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.

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!

Plumbing issues are pretty prevalent, especially in older homes and flats. So much so that many homeowners already have established routine "fixes" that make the problem disappear for a while. While these "fixes" are handy, there are occasions when fast repairs and do-it-yourself remedies aren't enough to mitigate the damage. Writing off these problems as "not worth my time" can also lead to irreparable harm in the long run. In such cases, calling the professionals becomes a necessity.

1) Smelly Pipes

If you catch a foul scent coming from your drains or pipes, don't dismiss it with a few spritzes of freshener spray. Pipe odours are a good sign of more severe issues, such as mould or bacteria buildup.

If left uncontrolled, this can disrupt your water flow, sanitation, and pipe integrity. Mould, in particular, might cause a clogged drainage system, which is another plumbing issue you don't want to deal with.

2) Frequent Clogging

A single clogged drain may not be a reason for alarm. However, if you discover that your drains are frequently clogged, these recurrent blockages should be handled by a professional plumber.

A clogged drain is most likely simply a symptom of a far more severe plumbing problem - a clog in your sewage system's main drain line. Over-the-counter drain cleaners will not remove clogs deep inside your home's plumbing system. These deep blockages must be cleared using hydro jetting or a deep auger. Professional plumbers have access to these instruments and cameras that can offer visual proof of a severe plumbing obstruction.

Frequent clogging indicates that your home's plumbing system is prone to sewage backup and floods in the future. Don't underestimate the necessity of resolving recurrent blockages as soon as feasible.

3) Low Water Pressure

Nobody loves low water pressure, especially in high-traffic areas of your house, but it's typically seen as little more than a nuisance. In certain situations, such as a short gap in your city's water supply, it may be precisely that.

The prolonged low water pressure might signal an issue with your home's plumbing. If it's coming from a single faucet, it might be a problem with the faucet itself, which is a simple fix. However, suppose multiple taps aren't providing the proper pressure. In that case, there might be a systemic leak in your pipe system, causing possible extensive water damage to adjacent fixtures and racking up your water bill like nobody's business.

4) Water Leakage

The continuous trickle of a leaky pipe is much more than an inconvenience daily. Leaking pipes will raise your water bill and, depending on the leak's location, may cause water damage in your home. Leaks are sometimes simple to repair. If tightening the faucet does not solve the problem, it is time to consult a specialist.

Conclusion
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It is always to your best advantage to address these plumbing issues as soon as possible. A professional will be required in many situations, so don't put off hiring a plumber if you catch wind of these "minor" plumbing problems in your house.

If you are looking for 24-hour plumbing service in Edmonton, 24 Hour Plumbing is the perfect business to call. Our team specializes in plumbing heating repair, renovation, and installation projects. Please browse through our website and schedule an appointment today!

Do you have problems with your plumbing system? The first thought that may spring to mind is to search YouTube for tips on how to fix it. With so many commercially accessible plumbing solutions on the market, it's understandable that it's tempting to try to do your own plumbing repairs. Also, plumbing emergencies can happen anytime, and your first response will always be to look for ways to fix them immediately.

Some minor repairs may indeed be completed by an ordinary person with a basic toolkit. However, some of these do-it-yourself hacks might cause more severe harm to your house and plumbing system.

Which do-it-yourself plumbing repair hacks should you avoid? Take a look at the list below.

1) Plumbing Tape
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Silicone tape and pipe thread tape are widely available and promoted as leak-repair products for various pipe problems. The former is meant to produce a watertight seal between plumbing joints, while the latter is used to close up crack leaks. They are, however, just temporary repairs, and leaving them on a defective pipe for an extended period will result in the material losing its adhesive properties. The leak itself will not be repaired and will continue to persist without professional efforts.

2) Epoxy Pipe Sealant

This product is similar to plumbing tape in that it is a stopgap solution. While the epoxy sealant will solidify against the damaged area, preventing water from leaking through the pipe, it will eventually fail. If you leave it in place, it will ultimately leak again, perhaps causing severe water damage depending on the severity of the problem.

3) Pipe Clamps

Speaking of stopgap solutions: pipe clamps are quite tough, but they are not meant to be used for a long time. It's fine to lay a piece of rubber over a leak and secure it with a pipe clamp, but you shouldn't leave this temporary repair in place for more than a few days. Call a professional plumber to take care of any leaks!

