Why does your garbage disposer smell bad an what can you do about it?

Why does your garbage disposer smell bad an what can you do about it?  Watch this one minute video with Casey because he is about to tell you...

Do You Have a Sewer Line Clog? Know the Signs...

Why is it that mainline sewer backups always seem to occur (1) after hours for the plumber, or (2) when you have a house full of people? Seriously. Why is that?

Usually we chalk that kind of thing up to Murphy's Law - "Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong." But truthfully, there are often signs of impending problems. Heed the signs and you just might be able to respond before the line becomes completely clogged and waste water backs up into the building.

Here are a few things to pay attention to:

1.  Are Multiple Fixtures Affected?

A very obvious sign of a sewer drain clog is when more than one plumbing fixture is draining slowly or backing up at the same time. If you suspect that you have a sewer drain clog, check other fixtures in the home - particularly the tub and shower.

Toilets have the most direct path to the sewer and the biggest drain line in the house, so if there is a problem with the sewer line you shoiuld notice it when you try to flush the toilet. It's rare to have a mainline sewer stoppage when the toilets are working properly.

And then tub and shower drains sit lower than sink drains, so check them next. Do you have water backing up or failing to drain in your tub/shower? If so, it's probably time to call the plumber.

2.  Out-of-the-Ordinary Occurences (with respect to plumbing fixtures).

Don't ignore burbling sounds or waste water moving upstream.

If you've got an issue with the sewer line, air may get trapped in the plumbing system. Do you get bubbles in the toilet bowl when you run the faucet in the closest sink? Do you get ominous gurgling sounds when you flush the toilet or take a shower? These are all signs that waste water isn't moving smoothly through the system.

And definitely if you have water rising one place when you're using a fixture another place, you've got issues somewhere in the sewer line. For instance, if the water draining out of the washing machine causes the toilet to overflow or backs up into the tub or shower it could mean a clog on the main sewer line. (Although if the toilets are still flushing fine while this occurs then this is likely due to a washing machine stoppage and not a mainline stoppage.)

3.  Check the Drainage at the Clean-Out

If you have a mainline clean-out (and hopefully you do), you can remove the cap and physically check to see whether or not the line is draining. You should not be able to see the water coming up the clean out pipe. If water is flowing up and out of the clean out or standing in the pipe, the line is not draining.

4.  And Lastly...

If your house has a septic system, always ask yourself: "How long has it been since the tank was cleaned out?"

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Whatever you do, once you realize you have a mainline blockage, stop running any water (or flushing any toilets) until the stoppage is cleared.

The problem could be a straight forward clog or there could be roots or some other kind of break in the line that prevents the line from clearing completely. These issues don't necessarily happen all of a sudden but develop over a period of time. Watch for indications that something is not right on the drain lines.

How Not to Call the Plumber on Thanksgiving

The last thing you want to get stuck with next week -- what with company in the house and lots of cooking to do -- is calling us to clear a drain. We get that. We don't even take it personally. Heck, on Thanksgiving Day the last thing we want to do is have to break away from our families and help someone with a clogged drain (and please, don't take that personally).

So, in the interest of everyone's complete Thanksgiving holiday enjoyment, we are reposting last year's missive 5 Tips for Maintaining Clear Drains over Thanksgiving.

If you have any questions, by all means call. Are there any last minute things you need taken care of before guests descend? Now's the time ask us to swing by. We're here to help.

BODEN PLUMBING: 707-996-8683 or toll free 866-663-7477.













5 Tips for Maintaining Clear Drains over Thanksgiving

The day after Thanksgiving is one of the busiest days of the year for plumbers. In fact, it might be the busiest - with calls to clear stopped drains by far the most common problem.

Lots of cooking and extra house guests can take a toll on your plumbing system - but they don't have to. Here are just a few tips to help keep your drains running and your system functioning for the holiday:

1. Don't put fats, grease or cooking oils down the kitchen drain. When rinsing anything down the drain, flush with plenty of water.
   
2. Avoid putting stringy or fibrous materials like celery and potato skins through the garbage disposal. (For more tips on using your garbage disposal, see our previous post Friends will be envious...Dogs will be sorry)
3. Never put turkey skins in the disposal
4. Remind your guests not to flush cotton swabs, cotton balls or similar materials down the toilet. The waste basket is the best place for those things.
5. Allow 15 minutes between showers so the drains can empty and the water heater can catch up.

Don't worry - we'll be open on Friday for business as usual, but just a few simple things can help you avoid hassles altogether.

And while we have your attention, all of us here at Boden Plumbing would like to wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving. We know we're very thankful to be doing business here in beautiful Sonoma Valley with so many loyal customers. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Cleaning Porcelain Enamel Fixtures

Smooth, clean porcelain enamel surfaces in a bathroom or kitchen can really make the room. Keeping those surfaces sparkling is key.

Porcelain is made by fusing powdered glass onto some sort of base (metal, glass, or tile) at a very high temperature. As the glass powder melts, it flows evenly across the surface, eventually cooling to form a very hard, smooth, durable finish. When cleaning this lovely smooth surface, it's important to keep in mind that while the material is extremely hard, it can still be chipped by hard blows and bumps or damaged by harsh abrasives and long-term use of acids.

