Douglas Cooling & Heating Blog : Archive for the ‘Plumbing’ Category

Your home’s sump pump is an appliance that you rely on heavily without really noticing it. Sump pumps are often located in your home’s basement, the lowest level of your home, or in the crawlspace. While they may seem like a mysterious motor in a pit, they are your home’s last line of defense to protect it from flooding. If you’ve just moved into a home, or maybe have lived in your home for a while, but haven’t paid much attention to your sump pump, the Douglas Cooling & Heating at Douglas Cooling & Heating share the common signs it’s time to replace your sump pump as well as long you can typically expect a sump pump to last.

How Does a Sump Pump Work?

A sump pump sits in a pit in the lowest portion of a building. When it rains, the water will saturate the soil outside your house and can accumulate under the foundation. The sump basin is dug below the foundation and collects water. When the basin collects enough water, the float switch lifts and the pump activates. The pump starts, lifts the water out of the basin and through a discharge pipe, and away from your foundation. When the heavy rains stop, the float switch lowers and the pump stops.

Sump pumps rely on electrical power to operate. However, many storms that bring rain also bring wind and lighting which can cause a power outage. If your home is prone to frequent power outages along with heavy rain, you can have a battery backup added to your sump pump. When the power goes out, the backup power will kick on and keep removing water away from your home.

How Long Do Sump Pumps Last?

Now that you know how valuable a sump pump is towards the safety of your home, you probably are concerned if yours is working properly. The good news is that on average, a sump pump lasts 7-10 years. Some sump pumps may last longer, depending on how well they were installed and maintained. It’s always a good idea to test your sump pump and to have maintenance done once a year. It would be a shame if you suffer from a flooded basement before you have an opportunity to replace your sump pump.

New homeowners especially can learn a lot about the condition of their sump pump by having it inspected shortly after moving into their new home.

Common Sump Pump Failure Signs

Regardless of the age of your sump pump, there are some signs it’s time to replace it. If you’ve noticed issues lately, start keeping a log to monitor when the sump pump turns on and how long it runs.

Running Constantly

Sump pumps should only run when there’s water accumulating in the sump pit. If you find that it’s a sunny day, but your sump pump is running, there is likely something wrong with it. This could be caused by an issue with the float arm mechanism or float switch issues, or that the sump pump shifted in the basin and is making the float arm unresponsive.

Not Turning On At All

If it’s raining out, listen for your sump pump to kick on. When you noticed that it hasn’t kicked on after a while, you might want to check it. If it has power and there is water in the basin, but the pump is not kicking on, this is likely because of a motor failure. This can be caused by several factors, but it’s important that you call a plumber for a sump pump replacement right away to prevent water from flooding your basement or crawl space.

Making Strange Noises

Acclimate yourself to the regular noises your pump makes. When running, your sump pump will probably make a low humming noise. If you hear rattling, squealing, or grinding noises instead, this could be your sump pump trying to tell you something. Noises are often signs of failing components and you should call for sump pump repairs soon.

Call Douglas Cooling & Heating for Sump Pump Services

Don’t risk your home to expensive water damage. Call Douglas Cooling & Heating to provide quality repairs or maintenance to your sump pump system. If we find that you need a new sump pump, we can install a new one for you too. Call Douglas Cooling & Heating for reliable sump pump services in Montgomery, Alabama today.

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Plumbing leaks can be hidden throughout your home and you probably wouldn’t realize it until you get hit with an unusually high water bill. Spikes in your water bill without a change in your water usage are often the first indication homeowners have a hidden leak, but where could it be? The Douglas Cooling & Heating at Douglas Cooling & Heating discuss how you can tell if your pipes are leaking under your floor. If you find a leak, call Douglas Cooling & Heating right away for comprehensive plumbing repairs.

Signs of Leaking Pipes

Pipes are all over your house. Within your walls, floors, and even in your yard. Water damage can become extensive quickly and can be expensive to fix, so if you have a leak, finding it is of the utmost importance. Water leaks also waste hundreds of gallons of water. Fixing these leaks fast can help save you money and help the planet.

Since pipes aren’t in plain sight, it’s hard to tell where a leak is often coming from. Let’s go through some common places where you may find leaks in your home and how to test for them.

Watch Your Water Meter

Turn off all the water running appliances in your home and locate your water meter. It is usually located outside of your home on the side of your house, or in a pit in your yard. With all the appliances off, your water meter should show that you are not consuming any water. However, if it is moving and all your appliances and sinks are off, then you have a leaky pipe or appliance somewhere in your home.

