Between the extra cooking, cleaning and overnight guests, it’s no wonder that plumbing problems are more likely to occur over the holidays than any other time of year. Yet by keeping a few important plumbing tips in mind, you can help ensure that your holiday season is problem free.

Consider these tips to prevent any plumbing mishaps from happening in your home.

Scrape Leftovers in the Trash

When it’s time to clean up, scrape the leftovers off your dishes into the trash, not the drain, especially if you don’t have garbage disposal. One of the easiest ways to prevent unwanted leftovers from going down the drain is to use an inexpensive sink strainer. Once you’re done washing off your dishes, you can simply dump the collected waste in the garbage or compost bin.

Use the Disposal Wisely

There are many food items that can cause serious damage to a garbage disposal and clog the drains. Be sure to avoid putting the following foods down the drain:

• Fibrous or stringy foods, such as celery or string beans
• Rice, pasta, or bread-based products
• Animal bones
• Eggshells
• Coffee grounds
• Cooking oils, grease, and fat

Wait 10-15 Minutes Between Showers

If you’re hosting guests overnight, ask them to space out the time between showers to about 10 or 15 minutes. This not only allows your hot water supply to replenish but also gives your drains an opportunity to clear out. Also, use a strainer over the shower drain to catch hair and prevent a clog.

Don’t Treat Toilets Like Trash Pails

Your toilets are probably going to have to work a bit harder than usual over the holidays. Make sure your guests know not to flush bathroom items that commonly clog household toilets, such as:

• Sanitary napkins
• Feminine hygiene products
• Wipes (yes, even “flushable” ones)
• Paper towels
• Facial pads
• Cotton balls and swabs
• Cigarette butts

Dispose of F.O.G Properly

F.O.G. (fat, oil, grease) is one of the greatest threats to your plumbing. When hot, F.O.G may seem like any other liquid. But once cooled, it quickly congeals and solidifies in your drain, restricting the flow of water and catching other materials until it results in a major clog. Wipe as much F.O.G off pots and pans or pour it into a can that can be tossed into the garbage.

Run the Dishwasher Last

It can be tempting to run the dishwasher while you continue to clean other dishes. However, because the dishwasher and the garbage disposal typically share the same drain, running the disposal or pouring anything into the sink can push that waste back up into the dishwasher’s cleaning cycle. And if your drains become clogged, running the dishwasher could cause the water to back up and flood your kitchen.

Be Proactive

Avoid plumbing mishaps by scheduling a plumbing system inspection with Best Choice Plumbers. We’ll make sure your drains, toilets, water heater, and other parts of  your plumbing system are in good working order to help you avoid unexpected repairs. And should something go wrong, we’re standing by to handle your plumbing emergencies so you can get back to enjoying the holidays with your loved ones. Contact us today or anytime you need us.

Tap water can contain a variety of impurities, even it if looks, smells, and tastes fine. While some impurities are harmless, others can cause health concerns and wreak havoc on your pipes, fixtures, and water using appliances.

A whole house water filter is an effective way to ensure that the water in your home is clean and safe. But how do you know if your home can benefit from one? Start by reviewing the scenarios below.

HARD WATER

Hard water is water that contains high amounts of magnesium and calcium ions, which can build up in pipes, appliances, and fixtures. Telltale signs of hard water include mineral deposits on faucets and fixtures, soap that won’t lather, dull, limp hair after washing, and dry, itchy skin.

MURKY OR CLOUDY WATER

Most tap water contains trace amounts of contaminants that can’t be seen by the naked eye. These amounts are deemed safe by the Environmental Protection Agency. However, if your water is murky, cloudy, or tinged with color, it may have dangerous levels of contaminants that need to be removed.

BAD TASTE

Clean water should not have a strong taste. If yours tastes “off”, we recommend having it tested for contaminants and pollutants. A chlorine taste is usually the result of chemical disinfectants that are added to public water supplies. Metallic tasting water is likely due to a high concentration of metal like zinc, iron, and manganese. And if your water tastes moldy, earthy, or fishy, it could be due to algae bloom in the water source.

