Services

• Troubleshooting
• Plumbing Troubleshooting
• Drains Troubleshooting
• Heating Troubleshooting
• A/C Troubleshooting
• Emergency Service
• Cash for Caulkers
• Home Star Program
• Backup Sump Pump

Plumbing Troubleshooting

Can I increase the water pressure in my bathroom faucet?

First check the emergency shut-off under your sink to make sure it's fully open. Then check all the rubber washers or seals for deterioration. Calcium and lime buildup can also cause low water pressure.

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How can I maintain and care for my faucets and sinks?

Even small drips can waste thousands of gallons of water - as much as 150 gallons a day! Be sure to check under sinks for moisture or small leaks. And always repair leaky faucets right away to avoid paying for wasted water and damage to your fixtures, pipes, floors and ceilings. Remove and clean your faucet aerators annually to ensure an even flow of water. Make sure overflow holes on tubs and vanities are clear and open to prevent water damage to floors and ceilings.

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When I turn my faucet on for hot water, it seems to take forever for hot water to finally start coming out. What can I do to solve this annoying problem?

If your sink or bathtub is on the opposite side of the house from where your hot water tank is, that long run of pipe allows the hot water sitting in the pipe to cool off. When you turn on your hot water faucet, all that cooled water has to flow out before you start getting hot water again. There are several options to remedy this issue, such as a hot water recirculation system. Call Sobieski Services today and we'll help you decide what solution is best for your needs.

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Can I replace my two-handled faucet with a single-handle faucet?

Usually faucet dimensions and sink openings are standard throughout the plumbing industry, so the answer is probably yes. There are a few exceptions, so check the size of the sink opening before you buy new fixtures.

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Should I close and open the main water supply shutoff valve periodically?

Yes. You want to make sure they're not stuck in the open position in case you experience a water emergency! Do the same periodic check for the shutoff valves on your sinks, tubs and toilets, too.

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Why do I hear a vibrating noise in my pipes?

Noises can be fairly common in plumbing supply lines. If a washer in a faucet or valve is loose, you'll hear it rattling or knocking. If the sound occurs when you open and close faucets rapidly, it generally means pipes are loose. This can be corrected by anchoring pipes more securely. If it really bothers you, ask a plumbing professional to add air chambers to the end of long pipe runs.

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Why doesn't my old water heater work as well as it used to?

This is usually due to a sediment buildup in your tank. As water heaters grow older, they accumulate sediment and lime deposits. If these deposits are not removed periodically, sediment will create a barrier between the burner and the water, greatly reducing the water heater's performance level. At least once every three months, drain water from the tank. Draining a gallon or so on a regular basis helps remove sediment.

You should also periodically inspect your water heater burner. The flame under the heater should appear blue with yellow tips. If it's mostly yellow, or if it's sooty under there, your flue may be clogged, causing a dangerous situation. Contact Sobieski Services immediately so we can clean and check the proper and safe operation of your water heater. Most manufacturers strongly suggest you should have your water heater inspected by a trained service technician at least once every two years. Sobieski Services will check the drain valve for signs of leakage and the anode rods for corrosion. This will help you avoid future costly repairs and inconvenience.

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What's the best way to extend the life of my garbage disposal?

Always use plenty of cold water when running your disposal and avoid overloading it. Never dispose of very hard items, like bones or corn husks. And never use a caustic drain opener. And please, be safe! Never use your hands to remove items dropped inside. Use tongs instead!

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What should I do if my garbage disposal stops working?

Before calling a professional, you can try the reset switch located on the bottom of most disposals. If that doesn't work, a Sobieski Services plumbing technician can diagnose and resolve your problem quickly.

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What's the best way to check for toilet leaks?

Toilet leaks can be wasteful and expensive. At least once a year, check your toilet for leaks by adding a small amount of red food coloring to the tank, and then check the toilet bowl later. If the toilet bowl water is colored red, water is seeping through from the tank. If it is leaking, you should replace the tank ball.

Always remember... safety first! If you're not sure how to fix a problem let our trained technicians do the job for you.

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Want all these questions answered by a qualified professional?

Sobieski Services offers a complete home "tune and check" inspection program. Our service technicians will inspect your entire plumbing system, evaluate the overall condition, look for existing or potential problems, and get your systems performing according to manufacturer's specifications.

And if you are a Sobieski Services Home Care Club member, remember that you always receive 15% off our standard rates for all plumbing, heating and cooling services. And as a Home Care Club member, you also get priority service - you'll go to the top of our list when you call, even during peak heating and cooling periods!