heater.
  3. Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and direct it to a suitable drainage area.
  4. Open the drain valve and allow the water to flow out until it runs clear.
  5. Close the valve and refill the tank before turning the power back on.

By flushing your tank once a year, you help avoid overheating, increase the life of your water heater, and keep your water clean!

  • Check and Replace the Anode Rod When Needed

The anode rod plays a critical role in preventing corrosion inside your water heater tank. It attracts the corrosive minerals in the water, preventing the tank from rusting and significantly extending its lifespan. However, the anode rod wears out over time, and once it’s gone, the tank becomes susceptible to rust and deterioration.

If this is the only issue, you don’t need to replace the entire water heater. However, inspecting the anode rod regularly (every 2–3 years) is crucial to maintaining a healthy tank. If the rod is worn down or coated in calcium, it’s time for a replacement. The process typically involves removing the old rod and installing a new one, which a professional plumber can do if you’re unsure how to handle it yourself.

A healthy anode rod can help prevent foundation water damage and costly repairs, saving you the expense of replacing the entire unit prematurely.

  • Inspect the Pressure Relief Valve for Proper Function

The pressure relief valve (PRV) is one of your water heater’s most important safety features. It relieves excess pressure that builds up inside the tank. Without it, your water heater could overheat or, in extreme cases, explode!

To keep it functioning correctly, inspecting the pressure relief valve regularly is important. To test it, follow these steps:

  1. Locate the valve on the side of your water heater.
  2. Lift the lever on the valve (be prepared for a small amount of water to come out).
  3. If water flows out when you lift the lever, the valve is working fine. If no water comes out or the lever feels stuck, the valve may need to be replaced.

A well-maintained pressure relief valve prevents safety hazards and ensures your water heater runs safely and efficiently.

  • Adjust the Thermostat to Prevent Overheating

Many people don’t realize that the thermostat on their water heater plays a crucial role in efficiency and safety. Setting the temperature too high can lead to overheating, which can shorten the lifespan of your unit and raise your energy bills.

The recommended setting for most water heaters is around 120°F (49°C). This temperature is hot enough for most household needs but not so hot that it stresses the system. It’s also the ideal setting to help you save on energy costs, as every 10-degree increase can increase energy consumption by 3–5%.

If you have a smart thermostat for your water heater, ensure it’s calibrated correctly. Checking and adjusting the temperature as needed will help prevent overheating and improve water heater efficiency. Regular thermostat adjustments will keep your unit running smoothly, saving both energy and money.

  • Schedule Professional Water Heater Maintenance Annually

While DIY water heater maintenance is a great way to maintain your water heater, it’s also important to call in the professionals for an annual plumbing inspection. A plumber can assess the overall condition of your water heater, identify potential issues before they become serious problems, and offer expert advice on keeping your system in top shape.

During a professional maintenance visit, the plumber will inspect all the essential components, including the anode rod, thermostat, pressure relief valve, and heating elements. They’ll also check for leaks and any signs of wear or damage. Regular professional inspections help identify problems early, saving you from costly repairs or replacements.

If you’re unsure when your water heater was last serviced or need help with any of the maintenance tasks mentioned above, contact Custom Plumbing of Arizona at 602-866-2665 today to schedule a professional inspection and keep your water heater in top condition!

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Maintaining a functional sewer line is essential for the smooth operation of your home’s plumbing system. A damaged sewer line can lead to inconvenient blockages, unpleasant odors, and even costly repairs. Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take to prevent these issues. 

In this blog, we’ll explore four effective ways to prevent sewer line damage and ensure your plumbing remains trouble-free.

4 Ways to Prevent Sewer Line Damage

  • Flush Your Sewer Line

Over time, as water flows out of your home, it carries along with it tiny particles and sediment that can accumulate in the main sewer drain line. While it doesn’t happen all at once, the gradual buildup of this sediment can lead to troublesome blockages. In some cases, these blockages can escalate into severe problems, potentially resulting in flooding, a scenario no homeowner wants to face.

The good news is that there’s a simple and effective way to prevent this from happening: periodic sewer line flushing. This maintenance procedure involves using high-pressure water to clear any accumulated sediment from your sewer line forcefully. Think of it as a refreshing cleanse for your plumbing system, ensuring that your sewer line remains free from obstruction and ready to function smoothly.

  • Don’t Plant Trees Nearby

Beautiful, towering trees can undoubtedly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property and boost its overall value. However, planting such majestic trees in close proximity to your home’s primary sewer line can spell trouble in the long run. As these arboreal giants mature, their roots possess an uncanny ability to infiltrate underground pipelines, including your sewer line. When these roots insinuate themselves into your plumbing, they can create a plethora of issues, ranging from minor clogs to severe structural damage, all of which could result in costly repairs.

