Category: Land & Property

Why Is Plumbing Maintenance a Good Idea?

Reasons To Schedule Plumbing Maintenance 

Warmer weather is on the way, so it’s time for spring cleaning. Spring cleaning is the perfect annual ritual to help prepare the home for summer, and now is the perfect time to get started. For a successful spring cleaning push, most homeowners use checklists to make sure they get everything done they need to. This year, remember to add plumbing maintenance to the checklist. 

Plumbing maintenance is a professional service offered by qualified contractors. A plumber’s visit allows them to check up on the condition of the plumbing and make minor repairs at a lower cost than a repair visit. Here are a few reasons homeowners are encouraged to make plumbing maintenance an annual addition to spring cleaning practices. 

Prevents Emergency Repairs 

sink Too often, homeowners neglect routine maintenance. One of the biggest drawbacks to skipping this service is that it makes problems worse over time, often unnoticed. All those problems will create a major issue that will likely require expensive emergency repairs. One of the major aims of plumbing maintenance is to prevent this exact scenario by recognizing and repairing small problems as they crop up instead of allowing them to snowball into disasters. 

Along with preventing emergencies, plumbing maintenance can also help prevent all the little problems that frustrate the plumbing. By allowing a professional to inspect the system and make small repairs, homeowners can avoid problems like leaky faucets, running toilets, and clogged drains from piling up. 

Prolongs the Life of Plumbing Components 

As a general rule, most plumbing components have long lifespans. Everything from sinks to toilets generally lasts for ten years or more. This longevity can negatively affect homeowners’ mindsets by lulling them into believing that everything will last indefinitely. Of course, this isn’t true. 

With plumbing maintenance, homeowners can truly have the peace of mind that comes with knowing their plumbing will last longer. Allowing the plumbers to do their jobs will allow piping, appliances, and plumbing fixtures to last longer and have fewer repairs. Instead of taking a chance that there will be failures in the plumbing in the coming year, get the assurance of knowing that the plumbing will last longer. 

Reduces the Operating Cost of Plumbing 

save money Installing the plumbing system is expensive, and even scheduling plumbing maintenance will cost some money. However, over the homeowner’s lifetime, the biggest cost associated with plumbing is the water bill. People in the home will use water to meet their needs every day, but over the long run, a huge portion of the water bill will go towards paying for the water from leaks. Plumbing maintenance catches leaks early, so owners waste less water and save money. 

In addition to water bills, the water heater can rack up some serious gas or electric bills. With water heater maintenance, plumbers ensure that the water heater stays efficient and keeps bills low. Coupling lower energy bills with lower water bills makes it easy to see that plumbing maintenance is a good investment. 

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC keeps homes running smoothly and efficiently. Their knowledgeable staff employs their specialized residential and commercial plumbing knowledge to serve their customers better. Call today for plumbing service in Stuart, FL. 

Save Money and Reduce Your Water Use this Summer With These Three Tips

Save Water and Money This Summer With These Tips

No one likes looking at their water bill at the end of the month and watching it go up and up each time. Water use is often higher for homeowners in the hot summer months, but this is also when water waste can be at its highest. Some things can be done to help reduce water use and waste and conserve water. Now more than ever, with all the talk about sustainability and climate change, water conservation is critical. 

Homeowners can ensure they are doing their part to protect water resources and be mindful of the water they use and potentially waste daily. Here are three easy ways to save water right now!

Stop Running Water Inside and Outside the Home

save water Most water use and waste in the home is found in how it is used when doing everyday tasks. Water conservation means looking at where water is used in the home and cutting back as much as possible. These areas include being mindful of how long a shower someone takes, the setting of the dishwasher and washing machine, and how often the lawn is watered every week. 

Turning off the faucet while brushing teeth and limiting water use when hand-washing dishes can significantly reduce water waste and help families conserve water. And it doesn’t have to be huge, drastic changes. Even small adjustments to water use inside and outside the home can significantly impact the situation.

Upgrade the Home With Water Saving Fixtures and Appliances 

Thanks to the focus on sustainability, eco-friendly living, and climate change, homeowners can utilize many new advances for their plumbing fixtures. Some of the biggest water-wasters in the home now have water-wise options that can help reduce use and waste. 

Low-flow toilets, specially designed shower heads, smart irrigation systems, and eco-rated appliances all help cut back on energy and water consumption. They can also lower utility bills while lessening the environmental impact. By incorporating these water-saving advancements into their daily lives and routines, families can save water while still washing their clothes, taking showers, and living comfortably.

