A Guide to Fix Leaky Water Heaters

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Leaky Water Heater Guide to Finding the Leak

A hot water heater is essential to your home. It makes water hot for washing hands, washing dishes, and taking showers. However, sometimes these appliances develop leaks and it’s important for you to know how to deal with this when it happens.

If you notice a leak, it’s important to look for the cause. There are rare instances in which it could be something else causing the leak and knowing what you’re looking for can help you save money.

Condensation

Condensation is a common cause of excess water in basements. You can test if this is the source of your water problem by wiping the surface of the appliance with a paper towel or your hand to see if there is water present on the outside of the appliance. If so, you may be able to fix the issue by simply putting a dehumidifier near the appliance, slightly changing the temperature it is set at, or insulating it.

Leaking Pipes

Check for leaks under the joints in the piping. Leave something to see if water catches in it under a joint. If so, you need to call a plumber at Spartan Plumbing to handle the leaky pipe.

Appliance Leaks

A leak may be coming from another close by appliance. This could be caused by water running towards your heater. If this is the case, you can fix the issue with that appliance or call a plumber to check it for you.

How to Repair the Leak

If you determine that the hot water heater has a leak, you’ll need to make sure it is repaired. This water heater repair can be done by Spartan Plumbing or you can do it yourself if you have the experience. Make sure you follow the best safety steps first though.

Turn Off Power

The first step is to turn the power to the appliance off. Switch the electrical breaker for the water heater and/or turn the gas valve off. This will prevent electrocution and other more costly problems.

Turn Off Water

Make sure you turn off the water that goes to the heater as well. Pull the shut-off switch near the heater. If you cannot access this or you aren’t certain where it is, you can turn off the main water switch.

Leaks from the Top of the Appliance

Loose Piping

If you have loose piping, there may be water on top of the appliance. This likely indicates that the fittings need to be tightened where they connect to the appliance. If there is corrosion, it will need to be replaced.

T&P Valve Problems

If your T&P valve is leaking, there will be water on the side of your appliance. The water will need to be drained from the valve. From there, investigate the locks and fittings to ensure there is no corrosion.

Leaks Coming from the Bottom of the Appliance

Drain Valve Leak

The drain valve is supposed to be watertight. If it is not, it may need to be replaced.

Tank

If there is damage to the tank itself, there will be a large leak. This is one of the most common problems for this type of appliance. In this case, the entire tank will probably need to be replaced.

T&P Discharge Pipe

The T&P valve pulls hot water and pressure from the tank. The discharge pipe is what actually removes it. If this becomes damaged, it will need to be replaced, and the valve may need to be replaced as well.

Water Heater Repairs Services in Tuscon, TX

Yearly Maintenance Tips

Checks

You can inspect your appliance every 60 days by looking at the pipes and listening for unusual noises. Make sure everything is working properly, including the valve system. After your appliance is at least three years old, you or a professional should inspect the anode rod every year and look for chipping.

Flushing

Your appliance should be flushed every six months. Check the flushed water for sediment. Continue flushing the tank until you notice no more sediment.

If you notice a problem with a leak in any of your appliances, it is best to call a plumbing expert, like Spartan Plumbing. They can located the source of the problem quickly and also address the problem right away. Call today for a consultation.

Common Causes of Toilet Clogs

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What are Some of the Reasons a Toilet Gets Clogged

Clogged toilets can result in expensive plumbing repairs. Because of this, it’s important to avoid flushing certain items down the toilet. People should also perform routine maintenance on a toilet to prevent malfunction. Learn more about issues which may cause problems with your toilet and discover how you can avoid an expensive plumbing repair.

Toilet Base Leaking

Feminine Hygiene Products

Feminine hygiene products are one of the worst items to flush down the toilet. Women should avoid flushing sanitary pads and tampons. Tampons soak up the moisture and inflate in the trap, creating a blockage. Sanitary pads are too large to fit through the trap. The best way to fix this type of toilet clog is to snake the drain. Call Spartan Plumbing at your earliest convenience if you are unable to operate a snake on your own.

