Benefits of Commercial Water Heater Maintenance

Why Schedule Water Heater Maintenance?

Water heaters are often essential appliances in businesses and commercial properties. They are used to heat water for all sorts of tasks. But when a commercial water heater malfunctions, it can make things more difficult and inconvenient. To avoid issues with the water heater and ensure it continues working properly, they must receive regular maintenance. Here are some of the most significant benefits of routine commercial water heater maintenance. 

Leads to Better Efficiency and Lower Costs

save money Routine water heater maintenance can save business owners money. Over time, minerals and sediment can build up in water heaters, negatively impacting temperatures and efficiency. This causes the water heater to use more energy to function properly, raising utility bills. The sediment buildup can also speed up corrosion in the water heater. 

Some tasks that are part of water heater maintenance include draining and flushing the tank to remove sediment and replacing the anode rod, which attracts sediment and minerals, to prevent corrosion. These maintenance tasks help keep the water heater working efficiently, which will help property and business owners save on water heating costs. 

More Reliable and Less Likely to Need Repairs

water heater Neglecting regular maintenance on commercial water heaters can lead to unexpected breakdowns, system damage, and costly repairs. Without maintenance, sediment accumulation in the tank, corrosion, and inefficiency in the system’s operation can occur, which can cause additional problems. For example, corrosion in the water heater due to a lack of maintenance can lead to leaks. 

On the contrary, a well-maintained water heater is less likely to suffer from these issues. Regular maintenance allows for the early identification and prevention of potential problems. This proactive approach not only helps avoid problems and breakdowns but also contributes to savings by dodging repair bills. So, investing in routine maintenance ensures more reliable performance with a lower risk of damage. 

Leads to a Longer Lifespan

A commercial water heater is an investment, and business and property owners should treat it as such. Keeping up with water heater maintenance also helps extend the lifespan of the water heater, leading to more savings by delaying the need for replacement. During maintenance, a plumber can perform tasks that help the water heater last longer and find and fix potential problems that could cause additional damage that requires replacing it. 

Additionally, routine water heater maintenance often helps keep warranties active. If a system has a warranty, one requirement may be yearly tune-ups. Ultimately, commercial water heater maintenance has many benefits and can save money in the long run through efficiency and fewer repairs and replacements. 

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company that has been serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas since 1947. They provide flat rates, live assistance, and unparalleled customer service. Call them for commercial plumbing and water heater services in Annapolis, MD

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A Guide to Trenchless Pipe Lining

Why Get Trenchless Pipe Lining Done?

When it comes to plumbing repairs, there are none that homeowners like to be forced to deal with. However, sewer line repairs can be particularly frustrating. Sewer lines are cast into slabs and buried underneath the soil, so repairing them can be invasive. Luckily, over the years, plumbers have developed new ways to address sewer line problems, making them easier, faster, and non-invasive to repair. 

By not wasting time and costs with excavation and trenching, plumbers can fix sewer lines with more advantages using trenchless sewer repair methods such as pipelining. This article is a quick guide to trenchless pipe lining so homeowners can understand when it may get used, how it’s done, and its benefits. 

Problems That Trenchless Pipe Lining Can Fix 

Trenchless pipe repairs have become so popular because they don’t require excavation and digging. Since sewer lines are buried underground, when it comes time to fix them, plumbers used to have to dig the line up for repairs. But with trenchless repairs, there’s no need for major excavation. 
Some of the problems that can plague underground sewer lines that trenchless pipe repair, including pipelining, may be used to address are:

  • Damage from invasive tree roots
  • Cracked pipes
  • Minor pipe misalignment
  • Corrosion
  • General wear and tear

How Professionals Perform Pipe Lining

trenchless pipe liningPipelining, also known as cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining, is a technique that can be used to repair existing pipelines. This method involves inserting a resin-saturated felt tube into the damaged pipe, often through existing access points to avoid digging. 

