4 Plumbing Quick Fixes You Should Learn

December 15, 2021 by Eve Brown Posted in Plumbing Tips

When a pipe bursts or an appliance starts to leak, you can’t always afford to wait for a plumber. Water damage will take its toll quickly. Knowing a few basic but important plumbing quick fixes can make a big difference in how you recover from a plumbing disaster.

Here are some easy repairs you can perform to minimize damage before your local smell good plumber arrives on the scene. These simple stop-gap solutions may not sound like much, but they could save you money and spare your home from greater catastrophe.

Leaking Pipe

No matter how small a pipe leak is, you don’t want water pouring out into your home. Even small drips can develop into big problems. Luckily, there are plenty of home plumbing tools designed to help you make quick fixes to prevent disaster.

Whatever method you go with, start by turning off the water. and measuring your leaking pipe’s circumference.

How to turn off the water

To turn off the water to a leaking pipe locate the nearest shut off valve. Sinks and toilets will have a small knob underneath where the water supply connects. Showers and tubs often have an access panel on the opposite side of the wall. Simply turn the shut off valve counterclockwise to stop water from flowing.

If your leak is not located near a local shut off valve, you may need to turn off the water to your entire home until the leak is addressed. Locate your water main where the city water supply enters your home. It will have a knob or lever type valve where you can shut off the water supply into your home.

The right repair supplies

Your nearest hardware store should have what you need to temporarily stop leaking pipes until they can be replaced. If you have iron pipes, purchase an epoxy compound. If you have copper, PVC or other, purchase a pipe clamp or wrap.

To repair a leaking iron pipe: Apply epoxy directly onto the leaking pipe, like you would with caulk or plumber’s putty. The epoxy will temporarily form a seal over the leak.

To repair leaking PVC or copper pipes: Affix the pipe clamp or wrap around the leak. The pressure should hold in the water until you can get the pipe replaced.

Remember that none of these three products offer a permanent solution. While they function admirably as quick fixes, the only foolproof way to be rid of a plumbing leak permanently is to replace the pipe.

Leaking Pipe Joint

Leaking pipe joints are a little trickier than normal pipe leaks. The angle of the joint can make quick repairs awkward or ineffective. Luckily, there are a few tools designed specifically for administering quick fixes to vexing leaks like these.

Repair sleeves and rubber pipe connectors are flexible enough to wrap around a leaking joint and will press in on it to squeeze water back through the pipe.

To use a rubber pipe connector or repair sleeve: Measurement is important here. Cut rubber pipe connectors so they fit tightly around the leak. The rubber of the connector resists water if it’s wrapped tightly enough, but it won’t last forever. Repair sleeves work well on smaller joint leaks. Add a clamp over your rubber wrap to hold it in place.

Over time, however, the leak may grow wider than the sleeve. In a real pinch, you could supplement either of these tools with duct tape, but keep in mind how temporary a solution it would be.

Cracked Porcelain

Toilets, bathtubs, sinks, and showers can crack or break just like anything else. Unlike everything else, however, these appliances are sometimes full of water. It’s easy to panic if the bottom of your toilet cracks open and starts flooding your bathroom. In cases like these, you’ll want to prevent the leak from damaging the floor as quickly as possible.

This is where our old pal plumber’s putty comes in. First, apply plumber’s putty to the inside of the leak. Try to squeeze it in as snugly as possible. Plumber’s putty naturally resists water, so it should hold for long enough. After you’ve squeezed the putty in as much as you can, apply caulk right over the top of it. The caulk will help form a secondary seal and lasts longer than plumber’s putty will, but it would be hard to put on without the putty. Neither the caulk nor the putty will last forever, however, so consider having your toilet, sink, or tub replaced soon after.

Faulty Water Heater

If your water heater isn’t working well, it’s likely that sediment has collected in the tank. When a layer of sediment builds up at the base of a water heater tank, it blocks the heating element. The water heater wastes time and power trying to heat through the sediment. You don’t get hot water as quickly, and your water heater becomes strained. All water heaters need to be replaced eventually but flushing your tank can extend its lifespan significantly.

To flush your water heater

First, turn off the water heater. Run hot water in a sink for about 10 minutes to drain the tank of hot water. Shut off the cold-water supply on top of the tank, and then attach a garden hose to the drain valve. Make sure the hose leads to the nearby floor drain. Re-open the cold-water supply WITHOUT closing the drain valve or disconnecting the hose. Watch the water drain until you can’t see sediment discoloration in it.

For Plumbing Emergencies in L.A.

Try these quick fixes for any of the above plumbing emergencies and then call us right away. We can fix your emergency quickly, effectively, and permanently. Mike Diamond has been on the Los Angeles scene stopping all manner of home plumbing problems since 1976.

