How Often Should You Have Your Furnace Serviced?



 

There is no worse feeling than experiencing a broken furnace during the coldest day of the year. To ensure that your furnace is properly equipped to heat your home all winter long, it is important to have your furnace regularly serviced. To determine the appropriate service interval for your furnace, it is essential to consider the year and model of your furnace. If you notice that your older furnace is experiencing mechanical difficulties, you should schedule a furnace maintenance appointment right away. Newer furnace models should also be serviced on a yearly basis.

 

Contact Beacon Plumbing, Heating, & Mechanical to schedule your next furnace repair appointment. Our highly skilled technicians can provide you with a full lineup of services for your home, including sewer line repairs, furnace and water heater repairs, and heating in Seattle. To learn more about the quality services we offer to homeowners, give us a call at (206) 452-4363 or visit our website. 

 

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What Can You Put Down Your Garbage Disposal?

Your garbage disposal can clog or back up if you put the wrong types of items down the drain. To keep your garbage disposal in great working order, make sure to only put soft, easily processed food items such as fruits, vegetables, and soft grains down your garbage disposal. For more information about how to care for your garbage disposal, watch this video from Howcast.

If your garbage disposal is clogged, Beacon Plumbing, Heating, & Mechanical will be there to help. We offer a full range of plumbing services, including around the clock emergency plumbing appointments. Call our Seattle location at (206) 452-4363 to schedule an appointment with our master plumbers today!

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How to Properly Dispose of Cooking Grease

You cook up a great fried chicken dinner—now what are you going to do with that leftover cooking grease? Any plumber will tell you that the worst thing you can do is to put it down your garbage disposal. Even though your grease looks like a liquid after you finish cooking, it will turn into a solid when it cools in your drain and cause a major clog. Grease can also eat away at your pipes.

What are you supposed to do with your cooking grease? The best thing to do is get a container that can be covered and pour the grease into it. You can reuse the container several times and throw it away when it gets full. An old coffee can will do the trick, as will a soda bottle. Be sure to allow the grease to cool before you pour it into the container, or it could melt.

If grease does end up down your drain, Beacon Plumbing, Heating, & Mechanical can help. We’re available round-the-clock for any and all plumbing emergencies. When you need us, call (206) 452-4363.

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Reasons to Avoid Using Additives in Your Septic System

Proper septic system maintenance is essential, but additives aren’t necessarily the answer. Although conventional wisdom dictated that additives could help break down organic waste to minimize system failures, a growing body of evidence indicates that this is not the case. Before you make decisions about septic system maintenance, discuss your plans with a qualified plumbing company. You may be surprised at what they have to say about system additives.

Problems with Septic System Additives

Septic system additives were first created to address a problem that may not actually exist. Previously, it was believed that household cleaners were too hard on the natural bacteria in septic systems that help keep the unit functioning properly. The additives were used to revive the bacteria to prevent system back-up. In reality, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the additives may have the opposite effect. They may interfere with the breakdown of waste, cause septic system back-ups, and contribute to groundwater pollution. Some additives even contain carcinogens that could seep into groundwater and compromise community drinking water.

Alternatives to Septic System Additives

Since household cleaners are no longer believed to compromise septic systems, your plumber can recommend alternative ways to maintain your system. Monitoring your sludge and scum levels will let you know if your system operation is compromised in any way and help you catch any problems before they turn into a complete system failure. Having your system pumped every two to five years (depending on the size of the system and number of people in your household) will also help keep it in good working order. These methods allow you to maintain your system without any risk of contaminating ground water.

Beacon Plumbing, Heating, & Mechanical is here to help you keep your septic pump in top condition. We also offer sewer line repair, tankless water heaters, and more. Call us today at (206) 452-4363 to find out how we can help you with all of your commercial and residential plumbing needs.

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How to Avoid Clogged Drains in Your Home

Clogged drains are one of the most common reasons that plumbers are called. Fortunately, you can prevent most clogs simply by paying a little attention to what you put down your drain. Read on to learn how to cut down on the number of emergency plumbing calls you have to make for drain clogs.

