Plumber fixing bathroom sink doing emergency plumbing Calgary, AB

Plumbing Facts You Won’t Believe They’re True

nidhi@thewebmint.ca / May 24, 2021

Famous physicist and philosopher Albert Einstein once wrote a letter to a magazine declaring that if he could be a young man again, he’d try to become a plumber, not a scientist. Source Read on to find a few more interesting facts from the plumbing world. Meanwhile, to contact a 24-hour plumber in Calgary, who can immediately fix an ongoing plumbing woe, please click HERE. The concept of plumbing is thousands of years old The earliest instances of planned plumbing were found in the Indus valley civilization, also called the Harappan civilization. Discoveries revealed interesting insights, including that they used earthen plumbing pipes to transport water and direct drain wastes to designated areas. For your information, experts believe the civilization could be 8000 years old. Source Our favorite video game character Mario was NOT born as a plumber The popular and hardworking video game character Mario debuted in Donkey Kong as a carpenter named Jumpman to support the game’s setting which was a construction site. In Mario Bros, his creator chose to give him a plumber’s look – again to adjust the new setting which now was full of pipes, sewers, and underground. 6 drops of water from a leaking tap make a loss of 1200 liters of water yearly. A tap that drips six drops of water per minute, will eventually lose a staggering 12,00 liters of water annually, equaling to seven bathtubs. (Source) So, the next time you hear a dripping noise, seek professional plumbing services in Calgary immediately. Manhole covers are circular so that they can’t fall through the opening Ever wondered why manhole covers are circular? Because round shapes are easy to manufacture, and being round they can be effortlessly transported from one place to another. Perhaps the biggest benefit is that being round in shape, they can’t fall through a circular opening – no matter how hard they are turned sideways. 30 mins a day in the bathroom Let us conclude the first part of unbelievable plumbing facts with this interesting information. The average person spends nearly 30 minutes in the bathroom daily. Source This is not a small number when multiplied by the total number of days a person lives. Don’t repair a plumbing leak on your own Okay, it is not an expected fact, but it is still a fact. A good number of average homeowners often decide to repair a plumbing leak themselves using things as commonly available as duct tape. This actually makes the problem worse and will lead to costly professional repair. A duct tape might not completely close a leak and when the water pressure will increase, the temporary solution could quickly become an unsafe experiment. To avoid such situations, always choose to call a professional plumber in Calgary. Experienced plumbers will easily identify the problem, present a realistic solution and fix an issue quickly while preventing scope for future ongoing repairs. For example, ProStar Plumbing & Heating is often recommended by homeowners and commercial institutions as their number 1 choice for 24-hour plumbers in Calgary. They don’t charge for overtime, provide a clean, and satisfactory service, add personal attention to every project, and are available around the hour every day to respond to emergencies. Also, special discounts are available for seniors.