4) Repair Sleeves

Repair sleeves are ideal for joint pipes. They're also an excellent choice for minor leaks, but they shouldn't be left alone for too long because the problem can quickly grow beyond the point where it started.

5) Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners may be a tempting option if you have a clogged drain or toilet. If you want your pipes to last, though, it’s best to stay away from these products. They are designed to burn through anything that's blocking up your pipes, so they are incredibly corrosive. They can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. You may either hire a professional drain cleaner or use an enzymatic drain cleaner instead.

Conclusion

All of the above-mentioned do-it-yourself remedies are, at best, interim workarounds. While they may temporarily fix your difficulties, they are not ideal in the long run. They can potentially develop far greater challenges that will cost you more money after a few weeks or so.

Professional plumbing repair is the best approach to deal with your plumbing issues. If you discover a pipe leak, you should contact a plumber immediately. An examination and diagnosis will reveal both isolated and systemic faults that must be addressed to minimize water damage and keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

If you are looking for 24-hour plumbing service in Edmonton to take care of your plumbing repairs and fixes in Calgary, Alberta, 24 Hour Plumbing can do the job for you. Our team specializes in emergency plumbing, so we can surely solve all your problems. Contact us today!

Everyone’s excited about the warmth that summer brings. But although it’s the best time to relax and unwind, the same can’t be said for your plumbing systems. With humidity levels and temperature rising, you must be prepared to handle any plumbing emergency that might happen.
As a way to prepare yourself, here are four problems you might encounter in the summer months and what you can do to fix them:

1) Flooding Around the Property

Though summer comes with heat and humidity, it can bring in rains and flooding, too. May it be for residential or commercial properties, flash flooding and continuous rainfall will surely bring damage to your basement.
Plumbing experts can help prevent flooding by adding extra drainage systems to prevent water build-up. Moreover, they can install a sump pump for you as an extra safety measure.

2) Filled-up Sewage Lines

When summer storms rush in, local sewer lines can fill up quite quickly. In this case, you should think about sewer maintenance, especially if you live in a building with tons of occupants. For the best results, you can hire an expert industrial plumbing service to install drain plugs so that the draining will not flow back up through the pipes.

3) Drain Systems Getting Clogged

Keep in mind that there are numerous substances that can go down your drain pipes. Beyond water, you might encounter grease, oils, gunk, and other things that might wind up through the local sewer lines. Cleaning can help you get rid of some of them, but some will still end up stuck within the building pipes.

To stop this gunk from accumulating, you have to schedule regular maintenance. If you fail to establish a better routine, the build-up can ruin and damage your plumbing as a whole.

However, when build-up happens, you can call in the plumbers from 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating to perform drain cleaning for you. They will be able to flush down through the drain system and use water pressure to get the stubborn gunk out. In other scenarios, plumbing snakes can help pull in clogs from down the drain.

4) Hose Bib Wear and Tear

Another part of your draining system that you should pay attention to is the hose bib. They serve as the bridge to connect water from outside indoors. Indeed, they play a very crucial role in maintaining a good water supply system. As a property owner, it is very important that you schedule regular maintenance so that you can check if they are still in the best state.

Other than that, you can add an extra level of care for your property by searching for leaks. Wear and tear are usually visible through rust and other damages, but sometimes that’s not enough. You can check for leaks by turning the hose and seeing continuous drips. If you find some damage, you can have plumbers replace the hose bibs before the leaks get worse.

Conclusion

Protect your property against summertime plumbing problems by taking preventative measures. By considering the common plumbing problems mentioned above, you can avoid them from getting worse. With most issues calling for particular skills, make sure that you have an emergency plumber ready to assist!
Here at 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating, we are ready to help in case of any plumbing emergency in Calgary and other key cities in Canada. We have a team of experts who can lend their plumbing knowledge for quick, reliable, and high-quality repair. Call us any time, and we’ll head over to serve your needs!

When winter comes and transforms your neighbourhood into a winter wonderland, all the festivities can distract you from the impending doom that will likely fall on your home’s most vulnerable parts. Your pipes, for instance, are at high risk of freezing due to the cold weather.

Even if the cold doesn’t bother you, letting your pipes freeze can lead to costly consequences — one that involves burst pipes, flooding problems, and deeper holes in your pocket due to all the repairs you have to make.

Frozen pipes are a formidable problem with their destructive power, so here are some red flags that should help you identify freezing pipes before they wreak havoc on your home.

