Press Releases Archive - Page 2 of 5 - Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Tips for Protecting Your Sewer Lines

How Maintenance Can Prevent Sewer Line Disasters

Most homeowners understand the basics of sewer lines—they connect to all the fixtures throughout the home and help remove waste. Because they’re built durably, they’re often out of sight and mind. And while a clogged toilet here and there may not be a severe issue, it could be a warning sign of a much larger problem. Understanding how preventive maintenance can prevent sewer line disasters is crucial, as it’s the only proactive step homeowners can take to avoid costly repairs and damage to the home.

In this article, plumbing experts share some common warning signs homeowners can look for and how routine plumbing maintenance can help.

What’s Behind Sewer Blockages

While plumbing issues like leaks and blockages can stem from old plumbing systems, the most common culprits are often the homeowners themselves. For example, kids flushing their toys down the toilets, cat litter going in the bathtub, or cooking grease that hardens in the kitchen sink drain can all spell disaster in the plumbing system.

That’s why the first step to preventing a sewer line clog is watching what goes into the system.

This can start by educating kids and families about what can and can’t be flushed (including those “flushable” wipes) and keeping garbage cans close so there’s an easy alternative.

However, even with the best care, things happen, and knowing how it can impact the sewer line is key. Some common signs of a sewer line clog include:

Slow drainage from one or multiple drains
Foul odors emanating from fixtures – particularly the toilet
Gurgling sounds when flushing the toilet
Water backup
Low water pressure

If these issues are limited to one fixture, they can sometimes be repaired with simple drain-cleaning techniques. However, if they impact multiple fixtures or the entire home, it’s considered an emergency, and a plumbing contractor should be called immediately.

Sewer Line Leaks vs Common Plumbing Leaks

Although blockages are the more common signal of sewer line issues, leaks are a symptom that requires immediate attention. Caused either by wear and tear or a severe blockage, which creates excess pressure and ruptures the sewer pipe, a leak can cause extensive damage to the home and extremely unsanitary conditions.

While a common leak can leave pools of water around the home and cause damage, sewer line leaks are particularly damaging because they leak wastewater into the home. Not only can this water have a foul odor, but also it can be filled with bacteria, which can be a health hazard. Some sewer line leak signs to look for include:

Pools of water or wet spots in the lawn or areas around the home
An increase in pests – i.e., insects or rodents
Unusual sounds like gurgling or the constant flow of water
Odors inside or around the home

In this instance, a plumber will be needed to repair the sewer line. Depending on the location of the damage, excavation can be required to find underground sewer lines or a simple relining of the pipe, which is often done with minimal disturbance to the area around the home.

How Professional Plumbing Maintenance Helps

The bottom line is that sewer line damage and repairs can be unsightly and costly. The best way for homeowners to prevent them is with routine maintenance. During a maintenance appointment, a plumber will inspect the sewer lines, perform basic drain cleaning, and provide additional advice or service. It’s an opportunity to catch sewer line issues early and avoid major emergencies or damage to the home.

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

With a focus on honesty, transparency, and genuine helpfulness, Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC, is the plumbing company homeowners count on in Albuquerque, NM. They have over 13 licensed technicians available 24/7 to handle plumbing issues, big or small. Contact them today to learn more about sewer line maintenance and repair services.

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Common Signs It’s Time To Replace the AC

Detecting a Broken AC

Air conditioning units are not built to last for more than two decades. While some problems are fixable with the right tools and education, there are three signs that all homeowners should pay attention to. A lack of cool air, high energy bills, and unusual sounds may indicate it is time for a new air conditioner. Spring maintenance can prevent these issues.

Not Enough Cool Air

Spring maintenance allows the AC to work consistently throughout the summer. If the AC is up-to-date, this will create even cooling for each room.

If the thermostat is set to 70 degrees, but the home feels more like 80, this is likely due to weak airflow. Sometimes, the ventilation system produces warm air if there is a problem with one of the inside components. Electrical and compressor malfunction are common issues that can be prevented as the AC ages. If the air conditioning installation was handled correctly and the airflow is still weak, professionals will check the compressor first. Air conditioner repair services can range from treating ductwork to inside components, depending on the cause.

Refrigerant leaks are more likely to occur after the AC unit reaches ten years of age. As the air conditioner ages, natural wear and tear occurs around the rubber seals of the service valve. The assembly joints can no longer work properly when the AC system begins to rust.