Watch for Plumbing Leaks and Fix Them ASAP

leak The final culprit that often causes homeowners to waste water without even realizing it is plumbing leaks, damaged pipes, and faulty hookups. Leak inspections and leak repairs are critical services that help homeowners identify potential leaks and get them fixed as soon as possible. 

Scheduling regular inspections from local plumbing professionals will make leak detection easier. It will allow problems to be spotted and addressed before they lead to major damage and water waste issues. Call your plumbing pros if you notice water damage, changes to walls and flooring, peeling paint and wallpaper, or any musty smells or sudden growth of mold and mildew in the home. These are key warning signs of a water leak in the home.

About Alloer’s Plumbing Services LLC

Higher water use is common in Florida in the hot summer months, but that doesn’t mean homeowners should ignore warning signs that water waste is occurring in their homes. With a few simple but intentional steps, it is easy to save on energy use and reduce water waste. It is more important than ever to save water and reduce waste. Homeowners in Stuart should call Alloers’ Plumbing Services LLC to learn more about their home plumbing inspection, maintenance, and repair services today!

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Reaping the Benefits of Having A Water Softening System at Home

How a Water Softener Works

Not all water supplied to every home in the US is the same. While most of the US population relies on the public water supply, less than a quarter get theirs from domestic wells. Either way, water that makes its way into 85% of homes is considered hard water. 

The question is, why does it matter whether water is soft or hard? The answer is quite simple: while hard water is safe for domestic consumption, it has far more unwanted effects that make life much more inconvenient for homeowners than soft water. This is because hard water contains naturally occurring minerals such as calcium and magnesium that leave a chalky residue behind. This residue is responsible for a decrease in the cleaning power of water and compromises the function of a home’s plumbing and appliances in the long term. 

To combat this, homeowners can opt to install a water softener. A whole-home water softener, in particular, can eliminate the unwanted side effects of hard water through ion exchange, wherein sodium ions take the place of calcium and magnesium ions that give water its hardness. With a whole-house water softener in place, homeowners can then expect to reap the following benefits:

Greater Cleaning Power

cleanInvesting in water softener installation allows homeowners to enjoy water’s full cleaning potential. Hard water often leaves white spots on glasses, chalky streak marks on dishes and fixtures, and leaves clothing dull-looking, discolored, and aging faster. 

With a water-softening system in place, glasses are spotless, dishes and fixtures are streakless, and clothes last longer while looking better than they did when washed with hard water.

Extends the Life of Plumbing and Appliances

Water softeners also allow a home’s plumbing system and water-reliant appliances such as water heaters to function optimally and last longer, helping homeowners save on the potential cost of repairs or even outright replacement. Softened water does not leave a mineral residue that hard water does; it is this mineral residue that is often responsible for settling inside pipe walls and constricting its opening. With a narrower tube, pipes often get clogged, affecting the home’s water pressure.

The absence of mineral residue is also a good thing for water heaters, which store water in their storage tank for long periods to be heated. Without the mineral residue that often settles on a water heater’s heating element, nothing stands between the heating element and the water that needs to be heated, allowing the equipment to function properly and optimally.

Softer, Better Hydrated Skin and Hair

improvementsAppliances, fixtures, belongings, and plumbing aren’t the only beneficiaries of a whole home water softener installation. Homeowners themselves enjoy softer, more hydrated hair and skin as a result of soft water. Hard water is infamous for leaving hair and skin dry. By softening water, homeowners can enjoy ultra-hydrating showers and softer hands even after washing hands or dishes.

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

With over 30 years in the plumbing industry, Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC has had a tradition of excellence in residential and commercial plumbing in and around the Treasure Coast. This veteran-owned and operated company employs a team of highly trained technicians who can solve virtually any plumbing problem imaginable. Their work is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee that gives customers the peace of mind of knowing that their team won’t stop working until the issue is resolved. Call them today for plumbing service in Stuart, FL.

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Benefits of Installing a Tankless Water Heater This Year

Make 2024 the Year of the Tankless Water Heater 

Every year about this time, people take the time to state some intentions for the year. These can be resolutions about health or habits, but they can also be goals with broader intentions, like simply “improving the home.” 

