Hard water is one of the most common water issues facing Sarasota, FL homeowners. Water softeners remove the minerals that cause hard water. Without treatment, your hard water will leave behind soap scum in your bathroom and kitchen, destroy your water appliances, and dry out your skin and hair. With so many people having to use hard water to clean, cook, and bathe, a water softener is vital. By removing minerals that cause scaly buildup, these devices eliminate the risk of having to prematurely replace faucet heads and water heaters that the hard water buildup can ruin, and they save you hours of cleaning what hard water leaves behind. What Water Softeners DoA water softener is simply a whole-house filtration system that is used to remove the minerals that create hard water. It does this by removing calcium and magnesium from the water via ion exchange. Hard water is the modern home’s enemy. The scale that it creates can build up inside the pipes where it decreases the water pressure and can actually clog them. It can even reduce the lifespan of your ice machine, dishwasher, and coffee maker. The higher the temperature of the water rises, the more the minerals harden. This is why hard water is especially rough on water heaters. Without the use of a water softener, your dishes will come out of the dishwasher with streaks and stains. Your laundry will be dingy, and you’ll notice soap scum on the shower curtains. Shampoo and soap won’t lather as easily. A water softener is well worth it just to save you from dealing with all of these issues. How a Water Softener WorksHard water enters the water softener’s mineral tank. There, it flows through a bed of resin beads made of polystyrene. They’re charged with sodium ions, which create a negative charge. Minerals such as calcium and magnesium have a positive charge, which attracts them to the negative charge of the resin beads. As the hard water goes through the tank, the resin beads grab the minerals. As they catch the minerals, they release sodium ions. The resin takes the hardness, or calcium and magnesium ions, from the water, allowing the water that flows into your home to be soft. The mineral tank, where the softener removes the calcium and magnesium, is maybe the most important component of a water softener. The Major Components of a Water SoftenerIn addition to the mineral tank, the water softener has a control valve that measures how much water goes through the tank and into the house. Over time, the process of softening water depletes the ability of the resin beads to be effective. Before the beads are too overwhelmed with minerals to keep working, the control valve will automatically start a regeneration cycle. The control valve includes an onboard computer that can be pre-programmed so that it knows when to do this. The size of your home, how many people live in it, and the natural hardness of your water determines this programming. By signaling for the regeneration cycle, the control valve allows the water softener to be efficient. The brine tank aids in the regeneration process. It’s a smaller tank located next to the mineral tank. It holds a highly concentrated salt solution. This solution will restore the positive charge of the resin beads. Salt, in the form of blocks or pellets, is manually added to the brine tank. The slat dissolves in the water at the bottom of the brine tank. When the control valve signals that the resin’s softening capacity is diminishing, the salt solution comes from the brine tank to recharge the resin beads. If your brine tank runs out of salt, the water softener can no longer soften the water. Your Water Softener ExpertsHere at Next Level Plumbing, we offer a highly customer-focused approach to our services. In many instances, we are able to offer same-day service for all of your plumbing, drain cleaning, and water heater needs. Our team specializes in repairs, installations, and preventative maintenance for faucets, toilets, water filtration, and water and sewer lines. Call Next Level Plumbing now to learn more about our water softener and plumbing services. The post How a Water Softener Helps Your Water appeared first on Next Level Plumbing. Via https://nextlevelplumbingllc.com/how-a-water-softener-helps-your-water/
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Spring is a common season for homes to experience flooding. As the snow turns to rain, it can oversaturate your yard, creating the perfect conditions for sitting water. Sump pumps are vital to keeping below-grade areas dry and structurally sound. Initially, residential homes were built with unfinished crawl spaces that occasional flooding wouldn’t damage. The majority of homes built today have finished basements. This means that it’s even more important to keep the area dry to protect your belongings and important systems. Common Causes Behind Basement FloodingWhile any basement has the chance to flood, there are some more prone than others. Sump pumps can save your basement from permanent damage if you live in an area where groundwater is high. Be sure to regularly examine your yard for any low spots near your foundation. Over time, water can erode the dirt and start pooling around the walls. Extra precautions are a must if your yard slopes toward your home rather than away from it. Flooding doesn’t always start from the exterior of your home. Other common factors behind basement flooding incidents include hot water tank and water supply line issues. When floods come from pipes in the walls, you may find clues prior to a major event. Dark stains and wet spots are signs that your pipes may create a flooding emergency in the future. Also, ensure that your pipes are adequately insulated if you use them year-round. Freezing events in the winter can put harmful strain on your pipes, leading to fissures and cracks. How Sump Pump Systems WorkTwo main types of sump pumps are used in residential homes to safely drain water away. A float-activated system has a floater ball that lifts as the water level rises. This moves the activator arm up, which then starts the motor. A pressure-activated pump can read when the water puts pressure on the system’s sensor, activating the draining process. There are also submersible and pedestal sump pumps that dictate