Refrigerant leaks can be hazardous to the household. Depending on the size and cause of the leak, air conditioner replacement may be necessary. Air conditioner maintenance reduces the number of repairs needed during the summer by making the overall system more energy-efficient.

High Monthly Bills

A faulty air conditioner can spike energy bills. If there is a noticeable difference in cost from one month to the next, this is likely due to improper air conditioner installation or a failure inside the unit. When the condenser is no longer as efficient as it used to be, this can compromise the entire system.
AC maintenance is not only applicable to the inside components, but it also ensures the ductwork is intact.

Leaky ductwork is a common problem that occurs after several years of use. Ducts will develop cracks regardless of the type of insulation used. Once air leakage becomes an issue, the HVAC system must work much harder to produce the same cool air as it once did. While the insulation can be fixed, the air conditioner may need to be replaced if it has been working overtime for several months.

Higher bills due to a faulty thermostat can be prevented. To check the thermostat, homeowners are advised to tape a mercury thermometer next to it before the beginning of summer. After an hour, if the thermometer has a different reading than the thermostat, the thermostat is to blame.

Unusual Sounds

If it is well-maintained, an air conditioner can last for 20 years. However, without routine check-ups, AC replacement or repairs may be necessary for several reasons.

For the most part, HVAC units should be silent. If homeowners notice a hissing sound, this is a problem caused by the refrigerant. Routine maintenance allows HVAC technicians to survey the refrigerant before leaks occur, so replacement coil tubing is unnecessary.

A professional needs to inspect the fan motor, compressor, and circuit board. The entire AC system will be affected if any of these components begin to smoke. While AC repairs may prolong the AC, preventative maintenance is more cost-effective. For a thorough inspection, a professional tune-up is advised for all types of homes.

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, LLC offers financing options for Santa Fe, NM, residents. They offer honest advice, upfront pricing, and personalized services guaranteed to provide homeowners with a lasting fix. Contact them today for AC service!

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Three Reasons Why Plumbing Maintenance Is Essential

The Outsized Benefits of Regular Plumbing Maintenance

Having the plumbing system checked by a professional plumber just once a year can provide several outsized benefits that are often overlooked or forgotten. Like any other complex system, a home’s plumbing system lasts longer and operates better when properly cared for. Unfortunately, most homeowners get caught up in their busy lives and fail to schedule yearly maintenance. While the detrimental effects may not be apparent immediately, they are cumulative and come to the surface sooner or later. Luckily, scheduling yearly maintenance is simple, and the benefits are well worth the modest amount of time and money plumbing maintenance services require.

Maintains Smooth and Safe Household Operation

Plumbing problems tend to sneak up on homeowners. Whether it’s a pinhole leak in a pipe, a dripping toilet, or a water heater that hasn’t been flushed in years, there’s generally something that needs to be addressed, even in new homes. While these problems may not seem like much to worry about initially, they often worsen if they’re not addressed. This is why yearly plumbing maintenance is so important.

When a professional plumber checks the home’s plumbing system, they can catch things even the homeowners weren’t aware of. Most importantly, they can head off any major problems before they happen. When plumbing maintenance is performed yearly, homeowners can rest easy knowing that a plumbing emergency is far less likely.

Extends the Life of the Plumbing System

In addition to heading off emergencies, regular plumbing maintenance is an excellent way to prolong the system’s life. Drain cleaning services and water heater maintenance services are excellent examples of this prolonging effect.

When drains are cleaned regularly, preventing the need to use caustic and damaging liquid drain “cleaners,” homeowners can ensure their drain pipes last as long as possible. Likewise, regular water heater maintenance can keep the appliance in prime working condition for much longer than otherwise. Some estimates say a well-maintained water heater can last years longer than its neglected counterpart.

Helps Homeowners Save Money

Plumbing maintenance’s last (and perhaps most important) benefit is saving money. Yearly plumbing maintenance can help homeowners save money in various long and short-term ways. In the long term, maintenance helps the entire plumbing system last longer, preventing the need for costly repairs. But most homeowners are interested in the short-term benefits, and with good reason.

When plumbing maintenance is performed yearly by a professional plumber, homeowners can save money in several ways. Not only can it prevent leaks that can waste hundreds of gallons of water a year, but it can also ensure that appliances like the water heater run efficiently, saving money on energy and water bills. And those homeowners who want to take it even further can have new appliances like high-efficiency toilets installed for even more savings!