The tube is then inflated, and the resin is allowed to cure, forming a new pipe within a pipe. This effectively seals any cracks or breaks, improves the pipe’s structural strength, and eliminates the need for extensive excavation. This process is favored for its efficiency and minimal disruption to the surrounding area.

Benefits of Trenchless Pipe Lining 

pipe liningTrenchless pipe repairs like pipe lining are quickly becoming the repair method of choice for several reasons. Some of their advantages are: 

  • It can be less expensive since it avoids excavation and repairing the areas of a property that have been excavated
  • The repairs can be completed quicker 
  • The repairs are durable, strong, and long-lasting 
  • The landscaping of the property stays intact, and repairs can be done noninvasively

If sewer line problems plague a home, call a plumber to inspect it, determine the issue, and see if trenchless pipe lining can be used to fix it. 

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated business serving Annapolis, MD, and the surrounding areas. They provide dependable, flat rates, live assistance, and a preventative maintenance agreement. Call them today for trenchless sewer repair services in Annapolis, MD.

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How a Water Filtration System Could Be the Best Thing for a Home in the New Year

Why Get a Whole Home Water Filter Installation?

Our homes are our sanctuaries. It is where we are most comfortable, so it makes sense to create an environment where we are healthy, which is why a whole home water filtration system is a perfect fit for such an important part of our lives.

Water filters are meant to keep the water we use and consume at home safe from contaminants that can make us ill at worst and, at best, create a bad taste. Water filtration systems transform water into a better, safer version of itself. This post will discuss how they work, their benefits, and some signs they are needed. 

How a Water Filter Works

water filterAs the name implies, a water filtration system is a device that is meant to filter out or remove contaminants from the water to make it cleaner and safer for consumption. What makes water filters more complicated to comprehend is that there are many ways to achieve clean water, and the different types relate to the method by which it removes contaminants. 

Some of the most popular and common kinds are reverse osmosis filters, carbon filtration, and water softeners. Reverse osmosis water filters use a semipermeable membrane to remove dissolved solids. The membrane has tiny pores that allow water molecules to pass through while blocking larger particles like impurities. 

Carbon water filtration involves passing water through activated carbon, which has a large surface area that can trap impurities in its pores. The carbon acts as an absorbent, effectively removing chemicals and other contaminants from the water. 

Water softeners differ from the other filters in that they remove the minerals that cause hard water instead of cleaning the water itself. They use an ion exchange process, replacing unwanted ions, such as calcium and magnesium, with more desirable ones, like sodium or potassium. This is achieved through a resin bed that attracts and exchanges ions as they pass through. 

Advantages of Having a Whole House Water Filter

clear water Having a whole home water filter can be advantageous. They can remove contaminants from the home’s water supply to make it safer. Then, specific ones like water softeners can remove excess hard water minerals such as calcium and magnesium that can cause damage to the plumbing and appliances. 

Whole house water filters are also incredibly convenient and can save money over time. They can eliminate the need to purchase water bottles from the store since they create a clean and safe water source. Needless to say, doing away with bottled water is also good for the environment as it reduces plastic waste.

How to Tell if a Home Needs a Water Filter 

While most homes can benefit significantly from a water filter installation, there are also signs residents can watch for. Some signs a water filtration system installation is necessary are if the home’s water smells or tastes bad or doesn’t appear clear. 

Additionally, a home may need a water softener installation if homeowners notice dry skin and hair or a scale buildup like a white residue on plumbing fixtures. Plumbers can help homeowners determine their water quality and which water filtration system may be needed for their homes. 

