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The Importance of Water Heater Maintenance and Repair in Fall and Winter

How Homeowners Can Know They Need Water Heater Repair

Hot water, much in the same way as indoor plumbing, was once considered a luxury. In many places in the world, it still is. In the last hundred years or so, indoor plumbing and water heaters have been in basically every US dwelling. That being said, It is hard to imagine living without the convenience of a fully functioning water heater. They are the silent heart of the home’s water supply system. People have become so used to these appliances that they often go unnoticed until they stop working. This article will discuss how a water heater lets homeowners know it needs to be repaired or replaced.

Hot or Not? Problems with Inconsistent Temperaturetemperature

One of the subtler ways a water heater can exhibit problems is by being inconsistent with the water temperature. This is a large umbrella for any sort of fluctuation in temperature, which can include:

  • Too Hot: This may merely be a symptom of a thermostat being shifted in the wrong direction or indicate that the temperature regulation device is not working properly. This can be dangerous, particularly to children.
  • Too Cold/Lukewarm: This could be a simple matter of temperature regulation. There could also be a problem with the heat source, whether an electric heating element or a gas burner. They could need cleaning or replacing.
  • Too Little Hot Water: Running out of hot water in the middle of the shower is no one’s favorite incident. This can be a problem with the heating element or, even worse, there could be a leak that is reducing the water level.
  • Unexpected Temperature Changes: These changes can happen when multiple appliances or faucets are using the hot water, such as the shower and the washing machine, but if it is happening without evidence of other users, there may be an issue. 

Trained water heater technicians can quickly identify the problem and fix it or advise on these matters. If homeowners struggle with keeping their hot water consistent, they should consult a professional. 

The Drip, Drip, Drip of Leaksleaks

If hot water is running out too quickly or there is water pooling underneath or near the water heater, there is likely a leak. This can be in the pipe connections or, worse, in the hot water tank. Leaks cause problems for more than just the hot water level, including: 

  • Mold
  • Mildew
  • Structural damage to the home
  • Water damage
  • Higher water bills due to water loss

If the leak is in the pipe, that may be an easy fix, whether it is tightening the connection or repairing or replacing the pipe. If the hot water tank has cracked or has become corroded, it is very likely that the whole thing will need to be replaced.

Too Old to Repair? When a Hot Water Heater Should Be Replaced

If a water heater has multiple issues, is in constant need of repairs, and is more than ten years old, a homeowner is likely looking at a replacement of the water heater. For one thing, finding replacement parts for the appliance may be difficult. For another, wear and tear on an older tank can be extensive. It may be less expensive to purchase a new hot water tank than to repair an old one. Homeowners looking to replace their water heater should consider the highly efficient tankless water heater, which takes up less space and uses less energy than the traditional water heater.

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

Veteran-owned and operated out of Stuart, FL, Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC has more than thirty years of experience under their belts. Their highly trained technicians offer 100% satisfaction guaranteed and emergency service. Call them today for water heating service anywhere along Florida’s Treasure Coast.

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How to Avoid Common Plumbing Scares This Halloween

Don’t Let a Plumbing Emergency Ruin Halloween

A plumbing emergency can be a scary situation! Homeowners can use these three tips to keep their home safe from potential plumbing emergencies this spooky season. Clogged drains, burst pipes, and malfunctioning water heaters are all nightmares homeowners should take steps to avoid.

In this blog post, plumbing experts share three ways homeowners can keep their homes safe from plumbing emergencies this fall. Plumbing systems are complicated, but keeping them running safely does not have to be. Preventing plumbing disasters with annual maintenance keeps the home safe and saves the homeowner money on potential repairs. 

Drain Cleaning

Drains are often overlooked when people think about their plumbing systems, but clogged drains are one of the number one causes of plumbing disasters. The entire plumbing system is connected, and a lack of proper drainage can cause serious problems. Neglecting the drains include burst pipes underground or sewer backflow into the home. 

Scheduling regular drain cleaning services can help protect homeowners from a scary plumbing situation this fall. Professional plumbers have methods such as drain snaking and hydro-jetting, which can be used to clear drains safely. Homeowners can also mix baking soda and vinegar or pour hot water down the drain to help clean it. 

One should never use liquid drain cleaners to try to fix a clogged drain because of the toxic chemicals they contain. When the liquid drain cleaner fails to clear the clog immediately, the toxic fumes can come back into the house. Liquid drain cleaner can be even scarier than a clogged drain because of the risk of poisoning from exposure to the chemicals. 

