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Author: Rootin Tootin Rooter

Everything You Need To Know About Flushing Your Water Heater

Flushing your water heater on a regular basis is essential for maintaining its efficiency and prolonging its lifespan. Due to the water quality throughout Tucson, it’s recommended to flush your water heater every six months to one year in order to prevent sediment and mineral deposits from building up. 

 It is important to have a professional plumber handle the flushing process to ensure it is done correctly and safely. There are many benefits to flushing your water heater, including:

  • Improve efficiency and performance
  • Extend the lifespan of the unit
  • Avoid leaks 
  • Prevent corrosion
  • Reduce sediment build-up 

Why Do Water Heaters Need To Be Flushed?

Water Heaters are convenient household appliances that heat the water in your home, whether you need warm water for washing dishes, taking showers, or even doing laundry. When water enters your home through your main water inlet, it’s not perfectly clean and can damage your water heater if it isn’t cleaned properly and regularly. 

Especially in Tucson, we’re known for having hard water full of minerals. Flushing your water heater is important for a number of reasons, but most importantly it’s to get rid of things like dirt, minerals, and other sediments that may have built up in the water heater tank. 

Homeowners should flush their water heaters every six months to one year, but if you have extremely hard water or notice signs that it isn’t working properly, you may need to do it more often. The tank needs to be drained, the components need to be inspected and checked, and any buildup will need to be removed.

Signs That It Is Time To Flush and Drain Your Water Heater

Whether you have a gas, electric, or tankless water heater, it needs to be inspected and flushed on a regular basis. There are other circumstances in that you may need a professional to come to inspect, repair or replace your Water Heater as well.

If for any reason you think it is not working properly, is broken, or leaking, the unit should be inspected by a professional plumber right away. Common signs it’s time to flush or drain your water heater include:

  • Low water pressure
  • Water takes a long time to heat up
  • Water isn’t the correct temperature or fluctuating
  • Noises coming from the tank, such as rumbling or popping
  • Sludge or discolored water
  • Frequent Repairs
  • It’s been more than 12 months since your last drained it

If your water heater isn’t working properly, it’s a matter of safety to address the issue as soon as possible. In some cases, the problem may require repair, while in others, replacement may be necessary. This is especially important if you have contaminated water entering your home, which can pose a risk to your health and the health of your family. A professional plumber can assess the issue and determine the best course of action to repair or replace your water heater as needed. 

The Benefits of Getting Your Water Heater Flushed

There are several benefits to getting your water heater flushed on a regular basis. Regular flushing helps maintain the efficiency and performance of the unit, ensuring that it heats the water quickly and effectively. 

As time passes, hard water can create deposits that clog your system, resulting in low water pressure or rusty, discolored, or contaminated water. Flushing also helps extend the lifespan of the water heater by removing mineral deposits and sediment that can build up and cause damage to the unit over time.

Buildup can form around the heating elements, which can prevent normal heating activity and cause a longer time for the water to heat up, fluctuate in temperature, or only be able to reach a lukewarm temperature. Getting inspections and maintenance performed regularly is the key to extending the lifetime of your unit and ensures that the water heating system is working efficiently and safely in your home.

In addition to improving the performance and lifespan of the water heater, flushing can also prevent leaks and corrosion in the tank, protecting your home from water damage. Regular flushing can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for repairs and prolonging the need for replacement. Overall, getting your water heater flushed regularly is an important part of maintaining the efficiency and functionality of this essential household appliance.

How Do I Flush a Tankless Water Heater?

For a professional plumber, the process of flushing a water heater is typically straightforward and can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete. The process is similar for both gas and tankless water heaters and involves draining the unit, inspecting the components, and removing any build-up that may have occurred since the last flush. 

It is important to hire a reliable and trustworthy company to handle the flushing process, as a water heater is a crucial part of your home’s plumbing system. A professional plumber with experience can safely and accurately assess and perform any necessary repairs. Trust a professional to handle the flushing of your water heater to ensure it is done correctly and safely.

Affordable Hot Water Heater Repairs and Replacements Near Me

Rootin Tootin Rooter is your go-to source for affordable water heater services in Tucson, Arizona. Our team of experts has the knowledge, expertise, and equipment to handle all your water heater needs, including maintenance, repair, installation, and replacement. 

