Speedy Plumbing

What Are the Most Common Water Flow Issues?

Mon, 26 Feb 2018 05:02:00 GMT

Hot water tanks provide our homes with a reliable supply of water, but low water pressure can put a damper on our day. Water pressure in your home should be at least 40 gallons per minute.1 If not, you may get cold water from your faucets—or no water at all.

The problem may not be from the faucet or sink itself. A bad hose connection can cause low hot water pressure. This will typically affect one faucet, so you can check the connection there. If the connection seems okay, and/or other faucets are showing signs of low pressure, the trouble is likely elsewhere.

Common Sources of Low Water Flow

Water heaters : Low pressure when running hot water is evidence of a water heater problem. Sediment that builds up in a hot water tank can block the flow. It accumulates over time, especially if you have hard water with minerals that settle out and harden.

Pipes/Lines : The pipes serving the hot water heater can become blocked by buildup as well. The blockage will gradually reduce pressure over time. Flexible lines, such as accordion-style copper pipes, can develop kinks that reduce flow.

Valves : A Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) where the water line enters the home may be improperly adjusted. If the PRV is working properly, a screw can be turned clockwise to increase water pressure, but the valve can break or fail, too, requiring replacement. The hot water shut-off valve, located at the water meter, can affect water pressure. Flow may be restricted or cut off if the valve is damaged.

Leaks : A leak in a hot water tank, pipe, or line can cause low water pressure. Leaks at the service line or meter can occur as well. You also want to look for evidence of leaks in the basement. Puddles, water spots, or dampness near hot water tanks, water fixtures, or pipes are clear signs of leakage. Other indicators are dripping noises, or even wet spots outside the house, where the ground hasn’t been exposed to moisture. This raises suspicions of a leak, especially if the weather has been dry.

Low Hot Water Pressure in Your Home

Aside from sink problems, low hot water pressure in shower installations is a sign of a problem. The showerhead is directly connected to the plumbing system, but it can be difficult to determine the source of the issue without the proper tools and experience. So is inspecting the components and pipes associated with your faucets. A leak, blockage, or damage may be challenging to spot, which is why it’s important to seek the help of a professional plumber.

Speedy Plumbing employs a team of experts who can check your hot water heater and other parts of the plumbing system to determine the source of low hot water pressure. Emergency service is always available, and we offer free estimates as well. Prompt, reputable, and affordable, our BBB-accredited company is ready to help— contact us online for a quick response, diagnosis, and resolution.

Source

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/causes-water-heater-lose-pressure-after-water-gets-hot-89225.html

Preventing Flooding and Leaks at Home

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 05:12:00 GMT

Most leaks are preventable, but the damages done from a flood at home require expensive repairs that cannot be avoided. Repairs can range from a few hundred dollars to, in the case of a burst water pipe, as much as $70,000. Protecting your home from storms is also important. Just nine inches of water can cause nearly $19,000 in damages.

The water doesn’t have to come from the sky—leakyhot water tanks and other appliances can do quite a number on your home. Here’s a look at where you can prevent flooding and leaks:

Water Heaters

A water heater can last for up to 12 years,2 but any sign of damage is a reason for concern. Rust is a clear sign water may be where it shouldn’t. A leak isn’t necessarily from a sudden failure; many leaks are slow and progress over time. Small amounts of water leaking over extended periods can trigger a slow-motion disaster of sorts. Hot water tank repair can prevent damage from the smallest of leaks.

Flushing the heater annually removes sediment and minerals. Buildup can cause damage and overheating, causing a leak. Regular maintenance by professional plumbers can, therefore, prevent such an issue.

Washing Machines/Dishwashers/Ice Machines

These appliances are served by water lines that are prone to leaking. You can prevent washing machine and dishwasher flooding by installing a water lock, but nothing replaces maintenance. Washer hoses are common leak points and should be replaced every three to five years.3

Roof Leaks

The slightest roof damage, even loose shingles, can lead to flooding. Water will find the path of least resistance, and, if ice gets in the smallest crack, it will expand and create an even bigger entry path. Any type of damage should be fixed immediately.

Also, don’t neglect to unclog rain gutters and downspouts. Water might not only back up but also pool around the foundation and flood the basement. Leaf guards can help prevent a buildup of debris, while downspout extenders can direct water some distance from the house to prevent backflow.

Basements

The tiniest of foundation cracks need to be fixed, as they’ll let water in and continue to weaken the structure. Just as hot water tank replacement will correct any leaks there, patching small cracks will stop water from penetrating your basement walls. Also, check that the soil grade surrounding your home isn’t angling toward the structure. Aggressive tree roots can also cause a problem and should be removed if threatening the foundation.

Examine Your Home for Flood Threats

Other sources of water leakage include kitchen sink taps, cupboard pipes, refrigerators, and garden hoses. A hose left connected to the taps over the winter can be a leak source. Either insulate the tap or install a cut-off valve or remove the garden hose entirely. Window wells in the basement can trap water; correcting the issue with well covers costs much less than flood repairs.

For leak repair and home and appliance maintenance, you can count on plumbers from Speedy Plumbing. We offer a full range of plumbing services, including 24/7 emergency service. Call us at 604-951-9701 to schedule a visit.

