Frequently Asked Questions:
Question 1- The temperature of my hot water seems to be higher than what I think I need. How can I conserve energy, yet also be sure that there is an adequate amount of hot water?
Answer 1- Most people are comfortable with their hot water set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which is also the new standard that manufacturers use when pre-setting it at the factory. If you have an older model, set the thermostat to medium. On a gas model there is a dial on the front of the gas valve. On electric models, the thermostats are concealed behind the panels on the side of the tank. NOTE: Turn off the electricity before removing panels. There are exposed wires behind the panels containing HIGH VOLTAGE.
Question 2- I have a foul odor coming from my garbage disposal. What can I do to eliminate this odor?
Answer 2- Foul odors occur from a buildup of food debris in the disposal. To eliminate this odor, place ice cubes and lemon or orange peels in the disposer and run for 30 seconds. Next squirt a little liquid dish detergent into the disposal while it is running. Finally run cold water for about 30 seconds to rinse all the debris away.
Question 3- There are four people in our house, two adults and two teens. We are constantly running out of hot water. After a five minute shower the water starts to turn cold. This has just recently started to happen. -HELP!
Answer 3- If your water heater is electric, the lower element may not be operating properly, thus only the upper half of the tank will heat up. The cause of this problem could be a bad element or a thermostat malfunction. This type of problem should be evaluated by a qualified technician. This is only one possible reason for this problem but it is the more common one.
Question 4- We need to replace a toilet in our home. What is the recommendation for replacement?
Answer 4- When the federal government mandated that new toilets use no more than 1.6 gallons per flush, manufacturers had a challenge; to develop a toilet that would achieve this but would also flush properly (clear the bowl) and carry the waste to city sewer and septic systems. There are plenty of toilets that can do the job. Let us recommend the right one for you.
Question 5- My shower head and faucet aerators have a buildup of a white substance where the water comes out. Is there anything I can do other than replacement?
Answer 5- That build up is mineral deposits. To remove these deposits from the shower head take a plastic bag and pour vinegar in it. Place the bag over the shower head and use a twist tie to hold it in place overnight. In the morning remove the bag and us an old toothbrush to gently scrub the deposits off.
Question 6- Our kitchen drain has taken longer than usual to drain lately. Should we have it cleaned?
Answer 6- We recommend a product called Bio-clean for drains that are only slowing. We do not recommend chemical drain cleaner for maintenance as they are hard on the piping.
Question 7- How do you know where to turn off the water to the whole house?
Answer 7- If you are on a municipal water system the cut off valve is usually inside or near the water meter box out on the street. If you are on a well the cut off valve is usually near the pressure tank at the well.
Question 8- It takes a long time to get hot water to my master Bathroom/Bathrooms, is there anything I can do about it?
Answer 8- We have a retro fit application that involves installing a recirculation pump. This will save money on your water bill and there is also local city rebates for "green products" in some cities.