Cleaning Porcelain Enamel

To start, simply wash porcelain with a dilute mixture of warm water and soap. Need a little extra? A paste made from warm water and baking soda will help to remove dirt and soap scum.

If a more ambitious cleaning is called for, there are some other options. In general, we caution against using strong commercial bathroom or surface cleaners (see our blog post Non Toxic Home Cleaning Alternatives), but many of these can be used on porcelain.

Chlorine or hydrogen peroxide bleach works well at removing tough stains. (Try the more eco-friendly hydrogen peroxide first.) Remember to wear gloves, always dilute them before using, and rinse them off after a few seconds of use. And, in case you were wondering, bleaches won't work on removing rust.

You can remove heavy deposits of dirt, grease, or soap scum with a solution of 1 tablespoon of a TSP (trisodium phosphate) substitute mixed with 1 gallon of hot water - just don't combine this with other cleaners. If you've tried something else first be sure to flush the area well with water first before switching to TSP.

And what if you do have rust stains? Well, there are a few options. Two fall squarely in the 'Not Good for Septic Systems OR the Environment' category.

ZUD Cleanser packs a little something extra to regular household cleansers and will remove rust and mineral deposits. The caution is that the oxalic acid in ZUD will wreak havoc with the biology in your septic system. So a big caution there.

The second un-friendly option is a proprietary chemical cleanser called The Works. It's been around a long time. The catch with it is that it contains hydrochloric acid - so you've definitely got to be careful using it, and it's not going to be good for septic systems.

For stubborn rust stains - particularly if you have a septic system - start with the more eco-friendly option of simple manual removal with a pumice stick, open weave sand cloth or similar gentle cleaning material. (See also: Shaw's Pads) Rust staining can come from hard water deposits or from rusting pipes and fixtures. Addressing either of those sources, if you can, will also help to minimize stains.

Cautions:
Most scouring powders have gritty particles that make tiny scratches in the surface of porcelain. They clean the surface but the tiny imperfections left in the porcelain's surface then catch more dirt, hard water deposits, and soap residue. Avoid using scouring powders, but if you must to remove a particularly stubborn stain, use the finest scouring powder you can find.

Acetic and muriatic acids can be used to remove some stains, but they can slowly disintegrate the surface coating of porcelain enamel, eventually attacking its metallic base. So a big caution on prolonged use of acids. If you do use an acid, apply briefly, rinse thoroughly, and be sure to wear rubber gloves.

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Thinking of restoring an old enamel tub or searching out vintage fixtures? You might be interested in the following online articles:

Restoring old tub often worthwhile, SF Chronicle
Restoring an Aging Bathtub, NY Times

photo credit: romana klee

3 Things to ConsiderBefore Your Next DIY Job

It's great to be able to take care of simple repairs and maintenance yourself. Doing it yourself can save you money if you've got the time to spend.

However, not every project is worth taking on yourself - some are better suited to a professional. Before tackling a project yourself, we think there are a few things to consider: money, time and workmanship.

Money

By doing a project yourself, you will be paying only for materials, which could potentially save a significant amount of money. However, before you assume that you can cut the cost of your project in half, there are a couple of things to take into account.

1. Cost of tools: Certain projects require specialty tools. You will either have to buy or rent these tools if you don't already have them. Of course, the more projects you take on, the more tools you will have on hand and the cost of future projects will then be reduces. While it's always good to have a good collection of basic tools, the cost of more single-purpose or specialty tools may not make financial sense for you.

2. Logistics: Unless you're taking on a job you've done before or you're confident that you're familiar with the materials needed and the steps to take, count on taking longer to do the job than an experienced professional would who arrives equipped to do the job.

If you've got the time, this may not be a big deal. Just keep in mind that each time you head out to buy tools or materials, it will cost you time and money for gas. Factor in rental fees and delivery charges, too. And remember, these would all be included in the cost quoted to you by the person you're trying not to call.

3. Waste and mistakes: No matter how many projects you take on at home yourself, your experience can never be equivalent to someone's who does the same thing everyday, all week, as their job. It's just a natural fact. You have to accept that you will be learning on the job and making mistakes and wasting material in the process. Again, no biggee if the relative costs still make sense for you, you have the time, and you want to learn some of these skills for yourself. But if it really is about money, remember that when you hire the professional, you are paying not just for his labor, but also for his experience and expertise.

4. Warranty: Installing a fixture or major appliance? Before you start, find out if the manufacturer will only honor their warranty if an authorized contractor installs it. Even if this isn't an issue, keep in mind you will also be passing on any warranty offered by the contractor (that you would rather not call). Here at Boden Plumbing we certainly guarantee our work. If you do the work yourself, you will be giving up that assurance.

Time

It's a simple question: How much is your time worth - and how do you want to spend it? DIY can definitely be a satisfying, and even enjoyable, way to occupy your time - and why hire someone else to do something you enjoy doing yourself?

Just so you know:

1. First: It's not like they show on TV. Things take time. Those so-called reality shows? They do a lot of editing.

2. Second: With experience comes speed. If you don't have the experience, know your house could be disrupted for the duration of the project.

3. And bottom line: Remember you do have a real job and home repairs isn't it. Any job you take on will come second to your other responsibilities. Be realistic. How much time do you have?

