Maxwell-White Plumbing Archives - Page 4 of 5

Does Sewer Video Inspection Wreck the Yard?

Sewer Camera Inspection Technology

Sewer line services can wreak havoc and be invasive without the right technology. Before specialized recording equipment, plumbers searching for intruding tree roots or other sewer line issues had no choice but to dig large trenches in the yard. However, plumbers can now use a sewer inspection camera to locate blockages and sewer line damage without destroying property or yards.

Eliminating Property Damage With Sewer Line Cameras

A sewer camera inspection uses a recording device that helps plumbers identify and locate problems or blockages deep inside the pipes. Sewer cameras are extremely small, and attached to the camera is a long cable that is fed through the sewer line. Plumbers use a small monitor to view the camera footage, and a radio transmitter can record the depth so that plumbers know precisely where the problem is located. This process can be done in as little as 30 minutes.

Sewer camera inspections allow plumbers to find the cause of a home’s plumbing problems, whether a leak or blockage, and the condition of the pipes. Using video inspection equipment also allows plumbers to see the extent of the damage in the sewer line and its material makeup, which can help inform them on how best to fix a problem.

When Is Sewer Camera Inspection Necessary?

Sewer video inspection can detect sewer line problems like tree roots, damaged piping, leaks, sagging lines, corrosion, and blockages. Sewer line cameras are also used to ensure houses are up to code and that the pipes are in good condition and don’t need to be replaced.

Homeowners may need a sewer video inspection if they are experiencing plumbing issues that indicate sewer line trouble, such as frequent backups, toilets that won’t flush, bubbling or slow drains, foul odors like sewage smells, soggy areas in the yard, and multiple clogs. In order to keep the drainage system fully functional and catch any issues before they cause significant damage, homeowners are advised to schedule a sewer line inspection once per year.

Benefits of Sewer Video Inspection Services

Sewer cameras make diagnosing all sorts of problems like leaks, clogs, intruding tree roots, and corrosion inside the sewer line easier and more accurate without digging trenches. Depending on where the line is located, excavation and digging can destroy the lawn and may be difficult, costly, and time-consuming to do and then fix and clean up.

Digging trenches takes a significant amount of time and manpower. However, sewer video inspection services are accurate, noninvasive, and reduce the time it takes for plumbers to repair sewer lines. Sewer cameras can help plumbers quickly identify and prevent problems. As part of routine plumbing maintenance, they can also help save homeowners money from potentially expensive repairs.

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing has nearly three decades of experience serving West Salem and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, the latest technology, and emergency services. Call them today for sewer video inspection services in West Salem, WI.

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Ensure Safety From Gas Leaks During National Wellness Month

Dangerous Gas Leaks: How to Identify and Respond

As National Wellness Month is in August, understanding the signs of gas leaks and the appropriate actions to take during an emergency is crucial for safeguarding homes and loved ones. This article explores gas leaks, prioritizing well-being every step of the way in honor of National Wellness Month.

Gas Leak Symptoms

Gas leaks can pose significant dangers, but staying vigilant for certain telltale signs can help protect both homes and individuals. The distinct smell of rotten eggs, sudden spikes in gas bills, and experiencing physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, or nausea are essential indicators to be mindful of. These subtle yet crucial signs serve as an early warning, prompting immediate action and prioritizing safety in the face of a potential gas leak.

Here are some key indicators to watch out for:

Foul Odor: The distinct smell of rotten eggs or sulfur is a clear indication of a gas leak. If homeowners detect this odor, it’s essential to take immediate action.
Unexplained Gas Bills: It could be a sign of a gas leak if homeowners notice sudden and unexplained spikes in their gas bills. Keep an eye on utility statements for any unusual changes.
Physical Symptoms: Gas leaks can cause various physical reactions, such as headaches, fatigue, nausea, or dizziness. If anyone in the home experiences these symptoms, consider the possibility of a gas leak.
Dead or Discolored Vegetation: Gas leaks can affect nearby vegetation, causing plants to wilt or change color. Keep an eye on the yard for any unusual changes in plant health.

