Archive | Residential

How to Maintain Your Water Heater

The water heater is one of the most valuable tools in the house. Most homeowners don’t realize how special it is until it doesn’t work anymore and everyone in the household is forced to take ice-cold showers. This essential part of the home should be checked every six months to help prevent the chance of a sudden breakdown. The following tips will help you maintain your water heater.

  • Water Temperature – One of the first signs your water heater is having problems is a difference in water temperature. If you notice the temperature is hotter or colder than usual, it is a sign there is an issue with the units thermostat or heating element.
  • Check for Leaks – Carefully take a close look at your water heater and the surrounding area. Is there visible water stains or puddles? Sometimes a water heater can have a slow leak that saturates the flooring and carpet. Homeowners often feel that the carpet is damp but can’t figure out the reason.
  • Rust Spots – Observe the hot water heater with a close eye. Rust spots can be small or large. Some are the size of a pea or smaller. A common area of rust is towards the bottom of the water heater. Visible rust stains and spots are a sign of aging or leaks.
  • Mold and Odor – Homeowners generally hide their hot water heater in a small closet or enclosed space. This is a normal situation since most homeowners don’t want to look at it on a daily basis. Due to the fact the water heater is hidden, it is at risk of leaking and growing mold on the walls and doors of the enclosed area. Checking the area on a monthly basis will help prevent and reduce the risk of mold and odor.

Homeowners that are familiar with water heaters often try DIY projects such as checking the pressure relief valve, flushing the tank and checking the anode rod. Conducting maintenance on a water heater is dangerous, especially if you are not familiar with the process. Some owner’s manuals will have instructions that will walk you through the process.

Hot water heaters use water and electricity to work properly. As you may know, these two elements are dangerous to humans in specific situations. Always remember to turn off the circuit breaker switch that controls the hot water heater before inspecting it or touching any components. If you notice any leaks or have issues with your hot water heater contact Mokher Plumbing immediately for further assistance.


Mokher Profile PicSince 1968, Chip Mokher & his team has provided South Florida with quality service with a commitment to our customers’ satisfaction. Our many years of experience has allowed us to serve thousands of homes and businesses in Miami-Dade County. We welcome the opportunity to serve you, please call us at 305-446-8266 or email us at chip@mokherplumbing.com

 

 

Dealing With A Clogged Drain

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It’s not “if” your drain will get clogged, it’s “when.” A clogged drain happens in every household whether it’s an apartment, house, condo or cabin. If you have a drain, it will eventually experience a clog. There are a few things you can do to help prevent this from happening. Plus a few quick fixes that will get you through a few days before the plumber arrives.

Prevention Tips                                                                                       

  • Be Careful – Avoid flushing large items down the drain. This might seem like an obvious step. However, young children tend to put small toys and objects in the tub during a bath. Remove these items before draining the water out of the tub.
  • Use Vinegar – Buildup can cause drains to get clogged easily. Keep your pipes clean by using 1 cup of white vinegar and allowing it to sit for 30 minutes. Flush it with hot water for 1 minute to clean the drain and pipes. Vinegar will also disinfect the pipes and remove bacteria.
  • Invest in Drain Protectors – There are a variety of drain protectors you can invest in that will help prevent clogs. A hair catcher is a favorite of many homeowners since the most common reason for clogged drains is the accumulation of hair.

Quick Fixes

  • Dish Soap – Good quality dish soap can loosen grease clogs quickly. Pour ½ cup of liquid dish soap into the drain. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes. Boil water on the stove and pour the hot water down the drain to flush the soap and grime away. Follow up by running hot water from the faucet for about 2 minutes. This process should break down grease and flush them through the drain. Popular drain cleaners will do the same job. However, they are often filled with harsh chemicals that can harm your plumbing. Dish soap gets the job done gently and without harming your plumbing.
  • Use a Plunger – If a clog has prevented water from going down the drain you should reach for the plunger immediately. At this point, your goal is to use the plumber to force the object causing the clog upwards so you are able to collect it and throw it away in the garbage.

If the tips listed above don’t work it’s time to contact a professional plumber. Every home has plumbing issues that a DIY project won’t fix. It’s best to ask a professional for assistance since some plumbing issues have the potential to be dangerous and complex. Call Mokher Plumbing today for an appointment!


Mokher Profile PicSince 1968, Chip Mokher & his team has provided South Florida with quality service with a commitment to our customers’ satisfaction. Our many years of experience has allowed us to serve thousands of homes and businesses in Miami-Dade County. We welcome the opportunity to serve you, please call us at 305-446-8266 or email us at chip@mokherplumbing.com

 

 

Important Facts About Water Heater Repair

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The water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home. This one appliance allows your entire family the luxury of taking warm showers on a daily basis. It also provides hot water to clean your laundry and dishes. The water heater gets plenty of use and there will come a time when it will need to be replaced or repaired. The decision should be made carefully.

Leaks        

If your hot water heater is leaking check the source of the leak. There are hot and cold water pipes that are attached to the water heater. Check to see if there are signs of water dripping from the attachment area. If so, this could be a simple fix and replacement of the entire water heater is not required. However, if the water is leaking due to rust on the bottom or around the water heater, replacement is necessary.

Age

How old is your water heater? Most water heaters last many years. Generally, if the water heater is more than eight years old you should replace it. Mostly because the amount it will cost to repair it will exceed the amount of purchasing a new one.

Repairs

There are many components to a water heater. If your water heater is only a few years old, repairing it is most likely the best option. Check the warranty details to see if parts are covered. This will help save money on the repairs. Generally, if new parts are covered under the warranty, you will only have to pay for the labor costs and taxes if applicable.

Professional Help

The water heater can be dangerous if not handled properly. This is not a DIY quick fix project. You should contact a professional for further assistance. The technician will advise you if you have the option to repair or replace the water heater. Listening to the advice of a professional can save you time and money in the long run.

For example, if you choose to repair a water heater that is not under warranty any longer you will have an expensive repair bill. These repairs might only last a few months or one year. You will eventually have to purchase a new water heater in the future. This means you will have to pay for the repairs and later for a new water heater. The cost is like paying double or more.

If your plumber advises you to purchase a new water heater, take their advice. They are looking out for your best interest. As soon as you observe any signs of trouble with your current water heater contact Mokher Plumbing to learn more about your options.


Mokher Profile PicSince 1968, Chip Mokher & his team has provided South Florida with quality service with a commitment to our customers’ satisfaction. Our many years of experience has allowed us to serve thousands of homes and businesses in Miami-Dade County. We welcome the opportunity to serve you, please call us at 305-446-8266 or email us at chip@mokherplumbing.com