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC has proudly served Albuquerque, NM, for 14 years. They offer 24/7 emergency service performed by expert technicians and back all their work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Contact them today for plumbing maintenance and repairs in Albuquerque, NM.

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Identifying Water Leaks Is Easy If You Follow These Helpful Tips

Suspecting a Leak at Home? Here’s How You Can Catch It Early

A water leak at home is no minor issue that homeowners can ignore or hope will resolve on its own. If left untreated, water leaks can cause damage to furniture, appliances, the very foundation of a home, and even rack up bills associated with water consumption and repair costs.

It is imperative, then, that a water leak be caught early before it can cause too much damage. To do this, homeowners must know exactly what they are looking for to determine the potential presence of a leak at home.

How To Tell If It’s a Leak

Most of the time, it’s pretty easy to tell if there’s a leak at home. After all, diagnosing a leaking pipe or a dripping faucet doesn’t require rocket science. If water is coming out of a system that’s supposed to be closed, that must be a leak. This is true – to some extent. After all, this can only apply to visible leaks. It is far less cut-and-dried for most of a home’s plumbing concealed within floors, ceilings, walls, and underground.

When trying to detect if a leak is occurring somewhere that is hidden from sight, homeowners must attune themselves to the following signs that help with accurate leak detection:

Water damage – A water leak, even if it isn’t visible, will always show signs of damage around the area where it is escaping. This could be warped wood, soaked carpets and upholstery, water stains, and even peeling or blistering paint.
Poor water pressure – A leak in the plumbing will also lead to low water pressure, resulting from water escaping from the pipes before it reaches an open fixture. The leak means that only a fraction of the entire volume of water that is flowing through the pipes makes its way to its final destination, showing up as a sluggish flow of water no matter how much we open up the tap.
Visible mold growth – Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments, so visible mold should indicate that a leak likely causes wet spots.

Your Water Bill Shouldn’t Be That High

Most of the symptoms mentioned above are anecdotal evidence, but if quantitative observations back them up, it makes for a stronger case that a leak is indeed the culprit. An unusually high utility bill is one such quantitative measure of a water leak’s unwelcome presence in your home.

Leaks mean that water continues to flow even if all taps are turned off, which keeps the meter running and pushes up the water bill. Homeowners facing a higher-than-normal monthly water charge should start investigating where the possible spike in consumption is coming from, especially if there have been no significant changes in water usage at home for the affected period.

Making the Most of Your Water Meter

Another way to verify the presence of a leak is to use the home’s water meter for water leak detection. To do this, all a homeowner has to do is shut off the water main and then get a reading on the water meter.

Any significant difference in the reading after an interval of a few hours should indicate a leak since water should not be flowing while the main water is turned off. A water meter that continues to move shows that the water is escaping somewhere and should be addressed with a visit from a professional plumber who can conduct the appropriate water leak repair.

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC is Albuquerque’s trusted plumbing, heating, and air conditioning solutions provider and its surrounding communities. They offer quality service and personal care to all customers who find that their complete range of residential and commercial plumbing services get the job done thoroughly and professionally. Their expert workmanship and 24/7 availability guarantee 100% satisfaction. Call them today for plumbing service in Albuquerque, NM.

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Stop Backflow Before the Holidays Start With Backflow Testing

Understanding What Backflow Is?

The holiday season is a time for celebration and gathering with loved ones. However, it’s also a time when plumbing systems are put to the test and the risk of backflow increases. Backflow is a serious issue that can contaminate drinking water and put the health of the family and guests at risk. In this article, plumbers share what backflow is, its dangers, and how backflow testing can help prevent a scare during the holidays.

Backflow is the reversal of water flow in a plumbing system, which can occur when the pressure in the system drops or when there is a sudden change in water pressure. This can cause contaminated water from sources such as sewage, ponds, or even the soil to flow back into the potable water supply. Backflow can occur in any plumbing system, including residential, commercial, and industrial.

Dangers Posed By Backflow

Backflow is a serious health hazard, as it can contaminate the drinking water supply with harmful substances such as bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. This can lead to waterborne illnesses, which can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and people with weakened immune systems. Backflow can also cause damage to plumbing systems, appliances, and fixtures, leading to costly repairs and replacements.

How Is Backflow Prevented?

