Monday, February 25, 2019

The Causes And Effects Of Corrosion In Piping

The Causes And Effects Of Corrosion In Piping is property of Robinson

rusty plumbing pipesAs it relates to piping systems, many factors, working alone or together, can result in pipe corrosion. Based on the degree of these dynamics, a piping system could display signs of corrosion in only a few years after installation.

Bethlehem Plumbing Services: The Causes And Effects Of Corrosion In Piping

Homeowners should be aware of what signs to look out for, as this circumstance can impact your home, your health, and much more. Below are details on how this could happen and its effect:

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Causes Of Corrosion In Bethlehem Homes

Pipe Corrosion: Oxygen And Temperature Of The Water

The water system in your home is consistently being refilled with oxygenated water. This process implies that air has been liquefied into the water, consisting of roughly 70 percent nitrogen and 30 percent oxygen. The nitrogen is non-corrosive; however, oxidation causes oxygen to corrode metal. This situation leads to rusting and eventually, the metal will thin and weaken as the corrosion worsens. Three things happen as corrosion continues:
  1. Rust accumulates inside the pipes. Because rust makes the surface uneven, the nooks and crannies draw and capture impurities, causing a buildup inside the pipes.
  2. The metal that makes the pipes thins and becomes more and more susceptible to breakage.
  3. There is a development of pinhole cracks. Also, if there is pressure on the deteriorating pipes or there is a shifting in the earth, this could result in breakage of the pipe. The higher the temperature of the water, the more rapidly oxidation happens. For this same reason, there is more corrosion in hot water lines in comparison to cold water lines.

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Low pH & Your Plumbing Pipes

water pH in bethlehem homepH is used to measure the acidity of water. It ranges from most acidic (zero) to alkaline (14). A neutral pH would be represented by 7. If copper pipes are in your home, you should be especially concerned regarding the pH of your water. If the pH is 8 or higher, more alkaline, a copper oxide film will form inside the pipes, minimizing or slowing corrosion. However, if the pH is acidic or neutral, this will dissolve the copper oxide barrier, leaving the pipes susceptible to faster corrosion. This low pH will eventually result in pinhole leaks all over the plumbing system.

Do You Use Chemical Drain Cleaners In Your Bethlehem Home?

These cleaners are renowned for burning a hole through clogs in the piping system. However, they are also infamous for burning holes in the pipes. Quite frankly, chemical drain cleaners are horrible for your pipes. You should get professional advice on effective drain cleaners that are easy on your piping system.

Water Velocity & Plumbing Pipe Erosion

In a "closed loop" piping system, there could be erosion corrosion due to excess solder or other obstacles.

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Effects Of Corrosion

The associated cost of corrosion can be quite pricey. Even more significant than the financial cost is the fact that it could severely impact the health of your household members. Research has found that consuming water that has high levels of lead, copper, and other toxic metals could result in acute health issues. Additionally, pipe corrosion could destroy your water quality, and in many ways, it could be a big waste of money:
  • It could lead to premature failure of fixtures and even the entire plumbing system
  • Corroded water could cause premature failure or impact the efficiency of the water heating system
  • It could lead to potential odors and stained fixtures
 

Conclusion

The issues discussed above are among those that could result in pipe corrosion. The effects of the corrosion could result in numerous health problems and be expensive to resolve. Ignoring pipe corrosion in your home or merely wishing it away is not wise. Call a reputable professional to check, monitor and fix any piping issues you might have. The safety of your household depends on it. For reliable plumbing services, contact Robinson Plumbing, one of the Lehigh Valley’s most trusted plumbing companies. We offer a full line of plumbing services that can count on whenever you have a plumbing issue in your home or office. These services range from water leak detection and repairs to the installation of water-efficient plumbing appliances. For any plumbing repairs, we always offer a wide range of solutions whenever possible. This way, you can choose the option that works best for your budget and family. Also, we are proud to offer the best plumbing repair costs in the area. Call Robinson Plumbing today to schedule a free estimate.

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Some of the areas we service include Allentown, Bethlehem, Coplay, Emmaus, Whitehall, and these zip codes: 18101, 18015, 18037, 18049, 18052 as well as all surrounding areas in the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have!

