Category: Plumbing

Notes on Toilet Replacement

You groggily shamble into the bathroom, use the toilet and flush it. After washing your hands, you start ambling back to bed, but in the distance, you can hear it. “Wait, was that…” you think. The “drip…drip…drip” grows louder and heavier and more frequent. “Please, no,” you mumble under your breath. With a deep breath and a quick prayer, you check the tank. Of course, in the most inopportune time possible, the toilet tank has decided to spring a leak. First, the bad news: you’ve got to replace the toilet. Bummer. Now for the good news: The process to remove your toilet and install a new one isn’t as mind-numbing as it might seem; it’s pretty straightforward, actually.

Always Plumbing & Heating has a few notes to guide you through the process of replacing your toilet, but if you’d rather leave it up to the professionals, give us a call and let the best plumbers in Northern Alberta handle it from start to finish.

What Tools You’ll Need

  • An adjustable wrench
  • A screwdriver
  • Wax ring
  • Plumber’s putty
  • Soft, absorbent materials to support the removed toilet
  • Maybe: a closet flange (depending on if yours needs replacing)

Prep

  • You’ll need to take care of a few things before getting into the nitty-gritty of replacing the toilet. The water supply will need to be turned off, after which you’ll drain the excess water currently in the toilet. Make sure you’ve got a space ready to place the old toilet, which will have the not-so-pleasant remnants of sewer water underneath once you lift it off the ground – unnecessarily staining your floor is something we want to avoid!

Goodbye, bolts

  • Removing these little guys shouldn’t be an issue, but depending on how long your toilet has been around, the bolts securing it to the ground may have become welded to the nuts securing them in place. If that’s the case, you’re going to need to bring out the hacksaw and cut them off.

Removal of the toilet

  • Next is getting the toilet out of there. It’ll be easier to do so with the tank disconnected from the bowl, so get your wrench onto the water supply tube that links up with the fill valve and get the bolts undone there, then separate the tank. With just the bowl remaining, you should have an easier time lifting the toilet from the closet flange bolts underneath.

New flange?

  • The flange is what lies underneath and anchors your toilet to the ground. For the purposes here, let’s assume it doesn’t need replacing, and the current one is still functioning and devoid of leaks.

Placing the new toilet

  • Before you fit the new unit onto the flange for good, hold the bowl over the flange to make sure the bolts line up. If they do, place the bowl on the bolts and check to see if the toilet is level – if it’s not, you’ll need to even it out with shims. Once you double-check how everything fits, you can get the wax ring ready and adhere it to the horn of the toilet; the wax will need to be above room temperature so it can form, otherwise it’ll be disfigured and won’t seal correctly. Once the ring is set in place and squished down to form (which you can do by sitting on the toilet, facing backwards), you can finish it off with a caulk seal around the base to lock in everything with an extra layer of protection.

Re-connection

  • Now that the toilet is secure, you’ve got the all-clear to hook the bowl back up to the tank and re-attach the water supply.

Cash-saving Tip: Low-flush Toilets

And voila! You’re ready to put your brand-new toilet to use. Ideally, this one won’t decide to start leaking anytime soon and you’ll have a trusty unit to rely on for years to come. Of course, if you’d prefer to leave it up to the professionals, Northern Alberta’s experts at Always Plumbing & Heating can handle all of your toilet replacement needs. Call 780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray) to schedule an appointment today!

Should something unexpectedly happen to your toilet in the middle of the night, for instance, we offer around-the-clock service 365 days a year.

How to Handle a Burst Pipe (in Winter) 

Northern Alberta is under an Extreme Cold Warning with wind chill values of -40 to -45 expected to persist into Saturday. This is frozen and burst pipe weather.

We’ve written about how to prevent and thaw frozen pipes, but what happens if it’s too late for that?

Hopefully you can thaw the frozen area or contact a licensed plumber before the pipe bursts and causes expensive property damage. If, however, you do notice a broken or burst pipe, here’s how to handle it.

Burst Pipe Signs

Here are some signs you have a leaking or burst pipe in your home:

  • Dripping sounds
  • Puddles of water
  • Water spots and damage to ceilings and walls
  • Lack of water pressure
  • Main water shut-off shows a leak

How to Handle a Burst Pipe

In the event of a burst pipe, be prepared to act fast.

In the event of a leaking, broken, or burst pipe, turn off the main water supply to prevent any further damage. While you can make a temporary repair while you wait for a plumber’s availability, the pipe will have to be replaced as soon as possible.

  1. Turn Off Main Water Shut-Off

To be safe, if you notice a leaking, broken, or burst pipe, turn off the main water shut-off valve. In the event of an emergency, everyone in the household should know where the main water shut-off is located and how to turn it off.

Consult your property inspection report or professional plumber if you don’t know the location of the shut-off valve. Don’t wait until your pipes burst to start looking!

Turn the valve clockwise to turn it off. Keep in mind that you may have to turn the gate valve several turns to shut it off.

  1. Turn Off Electricity If Necessary

If water has already entered your home and is in danger of contacting any electrical equipment, turn off power to that area of the home. Make sure you turn off the water first, then shut off power at the circuit breaker with dry hands and feet.

  1. Contact a Plumber

As soon as you turn off the water supply to prevent any further damage, contact a professional plumber right away. Not all plumbing companies are 24/7, but if you live in the Edmonton or Fort McMurray area, Always Plumbing & Heating is always available.

The sooner you schedule professional plumbing service, the less expensive your costs will be. Your plumber will also help guide you to the right decision concerning the associated water damage. You may need to contact a water damage specialist for severe cases.

  1. Remove as Much Water as You Can

In order to prevent moisture-related problems, such as mold and mildew, clean up as much of the water as you can. Use wet/dry shop vacuums, rags, mops, buckets, whatever you can. Run a dehumidifier if you have one.

Be on the lookout for early signs of frozen pipes, such as reduced water flow and freezing temperatures. Most plumbing ruptures can be prevented.

If you think a pipe may have burst in your Edmonton home, turn off the water supply and contact Always Plumbing and Heating  at780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray).

We provide emergency service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Winter Plumbing Tips

How to Thaw Frozen Pipes: 6 Steps to Take When Your Pipes Freeze

November has arrived and with it, Old Man Winter. As temperatures continue to drop over the next couple of months homes in the Edmonton area will be at a greater risk of frozen pipes. Uninsulated pipes can freeze when temperatures reach just -6 degrees Celsius. Without the necessary precautions taken, pipes in the Edmonton area are susceptible to freezing throughout the Winter and into early Spring. Pay attention to pipes that are uninsulated or on exterior walls. They are more exposed to the elements giving them a higher risk of freezing.

How To Keep Your Pipes From Freezing

  • Let warm water drip from the faucet furthest from the main water line overnight. This will ensure water runs throughout the pipes in the house.
  • Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature at night that it is during the day.
  • When traveling keep your heat on and your thermostat set between 13-16 degrees Celsius. Have someone check your pipes regularly for water flow.

Even if you take every precaution, pipes can still freeze in severely cold temperatures like we experience in the depths of winter. Waking up to frozen pipes is a dreadful thing. It can be difficult to immediately know what, if any, damage has already been done until the pipes are thawed.

The good news is, frozen pipes don’t have to mean burst pipes. If you suspect they may be frozen, check them first thing in the morning. If they are, start acting immediately. The longer the pipes stay frozen and the ice is allowed to expand, the more stress and potential damage to your pipes.

4 Signs That Your Pipes Are Frozen

  1. One or more exposed pipes are wet or have a frost-coated waterline.
  2. A bulge in the pipe where water has frozen into ice.
  3. Water either trickles or won’t flow at all from one or more faucets.
  4. Your toilets aren’t refilling following a flush.

If you notice one or more of these signs after a night of below freezing temperatures, your pipes have frozen. Do not wait to thaw your pipes. The longer they stay frozen, the more likely one is to burst. Take these steps to safely thaw your frozen pipes and minimize pipe or water damage.

