Many property owners dread the moments where their sinks start to flood or when the toilet suddenly forgets how to flush. It can be quite an inconvenience to face in the mornings where there’s a rush to use water.

Drain clogs happen to many homeowners, with some even experiencing the blockages consecutively. It can be frustrating the first time it happens, so be sure to have a plumbing service saved in your contacts in case an emergency arises.

​Want to learn more about clogged drains as preparation? Here are some answers to the common questions about finding and unclogging the various drains in your home:

How Can You Tell the Drains Are Clogged?

​A clogged drain can be rather easy to spot. As implied above, it usually means that the amenities in your home start being dysfunctional. Water begins to flood in areas where it shouldn’t. Some may notice the eventual difference in the draining speed.
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Other indicators of a clogged drain are also in the smell and sound. Blockages involving food and other types of organic matter often entail foul-smelling fragrances that can be hard to stand. When you try to turn on the tap or use the flushing features, there’s also a gurgling sound.

Where Do Drain Clogs Happen?

Clogged drains occur most in the kitchen and in the bathroom. Kitchen sinks have to bear the brunt of food scraps and bits when preparing a meal. Although it may seem fine to stuff them there and believe they’ll eventually sink smoothly, some pieces don’t go down without a fight.
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The sink, shower, and toilet drain in the bathroom are also prone to clogging. It could be some tissues or other hygiene products that have been stuffed down the pipes. There’s also the possibility of accumulated hair strands or bar soaps that slipped away, never to return again.

How Do You Unclog the Drains?
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Unclogging a drain by yourself can be rather tricky, as it can often lead to more harm than good to your home. If you want to safely remove the blockage, the best option is to call up a plumber to take care of the mess for you.

From there, plumbers should be able to take out the cause of clogging. Request a bit of professional drain cleaning done to get those water channels as good as new. They would certainly be easier to maintain that way.

How Do You Clean the Drains?

Once you have your drains unclogged by a professional, it’s time to take matters back into your own hands. Maintaining clean drains takes effort and reminders to one’s self. For example, note down that pouring hot water every now and then can give your drains a reset.

A mix of vinegar and baking soda should also work when poured every few months to clean out the drains a bit more effectively. A plumbing professional’s annual inspection and drain cleaning would also be good to pencil in your schedule.

Conclusion

​Drains are used constantly throughout the week, which is why it’s important to have them clear of any clogs or blockages that can hinder their performance. Get in touch with a professional when necessary and keep things clean.

Got a plumbing emergency in Calgary, AB involving clogged drains? 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating in Canada will solve all your home’s plumbing, heating, and air conditioning issues. Contact us today!

Finding a spot where to install water softeners is a common dilemma homeowners in Edmonton face right after deciding on the style of system to use. But the immediacy of installing the new system may not permit you to take ample time to locate a good spot. If this is the case, consider hiring an emergency plumber to help you find a suitable place for water softeners and install them immediately and properly.

Keep reading to learn some tips in finding a good place to install your water softeners.

Where to Install Water Softeners

Old Spots

Installing new water softeners can be done in the spots where the old ones were installed. Since they are just replacements, it’s best to put them where the previous ones worked effectively for years.

But before installing new softeners, you may need to consider the size of your new unit and see if it matches the size of the old one. If there is a mismatch, consider putting the new device in a new spot to accommodate it adequately.

Near Water Lines

The best area to install a new water softener is a spot near the main water line so the water source will go smoothly into your home. In principle, your entire plumbing system, including your water heater, is also somewhere near the main water line. So, when installing your water softener in the same spot, you won't have difficulty installing and connecting it.

Additionally, placing your new water softener near the main water line reduces the number of pipes exposed to untreated water. In essence, your pipes are protected from possible buildup. Always place your water softener in between the main water line and the water heater.

Other Considerations for Installation Positions

Size: In placing your new water softener, you also need to consider the size of your new water system. If it is relatively larger than your old one, you will have to find a suitable position where it will best fit. Also, bear in mind that water softeners should be placed near drains as much as possible.

Temperature: Water softeners should not be directly exposed to cold temperatures or extreme heat to avoid damage. Hence, you should place your water softeners inside to prevent harsh environmental elements from ruining them.

Connections: Considering connection points will be beneficial. Make sure to place water softeners in clean places for easy piping connections and maintenance. Lastly, do not place water softeners in spots where they can absorb hot water from a nearby heater because it can damage your system, much like getting exposed to direct sunlight.

