Tag: plumbing

Three Reasons Why Plumbing Maintenance is Important

Three Benefits of Plumbing Maintenance 

Of all things that can go wrong around the home, plumbing is one that homeowners fear the most. Plumbing problems range from a simple leaky faucet to a burst pipe that ruptures and floods the house in minutes. Doesn’t it make sense to take steps to prevent these problems?

Luckily, plumbing industry professionals have the experience and training to help homeowners prevent plumbing disasters by performing routine maintenance. Read on to learn about the benefits of professional maintenance on a home’s plumbing. 

Keeps the Home Running Safely and Smoothly

safetyThe first reason that maintenance checks of a home’s plumbing are so important is that they can keep it safer and more reliable. Many things can go wrong with a plumbing system that can compromise the family's safety. A few examples of safety-related plumbing issues are: 

  • Water heaters can explode and cause damage and injury
  • Lead leaching into drinking water 
  • Burns caused by faulty water heating elements
  • Tainted water from faulty backflow prevention devices

Each of these examples is a preventable disaster. With routine maintenance checks from a qualified professional, drinking water can stay pure, and homeowners can rest assured that a plumbing disaster won’t plague their home. 

Prolongs Life of Plumbing and Appliances 

A home's plumbing system is the points of use like faucets, clothes washers, and even coffee machines. When plumbing runs smoothly, these appliances and fixtures are reliable and can last a long time. However, with chronic exposure to corrosion and hard water, appliances like water heaters have to work overtime to keep up with demands. This can drastically reduce the lifespan of home appliances and fixtures. 

Routine plumbing checks from a plumber can prevent damage and increase the likelihood that appliances and fixtures will last longer with fewer troubles. Doesn't it make sense to get the most out of expensive appliances by not having to replace them before it is necessary? 

Saves Money on Repairs and Water Bills 

saveWhat is the one thing that can blow a budget in a hurry? Plumbing repairs. High water bills. Plumbing maintenance is aimed at reducing these budget busters in one visit. During a plumbing maintenance visit, a plumber will look for potential problems that could be a massive headache down the road. This allows homeowners to get them fixed before emergencies occur and cause more damage and more expensive repairs.

They will also look for leaks that are wasting water and causing higher water and sewer bills. By allowing them to repair leaks during maintenance visits, homeowners will save substantially on their water bills. The cost of plumbing maintenance could end up paying for itself in just a few months! 

About PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning

PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning is a disabled veteran-owned business that has provided award-winning service to the residents of Staten Island, NY, and the surrounding areas since 1978. They offer 24/7 emergency response, fast turnarounds, and options to fit any budget. They also offer a membership plan with many perks, including maintenance visits. Call them today for plumbing services in Staten Island, NY. 

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Know the Difference Between a Plumbing Emergency and a Plumbing Problem

Do You Know the Difference Between Important and Urgent?

Sometimes it can be easy to tell the difference between an emergency and a problem. When the house is on fire, it’s an emergency, and it’s best to call for help. But when a candle gets knocked over and threatens to start a fire, it’s a problem. Problems can turn into emergencies if they’re not dealt with. These are two pretty clear examples. But, it can be harder to tell the difference between an important problem and an urgent emergency when it comes to plumbing issues. So read on for examples of each and what to do about them. 

Broken Pipe: Urgentpipe

The dreaded broken pipe in the home is an example of an emergency. This unfortunate incident can happen for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it’s due to high water pressure, and other times pipes break because they’re old and need to be replaced. In the wintertime, freezing pipes can cause them to burst. No matter how it happens, it’s something that requires an expert to fix properly. 

The clear first step to dealing with a broken pipe is to turn off the main water supply to the house. This will limit the damage that the flowing water will do to the home. The main water valve is usually located inside the house near where the water comes in, so it’s usually on the street-side. Possibly near the water heater. Some homes may have another shutoff valve near the street in a small municipal box fixed into the ground. Once the water is shut off, call a certified plumbing company to deal with the emergency.  

Clogged Toilet: Importanttoilet

While a broken pipe is a serious issue, a clogged toilet is somewhat less so. It should still be dealt with in a timely manner, but most of the time, it doesn’t require the help of a trained professional. Most homeowners are handy with a plunger and know the nuances of their toilets and how to get them unclogged.

If a plunger doesn’t work, a plumber’s snake can be used for most toilet clogs. A homeowner rarely needs to call a plumber for a clogged toilet. However, if some foreign objects ended up in the toilet (usually when there’s a toddler in the house), a  plumber may be required to get these out safely without harming the pipes or the toilet. 

