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The Anatomy of Your Home’s Water Heater

October 19, 2021 by Eve Brown Posted in Plumbing Maintenance

Traditional water heaters look like large metal cylinders and are usually located in your basement or closet. While tankless water heaters are becoming more popular, this blog will focus on the workings of the more common traditional tank water heater.

Your water heater performs an important task that you probably don’t often think about. It supplies warm or hot water to all parts of your home for hand washing, showers, dishes and more. How is it that you have hot water at the turn of a knob? We’ll cover the water heater parts that make it happen and what to do if your hot water heater is not working the way it should.

Water Heater Anatomy

The two most common types of water heaters in US homes are the traditional electric and gas models. These two varieties have many of the same elements with the primary difference being their power sources. Their major components include:

Water tank. This stores the hot water until it’s needed at a faucet or appliance. Tanks come in different sizes depending on the amount of hot water needed. Most tanks are lined with a thin layer of glass. Transport your new water tank carefully to avoid cracking or breaking it.

Dip tube. This is the cold-water pipe that supplies new water to the water heater. As hot water exits the heater at the top, the dip tube replenishes the water supply at the bottom.

Hot water outlet. This is where hot water leaves the tank to travel through your home’s plumbing.

Thermostat. Like the thermostat for your home, your water heater’s thermostat regulates the temperature of the water. When the thermostat senses cold water at the bottom of the tank, it activates the burner or heating element to warm the water.

Drain valve. At the bottom of your water heater is a hose connection and valve. Use this to empty your tank once a year to prevent sediment build up inside the tank. Consult a professional if you’re unsure how to drain your water heater.

TPR valve. Water heaters have a temperature pressure relief valve near the top. This valve will open if the tank experiences excessive pressure or heat within. It prevents your water heater from exploding.

Internal anode rod. This rod attaches at the top of your tank. Like a magnet, it attracts the corrosive elements in your water so that they don’t eat away at the tank walls. Depending how corrosive your water is, you may need to replace your anode rod every few years.

Electric vs Gas Water Heater

The way in which your heater heats water depends on whether it is powered by electricity or natural gas. Below we explain the differences.

Electric water heaters

In addition to the parts above, electric water heaters also contain:

Heating element. This is a metal loop inside the tank. It’s powered by an electric resister and controlled by the thermostat. When electricity travels through it, it becomes hot and heats the water.

Electric water heaters have a thermostat mounted flush with the outside of an internal tank. This thermostat constantly senses the internal temperature of the tank. If it senses the temperature getting too low, it activates the heating element inside the tank. The tank’s internal heating element heats up the water stored in the tank. The heating works the same way an electric range heats up a pot of water. Once the water reaches the set temperature, the thermostat cuts off power to the heating element.

Gas water heaters

Additional parts that make up a gas water heater include:

Burner. The burner sits at the bottom of a gas heater. When the water inside the tank needs to be heated, a flame ignites from a pilot light. It’s essentially like heating a water kettle on a gas stove.

Vent Flue. This is a hollow “chimney” through the center of the tank. It vents the exhaust from the burner to the outside.

Thermocouple. This is a small rod beneath the burner. It senses if the pilot light is on and sends a signal to the burner to activate. If the pilot light goes out, the water heater thermocouple prevents the gas valve from opening and leaking gas into your home.

Gas water heaters have a thermostat just like electric ones do. The thermostats in gas water heaters contain a mercury sensor in the tip alongside a thermocouple. The thermocouple monitors the pilot light and the mercury sensor monitors the internal water temperature.

When the temperature inside the tank gets too low, the thermostat sends a signal to the gas control valve. This valve checks in with the thermocouple to make sure the pilot light is on. If it is, the valve opens and allows gas into a burner, igniting a flame. This flame heats the water. Once the water in the tank heats to the preferred temperature, the gas control valve closes again. The exhaust from the burner travels through the flue vent and safely outside.

How to choose the right water heater for your home?

Start by checking out our helpful guide! We’ll cover everything you need to consider when choosing a new water heater. That includes the right type, fuel, efficiency, and tank size to fit your needs.

How do I best maintain my water heater?

Make sure your drain the tank regularly to clear out any sediment build-up. If you don’t, sediment buildup in the tank will make the heater far less efficient.Set the water heater thermostat’s temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or less. If you ever leave home for an extended period of time, consider turning the temperature down before you leave.Always keep an eye out for pooling water around the base of the heater’s tank. Catching small leaks before they become big ones will help save you a lot of money and trouble.