Too Much Toilet Paper

Toilet paper is one of the most common reasons for a clogged toilet. Flushing too much toilet paper can prevent the material from passing through the trap. Plumbers recommend flushing the waste before the toilet paper. People should also fold the toilet paper instead of rolling it in a ball. Tissue paper rolled in a ball is often too large to fit through the trap. Many people use a plunger to fix this type of clog. Snake the drain if plunging does not work or research plumbing contractors to find professionals in your area.

Random Objects

People flush random objects down the toilet more often than you think. It’s common for people to accidentally flush objects down the toilet such as toys or jewelry, either because they don’t notice they have fallen in or because children will be children. Avoid placing objects on top of your toilets such as a toothbrush or razor. Some items might appear to flush down the toilet, but these objects often get stuck in the pipe, just out of sight, causing a clog. The best way to prevent this type of clog is to remove the object before the toilet is flushed. These types of clogs require a snake to resolve the problem.

Damaged and Old Pipes

Damaged or old pipes might be the cause of recurrent toilet clogs. Cracked or broken pipes require repair or replacement. There are a variety of things that cause a broken pipe such as wear and tear, heavy use, and severe temperature changes. Damaged pipes can decrease the flow of the drain and cause clogs. A plunger or snake is a temporary fix for the problem but the pipes need to be examined and repaired by a plumber. Broken pipes escalate into larger problems when the issue is not resolved quickly.

Unproductive Flapper

A flapper is a round gasket made of rubber that sits at the bottom of the toilet. The gasket is opened after the toilet is flushed and water enters the tank. A clog can occur if the flapper does not fully open, and waste is not pushed down the drain. If this happens, you can open the back of the toilet lid and shorten the chain link on the flush arm. The replacement of the flapper and flush arm is normal maintenance for toilets. The parts are inexpensive and easy to install.

Clogged Toilet Vent

Many toilet vents are installed on the roof. This allows the plumbing system to be filled with fresh air and replaces the vacuum of air after the water is drained. Toilets can become clogged when debris becomes stuck in the vent. Contact a plumber to remove the debris from the vent. An attempt to fix the problem on your own could result in injury or escalate into a more severe problem.

Clogged toilets require immediate attention to prevent the issue from escalating into a major problem. Many toilets can be unclogged with a plunger or snake but broken pipes and clogged toilet vents should be repaired by a plumber. Contact Spartan Plumbing today to resolve your plumbing issues.

The True Cost of Plumbing Leaks

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What is the True Cost of a Leaking Pipe in Your Home?

If you have been ignoring small leaks in any part of your plumbing system, you should go back and fix them now. Untreated plumbing issues could lead to more costly repairs later on, which may be even more expensive than the increase in your water bill.

Tucson Slab Leaks

Minor Plumbing Leaks Cost

It’s not just the big leaks you have to worry about. Even seemingly small leaks can lead to an incredible increase in your water bill.

Faucet leaks bother most people, and for good reason. The sound of dripping water is a warning that you’re wasting water and money. You probably had no idea that a drip of water per second can mean you’re paying for 9 extra gallons of water a day.

The American Water Works Association states that toilets consume 45% of the water in an ordinary household. A faulty flush valve or tank stopper causes most cases of running toilets. In this situation, the water will flow from the tank to the toilet continuously. Properly adjusting the ballcock (the round floating device that tells your toilet tank that it is full) is an easy fix in most cases of toilet leaks. A running toilet can cost you about 1 gallon per hour and up to 26 gallons a day.

Tiny pinholes in your water heater are another cause of small leaks. However, aside from the leaks they cause, it can mean you need to pay for repairs or possibly even replace a damaged water heater, as well as causing a surge in your water bill.

Copper is a durable pipe material. However, problems may occur when the velocity of water goes above 8 feet per second for cold water and 5 feet per second for warm water. Another cause of issues with copper pipes is improper pipe fitting. Fixing any of these issues early on may mean you can avoid more costly repairs later.

Major Leaks Cost

The leaks hidden beneath a wall or underground are the most serious leaks that often go unnoticed. They can either be broken or cracked. The pipes corrode or react from oxidation. Other compounds should not remain on any part of it.