Backflow testing checks the functionality of backflow preventers, which are devices that prevent the reversal of water flow in a plumbing system. Backflow preventers are installed in plumbing systems to prevent backflow from occurring. Backflow testing involves checking the device’s ability to prevent backflow and ensuring it functions correctly.

Backflow preventers should be tested regularly, at least once a year, or as the manufacturer or local regulations recommend. The testing process typically involves a certified backflow tester connecting a testing device to the backflow preventer and simulating different water pressure conditions to check for any signs of failure or malfunction.

Importance of Backflow Testing

Backflow testing is crucial to ensuring the safety of every drinking water supply and protecting public health. By regularly testing backflow preventers, owners can:

Prevent Water Contamination: Backflow testing helps to identify any potential issues with the backflow preventer, which can prevent contaminated water from entering the potable water supply.
Protect Public Health: Backflow testing helps ensure the water supply is safe for consumption, particularly important for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and people with weakened immune systems.
Prevent Costly Repairs: Regular backflow testing can help identify and address any issues before they cause damage to plumbing systems, appliances, and fixtures, saving owners money on costly repairs and replacements.

Backflow is a serious issue that can significantly risk public health during the holidays. By understanding what backflow is, its dangers, and the importance of backflow testing, every owner can take steps to ensure the safety of their drinking water supply. Don’t wait until it’s too late – schedule a backflow test with a certified tester today to prevent a backflow scare during the holidays.

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, LLC is the place to go for exceptional workmanship and guaranteed service. Their technicians help residential and commercial owners protect their water supply with backflow testing. Call today for plumbing service in Albuquerque, NM.

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Avoid a Plumbing Nightmare This Halloween

Don’t Let a Plumbing Problem Haunt the House!

Preventative maintenance is the best kind of maintenance. Why? Because it’s the best way to prevent burst pipes, flooding, and other problems that can sneak up on homeowners. But what is a homeowner to do after a plumber completes their inspection and leaves?

To prevent the financial headaches that come with wasted water and damaged property, some plumbing maintenance tips include:

Know How to Prevent Clogs

Every clog forms for a reason, whether it’s because of malfunctioning garbage disposal, too much food down the drain, or root intrusion. Clogs do more than impede water flow. They can cause leaks, burst pipes, and low water pressure. Some easy ways homeowners can prevent clogs include:

Getting a drain mesh screen. These devices cost less than $5 and work wonders to prevent food residue from going down the kitchen sink’s drain.
Only flushing human waste and toilet paper. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that homeowners should never flush Q-tips, cotton balls, diapers, and other residue down the toilet. Even if it initially goes down, it could get stuck in the plumbing system, clogging it.
Refraining from using over-the-counter drain cleaner. Drain cleaner doesn’t effectively remove clogs. If anything, it could worsen an obstruction, causing it to thicken and eat away at the plumbing system from within.

Homeowners should also consider insulating outdoor pipes, such as those connected to the hose or sprinkler system. While it usually doesn’t get below freezing in Albuquerque, homeowners should do everything possible to prevent frozen pipes during unseasonably cold periods.

Schedule Regular Plumbing Maintenance Visits

Homeowners can do everything in their power to prevent clogs, but at the end of the day, nothing beats having a trained professional conduct an inspection. A professional will evaluate the home’s water-based appliances, meter readings, and fixtures here. They may also rely on specialized software, such as video cameras, to look deep inside plumbing systems, looking for obstructions.

When a homeowner put off consulting a professional, they risk sewage backups, clogged sewer lines, and plain wasted water. If one can’t remember the last time they had a plumbing inspection, they should play it safe and schedule an appointment.

Know the Signs of Water Heater Maintenance

Although the standard water heater can last more than 10 years, this isn’t guaranteed. The key to a long-lasting appliance is knowing when to consult a professional. If a homeowner notices one or more of the following signs, they should schedule a plumbing maintenance visit:

Dishes have spots. This could point to excessive sediment buildup in the water heater tank. A plumber may suggest replacing the anode rod.
The water only stays hot for short periods. This could indicate a leak, or it may indicate a new heating element.
The home’s energy bills increase. If a homeowner notices that they’re paying more on their utility bills (despite no change in energy consumption), this could mean that the heater has become less effective.

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Time and time again, Albuquerque, NM residents turn to Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, LLC with their plumbing problems. Why? Because they offer straightforward plumbing services. Call today to learn why these professionals have garnered countless five-star reviews since 2010.

