Categories Plumber

The Surprising Benefits of a Water Softener You’ll Love

benefits of a water softener

If you’ve ever dealt with hard water, you know the frustration of mineral buildup, soap scum, and dull laundry. The benefits of a water softener go far beyond just softer water—they can improve your home’s plumbing, appliances, and even your skin. Beis Plumbing, serving the St. Louis area, explains the top benefits of a water softener and why it’s a smart investment for homeowners.

What Is a Water Softener?

A water softener is a device that removes minerals like calcium and magnesium from your water supply. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, about 85% of U.S. homes have hard water, making water softeners a popular solution.

  • Reduces mineral buildup in pipes and appliances
  • Improves soap and detergent effectiveness
  • Prevents scale on fixtures and glassware
  • Extends the life of water-using appliances

Key Benefits of a Water Softener

The benefits of a water softener are both immediate and long-term. According to ENERGY STAR, water heaters with less scale buildup operate up to 30% more efficiently.

  • Softer skin and hair after bathing
  • Cleaner dishes and brighter laundry
  • Lower energy bills due to more efficient appliances
  • Reduced need for cleaning products

How a Water Softener Protects Your Plumbing

Hard water can cause scale buildup inside pipes, leading to reduced water flow and costly repairs. The benefits of a water softener include:

  • Preventing clogs and corrosion in pipes
  • Reducing the risk of leaks and water damage
  • Maintaining optimal water pressure

For more information on water treatment solutions, visit Beis Plumbing’s Water Filtration Services page.

Is a Water Softener Right for You?

If you notice spots on your dishes, stiff laundry, or dry skin, you may benefit from a water softener to address hard water issues in your home. Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium that cause these common household problems and can also lead to scale buildup in your pipes and appliances. A water softener removes these minerals through an ion exchange process, resulting in softer water that’s gentler on your skin, clothes, and dishes. 

The right system can also extend the life of your water heater and other appliances by preventing mineral deposits from accumulating. Beis Plumbing can test your water to determine its hardness level and recommend the best water softening system tailored to your home’s specific needs and usage patterns.

Contact Beis Plumbing for Water Softener Installation

Ready to enjoy the benefits of a water softener? Contact Beis Plumbing for expert installation and service in the St. Louis area.

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Categories Plumber

Top Reasons Your Bathroom Sink Smells (and What You Can Do About It)

bathroom sink smells

If your bathroom sink smells, you’re not alone. Unpleasant odors from the sink are a common issue for homeowners and can be caused by a variety of factors. Understanding why your bathroom sink smells and how to fix it can help you maintain a fresh, clean bathroom. Beis Plumbing, serving the St. Louis area, explains the top reasons your bathroom sink smells and what you can do about it.

Why Does My Bathroom Sink Smell?

There are several reasons your bathroom sink smells. According to the CDC, stagnant water and organic debris are common culprits for household plumbing odors.

  • Buildup of hair, soap scum, and toothpaste in the drain
  • Clogged or dirty P-trap
  • Mold or bacteria growth in the pipes
  • Dry drain traps allowing sewer gas to escape
  • Leaky or damaged plumbing connections

Ignoring a smelly sink can lead to bigger plumbing problems and even health risks.

How to Fix a Smelly Bathroom Sink

If your bathroom sink smells, try these steps to eliminate the odor:

  • Clean the drain with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar
  • Remove and clean the P-trap under the sink
  • Run hot water to flush out debris
  • Check for leaks or loose connections
  • Pour water into rarely used drains to refill the trap

According to Angi, regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent most bathroom sink smells.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If the smell persists after cleaning, it may be time to call a professional. Beis Plumbing can diagnose and fix stubborn odors caused by hidden leaks, mold, or sewer line issues. For more information, visit their Drain Services page.

Preventing Future Bathroom Sink Smells

To keep your bathroom sink smelling fresh, Beis Plumbing recommends several simple maintenance practices. Regular drain cleaning helps prevent the buildup of soap scum, toothpaste residue, and other debris that can create unpleasant odors over time. It’s important to avoid pouring grease or food down the bathroom sink, as these substances can accumulate in the pipes and cause blockages and bad smells. 

