Tag: prevent

How to Prevent Burst Pipes This Winter!

Why Do Pipes Burst?

Burst pipes can cause extensive property damage because of water damage and mold. A burst pipe could even cause a house fire if the water reaches the home’s electrical wiring and produces sparks. This blog post shares three common reasons why pipes burst and how homeowners can prevent them from happening.

Pipes Freezing

freezing Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of burst pipes. There are a few different ways that homeowners can keep their lines from freezing in the winter. Homeowners should open cabinets, attic, and basement doors to allow the home’s heating system to ventilate warm air to pipes in hidden spaces. 

Adding pipe insulation is the best way to keep pipes from freezing in winter. Foam pipe insulation is a popular method because it can be easily added or sprayed onto the outside of the pipes. Another way to insulate pipes is by using thin aluminum insulation tape. Fiberglass pipe insulation is a durable and long-lasting solution to insulating pipes in the winter. Pipe insulation can even help homeowners save on utility costs.  

Decay and Corrosion

corrosion When corrosion begins in the plumbing, it can eventually lead to a burst pipe because it weakens the structure of the metal. Pipes are designed to stand the test of time, but exposure to certain substances can cause a chemical reaction with the metal that starts the corrosion. 

Homeowners can help prevent the corrosion of their plumbing system by avoiding liquid drain cleaners, as the chemicals in them are corrosive and can permanently damage pipes. The best way to safely unclog a household drain is to hire a plumber for drain cleaning or to use a combination of baking soda and vinegar. Homeowners should call a professional plumber for tough clogs. 

Clogged Pipes 

Clogged pipes are another common reason pipes burst. The pressure imbalance inside the plumbing caused by a clogged drain can rupture the pipes. Routine drain cleaning by a professional can help prevent clogs from happening, therefore, also help prevent pipe bursts. Hydrojetting is an example of a professional drain cleaning service that can be used to fix difficult clogs or prevent them from occurring.

Homeowners should also be careful of what gets put down the drains and toilets in the house. Not putting cooking oil or grease down the drain and avoiding flushing the wrong things can also save homeowners from the headache of a clogged or burst sewer line. 

About RiverView Mechanical

RiverView Mechanical is a locally owned woman-owned business serving Hallam, PA, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, the latest technology, and financing. Call them today for drain cleaning services or burst pipe repair in Hallam, PA.

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Prevent Backflow Scares This Halloween With Professional Backflow Testing

What is Backflow? 

At first glance, backflow is one of the most disgusting things that a plumbing system can endure. It causes foul odors, unclean drinking water, and various health concerns. Backflow is a public health hazard that occurs when water unintentionally flows in the direction opposite to what is intended. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that water contamination from backflow can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, and even heart complications. 

The Dangers of Backflow 

water The contaminants in backflow can range from fecal matter to pesticide runoff. These are substances homeowners do not want to consume or come into contact with. As noted, exposure can quickly lead to various health complications, some of which could be fatal. 

Other complications that backflow causes include: 

  • Pipe corrosion: Backflow can contain chemicals that literally “eat away” at a pipe’s inside. This can lead to burst pipes, leaks, and other issues. 
  • Dirty dishes and clothing: One can’t effectively wash dishes and clothes with water contaminated by backflow. The water isn’t clean enough to remove stains and other matter. If anything, it will make items worse. 
  • Unusable appliances: Water heaters, dishwashers, and other appliances need clean water to operate effectively. The water contamination in backflow prevents that. 

What is Backflow Testing? 

Every plumbing system relies on valves, gaskets, air chambers, and backflow preventers to prevent backflow. When a certified backflow tester performs backflow testing, they will check these fixtures to ensure they work properly. Some may require tightening, and others may require total replacement. 

Sometimes, backflow isn’t obvious to homeowners, so plumbers may also test the water’s composition during backflow testing, looking for substances that could threaten residents’ health. Finally, a plumber may also check for underlying problems that could cause backflow in the first place. 

The Importance of Backflow Testing 

testing Backflow testing has many benefits, which include the following: 

  • Protects public health: As noted, backflow is a serious health hazard. It can affect entire communities, so annual testing to ensure backflow preventers work helps prevent backflow. 
  • Prevents contamination: Backflow testing helps avoid the contamination of safe treated water with dangerous substances. Preventative maintenance is the best maintenance, stopping problems before they even begin. 
  • Saves homeowners money: Backflow is more than hazardous; it can also be expensive to repair all the damages caused by it. Keeping up with routine backflow testing helps prevent the need to spend money on repairs down the line. 

About RiverView Mechanical

RiverView Mechanical is a locally owned and operated business serving its neighbors in Hallam, PA, and the surrounding areas. They offer honest pricing, financing, and the latest technology. Call them today for backflow testing and repair in Hellam, PA. 

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