* More outdoor fun means more dirty clothes. Be sure to check your washing machine hoses for bulges, leaks or cracks and be sure to remove drier lint regularly. Also, move your machine at least four inches from the wall to prevent hose kinking and damage, and never leave your home while the washer is running. Remember—washing machine hoses should be replaced approximately every three years.
* Be careful what you put down your kitchen disposal after your cookout. Most are not equipped to handle corn husks, celery, banana peels and other fibrous or “stringy” foods. Some other items to stay away from are fats or cooking oils because they form clots in the pipes. Run cold water at full pressure for 15 seconds before and after you put anything down the disposal to flush it through. Never put instant stuffing, potato mixes or similar “just add water” foods down the drain—they’ll create an instant clog when you add water.
* Sewer line backups are common this time of year due to summer rainwater entering the sewer lines via cracks. New tree root growth from the spring can also cause sewer backup issues as roots are drawn toward the sewer line as a source of water. Have a licensed plumber inspect your sewer pipes if you are susceptible to sewer line backup or if damage has already occured. Your Plumber can help you determine the best option for cleaning or replacement.
* Never flush sanitary napkins or baby wipes down the toilet, this also goes for the new cleaning wipes that are out on the market today. These expand or get caught on scaling pipes and cause clogs. Dispose of them in the garbage.
* NEVER adjust the temperature setting on an electric water heater yourself, you could be seriously injured or killed. Call a qualified technician
By the Hour vs. By the Job
* Allentown Plumbing and Heating charges by the hour not by the job, although we can give an up front price for you in some cases.
* Make sure your plumber is looking out for your best interests and not their profit margin. Why pay for 3 hours just because some book said that’s how long it should take, if the job takes two hours that’s what you should pay NO MORE, NO LESS!
* Only hire a licensed and insured plumber, they should be registered with the State of Pennsylvania and have a PA Home Improvement Contractors Number.
* Did you know, if you don’t hire a licensed and insured Contractor and the person gets hurt or something happens to your property, your insurance company does not have to pay on the claim.