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A Guide To Staying Safe from Gas Leaks In Celebration of National Wellness Month

How Homeowners Can Identify and Deal With Gas Leaks

Every August, America celebrates National Wellness Month. It’s a time for people all over the country to practice self-care, manage stress, and establish healthy habits – all to improve physical and mental well-being. Naturally, a big part of wellness is raising awareness about avoiding everyday health risks and stressors.

With that in mind, this article will cover one major threat to homeowners’ health and peace of mind: natural gas leaks. While natural gas is generally a safe and relatively clean form of energy, a gas leak can risk poisoning, fires, and property damage. So here are a few vital tips to help homeowners detect and respond to gas leaks and how to protect against them in the first place.

Gas Leak Signs To Watch Out For

Since the natural gas used for energy is virtually odorless and invisible, gas suppliers use chemical additives to give it an odor that’s hard to miss – typically a sulfur or rotten egg smell. This unpleasant gas leak smell is perhaps the most obvious clue about a leak. But other signs aren’t quite as easy to pick up on – faint hissing sounds from gas appliances or gas lines, dead or sickly indoor plants, and unusually high gas bills can all indicate a gas leak.

Exposure to a gas leak can also cause physical symptoms (in both humans and pets), as natural gas is toxic. These include:

Headaches
Nausea
Lethargy
Fatigue
Drowsiness
Dizziness
Confusion
Loss of appetite
Memory loss
Difficulty breathing/shortness of breath
Loss of consciousness

Many of these symptoms can be caused by other factors, but if they seem to go away upon exiting the house or moving to a different room, there’s a good chance they result from gas or carbon monoxide poisoning.

The Safe Way To Respond To a Gas Leak

Suppose homeowners notice any signs of a gas leak. In that case, they should immediately get everyone out of the house and call a professional, be it the gas company, local fire department, or a qualified gas plumber – or all of the above. If possible and expedient, homeowners can leave the doors open to vent the gas and turn off the gas using the home’s main gas shutoff valve.

However, homeowners must not use any sort of electrical devices, fire sources, or even light switches in the process of evacuating the home. Any kind of small spark or electrical arc can ignite natural gas, so getting outside before even using a cell phone to call in qualified help is vital. And if the home’s gas shutoff valve is inside and can’t be reached without turning on lights or lingering indoors for any length, it’s best to leave it on and simply leave the front door open to help ventilate the home.

Homeowners can then hole up safely away from the house and wait for help. Of course, anyone experiencing any physical gas leak symptoms should receive medical care as soon as possible, especially if their symptoms are severe.

Professional Gas Leak Solutions & Prevention

Homeowners should never attempt to find or repair gas leaks themselves, as doing so can be extremely dangerous. Certified gas fitters and gas leak repair technicians have the training, experience, and special instruments that allow them to detect and repair leaks with minimal risk to themselves or the home.

Sometimes, the solution to an existing gas leak may be as simple as tightening up a pipe fitting. In others, it may involve replacing corroded gas lines, sealing pipes internally with epoxy, or replacing faulty components in gas-burning appliances. Regardless, gas leak detection and repair are always best left to the pros.

But homeowners can give themselves peace of mind by installing a gas leak detector. These can detect various combustible gasses, and some models also detect carbon monoxide (whereas CO detectors on their own will not pick up gas leaks). This is a great early warning system, but it’s also a good idea to schedule an annual gas line inspection and maintenance visit with a qualified professional to help prevent gas leaks altogether!

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

The Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC experts have been serving Albuquerque with pride since 2010. Their friendly, licensed, and insured technicians always put the safety and comfort of every customer first and leave every home better than they found it. They offer competitive up-front pricing, financing, a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and 24/7 emergency service, so don’t hesitate to call Daniels for gas leak detection and repair in Albuquerque, NM!

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Pro Tips for Saving Money On The Summer Water Bill

Save Water and Save Money With Simple Water Conservation Tips

In a dry state like New Mexico, people know that water conservation is important, but knowing the practical steps to take is often more difficult. Curbing water usage is fairly simple, with a few small changes in behavior and the inclusion of water-saving devices in the home. Eventually, a homeowner will develop habits and will be conserving water without even thinking about it. The following paragraphs will reveal a few easy ways to keep a home’s water usage minimal.