Sewage System Backup: Urgent

Like a broken pipe, a sewage system backup is an urgent emergency. This can end up contaminating the entire home’s water supply, posing a health risk to those using the water. Some common sewage backup signs include foul odors coming from drains, multiple drains backing up or draining slowly, or discolored (black) water coming up in the toilets or drains. 

A sewage backup like that is not something that most homeowners are equipped to handle. Those who suspect that they are experiencing a sewage backup should immediately stop using the water and call a professional plumbing company for help. 

About PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning

PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning has been serving Staten Island, NY, since 1979. They offer top-notch, award-winning service from friendly technicians. Their workmanship is always excellent, and they provide budget-friendly options for every job. Call now for plumbing service!

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A Brief and Fun History of White House Plumbing

Exciting Facts About Plumbing in America’s House

It’s fun to celebrate Presidents Day by learning about the history of plumbing in the White House. Many people find it surprising that, for long stretches of its history, the White House was not the modern and luxurious building it is today. Presidents and their families today enjoy all the comforts and modern additions that they could ask for, within reason. 

But many presidents over the years had to deal with sub-par conditions in the building. Running water was installed late, and it took a while for the house to receive a flushing toilet. But that’s not all. Read on to discover the history behind these and other White House plumbing facts.  

Running Water in the White House

The first running water on the White House grounds wasn’t actually for bathing, drinking, washing hands, or flushing toilets. Back during John Quincy Adams’ presidency (1825 - 1829), the White House got its first glimpse of plumbing. But it was for watering the garden, not for anything else. 

Adams had a bit of a green thumb, and so he needed water for his garden on the grounds. There was an iron pump with pulled water from the nearby well at the Treasury building so the president could water his plants. It wasn’t until about 1833 that the White House itself received running water for drinking water and fire protection.  

The Very First White House Flush

toilet

While Jackson is credited with the first to bring running water to the White House itself, and Adams the first to bring running water to the White House grounds, it was nearly 20 years after the White House got water that it had a flushing toilet. In 1853, according to historians, President Millard Fillmore oversaw the installation of the first flushing toilet. But it wasn’t until his predecessor took office, Franklin Pierce, that a modern bathroom was up and running. 

More Interesting Facts

letters

Some other interesting facts concern the history of bathtubs in the White House. James Madison (1809 - 1817) is credited with having the first bathtub in the White House, installed in 1814. The water for it had to be heated on a stove before it could be hauled to the bathtub in buckets. Reportedly, the tub didn’t see a lot of use because the British set fire to the White House not long after its installation. 

The Potomac River served as the bathing place for some presidents. Reportedly, John Quincy Adams would take a dip in the river at some point during the day. However, this was less than convenient. Apparently, someone made off with the president’s clothes one day, and he had to holler for a boy to bring more from the White House. 

Harry Truman is credited with upgrading the White House during his administration in the middle of the 20th century. It was a big job, and it wasn’t until then that proper, modern plumbing and amenities were installed throughout the whole house. The plumbing system was almost entirely replaced then, as it was found to be severely lacking.  

About PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning

PAC Plumbing has been helping Staten Island, NY, residents with their plumbing problems since 1979. They provide personal attention and focus on prevention. They also offer up-front pricing and excellent communication, so their customers are never surprised. Contact them today to schedule expert plumbing services in Staten Island.

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Common Plumbing Services Needed in Spring

Plumbing Problems That Happen Often in Spring

Don’t let the beauty of spring fool you, this season can bring some nasty plumbing issues if you aren’t careful. All the coming rain is great for nature and the blooming of flowers, but not so much for your plumbing system. Things can go wrong within the first rainfall if you haven’t had your pipes cleaned out in a while.

Even small clogs could cause extensive damage to your home. Be sure to get your maintenance appointment scheduled before it’s too late. Plumbing professionals will make sure your plumbing system is ready for the coming season! If you would like to learn more about the effects spring has on your plumbing system, continue reading.

Leaking Pipes Are Common in the Spring

You never know what the winter has done to your pipes until you get someone to come out for a maintenance check. There are a few different reasons you could have leaking pipes in the springtime and one of those reasons is directly associated with the winter.

leaking pipesThe ground gets really cold and can cause pipes to freeze and crack. This is something you may not notice until the springtime. A couple of other reasons include:
  • Rainfall: An excessive amount of rain can cause the soil surrounding your pipes to become saturated. This will add extra weight and pressure around the pipes and could cause some of them to burst as a result.
  • Tree Roots: The spring is a time for growth. This includes some trees. If the trees are close to your home, the roots could grow into the pipes and cause some problems.