What Are the Next Steps?

If signs of a gas leak are detected, swift and decisive action is paramount to safeguarding lives and property. Homeowners should immediately prioritize the safety of everyone in the household and evacuate the premises without delay. It is crucial not to use any possible ignition sources, such as flames, lights, or electrical devices, as these can ignite the gas and worsen the situation.

The next step is promptly seeking professional assistance by contacting the gas company and qualified gas leak detection and repair experts once everyone is safely outside. Gas leaks require specialized knowledge and equipment to handle safely, so it is essential to leave the detection and repair tasks to the capable hands of professionals. Taking these precautions and responding quickly can help mitigate the risks associated with gas leaks and ensure the well-being of everyone in the affected area.

Here is what to do after suspecting a gas leak:

Evacuate: Immediately evacuate everyone from the house, including pets. Head to a safe location away from the potential gas leak.
Avoid Flames and Sparks: Do not turn on any lights, electrical devices, or flames. A small spark could ignite the gas and cause an explosion.
Call for Help: Call the gas company or emergency services once outside and at a safe distance. Let them know about the suspected gas leak and follow their instructions.
Professional Inspection: Gas leaks are hazardous and should be handled by qualified professionals. Contact a licensed plumber or gas company to safely detect and repair the gas leak.

Gas Leak Detection and Repair

When dealing with gas leaks, it is crucial to rely on the expertise of qualified professionals. Gas leak detection and repair require specialized training and equipment to ensure the safety of all occupants and properly handle the situation. Qualified plumbers will use a gas leak detector to locate the leak and then repair the gas line as needed.

As a preventive measure, homeowners can consider installing gas detectors in their homes. These detectors are designed to alert residents to a gas leak, providing an early warning system that can help prevent potentially hazardous situations. It is essential to note that carbon monoxide detectors, while vital for detecting carbon monoxide leaks, may not be suitable for detecting natural gas leaks unless clearly stated it does both.

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing is a family-owned company that has been serving West Salem and the surrounding areas since 1994. They offer flat rate pricing, financing, and the latest technology. Call them today for gas leak detection services in West Salem, WI.

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Does the Hot Water Heater Need Repair or Replacement?

Three Signs of a Broken Water Heater

A failing water heater can mean more than just cold showers. It can cause stress and high utility bills. But homeowners don’t have to live in uncertainty any longer. One can breathe easier by knowing the signs that a water heater has issues and may need replacement or repair. Some signs that it’s time to have a professional inspect the system include the following:

Loud Noises Coming From the Appliance

Ideally, the home’s water heater shouldn’t make any loud noise. If someone hears any sounds like these from the water heater, they should consult a plumber:

Screeching: Pressure can build up inside a water heater, creating an unpleasant screeching or hissing sound. A professional can run a diagnostic test and get to the root of the problem.
Rumbling or popping: Sediment can build up inside a water heater over time. If too much sediment builds up inside a water heater tank without maintenance, it can make sounds like these. The system must be drained and flushed and may need a new anode rod. This component attracts sediment from the water heater tank to prevent corrosion.

Discolored or Foul-Smelling Water

There’s nothing worse than reddish, cloudy, or brown water that smells bad coming from the tap. Some reasons behind this can include:

A faulty anode rod: As noted, an anode rod attracts sediment from the water heater. This piece may need replacing, leading to foul-smelling (or looking) water.
Rust and corrosion: Many water heaters rely on storage tanks. If a tank begins to rust and corrode, it could affect the smell and look of the home’s hot water. The corrosion may also be in the pipes.
Leaks: When most people think of leaks, they imagine water escaping the plumbing system. However, leaks can also let contamination into the system, affecting the water.