Workmanship

This also comes with time and experience - yours or the professional you've hired to do the job for you. But there's also attention to detail and a certain pride in work well done that factors in. You can buy the best materials, but if they are not installed properly and the job is not done cleanly and neatly, well you might as well have saved your money.

1. Beware the do-it-yourselfer do-over. It happens, but choose which jobs to tackle wisely and you will save yourself the frustration and extra time and money. Bad DIY will cost you.

2. At Boden Plumbing we take pride in doing the job well. We don't rush through jobs. We know that can lead to mistakes and call backs. Instead we aim to work efficiently and avoid costly mistakes. Find contractors and service providers that you trust to do a good job, and you might feel more inclined to call them in the first place.

So just a few things to consider. Call us here at the office if you want any advice before starting - or if you get stuck half way through. DIY can be a real money saver and give you a sense of accomplishment - but it can also be frustrating, time consuming, and more costly than expected. Remember, we're here to help.

Oh, and one last thing.

There's an important rule of thumb to keep in mind when you do go for the DIY option. Never start taking anything (important) apart on a Friday afternoon. If you get stuck (and usually it's the jobs that are started on a Friday afternoon that run into trouble), the plumber will have gone home and you might be without some important fixture for the weekend.

If you run into trouble, however, we do schedule appointments on Saturdays, although there is just one plumber available, so it's still best not to tempt fate.

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photo credit: jonlarge's photo stream

Simple Tips for Clearing a Clogged Kitchen Sink

A clogged kitchen sink can be one of the most frustrating plumbing problems. Inevitably they occur in the middle of preparations for a big holiday get-together or when you are otherwise under some kind of time crunch to get a meal on the table.

And, of course, they never seem to happen during normal working hours for the plumber!

Fortunately there are some simple things you can try to clear the clog yourself before putting in a call to the plumber. (There are also things you can do to keep clogs from happening in the first place. See: 5 Tips for Maintaining Clear Drains Over Thanksgiving)

If you have a garbage disposal, the first thing to do is to check and see if you have a clogged disposal.

If the disposal is clogged, begin by turning off the power to the disposal at the circuit breaker before you attempt to clear the clog. Next, find a pair of long tongs or similar device that will allow you to reach down into the disposal and remove any obstacles from the disposal. (Never, ever, EVER - did we emphasize that enough? - place your fingers inside the garbage disposal. Even if the power is turned off. Just don't do it.) Remove any debris you can and run hot water down the disposal. Switch power back on to the unit and, with the cold water running, try turning on the disposal to see if the clog is removed.

If the sink is still clogged, the stoppage would seem to be further down the line past the disposal. If you're not up for disassembling the pipe work under the sink, it's probably time to call the plumber.

If you don't have a garbage disposal and your kitchen sink is not draining, you can try a plunger.

If you have a double sink, stopper the other side of the sink in order to create a vacuum. Place the plunger over the drain opening being careful to get as good a seal as possible and work the plunger up and down vigorously.

You can use this method whether there is standing water in the sink or not, and it usually clears most clogs pretty quickly - if they're in the sink line or close to it. If the clog doesn't clear, well you'll probably have to call the plumber after all, but at least you can say you tried.

P.S. We usually recommend against using liquid drain cleaners to try and clear a clog. You have to be very careful of splash back when plunging water mixed with drain cleaner, these cleaners can be hard on your pipes, and if the plumber does end up having to come, having caustic liquids in the pipes just makes his job more difficult. So avoid them if at all possible.

Dishwasher Not Draining? Here's Some Quick Advice

Is it a plumbing problem - or an appliance problem? Sometimes that is the question. And if you're not sure, just call. There are certain issues that come up frequently for our customers, and we're bound to have some good advice.

One of those not so uncommon issues is the non-draining dishwasher (darn). Here's our quick advice on the matter: Nine times out of ten, if your dishwasher seems to be running fine but not draining properly, it's an appliance problem - not a plumbing problem.

In our experience, if water from the dishwasher is reaching the sink but not draining, there is a clog somewhere in the drain line that we can clear for you, but if the water isn't making it out of the dishwasher, it's probably the pump on the dishwasher that's acting up.

In the latter case, rather than waste your time with a service call from us, we think your best bet is to start with an appliance repair person. Call if you're not sure - and we can recommend a repair person if you'd like, but that would be our advice.

Dishwashers, stoves, washers and dryers are all appliances we don't fool with. We leave those repairs to the people whose expertise it is to repair them - and who most likely have the parts available. Of course if it's a water or gas supply problem to any one of these appliances, then we're your guys. Or if you have any kind of drainage problem, we're on it.

Water heaters and garbage disposals are exceptions to this maybe over-generalized appliance rule. We can repair them or replace them if necessary.

Non-Toxic Home Cleaning Alternatives

Home cleaning supplies can be some of the most toxic and caustic materials around. Read a warning label on any of the products stashed under your kitchen sink or in the utility closet if you don't believe us.

Keeping surfaces clean and drain lines clear is important, but we don't think that should come at the expense of your family's health, the life of your septic tank and plumbing fittings, or a healthy environment - especially since there are non-toxic alternatives.

