Getting your plumbing system regularly checked is crucial. Dealing with plumbing issues is a huge inconvenience, which is why minor issues must be addressed immediately. Regular plumbing checks may help identify any minor issues that could be detrimental to the overall system in the future.

Before a plumbing service, there are some things you need to prepare to help make the process go smoothly.

Find Where the Main Shut Off Valve is Located

A plumber will start off their service by asking you where the main shut-off valve is. If you don’t know where it is, it’s a good idea to try to locate it even before your plumber arrives. 

The mainline valve keeps water pressure at bay. If there’s a leak in your water lines and this valve doesn’t work, you could be facing a major mess.

In most cases, your plumber can help you locate the main valve; however, you will be wasting valuable time. It’s important you know where the main shut-off valve is even if you’re not due for a plumbing service. This is because many valves tend to seize over time if not turned at least twice a year, and that’s something you could do by yourself. Small maintenance tasks like these could very well end up helping you minimize the need for emergency services! 

Clear the Work Area

If there’s a specific area in your house you need your plumber to look into or repair, it’s best to clear the area even before he arrives. Remove all unnecessary items and make sure the plumber will have enough room to work on, especially if it’s under the kitchen sink. If the problem is in your basement, clear the area where the issue is located. 

Clean the Toilet

Plumbers often get called a lot for toilet issues, and many homeowners fail to clean their toilets before the plumber arrives. If a toilet is overflowing, it’s understandable that it’s not clean. However, with other toilet work, a clean toilet will be very much appreciated.

Clear Snow and Ice

Plumbers do appreciate a cleared and salted walkway to your home because they usually carry a huge bag of tools and equipment, which can make balancing a bit tricky. So, take a moment to clear snow and ice on your pathways to help your plumber get inside your house safely and comfortably. 

Keep Pets Safe

Even if the plumber is comfortable around pets, it’s best to keep them away from the work area so they don’t step on parts or tools or distract the plumber while he’s working.

Make it Easy for Your Plumber

Many homeowners don’t prepare so much for a plumbing service. However, doing these preparations can save you a lot of time and at the same time, they will be very much appreciated by your plumber. Your plumber wants to get the job done as thoroughly and as fast as possible, and they can’t do it without a little help from you.

So, the next time you’re up for plumbing service, make sure you prepare to help the process go as smoothly as possible. In the end, this will save you a lot of time and your plumber can get down to business immediately. 

Do you have a plumbing emergency in Langley 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating can address plumbing issues at any time of the day? Request an appointment now.

The furnace is one of the most important things in your home, especially during the cold months. Furnaces can keep you warm and comfortable. However, when something goes wrong, it can be a hassle to deal with the cold. Besides feeling cold and uncomfortable inside your home, you’re in for potentially expensive repair costs. That’s why you need to be prepared for the usual problems that may arise with your furnace.
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Here are some common issues you need to watch out for:

– Dirty Burners

The burners in your furnace can get dirty. When they do, they can create issues, such as delayed ignition that will add a lot of extra stress on your furnace. No matter how much you change your filters, your burners can still get dirty.

– Electrical Connections

Your furnace needs an excellent electrical connection to ensure your system is working properly. When electrical wires are old or frayed, they can lead to problems with your heating system. If you notice delayed responses and poor heating, they may indicate issues with your electrical connections.

– Pilot Light

Homeowners with a natural gas furnace will be dealing with a pilot light. The pilot light must have a steady, blue flame at all times. If your pilot light won’t stay lit for very long or is discoloured, it could be a sign that something is wrong with it and needs repairs.

– Poor Airflow

Do you notice a weak airflow coming out from your furnace? There are many reasons for this, such as a dirty filter or leaky ducts. These issues may make it difficult for heater air to get into the home. In this case, you need to check your filters and be mindful of weakening airflow.

Look Out for These Issues

When you know about these potential furnace repairs you may encounter, it will be easier for you to be on the lookout for issues. Regular inspections of your furnace are crucial, if you want to ensure that it’s working well. It’s even more important when you’re not using it.
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Besides hiring professional help to inspect your furnace, you must also know how to do it independently. By doing so, you will be able to catch furnace issues early on that can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.

Conclusion

An effective way to keep your furnace in good condition is to ensure that it is maintained properly. A huge part of that maintenance is you, which is why it’s crucial you know the potential repairs you could encounter with your furnace. That way, you will be able to keep an eye out for any issues. The earlier you address them, the better!

Make sure you have a reliable company that can address your furnace concerns as soon as possible. Having professional inspections and maintenance will go a long way to ensure your heating system is working at its best to keep your home warm and cozy during the colder months.
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Do you have a furnace emergency in Calgary, AB? We can help you here at 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating. Contact us today to schedule a service!

Your plumbing system is installed in the house for two reasons: distributing water supply and disposing of wastewater. Yet nothing can be more alarming than plumbing issues, such as water leaks, low water pressure, damaged components, or worst, flooding. Yes, there are various reasons your plumbing system gets subject to wear and tear, but did you know that hard water can be one of the culprits?

In this article, we’ll share with you the impact of hard water on your plumbing system. Keep on reading as well to see how you can address this plumbing problem through emergency plumbers.

What Is Hard Water?

Simply put, hard water is fluids with high mineral content. It has a high concentration of calcium, magnesium, and other minerals in the water for the most part. It is formed whenever the water filters through limestone, chalk, or gypsum deposits. As you may or may not be aware, these deposits consist of calcium and magnesium that get mixed with water, resulting in hard water.

In general, hard water isn’t detrimental to the human body when drunk, but it can especially be harmful to your plumbing system. If left unattended for long periods, it can cause corrosion, clogging, and even leakages to your plumbing system. When confronted with a plumbing emergency in Calgary, be sure to contact our plumbers immediately at 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating, as we offer a 24-hour plumbing service with quick and reliable repairs!

How Does Hard Water Impact Your Plumbing System?

Now, let’s take a look at how hard water can affect your plumbing system. Take note of the following details:

1. Scale buildup: This accumulation happens when calcium and magnesium ions react with your soap chemical compounds. As a result, salts are formed, and they settle in your plumbing system as limescale. Then, these deposits can cause corrosion and lead to the deterioration of your plumbing system.
2. Clogged plumbing: When the limescale deposits get accumulated inside the plumbing pipes, they can form layers covering the plumbing walls and escalate to potential clogging.
3. Changing water pressure: In line with clogged plumbing systems, the mineral buildup can reduce the pipe’s diameter and cause some water pressure changes.
4. Significant damages: If the problems above are left unattended, they all can escalate to severe plumbing damages. The last thing you’ll ever want to happen at home is to deal with a broken pipe or burst of water.

How Can You Address a Hard-Water Problem?

