How Best To Avoid A Plumbing Disaster This Valentine’s Day

The only thing overflowing this Valentine’s Day should be your love. Take the plunge and follow these tips and tricks to avoid a plumbing disaster.

1. Fix Leaks Right Away

If you notice leaks, no matter how big or small, it’s important that you fix them right away. Leaving the leaks unaddressed could lead to water damage, which could ruin some of your household items if the damage is significant enough. There’s nothing like expensive water damage to ruin a perfect evening with your Valentine! Not only that, but just like you love that special someone, mold LOVES moisture. If left alone for too long, you could have mold growth on your hands – and foul odors. Both of those things aren’t the best when you’re trying to enjoy a relaxing evening with your person.

2. Repair Clogged Drains

Now is the time to repair any clogged drains that you’ve put off fixing. The last thing you need to deal with on Valentine’s Day is a clogged drain. There’s nothing romantic about that, if we’re being honest. If you’re planning on already going to the store to pick up some flowers and chocolate, you might be thinking it’s also a good time to pick up some drain cleaner. However, think twice before using chemical drain cleaners. These can actually cause some serious damage to your pipes, and even eat away at them – no matter their material. It’s a much better and safer idea to hire a professional drain cleaner to clear your clogs.

3. Keep Grease Out Of the Sink

Are you planning on cooking a homemade meal for you and your valentine? Make sure you do so carefully! Keep any grease out of your sink if you want to avoid clogs. Some people are under the impression that because grease is a liquid, it’s safe to put down the drain. However, once the grease cools, it solidifies. This can wreak havoc on your drains, so it’s best to let the grease cool and then toss it in the trash.

4. Know Where The Shut-Off Valves Are

Do you know where your shut-off valves are located? If not, then now is the time to figure it out! If you have a plumbing emergency, you may be required to shut off the water to your entire home. It can be hard to do that if you’re not sure where the valve is located. Knowing where it’s at before emergency strikes can save you a major heartache this Valentine’s Day.

5. Commit To Routine Maintenance

The best way to ensure your plumbing system is in great, working condition is to schedule routine maintenance. Maintenance can help you catch problems early before they become major. Commit to your plumbing by scheduling routine maintenance at least once a year.

Avoid A Plumbing Disaster This Valentine’s Day. Schedule A Plumbing Maintenance With Leak Finders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, Leak Finders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality plumbing services people can count on. Contact us to schedule your plumbing maintenance today and we will make sure your plumbing is ready to keep you and your loved one comfortable this Valentine’s Day. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

It’s a new year, which means you have 365 new days to set goals and develop new habits! When establishing these for yourself, consider also setting some goals for your plumbing. Here are the top 6 New Year’s Resolutions for your plumbing system.

1. Don’t Ignore Small Issues

Whether you notice a leaking faucet, water around your toilet, or strange sounds coming from your pipes, don’t ignore them! Even if they appear to be small, they can still lead to much bigger problems if not addressed. The last thing you want to deal with is costly repairs and damage to your home. That is not a good way to start off the new year!

2. Treat Your Garbage Disposal With Care

Your garbage disposal works hard for you, so make sure you’re treating it with care. Remember that your garbage disposal isn’t a replacement for your garbage can. You should refrain from putting items like coffee grounds, bones, grease, fat, oils, fibrous vegetables, and other items down the drain. They can lead to clogs and backups.

3. Don’t Treat Your Toilet Like A Trash Can

Your toilet is designed to handle two things and two things only: toilet paper and waste. Anything other than that should never go in your toilet. Items like cotton balls, hair, toys, food, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products don’t belong. In fact, even “flushable” wipes aren’t the best because they don’t disintegrate and break down as easily in our pipes and sewage systems. Therefore, they end up clogging our sewers.

4. Schedule a Routine Plumbing Inspection

One great way to make sure your plumbing is in good working condition all year long is to schedule annual plumbing inspections. During your inspection, a plumber will be able to check for leaks, clear your drains, let you know of any concerns you should be aware of, and more.

5. Fix Your Leaks Right Away

Have you put off fixing that water leak in your kitchen or bathroom? Now is the time to fix it. Leaks can not only waste thousands of gallons of water and increase your water bills, but they can also cause structural damage to your home.

