Keep Your Home Safe From Natural Gas Leaks This National Wellness Month

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Identifying and Safely Dealing With Gas Leaks

Many homes rely on natural gas for heating, hot water, and appliances, making natural gas an important component of daily life. But while natural gas is often delivered and supplied safely within each home, there is still the possibility that it may leak, causing physical symptoms that may include headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, eye irritation, and skin blisters.

Because the health and safety risks associated with gas leaks are serious, it is recommended that homeowners who experience these gas leak symptoms open their windows immediately, vacate the property, and call for help right away. This awareness is a crucial step to saving lives in the event of a gas leak, but there are other steps that homeowners may take to ensure that they get themselves out of harm’s way in the nick of time. This post will share common signs of a gas leak and how to respond.

Knowing the Signs of a Gas Leak

smellWhen detecting a gas leak, one of the most important things a homeowner can do is listen to their bodies. The nose, in particular, can be crucial in detecting a gas leak since natural gas usually has a foul, rotten egg smell added that gets released into the air. This is caused by mercaptan, a harmless chemical added to natural gas that helps people identify if it has leaked into the atmosphere. 

Being an odorless gas, natural gas benefits from this addition because it helps alert people of a leak. While the nose may be the first to be alerted to a gas leak, the rest of the body may be close behind. Health symptoms of a gas leak may follow, causing issues like headaches, nausea, and difficulty breathing. 

Another way to tell if gas may be leaking is by looking at the monthly gas bill. If it is higher than normal, it may be because of a gas leak. Other signs may include a faint hissing sound, dead plants along the gas lines, and even, in some instances, a visible white mist or fog in areas around the house.

What to Do in the Event of a Gas Leak

Noticing any of these gas leak signs warrants an immediate evacuation of the home. As homeowners exit, they are advised not to turn on any lights or electrical devices to prevent a spark and leave windows and doors open to prevent the gas from building up inside the home. 

Once homeowners and their families are clear of the premises, the next thing to do is immediately call for help from local gas leak repair professionals, who will be able to respond to this emergency, shut off the gas lines, locate the leak, and quickly proceed with the gas line repair. 

Solutions to a Gas Leak

leakWhen dealing with a gas leak, staying calm and contacting professionals to handle the problem are two of the most important things. Professional plumbers licensed to repair gas leaks and who have the necessary equipment and experience are best equipped to handle the dangerous gas leak and repair the gas line. 

The good news is that homes can be made safer from this hazard by installing preventative measures such as a gas leak detector, which alerts homeowners to gas leaks. Homes with a carbon monoxide detector may only rely on those to detect gas leaks if they are of a specific model also designed to detect a gas leak. Otherwise, a separate gas leak detector should be installed.

About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing

Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing is a family-owned and operated company serving Sparks and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront service, competitive pricing, and reliable solutions. Call them today for gas line repair and installation in Sparks, NV. 

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Easy Ways to Conserve Water This Summer

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Three Eco-Friendly Measures That Save Money and Water 

Summertime is exciting, but with so much on the summer bucket list, saving money for fun summer activities is beneficial. One way to save money this summer is by reducing water usage, which can lead to lower water bills. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to conserve water this summer! With a few simple tips, homeowners can start saving on their water costs while encouraging sustainable practices and helping the environment. Read on for tips to conserve water and save money this summer season!

Installing Water-Saving Fixtures 

showerHomeowners may do everything they can to save water but want to see a larger reduction in their monthly water bill. If that scenario sounds familiar, one could invest in water-saving fixtures, such as: 

  • Low-flow toilets: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that the standard toilet uses 1.6 gallons a flush. At first, that doesn’t seem like much. But suppose the toilet gets flushed ten times a day. That’s 16 gallons of water alone. A WaterSense-labeled toilet uses only 1.28 gallons of water a flush or less, which can make a big difference over time. 
  • Low-flow showerheads: Most standard showerheads use 2.5 gallons a minute, per the EPA. WaterSense showerheads only use 2 gallons or less, saving water without sacrificing performance. 