If you’re looking for practical ways to address a hard water problem at home, here’s what you can do:

1. Boil ‘temporary’ hard water, as doing so can precipitate the dissolved minerals out of the water.
2. Remove soap scum with the use of hard water cleaning solutions.
3. Use washing soda if you’re doing the laundry as it’s best for softening hard water.
4. Use white vinegar to get rid of hard water stains.
5. Install a water softener in your faucet.
6. Have proper disposal of wastes in your plumbing system, whether in the kitchen sink, shower drains, or toilet.

Conclusion

At this point, you now know that something as simple as hard water can cause issues and damages to your home’s plumbing system. To that end, be sure to consider all the valuable information above and follow the recommended tips. If you’re confronted with some plumbing problems, get in touch with a professional emergency plumber as soon as possible to remedy the situation!
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Do you want to avoid a plumbing emergency in Calgary through regular maintenance? Then you have come to the right place! We provide 24/7 expert plumbing and HVAC services across North America for both commercial and residential properties. Connect with us today to book an appointment or learn more about our services!

Winter is here, and a lot of things in your home may be under unique stress. Your septic tank may be at risk during this time due to the cold weather, snow, and the guests that come to your house. Surely, you don’t want to deal with a septic tank problem, especially in the middle of winter! Here are some potential issues you may encounter and how to avoid them: 

– Tank Components Are Frozen

When snow gets deep into your septic tank’s components, it can freeze them, or worse, the entire system. Frozen tank components will slow down the metabolic rate of anaerobic bacteria in the tank. In turn, the waste will not be broken down. 

Avoid this by adding an insulating cover or blanket to your tank to keep it warm during the winter. It will also help to run your water and use the septic system every day to reduce the risk of freezing.
 
– Snow and Soil Are Compacted

Driving over snow with your vehicle can compact the snow above the tank. Combined with the cold weather, this can make the soil above the tank dense and compact. When this happens, it won’t be able to insulate your tank effectively, which will lead to a frozen septic system.

Avoid this by aerating your soil before winter and as much as possible, avoid driving over the parts of your lawn.
 
– Pipes Are Not Functioning Properly

Leaky or clogged pipes often lead to improper drainage. Moreover, leaks during winter can cause the water to freeze, which can damage the septic system. On the other hand, clogs can cause wastewater to build up in the pipes, which can also freeze. When wastewater freezes, it can damage your system and contaminate the water you drink at home. 
Avoid this by fixing leaky pipes before winter and address any clogs as soon as you notice them. 

– Overworked System

If you have guests during the holiday season, your septic system can become overworked because there will be an increase in showers and laundry. Also, the preparation of holiday meals can contribute to an overworked septic system as well. 

You can avoid this by staggering showers and laundry usage. It will also be a good idea to stagger food preparation over a few days.
 
– Difficulties in Pumping the Tank

You will find that it’s more challenging to pump your septic tank in the winter. This is because the ground is hard and frozen, and the snow on the lawn makes digging into the yard even more challenging. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t perform maintenance during this time of the year. You still can, but you can save yourself from the hassle by having your tank pumped the moment you realize it’s about to be full. Early pumping before the ground is frozen will decrease the chances of necessary maintenance during the cold months.
 
Conclusion

Knowing the potential septic tank issues in the winter and how you can avoid them are important. Should you come across any of these problems, make sure you have a professional handle them. 
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Here at 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating, our emergency plumbers in Calgary, AB can help you out. Contact us today.

No matter where you live or what time of the year it is, functional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (also known as HVAC) systems are a must. However, no matter how well these essential systems are maintained, there is still an off-chance of them breaking down during times when they are needed the most. Knowing this, it is vital to have an HVAC service company at your disposal when you need help with the repair of these machines.

During instances when your HVAC system breaks down or malfunctions, you should have the contact information of the repair service. These companies will be able to come to your aid and help you, no matter what time of the day or night it is. 

Emergencies That May Require The Help of an HVAC Technician

Even if you think that you are able to maintain your HVAC system on your own, it may be best to contact an HVAC repair specialist in these following circumstances.
 
1) Air Conditioning Failure

There is no worse time for an air conditioning system to fail than during a heat wave in summer. Sometimes, though, it happens. It is best to call an HVAC repair service instead of trying to repair the air conditioning system. This becomes even more true if there are people living in the home who have certain medical conditions that may worsen because of heat. Having a professional repair the machine will be a much more convenient and quicker option.

2) No Heat or Airflow From The HVAC System

A heating system is designed to help normalize temperatures in a home during the cold, winter months. If the heating system suddenly stops working during winter, a technician should be called as soon as possible. Temperatures in the home can plummet, which is why it is critical for a technician to arrive on the scene to fix the machine at the soonest possible moment.

3) Strange Smells

HVAC systems do not typically expel funky-smelling air. If any out-of-the-ordinary smells start coming out of the HVAC system, there may be a chance that there is something going wrong internally. The air may be an indicator of contaminants, mildew or other potentially harmful unseen elements. A technician should be alerted the moment any strange smells are noticed. 

4) Concerns about Safety

There may be times when your HVAC system may no longer be able to do its job of providing clean air and making a home comfortable to live in. As the age of the HVAC system increases, its effectiveness may decrease. This becomes more true if the HVAC system is not maintained as often as it is meant to be. 

Conclusion

Making sure that your HVAC system is always in tip-top condition will ensure that you and your family will be able to live comfortably in your home, no matter what kind of weather is present outside. Even if your HVAC system is well-maintained, having the contact information of an HVAC repair company will give you peace of mind.

24 Hour Plumbing and Heating specializes in problems relating to plumbing and heating systems. We will solve all your plumbing, heating and air conditioning problems. Our team is specialized in emergency plumbing and HVAC. Stop searching for “AC repair near me” and contact us instead for immediate help with your HVAC system.

With the winter season in full swing and temperatures far lower than many expected, we’ve all probably spent most of the past few weeks covered up in our blankets with cups of hot cocoa in our hands.

Among the different tools, appliances, and little bits that have helped us through the coldest time of the year so far, our furnaces have undoubtedly made the biggest difference. Even though many may believe that the scarves, thick socks, and double-layer pyjamas will suffice, the truth is that these don’t deflect the freezing cold better than a furnace itself.

As you go through the entire process of making it through the cold and keeping cozy before summer sets in, your comfy self is bound to grow more dependent on this heating appliance. By the time you’ve grown accustomed to the feeling of being in a winter wonderland where you don’t freeze yourself, the unthinkable ends up happening: your furnace stops working.

Got a Dead Furnace? Here Are Some Common Factors to Check

No matter how indestructible your heater may seem, it’s best to acknowledge the fact that it isn’t bulletproof and can conk out at any time.

Admittedly, having your trusty heating appliance suddenly die out can make for a rather frightening experience because of how drastic things can get in such a short period. The moment your system conks out, you’re essentially set up for a race against time wherein each second that passes lead to quick decreases in temperature that will get unbearable.