One of the things that can support this intention or even other resolutions is choosing to upgrade to a tankless water heater. While this may not sound life-changing, the benefits of making the switch can be profound. Here are the three main reasons why resolving to install a new tankless water heater may be the best move a homeowner could make this year. 

Improve Energy Efficiency 

save money Many homeowners’ New Year’s resolutions or intentions revolve around making better financial decisions. A new tankless water heater is a great move to support this project while also providing investment for the home. The average water tank uses around 20% of the home’s monthly budget for utilities. This means they are expensive to operate because they constantly keep water warm in anticipation of future use. On the other hand, a tankless water heater only heats water when needed. This results in shaving as much as 10% off of monthly water heating bills. 

Save Space and Enjoy Endless Hot Water 

tankless water heaterA main feature of tankless water heaters is that they are much smaller than conventional water heaters. Since they have no tank, they can have a smaller footprint and are mounted on walls. This can open up spaces in closets and lighten the loads of floors that support hundreds of pounds of hot water.  

Perhaps the most exciting feature of tankless water heaters is that they provide an endless hot water supply. Gone are the days of arranging the evening or running the dishwasher around the shower schedule. While the conventional water tank would waste energy keeping water warm only to fail to provide enough hot water, a new tankless water heater can supply hot water to multiple sources for as long as required. 

Take Advantage of Longer Life Expectancies 

In addition to reducing energy bills, tankless water heaters make good financial sense for this year and every year for decades. A conventional water heater has a lifespan as low as seven years. Higher-end water heaters may last as long as 15 years with good maintenance, but towards the end of their age ranges, they will start to lose efficiency and need repairs. These factors greatly increase operating costs. 

Tankless water heaters are smaller and spend less time working. This allows them to have life expectancies that dwarf those of conventional water heaters. Most tankless water heaters are expected to last at least 20 years without losing efficiency and with less maintenance.

While tankless water heaters are a little more expensive upfront, they compensate for it in the long run. All the while, they continue to bestow benefits like endless hot water and cheaper bills. Try something new this year with a tankless water heater and enjoy the benefits for decades. 

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC helps homeowners get more from their plumbing. Their expert teams perform tankless water heater installation and guarantee their services. Call today for regular or emergency plumbing service in Stuart, FL. 

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3 Tips To Keep the Garbage Disposal Running Smoothly

Take Extra Care of the Garbage Disposal for the Holidays!

For most families, the kitchen becomes the centerpiece of the entire house during the holidays between cooking, baking, and snacking. And, of course, the kitchen sink will likely see more action than any other plumbing fixture in the house, with all the handwashing, food prep, and dish cleanup. So, it should be no surprise that most kitchen sink clogs and garbage disposal issues occur during the holidays! 

A garbage disposal can make quick work of veggie trimmings and food scraps, helping make food prep and cleanup a breeze. But with the extra workload and without proper care, the garbage disposal can get clogged, jammed, or stop working altogether. This article will lay out a few tips to help keep the garbage disposal in great shape and running smoothly through the holiday season!

Never Put Certain Items In the Disposal

A garbage disposal works by grinding food waste against a grinder wheel full of small holes (sort of like a cheese grater) using spinning impeller blades (these “blades” do not cut the food, but merely move it around and press it against the grinder wheel). While today’s garbage disposals can handle a lot, certain items can throw a wrench in the gears and cause various problems. The following items should never be put down the garbage disposal:

  • Cooking oil or grease – can solidify and cause clogs in the sink drain or sewer line
  • Eggshells and coffee grounds – can get stuck in the system and contribute to clogs
  • Fruit pits, large seeds, corn cobs, animal bones, rinds from melons or gourds – are difficult to break down and may jam the impeller
  • Celery, corn husks, rhubarb, asparagus – the dense fibers can get tangled in the impeller blades and cause jamming
  • Onion skins and produce stickers – can get stuck inside the disposal chamber or drain pipe and contribute to clogs
  • Flour or starchy foods – can create a gum-like substance that’s difficult to wash away

Small amounts of some of these items may not lead to a broken or clogged garbage disposal, but minimizing them will go a long way in protecting the disposal and preventing clogs!

Run Water During and After Operation

running waterAnother key tip is to always run water down the drain when using the garbage disposal and leave the water running for a few seconds after the disposal is turned off. This will assist in grinding, wash away food particles once broken down, and help keep the impeller blades and grinding wheel clean. Even with a steady flow of running water, it’s also a good idea to grind food waste a little bit at a time rather than stuffing everything down the drain at once. This will help prevent jamming and make things easier on the impeller motor.