6. Check For Hidden Leaks

Not all leaks are that obvious. Some leaks are hidden – behind walls, under floors, and even underground. If you notice some changes around your home, like increased water bills or damaged floors and ceilings, then check for hidden water leaks. One way to do this is to drop food coloring into your toilet tank and wait about 10-15 minutes. If the color shows up in the bowl, then you have a leak. You can also check your water meter. To do this, first you want to turn off all the water in your home, and watch the meter to see if it begins to change. If it does, then likely you have a fast-moving leak. If it doesn’t change right away, wait a couple hours and check again. If it has changed, even though the water is shut off, then you may have a leak.

Contact Leak Finders Today For All  Your Plumbing and Leak Detection Needs In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, Leak Finders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality plumbing and leak detection services people can count on. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

The freezing temperatures and the effect the temperatures have on the water in your pipes can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. Fortunately, you can be proactive and avoid a lot of plumbing issues this season. Here are 5 of the most common winter plumbing problems homeowners face – and how you can avoid them.

1. Clogged Kitchen Drains

With all the cooking going on over the holidays, kitchen sinks take a huge hit. More food waste being sent down the drain often means more clogs are likely to occur. That’s why it’s recommended to avoid throwing leftovers in your sink. Only small scraps of food should go down your garbage disposal. Also, remember to run water when your garbage disposal is on so it can clear out all the food waste.

2. Water Heater Issues

If you’re hosting out-of-town guests this winter, your water heater could experience some issues with the increased traffic. Make sure to wait 10-15 minutes in between showers. This allows your hot water supply to replenish while also giving your drains time to clear out so they don’t clog.

3. Frozen Pipes

Pipes that are located in unheated areas such as your garage, attic, basement or crawlspace are more susceptible to freezing temperature in the winter. You should plan on insulating your pipes so they can withstand the cold winter temperatures. The last thing you need to worry about is a pipe freezing and bursting. Keep in mind that all your pipes could experience freezing – even the ones located inside.

4. Sump Pump Backup

During this time of year, your sump pump is likely to experience increased usage due to all the melting ice and snow. To avoid backups and clogs, you should have your sump pump maintained in the early fall. Maintenance doesn’t stop there though. You will want to make sure you are testing it regularly throughout the winter to ensure it’s working properly.

5. Outdoor Drainage Problems

Over the winter, your outdoor drains could freeze, which can cause damage – especially if your drains are made of plastic. Many homeowners upgrade to metal drains, which are a lot harder to crack and can withstand the buildup of ice a lot better. In the fall, it’s also a good idea to remove leaves and yard debris that may have accumulated in your outdoor drains so you can avoid having to deal with clogs and other problems with drainage in the winter.

Schedule A Plumbing Appointment With Leak Finders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, Leak Finders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality plumbing services people can count on. Contact us to schedule your plumbing maintenance, repair, replacement or installation today and we will make sure your plumbing is ready for fall and winter. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

A lot of leaks are easy to spot. It’s hard to ignore spraying water under a sink or a pool of water around your toilet. But there are also a lot of leaks that aren’t easy to spot – like slab leaks. Because they’re hidden behind a layer of concrete, it may be hard to notice at first. To avoid the slab leak injuring your foundation or damaging your home, it’s important to pay attention to any warning signs – no matter how big or small they may seem. Here are 5 tell-tale signs you have a slab leak.

1. Water Bill Increase

Most of the time, your water bill stays pretty consistent. However, if you notice there’s an unexplained spike in your water bill, then this could be cause for concern. A slab leak means that you have water running in your home all day long, 24 hours a day. It would be no wonder why you’d notice a water bill increase if your water is constantly running. It’s important to note that you may find your water bill has increased for reasons other than a slab leak, but it doesn’t hurt to have it checked out by a professional plumber to be sure.

2. Decreased Water Pressure

Having low water pressure can be extremely frustrating, and make simple tasks, like showering and washing dishes, much longer to complete. While there are many reasons you may be experiencing decreased water pressure, slab leaks is one of the most common ones. One way to test this theory is to turn off all your fixtures and look at your water meter. If your water meter still runs, then you may have a slab leak on your hands.

3. Mold or Mildew Smells

Mold thrives in moist, humid and dark environments. That being said, if you have water leaking underneath your home, then it’s not uncommon for moisture to get trapped under your floors. If not addressed, this could cause mold and mildew to grow. Sometimes, mold can go undetected for months but other times, the musty smell permeates throughout the home that it becomes hard to ignore. Mold can not only be dangerous to your health, but it could also cause extensive damage to your home and belongings.