How To Thaw Frozen Pipes

Step 1: As soon as you notice your pipes are frozen, turn off the water supply to that section of the    house, or the whole house if multiple pipes are affected.

Step 2: Turn on the faucet and leave it open. Running water through the pipe will help it thaw.

Step 3: Locate the frozen area. If you can’t locate the frozen area or it’s not accessible, call a professional as soon as possible.

Step 4: Once you’ve identified the frozen area, apply heat to sections of the pipe. Start at a section of the pipe closest to the faucet. As one section thaws, work your way towards the coldest section.

An electric heating pad, electric blow dryer, space heater, hot wet towels or electrical heating tape can be used to apply heat. Check for standing or leaking water before using anything electric and do not leave it unattended.

Step 5: Continue applying heat until water pressure is fully restored.

Step 6: Once the pipe is thawed, check all of them. If one freezes then others may have too.

Step 7: Check for a burst pipe.

Signs of a Burst Pipe or Water Leak

  • Dripping sound within the walls.
  • Puddles on the ground or under cabinets.
  • Water damage on the ceiling walls.
  • A decrease in water pressure.
  • Fluctuations on the water meter when your main water line is shut off.

Most frozen pipes can be thawed, damage free, if caught in time. If you think a frozen pipe may have burst in your Edmonton home, call Always Plumbing and Heating today at780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray). We provide emergency service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Holiday Plumbing Tips

Now that Edmonton homes have celebrated Thanksgiving, the holiday season is once again in full force. With extended breaks and get-togethers on the horizon, it’s important to start taking precautions for the inevitable crowds. If you are one of those homes that has an open-door policy during the holidays, you will want to make sure to follow our holiday plumbing tips. Keep your pipes free from clogs and other common problems that plumbers deal with every season. The experts at Always Plumbing & Heating have put together a list of essential tips to help ensure your plumbing runs smoothly throughout the extended holidays.

GREASE
One of the most common reasons for a clogged sink is grease. Turkey, roast, bacon and many other favorite foods can produce a lot of grease during preparation. Before you start washing the dirty cookware, make sure that you dispose of the grease first. Once the grease cools it will solidify in the pipes and cause blockage. Consider keeping the extra grease in a jar to reuse for cooking and adding flavor to dishes. If you need to throw it away, let the grease harden and then scoop it into a plastic bag before placing in the trash.

GARBAGE DISPOSAL RULES
A common mistake many households make during the holidays is the incorrect usage of their garbage disposal. The word “garbage” is most certainly a misnomer in this case because this kitchen tool is not a trash can. A disposal is meant to help grind up certain kinds of small organic detritus. This means that it should not be used for anything but biodegradable food. Homeowners have thrown paper, glass, plastic, cotton and metal objects into the disposal – hurting both the disposal and clogging the pipes. Avoid any refuse or stringy, fibrous foods and always turn on the disposal along with running water before throwing organic material inside it. During the holidays, consider placing an extra trash receptacle near your kitchen sink as a convenient reminder where to put the garbage and large food detritus.

MESH SCREENS
Mesh screens (or sink drain traps) are ideal for the holiday season. Help keep food and organic waste from clogging up the plumbing by installing these simple tools onto your drain. Mesh screens are easy to acquire, easy to install and inexpensive enough to buy a couple for an additional backup. They can also be removed when you no longer need the extra help keeping large pieces of food out of the drain. Use them for all your large dinner parties this season and keep your plumbing from clogging. If you’ve got a house full of guests, you might also want to protect the bathroom and bathtub drains with mesh screens to alleviate the extra hair, soap and organic debris getting into the plumbing.

COMMODE RULES
The commode (or, more commonly, the toilet) is another problematic plumbing issue for homes during the holidays. Similar to the garbage disposal, there are only certain items that it can handle. A toilet is made for the disposal of human waste – and toilet paper. Cotton swabs, baby wipes, floss, feminine napkins and finger nails are items that are frequently found in clogged toilet plumbing. This holiday season, make sure that there is a convenient trash in very bathroom. You might also remind any small children in the home the rules about proper toilet etiquette.

HOT WATER/ WATER PRESSURE
When you have guests over during a typically frigid Edmonton winter, the hot water becomes a hot commodity. To ensure that there is enough hot water for showers in the morning, try to space out the usage. This will allow the hot water tank to reheat properly so that everyone can enjoy a hot shower or bath. You will also want to run the dishwasher and washing machine in the evening to help conserve the hot water and water pressure during peak times.

The holidays are the worst time for a household to experience plumbing problems. They are also some of the busiest times for the experts at Always Plumbing & Heating. If you find yourself dealing with plumbing issues that are beyond the scope of a plunger, don’t hesitate to call! Our agents are available 24/7 and will immediately send a qualified plumber to help with a solution. Call us at 780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray) to keep the holidays flowing.

Halloween Safety Tips (for Edmonton Homes)

Another Edmonton October means that soon houses will be decorated with all sorts of spooky, festive decorations. In addition to traditional pumpkins and paper cutouts; elaborate blow up figures, animatronic gizmos, video projections and light shows have become modern staples. With all this new technology, it’s more important than ever to take safety precautions for your home and your household. Always Plumbing & Heating enjoys the holidays and wants to ensure that everyone keeps safe throughout the next few months of festivities. Before your household gets ready to celebrate, read through our list of essential Halloween safety tips to ensure less tricks and more treats.

Pumpkin Safety

Always knows a little bit about proper pumpkin etiquette, especially when it concerns your plumbing. Every year we like to remind our Edmonton neighbors about the dangers of improper waste disposal – especially pumpkin guts. In October our plumbers keep busy dealing with pumpkin and holiday-related clogs. Make sure that when you are making those jack-o-lanterns that you place the seeds and organic material in your compost pile – or the garbage. Never put pumpkin debris in your disposal, as the fibrous material can harm both the disposal and your pipes. When carving your pumpkin, try using a pumpkin carving kit with safety blades that are serrated but not sharp. These tools make carving much easier and are less likely to cut or jab little hands. Also, skip the wax candles and place flameless candles inside your jack-o-lantern. Flames can burn the inside of the pumpkin – and are also a fire hazard. The flameless designs won’t heat the interior (which can shorten the life) and will last much longer than tea lights.

Plumbing Precautions

Make sure that all the little ghosts and goblins keep aware of these additional plumbing precautions. Candy, candy wrappers, used make-up and cotton balls should not be thrown into the disposal, toilet or sink. The clogged toilet is another recurring problem our plumbers face every year. All trash should be disposed of in a trash can – especially cotton balls or Kleenex (sometimes used for applying or wiping off make-up). If you are hosting a Halloween party this year, make trash cans easily accessible for your guests. If there’s room, keep one out in the kitchen, one out in the dining room and all the bathrooms. This will help remind guests to throw away all their trash in the proper receptacle – not the plumbing!

Electrical Safety

Decorations have become much more elaborate in the past decade. Giant inflatables and mechanical figures that move have become must-have items for Canadian homes. If your yard has several electrical components this year, be mindful of the safety hazards that they present. Keep extension cords away from sidewalks and places where there will be foot traffic. Moving decorations should be placed several feet away from the sidewalk – and safely away from trees, bushes and other objects that might come into contact with it. If you are installing outdoor lights, make sure that they are marked on the box specifically for outdoor use. Outdoor lights are weather proof and more durable than designs created for interior use.

Halloween Safety Tips from the Canadian Red Cross

Take the time to celebrate the safe way – and keep your little (and big) monsters away from harm during the creepiest month of the year. If you find that you need our services, even after taking precautions, we can assist with any plumbing problem. When goblins clog your sink or toilet, call the plumbing experts at 780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray).

Related Blogs:

Green Plumbing Tips for Edmonton Homes

Kitchen Plumbing Maintenance

To request a service appointment, give us a call at 780-489-8118 or contact us online.