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation wherein your furnace has stopped working, then there’s no need to worry because here’s a checklist of different things to check:

[ 1 ] Dirty Furnace Filters

Often linked to instances wherein a furnace starts firing up but doesn’t blow heat as hard as normal, dirty air filters are often the culprits behind inefficiently-performing furnaces. Such sudden shutdowns and “dead” furnaces typically result from this problem because filters trap dust, dirt, and debris to the point where they restrict or block vital airflow. Once enough dirt and other particles accumulate, the furnace filters will block everything and cause the heat exchanger to overheat, preventing your furnace from working optimally.

​When it comes to dealing with a dirty furnace filter, the most optimal course of action is to contact a heating expert like 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating to facilitate the replacement ASAP!

[ 2 ] Thermostat-Related Issues

Another common reason furnaces conk out and leave poor homeowners stranded and freezing during a blizzard, or heavy amounts of snow is thermostat-related issues.

Often regarded as the “control center” of a heating system, thermostats play a key role in the functionality of the appliance in question. This means that they can end up compromising a system’s functionality if they go out. If you find yourself in such a situation, here are two steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:

1. Set your thermostat to heat instead of cool, then set it to 5 degrees above room temperature
2. Replace the thermostat’s batteries with appropriate options

Conclusion

There’s no denying that dealing with a dead furnace in the middle of an ever-strong Canadian winter can be nothing short of difficult because of how inconvenient everything can quickly become. Thankfully, following this guide will help set you on the right path towards getting your trusty appliance back in shape to prevent yourself from freezing!
Do you have a furnace emergency in Calgary, AB, that needs to be solved ASAP? Look no further because we’ve got you covered! Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment with our experts so that we can get your problem sorted out right away!

Septic tanks may not get the most positive reaction when mentioned, but they are extremely useful devices, especially in rural areas that don’t have extensive sewage connections. These are typically found in the ground and are made of concrete, plastic, or fibreglass, processing domestic wastewater for basic treatment as a basic on-site sewage facility.
Like any plumbing fixture, septic tanks are also susceptible to issues. However, given the nature of a septic tank’s function, any faulty parts that could cause overflowing are a homeowner’s worst nightmare! Learning about some of the basic problems that such a fixture can undergo will help you know when to call for emergency plumbing services near you.

Keep an Eye Out for Warning Signs

It’s better to prevent a problem from occurring than it is to fix it when it’s already gotten much worse. Keeping a lookout for warning signs in your septic tank will help you address it swiftly and properly.

If any of the following signs are present, you may want to consult with your local plumber:

1. Standing water or damp spots near the septic tank area;
2. Any gurgling sounds coming from your plumbing system;
3. Slow water and sewage drainage than usual that backs up into the property;
4. Unpleasant odours around the septic tank and drain field; and
5. Growth of lush, bright green grass around the septic tank.

These signs should alert you to potential problems with your septic tank, which could be due to any of the following:

– Inconsistent Maintenance

This is the usual problem, and it’s quite easy to avoid, especially since it’s absolutely necessary to regularly get your tank emptied. Depending on the tank you have, this could happen as often as four to five times a year, while once or twice will suffice for others.

Make sure you set an appointment with a trusted plumbing company to avoid missing the basic essential preventive maintenance procedures.

– Ground Disturbances

While septic tanks are quite sturdy, even a small nudge could have a great effect like fractures or cracks in its walls.

– Wandering Tree Roots

Out of all the causes, this may be the most difficult to control because you don’t know which way plants’ roots will grow.
Positioning your septic tank in a location away from large trees or plants with thick roots will prevent them from growing right through the tank’s walls. These protrusions can cause leaks in the tank and prevent it from working properly, creating an awful mess in the surrounding area when it bursts.

– Baffle and Dip Pipes Damages

The baffle is the barrier in a septic tank that prevents any solids from entering the soak-away system. Should the baffle collapse, all of those lumpy bits could cause blockages that make your wastewater back up into your house. Dip pipes work hand in hand with the baffle to ensure that the right type of water flows into the soak-away system. Issues with this will also lead to backups in your pipes.

– Vehicular Damage

Though septic tanks are placed safely underground, some can be affected by heavy vehicles, like tractors. This is especially true in the countryside!

Other cars may end up parking right on top of it as well, depending on where it’s located on the premises. This added weight can put pressure on your septic tank and potentially damage it. Too-heavy vehicles might even cause it to collapse, which could lead to disastrous results.

Conclusion

The septic tank is a valuable plumbing fixture that needs to be maintained properly in order to avoid damage. Issues with septic tanks that grow into much bigger problems can lead to messy consequences, so it’s best to get it routinely checked. By knowing the common issues that these plumbing systems are prone to, you can be ready to call the nearest plumber in your area before it’s too late.

At 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating, our team specializes in everything to do with plumbing and HVAC systems. We can handle all types of plumbing emergencies in Calgary! Some of our services include drain cleaning, septic tank repairs and fixes, heating and air conditioning, and more. Book an appointment with us today!

As it is often said, the kitchen is the heart of a home because it is where you prepare meals, and everyone gathers for meaningful conversation.

Imagine you’re in the kitchen and are about to prepare a meal for the family. At that moment, you begin to notice a funky smell that begins to disturb your attention. You check your garbage disposal, and it’s not coming from there; you check your trash bin, and it’s still not there. Where is it coming from?
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After a bit more search, you realize that the nasty smell is coming from your drains! Sinks are where smelly drains often stem from because of the food that is washed down them. However, you can also have smelly drains from the tub or shower.

What Causes Foul Drain Smells?

There are many causes behind smelly drains. For one, debris like food scraps, grease, hair, or soap residue that line your pipes may cause the drain to smell because of the bacteria they attract that releases these nasty odours. Clogged drain pipes or vents can also leave you with stale odours because they promote sluggish water movement.
 
Other than that, even mould and mildew may cause nasty-smelling drains. Yet, it could also be due to sewer gases that rise up from the drains.
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In the case that you smell a rotten egg smell, it could be due to a bacteria that is in your hot water tank that reacts with the sulphates in your water. Last but not least, plumbing mistakes may cause a bad smell to come from your drains. A missing P-trap or drain vent can cause strong odours, as well as leaks or rotting drain tubes. 

How Do You Get Rid Of The Smell?