where the pump itself is located. Submersible pumps are waterproof and sit below the water line at the base of the pit. A protective screen covers the bottom, so it can suck up water without catching any debris. Pedestal pumps have the system resting above the water on top of a long inlet pipe. These systems are often louder but don’t cost as much as submersible options. A sump pump usually sits in a constructed pit in the lowest area of your basement. There’s often gravel at the bottom of the basin where the water collects. The pump itself is connected to various valves that sense the water level. When the system activates, it pumps water out through the discharge line to a designated drainage area. Typical sump pumps require electricity and can be plugged into a standard home outlet with a ground fault circuit interrupter. Some sump pumps come with a battery backup that will continue to keep your basement dry for a few hours to a few days during a power outage. Your pump should be set up to transport the water to a nearby storm drain, creek, or dry well. It must lead to a spot at least 10 to 20 feet away from your foundation to stop any water from seeping back inside. Some cities and states have specific code requirements for sump pumps. Your local professional will know those codes and be able to keep you in compliance. Benefits of Sump PumpsA sump pump is a small investment into the safety of your property and belongings. When moisture finds its way into your basement, the pump will force it out and away from your home. Keeping the area dry protects your carpets and prevents your paint and wall coverings from peeling. These systems reduce the chances of mold, mildew, and other fungus growth that can harm your indoor air quality. A drier environment also helps to discourage termites and other pest infestations. Along with keeping your foundation intact, a sump pump allows you to rest easy knowing your basement appliances are dry and functioning. Depending on what you store in your basement, a sump pump may keep your HVAC system, washing machine, or deep freezer safe. Installing a sump pump may even be a requirement to stay qualified for your homeowner’s insurance coverage. Expert Sarasota Residential Plumbing TeamNext Level Plumbing is a premier, customer-focused plumbing company serving Sarasota and the surrounding areas. Our well-trained plumbers work hard to exceed all your comfort expectations. Regardless of your service needs or the size of your assignment, you can always trust us to be professional, respectful, and efficient. We can expertly repair your pipes, drains, slab, and sewer lines. Our team is also ready to detect leaks, perform camera inspections, and complete repiping projects. Don’t forget to keep us in mind if you need help with a fixture or appliance installation. Call us at Next Level Plumbing today to learn more about sump pumps in Sarasota. The post Will Your Sump Pump Prevent Your Basement From Flooding? appeared first on Next Level Plumbing. Via https://nextlevelplumbingllc.com/will-your-sump-pump-prevent-your-basement-from-flooding/ Hydro jetting is an effective and efficient way to keep your drainage pipes clean and clear. This method utilizes high-pressure water jets to blast any buildup or blockages in your pipes. Hydro jetting lets you easily and quickly remove debris, grease, tree roots, scale, and other materials from your plumbing system. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of hydro jetting and why it is becoming an increasingly popular choice for many homeowners. 1. Cost-Effective SolutionHydro jetting is a cost-effective solution for clearing stubborn blockages from pipes. It is a great alternative to traditional cable snaking, which can be slow and labor-intensive. With hydro jetting, the powerful jets of water clean out the inside of the pipes quickly and thoroughly. This not only removes the current blockage but also prevents any debris from accumulating in the future. This helps to reduce plumbing repair costs in the long run, and it also gives homeowners peace of mind, knowing that their pipes are clear and running smoothly. This makes it an attractive option for those on a budget or looking for a cost-effective solution to their plumbing problems. 2. Safe and Non-ToxicHydro jetting has plenty of safety measures to protect your property and your family from hazardous toxins. It is an entirely safe solution that does not require chemicals or toxins to clean your plumbing system effectively. It also does not create any hazardous waste that could cause harm to anyone around it when used properly. Furthermore, since hydro jetting relies on water power instead of abrasives or sharp objects like augers do, there is no risk of damage to your pipes from harsh chemicals or sharp objects used during cleaning operations. It is safer than harmful substances but also effectively reduces pipe blockage, providing clear flow in a much shorter period without risking your home or its inhabitants. This safe and non-toxic approach makes hydro jetting the go-to choice for those who want to protect themselves. 3. No Damage to PipesUnlike traditional methods such as snaking and rodding, which may scratch or puncture pipes with their metal tools, hydro jetting does not damage your pipes in any way during its operation. Instead of using mechanical equipment that can cause snags or gouges in older plumbing, the technician will clean the entire length of the pipe while maintaining the integrity of existing pipes and systems. The pressurized water used during hydro jetting operations has enough force to dislodge blockages without causing damage to the pipe itself. This means you can use this method multiple times without worrying about damaging your piping system through wear and tear caused by these tools over time. 4. Environmentally FriendlySince hydro jetting does not rely on chemical agents to effectively clear drains and remove debris from piping systems, it is considered much more environmentally friendly than other methods available today. Additionally, because no hazardous waste is created when using this method of cleaning out drains and pipes, there are no worries about polluting the local environment with dangerous byproducts created by traditional methods, such as snaking out a clog with a metal tool that may contain toxins found in certain chemical agents used during these operations. 