Test Appliances and Toilets

A common culprit of a hidden water leak in your toilet. Conduct the dye test on your toilets. Put some food color in the tank of your toilet and see if the dye moves into the toilet bowl. Check also for wetness around the base of the toilet to see if the porcelain has developed invisible leaks.

Run your appliances and inspect the base of the appliances for wet floors or puddles. Listen for any dripping water when you run appliances as well to clue you into other leaks.

Look at the Pipes You Can See

Look in your kitchen and bathroom cabinets to see if the plumbing pipes to the sinks are leaking. If your cabinets are full of items, you may need to take the items out to see if they are wet.

Damage To Your Floor, Walls, or Ceilings

Warped floors, peeling wallpaper, and water spots on the ceiling are signs that you have a leaky pipe somewhere. Unexpected wet carpets or pools of water on your floor are big signs there is a leak under your floor. If parts of your floor seem unusually hot, mark the section of the floor with tape and see if the heat persists the next day as well. This could be another sign of a slow leak. Keep your eyes peeled for bowing or separating walls, doors and windows that won’t close fully as these can be signs of water damage.

Outdoor Leaks

Not only could there be leaks underneath your home’s foundation and floors, but there could also be leaks in your yard. If you have spots in your lawn that are unusually lush, your sewer line could be leaking under your grass. Sewer lines often run from your house to the street through your front yard and your sewer line may also be under concrete features like driveways and sidewalks. Douglas Cooling & Heating can inspect your sewer line and clear it of any clogs to prevent it from developing leaks.

Strange Odors

Another big sign of a leaking pipe within your home’s walls or floors is unusual odors. If you notice a musty smell in your home it is often caused by mold or mildew growth. Mold and mildew love damp conditions like those created by a leaky pipe. Mold and mildew can grow just about anywhere; within walls, under carpets, within cabinets, and within openings for doors and windows.

Call Douglas Cooling & Heating For Plumbing Repairs

Douglas Cooling & Heating offers a variety of plumbing repairs throughout your home. Whether you need small leaks taken care of, or you have a pipe burst, call the Douglas Cooling & Heating in Birmingham, AL to fix your plumbing issues quickly. Schedule an appointment with Douglas Cooling & Heating today.

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Did you know that plumbing problems are one of the biggest nightmares homeowners deal with? There’s nothing more frustrating than dealing with a leaky faucet or a clogged drain – especially when you don’t know how to fix it! Knowledge and prevention are your best tools against creating plumbing problems. The experienced plumbers at Douglas Cooling & Heating are here to teach you some great tips to help you avoid plumbing system issues from developing in your home.

5 Ways to Prevent Plumbing Problems

As we discuss the 5 ways to prevent plumbing problems, we’ll explain the common issue many homeowners face as well as what you can do to avoid experiencing these issues in your home.

1. Low Water Pressure

At the top of our list is how to avoid low water pressure. Most of us have experienced the frustration of low water pressure in the shower or at the sink. While there can be several causes of this problem, one of the most common is sediment buildup within plumbing fixtures. Over time, minerals in the water can collect on the aerator or showerhead, decreasing the flow of water and leading to a loss of pressure.

The good news is that this problem can be easily fixed by regularly cleaning the aerator or showerhead. To clean an aerator, simply unscrew it from the faucet and soak it in vinegar for 30 minutes. For a showerhead, remove it from the arm and soak it in vinegar overnight. If you have hard water, you may need to scrub the aerator or showerhead with a toothbrush to remove all of the sediment. By taking these simple steps, you can help ensure that your fixtures always have strong water pressure.

2. Busted Washing Machine Hoses

Another thing on our list of how to avoid certain plumbing nightmares pertains to your washing machine. Many people don’t realize that their washing machine’s rubber hoses are at risk of bursting. This can happen when there is no one around to hear it, resulting in massive water leakage – about five gallons per minute. To avoid this problem, it’s important to replace the rubber hose of the washing machine with a stainless-steel braided hose. This will help you prevent unexpected plumbing emergencies. The braided hose is more durable and less likely to burst, so you can rest assured that your home is safe from unwanted water damage.

3. Clogged Drains

One of the most annoying plumbing issues is a clogged drain in a sink, tub, or toilet. One of the main causes of these clogs is simply what gets put down the drains. To avoid frustration and costly repairs, there are some common items that should never be put down any type of drain. Never pour cooking grease down the drain in the kitchen sink, and instead wipe your pan or plate with a paper towel and throw it in the trash. It may seem liquid when hot, but it will solidify once it cools and can quickly build up, causing a clog. Also, be careful with what you put down your garbage disposal. While it may be tempting to put down every food item, there are some that should be avoided as this can cause clogs or damage to the disposal. Never put coffee grounds, egg shells, fruit or vegetable skins, or non-food particles in the garbage disposal.

