The Unclog Blog - HELP Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric

Plumbing Problems: Addressing Drain-Clogging Calcium Deposits

Pipes and drains in a home can become clogged as a result of the buildup of hair, soap scum, food and other debris. But water with a high mineral content, also referred to as “hard water,” can also be a major culprit in restricting water flow and causing a variety of other plumbing problems within a home.

Hard water is notorious for leaving a calcified residue around faucets, shower heads and drain covers. This residue usually has a light-colored “rusty” or “flaky” appearance, and is quite noticeable on the outside of these and other plumbing devices around the home. But calcium deposits can also build up within pipes and on the inside of drains, which can not only diminish water flow rates, but can damage pipes and cause hot water to run cold.

What Can the Homeowner Do?

If any of these circumstances should arise, there are ways for the homeowner to address calcium buildup problems before beginning a search for plumbing contractors. To remove calcified residue from “detachable” fixtures such as shower heads, faucet tips and drain covers, place them in a container of white vinegar, or a commercial lime and calcium remover such as CLR, and let them soak for a few hours.

These solutions can also be used for drain cleaning and to flush your water pipes if calcium deposit buildup is suspected within your plumbing. Of course always carefully follow the instructions whenever commercial chemical-based cleaning products are used; these products are often required to be diluted with a certain percentage of water. Also, be sure to keep any cleaning solutions away from reservoirs reserved for drinking water.

To prevent future calcium and mineral deposit buildup problems, long-term solutions are available. These include having a water-softening or water filtration system installed in your home. Although these systems are not cheap, they can save you maintenance headaches and potentially costly repairs down the road. These can be purchased at your local hardware store or through a plumbing supply outlet. If you are not comfortable with even minor do-it-yourself plumbing repairs, maintenance or the installation of plumbing devices, don’t hesitate to consult with a professional.

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

Life Without a Garbage Disposal

A garbage disposal is a modern convenience that many of us rely upon and use every day. However, not everyone has a garbage disposal, and it is entirely possible to live without one. In fact, garbage disposals are not used in certain parts of Europe, including France. There are even benefits to not using a garbage disposal, one being that without a garbage disposal, there is one less piece of your plumbing to clog and break!

In living spaces without garbage disposals, food scraps are either thrown away or composted, rather than processed with the garbage disposal and washed down the drain. Of course, composting is the more eco-friendly option.

One benefit of not having/using a garbage disposal is that less water is consumed to wash dishes. You use less water to clean up after a meal, and the water treatment system can also use less water to process your wastewater. In addition to the environmental benefits, another benefit of a garbage disposal-free life is that you have more under-sink space!

For people with septic systems, garbage disposals can cause clogs, resulting in system failure. They also cause the tank to fill with solids much quicker, requiring more frequent pumping. Although it is possible to use a garbage disposal with a septic tank, you must use a top-of-the-line disposal that processes food bits into very small particles that the system can digest.

One problem with not having a garbage disposal is that food particles can sometimes get washed down the drain anyway and cause clogs. To keep this from happening, protect your kitchen drain with a strainer. People who don’t have a garbage disposal should also be sure to wipe off and throw away or compost all visible food particles on dishes before washing them.

To fix tough clogs in your kitchen sink or elsewhere in the home, call a reputable plumbing professional.

 

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

Plumbing Repairs: Fixing a Pop-Up Drain Stopper in your Bathroom Sink

When a pop-up drain stopper is difficult to open or close — or doesn’t operate at all — it is usually due to hair, soap scum buildup, or a loose worn or broken part somewhere within the mechanism. There is no need to call in the plumbers for this problem. These devices are often fairly easy to fix.

Drain Stopper Repair

The first order of business is to remove the stopper from the drain. This can be done by twisting and then lifting the stopper, or by loosening the nut closest to the drain on the pivot rod and pulling it away from the drain. The pivot rod is the horizontal “bar” that runs into the drain and is connected to the stopper on one end, and to the lift rod or “plunger” on the other. The lift rod is the vertical bar that comes up through the faucet and controls the stopper.