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated plumbing company serving Annapolis, MD, and the surrounding areas. They offer dependable, flat rates, live assistance, and fast, on-time service. Call them today for water filtration system installation in Annapolis, MD

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Keep Your Garbage Disposal in Excellent Shape With These Helpful Tips

How to Keep Your Garbage Disposal Humming Along Through the Holidays

The holidays are officially here, and with all the holiday festivities, many families are beginning to plan their parties, gatherings, and celebrations, none of which are complete without lots and lots of food. While this is all fun and exciting, it also means that kitchens will be abuzz with activity, and while the stove and oven are where the action is, kitchen sinks will get a lot of mileage as well, with all the cleaning up afterward. 

The last thing anybody needs during this festive season is to be dealing with clogged or broken garbage disposals, so read on to find out some important dos and don’ts of keeping the garbage disposal in excellent shape to get through the holiday season.  

Keep These Foods Out of the Disposal

Food waste is one of the primary reasons why garbage disposals clog and break down and a common cause of clogged pipes. When certain types of food are allowed to go through the kitchen drain, they can cause problems for the garbage disposal and the home’s piping. These types of food that should never go down garbage disposals include oil and grease, coffee grounds, hard foods like fruit pits and bones, fibrous vegetables and potato peels, and expandable foods like pasta, rice, and oatmeal.  

Not only can these types of food waste cause problems for garbage disposals, but if they make their way past them, they can clog the drain pipes and sewer lines, creating even more problems for the household, such as slow draining, backups, and bad smells. Additionally, too much food should never be put down drains and garbage disposals simultaneously to avoid problems. 

Run the Disposal With Running Water

sinkRunning cold water through the garbage disposal system during and after its operation is also crucial for maintaining the system. The water flow aids in flushing the food waste through the system, thereby keeping the blades clean and preventing unwanted waste buildup that could lead to jams or clogs. 

The continuous flow of water also helps to cool the motor, reducing the chances of overheating during prolonged use. Additionally, a handy trick to dislodge any stubborn food particles stuck in the garbage disposal is to use ice cubes. When ground, ice chips can reach crevices that water might not, thus effectively scraping off residual waste and dislodging food, ensuring a cleaner, smoother-running disposal.

Call Your Trusted Plumber for Repairs

garbage disposalHomeowners do what they can to prevent garbage disposal breakdowns and clogs, but things don’t always go according to plan, and garbage disposal repair may be needed. Even well-kept garbage disposals can break down, and when they do, the best thing to do is call a plumber. Some problems can be solved by pressing the garbage disposal reset button, but for more complex fixes, a plumber will have the disposal up and running again in no time.

Recognizing signs of garbage disposal problems can prevent further damage, so if the disposal is making unusual noises, has persistent odors even after cleaning, is leaking under the sink, is unable to grind food or needs frequent resets, or if the disposal refuses to turn on, it’s time to call for professional repair.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company that has been serving Annapolis, MD, and the surrounding areas since 1947. They provide flat rates, live assistance, and a preventative maintenance agreement. Call them today for garbage disposal installation and repair in Annapolis, MD.

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Common Signs It’s Time for Water Heater Replacement

How to Tell When a Water Heater Needs to Be Replaced

Water heaters are such a staple of everyday life that it’s easy to take them for granted – until they stop working, that is. When the water heater goes on the fritz, homeowners are quickly reminded of how frequently they use their water heater and how essential it is for good hygiene, sanitation, comfort, and cleanliness.

So if the water heater goes out unexpectedly, waiting for it to be replaced can feel like an eternity – especially in the middle of a frigid Maryland winter. So, to avoid getting stuck without hot water, homeowners can learn how to spot the warning signs of a water heater on its last leg. Here are some easy ways for homeowners to know when it’s time for water heater replacement.

Corroded Water Heater

water heater corrosionThe first way to tell that the water heater needs replacing is if the water heater is rusted and corroded. Common signs of corrosion in the water heater are hot water that is rust-colored, murky, or cloudy, or it has a metallic smell. These issues typically indicate that the water heater tank is corroded. Conventional storage water heaters have devices called anode rods inside the tank that attract corrosive substances to prevent them from corroding the tank. However, the anode rod must be replaced periodically to provide continuous protection against corrosion.

