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Avoid These Common Dishwasher Mistakes

As a homeowner, it’s not uncommon to take your dishwasher for granted. However, it’s important to remember that it needs to be taken care of properly so that it can operate in optimal condition. You might not even realize it, but you’re probably making some of these common mistakes. As a leading plumbing repair specialist and tankless water heater installer, we’re here to tell you what you need to avoid.

Too Much Food

Modern dishwasher models are amazing at removing food residue without the need to prewash your dishes, but that doesn’t mean they won’t encounter issues later on. Dishwashers can slowly develop issues when too much food is consistently left on dishes. While you may not need to prewash your dishes, scraping them off is a necessary step to keep the dishwasher running smoothly.

Forgetting to Replace the Hose

According to Mark McCleary, vice president of marketing for Beko and Bloomberg, it’s important to change inlet and outlet hoses every five years to avoid calcium buildup. You can try to change the hoses on your own, but if you haven’t changed your hoses before, you may need to call a technician who’s certified to do plumbing inspection jobs to make sure your hoses and plumbing haven’t been affected by the accumulated calcium.

Blocking the Sprayer

Knowing how the sprayer in your dishwasher works can be very beneficial. For best results, you want the sprayer to be able to reach every corner of the dishwasher and clean every dish. If there’s a large bowl or pan that blocks the path of the sprayer, the end of the cycle will reveal dirty dishes, making it inefficient. Make sure that your sprayer has a full range of motion and isn’t being blocked.

Avoiding Regular Inspections

If there’s something wrong with your dishwasher, don’t hesitate to take advantage of our services. It’s still necessary to have your dishwasher professionally checked for any sign of loose and damaged valves, as well as its general condition. 

Whether you need someone to inspect your dishwasher or just need a gas leak repair, consider hiring Oak Plumbing. Give us a call at (800) 397-3799 for more information. You can also contact us through our convenient online form. We serve Benicia, Sacramento, Vacaville, and surrounding areas in CA.

The post Avoid These Common Dishwasher Mistakes appeared first on Oak Plumbing.

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Should You Get a Tankless Toilet for Your Home?

A tankless toilet is a popular feature that appeals to many homeowners because of the way it can save space and provide a more sophisticated feel to any kind of bathroom. However, tankless toilets aren’t for everyone and may not work for all homes. As a leading specialist in clogged sewer line repair, we’re here to help you decide whether you should have a tankless toilet in your home. Here’s what you need to consider:

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How Tankless Toilets Work

Homeowners don’t just install tankless toilets for aesthetics. In conventional tank toilets, the tank sits above the bowl to allow gravity to draw down the water in the tank for use when flushing the toilet. The tank then gets re-filled with water for the next flush. Meanwhile, a tankless toilet doesn’t need a tank because it doesn’t need to store water. Instead, it’s hooked up to the building’s plumbing system. When flushed, water either enters the bowl at a high pressure directly from the plumbing pipes or via an electric pump in the toilet bowl that provides additional pressure for the flush.

The Benefits of Tankless Toilets

Ideal for small bathrooms – Because they’re mounted on the wall, tankless toilets are a great space-saving solution for homes with small bathrooms. They can also be installed at any height for custom comfort.

They use less water – Toilets are required to use no more than 1.6 gallons per flush, and some tankless models may use even less. Models with a dual-flush design use as little as 1.28 gallons per flush.

Modern design and customization options – Tankless toilets feature a streamlined design that can instantly update your bathroom. There are also many different customization options available, such as a heated seat, built-in bidet and nightlight.

Tankless Toilets & Their Drawbacks

Installation Requirements – Tankless toilets require specialized installation; your bathroom will probably have to be reconfigured as the supply and waste lines are changed, and there may even be an added water heater replacement cost to accommodate the new system. You also need to have high water pressure to operate the tankless model’s flushing mechanism. Consider the cost of remodeling your bathroom to accommodate the new toilet by getting a professional quote on the total cost of installation.

It’s More Expensive – Tankless toilets usually cost far more than a conventional commode. Due to their high cost, tankless models aren’t ideal for those on a strict budget or who are in need of an emergency toilet replacement. They’re best suited for those who are seeking to upgrade their bathroom’s aesthetic.

Dependent on Electricity – Tankless toilets require electricity to function. While this isn’t a problem on a daily basis, it does mean that your toilet will not function in the event of a power outage.

Whether you need someone to install a tankless toilet or just need to inquire about water heater repair costs, consider hiring Oak Plumbing. Give us a call at (800) 397-3799 for more information. You can also contact us through our convenient online form. We serve Benicia and nearby areas in CA.

The post Should You Get a Tankless Toilet for Your Home? appeared first on Oak Plumbing.

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Should You Get a Tankless Toilet for Your Home?

