Plumbing problems are a common issue that will inevitably plague every homeowner at some point in his or her life. Even with the best care and maintenance, issues due to age and weather conditions can result in serious plumbing problems. In this video clip, you can learn about some simple ways to avoid these problems.
Winter can be an especially hazardous time for your home’s plumbing, so it’s important to make sure everything is in working order during the warmer months of the year. Regular check-ups from a licensed and insured plumber can help you learn more about your home’s plumbing. It’s important to know where the house water shut-off is so that you can turn off your home’s water supply at the first sign of any problem.
To learn more about preventative maintenance and plumbing services, contact the experts here at Beacon Plumbing, Heating and Mechanical.
Seattle Plumber Services from Beacon Plumbing and Heating. Toilets,Sinks,Bathtubs,Water Heaters, Furnaces, we do it all! Call 1-800-FREAKIN. Visit us at http://www.beaconplumbing.net
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
More Information on Common Plumbing Problems, HVAC Equipment, and Energy Efficient Standards
Looking for more insight into topics we addressed in our recent posts? Read through the following resources for more details on common plumbing problems, HVAC equipment, and energy efficient standards.
-If you’re still unclear about different types of air conditioning units and AC systems, then take a look at this InspectAPedia entry. You’ll get a comprehensive overview of energy source options that includes helpful photos and descriptions of different units and their components.
-If you want to know more about SEER ratings and the Federal government’s involvement in establishing current standards for air conditioning units, then take a look at this report issued by the US Department of Energy. You’ll find the reasoning behind the 2006 upgrade to SEER 13 and its predicted impact on consumers.
-A clogged septic tank is no small issue—that’s why it’s a good idea to be aware of what you can do to prevent clogs in your sewage lines from occurring. Check out this eHow article on how to prevent your septic tank from clogging and avoid a messy emergency situation.
-Mold is a frequent side effect of leaky pipes and indoor flooding. Take a look at the Environmental Protection Agency’s “Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home” to get a better idea of how to combat indoor mold and its harmful effects on your health.
-If you’re curious about energy efficient appliances, EnergyStar.gov is a great place to start researching what’s available. On this Energy Star page, you’ll find links to information about energy efficient air conditioning units, plumbing appliances, HVAC equipment, and much more.
-If you’re still unclear about different types of air conditioning units and AC systems, then take a look at this InspectAPedia entry. You’ll get a comprehensive overview of energy source options that includes helpful photos and descriptions of different units and their components.
-If you want to know more about SEER ratings and the Federal government’s involvement in establishing current standards for air conditioning units, then take a look at this report issued by the US Department of Energy. You’ll find the reasoning behind the 2006 upgrade to SEER 13 and its predicted impact on consumers.
-A clogged septic tank is no small issue—that’s why it’s a good idea to be aware of what you can do to prevent clogs in your sewage lines from occurring. Check out this eHow article on how to prevent your septic tank from clogging and avoid a messy emergency situation.
-Mold is a frequent side effect of leaky pipes and indoor flooding. Take a look at the Environmental Protection Agency’s “Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home” to get a better idea of how to combat indoor mold and its harmful effects on your health.
-If you’re curious about energy efficient appliances, EnergyStar.gov is a great place to start researching what’s available. On this Energy Star page, you’ll find links to information about energy efficient air conditioning units, plumbing appliances, HVAC equipment, and much more.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
3 Situations in Which You Need Emergency Plumbing
Heating and furnace repair can be complex and arduous, true—but plumbing issues are particularly messy.
Below you’ll find three situations in which you are likely to need emergency plumbing. Trust us; these are times when you’re going to want to leave the problem to a professional.
1. Blocked Drains/Toilets—Blocked drains and toilets are the most commonly cited plumbing emergencies and are typically caused by grease, oil, or hair buildup. Less frequently they are caused by dropped valuables such as toys or jewelry. Blocked drains and toilets can cause bacteria to spread, not to mention localized flooding and mold growth at sites of water damage. It’s important to call in for emergency plumbing should a blockage be detected to avoid more serious flooding and/or repeated overflows.
2. Burst or Leaking Pipes—Rusty or otherwise damaged pipes can develop leaks and may even burst. This can result in major flooding, water damage, and excessive mold growth if not immediately taken care of. The excessive water loss can also significantly increase your utility bills. If you hear running water when you are not intentionally using faucets or appliances, then it’s a good idea to call a plumber to check your underground pipes as well as those indoors.
3. Clogged Septic Lines—A clogged septic tank is usually caused by leaves or other debris, but can also be the result of underground root infiltration. If your septic tank is compromised, then sewage could make its way into your basement and travel to other rooms—posing a serious threat to sanitation. The sooner you get it taken care of, the better.
Blocked drain
If you suspect you have a plumbing emergency or you simply have more questions about what to do to gauge the seriousness of a plumbing problem, then call our experts at Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical. We provide 24/7 services to both residential and commercial clients and can offer water damage referral if needed.
