Understanding Hard Water and Water Softeners

Water in the majority of U.S. households is hard water. Hard water is water with high mineral content, such as calcium and magnesium. While the minerals in hard water are not dangerous to consume, they can have many negative effects on a household. This post will share signs of hard water indicating a water softener installation may be needed, what water softeners do, and the benefits of water softeners. 

Signs of Hard Water

There are many signs that can signal a home has hard water. These can include:  

• Hair is dull and dingy since hard water minerals can make it more difficult to rinse shampoo and conditioner 
• Skin is dry and itchy because hard water can’t rinse away soap residues as well
• Clothing and fabrics fade and wear out quicker being washed in hard water
• Dishes and silverware have white spots and may appear cloudy after being washed in hard water 
• Plumbing suffers from mineral scale that can build up and cause clogs and low water pressure 
• Mineral scale deposits build up on plumbing fixtures

What Does a Water Softener Do?

Softening water, that is, removing hard water minerals like calcium and magnesium, can be done by installing a water softener. The process occurs as incoming water flows through a tank of natural resin beads that exchange hard water minerals for sodium or potassium ions. 

The softened water is then distributed normally throughout the home. When the water softener enters a regeneration cycle, brine is flushed through the resin tank to wash away the minerals and replenish the salt ions to refresh the resin and start the process over again. 

Benefits of Water Softeners

A whole-home water softener will soften all the water entering the home, allowing every fixture and appliance to have softened water, providing the most benefits for a household. With softened water, homeowners will notice benefits like: 

• Brighter, longer-lasting clothing
• Fewer plumbing problems
• Better water pressure
• Longer-lasting appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and coffee makers
• Better energy efficiency from water-using appliances and cost savings 
• More hydrated and healthier hair and skin
• Cleaner-looking dishes after going through the dishwasher
• Less time spent cleaning mineral scale deposits and limescale

About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains

Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains is a family-owned and operated company serving the Independence, KY, area. They offer flat rate prices and the latest technology. Call them for water softener installation and services in Independence, KY. 

3 Common Plumbing Mistakes to Avoid in the Coming Year 

Plumbing systems are designed to handle necessary issues, but getting the most out of them in the home takes some effort. Too many people fall into bad habits that harm their plumbing, leading to poor outcomes that require repairs and high water bills. Luckily, the new year allows homeowners to try something new. This New Year, set a resolution to take better care of your plumbing by forgoing these three bad habits.  

Using Liquid Chemical Drain Cleaners for Clogs

Chemical drain cleaners are popular at most hardware stores because they are easy to sell. Who wouldn’t want to spend a couple of bucks on a can of drain cleaner instead of paying a plumber’s trip charge? The problem is that the makers of chemical drain cleaners are trying to sell a product, not care for a home’s plumbing. 

The truth is, most plumbers don’t recommend chemical drain cleaners, and most condemn their use. The reason is that the harsh chemicals used in drain cleaners can easily damage piping to the point that major repairs are needed. Instead of paying a small fee for a quick drain cleaning visit from a local plumber, a homeowner will be stuck paying for major repairs. Stop taking the risk with harsh chemicals. Try some other DIY drain cleaning tips first, or skip straight to calling in an expert for routine drain cleaning. 

Not Keeping Up With Plumbing Maintenance

The plumbing in the home consists of piping, fixtures, and appliances. Each of these is a potential point of failure that needs periodic attention to maximize its performance and longevity. Plumbing maintenance is a service offered by experts that aims to do just that. 

During plumbing maintenance, a technician will perform steps like: 

• Inspecting visible piping
• Looking for corrosion
• Verifying water pressure
• Cleaning drains
• Looking for leaks 
• Testing water quality

Water heater maintenance is also integral to this process. Water heaters must be drained and flushed yearly to ensure they don’t form a scale that reduces efficiency. Likewise, technicians inspect the anode rod during this procedure and replace it if necessary to protect it from corrosion. By remembering this service annually, homeowners can improve their water heater’s reliability and lifespan. 

Putting the Wrong Things Down Drains and Toilets

The most widespread bad habit that most homeowners have is their drain and toilet habits. While drains and toilets can handle pretty big messes, the less homeowners tempt fate, the better their experience will be. In the perfect situation, homeowners should ensure that only wastewater and human waste go down the drain or toilet. Everything else should be diverted into another waste stream. To accomplish this: 

• Discard all leftovers and cooking refuse in the trash
• Put trash cans in every bathroom
• Flush toilets often
• Run the garbage disposal after dishes and flush with plenty of water
• Keep foreign debris out of toilets 

By adopting these three habits, homeowners can avoid problematic plumbing in the coming year. 

