Head Back to Homeowner's School with Plumbing 101

Learn the Basics of a Home's Plumbing System

Most people that have owned homes for a few years know that there is always something to learn. There is no shortage of curveballs that a house can throw that can send homeowners into a spiral. Knowledge is one of the most important tools a homeowner can have because it helps protect and understand their investment. 

As kids head back to school this year, homeowners should take a moment and learn something about their home's plumbing. In this article, plumbers are happy to share a few facts to keep homeowners up-to-date on their plumbing knowledge.  

The Journey of Water To and from a Homesink water

Abundant fresh water is probably one of the most under-appreciated utilities that's in a home. Without readily available safe drinking water and a sophisticated sewer system to haul used water away, no civilization has thrived. A home's plumbing takes care of both of these functions with surprising reliability. 
It all starts where municipal water supplies enter a home. A single pipe brings water inside the walls, where it splits to feed cold water to fixtures like water heaters, washing machines, and sink basins. The line that feeds the water heater picks up after the tank and distributes hot water all around the home through piping. 

Each plumbing fixture will be near access to a drain line. Like the water lines, the drain line branches from each fixture back to a central sewer line. Once the drain lines meet up, used water and waste are whisked away to a sewer treatment plant via the sewer line. 

Important Plumbing Fixtures Around the Home

As hot and cold water lines serve water around the home, they are made accessible in fixtures like:

  • Showers: Hygiene is an important aspect of health. By using the hot and cold water lines present in showers, homeowners can practice hygiene in comfort. 
  • Toilets: Cold water lines serve toilets to help keep life sanitary. As they flush away waste, homeowners are protected from diseases. 
  • Water Heaters: Water heaters prepare water for use in other appliances. Water tanks and tankless water heaters offer different methods and benefits to help homeowners access this important resource. 
  • Dishwashers: Hot water lines make sure that dishes get cleaned and sanitized. As water pumps down the drain, food particles go with it, so the appliance's inside is always clean.

drain Keeping Drains Clean with Professional Drain Cleaning

Drains are equally as important to plumbing as clean water. Without clean drains, everyone would be constantly inundated with filthy water. Since drains take so much abuse, they must stay clean. Periodically, professional drain cleaning can help ensure that drains keep working properly. 

Whether a home needs emergency drain cleaning to remove a nasty clog or sewer lines need to be hydro jetted, professional plumbers have solutions to drain problems. For extra peace of mind, cleaning drains can ensure that homeowners never have to deal with an embarrassing and stressful drain clog. 

About Apple Valley Plumbing Company

Apple Valley Plumbing Company is a professional plumbing company in Apple Valley, MN. With same-day service, they get problems solved faster. Upfront pricing ensures that no surprise charges get tagged onto a homeowner's bill. Call now for plumbing service!

Get the Home Ready for the 4th of July!

Tips To Prepare for the Best 4th of July!

The 4th of July is the time of year, right in the middle of summer, when families come together for summer festivities and cookouts, in true American fashion. There is nothing worse than experiencing plumbing issues on the day of the fun! Homeowners can ensure their home is ready for this year’s festivities with the following information. Below are three tips that every homeowner should know and try to accomplish before the big day! 

Doing so will keep their homes safe and the festivities going as late as possible. Continue reading to stay informed on how to prepare the home this year for the 4th of July. 

Have a Garbage Disposal Installedgarbage disposal

When planning a 4th of July party, a garbage disposal might not be the top priority for many homeowners, but it is something that can make or break the whole day. 4th of July parties tend to be big, with lots of people gathered around for festivities like fireworks. Thinking of cleaning up the mess afterward is enough to cause anyone anxiety. 
Installing garbage disposal gives the homeowner one less thing to worry about or a bunch of things. 

Sometimes it can be difficult to say what food scraps end up down the drain during a party. That’s another area where garbage disposal comes in handy. Not only does the homeowner not have to worry about a huge pile of dishes to hand wash, but they don’t have to worry about their sink getting clogged either.

Garbage disposals are cheap and easy to install, making them a perfect addition to prepare the home for the 4th this year. 

