Tag: maintenance plumbing

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.

Posted on Author webdevCategories Commercial Plumbing Service, Plumbing Inspection, Residential Plumbing ServicesTags , Leave a comment on How Often Should you Have Your Sewer Lines Cleaned?

What does it cost to replace plumbing in an old house? The cost to replace the plumbing in an old house depends on several factors. In this article, we try to lay out a general idea of the financial impact it could have on your bank account.

Buying an old house and fixing it up—it’s a dream for many people, whether they are first-time homeowners or real estate investors. Unfortunately, when you buy an old house, there is a chance that the inner workings have severely deteriorated, and that includes one of the most important systems: the plumbing.

Over time, regardless of the material used, plumbing corrodes and decays, leaving you, the homeowner, with an expensive mess. But just how much is it going to cost to replace plumbing in an old house that you own?

Here’s what you need to know.

Know the Signs That Your Plumbing Is Failing

First things first, if you have not read our piece on the signs that your plumbing needs to be replaced, read that post before moving on.

Done? Okay, let’s talk about costs.

What Is the Range of Cost to Replace Plumbing in an Old House?

If you are looking for a precise number here, you are not going to like this answer. The cost of replacing your old home’s plumbing can range from a few thousand dollars to upwards of $15,000. Sometimes it can cost even more, depending on the size of your home and the types of materials you decide to use. For instance, PVC is a lot cheaper than copper.

How to Make It More Affordable to Replace Your Plumbing

Now that you’ve heard the bad news—or perhaps the unsatisfying news—let’s hear some good news. You don’t usually have to replace all of the plumbing in your home at once. There are many ways that you can spread out the costs associated with removing old pipes and installing a new plumbing system.

One example involves replacing the plumbing in your home as you do renovations. If you are planning to redo a bathroom or a kitchen, you can knock out the deteriorating pipes as you go.

You may also choose to only replace the pipes in your home that are exposed. Taking this route allows you to forego the expense of ripping out and repairing walls, floors, and ceilings until it is absolutely necessary.

This can be especially costly in old homes, which were often built with more expensive materials than we use today. If you want to preserve the integrity of your home’s originality, you will want to use those same materials when you renovate.

5 Factors That Affect the Cost to Replace Plumbing

No plumbing equipment is impenetrable, and even the most robust and long-lasting pipe systems will inevitably disintegrate. If your home’s pipes are significantly damaged, a simple repair may not always be enough to stop a leak.

Hiring a professional who knows how to do the needed maintenance is critical when this occurs. Otherwise, you could have water leaks all over your house, and you’ll have to deal with the mess yourself.

What are the Different Factors That Affect the Cost to Replace Plumbing?

When it comes to home improvement, the costs are bound to vary from one house to the next. Factors that affect the costs include the condition of your pipes and gutters, how many years you’ve been without maintenance services, and whether you’re willing to take on a costly project yourself. Here are five of the most critical factors that can affect the cost:

  • Location of Failing Pipes

The placement of damaged pipes influences the cost of replumbing a house. For example, replacing a line in the basement will be more expensive than replacing a pipe in the attic. In addition, more expensive plumbing must be fixed beneath your bathrooms, bedrooms, and kitchen walls. There are additional fees associated with these emergency repairs, as well as the extra time required.

  • Size of Home & Total Stories

Replumbing a home larger than 2,600 square feet will cost more because it will require more supplies and time than homes smaller than 640 square feet or with only one floor. Furthermore, homeowners will save money replacing older homes with larger models rather than smaller ones. Similarly, a two-story house will cost more to replumb than a ranch house with a single floor.

  • Quantity of Sinks & Fixtures

The expenditure of a replacement project is higher in homes with multiple plumbing fixtures. This is because the sewer and water lines are corroding, necessitating the installation of additional pipes and supplies. The cost of replacing these pipes is also higher because connecting the pipes to each fixture takes time. Replacing a single sink can cost between $200 and $1,500, while replacing multiple sinks can be much more expensive. 

  • Diameter of the Supply & Drainage Pipes

A large diameter pipe necessitates the production of additional materials, which prove to be more expensive. This can add up when labor is used for installation, as the cost of a larger diameter pipe may be significantly higher.