A little drain cleaning and clearing of the scum and debris from the stopper may be all that is necessary to get the assembly to operate smoothly again. But if the hole at the bottom of the stopper is broken and can no longer attach to the pivot rod, the stopper will likely have to be replaced.

Check all screws along the length of the lift rod and pivot rod. Tighten them where necessary. Also, take a look at the gaskets to make sure they aren’t broken or leaking. Inspect the clevis fasteners on the rods for looseness or damage.

Once the assembly is tight and working properly, place the stopper back into the drain and maneuver it around until it connects with the pivot arm. This may take a few tries, or even some adjusting of the pivot rod. But once the stopper is back in place you should once again have a fully functioning pop-up drain stopper assembly.

Among the plumbing problems that can arise in your home, issues surrounding the drain stopper are usually minor and can be repaired in do-it-yourself fashion.

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

 

(Photo via Flickr)

Will Going Green Prevent Clogs?

Many products we use daily now have an alternative option that promises it will be good for the environment, better for us, and will eventually reduce our carbon footprint. But will some of these items, such as eco-friendly soaps and toilet tissues, be better for the drains in our homes today?

A big reason the pipes and drains in our homes clog comes from soap scum. It forms when soap combines with calcium and magnesium in the water, which forms a hard substances that’s difficult to remove and continues to build up. While there are several eco-friendly options for body soaps, facial cleansers, and even laundry detergents, soap is still soap and soap leads to soap scum.

The solution is utilizing non-soap products, which range from the non-soap body bars to hair cleansers without detergents. These products not only don’t lead to soap scum, they are also said to be better for our skin and hair.

Another eco-friendly product on the market is toilet paper. Several brands offer 100% recycled toilet paper, which saves our forests, but what does it do for our pipes? Believe it or not, these are the best for your plumbing. The fibers dissolve easily and are biodegradable. Thicker, more-absorbent tissue is probably the worst type of bathroom tissue you can flush down the toilet.

As for detergents, go for ones that will be gentle on your septic tank. The tank actually needs bacteria to break down waste, so powerful cleansers can cause a clog, even if it says its safe for your septic system. Look for all-natural drain cleaners, nontoxic liquid laundry detergents (powder soaps don’t break down well), and phosphate free dishwashing detergent. If possible, try to limit the use of antibacterial cleaners or bleach, as these items are your septic tanks worst enemy.

Choose carefully when picking up items for your home. Just because its says it’s eco-friendly, doesn’t meant it’s the best option for the plumbing.

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

 

(Photo via Flickr)

What are the Main Costs of Clogged Drains?

Clogged drains are a common occurrence around the holidays. Our homes are bustling with company, you’re cooking more, and things are going down the home drains that probably shouldn’t. Clogged drains probably cost more than you think, especially if a plumber has to make a house call on a holiday.

Depending on the going rate in your area, calling a plumber to fix a clogged drain can range between $50-$250, depending on how bad of a clog you’re facing. A clogged tub is an average of $90, while a backed up sink runs an average of $60.

Since most plumbers charge by the hour, and not necessarily by the type of service, is it worth it to try fixing the problem yourself? Of course, it depends on how bad the clog seems to be and how much you trust yourself as a handyman. You don’t want to make the problem worse and end up calling a plumber for an even bigger problem than what you started with.

A plunger could remove basic toilet and bathtub clogs, while a sink plunger might rid smaller clogs, for about $15, if you don’t have one already. A plumber’s snake, made for bigger clogs, costs between $25-$125, or you could rent one if you think that will solve your problem.

Trying to prevent the clogs is free. If you’re having a house full of guests this holiday season, let them know your plumbing system can’t handle anything outside of the ordinary. Place trashcans near the toilet for trash, cotton swaps, wet wipes, and other items that don’t belong in the sewer system. Place mesh catchers over your shower drains to prevent hair from clogging up the pipes.

In the kitchen, throw food scraps and trash in the garbage can instead of in the sink or garbage disposal. It might be a change of pace, but it will save you money in the future.

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Featured in Plumbing & Mechanical

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2012/11/prweb10177737.htm

Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling President Wesley Holm talks water treatment services to plumbing trade magazine.

