Tag: issues

Underlying Issues That Lead To Weak Water Pressure

What Causes Poor Water Pressure?

Low water pressure can quickly turn daily routines into a frustrating experience. Several plumbing-related issues can affect how water flows through a property. Understanding common causes helps highlight when professional plumbing services are needed.

Faulty Fixtures or Closed Valves

shower head Low water pressure affecting only one faucet or showerhead often points to a fixture-related issue. Mineral buildup, internal wear, or clogs inside the fixture can restrict water flow. Fixture replacement or professional cleaning can restore proper pressure.

Widespread low water pressure throughout a property often signals a valve issue. The main water shutoff valve or water meter valve may remain partially closed after maintenance or repairs. Fully opening these valves often improves water flow.

Plumbing inspections help confirm whether valves or fixtures cause pressure problems. Expert plumbers use pressure testing to identify restrictions. Early correction helps prevent long-term plumbing stress.

Water Leaks

leak Leaks within water lines often reduce water pressure across multiple fixtures. Escaping water lowers available flow and places added strain on the plumbing system. Undetected leaks can also increase water bills and cause structural damage.

Water leak detection services locate hidden problems within walls, floors, or underground pipes. Advanced diagnostic tools help pinpoint leak sources without unnecessary disruption. Prompt water leak repair restores pressure and protects plumbing infrastructure.

Consistent water pressure often returns once leaks receive proper repairs. Addressing leaks early supports system efficiency and reliability. Professional plumbing services play a key role in maintaining a steady water flow.

Clogs and Buildup

Clogs and internal buildup inside water lines frequently lead to reduced water pressure. Aging pipes can corrode over time, narrowing the interior passage for water. Mineral deposits such as limescale also restrict flow.

Hard water contributes to mineral accumulation within plumbing systems. Over time, deposits create uneven pressure and limited water output. Pipe cleaning or replacement helps resolve these issues.

Professional plumbing services assess pipe condition and recommend effective solutions. Clearing buildup improves pressure and extends system lifespan. Preventive maintenance supports consistent water delivery.

Low water pressure often signals underlying plumbing concerns that need expert attention. Water leak detection and repair services address hidden leaks, clogs, and system inefficiencies. Local plumbers can help restore reliable water flow and protect plumbing systems in Colorado Springs.

Call B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating is a dependable AC, heating, and plumbing services serving Colorado Springs, CO, and beyond. They offer competitive pricing, fully-stocked trucks, and a no mess guarantee. Call them today for water leak detection in Colorado Springs, CO.

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An Ounce of Prevention: Maintenance Tips for Plumbing Issues

an ounce of prevention: maintenance tips for plumbing issues

3 Ways to Get Ahead of Plumbing Disasters

Summer is a very busy time full of family events, camps, and vacations, and no one wants to take time to deal with a plumbing problem unless it is trying to find a faster method of filling up a pool. That’s why smart homeowners will do their best to prevent problems before they begin. This article will provide a few essential tips for plumbing peace of mind.

Evidence of Leaks

Person using a pipe wrench to fix a leaking white PVC pipe under a sink, illustrating evidence of plumbing problems and the need for timely repairs.One of the first signs of plumbing problems is a small leak. Weakened and aging pipes can form cracks from water pressure, corrosion, or other general wear and tear. Rubber and silicone seals and washers may break down or tear, causing a slow leak around faucets or showerheads.  

A homeowner should not ignore evidence of a pipe leak, no matter how small, because small leaks can quickly lead to more significant leaks. Listed below are a few of the signs that indicate a persistent leak:

  • Mold or mildew
  • Sounds of running water
  • Dripping
  • Soggy spots on the floor
  • Water pooling outside where it shouldn’t be

Put Grease in the Trash, Not the Sink

Pouring cooking oil into a kitchen sink drain, highlighting improper disposal practices that can lead to plumbing clogs.One of the great things about the summer weather is grilling outside and spending time with family, friends, and neighbors. Food prep and disposal can be hard on a kitchen, though. A nasty clog can ruin an evening of summer fun. That’s why people should consider what they put down the drain. 