Los Angeles Water Heater Repair and Installation

If your water heater is leaking or you’re interested in upgrading your to a more energy efficient water heater, give the team at Mike Diamond a call. Our experts can help you choose the right make, model, and size for your home. Not only that, but we can install as quickly and efficiently as possible.

The post The Anatomy of Your Home’s Water Heater appeared first on Mike Diamond Services.

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Where Does Los Angeles Get Its Electricity?

October 12, 2021 by Eve Brown Posted in Plumbing Maintenance

Have you ever wondered where your home’s electricity comes from? It’s a bigger question than you might realize! Every one of LA’s electricity-using structures connects to our gigantic, state-spanning, billion-dollar power system. Your humble home is one end of a story spanning hundreds of miles and involving thousands of people.

The Electrical supply Los Angeles uses every day is nothing short of an engineering miracle. We’ll give you the shocking truth about where the power that runs your coffee machine every morning comes from. Enjoy Mike Diamond’s guide to the Los Angeles electrical grid.

Who Makes Los Angeles’ Power?

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) supplies all the power LA uses every day. The LADWP is the nation’s largest municipal utility. 9400 employees help manage an electrical system capable of generating over 7,880 megawatts of power. Overall, the LADWP power system supplies an average of over 26 million megawatt-hours of electricity to LA every year.

The LADWP was established in 1902 to deliver water to LA. In 1916, it also began distributing electricity. The LADWP is managed by five-member Board of Water and Power Commissioners selected by the mayor of LA and confirmed by City Council.

What Generates All of L.A.’s Power?

According to the California Energy Commission’s 2019 report, California generates its electricity via these means:

0.12% coal16.53% large hydro42.97% natural gas8.06% nuclear0.02% oil0.20% Petroleum/waste heat2.92% biomass5.46% geothermal2.67% small hydro14.22% solar6.82% wind

California is a national leader in renewable energy production. Every part of California–including LA–is quickly scaling up how much renewable energy it uses. The state hopes to get 50% of its electric power from renewable sources by 2030.

To accomplish this goal, the LADWP is in the process of implementing the Power Strategic Long-Term Resource Plan (SLTRP). The SLTRP is a 20-year plan for aligning LA with Senate Bill 350 and LA’s 100% clean energy initiative. As part of this plan, LA will eliminate coal as a power source, decrease natural gas use, incorporate more renewable energy sources, and more.

Where The Los Angeles Electric Company Gets Its Power

The LADWP gets the power it supplies to LA from many sources, both inside and outside of California. You may be surprised to know that your electricity comes from Arizona, Utah, Wyoming and Oregon. These sources include:

Hydro plantsNatural gas power generating stationsLandfill biogas converting stationsHydroelectric damsSolar plantsWind plantsGeothermal plantsNuclear power generating stations

All of these power sources are connected to LA via a massive transmission and distribution infrastructure. Moving and distributing LA’s power requires:

3,507 miles of overhead transmission circuits (across five states)124 miles of underground transmission circuits15,452 transmission towers6,752 miles of overhead distribution lines3,626 miles of underground distribution lines160 distributing stations21 receiving stations128,693 distribution transformersand more

Overall, 15,000 miles of power lines and cables are required to transport and distribute LA’s power!

How Electricity Gets to Your Los Angeles Home

This infographic explains the high-voltage journey electrical power makes to get to your home. We break down the steps in further detail beneath the graphic.

‌Phase 1: Transmission

1. Plant to “Step Up” Substation

Each of LA’s many power generators connects to a transmission substation (sometimes called a power plant).

Transmission substations “step up” the voltage to prepare the power to travel long distances through the transmission grid. Whenever an electrical current is conducted through anything (like transmission lines), it loses some power to electrical resistance. The higher the voltage of the electricity in the transmission line, however, the less electricity resistance wastes. By “supercharging” the generated power’s voltage, transmission substations make sure it gets to you without losing its effectiveness.

2. First Substation to Transmission Network

After converting low voltage power to very high voltage power, substations send electricity into transmission circuits. These circuits run from the transmission substation near the plant all the way to local distribution substations in your city. A single transmission line can successfully conduct electricity for up to 300 miles.