Below you’ll find three situations in which you are likely to need emergency plumbing. Trust us; these are times when you’re going to want to leave the problem to a professional.
1. Blocked Drains/Toilets—Blocked drains and toilets are the most commonly cited plumbing emergencies and are typically caused by grease, oil, or hair buildup. Less frequently they are caused by dropped valuables such as toys or jewelry. Blocked drains and toilets can cause bacteria to spread, not to mention localized flooding and mold growth at sites of water damage. It’s important to call in for emergency plumbing should a blockage be detected to avoid more serious flooding and/or repeated overflows.
2. Burst or Leaking Pipes—Rusty or otherwise damaged pipes can develop leaks and may even burst. This can result in major flooding, water damage, and excessive mold growth if not immediately taken care of. The excessive water loss can also significantly increase your utility bills. If you hear running water when you are not intentionally using faucets or appliances, then it’s a good idea to call a plumber to check your underground pipes as well as those indoors.
3. Clogged Septic Lines—A clogged septic tank is usually caused by leaves or other debris, but can also be the result of underground root infiltration. If your septic tank is compromised, then sewage could make its way into your basement and travel to other rooms—posing a serious threat to sanitation. The sooner you get it taken care of, the better.
Blocked drain
If you suspect you have a plumbing emergency or you simply have more questions about what to do to gauge the seriousness of a plumbing problem, then call our experts at Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical. We provide 24/7 services to both residential and commercial clients and can offer water damage referral if needed.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Home Maintenance & Hand Tools: How to Drain a Water Heater
If your water heater fails, then it’s important that you thoroughly drain it before repair. But how does one go about draining a water heater?
In this video, you’ll get a step-by-step tutorial from a home repair specialist on locating electricity and water supplies, as well as fitting a garden hose to the heater. Couched in his instructions, you’ll also find important safety precautions—so pay close attention!
If you’d like more details on water heater maintenance and repair, then contact us at Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical. Refer to our website for information on standard water heaters, hybrid water heaters, and tankless water heaters, and make an appointment with our experts if you’re in need of installation help or repairs!
In this video, you’ll get a step-by-step tutorial from a home repair specialist on locating electricity and water supplies, as well as fitting a garden hose to the heater. Couched in his instructions, you’ll also find important safety precautions—so pay close attention!
If you’d like more details on water heater maintenance and repair, then contact us at Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical. Refer to our website for information on standard water heaters, hybrid water heaters, and tankless water heaters, and make an appointment with our experts if you’re in need of installation help or repairs!
Saturday, April 9, 2011
How to Choose a New Air Conditioning Unit
Selecting plumbing, heating, and air conditioning appliances is a daunting task. A unit of the wrong size and type can significantly increase your utility bills, not to mention lower your general comfort level.
Air Conditioning Repair
In the interest of helping you choose an AC unit that performs well, here is a list of characteristics to consider:
* Type and Cost—Types of AC units include window units, split system units, and central air units. While window and split system units tend to be much cheaper than central air units, they are also less efficient, have a shorter lifespan, and require more frequent maintenance/repair.
* Cooling Capacity—The cooling capacity refers to the amount of cold air an AC unit is capable of producing. The cooling capacity should be posted on the outside of the unit, expressed in either British Thermal Units (BTU’s) or tons. You will typically need about 10,000 BTU’s per 450 square feet of your residence.
* Energy Efficiency Rating—The efficiency of a unit (measured in SEER’s—Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) indicates the quantity of cold air produced relative to the energy consumed by the unit. The minimum rating, as set by the federal government, is 13.0, though a higher rating will guarantee you lower utility bills.
* Aesthetics—While window units tend to be bulky, mini-splits are more easily concealed inside walls or above ceilings. Central units are even less visually obtrusive. You should also consider the noise level of your unit. Window units, again, tend to be the most noticeable, while compressors for split system and central units are located outside and out of earshot.
If you have more questions about choosing an air conditioning unit, then call us at Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical. We can provide you with more details on energy saving units and rebates and can install any make and model you choose!
Air Conditioning Repair
In the interest of helping you choose an AC unit that performs well, here is a list of characteristics to consider:
* Type and Cost—Types of AC units include window units, split system units, and central air units. While window and split system units tend to be much cheaper than central air units, they are also less efficient, have a shorter lifespan, and require more frequent maintenance/repair.
* Cooling Capacity—The cooling capacity refers to the amount of cold air an AC unit is capable of producing. The cooling capacity should be posted on the outside of the unit, expressed in either British Thermal Units (BTU’s) or tons. You will typically need about 10,000 BTU’s per 450 square feet of your residence.
* Energy Efficiency Rating—The efficiency of a unit (measured in SEER’s—Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) indicates the quantity of cold air produced relative to the energy consumed by the unit. The minimum rating, as set by the federal government, is 13.0, though a higher rating will guarantee you lower utility bills.
