Why Does My Toilet Continuously Run?

A toilet that constantly runs can be incredibly irritating and surprisingly costly. Just think of all the cold, hard cash that is, well, going down the toilet in the form of higher water bills. Rest assured, while aggravating, a running toilet is a very common issue. Most homeowners will run into at one point or another. A constant hissing sound is a good indicator that you have a broken, running toilet. If each individual flush fails to end with a gurgle and instead results in an aggravating hissing, with water running into the toilet bowl, it is probably time to call a plumber.

Causes Of A Running Toilet

Most constantly running toilets are typically caused by an issue with a broken ballcock or intake valve. However, the toilet's tank ball or the float ball may also be to blame. The flapper, which controls how much water flows into the toilet tank, is another potential culprit. If this little device is inoperable or fails to close correctly, it will almost always result in a running toilet. Your toilet may also have a plastic balloon fixed to the pump. This is what you see floating on top of the water when you remove the back tank cover. This plastic balloon has a simple but very important job. It lets the pump know when the tank is full so that it stops continually filling with water. However, this can break from time to time. If this balloon floats too high, then your toilet will hiss as it continues to run. In the very worst case, this could actually cause your tank to overflow. This is because the mechanism fails to signal to the tank to stop filling. It goes without saying this can lead to much bigger problems. Many homeowners would rather pull their hair out than deal with a flooded bathroom or the eventual replacement of water damaged flooring.

Best Ways To Fix A Running Toilet

These types of potential complications are important to keep in mind. While many homeowners attempt to fix common toilet issues on their own, the overwhelming majority end up creating bigger and more costly plumbing issues. For this reason it is always best to stick with a professional. The good news is that a fix for this particular issue is typically pretty easy and inexpensive. Plus, it will save you a ton on your water bill.

 

Toilet Repair Services Whitehall PA

A professional plumber will be able to easily diagnose any issues. They will have all the necessary tools for an easy fix. Additionally, hiring a professional plumber can help minimize errors that often creep up when you attempt a DIY plumbing fix. A plumbing expert may also help mitigate future problems. Plumbing problems could end up costing big time cash in the long run. For example, a professional plumber may spot additional problems, such as mold issues or polybutylene piping. Hiring a seasoned plumber is also the only true way to ensure that your plumbing project stays on schedule. It also ensures that it stays within budget. Additionally, a plumber has the skills and knowledge to deeply understand the nature of the problem. Sometimes there is more going on than what meets the eye. For a plumber that has the skills, knowledge, and expertise, be sure to contact Robinson Plumbing. We offer repairs, maintenance, and installs for toilets and or any other component of your plumbing system. Our plumbers are certified and so they have what it takes to take care of your plumbing needs. Robinson Plumbing is a local, family owned company with a proven track record of offering expert plumbing services to residents of the Lehigh Valley. We service Allentown PA 18101, Catasauqua PA 18032, Coplay PA 18037, Laurys Station PA 18059, Lehigh Valley PA 18001, Neffs PA 18065, Northampton PA 18067, Orefield PA 18069, Schnecksville PA 18078, Treichlers PA 18086, Whitehall PA 18052, and surrounding areas. Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have!  

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Top Tips For Water Softener Maintenance

Water softeners are among one of the low-key appliances in the modern household. With the exception of setting up the device and replenishing the salt, there's not much one needs to do. Still, there are a few vital maintenance tasks that help enhance the efficiency and life of your water softener.

Check Salt Levels Each Month

Salt is what helps regenerate the resin beads used in the softening process. Generally, the tank needs to be filled about half-full with salt. This is so that its level rises about 3 inches above the water level. While adding more salt could enhance efficiency, you need to reduce it to a lower level if old salt starts clinging to the sides. You can check the water softener manual for information on what kind of salt you need to add. Granular salt is generally preferred. This is due to its high solubility. Since salt crystals may clog the tank, buying it in pellet form is more appropriate. There are also 3 basic grades of water softener salt, namely:

• Rock salt: While this is usually cheaper than other types, it tends to contain more insoluble impurities. Over time, these will accumulate and make the tank muddy, which would in turn affect softening efficiency.
• Solar salt: This is available in both crystal and pellet form. Solar salt is usually extracted from seawater via evaporation, and is usually more soluble than rock salt.
• Evaporated salt: At 99.99% sodium chloride, this is the purest form of salt you can find. It's also the most expensive.