National award-winning electric, plumbing, heating and cooling company Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling was recently featured in the September 2012 issue of Plumbing & Mechanical, a leading industry magazine in the plumbing industry.

The Plumbing & Mechanical magazine feature includes an interview with Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling President Wesley Holm. Holm discusses Cleaner Fresher Healthier water with P&M, along with his company’s ProSystems whole-house water treatment systems, and how these services complement the company’s existing services.

Says Holm to Plumbing & Mechanical, “We improve people’s lives through the services we provide. We need to live up to that and educate our clients about what’s in their water.”

Holm goes on to explain, “People are more attuned to clean water than to clean air. They’re more concerned about what they drink than what they breathe.”

In particular, says Holm, young mothers are concerned about contaminants in municipal drinking water, which may include prescription drugs, bacteria, ammonia, and other chemicals.

Another chemical commonly found in drinking water is chlorine – Many utilities add chlorine to disinfect drinking water, though it negatively affects the taste and smell of the water, and also dries the hair and skin when showering.

Beyond eliminating bad tastes and dry skin, whole-house water treatment is about improving the health of every member of your household. It’s also about the health of Mother Earth. Holm tells P&M, “Treating water inside the home offers an added benefit to people who want to lead a green lifestyle.”

“We drink cases and cases of bottled water, and our landfills are full of water bottles,” Holm continues. “Petrochemicals are used to make the water bottles, so there are repercussions for our dependence on foreign oil as well.”

Read the three-page spread on Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, “A natural fit,” in Plumbing & Mechanical online, or visit the publication’s website (pmmag.com) to order a copy of the September 2012 issue and/or subscribe to Plumbing & Mechanical.

About Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

With over 80 years of service, Thompson Electric Plumbing Heating & Cooling is among the most trusted and reputable electric, plumbing heating and cooling companies in the greater Cincinnati area. Thompson has received numerous other national awards and recognitions over the years, including recognition from Airtime 500, an elite HVAC contractor association. Thompson bears the Technician To learn more about the award-winning services of Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, or to schedule a service today, visit 333help.com or call 513-333-HELP. You can also follow Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling on Twitter at @ThompsonPHC.

 

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

Top Causes of Clogged Drains

Curious about the main causes of clogged drains? Read on to find out and to learn how to prevent common drain clogs.

Hair – Human hair is one of the top causes of clogged drains, particularly with slow-draining or stopped-up showers and sinks. Use strainers on bathroom drains to prevent hair from going down the drain. Pet hair can also cause clogs, especially in washing machines. Help prevent these clogs by vacuuming particularly “furry” items before putting them in the wash.

Solids – This category includes solid food items, and any other non-degradable objects, like cigarette butts, sanitary napkins or other trash. It also includes oil and grease, which harden into solids after they cool. Keep these items out of your garbage disposal, toilet, and other drains. Even your dishwasher can become clogged from solid foods left on your dishes.

Mineral buildup – If you live in an area with “hard water,” or water that contains an excess amount of minerals, mineral residue can build up, forming thick deposits that can cause blockages in pipes and drains. Water treatment services to remove minerals and other impurities from your home water supply can help prevent this type of household clog from occurring.

Tree roots – Invasive tree roots in the main sewer line are a major cause of clogged drains that is difficult, if not impossible to prevent. This problem is especially common in older neighborhoods with old, clay sewer pipes, including much of the Greater Cincinnati area. Nevertheless, a skilled plumber can use modern plumbing tools to clear and repair your main sewer line – without digging up your yard in the process.

Learn more about preventing drain clogs in our blog post, Plumbing Problems Can Be Avoided by Preventing Drain Clogs, and for tough clogs, call 513-333-HELP to schedule a drain cleaning with a certified plumbing professional.

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

Plumbing Problems Can Be Avoided by Preventing Drain Clogs

If you have found it necessary to call a plumber for drain cleaning at least once within the past year, you’re probably doing something wrong. It only takes a couple of minutes to service your drains and keep them in good working order.

Following are a few home drain maintenance tips:

Purchase strainers or screens and place them over all sink drains in your home. This will prevent debris from entering the drains and eventually clogging your plumbing. Don’t let debris build up in drain strainers. Clean them regularly.