Tell-Tale Signs of Frozen Pipes

1) When you turn on the faucets and notice a significant reduction in the water pressure, then the likely culprit could be your frozen pipes. You can isolate and diagnose the problem without confusing it with other plumbing issues if all the faucets in your home produce little-to-no water since it means a part of your pipes have icy blockages inside.

2) When you see an icy residue covering your exposed pipes, it’s one of the easiest symptoms of frozen pipes. The condensation that coats the pipes means it’s completely frozen inside and out, leaving it vulnerable to bursting anytime soon.

3) When you get a whiff of unpleasant odours near your drains, it could mean the sewer line is frozen. Breathing in sewage smells is never a welcomed experience, and while it doesn’t mean your pipes are in trouble, it doesn’t get you out of the woods yet.

​Odours permeating throughout your home due to frozen sewage lines deserve emergency plumbing attention. If no one is taking the first step to call a professional, you should be the one to put them on speed dial since a frozen sewer line can bring more trouble to your neighbourhood.

4) When you see minor cracks along your exposed pipes, it means the water inside has completely frozen. This heightens the pressure and increases the risk of the pipes expanding, leading to cracks and weakened pipes. Be sure to turn off the water supply first as you wait for plumbing professionals since letting it thaw can cause the cracked pipes to burst open.

The Big Freeze: Spotting Early Signs of Frozen Pipes and Exploring Ways to Unfreeze Them

When it comes to caring for your pipes, time is of the essence when winter comes. Pipes can quickly harden and freeze in as little as six to eight hours, so overlooking the tell-tale signs can result in you waking up with a risky plumbing system. With that in mind, the list above should help you address the problem earlier by knowing what to look out for during the colder months.

How Can We Help You?

If you're looking for a 24-hour plumber, look no further because we're here to help. Here at 24 Hour Plumbing and Heating, we can solve your plumbing, heating, and air conditioning problems.

Our team of experts provides various emergency services, such as sump pump installation, water softener and filter installation, drain cleaning, heating and air conditioning, septic tank repairs, and more.
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Learn more about how we can help you by booking an appointment with us today!

Water leaks are generally straightforward plumbing problems to identify, treat, and repair. Since they are typically caused by pipe damage or complications with your main valves, it’s easy to trace one issue down to its source. However, slab leaks are a different matter altogether.

Identifying Slab Leaks

Slab leaks are difficult to identify because slabs are located in an inaccessible area under your home. Since it’s out of sight, it’s generally harder to see noticeable signs of damage. However, certain symptoms can help warn you about potential slab-related complications that have developed right under your nose.

In this article, we’ll share five warning signs for slab leaks you should look out for.

1) Damp Floors

Moisture doesn’t just come from dripping pipes or cracks; it can also come from below. If your floors appear wet without any signs of pipe leaks from above, it may be due to dampness coming from within. This is noticeable through the presence of moisture without any pooling of water puddles. Your flooring can warp or feel moist, depending on its material. Since the damage starts internally, it’s better to replace your floors altogether to get to the root of a slab leak.

2) Hot Spots

Besides noticeably damp flooring, hot spots are also a common sign of slab leaks. If the water released into your flooring comes from the hot water line, the flooring above will become noticeably warmer. This primarily applies to materials like tiles and hardwood. With materials that aren’t receptive to absorbing heat like carpeting, hot spots will be easier to miss. At worst, your flooring can warp due to the buildup of water released through your slab. Keep this in mind when identifying the root cause of your slab leaks.

3) Foundation Damage

Your home’s foundations are easily susceptible to water damage. Although most homeowners make reinforcements against water and moisture from the outside in, slab leaks start with internal damage before manifesting surface-level signs. Cracks on walls can signify uneven soil erosion due to softer bedrock. Besides leaning the wrong way, your foundation can even lift, which leads to heaving.

4) Odd Noises

Like typical plumbing issues, odd noises reminiscent of running water can be a cause for concern. If you’re not using any faucets or sinks, these odd noises can be a clear sign of water escaping cracks in your system. Try turning off all plumbing features to have a better idea of the potential source of the noise. If the sound is coming from below your home’s foundations, it’s most likely a slab leak.

5) Water Complications

Since damage to your slab will affect pipelines, you should expect certain complications with your water output. For example, slab leaks can reduce your water pressure if the lines are damaged. This is due to leaks preventing consistent water flow. Additionally, your water bills can rise significantly, even if you’re using just around the same amount of water per month. Pay more attention to these signs before they manifest into considerable structural damage.