If one notices foul-smelling or discolored water from their plumbing fixtures, they should call a plumber immediately. It’s likely an issue with the water heater if the foul smell and odd look of water occur with the hot water.

A Leaking Water Heater

Leaks around the home’s water heater are another apparent sign of a problem with it. In addition to wet spots around the appliance, one may also notice:

Mold and mildew growth
Soggy drywall
Higher-than-average water bills
Poor water pressure

Reasons for leaks in the water heater may include corrosion and rust, age, and wear and tear. Yet, whatever the reason for a water heater leak, one should consult a professional. Leaks do not get better with time. The longer these problems last, the worse the issue could become.

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing is a family-owned company serving West Salem, WI, and the surrounding communities. They provide flat rate pricing, financing, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for water heater repair or installations in West Salem, WI.

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Easy Ways to Reduce Water Usage This Summer

Save Money and Use Less Water

Summer is here, and it’s time to start thinking about ways to reduce water usage. Summertime often brings higher water bills, so it’s essential to be mindful of how much water households use. Homeowners should look for every opportunity to reduce their water usage to make the summertime easier on the budget. Fortunately, there are some easy steps that can be taken to help conserve water this season while still keeping lawns and gardens lush and green. Here are some simple tips to help reduce water usage and costs this summer.

Invest in Water-Saving Devices

The most effective way households can save water is to install water-saving fixtures. Luckily, every plumbing fixture and water-using appliance found in a home has a water-saving version available that can help reduce water usage every time it’s used.

Examples of water-saving devices include fixtures like:

Low-flow showerheads save water during showers without sacrificing comfort
Water-saving toilets come in many types and save water with every flush
Water-saving faucets that aerate the water to save water but keep good water pressure
Appliances like clothes washers and dishwashers also come in versions that can save water and energy

Know the Best Time to Water the Lawn

One big drain on the summer budget is keeping the lawn looking great. As the seasonal rains slow down in the late spring, it will be the responsibility of the homeowner to water the landscape and the garden as much as necessary to keep the plants healthy. Knowing when to water the yard can reduce the water bill by preventing having to water it more.

For best results, make sure plants can absorb all of the water they need before the sun starts to evaporate the water. Always water in the early morning before the sun gets too high in the sky. This ensures the water has plenty of time to soak into the soil, and plants have time to absorb the water to prepare for the day. Watering in the early morning also stops mold and mildew, which is a problem that can occur when watering is done at night because the water sticks around too long before evaporation.

Other Tips to Limit Water Usage

Adopting the above strategies can significantly reduce water usage year-round, but more can always be done. There are many water-saving habits people can adopt to use less water. Some of the best water-saving habits a family can have are:

Taking brief showers instead of baths
Turning off the tap while shaving and brushing teeth
Using the dishwasher instead of handwashing dishes
Using a bucket to wash cars instead of a continuous water flow from a hose
Ensuring rain sensors on irrigation systems are operational

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing has nearly three decades of experience serving West Salem, WI, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, financing, and the latest technology. Call them today for kitchen and bathroom plumbing services in West Salem, WI.

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Three Reasons Homeowners Should Invest in a Water Softener

How Water Softeners Benefit Homeowners

Hard water contains a high concentration of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals can cause issues for the home and homeowners, such as build-up on and inside plumbing fixtures, impede the effectiveness of soaps and detergents, lead to dry skin and hair, and leave a chalky residue when dishes are washed or clothes are laundered.

A water softener is a device that helps reduce the effects of hard water by removing minerals from the water supply. It passes the water through a bed of tiny beads that act as a filter, trapping calcium and magnesium particles and allowing other minerals to pass through. The device then replenishes itself with salt so that it can continue to remove impurities. By using a water softener, the effects of hard water can be significantly reduced. Below is a discussion of three reasons homes and their inhabitants can benefit from a water softener.