Of course, a certain level of food residue will inevitably collect inside the disposal over time. To maintain clean garbage disposal, homeowners can run the disposal with a cup or two of ice cubes inside, which will dislodge food particles and scrape away residue. They can also grind up a little orange or lemon peel in the disposal – the citric acid will help loosen up stubborn residue and eliminate unpleasant odors.

Let a Plumber Handle Garbage Disposal Services

garbage disposal repairAnother way to keep the garbage disposal working long-term is to leave garbage disposal repair and replacement to the professionals. This is partly for safety reasons (electric shock and hand injuries from spinning impellers are surprisingly common among those who attempt DIY garbage disposal repair). But it’s also to ensure that no further issues arise from working on the disposal improperly.

Improper garbage disposal installation can lead to electrical issues and plumbing leaks. Shoddy repairs can shorten the garbage disposal’s lifespan or fail to address the underlying issue. So, beyond pressing the garbage disposal reset button, homeowners would do well to let qualified professionals handle garbage disposal services if the unit stops working.

There are a few ways to tell if it may be time to call a pro for garbage disposal replacement or repair. If the garbage disposal is humming (often indicates a jammed impeller or motor issue), the garbage disposal is leaking (could be a worn gasket or corrosion inside the unit), the garbage disposal breaker keeps tripping, or the disposal won’t run at all, homeowners should call their trusted local plumber to diagnose the issue. But by practicing the above tips, homeowners can enjoy a holiday season free from garbage disposal woes!

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

The veteran-owned Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC has been one of the most trusted and highly-rated plumbers in Stuart, Florida, since 1986. Their trustworthy, licensed, and insured technicians always arrive on time in fully-stocked trucks and leave every home better than they found it. As an award-winning local business, Allore’s is proud to offer competitive up-front pricing, 24-hour emergency service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job – so don’t hesitate to call them for garbage disposal repair in Stuart, FL!

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Thanksgiving Tribute to Local Plumbers

Water Line Repair Professionals Offer Comprehensive Help 

Sewer and water line repair professionals offer essential plumbing services and repairs to keep homes running smoothly. These unsung heroes handle various issues, from fixing leaks and unclogging drains to ensuring clean water and proper gas line functionality. This article expresses gratitude for these experts and their services this Thanksgiving season. 

Water Line Repair Goes a Long Way in Keeping Homes Operational 

Water and sewer lines are vital in any home, supplying clean water and removing waste. Over time, these systems can develop leaks and clogs. Plumbing professionals are trained to diagnose, repair, and maintain water and sewer lines, ensuring proper installation and efficient operation.

When a plumber assesses a water-based system, they will: 

  • Check for leaks 
  • Alert homeowners to any possible problems
  • Explain what measures could prevent future issues 
  • Recommend replacing certain appliances (if necessary) 
  • Remedy mold or mildew growth 
  • Make sure that pipes are tightened and firmly connected 
  • Schedule future follow-up appointments 

Trusting professionals in these matters promotes good water flow and prevents unexpected problems.

Gas Line Repair Is Paramount to Homeowner Safety 

gas line Gas line issues should never be tackled as DIY projects due to safety concerns. Why? Because a single mishap can put homeowner safety at risk. It only takes a few hours for residents to suffer the symptoms of gas leaks––some of which can prove fatal. Only licensed gas line technicians should tackle these problems. 

When a gas line service stops by for a visit, an expert will: 

  • Check for carbon monoxide and radon leaks 
  • Make sure that all gas lines are connected and free of perforations 
  • Address any corrosion or rust 
  • Suggest replacing outdated appliances 
  • Explain what measures can promote a well-functioning gas line system 

They ensure the safety of residents and promote the integrity of the gas system.

Water Heater Repair Services Make a Home Livable 

water heater Imagine a home that doesn’t have a functioning hot water heater. Showers prove unsatisfying. Stains never get out of clothes, and dishes go through the wash multiple times and never get clean. It goes without saying: Proper water heater functionality is essential for warm showers and the efficient operation of water-reliant appliances. 

When a plumber comes to fix or inspect a water heater, they will: 

  • Check for hard water. If excess minerals build up inside the water heater, this will affect how hot water gets. It can also leave homeowners feeling “slimy” after a shower. A plumber can check for minerals using some simple water tests. 
  • Remove rust from the water heater storage tank. Once rust overtakes a water storage tank, it’s only a matter of time before the appliance becomes unusable. However, if a plumber can remove the rust before it spreads, a homeowner can buy some time before purchasing a new appliance. 
  • Manage mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew growth are key indicators that a plumbing system is in trouble. These growths can point to excessive humidity, leaks, and other water-based problems. 