  • Replacement Pipe Material

The most common types of pipes used in homes are Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX), Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC), and Copper. PEX piping is less expensive to repipe than copper piping because it is more flexible and takes a plumber less time to install behind the walls.

Copper piping costs more than PEX piping because it is more robust and lasts longer. The cost of replacing a home’s pipes with old-fashioned copper wiring can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on several factors.

Tips for Reducing the Cost of Replacing Plumbing

You can do a few things to keep the cost down when it comes to replacing plumbing. Here are four tips:

  • Take advantage of coupons and discounts

Many plumbing companies offer discounts during certain times, such as during summertime. Check with your local businesses to see if they offer any special deals.

  • Ask around for recommendations

Talk to friends, family, and neighbors about their recent plumbing replacement experiences and see if anyone has any good advice or recommendations.

  • Compare prices online

Use online tools like Google Shopping to compare prices between different plumbing retailers in your area. You can also use these tools to find coupons and discounts specific to certain retailers.

The Cost to Replace Plumbing in an Old House Depends on Many Factors

Interested in learning more about the cost to replace plumbing in an old house? Need a quote? Get in touch with Custom Plumbing of Arizona today so that we can send one of our plumbers to your home and give you an estimate.

We are here to help you tackle your plumbing project, so don’t hesitate to contact us now!

Posted on Author Vince VinceCategories Plumbing Service & Repair Phoenix AZ, BlogTags , Leave a comment on What Does it Cost to Replace Plumbing in an Old House?

Want to protect your home from water damage? In this article, we discuss how to find a water leak inside a wall so you can prevent a costly repair.

When leaks go undetected for a long time, they can cause substantial damage to your home and your belongings. From crumbling drywall and bubbling paint, to rotting flooring, to mold infestation, the problems that come with a leak inside the walls of your home can have serious, lasting consequences.

To discover and pinpoint a leak, follow these steps:

 

  1. Know the Signs of a Water Leak Inside a Wall

To locate and fix a leak inside your walls, you must first know that there is a leak to fix. Obvious signs of a leaking pipe located in the wall include standing water or wet carpeting near a wall and discoloration on the wall itself.

When excessive amounts of water accumulate within your walls, you may also notice a change in the wall’s texture. It may look like the paint or wallpaper on your drywall is bubbling or bulging. If your wall appears to bulge outward, that could be a sign of a major leak that needs to be addressed ASAP.

As is possible in any moist environment, if you have a leak inside your wall, you may notice the signs of mold. Mold can be harmful to breathe, so if you do notice mold growing on your walls, you should contact a professional.

  1. Keep an Eye on the Water Bill

A significant leak may lead to increases in your monthly water bill. If you know how much water you typically use every month, any increases that seem out of place could be a sign that you have a potential problem.

  1. Use a Moisture Meter to Locate the Leak

If you want to learn how to find a leak inside a wall, you may need to make a few purchases first. There are a lot of tools that homeowners can buy or rent to help detect a leak. One of these tools is the moisture meter. If you know the wall that has a leak inside it but not the exact location, take measurements in a few different places on the wall. The spots that read the highest are closest to the source of the leak.

  1. Locate the Leak with an Infrared Camera

Because moisture is cooler than the surrounding air and materials, you can also use an infrared camera to get an idea where a leak is coming from.

  1. Remove a Section of Drywall to Find the Leaking Pipe

Once you get a better read on where a leak is located, you can start removing drywall to start the repair process. Using a drywall saw, cut a large opening to put your head and a flashlight inside so you can look around for the leak.

4 Reasons You Might Have Water Leaking Behind Your Walls

A leaky pipe is one of the biggest stresses you can have in your home. This section will look at four common reasons for this, from corrosion to temperature changes. While leaks can be expensive to fix and cause damage to your home, if you take precautionary measures now and address any issues early on, you could avoid a lot of the headaches that come with water leaking behind your walls!

4 Common Reasons for Water Leaking from Your Plumbing

There are many reasons why plumbing could be leaking. Some of the most common reasons are corrosion, high water pressure, temperature changes, and a shifting foundation. If you notice that water is coming out of your pipes and you don’t know why, it’s important to shut off the water and contact a plumber as soon as possible before water damages your floors, walls, or ceilings.