Conclusion

Although it’s typically easy to repair minor plumbing issues, slab leaks require professional training and equipment to fix. For this reason, it’s ill-advised for homeowners without the proper plumbing experience to look for and attempt to solve these issues. If you suspect that your home has slab issues, it’s time to put your trust in professional plumbers.
While most slab leaks only show signs of damage when the problem is nearly irreversible, you can still spot its early signs in a timely manner. For this reason, you should consult with a high-quality plumbing company to immediately provide relief and repairs. If you’re in dire need of a capable emergency plumber in Calgary, AB, contact us today!

Although homes in Ottawa are connected to the municipal sewer system, when backups occur in your sewer line, it’s your responsibility to have it addressed. Sewer backups are due to a clog in the home’s major drain or sewer line. When homeowners do not have proper disposal of their mown grass and other waste materials, the sewer line can be more prone to blockage and other damage that can cause backups.

When a sewer backup situation occurs in your home, it’s always recommended to let the professionals handle it. If you’re going to inspect the problem, here are tips on how to safely do it:

– Wear Protective Clothing Before Inspecting a Backup

According to experts, untreated wastewater can be a place for up to 10 million virus particles per litre to thrive. It can even have 100,000 to 10 billion E.coli per litre. Not only that, but there could also be a multitude of dangerous pathogens floating on the water, such as protozoa and worms.

Just imagine if you will get infected by those pathogens. Your health will definitely be at risk! This is why a clogged main sewer should not be ignored. Before inspecting it, make sure to gear up properly. Wear protective clothing, including boots, gloves, and protective face masks. Even if you will only do a quick inspection, it is still of utmost importance to protect yourself from such health dangers.

– Find Out Which Toilets or Drains Have Backed Up

When your sewer is clogged, the wastewater will go back and accumulate to your home. As it rushes back, some of it can also pass through the homes through lower-ground vents and drains.

Because of that, the priority areas that you should check are the basement and floor drains. You’re lucky if there’s not so much wastewater that accumulated in those places. In case water continues to gush out of your floor drains, you need to contact emergency plumbers as soon as possible.

Check and Unclog the Cleanout

Some minor backups usually recede several minutes after. If that’s the case, you may only need to clean the building drain of your home. Make sure to unclog the cleanout as well. It is usually a pipe measuring 3-6 inches in diameter. A small portion of this cleanout must be protruding from the ground, so it will be visible and accessible. There should be a plug on its topmost section that you can remove by using a wrench.

Cleaning should be done carefully because this can be full of dirt, water, and solid waste. Remove all the clog from the building drain before replacing its cover. After removing the clog from the cleanout, let a small amount of water flow into one of the lower-ground taps. This will allow the wastewater to flow to the sewer line.

However, if you notice that there are still backups, it can be due to a damaged sewer line. Make sure to call a licensed plumber to deal with the issue.

Hire a Sewer Backup and Drain Repair Expert

When your home has multiple sewer backups, you need to call a professional. There’s no need to wait longer and let the problem worsen. The longer you ignore having the drain lines cleaned, the more clogs will accumulate in them. Ensure that you call a reliable plumbing expert in your area to help you with sewer backups.

Conclusion

A sewer backup should be taken as a serious issue in your home. In fact, it may require an emergency plumbing service. The good thing is that there are sewer backup experts who can help you deal with the problems at any time of the day. They will come to your home and inspect the plumbing system to discover the main cause of the backup.
If you have a plumbing emergency like sewer backup issues, call 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating right away! We provide a wide range of HVAC and plumbing services, from drain cleaning to air-conditioning repair. Contact us today for more details.

No house can be without water. Without water, you won’t be able to care for your backyard, cook food, clean your body, or stay hydrated. To put it simply, without water, you will have a poor quality of life! As such, it’s crucial to have a functional plumbing system and good water flowing throughout your pipes.

How Hard Water Affects Your Home

“There’s a bad type of water?”

While water is known to be synonymous with life itself, it can also be considered a nuisance, depending on the kind of water your home has. When your water supply contains a high amount of minerals, it may indicate that you have hard water!

No one wants to live with hard water! Hard water doesn’t have serious adverse health problems, but it can contribute to dry skin and hair and damage your pipes, causing you to need frequent visits from the plumber to resolve. 