There are two types of transmission circuits:

Overhead circuits transmit electricity over long distances. They’re supported by the giant steel transmission towers you’re probably familiar with.

Underground circuits are used in high-density, urban areas where there’s no room for transmission towers. LA uses 124 miles of underground circuits.

Phase 2: Distribution

3. Transmission Network to “Step Down” Distribution Substation

Your power has already traveled hundreds of miles via the transmission lines to reach your area. Before it can enter the distribution grid, however, it must pass through another substation. Instead of charging up the electricity with more voltage, these transformers remove voltage to make it safe for distribution.

After passing through the transformer, electrical power enters a “distribution bus.” The distribution bus splits the power off into multiple different directions. LA uses 160 distributing substations to transfer its electricity into distribution.

4. Second Substation to Distribution Network

By now, your power is almost to you. After passing through the “step down” transformer and bus at the substation, power enters the local distribution network.

LA’s distribution networks is, as you can probably imagine, massive. The city uses 6,752 miles of overhead and 3,626 miles of underground distribution lines. These lines crisscross all over the city to supply power to every single connected structure.

5. Distribution Network to You!

Once the distribution line reaches your immediate area, it connects to a distribution transformer -either supported on overhead poles or buried underground.

Distribution transformers “step down” the amount of electricity running through power lines one more time. This process brings the electricity’s’ voltage down to around 240 volts, to make it safe for residential use.

This stepped down electricity travels via your home’s service wire from the distribution transformer all the way to your home’s meter box. The meter box records how much electricity is entering your home and the voltage of that electricity. Electricity passes through the meter box and into your circuit breaker, where it’s distributed throughout your home via your electrical panel.

‌Electrical Contractors in Los Angeles

By the time electricity reaches you, it’s had quite the journey. If you have questions about your home’s power supply or are concerned about the amount of electricity powering your home, fill out our quick and easy service form. One of Mike Diamond’s licensed technicians will be happy to make sure your family gets the power it needs to live comfortably.

The post Where Does Los Angeles Get Its Electricity? appeared first on Mike Diamond Services.

The Importance Of Having A Reputable Plumbing Service Provider

October 7, 2021 by David Kowalski Posted in Plumbing Services

The residential plumbing system is a water system that provides a connection between the house water supply and the various fixtures, pipes, and fittings. The most popular types of residential Plumbing are used in domestic households like kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms. These are usually built using cast iron or steel pipes. In some cases, the plumbing is made from copper, bronze, or other metals. Professional plumbing companies or plumbers also install the plumbing.

In some parts of the world, the residential plumbing system is not installed by the contractors. They perform the service instead. People who hire the services of a plumbing contractor to install the plumbing system in their houses do so for several reasons. Many times, the homeowners want to have a unique design for their houses and this requires the contractor to carefully research on the various options available and then select the one that suits their taste and also meets the safety requirements.

The first thing that you need to learn about the residential plumbing system is that it is made up of a collection of individual pipes and components. The pipes are placed in special fixtures which form the pipes of the residential plumbing system. Each fixture has a specific task to perform inside the house and thus, the plumbing needs to be properly designed so as to carry out the purpose. If you are looking to have a completely new system installed in your home, then you will have to bear the cost of construction as well as the installation cost. However, with an experienced professional plumbing company offering you an affordable solution, you can save a lot of money without jeopardizing the look of your home.

You can find a number of different plumbing systems available which include faucets, bathtubs, toilets, kitchen sinks and showers. The plumbing system is basically responsible for carrying water from the kitchen sink or the bathroom to all the necessary fixtures within the house. If the plumbing is designed improperly then it will cause complications like leaks and clogs in the long run. In case of a leak or clog in the plumbing system, you will have to carry out extensive plumbing repairs or replacement.

If you hire an experienced plumbing company, you can expect them to carry out an assessment of the house. The problems that they will identify during the assessment process will help them to carry out the residential plumbing system installation in a hassle free manner. This way, you can come to know about the exact cost of the installation process without having to face any complications. When you hire the services of a professional plumbing company, they will carry out the entire residential plumbing system installation in a hassle free manner. The plumbing company will also take care of all the details like billing, re-potting of the drainage areas, disconnection of old pipes and installation of new ones.

