FAQ Plumbing
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Plumbing -Frequently Asked Questions
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Q
What is the main cause of a sewer line stoppage?
A
ROOTS! While there are some products to treat or retard root & vegetation growth, it is not a permanent solution. The sewer line will most likely need to be repaired or replaced.
Q
Why does my water look rust-colored?  
A
Often, this is due to lack of movement or water flow in your potable water system. Once the water hits the air, it oxidizes and turns orange/red in color. This is not harmful, but is a telltale sign of old, galvanized piping. Call our office for a water analysis and some water filtration solutions.
Q
Why do we have such low water pressure?  
A
There can be a few reasons for this. The amount of water the utility is pumping out is one factor. Another reason is the age of your pipes and the amount of rust in them. This is the most common reason for the complaint of low water pressure. However, this is actually a water flow problem, and not a water pressure problem. There is commonly a restriction somewhere and troubleshooting is necessary to determine the cause. Elevation change, partially closed valve, failed pressure regulator (or lack thereof), plugged filter, water softeners and many other considerations, can all affect your water pressure. Again, troubleshooting is necessary to determine the cause of YOUR problem.
Q
What makes my water heater rumble?
A
Calcium buildup is the common factor for this noisy problem. When super-cold water collides with super-hot water from the bottom of the water heater, an audible noise is produced, similar to that of water droplets into a hot greasy pan. Imagine your water heater as a teakettle with sediment buildup at the bottom. The water at the bottom of the teakettle is much hotter and as we learned in science class, heat rises. This is not dangerous, but is a concern and can lead to premature failure of your water heater and consumes much more energy, resulting in a higher gas/energy bill. You will also notice a decrease in available hot water.
Q
How long should my sewer & drainage piping system last?  
A
The material used greatly affects the life span. Drainage piping systems are usually constructed of cast iron, galvanized, clay pipe or, in more recent times for residential use, ABS or PVC pipe. Cast iron piping usually just breaks down over time, commonly after 50 years. Galvanized pipe is usually referred to as a Durham system and is often used for kitchen, laundry, bathtub, shower and sink drains. Over time, these lines rust and become scaly on the inside, catching debris and preventing free water flow. You may begin to experience problems already after 10 years. Runnemede PHCE. does not generally suggest a Durham system. Clay pipes have been used for thousands of years. The greatest factor for a long life with this system is installation and proper fall. Shifting of the earth and the makeup of the joints allow fractures to occur, and tree roots and other vegetation can then penetrate and break the hub, or joint. Once they have infiltrated this food-rich environment, it is difficult to remove them permanently. The pipe will then need to be replaced to prevent this root growth in the future. Even removal of the offending vegetation may not prevent the problem from reoccurring. ABS piping systems have been in use with little to no problems for around 30 years and continue to work well. However, it is the joint connections that pose potential problems. It is very important to have a skilled and knowledgeable company perform your system installation so that the joints are properly connected. PVC piping has also been around for sometime with few problems. It is not, however, approved for use in all parts of the country and in all locations of your home. Again the installation of this system can greatly affect the life span.
No matter the material choice, there is a defined method of installation as per the Uniform Plumbing Code. Be sure and ask your installer for more information on proper installation procedures.
Q
Why does my toilet sound as though it flushed itself?  
A
Typically the toilet douglas valve seal has become warped and is letting water leak out of the tank. The fill valve has sensed that the toilet has been flushed and is trying to refill the tank to its proper water level. No worries, it's not a ghost, but it can waste thousands of gallons of water each year and is the number one source of water consumption in a home. Call us for service and we will dye test your toilets for free.
Q
How do I know what's in my water?
A
There are several ways you can find out what's in your water. A water treatment professional can test water hardness, chlorine taste, odor problems, and other aethetic concerns.
Q
Which water treatment products should I purchase?
A
Know what contaminant you want to reduce or remove from your water and use this site to find the right treatment technology. Then talk to a WQA Certified Water Specialist for specific recommendations. Check the products' capabilities, warranties, maintenance provisions, and general operational instructions. Investigate which contaminants a product reduces, and to what level.
Q
How do I take care of my water treatment product?
A
All home water treatment systems need periodic maintenance and replacement of filters, membranes, or other media. Determine whether you or your local water treatment professional will care for your equipment. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure proper operation of your water treatment system.

 

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