Author Archives: beisplumbing

No one wants to deal with toilet plumbing problems—they’re messy, inconvenient, and can sometimes turn into costly repairs. The good news? Most of these issues are totally avoidable with a little bit of care and attention. 

Whether you’re dealing with clogs, leaks, or sluggish flushing, a few simple habits can keep your toilet running smoothly. Here are seven practical tips to help you avoid common plumbing problems and save yourself from future headaches.

1. Only Flush Toilet Paper

It might sound obvious, but many plumbing problems start with flushing the wrong things down the toilet. Wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, and hygiene products can cause major blockages. Even products labeled as “flushable” can build up over time and lead to clogs.

To keep your toilet plumbing in good shape, stick to flushing only toilet paper, which is designed to break down easily in water.

2. Keep an Eye Out For Leaks

Leaking toilets can waste a lot of water and lead to bigger plumbing problems. Check around the base of your toilet for signs of water, and listen for the sound of running water coming from the tank even when it hasn’t been flushed.

A constantly running toilet can be a sign of internal leaks. If you notice these signs, it’s time to take action before the issue gets worse.

3. Go Easy on the Toilet Paper

Even though toilet paper is safe to flush, using too much at once can cause clogs. Encourage family members and guests to use a reasonable amount of toilet paper per flush. 

If clogs are a recurring issue, consider switching to thinner toilet paper that breaks down more easily in water. This can help reduce the strain on your toilet plumbing.

4. Have a Plunger on Hand for Toilet Plumbing

A plunger is your first line of defense against minor clogs. Every bathroom in your home should have one handy. A quick plunge can often clear a small clog before it becomes a bigger problem. 

Make sure everyone in your household knows how to use the plunger properly to avoid pushing the clog deeper.

5. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

While chemical drain cleaners might seem like a quick fix for clogs, they can actually damage your pipes over time. These harsh chemicals eat away at your plumbing, leading to bigger problems later on.

Instead, try natural methods like hot water and baking soda, or use a plunger. If a clog persists, it’s time to call in a professional.

6. Watch Out for Tree Roots

If your home is older or surrounded by large trees, root systems can sometimes invade your underground pipes, causing blockages that affect your toilet. Keep an eye on your landscaping and be mindful of trees growing near your plumbing lines. 

If you suspect tree roots might be causing issues, a professional plumber can inspect and address the problem.

7. Be Careful with Tank Cleaners

It might seem like a good idea to toss one of those bleach tablets into the tank to keep things clean, but they can actually corrode your toilet’s internal components. Over time, that can lead to leaks and other damage.

Stick to cleaning the bowl with mild cleaners, and leave the tank alone.

Keep Your Toilet Plumbing Problem-Free

By following these simple tips, you can avoid most toilet plumbing headaches and keep your bathroom in top shape. 

If you ever run into a problem you can’t fix on your own, don’t hesitate to contact us at Beis Plumbing for a fast, reliable service you can trust.

Your water heater is easy to take for granted until something goes wrong. Maybe the water’s not as hot as it used to be, or the tank’s making strange noises—these are your water heater’s way of saying, “I need attention!” The good news is that if you catch these signs early, you can avoid a major headache later.

Here are seven clear signals that it’s time for a water heater repair.

1. Running Out of Hot Water

If your hot water keeps running out faster than usual, it may be more than just a busy morning. Sediment can build up in the tank over time, reducing its capacity. Or the heating element could wear down.

Either way, if you’re cutting your showers short because of cold water, it’s time to have your water heater checked.

2. Strange Noises from the Tank

Water heaters are supposed to be quiet, so if yours starts making strange noises—like popping, rumbling, or banging—that’s not a good sign. These sounds are usually caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. When water gets trapped under the sediment, it creates noise as it heats up.

Ignoring this can lead to bigger issues, so it’s best to get it looked at before the problem grows.

3. Rusty or Discolored Water

If you notice rusty or discolored water coming from your hot water tap, it could mean your water heater is corroding from the inside. Rust in your water is unpleasant and a sign that your water heater tanks are deteriorating. 

If left unchecked, it could start leaking, and at that point, a repair—or even replacement—will be necessary.

4. Leaks Around the Water Heater

A puddle around your water heater is never a good thing. Leaks can happen for a number of reasons, like a crack in the tank or a loose valve. Even a small leak can turn into a bigger problem quickly, causing water damage to your home. 

If you notice any water around the base of your heater, don’t wait—call a plumber for a water heater repair before it gets worse.

5. Inconsistent Water Temperatures

Does your water keep switching from hot to lukewarm without warning? That’s not normal. Inconsistent water temperatures could point to a faulty thermostat or heating element. 