The best part about hiring a plumbing company is that they provide you with skilled plumbers who have years of experience in installing residential plumbing systems. If you are planning to replace the old plumbing with a new one, then it would be wise to hire an experienced plumber who has the necessary skill set and knowledge required for the plumbing job. You can also enquire from a few of the experienced plumbers to find out if they are offering any guarantee. This will ensure that you will not be paying for a plumbing service which is not up to the mark.

Before choosing a plumbing service provider, make sure that the one you have selected is equipped with skilled and trained plumbers who have the necessary skill set required for the plumbing system installation. You should enquire from the service provider whether they have any past experience in plumbing installation and whether they have the requisite skill sets required to install the plumbing system in your home. It is very important to choose a residential plumbing system company that has an established track record and a good customer feedback rating. It is important to enquire from the service provider as to what types of plumbing equipments they use for residential plumbing system installation.

When it comes to residential plumbing system installation, it is very important to hire a professional plumbing company that has the requisite skill sets and experience required. The plumbing professional should be able to install the new piping in a timely manner without compromising on the quality of the product. Residential plumbing companies should offer an extensive warranty period along with excellent customer service. They should also provide you with the necessary tips on maintaining your plumbing system in excellent working condition.

Why You Should Hire a Professional Plumber for Some Repairs

October 4, 2021 by David Kowalski Posted in Plumbing Services

If you are considering re-piping your house, it is wise to hire the services of a reputed professional plumbing company. Only an experienced plumber knows precisely where to place the pipes and what tools to use to carry out the job well. The plumbing industry has experienced many advancements, and knowledge of the latest plumbing technologies helps them perform the job well. In addition to that, plumbing companies are adept at designing fixtures and providing customers with long-lasting solutions.

Plumbing companies provide re-piping services at competitive prices. Moreover, they have a team of professionals who can do the job in a hassle-free manner. The plumbing company first inspects your plumbing system and carries out specific tests to detect any damages. If any part of the plumbing system needs to be repaired or replaced, the plumbers send their technicians who do the work in a highly professional manner. They also do proper disposal of used pipes and accessories so that there is no environmental issue.

When a homeowner wants to replace old plumbing or do extensive remodeling in their house, it may be difficult to think of a way to properly insert new pipes without making any structural changes. For this reason, many people seek the help of a professional in re-piping their house. One of the most common questions asked by customers is whether they need to completely replace all of the old pipes or just some of it. There is no hard-and-fast rule about doing both. It depends on the situation.

For example, a home needs re-piping services when there is a drastic change in the water pressure or if the water supply runs through the rusty pipes. It is also necessary to replace all the old fittings in order to make sure that the water pressure is not shut down while repairs are being made. Sometimes, the pressure may be shut down for a few hours but eventually it will need to be repaired. This means that the homeowner will have to get new plumbing installation done, which could take quite some time.

Another reason that re-piping services may be needed is when a plumber is installing a new plumbing system in a bathroom or kitchen sink. In order to make the new system work properly, it must be able to flow with ease from sink to sink. The old plumbing pipe that was originally connected to the kitchen sink might need to be torn out and replaced with a new pipe that is smaller or it might even need to be replaced with a new pipe. Whatever the case, it is a good idea to get this type of service done as soon as possible to prevent damage to the plumbing system.

Another reason that homeowners should consider calling a professional when it comes to re-piping services is when they have a toilet that is simply not producing enough water. Sometimes a homeowner does not realize that the toilet is not producing enough water to go with the amount of waste being produced. This can lead to a clogged toilet that is giving off very little water. In order to remedy this problem, a professional will run an analysis on the water usage and piping to see what is going on. Then they can suggest options that will help to get rid of the problem.

Finally, re-piping services can be needed when a homeowner is simply trying to fix a leaking plumbing system. Many times, it can be difficult to find the exact location of where the leak is originating from. If a plumber is brought in to inspect and fix the problem, then he can simply locate the exact location that is causing the leak and install the correct pipe. In many cases, all that is needed to fix a leaking toilet is replacing a single pipe.

While it is important for homeowners to have their plumbers perform all of these tasks whenever they feel the need, it can be equally important for them to have these inspections done as well. These types of inspections are not simply used for the purposes of checking the condition of a leaking plumbing system or repairing a broken pipe. A qualified plumbing professional can identify problems with older homes before they present issues with newer residences. He can also offer tips and advice for homeowners who are looking for ways to improve the efficiency of their plumbing system. When a homeowner considers re-piping services, they should make sure they are hiring someone who is qualified and skilled in the field of plumbing so that the job is completed properly and without problems.