Only toilet paper should be flushed down toilets. While many items are advertised as “flushable,” they often do not break down as quickly as toilet paper and can cause serious clogs.

4. Unintentional Pipe Damage

If your plumbing is in need of a good cleaning, you may be tempted to reach for the nearest bottle of drain cleaner. However, research has shown that many of these cleaners are actually quite harsh and can damage your drains. As a result, many people have turned to simpler and gentler store-bought or DIY cleaners, such as baking soda and white vinegar. These cleaners use common household ingredients like baking soda and vinegar to break down buildup and gunk. For shower drains that are clogged, the common culprit is often hair and soap scum. A drain screen can help prevent hair from going down the drain, and then you can throw the hair out in the trash.

5. A Running Toilet

If your toilet is running constantly, this is one of the many plumbing issues that can result in an unexpectedly high water bill. You’ll want to fix a running toilet right away because not only is it annoying, but it’s also a huge waste of a lot of water. If your toilet is constantly running, it is likely that the flapper valve is not fitting properly. The flapper valve is responsible for stopping the flow of water into the bowl after the tank has been flushed. If it does not fit properly, water will continue to run. To fix this, you will need to adjust the chain that connects the flapper valve to the handle. The chain should be long enough so that when the handle is lifted, the flapper valve opens fully. However, it should not be so long that it gets caught under the flapper valve when it closes.

Plumbing Services for Homeowners

When it comes to plumbing, prevention is the best cure. By following these 5 ways to prevent plumbing problems, you can help keep your pipes and fixtures clear and functioning properly all year long. If you do experience a plumbing problem or even an emergency, don’t hesitate to call Douglas Cooling & Heating for fast and reliable repair service.

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If your toilet is constantly running, it can waste hundreds of gallons of excess water per day and raise the price of your water bill. If you want to save water and money as well as prevent water damage to your home, you can actually fix a running toilet without the help of a plumber. Here are some steps from Douglas Cooling & Heating to take to fix your running toilet before calling our plumbers for help.

Tips for How to Fix a Running Toilet

The most common causes for a running toilet are a faulty flapper, a broken float, a chain that is too long or too short, or an internal fill valve issue. Most of these issues that cause a running toilet can be resolved with a little know-how and a quick trip to your local hardware store. Here are some tips to try yourself.

Check the Flapper

You may be wondering why your toilet is constantly running even when you haven’t flushed it in a while. The first thing you should do is open the tank and check the toilet flapper (also known as the flush valve). This is the rubber part that sits down at the bottom of your tank covering the drain. If the flush valve isn’t closing properly, the water supply will run out, triggering the fill valve to continuously refill the toilet tank.

There is a very easy way to find out if the flush valve is broken and is letting water leak into the toilet bowl. Put a few drops of food coloring into the toilet tank, and do not flush the toilet for another 30 minutes. If after 30 minutes you see dyed water in the bowl, it means there is something wrong with the toilet flapper.

There are a few reasons why the toilet flapper might not be sealing properly. One is that mineral deposit buildup can prevent a tight seal. To clean the toilet flapper, remove it and let it soak in white vinegar for about a half-hour. Then, scrub the part with a cleaning brush to remove debris and reinstall.

Another possibility is that the rubber itself is cracked and needs to be replaced. Fortunately, a leaky flapper is an easy fix – simply remove the toilet flapper and replace it with a new one.

Inspect the Chain

If you’re still having trouble with a running toilet, it might be due to the chain that connects the handle to the flapper valve. Making sure the chain is the proper length could be the solution to your constantly running toilet issues.

If the chain is too long, it can lay underneath the flapper and prevent it from closing properly. Conversely, if the chain is too short, the flapper won’t be able to close and let the fill valve fill the tank. Instead, the toilet will run constantly with the flapper partially open. You’ll need to adjust the length of the chain so that the flapper can move freely.

Check for a Cracked Float

In most cases, when you open the toilet tank, you’ll find a ball and arm float on the surface of the water line. It is connected to the fill valve and is the mechanism that tells your fill valve when the toilet tank is full and doesn’t require any more water. Sometimes, this ball can break and allow water to fill its interior. In this instance, it is no longer able to sit on top of the water and show that the tank is full, which means that your fill valve will continue to fill the tank with fresh water. This issue can be fixed if you replace the arm and ball float. Replacement parts for a broken arm and ball float can be found at most local hardware stores and big-box chains.