Common causes also include high chlorine levels in the water, corroded rusts from the water heater, or high pH levels in the water.

These leaks can lead to repair costs for your roof, ceiling, basement, drywall, floors, and bathroom apart from the plumbing repairs.

Too much? Yes. Let’s break that down.

Shower leaks are unnoticeable. The water goes up in heightened pressure. You can lose about 10 drips per minute or 1.4 gallons of water a day from shower leaks alone. That’s a small amount.

Water quality issues damage fixtures like showers or sink taps. Replacing fixtures can cost you from $150 to $350 depending on the materials used.

But when shower leaks come with bathtub leaks leaving cracked and molded grout and caulk, you should be alarmed. It can develop mold. Mold and splashed water go into the cracks in between tiles. Mold that damages your walls may require a full renovation. It can damage dry wall from the other side and the wood behind it. You may need to get your bathroom remodeled.

Let’s get down to your drainage. Drain leaks lead to more repairs. The cracked or broken pipes in your drainage can rot your ceilings underneath the floors. It can wet, rot, and soften the wooden joists and dry wall that is attached to it.

You will have to replace your ceiling with drywall. Drywall costs $400 for a hundred square feet. A repair in the subfloor will ask you to pay around $45 per hour of labor. The joist can cost from $100 to $300 per piece.

If the bathroom flood has reached the walls, you may have to replace your walls as well.

Those repair estimates do not even include your plumbing repair costs which will vary depending on the work that is needed to be completed. Spartan Plumbing can help you deal with all plumbing leaks leaks, minor to major leaks.

Why Refrigerant Leaks Are Dangerous and Should Be Prevented

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Refrigerant leaks in air conditioning units may not seem like an everyday problem but they can happen when you least expect it. Unfortunately, this type of problem can be dangerous, which is why it’s important to take care of it as soon as possible. If you’re worried about an AC refrigerant leak in your own home, take a look at the information we’ve shared below. At Spartan Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, it’s our priority to help our customers in the most comprehensive manner possible. We hope this information can give you insight into how refrigerant works and why it’s so important to repair leaks as soon as possible.

air conditioning repair after leaking freon

How Can You Spot Freon Leaks?

Freon is a type of refrigerant that is used to cool the air that comes out of your air conditioning unit. While it’s no longer used in HVAC systems that are manufactured today, it is commonly found in those that were produced before 2003. If you’ve noticed that your AC unit isn’t pushing cold air out like it used to, this could mean there’s a freon leak in your system. Some other signs that there may be a leak include:

– AC is blowing warm air
– Ice has built up on coils
– The AC must run longer to cool your house down
– Your electric bills are much higher
– AC is making a hissing noise when turned on

Common Causes of Freon Refrigerant Leaks?

Over time, acids inside of an HVAC system can cause the copper to erode. Once this happens, small holes will appear and allow the freon to escape. Refrigerant can also leak when joints begin to break down over time from regular use of the unit. Unfortunately, both of these issues are the result of regular wear and tear, which is unavoidable as you use AC to keep your home cool throughout the year.

How to Prevent AC Refrigerant Leaks?

At Spartan Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we recommend having regular HVAC maintenance done so you can pinpoint any problems that are present as soon as possible. This is true no matter how old your unit is, since preventative maintenance can help make your unit last longer. If you have an older unit, maintenance is especially important as wear and tear will become more of an issue. However, keep in mind that leaks can happen even with proper care, particularly in units that are over 10 years old and run throughout the year.

Why R22 Freon is Being Phased Out?

The use of refrigerant has changed over the years, especially as more research is done regarding the impact this gas can have on the environment. The biggest changes began in 2003, when the most common type of refrigerant, R22, began being phased out. At this point, new air conditioning systems were being built with alternative refrigerants, which have less of a negative impact on the environment. Seven years later, in 2010, R22 was prohibited from being sold unless it was used to service existing equipment.

