Author Archives: Melissa Guy

Malfunctioning Disposal

This can be a messy headache for homeowners. Here are several tips to keep your unit in good working order.

First, always run cold water when grinding to move the waste all the way down the drain lines. Fats and grease congeal and harden in cold water and can be flushed through the system. Hot water should not be used because it can dissolve fats and grease, which may then accumulate in the drain line.

Almost all biodegradable food waste can be fed into disposals. However, they should not be used to grind clam or oyster shells, cornhusks or other material with high fiber content. Under no circumstances should you put glass, plastic or metal non-food materials though a disposal. This includes bottle caps, tin covers or aluminum foils which are some of the items service technicians commonly find in clogged or broken disposals.

Maintenance is easy. Grinding small bones and eggshells actually helps clean the disposal by scraping away stubborn deposits. Grinding a little ice or citrus peel is another way to clean deposits and get rid of odors. For the most part, though, disposals are self-cleaning.

Are Your Washing Machine Hoses Ready to Burst?

The last thing we want to see when we return from work or after a long trip, is water flowing out of your ceiling. Or worse, several inches of water in our basement. Sadly, this is what plumbers see all too often.

We sadly say because these disasters are almost always preventable. A general rule for washing machine hoses is to replace them every five years.

What Bad Washing Machine Hoses Look Like
Below we have a few examples of hoses that are ready to burst. If you ever see a hose that looks like this, turn the water off immediately and get those hoses replaced.

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Faucets

Replacing a cartridge, washer or other internal component can repair leaking faucets. Tarnishes and nicks are harder to fix.

Good faucets will give at least 5 if not 10 or more years of trouble-free operation. Plumbers can keep them operating almost indefinitely. Most people, however, would rather pay a few more bucks for a replacement that offers better styling and convenience.

Dripping Faucets

This is an annoyance that most homeowners have to deal with from time to time as the washers in the faucets wear out with use. You can extend the life of your faucet washers by not turning them off with too much force.

You may also consider replacing your older faucets with those that feature washer less valve cartridges instead of rubber washers. Since the valve mechanism is contained in one cartridge, these faucets are easier to repair and replace. In addition, cartridges are generally more durable and do not leak because they do not deteriorate with friction or age as washers do.

Faucet Installation

Many homeowners replace faucets not only when they break down, but for decorative reasons as well. This is the ninth most common reason for a service call.

A few people buy a faucet from a home center and then call a plumbing firm to do the installation. Be forewarned that the plumbing firm will warrant only its workmanship, not the faucet itself.