FUNNY SMELL

An unexpected odor from your tap water is a sure sign something is amiss. For instance, a rotten egg smell may mean the water has a higher-than-normal level of hydrogen sulfide gas, which is often caused by the metabolism of a non-harmful bacteria that reduces sulfates. While the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas is not inherently dangerous, it makes for an unpleasant water drinking experience.

ILLNESS

Fresh and clean water should relieve your thirst, not give you a stomach-ache. However, long-term exposure to certain contaminants can make you and your family sick. Since many of the hazardous contaminants have no taste or smell, it is especially important you have your water tested. Symptoms of gastrointestinal illness from contaminated water include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting. If your household has at least one person who is elderly or immuno-compromised, more precautions are advised.

FREQUENT PLUMBING PROBLEMS

Your plumbing system is the area of your home most affected by contaminated water. Mineral build-up can damage pipes, resulting in frequent clogs and leaks. Plus, excess mineral deposits found in hard water can accumulate inside pipes over time, reducing water pressure.

HOW CLEAN IS YOUR WATER?

If one or more of these scenarios sound familiar to you, contact Best Choice Plumbers for a free water quality analysis to determine the causes of your water woes. From there, we’ll work with you to determine the most appropriate water filtration solution for your needs and budget.  Contact us today to get started.

Sometimes, a problem arises in a drain or pipe that prevents water and other liquids from flowing through as they should. More often than not, a few quick thrusts of a plunger or a little drain cleaner gets this moving again. But when a clog resists conventional means of clearing it, it may be time to employ a specially designed camera to inspect the pipe.

Today we’re discussing how a camera plumbing inspection works, its benefits, and when you may need such a service.

How Does a Drain Camera Inspection Work?

A drain camera inspection allows us to inspect a home’s pipes more thoroughly to locate a clog and determine its cause. A sewer video camera is connected to a flexible cable and inserted into a drain or the main sewer line cleanout of a home. Using a monitor, we can watch as the camera moves through the plumbing line to detect clogs or damage. It’s a non-invasive way to get a real-time visual of your plumbing system.

Camera Inspection Benefits

• It can considerably reduce the overall cost of a pipe repair by delivering a proper diagnosis.
• Because it’s non-invasive, it can greatly reduce damage to your property from trenching.
• It can reveal minor problems that, if ignored, can turn into more costly and damaging issues.
• It provides video proof of the condition of your pipes.
• It can be used to locate lost valuables.

When to Have a Camera Inspection Performed

In addition to determining the location and cause of a stubborn clog, a camera inspection can be helpful in the following instances:

• Locate Hidden Leaks: While some leaks leave obvious clues, others, especially those hidden behind walls or under your home, aren’t so easy to find. A camera inspection can help your plumber quickly pinpoint the location of a leak so water damage is minimized.
• Learn More about Your Pipes: A camera inspection can reveal corrosion or weakness in your plumbing system. In some cases, it can also detect whether a collapsed pipe is in your future so you can take appropriate action.
• Evidence for Insurance Purposes: A camera inspection offers visual evidence of the condition of your pipes. If you’re submitting a claim to your insurance company, they may want to see the exact condition of the pipes and the location of the problem.
• Know What You’re Buying: If you’re buying a home, a camera inspection takes the mystery out of the plumbing system. Is there a beautiful large tree near the house? Its roots may be clogging and damaging underground pipes which can cost thousands of dollars in repairs and leave you with a messy, dug up yard.

Need to Schedule an Inspection?

If you’re experiencing plumbing problems and can’t figure out where they’re coming from, call Best Choice Plumbers today. We can help you figure out what’s going on with your pipes and take care of any necessary repairs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for your drain/sewer camera inspection.

