Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing Systems

Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

We have helped hundreds of customers and homeowners in the area. Over the years, our customers seem to ask us the same questions about their plumbing systems. We are here to set the record straight on these frequently asked questions.

Question #1: Can A Plumber Fix Basic Plumbing Problems?
Simply put, yes! If you are not familiar with how to fix a leaky faucet or clogged drain, ditch the hours of guesswork and call in the professionals. The plumbers at Blue Mountain can patch things up for you.

Question #2: Is There A Difference Between Hard and Soft Water?
Yes. Overtime, hard water can take its toll on your plumbing system. If you have experienced damaged clothing from the laundry, excessive soap consumption, pipe scaling, faucet and fixture deterioration, skin problems, or undesirable tastes or odors from your water, you might have hard water in your home. We can soften the water with our water treatment systems.

Question #3: If I Need Rooter Service, Should I Call a National Rooter Chain?
No. The pipes in your home are extremely delicate and fragile. If we encounter a broken pipe on the job, we can fix it immediately. Can the other guys? We're not sure, and don't advise taking this chance.

If you need a service performed on your plumbing system, choose Blue Mountain. We are fully licensed, insured and have many years of experience in the residential plumbing industry. Call 877-280-5777 to make an appointment.

Web Source: http://bluemountainservice.com/faqs

3 Things You Should Do If Your Toilet Overflows

 Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

No one ever plans for their toilet to overflow. As you stand there and watch the water rise and rise, it finally it spills out onto the floor. Remember that panicking will not help the situation. Below are some steps you should take if your toilet overflows. 

1. Turn Off The Water
First and foremost, locate you toilet's shutoff valve. Then, take the handle and turn it clockwise. If the water continues to rise, turn off the house's main water valve. It is important to note that this will shut off all of the running water in your home. Next, clean up the toilet water on the floor to prevent mold and mildew.

2. Try The Plunger
It's time to break out the plunger. Put the plunger's cup into the toilet, facing the drain hole. Forcefully thrust the plunger's handle up and down a dozen times. This should unclog the toilet.

3. Call In The Professionals
If all else fails, you can always turn to the pros at Blue Mountain. We are fully licensed, insured and have many years of experience in the residential plumbing industry. We are prepared to handle any plumbing issue you may have. Call 877-280-5777 and we'll help your plumbing system go with the flow again.

Web Source: http://www.ehow.com/info_8233739_do-toilet-overflows.html

Signs You Need A New Garbage Disposal

 Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

Your home's garbage disposal is vital to your plumbing system. This is due to the fact that it breaks down food particles into tiny pieces so they can be integrated with your home's waste water. A garbage disposal that doesn't work properly could wreak havoc on your entire plumbing system. Below are some situations where you will need to replace the unit.

What's That Smell?
They say that smell is the most powerful of the five senses. If your garbage disposal keeps stinking up your kitchen, put lemons and ice in it. If this does not eliminate the stench, there is a larger problem at hand. A replacement is the best solution in this scenario.

In A Jam
If your garbage disposal is jammed, do not run it. If you do, it could damage the motor. Since replacing the motor can be costly, it is more cost effective to replace the entire garbage disposal.

Age Is Not Just A Number
Garbage disposals have a lifespan of 10-12 years. If your garbage disposal it has surpassed its life expectancy, it's time to consider replacing the unit. 

We understand that purchasing a garbage disposal is a investment. Nonetheless, it is an investment worth making because it will last for years to come. If you need a new garbage disposal installed in your home, call 877-280-5777.

Web Source: http://greenvilleneighborhoodplumber.com/is-it-time-to-replace-or-repair-your-garbage-disposal/

photo credit: Chris Winters via photopin cc

How To Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter

 Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

Frozen pipes are a major plumbing concern in the winter. When the temperature dips down, water freezes and expands. The expansion of the water pushes on the walls of your pipes. In some cases, a frozen pipe can break. Clearly, this can cause a plumbing disaster at the most inconvenient time of the year. Below are some preventative measures you can take to prevent this scenario from happening.

• Insulate any exposed pipes in your home. Usually, exposed pipes are located in basements and attics.
• Keep your garage doors closed if that is where the water supply lines are located.
• When it is particularly cold outside, allow cold water to drip from the faucet. Running even a little bit of water through your pipes can prevent freezing.
• If you are going away for the winter, set your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

We understand that things happen and pipes break. If this happens to you, turn to the professional plumbers at Blue Mountain. We are fully licensed, insured and have many years of experience in the residential plumbing industry. A broken pipe doesn't have to break your heart. Call 877-280-5777 and we'll mend the situation in no time!