As of January 2020, R22 has been eliminated completely, although the recycled version of it can be lawfully used to service air conditioning units that still need it to run. This can only be purchased by certified HVAC technicians and the price can be steep because of the minimal supply. This leaves most homeowners with the decision of whether they should purchase a new unit or continue to pay for R22 until their HVAC system wears out. In most cases, the best option is to invest in a new unit that uses a more affordable refrigerant that’s easy to find and better for the environment.

Why Call Spartan Plumbing if your AC System is Leaking Freon?

Freon is a toxic substance that should only be handled by a certified HVAC technician. It is highly poisonous, even in small amounts. Inhaling or handling this substance can result in extreme sickness and even death, so we urge homeowners never to deal with this on their own. Freon is also unsafe for the environment, which increases the danger for anyone handling it without experience. Never touch freon, even if you feel you have the proper safety equipment. Always play it safe by contacting a technician immediately.

If you suspect you have a leak, call our certified and experienced technicians at Spartan Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. We understand the dangers of freon and can determine whether or not your unit has a leak. Our technicians will give you honest advice about the best solution, whether it’s adding more freon or installing a new unit. We strive to help our customers find an affordable solution that will also improve the efficiency of their homes to help lower cooling bills.

We have extensive experience helping our customers with air conditioning repair from freon leaks, so you can take comfort that our experts will use all safety precautions as they work. With their help, you can have cool air in your home without the risk of freon being released into the environment. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our office. We will be glad to visit your home for a free estimate or give you advice over the phone. As a part of the community for over 30 years, we want to do what’s right for our locals.

5 Things You Should Not Put in Your Drains

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Things You Should Not Put in Your Drains

A lot of households take their drains for granted, putting a lot of stuff down the drains and expecting that everything will be washed away hassle-free. But, keep in mind that there are some things that you should never put into your drains. There are substances and items that can create considerable blockages and lead to serious problems in the future if ignored.

Complicating matters is the fact that plumbing systems are kept hidden from view, usually behind walls or under the floors. Leaks or blockages often go unnoticed until significant damage has already been done. Because of your plumbing system’s complexity, it will require the trained eye of a plumbing expert like those at Spartan Plumbing to spot and address minor issues that can, in time, turn into major concerns.

Clogged Drain Pipe

However, there are plenty of things you can do to prevent blockages. This includes being mindful of the items you put down the drain. Having said that,

here are some things you should refrain from putting into your drains:

Fats, Oils, and Grease –

Collectively known as FOG, fats, oil, and grease should never be put into a kitchen (or bathroom) sink. For one, these substances tend to coat the pipes, as well as create sludge. Once these liquids cool down, they turn into solids. Over time, FOG will gradually build up until such a time when they can clog the pipe. The sludge is a big concern since it can catch other things that pass through it as well.

Flushable Wipes –

While wipes are often billed as “flushable”, they can still block your drains. Wet wipes, for one, don’t easily break down like ordinary toilet paper. The only things, in fact, that you should flush down your toilet are waste and toilet paper. Wet wipes and other materials that are flushed down your pipe, can cause a toilet clog that would require servicing.

Coffee Grounds –

You may think that coffee grounds are harmless because of their diminutive size. However, they are not! They can remain in your pipes, and if you keep up the habit of throwing coffee grounds into the drain, the build-up may become significant enough to cause a blockage in your pipes.

Egg shells –

A lot of homeowners just throw eggshells into the garbage disposal system. They don’t realize that even small eggshell bits can get stuck in slime and grease, creating a thicker substance. This can then clog your pipes even more easily. In addition, the eggshells’ membrane layer can potentially wrap around the garbage disposal unit’s shredder ring. This can cause expensive damage to your system.

Hair, Dental Floss, and other Stringy Objects –

Stringy stuff like hair and floss do not easily flush down your toilet. Once they are flushed, it is highly possible that they will keep on swirling around, increasing the likelihood of coming into contact with the dreaded FOG, as well as other kinds of clumps and knots.

What to Do in Case of a Clog

Unless you can easily solve the clog with a plunger, never attempt to address the problem yourself. As previously mentioned, a plumbing system is complex. Also, a lot of plumbing tools that are readily available in your local supplies store are not always effective solutions.

