We’re Here To Help

What should I do if I’m not getting any hot water?

If you have no hot water or the water is taking longer to heat up than normal, it may be due to one or several of the following problems:

If it is an electric hot water tank, an element in your tank may have burnt out and will need to be replaced. Upper and lower thermostats should be checked to see that they are set correctly and are working properly.

If it is a gas hot water tank, the control valve should be checked to ensure settings are correct. If the pilot won't stay lit or the gas won't fire the burner, testing of the thermocouple and gas valve is needed and may require replacement.

A leak may be present in the hot water system that is allowing cold water to enter the hot water tank, not allowing the hot water tank adequate time to recover.

(Any work done on a gas appliance or electrical line voltage should only be performed by a qualified technician).

How can I fix a toilet that won’t stop running?

Toilets that just don’t stop flushing, or start up again randomly can waste huge amounts of water.

Most of the time this is caused by a problem with the flapper, the piece that lifts and closes to control the flow of water from the tank to the bowl. The flapper may be stuck open or misaligned. The chain which opens the flapper may also be caught on something.

Sometimes an old flapper will need replacement if it has a slight leak. Often a simple check of the water levels and replacing inexpensive toilet parts will save you wasted water and help prevent an expensive water bill.

What should I do about a plugged bathtub or sink drain?

There’s no one solution to this problem, since different drains may be plugged for different reasons. Hair is one of the most common problems. One method to remove the hair is to take off the drain grate and use a tool such as needle nose pliers to pull out the hair. When removing hair from a sink you can take off the mechanical pop-up and use the same tool.

If the problem is more complicated than a simple hair clog, please call our office as we will be pleased to assist you.

The water from my tap is white and cloudy. Can I still use it?

Cloudy water is caused by tiny air bubbles in the water. You may notice that after a short while the water clears and looks normal. This water is safe to use and drink.

What can I do about a faucet that doesn’t stop dripping?

A dripping faucet usually occurs when the washers or cartridge within the faucet becomes damaged or deteriorates. Before tackling this repair, ensure that replacement parts are available for your faucet. Sometimes the age and availablity will dictate whether replacing the whole faucet is a better route to go, rather than pulling the faucet apart and finding out that there are no replacement parts. If you find replacement parts and want to perform the repairs yourself, first make sure you turn off the water to your faucet. There is usually a shutoff valve under the sink that will allow you to turn off the water supply. If your house does not have local shutoff valves, then you'll need to go to the water main and shut off the water supply there. Next disassemble the faucet until you get to the washers or cartridge, making sure that all parts are disassembled in a systematic order to ensure proper re-assembly occurs. Each faucet is different so this could be as simple as taking out some screws, or it may become quite complicated. Once you get to the washers or cartridge, ensure it is properly positioned and undamaged. If it requires replacement, carefully install the new washers or cartridge and reassemble the faucet.

Slowly turn the water back on to the faucet and test for leaks and faucet function.

(Please contact our office if you feel more comfortable having a professional proceed with this repair)