How Can I Fix a Loose Electrical Outlet?

October 1, 2021 by Eve Brown Posted in Plumbing Tips

Since we use electrical outlets nonstop every day, it’s easy to forget how dangerous they can be. All that separates you from the high-voltage electrical currents flowing through your wires is a hard plastic shell. If your outlets ever seem loose, it’s important to perform outlet repair right away. Loose outlets could expose you to direct voltage, sparks, or other electrical hazards.

Outlets can loosen in two different ways:

The whole outlet face wobbles.The receptacles are so loose that plug falls out of the outlet.

These problems occur for different reasons and require different fixes. Luckily, we can teach you how to fix an electrical outlet in either scenario. Here’s how your outlet got loose, why it’s a problem, and how to fix it.

Why is my outlet loose?

Electrical outlets are mounted inside of an electrical box within your wall. Electrical boxes that are too far back aren’t secure enough, which affects the stability of the entire fixture. Outlets attached to these boxes will eventually loosen.

This instability could bump or jostle wires loose, creating even more major problems. Loose, damaged, or disconnected wires could shock you or spark, leading to fires and other electrical hazards.

How do I fix an electrical outlet that wobbles?

Fixing a loose outlet requires outlet shims, a wire tester, and a screwdriver. Once you’ve collected these tools, take each of the following steps:

Time needed: 10 minutes.

Turn off power to the outlet.Use the circuit breaker in your electric panel specific to that room.

Test outlet.Insert your wire tester and be certain the power is off before you proceed.

Remove outlet.Unscrew the outlet cover and outlet screws. Remove the outlet from the box so that it hangs freely.

Add outlet shims.Place outlet shims onto the outlet screws. These shims will compensate for any gap between the screws and the recessed box. You may need more than one shim per screw depending how far back your box is.

Replace and test.Replace the outlet back in the housing box and tighten the screws. If it still seems loose, add more shims. Reinstall the outlet cover, restore power and use your newly secure outlet!

How to fix a plug that falls out.

If plugs constantly fall out of your outlet, the problem is the outlet’s receptacle. An outlet’s receptacle is the two narrow slots your plugs go into. Contact points and other parts of your outlet wear out over time. Old, worn-out outlets and receptacles could arc, spark, or start fires.

If your outlet receptacle is worn out, the best way to fix it is to simply replace it. New outlets are inexpensive and well-worth the peace of mind.

Replacing an outlet requires rewiring it into the electrical box. It’s crucial that you attach each wire to its appropriate connection to avoid shorts. If your electrical plugs keep falling out and you’re not comfortable with electrical outlet repair, we recommend calling a professional to replace it. An electrician can replace an outlet quickly and easily to ensure your home is safely powered.

Electrical Outlet Repair for Los Angeles

These are fairly simple electrical fixes, but even the simplest electrical fixes pose some risk. If you have even the slightest doubt in your ability to make an electrical fix safely, don’t do it.

Instead, call an accredited, professional electrician like the ones employed at Mike Diamond. Our technicians will be able to fix your loose outlets or any other electrical problems you face quickly, safely, and correctly.

The post How Can I Fix a Loose Electrical Outlet? appeared first on Mike Diamond Services.

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Different Types of Roof Damage Repair

September 23, 2021 by David Kowalski Posted in Plumbing Services

Roof damage can be costly, especially when it involves your roof. When you have an intact roof, repairing the damage is relatively easy, but it may prove to be a lot more complicated for the rest of the roof structure. However, you do have many options to prevent roof damage from occurring in the first place. You could hire a professional contractor, you could choose to repair the roof on your own, or perhaps you could take matters into your hand and repair the roof yourself. Whatever the case, it is always good to know what your options are to know what to do when roof damage repair becomes necessary.

If roof damage has already occurred, the first thing that you should do is contact Roofing contractor and schedule an appointment. Before the repair goes underway, the contractor will inspect the damage and give you a price estimate. Although some roofing contractors might try to charge you for this inspection, it is highly recommended that you pay for it yourself so that you get a full picture of the extent of the damages. In order to determine whether or not the roofing materials used on the house belong to the proper type, the roofing contractor will also need to examine the roof materials yourself. As a result, this will not only save you money but also time since you will not have to waste your time going to the store for new roofing materials.