Pipe that is bursting that need emergency plumber Calgary, AB

Drain Cleaning

Top 5 Types of Pipes Commonly Used in Plumbing: Their Uses & Benefits

nidhi@thewebmint.ca / March 18, 2021

Got a plumbing emergency? It may be alluring to fix the problem on your own. But if you lack training and experience, you could likely make the problem worse, causing more serious damages that would urgently need hours of professional repairs. However, as an informed homeowner, it’s important to understand and recognize the different types of pipes used within your house. If you are looking for plumbing services in Calgary, please follow the later part of the article. Before that, here’s a quick overview of plumbing pipes commonly seen and used today; their uses, and benefits. Content of the article Evolution of plumbing pipes The most commonly seen plumbing pipes Bonus Tip – How to choose the right plumbing pipe? Conclusion Plumbing pipes – Then and Now Looking back, baked clay and straw were used to make the earliest form of pipes. Over time, the world also saw the use of wood log pipe, and later lead piping. As new technologies surfaced and priorities of the plumbing system and design changed, pipes also saw major reinventions. Today, plumbing pipes come in different shapes and sizes, each having its own purpose. The pipes used now are made using various types of materials. Their durability, structural integrity, and shape support the steady and uniform supply of water to every fixture; while creating a powerful drain, vent, and waste system. From PVC to ABS, different types of pipes serve unique jobs and support the evolving requirements of modern homeowners. The 5 most commonly seen plumbing pipes today 1) PEX – A powerful, all-weather pipe for different residential uses Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes are a relatively new tubing choice for residential remodeling. They enjoy quite a few benefits over other pipe variants, such as PVC and copper. PEX cuts effortlessly, it is durable enough to hold out against below freezing or high heat temperatures, also flexible enough to install and fit even in challenging areas. These pipes are gaining limelight for their physical flexibility and long-term durability. 2) PVC – Strong, light-weight pipes with cost-performance benefits The white or cream-colored pipes made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) exhibit dismal performance when used to transport hot water. Regarding the benefits, they are easy to cut and install. They exhibit powerful chemical resistance and their leak-free joints prevent water loss. They also have a long performance record and a very high life expectancy. Best of all, they cost low compared to the benefits they offer. 3) ABS – Affordable, easy to install drain pipes The acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) pipes that come in black color are good for drain, waste, and vent usage. Compared to metal pipes, they are affordable, easier, and faster to install, they can be glued together with primer and solvent but improper installation can result in sagging or bowing. 4) Copper – Traditional, aesthetically pleasing plumbing pipe Copper pipe has long been used for water supply lines for a number of advantages. They are highly durable and recyclable, the aesthetically pleasing pipes can resist corrosion and are uninfluenced by UV rays and thus they easily qualify to remain exposed as part of the exterior installation. The ductility of the metal allows it to take desired shapes as needed by a plumber, eliminating the need for frequent elbow joints. But they are costly, and their installation and repair are labor-intensive. 5) Galvanized – Still found in older homes, used for limited use in repairs Usually seen in older homes, these pipes are used for water supply and drain lines. They don’t perform well to supply non-potable water. Though cheaper when compared with copper, and good at heat and flame resistance, their cons made them an unpopular plumbing pipe choice. They break down over time, can leach traces of rust into the water. And, they are not very friendly to work with, and as such residential plumbers often recommend replacement over repair. Bonus Tip – How to choose the right plumbing pipe? When choosing plumbing pipes, keep in mind your home’s structural design, the purpose the pipes are likely to serve. It is highly recommended you go for pipes that have minimal environmental impact. A professional plumber in Calgary will help you pick pipes that have a long shelf life, and will require little maintenance. Did this article help you learn the different uses and benefits of pipes used for plumbing? Do you have any questions that remained unanswered? Please feel free to leave your comments and we will be happy to help you with more information if needed. We understand how frustrating plumbing emergencies could be. Things get annoying if you don’t know where to look for help. Also making a decision is hard when faced with many options. ProStar Plumbing & Heating is often recommended by homeowners and commercial institutions as their number 1 choice for 24-hour plumbers in Calgary. They don’t charge for overtime and add personal attention to every project. What is more? ProStar’s plumbing services – led by the best plumbers in Calgary, also come with attractive discounts for seniors.

Furnace

How Much to Replace Your Furnace in Calgary

nidhi@thewebmint.ca / August 20, 2020

The cost of replacing your furnace will change depending on several factors. Usually, this type of furnace installation in Calgary will present challenges such as the type of heater you are replacing, the size of your furnace, and the company performing the replacement. However, that does not mean you cannot negotiate a better deal. For instance, try speaking with the company openly and earnestly. This idea may sound natural to some people, but giving the extra effort to be a good person will usually play a much more significant role than you may think. In addition, perform a fair amount of research before seeking furnace installation in Calgary. The more you prepare, the better your chances of a successful negotiation. Cost Components of Calgary Furnace Installation The Type of Furnace The type of furnace will play an essential role in the cost of replacement. Typically, when we refer to the type, we are talking about the brand. There are several furnace manufacturers, and each one of them will have a quality and supply point that will affect their bottom line. Later on, we will discuss how your chosen furnace company can also change your options for the manufacturer. The Size of Furnace The size of your furnace has its own part in the value of your furnace replacement. Although this particular facet is not very negotiable, it is worth noting. The size of your furnace will change its ability to move warm air around your home. Therefore, you will need to select a furnace that can effectively warm your home, especially during the colder winter months. The Furnace Company The plumbing company in Calgary that you choose to perform the replacement or installation will also change the price. For instance, larger companies can have more overhead to manage, and smaller companies may charge higher rates to keep afloat. Additionally, many plumbing companies will have specific deals with furnace manufacturers or preferred brands. This decision on the part of the plumbing business can also affect you as a consumer. For example, if the company partners with a premium manufacturer, they will naturally quote a higher price for the service. Choose the Right Furnace Installation Company in Calgary Ultimately, each of the reasons above may uniquely affect your costs. As a result, a range in price is all you can expect for the price. This range falls between $3,000 and $8,000. In closing, the most important choice for you to make is the company you choose to do the work, so make sure you perform sufficient research. Since 1996, ProStar Plumbing & Heating has been providing Calgary with reliable, hassle-free, quality plumbing solutions. When things go wrong, the community trusts us to handle it with our skills, expertise and personal attention. We can help you with a range of plumbing and heating services, including water leak detection and repairs, drain cleaning, sewer repair, furnace repair and much more. With 24/7 emergency service, no overtime charges, upfront pricing and the best team in the business, you know we’re for you. Whether you need your drain cleared or furnace installation in Calgary, contact ProStar today on 403-250-7232