Sources

Preventing Leaky Pipes

Wed, 27 Dec 2017 05:18:00 GMT

The presence of moisture, staining, or visible water means there is a leak. However, you don’t have to wait until pipes become leaky to take action. By preventing leaky pipes, you can avoid serious damage and the need to call emergency plumbers in the middle of the night.

Wear and tear associated with leaks is often caused by stress. Does this sound familiar? Stress can do a number on the human body and is not healthy for pipes, either. Even if you don’t see signs of water damage, you can do the following things to ensure your plumbing stays in working order.

Measure Water Pressure

A water pressure gauge costs just a few dollars and can be purchased at a home supply store. By attaching it to a faucet or other water outlet and opening the supply valve for that outlet, you can get a pressure reading. A normal reading is somewhere between 50 and 75 pounds per square inch. ¹ If the reading is too low, then there might not be enough water flow; a high reading can trigger water hammers and pipe movement that increases the risk of leaks.

Water regulators and pressure reducers can effectively adjust the water pressure to safe levels.

Soften the Water

Hard water contains high mineral content, causing calcium, magnesium, and other minerals to potentially accumulate inside pipes. There is a direct relationship between restricted flow and increased water pressure. Hard water can cause pipe, fittings, and joint corrosion as well.

Installing a water softener is effective at preventing leaky pipes. Available in the form of an attachable appliance, the water softener contains a salt tank to collect minerals and wash them away; these are removed by creating an ion exchange between the minerals (positively charged) and resin beads within the softener (which are negatively charged).

Protect Your Pipes in Winter

During cold spells, water will freeze no matter where the temperature drops below 32°F, even inside pipes. Since ice expands, pressure on pipes increases. The force on the pipe walls and, often, the pressure between the ice blockage and faucet can cause bursting. To prevent leaky pipes in winter:

Disconnect, drain, and store garden hoses indoors.
Leave the heat on when away from home.
Let the faucet drip to relieve pressure.
Keep cabinet doors open, so interior warmth can reach pipes.
Seal holes or cracks near pipes with caulking.
Apply heating tape to an exposed pipe.
Insulate basement, crawlspace, garage, and attic pipes with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves.

Fix Problems Early

In many cases, you can prevent a pipe from bursting. It’s often best to rely on professional plumbers than attempt a fix yourself, especially if you have no experience repairing or replacing pipes. Electric water sensors can shut off an appliance such as a washing machine if a leak or moisture is detected. However, a plumber who knows how to fix a leaking pipe joint can adjust the part or replace it before the leak causes irreparable pipe damage or a flood.

For more information on Speedy Plumbing’s services in the Vancouver area, to schedule an appointment, or to receive 24/7 emergency service from experienced plumbers , call today at 604-951-9701 .

Source

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/test-household-water-pressure-20231.html

Trenchless Waterline Replacement

Wed, 13 Dec 2017 05:28:00 GMT

Trenchless water line replacement avoids the need to dig up entire lawns to replace damaged water pipes. It can cost thousands of dollars to dig, repair, and re-landscape. The replaced pipe may still have a limited lifespan. However, by going trenchless, a plumber can fix your water pipes, and it will take the HVAC company much less time to complete repairs.

The process involves creating small openings on either side of the piping run. New piping can be guided into place, or an epoxy lining is inserted and expanded, which then hardens to form a new pipe. The hardened material forms within the broken tube, forming a leak-proof, chemical-resistant lining that can last for many years.

Why Consider Trenchless Pipe Replacement?

The technique can be used to fix nearly any pipe problem in a home or business. People often avoid such repairs because of the expense, the concern that more issues will arise from the plumbing work, and skepticism as to whether the problem will be permanently fixed.

However, trenchless plumbing is the right choice if:

Pipes underneath the home, building, or landscaping have cracked, become blocked, or have burst.
Leaks and water line or sewer backups occur due to defects or improperly installed pipe.
Pipes have been damaged by repeated freezing and thawing cycles.

You’ll need water line replacement if there are signs of damage. If so, there is a risk of having poor water quality; water damage to your home, business, or property; and proliferation of mold, mildew, or pests. Any of these will contribute more problems and expenses. Going trenchless is more than convenient and practical; it is also more beneficial.

The pluses include:

Reduced Exposure : Digging into the ground to reach your water supply comes with the risk of contaminating it. Exposing your family to such toxins can put them in harm’s way. Trenchless technology is safer, more environmentally friendly, and greener.

Durability : Advanced methods of replacing pipes are more durable and can last over 50 years. Traditional repairs to pipe tend to be inherently fragile. The material that replaces or relines pipes is much more durable, and you eliminate any processes that can damage existing pipes.

Efficiency : Trenchless waterline replacement conserves many resources, from cash to time. You avoid waiting days, weeks, or months for water lines to be fixed. Often it can be done in less than a day. Not only do you avoid digging up the yard or front lawn, you also have completely functional, long-lasting pipes within hours.

Contact Speedy Plumbing & Rooter Today

Properly maintaining pipe means toxic compounds won’t threaten your water supply. Mold and pest infestations are less likely as well. If underground pipe repair seems to be in your future, contact Speedy Plumbing & Rooter. The trenchless company will stop any leaks, no matter how old the water line is and why it failed in the first place. Damage from cold, wear, or tree roots can be easily corrected.

Call 604-951-9701 in Vancouver today for prompt service and repair.