Check Gas Lines To Ensure Safety

It is probably best to have a professional check the gas lines to ensure they are safe for the event, rather than homeowners trying to do it themselves. However, homeowners can do a few things to check if they have a gas leak in their homes. 

Here are some things to do:

  • Check for a rotten eggs smell anywhere in the home
  • Listen for any hissing or whistling noises in the home
  • Those that have a gas stove can try to turn on a burner. If the flame is orange or red at first rather than blue, there might be gas in the air
  • The homeowner can also purchase a gas leak detector to use

Gas leaks aren’t anything to mess with. Homeowners should call in a professional when they think they might have a gas leak in their home. The professional will probably recommend that the homeowner leave the home until the situation is resolved because too much gas in the air can cause the homeowner to get very sick.  

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Make Sure the Bathroom Is Ready for Guests!

The easiest way to ensure the bathroom is ready for guests is to have a professional plumber perform any maintenance and tune-ups the system might need. No homeowner wants to deal with a clogged toilet on the 4th. So, having the system professionally cleaned will keep the risk of clogging at a minimum. 

Apple Valley Plumbing Company Works Hard To Keep Homeowners Safe

When it’s time for plumbing maintenance or repairs, Apple Valley, MN homeowners can call the Apple Valley Plumbing Company professionals. They have served the area for the past ten years and aren’t going anywhere soon. They care about their community! Call today for plumbing service.

3 Plumbing Issues That Can Ruin Backyard Summer Fun

Don’t Let Plumbing Problems Flood Out Your Summer Plans!

It’s great to have a backyard during the summer months. It’s the time of year when the yard gets the most use. Cookouts, parties, celebrations, or just playing with the kids or pets outside are some of the best times families have. There’s something great about having a yard in which to make memories. So, that last thing that anyone wants is to have to deal with a flooded yard or other outdoor plumbing emergencies right in the middle of summer. Here are three plumbing issues that can ruin backyard summer fun - and what homeowners can do about them.  

Broken Sprinklerssprinkler

Cultivating a backyard to be proud of usually involves sprinklers. Without them, the grass won’t turn green and lush. They save time, eliminating the need for homeowners to be outside spraying down the lawn with a hose. But sometimes sprinklers can break and cause the yard to flood. 

Underground irrigation lines can break due to roots, ground shifts, or for no apparent reason at all. When this happens, part of the yard may flood, soaking the grass and making that area a colossal mess that can interfere with summer plans. Most of the time, the fix is to dig down and find the break in the line, cut out the section, and replace it. Sometimes the whole system will malfunction, which usually requires a professional plumber to fix. 

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Hose Bibs

Many homeowners have hose bibs outside their homes, but they don’t know what they are. Hose bibs come out of the home and are designed to hook a hose up to. Most homeowners know these simply as spigots or hose spigots. While these are usually pretty solid and don’t pose problems, they can start to leak or break on occasion. 

Even a small leak from a hose bib can cost the homeowner hundreds of dollars a year. This is why it’s good to look for water running down from the spigot or dark spots on the wall around where the bib comes out. If things are bad enough, one may require a replacement to fix the issue. 

The Dreaded Sewer Line Damage

Compared to sewer line damage, broken sprinklers or hose bibs seem like a walk in the park. A sewer line breaking can cause all kinds of problems, depending on where it’s located. If one is located under the driveway, it can cause damage to the concrete above as the sewage leaks out and causes the ground to shift

Other times, a broken sewer line will cause soggy and smelly areas of the yard, attracting pests to the area. Sometimes patches of especially green or lush grass can pop up above a broken sewer line. Other times it will drain into the basement or cause foundation issues. Those homeowners who suspect they have a broken sewage line should immediately contact a professional plumber to diagnose the issue. 

About Apple Valley Plumbing Company

The friendly folks at Apple Valley Plumbing Company have been serving Apple Valley, MN since 2013. They offer same-day service and always treat their customers’ homes like their own. They offer up-front pricing and are always professional and courteous. Contact them today to schedule sewer pipe repair service

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Give Mom the Grand Gift of Upgraded Fixtures This Mother's Day!