Used properly (that is, according to any warnings and cautions on the side panel) any of the chemicals approved for retail sale can be used safely - and are formulated to be effective. But to to get your home really clean - without all the toxic leave behinds, why not try making your own non-toxic cleaners?

Below are some basic recipes for non-toxic alternatives that you can make easily from just a few basic ingredients that might already be in your kitchen or laundry room. You'll probably even find these simple home made cleaners are cheaper than the proprietary stuff you've been using.

Five basic ingredients are all you need for many safe home cleaning solutions:

1. Baking Soda: Cleans and deodorizes, softens water to increase sudsing and cleaning power of soap and is a good scouring powder.


2. Borax: Cleans and deodorizes, softens water and is an excellent disinfectant. You can find borax in the laundry section of the grocery store.


3. Soap: Biodegrades safely and completely and is non-toxic. Readily available in grocery stores and health food stores. Sold as liquid, flakes, powder or in bars. Bars can be grated to dissolve more easily in hot water. Only choose soaps without synthetic scents, colors or other additives - like Dr. Bronner's or Kirks castile soaps.


4. Washing Soda: Cuts grease and removes stains, disinfects and softens water. Washing soda, also known as sodium carbonate, is available in laundry section of grocery store or in pure form from a chemical supply business or sometimes a home improvement store.


5. White Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Cuts grease and freshens.

A few other things that are good to have on hand in some quantity are salt (if you don't want to empty the salt shaker to do a little scouring), hydrogen peroxide and plain rubbing alcohol. All good clean things that help to clean and disinfect without leaving toxic residues behind.

Simple Recipes for Non-toxic Home Cleaning Alternatives

HOUSEHOLD CLEANER
Mix together:
1 tsp. liquid soap (castile, peppermint)
1 tsp. borax
Squeeze of lemon
1 qt. warm water
or
¼ c. baking soda
½ c. borax
½ c. vinegar
1 gal. water

For surfaces that need scouring, try moist salt or baking soda and a green scouring pad.

DISINFECTANT
Mix together:
¼ c. borax
½ gal. hot water

DRAIN CLEANER
Pour together: ½ c. borax in drain followed by
2 c. boiling water
or
¼ c baking soda down the drain, followed by
½ c. vinegar
Cover drain and let sit for 15 minutes. Follow with 2 qts. boiling water.
or
Use a plumber's "snake" and boiling water.

TOILET BOWLS
Pour: ¼ c. baking soda into bowl and drizzle with vinegar.
Let sit for ½ hour. Scrub and flush. Add borax for stains.

CERAMIC TILE
Mix together: ¼ c. vinegar
1 gal. warm water

BASIN, TUB AND TILE
Mix together: ½ c. baking soda
2-3 tbsp. liquid soap (castile, peppermint)

MILDEW REMOVER
Dissolve together: ½ c, vinegar
½ c. borax in warm water.
Apply with sponge or spray bottle.

GARBAGE DISPOSAL FRESHENER
Grind ice and lemon or orange juice in the disposal.

For more non-toxic home cleaning tips and recipes, visit ecocyle.org.

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Here at Boden Plumbing we've also promoted BioSmart drain treatment for awhile now. It's a natural biological drain line, septic, and grease trap maintainer that contains no harmful chemicals. Instead it keeps drain systems clean and free flowing by unleashing naturally-occurring bacteria that thrive on the grease, oil, and stubborn organics found in every wastewater system.

Pretty cool stuff really - and a good addition to your non-toxic cleaning and home maintenance toolkit. Call the office for more information (707-996-8683), ask your service tech next time he visits, or read more about BioSmart here on the nodrips blog.

Tips for Protecting Underground Water Lines from Gophers

photo credit:
Mark Gocke/Star-Tribune correspondent

The gopher in the picture above is doing an impressive job of moving a pretty significantly sized rock out of its tunnel, but did you know that a gopher will normally burrow around a gravel-lined trench - if the gravel is 1-inch in diameter or larger? So if you want to protect your underground irrigation and water supply lines from gopher damage, lay them in gravel. Pebbles smaller than an inch in diameter can more easily be pushed through or to the surface, but you may thwart them with six to eight inches of coarse gravel.

You can also protect buried water lines by enclosing them in some kind of material that acts as a sleeve as long as the outside diameter exceeds 2.9 inches (7.4 cm). Gophers can open their mouths about an inch wide (measuring the distance between their upper and lower incisors). The recommended diameter essentially provides for a flat surface wide enough such that a gopher can't get a bite in edgewise. And soft metals like copper and lead don't really work. Gophers can get through them.

The gravel trench seems simpler but that would depend on your situation.

And here's another amazing little factoid about gophers: Gopher can close their lips behind their four large incisor teeth to keep dirt out of their mouths when using their teeth for digging. That is amazing.

DIY: Clearing Simple Toilet Clogs

Having a few basic tools on hand at home really helps in resolving simple problems yourself. One of the most basic and helpful tools has got to be the toilet plunger. Clogs may not happen often, but when they do they can be really inconvenient. Murphy's Law has them happening after hours or (better yet) on a holiday when you have a house full of people. Not always the easiest times to call on a plumber to help you out.

Fortunately, an inexpensive plunger can clear most simple clogs. Do yourself a big favor and keep one on hand. Choose either the basic type (the red one) or the type with an extended cup (the black one) for a better seal and easier plunge.

