Fresh Water for a Fresh Start to the New Year

water filter

How a Water Filtration System Can Improve Households 

At the beginning of a new year, people are more health conscious than ever. Everyone is making fresh resolutions to get and stay healthy this year. While nutrition and exercise are great strides toward well-being, they aren’t the only things that can be done for a healthier life. 

A crucial aspect of health that is often overlooked is the quality of the water flowing through the taps. Water is the most essential nutrient that the body uses, so poor-quality water can easily have larger health implications. Installing a whole-house water filtration system guarantees cleaner, healthier water in the home. In this article, experts will explore what a water filter does, its benefits, and the signs indicating a home may need one installed.

What Does a Water Filtration System Do? 

reverse osmosisWater filtration systems are designed to improve the water quality used for drinking, cooking, bathing, and other household needs. Different types of water filters can target specific impurities and contaminants and do it in different ways, ensuring a comprehensive purification process. Two common types of water filters are:

  • Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration Systems: This water filtration method utilizes a semipermeable membrane to remove contaminants, impurities, and minerals from the water. It is highly effective in eliminating substances such as heavy metals, chemicals, and bacteria, providing clean and pure water.
  • Whole House Carbon Water Filters: These water filtration systems use activated carbon to trap and remove impurities, including chlorine, sediment, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Whole-house carbon filters are installed at the entry point, treating water before it reaches fixtures in the house.

Perks of Installing a Water Filtration System

clear water Choosing the right water filtration system can be a big win for homeowners when it comes to the health and well-being of those in the home. Some benefits of installing a whole-home water filter are: 

  • Removes chemicals and contaminants from water
  • Better-tasting water
  • Helps the plumbing and appliances by removing impurities that can damage the plumbing
  • Improves health by removing contaminants that can make people sick
  • Saves money and helps the environment by eliminating the need to buy bottled water

Signs of Low-Quality Water 

With ever-increasing pollutants contaminating waterways, tests show that even municipally-treated water is more polluted than ever. Some of the signs of poor water quality that could be improved with a water filtration system installation are: 

  • Foul odors from the water
  • Water has an unpleasant taste
  • Water is discolored 

Plumbers can help homeowners determine whether a household can benefit from a water filter and which type would work best for them. 

About JD Precision Plumbing & Air 

JD Precision Plumbing & Air is a family-owned and operated company that has been serving Spring, TX, and the surrounding areas since 2010. They offer hassle-free service, upfront pricing, and proven methods. Call them today for water filtration system installation or repair in Spring, TX. 

Keep the Garbage Disposal Running Well Through the Holidays

garbage disposal

Tips to Keep the Garbage Disposal in Good Condition

Hosting a holiday party is a lot of work and usually involves a lavish meal. When it comes time to clean up from the meal, the kitchen plumbing will be put to the test. Protecting the plumbing is important, especially during this time of year. Almost every home has garbage disposals installed in the kitchen sink drains, so this year, take some advice from plumbing professionals and follow some tips to keep the garbage disposal operating well during the holidays. 

Keep Specific Food Out of the Garbage Disposal 

The biggest myth surrounding garbage disposals is that they are intended to handle all food waste. In actuality, garbage disposals are only intended to handle small amounts of food residue that make it down the drain when dishes are rinsed. Food from dishes should be scraped into the garbage before rinsing, and vegetables should be peeled over a bowl and thrown in the trash can. 

Keeping food out of the garbage disposal and kitchen drains is vital to their continued operation and preventing clogs, but certain types of food should be avoided entirely. Make an effort to keep these out of the drain and disposal:

  • Coffee grounds
  • Potato peels
  • Eggshells
  • Fruit pits
  • Cooking grease, fats, and oil
  • Seafood shells
  • Food that expands, like bread, pasta, and rice
  • Too much of any food at a time

Use Cold Water to Flush the Garbage Disposal 

sinkRunning cold water through the garbage disposal system, both during its operation and afterward, plays a crucial role in maintaining its functionality and longevity. This process aids in keeping the blades clean and avoids the risk of clogs by facilitating the movement of waste through the system. 