When you have determined the cause of the nasty odour, it’s time to eliminate it by using the following tips:

1. For debris build-up: Boil water, add vinegar, and slowly pour the mixture down the drain and wait for a few minutes before you run some cold water. After that, pour the remainder of the solution down the drain to wash away everything. You can also use a baking soda and vinegar mixture by letting the solution fizz and settle for an hour, then rinsing it with hot water. 
2. For clogged P-traps: Remove the curved portion of the plumbing and empty it out. Then, rinse the P-trap with a garden hose. 
3. For sewer gases: Have water regularly running through all the drains to prevent sewer gases from rising to your drains. For drains that aren’t used very often, pour some mineral oil into the drain to slow down water evaporation from the pipes. 
4. For water sulphates: Turn up your hot water temperature for a short period. Once it had time to heat up, turn off the main water supply line, attach a garden house to the lower drain port, and empty the tank into the floor drains. 
5. For mould and mildew: This task is best left for expert plumbers because they have the expertise and tools to effectively determine the cause of mould and mildew and remove them from the pipes.

​Getting rid of the nasty drain smells may seem easy at first. Yet, if you have tried various tricks and nothing seems to work, that’s the time you need professional help!

Conclusion

At this point, you now know the various causes of nasty drain odour and the various steps to overcome it. For times when that nasty smell just won’t go away after doing home solutions, there could be something else going on behind your plumbing system that may require professional intervention. If that’s the case, take the time to find a reliable plumber in your area to ensure the best service that could completely eliminate that nasty drain smell. 
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Are you looking for reliable 24-hour plumbing service? At Emergency Plumbing & Heating, we have over 20 years of experience providing top-quality plumbing services, and our experts are dedicated to top-quality customer services. Get in touch with us today to schedule your appointment!

The holiday season is around the corner, which means it’s time for celebrations and get-togethers again. While the festivities this year will certainly be different from the rest, one thing remains the same: your home will be at its busiest during this time. Your kitchens will be full of merry preparations, and your living room will be full of gay chatter.

Considering all of these, the holidays aren’t the best time for you to deal with a plumbing emergency. You can’t afford to let a slow draining sink, a clogged shower drain, or a running toilet spoil your festive mood!

It is for this reason that you must be on the lookout for potential issues before the hectic preparations ensue. Aside from that, you must also strive to prevent problems before they happen.

On that note, here are the top three things you need to be mindful of during this holiday season:

1) Food Residue on Your Kitchen Sink

This time of the year is best characterized by food preparations here and there.
As you rush to get your holiday meals ready, you may not notice bits of food falling down your sink and into your drains. Sometimes, you may even be aware of this but choose to turn a blind eye because of your hectic schedule.
However, you should know that this can clog your drains in no time, exposing you to major plumbing problems.
To avoid slow draining or clogged sinks, always dispose of food residue in the trash. Then, watch out for fats, oils and grease—never let them go down the drain!

2) Your Guests for the Holidays

It’s not an uncommon practice to have extended family or friends over for the holidays. However, it pays to remember that this means your bathrooms will have to work twice as hard.

If you will be entertaining guests for the holidays, make sure to let them know that trash must not be flushed down the toilet. While this may seem like common sense, there’s no harm in giving out a polite reminder. If anything, this will help you ensure a fun and stress-free vacation!

3) Your Water Heater

When you have more people over, your water heater will also have to accommodate increased demand. Sometimes, this may lead to simple problems such as hot water running out now and then.
However, you should also remember that this time of the year has the coldest temperatures. The chilly season can bring about expansion and contraction in your water heater. In the worst cases, this can result in leaks and, eventually, flooding.

To avert this disaster and keep hot water flowing to your home, it is best to keep up with your routine maintenance. This will help ensure that your water heater stays in tip-top shape to brave the holiday season.

Conclusion

The holiday season is the time of the year for celebrations, festivities, and scrumptious meals. It’s the time for merrymaking, so you should strive to keep plumbing disasters at bay. A great way to do this is by watching out for the three points listed above. Keeping your sink clear, reminding your guests of proper toilet use, and regularly maintaining your water heater are simple yet effective steps to protecting your plumbing system—and avoiding holiday mayhems!

If you are dealing with a plumbing emergency in Calgary, AB, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us right away! We provide round-the-clock services across North America to solve all your plumbing, heating, and air conditioning problems.

Furnaces are lifesavers during the winter as they keep you toasty and comfortable inside your home. However, they can easily experience wear and tear over time, especially if they are not cared for regularly. If you suspect an issue with your furnace, remember that heating system repairs can be costly, but it often gives warning signs before they shut down completely. With that, you need to be mindful of these signs to help you spot an issue before it gets worse and costs you a lot of money. 
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In this article, we will share eight signs your heating system needs immediate repairs:

– Faulty Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide detectors near your heating system are crucial. This is because the gas is colourless and odourless, meaning that you won’t even notice its presence until you start experiencing significant health issues. If you are exposed to carbon monoxide, it is a life-threatening emergency, so it’s crucial to ensure that the detector is working.
 
– Signs Of Leak

An obvious sign that there’s a leak in your furnace is when you smell natural gas or heating oil. When you smell this, make sure to shut the system down before it leads to more severe situations. After that, be sure to call an expert immediately to remedy the furnace leak.

– Loud Banging Noises

Is your furnace making loud banging noises? Remember that such issues must not be ignored. You might even start hearing sounds like whistling, squealing, rattling, booming, banging, and even a humming sound. This usually signals that the heating system may be breaking down soon.
 
– Electrical Issues

Does your heating system trip often? Or have you been having difficulty turning it on? You may even notice buzzing and dimming lights when you turn on your heating system. Make sure to check out the wiring for signs of burns or corrosion and have an expert look at the system.
 
– Lack Of Warm Air

If your heating system is running but is not producing heat, you need to contact your provider. After that, do not attempt to continue running the system because you can easily do permanent damage to it.

– Excessive Window Condensation

Your furnace helps regulate the moisture in your indoor air to a certain degree, but it should not add moisture dramatically. If you notice high levels of condensation on your windows and glass doors, you need to have your furnace checked right away. This could be a sign of various internal issues that need to be addressed.

– High Energy Bills

As your furnace ages, it will become less effective, which is also why it will work harder as it ages. As a result, you can expect to deal with higher energy bills. Even if you don’t notice extra cycling, you will likely notice a spike in your power bills. If you suspect your bills are increasing, and have compared the costs for the last few years, then it’s probably time for a repair or a complete replacement.

– Poor Indoor Air Quality

​Many furnace issues are often due to systems that sit dormant for a significant portion of the year. When this happens, the furnace gathers lots of dust and debris that can blow through your home, especially if you have not maintained the system. When this happens, the air that comes out from the furnace will compromise your indoor air quality. 

Conclusion

At this point, you now know the signs to look out for when determining whether or not your furnace needs a repair or replacement. When you notice any of the signs mentioned above early on, you can save yourself from costly repairs or replacement. At the same time, make sure you invest in having your furnace maintained so that you don’t have to put a dent in your pocket!
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Are you looking for reliable HVAC service? Then you have come to the right place. At Emergency Plumbing & Heating, we have qualified contractors who can work on your furnace right away so that you remain warm during the winter. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

The upcoming holidays are a chance for people to gather and spend time with each other. This is usually when families get together, with people holed up in school and work getting their much-needed rest to hang out with their relatives. It can also be a breather for companies to switch from being in work mode to introduce some fun and celebrations once and a while.