And then, if or when that fateful time comes, when your toilet refuses to drain, follow these simple steps and we think you'll find success!

1

First, take a quick inventory of small items that might have inadvertently fallen into the bowl. A toy, lip stick or other toiletry (and we've see weirder than that) could have dropped into the toilet and gone partially down the drain line or even be lodged in the toilet's trap. If either is the case, you might need to call in a plumber. But if nothing seems to be missing, you may just be dealing with a simple clog that can be cleared with a plunger.

2

This from the Just In Case Dept: put some old towels or rags on the floor around the toilet just in case of spills, drips or splashes. You never know but best to be prepared.

3

The level of the water may very well have risen perilously close to the top of the bowl. To avoid a real mess, scoop water out of the toilet bowl into a bucket. Leave enough water in the toilet bowl to cover the plunger

4

Insert the plunger into the toilet, making sure the rubber cup is fully seated over the drain opening and covered with water.

5

Push the plunger handle down firmly. Increase pressure on the clog by pushing and releasing the plunger 10 to 15 times. Avoid wild or sloppy action or you could damage the toilet. If the clog isn't too tight or too far along the drain line, the increased water pressure caused by the plunger will probably clear the obstruction.

6

When you think the clog has move, be brave and go ahead and flush the toilet. As a precaution, have the toilet tank lid off and be ready to stop the water flow by raising the ball in the toilet tank.

7

If the clog stubbornly resists your most earnest plunging, a toilet auger and/or a call to the plumber may be needed. Lost objects almost certainly will require an auger to free up - and it's quite possible the toilet will need to be removed and turned upside down to retrieve any objects caught in the toilet itself.

We've also heard that a squirt of dish soap followed by a dose of warm water has been known to help free up clogs, but we haven't tried it ourselves so don't quote us on that.

If you do have any difficulties, you know you can call us. We're here to help.
Boden Plumbing
Sonoma, Napa and Petaluma - 707 996 8683

5 Tips for Maintaining Clear Drains over Thanksgiving

The day after Thanksgiving is one of the busiest days of the year for plumbers. In fact, it might be the busiest - with calls to clear stopped drains by far the most common problem.

Lots of cooking and extra house guests can take a toll on your plumbing system - but they don't have to. Here are just a few tips to help keep your drains running and your system functioning for the holiday:

1. Don't put fats, grease or cooking oils down the kitchen drain. When rinsing anything down the drain, flush with plenty of water.
   
2. Avoid putting stringy or fibrous materials like celery and potato skins through the garbage disposal. (For more tips on using your garbage disposal, see our previous post Friends will be envious...Dogs will be sorry)
3. Never put turkey skins in the disposal
4. Remind your guests not to flush cotton swabs, cotton balls or similar materials down the toilet. The waste basket is the best place for those things.
5. Allow 15 minutes between showers so the drains can empty and the water heater can catch up.

Don't worry - we'll be open on Friday for business as usual, but just a few simple things can help you avoid hassles altogether.

And while we have your attention, all of us here at Boden Plumbing would like to wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving. We know we're very thankful to be doing business here in beautiful Sonoma Valley with so many loyal customers. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

When does it pay to buy your own parts?

Big Box stores and the internet put a lot of parts and fixtures within easy reach of homeowners. It's convenient to shop and choose for yourself, and so often it seems much cheaper to go ahead and buy your own parts rather than pay what the plumber charges.

It is convenient but whether or not it's actually less expensive is something to consider.

First, not all brands are the same. Here at Boden Plumbing we've got a lot of collective experience. We know what works and what holds up over time. Even if you want to shop for yourself, it pays to give us a call and ask us what to look for.

Secondly, you've got to watch serial numbers. Many of the fixtures you find in the Big Box stores might have the brand name you're looking for on the box and might look just like what you found on the internet but are in fact special versions manufactured specifically for the discount retailer. Check the serial numbers: compare the one given on the manufacturer's website to the one on the box in the store. It's not uncommon for metal parts and fittings to be replaced by plastic to meet the less expensive price point required by the retailer.

At Boden Plumbing we use top quality fixtures and parts ordered either direct from the manufacturer or from our plumbing supply houses. They might not be the cheapest stuff around but we have confidence is what we use. We have to - because we guarantee them, which is also why you might pay a little more for parts supplied by your plumber. Supply your own parts and you're on your own in that department.

So consider your options. There are the time and experience factors, but if you have the time and know what you're looking for, it is possible to save some money by buying your own parts. And everyone agrees it's good to save money when you can these days.

Call us for advice - call us for the repair. We're here to help. 996-8683


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Prolong the life of your water heater with simple maintenance

Sediment builds up over time in water heater tanks. It just does. If it builds up too much it can make your water heater less efficient and, if left too long, it does decrease its life span. So it's wise to get rid of the sediment by periodically draining your water heater and flushing the sediment out of the tank.