It is also worth noting that, when you are trying to address a clog, you should never use a chemical drain cleaner. This is because they contain corrosive chemicals that can corrode your pipes and cause leaks.

Call Spartan Plumbing for Help

When experiencing a clog, don’t think twice about contacting a professional. Spartan Plumbing provides complete drain cleaning services to effectively address clogs and other plumbing problems you may have – 24/7 – any time of the day or night.

Call us now to know more about how we can help. Spartan Plumbing has been getting the job done in Tucson since 1987!

The Potential Problems with DIY Drain Cleaning

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The Potential Problems with DIY Drain Cleaning

Clogged drains maybe just an ordinary household issue, but they could easily turn into a more serious problem if not resolved the right way. Some of the common effects of clogged drains include slow drainage, foul odor, and bad water taste. These issues may seem simple and you may try to fix them using DIY drain cleaning solutions. What you may not realize is that this could be causing more damage than good in the long run.

Clogged Drain Pipe

Why Exactly is DIY Drain Cleaning Not a Good Idea?

1. It can be dangerous for people in the home.

The chemicals used in drain cleaning products are strong and toxic. It may cause harm to the body if it comes in contact with skin or is inhaled. It may also cause damage to your pipes. It is not recommended to use these strong chemicals.

Aside from the toxic chemicals, other DIY methods can also be dangerous to household owners. First, a lot of people try to stick their hands down a drain initially to try to pull out whatever may be blocking it. This method could end up leaving your hand stuck in the drain or worse, cut by sharp edges in the pipe itself. Removing your hand from the drain may be time-consuming, painful, and even costly.

Another DIY method is pouring boiling water down the drain. As simple as it seems, it’s common for people to accidentally spill or splash boiling water on themselves when they attempt this. In order to avoid these issues and ensure that the drain is unclogged for good, it is best to let those who are trained and experienced to do the repair.

2. It can cause damage to pipes.

Drain cleaning products can cause serious damage to pipes in the long run. The chemicals in these products are strong enough to gradually eat through PVC or metal pipes. The corrosive acid content starts dissolving the joints and gradually affects longer sections of pipe as well.

3. It is only a temporary solution.

Do-it-yourself drain cleaning methods are often ineffective in the long run. They only provide a temporary solution to clogged drains. What they do is clear out the blockage in the drain just enough for the water to flow again. Once the blockage begins to rebuild, the drain gets clogged again resulting in a vicious cycle.

Spartan Plumbing provides drain cleaning services that ensures quality and a long-lasting fix.

4. It does not identify the real problem.

The best way to provide an effective and permanent solution is by diagnosing the real cause of the problem. Do-it-yourself drain cleaning only provides a temporary remedy for clogged drains. Yet, without the right tools and adequate training, identifying the cause may be nearly impossible. After all, even though the blockage appears to be simple, it may indicate that there are other, underlying problems going on in the pipe.

At Spartan Plumbing, they start by listening to the customers’ needs and concerns. Then, they check the area and utilize special techniques to detect the real culprit. With their experience in plumbing, they can easily identify the cause and provide solutions that last.

5. It is time-consuming.

Some clogged drains require certain equipment and techniques. Doing it yourself, without proper tools and knowledge, could take hours. Professional plumbing technicians can solve these issues within minutes by utilizing a water jetting technique which they have been trained for at Spartan Plumbing.

All the problems of DIY drain cleaning explained above can be avoided by seeking the service of the professionals who have the proper equipment, undergo specialized training, and possess years of experience. Spartan Plumbing, Inc. is an expert in this industry, with more than three decades of experience. They cater to the plumbing repair needs of the residents of Tucson at a reasonable and fair price. They ensure drains are cleared faster and stay clean longer.

Keeping Our Customers Safe During the Coronavirus Pandemic

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Keeping Our Customers & Employees Safe During Coronavirus

Thanks for considering our team at Spartan Plumbing to take care of your plumbing and HVAC needs. With the introduction of the coronavirus into our everyday lives, we would like to take a moment to elaborate on how we are dealing with it. The safety of our technicians and customers is our first priority, so you can feel confident calling our team for help. Plumbers are considered an essential business to help keep the community and public safe. The information below should answer many of your questions, although you can always contact our office for any additional information you may need.