If your water heater can’t keep a steady temperature, it’s a good idea to have a professional check it out before it fails completely.

6. Low Water Pressure

If your hot water pressure is weaker than usual, it could be caused by mineral deposits in the water heater. These deposits can clog up the system and reduce the water flow. 

Low pressure is frustrating, but a water heater repair can usually fix this by flushing out the buildup and restoring proper flow.

7. Age

While it’s not immediately obvious, like leaks or strange noises, the age of your water heater matters. Most water heaters last around eight to 12 years. If yours is getting up there in age, you’re more likely to experience breakdowns or inefficiency.

Regular maintenance can help extend its life, but if you’re facing frequent issues, it might be time for a repair or even a replacement.

Keeping Your Water Heater Running Smoothly

If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s better to address the problem sooner rather than later. Tackling issues early can save you from a costly replacement and keep your home’s hot water flowing reliably. 

For expert water heater repair, contact us at Beis Plumbing today. We’ll get your system back in shape and running smoothly in no time.

Tankless water heaters are amazing for supplying your home with on-demand hot water. But just like any other appliance, they need a bit of regular maintenance to stay in top shape. 

Following a few simple tips, you can avoid surprise issues and the hassle of a tankless water heater repair—keeping it running smoothly for years to come.

Here are some easy ways to maintain your tankless water heater.

1. Flush the System Regularly

Mineral buildup is the number one enemy of tankless water heaters. Over time, minerals like calcium can settle in the system, affecting performance and damaging parts. Flushing your tankless water heater every 6 to 12 months (especially if you have hard water) can help prevent this.

Many homeowners can do it themselves with the help of the manufacturer’s instructions, but a plumber can also do the job quickly and safely.

2. Check the Inlet Filter

Your water heater’s inlet filter helps keep debris from entering the unit, but it can get clogged over time. Checking and cleaning this filter periodically is an easy way to keep the system running smoothly.

A clean filter means better water flow and less chance of needing a tankless water heater repair due to blockages.

3. Use a Water Softener if You Have Hard Water

If you live in an area with hard water, your tankless water heater will benefit from a water softener. Hard water leads to more mineral buildup, which can cause efficiency issues and wear down the heater.

Installing a water softener can significantly reduce scaling, helping your water heater last longer and work better.

4. Keep the Vent Area Clear

Tankless water heaters need proper ventilation to work safely. If the air intake or exhaust vents get blocked—by dust, leaves, or even items stored nearby—it can cause the unit to overheat. 

Check your vents regularly to make sure they’re clear, and keep the area around your heater free so it has room to “breathe.”

5. Set a Moderate Temperature

Setting your tankless water heater at a high temperature can put extra stress on the unit. Most manufacturers recommend keeping it around 120°F, which is hot enough for most household needs.

A lower temperature reduces the risk of mineral buildup and general wear, helping prevent tankless water heater repair down the line.

6. Schedule a Yearly Professional Checkup to Avoid Water Heater Repair

You can do a lot to keep your tankless water heater in good shape, but it’s still worth having a professional check it over once a year. A licensed plumber can look for any issues you might miss, clean hard-to-reach spots, and make sure everything’s running smoothly.

This small investment in annual maintenance can go a long way toward preventing big repair bills later.

Keep Your Tankless Water Heater Problem-Free

With just a little attention now and then, you can help your tankless water heater stay in peak condition and avoid the need for repairs. A few simple steps can make all the difference in keeping your system efficient, reliable, and ready for anything.

If you need help with maintenance or think it might be time for a tankless water heater repair, contact us at Beis Plumbing. We’re here to help keep your water heater running smoothly so you can enjoy hot water whenever you need it.

Garbage disposals are incredibly handy, but they’re not indestructible. With a little extra care, you can keep yours running smoothly, avoid the hassle of a garbage disposal repair, and help it last for years to come. 

Just a few simple habits can help keep your disposal in top shape. Here are seven tips to help you prevent common garbage disposal issues.

1. Watch What You Toss In

It’s tempting to toss all sorts of kitchen scraps into the disposal, but not everything belongs there. Fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, and potato peels can get tangled in the blades or turn into a pasty mess that clogs the system.

When in doubt, toss it in the trash instead. Your disposal (and pipes) will thank you.

2. Skip the Grease and Oil

While it may seem harmless, pouring grease or oil down the disposal can lead to some major headaches. Grease solidifies as it cools, sticking to the disposal and pipes and creating blockages that are tough to clean.

Instead, let grease or oil cool in a container, then toss it in the trash. It’s an easy step that can help prevent future problems.