Watering the Lawn Early in the Morning 

lawnPlants need sun and water to thrive. However, they don’t necessarily need these two things at the same time. For instance, it’s not a good idea to water outdoor plants when it’s hot, and the sun is blazing. That’s because much of the water will evaporate before it reaches the plant’s roots, effectively wasting water and money. 

However, homeowners can get the most out of their water usage and prevent having to water their lawns and plants more often than they need to by watering either early in the morning or at dusk–when the sun’s not at its highest, and the weather isn’t at its hottest. This way, water can reach and be absorbed by roots and offer much-needed nourishment. 

Eco-Friendly Habits 

Here are some more ways to limit water usage while enjoying the summer:

  • Ensure plants and the yard are only watered when needed, including taking advantage of rainwater watering the yard after rain. 
  • When washing a car, use a bucket of soapy water instead of the hose. This will save a lot of water while still getting the job done effectively.
  • Turn off the faucet during tasks like brushing teeth, hand-washing dishes, and shaving to save water.
  • Try to take shorter showers. The water can also be turned off when lathering shampoo or soap to save water. 

Using these measures to conserve water, people can enjoy the summer months without feeling guilty about using too much water or dealing with high water bills.

About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing 

Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing are local plumbing contractors serving Sparks, Reno, and the surrounding areas since 1986. They provide honest, upfront service, personalized solutions, and a preferred customer program. Call them today for kitchen and bathroom plumbing services in Sparks, NV. 

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Learn Three Common Issues Behind a Leaky Faucet

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Don’t Ignore Leaks, Even a Dripping Faucet 

A leaking faucet can be one of the most annoying plumbing issues, as it's irritating to listen to and adds up on the water bill if left unchecked. While it may seem minor on the surface, a dripping faucet is an indication that there could be underlying problems, such as corrosion or worn-out parts. 

This blog post will discuss some common issues behind a leaky faucet. Whenever someone notices a leak, they should contact a plumber to fix it immediately to prevent problems like water damage, high water costs, and mold growth. 

O-Ring 

o ringBathroom and kitchen faucets have components called O-rings. These small flexible hoops connect the faucet’s spout to the base, creating a watertight seal. O-rings can generally last years without showing any signs of wear and tear. Yet, if a homeowner notices the faucet leaking or dripping from the handle, this could suggest the o-ring has worn out.

The rubber O-rings can become worn out and break down due to normal wear and tear as time passes. O-rings can also wear out due to exposure to hot and cold temperatures, rubber-degrading chemicals, and hard water. Once this happens, they cannot maintain the seal, allowing water to leak. 

Washer 

No, not the dishwasher or washing machine. A washer is a flat circular ring that fits between two surfaces, such as a tap or valve and a nut, to create a water-tight connection. Over time, the washer can become worn out or corroded due to exposure to water and other environmental factors. 

A worn-out or corroded washer can cause leaking at the faucet’s spout, which should be fixed immediately. The washer must be replaced to fix a leaking tap caused by a worn-out or corroded washer. Choosing a washer of the right size and material ensures the best water-tight connection. Once the new washer has been installed, any additional leaking should be stopped.

Valve Seat 

valveA valve seat is a part of the valve that seals the connection between two pipes, allowing or preventing the flow of water between them. The valve seat is usually made from materials such as stainless steel, brass, or cast iron and is designed to withstand the pressure of fluids passing through it. A corroded valve seat can cause leaking or dripping at the faucet spout, a common issue with aging valves and fixtures. 

Corrosion occurs when the valve seat, usually made of metal, becomes exposed to certain elements, such as water and oxygen. This causes an oxidation process, resulting in rust and corrosion on the valve seat. This can reduce the effectiveness of the seal, leading to leaks or drips at the spout. A plumber can repair a leaky faucet by identifying the underlying issue, which may require replacing an O-ring, washer, or valve seat. 

About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing 

Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing are a family-owned and operated business serving Sparks, NV, and the surrounding areas since 1986. They provide upfront service, instant savings, and financing. Call them today for sink and faucet repair or replacement in Sparks, NV.

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Self-Care Ideas for a Stress-Free Valentine's Day!

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Create Your Own Bathroom Spa Oasis This Valentine’s Day!