A toilet and leaves hanging on the napkin holder in Calgary An

Drain Cleaning

The Cost of Toilet Replacement in Calgary

nidhi@thewebmint.ca / July 24, 2020

The cost of toilet replacement in Calgary is a variable cost. Many factors will affect the price, such as the Calgary plumbing company performing the work and the type of toilet that you choose for installation. For a full list of the factors affecting the cost of toilet replacement in Calgary, continue reading down below. Factors Affecting Toilet Replacement Costs The Plumbing Company The plumbing company in Calgary that you choose to perform the work will affect the cost of toilet replacement. For instance, selecting a significant, recognizable brand will guarantee quick and efficient service, but you will probably pay more in compensation for the sizable overhead. Similarly, if you choose a small local business, you will likely pay less but end up waiting longer for the plumber to arrive and complete the toilet replacement. The Style of Toilet The style of the toilet will also play a role in the cost of your toilet replacement. Pressure-assisted toilets provide more functionality, but their relative value is even higher in comparison to gravity-fed versions. Similarly, choosing an expensive or designer brand will raise the cost, as will additions like bidets or multi-flush cycles. Repair or Replacement A final consideration for your toilet needs is whether or not a replacement is even necessary. If you are experiencing problems with your toilet, sometimes all you require is a service from your favourite plumbing company. In fact, before you go toilet shopping, your first step should be a conversation and appointment with your plumber. Repairs will be much less expensive. Plumbing Company Costs Remember, you should consider a service before seeking a replacement. This extra step will be the most effective in reducing the cost. Furthermore, if you receive regular service from your preferred plumbing company, you will also have to replace all of your water fixtures less, including your sinks, toilets, and shower fixtures. Since 1996, ProStar Plumbing & Heating has been providing Calgary with reliable, hassle-free, quality plumbing solutions. When things go wrong, the community trusts us to handle it with our skills, expertise and personal attention. We can help you with a range of plumbing and heating services, including water leak detection and repairs, drain cleaning, sewer repair, furnace repair and much more. With 24/7 emergency service, no overtime charges, upfront pricing and the best team in the business, you know we’re for you. Whether you need your drain cleared or furnace installation in Calgary, contact ProStar today on 403-250-7232

ProStar Plumbing staff doing an ac repair in Calgary, AB.