Similarly, if sediment and minerals are allowed to build up inside the tank, it can cause temperature issues and damage the tank’s glass inner liner, exposing the tank to corrosion. This is why regular water heater maintenance is so vital for the health and longevity of the unit. Unfortunately, water heater corrosion is generally regarded as the kiss of death – a corroded hot water tank is corrupted and will lead to leaks if not replaced.

A Lack of Hot Water

cold shower One sign of a faulty water heater that will come as no surprise to anyone is a loss of hot water. Whether the shower never gets hot, water comes out cold or lukewarm when the hot water tap is open, or the hot water doesn’t last as long as it used to, a lack of hot water is a sure sign there’s something wrong with the water heater, and it may need to be replaced.

There are several possible causes of hot water loss in storage and tankless water heaters. These include dirty gas burners, malfunctioning heating elements, sediment buildup in the tank, a broken heat exchanger, a faulty thermocouple, and faulty wiring –  to name a few. In some cases, homeowners may simply need water heater repair or maintenance to get things back to normal. However, depending on the issue, its severity, and the age of the unit, replacing the water heater may be necessary.

The Water Heater Is Near the End of Its Life or Needs Repairs Often

Lastly, the age of the water heater may be reason enough to replace it – particularly if it acts up or needs to be repaired often. A typical storage water heater’s life expectancy is 10–15 years, while a tankless water heater’s life expectancy is around 20 years. If the unit is nearing those ages, it’s best to replace it before it breaks down and leaves the home without hot water. Newer water heaters are much more energy efficient than older models, so a water heater upgrade can help reduce water heating costs.

Another reason to replace a water heater is if it requires more frequent repairs and service visits to stay in good working order. Not only is it inconvenient to constantly have to deal with water heater issues, but shelling out for repairs over and over again can add up over time. If it gets to the point where homeowners have to call for water heater repair every year for an older unit, they’re better off investing in a new water heater. Homeowners can consult a plumber to see whether a water heater replacement is best. 

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated business serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas. They offer dependable, flat rates, live assistance, and preventative maintenance agreements. Call them today for water heater installation or repair in Annapolis, MD

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Is Your House Haunted, or Is That Spooky Sound a Water Hammer?

Water Hammer Sounds Can Be Scary, Here’s How to Deal With Them

Most homeowners know all the everyday sounds that can be heard in their homes, but occasionally, a loud, unknown sound may surprise them. Thankfully, the loud, banging noises in the walls aren’t the sounds of a haunting this Halloween but could be a plumbing phenomenon called a water hammer. 

Understanding What It Is

A water hammer may sound like banging, which is the result of hydraulic shock that transpires when the shut-off valve on a high-pressure water line suddenly locks in place. The sound is caused by a pressure surge when water in a pipe is forced to stop or change direction quickly. 

Most pipes have pockets of air inside them that help cushion against the sound of a water hammer, so if the water hammer sound occurs in a home, this usually means that the air chambers are clogged or filled up with water. It’s important to clear the air pockets in both cases by draining the line. Otherwise, water hammer sounds will persist.

Potential Risks of a Water Hammer

water hammer Unfortunately, the risks of water hammers aren’t just about the inconvenience of dealing with noisy water pipes or banging sounds behind the walls where the pipes are located. There are very real risks to a water hammer that homeowners should take seriously to save themselves from a lot of trouble down the line.

Aside from noisy pipes, water hammers can result in damage to the piping as well as their joints and connectors. This can lead to problems like leaks, broken and ruptured pipes, damage to the pump and flow system, and extensive water damage to the property. So, if someone suspects a water hammer, they should call a plumber to fix it.