How to Prevent Clogged Toilets

toiletClogged toilets are one of the most common problems that plumbing companies fix. Homeowners can help to prevent a clogged toilet from scaring off their guests this Halloween by being mindful of what gets flushed. The only thing one should ever flush down the toilet is toilet paper. 

Even some items advertised as flushable can cause problems for certain toilets. Wipes, paper towels, and sanitary napkins should be thrown in the trashcan rather than flushed down the toilet. Using less toilet paper can also be beneficial for preventing a clogged toilet. 

Water Heater Maintenance

maintenanceA broken water heater can be scary for multiple reasons. The water heater is an essential piece of plumbing hardware for modern homes. It provides the home with warm water for bathing, cleaning, and other daily tasks. Homeowners should regularly maintain their water heaters to ensure that it does not break down this Halloween.

The benefits of doing water heater maintenance include promoting efficient performance, keeping energy bills low, and protecting the safety of the household. Maintenance also helps to protect the homeowner’s investment in their water heater system. Fixing small problems before they get out of hand can add years to the lifespan of the hardware. 

When water heaters work, the natural minerals in the water can separate into solid sediment. This sediment build-up can eventually cause corrosion of the water heater tank. During water heater maintenance appointments, the technician will safely clean out the sediment to prevent corrosion and other problems.

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC 

Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC is a trustworthy local plumbing company passionate about keeping its community safe from plumbing disasters. Homeowners in the Stuart, FL area have depended on Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC for over 30+ years for plumbing repairs and maintenance. Call them today for emergency plumbing services in Stuart, FL!

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Know the Signs of a Water Leak

How Homeowners Can Detect Water Leaks 

A water leak is more than a dripping faucet. It’s high water bills. It’s unexplained mold and mildew growth. Perhaps worst of all, water damage (such as soggy drywall) needs immediate replacement. Leaks are just an inevitable part of homeownership. Even newer houses, including the ones sprouting up all over Martin County, can have these problems. 

Thankfully, there are many ways homeowners can spot troublesome leaks. One can identify a leak by: 

Hearing Any Hissing or Running Water Sounds 

Water flows throughout a home’s plumbing system even when the shower isn’t running. For instance, water constantly flows from the city’s water main to the house, making water readily available when one needs it. So, hearing running water every once in a while is nothing to balk out. 

However, if one hears constant hissing or running water sounds, and they don’t have a water-based fixture on, this could be a reason for alarm. Here’s an easy way how homeowners can determine if these sounds indicate a pipe leak: 

  • First, one should locate the home’s water supply valve. 
  • Then, they should turn the valve off. 

If a homeowner notices the sound has stopped, there’s likely a leak somewhere, either under the sink or inside the wall. However, if the noise persists, this could point to another issue, such as a gas leak. In that case, residents should evacuate the home and immediately call a professional. Remaining indoors risks everyone’s health and well-being. 

Noticing Low Water Pressure 

waterThe home thrives on decent water pressure. This is what allows the dishwasher to function properly. It also makes showering a pleasurable experience. Poor water pressure prevents appliances from working properly and lowers residents’ quality of life. 

A water leak can cause low water pressure because there’s water leaving the system. Pressure can’t build up in the system because water isn’t flowing properly. A professional can address the leak (and restore water pressure to the home) by: 

  • Using soundwaves to locate the leak’s source 
  • Turning on different water fixtures and examining the water’s pressure 
  • Using a drain snake with a camera 

How the plumber fixes the leak is a different story. If the pipe has only suffered minimal damage, they may consider fixing the leak with an epoxy. They may also replace the section of pipe, patch the leak, or recommend other measures. It’s important to leave these measures to a professional. DIY measures can only make the problem worse. 

Having Higher Water Bills

billsMartin County charges homeowners for water based on their usage. It notes that for the first 10,000 gallons, one can expect to pay $2.38 per 1,000 gallons. The rates only increase from there. 

Homeowners should have a basic understanding of how much Martin County charges for water. They should also know how much they pay for water each month. If they notice an unexplained increase in their water bill, this could point to a water leak. Martin County does not differentiate between water homeowners intentionally use and water that escapes the plumbing system through leaks. 

In the face of high water bills, one should consult a professional. They can assess the plumbing system and render any necessary repairs. 