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Benefits of a Reusable Water Filter

December 10, 2021 by Christa Hamilton Posted in Plumbing Services Tagged plumbers, plumbing, plumbing company, plumbing repair, plumbing services

Reusable Water Filter is a great option to filter water at home. It can save you money over the long run as it can last for several years. Many filters have refillable cartridges that you can wash and reuse. The best part is that these filters are made of heavy-duty materials and are designed to fit through a letterbox. This makes them an excellent investment. Reusable water filters are an easy way to reduce the cost of drinking water in your home.

Another advantage of a reusable water filter is that it will also work as a water softener. It will remove rust, iron, manganese, and sands from water. It will also minimize stains on fixtures, kitchen wares, and pipes. Reusable water filters are designed to last a long time, and they will not need to be replaced regularly. Once installed, a reusable water filter will help save money on water bills for years to come.

Reusable water filters are a smart investment. The cost of a reusable water filter system is relatively low, and its features are motivating. The water canisters usually have a metal spigot, which prevents corrosion of household fixtures. Most of these filters are backed by a lifetime warranty. They also come with a warranty and a lifetime guarantee. A reusable water filter is a great choice for a home that has high-quality, city-supplied, or well-water.

The most important feature of a reusable water filter is its ability to save water. It includes a sanitizer and lubricant, which can improve the quality of your water from a city water system or well. It will also reduce the risk of rusting your kitchen wares and fittings. In fact, the filter will also prevent the occurrence of any of the problems above. This is a great way to protect your family’s health and save money on bottled water.

The 3-stage filtering system is the most durable and low-maintenance water filter. It is easy to clean and has an automatic flushing system. The 3-stage process also removes microorganisms. The lubricant can also protect against rusting and other common plumbing problems. These are just a few of the benefits of using a reusable water filter. They are an excellent choice for those who have well-water and need clean, healthy water.

Reusable water filter is a great option for homes that have a well. This system will help you conserve water while keeping your family safe and healthy. It is easy to clean and is also reusable. A reusable water filter can be a great investment for your home. Its high quality, durable, and affordable water filter will increase the value of your home. Its filters will also improve the quality of the tap water and improve your health.

The 3-stage filtering system is durable and low-maintenance. It will remove iron, sulfur, and manganese from water. In addition to removing these elements, the filter will also get rid of microorganisms that make the water unsafe for drinking. This type of reusable water filter can be used for home, irrigation, and swimming pools. Its maximum temperature is 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The three-stage process will ensure that your filtered water is free from harmful substances.

This 3-stage system is low maintenance and durable. It can remove rust, iron, manganese, and sulfur from water. The filtration process will also remove dissolved solids and other debris. The system will improve the quality of your city water or well. Some of the iron and manganese in the water can cause rusting in kitchen ware and fittings. If you have a well, you should consider a reusable water filter.

A reusable water filter is a great option for home use. Most of these units are made from carbon, which has a large internal surface that traps chemical impurities. Most domestic water filters have granular activated carbon, which removes undesirable tastes and smells. Other reusable water filters have carbon block elements, which have micron-level particle-removal capacity. A 10″ pleated cartridge is ideal for cleaning and reducing chlorine.

What’s That Smell in My Kitchen?

December 4, 2021 by Eve Brown Posted in Plumbing Services

Do you have a mysterious, unpleasant odor in your kitchen? Something that doesn’t go away, no matter how many times you mop or take out the garbage? Check your kitchen sink.

Your kitchen sink might be the hardest working plumbing appliance in your home. If there’s a problem with it, chances are the food you run through the disposal or the grease you rinse off dirty plates isn’t getting properly removed from your house.

When food or grease gets caught in your kitchen sink’s pipes, it begins to rot. Rotting food or other debris can produce terrible smells and become a breeding ground for bacteria and pests. Even if you don’t have a disposal, the kind of stuff that drops down the kitchen sink’s drain can collect and start to smell surprisingly quickly. If your kitchen sink has a sour odor that you just can’t scrub away, here are a couple possible explanations and what you can do about it.

Grease in the Drain

If you pour cooking grease or vegetable oil down your kitchen sink’s drain, it can congeal to the sides of the drain, disposal, or lower pipe. Then, the grease starts to decompose and trap other falling debris. Soon, an unruly rotting smell wafts back up out of the sink and into your kitchen.

Scoop about a cup of baking soda into your kitchen sink’s drain. Follow that up with about as much vinegar, then let it sit for about ten minutes. While the mixture is doing its thing, boil a pot of water. When ten minutes have passed, pour the boiling water into the sink. The baking soda and vinegar should foam up and eat away the grease in your drain, and then the boiling water will flush it all out.

Dirty Garbage Disposal

Sometimes, scraps of food or other gunk can catch on your garbage disposal’s blades. That food rots and starts to smell. Problems increase if:

You use your garbage disposal often.You run hot water with it.,You run no water.Your garbage disposal is older.