Some newer toilets have what is called a “cylindrical float” or “float cup”, which is a type of float that sits vertically inside the fill valve. If your toilet has this type of float in its fill valve, it is likely not the issue. If all other options are exhausted and you still have a running toilet, the fill valve itself will need to be replaced. Replacing a broken fill valve main assembly is somewhat complicated since it needs to be adjusted to your specific toilet. Call the plumbing professionals at Douglas Cooling & Heating if your fill valve needs to be replaced.

Prevent Water Damage: Check the Water Level

If you have run through all of the diagnostic tips above and still have a running toilet, you will need to call Douglas Cooling & Heating. While you wait, you should check the water level inside the tank to make sure it isn’t overflowing and causing damage to your floors and subfloor. If the tank water level is too high, it will continue to spill into the drain tube, and could be leaking onto your floor, turning your running toilet into an even bigger problem.

When the water is running and the water level in the tank is full, check the overflow tube or drain tube. The drain tube is an open tube located in the center of the tank, connecting the tank to the toilet bowl. Examine the overflow tube to determine if water continues to drain into it. If so, adjust the water level by dropping the float lower in the tank.

Plumbing Help in Birmingham

If these tips don’t help you solve your running toilet problem or you don’t feel comfortable performing them on your own, don’t worry! The licensed Birmingham plumbers of Douglas Cooling & Heating are ready to help. Contact us today to schedule plumbing repairs in your home.

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A garbage disposal is a convenient and necessary tool for most households, but it can be a frustrating appliance to own when it isn’t working correctly. A clogged garbage disposal is one of the more common household issues that homeowners face, but it isn’t always a difficult problem to solve. Douglas Cooling & Heating teaches you how to unclog a garbage disposal and shares when your garbage disposal unit should be replaced so you don’t experience continued performance problems.

Before You Start

Whenever you experience a clogged garbage disposal, it’s best to tend to the problem as soon as possible. Ignoring this issue not only takes your appliance out of service, but the clog can start producing foul odors which are quite unpleasant. Garbage disposals that continue to be used even though it is clogged, can cause worse damage that may result in a replacement. 

Before we get into how to unclog a garbage disposal, it’s important that we give you a safety warning. Because the garbage disposal blades are extremely sharp, you should never insert your hand down into the garbage disposal unit. Before using any sort of tool to reach down into the garbage disposal, you should always disconnect the power to avoid accidents and damage to the unit.

There are some tools you may need to use when performing the steps for how to unclog a garbage disposal. Gather the following items before you start addressing the clog:

• Tongs
• Pliers
• Sink plunger
• Allen wrench
• Bucket
• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Flashlight

Steps for Unclogging a Garbage Disposal

If you suspect something is trapped down inside your garbage disposal unit, follow these steps to restore your unit to working order:

Step 1: Cut power to the garbage disposal by unplugging it from the outlet and flipping the circuit breaker that powers that outlet.

Step 2: If the clog has caused water to back up in your sink, use a sink plunger to drain it. If you have a double sink, be sure to cover the sink drain opposite the garbage disposal before plunging. Cover the proper drain opening with the plunger and push it up and down vigorously to push water through the drain. If the plunger is unhelpful in removing the standing water from your sink, you’ll need to use the bucket and scoop it out.

Step 3: Use the flashlight to look down into your garbage disposal and see if you can visualize the material clogging the appliance. 

Step 4: If you see the item that has jammed the blades, motor, or flywheel, use your tongs or pliers to reach down into the canister and grab it. Food waste may be wrapped around the blades causing the clog. Use a tool to loosen and remove the food particles that are preventing the blades from spinning. Run hot water into the garbage disposal drain to see if this helps dissolve some of the food particles. 

Step 5: If you aren’t able to remove the clogging material through the drain, you need to manually turn the garbage disposal parts to dislodge the matter. A garbage disposal can also act clogged if its blades or motor have seized, which a manual turn will also help correct. Use the hex wrench that came with your appliance or a 1/4-inch Allen wrench and insert it into the hole at the bottom center of the unit. Fully turn the tool both right and left to try and loosen the parts or dislodge the clog – do a full counterclockwise turn, then a full clockwise turn. Once the blades have loosened, remove the wrench.

Step 6: Reconnect the plug to the outlet and switch the breaker back on. 