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC 

Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC opened its doors in 1986 with one goal: to serve the people of Stuart, Florida. Founded by a navy veteran, they offer proficient repairs that can only come from 30-plus years of experience. For help with water leaks, interested parties can schedule appointments online. They can also call to speak with a representative.

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Plumbing 101: Learn the Basics of Plumbing Systems

Learn the Plumbing Basics

This back-to-school season, professional plumbers want to educate homeowners on everything they need to know about their plumbing systems. It is always best to leave plumbing repairs and maintenance up to qualified professionals, but having basic knowledge of how the plumbing system works can benefit homeowners in many ways.

Knowing how the plumbing system works helps homeowners to maintain their systems in a way that promotes efficient performance and extends the lifespan of plumbing fixtures. Homeowners should also know the warning signs of a malfunctioning plumbing system that they need to look out for. Small plumbing issues can become safety hazards and cause extensive home damage if left in disrepair.

Where Does the Water Come From?

The home plumbing system is connected to the main water source that is provided by the city or a well located on the property. At water treatment plants, water is processed to remove contaminants before it travels through a water line into a home’s plumbing. The pipes that connect the home to the main water source are called the water line.

There is a water meter located at the connection to the water line that measures how much water the household is using. The water company uses this meter to bill for the amount of water used. Plumbers also use the water meter to troubleshoot issues with the plumbing system. They also use the main shut-off valve located on the water meter to stop the flow of water so that they can safely work on the plumbing system.

The wastewater exits the home through drains that lead to a city sewer or a septic tank. The pipes that carry wastewater to the sewer are called the sewer line. Septic tanks are used to dispose of wastewater from homes that cannot be connected to the sewer. Homeowners are responsible for maintaining their septic tank, whereas the city maintains the sewer.

Plumbing Appliancesshower

The water line provides the home with water for drinking, cleaning, and bathing. Common plumbing appliances in the kitchen include dishwashers, sinks, and ice-makers. Washing machines use a lot of water.

Another essential plumbing fixture would be a shower or bath. Some homes have both or just one. The toilet is another plumbing appliance that is found in the bathroom. Some homeowners also have outdoor plumbing fixtures such as sprinkler systems, fountains, or pools.

The water heater provides the home with a hot water source for cleaning and bathing. It is one of the most important and high-value pieces of plumbing hardware found in the household. Installing a new water heater can increase the home’s value for years.

New plumbing fixtures are more energy-efficient and water-saving than older models. Homeowners can save money on utility bills and do their part to protect the environment by replacing outdated plumbing fixtures with new water-conserving ones. The gallons of water saved each year by installing new fixtures can substantially save on water bills.

water meter

Schedule Plumbing Maintenance

One of the most common reasons home plumbing systems fail to perform efficiently or break down completely is a lack of maintenance. Homeowners should regularly check for signs of plumbing leaks and call a plumber if they notice any warning signs. During maintenance appointments, the plumber will have a chance to inspect the plumbing system for signs of damage and suggest solutions that meet the homeowner’s needs.

Drain cleaning services are one example of a plumbing service that homeowners can invest in to improve the performance of their plumbing systems. Clogged drains and pipes are a common plumbing problem costing homeowners hundreds of dollars yearly. A clogged pipe could burst due to water pressure, making the price of repairs shoot up to the thousands when extensive property damage occurs.

Another important maintenance service that homeowners should invest in is to flush water heaters to remove mineral sediment. When water is heated in the water heater tank, the natural minerals in water separate into solid sediment. This sediment can corrode the inside of the tank, leading to water heater leaks and dangerous malfunctions. During maintenance appointments, plumbers drain water heaters and clean the inside.

Doing maintenance bi-annually and regularly inspecting the plumbing system can save homeowners time, money, and headaches. Catching plumbing issues early on and repairing them immediately helps prevent the problem from worsening. Leaking pipes and plumbing fixtures can cause water damage that leads to mold growth and can even increase the risk of electrocution if water reaches the home’s electrical wiring.

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC is a trusted Stuart, FL plumbing company that provides comprehensive plumbing services at fair and affordable prices. Homeowners in Stuart, FL, and the surrounding areas, can depend on the team of expert plumbers at Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC for integrity, professionalism, and timeliness. Call them today to schedule an appointment for plumbing maintenance in Stuart, FL!