A tankless toilet is a popular feature that appeals to many homeowners because of the way it can save space and provide a more sophisticated feel to any kind of bathroom. However, tankless toilets aren’t for everyone and may not work for all homes. As a leading specialist in clogged sewer line repair, we’re here to help you decide whether you should have a tankless toilet in your home. Here’s what you need to consider:

                                                    ——————————————– CONTINUE READING ——————————————–

How Tankless Toilets Work

Homeowners don’t just install tankless toilets for aesthetics. In conventional tank toilets, the tank sits above the bowl to allow gravity to draw down the water in the tank for use when flushing the toilet. The tank then gets re-filled with water for the next flush. Meanwhile, a tankless toilet doesn’t need a tank because it doesn’t need to store water. Instead, it’s hooked up to the building’s plumbing system. When flushed, water either enters the bowl at a high pressure directly from the plumbing pipes or via an electric pump in the toilet bowl that provides additional pressure for the flush.

The Benefits of Tankless Toilets

Ideal for small bathrooms – Because they’re mounted on the wall, tankless toilets are a great space-saving solution for homes with small bathrooms. They can also be installed at any height for custom comfort.

They use less water – Toilets are required to use no more than 1.6 gallons per flush, and some tankless models may use even less. Models with a dual-flush design use as little as 1.28 gallons per flush.

Modern design and customization options – Tankless toilets feature a streamlined design that can instantly update your bathroom. There are also many different customization options available, such as a heated seat, built-in bidet and nightlight.

Tankless Toilets & Their Drawbacks

Installation Requirements – Tankless toilets require specialized installation; your bathroom will probably have to be reconfigured as the supply and waste lines are changed, and there may even be an added water heater replacement cost to accommodate the new system. You also need to have high water pressure to operate the tankless model’s flushing mechanism. Consider the cost of remodeling your bathroom to accommodate the new toilet by getting a professional quote on the total cost of installation.

It’s More Expensive – Tankless toilets usually cost far more than a conventional commode. Due to their high cost, tankless models aren’t ideal for those on a strict budget or who are in need of an emergency toilet replacement. They’re best suited for those who are seeking to upgrade their bathroom’s aesthetic.

Dependent on Electricity – Tankless toilets require electricity to function. While this isn’t a problem on a daily basis, it does mean that your toilet will not function in the event of a power outage.

Whether you need someone to install a tankless toilet or just need to inquire about water heater repair costs, consider hiring Oak Plumbing. Give us a call at (800) 397-3799 for more information. You can also contact us through our convenient online form. We serve Benicia and nearby areas in CA.

The post Should You Get a Tankless Toilet for Your Home? appeared first on Oak Plumbing.

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How to Get Rid of Drain Flies In Your Home

If you ever notice small, fuzzy insects buzzing around your drains, these are probably drain flies. Measuring  from two to five millimeters, or about one-eighth of an inch, drain flies tend to congregate around standing water. They’re also known as moth flies, sewer flies and filter flies. They’re usually gray or taupe in color, with small, rounded wings that make them hop rather than fly. Having these breeding in and around your sink can be a nuisance, especially in large quantities. Luckily, as a reputable pipe and sewer line repair company, we’re here to help you understand what drain flies are and how you can get rid of them for good. 

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  What Causes Drain Flies?

  Stagnant, shallow water, especially near sources of food or bacteria like sinks and showers, can attract drain flies. They often favor areas that have been left untouched for a while or are generally used infrequently. This can include a seldom-used basement, a workshop sink or even your kitchen sink after returning from a long vacation or time away from home. Unlike fruit flies, which thrive on fruits and vegetables, drain flies thrive on moisture and organic debris. Sometimes, they can even pop up in a seemingly clean area.

Are Drain Flies Harmful?

  Contrary to what their name suggests, drain flies actually don’t “fly” very well, but rather travel by little hops and jumps from surface to surface. They’re also not harmful since they don’t transmit human disease, but their presence is still a sign that your kitchen needs a deep clean by a professional  plumbing repair company. Drain flies can live for up to three weeks, and new eggs can hatch every 48 hours, so as with all potential insect problems, you should address this issue immediately.

  How Do You Get Rid of Drain Flies?

  With careful attention and regular cleaning, most drain fly problems can be resolved within a week. We recommend you start by cleaning the sink with your usual cleaning solution and using a pipe brush to thoroughly scrub in and around the drain. The simplest fix can be as easy as pouring a medium-sized pot of boiling water down the drain once or twice a week. 

  Another solution involves baking soda, where you combine 1/2 cup of salt with 1/2 cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar, then pour it down the drain. Leave it overnight, and pour boiling water down the drain in the morning. However, if none of these methods seem to work and you still have traces of drain flies around your affected areas, then you may need to call a trusted local professional plumber.

