Detecting and Preventing Leaks with the Help of Your Plumber
Leaks might be a common plumbing system problem, but they can cause uncommon damage to homes. Even a small leak can trigger a terrible mold outbreak and ruin flooring, drywall, or even cabinetry. Fortunately, many of the most typical places where leaks occur are visible, but because there are many parts of your plumbing system that are not visible to the eye, it’s important to learn how to identify the signs of leaks–even hidden leaks–early. There are also steps you can take to prevent many leaks or reduce the damage leaks can cause. Tioga Plumbing & Electric specializes in plumbing services like leak detection and repair. At the first sign of a leak, you can rely on us for help.
Where Leaks Occur
The common places where leaks occur are toilets, sinks, washing machines, and dishwashers. However, if a plumbing system is older, the risk of hidden leaks in the walls or under flooring increases. Older pipes can be subject to corrosion, and corroded pipes are pipes that are at risk of developing leaks.
Corrosion isn’t the only cause of a leak. Blockages or pipe damage can also result in a small or major leak. Many customers opt for a periodic inspection of their plumbing system by a trained plumber to not only check for leaks but to ascertain the condition of the pipes. Pipes that are in poor condition are prone to leaks and ruptures.
Perform a Visual Inspection
Make a point to inspect your pipes on a routine basis. Many leaks occur beneath sinks, for example. P-traps can become clogged easily. These clogs can lead to leaks. It’s also important to take note of your home’s toilets and appliances that use water. Leaks often develop in these spots. With a routine visual inspection, you may be able to spot them early before they do considerable damage.
Know How to Detect Leaks
A visual inspection isn’t the only way to detect leaks. There are other signs of leaks that it’s important to watch out for. If you notice these signs, you may want to contact a plumber from our team:
Higher Water Bills
If your water bills are increasing, there could be a leak. If you haven’t had a change in your water usage, there could be a leak responsible for the increase. Additionally, a leaky toilet–and one that’s running–is bound to increase your water bill too.
Low Water Pressure
Another cause of low water pressure is a leak. A leak in the water line will impact the water pressure. If you suddenly experience a drop in water pressure, you might first contact the water company to see if they’re performing any work in the area that could affect your home. If not, then you should call a plumber to determine what’s causing the low water pressure, and if it’s a leak, then you’ll need to have it repaired as quickly as possible.
Mold
If you’ve experienced a mold outbreak, there’s possibly a leak somewhere. There may be a leak. The leak could be caused by the roof or seepage somewhere, but it could also be your plumbing system. If you spot mold, it’s crucial to determine its source so you can make the necessary repairs.
Water Leak Prevention
A weekly inspection of your plumbing system by you and an annual inspection by a trained plumber can help you reduce the risk of leak or leak damage. However, there are some other steps you can take to prevent leaks:
Leak Detectors
Consider investing in smart leak detectors that can catch leaks fast. These convenient devices will send you an alert via your smartphone if a leak is detected.
Automatic Shut-Off Valve
An automatic shut-off valve is another great feature to install. These valves turn off the water supply when a leak is detected. This feature can prevent water damage with their automated operation. If the leak occurs when you’re out of town or during the night, these automatic shut-off valves can spare you considerable damage and expense.
Use Drain Pans
Consider adding a drain pan beneath your hot water heater or washing machine. These appliances can develop leaks that can do significant damage to flooring. A drain pan will catch the leak, but be sure to inspect these pans to ensure they aren’t catching water. If they are, you’ll need to find the source of the leak and repair it.
Deal with Pipe Corrosion
If your plumbing system is older and is suffering from pipe corrosion, it’s probably only a matter of time before one of the pipes springs a leak. The sooner you are content with corroded pipes, the better. Talk to a plumber about replacing pipes that are damaged by corrosion. Although whole-house repiping is a major renovation, it can add value to your home. Consider investing in a plumbing system upgrade if your pipes are in poor condition.