Would you know if your water heater was going bad? Sure, a lack of hot water is a tell-tale sign, but it’s more complicated than that. Water heater failure can present itself in a number of ways, some of which are less obvious than cold water coming out of the faucet.

Pay attention to these warning signs that your water heater may need repair or replacement.

1. Strange Noises

Strange noises (like popping, rumbling, or banging) coming from your water heater could be a sign that the unit is beginning to fail. These noises are usually caused by sediment build-up on the bottom of the tank. If not addressed, it can cause the unit to overheat and eventually fail.

2. Temperature Irregularities

If you notice that the water temperature is noticeably lower than it used to be, or varies with no adjustments to the thermostat, it’s a sign that the unit needs attention. It could be a faulty thermostat or indicative of a much larger problem.

3. Discolored Water

If your hot water is discolored, it’s likely a sign that the anode rod is beginning to fail. The anode rod is responsible for protecting the interior of the tank from corrosion by attracting minerals and sediment. Once the anode rod fails, that sediment will start attacking the interior of the tank. To prevent internal tank corrosion, contact a licensed plumber to inspect and replace the anode rod at the first sign of discolored water.

4. Odd Smelling or Tasting Hot Water

Bacteria love the warm, moist environment a water heater provides, especially if the temperature is kept below 120 degrees F. If your hot water smells or tastes strange, you may need to drain the water heater to remove sediment and bacteria. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the unit.

5. Low Water Pressure

Is the water pressure from your cold-water faucets fine but low from your hot-water faucets? It could be a sign that there is sediment build-up in the water heater tank. Over time, sediment can build up in the bottom of the tank and lead to a number of problems if not addressed.

6. Not Enough Hot Water

Unless you’ve drastically changed your hot water using habits, your water heater should not consistently deliver adequate amounts of hot water. When a water heater starts to go bad, it often lose its ability to heat water properly, resulting in less hot water overall.

7. Water Heater Leaks

If you notice your water heater leaking, turn it off immediately and contact a plumber asap. Water heaters are designed to be airtight so any leaking is a clear indication that something is wrong.

8. More Frequent Repairs

If you’re experiencing more frequent issues with your water heater, replacement might be a more cost-effective solution. Especially if the water heater is approaching the end of its useful life.

9. Age

The average lifespan of a tank-style water heater is about 8 to 12 years. If yours is approaching (or has exceeded) this age, it may be time to consider replacement. As a water heater ages, it is more prone to sediment build-up and frequent repair issues. What’s more, it loses its efficiency over time, leading to higher utility bills.

If you have any concerns that your water heater may be going bad, call Best Choice Plumbers today.  We’ll inspect your water heater, discuss your household’s hot water needs, and recommend the best course of action.

Not familiar with pot fillers? Read on to learn everything you need to know about this practical kitchen fixture so you’re prepared for your next kitchen refresh.

What Is a Pot Filler?

A pot filler is essentially a one-arm, swing-out, single-temperature faucet that is installed above the stove. It’s designed for filling pots and pans with water directly on the cooktop so you don’t have to carry heavy pots from the sink to the stove. This compact fixture doesn’t take up much space but makes a big impact. Pot fillers are available at various price points and in different styles, lengths, and finishes.

Pot Filler Styles

In addition to being functional, pot fillers can make a stunning design statement. Whether your kitchen is sleek and modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, you’re sure to find a pot filler to fit your style. Available in polished chrome, aged brass, oil-rubbed bronze, brushed nickel, and more, a pot filler can add a touch of timeless sophistication and luxury to a kitchen. What’s more, this upgrade is a great way to increase your home’s resale value.

Advantages of Pot Fillers

One of the main advantages of installing a pot filler in your kitchen is convenience. Instead of having to fill a pot with water at the sink and carry the heavy pot all the way to the stove, you can fill the pot directly on the stove. This eliminates potential spills and messes, as well as the strain of carrying a heavy pot every time you boil water. As a bonus, you also save time since you don’t need to go back and forth to the kitchen faucet.