Running cold water from the tap when using the garbage disposal also helps prevent small pieces of food from becoming lodged between the blades, which could cause the system to jam. Furthermore, the use of ice cubes can be a beneficial practice. Ice not only serves to sharpen the blades but also assists in dislodging any food particles that might have become trapped in the disposal.

Use Professional Garbage Disposal Repair Services 

garbage disposalGarbage disposals are powerful appliances that can be dangerous when misused. That is why homeowners should always rely on professionals for garbage disposal repairs and replacement. Plumbers can safely handle garbage disposal services and keep them working well. But how does a homeowner know when they need garbage disposal service? 

Here are some signs to call a plumber: 

  • The garbage disposal is leaking around the unit 
  • The garbage disposal reset button is tripped often
  • Louder-than-normal operations or strange noises occur
  • A bad smell from the garbage disposal
  • The garbage disposal won’t turn on

About JD Precision Plumbing & Air

JD Precision Plumbing & Air is a family-owned and operated company serving Spring, TX, and the surrounding areas. They provide honest pricing, customer education, and the latest technology. Call them today for kitchen plumbing and garbage disposal services in Spring, TX. 

Low Water Pressure in the Shower? Here Are the Possible Culprits

low hot water pressure

What Is Causing Low Water Pressure in the Shower?

Experiencing low water pressure in the shower is something that most people dread. Not only does poor shower pressure cause the inconvenience of an excruciatingly slow shower since it will take longer to rinse soap, but it makes them less enjoyable. Fortunately, with a little knowledge, people may be able to figure out the cause of low water pressure before a plumber gets there, whether just in a showerhead or throughout all the plumbing fixtures. 

The Water Heater

water heater The cause of low water pressure may be a puzzle to figure out, but if low water pressure only occurs with hot water, it may be a clue to the cause. If poor water pressure seems to afflict only hot water, but the water pressure when using cold water seems fine, then the water heater must be inspected by a plumber as it may be the cause. Some possible issues with the water heater that need to be explored include sediment buildup in hot water tanks, a leak in the tank or any of the pipes that feed in or out of it, or a problem with the pressure valve causing the pressure to drop.

Whatever the case, homeowners would benefit from getting their water heaters inspected by a professional plumber, who should be able to determine the correct cause of the water heater and water pressure issue and offer the best solution - whether it be flushing the storage tank, fixing the leak, or recalibrating the pressure valve. 

Possible Leaks or Clogs

A leak or clog anywhere along the yards and yards of water lines snaking in and around the house could also cause a serious drop in water pressure anywhere in the home. A leak has this effect because it is an opening through which water escapes, affecting the water flow and pressure that comes from the plumbing fixtures the pipe serves. 

Similarly, clogs reduce water pressure because any residue like mineral scale buildup within the pipes creates a blockage that slows down the flow of water in the piping, resulting in a drop in water pressure. If poor water pressure afflicts both hot and cold water from multiple fixtures, the culprit may be a leak or clog and should be dealt with by a plumber. 

Clogged Showerhead

showerheadWhen searching for the culprit of poor shower water pressure, the cause may also be the showerhead itself. It’s likely the cause if low water pressure occurs with both hot and cold water, but just from that one single fixture. If this is the case, inspecting the showerhead for blockages is always a good idea. 

Small openings on a showerhead are prone to getting clogged because of mineral and scale buildup. Clogs cause the showerhead to lose openings through which water can come out, which results in low water pressure for both hot and cold water. The showerhead can be replaced and upgraded or removed and cleaned to unclog the openings and fix the water pressure issues. 

About JD Precision Plumbing & Air

JD Precision Plumbing & Air is a local company with over a decade of experience serving Spring and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, the latest technology, and strong communication. Call them today for plumbing services in Spring, TX.

White Vinegar: The secret weapon!

White vinegar bottle and plumbing fixtures illustrating home maintenance and cleaning.

Its National Vinegar Day! This pantry staple has been humbly sitting in our kitchens, only getting its moment of fame when we whip up a salad dressing. But did you know that this modest condiment packs a punch when it comes to home and plumbing maintenance? Dive in as we reveal the many hats white vinegar wears beyond culinary uses.