Generally, look for salts of higher quality. These will leave less residue in the storage tank. Established brands will also offer products that address certain issues. This includes rust stains and iron concentration.

Break Up Salt Bridges & Dissolve Mushes

A bridge occurs when salt forms a solid layer in the brine tank. This leaves an empty space between the salt and water. This prevents the salt from dissolving into the water. Common causes of salt bridges include temperature changes around the equipment and excess humidity. To break up these solid layers, carefully push a long broom handle around the center of the tank repeatedly. You can also pour hot water over the layers to make them easier to break. Salt mushing, which is the more serious of the 2 issues, happens when dissolved salt recrystallizes to form a sludge at the base of the tank. You can use a broom handle to break the pile up, especially if it's somewhat large. However, the best solution would be to dig out the old salt and replace it with fresh salt. Both of these issues can be avoided by:

• Using a lesser amount of salt in the brine tank
• Opting for purer salts
• Managing the levels of humidity and temperature around the water softener.

Clean The Venturi Valve

The venturi valve and nozzle between the tanks create the suction needed to pull water in during the regeneration cycle. These parts should be dismantled and cleaned twice every year, or more frequently, when the brine tank tends to get clogged. All you need to do is to unscrew the valve cover, disassemble the internal parts, and clean them thoroughly in soapy water. To reduce the risk of injury and damage to the equipment, always remember to relieve water pressure before you can dismantle the valve.

Cleaning The Resin Bed

Flushing the resin bed after every few months can help keep your water softener in top form. To do this, simply pour the amount of cleaner recommended by your water softener's manufacturer. If your device has other issues that impair normal functioning, use a more potent cleaner. Afterwards, manually regenerate the system to keep the resin functional and efficient.

 

Water Softener Macungie PA

If your water softener isn't working, have it checked by an expert plumber. Unless you're well-versed on working with a handful of mechanisms, a DIY plumbing repair on your device isn't something you should attempt. However, always follow the manufacturer's instructions when handling the equipment. It is recommended that you contact a plumber when your water softening system starts acting up. When hard water sediment builds up, it causes major damage to your pipes and home. For a reputable plumber, be sure to contact Robinson Plumbing. We offer repairs, maintenance, and installs for water softeners and your entire plumbing system. Let our certified plumbers take care of your plumbing needs. Robinson Plumbing is a local, family owned company with a proven track record of offering expert plumbing services to residents of the Lehigh Valley. We service Alburtis PA 18011, Breinigsville PA 18031, East Texas PA 18046, Emmaus PA 18049, Hereford PA 18056, Macungie PA 18062, Old Zionsville PA 18068, Trexlertown PA 18087, Zionsville PA 18092, and surrounding areas. Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have!

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Is Your Water Heater A Bomb Waiting To Explode?

There is nothing like the word "bomb" that incites more fear in people. Many could have one in their own home without realizing it. It is possible for your water heater to explode. However, there are warning signs that you can look out for before it gets to this point.

Warning Signs: Do You Have a Bomb in Your Home?

Your Water Heater's Age

It is vital to know how old your water heater is. The older it is, the more likely it is to be rusted, corroded or operating improperly. You can find this information by looking at the serial number. The serial number's coded date will not look like a typical date stamp. Therefore, knowing what each piece of information means is crucial. It will start with a letter, A-L. Whatever that letter is, it represents which month it was created. Therefore, when yours starts with a C, it was made in the 3rd month, or March. The next two digits will be a number. That number represents the year. So, for example, if your next two digits are 99, your water heater was made in 1999. If it starts with a zero, it was made in the 2000s. The rest of the numbers represent model and manufacturer information. Conventional tanks only have about a ten-year life span. So, if yours is older than that, you should call a licensed plumber to schedule a water heater replacement.

Improper Installation

Many homeowners try to avoid the cost of a plumber. They either try to install the tank themselves or hire an unlicensed plumber to do the job instead. Therefore, when an unlicensed plumber, including the homeowner, installs a water heater improperly, it can result in an explosion. In addition, not only can they cause a catastrophic tragedy for themselves, but they can also be held legally responsible for any damage caused to their neighbors and surrounding areas. If you think your water tank was installed improperly, it is advisable to consult with a qualified, licensed plumber to check out the tank.