To safeguard your sewer line from root-induced mayhem, it is prudent to consider your landscaping choices carefully. Opt for shrubs and flowers to adorn the immediate vicinity of your sewer line, while reserving the privilege of hosting those towering titans in areas of your property where they can cast cooling shadows and enhance your home’s overall curb appeal without posing a lurking threat to your plumbing infrastructure.

  • Avoid Driving Over It

Begin by pinpointing the exact location of your home’s main sewer line and taking proactive measures to prevent heavy machinery from traversing over it. The substantial weight and pressure exerted by large vehicles, like construction equipment and oversized RVs, can have dire consequences, potentially causing the sewer line to buckle or become damaged.

In cases where you are unsure about the specific path of your home’s sewer line, feel free to enlist the guidance of your local municipal authorities or engage a qualified plumber. These experts possess the knowledge and experience required to trace the course of the sewer line, identifying where it connects to the main sewer infrastructure and enters your dwelling.

The vulnerability of your sewer line to vehicular damage is particularly heightened during landscaping and home improvement ventures. These projects often require substantial equipment and machinery, which, if not handled with care, can threaten your sewer line’s integrity. In scenarios where significant landscaping or renovation work is planned, it is prudent to acquaint the contractors with the precise location of your home’s sewer line. This ensures that they are well informed about the imperative need to steer clear of this area, thus diminishing the risk of potential harm.

  • Get Your Sewer Line Inspected

It’s essential to recognize that, over time, the components within your home’s main sewer line naturally undergo wear and tear. Although no immediate issues may be evident, the gradual deterioration in these components will eventually necessitate replacement. To avert the emergence of substantial problems due to routine wear and tear, it’s advisable to schedule regular inspections of your sewer line by a qualified plumber. During these inspections, ask the plumber to address and rectify any identified issues, ensuring the continued reliability of your sewer system.

Suspect Sewer Line Damage? Talk to Your Local Experts

When it comes to plumbing, it’s always best to trust the experts for sewer line damage. At Custom Plumbing, we serve various locations, including Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Buckeye, Cave Creek, Chandler, Avondale, Gilbert, Peoria, Surprise, El Mirage, Apache Junction, Mesa, Tempe, and Goodyear. Our experienced plumbers are committed to delivering top-notch services tailored to your specific requirements. When it comes to emergency plumbing troubles, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 602-866-2665 for expert assistance.

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Is there anything more exasperating than a bathroom faucet leaking at the base? That continuous drip-drip sound and the persistent puddle forming around the base of the tap can be truly frustrating. However, we’re here to assist you in resolving the issue. 

In this informative and actionable guide, we’ll delve into the common causes behind this problem and offer step-by-step instructions on how to fix a bathroom faucet leaking at the base.

Why Is My Bathroom Faucet Leaking at the Base of the Handle?

Before we dive into the solutions, let’s understand why your bathroom faucet might be leaking at the base. Typically, there are two primary culprits:

  • Worn-Out O-rings: Most bathroom faucets rely on O-rings to create tight seals wherever waterproofing is necessary. These O-rings, usually made of rubber, can dry up and crack over time. When this happens, water may seep down the faucet body while running and escaping from the bottom. This escaping water is what leads to the pooling around the base of the faucet, creating that frustrating puddle.
  1. Faulty Cartridge: Although less common, a worn-out cartridge within the faucet can also cause leaks. The cartridge, responsible for controlling water flow through the faucet, may wear out, allowing water to slip through when it shouldn’t. Often, this issue accompanies other worn-out components, such as tired O-rings, leading to water puddling around the faucet’s base.

Now that we know the possible causes, let’s move on to fixing the problem.

How to Fix a Bathroom Faucet Leaking at the Base

Install New O-Rings

  • Step 1 – Prepare the Workspace: Turn off the water supply valve under your sink before starting. Then, begin by safeguarding your workspace. Cover the sink drain with a towel to ensure no small components are lost during the repair process.
  • Step 2 – Remove the Handle Cap: Carefully eliminate the faucet handle cap, if it’s present, using either a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail. Be mindful not to damage the finish while doing this.
  • Step 3 – Unthread the Handle Screw: Unscrew the handle by turning the screw counterclockwise using a Philips screwdriver. Sometimes, you might encounter a hex screw, necessitating an Allen key for removal.
  • Step 4 – Handle Removal: Gently remove and set the faucet handle aside.
  • Step 5 – Loosen the Valve: With the screw removed, use pliers or a wrench to loosen the valve from the faucet body. Secure the pliers or wrench around the valve’s base and rotate counterclockwise.
  • Step 6 – Valve Extraction: Lift the valve away from the faucet’s base.                                                                                                                                                               