  Whether you have drain fly problems in your home or just need a pipe leak repair, consider hiring Oak Plumbing. Give us a call at (800) 397-3799 for more information. You can also contact us through our convenient online form. We serve Sacramento, Vacaville, and neighboring  areas i n CA 

The post How to Get Rid of Drain Flies In Your Home appeared first on Oak Plumbing.

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Getting the Right Temperature for Your Shower

Being able to ake a relaxing shower is important, but  your daily shower routine may often start with a three-minute battle with your faucet as you search for just the right water temperature. If you’re wondering why you’re struggling with this issue daily, you should know that it’s partially due to the type of shower mixing valve you have. Chances are you’re using a pressure-balancing mixing valve. As a trusted local plumbing expert, we recommend switching to a thermostatic mixing valve. To understand why, let’s take a closer look by comparing these valves and how they operate differently.

How a Pressure-Balance Valve Works

A pressure-balance valve features just one handle controlling both volume and temperature, as well as a dial or set-screw that sets the stop-point for the handle. The pressure is balanced by either a sliding disc on a piston or a spool that reacts to changes and maintains the pressure ratio. 

For instance, when you flush the toilet while someone is rinsing, cold water is sent to the toilet tank, reducing the cold water pressure arriving at the shower valve. The mechanism inside the pressure-balance valve will move to reduce (or cut off) the hot water, which maintains the balance between hot and cold flows.

Keep in mind that a pressure-balance valve doesn’t exactly pay attention to temperature, so with the valve set at maximum temperature and the handle turned all the way to “hot”, the water coming out of the shower will be as hot as the water heater has to offer or even higher.

  How a Thermostatic Valve Works

A thermostatic valve has two controllable handles: one for the volume, and one for the water temperature. This is because thermostatic valves react to the temperature, not the pressure of the water. With this valve, you can change the flow volume without affecting the temperature, which makes showering much more convenient. This means you can easily turn down the flow while shampooing or shaving. This is possible due to a wax element inside the valve that expands or contracts in reaction to heat. 

When water exceeds the maximum set temperature, the wax element expands to reduce the flow of hot water and allow more cold water into the mix. Should either the supply of hot or cold water fail, the valve will automatically close off flow from the other side. 

Why You Should Switch to a Thermostatic Mixing Valve 

The advantage with thermostatic valves is that you get to directly control the output temperature of the water. While your water heater can be set to 140° F to protect against bacterial contamination, the water coming out of your shower head can always be 100° F or any other safe temperature you choose, provided a maximum output temperature is set on the valve. When properly installed by the best plumber in your area, a thermostatic mixing valve can also provide you these benefits:

Direct control of water flow –   Having direct control over the water flow means you can increase or decrease it to your liking. This option allows homeowners to conserve water as well while shampooing or soaping up. This is much better than a pressure-balancing valve, which doesn’t offer any control over water flow.

Consistent Water Pressure –  Since a thermostatic valve controls the water flow, it also prevents a drop in water pressure when other water-using appliances are in use while you’re showering, such as the toilet.

When it comes to installing a new thermostatic mixing valve or scheduling a leaking kitchen faucet repair, consider hiring Oak Plumbing. Give us a call at (800) 397-3799 for more information. You can also contact us through this convenient online form. We serve Vacaville, Benicia, and surrounding areas in CA.

The post Getting the Right Temperature for Your Shower appeared first on Oak Plumbing.

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Getting the Right Temperature for Your Shower

Being able to ake a relaxing shower is important, but  your daily shower routine may often start with a three-minute battle with your faucet as you search for just the right water temperature. If you’re wondering why you’re struggling with this issue daily, you should know that it’s partially due to the type of shower mixing valve you have. Chances are you’re using a pressure-balancing mixing valve. As a trusted local plumbing expert, we recommend switching to a thermostatic mixing valve. To understand why, let’s take a closer look by comparing these valves and how they operate differently.

How a Pressure-Balance Valve Works

A pressure-balance valve features just one handle controlling both volume and temperature, as well as a dial or set-screw that sets the stop-point for the handle. The pressure is balanced by either a sliding disc on a piston or a spool that reacts to changes and maintains the pressure ratio. 

For instance, when you flush the toilet while someone is rinsing, cold water is sent to the toilet tank, reducing the cold water pressure arriving at the shower valve. The mechanism inside the pressure-balance valve will move to reduce (or cut off) the hot water, which maintains the balance between hot and cold flows.

Keep in mind that a pressure-balance valve doesn’t exactly pay attention to temperature, so with the valve set at maximum temperature and the handle turned all the way to “hot”, the water coming out of the shower will be as hot as the water heater has to offer or even higher.