Since it’s not the best idea to gather in public areas due to COVID-19, most of our festivities will mostly be inside homes. Although it provides a more comfortable and casual setting, house parties can be very stressful for your home’s plumbing. If you’re planning to be a host for a holiday party, you may want to brace your plumbing to avoid any mishaps during the celebration.

How to Prepare Your Home’s Plumbing for Holiday

Being a host for a house party makes you the center of attention for the event. Nevertheless, this also puts you with a massive responsibility of providing for your guests’ needs. Besides seating, food, and drinks, you should also maintain your plumbing. The more people you bring over, the more likely your pipelines can have problems due to overuse.

Before your guests arrive at your doorstep, here are three plumbing preparations you should do:

1) Provide Extra Trash Bins

It can be an unhealthy habit to throw trash like cigarette butts down the toilet. When you’re inviting friends or acquaintances over to your home, you should be ready to provide extra toilet paper and extra trash bins to match the number of people. These extra bins should account for bathroom waste like cotton swabs, disposable wipes, and feminine hygiene products.

Make it a point to inform your guests about your bathroom trash cans or leave a note inside your bathrooms so that they will avoid flushing anything down the toilet. You may want to replace these trash bins a few hours into your party to ensure that you won’t have an overflow of trash.

2) Keep a Plunger and Auger for Emergencies

Even though you have preventative measures in place, you can still experience some plumbing issues during the day of the event. These emergencies can be due to different causes and fixtures, from clogged sinks to blocked toilets. This is why it’s best to keep an auger or plunger to dislodge any soils and substances in your drains and pipelines.

3) Keep Your Guests Away from Your Garbage Disposal

After every party, the cleanup can be a considerable task to do by yourself. The piles of plates, dishes, and cups may be too much for you to handle. Generally, some polite houseguests may offer to help clean your home. Although they can help you remove tables and picking up trash, you should keep them away from your garbage disposal. Even though you’re dealing with a huge amount of food waste, you shouldn’t use the garbage disposal for solid food waste. If your guests end up mishandling it, you may have a clogged drain that can be problematic if you’ll be hosting another party soon.
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Conclusion

It’s best to keep all your home’s amenities in working order, especially if you’re planning to invite guests over to your home. Having any inconveniences like power interruptions or even inactive Wi-Fi can be embarrassing as a party host. This is why preparing your home in advance for predictable inconveniences, such as plumbing issues, will keep the party and fun going throughout the holiday season.

Thankfully, you can hire professionals to assist you during your emergencies at your party. At Emergency Plumbing and Heating, we provide drain cleaning services for your plumbing concerns. Contact our plumbing experts today, and we’ll be sure to give you a hassle-free and efficient solution.

If you live in an area that frequently experiences hot and humid weather, you probably rely on your air conditioning unit to give you comfort as you stay indoors. AC units are a godsend, yet they’re not meant to last forever. This is why you need to know how to maintain it properly so that it won’t prematurely stop working. When it comes to maintenance, there are common mistakes you need to avoid, and one of the most common ones is failing to schedule regular maintenance.

In this article, we will share four common mistakes that you must avoid when it comes to AC maintenance:

– Not Having Groundcover

Indeed, vegetation and tall grass around your AC unit can block airflow and reduce the device’s functionality and efficiency, which is why most homeowners leave the ground bare. However, doing this is not the best option because when it rains, the dirt from the ground can turn to mud, which can splash on the unit and affect the condenser coil’s fins.

Instead of leaving the ground bare, have a groundcover that’s under six inches tall. Another solution is to add mulch like gravel or bark chips to avoid mud getting on your unit.

– Covering The Unit At All Times

The only time the AC unit must be covered with plywood is during the winter or when the unit is switched off. If you plan to cover your unit because you want to protect it from debris and other elements, you might want to think otherwise. This will only compromise its functionality and performance in the long run. Keep in mind that the AC unit is designed to pull air in through its sides and blow it out the top. When you cover the unit, you prevent it from doing this.
 
– Incorrect Amount of Refrigerant

The R-22s are older units, and you will have a challenging time finding a refrigerant refill for this. You might think that a newer coolant will do the trick, but this will only cause a problem inside the system. Another common mistake is topping off the coolant and overcharging the system. When there’s too much coolant, it can compromise the compressor. You can easily avoid this by hiring reliable AC technicians to remedy the issue.
 
– Pressure Washing The Condenser Coils

Washing the condenser coil at least every year is acceptable, but keep in mind that the fins are fragile, which is why you shouldn’t pressure wash it. If you plan to do the condenser coil cleaning on your own, remember to be gentle with it and make sure you switch off the unit at the breaker and the panel’s main disconnect before you remove the cleaner or do any cleaning.

Taking care of your AC unit is essential, especially if you want to last longer and do its job. However, if you don’t have time to do the maintenance on your own, you should hire a professional to do regular inspections to help ensure your AC unit is in good condition. Surely, you don’t want your unit to break down in the middle of a hot summer day, right?
 
Conclusion

At this point, you now know the four common mistakes that owners can make when it comes to maintaining their AC units. The key to ensuring your device is in good condition is to have a reliable AC technician to inspect and repair it. Your system, as much as possible, should not be a project of DIY because it has many fragile parts. If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on a repair or replacement, leave the maintenance to the experts so that you also get to avoid making mistakes!

Get quality air conditioning service here at Emergency Plumbing Heating Company. We are a professional and fast company that provides 24/7 AC and plumbing services. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

While it’s common knowledge that your furnace and air conditioning suck up a ton of energy, many people aren’t aware that water heaters are a massive contributor to high energy bills. When you factor in the long, frigid Calgary winters, it’s no surprise that people want to enjoy warm showers to stay comfortable. However, if you’ve seen a spike in your energy bills, you may want to cut back on your water heater use.
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Apart from showering, many use hot water to do the laundry and dishes. Some even use it for cleaning to get things sparkling and shiny. Luckily, there are ways to cut back on your hot water usage and save more money. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

– Moderate the Temperature

Your water heater tank probably came straight from the factory, and as a result, is programmed to heat water at a much higher temperature than necessary. On the other hand, you can’t put it too low, as it’s highly recommended to keep your hot water tank at 60ºC to kill bacteria like Legionella. Fortunately, you can moderate the hot temperature you use and cut back on energy bills by installing anti-scald valves. It will protect you and your family from accidentally getting scalds and burns when using water that’s too hot.

It’s also a good idea to use lukewarm water instead when washing the dishes instead of just hot water. You can try washing your hands at lower temperatures, but don’t forget to use soap!