1. A Natural Cleaner and Deodorizer:

White vinegar is a powerful cleaning agent. Thanks to its acid nature, it can break down grease, grime, and mineral deposits. A quick wipe of surfaces with white vinegar not only cleans but also leaves behind a fresh and natural scent, getting rid of nasty odors.

2. Say Goodbye to Stubborn Stains:

Spilled some coffee or dark juice? Before you panic, reach for your white vinegar. Blot the spill, and then dab with a white vinegar solution. It acts as a gentle stain remover on fabrics, carpets, and even some hard surfaces.

Plumbing-Specific Benefits:

3. Unclog and Refresh Your Drains:

If your sink is draining slower than a tortoise race, try a vinegar fix. Mix equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar, pour down the drain, wait for the fizzy reaction, and flush with hot water after about 10 minutes. This combo can break down minor blockages and freshen up the drain.

4. Demineralize Faucets and Showerheads:

Hard water can leave behind mineral deposits on your faucets and showerheads. A simple solution? Soak a cloth in white vinegar, wrap it around the affected area, and let it sit for an hour or so. Once you remove the cloth, you’ll find the deposits much easier to wipe away.

5. Sparkling Toilet Bowls:

Pour a couple of cups of white vinegar into your toilet bowl, leave it overnight, and give it a good scrub in the morning. It helps dissolve those unsightly mineral rings.

6. Garbage Disposal Freshener:

To eliminate odors and refresh your garbage disposal, pour half a cup of white vinegar down, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse with cold water.

7. Machine Maintenance:

Periodically running white vinegar through your washing machine or dishwasher can help in removing soap scum, mineral buildup, and deodorizing the interiors.

8. Clear the Cloudiness:

Glass shower doors often get cloudy due to soap scum and hard water. Wiping them with white vinegar helps restore their clarity.

Conclusion:

White vinegar is not just a kitchen essential but a versatile home and plumbing companion. While it offers an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for many minor issues, for more significant plumbing problems, always consider consulting a professional.  And if you want to rid yourself of the build up that hard water can cause, consider a water softner. Next time you pass by that bottle of white vinegar in your pantry, give it a nod of appreciation – it truly is the unsung hero of home maintenance!

Click here for water softner info! 

What Homeowners Can Do About Backed-Up Sewer Lines

drain

What Is a Sewer Line Backup? 

Sewer line backups are exactly what they sound like. It’s when wastewater and sewage back up into the home’s drains rather than exiting through the sewer lines. The signs of a backed-up sewer line include foul odors, water in the sink that drains slowly, overflowing toilets, and standing water or wet spots in the yard. 

However, a sewer line backup is both fixable and preventable. Here, homeowners can learn some basic information about backups in sewer lines, including their common causes, how they can be prevented, and how a professional can help. 

How Does a Sewer Line Backup Happen? 

tree roots There are many reasons why a sewer line backup may occur in a household. Some common causes include: 

  • Obstructions: Clogs and blockages, especially those made of food residue, hair, and soap scum, can cause a sewage backup. Why? Imagine a pipe with a tough clog. The water has nowhere to go if it can’t get past the clog. So, it’ll reverse, usually into a drain or toilet. 
  • Tree root intrusion: Sometimes, plant matter like tree roots can get inside underground piping, causing cracks, damage, or an obstruction that impedes water flow, which can lead to a backed-up sewer line.
  • Broken and damaged pipes: Over time, pipes can break down, crack, and become damaged from all sorts of things like age, wear and tear, and shifting soil, leading to a sewage backup. 

How a Professional Can Fix a Backed-Up Sewer Line 

camera inspection Before a plumber can fix a backed-up sewer line, they must identify its cause and the extent of the damage. They may do this by employing sewer video inspection, where they insert a small camera into the piping to identify damage or blockages. If an obstruction is causing the backup, a plumber may use hydro jet drain cleaning or a drain snake to break down the clog. 