Carbon Monoxide Alarm Bells

If your CO detector keeps sending out alarm sounds, you have a leak somewhere in your home. It needs to be addressed immediately. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless. It is also extremely hazardous to your health. Consequently, when the CO reaches certain levels in your home, it is lethal. On your water heater, the ignition flame can ignite the gas and create an explosion when there is a leak anywhere near or inside of it.

Faulty Valves

As previously mentioned, water heaters work through thermal expansion. Normally, when a tank is working properly, it has a TVP valve or temperature pressure release valve. This valve allows pressure to escape to keep your tank within an acceptable psi (pounds per square inch) range. However, faulty valves cause a build-up of pressure which will send your water heater rocketing through your home and your roof.

 

Water Heater Repair Coplay PA

There have been numerous incidents on record of water heater explosions. When you are worried about your water tank, call a licensed plumber. Be sure to have them thoroughly check your water heater so that they can offer their recommendations. Also, make sure that you have your water heater replaced when it is more than 10 years old. This will help prevent water heater problems and it will reduce your water heating costs. Robinson Plumbing offers water heater repair services, water heater installation services, and much more. Give us a call so that our certified plumbers can use their skills, knowledge, and professionalism to help you resolve your plumbing issues. Our services are fast, clean, and affordable. Robinson Plumbing is a local, family owned company that offers superior plumbing services. We service Allentown PA 18101, Catasauqua PA 18032, Coplay PA 18037, Laurys Station PA 18059, Lehigh Valley PA 18001, Northampton PA 18067, Whitehall PA 18052 and surrounding areas in Lehigh Valley, PA, and surrounding areas. Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have!

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What Do Those Strange Plumbing Noises Mean?

Many of us cannot imagine our lives without modern plumbing for even a day. However, some of the things we do, or do not do, each day could easily bring us to this point. Failing to get your plumbing pipes checked periodically or, even worse, ignoring possible signs of plumbing problems could result in using "creative methods" as you wait for the plumber to arrive. Luckily, it does not have to get to that.

Common Plumbing Noises

Here are 5 categories of common noises your pipes are likely to make and what they mean.

1. Thudding, Hissing Or Hammer

If your fixtures make a thud, hiss or give off a hammering sound, then it may be time to learn what a "pressure regulator" is. Oftentimes, these three sounds occur when your water pressure is too high. Turning the pressure down can easily solve the issue and save you some money on your next water bill.

2. Whistling

Your shower head whistles: If your shower head is whistling, then it is most likely clogged and simply needs to be cleaned. However, if you clean it and the noise continues, it may be time to change it.

 

Your pipes (in general whistle: Whistling pipe fixtures could mean your pipes have some form of debris or air trapped in them. Whistling could also be a sign of low water pressure so you can fix it by simply turning the pressure up.

3. Banging:

Banging sounds in the middle of the night can be scary for more than one reason. When it comes to plumbing, the possible repair cost for damaged unsecured or improperly secured pipes is high on the list of nightmares. Banging pipes could also be a sign that there is something blocking your pipes. Simply have the blockage removed or your pipes properly secured to make the noise stop. 4. Shaking and Rattling: Like banging, shaking and rattling suggests that your pipes need to be secured before a larger problem occurs. The sound often occurs as water moves through the plumbing forcing the pipes to shake because they are not tightly secured. 5. Gurgling: Gurgling is usually your drain's way of telling you that something is wrong. Unfortunately, this is not the only way it tells you since it may also add gases and foul odors to the list. If your drain gurgles:

• There may be a clogged drain. Check for hair, food and product build-up then clean accordingly.
• You may have an issue with your ventilation piping.
• Your pipes may have air in them.
• There may be a problem with your sewer lines (such as a break).

That last option is among the worst plumbing issues to experience and could cost thousands, so it is not one to ignore!