– Take Shorter Showers

Long, warm showers are extraordinarily comfortable, especially during freezing temperatures. However, it’s also the culprit behind sky-high energy bills, since a family of four uses almost 500 litres of hot water each week only by showering for just five minutes a day.

If you’re keen on reducing your energy bills, opt for shorter showers with cooler temperatures. Dialling it down by a degree or two will do wonders for your energy usage. You can also opt to install low-flow fixtures.
 
– Repair Any Leaks Immediately

When any of your water fixtures start leaking, you’ll need to call an emergency plumber right away. If left to drip, they can add up and make your energy bills an excessive amount. Hot water leaks are even more costly, and they can even wreak havoc on your home when untreated.

Be sure to check your plumbing fixtures regularly to avoid any issues. If you fail to catch anything in time and you’ve got a plumbing emergency in Calgary, our specialists can swoop in to save the day—no matter what the hour!

– Don’t Leave the Faucet or Shower Running

Many people make the mistake of thinking that it’s harmless to leave the faucet or shower on when doing activities like washing your hands, prepping the shower, or brushing your teeth. However, every unused drop of water that falls down the drain takes every hard-earned Canadian dollar with it. That hot water won’t show up on just your water bill, but your energy bill, too; you’ll have to pay for the water you didn’t use
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Luckily, this is an easy fix. Make a conscious effort to shut the faucet off whenever you aren’t using it, and remind your household to follow suit as well. Water is precious, and you’ll want to conserve it as much as possible!

– Run Your Dishwasher Only When It’s Full

Another quick tip to save money by using less hot water is to run your dishwasher only when it’s entirely full. If you run it at any less capacity, you’ll only be wasting hot water. You can also opt to buy newer dishwashers that are outfitted with energy-saving options, along with more control over water usage.

Conclusion

Saving water is incredibly important for not only reducing your bills but your water usage and impact on the environment. These five tips offer quick and easy ways to reduce your hot water usage while boosting your savings, helping you cut back on household costs when necessary. You’ll enjoy lower energy bills before you know it!
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24 Hour Plumbing and Heating can solve all your plumbing, heating, and air conditioning problems for you. Whether you have a plumbing emergency in Calgary and need an emergency plumber to swoop in, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to find out how we can help you!

Every household knows that the plumbing system is a vital component of the property. While it provides the family with a water supply, it also disposes of wastewater properly. As it’s a complex system filled with pipes, fixtures, and fittings, it needs to be maintained regularly so that it can run optimally. However, it’s easy for many homeowners to take it for granted and only call an emergency plumber when a plumbing emergency arises to inspect and get it fixed.

If you want to ensure that your plumbing system remains in top shape and working condition, here are four steps that should be in your plumbing maintenance checklist:

1) Be Wary of Leaky Faucets

Did you know that a dripping faucet wastes over 3,000 gallons annually? Unfortunately, it’s easy to see faucets that leak in many residential properties, and the sad truth is that many homeowners take them for granted. Imagine the amount of fresh water that gets wasted and its impact on your monthly utility bills. If you want to conserve water and save costs, be sure to inspect for leaks and have them fixed right away.

2) Inspect Your Toilet When Flushed Out

When it comes to your toilet, nothing can be more frustrating and disgusting than a toilet that doesn’t flush down and keeps on backing up. The main culprit here is usually the improper disposal of wastes. It’s easy for family members to flush down anything they want, from baby wipes to diapers to menstrual pads and even medications. Keep in mind that only the three P’s are allowed in your toilet—pee, poo, and paper (toilet paper). But more than anything else, check to see if it’s flushing down properly, and if it doesn’t, call a plumber immediately to remedy the situation.

3) Check Your Drains If They’re Clogged

Your plumbing drains need to be regularly inspected, whether in the bathroom, kitchen, or other parts of the house. The last thing you will want to happen is for them to get clogged. Typically, the reason for clogged drains is the improper disposal of trash, wastes, and other debris. It’s easy for your bathroom to have an accumulation of hair strands, soap buildup, and other debris. As for your kitchen, your family members might not be wary of pouring down grease and leftovers in the sink.

4) Be Wary of Moisture of Your Plumbing Fixtures

Excess moisture is a big no-no in any corner of your house. Not only does it lead to mildew and mould infestation, but it also impacts the structural integrity of your property. On top of this is that it will also affect your family’s health. For this reason, you must be on the lookout for visible signs, such as damp walls, wet floors, or accumulated mildew. If one or several of these are evident, remember to call an expert immediately, such as those at 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating, to address the issue!

Conclusion

At this point, you now know what to do for your plumbing maintenance. As outlined above, all it takes is to be wary of leaky faucets, inspect your toilet when flushed out, check your drains if they’re clogged, and be wary of moisture of your plumbing fixtures. During the inspection, be sure to immediately address any minor plumbing issues so that they won’t escalate into extensive damages. Ultimately, hiring an expert plumber for regular plumbing maintenance will make all the difference in your pipes’ integrity!

We provide 24/7 expert plumbing and HVAC services across North America for both commercial and residential properties. If you need plumbing maintenance to avoid a plumbing emergency in Calgary, get in touch with us today to book an appointment!

Plumbing systems are vital to any household, yet handling their issues is not a walk in the park, especially during winter. Dealing with frozen pipes is important, and if you think of putting it off for a later date, you may want to think again! Otherwise, you’ll have to solve a bigger problem. You can thaw frozen pipes by yourself, but you need to make sure you do it properly.

In this article, we will share practical tips on how you can get water flowing again on your frozen pipes.
 
Sort Out the First Steps before Proceeding

The first step you need to do is to find the frozen pipes by turning on your faucet and identifying the ones where no water comes out. For exposed pipes, such as the ones under your sinks and basements, you can spot those that are frozen easily because of the slight bulge. Then, open the faucet, both cold and hot, that the pipe feeds water into to relieve pressure in the system and allow water to escape once you start thawing the pipes.
 
The Thawing Process Begins

Start the thawing process near the faucet and then find your way to the blockage. This is the best way to go about it to ensure that the melting ice and steam can escape through the open faucet. 

For frozen exposed pipes, you can apply heat until the water that comes out of the faucet is normal. You can use a hairdryer and point the heat at the pipe—start at the part that is closest to the faucet. Another thing you can use is a heat lamp or a portable space heater. Position the device in a way that it can reach the frozen pipe. You can use hot towels as well, where you will wrap them around the pipe. Lastly, you can use electrical heating tape to treat the frozen pipe effectively.
 
For pipes that you can’t access easily, you can turn the heat up in your house to help melt the ice blockage. An infrared lamp may be used as well, especially if you know where the frozen pipe is located. However, if you really can’t thaw the frozen pipe, you can cut out a section of the wall instead. 