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC 

Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC is Stuart, FL’s one-stop shop for homeowners’ plumbing needs. Whether a homeowner’s worried about a leak or just wants a routine plumbing inspection, they can’t go wrong with these five-star professionals. Interested parties can call today to learn more. 

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Why Schedule Hot Water Heater Maintenance?

Don’t Get Stuck Without Hot Water This Winter! 

After a long day, there’s nothing better than coming home and enjoying a nice, hot shower. However, many homeowners tolerate lukewarm showers because of malfunctioning water heaters. In the long run, this problem isn’t just inconvenient; it can affect how many household appliances do the job. 

Yet, in just a few minutes, one can learn about the benefits of water heater maintenance and what it entails. This can empower them to make informed decisions regarding their household’s operations. 

The Benefits of Regularly Maintaining the Water Heater 

save money Homeowners have nothing to lose and everything to gain when scheduling regular water heater maintenance visits. Some benefits of these inspections include: 

  • A longer lifespan. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that hot water tanks generally last 10 to 15 years. With maintenance, a professional can mitigate wear and tear, extending the appliance’s functionality. 
  • Reduced sediment buildup. Over time (and especially in areas with hard water), minerals can build up inside the hot water tank, reducing efficiency. Sediment can build up even faster if a plumber doesn’t regularly inspect and check the anode rod. 
  • Saving money. Nobody wants to continuously spend money on unexpected water heater problems. By consulting a professional once a year, they can save money on preventable issues. 

How Does a Plumber Maintain the Water Heater? 

water heater maintenanceA plumber may service a water heater by: 

  • Looking for rust. If there’s rust on the water heater tank, it’s only a matter of time before it needs replacing. A plumber may remove the rust or advise homeowners on the benefits of replacing the system. 
  • Checking the water meter. If the water meter has off-the-charts readings, this could mean that the water heater is leaking. 
  • Flushing the water heater. If there’s too much sediment inside the water heater, a plumber may flush (or drain) the system. They may replace the anode rod or install a failing component during this process. 

Many plumbers take an inspection as an opportunity to advise homeowners on what measures could save water and money. One of those measures involves installing a tankless water heater. On average, these systems don’t require as much maintenance as traditional water heaters, plus they’re eligible for rebates under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. 

Signs That Call for a Professional’s Insights 

It might be time to consult a water heater maintenance specialist if one notices: 

  • “Hard water.” This is where excessive sediment build-up leads to stained glasses, oily skin, and dull hair. Florida has some of the hardest water in the country, per HydroFLOW USA. 
  • Water that doesn’t stay hot. This could point to a wide range of issues, from a faulty heating element to excess sediment buildup. 
  • The home’s energy bills increase. High energy bills don’t necessarily mean high efficiency. A plumber may find that an underlying issue is causing the water heater to work “overtime,” leading gas and electric bills to skyrocket. 

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC 

Stuart, FL residents have come to adore Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC. They offer a comprehensive suite of services, from tankless water heater maintenance to water heater repair. There’s a reason why countless five-star reviews back these professionals. For more information, call now or make an appointment online. 

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Does the Home Need a Water Softener?

What Is Hard Water (and Why Is It Bad)?

Most homeowners have probably heard about hard water, but not everyone knows what it is – or even why they should care. Essentially, hard water is water with a high mineral content. These dissolved minerals – mostly calcium and magnesium – wind up in residential water supplies as the water percolates through rock and soil on its way to the aquifer, river, or other body of water used as a source for potable water.

While hard water is perfectly fine to drink, it can have various unwanted effects on the home’s plumbing system. It can even have some unpleasant effects on the skin and hair health of everyone in the house. Many homeowners decide to install a water softener to combat these negative outcomes. This article will discuss how water softeners work to eliminate hard water, signs a water softener might be needed, and how a water softener can positively impact the home.

How Do Water Softeners Work?

water softenerMost water softeners use ion exchange to remove minerals from the home’s water supply. In this kind of water softener, hard water enters a tank filled with thousands of tiny resin beads charged with sodium ions. These beads attract the magnesium and calcium ions and release their sodium ions in exchange. At a certain point, the resin beads will become saturated with mineral ions, and the tank will be filled with brine, washing away the mineral ions and replacing them with more sodium ions so the process can be repeated.