The good news is this maintenance job is something you can do yourself. Once a year will maximize a water heater's lifespan and keep it operating at its best. All you need is a garden hose to attach to the tank to drain the water away. Then just follow these simple steps:

1. Shut off the heating element for the tank. If you have an electric water heater, turn off the breaker at the main panel. If it's a gas heater, turn the thermostat to the "pilot" setting.
2. Turn off the water supply to your tank. Most likely there is a shut-off right at the tank (on a copper pipe running into the top of the tank), but you may need to turn off the main water supply to your house.
3. Attach a garden hose to the bottom drain valve on your water tank and run the hose to a drain or out a door.
4. Turn on a hot water faucet in your home to ensure a vacuum doesn't form in the lines.
5. Return to the tank and open the drain valve near the bottom of the tank. (**The valve on the side of the tank, near the top, is a pressure relief valve. Leave it alone.)
6. Check the color of the water coming out of the tank. At first it will likely be rusty or dark - that's the sediment you want flushed from the tank. After a few gallons have drained, the water should begin to run clear.
7. Once the water runs clear, close the drain valve on the tank then turn off the hot water tap in your home. (Really, remember to shut that hot water tap off or you'll be refilling the water heater for a long long time.)
   
8. Turn the cold water supply back on to the tank and allow it to fill.
9. Turn the power or the gas supply back on to the water heater once the tank has filled with water.

If you do decide to drain your own water heater, remember the water is definitely hot enough to scald you. Be careful, watch your eyes, and wear gloves for protection.

Also, it's a good idea to read the manufacturer's instructions and warnings on your tank before you begin. Water tanks vary, and on some it's possible for the heating element to burn out if there is no water in the tank.

So pretty simple. Of course if it does seem a bit intimidating - or you just don't have the time - it is something Boden Plumbing can take care of for you. Just give us a call.

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Could Your Water Heater Use a Tune Up?

Most water heater manufacturers recommend draining & flushing your water heater tank once a year - or every 6 months in hard water areas. This helps remove sediment and minerals that collect on the bottom of the tank.

And it is a pretty good idea to periodically remove any gunge from the tank. This sediment "sludge" can cause a few problems like discoloration of your hot water and a reduction of the efficiency of your heater. The sediment can also react with the chlorine in the water to produce an unhealthy hot water supply.

Tip: Draining your hot water heater tank on a regular basis can save money and improve on the longevity of the tank.

If your hot water heater is old, it might be best not to drain it as this could cause problems with leaking at the drain spigot. Also, if sediment is a serious problem, you might need to consider steps to eliminate sediment from the house water supply.

The following advice comes courtesy of Maytag...

The steps to drain and flush the tank apply to both electric and gas hot water heaters:

1. Turn off the water supply to the heater.
2. Turn off the power to the heater at the main service entrance (circuit breaker or fuse box). Turn off the gas at the main supply line.
3. Place a water bucket or attach a garden hose (if a floor drain is available) to the drain valve of the heater which is positioned at the bottom of the heater. Run the other end of the hose into the floor drain.
4. Turn on a hot water faucet to allow air to replace draining water.
5. Open the drain valve and drain a few gallons of water from the heater tank. If you use a bucket to catch the water, turn off the water at the drain valve while emptying the bucket.
6. Close the drain valve and turn on the water supply while leaving a hot water faucet open. When water starts coming out of the faucet, the tank is full.
7. Repeat, as necessary, until water runs clear.
8. Turn on power/gas supply.

Could you use a visual? There's a video on This Old House website that might help.

If you're still not confident about attempting this yourself - or you just don't have the time - give us a call. We can drain and inspect your water heater for you.

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Winterize Plumbing - even in Sonoma

Last January Sonoma Valley had a cold snap that lasted for awhile. Well, compared to what we're used to here in the Bay Area it seemed like it lasted for awhile...

Anyway, Sonoma might not be Buffalo, but it does get cold enough to freeze - and burst - outside water pipes. Now is a good time to make sure your pipes are protected.

Tip: Always do this before 8 p.m. the night a freeze is forecast. Otherwise Friedman's will be closed, and you'll be running around looking for MacGyver tape and old blankets. It will be cold and dark, and you will get annoyed with yourself. You might even kick the dog. And we can't have any of that.

So before you get all caught up in holiday hoopla, set aside time to assess the state of your outdoor pipes. Check existing insulation and replace any damaged or missing bits. Cover any pipes that haven't yet been insulated. Go ahead and put away your garden hoses for the winter and cover outdoor hose bibbs. There are inexpensive insulated foam covers available that just screw on over the faucet.

If you happen to have a valve that shuts off water to your outside faucets, you can easily shut down all of them at once. Then open the faucets outside to allow any water in the pipe to drip out.

Important: Don't forget your pool or hot tub. While you might very well leave the water in your pool or spa through the winter months, there may be plumbing leading to it that should be insulated. Check it out - just to be sure.

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Friends will be Envious...Dogs will be Sorry...

Garbage disposals - what a great invention, huh? This vintage 1951 General Electric advertisement expresses all the optimism that heralded this great invention - the out-of-sight out-of-mind machine! "Friends will be envious, dogs will be sorry and germ carrying flies will be discouraged."

Garbage disposals are a wonderful convenience (if it's not possible to keep a compost pile at your house), but you do have to be aware that not everything should be stuffed down one.

Never put fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, potato and onion skins, artichoke leaves or asparagus ends in the disposal.