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Top Reasons That Cause Leaking Pipes

The following article Top Reasons That Cause Leaking Pipes is courtesy of Robinson Plumbing News

dripping faucetWhen water pipes leak inside a building, several problems may arise as a result. For starters, water damage may compromise the structure of your building. Secondly, water leaks may create a damp environment inside the building, thereby making it possible for mold to grow. Thirdly, a leak can be incredibly costly due to increased water bills. It is important to note that while some leaks are easy to notice, others cannot be seen by the naked eye and may require a professional plumber to detect. Whatever the case, be sure to hire a competent plumber to identify and fix leaks.

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Water Leak Repair Emmaus PA: Common Causes Of Leaking Pipes

In this article, we will discuss some common causes of leaks that occur in homes.

1. Frozen & Burst Plumbing Pipes

When there is a rapid temperature change, your pipes may get damaged and start leaking. For instance, if temperatures are below freezing, water inside the pipes will freeze. This situation will cause the pipes to increase in size and force the pipe to burst. This circumstance is one of the most common causes of leaking pipes around the country. During winter, therefore, property owners need to take measures to ensure their pipes do not freeze and burst. A simple, but effective, step is to open a faucet in the kitchen or bathroom and let it drip. In case you have a leaking pipe, be sure to call a competent plumber to come and fix it.

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2. Underground Movements & The Effects On Your Plumbing

how tree roots can affect your plumbingIf underground pipes move in one way or another, you can expect them to leak. For instance, if the ground shakes during an earthquake, pipes will break and leak water. Similarly, when the roots of a surrounding tree grow, they can force water pipes upwards and bend them in the process. As a result, pipe joints may get damaged and cause a severe leak. Also, if a heavy truck is driven in the yard, the pressure exerted by the heavy vehicle may damage water pipes, thereby causing a leak.

3. Damaged Seals Around Water Connections

When installing a dishwasher or washing machine, plumbers usually install seals around all water connections. Over time, however, these seals are bound to deteriorate. The result is a severe leak. This problem can easily be avoided through routine appliance maintenance. When you have this type of leak, you should look for a competent plumber to help you replace the seals and maintain your appliance.

4. Water Leaks & Excess Water Pressure

There are times during the day or night when most people are using water at the same time. They could be taking a shower, irrigating the lawn, doing the dishes or washing clothes. When many people are using water at the same time, water pressure usually drops. When only a few people are using water, on the other hand, water pressure usually spikes. This usually occurs at night when most people are asleep. The high water pressure can cause plumbing problems. For starters, water may start leaking through the faucet, pipe joints and any other weak point in the plumbing system. Installation of a water pressure regulator can help to prevent this type of problem from occurring in the future.

5. Aged Plumbing Pipes

plumbing systemOver time, pipes often wear out and become weaker and weaker. As a result, they may start developing leaks. Whether you have PVC or metallic pipes, be sure to have them replaced as they approach the end of their useful life. The recommended pipe material is copper because it is rust-resistant and light in weight.

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6. Loose Water Connectors In Your Plumbing System

The water connectors connecting your appliances to the plumbing system can get loose for one reason or another and cause a leak. For instance, the spin cycle of your washing machine can loosen the connectors. Shifting appliances from time to time can also cause leaks. Whatever the cause of the leak, be sure to hire a licensed plumber to fix it.
 

Conclusion

For reliable plumbing services, contact Robinson Plumbing, one of the Lehigh Valley’s most trusted water leak repair companies. We offer a full line of plumbing services that can help reduce your water bills. These services range from water leak detection and repairs to the installation of water-efficient plumbing appliances. For any plumbing repairs, we always offer a wide range of solutions whenever possible. This way, you can choose the option that works best for your budget and family. We are proud to offer the best water leak repair cost in the area. Call Robinson Plumbing today to schedule a free estimate.

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Some of the areas we service include Alburtis, Allentown, Emmaus, Macungie, and these zip codes: 18011, 18101, 18049, 18062 as well as all surrounding areas in Northeastern, Pennsylvania. Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have!