Our team is dedicated to providing top-rated hot water heater repair services in Tucson, ensuring that you get the best possible service at an affordable price. From the moment you call us to the moment our technicians arrive at your home, we prioritize your needs and work efficiently to get the job done correctly and safely.

If your water heater isn’t working correctly, leaking, or making funny sounds, give us a call right away so we can diagnose your water heater issues and get it repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Is It Time To Replace Your Toilet?

Your plumbing system is crucial to the functioning of your home. Maintaining it is important to avoid frustrating, stressful, and potentially damaging issues. There’s a lot every homeowner needs to know regarding their plumbing system and toilet, but it’s essential to make sure it’s maintained and functioning properly.

If you are experiencing problems with your toilet or want to upgrade your bathroom, it is important to call a professional plumber to assess the situation. A plumber can diagnose the problem and determine the best solution, whether that be repairing the toilet or replacing it.

Signs That Your Toilet Needs To Be Repaired

There are several potential issues that can cause your toilet to not work as well as it should be working or malfunctioning. It’s important to note that it’s recommended to always seek the assistance of a professional plumber to properly diagnose and address any issues with your toilet or plumbing. Attempting to fix plumbing issues on your own can be risky and may lead to further damage or complications without the proper expertise, tools, and parts. 

However, toilet issues can usually be diagnosed and fixed quickly by a plumber. There are quite a few working parts in your plumbing system that could potentially be the problem and a plumber will be able to assess it and find the best solution.

Common signs your toilet isn’t working properly include:

  • Water continuously runs in the bowl
  • Water continuously trickles into the tank
  • Bowl flushing slowly or not at all
  • Water leaking beneath the toilet
  • Water filling slowly or not at all
  • Leaky seals around the tank

Repairs can be straightforward and quick but still need to be handled promptly to prevent further damage or create an emergency situation. You may just need to replace the handle or the flapper or in some cases, just need to tighten, adjust or reposition some of the components but a plumber will be able to assess and find the solution so that it lasts for its expected lifetime.

How Do You Know If It’s Time To Replace Your Toilet?

There are several reasons why you may need to consider replacing your toilet. These include if the unit is too damaged to repair, if it is outdated and past its expected lifespan, or if you want to upgrade to a more efficient model. The extent of the problem with your toilet will determine the best course of action, and a professional plumber can provide more information and guidance on whether replacement is necessary.

Common problems that can signify it’s time to replace your toilet include:

  • Crack in your tank or bowl
  • Too many mechanical issues or frequent repairs
  • Consistent clogging of your toilet drain
  • Surface damage that makes your toilet look scratched or difficult to clean
  • You have an older model without water-saving features

While most toilets have a long lifespan, they may not last as long if the toilet was installed incorrectly, damaged, or frequently misused. Even if an older unit has been repaired previously, it may now require a replacement, or it could be the best and most cost-effective solution to replace the toilet.

A professional plumber can handle the process efficiently and effectively to get your home’s plumbing functioning properly again. Hiring a professional for toilet installation will ensure the job is done correctly, preventing any potential issues with faulty installation in the future.

The Benefits of Replacing Your Toilet

Even if your current toilet is functioning properly, it may be worth considering replacing it if it is an older model. While repairs can temporarily fix issues, an older toilet may be more prone to future problems such as leaks and frequent clogs. By replacing an outdated toilet with a new one, you can avoid the risk of an unexpected emergency situation caused by a sudden breakdown.

In addition to addressing malfunctioning toilets, upgrading your toilet during a home renovation or remodel can be a great opportunity to improve the efficiency and appearance of your bathroom. Modern plumbing systems and water-saving toilets can save you money on water bills and provide additional benefits. As a homeowner, you may want to consider investing in a new toilet as part of your home improvement plans.

Toilet Repairs and Replacements in Tucson, Arizona

If you are in need of reliable, efficient, and affordable toilet repair or installation services in Tucson, Arizona, Rootin Tootin Rooter is ready to provide you with prompt and reliable service. Our team of experts is equipped to handle all kinds of plumbing problems, from minor repairs to unexpected emergencies. 

We know our clients are faced with big problems when they call us, so our company is dedicated to providing reliable, efficient, and expert plumbing services at affordable pricing. We have over 40 years of experience working on all types of plumbing issues including residential and commercial and we offer the best warranties in the industry and guarantee you’ll be satisfied with our work!