Control the Flooding With a Sump Pump

Sump pumps are located in the basement of homes in a specially constructed pit. These pumps are designed to automatically come one when there are excessive amounts of water in and around the home. Essentially, the water will flow into the drain pit via drains or through the soil.

Once the pit fills to a certain point, the pump will kick on and pump the water away from the home. In return, your basement and crawl space stays dry and it also helps save your foundation from shifting and causing damage to your home.

flooding

If you live in a home with a basement and your home is prone to flooding in the springtime, a sump pump may be the answer to your problems. Approximately 60% of American homes suffer from below-ground wetness, and sump pumps are becoming increasingly more popular because of it. It’ll save you money in the long run because your home’s foundation, flooring, walls, fixtures, furniture, etc. will be saved from water damage.

Outside Factors That Cause Clogged Drains

clogged drainsAs mentioned above, tree roots can be a major nemesis of your home’s piping system. If they aren’t causing leaks, they could be clogging your drains altogether. Luckily, most of the time tree roots can be removed from pipes by means of hydrojetting.

This will clear out your pipes completely, but the plumber will have to check for leaks once the tree roots have been evacuated. Another extremely common cause of pipe clogging is from rainwater.

During a rainstorm, sticks, mud, and debris will flow into drains and clog piping systems. This is something you will want to get cleaned right away because the extra weight could potentially cause further problems within your piping system.

PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air conditioning Will Fix Your Drains For You

PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning provides options for your budget. They work with you because they want to do whatever it takes to keep you safe and your home working efficiently. With years of local experience and a highly trained team, they guarantee customer satisfaction with every plumbing repair in Staten Island, NY.

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Must-Know Tips and Tricks for a Healthy Toilet Plumbing System

Easy Tips to Make Your Toilet Plumbing Last

Your home plumbing system is vital for the life of your house. Every drain connects at some point under your house, and whether you’re showering, washing your hands, or washing your dishes, you’ll be using some part of your plumbing. It’s essential, as a homeowner, to know how the plumbing in your home works so you can keep it working at optimal performance.

Keeping your plumbing workable and serviceable will extend its life and keep you from needing to replace it. Learn how to keep your plumbing in working order and save your pocketbook while you’re at it. The following tips will let you know how to deal with preventing a clogged toilet, and what to do when you're already in the situation. 

Toilet Cleaning Tablets Are your Friend

toilet cleaning tabletsToilet cleaning tablets can be purchased at major stores such as Walmart or Lowes and usually come in packs of three to five. These blue tablets are placed inside the toilet tank and will clean the water inside your bowl with every flush. They’ll sanitize your bowl, making it easier to clean, and your bathroom will smell fresh.

The tablets are used for numerous flushes, making the cleaner economical and convenient. Each tablet can be used in your tank for one to two weeks, depending on the number of flushes per week. Not only do the cleaning chemicals help improve the look and smell of your toilet, but also they can break down the impurities found in your plumbing, reducing the risk of clogs as well.

This is a simple way to keep your bathroom toilet clean, while also doing something right for the maintenance of your plumbing system.

Avoid Flushing the Wrong Thing

This next tip comes because many products on the market are now labeled as “flushable.” Unfortunately, items such as flushable wipes are not truly flushable. Toilet paper is the only item that should ever be flushed down your toilet and into your plumbing. Any other product, even if labeled “flushable,” can cause backups and clogs in your plumbing.

only flush toilet paper

Once you have a clog in your plumbing, water can back up into the toilet bowl. If clogs get pushed further down in the pipe, clogs can back up your entire plumbing, including your washing machine, kitchen sink, and showers. These clogs can easily be prevented by only flushing toilet paper and throwing everything else away. When in doubt, throw it out. Only toilet paper belongs in the toilet bowl.

Need a Trick? Get a Bucket of Water!

bucket of waterIf you do happen to have a clog, one simple trip to get your pipes unstuck is using a bucket of water to flush. This might sound odd, but it works! Simply fill a bucket of water at least a gallon or two full. After the water in your toilet bowl has gone down, dump the entire bucket of water into the toilet bowl at once.

Be careful that it doesn’t back up onto the floor. The force of the water flowing into the bowl should be enough to push the clog right through your pipes.

If your clog is particularly stuck, it might take several buckets of water to fully unclog your toilet. The next time you need to unclog your toilet, try this trick, and it just might provide you some savings!

Plumbers Who Get It Right

PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning has been serving Staten Island, New York since 1979. Offering services for plumbing, heating, cooling, residential, and commercial needs, PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning guarantees accurate services that fit your budget. With award-winning service and on-call emergency response they will get the job done right.

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