Once the roof damage repair is already scheduled, the roofing contractor will then show you the shingles that he will be using to repair the roof. These shingles will usually come in two types, one made of asphalt and the other one consists of slate. Since both of these shingles come in different materials, it is important that you know which material you should buy. This is because some contractors might suggest you buy the cheaper asphalt shingles which will actually cost you more in the long run. You don’t want to spend money on roofing materials which are not durable enough to last for several years.

When you finally get your estimate, you will be able to decide on which roofing contractor to hire for your roof damage repairs. Keep in mind that hiring the cheapest roofing contractor may not always give you the best results. It is also essential that you consider the experience of the contractor. An experienced roofing contractor can easily detect possible signs of roof leak damage which are often missed by novice roofing contractors.

If the roofing contractors determines that there is indeed a roof leak damage, the next step that they will take is to investigate where the leaks are coming from. If you are living in an area with a particularly dry climate, then you are highly likely to have hail damage repairs. This is because dry winds tend to blow the hail towards the weakest points in a building. These weak points are the weak spots in a building where the hail can easily enter the roof and cause leaks.

Aside from wind and hail, high winds are also another factor which causes roof damage. In most cases, high winds cause severe damage to houses which are located in coastal areas. In addition, many people who live in hurricane-prone areas also face the risk of roof damage due to strong winds during tropical storms. Aside from these hurricane-related roof damage repairs, strong storms with lightning also pose as a serious threat to a building’s roof.

Roof leaks are commonly caused by poorly installed shingles. If you are interested in making repairs to your roof, you have to find the exact area where the leak is occurring. This will be very difficult to do unless you have a professional inspector inspect the roofing materials which were used in the construction of your house. Most of the time, homeowners discover leaks in their roofs after conducting roofing maintenance or after taking it for a test ride. However, if you want to avoid spending money and time on roof leak repairs, you should consult your roofing contractor about it.

Apart from water leaks and windstorms, roofing materials may also undergo wear and tear due to extreme temperatures. Hot weather causes damages not only to the roof but also to the entire structure of your home. It is important for you to identify the signs early so that you will know what steps you need to take to prevent further damage and repairs. For instance, if your roof begins to leak after a particularly hot day, it is important for you to find a solution as soon as possible. In this case, it would be advisable to contact your roofing contractor as soon as possible.

Clogged, Blocked, or Slow Moving Drains? Here’s What to Do

September 20, 2021 by Eve Brown Posted in Plumbing Tips

Getting a great plumbing system requires you to be as proactive as possible. While it’s common for plumbing problems to sneak up on you and cause interupptions, we don’t want this to happen to you repeatedly. This is why we’d like you to take a step back today and understand what’s going on with your plumbing system when this happens.

We specialize in plumbing in Orlando, FL. If you’d like to improve your plumbing, then we’re the ones who can make this happen for you. Today, we’re going to discuss what might be going on in your home if you have clogs, cracks, or slow-moving drains and we’ll explain how to fix these issues.

What’s Going On?

Let’s go through the problems that you might be experiencing and their backstory.

Clogs

Food debris, soap scum, fats, oils, grease, and more all add up. These are the things that create the clogs that cause your sink to bubble.

Blocks

Are you wondering how blocks are different than clogs? Blocks are what we classify as outside problems that have worked their way into your system. These are the tree branches and other things that can interfere with your home’s plumbing system.

Slow Moving Drains

Slow-moving drains are the warning signs that come before clogs. Don’t ignore this issue. It’s your sign to get a professional by your side.

How Did It Happen?

Okay, now let’s get into how this might have happened. This is the backtracking that we alluded to in the introduction. Figuring out how this happened is the best way to prevent it from ever happening again. Here are a few reasons why you might have issues:

FOG: FOG is an acronym that stands for fat, oil, or grease. If you’re letting these substances slide down the drain, it might be fine at first, but it’s eventually going to settle and become an issue for your home. These substances are magnets for clogs and it’s going to create a snowball effect. No Drain Strainer: The best (and simplest) thing you can do for your plumbing is run out to your local hardware store and get yourself a drain strainer. We’re all fallible. If you make a mistake from time to time, your drain strainer will have your back.Lack of Proper Care or Maintenance: You should be maintaining your home’s plumbing system just like any other home system. Make sure that you have a professional out to your home when you need maintenance or any other plumbing service.

What Should You Do?