Step 7: Turn on the cold water tap, then flip the switch to activate your garbage disposal.

Step 8: Allow both the water and your garbage disposal to operate for about a minute while you observe drainage. As long as your sink drains properly, your garbage disposal should be unclogged and you can turn off the unit then the water supply.

If you find yourself constantly working through the steps to unclog a garbage disposal, it may be time to replace your appliance. Frequent clogs are a sign the garbage disposal is wearing out. If you don’t experience frequent clogs or other system problems, garbage disposals can typically last up to 12 years. 

Items to Avoid Putting Down The Garbage Disposal

Make sure you’re only putting food waste down the garbage disposal and nothing else. Too much food can cause your unit to overheat and struggle. Avoid putting the following items in garbage disposals to help avoid clogs from developing:

• Coffee grounds
• Banana peels
• Potato peels
• Citrus peels
• Grease
• Eggshells
• Hard foods

Garbage Disposal Help in Birmingham

If you’ve tried the steps for how to unclog your garbage disposal but still aren’t having any luck, it’s time to seek professional help. Call Douglas Cooling & Heating to schedule a drain cleaning service for your garbage disposal in Birmingham, AL.

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If you need a plumber in Birmingham, Alabama, do you know how to find one? At some point, everyone needs a plumber – when that time comes, you’ll want to be prepared. So, where can you find plumbers in Birmingham? Douglas Cooling & Heating shares how to find a quality plumbing professional along with the services a good plumber should have to solve your particular plumbing issue.

Where to Look for Plumbers in Birmingham

When it comes time to find plumbers in Birmingham, Al there are a few steps you can take to ensure you’re finding a quality professional.

Ask for Recommendations

Use the power of your network to find local plumbers in Birmingham. Start by asking your nearby friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations. These are people you trust, so they’re more likely to recommend someone who did quality plumbing work for them in the past.

Chances are, someone you know can recommend a good plumbing company. Or, if you’re lucky, they may have even had a positive experience with a plumber and be able to refer you to them. Word-of-mouth is still one of the best ways to find a quality service provider.

Search Professional Organizations

Professional organizations are a great resource when looking for professional plumbing services in the Birmingham area. Two excellent sources are the Alabama PHCC and your local chamber of commerce.

• The Alabama PHCC is the state chapter of the National Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC), a national trade organization representing plumbing and HVAC contractors. The PHCC has more than 2,000 member companies in Alabama, so you’re sure to find a qualified plumber who’s right for the job. This ensures that your plumber will have industry experience because they are certified by a trade organization.
• Your local chamber of commerce can also be a valuable resource. Chambers of commerce are membership organizations made up of businesses in a particular industry or area. They often have directories of their members, which can be helpful when looking for residential or commercial plumbing services.

Check Review Sites

It can be helpful to check reviews online when searching for plumbers in the Birmingham area. Websites like Google and Yelp are great resources for finding feedback from past customers. Keep in mind there is no way to verify these experiences, so a better strategy here is to look for how a company handles both criticisms and praise online. Look for professionalism, quality work, and responsiveness.

Choosing a Plumber to Hire

When it comes time to hire a plumber, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

• It’s important to find plumbing contractors who hold the proper credentials to legally perform this work in Alabama. Plumbers in Birmingham, Al must hold a state certificate, which requires passing an examination.
• The plumber you choose should be bonded and insured. That way, you know you’re covered if any damages or accidents occur.
• Do they have experience in the type of plumbing issue or installation you need? It’s important that you feel confident this professional is able to provide the services you need. If you need emergency plumbing services, be sure to check that they will take a service call after hours.

Common Services Performed by Plumbers in Birmingham

Plumbers in Birmingham, Al thrive on repeat business and referrals. One way to ensure they are the best plumbers for your needs is to make sure they can provide services for a variety of plumbing issues. You may hire a plumber for one thing now, but when you need a different service in the future, it’s always a plus if you are able to work with a professional you already know and trust.

The common residential plumbing services provided by plumbers in Birmingham include:

• General plumbing repairs
• Emergency plumbing repair services
• Piping installation
• Water heater repair, installation, and maintenance
• Leak detection and repair
• Drain cleaning
• Installation and repair of plumbing fixtures
• Water quality services
• Sump pump installation and repair
• Sewer line installation and repair

Call Douglas Cooling & Heating for Plumbing Help in Birmingham

Douglas Cooling & Heating has a qualified team of plumbers in Birmingham, Al ready to help with all your home plumbing needs. Contact us today to learn more about our business and schedule a service appointment or request an installation quote.