Air Conditioning

How to Get Your Air Conditioner Ready for Summer

nidhi@thewebmint.ca / May 15, 2020

The rainy season is currently upon us here in Calgary. This means that summer is right around the corner, and soon your air conditioner will be used in continuance. This is a wonderful benefit if you are looking for air conditioner repair in order to be ready in time for summer. However, before you rush for the phone to call your air conditioner repair person, there are a few things you can do to get the best out of your air conditioner. Among them: Air Conditioner Repair at Home Begin with removing the intake cover, or whichever cover is most easily removed. Of course, this shouldn’t happen until you have safely removed any electricity that is powering the unit. The important part is to be able to access the interior of your air conditioner, and this process will be different for every make and model. However, once you have managed to successfully remove the intake cover, look for the evaporator coil. This is one of the main components of your air conditioning system, and cleaning it will ensure optimal performance. Wipe it with a moist, clean rag and ensure you have removed any dust or debris that may be on the coil. Next, locate the drain pan. This would be part of the service done when getting a service from a plumbing company, but in the absence of that service, this step is not terribly complex. Look near the bottom of the unit for the drain pan, as determined by your specific AC system, and clean out the drain pan. This will keep things running smoothly and prevent any unnecessary build-up that may occur. Finally, before you replace the cover on your air conditioning unit give it a good wipe down as well. You can use warm, soapy water here as long as you make sure to look out for any electrical components that may be damaged if exposed to water. Afterward, replace the cover and spend some time maintaining your air conditioner by giving it a good cleaning. Wipe down the outside of the unit, spending extra time on any outlet areas where grime may collect. Removing this debris can be an integral part of maintaining the air conditioning unit as it will reduce the amount of dust and debris that will enter into the sensitive internal components. Truthfully, this is the ideal time of the year to service your air conditioner in Calgary because the calls to plumbing companies haven’t begun. While it may seem like a good idea for you to wait until your air conditioner breaks, this is a misguided idea because there are usually many days and nights spent in the sweltering heat, waiting for the repair person to arrive Prevent this situation by getting a spring service from a plumbing company in Calgary. You will be happy you did, and they will be happy you took the extra time to maintain your air conditioning unit as described with the steps above. Since 1996, ProStar Plumbing & Heating has been providing Calgary with reliable, hassle-free, quality plumbing solutions. When things go wrong, the community trusts us to handle it with our skills, expertise and personal attention. We can help you with a range of plumbing and heating services, including water leak detection and repairs, drain cleaning, sewer repair, furnace repair and much more. With 24/7 emergency service, no overtime charges, upfront pricing and the best team in the business, you know we’re for you. Whether you need your drain cleared or furnace installation in Calgary, contact ProStar today on 403-250-7232.

Air Conditioning

Signs Your Air-Conditioner Needs Repairs

nidhi@thewebmint.ca / April 6, 2020

There could be several reasons for your air conditioner repairs, but it can be difficult to know what the warning signs are if you are not a plumber, or adept at repairing the equipment throughout your home. It is why Calgary plumbing companies usually recommend looking for these telltale signs before calling them for a service. Things to Check Before Your Air Conditioner Repairs The easiest way to check if your air conditioner is not working properly is to measure the cold output. If you have the thermostat turned down to the lowest temperature and it still feels stifling and warm in your home that is often a good indication of an air conditioner unit in need of repair. In this instance, approach the air conditioner and feel the space around it with your hand, and see if there is any noticeable difference in air temperature. If there is no change, you should seek air conditioner repair. But what if the air conditioner seems to be working fine, and there is still a worry that it requires repairs? That is understandable as well, as occasionally, during startup you will hear loud or repetitive sounds coming from the air conditioner unit. Or perhaps the machine is a bit older, and it has just steadily increased in volume over the years. In those instances, before you consult an air conditioner repair person, try the following steps: Ensure all of the registers in your home are open, and the airflow is sufficient Clean or replace the furnace filter as all of the air circulation in your home moves through this area If you are handy and have the proper equipment, consider cleaning the condenser coils on the air conditioner unit, as sometimes they can collect excess condensation and grime, making them less effective. When to Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner Sometimes when it comes to air conditioner repairs there is simply no saving the unit. In these circumstances, a good rule of thumb to follow is; multiply the cost of your repair estimate versus the number of years you’ve had the air conditioner, and if the cost is more than $5000, it is time to just take the bullet and replace the unit. Typically, air conditioners are good for 10-14 years, so this is a good metric to follow. Finally, watch your energy bill in the summer months. If it starts to rise month over month as your air conditioner runs, it may have a coolant leak. This can be repaired by qualified air conditioner technicians and plumbers, and will likely save you the hassle of losing money on wasted energy. Since 1996, ProStar Plumbing & Heating has been providing Calgary with reliable, hassle-free, quality plumbing solutions. When things go wrong, the community trusts us to handle it with our skills, expertise and personal attention. We can help you with a range of plumbing and heating services, including water leak detection and repairs, drain cleaning, sewer repair, furnace repair and much more. With 24/7 emergency service, no overtime charges, upfront pricing and the best team in the business, you know we’re for you. Whether you need your drain cleared or furnace installation in Calgary, contact ProStar today on 403-250-7232.