New Kitchen and Bathroom Plumbing Fixtures for Mom

Mother’s Day is all about spoiling and pampering Mom, showering her with love and appreciation, giving back for everything she’s done all these years. Treating her to breakfast in bed, spending quality time with her, and giving her a chance to kick back and relax all go a long way. But it can’t stop there - she also deserves a great gift (or several)! 

Sure, chocolates and flowers are time-honored classics, but sometimes something a little more special (and long-lasting) is in order. And what could be better than an upgrade for some of those boring old bathroom and kitchen fixtures? Especially if she’s been wanting to do it herself but hasn’t found the time. Here are a few great gift ideas that mom is sure to love.

New Bathroom Fixtures Mom Will Lovebathroom

The bathroom is the perfect place to start for Mother’s Day gift ideas. Upgrading fixtures like faucets, sinks, and bathtubs can transform a bathroom to give it the feel of a luxury resort. If doing it all at once is a bit out of the price range, it’s easy enough to tackle one fixture at a time. 

Upgrading to an elegant new water-saving faucet is perfect for water-conscious moms. And they come in a variety of styles to suit any taste, from chrome and stainless steel to nickel and polished brass. If it’s time for a new sink, some mothers may appreciate the modern look of a vessel sink or the added counter space of an all-in-one sink and vanity combo.

A new bathtub can dramatically change the entire bathroom all on its own. Large soaker tubs are perfect for moms who want to unwind after a long day. Whether it’s a free-standing clawfoot or flat-bottom tub, a spacious walk-in tub, or a whirlpool tub with soothing jets, it’s sure to give Mom the blissful relaxation she deserves.

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The Joy of New Kitchen Fixtures

An upgraded kitchen sink or faucet (or both) is another gift nearly every mom will love. Most new water-saving kitchen faucets feature an aerator to mix air with the water for a powerful stream that’s great for cleaning. Combined with a built-in hose sprayer, this can make nightly cleanup a breeze, which is not just a gift for mom but the whole family!

A new kitchen sink basin can also make life easier - and more luxurious. Farmhouse sinks are a great blend of old and new styles, and in fireclay or cast iron, are sturdy enough for any job. A stainless steel double-basin sink is a classic option. Or for those households where a lot of cooking goes on, a large under-mount sink can provide enough space for even the biggest dishes and food prep jobs.

The Importance of a New Garbage Disposal

Another great gift idea for the kitchen is an upgraded garbage disposal. Many homes don’t have a garbage disposal, to begin with, making food prep and cleanup more difficult. Most vegetable matter and other food scraps can safely go down the disposal and be ground into tiny bits and washed away. This means moms get spared the nasty job of cleaning out the food trap every night!

In homes that already have a disposal, it may be high time for an upgrade, anyway. They typically don’t last much longer than 10 years and begin to lose their effectiveness as they age. Newer, more powerful models also tend to have better sound insulation, so cleaning up won’t make as much of a racket, and the after-dinner conversation won’t be rudely interrupted!

About Apple Valley Plumbing Company

Apple Valley Plumbing Company has been happily serving the Apple Valley, MN community for years. Their courteous, professional technicians are on call day and night to handle any job, big or small. They provide free estimates, up-front pricing, and a 100% money-back satisfaction guarantee. Call now for plumbing services!

How Your Local Plumber Can Help You Conserve More Water This Earth Day

Professional Plumbing Services To Help Reduce Water Waste

In honor of Earth Day, many homeowners are looking for new ways to conserve water and do their part for the environment. Most people already know about the everyday good water habits like taking shorter showers, turning off faucets while brushing teeth or washing dishes, and consolidating their laundry into fewer loads. But many homeowners aren’t aware that their plumbing system itself may be costing them hundreds or even thousands of gallons of water every year.

Things like slow leaks, faulty valves, outdated fixtures, and excessive water pressure can waste several gallons a day for months on end without being noticed. Fortunately, homeowners are not alone. A trusted local plumber can identify hidden sources of water waste and solve the problem, as well as recommend additional eco-friendly solutions and practices. 

Plumbing System Inspections

A thorough plumbing inspection is generally considered a prerequisite when purchasing a home. But after this initial appraisal, most homeowners tend to think they’re in the clear for years. The truth is, a plumbing inspection should be performed every two years in newer homes and once a year in older homes.