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A leaking toilet can lead to a big problem in any Birmingham, AL area home. As toilet leaks worsen, they have the potential to cause significant water damage to your residence and waste many gallons of water. This isn’t just bad for the earth, but leaky toilets can also cause big spikes in your water bill. Learn how to detect a toilet leak early on to avoid the headaches and expenses that come with a major leak. Douglas Cooling & Heating shares the information you need to know to identify toilet leaks and fix minor problems in your bathrooms.

Tips on How to Detect a Toilet Leak

A leak can stem from various areas of a toilet, including the tank and the toilet bowl. Below, you’ll find tips from the Douglas Cooling & Heating plumbing team that will help you detect a toilet leak in these areas. Our licensed Alabama plumbers also explain what you need to do if you do find a leak in one of your toilets.

Toilet Dye Test

The toilet dye test is a great way to confirm where the leaking your leaking toilet is. This test will confirm if your leaky toilet has a leak between the toilet tank and toilet bowl. This is often a silent toilet leak and can go unnoticed for long periods of time. Here are the directions to perform this quick test:

1. Remove the lid from the toilet tank and set it aside.
2. Remove any tank cleaners that color the water in the tank. Flush the toilet to clear colored water out of the tank upon removal of these materials.
3. Once the tank has filled with clear water, add a few drops of food coloring to the tank to tint the water. There needs to be enough food coloring to noticeably change the water color, so add as many drops of food coloring as you need.
4. Let the toilet sit unused for about 30 minutes.
5. Check the water in the bowl. If the colored water from the tank has entered the bowl through a leak, you will be able to see the color difference due to the dye added to the tank water.

Pencil Test

The dye test is a great method for how to detect a toilet leak, but what is responsible for this leak? The pencil test is another trick for detecting a silent leak and can help you pinpoint the malfunctioning tank components responsible for the problem.

1. Use a pencil to mark the water line on the inside of your toilet tank.
2. Shut off the water supply to the toilet. This can be done by closing the shutoff valve on the water supply line leading into the fixture, which is typically located on the wall underneath or behind the toilet.
3. Let the toilet sit unused for about 30 minutes.
4. Check the pencil mark you made inside the tank.
   • If the current water level is higher than the original mark, this indicates a flush valve problem. The float, float arm, or flapper may need to be replaced, or it may be necessary to replace the gasket below the flush valve. This requires taking apart the entire toilet fixture and is a job best left to a plumber.
   • If the mark is level with the current water level, the problem is with the toilet’s fill valve. Replacing the fill valve is a simple fix that handy homeowners may be comfortable tackling themselves, or you can call your plumber to do so instead.
5. If the pencil test indicated a problem with the flush valve, extend the test and leave the toilet unused overnight. Check the tank water level in the morning – if the tank is nearly empty, this indicates a bad gasket. If the water level is low but the tank isn’t empty, the problem is with a faulty flapper, flapper seat, or float.

Toilet Repair in Birmingham, AL

The above tests are useful for how to detect a toilet leak in your Birmingham, AL area home. If your tests show a leak, call the licensed Alabama plumbers of Douglas Cooling & Heating to schedule an appointment for toilet repairs.

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Plumbing fixtures are built to last, but over time they do begin to show signs of wear and age. When materials used to install the fixture or the fixture itself start to degrade, the issue isn’t always just cosmetic. This wear could lead to leaks and serious water damage that comes with an expensive repair bill. If your bathtub sealing has started to break down, this is a problem you don’t want to ignore. Douglas Cooling & Heating explains why bathtubs should be resealed and the signs that tell you it’s time to start resealing your bathtub.

Why We Seal Bathtubs

Bathtubs come in many shapes and sizes. Freestanding and uniquely shaped soaking tubs are growing in popularity. However, not all bathrooms have the space necessary to accommodate these fixtures. Many homes throughout the Birmingham, AL area have bathrooms that are laid out with a tub that will sit against the wall on one or more of its sides. These tubs are functional and made to fit a space, and have been used for decades. 

When bathtubs like this are installed, they must be sealed along the sides where the tub meets the wall. The drain fittings may also be sealed. If the bathtub isn’t sealed, a gap is created between the fixture and the wall. As bathtubs are made to hold water and facilitate showering, it’s inevitable that water will find its way out of the fixture and down into these spaces. 