Check Seals
When inspecting your plumbing system, you may want to check seals and tighten valves. Seals around the toilet and other parts of your plumbing system can wear out, and valves can loosen. Don’t wait to have them replaced, or you could be risking a serious leak.
Contact us if you have a leak or suspect you have one. Our plumbing professionals will troubleshoot the issue and provide the necessary repairs.
Our plumbing service offers a full range of plumbing services, including leak detection, drain cleaning, and more. Remember to schedule an inspection periodically. That way, a plumbing technician can alert you to any problems while they’re still small and easier to deal with. Get in touch with Tioga Plumbing & Electric to learn more about our plumber solutions and services.
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Save Money and Enjoy Hot Showers: The Benefits of Professional Water Heater Repair
Nothing ruins a relaxing hot shower more than an unexpected blast of cold water. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it can also signify a more severe issue with your water heater. To ensure constant hot water in your home, consider scheduling a water heater repair service every year since it’ll help you learn what to look for and help make your investment last longer.
Professional technicians are experienced in identifying and solving various issues that can affect your water heater’s performance. Many of these issues are small and can easily be fixed. However, it’s always best to avoid potential problems before they become expensive to repair.
With that in mind, let’s dive into the common problems homeowners experience with their water heaters, the risks of leaving them unaddressed, and the benefits of professional service.
Common Water Heater Problems and Risks
There are a few warning signs you can look for that may be indicative of a bigger issue. These include:
Leaky Tanks
Over time, your water heater tank may develop leaks due to multiple factors, such as corrosion, loose connections, or damaged valves. This can result in water damage to your property and may affect the efficiency of the water heater.
Solution: Regularly inspect your water heater for any signs of leakage. Tightening connections or replacing a damaged valve might solve the issue if it’s only minor leaks. However, if the tank is corroded or severely damaged, it’s best to call a professional plumber to replace the entire unit.
Risks: Ignoring leaks can lead to water damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs. A leaking water heater tank can also burst, causing catastrophic flooding and property damage.
Corrosion
The interior of your water heater may become corroded due to constant exposure to water, heat, and minerals. This can result in decreased efficiency, foul-smelling or discolored water, and leaks.
Solution: Regularly inspect the anode rod, which helps to prevent tank corrosion. If it is heavily corroded or depleted, let a plumber replace it. Additionally, draining and flushing the tank at least once a year can help to remove sediment buildup and prevent corrosion.
Risks: If left unnoticed, corrosion can cause leaks, loss of efficiency, property damage, and even complete water heater failure.
Sediment Buildup
Minerals and sediments in the water can accumulate at the bottom of the tank with time. This can affect the efficiency and lifespan of your water heater.
Solution: To prevent sediment buildup, drain and flush your water heater tank at least once a year. This will also help increase the unit’s efficiency, saving you money on your energy bills.
Risks: Failing to remove sediment buildup may result in corroded heating elements, increased energy consumption, and a reduced lifespan for your water heater.
Lack of Hot Water
Problem: Several issues can lead to a lack of hot water, including a faulty thermostat, a damaged heating element, a tripped circuit breaker, or sediment buildup.
Solution: First, check if the thermostat is set to the correct temperature and if the circuit breaker has tripped. If they function correctly, the heating element or sediment buildup could be the culprits. In such cases, it’s best to call a professional water heater repair to inspect and replace the heating element or flush the tank.
Risks: Besides the inconvenience of cold showers, a lack of hot water can lead to inefficient heating, higher energy bills, and potential damage to the water heater system.
Heating Element Issues
The heating element is responsible for heating your water but can wear out or become faulty over time. This can result in either no hot water or too hot water.
Solution: If you suspect a problem with the heating element, call a professional to inspect it. Replacing a faulty heating element will restore the proper functioning of your water heater and prevent potential issues such as scalding or electric shocks.
Risks: Ignoring this issue can lead to burns from scalding hot water, electrical accidents, or even complete water heater failure.