5. Greater Flexibility/MobilityBy using powerful streams of water, hydro jetting can easily and effectively remove blockages in a variety of areas, such as narrow pipes, deep sewer lines, and even small bends and curves. With this capability, plumbers can quickly clear stubborn obstructions without tearing up walls or doing extensive manual labor. This not only saves them time but also money when it comes to plumbing services. Its flexibility also makes it suitable for those awkward plumbing spots that are hard to reach with other tools. 6. Effective and FastHydro jetting is a major game changer in the world of plumbing. By utilizing high-powered streams of water, clogged pipes can be easily cleared and drained. This method is also incredibly effective and fast compared to more traditional methods. With hydro jetting, plumbers don’t need to spend hours snaking or augering out pipes; the process usually only takes a few minutes. This can save businesses and homeowners money, as fewer man-hours are required for the job, but it also makes hydro jetting an incredibly efficient service—one that can easily be completed in even the busiest of schedules. Rely on the ExpertsAs more people become aware of the benefits offered by this method of high-pressure water cleaning, they’ll begin turning towards it as a solution for their plumbing needs instead of traditional methods that may be outdated or ineffective at solving their issues. If you’re looking for an efficient and effective way to clear your drainage system, consider investing in hydro jetting services from Next Level Plumbing. Our professional crew will be able to provide an honest assessment of your needs so that you can make the most informed decision possible for your home’s plumbing system. We also offer comprehensive plumbing services in Sarasota, FL, and the surrounding communities. Our solutions include drain cleaning, faucets, toilets, water heaters, water filtration, sewer lines, and remodels. Contact Next Level Plumbing today for exceptional plumbing solutions. The post Hydro Jetting: The Benefits of High-Pressure Water Cleaning appeared first on Next Level Plumbing. Via https://nextlevelplumbingllc.com/hydro-jetting-the-benefits-of-high-pressure-water-cleaning/ Proper functioning of plumbing fixtures and faucets is essential to the comfort, health, and overall well-being of your family members. Leaks and other malfunctions can lead to higher water bills, water damage, and health hazards such as bacteria growth and water contamination. Keeping your plumbing and fixtures in good working order will ensure a healthier, more efficient home environment. Your Kitchen FaucetA well-functioning kitchen faucet is one of the most critical components of your home’s plumbing system. As one of the most frequently used fixtures in your household, it is used for tasks such as washing dishes, filling pots, and washing food and hands. A kitchen faucet also provides a critical source of clean drinking water needed for your health and hygiene. Keeping your kitchen faucet in good condition will make all of the tasks in your central kitchen hub easier. Signs That It’s Time To Replace Your Kitchen FaucetEven the highest quality kitchen fixtures have an expiration date, regardless of how well they are maintained. Water quality, hours of use, and appliance age are all factors to consider when deciding whether to tighten those connections one more time or replace your kitchen faucet fixture altogether. Here are some clear signs that it’s time to start shopping for a new, more efficient kitchen faucet. Constant LeakingA leaky faucet can be a significant waste of water over time, contributing to higher water bills and damage to the surrounding area. A constant leak can also contribute to the growth of bacteria, which can be potentially hazardous to your health and that of your loved ones. A leaky faucet can also cause decreased water pressure in other parts of your plumbing system, negatively impacting your whole house over time. Rust and CorrosionThe presence of corrosion and rust in and on a kitchen faucet indicates a breakdown in the metal, leading to the potential release of harmful chemicals into your water supply. Corroded faucets can significantly alter the taste, odor, and appearance of water, making it unappealing for cooking and drinking. Rust and corrosion can also alter the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen sink and faucet, making a central kitchen fixture less visually appealing. Replacing your rusty, corroded faucet can help ensure the safety and quality of your water supply while improving the appearance of your whole kitchen. Growth of MildewA compromised faucet contributes to the growth of mildew by providing damp areas that are a breeding ground for these fungi. If your kitchen does not have adequate ventilation, mildew can grow and spread quickly, compromising your indoor air quality and increasing your risk of developing allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions. Small patches of growth can quickly spiral out of control and spread in walls, under floors, and around plumbing pipes, making it difficult to eradicate completely. Replacing your kitchen faucet at the first signs of leaking will prevent mildew growth from happening in the first place, providing you with a cleaner, safer living environment. Old and OutdatedFaucets that are more than ten years old should be replaced. Over time, constant use of a kitchen faucet causes wear and tear on internal components, reducing its efficiency. Older faucets may not incorporate the latest advances in water-saving technology, leading to higher water bills. As your faucet ages, it’s likely to need more frequent repairs and maintenance to keep it running properly; if the cost of repair and maintenance is more than the cost of replacement, your faucet should be switched out for a newer, more efficient model. Superior Service For All of Your Plumbing Needs!A new faucet in your kitchen is a central focal point that provides a pleasing aesthetic and a safe source of clean cooking and drinking water for the whole