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Your Dripping Faucet Won't be a Spoilsport

The Galling Sound of a Leaking Faucet Drip

A leaking faucet can be an annoying occurrence with a steady dripping and irritating sound. It’s a constant reminder that water is wasting and won’t stop until it’s fixed. The dripping can be a pointer to a serious underlying issue, don’t hesitate to deal with it immediately.

The True Cost of Leaking Faucetswater bill

It may seem that a leaky faucet cannot cause any damage. But, putting it off longer than necessary could cause significant damage to a home. Here are some of the dangers to expect from a dripping faucet.

  • Water Waste: The steady drip from a leaky faucet can become problematic with time. It wastes water that would have been useful for drinking, cleaning, washing, etc. For instance, a leaky faucet with 4,000 drips per day wastes approximately a liter of water. Homes with more than one dripping faucet can lose over 3,000 liters of water in one year.
  • Mold: Mold thrives in a damp environment, and the patches look unpleasant. Damp conditions resulting from the water drips can cause mold to grow in the house, endangering the health of the residents. Musty smells from mold and mildew can increase respiratory problems like asthma and sneezing.
  • Expensive Water Bills: A dripping faucet may not seem to be wasting much water; the reality is that it’s raising the water bill. The more the drips, the more water is wasted and the higher the bill. Fixing a leaky faucet can save about 10% of the average annual bill for a homeowner.

Why Do Faucets Leak?

There may be several reasons why faucets leak. Here is a review of a few of them.

  • Loose or Worn-out O Ring: O ring is a small disc attached to the stem screw holding the handle of a faucet in place. It can become loose or worn out with regular use, causing the faucet to drip water around the handle. O-ring is an integral place where dripping can occur, especially in cartridge faucets.
  • Corroded Valve Seat: A valve seat connects the faucet and the spout in the compression mechanism. It can corrode due to the accumulation of water sediments, causing leakage within the spout area.

How to Fix the Leaky Faucetfaucet

Fixing a leaky faucet is as easy as changing a light bulb; it requires minimal tools and effort. Whether it’s a bathroom or Kitchen sink repair, replacing the faucet cartridge is the best option for a leaky faucet repair. Here are the basic steps to follow:

  1. Drain the faucet and plug your sink
  2. Remove the faucet lever handles and take off the bonnet nut
  3. Remove the faulty cartridge
  4. Install the new cartridges
  5. Reassemble the faucet
  6. Test for leaks and check the water flow

However, the process of leaky faucet repair differs slightly depending on the type of sink.

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating is a renowned Colorado Springs firm that offers various plumbing services at reasonable rates. They have been in operation since 1999 and have sets of skilled technicians with excellent customer service. Feel free to call them today to fix any plumbing problems.

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2022 Plumbing Resolution Revolution: 3 Habits to Give Homeowners an Easier Year

plumbing resolution revolution: habits to give homeowners an easier year

Improve Overall Plumbing Performance in the New Year

When it comes to home plumbing, people would rather ignore it and allow it to do its job of bringing in fresh, potable water and ridding the home of waste. It seems easier that way until a real problem crops up. Simple neglect can lead to major repairs and lots of cash spent on plumbing services. One can do several simple and mindful things to help prevent a future plumbing emergency.

What’s Flushing?Toilet flushing water demonstrating proper plumbing usage and maintenance tips for homeowners.

Perhaps the simplest way for any homeowner to prevent a plumbing catastrophe is to use their system according to one simple rule: Don’t put anything in the toilet or drain that doesn’t belong there. Toilets are made for flushing waste and toilet paper and nothing else.  

Garbage disposals can take care of some food waste but are not made to make everything from a meal completely disappear. If a customer is mindful about what they flush, they can prevent a host of problems, including emergency toilet repair or sewage backup.

Never Flush:

  • Baby wipes
  • Cotton buds(q-tips) or cotton balls
  • Dental Floss
  • Diapers
  • Facial cleansing pads
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Paper towels

All these things can cause clogs that require professional assistance to remove.

Look Out for Leaks

Being mindful also means looking out for warning signs of problems. One of the most damaging but slow to emerge problems with plumbing is the hidden water leak scourge of home structure. The fact that they are not obvious is the most dangerous part. If the leaks go long unnoticed, it may lead to severe water damage along with mold and mildew issues. Be on the lookout for any of the following signs of a hidden water leak:

  • Ceiling or Wall Spots: If a homeowner notices discolored areas on walls or ceiling, this may indicate a dripping pipe in that area. 
  • Puddles: If water is visibly pooling either inside or outside the house, this is a sign of a leak.
  • Low Water Pressure: Has the shower stopped flowing quite as it should, or does it take longer to fill a pot from the sink? This is a clear indicator that a home may need water leak repair. 
  • Higher than Normal Water Bills: If the home’s water bill has dramatically and suddenly increased seemingly without cause, a homeowner needs to have an inspection immediately. 