Dealing With A Burst Pipe

There are some instances when a pipe will burst. Instead of panicking, you must first remember to shut off the main water line in your house. By doing so, you effectively prevent additional water from overflowing and damaging your property. The next thing to do is to call a professional––such as the experts at 24 Hours Plumbing & Heating––to sort out the burst pipe for you. This is also crucial if you can’t thaw a pipe because you can’t find where the frozen pipe is or not comfortable doing it yourself. 

Keep in mind that there are risks associated with frozen pipe thawing, such as fire, which may be caused by any heat source. The second one is a burst pipe if you don’t thaw your pipes properly, which could lead your home to become a swimming pool! 

Conclusion

At this point, you now know several vital steps to take when thawing your frozen pipes. However, if you’re not comfortable doing it by yourself, it’s best to call for expert help instead, especially if you haven’t done this before. You don’t want to take matters into your own hands and even up with even more costly repairs, right? Fortunately, you can easily find reliable plumbing professionals to help you out. 
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If you need help with a plumbing emergency in Calgary, AB, call us here at 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating. We have licensed plumbing professionals that deliver quality services with transparent prices as well!

Maintaining home plumbing is increasingly becoming tedious for many homeowners because of the general misinformation, which translates into costly, big-time repairs. Fortunately for you, you can avoid these plumbing mishaps if you just keep reading.
 
This article will provide you with four common plumbing myths. Take this as an opportunity to save your family from inconvenient plumbing problems and positively influence your friends and family by sharing this timely information.
Plumbing is often seen as a menial task, but it holds a lot more important than you may be giving it. Here are four common household plumbing myths you need to stop believing in:

General Home Plumbing Is Easy to Fix. All You Need Is Someone in Your Household to Come Up with a Quick Solution

This myth, by far, is the most damaging home plumbing issues that need to stop. There are many houses with pipes that may have access to water, but they are highly vulnerable to leakage and bursting. There are also scenarios that can leave houses susceptible to a plumbing emergency, disastrous complications with the water supply that threaten to ruin your property and endanger your family. 

Let’s say you see a minor leakage in your kitchen. You have your partner “fix” it by applying some Teflon tape to the threads and covering the pipe with some super glue. Even if it temporarily fixes the leak, this can affect your whole plumbing system.

You see, your pipelines are like a heart. If even one of the minor pathways is damaged, the whole system falls apart. You need to assess the entire system to ensure that there won’t be issues in the long run, meaning you need to have technical knowledge of plumbing, water flow, and other related experience.
 
For your household’s safety and convenience, learn more about emergency plumber services through us at 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating. 

Faucets Gradually Leak Over Time Due to Repeated Use, So You Shouldn’t Worry​
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Yes, common home faucets do leak because frequent uses can loosen up the hardware, such as the main valve and the screws. However, you shouldn’t ignore it. Letting your faucets leak can raise your water bill costs and also cause your sink and pipes to get rusty. Leaking faucets also indicate that the water pressure may not be running smoothly. If you see faucet leaks, call your local plumber immediately. 

Flushable Items Don’t Clog Up the Sewage

The problem with flushable items is they may dissolve once exposed to water, but they don’t get through drainage easily. Remember—your house’s drainage has to get rid of a lot of daily waste, like fecal matter, grime from the sink, and oil. 
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All these non-flushable and so-called flushable can clump together and form a dam-like blockage in your drainage, endangering your pipe systems. Call our emergency plumbers to check your drainage to inspect for sewer backups.  

Clogged Pipelines? Use Lemon Juice and Other Store-Bought Drain Cleaning Solutions. That Will Do the Trick

You may have heard this advice from your neighbour or a well-meaning family member, but pouring acidic liquids down your pipeline can ruin the quality of your drainage system. This harmful mixture of chemicals can also destroy your garbage disposal, affecting its efficiency in breaking down wastes.
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If you have a clogged kitchen sink, our expert plumbers recommend that you turn off your garbage disposal first, pour warm water into the sink with liquid dishwashing soap, and then scrub the grime gently with a long pipe cleaning brush. You can also call our drain cleaning experts for your convenience. 

Conclusion

You may think that your DIY fixes and common household plumbing issues are normal, but there may be pressing concerns that you are ignoring. You could unknowingly be exposing your family to great inconveniences and costly damages. Have your plumbing checked and repaired today!

24 Hour Plumbing & Heating is your professional team of emergency plumbers in Calgary equipped for any house plumbing emergency. We can provide you with the best plumbing solutions to keep your water flow and drainage highly efficient. Visit our website today!

There is nothing more annoying and inconvenient than experiencing a clogged sink. The chances are that the wastewater doesn’t go down the drain, and it just keeps on backing up. The biggest culprit? A clogged drain in your sink! This typically happens when household members don’t observe proper waste disposal. They end up putting or pouring various types of wastes down the drain, which eventually gets accumulated in the pipes. As a result, they cause a clog and lead to severe plumbing issues.

In this article, we’ll share the top causes of a clogged drain so that you know what to avoid throwing in your sink and what you can do to prevent it from occurring in the first place.

What causes your sink to clog

Before we delve further, let’s take a look at what causes your sink to clog so that you know what to address and do. Take note of the following:

1. Dirt: For your drains outdoors, it’s easy for specks of dirt and excess mud to go down the drain. This usually happens after gardening or working outside. 
2. Hair: For your shower drains, it’s common for hair strands to fall off during a shower. If you don’t have mesh screens installed, these strands will easily flow down the drain.
3. Soap: As you may or may not be aware, bar soaps actually have fats that get formed with hair strands, minerals, and other debris in the pipes of your shower drains. 
4. Grease: Pouring down grease is a big no-no! However, many households aren’t wary of this, thinking that it’s a liquid. Many fail to realize that it cools down, gets hard, and turns into solid in your pipes over time.
5. Food waste: It’s common for food wastes to get thrown in the kitchen sink. When washing the dishes, family members end up allowing food particles to go down the pipes, which builds up over time.
6. Tree roots: Many homeowners tend to neglect the fact that the roots of surrounding trees grow and may penetrate the underground pipes. When they break in the lines, the damages can obstruct the water flow and cause hefty repairs.

How to prevent your sink from clogging

As with any household endeavours, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This principle also applies to something as simple as avoiding clogged sinks at home. Below are some practical tips for preventing your sink from clogging:

1. Be sure to install correctly sized drain strainers in your kitchen, bathroom, laundry, and garden sinks.
2. Never dispose of grease in your drains; collect it and throw it outside instead.
3. Observe proper disposal of wastes during cooking and food preparation and even after a meal.
4. Use household solutions (baking powder/vinegar/warm water mixture) and pour them down your drain at least once a month to clear any growing clogs.
5. Turn on the cold water and run it for the duration of the process when using your disposal. 
6. Clean your drain stoppers every time you maintain your bathroom.
7. Only flush these three Ps down your toilet—pee, poo, and paper! No other items should go down the drain.