For more information on our Toilet Repair and Replacement Services in Tucson, AZ, give Rootin Tootin Rooter a call today!

Your Guide To Garbage Disposal Maintenance, Repair, and Replacements

Garbage Disposals are an extremely helpful appliance found in nearly every kitchen! A Garbage Disposal is a small, electrically powered system attached to the underside of your sink and is primarily used to shred food waste from your drain into tiny pieces so that when it passes through your plumbing, it does not clog your pipes.

Since the main purpose of a garbage disposal system is to prevent your pipes from being clogged, it’s essential to make sure it’s in good working order, being used properly, and well maintained.

While Garbage Disposals are handy and convenient tools. they can also cause stressful problems for homeowners if it wreaks havoc on your plumbing system. Luckily, there are quite a few ways to maintain your Garbage Disposal System so it works properly and prevents damage that will lead to requiring repairs or a replacement. Correct installation, regular maintenance, and proper usage are all essential to having a working Garbage Disposal Unit! 

Best Ways To Maintain Your Garbage Disposal

To keep your Garbage Disposal working properly it’s important to clean it regularly, follow guidelines when using it, and only use it for its intended purpose. Your garbage disposal sees a lot of usage, typically every day, so it’s of the utmost importance you’re doing your part to ensure it’ll last for years to come!

Did you know that it’s recommended to clean your garbage disposal weekly to keep it clear of buildup? Even if you do not use it frequently or have anything to grind, it’s a good idea to turn it on every couple of days with the water running. This will prevent any leftover food from hardening in order to prevent rotten odors or clogs and will also prevent rust and corrosion from forming in the unit.

A simple, but effective, way to clean your Garbage Disposal regularly is by putting half a cup of baking soda into the opening of the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. You want to allow the mixture to sit and fizz for about 10 minutes, and then flush the garbage disposal with cold water with the system turned on. In order to leave your sink smelling fresh after you’ve cleaned it, you can run half of a sliced lemon or other citrus peel through the garbage disposal.

What Can I Safely Put Down a Garbage Disposal?

Following the recommended and intended use of a Garbage Disposal is essential. One of the main reasons garbage disposals get clogged or broken is by misusing them. 

Remember, your Garbage Disposal is not a trash can, it is for food scraps only! If you put food down that it can not shred or grind, it can lead to your drain being clogged or breaking the Garbage Disposal Unit, which will require it to be repaired or replaced.

A good rule of thumb is if the food is biodegradable, it should be okay to put down the Garbage Disposal. Food that is approved and safe to shred in a Garbage Disposal includes:

  • Fruit Peels
  • Vegetable Scraps
  • Ice
  • Small Portions of Leftovers
  • Cooked Meat Scraps

However, there are some food items that are not intended to be put down in the garbage disposal and could break the system or clog the drains. Do not put these items in your Garbage Disposal under any circumstance: 

  • Grease and Oils
  • Shells and Bones
  • Large Portions of Food
  • Oatmeal or Grits
  • Non-Food Items

How To Fix a Garbage Disposal

In order to fix or repair a garbage disposal system, you must first know what is wrong with it. If the drain is clogged or severely damaged or the unit is making loud noises or even not turning on at all, your best option would be to hire an affordable and experienced plumber to assess the situation and perform the necessary repairs.

However, if a problem is minor enough you may be able to fix it yourself. A common problem is getting food stuck in the garbage disposal. If you turn the entire system off, you can gently use pliers to reach down into the blades to dislodge any food that may be stuck. This should only be done when the system is turned off for safety reasons, and you do not want to use force as this could severely damage the system. 

One of the most common reasons a garbage disposal system will stop working is due to overloading. This can cause it to overwork and eventually give out. Different parts can burn out over heavy use. Whatever the issue may be, a professional plumber will be able to assess the situation and perform any repairs it needs in order to get it working again. Plumbers are able to assist with:

  • Broken engines, blown fuses, and tripped circuits
  • Loud and noisy garbage disposals that have issues with screw bearings
  • Broken or jammed blades
  • Drainage problems due to stuck food
  • Clogged drains

When Is It Time To Replace a Garbage Disposal? 