Disadvantages of a Pot Filler

Because they range from several hundred dollars to several thousand, pot fillers can be a significant investment and not within everyone’s kitchen remodeling budget. If your kitchen is relatively small in size and you’re remodeling on a tight budget, this might be a splurge to skip. Additionally, because a pot filler is mounted directly above the stove, it will frequently be hit with splattering oil and simmering tomato sauce. Therefore, you’ll need to clean it regularly to keep it looking like new.

Best Choice Plumbers is here to help make your new kitchen provide the added convenience, beauty, comfort, and safety you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your next kitchen project or for any plumbing need.

Still, you don’t need a whole weekend or a small army of assistants to get this essential space sparkling clean. In fact, here are 10 easy steps to get your bathroom neat, tidy, and guest-worthy, and all in in less than 30 minutes.

1. Gather your supplies. Keep a caddy or small bucket filled with all your cleaning essentials in a linen closet or in an under-the-sink cabinet.
2. Clear off surfaces. Put toothbrushes, make-up, and other essentials back in their place and toss dirty towels and bathmats into the laundry basket.
3. Spray down surfaces. Spray down the counter, backsplash, and outer surface of the toilet. Then squirt toiler cleaner into the bowl and under the rim. Let everything sit for a while.
4. Soak the shower and tub. Fill your bathtub with a few inches of hot water and spray the shower with cleaner. Use a small brush to quickly pass around the inside of the tub to loosen any soap scum. Let it all soak for a while.
5. Tackle the toilet. Scrub the inside of the toilet bowl and use a rag to wipe down the outer surface. Dry it with a cloth, and then rinse the toilet brush before spraying it with cleaner and putting it away.
6. Clean the tub and shower. Drain the tub and wipe all surfaces. Use a scrub brush to get any remaining dirt or grime. Rinse with a handheld shower attachment or clean wet rag.
7. Tackle the floor. Vacuum the floor to pick up any dirt, dust, or hair. Fill the sink with a little warm water and add your cleaner. Wet your mop or floor rag, wring it out, and run it over the floor. Wipe it dry with a clean cloth, and drain the water from the sink
8. Wipe it all down. Wet a clean cloth in warm water, wring it out, and wipe down previously sprayed countertops and backsplash. Spray the interior of the sink with cleaner and wipe clean.
9. Clean the mirror. Spray glass cleaner onto the mirror and wipe it clean with a microfiber cloth. Then use that same cloth to shine up faucets, towel racks, and the toilet handle.
10. Finish it off. Replace clean towels and your bathmat, put away your cleaning supplies, and place dirty clothes in the laundry basket. Then, stand back and admire your hard work.

And yet, no matter how clean your bathroom might become, it’s still not going to fully serve its purpose if your hot water service is in short supply.  That’s where we come in: Best Choice Plumbers. Contact us today for annual water maintenance or to diagnose what you see is a repair issue. Whatever might be wrong with it, we’ll figure it out and recommend exactly the right solution. And always with a guaranteed upfront price quote.

What do all these and other daily activities have in common?  More often than not, you first take a nice hot shower.  Except, of course, when that fateful morning arrives when there IS no hot water…or at least not enough.

What causes a water heater to fail?  Let’s have a look:

• The pilot has gone out in your gas water heater won’t re-ignite. The gas valve could have been inadvertently shut off, the thermocouple could be dirty or bent, or the pilot may not be getting enough gas. In that instance, the solution could be as simple as adjusting the pilot knob.
• If you have an electric water heater, the heating can burn out from internal tank corrosion. Electrical components also can fail over time.
• A hard water supply can eventually corrode the inside of your tank. Unless your tank is routinely flushed and re-filled, it can eventually wear out. At that point, the system will need to be replaced.

And now for the good news: annual water heater inspections can prevent most water heater problems, thus providing you with added comfort, convenience, and savings. At the same time, your system won’t last forever – the average lifespan is 10-12 years – but we can delay the inevitable.