Methods for Professional Water Hammer Repair

water hammer service A plumber can determine the best solution for a water hammer based on the situation, which may include one or a combination of the following repair methods:

  • Draining the plumbing system: Because the transient flow of water in a plumbing system is likely to cause a water hammer when the air chambers are full of water, one possible solution is to drain these chambers and clear out the water.
  • Installing a water hammer arrestor: Water hammer arrestors are built to absorb the jolt associated with a sudden water pressure increase. This is because they have air-filled cylinders that are designed for that purpose. It is a good option for most homes since these devices are easy to install for a professional.
  • Adjusting the water pressure: Sometimes, a simple adjustment to the water pressure in the system by adjusting the pressure-reducing valve can do wonders in eliminating the water hammer. 
  • Tightening and stabilizing loose pipes: Banging pipes can sometimes result from pipes that haven’t been correctly fastened in place, creating more movement that can worsen noise and damage. Stabilizing these loose pipes with pipe straps or securing them with studs and screws can help eliminate these loud sounds.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated plumbing company serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rates, live assistance, and a maintenance plan. Call them today for plumbing services in Annapolis, MD

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How to Identify Water Leaks at Home

Protect Your Home From Water Damage With These Tips for Catching Leaks 

A leak is one of the most common plumbing problems people encounter at home. While most leaks are relatively easy to find and fix for plumbers, hidden leaks could be neglected because homeowners don’t even know they are there. If leaks are not caught early on, they can result in extensive water damage and high water bills. Homeowners should learn the signs that point to a potential water leak so they can call a plumber to nip the problem in the bud early and prevent it from becoming a major problem.

Signs to Watch Out For

When it comes to water leak detection, the signs can be clear, especially knowing what to look for. The following are some of the most common signs that point to a possible water leak:

  • Low water pressure
  • Presence of mold and mildew
  • Water stains 
  • Peeling paint 
  • Drooping ceiling
  • Damaged floors and carpeting
  • Running water sound when no water is used

Unusually High Water Bill

billApart from the signs mentioned above, one particular indicator stands out as an obvious sign of a leak: a water bill that is higher than usual, especially if there has been no significant change in water consumption from one month to the next. A high water bill is an important signifier of a leak because even small leaks that might not display any of the previous signs can waste a lot of money and be noticed through water costs. 

High water bills are likely due to a leak because it indicates that water continues to run even if no fixtures and water-using appliances are being used. The only explanation for water continuing to run in this manner is if it exits from a leak in the system, either within the network of pipes, from a fixture, or through a loose joint or connection.  

Use the Water Meter for Leak Detection

water meterWhile professional leak detection equipment is the best way to confirm a leak, it is still possible for a homeowner to do this without the help of such devices. A home’s water meter can be used to determine whether a leak is present in the plumbing system. Some kinds of water meters have a leak detector in the shape of a small red or blue triangle that spins when no water is being used in the home to indicate a leak. 

If this leak indicator is not present with a home’s water meter, it is still possible to use the meter to determine the presence of a leak. All a homeowner has to do is make sure all the plumbing fixtures and appliances that use water are shut off and then record the water meter reading. Then, they can come back after a few hours to check if the meter reading has changed without any water having been used in that time. Any change in the reading means that water has continued to run even if it’s not being used, with the most likely cause of the water consumption being a leak in the plumbing system, which alerts homeowners that they need to call a plumber. 

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated plumbing business serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas since 1947. They offer flat rates, live assistance, and fast, efficient service. Call them today for leak repair services in Annapolis, MD

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Understanding the Importance of Backflow Testing

FAQs About Backflow

While water is the safest and most convenient it has ever been, most people don’t understand the vast amount of infrastructure and work it takes to keep water clean and readily available. Water is the perfect carrier for many different chemicals and harmful organisms. Under certain conditions, these pollutants and pathogens can find their way into the safe water supply. 

One of the most common conditions that causes contamination of safe water is called backflow. The fluid dynamics in plumbing are such that under the right conditions, water can be siphoned backward through the system. When this occurs, contaminated water mixes with safe water and can endanger everyone on that section of the water grid. Everyone should be familiar with certain devices that prevent backflow and practices like backflow testing to help keep water safe. Here is a quick guide to backflow, answering some commonly asked questions about backflow. 