    Replace the Cartridge

  • Step 1 – Prepare for Work: Before beginning, ensure the water supply is turned off (if you attempted to replace the O-rings earlier). Drain any remaining water from the lines and place a towel over the drain to avoid any mess.
  • Step 2 – Handle Removal: Start by removing the faucet handle. This involves taking off the decorative cap and unthreading the screw. Pull the handle upward to detach it from the faucet.
  • Step 3 – Locate the Retaining Nut: Identify the retaining nut situated on top of the cartridge. Use either a pipe wrench or tongue-and-groove pliers to remove this nut and set it aside for later use.
  • Step 4 – Remove the Old Cartridge: Take note of the cartridge’s orientation and use pliers (either tongue-and-groove or needle-nose) to extract the old cartridge from the faucet’s body carefully. It may be helpful to take a picture for reference.
  • Step 5 – Grease and Insert the New Cartridge: Apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the O-rings of the new cartridge using your finger. Insert the new cartridge into the faucet body, ensuring proper alignment.
  • Step 6 – Reassembly: Follow the reverse steps to reassemble the faucet. This includes replacing the retaining nut, securing it firmly, reattaching the handle, ensuring it’s properly secured, and then replacing the decorative cap.
  • Step 7 – Test for Leaks: Turn the water supply back on and check the faucet for any signs of leaks. Ensure there is no standing water around the faucet before conducting this test.

Installing a New Faucet

In some situations, replacing the entire faucet is the most viable option. This is typically the case with older faucets that have seen decades of use, as most bathroom faucets tend to wear out after 15 to 20 years. If you’ve already attempted O-ring and cartridge replacements without success, consider investing in a new faucet. Fortunately, you can find budget-friendly bathroom faucets for under $100, making it a cost-effective solution to persistent leakage issues.

Can’t Fix Your Bathroom Faucet Leaking at the Base? It’s Time To Call A Plumber

If your bathroom faucet is still leaking at the base despite following our troubleshooting steps diligently, it might be time to seek professional help. At Custom Plumbing, we understand the urgency of plumbing emergencies, and our dedicated team is available 24/7 to assist you with your emergency plumbing services. 

Whether you’re in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Buckeye, Cave Creek, Chandler, Avondale, Gilbert, Peoria, Surprise, El Mirage, Apache Junction, Mesa, Tempe, or Goodyear, our expert plumbers are committed to delivering top-notch services tailored to your specific needs. Contact us at 602-866-2665!

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Your home’s boiler may not be the talk of the town, but it’s undoubtedly one of the unsung heroes that keep you cozy and comfortable. It’s responsible for providing warmth and hot water, which makes it an essential part of your daily routine. Therefore, if you’re a homeowner with a residential boiler, it’s crucial to understand how it works and how to maintain it properly. In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into three things that every homeowner should know about their residential boiler.

3 Things to Know about Your Residential Boiler

1. Boilers Have Many Benefits

Heat Your Home More Evenly

Boilers distribute heat more evenly than forced-air systems. The heat is delivered through radiators or baseboard heaters, which allows for a more consistent temperature throughout your home. In contrast, forced-air systems rely on ductwork, which can lead to uneven heating, especially in larger homes.

Enjoy Some Peace and Quiet

Boilers are much quieter than forced-air systems. With a forced-air system, you’ll hear the noise of the blower motor and air rushing through the ducts. With a boiler, you’ll only hear the gentle hum of the circulating pump.

Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Forced-air systems can circulate dust, allergens, and other contaminants throughout your home. Conversely, boilers don’t use ductwork, which reduces the amount of airborne particles that can affect indoor air quality. This is especially important for people with allergies or respiratory problems.

More: Why Regular Drain Cleaning Services Are Critical

2. Maintenance Is Critical to the Life of Your Residential Boiler

Like any mechanical system, boilers require regular maintenance to function properly. Neglecting your boiler can decrease efficiency and energy bills and even cause breakdowns. Here are some maintenance tasks you should perform regularly:

Check the Water Level

Low water levels can cause your boiler to overheat and shut down. Make sure the water level is always between the minimum and maximum marks on the sight glass. If you’re unsure how to do this, consult your boiler manual or contact a professional.

Test the Pressure Relief Valve

The pressure relief valve is a safety feature that releases pressure when it exceeds a certain level. To test the valve, lift the lever until you hear a hissing sound. If water comes out, the valve is working properly. If it doesn’t, contact a professional to have it replaced.