Green Plumbing Tips for Edmonton Homes

While Edmonton homeowners prepare for the long winter with maintenance procedures that will ensure both safety and comfort, there is another concern that many will want to add to the list: green plumbing. Making environmentally sound decisions regarding your plumbing will help keep your system running smoothly and cut down on utility bills. Our harsh winters can be hard on our pipes. The combination of freezing temperatures and reliance on hot water can create a variety of problems. Additionally, cleaning and maintaining your system (including sinks and fixtures) can be potentially harmful to your household and the environment. Going with a greener plumbing agenda this fall makes sense for a variety of reasons – and Always Plumbing & Heating wants to make the effort easy. We’ve compiled a list of tips from our plumbing professionals to help keep your home more efficient and greener throughout another Edmonton winter.

Insulate Plumbing

Exposed water pipes should be insulated throughout the house. This will not only keep them from freezing during the winter, but it will also help lower heating costs. Simple foam insulation is estimated to cut heat loss by up to 80 percent while also keeping cold water pipes from seating (and potentially rusting and cracking). Pre-cut polyethylene or neoprene foam tubes are easy to fit around pipes and can help raise water about 39.2 F degrees, which will allow for a lower, more energy-efficient water heater setting.

Green Drain Cleaning

With the weather getting colder and extended fall and winter holidays, more people will be spending time indoors. More traffic inside means that there will be more drain clogs in sinks, tubs and showers. Instead of using toxic and abrasive cleaners, try creating your own cleaner with common household ingredients. A simple combination of half a cup of baking powder and one cup of vinegar is an effective (and non-toxic) way to get rid of clogs.

Water Heater Maintenance

One of the best decisions you can make during fall maintenance is to have your water heater maintained by a professional. Edmonton households count on their hot water during the extreme winter. Having a tune-up performed by a professional will help ensure it runs efficiently throughout the year. Whether you have a tank or tankless design, schedule to have it maintained for an easy transition into the coldest season.

Check for Faucet Leaks

Many homeowners tend to live with slow leaks in their faucets and plumbing fixtures until the problem becomes unmanageable. Do you have a fixture with a slow leak? Leaks are not expressly slow drips from a faucet, they can come from handles and other components that are worn, loose or cracked. Go through your home and assess all your faucets and plumbing fixtures. It you have slow leaks, you are wasting water and losing money. Make sure that they are fixed before they become larger repair issues.

Shower Habits

During the winter, try to space out showers by at least 10 minutes to give your water heater time to reheat its contents without overworking it. Also, by installing a low flow shower head and cutting the shower time to five minutes (or less) you can significantly cut water usage and CO2 emissions. Taking a shorter shower can help people who tend to suffer from itchy, dry skin in the winter.

Find Energy Rebates in Your Province

Fall is the best time to review your plumbing system – and introduce more eco-friendly maintenance procedures. Changing the way you care for and use your plumbing will help keep it running efficiently for years to come. If you need assistance in making your plumbing a more “green” and energy-efficient system, contact us today. We can help with pipe insulation, water heater maintenance and even new fixture installation (as well as leak repair). Call 780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Ft. McMurray) to schedule an appointment.

Related Blogs:

Reasons to Schedule Heater Maintenance

Fall DIY Maintenance

For more information on plumbing solutions or to request a service appointment, give us a call at 780-489-8118 or contact us online.

Fall Sump Pump Maintenance

A sump pump is the best defense against flooding in your Edmonton home. Activated by a float switch, it removes water that would otherwise infiltrate a basement by redirecting it to your sewer system or nearest storm drain. If you have a sump pump installed in your home, it is recommended that you perform DIY maintenance every quarter to ensure it runs efficiently. Because of its location (usually a basement) and automatic start-up, it is easy to forget about until inclement weather arises.

When the water does rise and something goes awry with its operation – the repercussions can be devastating. Water damage can compromise a home’s foundation – causing rot and mold to infiltrate and destroy the framework. Similar to your HVAC and plumbing systems, spending a little time on proper sump pump maintenance can extend its life and efficiency.

Ensure your basement and home keeps dry this fall with a few simple procedures:

  • There are two different types of sump pumps: a submersible unit and pedestal pump. The submersible can be fully submerged in water while the pedestal version sits above the tank and can’t be submerged. The submersible design is the more durable of the two and meant for homeowners who have a consistent problem with flooding. A pedestal unit is best for homes that might need it for emergencies only. Regardless of the design, before you begin maintenance, make sure that you disconnect the power supply.

Differences Between Sump Pump Designs

  • Make sure that the power source to your sump pump is connected to a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to ensure safety. A GFCI outlet will cut off the power if it comes into contact with water.
  • Check the cord for any wear and tear. If the cord is frayed or weak in any area, it should be fixed or replaced. A defective cord is an electrical hazard.
  • Remove the screen to the pump and clean it thoroughly. If your unit has an inlet opening (opposed to a screen) make sure that it is clean.
  • In order for the pump to work correctly, it must be properly set in position. Assess the pump to make sure that it’s upright and level. Regular use can cause it to tilt, which can cause the float shift out of place.
  • Remove the pump from the basin look over the grate at the bottom. This area can get clogged with debris, which can affect the efficiency and ultimately cause the unit to malfunction. Clean out the grate thoroughly and replace the pump.
  • Return the sump pump to power and then fill the basin (or pit) with water. If the sump pump is working properly it will begin working immediately.
  • Asses the drainage system that guides the water from the sump pump. Some units pump the water directly into the sewer system, while some guide the water to a pipe that releases water into your yard. If you have an outdoor pipe, make sure that it points away from your home and is far enough away that it will keep the water away from your water table.
  • Replace the backup battery on your sump pump every two years.

Keep your sump pump working efficiently throughout another unpredictable Edmonton fall with these simple maintenance procedures. Remember to revisit your sump pump every three months or so (between seasons) to make sure that it is working properly. The licensed plumbers at Always Plumbing & Heating are your sump pump experts and can assist with all your repair and installation needs. Call us at 780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray) to schedule an appointment today!

Related Blogs:

Fall DIY Maintenance

Kitchen Plumbing Maintenance

For more information on sump pumps or to request a service appointment, give us a call at 780-489-8118 or contact us online.

Fall DIY Maintenance for Edmonton Homes

With the new Edmonton school year just a few weeks away, it’s time for area households to begin thinking about fall DIY maintenance. While it will be another couple of months before the temperatures dictate turning on the heat, it’s always a good practice to get the home ready ahead of the seasonal shift. Ensuring that your home is protected against the frigid winter weather will help avoid structural damage and keep utilities in check. The professionals at Always Plumbing & Heating are experts on fall maintenance and have advised hundreds of Edmonton homeowners on simple, essential procedures they can perform on their own. Follow the checklist below and enjoy a safe and worry-free winter!

Exterior Maintenance:

Clean Gutters
Prepare for the fall rain and make sure that your gutters are free from leaves and debris. Clogged gutters can divert the rain onto the surrounding foundation and cause severe damage. Wear gloves and remove the debris by hand, placing all of it in a trash bag. After you have thoroughly cleaned the gutters, take a hose and run water through it to ensure there is no hidden blockage.

Check Roof for Cracks
Over the summer, weather, trees and rodents can wreak havoc on your roof. A heavy rainstorm or hail can tear shingles – and break tree limbs that can inflict additional damage. Wood shingles can split, ceramic shingles can chip and asphalt, the most common shingle material, can curl and blister. Rodents will sometimes attempt to burrow into homes through the roof, destroying large areas in the process. Climb up on the roof and assess the shingles for any damage that may have occurred over the summer. Repair any damaged shingles/areas that you find; most simple shingle repairs will only require roofing cement and aluminum flashing. If you are experiencing pervasive leaks, a licensed roofer should be contacted.

Repair Cracks in the Exterior
Asses the exterior of your home and check for any cracks that may have manifested over the summer. Repairing cracks, no matter how small, will help to better insulate your home in the winter and keep bugs from infiltrating your home. Be mindful of loose or disintegrating brick, rotted wood, damaged siding and other common problems. Mortar or cement is best for repairing damaged brick areas. Rotted wood will require complete replacement. Caulk is a great fix for small cracks around window frames, exhaust grilles and air intake. It can also help with siding cracks and areas where the siding may have receded from the roof or foundation.