With routine inspections, plumbers can catch minor issues before they escalate into large-scale emergencies. Pipe corrosion, dripping faucets, pinhole leaks, worn couplings, and mineral scale buildup can seem relatively harmless but end up causing massive damage or water waste. A pro can also measure the home’s main water supply pressure, which can cause severe damage or needless water loss if it’s too high.

Leak Detection, Repair & Prevention

leak

Minor plumbing leaks are perhaps the most insidious form of water waste to be found in a home. Even a slowly dripping faucet or a tiny trickle from a loose pipe fitting can send hundreds of gallons down the drain every year. It’s even estimated that 10% of homes have undetected or unresolved leaks that waste 90 gallons per day!

Professional leak detection typically involves:

  • Testing the water meter for phantom usage.
  • Pressure-testing the supply system for irregularities.
  • Using special acoustic listening devices.
  • Feeding fiber-optic cables into the walls to pinpoint elusive leaks.

The technician will then repair the leak, usually with a simple slip coupling or by repiping the entire section if it’s likely to spring another leak in the future. 

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Repairing or Replacing Old Toilets

Another primary source of residential water waste is old or malfunctioning toilets. Any toilet that runs frequently is definitely leaking water. Homeowners can usually solve this by replacing the valve seal or “flapper” inside the tank, as it’s likely become worn. But not all toilet leaks are so simple. Older toilets may begin leaking from the base due when the connection to the floor drain becomes loose, the wax sealant ring has deteriorated, or the porcelain itself has cracked.

With most older toilets, repairs are hardly worth the cost, and homeowners would be better off replacing the toilet altogether. It’s a perfect opportunity to upgrade to a water-saving low-flush toilet. Many new toilet models use as little as 1.1 to 1.28 gallons per flush, much less than the standard 1.6. Some very old toilets use as much as 5 gallons, so an eco-friendly upgrade can’t come too soon!

A water-saving toilet can cut down water waste significantly, but it’s not the only fixture designed to do so. After the plumber replaces that old toilet, they can install eco-friendly faucets and showerheads to make the home even greener!

About Apple Valley Plumbing Company

The award-winning Apple Valley Plumbing Company has proudly served the Apple Valley, MN community since 2013. Their professional, courteous technicians are punctual, prepared, and treat every home like their own. They provide free estimates, same-day service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call now for plumbing services!

A History of Iconic Women in Plumbing

How Women Have Shaped the Plumbing Industry

While the stereotypical plumber that comes to mind in most customers is male, women have been plumbing for over 100 years. Though the plumbing industry is typically considered a male-dominated field, women have and continue to contribute to the landscape of the industry. Women have always been involved in plumbing, scheduling appointments, bookkeeping, and supporting the male plumbers from the office. 

However, during the scarcity of men during World War II, many women took up the mantle of 'local plumber' to complete the necessary plumbing work that communities still needed. Women have continued to add ingenuity and quality work to the plumbing industry. 

Lillian Ann Baumbach - The First Female Master Plumber

Lillian Baumbach was the first licensed female master plumbing and changed the landscape of the plumbing industry for women everywhere. Growing up in a family-run plumbing company meant she had been around the industry her whole life and often helped with the behind-the-scenes side of her family's business. However, she eventually decided she wanted to be more hands-on. 

woman

Now a bit of a celebrity, Baumbach was nicknamed the "Pretty Plumber" by her fans, both local and national. Because of her popularity and skills, she received letters asking her opinions on industry standards and even marriage proposals, all similarly rejected. 

Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbersladies

Founded in the early 1900s, the Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers began to entertain the wives of plumbers attending the larger committee. While the first meetings were social, the group eventually focused on creating change in the plumbing industry.

They did everything from campaigning for better envoy mental, sanitation, health, and labor standards industry-wide to partnering with gas stations, grocery stores, and food handling businesses to improve the sanitary conditions of stores. Today, the Auxiliary is still active in supporting industry change and supporting plumbers of both genders. 