Unlike soft water, hard water can react with cleaning products and create buildup, restricting water flow. If you don’t do anything with your water, you will have multiple problems and costly plumbing emergencies in your Lloydminster home.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Water Softener

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that water softeners are absolute lifesavers. Since water softeners can remove minerals such as magnesium and calcium from the water, you won’t have to worry about scale buildups from these minerals. When you have a water softener, you may even forget that you ever had hard water in the first place! 

However, it’s essential to keep in mind that water softeners are also appliances. Like all of the other machines you have at home, they are also susceptible to wear and tear. The components are bound to break eventually, and electrical problems may occur, or it can just suddenly stop working! 

As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to check the condition of your water softener to avoid any plumbing emergencies in the future.

Whether you’re having issues or not with your water softener, you should still inspect it and determine whether it is working correctly. If the following signs apply to you, you should get your water softener replaced or serviced immediately.

– Soap Not Lathering

​The lather isn’t just affected by the type of soap and shampoo you use; your water can also affect how easy or hard they lather up. If you’ve been using up more shampoo and soap than usual, then your water might be to blame.
 
– Stiff Clothes

Washing clothes in hard water can make the fabrics stiff and scratchy. While fabric softener can help with the stiffness, it doesn’t solve the problem. Hard water doesn’t just affect your clothes—it can damage your washing machine too!
 
For problem-free laundering, it’s better to have your water softener checked instead.

– Buildup Around the Pipes

Who knew water itself could cause many plumbing emergencies? The minerals in the hard water can cause a crusty buildup around your pipes and faucets and affect your plumbing system.
 
The next time you clean your kitchen or bathroom, take a look at your pipes and see if they have a chalky substance building around them. This may mean that your water softener is no longer working.

– The Water Has a Different Taste

Yes, water does have a taste! Soft water will have a smooth taste, while hard water will be noticeably different because of its mineral content. If you notice any changes in the taste, it could mean that there is an issue with your water softener.

Conclusion

Don’t let hard water affect your home life! Make sure to regularly inspect your water softener and maintain it well so that it will last longer than its intended lifespan. As long as you have a perfectly working water softener, you can enjoy your bath times, have perfectly clean clothes, and have no more plumbing emergencies!
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Do you have a plumbing emergency in Lloydminster? Leave your problem to our expert plumbers at 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating to deal with it quickly and efficiently! Whether you have a leaky faucet, clogged drain, or burst pipes, we can fix it all! Call us at 587-844-6328 today!

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.

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.

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!

It’s 11:00 pm, and you’re getting ready for bed. You turn on your sink faucet, but then it suddenly bursts. Water is flying everywhere. Now, what do you do?

The first thing you need to do is to turn off the main water system and calmly call a 24-hour plumber. Yes, 24-hour plumbing services exist, and they are a godsend at times like this.

Instead of not being able to use water in the middle of the night or early the next day, calling a 24-hour plumber can get the job done right away. Here’s a list of benefits that they also provide:

1) Round-the-Clock Plumbing Support

Some plumbing issues can turn for the worse when not addressed right away. If burst pipes are your problem in the middle of the night, a 24-hour plumbing service can get the job done regardless of the time. 

2) Flexibility At Its Finest

If you have a full schedule but badly need to have your home’s plumbing checked, you can set a schedule at night with a 24-hour plumber. That way, you don’t have to go all the way home in the middle of the day to accommodate your plumber. You can do it when it’s most convenient for you, even after work, and you can guarantee that a plumber will be at your service. 

3) Get Real-Time Solution

With a 24-hour plumbing service, you get a real-time solution. There’s no need to wait until the next morning to have your plumbing issue addressed, reducing the chances of the problem getting worse. A 24-hour plumber can fix the issue right away, which will give you peace of mind. All you need to do is make that call. 

4) Guaranteed Reliable and Trustworthy Service

Not all plumbers are available 24/7 because it’s not an easy job. Therefore, you can expect companies that offer 24-hour plumbing services to have full dedication to the job. Moreover, it’s a guarantee that it’s the kind of company that you can rely on for trustworthy services. It’s not easy to do plumbing work when you’re half-asleep, after all. 

5) Technical Expertise

Regardless of the type of plumbing issue you have at home or office, plumbers are knowledgeable and are equipped with the right skills to resolve the issue. They are trained to resolve all types of plumbing issues and can also educate you on all things plumbing. 

Conclusion

When it comes to plumbing, whether it’s at home or at the office, you never really know when a pipe is going to burst or when a drain will clog that will cause a flood in certain areas. It’s even worse when these things happen at night, and you feel like you can’t have a plumber at that hour. 