Web Source: http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/winter-storm/preventing-thawing-frozen-pipes

How To Winterize Your Plumbing System

Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

No homeowner ever wishes for a frozen pipe. Nonetheless, frozen pipes and other plumbing issues arise during the cold winter months. If you want to avoid plumbing problems at the most inconvenient time of the year, keep reading.

Tip #1: Insulate Your Pipes
Did you know that exposed pipes are at a greater risk for freezing? If you have any exposed pipes in your home, be sure to insulate them before the mercury dips down. You'll be glad you did!

Tip #2: Blanket Your Water Heater
Your water heater works hard all winter long to supply you with warm warm. Wrapping a blanket around the unit can lower energy usage while increasing the longevity of your water heater. Talk about a win-win situation!

Tip #3: Turn Off All Exterior Water Sources
Once winter hits, there is no need for outdoor water sources. Be sure to turn off all outside water sources and remove hoses from faucets. It is also a good idea to blow air through your sprinkler system. These two preventative steps ensure that your outdoor plumbing fixtures will operate at peak efficiency come spring.

Tip #4: Locate Your Shutoff Valve
If you plan on jetting off during the frigid winter months, know where your shutoff valve is. Before you take off, remember to empty all of the pipes. That way, you won't have a plumbing problem on your hands when you return home.

We hope these tips help you prevent plumbing problems. Should you experience any trouble with your plumbing system this winter, call 877-280-5777 for assistance. 

Web Source: http://www.silcoplumbing.com/quick-tips-winterize-homes-plumbing-system

How To Solve Thanksgiving Plumbing Problems

 Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

Turkey day came and went so quickly. If you hosted Thanksgiving at your house this year, you are probably recovering from all the tryptophan. Many people experience plumbing problems after Thanksgiving because of the extra stress put on your plumbing system. If Thanksgiving left you with clogged pipes, we can help you go with the flow again.

Below is a list of services you may need after Thanksgiving:

• Leak Repair
• Garbage Disposal Repair
• Toilet Repair
• Drain Cleaning
• Sink Repair

You're here because you need a plumber. We're here because we're the best. We are fully licensed insured and have many years of experience in the residential plumbing industry. We are proud of the fact that people tell us they have had a pleasant experience with us and that our technicians treated their home with care and respect. If these are the commitments you expect from a plumbing company, call Blue Mountain at 877-280-5777.

Web Source: http://escondido.hotwaterheatermedic.com/drain-cleaning-escondido-thanksgiving-plumbing-tips/

Is Your Plumbing System Affected by Hard Water?

Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

The term "hard water" is thrown around a lot in the plumbing industry. Many homeowners are unfamiliar with the term hard water and therefore do not know how it is affecting their home's plumbing system. Water that has a high concentration of minerals is defined as hard water. Magnesium and calcium are minerals that can build up on your pipes overtime. Unfortunately, hard water can take a toll on your plumbing system.

Homeowners tend to forget about their plumbing system, due to the old adage "out of sight, out of mind." Below are some tell-tale signs of hard water in your plumbing system.

•  Your faucets have a white film or coating on them.
• After you take a shower, your skin feels very dry. 
• No matter how careful you are, your plumbing system needs constant repairs.

Luckily, there is a solution to the problems that hard water is associated with. We offer water softeners, water conditioners, whole house filtration systems and drinking water systems. Having Blue Mountain service your home with the finest in water treatment systems is like having a (very well qualified) best friend or neighbor help you. We’ll arrive in a clean uniform, a well stocked truck and get the job done right the first time, guaranteed.  When we leave, you’ll never know we were there, except you’ll have the best water you could ever imagine. Call 877-280-577 to schedule an appointment.

Web Source: http://plumbing.about.com/od/basics/a/What-Is-Hard-Water.htm

When To Hire A Plumber

Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

Are you having plumbing problems in your home? If so, it's best to contact a professional plumber for help. These days, homeowners search the World Wide Web for a fix to their plumbing woes. There is no denying the popularity of the "Do It Yourself" movement. However, seemingly harmless DIY projects can end in disaster. Below are some scenarios that require the expertise of our professional plumbers.