Grab about two cups of ice cubes and a cup of salt. Turn on the kitchen sink’s cold water and run the disposal for about 20 seconds. After that, dump the cups of ice and the salt into the disposal. Let the disposal keep running until all the ice cubes are gone. Cutting up the ice in cold water should have helped clear away the gunk caught on the blades.

For extra odor prevention, drop lemon, grapefruit, or orange rinds down the disposal while you’re running it with the ice. You can also add lemon juice and vinegar.

Problem with the Trap

If your kitchen sink smells more like sewer than rotten food, there might be a problem with its trap. A kitchen sink’s trap is the ‘P’ or ‘U’-shaped pipe directly beneath the sink basin. The trap’s job is to prevent sewer gas from drifting from the pipes back up into your house. It’s also handy for recovering lost wedding rings.

Usually, a sewer smell means that the water in the trap that blocks sewer gas has evaporated. This can happen if the sink hasn’t been used for awhile. If that’s the case, all you should have to do is run the sink and let the water fill back up in the trap. Watch the trap while running the water to make sure it isn’t leaking.

If that doesn’t fix the problem, take the trap out, empty it, scrub it down with an old toothbrush and a cleaning agent, and replace it. Clogs can build up in kitchen and bathroom traps. They may need to be cleaned periodically but if the problem persists, give us a call.

Clogged Vent

If there’s a sewer smell coming from your sink and you don’t think the trap is the problem, the next most likely culprit is the vent. The plumbing drain vent is basically a long, narrow, vertical shaft connecting your main sewer line to the outside air. This shaft vent stabilizes the pressure inside the pipe connecting to your sewer. Without it, water may siphon out of your sink’s trap, letting sewer gas in.

Plumbing vents are located on the roof of the house. When they’re not working, it’s usually because something is obstructing it, such as a bird’s nest or a piece of debris. There could also be a leak in the vent’s shaft, which would interfere with its pressure mitigation or could even let sewer gas into your house. In either case, you may want to consider calling a professional. Clearing a vent obstruction may not sound like a big job, but roof jobs are always trickier than they seem.

Keeping L.A. Smelling Good

If your kitchen sink smells, hopefully one of these quick fixes solves the problem. If the stench is coming from a simple clog, try plunging with a cup plunger.

If you’ve tried everything and you’ve still got a bad smell, give us a call. There’s more than one reason Mike Diamond is your “Smell good plumber.” With our pipe cleaning technology and years of experience, we guarantee we’ll find and solve your problem and get your kitchen smelling fresh again.

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The Importance of Plumbing Maintenance

December 1, 2021 by Christa Hamilton Posted in Plumbing Services

Regular plumbing maintenance is very important to keep your home running smoothly. Performing these preventive measures will save you energy and water costs. Not only will they help you to save money on your water bill, but they will also help you keep your house in order. This can prevent plumbing problems and also save you from spending a lot of money on repairs. However, you will have to make sure to do these simple things regularly. The best way to perform plumbing maintenance is to hire a professional. Click Here to learn more about plumbing services.

Clogs are a very common problem when it comes to plumbing. Whether you have a clog in your sink, shower, or toilet, preventing it from getting to the sewer will make your home run smoothly. You should also make sure to maintain the cleanliness of your pipes regularly. This will help you avoid costly emergencies down the road. By performing plumbing maintenance, you can extend the life of your system and ensure that you are getting the best water quality possible.

A regular plumber will check your drains, look for clogs, and fix the problems preventing your plumbing from working properly. They will also look for leaks and corrosion. They will also inspect your pipes and fixtures to ensure that they are in good condition. A plumbing professional will be able to diagnose any problems and keep them from developing into bigger ones. A good plumbing maintenance plan will keep your pipes in pristine condition and save your business from expensive headaches.

It is essential to have a well-maintained plumbing system to conserve water and reduce energy costs. Not only is plumbing maintenance important, but it is also essential to have a proper maintenance plan. The following tips will ensure that your plumbing system is always in top shape: You should vacuum your carpets regularly to remove excess water and clean up any stains. In addition, you should inspect your faucets, pipes, and faucets every week.

Annual plumbing maintenance will prevent the need for costly repair bills. It would be best to replace your old faucets and other fixtures that are prone to leaking. You should also schedule your plumbing inspections according to your needs. If you want to have a professional plumber perform these checks regularly, make sure to contact them. They can save you time and money. They can provide the needed assistance you need. They can perform any necessary repairs.

In addition to plumbing maintenance, you should also check sewer lines for problems and repair them. Sewage backups are a major issue that may require major plumbing repairs. Your sewer line can also be a sign of a problem. Keeping your plumbing system well-maintained is crucial to your home’s value and health. By doing regular maintenance, you can prevent the problem and save money. In addition, your home will be more appealing, and your wallet will thank you.