Person marking a date on a calendar, emphasizing the importance of scheduling regular drain cleaning for effective plumbing maintenance.Make Drain Cleaning Routine

Being mindful comes more easily with a structured schedule. Starting a habit of regular drain cleaning will limit the need for more drastic clog removal. There are a couple of simple ways to do this, the easiest one being to pour boiling water down the drain. 

Baking soda and vinegar are also a good alternative to corrosive chemical drain openers. Considering signing up for a plumbing maintenance plan with a reliable professional will remove the responsibility from the customer to the knowledgeable technicians who perform such tasks regularly.

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

Veteran-owned B&L Plumbing and Heating has served the Colorado Springs area for more than twenty years. They offer 24/7 emergency service with no after-hours fees. Call them today for information on their plumbing maintenance plans.

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Why Should Homeowners Add a Sump Pump To Their Holiday Wishlist?

why should homeowners add a sump pump to their holiday wishlist?

A Sump Pump Installation May Be the Best Gift This Holiday Season!

Plumbing is an essential part of a functioning home! Homeowners should always try to maintain and prevent plumbing issues as they can be messy to clean. Sump pumps are a great gift that homeowners can use in home plumbing systems.

Why Are Sump Pumps Necessary?

Sump pumps are devices that are either fully or partially submerged in water. The device works are typically located in a homeowner's basement. Sump pumps are placed in holes and work by pushing out any water that comes up after rain. Sump pumps are great for homes and only work when they are needed. 

These devices are great for homeowners that live in flood zones. The water trapped in the dirt under the house gets pushed by the sump pumps to drainage areas. There are many benefits to owning a sump pump. For example, sump pumps can prevent flooding in basements. When basements flood, there is a risk of mold and bacteria growth that can make homeowners safe.

What are the Different Types of Sump Pumps?Different types of sump pumps including a submersible pump, a pedestal pump, and a vertical pump, showcasing various designs for basement water management.

There are two main types of sump pumps, but both work nearly the same way.
Homeowners with a Submersible sump pump have the pump submerged in the sump pit, the hole in a basement. The submersible sump pump is a great option for homeowners on a budget. This sump pump type does not last forever, though, and needs frequent maintenance. Since the entire system, including the motor, is submerged, there is still potential for water damage.

The second type of sump pump is the pedestal sump pump. This particular pump is not entirely submerged. The motor is upright and sits outside of the pit. The life expectancy of this device reaches 30 years. It is a great tool for homeowners that live in active flood zones or see extreme weather.

Backup sump pump system with a blue submersible pump and a black storage box, illustrating essential plumbing equipment for homeowners to prevent water damage.What are Secondary or Backup Sump Pumps?

Anything breaks and wears down with time. Water damage harms pumps, especially ones submerged for long periods. Pumps that have not been serviced or maintained may break during winter or thunderstorms. This is why it is important to have a secondary or backup sump pump. Homeowners should call a plumbing technician for a sump pump installation if they don't have one already.

Secondary sump pumps are sump pumps that are activated when the primary system is not working. They work just as well but are only used as a backup. This only works, however, if homeowners have electricity. In severe weather, it may not be possible. Thankfully, many backup sump pumps need batteries. This is life-saving and can be why homeowners save thousands of dollars in damages. If homeowners notice that neither system is working, they should call a technician for a sump pump replacement.

About B&L Plumbing and Heating 

B&L Plumbing and Heating is a veteran-owned local company that focuses on plumbing repairs and installations in Colorado Springs, CO. This company offers fair pricing, emergency services, and friendly customer service. Call them today for sump pump installation services!

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Give Thanks for Plumbers This Thanksgiving

give thanks for plumbers this thanksgiving

Essential Plumbing Services To Be Thankful For

As Thanksgiving Day comes around, many homeowners are thinking about things to be thankful for. And there are always certain things that homeowners should be thankful for, like their health, loved ones, and food on the table. But some other things are easily overlooked, such as the impact that plumbers have on everyday life. Without the professional assistance that plumbers provide, homeowners would be forced to deal with the dirty jobs that plumbers usually take on. 

These jobs include clearing clogged toilets, repairing water heaters, and servicing sewer lines. Read on to learn more about these essential services and why to be thankful for them. 

Clearing Clogged ToiletPerson using a plunger to clear a clogged toilet, illustrating essential plumbing services for homeowners.

Everyone has experienced a clogged toilet at some point. A plunger and some elbow grease are all one needs to clear the clog most of the time. But sometimes, the clogged toilet is a little more stubborn. Maybe it’s not just a regular clog, or the problem lies in the toilet vent instead of the toilet itself. 