What Happens During Backflow?

In fluid dynamics, there is a process called siphoning. In its simplest form, it looks like a third-grade science experiment where a tube pulls water from a higher bowl to a lower bowl with no mechanical help. The principle behind a siphon is the fact that there is a pressure differential across the tubing. The same thing can happen in plumbing, but it is called backflow

Backflow generally occurs under circumstances that generate a pressure differential. When a high demand occurs in a large pipe, it can siphon water backward from smaller pipes, like when a water main ruptures. If the proper precautions aren’t in place, the smaller lines will pull whatever fluid they are in contact with backward into the system. This can include anything from sewage and groundwater to chemicals. 

How Is Backflow Prevented in Plumbing? 

backflowSince backflow poses such a threat to clean water supplies, rigorous standards are in place to prevent backflow. The easiest and simplest way to prevent backflow is to leave an air gap between the supply and drain lines. These are common in homes in places like sinks and overflows for water heaters. 

Air gaps are not always appropriate where piping is concerned, so devices called backflow preventers can also be used. In the home, they are common on irrigation systems and sometimes near the service entrance where water lines enter the house. Most commonly, they are in industrial settings protecting huge water lines. 

How Often Should Backflow Devices Be Tested? 

backflowBackflow devices are crucial for keeping the water supply safe, so they must be tested for proper operation by qualified experts. Backflow devices are essentially more reliable check valves that ensure that water only flows in one direction through piping so that, in the event of a pressure differential, no contaminated water will enter the plumbing. 

Backflow prevention devices are required to be tested annually. This allows plumbers to ensure they operate as expected and correct deficiencies. Having them tested routinely is essential not only to protect a home’s water supply but also to prevent the contamination of multiple homes’ water and the spread of waterborne diseases. 

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas for over 70 years. They offer flat rates, live assistance, and a maintenance club. Call them today for backflow testing and certification in Annapolis, MD.

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Does the Garbage Disposal Need Repairs?

Signs That the Garbage Disposal Need Repair or Replacement 

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors reports that garbage disposals should last around 12 years. During that time, parts may need replacing, repairs may be needed, and blades may need to be sharpened. But how can homeowners tell the disposal needs professional attention? In this short guide, homeowners can learn the signs that something is wrong with a garbage disposal that needs a professional’s attention. 

Odd Sounds 

noises

A garbage disposal will make noise as it minces waste. However, it should not make: 

  • Humming sounds: This means that the motor is trying to turn on but can’t. This could be an issue with the power supply, or it could mean something’s caught in the blades. 
  • Rattling or screeching noises: These sounds metal can make likely mean that a part of the garbage disposal has come loose or something is stuck inside, like a utensil that has fallen down the drain. A plumber can tighten any components that have come loose over time or replace them, depending on their age, and find and remove anything that may be stuck inside. 
  • No sound at all: A garbage disposal makes noise as it runs. If it doesn’t turn on and makes no sound, the issue could lie with the power source. 
  • Buzzing: This could indicate multiple problems with the garbage disposal, from a jam in the motor to a burnt-out battery. 

Attempting to fix garbage disposals without professional training can be dangerous. DIY repairs could end up damaging the system further or result in injury if it turns on unexpectedly, so homeowners should call professionals to fix them. 

It Doesn’t Work Well 

Some more common signs that a garbage disposal isn’t working well and warrant a professional’s attention include the following: 

  • Frequent clogs: If the garbage disposal’s blades don’t properly chop up waste, the remnants can get stuck in the plumbing system. In addition to clogs, this can lead to slow draining. 
  • Reset button must be frequently used: If the reset button has to be used often to restart the disposal, there is an issue that needs attention. Garbage disposals can trip and shut off due to problems like overheating and jams. 
  • It takes too long to chop up waste: A garbage disposal should mince waste quickly. If one has to keep the system on for several minutes, this likely means that the blades need replacing or sharpening. 