Even the kitchen drain with top-of-the-line garbage disposal cannot accommodate all forms of food debris. Cooking oil and grease are perhaps the worst perpetrators of clogs because, in their liquid forms, they would seem to be easily disposed of by sending them down the drain pipes, but they cannot be dissolved by water as most things can. However, oils and fats can bind up other food and waste particles and create a hard, insoluble ball of a pipe clog that the water cannot break up. Homeowners and their guests should always dispose of grease by pouring it into a sealed container and then putting it in the trash.

Keep the Drains Clean

Another easy bit of pipe clog prevention maintenance is regularly flushing home drains. Just as other parts of the house need regular cleaning, drains can benefit from a bit of a clear-out. This does not have to be intensive, and several easy ways exist to perform this task. Below are two easy methods to use and one to avoid entirely.

  • The Hot Water Flush: This method is done by boiling water and pouring it slowly down the drain. This can help remove anything water-soluble that may be stuck in the pipes.
  • The Baking Soda/Vinegar Combo: Almost everyone did the grade school science experiment of the baking soda and vinegar volcano. This eruptive but harmless chemical reaction can help flush dirty pipes. The baking soda should be poured into the drain and followed by vinegar. 
  • NO Chemical Drain Openers: Those handy plastic bottles on the grocery store shelf may seem like a convenient choice for drain cleaning, but the chemicals are not selective about what they break down and can cause or worsen existing corrosion on the drain pipes.

About B&L Plumbing and Heating 

Veteran-owned B&L Plumbing and Heating has served Colorado Springs, CO, for over two decades. Offering 24-hour emergency service and no after-hours charge, they can bring high-quality workmanship and individualized options for all their clients. Call today for peace of mind and quality plumbing service.

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The Dangers of Outdoor Plumbing Issues

the dangers of outdoor plumbing issues

Important Information About Outdoor Plumbing Clogs

Outdoor plumbing clogs can be awful to deal with; instead of simply waiting for them to happen, there are many things that homeowners can do to decrease the chances of a clogged outdoor pipe. Experts in the plumbing industry recommend looking for common signs that a problem is starting. If homeowners catch an underground plumbing clog quickly, there is a higher chance that it is repairable. 

An underground pipe clog can cause severe issues and worsen a yard and the structure of a home, so read on to learn more. 

What Are Common Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures?Sprinkler system spraying water on lush green grass, illustrating outdoor plumbing fixtures related to potential clogs and maintenance.

There are a lot of outdoor plumbing fixtures that could lead to a clogged pipe. Since this is the case, homeowners should take note of all the plumbing fixtures and appliances outside. Anything connected to a water or waste line should be frequently inspected and maintained to ensure no problems.

For example, most homes have built-in sprinkler systems that are convenient and easy to program. However, what happens when a clog finds itself in the water like that connects to the sprinkler system? This eventually could cause the pipe to burst, leading to waste and foul-smelling water to come out.

Fountains are not common in all homes, but they do make a home look beautiful! The pipes should regularly be cleaned and checked for homeowners with these gorgeous and large fountains.

How Do Outdoor Pipes Become Clog?

There are many ways that underground pipes can become clogged. The most common reason is pushing items that do not need to be placed in these pipes. For example, some homeowners accidentally let grease and oil into drains, which can harden and cause a large backup in underground pipes.

Another way outdoor pipes become clogged is if there's a dent, scratch, or break in the pipes. When this occurs, the pipe fills with dirt and other underground matter, causing severe problems and a clogged pipe.

Plumber using hydro-jetting equipment to clear outdoor clogged pipes, emphasizing professional plumbing services and maintenance.How To Clean Out Outdoor Clogged Pipes

Before homeowners can start to clear a pipe clog, they need to find the exact cause first. If the cause is not fixed, no matter how much cleaning and procedures are done, it will continue clogging.