Benefits of Hiring a Water Heater Expert
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s time to invest in professional water heater repair. Here are three key benefits of working with a pro:
Expert Knowledge and Skills
When you hire a professional, you pay for their experience and expertise. While some homeowners may try to tackle a water heater problem themselves, many repair issues are pretty complicated. A professional plumber has:
- Extensive knowledge of different water heater models
- Experience with various repair techniques
- The ability to troubleshoot and diagnose problems quickly
When you work with a professional to fix your water heater, you can trust that they will get it right, preventing expensive mistakes or additional damage to the unit.
Access to Quality Parts and Equipment
Plumbing companies have access to quality replacement parts and specialized equipment. Access to the right parts and tools allows for efficient repairs, minimizing downtime and ensuring your water heater is back in working order ASAP. Additionally, professional plumbers can advise on the best replacement parts and upgrades that will enhance the life and efficiency of your water heater.
Increased Safety and Warranty Protection
Working with water heaters can be dangerous if you’re unfamiliar with the proper safety procedures. Attempting a DIY repair can lead to injury or damage to the unit. Professional technicians are well-trained in various safety protocols, ensuring the repair process is safe and efficient. Additionally, most professional repair companies offer the following:
- Helps protect the warranty on your water heater
- Insurance coverage in case of accidents or damage
- Compliance with local building codes and regulations
Don’t Wait – Invest in Professional Repair Today
Your water heater keeps your home comfortable and functional, so don’t put off necessary repairs until it’s too late. Instead, experience the benefits of an energy-efficient, reliable water heater by scheduling professional water heater repair today.
If you’re concerned about the health of your water heater, contact Tioga Plumbing & Electric today to schedule a visit.
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Electrical Upgrades You Should Hire An Electrician To Do
Your balcony is one of the best places in your home to enjoy the great outdoors and bask in the sunshine. Investing in some electrical upgrades can make your balcony even more enjoyable and functional. From installing cozy heat lamps to adding power outlets, there are many ways to bring your balcony up to modern standards. This article will highlight some of these upgrades that an electrician can help to make your balcony space more functional, secure, and comfortable for you and your guests.
Outlet Installation
Installing electrical outlets on your balcony can make a huge difference in your use of the space. You can use this outlet to plug in a music device or smart speaker to enjoy listening to songs, news, and podcasts through the speaker. Therefore, you don’t have to be indoors to listen to music. You can enjoy the sounds outside. The outlet will also enable you to charge your device while relaxing on the balcony. For example, if you need to charge your phone, you only need to plug in the charger on the outlet. Some outlets have USB ports to connect small devices such as tablets and phones. During winter seasons, you can use the outlets to plug in the heater to add extra warmth to your balcony and enjoy outdoor space.
If you have an older balcony, the wiring automatically must be replaced. Older wiring can lead to electrical shock, electrical fires, and power surges. It is also good to get your balcony rewiring done whenever you are doing your balcony upgrade. This will help you deal with repeated power issues and protect your home. When installing an electrical outlet or rewiring your balcony, the job should be left to a professional. A licensed electrician can install an electrical outlet using the latest code practices.
Ceiling Fan Installation
Installing a Ceiling Fan on your balcony can be wise if you are experiencing hot weather. Most people think that fans are designed for indoor use only. Fans can also be installed on your house balcony to provide a cool breeze during the hot season. However, there are several things you should take into consideration. Unlike inside the house, the balcony is exposed to various weather elements. This means items on your balcony are exposed to dampness and rain. That’s why you must choose a waterproof ceiling fan that is strongly built to prevent it from being harmed by weather conditions.