4. Damp or Warped Floors

Leaks that are severe enough can cause damage to the flooring. You may find that your floors appear damp or warped. If you have carpet, be mindful of unexplained damp areas. On the other hand, if you have hardwood or laminate flooring, be aware of any warped appearance. These can be true tell-tale signs of a slab leak.

5. Water Seeping Under or Around Your Foundation

If you notice water seeping under or around your foundation, then it could mean you have a slab leak. Especially if it’s a dry day and there’s no water source nearby (such as a hose), then you shouldn’t notice any water around your foundation.

Schedule Professional Slab Leak Repair Services With Leak Finders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, Leak Finders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality slab leak repair services people can count on. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

Why Does My Toilet Keep Clogging?

If you’re dealing with recurrent toilet problems, you may be desperate for a solution at this time. Knowing the true cause can get you one step closer to solving the issue. There are many reasons your toilet might be clogging. Let’s dig in to what those are!

1. Old Age

Your toilet might just be old and not able to keep up! If you have an older, low flow model, it undoubtedly lacks the right pressure needed to clear material through the drain. This can definitely lead to repeated clogs. If you have an older toilet, it might be time to look into replacing it with a newer model.

2. Using Too Much Toilet Paper

Using too much toilet paper can cause the toilet to clog. While your toilet is can handle toilet paper, too much of it isn’t a good thing.  If you or someone in your home is using a lot of toilet paper in a single flush, it’s time to stop that habit. If your clog is a result of too much toilet paper being used, this will without a doubt, fix that problem.

3. Non-Flushable Items Are Being Flushed

To avoid frequent clogs, it’s important to know what is flushable and what is not flushable. To put it simply, waste and toilet paper should be the only things you’re flushing down the toilet. In fact, even “flushable” wipes aren’t the best for your plumbing system. Other non-flushable items like paper towels, cotton balls, feminine products, and hair also don’t belong in the toilet.

4. A Clog In The Sewer Line

Have you plunged your toilet repeatedly only to find that your toilet continues to clog, no matter what you do? You may have a clog deeper down that you cannot see – like in your sewer line. It’s possible the drain is obstructed further down, making it impossible for material to move through it. A lot of times, this is a problem that needs professional assistance.

5. Clogs In The Toilet Trap

Last but not least, you may have a clog in the toilet trap. A common toilet trap that is installed is called an S trap. This built-in trap is what keeps the bowl partially filled. It also helps prevent sewer gases from coming out of your septic system. However, when debris gets trapped and clogged inside, it can cause a back up. Using too much toilet paper, or flushing non-flushable items can cause this problem.

Schedule Professional Plumbing Services With Leak Finders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, Leak Finders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality plumbing services people can count on. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

Sweet Summertime: 7 Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Summer is THE time you’re likely spending more time outside, playing activities, visiting with friends and family, and hosting backyard BBQ’s. However, summer is also THE time homeowners see a lot more plumbing problems surface. To avoid a plumbing nightmare this summer, there are 7 tips you should know.

1. Prevent Toilets From Clogging

With the increased foot traffic through your home this summer, it’s important to remind guests and children of proper bathroom etiquette. Make sure everyone knows what is safe to flush and what is not safe to flush to prevent clogs. Anything but waste and toilet paper does not belong in the toilet. It’s also important to remind children to not use too much toilet paper, as this can also lead to clogs.

2. Save Water

It can be tough to save water in the summertime. After all, you’re likely drinking more of it, using it to water your lawn or to fill up a swimming pool, or to simply cool down. However, try to be more conscious of your water usage where you can. This could mean you take shorter showers or turn off the faucet when brushing your teeth. Also consider not running the dishwasher until it is fully loaded, and limiting your loads in the washing machine. These simple tasks can make a world of difference when it comes to saving water this summer.

3. Be Kind To Your Garbage Disposal

Is your home the hangout spot for neighborhood kids during the summer? Maybe you’re the one that’s hosting the next big cookout or BBQ. If you’re having guests over for food, remind them that your garbage disposal is not the place for trash! Items like bones, fruit pits, and grease from grilling should never go down your drain as this could lead to clogs and blockages. Instead, have a trash can easily accessible so people can throw their trash away in the garbage vs. your garbage disposal.