Replacing your garbage disposal could be necessary for a variety of reasons. If the unit was damaged beyond repair or if it has reached the end of its lifespan, it may be necessary to install a new garbage disposal unit under the sink. Before replacing the garbage disposal, make sure you have a plumber examine it to make sure there isn’t an alternative and reliable solution before determining whether a replacement is necessary. 

There’s a lot that can be done to save a garbage disposal unit. However, if the unit is leaking water – not only can this be a plumbing headache but it can indicate larger problems within the walls and pipes of your home. Replacing your garbage disposal can help ensure that your home’s plumbing system remains intact and functioning efficiently.

Professional Plumber Near Me

At Rootin Tootin Rooter we pride ourselves on being garbage disposal repair and installation specialists in Tucson, AZ!

You never realize how important your garbage disposal is until it’s not working anymore. If your disposal is not turning on, making strange noises, or having drainage problems give us a call today! With over 40 years of experience, you can count on our team to get the job done correctly. We use only the highest quality parts and installation practices to ensure your garbage disposal will last for years to come! 

Give us a call today and a trained professional will track down the cause and get it back in working condition as soon as possible. 

How To Fix The Plumbing Under Your Sink

Plumbing is one of the most important aspects of any home, yet it is often taken for granted – until something goes wrong.  Plumbing problems can be disruptive and potentially disastrous, so it’s essential that they’re taken care of immediately. 

We understand that any plumbing problems is every homeowners worst nightmare. However, plumbing problems under the sink are a common occurrence in many households. These types of plumbing issues need to be addressed and repaired as quickly as possible to prevent it from becoming a bigger problem. 

When the plumbing under your sink doesn’t work properly, don’t panic! There are some easy steps that you can follow to fix the issue. If your sink plumbing does break, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber to get it fixed as soon as possible.

How To Fix The Plumbing Under Your Sink

One of the most common broken plumbing issues is a leaky pipe under the sink. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including loose connections, corroded pipes, or accidental damage. If you suspect that you have a broken pipe under your sink, it’s important to take action quickly. A small leak can easily become a big problem, and the longer you wait to fix it, the worse it will get.

The first thing you’ll want to do is locate the source of the leak and turn off the water supply. Depending on the situation, you may be able to fix the problem yourself if you’re a handy DIY-er. However, it’s important to note that the best option for all your broken plumbing and leaky pipes to have it assessed and repaired by a professional plumber regardless of the severity. Plumbers have the tools, equipment, and experience necessary to quickly identify and fix the problem correctly. 

What Should I Do If My Sink is Clogged?

If your sink is clogged, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem yourself. First, check to see if there is anything blocking the drain, such as food scraps or broken plumbing. If you see anything, carefully remove it and dispose of it properly to see if that clears the clog. If it doesn’t, you may need to use a plunger to try and clear the clog. 

If the clog is more stubborn, you may need to use a plunger to try and dislodge it. Place the plunger over the drain and push and pull the handle up and down vigorously. Be sure to cover the overflow hole with your other hand to create a seal.

If neither of these methods works, you may need to call a plumber to come and take a look. They will be able to quickly assess the situation and resolve the issue in no time. While this can be a fairly easy fix for a plumber, it can be a real headache for homeowners. 

What Should I Do if the Plumbing Under My Sink is Leaking?

First, if you notice water starting to collect under your sink, do not ignore it. This is a sign that there is already a problem with your plumbing, and it will only get worse if you don’t take action.

If you have broken plumbing under your sink, the first thing you should do is turn off the water at the valve. This will help to prevent further damage. If the leak is very small, you may be able to temporarily fix it with some plumber’s putty or plumber’s tape. However, if the leak is larger, it is best to call a professional immediately.

Plumbers have the experience and tools to quickly fix broken pipes and minimize water damage. Shifting plumbing lines, worn-out connections, or even pipe corrosion could cause fractures in the plumbing lines beneath your sink, which cause water that flows down your drain to slowly and steadily leak out and requires a professional plumber to repair.

The Best Way To Fix Broken Pipes Under The Sink

One potential plumbing problem that homeowners should be aware of is breakage in the pipes under their sink. While this is not a common occurrence, it can happen – usually as a result of a clog or blockage in the pipes. 

If the plumbing or pipes under your sink breaks, it is important to call a professional plumber as soon as possible to fix the problem. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to prevent further damage.