Honestly speaking, the better way to phrase this might be, “what not to do” because the one thing you should do is schedule an appointment with a professional. Your plumbing system is complex and requires professional care. Don’t let someone who doesn’t have years of experience, training, and licensure touch your plumbing system.

If you’re tempted by the in-store and over-the-counter drain cleaners, this is your warning sign not to go through with what you’re considering. You need professional care. Amateur plumbing efforts are always bad news. We want to help you move around this.

Contact Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. today to schedule an appointment with our professionals.

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How to Fix a Loose Toilet Handle

September 10, 2021 by Eve Brown Posted in Plumbing Maintenance

A loose or wiggly toilet handle can be annoying. A toilet handle not flushing at all is even worse.

Luckily, a loose toilet handle is a minor toilet problem and one that’s usually easy to fix. Here’s how you can fix a broken toilet handle, either by tightening or replacing it.

How to Tighten a Toilet Handle

Close the toilet seat cover.Keep parts or tools from falling in.

Remove the toilet tank cover.Use two hands as it may be heavy and set it on a flat surface where it won’t fall or crack.

Shut off the water supply to your toilet.The shut-off valve should be located near the base towards the back of your toilet.

Press the toilet tank lever to empty the water from the tank.This allows you easier access to the inside of the handle.

Find the toilet handle nut.It will be on the inside of the porcelain wall adjacent to the handle. This is probably the source of your loose toilet handle.

Tighten the toilet handle nut.Use an adjustable wrench or pliers clockwise to ensure the nut fits snuggly. Do not over-tighten – it could cause your porcelain tank to crack.

Depress the toilet handle to test.If it feels and sounds better, well done. If not, read on to learn how to replace a toilet handle.

Turn water supply back on.Turn the shut-off valve counter clockwise to open. Your tank will refill.

How to Replace a Toilet Handle

Determine what hardware you’ll need for your toilet lever replacement. Most hardware stores sell universal toilet handles, but you may need a specific variety. Look up your existing brand name, model, and make to see what type of flush handle replacement will work.Close the seat, remove the tank lid, turn off the water and empty the tank. (See 1-4 above.)Look inside the tank and unclasp the chain clip that’s attached to the lever. This is a small chain hooked onto the inside portion of your toilet handle.Remove the mounting nut. This is the same nut you would have tightened in the first walkthrough up above. Use a wrench or pliers to unscrew the nut (counter-clockwise) and take it off. Pull the old handle out. Once the nut and chain holding it in place are removed, you can pull it out by hand. You might have to angle it a bit to get it out, but that’s normal.Unscrew the mounting nut on the new handle nut, but don’t lose it. The nut may be metal or plastic.Insert the new lever into the tank to match the position of old one. You’ll know it’s in right when the handle is flush with the side of the tank. Secure the handle from inside the tank with the new mounting nut.

Attach the chain to one of the holes in the lever. There are usually a few to choose from. You want around one inch of slack in the chain so that it flushes properly. Try a few of the different holes in the lever until you find the right length.Turn the water back on and test it out. It should flush easily, without rattling.

Congratulations! You now know how to install a toilet handle.

By following these steps, you have hopefully fixed or replaced your loose toilet handle.

If your toilet handle broke or keeps coming loose, get in touch with Mike Diamond. We’ll diagnose the problem and make sure your toilet is working properly. No matter what your toilet question, Mike Diamond – your trusted LA plumber – has the answer.

The post How to Fix a Loose Toilet Handle appeared first on Mike Diamond Services.

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Different Services Plumbers Offer

September 8, 2021 by Eric Pope Posted in Plumbing Services

You may not have ever had to hire a plumber, but if you have a plumber’s license, you probably know that there are some things that they cannot do. For instance, if your toilet overflows and needs a new flush, you can’t just put a new handle on it or attach a trap to stop the overflow. A plumber in Bedford TX, who is available on this Website, will need to know exactly what type of trap to place so that he can properly install it and prevent the flood from happening again.

Fixture Cost: The initial fixture cost may often determine who installs it. If you want someone else to break into that brand new sink with voice activation, a plumber most likely isn’t the best choice.

A close friend may be able to do this, as long as she has some plumbing experience and knows where the hot water supply goes and how to install fixtures. A plumber with experience installing faucets is going to charge more than a plumber who has never installed a sink or faucet. The plumber who has installed the water supply should be able to determine which part of the plumbing is leaking. It could be the trap, the line, or the faucet itself that needs to be replaced. The plumber’s job isn’t done until the pipes are completely replaced, which could take several visits to the plumber.