It Makes Cleaning Easier and More Effective

The thing about hard water and cleaning is that the minerals react with soap in unpleasant ways. Calcium in hard water is responsible for the soap scum on sinks and tubs. A few of the everyday inconveniences that come with hard water include:

Spotted or cloudy-looking glasses and dishes after washing
Faded clothes
Scale buildup on plumbing fixtures and surfaces

Soft water does not cause these issues and makes creating a lather easier with soap and other cleansers. It will leave glasses and dishes squeaky clean, and clothes will be less likely to fade and will last longer. In addition, there will be less soap scum and buildup to clean from the plumbing fixtures.

It’s Better for the Plumbing System

Scale buildup from hard water happens on more than just the plumbing fixtures. A big part of the problem with hard water is scale buildup within the pipes and appliances it enters. This can narrow the pipes, making them more prone to clogging, and can build up in appliances like the water heater, reducing their energy efficiency and raising energy bills. Additionally, this can lead to shorter lifespans for the plumbing, fixtures, and appliances. The benefits of a water softener concerning the plumbing include:

Consistent Water Pressure: Water lines free from hard water buildup mean homeowners don’t have to worry about poor water pressure from this issue.

Fewer Clogs: A lack of scale buildup means the water flows better, and the pipes are less likely to clog.

Better Efficiency: Water heaters will function better and more efficiently, saving homeowners from high water heating costs.

Longer Lifespans: Without the hard water buildup and issues it can cause for the plumbing and appliances like the water heater, they can function better and last longer.

It Leaves Hair and Skin More Hydrated

Hard water contains high levels of minerals that can also leave residue and deposits on hair and skin. This can strip away natural oils and moisture, leading to dryness. Hair may become frizzy and brittle, while the skin may become flaky and itchy. In contrast, soft water eliminates these harsh minerals, making hair and skin feel softer and more hydrated.

With a water softener, people can enjoy the benefits of healthier-looking hair and skin with added moisture and fewer dry patches. Additionally, less residue left on the skin means it’s easier to remove dirt and makeup for a smoother complexion overall. Soft water can also be gentler on soaps and shampoos, allowing for a more moisturizing cleanse. With these benefits, it’s easy to see why investing in a water softener is the key to improved skin and hair health.

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing has nearly 30 years of experience serving West Salem, WI, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, emergency services, and prompt arrivals. Call them today for water softener installation or repair in West Salem, WI.

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The Most Likely Reasons Your Faucet is Leaking

Fix Leaks Right Away

A leaking or dripping faucet can have several consequences in terms of cost and environmental damage. Firstly, constantly running water can cause an increase in monthly water bills due to wasted resources. It adds up over time, leading to thousands of gallons of water being wasted each year. Finally, a leaking faucet can also damage a home due to continued exposure to moisture and dampness, resulting in water damage, mold, and mildew growth.

It’s essential to regularly check for any leaking or dripping faucets and get them repaired by a plumber promptly. The good news is that it’s easy to fix a leaky faucet. Especially when knowing what the problem is. This blog post will share three of the most common causes of a leaking or dripping tap.

O-Rings Have Worn Out

A faucet leaking from the handle most likely has a worn-out O-ring. The O-ring is a ring-shaped mechanical gasket designed to form a seal between two connecting parts and is usually found in a cartridge faucet. This kind of faucet has two handles on either side of a spout, with each handle housing a valve that controls the flow of hot and cold water.

As homeowners repeatedly turn these valves on and off over time, the O-ring that seals the joint between the valve and the pipe can wear down or loosen and eventually causes a leak. If the O-ring is the cause of the faucet leak, replacing the O-ring should be able to fix the problem handily.

Washers Have Corroded or Worn Out

The handle isn’t the only place where water can leak out of a faucet. Leaks can also occur at the spout, where water drips even though the handle has been shut completely. One possible reason for this kind of leak is a worn-out or corroded washer. The washer is part of the assembly that connects the faucet to the spout, and friction can cause it to wear out.