Water Softener Installation Timeframe

In most cases, water softener installations only take a few hours to complete. But it would take you longer if you decide to install them on your own without hiring professional plumbers. Residential plumbing systems are incredibly complex, and you may run into trouble if you attempt DIY solutions.

Conclusion
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Getting the services of professional plumbers in Edmonton to install your water softeners is a safe option, saving you from unwanted consequences of a misplaced system or improper installation. Experienced plumbers also know how to adjust when unexpected problems arise.

For a quick and reliable repair of emergency leaks & burst pipes, 24-hour plumbing service in Edmonton is just within your reach. 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating specializes in emergency plumbing and HVAC solutions. We offer transparent pricing and high-quality work. Book an appointment with us anytime!

How to Pick the Ideal Emergency Plumber in Edmonton

Anyone who lives in Edmonton is well aware that rain usually means there's an upcoming plumbing emergency. That's because when it pours, basements usually end up with standing water. Getting that issue addressed immediately pretty much goes without saying, right?

Urgency in addressing the issue is one thing. Directly connected with that is knowing exactly who to call. It can be hard to think clearly if you're dealing with murky floodwater, so you must have your emergency plumber on speed dial. But what if you don’t have a trusted emergency plumber on your contacts yet?

When It Comes to Emergency Plumbers, It’s Not ”One Size Fits All”

Contrary to popular belief, the term 'emergency plumber' may not always bring the same quality professional at hand. Thankfully, there are certain factors you can take into account that will help you be more specific, such as:

• Availability "after hours" (3AM, for example)
• Certification
• Education
• Specialties
• Pricing

Another key factor is how near the said plumber is to your residence, which counts towards how long it will take them to get to you.

Word of mouth is powerful, but with something as important as your pipes, you'll want more than that to go on. As much as possible, sit down with the potential plumber before there's an incident that requires their services. Ask them questions so you can make an informed decision as to whether to hire them or not.

Questions to Ask the Emergency Plumber before Working With Them

Ask About After-Hours Availability

A good rule of thumb is to get an emergency plumber who specializes in plumbing issues "after hours", which means anything outside 8AM to 5PM.

Weather shifts have triggered many plumbing emergencies, which means in those cases, you're not the only one searching Edmonton for a plumber to help. When looking into a 24-hour plumber in Edmonton, be sure you know the experience level of the company's roster. Be sure to find out more details regarding the on-call system of the plumbing companies you're looking into.

Ask about Pricing

You don't want to call for help for an emergency only to end up with a hefty price to pay for your already-heavy problem. Make sure to ask if there are extra charges for services in the evening and on weekends. Many reputable companies with emergency services tend not to charge extra. Don't forget to ask and get the details before a hiring need actually arises.

Ask about Their Credentials

Recommendations from family and friends are great, but nothing will beat your own research. Ask about the certifications of your potential plumber. Plumbers in Alberta, for example, should have certain licenses with set on-the-job technical training hours under their belt. Prior to hiring a plumber, make sure they have the right certificates, licenses, and experiences at hand.

While you're at it, ask about the insurance policy of the plumbing company. Credible ones have insurance in place on the off chance there's an error on the plumber's end.

Conclusion

Plumbing emergencies can be rather stressful, so it's vital to know who to call. Emergency plumbers are not a "one size fits all.” While searching for the ideal plumbing company, ask about their credentials, pricing, and after-hours availability. That way, you’ll be able to assess if you should work with that particular emergency plumber.

Looking for a reliable 24-hour plumbing service in Edmonton to help manage your water pipes? Contact 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating today! We can help solve all your plumbing, heating, and air conditioning problems.

Your furnace plays a major role in your comfort by keeping you and your family warm in winter. However, it can be dangerous if your heating system is not properly maintained. When left unattended, it can cause fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Obviously, you don’t want an emergency to happen before you discover that your furnace needs immediate attention. To determine if it requires emergency repairs, here are signs to watch out for to save you and your loved ones from disastrous consequences:

1) Unusual Noises
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Although you don’t expect your furnace to be completely quiet when it runs, some bothersome or overly loud noises it makes can indicate a worrying problem. Unusual sounds that could be cause for concern are loud banging, screeching, and rattling.

These sounds likely come from loose parts and components. The issue will get worse if you don’t do anything about it, and it could end up damaging the furnace beyond repair. So if your system is making such noises, call in an emergency repair service.