For more information or to request service, contact Best Choice Plumbers today. We’re your local water heater specialists.

The good news is that small changes to our everyday habits can go a long way toward reducing our water footprint, lowering water bills, and reducing environmental impact.

Here are 9 ways to reduce your water usage at home.

1. Know your usage. The average American family uses over 300 gallons of water per day at home. Do you know how much your household uses? Check your water bills from the past 12 months to get a clear picture of your monthly consumption, looking for months during which your household uses less or more water.
2. Look for leaks. As mentioned above, leaks account for 180 gallons of wasted water per week in the average home – that’s almost 10,000 gallons per year! Inspect toilets, faucets, showers, outdoor hoses, and exposed plumbing pipes for signs of leaks and repair right away.
3. Update fixtures. A standard shower head uses approximately 5 gallons of water per minute. Replacing it with a low-flow model can cut that number in half. While it may cost more up front, a low-flow fixture will save money in the long run.
4. Install a low-flow toilet. An older toiler uses 3.5 gallons of water per flush whereas a low-flow toilet uses just 1.6 gallons. Even if an upgrade is not in the cards right now, make sure your toilet isn’t wasting water. Put a few drops of food coloring in the tank; if the color shows up in the bowl, you have a leak.
5. Collect and use leftover water. Gallons upon gallons of water go to waste every day. Invest in a rain barrel (if your neighborhood permits) to catch rainwater from gutters and downspouts. Use the water for watering plants and cleaning your home’s exterior. Place a bucket under your shower head or tub faucet to collect running water as it heats up. Use it to water plants, mop floors, wash the car, etc.
6. Ditch the plastic. Instead of purchasing costly bottled water, invest in a refillable stainless-steel bottle that will keep your water cold all day long. And instead of waiting for the tap water to run cold, keep a pitcher of water in the fridge for cold refreshment whenever you need it.
7. Rinse produce in a bowl. Fill two bowls with water – one for washing produce and the other for rinsing. Then use the leftover water for watering indoor or outdoor plants.
8. Reduce garbage disposal usage. A garbage disposal requires running water to grind and flush food down the drain. Save water and energy by composting food scraps which will provide your garden with nutritious matter.
9. Shop smarter. Think back to what you learned in elementary school: reduce, reuse, recycle. Before purchasing a new item which likely requires water as part of it’s production and distribution process, ask yourself these questions: Do I really need it? Is it something I can borrow instead? Once I’m done with it, can it be recycled or donated?

At Best Choice Plumbers, we have even more water-saving solutions up our sleeves. From water leak detection and repair to low-flow toilet and fixture installation, we can help you reduce your environment impact without sacrificing an ounce of the comfort and convenience you depend on. Contact us today for all your plumbing needs.

Leaks

More often than not, it’s not the tub itself that springs a leak but rather the plumbing beneath. Look for water pooling on the floor near the tub, water stains on the ceiling below a second story bathtub, or an unexplained rise in your water usage and bills. If an older bathtub has to be removed in order to access and fix the plumbing, consider replacing the tub at the same time.

Cracks

While surface cracks may not necessitate having an entire bathtub replaced, a larger crack can allow water to penetrate beneath the tub compromising building materials  and providing an ideal environment for mold growth. If you notice a small surface crack here or there but the rest of the tub is in good shape, you can have it refinished to seal up the cracks and make it look like new.

Stains

Tough stains can make even a new tub look dingy and worn. While most stains can be removed from enameled tubs with a bit of elbow grease, acrylic tubs are a different matter. Harsh scrubbing agents can dull the finish of an acrylic tub and lead to more staining.

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew typically don’t surface in the bathing area of a tub. Proper ventilation and regular cleaning can help keep them from forming where the bathtub and surround meet. But if mold and mildew grow in the space beneath a tub or behind a wall, the tub and/or surround will need to be replaced to repair the cause of the issue, replace any damaged sheetrock or other materials, and properly seal the area to prevent future problems.