4. Test Your Sump Pump

In places like Virginia, we are no strangers to summer storms! While thunderstorms occur throughout the year, summer tends to be the season we see the most of it. That being said, it is the best time to test your sump pump. Making sure it is working properly can help you avoid a messy flood at your home’s foundation in the event of a huge thunderstorm. If you live in an area that is prone to summer storms, make sure to test your sump pump on a dry day. 

5. Check For Leaks

You will be able to save money on your water bills and prevent potentially significant water damage by catching leaks early on. Now is the best time to inspect your faucets, pipes, showerheads, and outdoor spigots for any signs of leaks. If you notice any leaks, call your local plumber to address them before the problem worsens.

6. Clear Out Your Drains

During the winter, your outdoor drains and downspouts likely took a hit! Make sure you clear them out this summer so they’re free of leaves and dirt. If you don’t clear your drains, they could clog up and cause damage to your drains, ultimately leading to cracks and leaks. In addition to clearing out your outdoor drains, pay attention to your indoor drains as well. For example, your bathtub and shower drains could see clogs this summer if you’re taking trips to the beach. Pebbles, sand and dirt can clog up your drains if you’re not careful. Remember to wash off before entering your shower, and even consider investing in a mesh filter or hair catcher.

7. Schedule An Appointment With A Plumber

Take a few minutes to schedule an appointment with your local plumber. They can come to your home and inspect your plumbing system to ensue it’s good to go for the summer. A professional inspection can save you money in the long run by preventing expensive issues or repairs in the future.

Schedule Professional Plumbing Services With Leak Finders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, Leak Finders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality plumbing services people can count on. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

Should I Repair or Replace My Leaky Faucet?

Drip, drip, drip. Not only can the sound of a leaky faucet be annoying, but it can also be frustrating. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, a leaky faucet dripping at the rate of one drip per second can waste 3,000 gallons of water per year. If you’re dealing with a damaged faucet, you may be wondering what steps come next. Should you repair or replace it? There are a few signs that’ll indicate whether a repair or replacement is necessary.

1. Old Age

Most faucets are designed to last for 15-20 years at best. If your faucet is over 15 years old, nearing the end of its life, and exhibiting signs of failure, then you may want to consider a replacement.

Solution: Replacement

2. Frequent Repairs Are Needed

Do you have your plumber on speed dial? If you see your plumber more than your own family at this point, then that’s a sure sign you should stop calling for repairs and invest in a new faucet all together. A few repairs here and there are probably cheaper than a replacement. However, if your repairs are starting to burn a hole in your wallet, then replacing your leaky faucet will be more cost-efficient.

Solution: Replacement

3. A One-Off Fix

If you’ve never had issues with your faucet, and it’s still relatively new, then a repair probably makes more financial sense than a total replacement. This is especially true if it’s an easy fix, like replacing the O-ring or a washer and cleaning the inside of the faucet. A handle that squeaks, for example, can be caused by a loose washer – and usually, this is something that can be easily fixed with a repair.

Solution: Repair

4. Extensive Damage

However, if it’s not an easy fix and there is extensive damage like internal corrosion or worn threads, then replacing the old faucet with a new one might make more sense financially. The best way to know if your faucet has taken on irreparable damage is to have a plumber out to take a look.

Solution: Replacement

5. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure may indicate a water line break or a blockage in your sewer line. This debris can reduce water pressure. However, if the low water pressure is restricted to a single faucet and not all of your fixtures, then the problems is likely not with your pipes or water supply, but rather with the fixture itself. This may mean there is a clog in your aerator or cartridge from hard water build up. Usually, they just need to be cleaned by a professional.

Solution: Repair

6. Irregular Water Flow

Much like low water pressure, irregular water flow could be due to a clogged aerator filter. It could also be due to air that has collected in the water lines. If you’re noticing the water is spitting, sputtering, or spraying rather than coming out of the faucet in a steady stream, then contact a plumber to repair your fixture.

Solution: Repair

Schedule Professional Leak Detection and/or Repair Services With Leak Finders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, Leak Finders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality leak detection and repair services people can count on. You can trust us to find and repair your leaks quickly. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

Top 5 Signs You Have A Hidden Water Leak In Your Home

While some leaks are obvious, others aren’t so much. You could have a hidden water leak in your home and not know it until it’s too late – when you come across water or structural damage as a result. Luckily, there are signs to watch for that may indicate you have a hidden water leak.