Take Care with Food Waste
Food is the culprit behind many clogged drains. When you’re rinsing dishes, don’t let food scraps fall into the sink. Scrape your food waste into the trashcan before rinsing. If you have a garbage disposal, you should still use your trash for large pieces of food, rice, pasta, bones, and coffee grounds, which will all clog the disposal. Place a mesh screen over your drain to catch any scraps you missed and rinse it out right away. Never put grease down your drain—it will solidify and cause clogs. Instead, put it in a plastic container to throw away.

Keep Shower and Sinks Clear
If you have a clog in a bathroom drain, then chances are that hair is to blame. Use a mesh screen on your shower drain to catch hair and clean it out regularly. If you dry your hair or brush your hair while standing over your sink, make sure to remove hair from the drain afterwards. If you don’t have a screen and see hair in the drain, pull out as much as you can and call your plumber.

Flush Wisely
Don’t use your toilet to dispose of anything other than toilet paper and sewage. Anything else you flush could clog the pipes. In addition to clogs, flushing inappropriate things can lead to toilet overflows.
If your drain is clogged, don’t use chemical clearing products, which damage pipes and won’t resolve the whole clog. Instead, call Beacon Plumbing, Heating, & Mechanical today. We offer commercial and residential plumbing services, as well as heating and furnace repair. You can learn about all of our services by calling (206) 452-4363.

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Tips for Choosing the Right Plumber

Hiring a contractor for your home involves more than just picking up the phone book or contacting the first result from a search engine. Inviting a contractor into your home to perform major repairs can be daunting, particularly when it involves something as important as plumbing issues. Protect your home and your wallet and look for these qualities when searching for a reliable Seattle plumber:

Credentials
Above all, it is important to verify that a professional plumbing company has the appropriate licensure and insurance to protect you from any liability. Also, make sure that the company employs experienced professionals with the proper certifications. Does an “expert” plumber mean someone who has completed or is currently completing a license, or does it refer to anyone with more than two weeks of experience?
 
Experience
Any company can advertise, but an established plumbing company with a local reputation is more likely to have a wide customer base with plenty of reviews. They are also more likely to have a working knowledge of local building codes, which can vary by municipality.
 
Reasonable Rates
Different plumbing companies may charge different rates for certain jobs. Some companies will charge a flat rate, while others will charge an hourly rate. However, don’t automatically choose a plumbing company with the lowest fees—beware of any equipment costs or surprise expenses. An expert should be able to provide an accurate written estimate for any necessary repairs.

Beacon Plumbing, Heating, & Mechanical has been serving the Puget Sound area for over 14 years. We employ a staff of licensed professionals, and we are available 24/7 to meet all of your plumbing needs. From appliance maintenance to emergency repairs, we’ll provide you with quick, courteous, and cost-effective services. Just follow the link to see our customer reviews and call (206) 452-4363 with any questions.

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Preventing Washing Machine Plumbing Problems

Your washing machine probably isn’t the first appliance that comes to mind when you consider your home’s plumbing, but they do provide a valuable function nonetheless. You may not encounter many washing machine issues beyond the occasional heavy load, but any leaks or overflows could cause significant water damage.

As this video shows, you can reduce the risk of major washing machine issues with a few simple plumbing appliances. Also, by replacing the hoses every three to five years, you can avoid unexpected leaks.

Follow Beacon Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical online for more tips on protecting your Seattle home, and click on this link to receive an exclusive online discount for your next plumbing emergency. To schedule installation or repair services from our plumbing experts, call (206) 452-4363 today.

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How to Handle a Clogged Sink or Drain

A stubborn clog can be a big nuisance in your kitchen or bathroom, but without proper precautions it’s easy to compromise your home’s plumbing and create bigger problems. Take a look at this guide to learn when DIY techniques will work and when it’s appropriate to contact a professional plumber:

Learn the Limitations of a Plunger
Plungers loosen clogs by simply moving them back and forth inside the pipes through suction power. While this works perfectly fine for minor clogs, it doesn’t necessarily get rid of the obstruction in the pipes. It may only push it further down the pipes and create a deeper clog which will likely require a plumbing snake to dislodge.