An unsealed bathtub will allow water to run down between the fixture and the wall with pretty much every use, to some extent. The water will pool down on the floor and creep underneath the tub, out of sight and out of mind. As time goes on, the water will rot out the woodwork below and around the tub and even cause mold to develop in these hidden areas. Eventually, the floor around the tub could warp or cave in, and long-term mold exposure in the home could cause some harmful health issues amongst your loved ones. Repairing water damage and mold remediation can be quite expensive, especially compared to the extremely affordable cost of resealing a bathtub throughout the years.

Signs It’s Time to Start Resealing a Bathtub

Depending on the material your bathtub is made of, this fixture can be expected to last anywhere from 10 to 25 years without glazing the bathtub again. Unfortunately, the remaining sealant used to install a bathtub doesn’t last as long. Poor installation, mold and mildew development, exposure to chemicals from regular cleaning your bathtub, and other factors can cause the bathtub’s caulking to break down over time. When the material has degraded, it can allow water to escape into the spaces between the tub and the wall and collect in this area, causing moisture and mold problems down the line.

Resealing a bathtub is typically needed a few times over the years in between bathtub installation and replacement. How do you know when it’s necessary to start resealing a bathtub? Here are some signs to be on the lookout for:

• Current caulk is 5 years old or more. With proper installation, the caulking around a bathtub can be expected to last around 5 years before it begins to degrade and fail. If the last time you found yourself resealing a bathtub was 5 or more years ago, now’s the time to get some new caulk and do the job again.
• Your brand-new home is 1 year old. While bathroom caulking typically lasts 5 years when properly installed, caulk around tubs in newly built homes may experience problems after just one year. This is because the new home can do some settling in that first year, which can cause the caulk to separate from the bathtub or wall surfaces. Just to be safe, start resealing a bathtub in a newly built home after a year.
• Existing caulk is stained. If the caulk around your tub has been stained, it’s possible the stains were caused by mold. As caulk breaks down, mold and mildew build up can even start developing within this material! Take stained caulk as a sign of potential mold growth and start resealing a bathtub to remove this growth from your home.
• Caulk is cracked, peeling, or pieces are missing. When your bathtub caulking is reaching the end of its lifespan, it starts to show signs of damage and can peel away from the surfaces. If you see signs of damage to the caulk, it’s time to reseal your tub.

If you want to tackle this job yourself, you’ll need a lot of tools. Masking tape, utility knife, caulk, or silicone sealant will help as well. Resealing a bathtub yourself can be an easy chore if you follow the directions closely and have all the proper tools handy. 

Professional Services for Birmingham Bathtubs

Resealing a bathtub isn’t a job every homeowner wants to deal with on their own. If you’re due to replace the caulk around your tub, leave it to the pros! Call Douglas Cooling & Heating today for plumbing fixture repairs and our licensed plumbers will get to work resealing a bathtub for you right away!

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With cold weather and the winter season upon us this month, Birmingham area homeowners need to prepare themselves for the possibility of freezing temperatures. When it gets this cold outside, the plumbing in your home becomes vulnerable. Frozen pipes can cause major damage, and you want to avoid them at all costs. Douglas Cooling & Heating reviews how to prevent frozen pipes in the winter so you can avoid serious water leaks and burst pipes this season.

Preventative Tips to Prevent Pipes from Freezing in the Winter

To prevent frozen pipes in the winter, Birmingham homeowners should practice a combination of preventative strategies as well as taking certain steps whenever the outdoor temperature drops. Before the coldest weather arrives, do the following:

Winterize Outdoor Spigots

• Disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor spigots. Drain the hoses, wrap them up, and store them in a shed or garage for the winter.
• Find the individual shutoff valve for each outdoor faucet, located a few feet behind the exterior wall in your crawlspace, basement, or utility room. Close the shutoff valve, and open the outdoor spigot which will allow water to drain out of the supply line.
• Leave the outdoor spigot open over the winter months, which will allow any water that happens to get into the line to drain out so it does not freeze within your pipe.
• Consider upgrading to frost-free hose bibbs, which are more resistant to freezing temperatures. You can also place insulating covers over regular hose bibbs if you choose.

Insulate Pipes

Insulating pipes, especially those that run in areas of the home that are not heated or are closest to the exterior of the home, can prevent freezing pipes in the winter when exposed to extremely cold air and temperatures. Products you can use to protect the pipes include:

• Foam pipe insulation sleeves, which resemble a pool noodle
• Heat tape; look for UL-listed products
• Add other forms of insulation to the areas where these pipes run, which will help these spaces hold heat and keep pipes warm

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in the Winter

When temperatures are expected to drop to or below about 20 degrees, your pipes are at risk for freezing. Before the outdoor temperature reaches this point, take these steps to prevent frozen pipes in the winter.