  How a Thermostatic Valve Works

A thermostatic valve has two controllable handles: one for the volume, and one for the water temperature. This is because thermostatic valves react to the temperature, not the pressure of the water. With this valve, you can change the flow volume without affecting the temperature, which makes showering much more convenient. This means you can easily turn down the flow while shampooing or shaving. This is possible due to a wax element inside the valve that expands or contracts in reaction to heat. 

When water exceeds the maximum set temperature, the wax element expands to reduce the flow of hot water and allow more cold water into the mix. Should either the supply of hot or cold water fail, the valve will automatically close off flow from the other side. 

Why You Should Switch to a Thermostatic Mixing Valve 

The advantage with thermostatic valves is that you get to directly control the output temperature of the water. While your water heater can be set to 140° F to protect against bacterial contamination, the water coming out of your shower head can always be 100° F or any other safe temperature you choose, provided a maximum output temperature is set on the valve. When properly installed by the best plumber in your area, a thermostatic mixing valve can also provide you these benefits:

Direct control of water flow –   Having direct control over the water flow means you can increase or decrease it to your liking. This option allows homeowners to conserve water as well while shampooing or soaping up. This is much better than a pressure-balancing valve, which doesn’t offer any control over water flow.

Consistent Water Pressure –  Since a thermostatic valve controls the water flow, it also prevents a drop in water pressure when other water-using appliances are in use while you’re showering, such as the toilet.

When it comes to installing a new thermostatic mixing valve or scheduling a leaking kitchen faucet repair, consider hiring Oak Plumbing. Give us a call at (800) 397-3799 for more information. You can also contact us through this convenient online form. We serve Vacaville, Benicia, and surrounding areas in CA.

The post Getting the Right Temperature for Your Shower appeared first on Oak Plumbing.

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4 Items That Should Never Go Down Your Garbage Disposal

A garbage disposal is a very convenient appliance to have in your home. After all, with it you can easily grind up food scraps instead of throwing them away. However, while you can dump a lot of food items down the drain, such as citrus rinds and meat scraps, plumbing inspection pros say that there are four food items you should never put down the garbage disposal:

  Bones – When you throw bones into your garbage disposal, you’d better be prepared to handle blocked pipes under your sink. This is because a garbage disposal can’t break down bones. As a result, they stay down in the drain pipes, on the off-chance they even managed to make it past the blades.

  Coffee Grounds & Egg Shells – Don’t be fooled by their small appearance; according to experts, if you drop coffee grinds or egg shells down your garbage disposal, they can cause a significant problem for your pipes, as these small particles don’t break down easily. This can cause them to become lodged in areas where they’ll eventually cause blockage and restricted water flow.

  Grease – As much as possible, avoid disposing of grease down your garbage disposal. This is because, according to plumbing pros, it will solidify quickly, creating blockages in your pipes that can restrict water flow, cause your sink to back up or both. To get rid of grease, simply pour it into a tin can and allow it to solidify before throwing it in the garbage. If your pipes are already blocked by solidified grease, however, consider calling a professional like the plumbing and gas leak repair experts at Oak Plumbing to rectify this issue.

  Potato Peels, Rice & Pasta –  In addition to oil and coffee grounds, avoid throwing starchy foods down your garbage disposal as well. This is because these items may start decomposing and turning into mush, which can create problems for your sink as a result.

  If you want to keep your home’s plumbing system in top shape, look no further than Oak Plumbing. If you’re in need of a plumbing expert or a tankless water heater installer, we’re the number one service provider to approach, and we won’t let you down! Give us a call at (707) 448-3567 or (800) 397-3799. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an evaluation. We serve homeowners in Sacramento, Benicia, Vacaville, and other nearby areas in CA.

The post 4 Items That Should Never Go Down Your Garbage Disposal appeared first on Oak Plumbing.

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4 Tips That Can Help You Find Your Main Shut-Off Valve

Locating the main shut-off valve of your home can be somewhat tricky. However, as the homeowner, it’s important that you know where it’s located. That way, if anything happens to your plumbing, you can shut it off immediately and prevent leaks that can cost you a significant amount in the long run. But how exactly does one find the main shut-off valve in their home?

In this article, Oak Plumbing, the pros who offer reasonable water heater replacement costs, lists four tips that can help you find your home’s main shut-off valve.

Check Your Home’s Outdoor Area – When looking for your home’s main shut-off valve, experts say the general rule of thumb is that you should check along your home’s outdoor area. This is because main shut-off valves are rarely placed inside your home, making it more likely for them to be located outside.

Don’t Check the Upper Levels – In addition to rarely being located inside, avoid wasting your time by checking the upper levels, as it’s also unlikely for the main shut-off valve to be placed there.