Use Drain Cleaners Sparingly
There are several types of commercially available drain cleaners that are designed to dissolve organic materials. These cleaners are extremely caustic, and while they are effective at dissolving hair and food, the strong chemical reactions in the pipes can weaken PVC pipes or even destroy older pipes made out of lead or clay. Additionally, the chemicals may harm septic system bacteria. Take care to follow directions and only use these materials sparingly with plenty of ventilation, and try green alternatives to drain cleaners whenever possible.

Know When to Call a Plumber
There’s a limit to what DIY plumbing tools can accomplish, and a deep clog may well require specialized tools and chemicals that are not commercially available. Damaging your pipes with makeshift equipment or improper drain cleaner use will only cost you more in the long run. A specialist will quickly provide you with an accurate estimate of any necessary repairs.

Your home is one of your most valuable assets, and the specialists here at Beacon Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical can help you keep your home running smoothly and efficiently all year long. We also offer 24-hour emergency plumbing service to provide you with professional assistance when you need it most. Just call (206) 452-4363 to schedule a plumbing service appointment for your home or business in the Puget Sound area.

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Expand Your Understanding of Your Home's Drains and Sewer Line by Exploring These Sites

For helpful information about your home's drains and sewer lines, be sure to read through the sites provided below. At the first sign of a plumbing emergency, call the reliable team here at Beacon Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical at (206) 452-4363.

• One of the most efficient and effective ways to treat a sewer line that has cracked is to use trenchless sewer replacement technology. You can read more about this quick and clean method for restoring your sewer in this article from SF Gate.
• Is your bathroom sink clogged? If so, then you might want to try out some of the useful suggestions for unclogging it written by the experts at This Old House.
• This article from the DIY Network offers great insight into the various components of your plumbing system and how they work together to provide your home and business with a steady supply of water. Be sure to check it out!
• The most common cause of a busted sewer line is overgrown tree roots. Read this Angie's List article to find out how trenchless sewer replacement can repair this line and help you to win the war against those pesky roots. 
• Have you ever wondered how your city's sewer system works? This basic yet informative diagram and article from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority is the perfect resource to learn more about the various steps in this complex process.

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When Is Trenchless Sewer Repair the Best Option?

As a homeowner, one of the most stress-inducing scenarios that you can run into is a busted sewer line. From out-of-control tree roots to drastic temperature changes, there are a number of situations that can cause your sewer pipes to crack and require immediate attention from emergency plumbing professionals. Here is a look at one method for repair—trenchless sewer replacement—and the conditions under which it is the best option:

Water is Not Pooling near the Bottom of the Line
One scenario that makes it far more difficult for your sewer line repair team to use trenchless technology is pooling near the very bottom of the pipes. More often than not, experienced professionals can remove soil, debris, and water that are lingering in the pipes. However, in the case that this matter cannot be removed, it will be difficult for the sewer line repair process to work properly and pass inspection.

Utility Lines Do Not Pass Closely to the Pipes
Trenchless technology works best when there are no utility lines near the sewer pipes. As the pipe is lined with a new, more formidable material, it shifts around in the space, and therefore could burst any gas or water lines that sit close by. If your plumbers do not detect utility lines nearby, then trenchless can be a promising solution to your burst pipe.

Your Contractor is Experienced in the Technique
When it comes to performing trenchless sewer repair, experience is of the utmost importance. Although this technology is one of the most effective methods around for repairing a cracked sewer line, it can be destructive if performed incorrectly. Before choosing an emergency plumbing company, ask for a list of their references, as well as a rundown of their professional history.

If your home is in need of immediate sewer repair, then be sure to contact Beacon Plumbing, Heating, & Mechanical at any time, day or night. We can assess your particular situation and discuss the best method for repairing the line. Call us at (206) 452-4363 to learn more about our plumbing services.

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Preventing Plumbing-Related Home Water Damage

Leaky faucets and frequently refilling toilets can seem like a small problem at first, but if left untreated, they can cause your water bills to skyrocket. In order to prevent water waste in your home, as well as any water-related damage, be sure to inspect the rooms in your home that contain bathtubs, sinks, dishwashers, washing machines, and other appliances that regularly utilize water. Look for any signs of damage such as warped flooring, corroded pipes, and stained cabinetry. Another step to take to ensure that your plumbing is working properly is to turn supply line valves on and off to make sure they work.