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Commonly Asked Questions About Trenchless Pipe Repair

What Are Trenchless Repairs? 

Plumbers usually must dig a trench to reach the problem when there’s a problem in a home’s sewer line. While invasive, sometimes, it’s the only way to get to the root of an issue. However, many plumbers are using trenchless pipe repair methods with several benefits. 

Plumbers don’t have to destroy one’s lawns to reach the sewer main. Trenchless pipe repairs also last longer than traditional sewer line repairs and take much less time to complete. Here, homeowners can learn more about these methods and get answers to some commonly-asked questions. 

How Do Trenchless Repairs Work? pipe

There are four main types of trenchless repairs: 
  • Structural-pipe lining. Also called cured-in-place pipe (CIPP), a plumber will locate a leak and insert a small pipe into the larger one. Then, they’ll apply epoxy to bind the two together, sealing the leak. 
  • Spray lining and brush coating. Here, a plumber brushes inside the pipe, usually using some kind of polymer. This also seals the leak. 
  • Slip lining. A plumber will insert a smaller pipe into a large pipe and seal it with grout. 
  • Pipe bursting. Without getting too technical, a plumber removes a damaged section of pipe with a new one. 

Trenchless pipe repairs don’t work for every sewer line problem. However, these are becoming more and more common as technology advances. 

What Situations Warrant Trenchless Sewer Line Repair? 

A plumber may suggest trenchless repairs if: 

  • There’s a small leak in the sewer main. Digging up the entire front lawn to fix a small leak is no need. A plumber may address the issue with the CIPP or slip lining method. 
  • The problem is due to wear and tear. Sewer mains can last anywhere from 50 to 100 years. However, average wear and tear can still cause its fair share of problems. 
  • A pipe has suffered serious damage. If a pipe’s too damaged to be relined, trenchless pipe repair is an option. A plumber may use the pipe bursting method to remedy the issue. 

A professional can assess a plumbing problem and determine whether trenchless sewer line repair is a feasible solution. 

What Benefits Come with Trenchless Pipe Repair? save

Trenchless pipe repair offers many benefits that traditional repair methods do not. Some of these benefits include: 
  • It’s faster. A skilled plumber can use a trenchless piping method and be done with a project in less than two hours. This cannot be said for some traditional methods, which can take days or weeks to complete. 
  • It’s less destructive. Trenchless pipe repairs do not require plumbers to destroy entire sections of lawn to address a problem. They can dig right into the issue and take things from there. 
  • It’s a proven method. While trenchless pipe repairs are becoming popular, they’ve been around since the 1940s. Some repairs are decades old and still hold up like they were rendered yesterday. 
  • It prevents future problems. Some trenchless pipe repair techniques can prevent other problems from turning into large issues. For instance, it can prevent a pipe leak from getting larger. 

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC 

Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC has more than 30 years of experience serving the residents of Stuart, Florida. These professionals offer five-star services, same-day estimates, and discounts on certain services. Homeowners needing pipeline repairs can call them today to learn more.

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Is Plumbing Maintenance Really That Important?

Three Key Benefits of Regular Plumbing Maintenance

A home’s plumbing system is a complex network of diverse elements, from basic fixtures like sinks, showers, and toilets to large appliances like dishwashers, laundry machines, and water heaters. Not to mention the supply lines and drainage pipes that deliver clean water and dispose of wastewater. And like any complex system with so many moving parts, a plumbing system needs maintenance to function properly over the long haul.

And yet, plumbing maintenance often gets put off or neglected altogether, which inevitably leads to a wide range of plumbing issues that one could have avoided. So this article will discuss how routine plumbing maintenance can prevent plumbing disasters, help every aspect of the plumbing system last longer, and even save homeowners money in the long run!

Keeps the Plumbing System Running Safely and Smoothly

home It’s easy to see how regular maintenance can keep the home’s plumbing system performing as it should. Occasional drain and sewer line cleaning will help prevent clogs and sewage backups. Leak repair and water pressure testing can help maintain proper water pressure in the home. Regular plumbing inspections allow homeowners to address minor issues before they develop into big problems.

But many homeowners don’t realize plumbing maintenance helps with home safety. Many plumbing issues can pose serious health risks and cause major property damage. Mold and mildew growth from a leaky pipe can endanger respiratory health. Hidden leaks can also cause wood rot and foundation damage, undermining the home’s structural integrity. Flooding from a burst pipe can cause massive damage and present a risk of electric shock. A sewage backup can release toxic gasses and harmful bacteria into the air. Outdated pipes, ruptures, and backflow events can contaminate the home’s potable water supply.