About PlumbTite

PlumbTite simplifies pricing and charges only for work performed, helping homeowners avoid service fees. They also offer a plumbing maintenance plan to improve every home’s plumbing. Call today for plumbing service in Cincinnati, OH. 

When to Call for Water Heater Service 

A water heater is essential to a comfortable home, providing hot water for showers, cleaning, and more. But how do people know when it needs professional attention? Beyond obvious signs like visible leaks or insufficient heating, there are more subtle signs that could indicate the water heater requires service. 

Here are a few key indicators that suggest the water heater may need maintenance, repair, or replacement.

Utility Costs are Too High

If the owner notices a spike in utility bills, the water heater could be the culprit. Over time, a poorly maintained water heater can accumulate sediment and lose efficiency. When sediment builds up inside the tank, it creates an insulating layer between the heating elements or burners and the water, forcing the unit to work harder to heat the water. 

In addition to sediment buildup, a malfunctioning or outdated water heater can lead to higher energy consumption as the system struggles to maintain the desired temperature. Both scenarios can drive up utility costs, telling the owner it needs attention. 

In such cases, a professional service can often resolve the issue through maintenance, such as flushing the tank or replacing worn-out components. However, if the unit is older or continues to drive up costs even after servicing, it may be time to consider a replacement with a more energy-efficient model.

The Unit Makes Strange Sounds

Unusual noises coming from the water heater can also indicate problems. Some common sounds and their potential causes include:

• Popping or rumbling: These sounds often result from sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. When water gets trapped in the sediment, it causes steam bubbles, which lead to popping or rumbling sounds as they escape. Regular flushing can help prevent this issue.
• Screeching or hissing: These noises could indicate that water is struggling to pass through a valve or pipe. A professional should check it, for it can lead to further damage if left unresolved.
• Ticking or tapping: Sometimes, the expansion and contraction of metal parts as they heat and cool can produce ticking and tapping sounds. Although this is harmless, a technician can assess if adjustments are needed.

These sounds can signal underlying issues that, if ignored, may lead to more severe problems or costly repairs. A professional can determine the noise source and recommend appropriate maintenance to keep the water heater running smoothly.

The Water is Discolored or Smelly

The hot water condition is the final sign that a water heater is failing. The water coming from the tank should be as clean and pure as the cold side. If the water looks discolored or has a sulfurous odor, there is a problem. 

Poor water quality is most often a symptom of a corroding tank. Water heater replacement is the only solution in this situation, but water heater maintenance can help prevent it. 

About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains

Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains is a BBB-accredited plumbing and HVAC contractor. Their Maintain & Save Club can help reduce the likelihood of water heater problems and extend their lifespan. Call today for water heater services in Cincinnati, OH.

Winterize Home Plumbing Before the Cold Strikes

Homeowners can protect their homes against cold temperatures. As the seasons change, many things must be done, and protecting the home’s plumbing is one important task to remember. As the colder temperatures start to appear, preventative plumbing maintenance might protect a home from freezing pipes that can lead to a pipe burst and extensive damage. 

Insulate Compromised Pipes

Determine areas in the home that might be more vulnerable and then apply pipe insulation to protect those pipes. These are some common vulnerable areas: 

• Attics
• Garages
• Unfinished basements
• Crawl spaces

In these areas, a special foam material can insulate pipes. The foam is a covering that fits over the pipe and will hold snugly, embracing it with a warm hug all winter. The pipe insulation will help hold warmth in areas exposed to the cold. The benefit is maintaining warmth and minimizing the risk of a frozen pipe and, inherently, a burst pipe. 

Increase Heat Circulation Indoors

It is fairly common for pipes inside the home to be concealed behind cabinet doors. This hides that important network of pipes from everyone’s eyes. However, this presents challenges when cold weather strikes, particularly for pipes set on an exterior wall of the home. 

Protecting these pipes when predicted temperatures are below freezing is also important. They can often be insulated, and a homeowner can use heat tape when it’s frigid. However, there are some minor steps to take as well. 

1. Open up the cabinets to any pipes on an exterior wall so the home’s heat can flow to them. 
2. Maintain the thermostat at a minimum of 55 degrees to help prevent frozen pipes. 
3. Let the faucet trickle slightly overnight to keep the water moving and prevent freezing. 