Over time, washers in faucets can also become worn out or corroded due to the constant water flow and the varying water temperatures, resulting in leaks. It’s also possible that the leak was caused by an ill-fitting washer or by using the wrong kind. Either way, the washer can be replaced to remedy the leak.

Valve Seats Have Corroded

Another possible cause of a faucet leaking or dripping from the spout is a corroded valve seat. The valve seat is crucial as it regulates water flow through the pipes. It‘s a circular disk with an opening in its center that allows water to pass through when open and shuts off the water flow when closed. The valve seat rests next to the washer, so when trying to figure out the cause of a leak coming from the faucet’s spout, it is essential to distinguish between the washer and the valve seat.

Corrosion typically occurs when oxygen, minerals, and water come into contact with the metal of the valve seat, causing a chemical reaction that wears away the surface of the valve seat. This can create tiny pits and jagged edges that ruin the water-tight seal and cause leaks when water flows through them.

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing is a family-owned company serving West Salem, WI, and the surrounding areas since 1994. They provide straightforward pricing, 24-hour service availability, and financing. Call them today for faucet repair or replacement in West Salem, WI.

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Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning

The Importance of Regularly Cleaning Drains

Professional drain cleaning carries numerous advantages. Experienced plumbers can quickly assess blockages, restore proper functioning to the plumbing, and prevent clogs from forming. This blog will discuss why routine professional drain cleaning is important for homeowners.

Address and Prevent Clogs and Buildup

Drain cleaning from a professional plumber not only helps to solve existing clogs and buildup in the pipes but can also help prevent future clogs as well. Using powerful equipment to remove blockages, such as hydro jets and augers, plumbers can ensure that drains are thoroughly cleared of any debris that could lead to clogs.

Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water jets that shoot out of a special nozzle that blasts through clogs and cleans the buildup off pipe walls. Hiring a professional plumber for regular drain cleaning is the best way to keep a home’s plumbing system running smoothly and clog-free.

Prevent Flooding

By having regular drain cleaning done, homeowners can save money in the long run by avoiding more costly repairs due to extensive pipe damage caused by clogs. Clogged drains can cause severe damage to a home’s pipes without the proper attention.

Clogging is a common issue that can lead to leaks and pipe bursts, causing water flooding and water damage. Moist environments, like the ones caused by leaks, can also cause mold and mildew growth. Avoid clogs with routine drain cleaning to prevent one common cause of burst pipes and leaks.

Fewer Cleanups and Repairs

By proactively clearing out the drain lines, homeowners can save themselves time and money that would have been spent on repairs or cleanups caused by plumbing emergencies. This is especially important in homes with older or complicated plumbing systems, where clogs and backups can quickly cause expensive damage if left untreated.

In addition, regular drain cleaning can help reduce the chances of contamination due to sewage backups, protecting both the home and its occupants from potential health risks. Regular drain cleanings also help to extend the life of pipes and ensure that they remain in good condition for years to come.

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing has nearly three decades of experience serving West Salem and LaCrosse County. They provide flat rate pricing, 24-hour services, and the latest technology. Call them today for drain cleaning services in West Salem, WI.

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Relax At Home With These Self Care Tips

Turning a Bathroom Into a Luxury Home Spa

While Valentine’s day is often about celebrating couples, one should never forget the importance of caring for oneself. Bathroom remodeling might be considered self-care if a homeowner is doing it to create an oasis for themselves. Even if they cannot invest in a complete remodel, there are ways to create a relaxing space with just a few additions to the room. It is incredible how much better people can feel when they take the time to do something for themselves.

Self-Care Tip #1: Take Baths

One of the easiest ways to relax in a bathroom is to take a warm bath. Baths are not only a stress reliever but can also benefit a person’s overall health. There is evidence that baths can be helpful in the following ways:

Reduces blood pressure
Increases circulation
Reduces nasal congestion
Eases coughing and sore throat
Relaxes the muscles
Eases joint pain

Using essential oils or bath bombs can enhance these benefits and help create an even more relaxing atmosphere. Aromatherapy can increase the feeling of relaxation and can add to the pleasant warmth of the bath. So fill up that bathtub and take time for self-care.