With regular maintenance, these dangerous situations are much less likely to occur.

Extends the Life of the System and Its Components

Preventing issues with proper maintenance is great for safety and avoiding headaches, but it also has the effect of helping the plumbing system last longer. Because problems are caught early on, the damage they cause is kept to a minimum. Even better, preventative maintenance will keep many problems from arising in the first place.

Regular maintenance checks and inspections can prevent wear and tear on pipes due to excessively high water pressure or corrosion. Keeping drains clean will help drainage pipes last longer by eliminating the added stress of clogs. Flushing the water heater tank to remove sediment can help prevent tank corrosion. These are just a few ways maintenance can prolong the life of appliances and the plumbing system.

Saves Money On Utility Bills, Repairs, and Replacements

save Naturally, a longer lifespan for appliances and individual plumbing components means homeowners won’t have to drop loads of cash often on replacing the water heater or repiping the home. And since one can catch most problems early with a professional plumbing inspection, they won’t get a chance to develop into major issues that require expensive repairs.

The plumbing system and its appliances will also run more smoothly and efficiently with proper maintenance. With no slow leaks to wastewater and lower water pressure, a water heater running at peak performance, and a drainage system in great condition, homeowners can enjoy lower utility bills and a smooth plumbing experience.

Even without these savings, it’s typically much less expensive to maintain the plumbing system than to repair it. Hence, homeowners have nothing to lose by scheduling routine maintenance visits with their trusted local plumber!

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC has proudly served Stuart and the Treasure Cove for over 30 years. As a veteran-owned local business, they have garnered numerous awards and 5-star reviews for their rock-solid integrity, service excellence, and unbeatable workmanship. They offer around-the-clock emergency service and guarantee 100% satisfaction on every job. Call Allore’s today for plumbing maintenance in Stuart, FL!

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Spring Growing Can Cause Damage to Pipes

Is Your Plumbing Being Harmed by Your Growing Garden?

With spring upon homeowners, many are plotting and planning how they want their gardens to look this spring and summer. However, some homeowners fail to realize the damaging effects overgrowing gardens can have on their plumbing systems. 

Planting a garden will need to be carefully planned out to avoid any structural, plumbing, or sewer damage, which can occur if the garden overgrows too much. 

Invading Tree Roots

rootsTrees need plenty of room to grow, both above ground and under. Their roots will expand underground as they search for nutrients and water needed to supply their growth. As the roots search for these nutrients, they often happen upon pipes and sewer systems that house water and make their way inside through small cracks or connected pipes. 

Usually, these pipes are not built strong enough to withstand penetration from the roots, so damage to these systems, such as a burst pipe, is likely.

Willow trees, magnolia trees, birch trees, and oak trees are among some of the trees that can cause the most damage to plumbing systems. A good rule of thumb is to leave the same amount of space around the tree as it needs to grow upward. 

How Do Roots Cause Problems?

draining

Homeowners may not think much about tree roots and the problems they can cause when planning their landscaping. Some of these problems can be quite severe and costly to repair. 

When roots expand outward in search of nutrients and water, they can penetrate through piping systems and cause obstructions that will slow and sometimes even block the system from working properly. As a result, homeowners may find that their water-based appliances are slow draining or even backing up, causing sewage to flood into their homes. They are also likely to experience low water pressure.

Additionally, roots can cause pipes to crack and, worst-case scenario, to collapse completely, which can cost thousands of dollars to repair. 

Root Obstruction Solutions

The best thing a homeowner can do to prevent root obstruction is to consult with a professional plumber or landscaping company.

There are several ways that a plumber can help fix any already damaged systems or prevent them from occurring in the first place. The method used to fix a damaged pipe will depend on the severity of the damage. 

Hydro-jetting can help if there’s only a slight intrusion of roots. This process can help clear out small blockages of both roots and years of buildup from use. 

However, for more severe cases, a repipe may be necessary through trenchless sewer repair or replacement. If this is the case, a plumber will use pipe bursting to destroy the damaged pipes. This is done by hydraulically inserting a cone through the lines to separate the damaged pipes. Once this step is complete, newer pipes are pulled into place. These pipes are usually HDPE, high-density polyethylene, one of the strongest materials on the market.