What is Coronavirus?

Coronavirus is a disease that the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) warns can cause respiratory illness. It is spread from person to person and is highly contagious. If contracted, this disease can cause fever, nausea, headache, GI issues, coughing, and difficulty breathing. The severity of symptoms varies based on age and health, with elderly and immunocompromised populations being the most at risk.

How is it Being Spread?

When an individual who is infected with coronavirus coughs or sneezes, microscopic droplets in their saliva can contaminate the air and surfaces nearby. Any droplets on their hands can also transfer onto surfaces and spread to others. For this reason, healthcare experts recommend washing your hands frequently with soap and water. They also warn against touching your face, especially if you’ve been in a public place.

For individuals who know they are infected, it has been recommended that they be quarantined away from other people in an effort to avoid spreading the disease. To help further prevent the spread, most states and countries have now closed many businesses while urging households to stay home unless they work in “essential” industries.

Why is Social/Physical Distancing Important?

Experts recommend practicing distancing by staying at least 6-feet away from other individuals when you must go out in public places. This can help lessen the spread of the disease and minimize the number of people infected overall. It’s also important to avoid shaking hands, hugging, or otherwise touching others. Although extreme, doing this can save lives by minimizing the number of individuals who are impacted by this disease.

What are we Doing to Keep Our Customers and Employees Safe?

We are doing our part to keep the community safe during this crisis. Spartan Plumbing is taking precautions to help protect our customers and our team. On most calls, our plumbing and air conditioning technicians are wearing gloves, and in many cases our team is even wearing masks. On our calls we are practicing social distancing and maintaining a distance from each other and customers as much as possible. We understand that our customers in Tucson, AZ are still in need of quality plumbing and HVAC services. That’s why we have enhanced our already rigorous safety standards and are regularly monitoring CDC recommendations for other protocols we may need to implement.

Taking extra precautions to enhance the safety of our technicians and our customers is something we are glad to do. We hope that this gives you peace of mind when you call us for any HVAC or plumbing services you might need at the moment. This is especially true for those who are dealing with emergencies, which often cannot wait. Since there are many choices in the Tucson area, we take it seriously that you choose us to come into your home. We are here for routine work as well as emergencies, so contact us at any time to learn how we can help you.

Why Choose Spartan Plumbing?

  • We’re here for you 24/7
  • We care about your health and safety
  • We have been serving Tucson since 1987
  • We are honest
  • We work quickly without compromising quality
  • Our team is skilled, experienced, and dedicated to solving your problem
  • Our community has trusted us for years
  • You can contact us for a free estimate
  • Our technicians have been specially trained to improve cleanliness standards

Get in Touch With Spartan Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today at (520) 617-1000

The Signs of a Gas Leak, and Why They Shouldn’t be Ignored

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What Are the Signs of a Gas Line Leak?

Faulty gas lines are a serious concern. They can cause long-term and expensive damage to your property, such as through irreversibly destroyed appliances.

At worst, they even endanger your health and safety if they lead to house fires or physical ailments like dizziness, poisoning and, on occasion, death. Because of the magnitude of these concerns – which are literally life-threatening – people must take every step to ensure their gas lines are always in good working condition.

This does two things: it prevents the need for costly maintenance work and protects people from safety and health hazards. Experts, such as those at Spartan Plumbing, are uniquely qualified to assess gas lines and make the necessary repairs or replacements.

Gas Line Repair Leak Detection Services in Tucson, TX

There are several warning signs people can look out for to help identify whether their gas line needs check-ups, repairs, or even replacement:

Appliances not functioning correctly

Many home appliances depend on a gas line to function. These appliances include furnaces, stoves, water heaters, grills, and heaters. Although appliances malfunction for many reasons, strange noises or performance issues could point to a gas leak.