Furnace

8 Ways To Troubleshoot Your Furnace For Repairs

nidhi@thewebmint.ca / November 13, 2019

There is nothing worse than your furnace breaking down in the middle of the winter. You’ll be stuck in the freezing cold, struggling to find a professional to help you. But before you hit the panic button, there are a few things you can do to make sure that your furnace can be fixed right then and there. 8 Ways To Troubleshoot Your Furnace For Repairs 1) Check the Thermostat In many cases, people freeze themselves because they haven’t checked the thermostat of their furnace. A lot of homeowners find that because they haven’t switched their thermostat that they’re getting cold air instead of hot. You don’t want to call for furnace repair in Calgary, only for the professional to turn the dial back. You should also check if your thermostat is working as it should be. Test the temperature changes, and if you notice it isn’t working, it could be damaged, as the connection isn’t working. 2) Check the Filter If your filter is clogged up, chances are not only will your furnace not be working as it should be, but you’ll also be pushing out dirty air into your home. By changing the filter, you can get clean, hot air into your home. It’s best to get a professional to take a look at the filter and change it for you. 3) Check the Switches If the breaker of your furnace has been tripped or has blown its fuse, it is the reason that your furnace isn’t working as it should. You just have to get it replaced. 4) Clear Out the Ducts & Vents A lot of the time, the ducts and vents of the furnace are clogged up, unable to let any hot air pass through. It’s why people should get it cleaned out before the start of winter. Take a look down the ducts, and if it is blocked, get professional help. 5) Make Sure There is Power to the Furnace If you have an electric furnace, you should always make sure that power is connecting. In some cases, the circuit breaker might have been tripped. All you have to do is reset it by turning the circuit all the way off and then on again. If it doesn’t work, then you might need either furnace or electrical repairs in Calgary. 6) Make Sure the Gas is Connected to the Furnace For gas furnaces, there could have been issues with the connection to the gas line. A quick check can see if the connection has been shut off. If you think that it is not working, call your gas company and ask them if they did anything to it. 7) Check if the Gas valve on the furnace If the gas company is doing as it should be doing (supplying your home with gas), then double-check if the handle of the valve is in line with the pipe. Turn it up if it is not. However, if you smell gas, call a furnace repair company in Calgary immediately. 8) Check the Ignition Source or Pilot Light If you have a modern furnace, chances are you going to have an igniter coupled with a flame sensor rather than a pilot light. If you are having problems with your furnace delivering the heat required, it could be because of the ignition source. It is one of the most common furnace repairs in Calgary. If you have an older model, you will most likely have a pilot light in your unit. If the pilot light is out, try relighting it according to your owner’s manual. If you’re not comfortable with it, call an expert to help you. Get Proactive With Furnace Repairs in Calgary If you suspect that there are major problems with your furnace, call a professional to help you immediately. In some cases, troubleshooting will provide you with no answer to your furnace’s problems, or it does, but you don’t know how to make the repairs. However, that shouldn’t deter you from calling in an expert. You don’t want to leave your furnace in a bad state; you’ll end up searching for furnace installation in Calgary to replace it before too long. With winter coming thick and fast, you must look towards maintaining and repairing your furnace. Taking proactive measures will ensure that your furnace is running without problems throughout the coldest months of the year. Get it inspected today! Since 1996, ProStar Plumbing & Heating has been providing Calgary with reliable, hassle-free, quality plumbing solutions. When things go wrong, the community trusts us to handle it with our skills, expertise and personal attention. We can help you with a range of plumbing and heating services, including water leak detection and repairs, drain cleaning, sewer repair, furnace repair and much more. With 24/7 emergency service, no overtime charges, upfront pricing and the best team in the business, you know we’re for you. Whether you need your drain cleared or furnace installation in Calgary, contact ProStar today on 403-250-7232.

