Plumbing Tips to Save Money

  • Replace outdated faucets that are leaking. The smallest drip can add hundreds of dollars per year to your bill.
  • Look at your meter. If the meter is turning while no water is running, you most likely have a running toilet or leak somewhere.
  • Check for drips every few weeks. Look under cabinets and in your crawl space for puddles, get any leaks fixed as soon as possible.
  • Pay attention to your toilet. If you notice you need to hold the handle or flush repeatedly, if it is always making noises, or taking a long time to fill, it may need a new part.
  • Monitor your yard. If you notice wet spots for prolonged periods of time when it has not rained.

If you need help with any of these issues or think you have a leak, please call our office at 704-934-0015

Winterizing Irrigation Systems

As Winter rapidly approaches, please keep in mind your irrigation system and Backflow device can freeze and burst. If you leave water in the system it can freeze and damage the valves and lines. Preparing your sprinkler system for the Winter months is easy.

Here are a few helpful tips for your irrigation system

  • Turn off the timer. Turning off the timer allows the controllers to maintain your settings so you won’t have to reprogram. If you disconnect the power you will need to reset your timer.
  • Shut off the water supply using the main valve. Shutting off the main valve will protect your system from having water flowing through it.
  • Above ground pipes, valves and devices should be insulated. You can purchase insulation for these devices at most home improvement stores.

If you need any help with your devices please give us a call at 704-934-0015

It’s Like Throwing Money Down The Drain!

A running toilet can waste around 200 gallons of water per day, that equals thousands of gallons per year. On average, a running toilet adds approximately $200 per month to a water bill. If you notice your toilet is making noises after flushing it, you could be wasting money. To be sure of this, you can add a few drops of food coloring into the tank and let it sit. If the food coloring leaks into the bowl, you know your toilet is running.

Replacing Possible Culprits

  • The toilet bowl only needs to be replaced if it is cracked.
  • Flappers last around 4-5 years on average, however, certain cleaning chemicals used to clean toilets may shorten that to a year or less.
  • Handles should be replaced if you have to jiggle it for the water to stop running, if you have to hold the handle down to flush, or if the water runs constantly.
  • Wax seals should only need replacement every 20-30 years.