3. Run Cold Water While It’s On

Running cold water while the disposal is on (and for a few seconds after) helps flush everything through the pipes. Cold water solidifies any leftover grease or fat, keeping it from sticking to the blades.

Skipping this step could lead to buildup and, ultimately, costly garbage disposal repairs.

4. Give Your Disposal a Quick Clean

A little regular cleaning can go a long way. Every so often, drop in some ice cubes and a handful of rock salt, then run the disposal with cold water. The ice helps knock off any debris and keeps the blades sharp. For a fresher scent, try grinding up lemon or orange peels. 

Just avoid using chemical cleaners—they can damage the disposal and lead to garbage disposal repair.

5. Break Down Large Scraps

Your garbage disposal isn’t built for large chunks of food. To avoid jamming, cut big scraps into smaller pieces before putting them down the drain. It reduces the strain on the motor and helps keep the disposal running smoothly.

6. Run It Regularly

Even if you don’t use your disposal often, it’s a good idea to run it with cold water every once in a while. It keeps the blades moving freely and prevents rust or corrosion from building up. 

Think of it as a quick maintenance run to keep your disposal in working order.

7. Don’t Overload the Disposal

Feeding too much food into the disposal at once can put a strain on the motor. Instead, add scraps gradually—one handful at a time. Overloading the disposal can cause jams and unnecessary wear on the system, so give it a break and go slowly.

Keep Your Garbage Disposal Running Smoothly

A little care goes a long way in keeping your garbage disposal running like a champ. By following these simple tips, you can avoid the need for garbage disposal repair and enjoy a reliable disposal for years to come.

If you’re dealing with clogs or need expert advice, contact us at Beis Plumbing. We’re here to keep your kitchen in top shape and give you peace of mind.

As temperatures drop, it’s essential to protect your home’s outdoor plumbing. Exposing outdoor fixtures to freezing weather can lead to burst pipes and costly repairs. From faucets to showers and kitchen sinks, a few simple steps now can save you from a big headache later.

Here are five practical tips to winterize outdoor faucets and other outdoor plumbing fixtures, keeping everything safe through the winter.

1. Winterize Outdoor Faucets

Outdoor faucets are one of the first things to winterize since they’re especially vulnerable to freezing. Start by disconnecting any hoses or attachments. Leaving hoses connected can trap water, which can freeze and cause damage.

After disconnecting, turn off the water supply to the faucet from inside your home, then drain any remaining water from the faucet by turning it on. Some faucets have a shut-off valve inside—close that, too. 

Finally, cover the faucet with an insulated faucet cover to provide extra protection from the cold.

2. Drain and Insulate Outdoor Showers

Outdoor showers are a great summer luxury, but they need a little extra care to withstand winter. Begin by shutting off the water supply to the shower. Then, turn on the shower to let any remaining water drain out of the pipes.

If possible, remove the showerhead and store it indoors for added protection. Wrap the exposed pipes with insulation or foam pipe covers to help protect them from freezing temperatures.

3. Prep Your Outdoor Kitchen

If you have an outdoor kitchen, you’ll want to winterize outdoor faucets and sinks to avoid freezing pipes. Start by turning off the water supply to the sink, which is usually done from a shut-off valve inside your home. Then, open the faucet to drain any water left in the lines. 

For extra protection, add pipe insulation around any exposed pipes, especially those near the sink. If your outdoor kitchen has a dishwasher, ice maker, or any other appliances with water lines, follow the same steps for each one to prevent any freeze-related issues.

4. Winterize Outdoor Sprinklers and Irrigation Systems

Outdoor irrigation systems can suffer serious damage from freezing temperatures if not properly winterized. 

Start by turning off the main water supply to the system. Then, use an air compressor to blow out any remaining water from the sprinkler line—this is especially important to prevent leftover water from expanding and cracking the pipes.

Be sure to also drain any backflow preventers and other devices attached to the system. Once everything is dry, cover any exposed valves or controls with insulated covers to protect them from the cold.

5. Don’t Forget Garden Hoses

Leaving garden hoses attached to outdoor faucets can trap water and cause freezing. Disconnect all hoses, drain them completely, and store them in a dry area indoors or in a shed. 

Properly storing your hoses will keep them in good shape and ready for use when warmer weather returns.

Why Winterizing Outdoor Plumbing Matters

Taking the time to winterize outdoor faucets and other outdoor fixtures is a simple way to avoid major problems. A little bit of prep now can save you from expensive repairs later, and it keeps your outdoor plumbing in great shape for the next season.

If you’re not sure where to start or need some extra help, contact us at Beis Plumbing. We’re here to make sure your home is ready for winter so you can enjoy peace of mind all season long!