• Open cabinet doors below sinks, which allows the home’s warm air to circulate in the area and keep pipes warmer.
• Open faucets slightly, allowing a low stream of cold water to keep moving through the pipes – running water will help prevent frozen pipes in the winter.
• If you have water pipes running in a garage, keep the overhead door and other access doors closed to help hold heat inside that space and keep pipes warmed.
• Always keep the heat on in your home, even if you will be away. Never lower the thermostat below about 55 degrees over the winter months.
• If you set back your thermostat during the day while you’re at work or overnight, raise the temperature of your setbacks a few degrees so your home always has ample heat to help prevent frozen pipes in the winter.

What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze

Despite best efforts to prevent frozen pipes in the winter, freezes do sometimes occur. If you suspect a frozen pipe, which may be obvious due to low water flow or lack of water from certain fixtures, you need to take action fast. Warm the pipes by using cloth or towels soaked in hot water, electric blankets and heating pads. You can also warm the pipes with a hair dryer and a portable space heater. Leave the faucet open as you do this to alleviate pressure and allow melted ice to drain from the pipe.

If you need assistance thawing frozen pipes or help to prevent frozen pipes in the winter, call Douglas Cooling & Heating. Our Douglas Cooling & Heating are ready to help you prepare for colder weather and protect your home’s plumbing lines.

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A toilet that runs is a fairly common problem for Birmingham area homeowners – at some point, it’ll probably happen to you if it hasn’t already. Luckily, a toilet that doesn’t seem to turn off is often easily solved, even without the help of a plumber. Save yourself a service call – Douglas Cooling & Heating explains how to fix a running toilet tank before you enlist the help of one of our licensed Alabama plumbers.

Flapper Issues Causing a Running Toilet Tank

When you flush your toilet, the handle is connected to an arm inside the tank, which has a chain that hangs down and connects to the flapper. Pulling the handle causes the arm to raise, in turn raising the flapper. When the flapper opens, water flushes into the bowl from the tank. When the lever goes back down, the flapper should also shut, closing off the tank and allowing it to refill.

If the flapper fails to seal at the bottom of the tank, your toilet may run. Here’s how to fix a running toilet tank caused by a faulty flapper:

• Take the lid off your toilet tank and set it aside.
• Find the flapper’s position at the bottom of the toilet tank.
• See if the flapper is stuck open – there may be a kink in the chain. If so, straighten out the chain and see if this stops the toilet from running.
• If the flapper appears closed, it may not have formed a good seal at the bottom of the tank. Check for debris that could be in the way or heavy mineral buildup causing an imperfect seal. Remove or clean away debris to see if the flapper will seal.
• If the flapper itself is damaged or cracked, the toilet will run, and you’ll need to replace the flapper entirely. This can be a DIY plumbing repair for some homeowners while others prefer to leave it to the pros. Whichever you prefer, feel free to call Douglas Cooling & Heating should you experience difficulty doing so.

Valve Leaks Behind a Running Toilet

After the flapper seals the tank closed, the toilet’s fill valve will add water to the tank until it is refilled. If the toilet fill valve leaks, the toilet can continue to run. Fixing a running toilet tank with a leaky fill valve involves the following steps:

• Remove the tank lid and set it aside.
• Flush the toilet using the outside lever.
• After the toilet flapper closes, watch the tank fill. When water in the tank is about one inch lower than the overflow pipe (the pipe that’s open at the top), raise the float upward to stop the fill valve. 
• If the fill valve still runs even after you raise the float up, there is a leak in the valve. The valve will need replacement. Installing a new fill valve isn’t as easy as replacing a flapper – call Douglas Cooling & Heating and let one of our plumbers handle this repair.

Bad Lever Causing a Running Toilet

If it’s not a bad flapper or fill valve causing the toilet to run, the flush lever may be to blame. When you flush the toilet, the lever should never stick downwards. If it does, it will cause the flush arm to hold the flapper open and continuously dump water into the bowl. 

Fixing a bad flush lever involves these steps:

• Remove the tank lid.
• Check the flush arm for corrosion or damage.
• If the flush arm is damaged, replace it. You can DIY this repair if you’re comfortable or call Douglas Cooling & Heating and let your plumber do the job.

Need Help Fixing Toilet Troubles?

If you’re having trouble fixing a running toilet, don’t hesitate to call Douglas Cooling & Heating for professional help. Our plumbers are happy to help you solve toilet troubles like this! Contact us today to make an appointment for repair services.

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