Monday, February 11, 2019

How To Improve The Efficiency Of Your Home’s Water Heater

How To Improve The Efficiency Of Your Home’s Water Heater was originally written and published on Robinson Plumbing

water heaterAccording to the US Department of Energy (DOE), water heating accounts for about 18% of the average American household energy bills. This number, therefore, makes a significant portion of your overall heating costs. However, many homeowners do not take the necessary steps to ensure that their water heater is running as efficiently as possible, costing them more in the long run.

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How To Make Your Home’s Water Heater More Efficient With Water Heater Maintenance Emmaus PA

Fortunately, you can reduce your water heating costs significantly simply by improving the efficiency of your home's water heater system. Here are some tips to help you achieve that goal.

Call A Plumber To Flush Out Your Water Heater Tank

Over time, naturally-occurring minerals such as calcium and magnesium will accumulate in your tank. If left unattended, excessive sediment buildup will eventually cause your water heater to become less energy efficient. At the same time, your water heater will likely develop problems such as diminished water supply due to clogged pipes and inconsistent water temperatures. Even worse, if the sediment buildup causes your tank to become clogged, the pent-up pressure could potentially cause it to explode. To avoid such problems, you should get a qualified plumber to flush out your water heater's tank regularly. Moreover, if you have hard water, you should invest in a water softener to reduce mineral buildup and limescale.

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Consider Insulating Your Water Heating System

hot water heaterTo minimize heat loss as hot water flows through your hot water system, insulate your water pipes. The DoE says that you can raise your water temperature by between 2 and 4 degrees Fahrenheit just by insulating your hot water pipes, allowing you to turn down the thermostat on your hot water tank. Additionally, insulating your water pipes will prevent them from freezing in the winter. For safety reasons, use fiberglass pipe-wrap if your water pipes are within 8 inches of the flue. The fiberglass pipe-wrap should be at least 1-inch thick and without coating. What's more, if you have a tank style heater, you should also insulate the tank. If you are looking for a cost-efficient and effective way to insulate your water heater tank, use insulative blankets, which are particularly ideal for tanks that do not have strong insulation, such as old tanks. In essence, you should use insulative blankets if your hot water tank is old, poorly insulated, or has an R-value of 24 or lower. That said, despite being relatively inexpensive, tank blankets can help minimize heat loss by up to 45%. It is essential to call a plumber to complete this task. Doing so will ensure that it is done correctly and safely.

Fix Any Leaks In Your Hot Water Plumbing System

Hire an experienced plumber to check for leaks in your hot water plumbing system, and carry out any necessary repairs. Any leaks in your hot water plumbing system will likely affect the efficiency of your home's water heater. In particular, your plumber will inspect your hot water system, including the pressure relief valves and the temperature gauge. Additionally, the plumber will inspect your plumbing fixtures, including your showerheads and faucets. Remember, if leaks do not waste hot water in your home, your heating system will not necessarily have to work longer and harder to supply hot water throughout your home, which means it will be more efficient.

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Conserve Hot Water To Preserve Your Water Heater

One of the easiest ways of improving the efficiency of your home's water heater is to reduce your hot water consumption. Simply put, the less water you consume, the less energy you require to heat water. Some of the things you can do to achieve this goal include installing water-efficient appliances and installing a tankless water heater. You can also reduce the amount of time you spend in the shower and use the 'economy' setting on your dishwasher. At the same time, turn down the thermostat on your water heater to ensure it does not heat water above a set temperature.
 

Conclusion

Water heating costs are generally high across the US. To improve the efficiency of your home's water heater, you should conserve hot water and fix leaks in your hot water plumbing system. You should also insulate your water heating system and flush out your water heater tank. When searching for reliable plumbing services, be sure to call Robinson Plumbing. We offer water heater maintenance, installations, water heater repairs, and much more. Get your home back in working order by using our affordable and highly professional services. Call Robinson Plumbing now to schedule a free, in-home estimate.

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Some of the areas we service include Alburtis, Allentown, Emmaus, Macungie, and these zip codes: 18011, 18101, 18049, 18062 as well as all surrounding areas in Northeastern, Pennsylvania. Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have!