Check the Inspection Report – When you purchase your home, it usually comes with an inspection report that lists everything there is in your home. Often, this includes the location of your main shut-off valve. With this in mind, if you still have it, plumbers and clogged sewer line repair experts recommend that you consider checking the inspection report of your home to save yourself some time when searching for it.

Follow Your Main Water Line – On the other hand, if you no longer have the inspection report, follow the main water line of your home, as this is the quickest way of finding where your shut-off valve is located in your property.

If you’re looking for an expert plumber who offers reasonable water heater repair costs, don’t hesitate to turn to Oak Plumbing, the leading experts to approach when it comes to residential plumbing and plumbing repair services. Give us a call at (800) 397-3799 or fill out our contact form to schedule an evaluation. We serve homeowners in Benicia, CA, and other nearby areas.

The post 4 Tips That Can Help You Find Your Main Shut-Off Valve appeared first on Oak Plumbing.

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Toilet Cleaning Tablets: Why They’re Bad for Your Toilet

Cleaning your toilet can be a time-consuming, back-breaking task that most homeowners wish they could avoid. Therefore, it’s understandable that some homeowners are constantly on the lookout for easier ways to clean their toilets. One method that’s widely used is dropping bleach tablets in the toilet’s water tank. However, while they are incredibly convenient, pipe leak repair experts say that doing so can actually be detrimental to your toilet.

Here’s why.

Leaking Toilets

Believe it or not, bleach tablets dropped into your toilet can cause it to leak. This is because these tablets are caustic and can break down your toilets’ weaker materials over time. For instance, since the bolts and rubber gaskets that hold your toilet together aren’t very robust, bleach cleaning tablets can easily cause them to degrade, resulting in a leaky toilet. Once this happens, the only way you can stop the leaks from continuing is by completely replacing the toilet’s components.

For assistance in repairing your leaky toilet, don’t hesitate to turn to expert plumbing repair company, Oak Plumbing.

Blocked Pipes

Another reason why toilet cleaning tablets are detrimental to your toilet is because they can block the pipes, especially if you use cheaper ones that break apart instead of dissolving in water. Should a piece of the tablet break off, tiny passages in your toilet can easily suck it in, causing a blockage that inhibits water flow. At this point. you may notice that it’s harder to flush your toilet, or it might be slow to fill again after flushing.

Do you need someone who can help you keep your home’s plumbing system in top shape? If so, look no further than Oak Plumbing. When it comes to sewer line repair and residential plumbing projects, we’re the number one service provider to approach, and you can count on us! Give us a call at (707) 448-3567 or fill out our contact form to schedule an evaluation. We serve homeowners in Sacramento, Vacaville, and other nearby areas in CA.

The post Toilet Cleaning Tablets: Why They’re Bad for Your Toilet appeared first on Oak Plumbing.

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Low Water Pressure & What You Can Do About It

Low water pressure is an issue that can be pretty frustrating for homeowners to deal with. Usually, this problem becomes apparent when your tub is taking forever to fill, the showerhead isn’t spraying the way it should or your dishwasher is taking much longer to run a cycle than usual. With that in mind, it’s understandable to want this issue rectified immediately. Thankfully, with the help of plumbing experts, this can be done.

Here’s what you can do about low water pressure.

What to Do About Low Water Pressure

When your home is suffering from low water pressure, avoid trying to fix the issue on your own, especially if the problem isn’t contained to one fixture. Otherwise, you may make a mistake that can make the issue worse. Therefore, if your home is suffering from low water pressure, call a plumber to look into the problem immediately so they can determine the causes of the problem. Depending on the cause for the weak water pressure, the issue could be fixed immediately without costing you much, or it may take a day or two to fix and end up costing you a significant amount.

To fix your issue with low water pressure, make your search for the best plumber easier by turning to Oak Plumbing.

How to Prevent Low Water Pressure

On the other hand, if you want to avoid low water pressure in the future, there’s only one way to do so, and that’s by keeping your plumbing in good condition. To accomplish this, you can call a plumber to perform regular maintenance checks on your home’s plumbing system. That way, your pipes will remain in top shape, which will help prevent clogs that can hinder your water pressure.

Are you dealing with plumbing issues? If so, simply turn to Oak Plumbing. When it comes to gas line and leaking kitchen faucet repair projects, we’re the leading service provider to approach, and you can count on us! Give us a call at (707) 448-3567 or (800) 397-3799, or fill out our contact form to schedule an evaluation. We serve homeowners in Vacaville, Benicia, and other nearby areas in CA.

The post Low Water Pressure & What You Can Do About It appeared first on Oak Plumbing.

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How to Spring Clean Your Plumbing System

A  plumbing system that performs well doesn’t happen by magic–it takes regular inspections and upkeep to keep it in top form all year ’round. And with spring already here, inow is the perfect time to get some cleanup and maintenance tasks done. Oak Plumbing, the leading tankless water heater installer in the area, shares how to go about this properly below.