These steps might just prevent a pipe burst from freezing pipes during the coldest spells of winter. 

Disconnect and Drain Hoses From Outdoor Faucets

Outdoor faucets can also experience frozen pipes. While these are often made with materials that protect them slightly more, homeowners should still take preventative measures to avoid pipe bursts outside. 

If an exterior faucet exists, hoses should always be detached and drained. Remove the hose from the faucet and work to drain all water out of it. This will protect the hose and the faucet. If the hose needs to be used in the winter, disconnect and drain it after every use. 

If possible, consider shutting off the water supply to exterior faucets during the coldest times of winter. These steps just might protect the home from an unexpected pipe burst. 

About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains

Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains has proudly served its community for more than 20 years. Its skilled and trustworthy technicians respond quickly and answer every call with friendly, caring service. Contact them today for plumbing services and needs in Cincinnati, OH. 

Locating the Problem

Water leaks can occur in the walls or underneath kitchen sinks just as easily as they can occur underground. When a small crack forms inside the plumbing, it causes an increase in monthly bills and can jeopardize the entire plumbing system. To avoid home repairs and pipe replacement, paying attention to a few key signs is important.

An Increase in Water Bills

A sharp spike in the water bill may indicate a burst pipe. These can be extremely costly and dangerous if they are not fixed immediately. Depending on the size of the leak, water bills may also rise over time. Homeowners are advised to keep track of their monthly bills for at least one year to understand what’s normal for their household.

Water damage is an expensive issue for any home. Indoor leaks can cause mold to form, which will need to be removed for the safety of the household. An entire renovation may be necessary if the leak has been there long enough. In addition to replacing furniture and art, wooden floorboards must be replaced. 

Property damage includes the backyard, and if an underground pipe bursts, it can lead to a sewage leak. One way to identify a sewer line leak is to look at the grass and foliage. If one spot is significantly greener than the rest of the lawn, this is likely from nutrients inside the pipes. 

Seeing the Problem

It takes specialized equipment, such as a sewer line camera, to physically see underground cracks. Since most homeowners don’t have leak detection equipment, they are encouraged to look at the symptoms rather than damaging the pipe.

Peeling paint is one of the first signs of water damage. When moisture builds inside the interior walls, the wallpaper crinkles, and the paint cracks. Calling a professional at this stage can save homeowners hundreds of dollars. 

Heavier leaks, or ones that have been neglected, cause ceilings to sag. Sometimes, it happens below an upstairs bathroom. If this occurs, the entire ceiling can collapse in minutes. Calling a plumber before this happens to protect the home and household is imperative.

In addition to visually spotting leaks, reduced water pressure is often reported when there is a broken valve. This happens when sediment builds up in the plumbing system and causes cracks. As water escapes, the water flow decreases, usually felt during the shower when it takes longer for household members to wash their hair. Water leak repair can be finished in under a day if used early.

If small leaks are dealt with as soon as they are spotted, the underlying problem can be repaired. Neglected leaks become more expensive in the long run and may cause health problems such as dizziness, headaches, and respiratory issues due to mold growth. 

How to Use the Water Meter

A water meter identifies leaks on the property. It is in a gray box, typically near a sidewalk or curb. The average water meter uses cubic feet to measure the flow of water. If the flow is disrupted, this could mean there is a crack somewhere in the plumbing system where water is escaping.

To check for leaks, homeowners must first turn off all water appliances. They can then watch the asterisk or detector triangle on the dial to see if it turns. A functional plumbing system will not cause the asterisk to move. 

The exact location of the leaking pipe is nearly impossible without the right equipment. A trained and licensed professional can find the issue and repair the plumbing system much faster than homeowners without experience. 

About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains

Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains provides water leak detection services as well as leak repairs. They are a team of licensed and trained professionals with A+ ratings and BBB accreditation, so clients are assured that their home service issues are in good hands. Call today for trusted and lasting water leak detection and services in Cincinnati, OH.

Identifying and Responding to Gas Leaks in the Home

Most homes rely on natural gas for at least a few basic needs. Whether it’s heating, cooking, hot water, or any other need, protecting the home from gas leaks is important for safety and health purposes. Understanding how to respond to gas leaks effectively can help to ensure the safety of everyone in the home. 

The Hazards of Gas Leaks

Gas leaks can be extremely dangerous. Not only are there potential health risks, but they can also affect the safety and stability of the home. Gas leaks have been known to ignite fires or even cause explosions in some cases, leading to significant property damage. 