3) Strange Odours
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A musty odour coming from your furnace is normal because it could indicate a dirty air filter. However, be wary of the smell of rotten eggs, burning plastic, smoke, gas, or chemicals since they can signify a serious problem. Besides risk of fire from burnt components, carbon monoxide poisoning can be its cause. As soon as you smell any of these odours, shut down your system and seek furnace repair right away.

4) Yellow Gas Light
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Your gas furnace’s light should be blue. If your pilot light is a yellow flame, this may be caused by a lack of oxygen and incomplete combustion. This means it will not get hot enough to open the gas valve, indicating a carbon monoxide gas leak. If this occurs, turn your system off and reach out to furnace emergency experts.

5) Low or No Heat Output

A faulty furnace putting out minimal or no heat at all could be caused by a minor problem, like a clogged air filter. While this issue might not seem a big deal, it could also be an emergency if it’s too cold indoors and you don’t have another source of heat in your home. To enjoy warmth when you need it the most, seek an emergency repair service.

6) Excessive Dust
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Your furnace accumulates dust over time since it pulls air from the outside to keep you warm. However, excessive dust is not a good sign because it can indicate irreparable damage. This could cause extreme discomfort, especially in the winter.

Conclusion
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As a property owner, it’s important to recognize these warning signs for immediate furnace maintenance. It’s also essential to know how to tell the difference between a minor issue and an emergency. You can’t be too careful, so if you are unsure about what’s wrong with your heating system, it’s best to turn it off in the meantime and ask professionals.

At 24 Hour Plumbing Heating, we offer emergency furnace repair in Edmonton and other areas. Our technicians can help keep you and your family warm and comfortable by providing complete furnace inspection and repair, filter repair and replacement, furnace installation, and overall maintenance. Contact us to schedule an appointment!

For most of us, water heaters are essential home appliances. They ultimately allow us to experience better home life and, consequently, better hygiene practices. However, just like anything else, water heaters undergo a wear and tear process and require maintenance.

There is no doubt that a well-maintained water heater works better and may cost you less on repairs over time. If you are experiencing difficulties and you do not know what your next step should be, check below for some indicators of typical issues and know when to repair or replace your water heater:

It’s Producing Dirty or Rusty Water

If your kitchen sink, bath, or shower has brown or rust-coloured water, it could be time to replace your water heater. Rust is a clear indicator that your inland water pipes and tanks are damaged and may lead to leaks shortly after. If you can see rust outside your tank, it's probably coming from the inside.

Although rust in water does not always imply replacement, sometimes unavoidable corrosion can occur, which may wear out the rod and lead to rusty water. In this case, you may want to seek a professional plumbing inspection before buying a new water heater.

The Water Isn’t Hot

Nobody enjoys an unexpected blow of an ice-cold shower. As water heaters age, they become less and less efficient in heating water due to sediment accumulation.

If your heater is still relatively new and a damaged heating element is the problem, you may hire a registered plumber to repair the component. Sometimes you may consider that the water heater is not faulty—only too small for a big home or family use. The more people use the water heater, the more you will need to replace your small unit with a larger one.

The Hot Water Tank Is Leaking

Wear, tear, and time will depreciate your water heater, but leaks are usually a negative indicator for almost any home appliance and may be at risk of explosions, among other unfortunate accidents.

It is probably time to replace your heater if you find water collected around your heater base. For this, immediately call a specialist to look into your unit.

You Are Hearing Odd Noises

Odd sounds such as popping, cracking, rumbling, or pounding should alarm you. Contact a hot water repair specialist if you hear strange noises that might indicate additional faults, which can prove to be dangerous in the long run. When it comes to your home, safety is paramount!

There’s Sediment Build Up In Your Water Tank

You probably have a buildup of sediment at the bottom of your water heater tank if your hot water seems muddy or sandy. You can clean up the sediment or contact an emergency plumber, but if the problem persists, such as leaks and corrosion, it might be time to replace your water heater.

Conclusion

You may be observing these danger signals at home whenever you use your water heater. Or perhaps your water heater is ancient, and you find yourself frequently calling for repairs. Either way, you must assess if you must repair or replace your unit. If you need more assistance, don’t hesitate to contact a professional warm-water specialist for an evaluation first.

Are you looking for 24-hour plumbing services? For all your plumbing needs, 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating can provide you with quick and quality service! Our team specializes in HVAC, sump pump installation, emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, septic tank repairs, and more. Book your appointment now!