* Aesthetics—While window units tend to be bulky, mini-splits are more easily concealed inside walls or above ceilings. Central units are even less visually obtrusive. You should also consider the noise level of your unit. Window units, again, tend to be the most noticeable, while compressors for split system and central units are located outside and out of earshot.
If you have more questions about choosing an air conditioning unit, then call us at Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical. We can provide you with more details on energy saving units and rebates and can install any make and model you choose!
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Want to Learn More About Conserving Water, Saving Money on Your Bill, and Maintenance Issues?
Would you like to learn more about the topics covered in our recent blog posts? If you’d like further information on conserving water, saving money, and at-home plumbing maintenance, then you might find the following resources informative and helpful.
* Conserving water is not only important for the environment, but the first step to saving money. This article contains 25 ways to use less water at home.
* Plumbing isn’t just for plumbers. Educating yourself on some of the basics will allow you to knowledgably converse with your plumber and help you handle emergency plumbing situations with confidence.
* Ever wonder what ABS plastic is or what applications it has in your sewer line repair? A list of a few common plumbing terms will keep you up to speed.
* Tankless water heaters provide on-demand hot water at the point of access and can save considerable money and water in the long run. But what exactly do they do? This helpful Tankless water heater FAQ answers some common questions.
* Your yard and garden can be a large water expense, even in times of rain. Watering wisely outside is as important to keeping your bill low as is using less water inside.
* Conserving water is not only important for the environment, but the first step to saving money. This article contains 25 ways to use less water at home.
* Plumbing isn’t just for plumbers. Educating yourself on some of the basics will allow you to knowledgably converse with your plumber and help you handle emergency plumbing situations with confidence.
* Ever wonder what ABS plastic is or what applications it has in your sewer line repair? A list of a few common plumbing terms will keep you up to speed.
* Tankless water heaters provide on-demand hot water at the point of access and can save considerable money and water in the long run. But what exactly do they do? This helpful Tankless water heater FAQ answers some common questions.
* Your yard and garden can be a large water expense, even in times of rain. Watering wisely outside is as important to keeping your bill low as is using less water inside.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Plumbing Maintenance that Will Reduce Your Water Bill
Regular maintenance of your household plumbing can be done both at home by you and by your plumber, and knowing a few simple things can save you from an emergency plumbing situation, and save on your overall water bill.
* From tightening your taps to keeping an eye on your water meter, you can have a hand up on leaks. Conserving the amount of water you use can easily reduce your costs, and there are simple ways to do it. Add a few drops of food coloring into your toilet’s tank—if colored water appears in the bowl without flushing, then your toilet may be running needlessly.
* Insulate your pipes. This conserves heat, keeping the water warmer longer and reducing the strain on your water heater. Installing a tankless water heater offers on-demand hot water, and can greatly reduce the amount of water you use.
* Turning on the shower and letting all the cold water run out not only wastes a vast amount of water, but can indicate problems with your water heater. A more efficient heater uses both less water and less energy due to reduced demand. Maintaining your water heater keeps it efficient longer and is something you can do at home without special tools.
* Use a bucket to hold the cold water from the shower and, in turn, water your plants. Putting a couple bottles of water weighted with some pebbles or sand inside your toilet tank is an inexpensive way of having a water-saving flush.
* An unusually high bill and a corresponding change on your meter can indicate unusual usage. Keeping an eye on your water bill is the easiest way to know what your average consumption should be, in conjunction with checking your water meter. Pay attention in the summer to how often and how much you water your lawn and garden, and cut excess hot water time in the shower during the colder months.
Here at Beacon Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical, we would love to share some great free tips to help you save water and money. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about reducing your water usage!
* From tightening your taps to keeping an eye on your water meter, you can have a hand up on leaks. Conserving the amount of water you use can easily reduce your costs, and there are simple ways to do it. Add a few drops of food coloring into your toilet’s tank—if colored water appears in the bowl without flushing, then your toilet may be running needlessly.
* Insulate your pipes. This conserves heat, keeping the water warmer longer and reducing the strain on your water heater. Installing a tankless water heater offers on-demand hot water, and can greatly reduce the amount of water you use.
* Turning on the shower and letting all the cold water run out not only wastes a vast amount of water, but can indicate problems with your water heater. A more efficient heater uses both less water and less energy due to reduced demand. Maintaining your water heater keeps it efficient longer and is something you can do at home without special tools.
* Use a bucket to hold the cold water from the shower and, in turn, water your plants. Putting a couple bottles of water weighted with some pebbles or sand inside your toilet tank is an inexpensive way of having a water-saving flush.
* An unusually high bill and a corresponding change on your meter can indicate unusual usage. Keeping an eye on your water bill is the easiest way to know what your average consumption should be, in conjunction with checking your water meter. Pay attention in the summer to how often and how much you water your lawn and garden, and cut excess hot water time in the shower during the colder months.
Here at Beacon Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical, we would love to share some great free tips to help you save water and money. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about reducing your water usage!
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