You can save a lot of money if you do regular plumbing maintenance. In addition to plumbing repairs, you can also have your plumber inspect your system for leaks and clogs. It is important to have your plumber perform maintenance on your sewer line. This will ensure that you aren’t spending too much money on repairing a pipe. If you have a leaky sewer line, your water bills will go up as well.

You can save a lot of money and time by doing routine plumbing maintenance. This type of preventative maintenance can help you detect a problem before it can become a huge problem. By performing a thorough inspection, you will be able to see whether your pipes are clogged or not. This will help you save time and money. It will also make your pipes more durable. Further, plumbing maintenance is a great way to prevent the development of mold and fungus in your home.

Besides performing regular maintenance, you should make sure your plumbing is working properly. By doing so, you’ll not need to deal with the risks associated with waterborne diseases. When you do regular plumbing maintenance, you’ll get better water pressure and avoid dangerous situations. A plumbing problem can even kill you. But, it’s very easy to avoid problems with regular maintenance. You have to be proactive. When you do regular maintenance, you’ll be able to save more time and money.

How to Deal With an Emergency Plumbing Problem

November 30, 2021 by David Kowalski Posted in Plumbing Services Tagged plumbers, plumbing, plumbing company, plumbing repair, plumbing services

If you have an emergency, you should call an emergency plumber to fix the problem. Even if you have a plumbing company in your home, you may not always know when you might need them. The best thing to do is write down the number of the emergency plumbers and keep them on your phone. However, you should avoid making calls until you are sure that there is a real emergency. This way, you’ll be able to contact the most suitable plumbing company at once.

The first step in addressing an emergency plumbing problem is to prepare. Have a few tools on hand. A five-gallon bucket is the most helpful tool in an emergency plumbing kit. It can collect water if there is a leak, and it can also catch any excess water that is present. It would help if you also carried a toilet plunger or a drain snake for emergency use. This way, you can easily open the drain.

The next step in an emergency plumbing service is to call a plumber. Your plumber will come to your home as soon as possible, but you should never forget that the price will be different from regular services. The plumbers will need to order necessary parts, which may take a couple of hours. You can also get an estimate of how much the service will cost. You can even choose to work with a company that will respond within 24 hours.

A clogged drain is also an emergency plumbing issue. It can prevent the water from flowing through your home and require a professional plumber to fix the problem. Most clogged drains can be fixed by yourself, but you can call a plumbing company if you’re not sure. It’s best to hire an emergency plumber in case the problem is a bit complex. It’s also best to call a plumber as quickly as possible since it could cost you a lot of money in the long run.

An emergency plumbing service will be able to fix the problem fast. It’s essential to call a plumber for all emergency plumbing needs because a broken water pipe can cause a lot of damage to your home. A professional plumber will help you with any plumbing repair and can handle emergencies safely and efficiently. The problem can be difficult to repair on your own, but you must contact a professional right away to avoid any unnecessary damage to your home.

A clogged drain is one of the most common plumbing emergencies. You’ll probably need a professional emergency plumbing service for this type of problem, but it can be easily repaired by removing hair and soap scum from the drain most of the time. The best option is to call a professional plumber for the job, as this will save you a lot of time and money in the long run. And if you’re looking for a plumber, don’t hesitate to call a 24-hour company.

A plumber who works in emergency plumbing situations can be the difference between life and death. A plumber who works around the clock will be able to repair the damage and restore water pressure. He will also be able to give you tips on preventing further damages and making your property look better than ever. So, call an emergency plumber as soon as you can! The emergency plumbers will come prepared with the proper tools and equipment needed for the job.

Burst pipes are another typical plumbing emergency. A burst pipe can cause a lot of damage, so it is vital to call a plumber as soon as possible. While you might be able to fix the problem on your own, the damage can be costly and may even threaten the home’s safety. This is why it’s best to call a plumber who specializes in plumbing services in your area. You won’t regret it!

In case of a major plumbing emergency, a professional plumber should be called immediately. These plumbers are experienced in dealing with emergencies and can deal with them professionally and with a sense of urgency. In the event of a plumbing emergency, call an emergency plumber to fix the problem. These professionals will be able to solve the problem quickly and avoid further damage. They can also prevent further damage to the property. There are many reasons to call an emergency plumbing service.

How Do I Determine The Right Size Furnace For My Home?

November 30, 2021 by Eve Brown Posted in Plumbing Maintenance

When it’s cold outside (even in LA), you need the right furnace to heat your home evenly and efficiently. A furnace can only do its job properly if it’s the right size for the space it’s heating. Too big and it will switch on and off frequently, too small and it will run constantly. Neither is ideal.

A small furnace will lead to high energy bills, uneven heating, and a shorter lifespan. Not to mention the fact that you’ll probably still be cold. A furnace that’s too big, on the other hand, might make parts of your home uncomfortably hot while leaving other areas unproperly heated. This constant cycling in short bursts could wear it out quickly. To avoid these problems, learn how to choose the right sized furnace for your home.