Before it gets to the point where repiping is needed, homeowners can take a few preventive measures to help protect their piping systems. These measures include planting trees and shrubbery away from water and sewer lines, creating root barriers between trees and pipes using chemical growth inhibitors or barricades made from wood or metal, and planting slow-growing plants, which often do not have such a vast root system. 

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC 

Allore’s Plumbing is a family-owned and operated business that takes pride in being Treasure Coast’s top state-certified and licensed plumbers. They promise reliable and professional services in Stuart, FL, and throughout Martin County, and have a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Contact them today for help with burst pipe repair or repiping service. 

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What Homeowners Need to Know About Slab Leaks

A Guide to Dealing with Foundation Leaks

No one likes dealing with plumbing problems, especially when they continue to cost money as long as they aren’t fixed. Dealing with plumbing leaks is stressful because homeowners are reluctant to spend the money on repairs, but as long as they delay, they will keep wasting money on water and risk further consequences. 

Instead of being intimidated by plumbing leaks, homeowners should know what to do. Slab leaks are a particularly difficult type of leak to deal with, but they don’t need to be upsetting with the right knowledge. Here is a quick guide from local experts to help homeowners deal with slab leaks.  

What Are Slab Leaks?slab leak

“Slab” is a term used to reference the large layer of concrete that a home is built upon. When houses are built, the first step is to lay out the plumbing and ductwork that will serve the lower floor of the dwelling. Once the utilities are laid, concrete is poured over them to form the foundation for the home. 

A slab leak occurs when plumbing under the slab or passing through the slab starts to leak. Because the materials used in construction are designed to last as long as 75 years, slab leaks usually come due to poor installation or shifting soils under the foundation. There’s not much that one can do to prevent them, but once they form, they need to be dealt with to prevent further damage. 

What Are the Consequences of Slab Leaks

The moisture that comes from a slab leak is the main problem. Houses and building materials love to be dry and when they come into contact with excess moisture, many things can go wrong. When pipes leak under the slab, the concrete can wick the moisture upwards into the living space. This can create problems like:

  • Musty odors and mildew problems
  • Buckled flooring
  • Soggy carpets
  • Moldy walls and baseboards

Many homeowners worry about the process of getting the leak repaired when the real thing they should worry about is the consequences of ignoring it. The moisture-related problems from a slab leak can cause far more damage than the leak repair process. 

plumber Getting Help from Slab Leak Repair Professionals

Slab leak repair is never a DIY job. Nearly every slab leak repair job involves removing the slab over the sight of the leak. This involves using demolition tools like jackhammers. The process of removing the slab makes a mess and could compromise the integrity of the house’s foundation. 

That’s why precise detection is so important. Slab leak detection contractors use special equipment to pinpoint the exact location of the leak. This allows them to remove the smallest amount of slab possible to make repairs. 

Leak repairs proceed as normal once the leak is found and the slab is opened up. Once the leak has been taken care of, new concrete is used to fill in the hole in the foundation. This restores the foundation’s integrity, and the homeowner can have peace of mind that their house is safe again. 

 

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC is a local, veteran-owned slab leak repair contractor. They offer their years of experience at competitive prices, guaranteeing their services. Call today for plumbing repairs in Stuart, FL. 

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How To Fix Poor Water Pressure in the Shower

Ways a Home’s Water Pressure Can Be Improved 

Every homeowner knows the issues that come with lower than average water pressure. It makes running appliances like the dishwasher and the washing machine difficult. One of the most irritating issues is the lack of water pressure in a shower. It is very difficult to get clean when there is a slow water flow. 

Behind the Tile: Bathroom Connections

No matter how many sinks, faucets, or toilets are in a home, the water for said household items typically comes from one source. Because the bathroom plumbing is interconnected, using water in one place (like the sink) can cause lower pressure if another one is also used (such as the shower). 

This is why the shower tends to lose pressure when someone flushes the toilet. In the same way, all the drains are empty into one main drain pipe, so a problem in one part of the plumbing can lead to poor performance in another part. A severely clogged drain in one line can cause backups in another drain.

The Problem of the Hidden Leakleaks

As previously discussed, water going in one direction lessens pressure in another direction. So if the supply water pipe leaks, then less water pressure will be coming into the house. This affects the water pressure in the shower and everywhere else, but it can also affect the household water bill. 