An at-home spa day in a new bathroom oasis can be an excellent way to relax and unwind. It can include updating fixtures and decor to create a serene and luxurious atmosphere and incorporating self-care practices such as candles, essential oils, bath salts, and other products. This blog will discuss ways to transform a bathroom into a spa oasis conducive to relaxation.

The Surprising Benefits of Taking a Bath

bathAdding a bathtub to a bathroom is a huge step in creating an at-home spa feel. Bathing has numerous health benefits, both physical and mental. For one thing, it can improve circulation by dilation of blood vessels, which aids in the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the body's tissues. Furthermore, the warmth of the water can help relax muscles and joints, making it an excellent choice for sore or achy bodies.

Soaking in a warm bath can also help reduce stress and promote relaxation on the mental side. The warmth of the water and the sensation of weightlessness can cause the body's natural feel-good chemicals, endorphins, to be released. This can help to lower blood pressure and improve sleep, resulting in a more restful night's sleep. Adding Epsom salt or essential oils to the bath can help soothe and calm the mind even more. Taking a bath can also help with skin care by removing dead skin cells, moisturizing the skin, and opening up the pores. 

Brighten Up Your Bath: Adding Color to Your Bathing Routine

Chromatherapy, also known as color therapy, employs various colors of LED lights to promote specific effects on the body and mind. Blue light is associated with relaxation and anxiety reduction, red light with energizing and stimulating, and green light with promoting balance and harmony. 

By simply installing these lights, the bathroom can also benefit from a stylish ambiance. By incorporating color therapy into self-care, homeowners can improve their bathroom’s overall aesthetic and enhance their bathing routine simply and cost-effectively.

The Stress-Relieving Benefits of a Rain Shower

showerInstalling rainfall showerheads is another option to upgrade bathrooms. They replicate the sensation of standing in the rain, providing a unique showering experience. A rain showerhead can have a soothing and relaxing effect on the mind and body. The sensation of the water droplets on the skin can help homeowners to relieve muscle tension, reduce stress and even improve mood. The sound of the rain can also be incredibly soothing, providing a calming atmosphere for unwinding and winding down. These showerheads also have a larger diameter, allowing for full body coverage, resulting in a more immersive and warming experience in the shower. 

A rain showerhead can also add a luxurious and modern touch to any bathroom. Some models include built-in LED lights, which can improve the ambiance of the shower and make it feel more spa-like. Some models also have built-in Bluetooth speakers that can play music or podcasts in the shower, making the experience even more enjoyable and relaxing. Rain showerheads are a great option for their aesthetic and relaxation benefits and can help transform any bathroom into an oasis. 

About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing

Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing are a family-owned and operated business serving the community of Sparks, NV, and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront service, instant savings, and a preferred customer program. Call them today for bathroom remodeling and renovation in Sparks, NV.

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How to Find a Reliable Plumber This Holiday Season

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Three Things Homeowners Should Look for in a Plumbing Company 

A good plumber is hard to find––especially during the holiday season. It always seems that the closer the holidays come, the more pipes leak, the more toilets start clogging, and the more problems arise. This makes it imperative to find a reliable service without waiting weeks for an appointment. Thankfully, there are many ways homeowners can find a quality plumbing service. Some of these measures include: 

Look for Positive Reviews reviews

When looking for a plumbing company, homeowners should turn to online reviews. Sites like Facebook and Yelp often host reviews that let homeowners find plumbers. It’s important to note that no company is perfect, even the allegedly five-star ones. So, homeowners shouldn’t let a few three-star reviews discourage them from reaching out to a professional. 

When reading reviews, homeowners should be on the lookout for the following: 

  • The number of reviews: The more reviews a company has, the more accurate the overall rating will be. 
  • Who’s leaving the review: There are some fake reviews out there intended to make a company look good and others that make a company look bad. One can see how valid a review is by seeing who left it. If the person leaves many honest reviews, their comments may carry more weight than a review left by a one-time user. 

Check for Licensed and Insured Plumbers 

When it comes to finding a plumbing company, it's important to make sure that the one hired is fully licensed and insured. A licensed plumbing professional will know about local building codes, regulations, and safety requirements. This means that any work they do on a property will meet the highest standards of quality and safety. 