A Clogged Garbage Disposal
There are certain foods that should never make its way into your garbage disposal. Nonetheless, people still throw food scraps into their garbage disposal without giving it a second thought. Clearly, this kind of behavior can lead to a clogged garbage disposal. In this case, it is best to call our professional plumbers.

A Clogged Toilet
The most common reason for a clogged toilet is the improper disposal of hygiene products. People should never dispose of tissues and feminine products in the toilet. You guessed it--they do it anyway. If your toilet is clogged beyond all repair, our plumbers can help your toilet go with the flow again.

DIY Projects Gone Wrong
Last but certainly not least, improper DIY jobs require professional attention. Many homeowners think that DIY projects will save them money. However, even the slightest mistake can lead to an even costlier repair job.

When in doubt, it is always best to call the professional plumbers at Blue Mountain. If your plumbing system needs maintenance or a repair, call 877-280-5777. Our services can save you money in the long run and give you peace of mind.

Web Source: http://eliteheatingandac.com/blog/when-to-hire-a-plumber

Plumbing Tips for the Fall

Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

Is your plumbing system ready for the brisk months ahead? If not, you may want to keep reading. A plumbing disaster is the last thing you'll want to deal with as the mercury plummets. 

A Clean Slate

If you have a fall checklist, maintaining your plumbing system should be at the top of it. Before the leave start to fall, clean your gutters and downspouts. To prevent freezing in the winter, clean the pit of your sump pump.

Plumbing in the Great Outdoors

This summer was a hot one. You probably relied heavily on your plumbing system for some cooling comfort. Since the sweltering days of summer are behind us, turn off any outdoor faucets. If you come across a leak, don't freak. Our professionals can patch things up for you in a jiff. 

Water Heater

Your water heater probably took a back seat in the summer.  As the temperature dips down outside, remember to turn the heat up inside. Set the temperature on your water heater to 120 F degrees.

We hope that this blog will help you get your plumbing system ready for the coming months. If your plumbing system needs to turn over a new leaf, give us a call today at 877-280-5777.

Image courtesy of David Castillo Dominici, via FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Homemade Drain Cleaners

 Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

Don't be fooled by store bought drain cleaners. While they do work for a short amount of time, they are actually damaging your pipes in the long run. These drain cleaners are filled will harsh chemicals that eat away at your plumbing system over time. Using these products frequently can lead to permanent damage. 

You may be wondering if there are any alternatives to traditional drain cleaners. Fortunately, there are homemade drain cleaning solutions that can clear up tough clogs. Best of all, these solutions can be made with natural products that you probably have in your house. This is a great way to save money and go green at the same time! 

Vinegar & Baking Soda Solution

First, pour a cup of baking soda and white vinegar into the drain. The solution will start to fizz upon contact. Let it sit for a few minutes. Then pour boiling hot water down the drain. This will wipe out the scum and hair that has been lingering in your drain. 

Salt & Baking Soda Solution

Mix a 1/2 cup of table salt with a 1/2 cup of baking soda. Then pour the solution into the drain. Let the solution settle for a few minutes. Pour a few cups of boiling hot water down the drain and viola!

If these natural solutions aren't cutting it, you can always turn to the professional plumbers at Blue Mountain to get the job done right. We proudly serve the Harrisonburg, Staunton and Waynesboro.

Image courtesy of pixabay.com

Prevent Plumbing Problems in the Powder Room

 Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

When you think of summer, beaches and barbecues probably come to mind. In the summer, your plumbing system is usually the furthest thing from your mind. The last thing you want to deal with is a plumbing issue. Here are some tips to keep you out of hot water this summer:

• If there is any discoloration near your plumbing fixtures, you should give Blue Mountain a call. When there is a high concentration of iron in your water, it can turn your plumbing fixtures pink. This can be easily fixed by having a water softener installed. 
• Shower heads that do not work properly might be draining your money away. Fortunately, they are inexpensive and can be found at the local hardware store. 
• You may need a new flapper installed in your toilet. An ineffective flapper allows water to flow constantly; which ends up draining your funds. Usually, replacing your flapper altogether is the best option. 
• Do not using any liquid drain cleaners. Drain cleaners are actually filled with harmful chemicals that erode and wear away at your pipes over time. 

Should you experience any sort of plumbing issue, Blue Mountain will be here for you. You can reach us at 877-280-5777. Once we fix your pipes, you will be able to enjoy the great outdoors in the hot hot heat!

