Leaky faucets may sound annoying, but they can actually drive up your water bill and lead to more serious problems down the road. Trust the experts at Z PLUMBERZ of Ann Arbor, Brighton and Ypsilanti to take care of your leaky plumbing needs.
Not all plumbers are created equal. It’s important to research and find the best Plumbing Service Group Ann Arbor MI for your specific plumbing needs.
Leaky Faucets
Dripping faucets are not just annoying, but they waste water and drive up your utility bills. Moreover, the drips can lead to mold and mildew. It is therefore necessary to fix leaky faucets before they cause major damage.
The first step is to shut off the water supply. This is usually done by turning the valves located under the sink. After that, you should remove the decorative cap and screw from each handle. It is a good idea to keep track of the order in which you removed each part so that you can put them back correctly.
Depending on your type of faucet, you may need to replace the inlet seal or O-ring. If this doesn’t work, you can try replacing the valve seat. If your valve seat has been corroded, you can purchase seat-grinding tools at most hardware stores. These tools will help you reshape the valve seat to eliminate your leaky faucet.
Clogged Toilets & Drains
When toilets or drains keep getting clogged, it’s time to call a plumber. Clogged toilets and drains not only lead to frustration but can also cause damage to your home’s pipes and sewer line.
Oftentimes, the clog is caused by non-flushable items that make their way into the toilet, such as Q-tips, cotton balls, and other personal hygiene items. This can be prevented by having trashcans readily available in all bathrooms. It is also recommended to use 1-ply toilet paper instead of 2-ply, which contributes less to clogs.
If the basic methods of unclogging do not work, it may be a more serious problem such as an air vent blockage or a break in your home’s main sewer line. These can be more difficult to fix than a clogged toilet. Plumbers have a variety of tools to help clear even the most stubborn drains and sewer lines. These include manual and motorized drain snakes, high-definition cameras, and hydro-jetting machines.
Flooded Basement
If your basement is flooding, the first step to take is to shut off all power around the affected area. This includes electricity and gas. This is very important because flood water may contain sewage. Call a plumber right away for assistance.
It’s also a good idea to check your sump pump during a storm to ensure it is working correctly. It’s designed to collect excess groundwater and drain it outside, but if it fails during a heavy rainstorm or it isn’t cleaned regularly, sewage may back up into your house, causing a flooded basement.
Finally, make sure to clean and sanitize the entire area once the water recedes. This is crucial for preventing mold and mildew. Also, don’t attempt to re-drywall or install flooring until the area is completely dry. This may take days. Also, make sure to open windows and use fans for air circulation while drying the area. This will speed up the process and help prevent future flooding.
Low Water Pressure
Often, low water pressure at home is caused by the plumbing lines inside of your home. These pipes can become clogged with sediment leaving little room for water to flow through. In these situations, a plumber can clear the lines and restore normal water pressure.
The City of Ann Arbor water system contains a distribution network consisting of five ground storage reservoirs, three elevated tanks and four pump stations. The system includes 448 miles of water mains and 3,646 fire hydrants. The water supply is augmented by water storage from local wells and private tanks. Specialized backflow prevention devices prevent potentially contaminated water from being drawn into the public water supply. These devices require periodic certification and inspection.
A leaking water pipe on First Street in downtown Ann Arbor has continued to spew water into the street for weeks after it was reported to the city by residents. The city says it will address the issue next week.