24-hour emergency plumbing services guarantee that they will be there within minutes whenever you have a plumbing emergency, regardless of the time of day. All you need to do is give them a call, and they’ll have the skills and tools needed to fix your plumbing problem once and for all.
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If you have a plumbing emergency in Calgary, don’t hesitate to call 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating. Our professional plumbers can resolve any plumbing issues at any time of the day and night.

In some situations where you can tell that there is something wrong with the water from your plumbing, you may be compelled to look into the problem and deal with it yourself. You might have the tools you need and even some basic plumbing knowledge, but is that really the best course of action?

In most cases, calling an emergency plumber might be the smarter choice. This article helps you figure out what clearly constitutes immediately calling your local plumber to fix the pipes. After all, you don’t want to resort to quick fixes here or make any expensive mistakes along the way. In situations like the following ones, you really need to leave it to the professionals. 

1) Water Supply and Pipeline Issues

A few minor leaks here and there may just be a pipe sealant’s job to fix. But what if the leak that sprung is major and suddenly floods your whole basement? You can’t D.I.Y. out of situations like that. Plus, you may screw up something in the pipelines without getting to the root cause of the leak. 

Another issue worth mentioning is when your home suddenly has no more water. For starters, you can check on your main water meter to see whether there is supply. If the readings say yes and yet the open sink doesn’t have any water, you really need to call the plumber. 

The main issue here may be the main pipeline that is either leaking or missing a piece connected to the reservoir. If you are also witnessing a change in the water pressure, like the showers are only giving you drops, that’s another issue only a professional can fix.

2) Water Heater Issues

​Aside from a reliable water supply, the ample use of hot water during the colder months is also something that you need to account for. If you suddenly turn on the hot water tap and smell something bad, that’s a warning sign for a possible gas leak. If you have deduced that the weird gas smell is not coming from your stove or oven, it’s highly likely that the water heater is broken. 

This issue needs the immediate attention of an emergency plumber, but you also have to immediately turn off the gas. If you can’t, keep all the windows and doors open to get the fumes out. Then, consider either calling your gas provider about the issue and staying outside the house until everything has been taken care of. At this point, your safety is of utmost importance, and it’s far better to let the professionals handle this situation.
 
3) Sewer Line and Drainage Problems

If the smell does not come from the water heater, it might not be gas but wastewater in the pipelines. The drainage and the sewer lines can be clogged up, causing the problem to either settle in the pipes or relocate to the basement or near the garbage disposal. The wastewater can even find itself in your front yard and become a nasty mix of fecal matter and mud. 

Aside from dealing with a potential biohazard, your plumber will have to look into making sure this situation doesn’t happen again. They will use a drain snake to remove the clogs in the drainage and possibly dig out broken pipes and replace them. This is a professional fix because one wrong move with the sewage can easily domino into other issues like a clogged toilet.
 
Conclusion

If you have a plumbing problem that needs immediate attention and a cost-effective solution, don’t attempt to solve it yourself or look for other so-called fixes. Look no further than to the aid of your local emergency plumber. 
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Are you in need of an emergency plumber in Alberta? We’ve got your back at 24 Hour Plumbing & Heating. We are equipped to fix your pipes and HVAC system. Consult with us today!

Plumbing systems are often simple in operation. This is why many people look at their plumbing issues and only see nothing more than a few pipes and faucets. Because of this, many homeowners think that they can merely buy a few tools, read up How-To articles, and fix the problem by themselves.

However, despite its rather simple-looking appearance, plumbing emergencies are best left for professionals who are trained to fix issues without causing more problems. Without proper training and tools, keep in mind that simple issues can quickly escalate to disasters.

In this article, we will share four reasons you should stop fixing plumbing issues by yourself and work with a professional plumber instead:

You Can Flood Your Home

One particularly common mistake made by homeowners is forgetting to turn off the main line before performing the plumbing repairs. Many people don’t realize it until they’ve removed a faucet or dislodged a pipe. The danger of flooding their home becomes real when homeowners realize that they don’t even know where the water shut-off is.
If you live in a separate house and lot, it’s relatively easy to locate your main water shut-off line. However, if you live in a shared building where multiple tenants depend on one line, it’s best to leave the repairs to your property owner or the respective emergency plumber.