Conclusion

At this point, we’ve covered the causes of a clogged sink—from pouring grease to throwing food wastes down the drain to growing tree roots. Be sure to follow the practical tips outlined above to prevent a clogged sink from occurring. In the end, every household has the sole responsibility to take good care of their sinks and the entire plumbing system!

If you are facing a plumbing emergency in Calgary due to a clogged sink, get in touch with us today to see how we can help! We provide 24/7 expert plumbing and HVAC services for commercial and residential properties with over 25 years of experience in the industry!

Frozen pipes can create lots of pressure inside the pipe, which may lead to a burst fixture. When a pipe bursts, flooding can easily occur, and this can turn into a huge problem when no one’s around the house or if everybody’s asleep. Just imagine waking up in the morning and being greeted with pools of water in your home; that’s not how you want to start your day.

When temperatures go down, it is time to prepare your pipes to ensure that their functions remain. In this article, we will share eight tips to protect your pipes from freezing:
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1) Adjust The Thermostat

Keep in mind that your indoor temperature must be between 55 degrees or higher at all times, especially when you will be gone for a few days. Even if this will cost you a bit more, it’s far cheaper than dealing with the damages that frozen pipes can bring.

2) Open The Doors

Keep the doors inside the house open to let warm air circulate in the area. You should also keep cabinet doors open so that the heat can reach the pipes under the sink.

3) Let Faucets Drip On Cold Nights

If your faucets are located on exterior walls that are at risk of freezing, let them drip. The slow trickle of water may relieve pressure so that the pipes won’t burst. Although it may not entirely prevent the pipes from freezing, it can still significantly reduce the risks.

4) Seal And Insulate Exterior Walls

If your plumbing runs through your basement or garage, you need to seal doors and windows in these areas with weather stripping and caulk to prevent air leaks. You can also insulate walls to keep the cold out. If low temperatures reach the inner fixtures, they can easily be at risk of freezing.

5) Deal With Exposed Pipes

For any exposed pipes that run through the garage or basement, you need to keep them from freezing by wrapping electrical heating tape around them. You can also get the ones that have built-in thermostats that will automatically turn the heat on and off when necessary.

6) Drain Water System If You’ll Be Gone For A While

If you’re going on vacation, be sure first to drain your plumbing and turn off the main water shutoff valve. With no water in the pipes, it will be unlikely for them to freeze. Also, you should open all faucets until the water stops running.

7) Winterize Automatic Sprinkler System

An effective way to winterize your sprinkler system is to blow out the pipes to remove standing water. This step is primarily performed when the frost level reaches below the depth of irrigation systems.

8) Insulate Hose Bibs & Exterior Pipes

Get faucet covers to protect your hose bibs. You can also use a towel and secure it with a rubber band and add a garbage bag to insulate and waterproof them. For exposed plumbing attached to the hose bibs, you can protect it with pipe insulation.

Conclusion

Protecting your pipes when the cold weather is fast approaching is important because frozen pipes can lead to costly damages that you will not want to deal with. Keep in mind that homes are also more vulnerable to frozen pipes in typically warmer climates because the pipes may not have proper insulation against frigid temperatures.
With that, it’s not only the cold season that can freeze your pipes, but also abnormally cold weather. This essentially means that if you’re in an area that experiences erratic weather conditions, then it’s important to ensure your pipes are protected.

Remember that you don’t have to do these tasks on your own—you can hire a professional to add protection for your pipes to prevent them from freezing. All you need to do is find a reliable contractor to help you out.
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If you have a plumbing emergency in Calgary, AB, then you have come to the right place. Our experts at 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating have 20 years of plumbing experience, and we will perform repair, renovation and installation projects. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

Now that we are down to the last quarter of the year, the cold winter months are fast approaching. It’s that time of the year when all you want to do is stay safe and warm inside your home. As much as possible, you want to avoid having to deal with a malfunctioning hot water tank in the middle of winter.

It’s for this reason that hot water tank maintenance is essential. You must ensure that your unit is in the best condition to help you make it through the freezing temperatures.

However, it’s not enough for you to simply call your trusted technicians. When it comes to maintaining your hot water tanks, you must also be familiar with at least the basics.

To help you get started, here are some essential things you must know about heater maintenance.

Hot Water Tank Replacement

Replacing your unit is a big investment, so it helps to know when you should do it. Firstly, you must remember that this depends on the type of tank you have. Gas heaters usually last for around a decade.
Furthermore, you must also pay attention to your tank’s condition. Signs such as leaks and rusty water must be acted on immediately.

Common Issues with Hot Water Tanks

Here are some more issues and problems that you must pay immediate attention to.

1) Hot Water Tank That Doesn’t Stay Lit

If you are noticing this in your unit, the first thing that you have to check is your tank’s thermocouple. It’s a device that checks if your water heater’s pilot light is on. In some cases, it could be that the thermocouple is simply bent away or faulty.

If you see that it is bent away from the pilot light, bending it back towards the flame is the quick fix. On the other hand, if you see that you have a dirty pilot tube, let it cool first before you remove any blockage with a needle.

If none of these solutions works, you need to replace the thermocouple altogether.

2) Hot Water Tank Not Filling Up

If your hot water is running out very quickly, it could be due to a leak preventing the hot water from travelling up the pipe. In this case, your technician will be able to sort this out quickly.

However, if you are not seeing any signs of a leak, check the temperature-pressure release valve. The problem may be caused by a pressure lock. Hold open the valve and release the pressure to allow your tank to fill back up.

3) How Water Tank Leaking

Leaks can happen at the top and bottom of your tank.

For leaks at the bottom, inspect your drain valve or the opening used to drain your water tank for maintenance. If you see that the leak is coming from this part, it can be fixed easily by your technician. Leaks coming from pipe connections can be easily mended, too.

On the other hand, if you discover your hot water tank is leaking from the top, the first things to check are the pipes going in around it. The leak you are seeing may be caused by loose fittings due to the pressure inside the system.

As mentioned earlier, leaks can also be caused by the temperature-pressure valve. Too much pressure in the system may be causing the valve to open on its own to release some of the pressure. Take note that this can lead to an explosion and put everyone in harm’s way. If you feel that pressure is the problem, call a professional right away.

Conclusion

With the colder months of the year approaching, hot water tank maintenance is essential. Knowing at least the basics of taking care of your heating system will go a long way in ensuring that it works well throughout winter. Ultimately, it helps keep you and your loved ones warm and cozy inside your home.

If you are noticing even the smallest problem in your hot water tank, address them quickly by calling in professionals. At 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating, we’re available any time of the day for your water heater cleaning and other plumbing services. Book an appointment today!