If the problem is a stubborn clog in the toilet, a plumber may use two methods to clear the clog. The first is using a plumber’s snake to break up the clog. This is an auger that the plumber will twist and feed down the toilet to clear the clog. The other way is hydro-jetting, which uses a high-pressure spray of water that can clear the clog. This is the best option because it is less likely to damage the pipe and the toilet than a plumber’s snake. 

Essential Water Heater RepairPlumber adjusting thermostat on a water heater, emphasizing maintenance and repair services for optimal performance.

Water heating maintenance and repair are two other important services that plumbers provide. Water heaters need yearly service to keep providing hot water to the home. Over time, water heaters experience a buildup of minerals that can affect their performance. Too much buildup can cause the water heater to develop a leak or another issue requiring replacement. 

One of the biggest things included in a professional plumber’s water heater service is flushing the tank to clear all the minerals out. They also check other water heater components to make sure it will run smoothly for a long time to come. These things include testing the pressure release valve, checking the anode rod, and checking for leaks. 

Awesome Sewer Line Services

Another big service that plumbers provide to homeowners is sewer line repair. While clearing a clogged toilet and servicing a water heater can be done by homeowners with a little learning and the right equipment, sewer line services require the help of a professional plumber. These services include fixing broken pipes, pipe restoration, and clearing sewer line clogs. 

Depending on the nature of the problem, the plumber may need to dig up the sewer line to repair it, but this is not always the case. Those homes experiencing sewer line problems should get the issue fixed quickly to avoid even bigger problems affecting the whole home. 

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating has been serving Colorado Springs, CO since 1999. They offer competitive pricing and never charge overtime fees. They provide no-mess service and prioritize customer peace of mind. Contact them today for reliable plumbing services. 

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Plumbing Sounds That Can Frighten Anyone!

plumbing sounds that can frighten anyone!

There’s Nothing To Fear! It’s Only Noisy Pipes!

It might almost be Halloween, but there is still nothing to fear when the house starts to make unusual noises. According to professionals in the industry, the culprit is most likely coming from the pipes and could very well be the water pressure causing the issues. Pipe sounds are scary, but the louder they get, the more concerning they seem. Homeowners shouldn’t be frightened by the sounds, though. With a simple call to their local professionals, they can have the problem fixed in no time, regardless of what’s causing it. Even humming and whistling noises have their cause, and it’s most likely plumbing-related, not ghost-related. 

To learn more about the different sounds that scare almost any homeowner when they go bump in the night, continue reading below. 

Why Homeowners Hear Humming SoundsPerson in bed with blue sheets, looking scared and hiding under the covers, alarm clock on bedside table, representing homeowner anxiety over plumbing noises.

Humming coming from the piping system is classically due to high water pressure. When the water pressure is too high, it’s as if there isn’t enough space in the pipes to allow for the rush of water to safely get through. In turn, the piping system will start to shake or vibrate, which causes the humming sound heard throughout the home. 

On its own, this isn’t necessarily a cause for concern. However, if and when the pipes have a few clogs in them, that is when things get risky. Clogs in the system, combined with high water pressure, can lead to leaking and burst pipes in no time. 

That is the main reason why homeowners should call a professional when they first start to hear humming in the house. The longer they wait, the higher the chance they start to experience leaks and other plumbing issues. 

Have the Pipes Started Whistling?Pipes and plumbing infrastructure under a house, illustrating potential issues with high water pressure and clogs, relevant to plumbing maintenance concerns.

As mentioned, dirty or clogged pipes and high water pressure don’t mix. Typically, when this happens, the humming will turn to whistling. Homeowners could very well hear both simultaneously. Homeowners should call in a professional to look the moment they start to hear whistling within the walls of their home. 

Professionals will most likely recommend a pipe cleaning, first and foremost. After this, they will fix the high water pressure. High water pressure, on its own, isn’t necessarily bad for the piping system. Still, other elements in play make high water pressure a serious problem that one should fix right away. 

High water pressure causes: 

  • Faster wear and tear of pipes
  • Loose screws and plumbing parts
  • Leaks and burst pipes
  • Damaged fixtures
  • Worn out seals

Water Hammer Is Frightening!

High water pressure is classically linked to what professionals call, water hammer. It is common in systems that utilize valves as a plumbing system does. Essentially, it happens when a surge of water comes through the system and is forced to change direction suddenly—a sudden change in momentum. 

The quickest way to fix this is to have a pressure relief valve installed in the home. This is easily done with professional help. Professionals might also recommend homeowners have their system regularly flushed to help prevent this in the future. 

Older homes with pipes placed at 90-degree angles are more prone to water hammers. Here, professionals might recommend repiping in some areas of the home to reduce the likelihood of this happening again. 

B&L Plumbing and Heating Is There No Matter What

Colorado Springs, CO homeowners trust the experts at B&L Plumbing and Heating with all of their plumbing issues. They are a veteran-owned company that always tries to leave their customers safe and satisfied. They don’t even charge after-hours fees! Call today for plumbing service!

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