On the other hand, insurance provides financial protection should something go wrong with their work. For example, if an uninsured plumber were to cause damage to a property while installing a water heater or sink, the homeowner would be responsible for paying for the repairs. However, with a licensed and insured provider, these costs would be covered in case of an accident. 

Choosing a licensed and insured plumbing company is an important decision that can save homeowners from costly repairs down the line. Do the research and ask the right questions when looking for a reputable provider. This will ensure that any work they do meets local standards, is of high quality, and provides financial protection should something go wrong.

Ask About Plumbing Maintenance 

maintenanceRegular plumbing maintenance is essential to keeping a home in good working order. Not only does it help to prevent major plumbing disasters from happening, but regular maintenance also helps make repairs easier and more cost-effective when they are needed. 

There are many benefits to having the plumbing system maintained regularly. Preventative maintenance can keep minor problems from becoming bigger, more expensive ones down the line. By having inspections done, any signs of wear and tear or potential issues with pipes can be identified quickly and addressed before they become serious. Regularly scheduled maintenance checks can also help extend the life of the plumbing system and all its components by ensuring everything is running smoothly and efficiently, which saves money in the long run. Maintenance also reduces water bills, as regular tuning and adjustments can help make sure no water is being wasted through leaks or faulty fixtures. 

When looking for a plumbing company, be sure to ask if they offer maintenance services. This way, homeowners know they have the experience and expertise to keep a home’s plumbing system running properly. A good quality plumber will fully assess the system, thoroughly check all pipes, valves, and fixtures for any signs of wear or damage, and recommend repairs or replacements where necessary. They can also provide advice on how to reduce energy costs by using more efficient hot water systems and appliances.

About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing 

Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing are a family-owned and operated business serving Sparks, NV, and the surrounding areas since 1986. They provide competitive prices, upfront service, and a preferred customer program with many perks. Call them today for plumbing services in Sparks, NV.

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Haunted Houses: Plumbing Edition

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Banging Noise From Behind The Wall? 

Sudden unexplained sounds can create fear in any household. While unusual banging noises may seem mysterious, it’s likely caused by faulty plumbing. So, get water hammers repaired instead of a home feeling like a haunted house.  When fixed correctly, the phenomenon known as a water hammer can no longer haunt the home. 

What Are Water Hammers?

Loud banging noises can be an indication of irregular water flow. Although the noise can be quite loud, it emanates from small spaces in the water pipes. The term for this issue is called water hammer. 

When a surge of pressure suddenly changes or stops the flow of water, it sends a shock wave down the pipe, creating noisy sounds. Water hammers can damage pipes and the valves and fittings of the pipe structure. Neglecting to fix this problem can easily lead to a burst pipe. 

What’s So Dangerous About Water Hammers?

pipePipe damage is a costly problem that takes time to fix. To prevent additional wear and tear, homeowners must pay attention to their walls. Banging pipes can be heard behind washing machines but may be mistaken for the spin cycle. 

Water hammers can damage gaskets and pipe joints throughout the plumbing system and lead to a burst pipe. If leaks occur, homeowners may notice cracks forming along the wall. Wherever there is water hammer, mold, and mildew are sure to follow.

Waterlogged air chambers and loose pipe-mounting straps are often to blame. Outside the pipes, appliances may also affect water flow. Dishwashers and washing machines use solenoid valves that affect air chambers. This does not mean appliances must be discarded. Pipes can be adjusted instead. 

How Pros Fix It

professionalThere are a few ways to minimize pressure within the pipes. While this will help reduce banging sounds, trained professionals will still need to handle the problem. Emptying air chambers is recommended as a temporary solution. This is done by completely draining the pipes before refilling them. The air chambers effectively blunt the shockwaves to keep water running smoothly.

Pressure regulators are usually found between the water meter and the shut-off valve and can be adjusted by turning counter-clockwise. Before attempting to fix any part of the plumbing system, all appliances should be completely shut off. 

The first step to reducing noisy water pipes involves the main water valve. This is usually found under the kitchen sink or near the water heater. Once this is turned off, the highest faucet in the house needs to be opened while the downstairs faucet is running. After the pipes are completely drained, the main water valve can be turned back on. 