If the pipe is broken or damaged and needs repair, they may use trenchless repair methods to fix it. This is where a plumber uses a non-invasive approach like epoxy pipe lining to fix the line. One thing’s for sure. It’s very difficult for homeowners to fix a backed-up sewer line by themselves. DIY fixes could make the problem worse and further damage the plumbing system. So, homeowners should consult a professional instead. 

How Homeowners Can Help Prevent Backed-Up Sewer Lines 

Homeowners can help prevent sewer line backups and the damage they cause by: 

  • Be mindful of what is flushed: Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. Cotton swabs, paper towels, and so-called “flushable” wipes can cause clogs (and, by extension, sewer backups). 
  • Be careful what goes down drains: Many clogs in the sewer line are caused by cooking grease, oil, and food waste that gets put down the drain in the kitchen sink. Avoid using drains, even ones with garbage disposals, as a trash bin and instead throw food scraps, grease, and oil in the garbage. 
  • Use drain mesh screens: Food residue, hair, and soap scum that accidentally go down the home’s drains can cause nasty obstructions. Drain screens are a cheap and easy way to catch things and prevent them from entering drain and sewer lines.
  • Schedule annual plumbing maintenance visits: When it comes to preventing plumbing problems, nothing beats scheduling yearly maintenance with a professional. A plumber can check for issues like clogs, pipe damage, and worn-out valves and advise homeowners on additional preventative measures. 

About JD Precision Plumbing & Air 

JD Precision Plumbing & Air is a family-owned and operated company serving Spring and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, hassle-free service, and financing. Call them today for sewer line services in Spring, TX. 

Leak Detection Tips

How to Catch Leaks Before the Water Bill Goes Up More

A leak does more than waste large amounts of water. It also wastes money and can cause significant water damage. Yet, many people don’t realize they have a leak until a lot of damage and costs have already occurred. Thankfully, there’s a solution to help prevent more damage: prompt detection. Here’s what homeowners should know to help catch leaks as soon as possible.  

The Signs of a Leak 

Many people diagnose a leak by seeing it for themselves, dripping water day in and day out. However, the signs of a leak aren’t always obvious, and it’s up to homeowners to remain vigilant. They should be on the lookout for: 

  • The sound of running water: If a homeowner hears running water without a faucet or water-using fixture on, this could mean there’s a leak. 
  • Low water pressure: If water escapes the plumbing system due to a leak, pressure can’t build up, leading to poor water pressure from faucets and showerheads. 
  • Mold and mildew growth: Mold and mildew grow in dark, moist environments, like those created by a leak. Mold and mildew along baseboards could point to a slab leak or water damage. 
  • Water damage on walls, floors, or ceilings: Damaged or wet flooring, peeling paint on the walls, and water stains on the ceiling are all water damage that can indicate a leak. 

High Water Bills Point to a Leak 

billEvery homeowner should have a basic idea of how much their water bill costs each month. If they notice any sudden increases in water costs (despite no notable change in their water consumption), this is likely due to a leak wasting water. 

Getting the leak fixed by a plumber as soon as possible is vital to prevent wasting money on water the household isn’t using. So homeowners should pay attention to their monthly water bill, taking note of any unexpected changes and contacting a plumber for leak repair.

Check Your Water Meter 

water meterThe home’s water meter measures how much water enters the house through the water main. It measures water consumption by the gallon or cubic foot, depending on the system. If a homeowner suspects that they have a leak, they can use the readings on their water meter to get more insight. Some water meters have a leak indicator that spins when there is a leak, but even without one, water meters are still a helpful tool to check for leaks. 

Here’s how a homeowner can use their water meter to find a leak:

  • First, they should turn off all fixtures and appliances that use water. 
  • Next, they should write down the reading on the water meter. Don’t worry about converting the readout into gallons or cubic feet; just write down the number. 
  • Now, it’s a waiting game. Homeowners should wait about an hour before rechecking the water meter. 
  • There's a leak if they notice an increase in the water meter readings. After all, if the home didn’t use water during that time, how would the reading change? 

About JD Precision Plumbing & Air 

JD Precision Plumbing & Air is a family-owned and operated company serving Spring, TX, and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, fully stocked trucks, and strong communication. Call them today for leak detection and repair in Spring, TX.