Tip #1: Replace Old Toilets and Shower Heads with Water Saving Devices

One of the easiest ways to conserve water is to install appliances and fixtures that do the work for the whole household. Most newer appliances have an energy efficiency rating, which also goes for water consumption. Standards for water usage are much stricter than they once were, and engineers and designers have worked hard to comply with those standards. Older fixtures just can’t compete. A few examples of the upgrades that can be made are listed below.

Low Flow Showerheads: These shower heads are designed to decrease the amount of water coming out but sacrifice almost no water pressure. It can save a homeowner up to 60 percent of their monthly usage.
Water Saving Toilets: Several different designs of toilets can limit water consumption. The dual-flush toilet is popular because it has a half flush for number one and a full flush for number two. It uses between half a gallon and two gallons of water per flush. Pressure-assisted toilets can also be water-saving. They increase the water pressure but not the volume used.
Touchless Faucets: Faucets that turn on and off with a swipe of the hand have been around for a while, but they are still an elegant piece of technology that does save water. They can be used in both the bathroom and the kitchen area.
Water-Saving Appliances: Don’t neglect the dishwasher or the washing machine when considering options for water conservation. These can save a great deal of water and money.
On-Demand Water Heater: The traditional water heater tank is probably the highest consumer of water in the house. Installing an on-demand tankless water heater can save money in both water usage and the energy sector.

Tip #2: Choose the Best Time for Watering the Lawn

If a home’s lawn or garden requires watering, it will need it during summer. The best time to water is early morning. This maximizes absorption and minimizes evaporation. It also keeps the plants hydrated through the hottest part of the day. Homeowners should also avoid watering if there has been rain that has already done the job for them.

Tip #3: Turn Off the Tap

Now onto the behavioral part of this discussion. There are easy habits that help curb water usage and save money. The basic rule of thumb is: Turn off the faucet. No matter what task a person is engaged in, turning the water off when it is not necessary will make a significant difference. Some examples of this include:

Brushing teeth
Hand washing
Shaving
Washing dishes
Rinsing dishes

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, LLC

Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, LLC offers 24/7 emergency service in and around the Greater Albuquerque, NM Area. Their professional technicians offer expert workmanship with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call today for more information about their water-saving services!

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The Usual Suspects: 3 Common Culprits Causing A Dripping Faucet

What Causes a Leaky Sink Faucet?

Leaky faucets are a common problem and one of the easiest to ignore because they may seem only annoying. Eventually, the faucet may wear down so much that the leak becomes a fountain and becomes an emergency plumbing situation. The water dripping from a leaky faucet also contributes to a home’s water bill. If a homeowner can fix a leaky faucet instead of ignoring it, they will save money and conserve water. The most common causes of faucet leaks are the o-ring, the washer, and the valve seat.

Suspect #1: The O-Ring

The O-ring is a small rubbery ring that helps seal the valve in a handle that turns the water on and off. A faucet leaking from the handle is likely the result of a worn-out or broken o-ring. When they turn the sink on, a homeowner may notice that water is coming out near the base of the handle or handles. This is evidence that the o-ring is worn out or broken.

Worn Out O-Ring: The o-ring may have stretched and lost some elasticity, breaking the seal and allowing water through.
Broken O-Ring: Though it is not as common, the o-ring could be sheared in half, allowing water through.

When replacing the o-ring, the entire handle must be removed and the single part replaced. Likely, the spring next to the o-ring in the valve apparatus should also be replaced. Should the whole valve need to be replaced, adding a new o-ring and spring would be best.

Suspect #2: The Corroded Washer

The washer is another part of the faucet handle system that can become corroded or worn out and cause leaks. Washers are flattened rings that can be made of metal or silicone. They are part of many different construction projects and are often used with bolts and nuts to help secure pieces of furniture. In this case, they are used at the bottom of the handle valve to contain water flow. The washer is exposed to water, and sometimes the minerals in the water can cause corrosion. This will keep the valve from sealing completely and cause the tap to leak. This is the type of leak that can be fixed for a while by using extra force when putting the handle into the off position

Suspect #3: The Valve Seat

Not every sink faucet has a valve seat. This piece is in those taps with a single handle used for hot and cold water. The valve seat is the internal part of the handle, like the socket of a ball and socket joint. It helps to seal the valve and turn the water off. It is like a counterpart to the seat washer in a sink with two handles. Replacing a valve handle is fairly simple and can be done by a homeowner, though it is always best to hire a professional. The main problem is making sure that the right replacement part is purchased. The steps for changing a valve seat are as follows:

Turn off the water to the faucet via the valves under the sink
Remove any decorative cover disguising the bolt that holds the handle in place
Remove the screw and the handle
Remove the valve and the valve seat
Replace with the new valve seat
Replace the other parts in the proper order
Attach the handle
Turn the water back on to make sure it works

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, LLC

Offering 24/7 emergency service and excellent workmanship, Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, LLC proudly deals with all home comfort problems in Albuquerque, NM, and the surrounding areas. Call them today for 100% satisfaction guaranteed on plumbing service.

