FAQs on Plumbing

FAQs on plumbing are very many. Having a understanding makes it better. Below are some of FAQs on plumbing.

How to Stop Running Water

The best way is to shut off the water at the valve closest to the source of the problem. This would allow a functioning water system to the rest of the house. For faucets, toilets or similar fixtures there are shut off valves connected to the water supply usually located directly under the fixture that should be able to shut off that fixture. If that does not work, or if you don’t find the shut off valve, you can close the main shut off valve (near your water meter) which will stop the water flow to the entire home.  Don’t let water cause any more damage to your home, give us a call right away for our 24/7 emergency service and we’ll get you leak-free running water, usually within the same day.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are often referred to as, “on-demand water heating,” because they only produce hot water as the system demands, they do not store heated water. Traditional Storage tank-type water heaters raise and maintain the water temperature to the temperature setting on the tank. Since the water is stored, they constantly use utilities to maintain the set temperature.

Why Your Water heater May Run Out of Hot Water

It just might be that your faucets and showerheads are the problem. Older showerheads can put out up to 5 gallons per minute. Newer showerheads put out around 2.5 gallons of volume per minute. The problem can sometimes be solved by switching to lower volume showerheads and faucets. Another possible problem could be that your water heater’s dip tube may need to be replaced.

Your Water Heater

The most serious cause of water leaks from water heaters is a rusted out tank, this would require you to replace the entire water heater. If your water heater is not near the end of the manufacturers’ life span, it could be a much simpler and less costly problem. The pressure relief valve, usually located at the top of the unit, could be leaking. The cause could be a loose or defective, or worn out valve. Your owner’s manual should have detailed information about repairing or replacing the valve. Call us as a plumbing company. We’re here to help!

Your Running/Leaking Toilet

If your toilet intermittently refills with water or if it sounds like it won’t stop running, the first place to check would be to see if the flapper isn’t seated properly. Over time, it can accumulate a thin layer of scale or a slippery film, which can cause the water seal to fail. If this is the problem, then cleaning or replacing the flapper will correct it. If that is not the cause, look at the lift chain to see if it’s kinked this is also an easy fix. If neither of these is the problem, you could have a worn out flush valve. A variety of replacement tank assembly kits can be found at any plumbing supply, hardware store, and most discount centers, and installation is fairly simple. We at Nairobi Plumbing Company are here to help you with all your plumbing needs, large or small, Just give us a call for your free estimate.

Electric Water Heater – Not Heating

Electric water heaters fails Very often, the cause is a tripped high-temperature cutoff, which can be easily corrected by pressing the reset button. If that doesn’t get it working, it could be a faulty heating element. In which case, the element will need to be replaced.

The Right Size of a Water Heater for your Home ?

There are a number of factors that need to be taken into consideration which include how many people there are in your household, the number of bathtubs and/or showers, whether you have a dishwasher, washing machine or whirlpool bathtub and the type of water heater (natural gas or an electric unit). Usually, a 40 gallon gas water heater is sufficient for the needs of a family of 4. You should consider a 50-60 gallon model if the water heater is electric. Nairobi Plumbing Company offers free consultations to assist you in making sure you select the type and size water heater to meet your needs.

Hard Water & Soft Water

“Hard water” is water that contains high levels of dissolved calcium and/or magnesium.  One disadvantage of hard water is that it forms deposits that clog plumbing. These deposits, called “scale”, tend to be deposited as off-white solids on the surfaces of pipes and the surfaces of heat exchangers (heating, refrigeration, air conditioning), on appliances and fixtures and can adversely affect their performance over time. With hard water, soap solutions form soap scum instead of lather, which decreases the cleansing action of soaps and detergents we use in cleaning our dishes, clothing and in bathing. Depending on the level of minerals present in your water, you may want to consider installing a water softening system in your home. Water softeners essentially eliminate calcium and magnesium through interaction with sodium through a process called ion exchange. For more information or to find out if a water softening system is right for you, give us a call, we’re here to help!

Causes of Water Pipes Rattling

Rattling may be caused by water lines that are not properly isolated from the structural elements of your home. The motion of water moving through such pipes can be transferred to beams, studs, or joists in or beneath your flooring or walls. If you are able to access the noisy pipes, the solution may be as easy as placing insulating material between the pipes and the structural elements they touch. If the pipes only rattle when water is turned off or on, you may need to install a water hammer arrester, which eliminates the jolt caused by the water valves closing. This problem can be somewhat tricky to determine, you may find that calling the professionals at  Nairobi Plumbing Company will save you time and frustration.
For quality and affordable plumbing services in Nairobi and other counties in Kenya, Contact Nairobi Plumbing Company to schedule a free plumbing inspection on any of your plumbing equipments. We will advise you in all aspects – from repairs to installation. Your plumbing work will stay durable if the right materials and workmanship is applied appropriately

Here are some of other frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to plumbing:

1. Q: What should I do in case of a plumbing emergency?
   • A: In case of a plumbing emergency, such as a burst pipe or major leak, first, turn off the main water supply. Contact an emergency plumber immediately for assistance.
2. Q: How can I prevent frozen pipes during winter?
   • A: To prevent frozen pipes, insulate exposed pipes, keep cabinets open to allow warm air circulation, and let faucets drip in extremely cold weather to keep water flowing.
3. Q: What can I do to maintain my plumbing system?
   • A: Regular maintenance includes checking for leaks, inspecting pipes for corrosion, flushing water heaters, and cleaning drains. Schedule professional inspections periodically.
4. Q: What is the purpose of a water softener, and do I need one?
   • A: Water softeners remove minerals like calcium and magnesium from hard water, preventing scale buildup in pipes and appliances. Whether you need one depends on your water quality and preferences.
5. Q: How do I fix a running toilet?
   • A: Check the flapper, fill valve, and float. Adjust or replace any components that are not functioning correctly. A running toilet can waste a significant amount of water, so it’s important to address the issue promptly.
6. Q: What causes low water pressure in my home?
   • A: Low water pressure can be caused by clogged pipes, a malfunctioning pressure regulator, or issues with the municipal water supply. A plumber can diagnose the problem and recommend a solution.
7. Q: How can I unclog a drain without using chemicals?
   • A: Use a plunger or a plumbing snake to break up and remove clogs. Pouring boiling water mixed with baking soda and vinegar down the drain can also help break down debris.
8. Q: What are the signs of a hidden water leak?
   • A: Signs include unexplained increases in water bills, water stains on walls or ceilings, mold or mildew growth, and the sound of running water when no fixtures are in use.
9. Q: How often should I replace my water heater?
   • A: The lifespan of a water heater is typically 8 to 12 years. Regular maintenance can extend its life, but if you notice issues like rust, leaks, or insufficient hot water, it may be time for a replacement.
10. Q: Can I install a new plumbing fixture myself?
    • A: Simple fixtures like faucets or showerheads can often be installed by homeowners. However, for more complex installations or if you are unsure, it’s recommended to hire a professional plumber to ensure proper installation and compliance with local codes.  Get more when we add FAQs on plumbing here.