The Garbage Disposal Smells Bad 

smell

The point of installing a garbage disposal in the kitchen sink drain is to shred and get rid of waste. So, the kitchen sink shouldn’t smell bad. If it does, this likely means that food is clogged and stuck in the pipes or the disposal itself. Homeowners can run ice cubes in the garbage disposal to help dislodge any food waste stuck on it. However, if this doesn’t work, plumbers can help find and remedy the problem. 

There are also ways homeowners can help prevent clogs in the pipes and things from getting stuck in the disposal. Along with ice cubes, running cold water while the disposal is on helps waste go down the drain and not get stuck. In addition, only put a little food waste down the disposal at a time and avoid putting particular food waste down the drain and disposal at all. Grease and oil, coffee grounds, eggshells, vegetable scraps, and water-absorbent foods like pasta and rice shouldn’t be put in a garbage disposal.  

About Heidler, Inc. 

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated plumbing company serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rates, live assistance when you call, and on-time arrival. Call them today for garbage disposal repair and installation in Annapolis, MD

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Three Ways to Prevent Plumbing Problems

Flush Those Plumbing Worries Good-Bye! 

All it takes is one plumbing problem to turn the household upside down. However, many plumbing problems are preventable. From leaking pipes to clogs and more, plumbing problems can cost a great deal of money if not taken care of properly. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to prevent plumbing disasters this summer. This blog post will discuss three simple tips that can help keep the plumbing safe and problem free all season long.

Being Mindful of Plumbing Leaks 

leakIf a homeowner suspects that they have a leak, they should address the problem immediately. Leaks do not get better on their own. If anything, they get worse, wasting water and causing further damage. But how does one detect a leak before it becomes a plumbing disaster? Homeowners can check their water meters to check for leaks and look out for warning signs. Here are some common signs of a leak homeowners should know: 

  • If a homeowner notices mold growth, water stains, or dampness, this could point to a hidden leak. 
  • If a homeowner hears running water and there isn’t a water-using appliance or fixture turned on, this could also point to a leak. 
  • If the water bill is much higher than average without explanation, this points to a leak. 
  • If there is low water pressure from the plumbing fixtures, it can indicate a leak.

Not Pouring Grease, Fats, or Oils Down the Drain 

drainSummer is a time for outdoor activities and cooking delicious meals with friends and family. While it’s easy to get distracted by the fun times, it’s important to remember not to pour any grease, fats, or cooking oil down drains when cleaning up after grilling or cooking.

Grease, fats, and cooking oil can quickly build up in drain pipes, forming tough clogs requiring professional services to clear out. When they cool, these substances harden and can catch any other debris going down the drains to form blockages. To prevent blockages due to fats, grease, or oil build-up, pour leftover oils into an old container and discard them properly in the trash once it cools. Take the proper precautions this summer to protect your plumbing from clogs and the issues they can cause for the home.

Prioritize Maintenance and Professional Drain Cleaning  

It’s essential to consult a trained plumber routinely because plumbing systems are sophisticated networks that need periodic maintenance. By scheduling regular maintenance for the plumbing system, homeowners can help prevent issues such as clogged drains, slow-running toilets, or water leaks. 

Regularly cleaning out drains ensures that debris doesn’t build up over time and cause blockages. This will also help prevent foul odors in the home from backed-up sewer lines and prevent burst pipes caused by clogs. Additionally, having a professional inspect the entire plumbing system can detect potential problems before they become serious issues requiring costly repairs or replacements. 

About Heidler, Inc. 

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated plumbing business serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rate prices, live assistance, and a preventive maintenance agreement. Call them today for plumbing maintenance and drain cleaning services in Annapolis, MD.