Self-Care Tip #2: Add Some Color in the Form of LED Lights

Another way to enhance a home’s bath or shower experience is with chromotherapy or color therapy using colored LED lights. Color-changing LEDs are popular, easy to come by, and fairly inexpensive. They allow homeowners to change the color of the lights according to the benefit they want.

It has been demonstrated that different colors affect mood, so homeowners should consider upgrading their lighting to include something that can help set the mood for relaxation or romance, depending on the focus of their goals. It is a simple addition that can deliver big results.

Self-Care Tip #3: Invest in a Rain Showerhead

Rain showerheads may be the next best thing to a full bathtub for relaxation. They deliver water in a gentle stream, much like rainfall, and have a larger surface area than the typical shower head. The benefits of a rain shower head are listed below.

Aesthetically Pleasing: Rain showerheads give a very sophisticated look to a bathroom. They can be a central focal point around which decor can be planned.

Full Coverage: One of the main complaints people tend to have with showerheads is that one side of their body is warm, and the other is cold. Rain showerheads have a wider coverage area and can warm the whole body.

Fully Equipped: Some versions of this shower head incorporate Bluetooth speakers and LED color-changing lights.

Versatile: The rain shower head is typically on an arm that can adjust the height and volume of the spray.

Water Conservation: It might seem that such a large showerhead would use more water, but that is not the case. They typically use approximately the same amount as their smaller counterparts and can use less.

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing is a family-owned company serving West Salem, WI, and the surrounding areas since 1994. They offer straightforward pricing, 24/7 services available, and financing. Call them today for bathroom remodeling services in West Salem, WI.

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Get a New Water Heater and Start the New Year Off Right

The Benefits of a New Water Heater Installation

Nothing beats a hot shower to drive away the cold of the winter, and despite the excitement of the new year, there is still plenty of winter left to make it through. Year after year, the water heater provides reliable and comfortable hot water but eventually, it will leave the family out in the cold. The winter time is not the season to take that risk, so homeowners should consider water heater replacements during the cold season.

Replacing the water heater is a decision that should be carefully considered to make sure it’s the right time. Here is some advice from local experts regarding water heater replacement that can ensure that homeowners make the right decision at the right time. Read on to learn the benefits of upgrading the water heater in the coming year.

Efficiency and Water Heating Cost

It’s no secret that energy bills are on the rise. Whether a water heater is powered by fossil fuels or electricity, chances are that it is costing more money than ever to heat water for the home. Another fact that is less well known is that water heaters lose efficiency every year they are in service. This means that over the course of five years, a water heater can cost more to heat the same amount of water.

A new water heater restores lost efficiency and thus lowers utility bills. Instead of struggling to keep up with bills, consider a water heater an investment. A new water heater will likely pay for itself during its lifetime in saved energy.

Get Hot Water Faster

Every water heater manufacturer is constantly striving to put new innovations out on the market. This results in better and better water heaters every time homeowners need to upgrade. Generally, homeowners will only need to install a new water heater around every 10 years, so each time this occurs, homeowners will have more options to choose from.

When shopping for a new water heater, homeowners may come across the term ‘hot water recovery rate.’ This refers to a water heater’s ability to replenish its supply of hot water after it has been depleted. A higher recovery rate indicates the appliance can produce more hot water in shorter periods and with fewer interruptions compared to a water heater with a lower rating.

Investing in a new water heater with a higher hot water recovery rate means a family can enjoy consistent access to hot showers or baths without worrying about running out of hot water. This benefit is especially important in households with multiple bathrooms since hot water usage is typically higher, and the recovery rate will be heavily relied upon.