Clean Out A/C Condenser
When you have officially stopped using your air conditioning system, clean out your condenser unit. Leaves, twigs, grass and other debris can build up in both the interior and exterior over the summer. Trim back bushes or trees that are too close to the unit (there should at least three feet of space around the condenser at all times). Before you cover it for the winter, make sure that it is free from the clutter that can compromise both the efficiency and longevity. Remember to switch off the power (or shut down the circuit) before cleaning the inside of the unit.

Interior Maintenance:

Assess Attic Insulation
A good way to keep heating costs in check over the winter is to make sure that there is ample insulation in the attic. In order to maximize the heat, there should be at least 12 inches (30.48 cm). An easy way to determine how much insulation exists is by comparing the level to the surrounding joists. If the insulation is below or level with the joists, then more insulation in needed.

Read This Before You Insulate Your Attic

Replace the Furnace Filter
To ensure that your furnace runs efficiently through our long winter, make sure that the filter is free from dust and debris. A furnace with a dirty filter will have to work harder; using more gas and electricity and ultimately be less efficient. A furnace filter should be changed out every three months, though one that is in constant use should be checked every month. Filters also help filter out airborne allergens that can affect the household, so ensuring they are clean will keep both your home and family healthy.

Replace Weather Stripping
Another good way to ensure that the heat doesn’t escape your home is to replace old or worn weather stripping around doors and windows. Replacing the weather stripping can potentially be an extended home improvement project, depending on how many areas are involved. Windows and doors have the potential to lose hundreds of dollars of heat (or cold) a year, so it is important to have stripping that will protect the seams of these areas.

How to Replace Weather Stripping

Insulate Exposed Plumbing
If you have experienced at least one harsh winter in your Edmonton home, chances are you have already insulated your exposed indoor plumbing. This is extremely important in the dead of winter when the outside temperatures go below freezing. A frozen pipe can crack or burst; not just damaging the plumbing system, but the home itself.

Benefits of Pipe Insulation

Early fall DIY maintenance is key in keeping your home safe from all the pitfalls of a traditional Edmonton winter. Take a weekend to go through this checklist and make the repairs and improvements necessary for maximum security and energy-efficiency. Remember that the experts at Always Plumbing & Heating can help if you need professional heating maintenance or any plumbing or HVAC related needs throughout the fall. Call us at 780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray) to schedule an appointment today!

Related Blogs:

Kitchen Plumbing Maintenance

Sump Pump Maintenance Tips

Plumbing Fixes Before Selling

Selling Your Home? Make Sure Your Plumbing is up to Snuff Before Listing!

Selling a home gives you the opportunity to make a profit, but you also need to consider the things that could hinder your sale. A problem with the plumbing turns potential buyers away and may cause complications for the selling process. By taking the time to fix potential concerns before listing your property, you gain an advantage by passing the inspection and keeping the interest of a buyer. While the exact steps you take depend on the problems, having a clear idea of when to fix an issue helps you take action before a buyer asks for an inspection.

Leaks in the Pipes

A key problem to fix before listing a property is a leak. Do not allow a leak to persist, especially when it is a small problem that can worsen over time. Some leaks may just need you to tighten a pipe, but more serious leaks should require you to bring in a professional to put an end to the problem.

The key reason to fix a leak before listing is the potential for water damage. If you allow the leak to persist, then a buyer may see damaged floors or damaged wood under the sink. Fixing the leak and repairing any damage ensures that your home makes a positive first impression. Ideally, you want to fix the problem before it damages any other part of your home.

Problems with Water Pressure

Water pressure is a complicated problem because it is not always easy to fix. The problem may stem from a clog in your plumbing, partially closed shut-off valves or issues with your home’s water. Home buyers will almost always go around to check if everything is working well, and may feel unsure about moving forward should they discover low water pressure. This is one of those subtle things that can make you miss out on a sale that many sellers are not aware of until their home has sat on the market for far too long.

Before calling a professional, check that your shut-off valves are fully open. If you notice the valve is partially closed, then turn the valve and then check your water pressure. In some situations, you will have better water pressure. When the problem persists, call a professional to check for other issues. A professional may remove a clog or change out the plumbing. In other situations, a professional may install a pump to increase the water pressure. Keep in mind that the pressure may relate to the water on your street, so you may benefit from calling the local water department should all else fail.

Clogs and Sewer Problems

Fix a clog in the toilet, sinks or shower before listing the property. If you have a problem with the sewage, then contact a professional to fix the issue. A problem with the sewage may range from consistent clogs to a toilet that backs up and leaves a mess in your home. Allow a professional to address the problems with your sewage system before you sell the property.

Rusty or Damaged Water Heaters

Do not list your property if your water heater has a large amount of rust or other complications. As the seller, you are responsible for problems that relate to your water heater or plumbing. Replace the water heater if you notice severe rust, damage to the system or it does not work effectively.

Fixing problems with your plumbing improves your ability to sell a home without delays. Even a small change, like fixing a leak, gives your buyer confidence in the house. Do not wait until the inspection to repair obvious problems and be aware that some issues may still arise during the inspection. You can also get an inspection before listing the property to ensure that you understand all of the potential problems and have an opportunity to repair an issue with your plumbing before you sell the house.

Related Blogs:

Summer Outdoor Plumbing Notes 

Kitchen Plumbing Maintenance 

To request a service appointment with Always Plumbing & Heating, give us a call at 780-489-8118 or contact us online.

Kitchen Plumbing Maintenance

If you are like most households, you are probably spending a lot of time during the extended break in the kitchen. More meals at home and increased trips to the fridge and pantry for snacks means more use of the kitchen appliances – and plumbing. Your kitchen sink gets a real workout during the summer vacation and, as a result, needs extra care to ensure it performs efficiently. Is your Edmonton kitchen getting more traffic this break? Try these simple kitchen plumbing maintenance tips and keep your sink running smoothly throughout the summer.

Cleaning the Aerator

A dirty aerator is a common cause of faucet problems. Low water pressure, spraying/uneven water flow and leakage from the fixtures can all be attributed to sediment or lime buildup blocking the aerator screen. Cleaning the aerator on a regular basis, especially if you have an issue with hard water, is a good way to keep fixture problems to a minimum. In order to clean the aerator, you’ll need to unscrew it from the body of the faucet. If you own a basic faucet design, the aerator is the component at the end of the faucet where the water flows. Simply unscrew the piece with a pair of pliers and separate the pieces to clean. A small brush and a bit of vinegar is all will need to clean off the aerator. After cleaning, reassemble and screw back into the faucet. Any problems that were related to the blockage should be resolved.

Tightening a Loose Fixture

Do you have a loose faucet or fixture component? Loose parts can compromise the efficiency of the faucet and cause the water lines to rupture. A loose fixture can also start a slow leak, which wastes water and potentially cause damage to the surrounding area. Before you begin, make sure that you have turned off the supply valves underneath the sink in the back of the cabinet. Turn them both clockwise to cut off the water to the faucet. There are a variety of faucet designs, so the specifics of tightening a particular fixture will vary. Follow this link for information on tightening the handle or base of the most common designs.

Cleaning the Plumbing

One of the main reasons for kitchen sink blockage is the buildup of grease in the plumbing. Even if you are mindful of removing greasy food from plates and dishes before rinsing them in the sink, residue can slowly build over time. One of the easiest maintenance tips for cleaning out pipes involves water and dish liquid. Boil a large pot of water on the stove then pour about a tablespoon of the dish detergent into the sink. Wait about minute to let the dish liquid to cover the pipes. Take the pot and slowly pour the boiling water into the sink as well. The detergent helps to dissolve the grease, while the boiling water clears out the grease deposits and any food debris stuck to the pipes. If you are having trouble with consistent blockage, repeat this process at least once more to ensure all the grease and debris has been removed.