How do I determine the right size furnace for my home?

Gas furnaces are differentiated by their BTU capabilities. BTU stands for British Thermal Units. One BTU represents the amount of energy required to heat one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. To determine the proper BTU you’ll need for your home’s heating, you’ll have to do a little math.

First, find out the square footage of your home.

You should be able to find this number on the paperwork you received when you purchased your home. If you can’t find that, you can calculate the square footage yourself.

Start by measuring the length and width of each room in your home. Multiply the length and width of each room together to get the square footage of that room. Then simply add together the square footage of all your rooms.

Don’t include rooms that don’t have ductwork or rooms you don’t plan on heating, like garages or sunrooms. Most furnace size charts operate under the assumption that your ceilings are eight feet high. If your ceilings are higher or lower, make changes to your calculation accordingly.

Determine which climate zone you live in.

The United States is divided into different climate zones, each with its own BTU per square foot recommendation. To heat a home in Minnesota takes more BTUs than a home in Florida. Living in California, your furnace won’t have to be heavy duty.

If you’re working with Mike Diamond, then your home lies in Zone 2 – a hot-dry or mixed-dry climate zone. In Zone 2, you need 35-40 BTUs for each square foot of your home.

Calculate the furnace size you’ll need.

To determine the number of BTUs you need to heat your home: multiply your square footage by the zone heating factor. If your home is well insulated, use the lower number. If your home is not well insulated or has other factors that may make it harder to heat, use the higher number.

For example: in a well-insulated L.A. home that is 2,000 square feet our equation is:

2,000(sq ft) X 35 (zone factor) = 70,000 BTUs

For this home, we need to install a furnace with a rating of 70,000 BTUs. But we have one more step to finding our perfect furnace.

Calculate your new furnace’s actual output.

When you shop for your new furnace, you’ll notice two numbers on it. The first is the amount of heat it will produce in BTUs. The second number is its efficiency rating. To calculate the actual BTU output of any furnace, multiply the two numbers. For example, a furnace capable of 100,000 BTUs at an efficiency rating of 80% will actually produce 80,000 BTUs of heat:

100,000 X 80% = 80,000

Make sure you calculate this properly before installing a furnace that is too small for your space.

Reference a furnace size chart.

You can also compare your home’s square footage to a furnace size chart. There are a number of different furnace size charts out there. These charts give comparisons between home square footage and the BTUs needed to heat it. It’s not as accurate as calculating it yourself. Most charts follow guidelines similar to these:

A 1,200-square-foot home will require between 35,000 and 75,000 BTUs A 1,500-square-foot home will require between 45,000 to 90,000 BTUs A 1,800-square-foot home will require between 55,000 to 110,000 BTUs A 2,100-square-foot home will require between 65,000 to 125,000 BTUs A 2,400-square-foot home will require between 75,000 to 145,000 BTUs

Expert Furnace Service and Installation in Los Angeles

If you’re interested in updating or upgrading your home’s furnace, give Mike Diamond a call. Our expert technicians can answer your questions about the make, model, and size of the perfect furnace for your home. We’ll be able to get your just right furnace installed quickly and efficiently.

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Why Power Surges Happen and How to Prevent Them

November 23, 2021 by Eve Brown Posted in Plumbing Maintenance

Los Angeles homes have more electronic devices plugged in and drawing power now than ever before. While modern electrical grids can supply power evenly and safely, power surges can result from several causes outside and inside the home.

Every homeowner should understand the basics about power surges and how to prevent them. Over time, even small power surges can cause damage to appliances and devices. Here’s a quick primer on everything you should know about power surges, and what you can do to stop them.

What is a Power Surge?

A power surge is an extremely fast and intense power spike in your home’s electrical current. Surges are also referred to as “transient voltage” because they’re caused by the sudden presence of an overvoltage traveling through an electrical system.

Wall outlets normally supply 120 volts of AC power, but the actual voltage level in the system fluctuates between 0-169 volts. Most home appliances and devices are designed to handle this small fluctuation but an increase above 169 volts is considered a power surge. When a surge travels into your home’s electrical current, the voltage spikes can be damaging and dangerous.

What Causes Power Surges?

Most people associate power surges with lightning. When lightning strikes near a power line, its energy discharge can boost the line’s electrical pressure by millions of volts. That electrical boost runs through the power line and into your house, and BOOM!

Luckily, lightning is one of the rarest causes of power surges. Most surges are a bit more mundane.

High-powered home appliances such as air conditioners and refrigerators require a lot of power to switch on. When these appliances request this power, they can inadvertently create a spike in your electrical system. These “switching surges” aren’t as severe as lightning surges, but they can still do damage and wear other circuits over time.

Surges can also come via the power company. Your electrical company occasionally switches grids to access different power sources. When these switches occur, there may be an accidental surge of electricity. A transformer malfunction or faulty transmission line can also create an unwanted power surge in your house.

