Plumb Good Solutions for Common Plumbing Problems

December 17, 2023

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On April 25, we celebrated “Thank a Plumber” Day by recognizing all the amazing plumbers we have on staff at Blue Dot. After all, if you’ve ever needed a professional plumber, you know there is no bigger relief than finding one who does quality work. Hence, the reason we dedicate a whole day to this amazing trade! At Blue Dot, our crew loves their jobs, and we take great pride in helping residents learn about their own plumbing systems so they can become more educated homeowners. With this in mind, we thought we’d share some hands-on tips regarding common plumbing problems. Keep this little cheat sheet handy in case you ever have a plumbing question that needs attention.

7 Common Plumbing Questions & Answers

1. Is It Safe to Use Chemical Cleaners in My Drain?

Probably not. Many chemical cleaners are super toxic and can be dangerous to children and pets if they are kept within reach. And while chemical cleaners might be a temporary fix, their long-term effects can be detrimental. Chemical cleaners erode the inside of the pipes and cause more problems down the line. If you have a clogged drain and can’t solve the issue yourself, call Blue Dot for professional service.

2. What Can I Put Down My Garbage Disposal?

There are certain foods that are difficult to grind, so you should refrain from putting them down your garbage disposal. These include eggshells, coffee grinds, plastic, larger food bones, sticky foods, peels from carrots or potatoes, and most forms of grease. These items can obstruct the disposal and damage the motor. Take the extra step to put these items in the trash bin and you’ll be protecting your disposal for years to come.

3. Why Is My Toilet Always Running?

This is a super common issue! If your toilet keeps running long after you flush it, you most likely have a disconnected fill tube, a defective toilet flapper, an improper fill height in the tank, or a flapper chain that is the wrong length. If you need assistance with any of these issues, feel free to call Blue Dot for service.

4. How Can I Tell if I Have Hard Water?

There are many tell-tale signs that point to hard water. Hard water essentially means that your water contains a higher-than-average concentration of minerals, which could damage your plumbing. Signs of hard water include white limescale or calcium buildup on your plumbing fixtures. You might also notice laundry that feels stiff rather than soft, and you could experience itchy skin, or hair that is brittle and flat. Installing a water softener in your home is a great solution for homeowners who have hard water issues.

5. Why Is My Water Heating Rumbling?

Is your water heating releasing haunting sounds that have you worried? Rumbling noises in your water heater can indicate a buildup of sediment inside the tank. Open the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and let the water drain. Once it runs clear, you should notice less noise. If you don’t, you may need a complete water heater flush. Blue Dot can easily help with this professional service.

6. Why Is My Water Pressure Low?

If you’re experiencing low water pressure you could have a blockage, mineral buildup, or even a valve problem that is preventing your water from flowing properly. You may need some drain cleaning or even a replacement. Call a reputable plumber like Blue Dot and we can determine the cause.

7. Why Is My Water Bill So High Lately?

Uh oh, no one likes an expensive water bill. If your bill has skyrocketed, it’s possible you have a hidden leak somewhere. Check toilets and listen for dripping noises or running water sounds. If you locate a leak, call your Blue Dot plumber. We can get the leak fixed quickly and efficiently so your water bill goes back to normal.

Blue Dot Can Help with Your Plumbing Needs!

We’re Maryland’s top choice for all things plumbing. Schedule your appointment online today or call our office at 410.698.4938!