Clean the Burners and Heat Exchanger

Dirt and debris can accumulate on the burners and heat exchangers, reducing the efficiency of your boiler. To clean these components, turn off the power to the boiler and let it cool down. Then, remove the cover and use a soft brush or vacuum to remove any debris.

3. What Usually Fails On A Boiler?

Boilers can last for many years with proper maintenance, but some common issues can cause them to fail. Here are a few of the most common problems:

Leaking

Leaks can occur in various parts of the boiler, including the pipes, valves, and tank. If you notice water pooling around your boiler or hear hissing sounds, contact a professional to have the leak repaired.

Thermostat Issues

If your boiler isn’t responding to your thermostat, it may be due to a faulty thermostat or wiring. A professional can diagnose the issue and replace the faulty components.

Ignition Problems

Boilers rely on a pilot light or electronic ignition to start the heating process. If you’re having trouble getting your boiler to start, it could be due to a faulty ignition system. A professional can diagnose and repair the issue.

Need Boiler Heater Repair? Contact Custom Plumbing

If you’re having trouble with your residential boiler, don’t hesitate to contact a professional. Attempting to fix the issue yourself can be dangerous and may cause further damage to your boiler. At Custom Plumbing, we offer expert boiler heater repair services to help you get your system back up and running in no time.

Our team of experienced technicians has the knowledge and tools necessary to diagnose and repair any issue with your residential boiler. Whether you’re experiencing leaks, thermostat issues, or ignition problems, we can help. We also offer regular maintenance services to keep your boiler running efficiently and prevent breakdowns. Contact us today to schedule your appointment at 602-866-2665.

Posted on Author webdevCategories Residential Boiler, Residential Plumbing ServicesTags Leave a comment on 3 Things You Should Know about Your Residential Boiler

How often should you have your sewer lines cleaned? When your sewer lines are clogged, they cause a lot of problems. From plugged toilets to clogged sink drains and less-than-pleasant sewer smells, it’s worth catching the issue early on. Luckily, you can prevent this problem by having your sewer pipes cleaned periodically. But how often should you have this done? Let’s find out!

Home and Business

Commercial and residential pipes require different levels of cleaning. Commercial lines should be cleaned every 18 to 22 months because they are used more often than residential ones, which should be cleaned every 3 to 5 years. Businesses that are high-risk due to their heavy drain usage should make sure their commercial sewer lines are clean, like restaurants and hotels.

People with septic systems can go a long time before getting their septic systems cleaned out, but it’s still a good idea to have this done every few years. You should ensure to get this done at least every two years if you own a large house and have a big family, as you would create more sewage waste in the interim.

Causes of Sewer Line Blockages

Sewer lines that are clogged or backed up can have many different causes, including:

  • Tree and plant roots

Believe it or not, you can be at a greater risk for backed-up sewer lines if you live near a tree. This is because the cracks in your pipes created by the roots or tendrils from the tree will quickly become more significant problems that can break your lines. This is a potential problem, especially for trees on residential property.

  • Sagging pipes

A sagging pipe, also known as a bellied pipe, occurs when the moist soil around an underground pipe changes its position. Over time, the pipe can begin to sag in the unsupported area. The sagging line will start to collect sewer waste and blockages. The first sign of a sagging pipe is usually a slow drain or a backup in your home’s plumbing.

  • Grease

Grease can build up in your pipes and cause them to clog. Doing things like pouring oil down the drain might seem like a good idea, but it can solidify and clog your pipes. Residential drainage lines should be hydro-jetted around once a year, while grease traps should also have routine maintenance.

Warning Signs Your Sewer Line Needs to be Cleaned

Here are some signs that your sewer line requires a deep cleaning:

  • Sewage is leaking from your drain, bathtub, sink, or toilet.
  • Plumbing is making bubbling or splashing noises.
  • Water can back up and flood other parts of your home using equipment like a dishwasher or washing machine.
  • Recurring blockages.
  • Slow drain.
  • Unpleasant odors.

Routine Sewer Line Cleaning and Video Inspection

Video inspection and routine sewer line cleaning can help you stay informed about the state of your home’s plumbing system. If you’re buying a house, find out detailed information about its plumbing history, how recent repairs have been done, and what to expect. Then, protect yourself against saggy pipes by following a regular maintenance schedule. In general, it’s recommended that homeowners should schedule 18-month sewer line cleanings.

Give us a Call to Schedule Your Plumbing Appointment Today

How often should you have your sewer lines cleaned? Custom Plumbing of Arizona offers sewer line cleaning services to keep your home or business functioning properly. Our team of experts will assess your needs and recommend a schedule for cleaning your sewer lines. Contact us today at 602-866-2665 to learn more about our services.

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