Cleaning the Disposal

Disposal cleaning is a different process than cleaning the plumbing. One of the major issues with the garbage disposal is the odor that can build up through consistent use. Holidays and vacations often lend themselves to big meals, which means the disposal is probably working overtime. A safe and easy way to get rid of odor is to grind ice cubes and lemon rinds for about 30 seconds. Follow this up with liquid dish detergent while the disposal is still running – then rinse with cold water until the blades have released all of the debris.

Disposal Safety

While the disposal is a convenient tool, it is best to use it sparingly. Any food that is washed through the plumbing can harm the system. Make sure to always turn the water on before you begin to add the food debris. Continue to run water at least 15 seconds after using the disposal to ensure all the debris has been flushed. Only use the disposal for food waste – it is not a trash can.

Keep your kitchen plumbing running efficiently all summer with simple maintenance procedures you can perform yourself. Remember that the staff at Always Plumbing & Heating are experts at kitchen plumbing repairs and remodeling. If you decide that you need professional help with your kitchen plumbing, contact us today. Call 780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray) to schedule an appointment!

Related Blogs:

Summer Water Safety for Edmonton Homes

How to Find Hidden Water Leaks

To request a service appointment, give us a call at 780-489-8118 or contact us online.

Summer Outdoor Plumbing Notes for Edmonton

While Edmonton winters bring major challenges to plumbing systems, the summer season comes with its own unique set of problems. With kids home from school and extended holidays all over Canada, homeowners will be using their plumbing more often. This is especially true of outdoor water use with lawns, gardens, pools and backyard recreational toys all requiring extra H2O. All of this additional plumbing use can add wear on your system and raise utility bills. The experts at Always Plumbing & Heating have complied a few important procedure and maintenance tips for the extra plumbing needs of your household this summer.

Outdoor Water Faucets: A good way to start the outdoor watering season is to inspect all your faucets before using them. Our long winter may have damaged a faucet as freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on any outdoor feature that uses water. Check your outdoor faucets (also referred to as a spigot or hose bib) by running them to make sure that there are no areas that are leaking. A leaky spigot can waste as much as 757 liters of water a month. (Neglecting to cover them over the winter can cause them to warp or crack – and affect connected pipes in your plumbing system.) If you find a leak and there are no cracks or visible damage to the faucet, replacing the washer might be all that is required. Don’t use the feature until you have repaired the leak or have it assessed by a plumbing technician.

Additional Faucets: Do you have enough outdoor faucets to accommodate all your yard/family needs? Is there a faucet/spigot easily accessed in both the front and back of the home? Summer is an ideal time to review your outdoor plumbing fixtures and figure out whether or not new installations are necessary. An experienced plumber can help assess your needs and offer several different options for faucet locations and installation.

Troubleshooting a Non-Functioning Spigot

Hoses: If your garden and soaker hoses were not stored properly over the winter, they may have been compromised by the cold weather as well. Hoses need to be drained of water and stored in a safe, dry area in the off-season. Any water left inside a garden or soaker hose can freeze and expand – cracking the material (rubber, vinyl or sometimes a combination of the two). Storing them improperly and general wear can cause leaks as well. Test all your hoses before using them for the season. Replace any hose that shows signs of a leak.

Automatic Sprinklers: If you have an automatic sprinkler system in your yard, it is important that all the heads are working properly. If you have a sprinkler head that is cracked or broken, it might be leaking water or not producing water at all. This can compromise your lawn and waste a lot of water. Replacing or cleaning the head might be all that is required – and both endeavors are simple enough to do on your own. Replacement heads can be found at most hardware and home improvement stores.

Fixing Sprinkler Systems

Water Pressure: Is the water flow in your home sometimes uneven? Perhaps there is banging within your pipes when you turn on the water? You might have a pressure problem. Most homeowners assume that every house has the same level, but that isn’t always the case. The optimum psi (pounds per square inch) for a home in Edmonton is 80, with any pressure reading above that being harmful to your plumbing system. You can check the pressure by getting a water gauge meter at the local hardware or home improvement store. If you find that the pressure is too high, consider having a pressure regulator installed. A regulator will help absorb the high pressure and covert the flow into a safe 80 psi.

Take advantage of the summer break and review your outdoor plumbing issues. If you require assistance, the plumbing experts at Always can help with all your fixture repair or installation needs. Contact us if you have questions about adding additional fixtures or have repair or water pressure concerns. Call 780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray) to schedule an appointment today!

Related Blogs:

Summer Water Safety for Edmonton

How to Find Hidden Water Leaks

Call Always Plumbing & Heating at 780-489-8118 or contact us online today to discuss your water quality options for your new home.

How to Find Hidden Water Leaks

Hidden water leaks can cost you a lot of money in your Edmonton home. One of the most common plumbing problems and biggest causes of wasted water in your home are silent and slow leaks in pipes, fixtures and appliances. Because they are silent and slow, they often go undetected. When they go undetected, they can waste thousands of gallons of water per year and often result in considerable damage to the underlying structure of your home. Keep an eye out for these signs of water leaks to determine if you need to hire a plumber to fix those leaking pipes or plumbing fixtures before things get worse.

Look at your water bills.

Chances are, if you have an unusually high spike in your water bill, you may have a water leak somewhere in the house – especially if your water use habits haven’t changed over the past few months. Your water bill should remain within the same range month to month. Remember that some of your pipes may be underground. You may never detect leaks in this part of your system, but you will always pay for them.

Prevalent mold or mildew.

Leaks from pipes can lead to mold growth on non-shower walls. While it’s common to see some mildew in corners of your shower, there shouldn’t be any on surfaces outside of your shower. A leaking pipe provides plenty of moisture for mold to grow. So, the longer it takes you to detect and fix the leak, the easier and faster mold will grow. Even when there isn’t any visible growth, mold creates a musty “old basement” smell that’s hard to miss and shouldn’t be ignored. Mold growth can cause serious health complications, especially for people with sensitivities to allergies or those with asthma.

Peeling or blistering walls.

If you have a leak inside your walls, it can cause wallpaper and paint to blister, bubble or peel. This is usually a sign of a leak that has been slowly growing worse over time. When drywall is exposed to moisture, it becomes soft and begins to bubble, ultimately warping and breaking into pieces. If the leak reaches the ceiling, it causes it to sag and possibly leak some of the water that has accumulated.

Smell from old, accumulated water.

If you have thoroughly cleaned your bathroom and still notice a musty or earthy smell, you may have a hidden leak. The water from the leak doesn’t have a chance to dry and will continue to accumulate over time. The old water mixed with possible mildew or mold will cause that musty smell that won’t seem to go away.

Wet or sagging floors.

Depending on what kind of flooring you have in your bathroom, moisture can make it feel spongy or soft. Tile may lose its grip and become loose, allowing you to easily remove a piece and possibly expose water or moisture underneath it. You will also find a damp subfloor. If your bathroom floor is sinking, buckling or beginning to stain for no other reason, a potential water leak could be the culprit. The water could be from a pipe directly underneath the floor, or it could have traveled there from another area.

Don’t wait to have your pipes checked when you discover these signs of a water leak. Letting a leak go could result in considerable damage that’s expensive to fix. Instead, stop the problem before it gets worse by giving Always Plumbing & Heating call. Our team of specialists is fully equipped to provide your home with the plumbing services necessary to stop leaks and prevent further damage. Call us at 780-489-8118 to schedule an appointment today!

Call Always Plumbing & Heating at 780-489-8118 or contact us online today to discuss your water quality options for your new home.

Sump Pump Maintenance Procedures and Tips

Why should we maintain ourSump Pumps?

Our sump pumps should work efficiently for us and be there for us when we need them. The very last thing we need to happen is for our submersible pump to let us down when we need it the most. If we take the time to look after our sump pumps with a little maintenance then they will be there and ready to work for us when we need them the most.

What maintenance is needed and how often?

The maintenance that should be needed in most cases should be carried out periodically. Typically on a quarterly basis; with special consideration to the wetter months of the year. Ensure we carry out our maintenance prior to then.

For many pumps the maintenance procedures are very similar as well as being relatively simple to carry out. A submersible pump should need around five to ten minutes of your time at most to complete the steps needed.

