Archive

Archive for May, 2010

Plumbing Problems and Solutions

May 27th, 2010

Believe it or not, when it comes to the integrity of your home, plumbing can play a rather large role. Capable of causing

Got Plumbing Problems?

Got Plumbing Problems?

a great deal more than temporary trauma, Plumbing issues can cause serious water damage. To avoid this it’s a good idea to look at common plumbing problems and solutions.

Leaks are the most common plumbing issue. They are subtle Plumbing problems that develop more and more over time. Fixing a leak depends on whether it’s leaky caulking, a leaky flapper in your toilet tank, or a even a leaky pipe. To fix leaky caulking you must remove the caulk, clean all of the affected areas and leaks, and apply new caulk. A worn down flapper can keep the water in your toilet from fully shutting off. Your best bet is to turn off the water and flush the toilet, so as to drain the water. Replace the flapper with one of the same size, which is easily purchased at a hardware store. To fix a leak in a pipe you need to tighten any loose mechanical joints, which may require different strategies. It’s a good idea to consult a professional before attempting this on your own.

Clogging is the second most common problem. These Plumbing problems are characteristic of toilets, bathtubs, as well as floor drains. To fix a bathtub clog, try removing all hair and build up from the drain and use an effective chemical drain cleaner. If chemicals don’t work you’re going to need to clean the drum trap, which is much harder to do. You can access it either through a panel behind the tub or the ceiling of the room beneath it. Remove the plug from the bottom, clear any build up clogging it, and place a new gasket on the plug before putting it back. A clogged toilet is best cured with a plunger, but sometimes the clog is too severe. In which case you’ll need to use a “Snake” to remove it. Floor drain clogs are usually caused by tree roots that have grown through the pipe. To fix this you’ll need a “Sewer Tape”, which is used to break through the clog.

As with any other problem, Plumbing problems vary in severity. Although many can be done on your own, it is always wise to seek the aid or advice on issues you are unsure of or that are too difficult for your abilities.

Ben and Franklin Plumbing is always ready to help!

To Read more go to www.benfranklinplumbingcharlotte.com

Plumbing Clog Problems?

May 21st, 2010
There is nothing more frustrating than dealing with something thats not functioning properly. A clogged drain is definitely one of them. Of course your stopped up drain is usually the result of all types of debris that has managed to get into the pipes of your plumbing system. A unique comparison would be the way bacteria manages to get into our system and cause a common cold or some type of infection in our bodies.   The cold and flu season is a challenging time in households across America.  There are those who attempt to get a flu shot to prevent them from getting ill, and then those who don’t.  Our plumbing system requires adequate protection as well.  When we disregard food that continuously slips down our drain into our pipes and hair that becomes lodged in the same we are headed for trouble, ask a Lewisville plumber.  He would share with you that a backed up sink, tub or toilet is often a symptom of a much bigger problem.
Similar to congestion that lingers in our bodies, if not removed it leads to more complicated issues. Some attempt to spend unnecessary money on plumbing products to remedy their issue.  However, many times the issue has already grown to a problem that requires more than a simple home remedy at this point.  It’s the same way with our cold symptoms.  In the beginning stages we attempt to weather the storm of bacteria and unwanted aches and pains with over-the-counter medications.  However, when the situation doesn’t get better we make our way to the doctor.  Calling a Charlotte NC plumber to do an analysis of your issue is the best method to take for your clogged drain.  It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

There is nothing more frustrating than dealing with something thats not functioning properly. A clogged drain is definitely one of them. Of course your stopped up drain is usually the result of all types of debris that has managed to get into the pipes of your plumbing system. A unique comparison would be the way bacteria manages to get into our system and cause a common cold or some type of infection in our bodies.   The cold and flu season is a challenging time in households across America.  There are those who attempt to get a flu shot to prevent them from getting ill, and then those who don’t.  Our plumbing system requires adequate protection as well.  When we disregard food that continuously slips down our drain into our pipes and hair that becomes lodged in the same we are headed for trouble, ask a Charlotte plumber.  He would share with you that a backed up sink, tub or toilet is often a symptom of a much bigger problem.

Similar to congestion that lingers in our bodies, if not removed it leads to more complicated issues. Some attempt to spend unnecessary money on plumbing products to remedy their issue.  However, many times the issue has already grown to a problem that requires more than a simple home remedy at this point.  It’s the same way with our cold symptoms.  In the beginning stages we attempt to weather the storm of bacteria and unwanted aches and pains with over-the-counter medications.  However, when the situation doesn’t get better we make our way to the doctor.  Calling a Charlotte NC plumber to do an analysis of your issue is the best method to take for your clogged drain.  It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

How to Fixing a Hot Water Heater

May 21st, 2010

Hot water heater repair can be something of a mixed bag. There are minor repairs that you can attempt for yourself if you know how to repair a water heater and there are problems that should only be handled by a licensed professional plumber. Some problems are rather inexpensive and some problems will require that a completely new water heater be installed. It is important to know what you are looking for and what your capabilities are when attempting to deal with any hot water heater repair.

In situations where you smell gas (gas water heater) or the floor is flooded with water (electric water heater) it is important that you leave the house and call upon a licensed professional immediately. Failure to do so could result in property damage and risks the health and well-being of your family.

If your hot water heater is making a lot of noise (banging, whizzing, popping, hissing, etc.) when it first kicks in, the most likely culprit is a build up of sediment at the bottom of your tank. Properly flushing your tank can help to eliminate this problem. In fact, flushing your tank every six to twelve months is part of regular hot water heater maintenance.

Problems such as the temperature of the water being too hot or too cold can often be easily remedied by adjusting the thermostat of your hot water heater. To properly set the temperature of your hot water heater, set the thermostat so that the water coming out of the tap at full hot is just above 150 degrees Fahrenheit if you have a dishwasher or a little lower if you do not. If the temperature does not change after adjusting the thermostat, you probably need to replace the thermostat or its sensor.

If your hot water heater is leaking, there is no option but to replace the unit. A leaking water heater can be a very dangerous thing and a professional plumber will be able to quickly remove your old water heater and replace it with a more energy efficient new model.

For more information on Hot Water Heaters Call Ben Franklin Plumbing Charlotte at 704-461-1700

Shower Remodeling: Increase the Value of Your Home

May 21st, 2010

A shower remodel is a big part of a bathroom renovation. Before you begin to make plans on what you would like to do, it is important to consider your options. You may have an idea in your head about the exact look and feel of your new shower. Or you may not have any idea in mind other than to replace the existing shower. No matter what you would like the final outcome to look like, it is important to understand what your different options are in terms of style, price and construction.

For more information on bathroom remodeling Call your Charlotte Plumber, Ben Franklin Plumbing