Women in Plumbing Today

While today's plumbing industry is still male-dominated both in reality and the minds of the general public, women are still making waves as plumbers across the nation. More women are stepping out of the office out into the field. Though it can still be challenging for women to break into the plumbing industry as there is still some stereotyping that occurs, many female plumbers serve customers and raise the quality standards of the plumbing standards nationwide. 

About Apple Valley Plumbing Company 

Apple Valley Plumbing Company is an award-winning company that has served the Apple Valley, MN area for the last ten years. Focused on being a plumbing company customers can trust, Apple Valley Plumbing Company offers free estimates and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call now for expert plumbing service!

Wonderfully Weird White House Plumbing Facts!

President's Day Fun: 3 Fascinating Facts About Plumbing in the White House!

The White House is the iconic, quintessential symbol of the Presidency. It was designed to be a grand place suitable for a world leader, but when the first stone was laid in 1792, the White House did not have the modern convenience of plumbing. 

But, plumbing soon came to the White House, and with it came a collage of fascinating history and stories as the pipes of the White House became a part of history. There's so much more to the plumbing of the President's house than just pipes and water!

Plumbing Comes To 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue 

The White House's first iteration was designed by James Hoban and took eight years to complete, from 1792-1800. But no significant plumbing was installed until President John Quincy Adams had an iron garden spout installed to assist in his gardening sometime between 1825 and 1829. 

It was not until after the British burned down the White House in 1814 and a second iteration was built again in 1833 that plumbing piping water into the White House was installed. In 1834 a bathing room was installed for the residents, too. 

President Pierce soon improved the plumbing of the White House even more. By 1853, plumbing was installed on the White House's second floor, a permanent fixture that included hot and cold water to be piped into baths and showers.

President Taft's Presidential Custom Bathtub

white house

The leader of the Free World probably needs a relaxing bath after a long day spent making policy and guiding the American people, right? Well, President Taft certainly thought so. William Howard Taft was the 27th President of the United States. His nickname was "Big Bill," a nod to his enormous size.

President Taft topped the scales at 350 pounds and holds the record for being the largest president to serve in the Oval Office. Such a large man required a larger tub than was had in the White House. In 1909, President Taft was the proud recipient of a custom bathtub over 7 feet long, weighing over a ton, which he used on his sea-faring journey with the USS North Carolina crew. Soon after, similarly-sized tubs were installed in the White House and other important locations the Taft family visited. 

A folk-story tells the tale of President Taft becoming stuck in the bathtub and needing the aid of six men to be pulled free. Of course, the story did not come about until two decades after Taft's presidency, and while likely untrue, the story remains a popular tale told in the White House halls. 

Nixon's "Plumbers" of Watergate

The White House's plumbing takes care of the unsavory waste of its occupants, and Nixon's White House Plumbers were founded to do the same thing with confidential information. While there are designated plumbers who work for the White House to maintain its plumbing, Nixon's Plumbers were an elite team of spies set to prevent intelligence leaks and collect intel to serve President Nixon's agendas.

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Originally, the White House Plumbers were tasked with gathering information on the leaker of the Pentagon Papers, Daniel Ellsberg. The Plumbers continued stopping leaks like any top-notch squad of plumbers, but their leaks were of the informational variety. It was the White House Plumbers that bungled the Watergate incident and ultimately led to President Nixon's resignation and demise. 

The plumbing of the White House has seen many great moments in history. Since they were first installed, the pipes, faucets, and bathtubs of the White House have become a piece of American history!

About Apple Valley Plumbing Company

Apple Valley Plumbing Company got its start with a dream to serve their neighbors with quality plumbing. Community is everything to the team at Apple Valley Plumbing Company. That's why they strive to offer reliable, affordable plumbing services to every client. Contact them to schedule plumbing service in Apple Valley, MN today!

The Plumbing System Deserves a Few Resolutions

A Little Attention Goes a Long Way

A home’s plumbing system is its lifeblood. Without a plumbing system, the modern house would cease to exist. There wouldn’t be any more showers, and pretty much the entire kitchen would vanish; society’s version of a kitchen, at least. That is why homeowners should have their plumbing system routinely maintained. Regular maintenance is the only way to ensure the homeowner stays on top of their plumbing system when it starts to show signs of wear-and-tear. 