Save Space With a Tankless Water Heater

In many homes, space is an issue. Today’s water heaters are more efficient than their predecessors and can save a great deal of space. This is especially true for tankless water heaters, which require far less real estate than traditional units. These highly compact units can be mounted to a wall, freeing up valuable storage space that would have otherwise been taken up by a bulky hot water tank. This makes them ideal for tight spaces such as garages, basements, and closets.

Additionally, since these units are only activated when hot water is required, they will not only save space but also help reduce energy bills. With all these advantages, it is no wonder why more and more people are turning to tankless water heaters as their go-to solution. For homeowners that need to save space and are conscious of their water heating bills, a tankless water heater is a great choice.

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing has nearly three decades of experience serving West Salem, WI, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, 24-hour emergency services, and the latest technology. Call them today for water heater and tankless water heater services in West Salem, WI.

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Burst Pipes: Causes and Prevention Strategies

Prevent Burst Pipes This Winter

When the freezing temperatures arrive, plumbers can almost guarantee they will get calls about burst pipes. This is because frozen pipes can seriously strain a home’s plumbing system and lead to a burst pipe. However, several other common issues can also lead to pipe bursts. This blog will cover some common causes of burst pipes and how to prevent them from becoming an issue in one’s home.

Preventing Pipes Freezing

Since water expands as it freezes, water freezing in the pipes is one of the most well-known causes of burst pipes. All types of pipes can be affected by freezing, whether it is an old cast iron pipe, copper pipe, or PVC pipe. Exposed pipes in unfinished basement areas and behind sinks are particularly vulnerable to changes in temperature. That is why pipe insulation is a must for preventing frozen pipes during the harsh Wisconsin winters. There are two common kinds of pipe insulation that are typically used including:

Fiberglass Pipe Insulation: This insulation comes on a roll and is backed by metallic tape. It’s basically the same type of insulation that goes in the walls and ceilings of a home, only in a much narrower form. It’s often used to insulate the curving pipes under sinks because it’s applied by wrapping it around the pipes rather than having to find the proper insulation for the pipe size.
Foam Pipe Insulation: Foam insulation looks like a long foam tube with a hole in the middle and a slit down the side. The diameter of the hole in the middle indicates the size of the pipe it is made to insulate. It’s installed by sliding it over the line like a hotdog goes into a bun. Then, a special tape is used to cover the seam.

Preventing Pipe Corrosion

Another cause of burst pipes is corrosion. Corrosion is a form of decay that usually occurs in metals due to a reaction to their environment. Corrosion in pipes can be caused or worsened by several different factors, including:

Age or wear and tear
Chemical drain cleaners
Hard water minerals
Loose fittings
Metal-to-metal contact
Oxidation

Some of these factors cannot be prevented entirely, but some can be. Homeowners should avoid using chemical drain openers to solve a clog problem. While these corrosive chemicals can sometimes break up clogs, they can also eat away at protective linings on the interior of pipes and the pipes themselves, exposing them to further damage from minerals that may be present in the water. Homeowners should also be sure that any fittings that attach their pipes to the wall are properly tightened, so the pipes are not moving around and causing additional damage.

Preventing a Clogged Pipe

Pipe bursts can also occur when clogs form in the pipes. A buildup of debris such as dirt, hair, grease, soap scum, food waste, and non-flushable materials can cause clogs. The clog blocks the flow of water in the pipe and leads to an increase in pressure. Over time this pressure can cause the line to burst, leading to serious water damage in the home.

The way to prevent these deep clogs that can disrupt a whole home’s plumbing system is to have regular drain cleaning done by a professional. They will likely use a method called hydrojetting, which cleans drain pipes quickly and efficiently and does not cause the damage that chemical drain cleaners leave behind. Additionally, household items that can cause clogs should be disposed of properly, so they don’t end up in the pipes.

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing has nearly 30 years of experience serving West Salem, WI, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, financing, and the latest technology. Call them today for drain cleaning or burst pipe services in West Salem, WI.

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