Using drain covers to catch hair and debris before they enter your plumbing system is another effective preventive measure that reduces the likelihood of clogs and odor-causing buildup. Finally, scheduling annual plumbing inspections allows professionals to identify and address potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring your bathroom sink and entire plumbing system remain in optimal condition.

Contact Beis Plumbing for Expert Drain Cleaning

If your bathroom sink smells and you can’t fix it, contact Beis Plumbing for fast, reliable service in the St. Louis area.

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Categories Plumber

10 Must-Know Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner Should Follow

plumbing tips

Every homeowner can benefit from practical plumbing tips to keep their home running smoothly and avoid costly repairs. Whether you’re a new homeowner or have years of experience, these plumbing tips will help you maintain your system, prevent emergencies, and save money. Beis Plumbing, serving the St. Louis area, shares these essential plumbing tips to keep your home in top shape.

1. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is

One of the most important plumbing tips is to locate your main water shut-off valve. In an emergency, shutting off the water quickly can prevent major damage. According to the American Red Cross, water damage claims are among the most common insurance claims in the U.S.

2. Prevent Clogged Drains

Avoid putting grease, coffee grounds, and food scraps down the kitchen sink. Use drain screens to catch hair and debris in the bathroom. Regularly cleaning your drains is one of the best plumbing tips for preventing blockages.

3. Fix Leaks Promptly

Even a small leak can waste a significant amount of water. The EPA reports that household leaks can waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water annually nationwide. Address leaks as soon as you notice them.

4. Insulate Pipes in Cold Weather

Frozen pipes can burst and cause extensive damage. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as basements and garages, to prevent freezing during winter.

5. Don’t Ignore Slow Drains

A slow drain can be a sign of a developing clog. Use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to clear minor blockages, or contact a professional if the problem persists.

6. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical cleaners can damage your pipes and harm the environment. Opt for natural solutions or call a plumber for stubborn clogs.

7. Test Your Water Pressure

High water pressure can strain your plumbing system and lead to leaks. Use a pressure gauge to check your home’s water pressure and keep it within the recommended range (generally 40-60 psi).

8. Maintain Your Water Heater

Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup and extend its lifespan. For more information, visit Beis Plumbing’s Water Heater Services page.

9. Be Careful What You Flush

Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Items like wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products can cause serious blockages.

10. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections

Annual inspections by a licensed plumber can catch small issues before they become big problems. Preventative maintenance is one of the most valuable plumbing tips for homeowners.

Bonus: Join a Plumbing Maintenance Plan

Consider joining a maintenance plan, like those offered by Beis Plumbing, to receive discounts, priority service, and regular checkups. Learn more about their Home Service Maintenance Plans.

Why Trust Beis Plumbing?

Beis Plumbing is locally owned, fully licensed, and committed to customer satisfaction. Their team offers same-day service, 24/7 live answering, and flexible financing options. Hundreds of positive reviews and an A+ BBB rating make them a trusted choice for all your plumbing needs.

Contact Beis Plumbing for Expert Help

If you need help with any plumbing issue, don’t hesitate to contact Beis Plumbing for fast, reliable service.

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Categories Plumber

Why Your Dishwasher Won’t Drain and When to Call a Plumber

dishwasher wont drain

A dishwasher that won’t drain can leave you with a sink full of dirty water and dishes. Understanding the common reasons a dishwasher won’t drain and knowing when to call a plumber can save you time and frustration. Beis Plumbing, serving the St. Louis area, shares expert advice on troubleshooting a dishwasher that won’t drain.

Common Reasons a Dishwasher Won’t Drain

If your dishwasher won’t drain, it could be due to several issues. According to the Angi, the most common causes include:

  • Clogged or dirty filter
  • Blocked drain hose
  • Faulty drain pump
  • Garbage disposal connection issues
  • Air gap problems

Ignoring a dishwasher that won’t drain can lead to water damage and mold growth in your kitchen.