Standard residential water pressure should never reach 80 PSI. Ideally, it should be between 40 and 60. Permanently fixing the water hammer will likely require the installation of an arrestor. Water hammer arrestors are placed inside the pipe to provide a designated air-filled section. This is used to buffer the immediate jump in pressure if the water valve slams shut. 

A qualified professional has the right knowledge and equipment to fix a water hammer. Using slip joint pliers, plumbers can disconnect the supply lines to access the pipe valve. Trying to do this without the right tools can damage pipes and exacerbate the problem. 

About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing

Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing is a family-owned and operated business serving Sparks, NV, and the surrounding areas since 1986. They offer honest, upfront service, instant savings, and a preferred customer program with many benefits. Call them today for plumbing services in Sparks, NV.

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Back to School: Crash Course In Water Heaters

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Water Heaters 101: Learn the Basics

Water heaters are one of the most important pieces of home hardware because they provide hot water for daily tasks. Families use hot water for washing their hands, cleaning clothes, taking showers, and more. It is hard to imagine a world without water heaters!

Without a basic knowledge of how water heaters work, homeowners may not have to imagine they don’t have a functional water heater. Taking proper care of a home’s water heater is essential for preventing it from breaking down. In this blog post, our plumbing experts give an overview of everything homeowners need to know about water heaters!

Common Types of Hot Water Heaters

types of water heatersThere is more than one type of water heater. The main types of water heaters installed in modern homes are tankless, electric, and gas water heaters. There are pros and cons to each type of water heater.

  • Tankless Water Heater: Tankless water heaters only heat the amount of water needed for each task, which eliminates wasted energy. New tankless water heaters are an eco-friendly and water-saving option. They are more expensive to install than traditional water heaters but offer longer-lasting performance.
  • Electric Water Heater: One of the most common types of water heaters is electric water heaters. Electric water heaters use heating rods within the tank to warm the water. They are easy to install, safer than gas water heaters, and are usually less expensive to purchase. The downside to electric water heaters is that they have higher operating costs than gas water heaters.
  • Gas Water Heater: The most common type of household water heater is a gas water heater. Gas water heaters use a gas-powered burner to heat the water. They are more expensive to install than electric water heaters but offer less expensive operating costs. Gas water heaters will continue to operate during a power outage, unlike electric water heaters.

Why Water Heater Maintenance Is Essential

water heater maintenanceDuring the heating process, natural minerals in the water separate into solid sediment. Plumbers drain water heaters to remove this sediment buildup. Flushing the tank prevents mineral sediments from corroding the tank and causing other problems. Failing to flush water heater tanks often enough is a common reason they break down.

The best way to prevent a water heater from breaking down or needing frequent repairs is to schedule regular maintenance. Maintenance also helps to keep utility bills low by promoting the most efficient performance. During maintenance, the technician will have a chance to inspect the water heater for signs of damage and catch issues early on.

Homeowners should visually inspect their hot water tanks between maintenance appointments to check for signs of damage such as small leaks. They should also make sure that the area around the water heater is clean and free of debris. Flushing the tank should only be performed by a professional plumber who is experienced and licensed for water heater maintenance.

How to Know If Water Heater Repair Is Needed

Some signs a water heater needs repair or a replacement are:

  • Not enough hot water
  • Inconsistent temperatures
  • Strange noises
  • Smelly water
  • Discolored water

Water heaters left in a state of disrepair can be a serious hazard to the property and homeowners. Homeowners may be tempted to skip maintenance or attempt DIY water heater maintenance to save money, but this could cost them more in the long run if someone gets hurt or the water heater tank bursts.

High temperatures and up to 100 gallons of water are contained within the water tank. If the water tank bursts open, it could cause substantial water damage and even a housefire. No water heater can last forever, and after around 15 years, it is usually time for water heater replacement.

Corrosion of the water tank from a buildup of sediment is a leading cause of water heater tank leaks. Installing an anode rod that attracts corrosive materials can improve the system's longevity. Anode rods need to be replaced every three to five years.

About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing

Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing is a family-owned and operated business serving Sparks, NV, and the surrounding areas since 1986. They offer competitive pricing, personalized solutions, and top-notch workmanship. Call them today for water heater services in Sparks, NV.