1. Damaged Walls, Ceilings, or Flooring

You’re familiar with how your walls, ceilings, and floors look. If you notice any changes, such as staining, warping, bubbling or sagging, then chances are you have a hidden water leak. Don’t wait to contact a plumber if you notice this happening in your home.

2. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can make tasks such as showering, bathing, or washing dishes quite the frustrating task. Usually, low water pressure is caused by a buildup of sediment in your pipes, faulty valves, and water leaks. It’s hard to say if the low water pressure you’re experiencing is a result of a leak or not, but it’s a good idea to have a professional plumber out to your home to check just in case.

3. You Hear Running Water

Do you hear running water when no plumbing fixtures are turned on and when no appliances, such as your washing machine and dishwasher, are in use? If so, then you could have a hidden water leak. In this case, you should find your home’s main water shut-off valve, shut off your water supply, and contact a plumber as soon as you can.

4. Mold and Mildew – Or A Musty Smell!

Even if you don’t see visible signs of mold and mildew, that musty smell may tell you all you need to know. Hidden leaks commonly occur in dark places, like behind walls or under your carpets. Moisture and darkness create an ideal environment for mold or mildew to grow. If you see mold and mildew, or your house smells musty, then you can be fairly confident there’s a hidden water leak somewhere close by.

5. Strange Plumbing Sounds

When everything is in good working condition, you shouldn’t hear a lot of noise coming from your pipes. However, if you start to notice sounds like vibrating, rattling, or hissing, then these could be signs of a much larger problem – like a hidden water leak inside your walls or your pipes.

Schedule Professional Leak Detection and/or Repair Services With Leak Finders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, Leak Finders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality leak detection and repair services people can count on. We use the most advanced technology on the market and have many non-invasive methods to find the problems as quickly as possible. You can trust us to find and repair your leaks quickly. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

6 Signs Your Plumbing Has Sprung A Leak This Spring

There’s nothing like a plumbing leak to ruin a perfectly good spring day. Luckily, there are many signs to look for that indicate a plumbing leak so you can address it. Because plumbing leaks are a serious issue, it’s important to address them right away. According to the EPA, roughly 10% of homes have an undetected water leak that loses them around 90 gallons of water per day. Here are the top 6 signs your plumbing has sprung a leak this spring.

1. Low Water Pressure

Do you notice a drop in water pressure when you turn on the shower, or go to wash dishes in the sink? This could be a sign that there’s a leak happening somewhere in your home. Even a small leak can cause a dip in your water pressure. 

2. High Water Bills

Unless you’ve had an unusual increase in activity in your home, your water bills likely stay the same each month. However, if you’ve recently noticed your water bills creeping up, this could be an indication of a water leak somewhere in your system. 

3. Visible Mold or Mildew

It’s not uncommon to see mold and mildew in areas that contain a lot of moisture, such as the bathroom or kitchen. However, if you’re noticing mold on walls, baseboards, ceilings, and floors, that’s concerning. This could indicate there’s a hidden leak that you haven’t found yet.

4. Musty Smelling Rooms

Sometimes you smell it before you see it. Foul odors, such as musty smelling rooms, are never a good sign. This is an indication that you have mold and mildew that could be growing inside your walls, vents, or under the floor – where you cannot see. Mold and mildew grows and thrives in moist conditions. Water that sits in one place for too long, such as under a leaking pipe, can cause a terrible odor. 

5. Puddles In The Yard

If it hasn’t rained recently and you notice damp or wet spots in your yard, or around your garden, this could be cause for concern. Usually, this is a sign you have a burst pipe. The best thing to do would be to try locating the leak, and if you can’t, contact a leak detection company for assistance.

6. A Running Meter

If your water meter is running when there’s no water turned on, this could be a sign you have a leak. When there’s no water turned on inside your home, and you’re not using any appliances like your washing machine or dishwasher, you shouldn’t see your water meter changing. However, if you do, you should contact a plumber right away. 

Schedule Professional Leak Detection Services With LeakFinders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, LeakFinders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality leak detection and repair services people can count on. We use the most advanced technology on the market and have many non-invasive methods to find the problems as quickly as possible. You can trust us to find and repair your leaks quickly. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.