Whether you are a seasoned homeowner or a first time buyer, there are many questions that arise concerning your plumbing.
Orsack Plumbing Company has compiled several frequently asked questions and answers regarding plumbing.
Q: How can I extend the life of my water heater and plumbing fixtures?
A: The best way to prolong the life of your water heater and plumbing fixtures, is to have a professional install a water softener system. Water softener systems remove scale-build up, protect pipes and fixtures as well as enhance all fixtures and appliances that depend on water for their efficiency.
Q: Why do drains get clogged?
A: Drains clog due to human error or neglect most often, especially kitchen drains. Often debris not conducive to drains get away from you and slip into the drain and build up. Bathroom clogs lend to oil residue from soaps and shampoos, and hair. Be a little more conscious of what you allow to fall down your drain, and keep hair regularly removed.
Q: Why do faucets drip?
A: Generally, a drip faucet is due to the inner mechanism needing to be repaired or replaced. Usually a simple fix, and to reduce the wear and tear of your faucets, apply gentle pressure to turn off and on instead of forceful pressure.
Q: Are leaky pipes preventable?
A: It is a good habit to follow to inspect all of your pipes every so often, for lime deposits or indications of rust. Hiring a professional to service a small problem can stop an expensive catastrophe down the road.
Q: Why would my water heater be leaking?
A: A leaky water heater is an indication of a rusted bottom. If any repairs can be applied, it will be a very temporary fix and your water heater will need replacing. An experienced, trained professional needs to be on this job.
Q: How long does a water heater last?
A: There are many factoring variables concerning a water heaters life. Proper maintenance, correct installation, water softener systems, daily use and manufacturing quality.
Q: Should I care that my toilet is running?
A: A leaky toilet is not only a nuisance, but is a major waste of water, and causes a water bill inflation. If your toilet is running, it is usually the result of a failed mechanism in your toilet’s inner workings. It is usually a simple fix and should be handled quickly.
Q: What is safe to put down the garbage disposal?
A: Garbage disposals are commonly mistreated and misused among homeowners. Be sure to always use cold water when running your disposals, as warm or hot water can cause the motor to overheat and can dissolve fat and oil contributing to clogged drains. Near all bio-degradable food can be put through the garbage disposal, but divert clam or oyster shells, corn husks or anything with a high fiber content. Glass, plastic, metal or non food material should ever be forced through a garbage disposal. These items are usually the culprit in damaged garbage disposals requiring replacement or repairs. Garbage disposals require little maintenance as they are designed to be self cleaning. Running a little ice down or small bones or eggshells can help scrape away any stubborn residue.
Q: Why does water seem to back up into garbage disposal and up in my sink while a cycle is running on the dishwasher?
A: This happens when food is left in the garbage disposal. The garbage disposal and dishwasher share the same pipes, and if food isn’t thoroughly digested in the disposal, the water pushes through the pipes up the garbage disposal and eventually to the sink. If you notice this, just flip on the garbage disposal for 15-30 seconds to make sure everything has successfully been flushed through your disposal.