Sump pumps are generally maintenance free themselves but we will need to look into various things to ensure a long and worry free life with the pump.

A list of the items we need to look to properly maintain our sump pumps are

Screen Debris – Here we need to ensure we clean any screening we have to our pump inlet. This will ensure the pump is able to have full flow going to in as well as ensuring there is no further debris being able to get into the pump and damage it.

Hose Connections – Ensure they are tight and leak free. This will help to reduce any leaks being re-pumped and effectively being pumped around in circles.

Check Valves – Ensure they are both fitted and also working. A check valve is there to stop the water we have just pumped away from returning down the pumping line and filling our sump up again. To check this fill the sump and let the sump pump run. Once the pump shuts off there should not be any water returning down the pumping line to re-fill our sump

Installation – Ensure the sump pump is properly installed and is fixed into your sump so it is not moving around. This could cause further damage if left like this.

Pumping line– Ensure this is leak free and in some cases where necessary ensured the pumping hose/line is protected from the frost. If this line was to freeze then your pump will be rendered useless.

Float switch – Always ensure the float switch is working properly. Ensure you watch the pump both start and stop using the float switch. It is also worth ensuring there isn’t any debris or dirt on or around the float switch to impair the operation of it.

Pump Cleaning Wherever possible it would not harm the pump to fully remove it (using all required safety precautions) and give it a thorough clean down, removing all debris and dirt from all around the pump.

Impeller check – When you have the pump removed it is worth looking at the actual impeller if you can see it. In some cases there could be materials clogged around these or in extreme circumstances wound around the impeller. This will reduce the efficiency and operation of the sump pump. Remove any materials and ensure the impeller is free.

Noisy pump – In the circumstances where your pump has become noisy and you have completed all of the steps above and find your pump is still noisy – it might be the case that your bearings or motor is wearing, or it could be something as simple as needing a flexible hose connection to absorb the vibration being transmitted into the piping. If you are unable to fix the issues by the above steps then you should seek professional advice on how to fix any further issues with your sump pump.

Is your pump in need of attention?

Typical symptoms that your sump pump may need attention would be; noisy pump, not pumping the same volume of water, not switching on with the float, tripping the circuit regularly, overheating.

In the cases where your pump is not pumping the same amount of water, tripping the circuit or overheating you need to give your pump a good overhaul. This may be symptoms your pump or impeller could be blocked causing it to run at a slight temperature or even at a high current rating. In cases like this ensure you have checked all of the above and re tested. If the problems persist you may need to seek professional advice.

What if my Sump pump has stopped working?

A sump pump installed in a basement of a home with a water powered backup system.

If your sump pump has stopped working you may actually find it is the float switch that has malfunctioned. In most cases the float switch is the “moving part” and therefore more susceptible to malfunction. Dependent upon the construction of several models of sump pumps you may also be able to remove and replace the float switch rather than needing to replace the complete pump. It could be a matter of replacing the float switch to have your pump back into working order. If you are unable to do this yourself, then seek professional advice, however bear in mind once you need to pay a professional it could actually be cheaper for you to just get another sump pump.

It may also be a worthwhile expense to have a reserve sump pump or backup sump pump just in case your pump fails you at the worst possible moment. We have reviewed many of the best sump pumps and returned honest and open reviews for you to decide upon the best submersible pump to suit your needs and budget.

Always Plumbing & Heating provides great service 24/7 and our qualified technicians have been nationally certified to wear the Technician Seal of Safety.

Green Cleaning Products for Your Edmonton Home

Your kitchen and bathroom are two of the most important places in your Edmonton home. So making sure that both are clean and free from harmful toxins should be a high priority. This is becoming increasingly difficult with the amount of harmful cleaners on the market containing carcinogens, poisons and asthma/allergy instigators. Shockingly, just 7 percent of the cleaning products on the market disclose their entire list of ingredients. Like the U.S., there is no Canadian law that requires manufacturers to disclose all of the ingredients in cleaners – or offer warnings about adverse health effects.

The argument is that competitors might copy the formula is suspect – and shows little concern for consumer health. Manufacturers are only required to list “chemicals of known concern,” which leaves a long list of chemicals that could be toxic that simply haven’t been tested. The best route for consumers who are concerned with using potentially harmful products is to search out safe, non-toxic cleaners – or to make them yourself. Always Plumbing & Heating has put together a list of ways to keep the most important rooms in your home clean – and safe for the entire household.

Seek Out Green Cleaning Products

There are several “green cleaning” manufacturers that trumpet their non-toxic line of products, but even the more health conscious companies have certain brands that contain questionable ingredients. So it is best to shop product-by-product – not by company. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) tests cleaning products for their toxicity and provides a grading system for them. They test products that are available both in Canada and the U.S.; from the most popular brands to the boutique cleaners found in specialty stores.

EWG Guide to Cleaners

Avoid Unnecessary Products

There are a few cleaning products on the market that are completely unnecessary and can cause more harm than good. Most of these products do not have “greener” alternatives and should be avoided completely. Popular wax and liquid air fresheners do not list ingredients and contain fragrance mixtures that can trigger allergy and asthma problems. Antibacterial products including soap and hand sanitizers can have adverse effects and have been linked to thyroid and heart damage. Drain and oven cleaners contain toxic ingredients that can burn eyes and skin. There are a few homemade alternatives that can help with these cleaning needs (see below). Fabric softeners and dryer sheets can contain lung irritants and can also trigger lung and asthma problems.

Make Your Own Green Cleaning Products

If you are concerned with using toxic cleaning products in your home, the best route to go is to simply make your own. The best DIY recipes are the ones that have the least (and most common) ingredients. While you should be able to find most of the ingredients already in your kitchen cabinet, the rest are easily acquired at your local grocery store. Baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, borax and olive oil are all essential ingredients in creating green cleaning supplies. Essential oils and castile soap are also helpful in many DIY recipes and can be found at most health-conscious grocery stores.

DIY Cleaning Products

DIY Essentials

The best, most effective cleaner for most surfaces (except stone) is a simple mixture of equal parts water and vinegar. This time-tested combination is ideal for simple cleaning projects and effectively cleans and disinfects. Add some lemon juice (also good for cleaning) if the slight vinegar smell is a problem. This combination (or a slight variation of it) will work for most home cleaning challenges.

9 Homemade Cleaning Products

Always Plumbing & Heating would like to remind you that while DIY cleaning is a great idea for ensuring a healthy IAQ, there are only a few home service or repair needs that should be tackled on your own. While there are some effective non-toxic recipes for unclogging drains and toilets, calling a professional to assist with the more difficult problems is key. Try to avoid over-the-counter products that claim to unclog pipes – as most contain abrasive chemicals that can potentially cause more damage to your plumbing system. Let the professionals at Always help when plunging or DIY mixtures prove ineffective. Call us at 780-489-8118 to schedule an appointment with a professional today!

Related Blogs:

Tips for Green Bathroom Remodeling in Edmonton

Winter Plumbing Maintenance in Edmonton

To request a service appointment, give us a call at 780-489-8118 or contact us online.

Sump Pump Maintenance Tips for Your Edmonton Home

A sump pump is designed to keep basements from accumulating water when flooding happens regularly. It also helps to reduce dampness when the water table is above a home’s foundation. There are hundreds of thousands of sump pumps in Canada, making them a fixture in most residences with a basement. With spring on its way, Edmonton households will want to start maintenance for the inevitable thaw – and the rain that follows. Homes that have a finished basement that is furnished or contain appliances will want to make this a priority to ensure they are kept safe from water damage.

Consider following these sump pump maintenance tips in the next few weeks.

Check for Debris: Check the sump pump basin to see if any debris has collected during the winter. Simply shine a flashlight inside to inspect the area for dirt, sediment and other contaminants. Any debris should be removed as it will affect the performance of the pump and could potentially allow it to overflow.