You Can Break Your Pipes

While plumbing systems can look simple at first, keep in mind that they are actually under lots of pressure. Aside from supplying your home with clean water and getting rid of the waste, your pipes and faucets are also the only piece that’s keeping water from flooding your home.
For this reason, you should never try to dislodge or replace a pipe by yourself. This is especially true for older homes with worn-out pipes, which can be fragile after years of use. Attempting to fix a problem of this scale could easily turn a small issue into a plumbing emergency, which you will need a plumber for.

You Can Wrongly Use Harsh Chemicals

Even a simple problem like a clog can be exacerbated by trying to repair it yourself. Common home solutions, such as snakes or augers, can be ineffective and damaging when used by inexperienced hands. However, perhaps the most dangerous home remedy for clogged drains is chemical drain cleaners.
Most commercially-available chemical cleaners use a highly corrosive chemical called sodium hydroxide, which can cause skin and lung irritation if improperly handled. While these cleaners can be effective at dissolving particles, they can also damage pipes due to corrosion. Despite that, the biggest danger is to the environment because at high enough concentration in the water, sodium hydroxide can even harm aquatic life.

You Can Incur Additional Costs

Most homeowners often try to fix plumbing issues by themselves to save on costs. Unfortunately, any cost that you could have saved would easily be eaten up by added costs due to faulty repairs. Besides, know that handling plumbing issues correctly requires ample resources. Depending on the nature of your problem, the cost of acquiring professional plumbing tools can easily overshadow the cost of hiring an expert plumber.

Conclusion

Due to natural wear and tear, plumbing problems are inevitable over time. The only way to avoid them long-term is by having repairs done correctly in the first place without causing additional damage. Likewise, the only real way to do this is by hiring a professional plumber near you.
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24 Hour Plumbing and Heating caters to any plumbing emergency in Calgary, Alberta. With our 20 years of experience in this industry, we have a quality advantage over the competition that allows us to address any plumbing issues. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

How serious are you about maintaining your home’s plumbing system? Plumbing is one of the most vital parts of your home infrastructure. Even one pipe leakage can create great havoc and lead to substantial loss of your house assets. Some plumbing problems like frozen pipes are caused due to fairly chilly weather of Canada; however, some issues are consequences of your wrongdoings. Your one wrong move can lead you to dialling numbers of various plumbers in Toronto to get that one fix done. You might now think about the major things you do that are affecting your plumbing system severely. However, following you’ll find the minor things that you weren’t aware can damage your home’s plumbing.

1) Fixing your Home Plumbing Yourself

Many homeowners tend to think that they are fairly adept in their overall home management and want to test their expertise at each level. Plumbing is majorly a category where homeowners believe that they know major fixes for problems. They, therefore, resort to some noncredible applications that they find on the internet and are satisfied with mere temporary repairs. There are some of the best plumbers in Toronto who can provide you with quick fixes for small problems, so it’s best to call them and get your fix done.

2) Pouring Grease or Oil Down the Drain

Grease or oil has possible fatty substances that can clog your drain. When you pour the oil or grease down the drain, it solidifies, thus clogging the pipes. Some particles of the grease also tend to stick to the pipe walls, creating a buildup, which is enough to create havoc and backing up of water. People also tend to run the food grease or oil down the drain that, in turn, is stuck in the pipes and can ultimately damage the pipe if not treated.

3) Pushing Down Harsh Chemicals

There are many drain cleaners available in the market claiming to remove the clog from the pipes. However, these harsh chemicals can damage the pipes in the long run. Apart from these, the harsh chemicals in cosmetics are also fine enough to create significant clogging problems. Chemical products, as gentle as detergent, soaps, face wash, etc. can cause your pipes to clog. Some of the chemicals can’t be avoided, which is why it is essential to call a credible plumber who will provide you with trustworthy routine checks.

4) Disposing Trash in Plumbing System

In spite of many claims of disposing or flushing the toilet papers cause clogs, people continue to do so. Any solid items that go down the pipes are prone to damage your plumbing systems. Your plumbing systems are not designed to handle large amounts of trash. Doing so, you are being the main culprit of causing damage to your plumbing system. Things like bones, corns, eggshells, or any such substances are also prone to damaging your plumbing.

There are already many pre-existing problems that cause great havoc to your home’s plumbing. All you can do is prevent problems that are possibly the result of your habits. The best you can do is avoid these habits from now and always keep your plumbing systems in check by calling 24Hour Plumbing and Heating – one of the best plumbers in Toronto.