Why Are Surges a Problem?

Simply put, power surges with large voltage spikes can be damaging or dangerous. Surges can damage or destroy plugged-in electrical devices.

When too much electricity flows through an appliance at once, the appliance could overheat, break down, or even catch fire. This uncontained arc generates heat, which could melt or erode appliance components. A severe enough surge could even start a fire!

How Can I Prevent Electrical Surges?

The easiest and best way a homeowner can protect against power surges is to use a surge protector. Surge protectors are a type of power strip. They contain one input to be plugged into the wall, and several outlets to plug other devices into. Newer versions also have a power surge USB port to protect your USB devices while they are plugged in.

The difference between a power surge protector vs power strip is surge protectors absorb any excess energy running through them. During a surge, the protector redirects excess voltage toward the grounding wire to neutralize it. Service-panel surge protectors work the same way, but they fit directly onto your circuit breaker to prevent power surges from entering your home’s electrical system.

Reduce the Risk of Power Surges in Your Home

For more information on power surges, check out the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s informational booklet.

If you need help with any electrical problem, give Mike Diamond a call today. Our fully licensed electrical contracting professionals have the experience and know-how to diagnose and repair any problem with your electrical system. We can help prevent dangerous overvoltage from causing damage in your home.

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How Does Pipe Corrosion Work?

November 23, 2021 by Eve Brown Posted in Plumbing Maintenance

Pipes don’t last forever. Even copper pipes, despite their 50+ year lifespan, develop corrosion over time and in certain conditions. How does pipe corrosion affect your plumbing and your home’s water? And how do you prevent your pipes from corroding?

Corrosion affects different types of pipes in different ways. Cast iron pipe corrosion looks different than galvanized pipe corrosion and it can be caused by several factors. The bottom line: we want your plumbing and the water you drink to be safe.

What are the Causes of Pipe Corrosion?

Corrosion is an electrochemical electron exchange. This means the metal in your pipe loses electrons due to contact with another substance. This wear on a molecular level becomes bigger and bigger and eventually leads to rust, clogs or leaks.

Here are some of the more common causes of corrosion in metal pipes:

Low PH. A low PH (less than 7) indicates that your water is acidic. Acidic water can dissolve pipes from the inside and a common cause of copper pipe corrosion.High oxygen. A higher level of oxygen in your water can accelerate oxidation or rust. Unchecked rust that builds up over time will corrode and block your pipes.Water properties. High mineral content in hard water can cause calcification and lead to mineral buildup. Metals in water can cause galvanic corrosion where electrons transfer from metals with high electron count to metals with fewer electrons.Electrical currents. An ungrounded electrical current can travel down a copper pipe and stimulate a corrosive reaction.High velocity. Water traveling at a high velocity, especially hot water, can wear out your pipes prematurely.

How Does Pipe Corrosion Affect My Water?

Depending on the type of pipes you have, corrosion will affect your water in different ways. These effects can include:

DiscolorationTurbidity (cloudiness)Bitter tasteFoul odorHealth problems

Iron pipes will rust and eventually clog. The additional iron in your water can result in reddish colored water. While added iron doesn’t pose a health risk, the taste may be unappealing.

Copper pipes may produce blue colored water or water stains. This blue color indicates the presence of copper in your water due to corrosion. Too much copper can cause health problems that lead to liver or kidney damage. Luckily, the problem is visible well before it becomes a health risk.

Plastic and PVC pipes resist corrosion but because they are a newer material, there is not a lot of data on their long-term properties. The primary risk for corrosion is along joints and connectors where metal or rubber parts are used.

Lead pipes are extremely dangerous when corroded. Lead in water can cause serious health problems, especially in children. If you have lead plumbing anywhere in your home, have it replaced immediately and don’t drink your water.

How Does Pipe Corrosion Affect My Plumbing?

Water pipe corrosion inside your home can create numerous problems including:

Low water pressureLeaksPinholesBreaksRust stainsDamaged appliances

As your pipes corrode, they can develop small holes or cracks that eventually lead to large breaks and flooding. Interior corrosion can slow water pressure or clog your faucets and water heater. Rust might stain your sink.

If you’ve noticed lower water pressure, higher water bills and cloudy or discolored water, you probably have pipe corrosion somewhere in your home. Pipes can become thin or brittle without visual evidence.

How to Prevent Corroded Pipes

Have a certified plumber check your pipes to make sure they are safe and working properly. This is best way to be certain to be sure corrosion isn’t destroying your plumbing and to maintain healthy water in your home.

If your water is a problem, take a Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) test to determine what is causing the corrosion. The LSI test is a standard water quality test that measures:

PHConductivityTotal dissolved solidsAlkalinityHardness

*Note: The Langelier test does not identify lead in water. A separate, lead specific, test is required.