Never dump cooking grease into a drain. Pour it into a can or some other type of sturdy container and throw it in the trash.

Pour baking soda into your drains at least once a week — around a quarter to a half cup — and let it sit for a few minutes. Then flush it down the drain with a pot of boiled water or by running hot water through the drain from your faucet for a minute or two.

Clean your bathtub after each use. Keep it clear of hair and soap scum, especially around the drain area.

Running hot water through drains for a few minutes after use will help keep them clean. It will help prevent the buildup of grime and debris. Also, occasionally fill tubs and sinks with water and then pull the plug. This will allow the force of the water to flush the drains.

Clogged drains not only cause headaches for the homeowner, they can lead to costly plumbing repairs if they are not adequately addressed. But this can be avoided by taking a little extra time to make sure they don’t occur in the first place!

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

 

(Photo via Flickr)

Thompson Honors Veterans at Annual Veterans Day Breakfast

Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, a company that has raised over $180,000 since 2009 to support veterans hosted its 4^th annual Veterans Day Celebration today at its company headquarters.

The firm presented a check in the amount of $55,010 to Marc Burgess, Executive Director of the Disabled American Veterans National Headquarters. The DAV is a non-profit organization dedicated to the service of our nation’s injured heroes.

In addition, Thompson presented a check for $10,000 to Marian and Adolfo Olivas, customers of Thompson, whose son, Army Cpl. Nicholas H. Olivas, was killed in the line of duty this year at Zharay, Afghanistan on May 30, 2012, while serving Operation Enduring Freedom. The Olivas family will donate the check their chosen charity, the Fisher House Foundation.

Thompson’s employees donated $7,000 in savings bond to Cpl. Olivas’ son, Connor.

The Veterans Day Breakfast and Celebration featured guest speaker Lt. Col. Brad Wenstrup, who is an Iraq War veterans. Wenstrup was recently elected as Ohio’s 2^nd congressional district in the United States House of Representatives.

In keeping with the company’s ongoing commitment to serve the community and veterans, Thompson launched its Fourth Annual Veterans campaign on August 1, 2012, raising over $65,000 this year. Thompson thanks the overwhelming support of their loyal Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky customers that have helped raise more money this year for veterans than ever before.

About Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling

Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling has been providing electric, plumbing, drain cleaning, heating and cooling repair and installation and service to Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky for over 80 years. Thompson is dedicated to providing National Award Winning Service. Thompson’s clients receive upfront pricing and guarantees on all work performed. Thompson is open seven days a week, from 8 to 8, no overtime! 

Call 513-333-HELP (4357) for more information or go to http://333help.com/veterans/.

Winter Septic System Maintenance

Many households rely on septic systems to treat their sewage. In cold weather climates, these systems may freeze and fail, typically because of leaks, irregular use, compacted snow, or lack of plant cover. With winter on the horizon, it is crucial for homeowners with septic systems to take certain actions to prevent their system from freezing this cold season.

So what constitutes good septic system winter care? Nick Haig, a University of Minnesota septic systems expert says septic system owners should regularly inspect their system for leaky pipes and broken seals or caps. Additionally, Haig says that letting the lawn grow longer in late fall will help catch snow to provide insulation. Finally, Haig recommends using warm and hot water on a regular basis throughout the winter, keeping vehicles off of the system’s drain field or septic tank (this drives frost into the ground), and watching for any sewage coming out of the ground.

Although it is sometimes said that using antifreeze can help keep a septic system from freezing, this is a misconception and is not recommended. Using antifreeze in can disrupt the system’s anaerobic bacteria balance, causing the system to fail.

Another important winter septic tank maintenance tip is to make sure the cover for your septic tank is in good condition. If the cover is below ground, have a professional inspect it when they come out to service your system – which should happen on a regular basis. If the cover is above ground or flush to the ground, then you can inspect it yourself and see that it is not loose or otherwise compromised.

By taking some time to make sure your septic system is sufficiently winterized before winter comes, and by practicing good septic tank winter care throughout the cold months, there is very little chance that your septic system will freeze. In the event that it does freeze, make sure to call your septic system professional immediately.

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Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.