  Take a quick look outside your home. Make sure to check areas of natural drainage for the buildup of  leaves and debris and clear ihem if necessary. To prevent excessive erosion to the flow line, add small rocks to it. It pays to fortify these drainage areas so they don’t erode in a sudden downpour. You should also examine your yard drains to ensure they remain open and allow for a smoother flow. If you can get up to the roof, inspect the gutters and plumbing vent pipes for any blockages.

Look for signs of a plumbing leak. Spring is the best time to conduct a routine check of pipes both inside and outside your home. Are there faucets that still drip even when closed? To better determine if there’s a leak somewhere in your plumbing system, turn off the water supply for a little bit and make sure no automatic water systems are engaged. Look at your water meter–if the low flow indicator is still spinning, then you’re losing water due to leakage. In this case, you need to call us up at Oak Plumbing for a comprehensive plumbing inspection and the necessary repair solutions.

Check your appliances. Are your toilets flushing properly? If it sounds like water is always running in your toilet, it might be time to replace worn-out tank components. Remove the items stored under your bathroom and kitchen sinks and inspect the area for leaks around the drains and water lines. You should also examine the line that runs from the dishwasher into the garbage disposal to determine if there’s leakage. If overlooked, a leak here could damage your home’s flooring.

Clean your drains. Clogged or not, your drains should be cleaned regularly as a preventive measure. Get a drain snake to clear any debris or use a bacterial drain cleaner. 

You can count on Oak Plumbing for all your spring plumbing maintenance needs. whether you need a gas leak repair or blockage removal. We ensure a safe, smooth process, from start to finish when you choose us to handle the job. We serve areas in and around Benicia, Vacaville, and Sacramento, CA. Call us today at (707) 448-3567 or fill out this contact form to schedule your evaluation.

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Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Plumbing Issues?

Homeowners insurance works to protect your home and valuables against extensive damage. While it typically covers water damage caused by a major weather event, will it provide the same coverage for damage caused by plumbing issues? Oak Plumbing, the premier expert in clogged sewer line repair in your area, discusses more here.

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  It Depends on the Cause of the Plumbing Issue

Water damage caused by a faulty plumbing system could be covered by homeowner’s insurance if the problem was abrupt and not something that evolved over time. If a network of pipes in your home has suddenly burst, for instance, you may be reimbursed for replacement pipes, tanks and valves. Homeowners insurance may even cover the expense of wall repairs if your local plumbing company has to remove a section of the wall to access the damaged pipes. 

You should look closely at your policy, as there are a number of clauses there that may cover repair work and residual damage due to a burst pipe. Dwelling coverage, for example, may cover water heater replacement costs, ceiling repairs, built-in appliances and plumbing. Personal property coverage, meanwhile, may provide reimbursement for valuables damaged in the accident. There’s also personal liability coverage, which may cover you if the plumbing accident has damaged your neighbor’s property and you’re held accountable for repairs.

When Plumbing Damage Isn’t Covered by Homeowners Insurance

What’s not covered is property damage instigated by a gradual plumbing leak, a backed-up sewage system or corrosion in the pipes. Basically, your homeowners insurance will only cover you if the plumbing issue isn’t caused by a lack of maintenance. That’s why it pays to have your plumbing system checked regularly by a professional. And should you notice any issues, like a small pipe leaking, have it dealt with immediately.

You can trust Oak Plumbing for this. We’re the area’s go-to choice for the highest quality residential plumbing solutions. With our top-tier services and experienced, highly skilled crew, we’ll make sure your plumbing system is always performing at its best. We also offer flexible, reasonable rates so you won’t have to worry as much about water heater repair costs. 

Expect only superior workmanship that leaves no room for mistakes when you turn to Oak Plumbing to handle your plumbing needs. We proudly serve Benicia, CA, and nearby cities. Call us today at (707) 448-3567 or fill out this contact form to schedule your evaluation.

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What You Should Know About Resin Beads

Have you started noticing yellow or orange beads in your plumbing system? These typically appear in the toilet, sink or bathtub–but don’t worry, they’re not harmful or toxic. if not dealt with promptly, what they can do is clog the smaller passages in your fixtures and appliances. Here Oak Plumbing, the experts in leaking kitchen faucet repair and other plumbing services, discuss resin beads and how to get rid of them.

  What are resin beads?

Resin beads are microporous aluminosilicate minerals in the form of yellow and orange beads, also called zeolites, that are used to purify water. They’re found in the brine tank of your water softener. A membrane or screen holds these resin beads inside the unit, but there are cases where you could find them inside your pipes or in your cold water faucet filter. 