family. While the job may seem simple, consider procuring the advice of a professional plumbing service to make sure that your installation is done right. Your kitchen faucet is part of a larger network in your home, and making sure that all components of your system are functioning properly is the best line of defense against future plumbing issues. [Company_Name] has been proudly serving our valued customers in Sarasota, FL and the surrounding areas for decades. With superior services related to plumbing repair, fixture installation, drain cleaning, sewer maintenance, water line repair, remodeling, and water filtration, we will attend to all of your plumbing needs with professionalism and courtesy. Contact us today so we can get started replacing your kitchen faucet! The post Reasons To Get Your Kitchen Faucet Replaced appeared first on Next Level Plumbing. Via https://nextlevelplumbingllc.com/reasons-to-get-your-kitchen-faucet-replaced/ 10 Tips for Preventing Plumbing ClogsPlumbing clogs are the bane of many a homeowner’s existence. They can be incredibly frustrating and very expensive to fix, which is why it’s so important to take preventative measures to keep your plumbing from clogging in the first place. Keeping your drains free of clogs will save you money and avert plumbing disasters. Let’s discuss some of the most common causes of clogs and consider tips for preventing them. Common Causes of ClogsThere are various issues that can create clogs in your plumbing system. They include all the following:
The best way to prevent clogs is by taking care of your plumbing. Follow these 10 tips for avoiding obstructed flow. 1. Use a Strainer in Your SinkUse strainers in sinks and bathtubs to catch hair and food particles before they go down the drain. You can find inexpensive mesh strainers at most hardware stores and home centers. 2. Collect Grease and Oil in ContainersPour the grease into an old coffee can, glass jar, or another disposable container with a lid, and throw it away in your regular trash. For oily pans, wipe them with a paper towel and discard the towel in the trash. 3. Run Hot Water to Flush DrainsWhen you’re finished taking a bath or doing dishes, run hot water down the drain for about 30 seconds to help clear out any remaining soap residue that might have been left behind. This will prevent soap scum from building up in the pipes and causing clogs. 4. Never Flush Feminine Products Down ToiletsOne of the most common causes of clogged toilets is feminine products. It’s tempting to flush them down the toilet, but they can get stuck in the pipes and cause a severe blockage. Instead, throw them in the trash or place them in a covered waste bin to be picked up with the garbage. 5. Be Careful About What You Put Into Garbage DisposalDon’t put coffee grounds, eggshells, potato peels, or similar food scraps into your garbage disposal. These items may be hard for your equipment to grind up properly, leading to a clog that requires professional help to fix. 6. Don’t Flush Cat LitterWhile it may seem logical to flush your pet’s waste, this is not a good practice. Clumping cat litter is made from bentonite clay, which is a natural absorbent. When you flush it down your toilet, it will clump up and form solid balls in the pipes, causing a blockage that can be very difficult to remove. 7. Bathe Pets OutdoorsKeeping hair out of drains is a sensible precaution. Like human hair, pet hair can clog them as well. If you have a large dog, it’s best to bathe your pet outside so that the fur doesn’t end up in your bathtub or shower drain and create problems. 8. Don’t Clean Paint Brushes in the SinkTo remove paint from brushes before cleaning, wipe the brush on the side of the paint can, a paper towel, or on a piece of newspaper. Fill a bucket with warm, soapy water to clean the brushes. Discard the used water. 9. Flush Human Waste and Toilet Paper OnlyDon’t flush anything other than human waste or toilet paper down the toilet. This includes paper towels, baby wipes, disposable diapers, cotton balls and pads, cotton swabs, cigarette butts, and condoms. Discard these items in the trash bin instead. 10. Schedule Annual Maintenance VisitsThe best way to prevent clogs in your plumbing system is to arrange for regular maintenance checks. You should schedule annual inspections by a professional plumber so that any problems can be discovered before they become serious issues that require extensive repairs. The plumber will perform a visual inspection of the pipes and fixtures, check to see if there are any leaks or damage, and examine your toilets for proper operation. They’ll also check your sinks and tubs to ensure that the water is flowing freely. If one part of your plumbing system isn’t working properly, it can cause problems with the rest of your pipes and fixtures. If your toilet clogs or you need drain cleaning, contact our experts at Next Level Plumbing in Sarasota. We have been in business for more than 10 years and are proud to offer our clients a complete line of the highest quality plumbing services at an affordable price. Call us today to receive more information or to schedule an appointment. The post How To Keep Your Plumbing Clog Free appeared first on Next Level Plumbing. Via https://nextlevelplumbingllc.com/how-to-keep-your-plumbing-clog-free/ A leaking or broken sewer line can be a nightmare for any homeowner. Not only is it inconvenient and uncomfortable, but if left unaddressed, it can lead to expensive repairs. But how do you know when your sewer line needs to be replaced? Here are eight common signs that indicate it is time to call in a professional plumber. 1. Persistent Slow Drainage or Drain BackupsOne of the most common signs of a failing sewer line is slow drainage or frequent backups in your home’s drains. This means that the water cannot flow through the pipes properly and instead backs up into your home’s drains. If you’re noticing this problem in more than one drain, there’s likely an issue with the main sewer line. 2. Gurgling Sounds in DrainsAnother sign that something may be wrong with your sewer line is gurgling sounds from the drains when you turn on an appliance such as a washing machine or dishwasher. This indicates that air is trapped in the pipes due to blockages or other issues, so it’s time for a professional inspection. 