 

Alburtis Plumbers

A lot of simple, common plumbing issues can be diagnosed and, in some cases, fixed by you. However, it is always best to consult a professional for plumbing repair and plumbing maintenance. Many homeowners try to fix their own plumbing system issues and find that they need to call a plumber halfway through. It is best to call a plumber to avoid creating a bigger and more expensive problem. To find a qualified plumber, be sure to contact Robinson Plumbing. Our certified plumbers have the skills, knowledge, and professionalism to diagnose any plumbing issues that you might be experiencing. We will be able to fix it promptly in order to get your plumbing system in working order again. Robinson Plumbing is a local, family owned company that offers top notch plumbing services. We service Alburtis PA 18011, Breinigsville PA 18031, East Texas PA 18046, Emmaus PA 18049, Fogelsville PA 18051, Hereford PA 18056, Macungie PA 18062, Maxatawny PA 19538, Mertztown PA 19539, Old Zionsville PA 18068, Palm PA 18070, Topton PA 19562, Trexlertown PA 18087, Zionsville PA 18092, and surrounding areas. Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have!

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Best Ways To Avoid Plumbing Scams

A plumber is either called in for maintenance, an emergency, or to address a plumbing repair. Because many people are not familiar with plumbing, it's easy to fall victim to plumbing scams. By doing a bit of research and getting a solid estimate before the work begins, you can avoid scams and work with a reputable contractor.

Estimate And Overcharging

The biggest plumbing scam normally involves the estimate for the work. If you are not familiar with the material costs and labor, you may end up paying much more than you should. A great solution to avoid being overcharged is to get more than one estimate. The rule of thumb is to have at least three estimates. This way, you can examine the parts and labor that the plumber states needs fixing or replacing. When getting estimates, don't just look at the total estimated price, since this can be deceiving. Consequently, a very low estimate could be a scam in the making. This is particularly true if you have two estimates that are similar, and one that is much lower. An estimate that is too low may be a scam to hook you, and then as the job proceeds, costs continue to rise, and you end up paying more than you should.

High Priced Parts

It's important to do some online research on the price of parts before or after receiving your estimate. You can look up parts online quickly so that you have an idea what the actual price is. Many plumbing scams will offer the most expensive parts, or they are simply overpriced. You may want to spend the extra money for copper tubing because it will last longer, but you'll want to make sure this is what the plumber installs.

Bring In More Help Than Needed

It's not uncommon for a large plumbing job to need more than one contractor, but in some cases, it could be a scam. Keep in mind, a smaller job can easily be completed by one plumber and doesn't require the assistance of other contractors. If you're told they need extra help, find out what extra charges are involved.

Be Mindful Of Your Neighborhood

Plumber scams are most common in affluent neighborhoods. Scammers look at this as an easy way to make more money. They know the people in the neighborhood have more money, and they attempt to sell overpriced parts, jack up labor costs, or bring in additional helpers to add to the cost of repairs.

Ask Lots Of Questions

Besides doing your online research, a great way to avoid a plumbing scam is by asking a lot of questions. Plumbers with scamming on their minds don't like questions. They prefer to sell you on their estimate with smooth talk. If you ask questions about the job, prices, or estimates and receive vague or incomplete answers, it's a clear indication the plumber is more interested in how much money they can make on the job. A reputable plumber welcomes questions, and they are not evasive or vague. Reputable plumbers enjoy educating their clients and are more concerned about fixing your problem than selling. The more knowledgeable you are about the costs of plumbing parts and labor, the less likely you are to fall victim to a scam.

 

Plumbing Services Wilson PA

As a homeowner, you learn a little here and there about your plumbing system. However, most of us are not experts and can easily be taken advantage of. This is why it is so important to find a plumber that offers high quality services while being extremely trustworthy. It is easy for an unscrupulous plumber to lead you astray when it comes to repairing your plumbing. Therefore, find a plumber who is trustworthy so that you can work with them for a long time. For honest plumbing services, be sure to contact Robinson Plumbing. We specialize in plumbing repairs, maintenance, installs, and much more. Our certified plumbers have the skills, knowledge, and professionalism necessary to get the job done right. Robinson Plumbing is a local, family owned company that offers expert plumbing services with an honest reputation to back it up. We service Bath PA 18014, Bethlehem PA 18015, Durham PA 18039, Easton PA 18040, Hellertown PA 18055, Kintnersville PA 18930, Martins Creek PA 18063, Nazareth PA 18064, Riegelsville PA 18077, Springtown PA 18081, Stockertown PA 18083, Tatamy PA 18085, and surrounding areas. plumbing services CTA Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have!    

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