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3 Tips for Avoiding Plumbing Disasters This Summer

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3 Tips for Plumbing Disaster Prevention

Every season comes with a different set of challenges for home plumbing systems. In the summertime, homeowners turn on their sprinkler systems, host cookouts, and enjoy fun days by the pool. But those summer activities could stress the home’s plumbing system more.

Clogged drains, leaky pipes, and other plumbing issues can ruin summer fun. However, these three tips from professional plumbers can help homeowners prevent common summer plumbing disasters. Preventing plumbing disasters means more time and money to invest in fun summer activities. 

1. Inspect the Plumbing for Leaks & Cracks

crackAn easy way to prepare the plumbing system for the summer months is to inspect the plumbing hardware thoroughly. This includes checking the pipes and all plumbing fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and faucets. Any damaged or broken parts should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent a plumbing disaster if the problem worsens. 

Catching small problems early is the best way to protect the plumbing from a total system failure. A small pipe leak could become a big problem if the pipe bursts. Burst pipes can lead to extensive property damage, the growth of mold, and more complicated and expensive repairs. 

2. Dispose of Cooking Oil the Right Way 

drainGrilling outside is a favorite summer activity, but grease and cooking oil could wreak havoc on home plumbing systems if disposed of incorrectly. Homeowners should never put animal fat from cooking, oil, or grease down the drain because they cause clogs. The best way to dispose of cooking oil is to pour it into a disposable container and throw it in the trash. 

When grease and cooking oil gets poured down the drain, it hardens as it cools down and can coat the inside of the pipes. The oily coating then begins to catch particles of food and debris that get washed down the drain until a clog forms. Cooking oil clogs can lead to clogged pipes and pipe bursts. 

3. Flush Drains to Prevent Clogs

Clogged drains and pipes are one of the most common causes of summer plumber disasters. Homeowners can take steps to prevent pipe clogs by flushing drains regularly. Professional drain cleaning can be performed during annual plumbing maintenance, or homeowners can try one of these DIY drain cleaning methods. 

  • Pour hot water into the drain.
  • Pour baking soda and then vinegar into the drain and let it fizz
  • Be mindful of what gets flushed down the drain 
  • Invest in professional drain cleaning services

Liquid drain cleaners should be avoided because they contain toxic chemicals that are hazardous to human health. These products often fail to clear the clog, which leaves the toxic fumes with nowhere to go but up into the home. 

About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing

Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing is a trusted family-owned and operated company providing Sparks, NV, and the surrounding areas with outstanding plumbing services since 1986. They offer competitive pricing, no hidden fees, and a membership plan with many perks. Call them today for plumbing services in Sparks, NV.

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Don't Be Stopped By Outdoor Plumbing Clogs

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A Guide to Plumbing Blockages Outside

Though indoor plumbing is usually the primary concern for clogs, a homeowner has to remember that water supply pipes start outside the home and drainage pipes lead back outside. A good portion of the plumbing system on any property is outdoors and underground. When clogs happen outdoors, they may need professional attention to be cleared. 

sprinklers

Outdoor Fixtures are More than Hoses

Not only are hoses and hose bibs part of the outdoor plumbing system, but many other fixtures are included in this list. Sprinklers, pools, and pool pump systems are also considered outdoor plumbing fixtures. 

Likewise, any outdoor showers or sinks are connected to the outdoor plumbing. Drains in a home all lead to one main drain line, and if this is blocked, it can cause a problem for the whole house.

What Causes Clogs?

Drainage pipe clogs can be caused by carelessness and some unpredictable natural elements. Some clogs happen due to roots of plants squeezing into the pipes in search of water, while others result from dirt and other organic material such as leaves getting stuck in the drain. Many clogs, however, are due to the carelessness of the inhabitants. 

All wastewater that leaves the house ends up in the main drain pipe, whether from the kitchen sink or the bathroom toilet. If things that do not belong in the drains are flushed or put through the garbage disposal, it can cause a major clog in the drain and lead to issues throughout the whole home plumbing system. 