3. Flooding Septic Waste in Your YardFlooding septic waste in your yard can be an incredibly unpleasant and dangerous problem that indicates you need to repair your sewer line immediately. If left unresolved, the problem can damage your property as this septic waste material contains bacteria and other hazardous contaminants for humans and animals. These contaminants can cause serious illness. In addition to the health risk, the standing water may cause damage to any landscaping around it or weaken any structure it is in contact with. Therefore, repairs should be done as soon as possible, and you should avoid contact with the affected area until it has been professionally addressed. 4. Pools of Water on Your LawnIf you’re noticing pools of water randomly forming in your lawn, it’s a good indicator that you need to repair your sewer line. The most common causes of these excess pools are clogs and cracks in the line. You’ll want to call an experienced and qualified plumber in order to identify the issue. In some cases, they can clear out the blockage, while other more extreme situations may require replacing the entire section of the pipe. It’s important to take care of this issue quickly because blocked or cracked pipes can create an environment for hazardous bacteria, leading to further damage inside and outside your home. 5. Foundation ProblemsYou may also notice cracks in your foundation walls, which could indicate an issue with your sewer lines; this usually happens when the soil around the piping begins to erode due to leaks or breaks somewhere along the length of the pipe. When erosion occurs, pressure against foundation walls can lead them to crack and shift over time if not appropriately addressed by professionals. 6. Foul Sewage OdorsThe smell of raw sewage coming from inside your home can be indicative of problems with your main sewer line; this happens when sewage begins leaking from breaks in pipes and builds up instead of flowing away like it should be normally doing out into city sewers or septic tanks, depending on which type system you have installed at home. 7. Mold Growth on the WallsIt’s common to find mold growing on walls in areas of the home where humidity levels are high, such as bathrooms. However, mold growth in other parts of your home could be a sign that your sewer line needs repair. If a sewer line has a break or is damaged, sewage and moisture can seep up through the foundation and escape into your home. Not only does this create unhealthy living conditions due to potential contaminants traveling along with the moisture, but it will also create an ideal setting for mold to grow and spread unchecked. By paying attention to signs such as discoloration and deterioration of walls or musty smells coming from drains, you can quickly identify a problem before it gains significant footing. Call Professionals Today!Are you looking for reliable, same-day service to ensure your home’s plumbing is in tip-top shape? Look no further than Next Level Plumbing! Whether it’s a clogged drain, a malfunctioning toilet, or a cracked water or sewer line, our rapid response team of expert plumbers can take care of it. We repair and replace sewer and water lines, install faucets and water heaters, and offer kitchen and bathroom remodel. Plus, we have the added benefit of offering high-grade water filtration services. Contact Next Level Plumbing today to learn more about our work. The post 8 Signs That Your Sewer Line Needs to Be Replaced appeared first on Next Level Plumbing. Via https://nextlevelplumbingllc.com/8-signs-that-your-sewer-line-needs-to-be-replaced/ When you go on vacation, there are many tasks you need to complete before leaving your home. This includes closing and locking all windows, drawing your blinds, unplugging electronics, putting your lights on a timer, and much more. Something else you need to consider when going on a trip is your home’s water. Many experts advise turning off your water when you go on vacation. Doing this might prevent any potential water damage, which in turn, will help save you stress, hassle, and money. Risks of Leaving Water on During Your VacationThere are many potential risks of leaving your water on when you go away. One of the main risks is water damage. Pipes can crack, burst, or face other types of damage that leads to leaks and potential flooding. Shutting off your water is essential in cold temperatures because your water can freeze in the pipes and cause cracking and bursting. Water damage can ruin walls, floors, furniture, clothing, electronics, and other belongings. You also risk water stains that could require replacing ceiling, wall, and flooring materials. If your home sustains water damage while you’re away, the damp environment could promote mold and bacteria growth, posing multiple health issues. Repairing your home from water damage can be extremely costly and stressful. If you’re faced with an unexpected plumbing project, consider Next Level Plumbing for professional help. How to Turn Your Water OffTo turn your water off, you must locate the water shutoff valve. If you don’t know where the valve is located, consider finding it before you go on vacation. Water valves can be in your basement, garage, crawl space, or outside your home. Once you turn the water off, you should drain the pipes. To do this, turn on all your tubs, showers, and other faucets, and let all the water run out. You can turn them off when water is no longer coming through them. You should also turn off your water heater when you turn the water off. If water levels drop in the heater, it can lead to damage. If that happens, you may also need to purchase a new water heater when you return from vacation! If you are unsure how to do any of these steps, contact a plumber for expert assistance. Help With Plumbing MaintenanceMost plumbing projects aren’t something you should take on by yourself. If you’re worried about your pipes and water supply when you go on vacation, consider contacting a plumber to come and check out your pipes, locate your water supply, and walk you through the process. It may also be a good idea to walk through your home a few weeks before your trip and do a visual inspection. Are