Inspect Check Valve: The check valve (also referred to as the “one way valve”) ensures that water doesn’t reenter the sump pump once it is shut off. The design only allows water (or any liquid) to move in one direction. It is located on the water outlet pipe and the arrow should be pointing away from the pump.

Clean It: Clean out both the relief hole and the impeller. The relief hole (also referred to as the “discharge” or “weep hole”) is a small opening positioned between the discharge and the check valve. It can be cleaned with a Q-Tip or other small cleaning tool. The impeller is the small filter mechanism attached to the sump pump, which can get clogged fairly easily. It should be cleaned after every time the sump pump is used.

       A common submersible design. 

Test the Pit: Pour a few gallons of water into the sump pit to ensure that it is working properly. A functioning pump should start up automatically and drain the water quickly. Perform this process at least twice, which will help guarantee everything is in working order.

Backup Power: One of the best ways to ensure your basement doesn’t flood is to provide backup power in case of a power outage. The majority of power outages occur during electrical storms – when your home is most likely to become flooded. Installing a battery backup will help ensure the pump is working when you need it most.

Redundant System: A redundant system provides a primary pump as well as a battery backup, which is the best protection against flooding. There are several emergency backup models that are on the market and, depending on your needs, might be a better choice. Speak with your local plumbing professional about options.

Make sure that your home is kept free from flooding and water damage. Check and maintain your sump pump annually to keep it clean and running efficiently. You’ll also want to make sure that it is serviced by a professional at least once a year before the summer or fall. Remember that Always Plumbing & Heating can help you with all of your plumbing needs. Call us at 780-489-8118 to schedule an appointment with a technician today!

Sump Pump Comparison Chart

Related Blogs:

How to Know When Your Hot Water Tank Needs to Be Replaced

What to Do When There is Flood Damage to Your HVAC System

Do I Need a Sump Pump?

To request a service appointment, give us a call at 780-489-8118 or contact us online.

Supply Valve Locations in Your Edmonton Home

When things go wrong with your Edmonton plumbing system, it is easy to panic – especially if a leak is involved. Any kind of leak, whether it originates from a pipe or a fixture, can cause extensive water damage. Often the water from a leak can create more damage than the initial problem. Understanding a few plumbing basics can help curb the cost (and headache) of additional repair work.

At the very minimum, a homeowner should know the following information:

  • The Water Supply Valve Locations for Sinks, Toilets and Major Appliances

The toilet shut-off valve is located underneath the tank and against the wall. There will be flexible metal tubing connected to a handle. To turn off the water, turn the handle clockwise.

The kitchen/bathroom sink shut-off valve should be underneath the sink. There should be two sets of flexible metal tubing with corresponding handles. Turn both handles clockwise.

The clothes washer shut-off valves should be directly above and behind the unit. They are easy to see if you are looking for them. However, sometimes they are located in a less conspicuous area. If you don’t see the valves in plain sight, you might need to pull the washer away from the wall. When you have located the valves, simply turn both clockwise.

Bathtubs, refrigerators and other major appliances will have different locations for their valves depending on different factors. Bathtubs with exposed plumbing should have the valve clearly visible, but most modern tubs are recessed designs with the plumbing hidden from view. Your refrigerator has valves located directly behind the unit on the wall. There might be some exploration required to find certain valves. Spend an afternoon recording where your appliance valves are located. It’s important that everyone in household know where they are in case of an emergency.

  • The Type of Heat, Hot Water and Air Conditioning You Have (electric, natural gas or propane)

How familiar are you with your central air and water heater units? A basic knowledge of these essential systems is key when you are dealing with repair or maintenance issues. Does your furnace run on natural gas? Is your water heater electric? Knowing the type of fuel they run on and how they work will save you both time and money in the future. An easy way to collect the information is to schedule routine maintenance and have an HAVC professional talk you through the unit specifics.

Heating in Canadian Households

Canadian Residential HVAC Systems

  • The Location of the Main Water Shut-Off Valve

The shut-off valve to a home is the best way to cut off the water if there is a major leak. The first shut-off valve to a home’s water supply is called a “curb stop” and located underground and near the street. It sometimes buried in the dirt, but usually easily accessed under concrete. This valve is the one that water department will use if contacted to turn off the water. The main valve that can be easily accessed by the homeowner is usually located inside the home, but that location can vary depending on the age of the house and local building codes. Your home’s water meter is where you access the main shut-off valve, which is attached directly to the meter. There will usually be two valves (a supply and home connection) on each side of the meter. To shut off the water supply, turn off the valve located before the meter clockwise. Edmonton meters are usually located in the basement, but they can also be found in the crawl space or the main floor.

Residential Water Use in Canada

If you need guidance in locating or managing the water lines in your home, the staff at Always Plumbing & Heating can help. Our plumbing professionals can show you all the essentials – and what to do when you have a major leak. Don’t let a minor plumbing emergency become a major financial strain! Learn the basics of your home’s water line system and empower yourself and your family. Call us today at 780-489-8118 to schedule an appointment.

Related Blogs:

Schedule Routine Washer Maintenance By Your Trusted Plumber in Edmonton

Plumbing Resolutions for Your Edmonton Home

To request a service appointment, give us a call at 780-489-8118 or contact us online.

Edited Photo Courtesy of Davide Restivo

8 Simple and Easy Ways to Save Water in Edmonton

More and more people nowadays are looking for ways to conserve water as they go about their everyday lives. If you’re interested in netting some savings on your utility bill, then the experienced and dependable plumbers at Edmonton’s Always Plumbing and Heating have eight simple and easy tips for you:

1) Remember to turn off the tap

Turning off the tap while you brush your teeth can really cause the amount of water you save on a daily basis to add up, as can shortening your showers by just a few minutes.

2) Repair a leaky toilet

Leaky toilets are constantly wasting water, but the good news is that they can often be fixed with some simple repairs by an experienced Edmonton plumber.

3) Convert to a dual flush toilet

Better yet, consider replacing your toilet with a new, far more water-efficient dual flush toilet. Even a properly functioning toilet is still wasting more water than any other fixture. A dual flush toilet ensures you are using only as much water as you need.

4) Repair or replace a leaky water tank

If your water tank is leaking, then it’s high time to look into available water tanks in Edmonton that can replace your old one. Not only is it wasting water, but it may start breaking down on you. You may also want to consider a tankless water heater for your Edmonton home. Tankless heaters take up much less space and can deliver all the hot water you need on demand.

5) Choose high-efficiency shower heads

Today’s high-efficiency shower heads not only cut down on water consumption, but do so while still providing a powerful stream with enough pressure to make you feel adequately cleaned off.

6) Use your washing machine and dishwasher smartly

Don’t do a load of laundry or run the dishwasher while neither machine is full. Waiting until you can do a full load will save you both time and water.

7) Use excess water for plants

If you have plants, then you don’t ever need to dump perfectly good water down the drain. If you’re finished drinking or if you have cooled, leftover water from making pasta, give it to your plants instead!

8) Invest in a water softener

Finally, installing a water softener in your Edmonton home can save more water than you might think. Water softeners can help you take quicker showers because soft water is better at lathering soap and shampoo, and better at cleaning it off. Soft water is also much more effective at cleaning dishes.

At Always Plumbing and Heating you can trust us to provide you with the very best water softeners, water tanks, and tankless water heaters in Edmonton.

We can also provide you with regular maintenance and repairs to make sure your plumbing is working as efficiently as possible.

Our plumbers are committed to always being there for you with the highest quality services and products, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with Always Plumbing and Heating any time, any day of the week.

Game Day Plumbing Tips for Your Edmonton Home

Are you planning a big Super Bowl® party this weekend? Lots of Edmonton homes will be filled with fans gathering to cheer on their favorite team – and eat their favorite party foods. While the talk around this year’s game seems to be focused more on the American ads that will play during the telecast, it hasn’t diminished the enthusiasm for the game itself. The most watched broadcast in the country (18 million Canadians watched at least part of Super Bowl 50) seems to be more popular than ever. Last year twice as many fans tuned in to watch the Super Bowl than they did for the Grey Cup.*

More than likely you or someone you know will be throwing a big party for game day. But is your plumbing system prepared? While the Patriots and the Falcons get ready for their big showdown, the Always Plumbing & Heating technicians prepare for the Monday after the game – a busy one for the plumbing industry. All-day parties filled with favorite snacks and comfort foods contribute to blockages while a large guest list can exacerbate small fixture problems. This year, while you prepare for the big game, take some time to ensure your plumbing system isn’t compromised by the revelry.