If the water pressure seems lower than usual, it may be time to look for possible signs of a hidden leak.

  • Skyrocketing Water Bill: An abnormally high water bill can indicate a major leak that has gone unnoticed.
  • Pooling water: If a puddle seems to come from nowhere, there is a good chance a leak has caused it.
  • Damp grass/Puddles: The dampness or puddling can happen outside, too. If the grass is wet, or there is water running in the gutters and there has been no rain, then there may be a leak.
  • Mold/Mildew Growth: If spots of mold or mildew appear on the walls or ceiling in unexpected places, there may be a leak behind it.

The Clogged Showerheadshower head

Fortunately for the average homeowner, low water pressure is often merely a result of hard water and can be easily fixed. Hard water is water full of dissolved minerals that can leave deposits in pipes, faucets, and drains. 

Much like the stalagmites or stalactites in a cave, hard water buildup takes a long time to accumulate, but it can become a major blockage. Below are the steps for dealing with hard water buildup in a showerhead.

  • Remove showerhead
  • Soak the showerhead in a mineral solvent such as CLR
  • Rinse and replace the showerhead
  • Enjoy the newly refurbished and unclogged showerhead
  • Consider installing a water softening system or using water softeners

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

Veteran-owned and operated Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC offers 24-hour emergency service for commercial and residential customers in Stuart, FL, and the surrounding areas. They have highly trained technicians and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for all types of plumbing solutions.

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Signs It’s Time To Dump That Old Water Heater

When Is the Right Time for a Water Heater Replacement?

Breaking up is hard to do – it’s one of those age-old facts. And it doesn’t just apply to romantic relationships that aren’t going anywhere or fling that have lost their spark. It can also be true for the often complicated relationship between a homeowner and their water heater.

Not only can it be painful in a financial sense to break it off with that old water heater, but it can also be difficult to know when the time has come to say goodbye. This article will lay out three of the biggest red flags for homeowners to watch out for when it comes to their water heaters.

The Water Heater Is Getting Old

The first way to tell it might be time to call it quits with the water heater is if the unit is nearing the end of its life expectancy. This number varies depending on the unit type, the quality of installation, and how well it has been maintained, but there are a few general guidelines.

A traditional gas water heater has an expected lifespan of around 8-12 years. The same goes for traditional electric water heaters, though some have been known to last a year or two longer. On the other hand, tankless water heaters tend to last closer to 20 years, whether gas or electric. Of course, regular water heater service will help extend this, but even that has its limits.

The date of installation is typically marked on the manufacturer label on the unit itself. If it was more than 10 years ago (on a traditional unit) or close to 20 years ago (on a tankless unit), it’s a good bet that the unit won’t last much longer, especially if it’s been acting up lately.

The Water Heater Has Sprung a Leakwater heater

If the water heater is leaking, it may be something as simple as a loose pipe fitting or a faulty T&P (temperature and pressure) relief valve. But it could also be something much more serious, such as a crack or pinhole leak in the tank itself. A leak could indicate mineral deposits or corroded pipes in a tankless unit. Still, leaks are much less common on tankless units, especially if they’re nowhere near the end of their life expectancy.

On a traditional unit, a leaking water tank is usually the result of corrosion eating away at the tank wall or sediment collecting in the bottom of the tank and causing cracks. In either case, once the tank itself is compromised and springs a leak, it will need to be replaced, and it will simply be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit.

water heater

 

 

The Water Heater Just Won’t Work Properly

Another sign it might be time to ditch the current water heater is if it continually breaks down or fails to work properly. A unit that requires frequent repairs will eventually cost more than investing in a whole new water heater. Similarly, even if the unit has been working fine previously, an issue may arise and cause costs to pile up. 

For instance, if an electric heating element burns out or breaks, another element may work harder to compensate, degrading efficiency and driving up energy costs. And if the unit is older, it may make more sense to upgrade than to shell out for a new heating element.

In some cases, the unit or tank may not be the appropriate size for the home, either because the original water heater installer miscalculated or the household needs have changed since the unit was first installed. In this case, upgrading to a properly sized unit can drastically improve efficiency.

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

Allore’s has been the go-to plumbing company in their community for over 30 years. As an award-winning and consistently 5-star rated local business, they guarantee 100% satisfaction on every single job. Their friendly, trustworthy experts are available 24/7, so don’t wait to call Allore’s for water heater installation in Stuart, FL.

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