Other types of water softener systems, such as salt-free and magnetic water softeners, neutralize or alter the mineral ions so that they cannot stick to surfaces and form a scale. Only water softeners that use ion exchange or reverse osmosis (a powerful type of physical filtration system) can completely remove minerals from the water. 

How To Tell If a Home Has Hard Water

waterTo determine whether or not they need a water softener system, homeowners should be on the lookout for the effects of hard water. These include:

  • Spotted glasses, dishes, and silverware
  • Water spots or excessive soap scum on faucets, fixtures, or shower curtains
  • Soap or shampoo doesn’t lather well
  • Dry hair and skin (since soap and shampoo are harder to wash away with hard water)
  • Worn or faded clothes and linens
  • Mineral scale inside pipes or fixtures
  • Higher energy bills (since hard water can hinder water heater efficiency)

If homeowners notice any of these issues, there’s a good chance they have hard water in their homes, and it may be time to consider installing a water softener.

Benefits of Installing a Whole Home Water Softener

Hard water’s negative effects go beyond aesthetics or minor inconveniences – over time, mineral deposits can clog pipes and damage appliances such as water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers. Installing a water softener can be very beneficial and advantageous for various reasons. Here are some of the key water softener benefits:

  • Cleaner dishes and silverware
  • Saves time on cleaning soap scum and mineral deposits from showers, sinks, and tubs
  • Saves money on energy bills by helping appliances operate at peak efficiency
  • Extends the life of appliances
  • Protects the plumbing system and fixtures from the damage caused by mineral scale buildup
  • Helps clothes and linens last longer and keep their colors
  • Assists with healthier, more hydrated skin and hair

Of course, when it comes time to get a water softener, picking the right one isn’t always easy. Smaller softeners serve individual faucets or showerheads, or larger whole-house water softeners treat all of the home’s water as it enters the home. So homeowners would consult a qualified plumber or water softener specialist to determine what kind of water softener best suits their needs and budget!

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC has been one of Stuart’s most trusted and highly-rated plumbers since 1986. As a veteran-owned local business, their dedication to safety, top-notch workmanship, and outstanding customer service has earned them numerous awards and 5-star reviews from satisfied customers. They offer 24-hour emergency service, competitive up-front pricing, personalized options, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job – so there’s no one better to call for water softener installation in Stuart, FL!

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An Introduction to Residential Plumbing

Home Plumbing Basics 

Property owners need to know many things to ensure their homes or businesses stay safe and avoid unnecessary repairs. Nowhere is that more true than when it comes to plumbing. Plumbing problems can cause unnecessary costs and secondary damage when not attended to. The main problem is that most people are totally in the dark about the plumbing system on their property. 

In honor of the fall, back-to-school season, take a moment to learn. Here is a quick guide to plumbing in homes and businesses that can help owners better understand what is going on behind the scenes with their plumbing. 

Plumbing Fixtures 

tubBefore going behind the scenes, starting with the plumbing fixtures used daily and mostly understood is helpful. Plumbing fixtures include things like: 

  • Water heaters
  • Drains
  • Sinks
  • Faucets
  • Bathtubs
  • Hose bibs
  • Showerheads

Because these devices are so commonly used, they are also common points of failure. Homeowners should understand and know how to do repairs, fix minor clogs, and maintain the water heaters, or at the very least, know who to call so it all gets done at the right time. 

For bonus points, owners should look for opportunities to lower their water and power bills. These plumbing fixtures and appliances have water-saving devices and energy-efficient models to make the home cheaper and more eco-friendly. 

Common Signs That Plumbing Repairs are Needed 

billsAt some point, an owner will need to call for the services of a plumbing contractor. However, recognizing the signs probably doesn’t come naturally to most people. When plumbing problems occur, they can often cause extra damage. Spotting the signs early can save time and money by preventing more damage from occurring. Some of the common signs that plumbing repairs are needed are: 

  • Low water pressure
  • Slow or gurgling drains
  • High water bills
  • Leaks
  • Bad odors 
  • Discolored or smelly water

Because the plumbing system is complex, the source of these problems can come from several things. Pipe corrosion can cause discolored water and low water pressure, while clogged or dry drains can cause bad odors. Finding a reliable professional is the best way to proceed when problems like these are noticed. 