Lighting Upgrade Installation
Fairy lights or string lights can create a great atmosphere and make your balcony romantic and functional during the night. With appropriate lighting, your balcony could be a suitable place to relax or read a book, regardless of the time of the day. These lights will also effortlessly uplift the beauty and aesthetics of your balcony. Fairy lights are star-shaped and look similar to twinkling stars at night. If you have a lot of potted plants and greenery on your balcony, using these lights can make it look like a bunch of fireflies. Accent lighting on the bottom balcony area lets you see the floor quickly as you move around the space. You can prevent trips from fallen branches and wet leaves. From outside the house, accent lighting on the balcony can create a great look, especially at night. An electrician can install a dimmer switch so that you can easily adjust the brightness of the lights.
Electric Heater Installation
During the winter, the temperatures can go low, making spending time on your balcony uncomfortable. You can decide to upgrade your balcony by installing an electric heater. It will boost the warmth of the space and ensure that your balcony stays at the correct temperature. Electric heaters can be hardwired or plugged directly into a standard outlet. Hardwired heaters are not portable and require a professional electrical technician for installation.
Can I Have an Electric Grill on My Balcony?
Yes, you can use a small electric grill on your balcony. Unlike gas and charcoal grills that are considered to have open frames, electric grills allow grilling without making frames, making them safe to use. In addition to that, they are lightweight, compact, and occupy minimal space. If you are a tenant in an apartment or you live in a city, there is a high possibility that you are subject to grilling rules. These restrictions are set by property management companies, property owners, or local authorities such as municipalities. Before installing an electric grill on your balcony, it is crucial to consult with your property owner or check out the laws within your area if they have any rules about grilling on a balcony. If you need more clarification about the ideal grill size for your balcony, contact a local electrician who can recommend an electric grill that will fit your balcony.
Upgrading your home balcony’s electricals enhances your space’s ambiance, utility, and overall aesthetics. Upgrading electricals on your balcony can also ensure your space is safe and secure. It is important to consult with an electrical professional to determine the best electrical upgrades for your balcony. Don’t forget that safety should always come first when working with electricity, so you should never attempt any of these projects without consulting a trained expert.
A balcony is a convenient place to relax and spend time with your family. If you want to make your balcony more comfortable and outstanding, it’s time to upgrade. Our highly trained electrical technicians at Tioga Plumbing & Electric will evaluate your balcony space and offer you the best upgrade options. We specialize in providing electrical services and can perform various balcony electrical upgrades. If you have any questions about electrical upgrades or want to know more about installation and maintenance, please call us. We pride ourselves in offering the best electrical services and are always available to listen to your needs. Get in touch with us today!
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Why Am I Getting Electric Shocks When Touching My Microwave Oven? Call a Professional Electrician for Help
Are you experiencing shock when touching your microwave? This can be dangerous for your health. It should be investigated immediately to mitigate these risks and ensure you and your family are safe from electrical hazards. You should not use the microwave until the issue is addressed. Always consult the services of a licensed electrician to come and inspect your home electrical system and appliance. But the question is, how does this electric shock occur? This article discusses why you might get an electrical electric shock from your microwave.
Grounding Is Not Done Properly
If your home electrical system is not grounded correctly, you can receive an electrical shock when you touch your microwave. The ground wire is an extra safety barrier if an unstable electrical current exists. This ground wire allows unstable current to pass to the ground instead of passing through you or other cables. If your microwave electrical outlet does not have a ground wire. There is no way to safely channel the unstable electricity, which poses a risk of electric shocks. A professional electrician should inspect your home wiring system to ensure good grounding, and this will prevent you from getting shocked when you touch your microwave. In addition to that, they can install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to help reduce shock from defective wiring or appliance failure.
The Microwave Is Faulty
Regular microwave maintenance is the key to preventing electrical shock at home. Damaged plugs, exposed wiring, and frayed cords in your microwave can all increase the risk of electrocution. Damaged electrical parts can expose neutral or live wire in your microwave casing, which could be why you are shocked. When you plug it into an electrical outlet, the unstable electricity can also ruin your appliance. There is also a chance of electrocution if your microwave comes into contact with water. However, many of these dangers can be avoided by calling a local electrician to install GFCI or ground-fault circuit interrupter in your home. This device detects an imbalance in the electric current and will turn off power to minimize the risk of electrocution. Moreover, it is good to maintain your appliances regularly and replace any old or damaged parts quickly.