any faucets leaking? Are there any small puddles under your sink or washer? Do you notice your toilet is constantly running? All of these situations could be a sign that you have a plumbing issue. It’s best to bring a plumber in as soon as possible to prevent water damage and help save you a costly water bill while you’re out of town. In the event that something unexpected happens and there is a water issue while you’re away, contact a plumber as soon as possible to help identify the damage, present you with your repair options, and assist you with making the repairs and ensuring nothing like that happens again. Closing ThoughtsDon’t forget to address chores at home before heading out on vacation! By preparing your home to sit untouched for a few days, you can prevent a headache when you return. Water damage is one of the biggest concerns when no one is home. Even a short 24 hours of a plumbing issue while you’re away can lead to costly consequences. Luckily, plumbing companies have the knowledge and training needed to identify and address water-related issues in household and commercial settings. Make sure you contact a plumber if you have any concerns about your home’s pipes and water supply, or even just for additional peace of mind. At Next Level Plumbing, we have an experienced team dedicated to helping you with all your plumbing needs. This includes remodeling projects, drain cleaning, and other projects that involve faucets, toilets, water heaters, water filtration, water lines, and sewer lines. If you live in Sarasota or the surrounding area, reach out to us at Next Level Plumbing today! The post Is Turning Your Water Off When You Go on Vacation a Good Idea? appeared first on Next Level Plumbing. Via https://nextlevelplumbingllc.com/is-turning-your-water-off-when-you-go-on-vacation-a-good-idea/ Copper piping is a reliable choice for gas or water plumbing since it does not contaminate your water and can be safer for the environment. These pipes are also able to cover long distances without being heavy, making them an efficient option for long-lasting plumbing in your home. However, you may be wondering just how long these pipes will last. How Long Does Copper Plumbing LastCopper plumbing can last a lifetime in many homes. Copper plumbing has a lifespan of 70 to 80 years. Despite its overall stellar performance, there are some things that may reduce the lifespan of copper piping:
If your pipes are being affected by some or all of these issues, they can last between five and 50 years before they need repair or replacement. How Do You Know If You Copper Plumbing Is Too Old?Your copper plumbing will begin to show its age in various ways. Major signs of old pipes can be cracks or corrosion. Cracked pipes can lead to leaking. This is a problem for your water bill and your home. Property, including your walls, floors, and ceilings, can be damaged wherever the leak is in your home. Corrosion from the pipes can contaminate the water, leading to discoloration and a bad taste. Tainted water can also make your family sick. If you have any of these or similar issues with your water, you should contact a professional company such as Next Level Plumbing to inspect your pipes and determine if you need a replacement. Benefits of Switching to PEX PipingWhile there are a lot of benefits of your copper pipes, if yours are ready to be replaced, you may want to switch to another type of piping, such as PEX piping. PEX piping is made with polyethylene, a high-density plastic material that is a flexible and durable alternative to traditional copper. PEX is seen in 60% of new homes. PEX pipes are helpful for plumbers and contractors because they come in different colors. Red pipes are for hot water, blue for cold, and white for either hot or cold water, PEX piping can be a great alternative if you are on a budget or do not want to make a costly investment in copper pipes, as PEX pipes can cost a third of what you would normally pay to install copper pipes. This can save you hundreds of dollars on your next pipe installation. PEX piping can also give you better water pressure throughout your home than copper pipes, and they can last almost twice as long as copper pipes, with a lifespan of around 100 years. PEX can keep water hotter for longer, and less condensation occurs than with copper pipes. The plastic that PEX piping is made of is much less conductive than copper, and producing less condensation means fewer problems from moisture in the future, like mold or mildew inside your walls. Additionally, PEX pipes can easily bend. Copper pipes cannot be bent; they must be joined together whenever the plumbing needs to go any direction except straight. The more joints in the plumbing, the more opportunities for leaks to occur. PEX piping bends, so leakage at joints will not be an issue. There are other benefits to choosing PEX piping as well. Because plumbers don’t have to create joints, PEX pipes can be installed quickly. PEX pipes can freeze in the winter without damage, and there is no risk of corrosion, which is common for metals. PEX pipes are also resistant to scale, which can build up and make it easier for pipes to be blocked. Get in Touch With a ProfessionalAt Next Level Plumbing, your plumbing needs are our priority. Our team of plumbers service Sarasota, FL and the surrounding communities with passion and expertise. We are here to help you with water heaters, toilets, faucets, and sewer lines, as well as all of your cleaning, repairs, and installations. If you are remodeling, we can make sure your plumbing gets updated at the same time. We look forward to helping you with your plumbing concerns either by appointment or on an emergency basis. Call Next Level Plumbing today to learn more about our plumbing services or to schedule your next plumbing appointment. The post Learn How Long the Copper Plumbing Can Last in Your Home appeared first on Next Level Plumbing. Via https://nextlevelplumbingllc.com/learn-how-long-the-copper-plumbing-can-last-in-your-home/ If your home is relatively new, your plumbing system may rely on a manifold to circulate hot and cold water to all of your fixtures. The same may also be true if you have recently had your plumbing system entirely redone. The easiest way to determine