1. Corrosion

When pipes are exposed to water and air, it can cause the metal to break down. When the metal gets too thin, it can easily spring a leak. If you have water leaking from a pipe, you need to examine your plumbing in various places to check for signs of corrosion. Sometimes plumbing needs to be replaced in large sections simultaneously, so if there is a leak in one place because of corrosion, you can bet that other piping sections will soon break down. To avoid an expensive disaster, get in touch with a plumber so they can inspect your pipes.

2. High water pressure

Sometimes, the high water pressure in your house can cause a leak in your plumbing. This often occurs when you live in an old home with pipes that aren’t adequate for the new water pressure. You may have noticed this problem because of water seeping from under the sink, running down the wall, or just dripping out of the faucet.

3. Temperature change

When water freezes, it expands. This expansion can create tiny cracks in the pipes, leading to leaks. When the temperature changes, your pipes might also need to adjust by expanding and contracting. If you notice a leak on your property during these times, the pipe is just adjusting to the temperature change. If this leak continues after you have let time pass or if there are other leaks inside your home, you may have a problem that requires professional help.

4. Shifts in your home’s foundation

Often, when your plumbing starts leaking, it’s because the ground around your home has shifted. This can happen because of heavy rains and years of wear and tear on the soil or if you have a pipe resting on newly settled soil. Shifts in the foundation may require extensive work to fix the problem.

What are the Causes of Moisture in Drywall?

The most common cause of drywall moisture is water seeping through the wall or ceiling installation. This water can come from the walls themselves or the ceiling above, and it can cause several problems. Furthermore, this process can lead to holes in the drywall, allowing moisture and other contaminants inside the wall. The same goes for water that seeps into the ceiling; it can cause damage to insulation and wiring, as well as the drywall itself. To avoid these problems, it’s essential to keep track of all changes in humidity levels.

How to Detect Moisture Behind Drywall

If you’re noticing water leaks behind drywall, there’s a good chance that moisture is the cause. Here are four ways to detect moisture behind drywall:

Check for Damaged Drywall

Moisture is likely behind the problem if you notice any signs of water damage or fraying in your drywall. To check for damage, start by feeling the wall for any dampness. Next, use a moisture meter to check the wall’s moisture level if it feels wet.

If the meter reads above 20%, moisture is present, and you’ll need to take steps to dry out the wall. If the meter reads below 20%, there may still be some moisture present, so you’ll want to keep an eye on the area for any further signs of damage.

Look for staining or discoloration of the wall.

Wall stains or discoloration can signify moisture behind the drywall. Another sign of water is if the wall feels warm or damp to the touch. 

Listen for Water Sounds

Several things can cause water sounds, but the most common is moisture. For example, if you hear strange noises from your walls, there may be too much moisture in the air. If you think you might have a moisture problem, consult a professional to get it sorted out.

Observe Signs of Wetness

Finally, one way to detect moisture behind drywall is by observing signs of wetness – like water droplets on the wall or floor or mildew growth.

5 Surprising Tools to Detect Moisture in Drywall

Do you ever need to drywall a room but have trouble finding the right tools? That is likely because there are so many tools available for this task. If you’re struggling to figure out what tools you should get, here’s a guide on five necessary tools on how to detect moisture behind drywall. 

1. Moisture meter

This tool uses light and sound sensors to detect air moisture levels.

2. Thermal camera

This camera uses infrared radiation to see through walls and ceilings. It is often used to inspect for water damage.

3. A vacuum cleaner with a wet/dry attachment

This attachment can be used to remove moisture from behind drywall. Using these tools can prevent damage to your home and protect your belongings.

4. A humidity meter 

It is the most accurate tool for detecting moisture behind drywall. But unfortunately, it is also the most expensive tool. 

5. A moisture tester 

It is less accurate than a humidity meter, but it is cheaper. Moreover, it can only measure the moisture level in the air.

Don’t Have Time to Learn How to Find a Water Leak Inside a Wall?

Don’t have time to learn how to find and fix a water leak inside a wall? Here at Custom Plumbing of Arizona, we’re ready and eager to help! We can get you fixed up so you can resume enjoying your home again.

Posted on Author Vince VinceCategories Blog, Leak Detection and Leak Locating, Water TreatmentTags , , ,