Understanding Plumbing Maintenance 

It comes as a surprise to some, but the plumbing system in the home or at work needs maintenance just like a car. Most plumbing systems are designed to last a long time, but that is only on the condition that they are well-maintained. Plumbing maintenance is a service offered by experts that can lower the chance of problems and ensure the water stays flowing and drains drain freely. 

Most plumbing maintenance services start by giving some attention to the water heater. Water heaters need to be drained, flushed, and inspected every year. After the water heater is finished, plumbers will inspect visible piping, test the water pressure and look for leaks. If drains show signs of clogs, they will also clean them. Doing this every year keeps plumbing lasting longer with fewer problems. 

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC is a veteran-owned plumbing service that fixes residential and commercial plumbing problems. Highly trained technicians offer guaranteed service. Call today for plumbing service in Stuart, FL. 

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Look Out for These Signs the Garbage Disposal Needs Repairs

Three Ways To Spot a Broken Garbage Disposal

Having a garbage disposal in the kitchen can make food prep and cleanup a breeze and help prevent clogged pipes by breaking down food scraps into tiny particles before they’re rinsed down the drain. It’s one of those items that many homeowners wonder how they ever went without once they have it.

But garbage disposals can run into several problems, especially if they’re not properly cared for or getting along in years. Unfortunately, it’s all too common for the signs of trouble to go unnoticed or brushed off as minor quirks – only for homeowners to find themselves paying for a garbage disposal replacement long before they should. So to help homeowners fix problems early and avoid a premature replacement, here are three telltale signs it’s time for garbage disposal repair!

Odd Sounds

noises

Garbage disposals are somewhat noisy machines (although some newer models are designed to be remarkably quiet). But while the sounds of the motor whirring and the impellers pulverizing soft food scraps are normal, other sounds are not.

If the garbage disposal is humming when turned on but doesn’t sound like it’s breaking up any food, it’s likely jammed. A utensil, fruit pit, or other hard object may prevent the impellers from spinning, or an internal component may be broken or seized. That humming sound is the motor trying to spin.

If there’s a metallic screeching, rattling, or grinding sound, a part may have come loose or shifted out of alignment. Or, again, a foreign object may have fallen into the grinding chamber. Homeowners can inspect the chamber with a flashlight, then carefully remove any objects they see (if any). They should always ensure the power is off and that they’re not reaching in blind, to avoid injuring themselves on the impellers or sharp bits of broken dishware. If there are no visible objects or a piece of the disposal is broken, it’s time to call a pro.

The Disposal Isn’t Working Properly

If the garbage disposal works but seems to take longer than usual or is less effective at breaking down food, there are a couple of possible culprits. Inside the grinding chamber, metal impellers spin and grind food against the grinding wheel, which has small holes like a cheese grater – this is how garbage disposals break down food. Over time, the impellers and the grinding wheel can get worn down and dull, reducing their efficacy.

Alternatively, the motor may grow weak, or damaged bearings may slow things down. Suppose homeowners frequently have to press the garbage disposal reset button. In that case, this may also indicate that an internal component is failing or that something is causing the unit to short-circuit. These issues can all occur with age, so if it’s an older unit (8+ years), it may make more economic sense to forego repairs and replace the garbage disposal altogether.

Unpleasant Odors

smell

Another indicator of trouble is if the garbage disposal smells bad. In many cases, this is simply the result of food residue and bacteria building up inside the grinding chamber – which can typically be resolved by grinding up some ice cubes or rock salt in the disposal, which will help scour the chamber and remove grime.

However, foul smells from the garbage disposal or kitchen sink drain may also be caused by a partially clogged drain or decaying food caught in the disposal. Fixing clogged garbage disposal is often an intensive and unpleasant undertaking, which may involve taking apart the disposal itself. If the clog is caused by congealed grease further down the drain or in the sewer line (a common problem), it may require special equipment to fully remove. For these reasons, it’s usually best to call a qualified professional to repair garbage disposal!

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC has been the go-to plumber in Stuart, Florida, since 1986. As a veteran-owned local business with a reputation for honesty, affordable pricing, and fast turnarounds, they have earned numerous 5-star reviews and awards, including HomeAdvisor’s “Best Of” and “Elite Service” awards. They offer 24-hour emergency service and guarantee 100% satisfaction on every job, so homeowners know they can depend on Allore’s for garbage disposal repair in Stuart, FL!

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