The Extension or Adapter You’re Using Is Faulty
When an outlet or extension is malfunctioning or faulty, electrical shock on your microwave can ensue. An extension or adapter receives electrical current through a box connected to the wiring. If any wiring or screw is loose on the box, electricity becomes unstable, leading to electrical shock whenever you plug in your microwave. Apart from loose wirings, damages such as cracked casing and frayed wiring give a wrong path and less resistance for electricity. Therefore, if you see any sparks, cracks, and burn marks from your outlet or adaptor, contact your nearby electrical technician for immediate assistance.
Overloaded Outlets and Circuits
Another cause of electric shocks, when you touch your microwave is overloaded outlets and circuits. If you plug in multiple appliances, such as microwaves, phone chargers, toasters, and blenders. In that case, there is a chance you are overloading your outlet, and this can be dangerous and, in some instances, even fatal. Overloaded outlets can also cause overheating and strain your electrical circuit. This can lead to damage to your appliances and other electrical faults. To avoid this, try plugging your microwave into one outlet and ensure your home has enough sockets for all devices. The appliance that needs a lot of current should be plugged into an electrical socket instead of an extension cord. If you are struggling to avoid overloading, consider contacting an electrical professional to help you expand your outlets to ensure a safe power supply in your house. Additionally, they can install surge protectors to help offer more protection against electrical shocks.
Using a Microwave with Wet Hands or Near Water
We all know electricity and water do not mix, which can be dangerous. This is because water is a good conductor of electricity and can lead to electric shock when it comes into contact with electricity. To prevent electric shock when using appliances such as microwaves, you should be cautious and keep all your electrical appliances away from water sources such as sinks and bathrooms. In addition to that, it is essential to dry your hands before using your microwave. Use only a little water when cleaning the inside of a microwave. Just use a little bit of soap and a damp cloth. That should be enough. Also, contact your electrician regularly to test your GFCI outlets to ensure they work perfectly.
If You Unplug A Microwave, Is It Still Possible To Get An Electric Shock From It?
Yes. Under some circumstances, if you touch any electrical part of your microwave, you can get electrocuted. This is because capacitors in the microwave continue to hold an electrical charge for some time, even after unplugging the microwave. However, over time, the charge becomes less. After unplugging your microwave, make sure that the capacitor is safely discharged. You can leave it for some time so that the charge naturally dissipates. Alternatively, you can discharge it manually. You can use a metallic drive blade to short out the capacitor terminals until all the electricity is discharged. Do not hesitate to contact a qualified electrical technician for support.
Electricity is a dangerous, sometimes unpredictable element. Call a professional electrical technician if you get an electric shock when you touch your microwave. At Tioga Plumbing & Electric, we not only offer electrical services for protection against shock, but we also provide advice on the best solution for you to take. We can assist you in identifying any potential danger and solve all electrical problems you are experiencing. Give us a call to schedule an appointment today!
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Electrical Service For Advanced Residential Systems
The 1950s brought us the “all-electric home,” a modern marvel supplied by an enhanced power grid coming into its own in the 21st century. Back then, and again today, designers found creative ways to use electricity for everything from cooking to room-to-room communication. Now, the role of electricity has expanded to provide much more. Imagine smart home features, electric vehicle charging, and low-power but brilliant LED lighting. Not every home embraces the full range of modern options. Our team is perfect for you if you do. At Tioga Plumbing & Electric, our combined residential and commercial electrical service experience makes our licensed electricians perfect for advanced residential systems.