Such items that should not be allowed in drains include the following:

  • Baby wipes
  • Sanitary napkins
  • Tampons
  • Paper towels
  • Q-tips 
  • Cotton balls
  • Potato peels
  • Grease
  • Coffee grounds
  • Hard foods
  • Onion skins
  • Eggshells

Professional Clog Clearing Methodsclogs

If a major drain clog occurs, a homeowner may be tempted to use do-it-yourself methods such as baking soda and vinegar, the hot water method, or some off-the-shelf chemical drain opener. If the clog is deep, these methods will not break up the clog, but the pipes could become even more clogged. 

Homeowners should never use chemical drain openers because they do not just affect the clog but can also cause corrosion in the pipes themselves. Professional plumbing technicians will likely use one of two different methods.

  • Pipe Augering: A pipe auger or drain snake is a machine with a long cable with a spiral head that can be threaded into a pipe to break up the clog by spinning into the clog.
  • Hydro Jetting: This method uses a balloon-like object on a hose that fills the pipe and shoots a high-pressure water jet at the clog. It is a safe method because water is safe for the pipes, and the pressure does an excellent job of breaking up clogs and sending the pieces down the drain.

About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing

Family-owned and operated, Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing have been serving the residents of Sparks, NV, with personalized plumbing solutions since 1986. They treat their clients like family and provide honest, upfront service, so homeowners don’t need to worry about hidden fees. Call them today for plumbing services in Sparks, NV, and ask about the benefits of their preferred customer program.

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A Dripping Faucet Can Kill the Chance for Romance

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Drip, Drop, The Leak Needs to Stop

Is there anything as annoying as a leaking faucet? There are very few things on that list, perhaps nails on a chalkboard or the neighbors playing unwelcome music at all hours. The sink drip can be dealt with quickly and easily if a homeowner is in the mood for some daring or not-so-daring DIY. 

water bill

Hazards and Harms of a Leaky Faucet

A leaky faucet is more than an annoyance; allowing it to drip continually can cost more than 3 gallons of water per day. If the leak is even more severe, it can waste about 30 gallons per day. It can add hundreds of dollars to a yearly water bill. 

Another issue that arises from leaks is the risk of mold and mildew. These growths are unsightly, but they can also lead to health problems if certain types of mold are involved. 

Leaky Causes: Common Mood-Killing Culprits

While every faucet design is different, standard features and parts prevent the valves that keep the water in the pipes from closing completely. Though these parts are often tiny, they can affect the whole system if they wear out or loosen.

  • Cartridge: This is a valve and washer combined into one piece that sits on the pipe stem and allows or inhibits the flow of water when the handle turns. It is the most common type of faucet handle mechanism. 
  • O- Ring: This flat piece of silicone is a hard-working part of the handle. Wear and tear cause loosening and damage to this piece, and it may need replacing.
  • Washers and Seals: Sediment in the pipes and corrosion can cause these parts to break.
  • Stem Seat: This piece is essential to keeping the water from flowing. It is a silicone or rubber piece sometimes accompanied by a spring nestling into the pipe below the handle. The entire handle mechanism sits on this piece.
  • Nuts and Bolts: Age and use can cause these pieces to loosen. They may need a quick tightening with a wrench.

faucet

DIY Love: Replacing a Sink Cartridge

This article will discuss the replacement of cartridge faucets because they are the most common type. Cartridge faucets usually have two rotating handles to turn the water flow on or off. Other types include disc, ball, and compression faucets. Leaky faucet repair for these types is slightly different, but the basics are the same.

Steps for replacing a single handle cartridge:

  1. Turn off the water using the valve below the sink.
  2. Remove the stem screw cover.
  3. Remove the stem screw and handle.
  4. Remove the old cartridge.
  5. Verify placement of stem seat, O ring, and spring if applicable.
  6. Replace with a new cartridge.
  7. Replace the handle and stem screw.
  8. Test the water by turning it back on and turning the newly repaired handle.
  9. Replace the decorative cover.
  10.  Enjoy the newly repaired sink.

If a homeowner has doubts about their do-it-yourself chops, the professionals are always there to help. 

About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing

Since 1986, Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing has provided excellent plumbing solutions in Sparks, NV, and the surrounding areas. Call today for details on their preferred customer program and their emergency service.

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