There are a few tips that homeowners can try on their own, but there is no guarantee they won't work without a professional plumbing expert's help. For example, snakes can be placed into drains and pull out any blockages. If it is too deep, hydro-jetting is necessary. When hydro-jetting, a lot of pressured water is blasted through the pipes to clean and clear them of debris.

Plumbing companies only do this because finding a hydro-jetting machine and hose is not easy. If not done right, the blast of water can also damage other pipes, homes, and structures.

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

The technicians in B&L Plumbing and Heating are amazing and have years of experience in the plumbing field. These technicians work long hours to complete 24/7 emergency requests and provide excellent service. Homeowners interested in plumbing services should call B&L in the Colorado Springs, CO area.

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Plumbing Issues That Cause Home Flooding: Here's What to Know

plumbing issues that cause home flooding: here's what to know

Facts About Home Flooding That Homeowners Should Know

Finally, after what feels like forever, spring is here with the upcoming flowers from all the April showers! Temperatures are rising once again and the sun seems to be shining just a little bit brighter. It’s a beautiful time of year because spring symbolizes a time of renewal when everything comes back to life. But there is one harsh reality that often comes as a package deal with spring: heavy rains.

These heavy rains can spoil that delicious backyard BBQ and cause some serious damage to the overall plumbing system. If the plumbing system is not properly maintained prior to the heavy rains of spring, the home can easily flood. Homeowners should take this knowledge as a warning, so they can be prepared for the damage that may be right around the corner.

Crippling Pressure of Heavy Rains

heavy rainsSpring can be such an exciting time! People come out of their winter hibernation stage, the flowers start to bloom, and the parks and beaches start to fill with people. But as mentioned, the springtime can bring some heavy rains, which impacts the plumbing system.

All of that extra rainwater creates a crippling amount of pressure on plumbing pipes due to the extra weight and the extra work that the pipes have to perform. This pressure can cause the pipes to burst or crack, and most homeowners recognize that the “story of a burst pipe” ends in a nightmare!

Burst pipes can result in flooding, which damages the floors, cabinets, furniture, walls, and more. On top of all that, it can also lead to mold growth if the water isn’t cleaned up quickly. Homeowners should always check two things after heavy rainfall to minimize potential damage.

  1. First, walk around the house (yes, every room) to make sure the floors and carpets are still dry. This is the easiest way to spot a flooding problem.
  2. Second, run water down the drains to see if they are draining at a normal pace. If a pipe broke, dirt, rocks, leaves, and other debris could enter into the pipe, cause a clog, and slow the drains.

Watch for Underground Pipe Damage

underground

Heavy rains don’t just put water pressure on pipes that are in the house. They also put pressure on pipes that are under the house and can cause damage to these pipes as well. Just like people try to get outside and soak up as much sun as they can during the spring and summer months, the ground will try to soak up as much rainwater as it possibly can.

When it starts to absorb all of this water, the dirt becomes soft, muddy, and heavy. The slipperiness of the ground can cause the pipes to shift, and if they shift too much, they can crack. If the dirt around the pipes becomes too heavy, the pipes can also crack under the weight. Both of these situations lead to flooding and plumbing damage.

Dangerous Foundation Shifts

homes cracksAdding to the damage that underground pipes can see from heavy rains, saturated soil can also lead to dangerous home foundation shifts. This level of excess moisture increases the hydrostatic pressure of the ground under the foundation, which can then push against the foundation and cause it to shift. To avoid foundation shifts, here are a few things homeowners can try:

  1. Clean out gutters and spouts: Water pours right over the edge of the gutter when it's clogged, causing the ground near the house’s foundation to become saturated.
  2. Add mulch around the house: Mulch can help soak up excess water and prevent it from reaching the soil closest to the foundation.
  3. Gently sloped landscaping only: Any landscaping that homeowners add to their home should be sloped in a way that allows water to run away from the house, not towards it.

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating is a local Colorado Springs plumbing company dedicated to providing top-quality services for their customers including leak detections, and even slab leak repairs. They believe that being a great plumber means more than just having a license and the right tools – it’s also about providing exceptional customer service.

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