Furnace

6 Tips To Prepare Your Plumbing System For The Fall

nidhi@thewebmint.ca / February 7, 2019

With fall around the corner, the kids going back to school and Halloween coming up fast, the last thing on your mind is your plumbing system. But you will be shocked to know that fall is an important time to check out your plumbing system. What do you check, though? What is essential to get inspected? Thanks to the experts at your trusted plumbing company in Calgary, here is what you should do to prepare your plumbing for fall. 6 Things To Do To Prepare Your Plumbing System For Fall Inspect Your Home For Leaks You might not notice a leak in your home that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look for one. A slight leak can be enough to cause you major problems in your home. The last thing you want to discover is that the leak has damaged the interior part of your home. It is wise to inspect your home for any leaks. Look out for any leaky taps or faucets, but also keep an eye on for any discoloration or blotches in your wall or ceilings. It means there is a leaking pipe in your home that needs to get repaired as soon as possible before it gets worse. Get An Inspection Just before winter starts, it is a smart idea to get a plumbing company in Calgary to inspect your plumbing system. The professional will assess the quality, reliability and functionality of your plumbing system, and can recommend any suggestions for improvements. An inspection can include everything from examining your water heater to your sump pump, and even checking out your furnace. The plumbing expert will be able to check out these systems to make sure they are running smoothly. Most importantly, the inspection is a preventative measure that ensures you have a chance to fix a problem early rather than later. Rather than it blowing up to be a big problem, it can be sorted out early, saving you money, time and the stress of dealing with it later on. Don’t waste time – look to get an inspection as the fall season starts. Service Your Sump Pump One of the most unusual things about your plumbing system is the sump pump – which is a pump used to remove water from your basement. If you don’t check out your sump pump, your risk it accumulating and potentially flooding your basement if there is heavy rain (which you can expect in Calgary during fall time). Check out your sump pump and see how it is functioning, and if the line is free of debris. If you notice that it is clogged up, or there are major technical problems, it is best if you look towards hiring a plumbing company to help you. Check Out Your Furnace While you might use your furnace in fall as you much as you would in winter, it is always good to get it checked out. As the temperatures start to drop, you’re going to be using your furnace more, ramping up the pressure on its use. The last thing you want is for it to blank out when you’re using it. Do a quick check-up of your furnace, by looking at the pilot light, cleaning the filters and the registers. If you’ve done it all and notice that it is not functioning as it should be, then it is time to contact a plumber to help you. They’ll be able to offer you any furnace repair in Calgary if you need it. Inspect Your Water Heater Your home’s water heater may need to work extra hard this fall to keep producing the hot water you want. Just like you would with your furnace, do a quick check-up of your water heater. If you notice any rust, scale, puddles of water, changing temperature or other immediate warning signs, they should be addressed immediately. Due to the hazardous nature that comes with water heaters, it is best if you look towards bringing in a professional that deals with water heater services in Calgary. Remove, Drain & Store Away Your Garden Hoses As the weather gets colder (and in Calgary, it can get cold super quickly), you don’t want your hose freezing up. It is essential that you store it away, so that is good for another year. But there is more that you can do. Start by disconnecting it, then drain out any remaining water within the hose. If you don’t, any water that’s left inside the hose can freeze and expand, causing the hose to break! You should then store it in any place that will avoid freezing temperatures. You don’t have to do this early in the fall, but when the weather starts dropping, it’s time to make a move. Since 1996, ProStar Plumbing & Heating has been providing Calgary with reliable, hassle-free, quality plumbing solutions. When things go wrong, the community trusts us to handle it with our skills, expertise and personal attention. We can help you with a range of plumbing and heating services, including water leak detection and repairs, drain cleaning, sewer repair, furnace repair and much more. With 24/7 emergency service, no overtime charges, upfront pricing and the best team in the business, you know we’re for you. Whether you need your drain cleared or furnace installation in Calgary, contact ProStar today on 403-250-7232.