In addition to the physical damage hazards, there are certain health risks to be aware of. Inhaling natural gas could cause these health problems:

• Headaches 
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Breathing difficulty
• Fatigue

Prolonged exposure or gas inhalation will provoke these gas leak symptoms, likely worsening over time. If someone in the home is experiencing these symptoms for unknown reasons, it may be time to check for a gas leak. 

Learn to Recognize Signs of a Gas Leak

One of the best ways to protect the home and everyone in it is to understand and recognize the common signs of a gas leak. One of the most common signs is a gas odor, but only some homeowners know or recognize this odor. 

Take a look at these common signs of a gas leak: 

• Odor: Natural gas is odorless, but an additive called mercaptan does have a foul odor. This odor is often described as rotten egg odor. 
• Hissing: Hissing or whistling noises from or near gas lines and gas appliances could indicate a leak. 
• Outdoor Signs: Unusual dead grass or discolored grass patches are another indicator. This is harder to distinguish in hot climates or summertime. 
• Houseplants: If houseplants are dying or wilting without any apparent cause, this could be from a gas leak. 

What to Do When a Gas Leak Is Suspected

When a homeowner discovers or suspects a gas leak, they must contact a professional. However, they must also clear the space until gas line repair occurs. Remember that a gas line leak is hazardous for health reasons but could also harm the home. 

Follow these steps for a suspected or known natural gas leak:

1. Avoid any flames or fires as well as use of gas-related appliances
2. Evacuate the home
3. Call the gas company immediately
4. Contact professionals to remedy the leak

Most gas companies have a specialized line or gas leak reporting process as they understand the urgency of such a matter. A plumber or qualified gas line repair person must be responsible for repairing the line before anyone returns home.

About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains

Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains is a family-owned and operated company serving plumbing and gas leak needs for many years. They are proud to be the go-to provider in the area, for they hold an A+ rating from BBB with licensed and trained professionals, providing high-quality work. Contact them today for gas leak repair in Cincinnati, OH.

Why Everyone Should Know Where the Main Water Valve Is

As Ohio residents prepare to escape for the summer to the warm beaches of Florida, it’s crucial to secure the home’s plumbing. Preventive steps like scheduling a heater check-up before the cold season and turning off the main water valve before a prolonged absence can avoid plumbing emergencies. In this article, plumbing experts share some steps homeowners should take to avoid mishaps on vacation. 

Preparing the Plumbing for a Long Absence

Ensuring the plumbing system is travel-ready involves several important steps. This proactive approach helps prevent the nightmare of returning to a flooded home.

• Locate the Main Water Valve: The main water valve is typically found in the basement, near the water meter, or where the main water line enters the house. Knowing its location is the first step in preventing water damage.
• Shut Off the Main Water Valve: Turning off the main valve stops the house’s water supply. This is a crucial step to avoid potential water damage if a pipe bursts when no one is home. 
• Drain the Plumbing System: If travel plans coincide with winter, there’s another step to protect homes from freezing temperatures. After shutting off the main valve, open all faucets and flush toilets to drain water from the pipes. This process reduces the risk of water freezing in the pipes and causing them to burst.

Check & Monitor the Water Heater

Another big appliance to check before leaving home is the water heater. For homeowners with a traditional tanked unit, not only can energy costs rise because the system heats water even when no one is home, but a small leak can also cause the tank to burst, pouring gallons of water into the home. 

At a minimum, homeowners should always turn off the power to their water heater. This is as simple as switching the breaker that powers the unit. As an extra step of protection, be sure to inspect the tank, and if there are any signs of leaks, contact a plumber before heading out. 

Professional Plumbing Services for the Main Water Valve

Hiring professional plumbers to inspect and prepare the plumbing system can provide additional peace of mind. Professionals can ensure the main water valve functions correctly, drain the water heater, and offer additional services like pipe insulation. Hiring a professional service can guarantee that all necessary steps are taken to protect the home’s plumbing during winter vacations or any other long-term absence.

Regular plumbing maintenance is essential, even between professional visits. Homeowners should be aware of issues such as slow drains, leaks, or unusual noises and address them immediately. Simple maintenance tasks like checking for leaks and ensuring proper insulation can prevent major problems. Consistent maintenance helps maintain the integrity of the plumbing system, which means less to worry about during absences.