Follow these tips for a clog-free Super Bowl Weekend:

  • Check all the drains in the sinks and tubs for signs of slow drainage. If you are hosting guests for the weekend, you will want to fix any drainage issues before they arrive.
  • Attend to any fixture leaks that might be worsened by continuous use throughout the weekend.
  • Keep your guests from using the toilet as a trash can. Add an additional waste basket to the bathroom and remove any paper products that aren’t flushable.
  • Learn how to use the shut-off valve to your toilet in case there is an emergency.
  • Make sure that you keep a plunger close to the toilet. If you experience a clog that you can’t fix, our plumbers are available 24/7.

Shutting off the Water

  • Add a cup of vinegar to the bottom of your dishwasher and run it while it is empty. This will ensure the unit and the drain lines are clean.
  • Be aware of the organic material that you put down the garbage disposal. All fibrous food, fatty food, scraps and grease should be disposed of in a trash can – or compost pile. And never put anything in the sink that is non-organic.

What Not to Put in Your Garbage Disposal

  • Always wipe down plates and dishes that contain excessive grease before washing them in the sink.
  • Add an additional trash can in the kitchen, next the sink, to encourage guests to keep most of their food waste out of the sink.
  • Consider making dishes that won’t require a lot of post clean-up. Fun finger foods, vegetable plates, sandwiches and soups are simple and easy-to-manage favorites.
  • Need some inspiration for Super Bowl party food? Our friends at All Recipes have some crowd-pleasing recipes for new and old favorites.

Always Plumbing & Heating hopes that your Super Bowl gathering is a raucous and clog-free one. But if you happen to experience any problems with your plumbing system on game day, or immediately after, don’t hesitate to call our emergency plumbers! We are on the job 24 hours a day and can help with any plumbing repair or service need. Call us any time at 780-489-8118 to schedule a repair or report an emergency.

Related Blogs:

Holiday Plumbing Tips

Winter Plumbing Maintenance in Edmonton

To request a service appointment, give us a call at 780-489-8118 or contact us online.

*Super Bowl Stats

Photo Source

Tips for Green Bathroom Remodeling in Edmonton

If you’ve been thinking about remodeling your Edmonton bathroom, there’s never been a better time to renovate using green technology. Modern fixtures that use less water and energy are readily available and more affordable than ever. You can also find recycled and sustainable materials essential for a bathroom renovation at most home improvement stores. From the paint to the cabinet hardware, there are a variety of options for creating a more eco-friendly environment. We’ve complied some essential notes for the early planning stages of a green bathroom renovation in Edmonton. Add these ideas to your notes as you research products and materials that fall in line with your design and efficiency needs.

Flooring – Thinking of replacing that scratched vinyl flooring with something more durable and eco-friendly? There are lots of options on the market for water and fire resistant flooring made from renewable resources. Recycled glass tile is non-absorptive and is mould and mildew resistant. You can also find designs in in a variety of colors, patterns and unique finishes. A sustainable material that has recently been gaining popularity in Edmonton is polished concrete. This versatile flooring can be polished and tinted in a wide array options, making it easy to incorporate into any design scheme. Concrete is extremely easy to clean and maintain; ideal for the bathroom. Other great eco-friendly flooring materials include recycled rubber, linoleum and cork.

Low Flow Plumbing Fixtures – Modern low-flow bathroom fixtures have come a long way from their inefficient counterparts. Early toilets, faucets and shower heads designed to save water performed inadequately. The low pressure and limited water output did not offer comparable comfort or convenience. In fact, some early low-flow plumbing designs used more water as users ended up double-flushing or washing for longer periods of time. New technology has greatly improved these designs, which perform as well or better than previous standard models. A toilet made before 1992 required 3.5 – 7 gallons of water to function properly, today’s low-flow models use about 1.3 gallons. Low-flow (also referred to a “high performance”) faucets and shower heads use aerating technology to deal with the previous pressure issues. New designs can reduce the water flow of a sink or shower by 30 percent or more.

Paint – Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in paint are potentially dangerous solvents that are released into the air weakening indoor air quality. There are a few companies that manufacture house paint with low-to-no VOCs. Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore have locations in Edmonton and have had success with their low VOC paints. Some of the zero VOC paints have received mixed reviews, so a bit of research will be needed if this is what you decide upon. There are also products like epoxy floor finishes that contain zero VOC – and most of these products can be found at your favorite home improvement store. Plenty of color options and a realistic price point make using them an easy decision.

Cabinets/Countertops – Be mindful of the material you are using if you plan on replacing your current cabinets and countertops. Though it might make financial sense, try to avoid particleboard and fiberboard unless you can locate versions that contain low-to-no formaldehyde. Particleboard is made with 100% recycled materials, but any environmental advantage is erased with the glue used to bind the wood fibers. The glue contains formaldehyde which emits gasses in which decreases indoor air quality and can pose a health risk. Talk to your contractor about using exterior-grade plywood or solid wood that has been certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure it was harvested sustainably.

FSC Canada

Rethink your bathroom renovation with a more energy-efficient and eco-friendly design scheme. It’s never been easier (or inexpensive) to remodel your Edmonton bathroom in “green.” Need some assistance? We can help with plumbing, sink and toilet installation and even replace your tank water heater with a tankless model to help cut energy consumption even more. Call us at 780-489-8118 to schedule an appointment today!

Related Blogs:

Plumbing Resolutions for Your Edmonton Home

How to Know When Your Hot Water Tank Needs to Be Replaced

To request a service appointment, give us a call at 780-489-8118 or contact us online.

Home Plumbing Tips: Retrieve Items that Wash Down the Drain

Your grandmother’s ring, a beloved toy, or a favourite pair of earrings… they have all accidentally fallen down the drain at some point! Luckily, there are some useful methods you can try to retrieve them with minimal damage. Using some household items or calling emergency plumbers in Edmonton can ensure your precious belongings are not lost forever down the drain.

If you have lost a valuable or sentimental item down the drain, or have a blocked pipe problem, contact Always Plumbing & Heating. Our professional Edmonton plumbers can find a solution to retrieve your item and provide necessary plumbing repairs. We are available for emergency plumbing services and routine maintenance appointments for appliances throughout your home.

Take It Back: Getting Items that Fall Down the Drain

Get your precious trinkets and small items back in your hands. Use the following steps or call our plumbers for a fast service appointment.

Here are simple techniques to retrieve your lost belongings:

  • Shut Off the Water: The faster the water is shut off, the less likely your item will be carried further down the drain and into the drain stack and sewer line.
  • Check the P-Trap: Each type of plumbing requires different techniques, but a trap under the sink is usually a good place to look for items that have vanished down the drain. A wrench or pliers should be used to detach the trap from the other pipes and a bucket will be needed to catch residual water that comes out.
  • Turn to the Experts: If you have checked the P-trap, or didn’t have the tools necessary to do so, plumbers in Edmonton can be of assistance. Leave it to the experts for a fast and friendly fix. A thorough check and removal of any clogging items can be completed and hopefully your item can be retrieved safely.

Work with the professionals at Always Plumbing & Heating for retrieving lost items down the drain, home plumbing issues, or pipe repairs. Our staff is fully trained and available to help with emergency plumbing issues, new installations, and maintenance inspections. Book your convenient appointment today or contact us for fast assistance with items that have gone missing down the pipes.

Contact plumbers in Edmonton at 780-489-8118 today to find out more about our range of home plumbing services. Contact us online to tell us about your plumbing emergency or get more information.

Request Service

Close x

Fill out the service request form below and an Always Plumbing team member will be in touch to confirm your request.

Exit mobile version