Would Your Home Benefit From a Water Softener?

Let’s Talk About Hard Water

For an overwhelming 85% of households in the country, hard water is a fact of life. It’s part of their bathing and cleaning routines, food and water consumption, and even at the back of their minds when it comes to home maintenance. That’s because hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which give water its hardness and also leave a mineral residue that can accumulate and wreak havoc on a number of things in the home.

The good news is that the minerals in hard water are considered safe for domestic use and consumption, but the side effects can range from a minor inconvenience to a major maintenance issue. This is why many homeowners opt to have water softeners installed in their homes. This article will discuss water softeners and the signs that a home has hard water and would benefit from water softener installation.

Understanding How a Water Softener Works

water softenerWater softening, as its name implies, is the practice of removing the hardness of water. This involves removing the minerals that give water its hardness, which can be achieved through various methods, allowing homeowners a range of water softener options. The following are different types of water softeners:

  • Ion-exchange: This kind of water softener replaces calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions through ion exchange, which is why it is also called a salt-based water softener. Often, this involves using water-softener resin, which contains the sodium released once calcium and magnesium stick to the resin beads. This is one of the most popular kinds of water softeners and can come in various sizes – from whole-home systems to portable ones that can fit in an RV.
  • Salt-free: Instead of using salt in an ion-exchange process, this kind of water softener uses template-assisted crystallization and is great for those who don’t want sodium in their water.
  • Magnetic: These work to reduce scale deposits by stripping the negative or positive ions with a magnetic field, making the ions neutral and allowing the minerals to remain soluble in the water.
  • Dual-tank: This kind of water softener is an ion-exchange softener with two tanks instead of one. This dual tank system allows it to manage a larger volume of heavy minerals and water.
  • Shower head: These are located in the shower head itself and remove minerals from the water used for showering. It has filters that need to be replaced about once every three months.
  • Reverse Osmosis: This uses semipermeable membranes to filter minerals and nitrates from the water and is great not just for water softening but also for removing contaminants from the water.

How to Tell if You’ve Got Hard Water

When it comes to hard water, the easy part is figuring out its presence in your home. The signs are pretty clear, and usually, they are things homeowners have already grappled with for a while. With hard water, showers, and handwashing are followed by dry hair and skin, dishes and glasses come out of dishwashers spotted with hard water stains, and plumbing fixtures can have scale buildup.

Clothes fade faster and become duller when washed with hard water. But hard water can also affect the plumbing. The mineral scale builds up in pipes, fixtures, and appliances that use water, like the water heater, which causes them to wear out faster and can create a drop in energy efficiency, leading to higher energy bills. 

Advantages of Having a Whole House Water Softener

save money Water softeners combat the negative effects of water hardness on hair, skin, and various household materials and appliances. Not only do they improve the health of skin and hair, but they also make it more comfortable to wash hands and take showers by eliminating the dryness and itchiness that come with hard water.

Water softeners also benefit and retain the quality of household appliances that come in contact most with water. Dishes and clothes come out cleaner, while plumbing is saved from a buildup of minerals and scale deposited within its interiors. Appliances like dishwashers, clothes washers, and water heaters also operate more efficiently, allowing homeowners to save. And they won’t have to be replaced as often since they won’t become damaged due to constant exposure to hard water.

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing is a family-owned company serving West Salem and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, the latest technology, and financing. Call them today for water softener installations and repairs in West Salem, WI

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Is Water Heater Maintenance Really Necessary?

Avoid Getting Caught Without Hot Water!

Hot water heater maintenance is one of those things that’s easy to leave off the to-do list. As long as there’s hot water coming out of the faucets, most homeowners don’t give it much of a thought. However, water heater maintenance is essential for maintaining a well-functioning and efficient hot water heater for as long as possible. 

Without regular maintenance, the water heater will become less and less efficient, costing homeowners more and more money — far more than the cost of yearly maintenance. But it’s not always easy to know when to schedule maintenance or what signs to look out for that the water heater needs some care. Read on to learn about water heater maintenance and signs of water heater troubles. 

Benefits of Water Heater Maintenance

save money There are many benefits to routine water heater maintenance, but the biggest and most obvious one is the continued use of the water heater with fewer issues. The more often homeowners skip yearly maintenance, the more likely the heater will fail. While this may not happen immediately (or even very quickly), the water heater will suffer if maintenance is skipped. Plus, some water heater warranties require proof of yearly maintenance. So, if something happens to the heater without proof of maintenance, it could void the warranty. 

Routine maintenance helps extend the life of the unit. Water heaters generally last anywhere from 10 to 15 years (around 20 years for tankless water heaters), and yearly maintenance is essential to getting the full life out of the water heater. Maintenance also helps the appliance operate more efficiently, helping homeowners spend less on energy bills. 

What Water Heater Maintenance Entails

water heater service It’s essential to know what happens during water heater maintenance to understand its importance. One thing that gets done during maintenance is the flushing of the tank. During the normal operation of a water heater, sediment and minerals build up inside the unit. This is true for both tankless water heaters and traditional storage water heaters. So, flushing a water heater removes that buildup, allowing for more efficient heating and helps prevent tank corrosion. 

An anode rod is also used in water heaters to help prevent the tank from corroding. However, it must be replaced occasionally to continue protecting the water heater, so a plumber will check it during a maintenance visit and replace it if necessary. They will also check the pressure, temperature, and all the valves and connections to ensure that the water heater continues to operate correctly and efficiently.  

Signs the Water Heater Is Failing

In addition to regular maintenance, it’s important for homeowners to know the signs that a water heater is failing and needs service. One sign is strange noises coming from the water heater. It may just be a signal the tank should be flushed, but it could be due to a more significant problem.  

Discolored or bad-smelling hot water is also a sign of something wrong with the water heater. This may point to a corroded tank. Inconsistent temperatures or a lack of hot water is another sign of trouble. Finally, if the water heater is too old or needs frequent repairs, it’s likely time to replace it. 

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing has nearly 30 years of expertise serving West Salem and the surrounding areas. They offer flat-rate pricing, the latest technology, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for water heater repair or maintenance in West Salem, WI

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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

cameraA 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 

clogSewer 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

smellGas 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

leakWhen 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 

soundsIdeally, 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 

sinkThere’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 

showerThe 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 

lawnOne 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.

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

cleaningThe 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

healthHard 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

o ringA 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 

valveAnother 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

plumberDrain 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

plumberBy 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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bath

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

bathOne 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

showerheadsRain 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.