Mobility Challenges

For those who have difficulty entering and existing a standard bathtub, a walk-in tub or shower conversion can be a safe and convenient solution. Plus, a sturdy bench seat and multiple shower heads can turn a regular shower into a spa-like retreat.

Ready to ditch your tired , dated bathtub? Or perhaps you’re dealing with other plumbing woes. No matter the job, Best Choice is ready to help make your new bathroom provide the added beauty, convenience, comfort, and safety you deserve. Contact us today and let us know how we can help.

Before you choose your new bathroom sink, be armed with the information you need to help narrow down the best options so you can pick the perfect sink for you and your space .

Undermount

This type of sink sits underneath the counter. The rim is fixed to the underside of the countertop, as opposed to sitting on top of it. Since less of the sink is visible, this style creates a seamless, clean look. Clean-up is easy as water and spills can be wiped directly from the countertop into the sink, making it ideal for busy family bathrooms. However, undermounting a sink is usually only possible with a solid-surface countertop, such as stone. Undermount sinks also tend to cost more than top-mount sinks.

Top-Mount

As the name suggests, a top-mount (or drop-in) sink sits on top of the counter with most of the sink sitting below the counter and just the rim sitting on top. Top-mount sinks are suitable for most countertop materials since the cutout is covered by the sink and doesn’t risk being damaged by water. However, you can’t wipe water and spills straight from the counter into the sink. They work best in elegant master bathrooms and minimalist designs.

Pedestal

If you prefer is a simple wall-mounted sink, but your waste pipe has to go through the floor and can’t be changed, or you don’t want to see the plumbing beneath, then a pedestal sink is a great option. The pedestal under the sink sits between the underside of the sink and the floor, concealing any pipework. Often found in powder rooms, a pedestal sink is aesthetically pleasing and perfect if you want a more timeless, traditional look. However, it does not provide any storage or countertop space.

Vessel

A vessel sink generally sits completely on top of the countertop. Unlike sinks that are exposed above the counter a little or not at all, vessel sinks demand attention. Much like a large bowl, it’s a great choice if you like a deep sink that can hold plenty of water. However, due to the height of the sink, careful planning is required to ensure that the sink doesn’t end up being too high and uncomfortable to use. Cleaning around the base of the sink can also be tricky, so it may work best in a powder room.

Integrated

Many stock vanity cabinets offer an all-in-one countertop and sink where the sink is molded as part of the countertop. An integrated sink is easy to clean so it’s a great choice for busy family bathrooms. Integrated sinks are usually designed so that the countertop slopes gently down and inward to create a sink in the middle, leaving less flat counter space than with other options.

Semi-Recessed

If space is an issue but you still want some storage then a semi-recessed sink might be the answer. This sink sits at the front of the cabinet and countertop, allowing you to have shallower cabinets, freeing up valuable floor space and keeping a lot of the counter free. It’s a great option for those who need to get closer to the sink to reach the faucet without the obstruction of a countertop and cabinets.

Wall-Mounted

A wall-mounted sink is fixed directly to the wall without needing to sit in or on a countertop. It looks streamlined and gives a minimalist feeling to a room. As such, it doesn’t have cabinets below it, which saves on space and also makes the room feel bigger. All plumbing must be positioned inside the wall to have a clean look. Consider your need for storage before choosing a wall-mounted sink.

Washplane

Washplane sinks, often spotted in sleek hotels and restaurant bathrooms, are slim, streamlined, and stylish. They take up very little space, so they can work in a room where space is limited. A small stainless steel trough is mounted under the sink to catch the water before it runs into the waste pipe in the wall behind. Washplane sinks are best suited for just hand washing because they don’t have have a plug and are extremely shallow.

When you’re ready to spruce things up, contact Best Choice Plumbers to help make your new bathroom provide the added beauty, convenience, comfort, and safety we know you want.