First and foremost, locate the source of the leak. This can be tricky, as leaks can sometimes be hidden behind pipes or fittings. Once you’ve found the source of the leak, turn off the water to that area of the plumbing. This will help to prevent further damage.

If the leak is coming from a pipe, you can try to temporarily fix it with Plumber’s Tape or Plumber’s Putty. This tape is designed to create a watertight seal around pipes temporarily. Simply wrap the tape around the leaking pipe and wait for the plumber to arrive to assist.

Hiring a professional plumber is the best way to ensure that your plumbing problem is properly fixed and that it won’t cause any further issues down the road. Trying to fix plumbing yourself can often lead to more problems, so it’s best to leave it to the experts.

Plumbers Near Me To Fix Broken or Clogged Drains Under The Sink

The Professional Plumbers at Rootin Tootin Rooter in Tucson, AZ has the training, equipment, and experience to properly diagnose and fix your plumbing problems under the sink. We can get the job done correctly, quickly, and safely so you can get back to your normal routine as soon as possible.

Plumbing leaks can be a real pain, not to mention the damage they can cause if left unchecked. If you do have a plumbing emergency, be sure to call a professional plumber right away. 

Rootin Tootin Rooter is Licensed, Bonded, Insured, and ready to help you with your Plumbing Needs! We are available 24/7 to come fix your plumbing problems whenever you need us. Contact us today for more information on our affordable plumbing options to repair your plumbing issues and maintaining them throughout the year!

Call us today for the best plumber in Tucson!

What Is A Water Softener?

A Water Softener System makes an excellent addition to any home, especially here in Southern Arizona. The groundwater is naturally hard in this region and the benefits of installing a whole-house water system are well worth the investment to protect your home from hard water.

Hard water is water that contains an excessive amount of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals can come from a variety of sources depending on your location, including bedrock, soil, and even treated water. These minerals can cause a number of problems around your home.

The most common and effective way to treat hard water is to install a Water Softener System, which removes the minerals from the water. Installing a whole-house Water Softening System is the best way to protect the health of your family while also prolonging the life of your appliances and plumbing.

What is a Water Softening System?

As the name implies, a water softening system was developed to reduce the levels of water hardness. A water softening system is designed to remove those harsh minerals from the water, resulting in softer water that is easier on pipes, appliances, and your skin and hair.

There are two main types of water-softening systems: ion exchange and reverse osmosis. Ion exchange systems work by exchanging hard ions in the water for soft ions. This process reduces the overall hardness of the water. Reverse osmosis systems force water through a semipermeable membrane, which removes hard ions from the water. Water softening systems are an effective way to improve the quality of your home’s water supply.

A Water Softener is a well-developed technology that has been used in homes for decades. The system provides homeowners with a reliable and effective system that is widely available, especially in Arizona.

The Benefits of a Water Softening System

Arizona is significantly above the standard for hard water, making a softening system a necessity to protect your family, appliances, and plumbing system. There are many reasons why you should consider installing a whole-house water softening system including:

  • Protects your pipes by preventing scale clogs and build-up
  • Saves you money by reducing the chance of appliances breaking
  • Saves money on supplies and energy in your home
  • Enhances the cleaning abilities of your soaps and chemicals
  • Your clothes will last longer and stay brighter after washing
  • Adds life to your water heater by eliminating scale build-up
  • Preserves your faucets by eliminating corrosion, lengthening service life and beauty
  • Eliminates streaks and spots on your dishes
  • Makes scrubbing more effective by eliminating film & soap scum
  • Reduces hard water that makes your skin dry and rough

What is the Average Cost of Installing a Water Softener System?

The average cost of water softener installation in Tucson varies by a multitude of factors including the condition of your home, what tools, supplies, and equipment are needed, and more. If your home does not have a soft water loop or pre-plumbed connections, then the price can vary based on the location of your incoming main water supply.

Research also strongly suggests that installing a water softener can increase the equity of your home from $5,000 up to even $10,000. Water softeners can be an investment, but they’re worth it both for the short term and in the long run!

Invest In Your Future With A Water Softener!

At Rootin Tootin Rooter we pride ourselves on being the premier choice for water softener installation services in Tucson, AZ! Whether you need a repair for your water softener or are looking to purchase a new one, our team is here to help!