if your home has a plumbing manifold is whether your water lines are copper or flexible PEX pipes. Manifolds are only used with PEX water lines or in-ground radiant heating systems. If the water lines running to each of your plumbing fixtures are made of copper, then your home doesn’t have a manifold. Now that you know how to determine if your home has a plumbing manifold, let’s take a closer look at what it is and what function it serves. What Is the Purpose of a Plumbing Manifold?In homes that use copper or other metal pipes to supply water, there are main hot and cold water supply lines that run through the length of the house. Most commonly these are run through the basement ceiling or crawlspace. Additional pipes branch off from these main water lines to supply all of the various fixtures in the home. These typically come up through the floor inside of the wall and then run horizontally through the wall to each fixture. If there are multiple plumbing fixtures in the same room, such as in your bathroom, the hot and cold water pipes feeding that room will have additional branches that supply each fixture. PEX plumbing is quite a bit different from this traditional setup. It is possible to use PEX pipes in the same way as copper by running main hot and cold supply lines and branching off to each room and fixture. In this case, a manifold is not necessary. More commonly though, PEX plumbing systems use a manifold instead of running main supply lines throughout the house. The manifold is usually mounted on a wall near where your main water supply enters the building. This water supply is connected to the manifold and provides cold water to the system. Another pipe is run from the water heater to the manifold to supply hot water. Instead of running the water through the main supply lines and branching off to each fixture, the manifold supplies water directly to each fixture. The manifold has numerous hot and cold water outlets, and each outlet has its own shut-off valve. A length of flexible PEX pipe is connected to the outlet and then run directly to your kitchen sink, shower or other fixture. Each fixture has a blue cold water pipe and a red hot water pipe that connects to the manifold and supplies water to that fixture only. This means that there are no branches or additional fittings as every fixture in the home has its own dedicated hot and cold water lines. What Are the Benefits of Using a Plumbing Manifold?PEX plumbing systems with a manifold are much easier to install than running copper water lines. No soldering is required with PEX, and no additional fittings are needed either since the flexible lines can easily be bent to run wherever they need. This results in shorter installation times and lower labor costs. PEX pipes are also less expensive than copper, which further reduces the overall costs. Another major benefit of using a manifold is that a leak in one water line won’t affect the rest of the home since each fixture has its own dedicated supply lines. If one of these lines gets damaged and develops a leak, that line can easily be replaced without needing to shut off the water to the entire home. This is because every line in the system has its own shut-off valve. When you have copper water lines, there is only one main shut-off valve that controls the entire system. The manifold also reduces the risk of the system leaking in the first place. Every single joint and fitting in your copper water lines is a place that can fail and start to leak. In a manifold system, the only connections are where each pipe meets the manifold and where it meets the fixture. A PEX plumbing system can also reduce water waste by drastically shortening the lag time, or how long it takes for hot water to reach your fixture. With copper plumbing, hot water has to travel from the water heater through the entire length of the system before it reaches the tap. The manifold overcomes this problem by piping the hot water directly to the fixture. Expert Plumbing Services and SolutionsIf you need to have your home’s water lines replaced or you’re building a new home, a PEX plumbing system with a manifold is definitely something you should seriously consider. At Next Level Plumbing, we specialize in installing all types of plumbing and water systems for residents of Sarasota and the surrounding areas. Our licensed plumbers are also experts in all water line, sewer line and plumbing fixture repairs. We also install and work on water heaters and water filtration systems. If you have any questions about PEX plumbing or manifolds, give us a call today. The post What Is a Plumbing Manifold and What Does It Do? appeared first on Next Level Plumbing. Via https://nextlevelplumbingllc.com/what-is-a-plumbing-manifold-and-what-does-it-do/ Our team at Next Level Plumbing has some exciting news! You may have noticed already, but in case you haven’t, we are changing the way we look! We are still the same company, under the same ownership, but our vans, uniforms, website etc., have a new exciting look that tells the story of who we are! For those of you who haven’t noticed us driving around before our new look, we’ve been in business since 2017. We’re proud to have been serving the Sarasota and Manatee areas for over 5 years now. We specialize in plumbing remodel and repairs along with repipes and redrains in residential homes. So we are not new to the area, we just have a new look! We are very grateful to all of you who have used us and trusted us to work in your home on your plumbing. Choosing who to bring into your house to work on the plumbing is not always easy so we are thankful that you have trusted us for years now. Without your support we would not have been able to continue to develop and take things to the next level like we have done. Next Level Plumbing was created because I saw so many other plumbing companies satisfied with where they were, and I wanted to make a brand that would always be pushing itself to do better. We live in a time where the rate of change is very fast, and I wanted to be able to adapt quickly with it. But the goal was never to adapt to something new and then quit trying, it was to deliver an exceptional customer experience and then to continually level up from there to be even better. We