An emergency plumber Calgary, AB holding his thumbs up

Drain Cleaning

The Experts Weigh in on Benefits of Installing a Garbage Disposal

nidhi@thewebmint.ca / June 20, 2018

If you’re trying to find a simple and affordable way to upgrade your kitchen, look no further than garbage disposals. These devices can greatly improve your cooking and cleaning tasks. In addition to providing an efficient way of eliminating food waste, they can help maintain a healthy kitchen plumbing system. Fewer problems crop up so you won’t need to hire a Calgary, AB plumber as frequently. It’s an easy way of boosting your quality of life. How exactly do these components accomplish such feats? Here are some of the benefits of installing a garbage disposal. Get Rid of Awful Smells If you spend a lot of time in your kitchen, you might have noticed it can sometimes get smelly. This is mainly caused by food trapped in the drain or left to fester in the trash bin. The result is a potent odor that spreads across the immediate area. Even worse, it may not disappear until the drains are cleaned, or somebody takes out the garbage. By using a garbage disposal, however, you never have to deal with the smell of decomposing food ever again. It can be used to get rid of any food you don’t use during cooking or the leftovers after eating. In the end, no bits of food are left to rot in your kitchen. Plus, taking out the trash can become a lot easier since you’re not hauling heavy food items outside. Easier Washing Dishes Cleaning up after a meal can be a breeze with a garbage disposal. Just feed any leftover scraps into the device and flush them away before soaking dishes. The water won’t be filled with debris, so your hands won’t be dipped in nasty water. Any bits and pieces left after washing can also be flushed away with ease. Washing dishes by hand becomes a simple activity. No Clogged Drains Food particles often make their way into our drains, which can be a big problem. If enough pieces accumulate, they can form a clog. This disrupts the flow of water and increases pressure, which can lead to leaks. These leaks can be destructive to your kitchen, causing widespread water damage. The resulting repairs can also be quite pricey. There’s no need to fear, however, if you have a garbage disposal. This device breaks down food into tiny pieces, which can be safely flushed away. Since there’s no debris left in the drain, no clogs can develop. By keeping your pipes clear, there’s less of a need to contact a plumber to conduct drain cleaning or plumbing repair services.

Frustrated person due to the toilet that is not flushing and is needing an emergency plumber Calgary, AB

Plumbing

3 Ways to Handle a Toilet that Won’t Flush

nidhi@thewebmint.ca / June 20, 2018

Any plumbing issue to do with a toilet is bad news. It can be particularly frustrating in households that primarily use one bathroom. If you’re faced with a toilet that won’t flush, however, count yourself lucky. It’s a common issue that’s easy to fix in most cases, and it can be done without the help of a Calgary, AB bathroom plumbing technician. Want to learn how to fix this simple bathroom plumbing problem? Here are three ways to handle a toilet that simply won’t flush. 1. Check the Flapper in the Tank Thankfully, the most common cause of a toilet that refuses to flush is the easiest one to fix. Most of the time, the problem is caused by a poorly seated flapper, which is a device located at the bottom of the toilet tank. The flapper is what opens up and allows the water from the tank to flow into the bowl when you flush before closing up again so the tank can re-fill. It’s connected to a chain, which is attached to a rod that’s part of the handle. When the handle gets pushed, the rod lifts up the chain, which opens the flapper. You can tell if the flapper isn’t seated well over the opening if you try pushing the handle and no water flows into the bowl, but you hear water running anyway. The culprit is often one of the components of this contraption. Perhaps the flapper is worn out, the chain is loose, or the chain got caught beneath the flapper and is stopping it from closing. Jiggling the handle can sometimes fix the problem. Try it, and if you hear the tank filling up, you’ve solved the problem. If that doesn’t work, you will need to take a hands-on approach. Remove the lid of the tank and see what’s stopping the flapper from closing. Depending on the source, you may need to reseat the flapper, attach the chain to the rod or pull the chain out from under the flapper. Afterward, the tank should begin to fill up. As soon as it’s done, flush the toilet and make sure the flapper goes back down correctly. If it does, you’ve fixed the problem. Put the cover back on and resume as normal. 2. More Water Into the Toilet Bowl There’s an alternative way to flush a toilet if you’re unable. If you pour a large volume of water into the bowl itself, you can force it to flush down any waste. Find a bucket or container, fill it with water and use it for this procedure. The trick is to make sure you’re not pouring too slowly, or else the water level will simply rise. It’s a simple yet effective way of getting a toilet to flush, and it may solve the problem. 3. Get in Touch With a Plumber to Search for Clogs If you can’t figure out what’s wrong, you may want to call in a bathroom plumbing professional to inspect your toilet for clogs. You can try using a plunger or snake to take care of it, but if there’s a clog in the toilet flange or drain it will have to be fixed by a technician. Don’t hesitate to contact an expert if you suspect your toilet is clogged.

Author name: nidhi@thewebmint.ca