Image courtesy of twobee, via FreeDigitalPhotos.net

It's Summertime and the Drains Are Cleaned

 Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

Imagine a day at the beach, followed by bike riding and then getting your drains cleaned. Clearly, one of these things is not like the others. However, having your drains cleaned should be as important as a trip to the beach during the summertime. If you have a summer to-do list, make sure a drain cleaning is at the top. Since the summers in Virginia can be extremely hot, it is no surprise that people end up utilizing their plumbing system more than usual. Additional usage of your plumbing system can lead to an increased risk of having complications. 

At the first sign of a problem with your drain system, you might see it as a new "DIY" project. However, if you are not particularly handy, you may want to put down the drain cleaner and step away from the plumbing snake. In fact, starting a DIY project could cause further damage, and then you'll really need our help. If you are experiencing any problems with your plumbing system, big or small, it is best to give us a call. We'll eliminate the guesswork and get the job done right the first time. We will be able to determine what is clogging your drain, so you can take precautionary steps to prevent it in the future. Some projects, like drain cleanings, should always be left to the professionals. Leave all the work to us. After all, it's summertime and the living should be easy!


 















Image courtesy of hyena reality, via FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Increase the Resale Value of Your Home

Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

Homeowners are always looking to increase the resale value of their home; especially if they are putting their home on the market in the near future. Most people are under the impression that investing in your plumbing system means tossing money down the drain. At Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, we are determined to help you get the best plumbing service for the best price.

Energy efficiency has become a buzz word in real estate because everyone is interested in the "go green" movement. There are certain plumbing techniques that can increase the energy efficiency of your home. Here at Blue Mountain Plumbing, we can install a more energy efficient toilet in your home. Since energy efficient toilets use less water, it will also save you money on your utility bills. 

Outdated kitchens and bathrooms can be deal breakers for potential homeowners. Kitchens and bathrooms are the two most important rooms in your home to update before putting your home on the market. The return on investment for these renovations is usually 70-80%. If you decide to remodel your kitchen or bathroom, we can service all your plumbing needs. Taking these steps will attract potential buyers and eventually put more money back in your pocket.

 















Image courtesy of ddpavumba, via FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Plumbing Around the House

  Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

When it comes to residential plumbing, we've got you covered. We are not your "Average Joe" plumber. From the kitchen to the bathroom and every room in between, we are a "Jack of All Trades." Blue Mountain is fully licensed and insured. Our many years of experience established us in the plumbing industry. We take pride in our work and make sure that our customers receive the best experience possible.

Don't let poor plumbing clog you down. If you are having any issues with your plumbing system, we can help you diagnose the problem and find the right solution. While a lot of our plumbing work in concentrated in kitchens and bathrooms, we are fully trained to service all of the pipes that run throughout your entire home.

Plumbing isn't our only area of expertise. We also specialize in HVAC repair, A/C repair, air conditioning installation, furnace installation and heating repair. From HVAC service to plumbing work, the professional technicians at Blue Mountain are determined to get the job done right the first time. Give us a call today at 877-280-5777 and we'll flush all your troubles away!

 













Image via bluemountainservice.com

Professional Drain Cleaning Won't Drain Your $ Away

 Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

www.BlueMountainService.com

Clogged drain? We've all been there. Most people are attracted to the DIY mantras and quick home remedies that are readily available on the internet. When you 'do it yourself' you might damage your pipes with harsh chemicals that are found in most drain cleaners. You could end up calling a plumber for an even more complex job. When it comes to drain cleaning, it's best to leave everything to the professionals at Blue Mountain Plumbing. So put down the plumbing snake and step away from that instant drain cleaning solution.

Routine drain cleanings are essential to keep your plumbing system in top running order. 

There are some clear cut benefits to having drains maintained. For one, the professionals at Blue Mountain are up to date on all the latest technological advances and best tools for getting the job done right. The professionals at Blue Mountain  will also be able to let you know the cause of your clogged drain and let you know if there is problem at large with your entire plumbing system. In some cases, a broken or fractured pipe is the culprit. Being proactive about drain maintenance will save you money in the long run because it will decrease the amount and severity of clogged drains. With the help of Blue Mountain, you can rest easy and leave the sludgy mess to us. Best of all, our work is 100% guaranteed. 

Image courtesy of Images Money, via www.flickr.com