We only use the highest quality parts and installation practices to ensure your water softener is installed correctly and will benefit your home and family for years to come. From the moment we enter your house (in our booties), to our follow-up service call, we prioritize getting the job done right – the first time!

Contact us today for your free estimate or to learn more information on our Top-Rated Water Softener Repair and Installation Services!

Ways to Prevent Holiday Plumbing Problems

How Can I Prevent a Plumbing Problem During the Holidays?

The most wonderful time of the year is back! Although things might look a little different this year — especially in terms of the size of family gatherings allowed — there is one “event” that can still occur (especially when you least expect it): a plumbing problem.

Nothing is off-limits from being susceptible to a potential plumbing issue — from the toilet to the kitchen sink. However, to spend more time around the dinner table and less time around the plunger, here are some ways to prevent holiday plumbing mishaps.

Ways to Avoid Plumbing Problems at Home

Don’t Pour Cooking Grease Down the Drain

While it may initially seem like a good idea, to pour hot cooking grease down the nearest drain, please refrain from doing so. As it turns out, cooking byproducts (such as grease) harden when they come in contact with a cold drain pipe. When this happens, the former liquid — now a solid — can obstruct water flow, causing backup in the pipe.

To prevent this from happening, carefully pour hot cooking grease (or oil) into a tin can or other receptacle. Once the liquid has completely cooled and formed into a solid, dispose of the container and carry on with your holiday cooking!

Be Mindful of What you Flush

While the holiday season can be rather joyful, it can also be stressful — leaving room for error. That said, it’s essential to make sure that you only flush toilet paper and human waste down your toilet, nothing else.

Some items to steer clear of flushing include:

  • Wipes
  • Cotton swabs
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Garbage
  • Chewing gum
  • Paper towels

Protect Your Garbage Disposal

A garbage disposal is a luxury in many home sinks. This device will help keep your drains clear and your garbage can smelling fresh. Of course, there is a chance that a garbage disposal can be misused — which can result in a clog or damage.

When using your disposal, no matter what time the year may be, refrain from disposing of fruit pits, bones, starchy foods (i.e., pasta), and coffee grounds. Not only can these items dull the blades on your disposal, but they can break it when you need it the most.

The Importance of Installing A Water Softener in Your Home

Hard water is known to be both a nuisance and a major problem to most Arizona homeowners. It affects your skin when you’re bathing, your laundry when you’re doing wash, and your plumbing. It’s especially problematic to your plumbing, not only causing it to look awful, but it is a cause of major plumbing malfunctions.

So what exactly is hard water? Arizona’s water has a higher level of calcium and magnesium in it. This, over time, causes calcification. It’s easy to recognize calcification because you’ll be able to see the rock-like white and green build-up on your faucets, spigots, and even in your showerheads.

Believe it or not, this calcification process is responsible for creating stalagmites and stalactites in caves. This same process is happening inside of your pipes on a daily basis.

As you can see from the image, after years of this happening, the opening for water flow becomes so narrow that even something as small as a single square of toilet paper can get caught and cause a major plumbing issue. Unfortunately, this image is not uncommon in Arizona homes.

We often find that calcification in pipes is the culprit for a lot of home plumbing issues. Not only do they cause your pipes to clog, but they can also puncture the actual pipe, causing sewage to leak into the ground around your home; which is a health hazard for you and your family.

Once this calcification reaches a certain point, the only thing that can be done to reverse it is to do a re-pipe of your home; which will end up costing you thousands of dollars.

Not only is hard water a hazard to your plumbing, but it’s also bad for your home in general. Here’s how:

  • Hard water doesn’t taste very good. Most people who have hard water realize that the water tastes “dirty”. This is because of the extra minerals. To fix this problem, they end up buying bottled water from the store; an additional expense.
  • It causes clothing to feel rough or scratchy. By adding extra mineral deposits onto clothing, after laundering, the clothing is often left feeling rough and scratchy without the use of some form of fabric softener. Again, the purchase of fabric softener is an additional expense.
  • Hard water is harsh on the skin. Arizona is already known to be a dry climate because we live in the desert. But hard water just makes it worse; requiring more skincare products, like lotion, to keep our skin soft. More additional expenses.
  • Hard water can ruin your appliances. Do you have a coffee maker that you use? Ever notice how the appliances never seem to last? That’s because the calcium builds up in those pipes as well, causing malfunctions of expensive appliances. The list of expenses keeps climbing.
  • Dirty-looking dishes. Have you ever washed glasses only to notice water spots and dirty-looking plates after they’ve dried? Hard water is the culprit for causing it. To fix this, most people will buy a dishwashing aid rinse (like Jet Dry) or rewash the dishes. Either way, this adds to the ever-climbing expenses to fix the problems that hard water causes.
  • As you can see, hard water is responsible for a lot of things that happen in your home on a daily basis; all minor inconveniences that you’ve just grown accustomed to. But the biggest problem of all that hard water will cause is the need to re-pipe your home. This will be a major expense; costing you thousands of dollars, time, and inconvenience.

Now that you know what it is, how do you fix it? The solution is simple: a Water Softener.

A water softener replaces the calcium and magnesium in your water with sodium or potassium. The difference between calcium and magnesium ions and sodium or potassium ions is that the sodium and potassium ions do not cause scaling or calcification. The water softener filters and distributes water that is conditioned to provide your home with the best water.

By having a water softener installed, you basically mitigate all of the issues listed above.

Call us to come and do a FREE water analysis and provide you with an estimate on what it would cost to have a water softener installed in your home.

Emergency Plumbing: What to Do with a Leaky Pipe

A leaky pipe is one of the most common plumbing issues people face. However, very few people know the proper way to go about fixing one. Worse, in a plumbing emergency, every second counts, which can make matters even more stressful if you don’t know what you’re doing.

Cummings Plumbing Heating and Cooling, a plumbing and HVAC company based in Tucson, Arizona, provide their expertise on fixing pipes. The company specializes in repairing and installing all types of units, including plumbing, heating, and cooling systems.

Step One: Turn Off the Water Supply Valve 

According to Cummings Plumbing, the very first step in fixing a leaky or burst pipe should be to turn off the water supply valve. Before starting to fix the problem, you first need to ensure that no water is going to spurt out at you, so locating and switching off the supply water valve is a must. If you aren’t sure which water supply valve supplies the water to the specific pipe that is leaking, then it’s best just to shut off the main supply valve for the time being. From there, you can buy yourself some time until a plumber arrives.

Step Two: Clean Up the Mess

Whether you have a minor leak with drops of water slowly seeping out or a sudden burst resulting in a small flood in your kitchen, cleaning up the mess should be the second step in fixing your leaky pipe. Cummings Plumbing Heating and Cooling of Tucson, Arizona, recommends not only cleaning up the bottom of the cabinet where the water might be concentrated, but also the leaky pipe itself and any surrounding fixtures. Further, you’ll want to mop up the floor if any water has spread there and clear out the cabinet and surrounding areas where your plumber will have to work.

Step Three: Assess and Smooth Out the Leaky Pipe

Now that the area is clean, it’s time to prepare your leaky pipe for your temporary patch. Before you patch up a leaky pipe, you must take time to assess and properly prepare the area for the patch. This includes checking to make sure there is no rust, limescale, or rough edges on the surface of the pipe, as well as using sandpaper to smooth out any build up on the pipe. This will not only be good for your pipes in the long term, but it will make your temporary patch more effective and give it a better chance of holding up against water flow, should you need to turn your water back on before a plumber can fix it.

Step Four: Seal the Leak Via a Temporary Patch

The fourth and final step regarding what to do with a leaky pipe is to seal the leak using a temporary patch. If you don’t have time to wait for a plumber and want to take matters into your own hands, Cummings Plumbing of Tucson, Arizona, recommends temporarily sealing the pipes by using plumber’s epoxy, available at most local hardware stores. All you need to do before applying it to your pipe is to mix it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Remember to mold the silly putty-like epoxy to fit the gap in your pipe exactly. Then, smooth out the edges and let it dry for however long as the instructions dictate. Applying this seal or patch is a great way to fix the problem temporarily; however, it isn’t a long term solution. While doing the proper research, including reading articles like these, can help you temporarily fix a leaky pipe on your own, it is possible to make things worse if you don’t know what you’re doing. Thus, if you’re ever unsure of your DIY plumbing skills, it is highly recommended that you call a professional.