Our Blog

Our Blog

• 7 Common Causes of Electrical Fires in the Home & How to Prevent Them

  Here are the 7 most common causes of electrical fires in the home
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• What Is a Wax Ring for a Toilet & When Should You Replace It?

  The blog discusses the importance of the toilet wax ring in preventing water leaks around the base of the toilet. It explains that wax rings are resilient and mold-resistant, but they should be replaced whenever the toilet is removed or if there are signs of wobbling or changes in floor height. Additionally, it advises inspecting the subfloor for water damage and making any repairs before reinstalling the toilet.
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• The Advantages and Disadvantages of Sewer Pipe Materials

  The sewer pipe material in your home typically depends on its age, with older homes often having clay or cast iron pipes, while newer ones use plastic. However, plastic sewer lines are increasingly replacing older ones. Clay pipes are resistant to chemical degradation but vulnerable to tree roots, while cast iron offers durability but is heavy and costly. Plastic pipes, like PVC and ABS, resist root intrusion but require careful installation. Orangeburg pipes, made from wood fiber and coal tar, are no longer used due to their propensity for failure.
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• Does Turning the AC On and Off Cost More?

  When summer heat sets in, homeowners across the country ask the same question: Should I turn the air conditioner off when I leave, or should I just leave it running all day? Does turning the AC on and off cost more? It’s a debate that’s not just about dollars — it’s also about comfort, energy efficiency, and the lifespan of your HVAC system. While some believe turning the AC off and on wastes energy due to the startup process, others argue that letting it run nonstop is a bigger drain on your wallet.
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• What Is a Toilet Overflow Tube and How Does It Work?

  The blog is about the function of an overflow tube in a toilet tank. It prevents overflow by directing excess water into the bowl if the ballcock malfunctions.
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• Will Adjusting Your Thermostat Really Save You Money?

  Adjusting your thermostat can indeed save you money on energy bills, as for every degree you lower the temperature in winter, you can save 1% of fuel over an 8-hour period. During cooler months, lowering the thermostat reduces furnace usage, while in warmer weather, raising it decreases system operation. Utilizing programmable thermostats to schedule heating and cooling cycles based on occupancy further enhances energy efficiency and cost savings.
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• Why Is My Sink Gurgling and How Can I Fix It?

  The blog discusses two common causes of gurgling sounds from under sinks: clogs forming in the pipes and blocked vent pipes. Clogs occur due to various materials going down the drain, while blocked vent pipes create a vacuum, hindering water flow. It advises contacting a plumber for expert assistance in clearing clogs or removing blockages to resolve the issue.
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• 5 Causes of a Low Hot Water Supply (And How to Fix Them)

  If your water heater isn't heating adequately, potential causes include a broken dip tube, sediment buildup, malfunctioning heating components, distant placement from faucets causing heat loss, or an undersized tank unable to meet demand. Regular maintenance and inspection by a licensed plumber can address these issues and ensure optimal performance.
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• Understanding the High-Temperature Limit Switch in Your Home Furnace

  The blog explains the function and components of the high-temperature limit switch in a furnace, which is a safety device designed to cut off the gas supply when the burner temperature exceeds safe levels. It highlights that improper furnace maintenance, particularly dirty air filters, is a common cause of limit switch failure due to reduced airflow and heat buildup in the combustion chamber. It encourages readers to contact ABC Plumbing for assistance with their heating systems.
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• What Is the Purpose of a Water Heater Expansion Tank?

  This blog discusses the importance of managing excess pressure in water heater tanks due to thermal expansion, which can lead to damage to plumbing fixtures and the water heater itself. It explains the role of a check valve in preventing backflow into the municipal water supply and introduces the function of a water heater expansion tank in relieving water pressure. Additionally, it addresses the potential need for an expansion tank in homes without one, particularly in situations where rapid deterioration of plumbing fixtures or water dripping from the relief valve is observed.
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