Peter Levi Plumbing Inc.

Peter Levi Plumbing Fun Fact Friday | Did You Know....

Since 1963 (the year CDA was established), more than 28 billion feet or about 5.3 million miles of copper plumbing tube has been installed in U.S. buildings. That’s equivalent to a coil wrapping around the Earth more than 200 times. The current installation rate now exceeds a billion feet per year.

Avoid a Plumbing Nightmare with These Simple Tips

Most homeowners have called their local plumber at least once for a late-night emergency, whether it is a backed-up drain, a leaking pipe, or a clogged toilet. With a little bit of preventative maintenance and some know-how, you can prevent these types of incidents and only need to call your plumber for routine maintenance.

• Properly dispose of oil and grease. Grease coagulates along the lining of your pipes, reducing water flow, and providing a haven for bacteria and debris to eventually form an odorous clog.

• Don't pour harsh chemicals down your drains. Avoid pouring any type of corrosive material down the drain. Be wary of commercial drain cleaners, because while they can be very effective at eating through clogs, they can eventually eat through your pipes too.

• Install drain covers in the shower and bath. Human hair decomposes slowly and can quickly become stuck inside a bath or shower drain. Soap scum and more hair can eventually form a resilient clog.

• Respect your toilet. Your toilet is not a garbage can and should only be used for waste and toilet paper. Facial tissue, paper towels, and anything that is not specifically labeled as flushable should not go into your toilet bowl.

• Keep a few handy plumbing tools close by. A household plunger can be your best friend. Keep two: a sink plunger for your sinks and bathtubs and a toilet plunger with a flange for your toilet.

• Watch what you put in your disposal. Avoid putting stringy and fibrous vegetables in the garbage disposal, especially when they’re raw. Be careful of meat that has gristle, and don't overload your disposal. Instead, use cold water and put in a little food at a time. Toss in a lemon peel and some ice cubes on occasion to deodorize and clean the blades.

For more plumbing tips, contact Peter Levi Plumbing at (415) 814-6900. If you do run into a plumbing emergency, we are available 24/7. Visit our website to explore our full range of residential plumbing services.

The Hidden Dangers of a Water Leak

Water leaks happen. It's possible for even well-maintained plumbing to spring a small leak, though it is less likely when you have had your home's plumbing taken care of on a regular basis by a qualified plumber. Water leaks that go undetected or aren't repaired immediately can have lasting ill-effects on your home and even your health.

Structural Issues

Hidden water leaks encourage rot and weaken of the integrity of your home’s structural components. The studs inside your walls, your flooring, and drywall can rot or otherwise become weakened and require replacement. In a worst-case scenario, you can experience severe foundation issues. Slab leaks are one of the most dangerous types to go undetected, as they can actually cause the concrete in your foundation to collapse or heave. Both of these actions can result in severe damage to your home's structure.

Mold Growth

Water leaks provide perfect environments for mold to begin growing. Mold can compound rot problems, and it can be difficult to remove once it has contaminated a surface or structure. Its musty odor can pervade areas beyond the leak itself. Eventually, mold growth can become severe and present health risks such as respiratory issues to your family.

Increased Costs

Leaks are often hidden and difficult to detect by homeowners alone. One thing to pay attention to is your water bill. If you notice a gradual increase, you may have a water leak. It's always a good idea to have a plumber inspect your home's plumbing annually or semiannually.

Peter Levi Plumbing provides expert leak detection with trained specialists and advanced equipment to pinpoint the location and cause of a water leak. Don't let a water leak get out of control and damage your home. Contact us at (415) 814-6900 today.

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