Before finishing up your in-home inspection, check the basement for signs of leaks such as a musty smell or wall stains. For more tips on preventing home water damage, watch this video from State Farm.

If you notice that your water bills are climbing but you can't pinpoint the reasons why, then call Beacon Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical today at (206) 452-4363. We can inspect your home or business and provide you with our recommendations for preventing further water loss.

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Understanding the Difference between a Clogged Drain and a Clogged Sewer Line

Your home's plumbing system is an intricate system of pipes, drains, sewers, and appliances that work in harmony to provide you with the water you need to perform everyday tasks. When one of those components becomes blocked, cracked, or clogged, it can be difficult to diagnose and treat without the help of an emergency plumbing professional. Here is a look at the difference between two residential plumbing problems, a clogged drain and a clogged sewer line:

A Clog in a Sink, Shower, or Toilet Drain
The symptoms of a clogged drain within an appliance such as a toilet or sink typically consist of pooling water, an unpleasant odor, and a buildup of matter somewhere in the pipe. The clog itself is typically located in one specific drain, which means that it won't affect other pipes or appliances in the home. There are a variety of different ways that you can treat a minor clog using a plunger, an auger, or by pouring a combination of water, baking soda, and vinegar down the drain. If the clog simply won't budge, then leave it to a professional emergency plumbing team to fix.

A Clog in the Home's Main Sewer Line
Unlike a clogged drain, a clogged sewer line will cause disruption to the entire home since the problem originates farther down in the supply line. If you begin to experience low water flow in various kitchen and bathroom appliances or notice bubbling or backup in your bathtub, then call a sewer line repair company immediately, as you are almost certainly dealing with a sewer clog. Your plumber will look for the cause of the clog, such as a busted sewer line, or a buildup of non-flushable materials, such as feminine hygiene products.

No matter what type of clog you're experiencing, the professionals here at Beacon Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical can help you eliminate it for good. We employ a variety of techniques such as high pressure jetting, derooting, and trenchless sewer repair to restore clogged or damaged drains and sewer lines. To schedule our services in your residential or commercial property, call (206) 452-4363.

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Common Problems that Can Afflict Sewer Lines as They Age

Over time, a variety of issues can compromise your plumbing lines, increasing your long-term maintenance and sewer repair costs. Below is an overview of some of the most common sewage line problems.

 























Oily Build-Up

• Everything from flushed waste to leftover foods contains some amount of oily deposits, and these materials can harden and build up in the plumbing lines over time. Normal plunging typically will not suffice for deep clogs, but a plumbing specialist can provide water jetting services to remove buildup and clean sewage pipes.

Clogs

• Flushing or washing away any insoluble materials can accelerate the process of oily buildups and create a large clog deep in your plumbing lines. Some of the most common items to avoid flushing include diapers, cat litter, cigarette butts, and hair.

Root Infiltration

• Tree roots are notorious for digging into plumbing lines through even the tiniest cracks and splitting the PVC pipes. Even if the roots don’t split the line, they create tiny pinhole leaks which can leak thousands of gallons of water into the surrounding soil. Some tree root systems can extend as two to four times the diameter of the tree crown (the section including the branches and leaves) and can cause problems up to seven years after the tree itself is removed.

Sewer Line Collapse

• If one or more of the above issues places too much strain on the sewer lines, the pipes can collapse entirely and result in costly repairs. Older homes built before the 1970s may use pipes made out of ceramic and iron, which have a much lower life expectancy than newer PVC materials.

To receive award-winning service for your plumbing or home appliance problems in the Seattle area, contact Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical at (206) 452-4363 today. We offer affordable plumbing and drain cleaning services and emergency response 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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The Anatomy of a Gas Water Heater

Gas water heaters are the most common method of water heating in the U.S., and they all contain the same basic elements to safely heat, store, and distribute water throughout the household. This video clip provides a brief overview of the typical household gas water heater.