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Have a Relaxing Valentine’s Day With These Self Care Tips!

Give Yourself the Gift of a Spa Day – In Your Own Bathroom!

Everyone celebrates Valentine’s Day in their own way. Some like to spring for an extravagant night on the town, while others prefer to stay in and have an intimate evening enjoying one another’s company. For many, whether alone or with their sweetheart, the perfect Valentine’s Day involves kicking back and having a self-care day, complete with pampering.

But one doesn’t need to go to a luxury resort or spa to enjoy the fruits of a spa day – it can be done in the comfort of one’s own home! This article will outline a few simple ways for homeowners to enjoy a little romance and relaxation – not just for February 14th but all year round!

Benefits of a Good Soak In the Tub

For many people, a warm bath can be a powerful stress reliever – but it can also provide various health benefits. One major benefit is its impact on sleep. The human body lowers its core temperature in anticipation of sleep. By raising the body’s temperature in a hot bath an hour or two before bed, the body can dissipate heat faster through the skin’s surface. This will help accelerate the release of melatonin into the bloodstream and make it easier to fall asleep faster and more deeply.

Hot baths have also been shown to lower blood pressure temporarily and improve circulation in a fashion similar to the effects of light exercise. They can soothe and hydrate irritated skin, relieve pain in muscles and joints, reduce inflammation, and help clear the respiratory system. These are just the effects of heat and steam – anyone can take it to the next level by incorporating bath salts (a popular method used by athletes for alleviating joint and muscle aches) and aromatherapy (certain essential oils have specific health benefits).

Set the Mood with Colored Lighting

Another way to take things up a notch is to introduce colored LED lights to the bathtub or shower. This can enhance the bathing experience and help nurture mental health through chromotherapy (aka color therapy). This centuries-old method uses colors to promote certain moods and even have therapeutic effects on the body. Green, blue, and purple tend to promote tranquility and calmness and reduce anxiety; warmer hues like yellow, orange, and red have been known to provide a mood boost, energize the body and mind, and even stimulate the central nervous system.

There are plenty of LED lights specifically designed to be submerged in the tub or installed in a shower for color therapy – and many are quite affordable and easy to install. But there are also whole soaking tubs and smart shower systems with built-in lighting. So homeowners can choose the setup that best fits their needs and experiment with different colors to see what gives them the best results!

Blow Off Steam with a Rainfall Showerhead

For every person who lives for a warm bath at the end of the day, there’s another who prefers to unwind in the steam of a nice, hot shower. For these folks, nothing could be better than a rain shower head. These tend to be larger and installed higher up in the shower (if not directly above the basin’s center) to simulate rainfall.

Their wider diameter and a larger array of nozzles mean they can provide full coverage for the entire body at once (or close to it). This can create the feeling of being effortlessly encompassed by the warmth of the water rather than having to move around to keep every part of the body warm. This can lead to some very relaxing and indulgent showers, but it can also make routine bathing faster and more enjoyable.

Most rain showerheads allow users to adjust the flow to their desired setting. Many even come with different spray configurations, massage functions, and even LED lighting and speakers so the users can listen to music or set mood lighting for an optimal experience. They also have a great aesthetic and can add value to any shower.

But when upgrading the shower or any other part of the bathroom, it’s always best to have a professional install to ensure everything is done according to the code!

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, LLC

Since opening its doors in 2010, Daniels Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, LLC have become one of Albuquerque’s most trusted and highly-rated home service contractors. Their friendly, licensed, and insured technicians always arrive on time and provide upfront pricing so homeowners can choose the right option for their budget before any work begins. They are available 24/7 for emergencies and guarantee 100% satisfaction on every job – so there’s no one better to call for bathroom remodeling in Albuquerque, NM!