A water softener or water filter, hard wired into your water supply, can treat harsh water before it travels through your pipes. Use a water softener to remove excessive minerals that create buildup and make washing difficult. A water filter can remove chemicals and bacteria that accelerate corrosion. It will also remove make your water taste better!

How to Clean External Copper Pipe Corrosion

Copper pipe green corrosion is the result of oxidation. This patina is similar to rust in other types of pipes. Over time, this type of corrosion can lead to bigger issues.

To clean your copper pipes, you can use one of two methods:

A commercial metal polish designated for copper.A paste of white vinegar, salt and flour.

Follow the package instructions if using the commercial polish. To use the natural paste, brush it on to the affected areas and wait for ten minutes. The acid in the vinegar should loosen the alkali stains. Wipe away with a clean cloth. Repeat as necessary.

Repair or Replace Your Corroded Pipes

Don’t wait for rust colored water and damaged walls to let you know you have a significant plumbing issue. While pipe replacement can be a big job, the alternative can be much worse. Call or contact Mike Diamond today for a certified technician to examine your pipes for corrosion. We can help you decide the best course of action when corroded pipes compromise your water.

The post How Does Pipe Corrosion Work? appeared first on Mike Diamond Services.

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How to Unclog a Toilet

November 23, 2021 by Eve Brown Posted in Plumbing Maintenance

As the old saying goes – there’s more than one way to unclog a toilet. OK, we just made that up but we’re here to prove it’s true. Sure, we love our plunger, but what if you don’t have one? Have you tried soap or baking soda?

Follow our detailed instructions for how to unclog a toilet with a plunger but stick around for plunger-less toilet clog hacks too. One way or another, we’ll get your toilet unclogged and return things to business as usual.

How to Plunge a Toilet

The best way to unclog a toilet is to learn to use a flange plunger properly. Flange plungers are made specifically for plunging toilets. The “flange” is an extended, sleeve-like rubber flap built into the underside of the plunger’s rubber cup. Insert this flange directly into the toilet bowl’s drain hole to ensure a tighter seal than a conventional cup plunger.

1. Prepare the area around the toilet

Plunging can get messy. Put on rubber gloves and lay out towels or plastic wrap to catch spills.

2. Level out the amount of water in the bowl

To maximize plunging effectiveness, you’ll want to fill the toilet bowl about halfway full with water (enough so that you can fully submerge the plunger cup).

3. Place the flange into the toilet drain

Maneuver the flange until it fits snugly into the top of the toilet bowl’s drain. Insert the flange at an angle so the flap fills with water as you lower it.

4. Fit the cup over the drain

Fit the cup of the plunger snugly over the drain while keeping the flange inserted. As you create the seal, let water from the bowl under the cup. The water between the cup and the drain will help generate suction pressure to unclog.

5Position and “test” your plunger seal

When you’ve created a seal with both the flange and cup, “test” it before getting started. Depress the plunger straight down and then tug it back up the way you would to unclog normally, but do so slowly. Make sure the seal stays in place throughout the process.

5a. (Optional) Apply petroleum jelly around the cup of the plunger

If you’re having trouble maintaining a seal, try applying petroleum jelly to the cup. Petroleum jelly will help keep the cup from sliding off of the bottom of the bowl.

6. Plunge forcefully 5 to 6 times

Push down on the plunger forcefully to drive the cup down and drive the flange into the drain, then pull the cup back up to “reset.” Repeat this motion repeatedly and steadily, but not too forcefully or rapidly, for 20 seconds.

7. Check water level in toilet bowl

After plunging for thirty seconds, quickly break the seal and remove the plunger. Listen for a gurgling sound from the drain (a good sign) and check the water level in the toilet bowl. If nearly all the water drained from the bowl, then you’ve probably cleared the clog.

7a. (Optional) Repeat plunging as necessary

If the water in the toilet bowl didn’t drain, repeat the plunging process a few more times. Add or bail water as necessary until your bowl is half full before you start again.

8. Test to see if the clog is gone

Before you test your flush, remove the tank lid. Depress the handle as usual and watch the toilet bowl closely. If you haven’t cleared the clog, then the toilet won’t flush, and the bowl will start filling with water. Prevent an overflow by manually closing the toilet’s flapper.

We recommend you only re-try your plunging up to five times. Plunging for too long could damage your toilet, and some clogs are too stubborn for even the most effective plumbing.

How to Unclog a Toilet Without a Plunger

Worst case scenario: you only have one toilet in your home, it’s clogged, you’re without a plunger and you have a dinner party starting in two hours. Stay cool. We’ve got a few more of Mike’s diamonds to get that toilet flushing again.

How to Unclog a Toilet with Dish Soap

Dish soap has natural properties that break down grease and grime in solids. It can also serve as a lubricant to get things moving.

Simply squirt a generous cup or so of your favorite soap into your toilet’s drain. Follow the soap up with a bucket of hot (not boiling) water. Water that is too hot may crack the porcelain. Wait 30 minutes and check. Repeat if necessary.