A problem with the gas line is especially likely when multiple appliances that operate independently of each other begin to malfunction.

Spikes in the gas bill

When the gas bill increases unexpectedly, and there have been no changes in the household’s consumption or living patterns (or an increase in gas prices), problems with the gas line could be to blame.

A leak, for example, increases the amount of gas needed to run the household’s appliances even if the appliances are not being used to a greater degree.

Physical evidence of gas-line damage

Leaking gas will have a physical impact on the surrounding area. Plants, grass, and other vegetation that come into contact with the gas will wither and die, while land hardens and cracks.

Gas in the air will also cause condensation on windows and other plastic or glass fixtures near the lines. In the long term, gas leaks can damage the landscaping of outdoor areas by causing unintended and unsightly depressions or lumps in the land.

If gas lines are exposed, pay attention to whether there are cracks, kinks, corrosion, or rust in the metal. Whether the lines are exposed or concealed, also pay attention to unusual sounds (e.g. hissing or rattling) from the gas-line.

The smell of sulfur

Gas is naturally odourless. However, gas suppliers generally add sulfur to the gas to make it more noticeable in case of leaks. Sulfur is often described as smelling like rotten eggs, but the smell may still be too subtle to pick up, depending on the severity of the leak.

Nausea, fatigue, or other health concerns among household members

While gas leaks are not obvious culprits for people’s health problems, gas permeating the air does lead to many serious health problems such as fatigue, nausea, dizziness, poisoning and, in extreme circumstances, loss of consciousness and death.

If the damage is bad enough for gas to have permeated the air to the degree of causing illness, the situation is very dangerous and people must immediately remove themselves and their pets from the area.

Unfortunately, all of these indicators may be explained by other factors, and it may take a while for homeowners to realize that gas-line damage is the culprit for these concerns. Even if the damage does not reach the point of being life-threatening, it will likely still result in long-term expenses for the homeowner that could have been avoided.

Thus, it is important for people to remain on their toes and be mindful of the need for regular check-ups for gas lines.

How to Identify and Repair a Slab Leak

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Ways to Troubleshoot and Test Potential Slab Leak Problems

A slab leak is a serious threat not only to your home plumbing system but to the foundation and structure of your home as well. Recognizing the signs of a possible slab leak can help you address the problem immediately, saving your plumbing system and your home in the process.Tucson, AZ slab_leak_repair_360

A plumbing leak that runs beneath your home is not something that you can easily see or notice. This is why it is important to know what to do.

If ignored, a slab leak has the potential to damage the foundation of your home, and create tons of problems that may require a lot of money to repair, aside from the hassle it brings.

By learning how to spot slab leak signs, and understanding the required restoration and repair process, you save your home and make sure that your plumbing system remains in tip-top condition.

What Are Slab Leaks?

The copper water lines in your home run under the house’s foundation. Over time, the lines can develop leaks. This will result in various problems for your home’s foundation and yard.

Slab leaks may be found anywhere under the foundation. If there are pipes in the area, leaks are possible.

Slab leaks can happen on both the side of the drainage and your plumbing’s incoming side. If left alone and unchecked, slab leaks can result in a shifting, sagging, or complete collapse of your foundation.

A slab leak can cause extensive damage. Thus, it is important that the leak is detected and repaired as early as possible.

Signs of a Slab Leak in Your Home

When you see any of the warning signs listed below, it is best that you call an experienced and competent plumbing company like Spartan Plumbing right away. This way, a proper diagnosis can be made, and immediate repair can be done, preventing further damage from happening.

  • Rising Water Bills – If your water bills continue to rise despite normal water consumption, and you don’t notice any water dripping or overflowing in your home, the culprit could be a slab leak.
  • Running Water Sound – If you aren’t using the dishwasher or washer or taking a shower, yet you hear running water somewhere, then it could be a leak. Also, if you notice your water meter moving even if you are not using water, this is a good sign that you may have a slab leak.
  • Musty Smell or Mildew – A musty smell, mildew, or moisture that you can’t pinpoint may be an indication of a slab leak problem.
  • Low Water Pressure – If you notice a drop in your water pressure, a leak in one of the pipes underground may be to blame.
  • Wet, Soggy Yard – A wet yard or the presence of standing water in the yard when it hasn’t rained could mean that the water is flowing from somewhere underneath the ground. An investigation is necessary.