And then there are egg shells. Technically they're not really a problem for the disposal. When they can cause a problem, however, is once they get down in the sewer pipe and combine with grease to form clogs. This can especially be a problem if your system is prone to clogs.

So when grinding eggshells, make it just a few at a time and wash the bits down the drain with plenty of water - and no grease. When you do send grease down the line, make sure you chase it with cold water, which will help to break up and solidify the grease.

Actually, no matter what you're grinding in the disposal, always run a strong flow of cold water through it whenever it's in use, and then for at least 20 seconds after turning it off.

Over time, a film of scum can form in the grinding chamber, causing an unpleasant odor. To freshen your disposal, grind a half lemon or lime while running cold water. Citrus is a natural cleanser. A sprinkling of baking soda will also help to dispel odors. Most important, when it comes to keeping your disposal clean and odor-free, never let food sit in the disposal without running it.

Another tip: Periodically run ice cubes through your disposal. This helps to sharpen and clean the blades.

And one last tip: Never use a liquid drain opener in a clogged disposal. If you do get a jam up, use tongs, pliers or a plunger to remove obstructions.

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

In Case of a Plumbing Emergency...

In case of a plumbing emergency... No, don't scream. Remain calm if possible, and just head for the appropriate shut-off.

You do know where your shut-offs are, don't you?

One of the most important things you can do when it comes to home maintenance is to prepare for a possible plumbing emergency by locating and identifying all the water shut-offs for the house - before a problem arises.

Take the time to take the tour. Armed with a flashlight, masking tape and a magic marker go through the house with anyone who may also have a need to know and identify and mark the main valves. Test them while you're at it to make sure they turn on and off easily without developing a leak. Then you'll be ready (knock on wood) should a pipe spring a leak.

First stop: main water shut-off. The main water shut-off is usually on the pipe as it exits the house on the street side - or under the house in the basement or crawl space. Go ahead and label it "MAIN H2O."

Next stop: water heater. If you do turn off the main valve, a gas hot water tank must be turned down as low as possible. Yours might have a "vacation" setting on the face of the tank. If so, go ahead and set it to vacation. An electric hot water tank can be shut off at the electrical panel. Label it on the panel to help locate the correct switch in a panic. If you have a hot water heating system, check that the boiler has enough water in it to keep from running dry.

Then head for to the kitchen, where you'll want to identify the hot and cold water shut-offs under the sink. Bathrooms also have valves for the sink, as well as the toilet. Look under the fixtures for them. Then there will be a shut-off for the tub/shower, perhaps in a closet on the other side of the wall or possibly under the house or in the basement.

Make sure you label the valves for the washing machine, dishwasher, ice maker, water softener, hot tub - or any other fixture with a water supply. You might be surprised how many there are once you start. Just as long as you're not surprised in an emergency...

When all else fails or time is of the essence, just head for the main shut-off for the house. Hopefully it's easy enough to get to - and you know just where it is.

Questions? Don't hesitate to call us here at Boden Plumbing (707 996 8683) or send an e-mail if you prefer. We're glad to help.

:: Water Heater Breakdown
:: Whole House Water Shut Off

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

About Buying Your Own Plumbing Parts

Terry Boden & Casey Boden
Here at Boden Plumbing it's not unusual for us to get a call from a customer asking us to install some parts they've picked up at a warehouse store or found on the web. People will also ask if they can save money on their service call if they provide their own parts.

We give everyone the same advice - and we've blogged (is that really a word...?) about it before: If you're thinking of doing your own parts shopping, do your research first. (BYO Big Box Parts?)

We noticed that Hohengasser Plumbing in Athol, Massachusetts, has similar advice for their customers. Rather than bore you all by repeating ourselves, we thought we'd borrow from the good people at Hohengasser and reprint the information they provide on their website.

When homeowners need to hire a professional to come make a home repair, they often think they can save money by buying the supplies themselves and paying the professional to do the installation. However, because professional contractors cannot warrant products they do not supply themselves, it can often cost the homeowner more if there is a problem with the part.

Q: Aren't the faucets sold in hardware stores the same faucets plumbers supply?

A: That depends. Some of the faucets sold at warehouse stores are not the same grade. Even the better known name brands make lower grade products with plastic internal parts that some plumbers would never use. There is a difference between a $59 faucet and one that costs $89, even if they look the same. The old adage, "you get what you pay for" is still as true as ever.

Q: How can I determine the quality of products I buy myself in hardware stores?

A: You probably can't because you haven't had a professional plumber's experience from working on hundreds of homes a year, finding which products work best, last longest, and give homeowners the least problems. When you hire a professional to do a job, you are paying for this expertise. This is true with other trades as well; electricians can't warrant fans and fixtures you buy in the hardware store, tile setters know from experience that they can waste a lot of time struggling to set tile the homeowner bought on sale from a discount store because they often are "seconds" which cannot be set straight, a carpenter can't properly hang an odd-ball door. It usually takes more time to try to make an inferior product fit or work properly than to do it right the first time.

Q: Don't manufacturer guarantee their products? Why would I need a plumber to warrant them?