Why are they appearing in your plumbing system?

The most common reason for finding resin beads in your plumbing system is that the water softener screen has failed because it’s torn or eroded, leaving the resin beads free to move through your plumbing. Another reason could be that your water heater’s plastic intake tube has dissolved, though this is more often seen with older water heaters. If your existing water heating system has already gone beyond its life expectancy, then you’re due for an upgrade! You can count on Oak Plumbing, your trusted plumbing experts in the area, for high-quality tankless water heaters that ensure reliable energy-saving performance.

How do you remove resin beads from your plumbing?

You’ll know the membrane holding the resin beads is already broken when your faucets start having low water pressure. You can prevent additional beads from moving through your plumbing system by engaging “bypass mode” on your water softener. This means water will no longer pass through the unit, ensuring that the beads will remain safely inside. Avoid running any water, especially hot water, while this is going on,  because the beads will then leak into the water heater–which is another problem altogether.

As with most plumbing issues, it’s best to have clogs caused by resin beads addressed by professionals like those at Oak Plumbing. As the best plumbers in the area, we’ll make sure your water softener is repaired promptly and efficiently. We’ll also thoroughly flush the resin beads out of your pipes so they don’t cause congestion, then expertly clean and replace the beads in your water softener.

Look no further than Oak Plumbing for the highest quality solutions to your plumbing problems. We proudly serve Vacaville and Benicia, CA, along with the surrounding areas. Call us today at (707) 448-3567 or fill out this contact form to schedule your evaluation.

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Water Hammer and Resonance: Essentials You Should Know

Have you noticed a strange, unpleasant sound when you flush the toilet? Or perhaps there’s a loud banging noise when you turn off the shower? Odd noises coming from your plumbing system may indicate damage to its components, so it’s important to deal with them promptly. Here Oak Plumbing, an expert in pipe leak repair in the area, discusses two potential causes of these noises–water hammer and resonance–along with effective ways to handle them.

  Water Hammer

When water suddenly has no place to go, its momentum can exert enough force to push the valve open briefly. The loud banging sound that comes from your pipes after the fill valve has been shut off is known as water hammer. This can also cause rattling in the pipes, which then make the knocking noises you hear. Water hammer shouldn’t be considered a common occurrence in plumbing systems because the shock wave it creates can damage pipes and fittings, resulting in leakage.

How to Deal with Water Hammer. Shock absorbers are typically included in the plumbing system to reduce the force exerted by the water’s momentum. If yours doesn’t have them, you can shut off the water supply of your home at the water main, flush all the toilets and let the water drain from the faucets, then turn the water supply on again after about half an hour. You can also reduce the flow from shut off valves. If none of these options work, you can call your trusted plumbing repair company, Oak Plumbing, for the necessary solutions.

Water Resonance

The velocity of water passing through your pipes can cause them to resonate, shaking them enough to create a rapid banging noise. This usually happens during the fill process, like when you flush a toilet. Does the valve on the left side of your toilet tank have a floating cap? When this cap rises, the valve will close, altering the speed of the water. The vibration caused by the water flow will affect the resonance frequency of the pipes, allowing for that unpleasant noise.

Sewer line repair–we can also handle a variety of other plumbing issues in your home.

Expect only fast and effective plumbing solutions when you turn to Oak Plumbing. We serve the areas in and around Sacramento and Vacaville, CA. Call us today at (707) 448-3567 or fill out this contact form to schedule your evaluation.

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Is It Okay to Flush Cat Litter Down the Toilet?

Many cat owners dispose of cat litter by flushing it down the toilet. In this blog, local tankless water heater installer Oak Plumbing discusses why getting rid of cat litter in his way isn’t a good idea, as well as the best ways to properly dispose of it.

Flushable Litter

Most types of cat litters are made with clay. Some of them are designed to form clumps as they get wet, which makes it easier to scoop them out. Clay-based cat litter is disposed of in plastic bags and sent to landfills, as it doesn’t decompose easily. Flushable litter is offered as an alternative to clay-based cat litter and is typically made of by-products from corn, wood or pine. They tend to be more absorbent, which helps reduce odors naturally.

While flushable litter poses less of a clogging risk as  compared to clay-based litter, it’s generally still not a good idea to flush it, especially if you dispose of cat litter as often as once a day. Clumps can result in clogs, especially if you don’t break them down before flushing them, and can introduce parasites into the waterways. Certain types of toilets also aren’t designed to flush anything denser than toilet paper, and doing so may result in an unscheduled appointment with a plumbing inspection contractor.

Proper Disposal of Cat Litter 

Here are some of the many types of cat litter and the proper ways to dispose of them:

Clay Clumping Litter — Wear a particulate mask as you clean to avoid inhaling dust from the litter box. Use a litter scooper to carefully scoop the litter into a bag, avoiding dispersing dust into the air. Clean your scoop with bleach or disinfectant after each use and make sure the bag is tied properly before placing it in an outdoor trash container.