Lead Pipes and Leak Pipes: If the plumber can’t repair the leaky pipes, then what can he/she do? Usually plumbers will recommend using corrosion-proof pipe covers to prevent leaks from occurring. However, if the plumber finds lead pipes under the floor or around the house, he/she should also check the drainage system so there aren’t lead pipes in the floor drain or trap. Lead pipes and traps can cause serious plumbing problems if they are not properly sealed.

Duct Installation and Plumbing Cables: Some plumbers offer duct installation services when doing plumbing jobs, but many do the installation themselves. The difference is usually in the pricing because duct installation usually comes with labor costs.

Water Heaters and Plumbing Fixtures: Plumbers know all about plumbing fixtures because these fixtures are in most homes. From water heaters to water filters to toilets, there are a lot of plumbing fixtures that a plumber can replace for you. If you have an old toilet, for example, you might call a plumber to come and change out the plumbing fixtures – that’s usually a fairly simple task that a plumber can do.

Sewer and Drain Plumbing: It can be hard to trust a plumber with something as important as your sewer line or septic tank, and it’s definitely a good idea to hire someone who knows what he’s doing with regards to these issues. Plumbing issues can cause a lot of problems, including leaks, clogs, damage, and more, and having a plumber check out your plumbing can keep you from having to deal with the issue in the future.

In conclusion, these plumbing contractors can do many different plumbing jobs. Whether you call in a busted pipe or a clogged toilet, they will fix it for you. They’re great to have around, especially if you have a lot of smaller home projects around the house. Some DIY’ers might not feel comfortable having a plumber inside their home, so hiring these plumbing contractors might be a good idea. Just make sure that you deal with licensed contractors so you don’t end up with a faulty pipe or a clogged toilet. Hiring licensed plumbing contractors will ensure that you’re getting quality work done in your home.

Do You Need a Water Treatment System?

September 6, 2021 by Eve Brown Posted in Plumbing Tips

The quality of your water affects your life. If you’re not paying attention to this, then it’s time for you to take better control of it. High-quality water means that you have a high-quality home. We’re going to make sure that you notice all the signs that your home’s water is subpar in any way. Then, we can help you figure out what water treatment system is right for you.

We specialize in water treatment systems in Orlando, FL. We’re going to help you find the water treatment system that’s right for you. We’re licensed, insured, and we’re experts in everything that we do.

Do You Need a Water Treatment System?

So let’s start from the top—do you need a water treatment system for your home?

We know that it’s not always so obvious. Sometimes, you can look at your water and tell that something has gone wrong. Other times, you need some other pointers. Here are a few:

Your water is cloudy Your water tastes badYour water stains your surfaces, clothes, or it makes your clothing or fabrics stuffYour water has an oily filmYour water has a sandy textureYour water has an odorYou’re noticing your stomach hurting after you drink your tap water

Don’t ignore any of these signs. Instead, get in contact with our professionals for the work you need.

The Systems We Work With

If you’ve realized that you need a water treatment system, then you can come to us for services on the following systems:

Water Testing

You need to start at the beginning when it comes to your water treatment services. Starting at the beginning starts with water testing. This is when our professionals will come out and run tests on the water in your home to determine what’s going on with your contaminants.

Although we all live in the same general area here in Orlando, that doesn’t mean that all our contaminants are the same. What’s going on with your home could be completely different than what’s going on with your neighbor. We’ll help you figure out the key issues that need to be addressed.

Reverse Osmosis Systems

If your water is full of unwanted mineral content, then a reverse osmosis system is something that you might need to solve this issue. Reverse osmosis systems are great because they contain a special membrane to remove the contaminants and separate all the salt and minerals within them.

Sometimes, water softener systems aren’t suitable for everyone because they replace mineral content with sodium. If this isn’t suitable for you, the technology of a reverse osmosis system can help you work around this.

Water Softener Systems

Hard water is so common in Orlando, FL. Hard water is caused by high mineral content in your local water supply. The most common minerals that you might notice are calcium and magnesium. Although these aren’t harmful to your personal health, that doesn’t mean that it’s not affecting your home’s plumbing system. The best way to solve this is through the assistance of your water softener system.

Contact Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. today to schedule an appointment with our team.

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