Of course, there are a few things that homeowners should be aware of aside from professional maintenance. If homeowners remember these three things, it could save them thousands on repair costs. Continue reading for more information. 

Regular Drain Cleaning Can Save Thousands in Repairs

Most people tend to opt out of drain cleaning a lot of the time. Many homeowners believe it is a waste of money or don’t have the extra cash to spend on the service.

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However, what they don’t realize is that having their drains cleaned just once a year will save them in the end when it comes to the cost of repairs and damages to the home. Plumbing is a vital part of any home, so homeowners must take care of their plumbing system. 

Keep An Eye Out for What Gets Flushed 

Another point to make is to watch what gets flushed down the toilet, especially if there are little kids in the home. The piping system within the plumbing system is very narrow. It does not allow much room for anything besides toilet paper to go down the drain. 

That said, here is a list of things that should never go down the drain, and if they do, it’s essential to have the drains cleaned right away:

  • Food scraps
  • Grease
  • Trash
  • Feminine care products
  • Diapers
  • Dental floss
  • Paper towels

Homeowners should even pay attention to how much toilet paper gets flushed as well. Excessive toilet paper can lead to plumbing issues just as much as anything else. 

Watch Out for Signs of Leaksear

If there are any signs of leakage, homeowners should call a professional as soon as possible. Leaks can quickly lead to water damage and flooding inside the home. 

A few of the common signs of leaks are: 

  • Water spots on the walls
  • The walls and floors feel wet
  • It sounds like water is running when it isn’t
  • Lingering smells in the home
  • Puddles of water under sinks or toilets 

Another important signal is an increase in utility costs. Even the smallest leaks can account for gallons of wasted water each day, leading to extensive costs down the line. Most homeowners should have a good handle on their water usage, and any variation in that usage could be an easy to notice signal of a leak. 

Apple Valley Plumbing Company Is There for Their Customers

There is no better time to maintain and care for a plumbing system than right now. Homeowners that haven’t had their plumbing properly maintained in a while could notice the benefits right away. For expert plumbing services, call the professionals at Apple Valley Plumbing Company. They work hard so homeowners don’t have to!

The Three Top Ways to Prevent Pipes From Freezing This Winter

Prevent Frozen Pipes From Ruining the Holiday Festivities!

One of the easiest ways to ruin a fine holiday vacation is a burst pipe and accompanying repipe. It's also one of the most easily preventable household disasters. For many homeowners, the hardest part is remembering to follow proper advice. After all, keeping pipes warm is easy, but it seems like plumbers become very busy during the winter with flooded homes from burst pipes. Read on to discover the best ways to prevent pipes from freezing this winter. 

Make Sure Your Pipes Are Insulated Properlypipes

The top way for homeowners to keep their pipes from freezing is proper insulation. This is especially important for any exterior pipes and plumbing fixtures because they are more exposed to the elements and less protected by the house's heat and insulation.

For these easily-accessible outdoor pipes, it is fairly easy for homeowners to install the insulation themselves. Most hardware stores sell pre-cut pipe installation that will easily slip over the pipes. There is also spray-foam insulation available for added protection for those hard-to-reach pipes and fixtures. 

Let Water Drip

One of the other best ways to prevent burst pipes during the winter is to let water drip out of the faucet. This is effective because pipes don't actually burst from the ice itself. A common misconception is that water expansion from turning to ice causes the pipe to burst. However, this isn't the case. Instead, it's the buildup of pressure that happens behind the ice blockage in the pipe. This water pressure is essential for the flow of water into the home. Without it, water would only flow out of a trickle, instead of the powerful flow that homeowners enjoy. 

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So, letting water drip out of a faucet or two can keep the pipes' pressure low. It also helps to ensure that water is always moving. Even at a slow pace, moving water can make freezing less likely. 

Keep the Thermostat at 55-Degrees Fahrenheit

Finally, the third tip to keep pipes from bursting this winter is all about the thermostat. It can be tempting for homeowners to turn their thermostat off when they leave the house, but turning it down is a better option. Keeping the thermostat above 55-degree Fahrenheit can help keep the pipes from freezing, especially during long periods away from the house. This is because the heat inside the house isn't just for humans, but it can also keep the pipes comfortable and warm. 