Silica Clumping Litter — Silica litter is similar in composition to sand and glass and shouldn’t be inhaled. Dispose of it in the same way as you would clay litter.

Recycled Newspaper Cat Litter — Cat litter made from recycled newspaper is sometimes advertised as “flushable,” but it doesn’t break apart as easily as toilet paper. Instead of flushing it, dispose of it in the same way as clay and silica litter.

Wheat and Corn Litter — Both of these types of litter are flushable and don’t clump as much as other options. Be careful not to scatter particles as you dispose of it.

Pine Litter — Pine litter is the most suitable option for flushing. It’s not as absorbent as clay-based litter, which means you’ll need to clean the litter box more often.

Oak Plumbing is your leading provider of plumbing services, including gas leak repair. Give us a call at (707) 448-3567 or (800) 397-3799, or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Benicia, Sacramento, and Vacaville, CA.

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What Should You Do About Sediment In the Water Heater Tank?

Sediment buildup is a common problem amongst homeowners who own water heater tanks. It accumulates over time, which can cause you to incur high water heater repair costs if not fixed as early as possible. In this blog, Oak Plumbing shares a look at the causes of this issue and what can be done to fix it.

Causes

Water heater sediment is composed of minerals that are naturally present in the water. Water with high mineral levels is known as hard water, which when used for bathing prevents soap and detergent from forming suds. These minerals are separated from the water when heated, along with substances that don’t dissolve in water, where they then collect at the bottom of the tank.

The presence of sediment in the water tank makes it take longer for the water to heat up, which can prevent it from being fully heated. Sediment  can also cause discoloration, and may even make the water smell bad. You might also hear popping or rumbling noises coming from the tank.

Effects

Sediment reduces the water heater’s heating capabilities. In addition to increasing its heating requirements—increasing energy consumption and the risk of overheating—it also makes the water temperature favorable to bacterial growth. If the water has an odor, this means it’s already contaminated. Sediment may also clog the drain valve, which can make it difficult to clean the tank. This can result in unplanned repairs that may cost more than a clogged sewer line repair.

How Sediment Is Removed

If you notice any of the signs described above, call a plumbing professional to flush out your hot water tank. While the bulk of the process does involve draining the water tank, it’s not as simple as it sounds. For one thing, every precaution must be taken to prevent flooding, as flush valves and other components that may have been damaged by accumulated sediment or overheating can cause flooding. Professional plumbing companies have the tools, experience and know-how to make sure the cleaning process is completed as quickly and uneventfully as possible.

Have you been searching online for information on water heater replacement costs and other plumbing services? If so, call Oak Plumbing at (707) 448-3567 or (800) 397-3799, or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Benicia, CA, and nearby areas.

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Essential Natural Gas Safety Tips

Natural gas only generates carbon dioxide, water vapor and small amounts of nitrogen oxide when burned, making it the cleanest fossil fuel in the world. It can be used in furnaces, stoves, clothes dryers and fireplaces. With proper use, it’s a safe option for heating your home and powering your appliances. ——————————————– CONTINUE READING ——————————————–Here are some important natural gas safety tips from a trusted tankless water heater installer. Inspect Appliances RegularlyRoutinely inspecting appliances that use gas can help detect and prevent gas leaks. Most of these appliances have a pilot light, which you also need to check. If the appliance has one, the flame should be small and blue with a yellow tip.Know the Signs of a Natural Gas LeakNormally, natural gas is odorless and colorless. However, to make leaks easier to detect, manufacturers include chemicals called odorants to create a smell similar to sulfur or rotten eggs. The stronger the smell, the higher the chances that you have a gas leak. Other signs of a natural gas leak include hissing sounds, air bubbles outside the house and dying plants. Those who breathe in natural gas can experience headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea and difficulty breathing. Contact a local gas leak repair expert if you suspect you have a gas leak. Install Natural Gas and Carbon Monoxide DetectorsSlow gas leaks may not produce enough of a scent for you to detect them. Those with a reduced sense of smell may also not be able to detect a gas leak. This is why it’s recommended that you have a natural gas detector at home. For your safety, it’s also a great idea to invest in a carbon monoxide detector, though it doesn’t detect natural gas leaks. Whether you need a gas leak repair or wish to perform gas leak detection, Oak Plumbing is here to help. We also offer plumbing inspections, leak repair and drain cleaning services. Call us at (707) 200-7594 (Solano County or (800) 397-3799 (Benicia). You may also complete our contact form to learn more about our services. We work with homeowners in Vacaville, Sacramento, and Benicia, CA. 

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