About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains

Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains, a family-owned and operated company in Cincinnati, OH, offers expert plumbing, heating, cooling, and drain services. They are known for their licensed, trained professionals, on-time arrival, and A+ BBB rating. Schedule a technician today for a plumbing service and to care for that main water valve before it freezes!

Why Install a Whole-Home Water Filter?

Having clean and safe water is essential, and installing a water filtration system can provide quality water for the entire home. Most households have access to water through a municipality or a rural water company. Some homes use well water or other sources too. Regardless of where the water comes from, it can be filled with impurities and contaminants. 

That’s where a whole-home water filter comes in. These systems purify water and have numerous benefits, including protecting the health of household residents. This post will discuss different water filtration systems, the benefits of installing one, and some signs one is needed.  

Different Water Filtration Systems  

Water filtration systems filter and purify water to remove contaminants and provide cleaner and safer water. Two of the most common types are:

• Reverse Osmosis Filter: These water filters use a semi-permeable membrane to remove most contaminants from water, such as chemicals, microorganisms, and more. They also soften hard water. 
• Activated Carbon Filter: This water filter system uses activated carbon to absorb and remove impurities from the water, such as chlorine, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds or VOCs. 

Benefits of Installing Water Filtration Systems

A water filtration system installation provides substantial benefits to household residents, including: 

• Removes harmful contaminants from water to keep people healthier and avoid illnesses
• Improves the taste of water for drinking, cooking, and making drinks with
• Improves the odor of a home’s water
• Save money by not having to pay for bottled water constantly

Signs It’s Time to Consider Water Filter Installation

Installing a whole-house water filter is a great option for those who want cleaner and safer water in their homes or those who want to stop paying for bottled water constantly. But there are also some signs that can point to the need to install one. Here are a few signs that a water filter may be needed:  

• The water isn’t clear and is discolored
• Unpleasant taste or smell to the water
• Poor water quality reports
• There are known contaminants in the water supply

Homeowners can work with plumbers to install the best water filtration system for their homes so they can start enjoying the benefits of cleaner and safer water today. 

About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains

Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains is a family-owned and operated company serving the Cincinnati area. They provide flat rate prices, free estimates, and on-time arrival. Call them for a whole-home water filtration system installation in Cincinnati, OH.

What Is Hydro Jetting?

There are several methods and equipment to unclog clogged sewer lines. One effective way is hydro jetting. Hydro jet drain cleaning uses highly pressurized water to cut through tough clogs and clean stubborn buildup from pipe walls. Here is a quick guide to hydro jetting, answering questions about how it works, when it may be needed, and why it can be beneficial compared to other drain cleaning methods. 

How Does Hydro Jetting Work?

When a plumber performs hydro jetting, they will locate access points where they can insert the hose into the pipe. When they turn on the machine, pressurized water shoots out of a special nozzle that sends the water in several directions to break up and dislodge the clog, sending the debris safely through the sewer line and out of the plumbing system. 

However, hydro jetting does more than just unclog the sewer line. The high-pressure water also thoroughly cleans the pipe and pipe walls of debris and buildup that can contribute to future clogs. Hydro jetting can be used on stubborn sewer line clogs made of all sorts of materials, from grease to tree roots.   

What Are the Signs That Hydro Jetting May Be Needed?

Hydro jetters are specialized equipment, so some plumbers may try other methods like a drain snake or auger to remove clogs before they perform hydro jetting. But if a home experiences clogs often, it’s likely best to have hydro jetting done to reduce the likelihood of future clogs by thoroughly cleaning the line. Other signs that hydro jetting could be needed are the same as signs of a clogged sewer line, such as: 

• Gurgling noises from the drains
• Slow drains
• Water or sewage backups 
• Foul odors from the drains

What Are the Advantages of Hydro Jetting Compared to Other Methods?

Hydro jetting can be beneficial compared to other drain cleaning methods because the chemicals in chemical drain cleaners can be harsh and damage the pipes, leading to additional issues. Drain snakes can remove a clog but don’t clean the line completely, allowing clogs to form again with the debris and buildup left behind. 

On the other hand, hydro jetting doesn’t use chemicals that can damage pipes and instead uses water at a high pressure in pipes that can handle the pressure. Additionally, hydro jetting cleans the pipe of buildup and grime that can contribute to clogs in the future, providing longer-lasting results and reducing the likelihood of more clogs forming in the sewer line. 

About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains

Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains is a family-owned and operated company serving the Centerville area. They provide affordable solutions, free estimates, and the latest technology. Call them for hydro jetting services in Washington Township, OH.