How To Prevent Frozen Pipes In Winter Months
Nobody wants to deal with the fact their pipes are frozen, unfortunately for many, it’s a common factor during winter months. Certain properties and materials in pipes allow them to undergo such extreme weather, but water can be harsh on most pipes—water expands as it freezes, causing a tremendous amount of pressure on metal and plastic pipes surrounding the incoming freezing water. Statistics show nearly 10% of United States households have leaks in their plumbing that can waste up to 90 gallons of water per day. When this situation arises be sure to contact a plumbing company to check your pipes, you might need a drain line repair (San Diego Plumbing Company are one of the best). Sometimes an underlying issue might be in the works, and you can preemptively contact a plumbing company for a drain line replacement. Pipes that typically freeze are usually exposed to severe weather conditions in poorly insulated buildings or outdoor conditions, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkles.
1. Water supply pipes that are in poorly insulated areas, like basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets can cause a substantial amount of problems, which leads to contacting local plumbing companies.
2. Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little to no insulation might require a professional plumbing company for a safe area for pipes.
Cold Rolled Steel vs. Copper Pipes
a. Pros: Steel is considered one of the top metals in the world; it’s the most recycled material on Earth at 90% of recycled content available for use. It’s no wonder steel is such a beneficial metal to the plumbing industry—a steel supplier can sell their products at a high rate because of its sheer popularity. Steel plumbing is no different, once installed they can last nearly a lifetime due to their durability and their abundance makes them a cost-effective option for homeowners. Steel pipes are adaptable in all weather and elements and can even withstand rust and corrosion from harsh chemicals.
b. Cons: Steel lacks the malleability of copper, making it a harder metal to work worth during installations, and throughout time can create galvanized steel in the water, a danger that copper does not pose.
c. Pros: Copper has the same durability as steel when it comes to retaining its fittings. It’s fire resistance, and toxic-gases are not released, even in the case of a fire, and are highly resistant to excess bacteria and rotting. The malleability of copper makes it easier for a plumbering company to install. When used in plumbing and potable water services, galvanized steel piping has a lifespan of 30 to 50 years.
d. Cons: Copper pipes are not cost-effective, and during freezing temperatures, the water can potentially freeze in the piping and cause them to split. They’re affected by high levels of acidity, and susceptible to corrosion.
How To Properly Care For Your Septic Tank
Septic tanks are were all waste-water flows from your home into the tank. Through time, heavier solids typically sink to the bottom where bacteria reduce them to sludge and gasses while lighter solids remain afloat and form a layer of scum. Approximately 20% of Americans rely on septic tanks for sewage disposal— municipal water-treatment plants sever the additional 80%. Typically, most solids have a decomposition time, but if they are not removed during their periodic pumping period of 3-5 years, the bacteria will continue to accumulate and eventually overflow to the drain field causing extensive damage. A septic tank has a typical life expectancy approximately 25 years, but it all depends on how well the system was designed and maintained by its owner. When discussing your typical septic tank knowing when to pump it is important—once a year is ideal for inspecting your septic tank to ensure there are no septic tank repairs required. If so, also knowing how the bacteria appears tells you when pumping is imperative to sustain its warranty.