The Slab Leak Repair Process

Proper diagnosis and repair of a slab leak is, ideally, not a DIY task. The process requires both plumbing expertise and specialty tools. If you are experiencing a slab leak, you must call a plumbing expert right away. A professional uses a variety of proven methods in reaching the affected pipes safely and knows the necessary steps to fix the problem.

It is not recommended to cut into the foundation of your home to gain access to the leaking pipe. This may only result in more damage. Spartan Plumbing uses advanced, specialized tools to safely reach the leak so the issue can be addressed without disrupting the rest of your home’s plumbing system. Once the problem is identified, the technician will remove the affected pipe and replace it. The disrupted ground will be fixed if it was affected during the slab leak repair.

Why Is Your Air Conditioning Unit Generating a Loud Buzzing Noise?

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What Noise is Your Air Conditioner Making?

Every homeowner wants a quiet home air conditioner. The good news is that most AC units today are designed to operate as quietly as possible. However, some factors make it impossible to achieve silent running all the time. These include the equipment’s age, the location of its installation, and whether or not it is maintained regularly.

Over time, you may notice your air conditioner making some buzzing sounds – even if it was completely silent when first installed.

Although some of these noises are normal and just a result of its day to day operations, some are not, and may indicate problems with your air conditioner.

Possible Causes of Loud Buzzing Sounds from Your AC

If you notice loud, buzzing noises from your AC – loud enough to cause distractions in your household – it may be a sign that your equipment is not functioning properly and needs repaired.

Here are some of the probable causes:

Malfunctioning Compressor –

Your air conditioner’s compressor is the component in your cooling system that causes the refrigerant to flow through the evaporator coil, creating the cooling effect.

When you hear buzzing sounds, it may mean that the compressor is not performing its normal functions. It is also possible that the electrical voltage that flows through the outdoor AC unit may not carry the right amperage.

Damaged or Missing Isolation Feet –

The AC compressor is typically mounted at the base of the air conditioning unit. It rests on top of small rubber feet that are known as isolation feet.

After constant use over time, the isolation feet’s rubber sometimes disintegrates or develops cracks. This creates an imbalance on the compressor and can trigger a loud buzzing sound when you operate the unit.

Frozen Air Con Unit –

You expect to use your AC during the hottest days of the year.

However, your unit may freeze up when you need it the most. Freezing may be caused by a refrigerant leak and this can cause a buzzing noise that you can hear coming from your AC unit.

Loose Parts –

Your entire cooling system is complex, as it is made up of many working parts that are designed to work in sync to cool your room or home.

Even if only a single small part is missing or becomes loose, such as a bearing, it can affect other parts of the system. They may wear out prematurely and trigger the loud buzzing sound you can hear through your entire house.

Causes of Other Disturbing AC Noises

Aside from buzzing, your unit may produce other disturbing noises. These include the following:

Banging –

When you hear banging sounds coming from your AC, it is most likely a sign of a broken or loose part inside the compressor such as a crankshaft, piston pin, or connecting rod.

It’s also possible that the indoor blower is not balanced. Worst case scenario is you need to replace your compressor.

Clanking –

Another indicator of an unbalanced or loose part, clanking may mean either the failure of a part inside the sealed component or a loose compressor.

The outdoor fan or the indoor blower, including the blades, are hitting other parts. If ignored, the problem may only get worse.

Clicking –

Hearing electrical components clicking when starting up and shutting down is normal.

However, if it becomes persistent, it is unusual. It may indicate a failing thermostat or a defective control.

Your AC unit contains many electrical parts. Thus, it’s crucial that you address any potential issue right away. Otherwise, it may lead to more serious and costly repair in the future.

If you hear any disturbing noises from your AC unit as mentioned above, it’s best that you address the problem right away – before it gets worse! Call Spartan Plumbing, your local AC specialist.