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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. 

Sump Pumps Explained

A sump pump is a device installed at the lowest point of a home, usually the basement or crawl space, to prevent flooding, water damage, and other results of flooding. When excess water flows into the sump pump pit, the pump is automatically activated and removes the water, transporting it to a designated area where it will not put the home at risk.

Sump pumps are important to have in areas with heavy rainfall, or that are at risk of flooding, as they protect the home. This post will discuss the importance of installing sump pumps, the different types, and how to ensure they are working well.

The Importance of Sump Pumps

A sump pump removes water that enters the sump pump pit and removes it through a discharge pipe to a designated area where it won’t put the home at risk of flooding and its consequences. Sump pump installation is extremely beneficial as it helps prevent home flooding, water damage, mold growth, and electrical hazards from flooding. It also protects the home’s structural integrity and its belongings from damage due to water.

These advantages of installing a sump pump can also save homeowners money, as repairing water damage, electrical problems, and the home’s foundation or structure, replacing damaged belongings, and getting mold remediation can all be costly effects of flooding. Flooding can also cause health problems due to mold and mildew growth, which can cause allergy-like symptoms.

Primary Types of Sump Pumps

There are two main types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. A submersible sump pump is the most powerful of the two and operates quieter since it gets submerged underwater. However, submersible sump pumps are often more expensive and have a shorter lifespan. A pedestal sump pump is the more affordable of the two with a longer lifespan. However, instead of sitting submerged in water, the motor is kept dry at all times, so they are louder and less powerful.

Additionally, it’s important to note that these primary types of sump pumps run on electricity, so many homeowners also choose to install a backup. These sump pump backup options, like a battery backup, ensure the home remains protected during power outages that can occur during severe storms that cause flooding.

Testing and Maintaining the Sump Pump

When sump pumps are already installed in homes, it’s essential to ensure they work before flooding occurs. An effective way to make sure they work correctly is with routine maintenance and testing. A plumber can perform routine maintenance and inspections to find and fix any issues with a sump pump before they lead to costly consequences, while homeowners can perform routine testing.

Homeowners can easily test their sump pump by slowly pouring water from a bucket into the sump pump basin. Once the float switch triggers the sump pump to turn on automatically, homeowners should stop pouring water into it. The sump pump should automatically turn on, remove the water from the pit, and then turn off. If there are any problems during this automatic process, it’s a sign to call for a sump pump repair before flooding can occur.

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 offer affordable solutions, on-time arrival, and the latest technology. Call them for sump pump installation and repair services in Cincinnati, OH.

How to Catch a Leak So Homeowners Can Call for Repair

One of the worst feelings for a homeowner is to have a leak or burst pipe in the home that can cause costly water damage, repairs, and water bills in addition to repairing any damages. So, it’s vital homeowners call for leak detection and repair as soon as possible to save money and avoid damages. This article will offer tips on how to recognize a leak, including signs of a leak, changes to water bills, and using the water meter.  

Symptoms of a Leak

The best way to prevent major water damage from a leak is to identify the symptoms as soon as possible. While standing water or puddles throughout the house or yard is a clear sign of a leak, there are other symptoms to watch for, including:

• The sound of running water, even though the household is not using any water 
• Signs of mold or mildew growth or a musty smell
• Wet or damp areas in the house, such as on the walls, floors, or ceiling
• Water stains or discolored spots on the walls, ceilings, or floors
• Low water pressure from the plumbing fixtures 

Increasing Water Bills

If there is a leak, homeowners might also notice an increase in their water bills. This can be hard to attribute to a water leak because, at first, property owners might assume they have been using more water than usual. However, if the water bill increases but households have not increased their water usage, it points to a water leak in the plumbing system. 

Even a tiny leak, such as a dripping faucet, can waste a significant amount of water over time and raise water costs. In the US, about ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons of water or more per day, so if a homeowner has higher water bills, they should schedule service with a plumber as soon as possible to repair the leak and avoid wasting more money. 

Test for Leaks Using the Water Meter 

Another way for homeowners to identify a water leak in their homes is by using their water meter. To get an accurate reading of the water meter, homeowners should first make sure every water-using appliance and plumbing fixture is turned off in the house. Households should double-check to ensure nothing is in use, including the dishwasher, washing machine, sprinkler system, or anything else they might overlook.

Then, observe the water meter and note its current reading, wait for at least one hour without using any water during this time, and recheck the meter after the waiting period. An increase in the reading signifies that water has been consumed, indicating a leak. For water meters equipped with a leak indicator, which may look like a small triangle or wheel, any movement of this indicator with all the water turned off can also reveal the presence of a leak. Quick water leak repair conserves water, reduces water bills, and helps protect the home from potential water damage.

About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains

Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains is a family-owned and operated company serving Independence, KY, and the surrounding areas since 2002. They provide flat rate prices, the latest technology, and on-time arrival. Call them today for water leak detection and repair services in Independence, KY. 

All About Sewer Camera Inspections

When homeowners suspect a sewer line clog, damage, or another defect in their lines, it’s essential to confirm the issue and find its exact location before repair or replacement. The fastest and easiest way to do this is through a sewer video inspection. 

These non-invasive inspections allow plumbers to quickly identify problems in sewer lines so repairs can be done accurately. This post will explain what sewer camera inspections are, when they should be scheduled, and the benefits they offer.

What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection?

Sewer video inspections give experts a real-time look at a home’s sewer lines by sending a camera through the pipes to look for defects like pipe damage and clogs. These non-invasive services can be performed quickly and provide an accurate view of the problem and its severity that experts can use to plan needed repairs. 

This method for sewer line inspection involves a waterproof camera attached to a long, flexible cable. Plumbers will find an access point and put the camera down the sewer system. The camera is then slowly fed through the line, and the technician watches real-time camera footage on a monitor to look for issues. 

What Are the Signs to Get a Sewer Video Inspection?

Many signs can indicate a household may need sewer video inspections, like signs of sewer line clogs and leaks. Some symptoms that homeowners should watch for are:

• Frequent clogs
• Sewage backups in drains and toilets 
• Slow drains throughout the house 
• Foul odors come from the drains or in the yard, especially the smell of sewage
• Lush patches of grass in the yard
• Gurgling noises coming from the drains
• Rodent or insect infestations from sewage

What Are the Benefits of Sewer Camera Inspections?

There are many benefits to scheduling sewer camera inspections. These fast, accurate, and non-invasive methods allow plumbers to detect all sorts of issues like leaks, clogs, corrosion, intruding tree roots, and other problems. They can find these issues quickly and determine the exact location of the problem without having to dig up large portions of the yard. 

These services also let technicians find issues before they become larger and give homeowners an insight into the condition of their sewer lines. It can be especially beneficial for new home buyers, as prospective buyers can have a sewer video inspection performed before buying a home to ensure the line is in good condition and they are not facing extensive and costly sewer line repairs or sewer line replacements soon after moving in.

About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains

Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains is a family-owned and operated company serving Washington Township, OH, and the surrounding areas. They offer flat rate prices, free estimates, and the latest technology. Call them today for sewer video inspection services in Washington Township, OH.