|
Frequently Asked Questions
Question:
Recently my water bills appear to be rather high. None
of the faucets appear to leak. What else could
contribute to a high water bill?
Answer: You may want to check
to see if a toilet is leaking. First, check the water
level to ensure that water is not overflowing the tank
by way of the overflow pipe. This is the pipe in the
middle of the tank. It has a small tubing connected to
it. If water is running into the overflow, adjust the
fill valve to stop the flow approximately 1 inch below
the top of the overflow tube or to the water level mark
stamped on the side of the tank. Second, put a few drops
of food coloring into the tank to test the flush valve
mechanism. If the water in the bowl changes color within
15 minutes, this is an indication that water is leaking
into the toilet bowl and that the ball or flapper needs
to be replaced.
Question: How often should I have my septic system
inspected?
Answer: Septic systems should
be inspected and pumped a minimum of once every three to
four years. You may not be experiencing any problem now,
but a full septic tank may allow unwanted solids to flow
into the drain field, which is the part of the system
that consists of a distribution box, with a series of
connected pipes. Each pipe allows water to flow into a
bed of stone that drains into the ground. If paper and
other solids flow into the drain field it becomes
blocked and ineffective. A blocked drain field is costly
to repair or replace.
Question: The temperature of my hot water seems to
be higher than what I think I need. How can I conserve
energy, yet also be sure that there is an adequate
amount of hot water?
Answer: Most people are
comfortable with their hot water set at 120 degrees
Fahrenheit, which is also the new standard that
manufacturers use when pre-setting it at the factory. If
you have an older model, set the thermostat at medium.
On a gas model, there is a dial on the front of the gas
valve. On electric models, the thermostats (there may be
two) are concealed behind the two panels on the side of
the tank. NOTE: Turn off the electricity before removing
the panels. There are exposed wires behind the panels
containing HIGH VOLTAGE.
Question: My water heater is making a
rumbling noise. What does this mean?
Answer: The rumbling noise is due to sediment build-up
inside the water heater. Start by draining the water
heater—step-by-step directions should be in the
instructions that came with the water heater. If this
doesn't help, the water heater will probably need to be
replaced soon.
Question:
The
flexes (the flexible metal pipes) on my water heater are
covered with green-and-white build-up, and they look
like they're corroding. What does this mean?
Answer: There is a slow leak
at the flexes, and constantly drying water causes the
build-up. These flexes need to be replaced.
Question:
Why
does my toilet sound as though it's still running water
a few minutes after being flushed?
Answer:
When a toilet has been flushed but
is still running water, the seal is probably too worn.
The fill valve is trying to refill the tank to the
proper levels. Call us for a free estimate.
Question:
My
sink is clogged. Do you recommend using the liquid clog
removers you can purchase at any store?
Answer:
Yes, you can use any liquid clog
remover, although it sometimes does not solve the
problem completely, and the drain will need to be snaked
by a plumber.
Question:
My
faucets and showerheads have low water pressure.
What can I do for more pressure?
Answer:
Start by removing the faucet
or showerhead aerators so you can clean out or flush
the pipes. If this doesn't help, your house probably
needs to be re-piped.
Question: The shut-off valves under the sink or
toilet won't turn. How can I fix this?
Answer: The shut-off valve
needs to be replaced with 1/4 turn ball stops.
Question:
I've noticed that a water ring is appearing in my
toilet. I've tried toilet cleaner and scrubbing it
out, but nothing seems to work. What should I do?
Answer:
Try
going to your local hardware store and buying a
pumice stone to scrub out the ring. Don't worry—it
won't damage your toilet bowl.
|
