FAQ
Serving Commercial & Residential Customers in Lynchburg, VA & Beyond
These are the most frequently asked plumbing related questions that we get from our customers. We thought providing a page for these questions would be beneficial to our customers. We offer answers to many questions such as How long will a water heater last and How do I eliminate the foul odor coming from my garbage disposal?. Simply scroll down to find your question!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I run out of hot water?
Most likely your water heater is not working properly. A technician would first check to make sure your water heater is working. If it appears to be in good working order, then we would discuss the possible need for a larger water heater.
How hot should my home’s water be?
The manufacturers recommended hot water setting is 120 degrees. Anything higher than that temperature could become dangerous for small children or elderly people.
Why does it take so long to get hot water?
You’re standing at the sink, waiting for hot water to come out but it takes forever! That’s because the hot water has to get from the heater to the faucet. If the water heater is physically located a long distance away from the faucet, it’s going to take a long time to get there. There are solutions to this problem. It would probably save you money in the long run to install a recirculation system to keep hot water at the faucet.
How long will a water heater last?
This is something that’s definitely variable. It depends on many different factors. For example, water quality and how much the system is used will make a difference on how long it lasts. We typically say that a water heater installed today will last around 8-12 years.
Why do I have such low water pressure in my home?
When most people ask for water pressure, they’re really asking for water volume. It could be caused by a number of factors. The street pressure that’s being provided to you might be low. You may be using a well that doesn’t have much water. Maybe you have old pipes that are like clogged arteries. The way to increase volume is to install booster pumps, fix the well situation, or replace the pipe to get rid of the clogged arteries in the plumbing system.
What should I do if my kitchen sink is draining slowly?
First, we would recommend trying to use a plunger. We do not recommend using chemical drain cleaners because they can be caustic the pipes/parts and you.
How do I eliminate the foul odor coming from my garbage disposal?
This is a common plumbing troubleshooting question. Foul odors occur from a buildup of food debris within the disposal. To eliminate odors, place ice cubes and/or lemon peels or orange peels in the disposal, and run for 30 seconds. Next, squirt a little liquid dish detergent into the disposer while it is still running. Finally, run cold water for about 30 seconds to rinse all the debris away.
What is the recommendation for replacing a toilet in my home?
When considering any new fixture for your home, we recommend that you choose a fixture made by one of the major manufacturers. If cracks or fissures are present in the tank or bowl, this can impede the operation of the fixture. Poor mounting and deteriorating rings and seals can affect the operation as well.
What could be the cause of my recent high water bills?
You may want to check to see if a toilet is leaking or if a handle is getting stuck causing constant running water. Check the water level in the tank to see if water is overflowing into the overflow pipe. This is the pipe in the middle of the tank which has a small tube connected to it. In the event water is running into the overflow pipe, adjust the fill valve to stop the flow approximately one inch below the top of the overflow tube or to the water level mark stamped on the side of the tank.
What to Do With a Plumbing Problem?
Plumbing problems have two options — fix it yourself or call a plumber. You may be more than capable of fixing a clogged toilet or preventing frozen pipes over winter, but many plumbing tasks are safer in the hands of experienced plumbers. The best solution for clogs, leaks, low water pressure and intrusive roots is to call a plumber. DIY solutions may provide temporary relief to certain problems, but a plumbing professional will have the experience and tools to set your plumbing system right.