In addition to keeping the thermostat above 55-degrees, homeowners can keep their interior doors and cabinets open when gone for long periods. This allows the heat to make its way into every room and to the vulnerable pipes under the sinks. Homeowners who are planning on leaving the home for extended periods during the winter need to weigh the possibility of a burst pipe against the cost of keeping the heater running while they are gone. 

About Apple Valley Plumbing Company

Apple Valley Plumbing Company was founded in 2013 to serve Apple Valley, MN, and their plumbing needs. They offer free estimates and a 100% guarantee for every job. Their techs are known for being courteous, professional, and communicative. Call now for plumbing services!

What To Do for Your Pipes This Winter

Protect Your Home Against Burst Pipes With these Helpful Tips! 

Burst pipes are never fun, but this nightmare is a much more common occurrence in colder areas. Once pipes burst, homeowners can expect to deal with flooding, water damage, and costly pipe repairs. Although burst pipes almost always catch people unawares, observation for signs of deterioration, leaks, and other symptoms can provide the opportunity for an earlier and easier fix. 

Homeowners should be especially wary during the holiday season since inspecting the drainage system can become the last priority. An Allstate poll even found that burst pipes in Minnesota increased by 197 percent during the holidays! Read this article for the best chance at protection against burst pipes in winter.

Potential Damage From Burst Pipes

Burst pipes can mean thousands of dollars in repairs. The damage can range from ruined floors and carpeting to a total building overhaul. This plumbing debacle is caused when frozen water expands in the pipes and, as a result, puts too much pressure on the inner pipe walls. Pipes are much more likely to burst if they are older or deteriorated due to chemicals from cleaning products. 

The material of the pipe will also play a significant factor in its life expectancy. Materials such as brass, galvanized steel, and cast-iron can last even up to a century, and copper can provide up to 80 years of service. PVC pipes range from 25 - 40 years of use. 

Burst pipes may feel like a doomsday scenario that can take an owner by surprise at any point but take heart. There are signs of pipe deterioration and steps a homeowner can take to protect their home. 

What Insulation Can Mean for Your Pipes

Just like how humans need coats in cold weather, pipes need protection in winter as well. Insulating pipes will help reduce the risk of a burst. Uninsulated pipes can freeze when the weather outside is just under 20 degrees Fahrenheit, a low threshold for Minnesota winters. 

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Philadelphia Insurance Companies reviewed 433 burst pipe claims and found that unheated attics take the cake as the most common cause of burst pipes. People may not realize that attics also have pipes, leaving them unprotected and uninsulated against winter weather. Pipe insulation can be purchased at any hardware store. This inexpensive fix will save thousands in potential damages and repiping.

More Methods To Prevent Burst Pipes 

Insulation is a sure-fire way to improve the chances of pipes surviving the winter incident-free. However, insulation is not the only way to protect pipes. 

Other recommended methods are:

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  • Avoid chemical cleaners - When chemicals used for cleaning purposes pass through the pipes, they eat away at the pipes' integrity. Alternatively, homeowners can invest in professional drain cleaning services to clean pipes and prevent blockage. 
  • Check annually for signs of deterioration - Frequent assessment of pipe quality can save money, time, and effort. Homeowners should check for leaks or cracks (of any size), water spots around the piping, corrosion on pipes, and discolored water. Any of these signs can mean that it is time to call a plumber for an inspection.
  • Consider upgrading the piping material - When the unfortunate time for pipe replacement comes, use this opportunity to assess which piping material works best for the house. For instance, copper may have a long life expectancy but is more likely to freeze than other materials.

 

About Apple Valley Plumbing Company

When looking for a trusted plumber in the Apple Valley area, Apple Valley Plumbing Company should be at the top of the list. They are committed to doing what is best for their clients, including educating them on a cheaper option or providing top-notch specialized services. With same-day services and upfront prices, Apple Valley Plumbing is there for its clients. Contact them today for expert plumbing services.