These are the most frequently asked plumbing-related questions we, at Kimmons Plumbing Inc. get from our customers in Pensacola, FL. We thought creating a page for these inquiries would be beneficial to our clients. We offer answers to many questions such as what not to put down your disposal, how to fix your toilet tank, and more. Scroll down to find your question and check out our answers.
Q: How do I know if I have a leak?
A: If you suspect that you have a leak in your home, there is an easy way you can check. Go to your water meter and record the level. Make sure no one in the house uses the water for a few hours, then go back and check the meter again. It is easier to do this at night when everyone is sleeping. If the level has changed, then you have a leak. To take care of it right away, call your local plumber.
Q: Are hidden leaks such a threat?
A: Not only do leaks get larger with time, but they can also potentially cause damage to your home and its structures. Leak repair offers some benefits, including reduced water loss, risk of damage associated with leaks, need for emergency repairs and need for water treatment and pressurization.
Q: What causes my faucet to leak?
A: The most common thing we find is corroded O-rings, valve seats, and gaskets. Together, these components are what holds back the water until the faucet is opened, so if one of them is corroded, you will get a dripping faucet. To prevent leaks, shut off the water to the sink and open the faucet to let the water drain out. Next, use an Allen key to remove the handle. If it has a nut holding the internal parts in place, check to see if they are loose. Tightening them with pliers may be enough to stop the leak. If not, disassemble the faucet and replace it.
Q: Is there anything I should not put down my toilet?
A: Avoid things like baby wipes, napkins, paper towels, facial tissues, sanitary products, diapers, q-tips, cotton balls, dental floss, hair, food scrap, small toys, and cat litter. You really should not put anything down your toilet, except what is supposed to go down there.
Q: My toilet is constantly running. Is there anything I can do to fix it before I call a plumber?
A: If you have ever opened your toilet tank, you have probably seen a metal or plastic ball resting on the top of the water. This is called the “float,” and it governs how high the toilet fills. If it is cracked, water will seep inside, and the ball will not be able to sit above the water, and as a result, the toilet will overfill, and the water will leak into the tube, creating an endless cycle of filling and raining that will wreak havoc on your water bill. Sometimes fixing the float by bending it is enough to fix the problem. If the ball is not the issue, check the chain attached to the handle. If this is not the case, then you probably have a leaky flapper valve. Replace it to fix the problem. If the issue persists, call a plumber.
Q: Is there anything I should not put into my garbage disposal?
A: There are a plethora of things you should never put down your garbage disposal. Fibrous foods such as asparagus, celery, and artichokes can wrap around the blades and choke the system. You should also avoid putting potato skins, bone fragments, eggshells, banana peels, fats, grease, unpopped popcorn, onion skins, fruit seeds and pits, big chunks of food, and more.
Have other questions for our plumber in Pensacola, FL? Whatever your needs and concerns might be, contact Kimmons Plumbing Inc. at (850) 455-2565 now. We will be happy to address your needs.