A: Generally, if a part is defective, you call the manufacturer. With a faucet, for example, the manufacturer will tell you to remove the faucet and ship it back to them and they will either send you another faucet or a refund to reimburse you to buy a new one. Either way, you'll still need to pay a plumber to remove it and reinstall the new one. If the manufacturer elects to send you a replacement, you will have to go without a faucet while waiting for them to send you the new one, then pay for a second trip from the plumber. Buying their own water heater, for example, presents an even more expensive risk to homeowners. If that is defective, the manufacturer will send out a representative, usually a local contractor on contract to them, and some people have had to wait for two days to a week without hot water, for this specific contractor to arrive.

We couldn't have said it better ourselves.

Here at Boden Plumbing, because we guarantee the work we do and the parts we use, we prefer to use parts and fixtures that we know through experience our customers can depend on. We want to be confident that problems are rare and that fixtures hold up - and when maintenance and repairs are necessary that parts are readily available.

If you'd like to shop for yourself, give us a call here at the office (707 996 8683), and we can recommend our favorite brands. And rest assured, if you leave if to us, we'll install parts you'll be happy with - we guarantee it.

:: Boden Plumbing website
:: A discussion thread on BYO parts

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

BYO Big Box Parts - or Not?

So the question is: Are the parts you find at the Big Box stores the same - or at least as good as - the parts available through plumbers' supply houses? Is it OK to "buy your own" - or is it smarter to let your plumber use his parts?

It's a good question.

And it depends.

The first thing to do if you spot a deal you can't pass up - or simply want to do your own shopping - is check model numbers. According to the manufacturers, if the model numbers are the same on the parts you are comparing, the parts are the same.

And that's important. Often, to meet the price point for Big Box retailers, manufacturers will replace an internal metal part or fitting with a plastic part. The fixture may look just like what you hope it is, but it's not comparable in terms of quality. So you end up saving money in the short term on something that doesn't hold up in the long term.

Not a good deal.

So check the model numbers. If the fixtures look the same but their numbers differ, you're comparing a store brand to the real thing.

Also, consider warranties and return policies. Does the store you're buying from warranty the item - or will you be going back to the manufacturer if there are any problems or if you need to return or exchange an item?

Are replacement parts available? If the store has made a one-off special purchase of a discontinued line will the parts still be available when it comes time to make a repair? Or maybe the store just doesn't carry parts. Be forewarned, if what you're looking at is an off-brand model, you may be hunting for replacement parts.

So it does depend. Do your research. Check the details.

Here at Boden Plumbing, because we guarantee the work we do and the parts we use, we prefer to use parts and fixtures that we know through experience our customers can depend on. We want to be confident that problems are rare and that fixtures hold up - and when maintenance and repairs are necessary that parts are readily available.

If you'd like to shop for yourself, give us a call here at the office (707 996 8683), and we can recommend our favorite brands. And rest assured, if you leave if to us, we'll install parts you'll be happy with - we guarantee it.

:: Boden Plumbing website
:: A discussion thread on BYO parts

Easy Steps to Saving Water

This post first published earlier in the year, but with summer coming on and a possible water shortage looming for Sonoma Valley, we think it wouldn't be a bad idea to review it one more time.

The importance of efficient use of potable water should be a no brainer, but it's sometimes easy to get distracted by other things. Take a little time now to audit your plumbing system and honestly examine your use of water. There's never a better time to save water.

Reducing unnecessary water use doesn’t just make for good karma, it saves you money on your water bill! But why wait for the summer months – when water usage reaches its peak - to think about saving water? Act now to reduce use. When summertime comes you'll have a better idea of how much water you really use inside - before you turn on the irrigation outside.

First and foremost - stop the leaks
You’d be surprised how much water goes down the drain as a result of leaking faucets and connections or running toilets. If you need the cold hard facts, visit this USGS website to find out just how much one leaky faucet can set back your water budget. Check it out.

Also, it’s a good idea to have a separate shut-off for your irrigation system so that if leaks develop outside – and they often do – you can shut your system down until repairs can be made without affecting the house supply.

Replace your old water-hungry toilet
The toilet is certainly the largest water user inside your house, so take advantage of the Sonoma County Water Agency’s rebate program and replace any old non low flow toilets. The water agency will reimburse Sonoma Valley County Sanitation District customers (sewer customers, not septic users) $150 for each high-efficiency toilet installed in a residence and $260 for each low flow toilet installed in a business – when you are replacing an old non low flow model. Not bad!

...and water-hungry clothes washer
Rebates are also available for installing water efficient clothes washers; check with Valley of the Moon Water District (996-1037) or City of Sonoma (938-3681) for more info on what appliances qualify for rebate. On septic? You may still qualify for the same rebates if you are a Valley of the Moon Water District customer or get your water from the City of Sonoma. Check with your water supplier for details.

Choose appropriate plants
Customers in our service area enjoy a Mediterranean climate, which means hot dry summers. With so many wonderful choices available, there's really no excuse for watering plants adapted to a different climate. Reducing turf area to a sensible minimum and growing plants best suited for your area automatically reduces your irrigation use.

...as long as you follow through and water less, that is
Duh! But you'd be surprised - you might even surprise yourself. Seriously, remember to adjust your watering schedule to match your new heat- and sun-loving landscape. Also, include plenty of hose bibs in your outside set-up for easy hand watering and spot watering.

Would you like more information? Visit www.h2ouse.org for more details on wise water use. Or e-mail us here at Boden Plumbing.