Natural gas water heaters are generally more efficient than their electric counterparts. A thermostat provides control over the temperature of the stored water, while a temporary pressure release valve prevents dangerous amounts of pressure from building up.
Whether your water heater breaks or you’re simply looking for a cost-effective way to reduce energy bills, contact Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical at (206) 452-4363 to learn about your options.

With 24/7 emergency plumbing response and 90-day financing, we’re here to help Seattle residents save money while keeping their homes comfortable and efficient.

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Click These Links To Learn More About Sewer Line Care And Dealing With Plumbing Leaks

Knowing how to handle a burst pipe or plumbing leak can save you thousands of dollars and water damage, and taking good care of your sewer line can avoid problems with tree roots. To learn more, check out the links below or call Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical at (206) 452-4363 for emergency service.

• Read this page from AskTheBuilder.com to learn how to avoid issues with trees and your sewer from occurring.

• This article at Weather.com can help you understand what to do in case your pipes burst.

• Act quickly with the information provided on this page from ThisOldHouse.com to protect your home in the event of a plumbing leak.

• You can see how professional plumbers use video inspections to identify tree roots in your sewer line by visiting this page from FamilyHandyman.com.

• This article at AngiesList.com can help you understand why tree roots are one of the predominant causes of problems with older sewer lines.

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Stop! 4 Things That Should Never Go Down the Drain

Most serious clogs are actually caused by homeowners. Kitchen and bathroom drains aren’t meant to deal with large, man-made objects. In fact, almost any type of consumer product and many processed foods can cause a serious back-up. Use this list of problem items to avoid major drain clogs at home.

1. Thick Fluids: Several liquids used in cooking, such as grease and viscous oils, are washed down the drain after cooking. Unfortunately, these slow-moving liquids will dry and solidify within your pipes. This is enough to catch other solids and create a large clog.

2. Stringy Foods: Numerous foods, such as pasta and raw meat, are easily caught in drain systems. These types of food are especially problematic for garbage disposals blades. Try to toss long and stringy foodstuffs into the garbage instead of risking your drain.

3. Small Objects: Toothpicks, small pieces of paper, and even plastic wrap are regularly washed down the drain. Each of these objects is large enough to get caught in your drain and begin a problematic buildup. Equip your sinks with a metal strainer to catch larger objects before they head down the drain.

4. Harmful Chemicals: Hazardous substances can corrode your pipes, damage the nearby ecosystem, and contaminate city water supplies. Be sure to check the markings on all cleaning solutions you bring into your home. Each product should indicate if the substance is safe for your drain.

Regular drain cleanings can help protect your home from inconvenient clogs. Contact Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical today at (206) 452-4363 to schedule an inspection of your drain. A bit of preventative maintenance can protect your home from serious plumbing problems in the future.

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Backed-Up Plumbing? Here's What to Do Before Calling a Plumber

Backed-up sewage lines can cause damage to your home and carry health risks for your family. Fast action is required when plumbing begins to back up into your home. Follow this set of sewage backup tips to minimize the impacts of this annoying plumbing problem.

• Clear Bathroom Space: Sewage is full of dangerous and infectious bacteria. You can protect your property from exposure to these germs by clearing the bathroom space as soon as a backup begins. Remove rugs, waste bins, and any other items that haven’t been exposed to sewage water. An open bathroom space will also be helpful for plumbers once they arrive to solve the problem.

• Turn Shut-Off Valve: Your next step after clearing the bathroom space is to stop the backup. Start by locating the local shut-off valve attached to the toilet. If the valve fails to stop the flow of sewage, move to the main water shut-off valve. You can start the water again once the visiting plumber gives you the all-clear.

• Locate Water Intrusion: Water, especially the liquid expelled by sewage backup, can cause severe damage to your home. Be sure to note and record all the sections of your home that are impacted by the sewage flooding. This information will be vital to your plumber, insurance company, and remediation specialists you eventually work with.

• Contact Home Insurance: Your insurance company should be notified of the water backup immediately. Severe flooding will require the help of water damage specialists, and you’ll want your insurance company to pay those costs. Your insurance company may cover your plumbing costs as well.

Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical can be reached at 24-hours a day to deal with plumbing back-ups. Contact us at (206) 452-4363 for immediate repairs or on our website for service information. We also service commercial and industrial locations.

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