Technology Without Cords Snaking Around The Room
Our electrical service team includes experts in artfully running wiring and cables so they’re safe and secure but not seen. For advanced installations, we can make sure your wiring of all types meets industry and electrical code requirements. We can even use conduit or other methods for managing complex or changing wiring needs. The classic case for home technology is home theater installation, which looks and works so much better with skilled wiring installation. Video, audio, network, if you have snakes on the floor, it’s time to tidy them up and enjoy a beautiful entertainment space with your family and friends. The same goes for your home office, which might be mostly for remote work, but could look good enough for client visits!
Lighting That Makes Sense With Your Aesthetics
Speaking of cords, today’s nuanced lighting styles are hard to implement stylishly with table and floor lamps. Our electricians can install the perfect lighting components in your rooms, especially with smart home control, so that you can set the mood and function from parties to casual reading. Recessed lighting, accents, LED lighting of all kinds, and into the kitchen for work area lighting and breakfast nook illumination. Bring it all together with a smartphone or smart display controls, and you’ll create a beautiful living space in each room and total control to go dark at night with one touch.
Outdoor Lighting That Keeps Your Evening Activities Going
With commercial experience, our electricians can create advanced lighting for your property to enhance security, appearance, or function. Let us install it professionally, along with all your other power needs for outdoor living. They’ll be carefully wired with proper outdoor protective devices, from grilling areas and gazebos to gardens and detached garages. When the festivities move inside, or you retire for the night, motion sensors can stand watch in case someone needs light or wanders onto your property undetected. With our skills, wherever you want your lighting located, we’ve got ways to make it happen.
Electric Fireplaces Are Eco-Friendly Warmth For Casual Nights
Advanced electric features for homes today include traditional features reimagined for convenience and eco-friendly operation. One popular family room feature is an electric fireplace, which is beautiful and relaxing to watch and lends a bit of warmth on cool evenings. Our electrical service team can provide the wiring to make it happen, towel warmers in your bathrooms, and other ways to make a difference in your home life.
Appliance Installation And Relocation Power Connections
If you’re redesigning your kitchen, adding built-in appliances or floor-standing models, or relocating laundry equipment, our electricians can follow you and put specialized outlets and wiring where needed. No need to be tied down by existing power connections! If your hobbies require extra power, like pottery, welding, or a wood shop, we can provide the power circuits and connections for great equipment performance. Are you considering dual-fuel ovens for gas and electric cooking or an induction cooktop? We’ll make sure it has the power it needs. Let’s make sure you have outlets for your small appliances and smart display!
What’s Your EV Charging Strategy?
Chances are, you’ll own an electric vehicle in the near future if you don’t already, and possibly several. Charging them at home can provide convenience and, if you have a generator, keep you charged no matter what. Extension cord charging gets tedious pretty fast, but Level 2 chargers and other faster solutions are available. Our electricians can help you plan for multi-car charging with the most cost-effective solution for your needs.
Generator Power For Grid Independence When Needed
Our generator experts can install a reliable, designed-for-residential power source that starts when commercial power drops out and provides the capacity you need, even for HVAC and EV charging. Modern generators are designed to blend in with your property, keep in touch with internet connectivity, and provide quality power that keeps your family active and comfortable. If you have a home office, you’ll appreciate being able to meet your commitments even when commercial power isn’t keeping up.
Power Upgrades And Whole-House Protective Devices
Going all-electric can require a high peak power load, and many homes aren’t prepared to meet that need. Our electrical service installation experts can upgrade your home’s incoming power and install a new power panel and breakers, including AFCI and GFCI protection, to reduce fire and shock risk. It’s wise to add whole-house surge and lighting protection so every outlet in your home is covered, and with them, all your electronics and electrical features. At Tioga Plumbing & Electric, we love to create a comprehensive plan and help you ensure everything you need is covered for perfect power.
What would make living in your home more comfortable, convenient, and safe? At Tioga Plumbing & Electric, our electricians are ready to make the changes, updates, and careful inspections you need to meet your goals. If you’d like to try new technologies, count on us to provide the information and experienced services you need. We tackle challenges, and with our colleagues in other home services, we’re the right experts for all your needs! Give us a call today, and let’s make it happen!
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