How to Troubleshoot a Dishwasher That Won’t Drain

If your dishwasher won’t drain, try these steps:

  • Turn off the power to the dishwasher
  • Remove and clean the filter
  • Check the drain hose for blockages
  • Inspect the garbage disposal connection
  • Test the drain pump for proper operation

According to the EPA, fixing leaks and drainage issues promptly can save thousands of gallons of water each year. Before attempting any troubleshooting, ensure you have towels and a shallow pan ready to catch any standing water that may spill out during the process. Most drainage issues stem from food particles and grease buildup in the filter or drain hose, making regular cleaning and maintenance key to preventing future problems. If these basic troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to contact a professional plumber, as the problem may involve electrical components or require specialized tools to diagnose and repair properly.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If your dishwasher won’t drain after basic troubleshooting, it may be time to call a professional. Beis Plumbing can diagnose and fix complex issues, including pump replacement or major plumbing repairs. For more information, visit their Plumbing Services page.

Preventing Future Dishwasher Drain Problems

To avoid a dishwasher that won’t drain in the future, Beis Plumbing recommends:

  • Cleaning the filter regularly
  • Running hot water before starting the dishwasher
  • Avoiding putting large food particles down the drain
  • Scheduling annual plumbing inspections

Contact Beis Plumbing for Dishwasher Repairs

If your dishwasher won’t drain and you need fast, reliable repairs, contact Beis Plumbing for expert service in the St. Louis area.

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Categories Plumber

How to Fix a Leaky Faucet — and When It’s Time to Call a Plumber

how to fix a leaky faucet

Leaky faucets are one of the most common household plumbing issues, and knowing how to fix a leaky faucet can save you money and prevent water waste. In fact, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, household leaks can waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water annually in the United States alone (EPA). In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to fix a leaky faucet, when to tackle the repair yourself, and when it’s best to call a professional plumber like Beis Plumbing in St. Louis.

Why Is My Faucet Leaking?

Understanding the cause is the first step in learning how to fix a leaky faucet. Common reasons include:

  • Worn-out washers or gaskets
  • Corroded valve seats
  • Loose or broken parts
  • High water pressure

Ignoring a leaky faucet can lead to higher water bills and even water damage over time.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these supplies:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
  • Replacement washers or O-rings
  • Plumber’s grease
  • Cloth or towel

Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the shutoff valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to stop the water flow. Open the faucet to drain any remaining water.

2. Remove the Faucet Handle

Use a screwdriver to remove the handle. Some handles have decorative caps that need to be pried off first.

3. Take Apart the Faucet

Carefully unscrew the packing nut with an adjustable wrench. Remove the stem or cartridge, depending on your faucet type.

4. Inspect and Replace Parts

Check washers, O-rings, and seals for wear. Replace any damaged parts. This is a crucial step in how to fix a leaky faucet.

5. Reassemble and Test

Reassemble the faucet in reverse order. Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks.

When Should You Call a Plumber?

While many homeowners can handle minor leaks, there are times when calling a professional is the best option:

  • The leak persists after replacing washers and O-rings
  • You notice water pooling under the sink or signs of water damage
  • The faucet is old or corroded and needs replacement
  • You’re uncomfortable with DIY repairs

According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage and freezing account for nearly 29% of all homeowners insurance claims in the U.S.. Don’t risk costly repairs—know when to call in the experts.

Why Choose Beis Plumbing?

Beis Plumbing is a trusted, locally owned company serving the St. Louis area. Our licensed and insured team offers same-day service, 24/7 live answering, and a commitment to quality. We handle everything from leaky faucets to full plumbing installations. Learn more about our plumbing services.

Preventing Future Leaks

To avoid future leaks:

  • Check faucets regularly for drips
  • Replace washers and O-rings as needed
  • Don’t overtighten handles
  • Schedule routine plumbing maintenance

Consider joining Beis Plumbing’s maintenance plan for ongoing savings and peace of mind.

Book Your Plumbing Service Today

If you’re struggling with how to fix a leaky faucet or facing a plumbing emergency, don’t wait. Contact Beis Plumbing today to schedule your service and experience the difference of working with St. Louis’s top-rated plumbers.

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