saw that we could deliver excellent customer service, use good quality products, and communicate well with our customers. So we started Next Level Plumbing. We are always striving to be the very best version of ourselves that we can be.That is why we chose the name Next Level Plumbing. It is always pushing us to do, and be, better and better. Or in other words, to level up. Once we achieve that next level of excellence we immediately start working on improving our new standard to be even better. In this way we are continually unlocking a new level in one area or another. That is why we chose to go with this image and brand. It does a fantastic job of telling the story of our continuous effort to always improve by leveling up. When we beat the current level we are on, we then unlock the next level and begin working on the skills, software, processes, etc. to beat that new level. And it never stops because there is always a way to improve somewhere. You might say, “Ok, that sounds good, but how many levels are there to plumbing? Isn’t it just someone coming out to the house and fixing a problem?” Let’s take the dispatch communication as an example of how we are leveling up. When you book an appointment with any trade, they will give you a day and a time when they are planning to be there.We took that, unlocked the next level and leveled up by sending a text message when we were on the way. Now you had the opportunity to better plan your day because you knew you would have a notice before we arrived. We took that, improved it, and unlocked the next level in that area. We unlocked the ability to send those notifications automatically so that we never forget or miss informing you when we would be there. We also unlocked the next level by adding the option to be notified by text, email, or phone whichever way is more convenient! We always strive to go above and beyond so we kept pushing to improve more and unlocked the next level. We added a tracking link to the text message that allows you to click on the link and see where the technician is. So now you can easily see how close we are. This makes it easier to plan your day. That brings us to date, but we are not finished. We are currently working on unlocking the next level in this area. Which, sneak preview time, is going to include a technician bio and photo in the text or email so that you know who is coming out to your house, and what they look like. Another example of how we continue to improve is how we protect your house. If you are anything like me, when I call a trade out to my house to work on something and they walk straight in without taking their shoes off, putting down a floor cover, or putting on boot covers, I notice. It just makes me disappointed that they don’t seem like they care about keeping my house clean and protected. At Next Level Plumbing we immediately began wearing boot covers from the start. It is really important to me that we keep your house clean and take care of it, and I don’t want to be tracking someone else’s dirt and grime into your home. So that was an absolute must from the very beginning for us! On bigger jobs we used to lay down drop cloths to protect the floor while we worked. But we found that those tended to move around a lot which didn’t do as good a job as we had wanted at protecting the floor while we worked. And because we are always trying to unlock winning solutions, we leveled up by installing a heavy duty temporary flooring for the floor on the larger projects. Tape all of the edges down with a tape that is designed to not leave any marks so that it cleans up like we were never there. We tape all of the edges so dirt doesn’t get under it and so nobody will trip on an edge that is pulling up. It can stay there for several days if the project takes that long, and when we are done we pick it up and the floor is left every bit as good as when we first got there. For smaller jobs like replacing a faucet or emergency shutoff valves under the sink, we again used to use drop cloth to protect the floor where we were working, But the same problem occurred. The drop cloths move and slide around so they would end up losing a lot of their effectiveness by the time the job was complete. So we leveled up the flooring protection for small projects and now use a mat designed for this purpose with a rubber base so that it doesn’t move around and protects your floor consistently every time. And because we love our new brand, the mat is sporting our new look ? Those are just two examples of how we are always working to master the level we are on, and also continually unlocking the next level. There are hundreds of different areas where we have leveled up and countless areas ahead with new levels to unlock and surpass. We love to have feedback on what levels should be unlocked in the future as well. Maybe some of the areas you care more about than others. We want to hear what they are so that we can not only continue to deliver an excellent customer experience but to build on that and do even better. For example, we have received feedback that some people would like us to accept Zelle as a payment option. So we are currently working on being able to offer that as well as our other forms of payment. That is why we love the design of our new brand. It really helps tell the story of who we are and how we approach things. And let’s face it, for those of you who knew the old brand, this is definitely a level up! In fact, we leveled up so much between the last level and this one that it feels like we used a special cheat code to skip some levels ? We are excited to be bringing you the next level now, and in the years to come! The post We Have Some Exciting News! appeared first on Next Level Plumbing. Via https://nextlevelplumbingllc.com/we-have-some-exciting-news/ |
About UsNext Level Plumbing is a professional plumber in Sarasota, FL specializing in residential plumbing repairs and remodel work, including leaks, clogs, drain cleaning, stoppages/slow drains, and installations. With over 17 years experience, they are certified and licensed plumbers serving homeowners, apartment highrises, and condos. So if you are looking for local plumbers near you, just dial or contact them today. ArchivesNo Archives Categories |