How to Unclog a Toilet with Baking Soda

Sprinkle a cup of baking soda around your toilet’s drain. Slowly add two cups of white vinegar. Allow the chemical reaction an hour to reach the clog and work its magic. You could follow up with a bucket of hot water as mentioned above. Repeat the process if necessary.

How to Unclog a Toilet with Poop in It

Yep, we said it, but that’s the way it goes. Sometimes after your uncle has spent the better part of the morning in your bathroom, you have a very unpleasant clog.

The secret here is Coca Cola. Not for your uncle, for your toilet. Turns out, coke has some awesome acids that double as unclogging agents. The carbonation also helps by putting pressure on the clog.

Pour a can or half liter bottle of coke into your toilet and then quickly cover the bowl with plastic wrap. This will help keep the pressure in. After the hour, enough dissolving should have taken place to allow a normal flush.

Unclogging LA’s Toilets the Right Way

If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog that won’t budge, then call Mike Diamond. Our expert plumbers have yet to meet a clog they couldn’t clear.

The post How to Unclog a Toilet appeared first on Mike Diamond Services.

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How Air Conditioning Works

November 22, 2021 by Eve Brown Posted in Plumbing Maintenance

Before 1902, humans adopted creative ways of staying cool during hot summers. The ancient Egyptians hung wet reed mats in their windows that created a cooling effect when the wind blew through. Ancient Romans went so far as to pump cold water from aqueducts through the walls of elite homes.

These days you need only turn your thermostat dial for sweet heat relief in your home. But what exactly happens when you turn that magic dial? And how do you fix your AC when it doesn’t click on? Mike Diamond is the fresh smelling man with the answers to all things cool. We’ll cover the parts of a home ac system and explain how the air conditioning system in your house works. If your AC isn’t working, we’ll troubleshoot the common reasons why.

Who invented Air Conditioning (and the summer blockbuster)?

The man credited with inventing air conditioning as we know it is Willis Carrier. At the turn of the 20th century, he had an epiphany while standing on a train platform. He realized that humidity could be removed from air causing it to feel colder. Willis built a system of ice chilled coils that kept mills and printing companies cool during hot industrial workdays.

Stuart Cramer invented a ventilation device around the same time that was used in textile plants to distribute cool vapor to hot air. He was also the person to coin the term “air conditioning.” In 1925 he invented a more efficient version of his device for a movie theater. Soon his device was in theaters across the country. Ever since, Americans have flocked to the movies to escape the summer heat and thus was born the summer blockbuster season.

How Does Air Conditioning Work?

Modern air conditioning works via the physical principal of phase transition. This law states that when a liquid converts to a gas, it absorbs heat energy. Like when you boil water to create steam.

The liquid in this instance is a refrigerant or chemical compound that evaporates and condenses over and over to cool your home. The refrigerant starts as a liquid that travels through an evaporation coil inside your home. As the liquid evaporates it absorbs heat and, in this case, that heat is from warm air from your home. As the heat is removed, the resulting cool air is distributed back into your home.

The used refrigerant gas is then sent to your air conditioner compressor – that’s the big unit outside – where it is compressed back into a liquid. The hot air that is a byproduct of the process (remember phase transition) is vented outside and the condenser aids the compressor in sending the liquid refrigerant back to the evaporator coil where the cycle begins all over again.

How HVAC Systems Work

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Your home’s central air takes advantage of the existing ducts and vents in your home that are also used by your furnace during colder months.

After warm air travels over the evaporation coil and is cooled, fans blow the chilled air through your ducts and vents to reach every room of your home. This network delivers cold air evenly and efficiently throughout your home.

The thermostat connected to your HVAC system regulates all temperatures for both your heating and air conditioning. Each system responds based on the setting you input. Having one central control makes it easy to stay comfortable all year long.

Why Won’t My Air Conditioner Work?

Like any piece of equipment, air conditioners are subject to break down and failure. Common reasons air conditioners malfunction include:

No power.Blown fuse or tripped circuit.No signal from the thermostat.Too hot outside to keep up.Dirty or blocked air condenser.Dirty air filter.Broken fan.Problems with refrigerant.Unit not the right size for your home.Older unit (10+ years).Leaky air ducts.

Some of these issues are easier to address than others. If your air conditioner is not working, make sure its receiving power. Check that the circuit isn’t tripped and that your thermostat has fresh batteries. Then make sure your filter is clean and check your compressor for obstructions like brush or grass. If you’re still having problems, it may be time to have a professional technician look at it.

ir Conditioner Repair Service for Los Angeles

Mike Diamond knows air conditioning and HVAC systems. When things heat up, don’t lose your cool. Call or contact Mike Diamond for fast, reliable air conditioner service in Los Angeles and the surrounding area.

The post How Air Conditioning Works appeared first on Mike Diamond Services.

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