As winter thaws into spring, temperature fluctuations can pose unique challenges to your home’s plumbing. A thorough post-winter leak check could prevent minor plumbing issues from becoming costly disasters.

Why Winter Creates Certain Plumbing Vulnerabilities

The freeze-thaw cycle during the winter months can put significant stress on your plumbing system. When water freezes, it expands by just over 9%. The increased volume inside the pipes can create tremendous pressure, which may then crack the pipe walls or weaken the connections.

The soil around the home also shifts as the moisture inside it freezes and thaws. This seasonal movement can damage underground pipes, creating leaks that become apparent just as spring arrives and the water flows freely again. A professional winter leak check can often save the day.

Top Signs of Winter Damage Leaks

Do you know how to recognize plumbing leak signs? It could save you thousands! Look for the following:

• Unexplained increases in your water bill.
• Reduced water pressure throughout your home.
• Damp spots on walls, ceilings, or floors – especially in basements.
• Unusual sounds like running water when appliances are off.
• Warm spots on floors.
• Musty odors or visible mold growth.
• New foundation cracks.

A thorough winter leak check will also look for water pooling around your home’s exterior.

A Plumber’s Tips for Finding Hidden Water Leaks

Your home leak inspection relies on visual checks and these simple tests:

The Water Meter Test

Turn off all water. Check your meter. Wait two hours without using water, and check the meter again to see if there was any movement.

The Toilet Check

Add food coloring to the tank. Wait 30 minutes without flushing. Color in the bowl means you have a toilet leak.

The Exterior Inspection

Attach a hose to your outdoor faucets and run the water. Look for leaks at connections and damp ground around your foundation.

The Appliance Examination 

Look for moisture or water stains around dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters. Connection points and valves are weak spots.

The Visual Pipe Check 

Examine exposed pipes in basements and under sinks. Is there corrosion, discoloration, or moisture? Check ceilings below bathrooms, too.

The Pressure Test 

Does water pressure drop significantly when using multiple fixtures? You might have a supply line leak after winter ground shifts.

One Final Leak Detection Test

Sometimes, the simplest winter leak check is to listen carefully with your own two ears. When your home is quiet, do you hear running or dripping water?

Trust Mullen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for Your Winter Plumbing Needs

DIY inspections can catch obvious issues. However, experienced plumbing technicians use specialized acoustic equipment and infrared cameras for thorough water leak detection that will find hidden leaks before they cause further damage.

Did your plumbing survive this winter unscathed? If you’d like to be sure, contact Mullen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling at (304) 744-3221 for a comprehensive winter leak check in South Charleston or the surrounding areas!

The cold season can bring unexpected challenges to your home. When your water heater fails, simple tasks like showers and dishes become extremely difficult. If you’re asking why your water heater isn’t working during the colder months, keep reading as Mullen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling explains common causes of malfunctions. 

Common Causes of Water Heater Problems

Your water heater faces unique challenges during winter months. Understanding these issues can help you identify and address problems before they escalate into major repairs.

Sediment Buildup

Sediment buildup is one of the most common culprits behind water heater problems. As water sits in your tank, minerals naturally settle at the bottom. This layer of sediment creates an insulating barrier between the heating element and the water, forcing your system to work harder to maintain proper temperatures.

This issue becomes particularly noticeable during winter when your system already faces increased stress. Regular maintenance and flushing can help prevent this problem from affecting your water heater’s performance.

Insufficient Insulation

Poor insulation can significantly impact your system’s efficiency during cold weather. When your unit and pipes lack proper insulation, they become vulnerable to heat loss and temperature fluctuations.

Installing appropriate insulation around your water heater and pipes helps maintain consistent temperatures and reduces energy waste. This becomes especially important for units located in unheated areas like garages or basements.

Incorrect Thermostat Settings

“Why is my water heater not heating during winter months?” You may have it set to the wrong temperature. Incorrect thermostat settings can lead to inadequate heating or excessive energy consumption.

Finding the right balance between comfort and efficiency is essential. While you might be tempted to raise the temperature significantly during cold weather, this can strain your system and increase your energy bills.

Frozen Pipes

One of winter’s most severe threats to your plumbing system is frozen pipes. When temperatures drop below 32 degrees, exposed pipes can freeze, preventing water flow and potentially causing serious damage.

Taking preventive measures before winter arrives can help protect your pipes from freezing. This includes proper insulation and maintaining adequate heat circulation throughout your home.

Preventive Maintenance Tips for Water Heater Efficiency

Winter can cause increased energy consumption as your equipment works harder to maintain desired temperatures. If you face water temperature fluctuations, your utility bills will increase and your system will wear down faster. Taking proactive steps can help you prevent many common winter water heater problems.

We recommend that you:

• Schedule regular maintenance checks.
• Flush your tank periodically to remove sediment.
• Check and maintain proper insulation.
• Monitor thermostat settings.
• Keep the area around your water heater clear.
• Address minor issues promptly before they escalate.

Don’t Let a Faulty Water Heater Disrupt Your Winter: Contact Mullen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

Now you know the answer to, “Why is my water heater not heating during winter months?” At Mullen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we understand how crucial it is to have reliable hot water during the cold season. 

If your water heater is malfunctioning in South Charleston and the surrounding areas, contact Mullen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling at (304) 744-3221 for expert assistance and reliable solutions.

Traditional water heaters come with certain limitations. They use a lot of energy to keep water hot even when nobody is using it. They also have a limited supply of warm water, which can lead to lukewarm showers in homes with lots of people. Instead of the traditional tank-style water heater, you can also invest in a tankless water heater for your home. We’re going to discuss what these are and how they can benefit your household.

What Is a Tankless Water Heater?

A tankless water heater is used to create hot water for your home. These are small rectangular units that get installed right on your wall. These water heaters don’t store hot water. Rather, they produce it when your home demands it.

How Do Tankless Water Heaters Work?

When you turn on your hot water at your faucet or one of your many appliances needs hot water, your water heater will turn on. Cold water is introduced into the heat exchanger, which is positioned inside the tankless water heater. The water will be heated via a gas burner or electric heating element, depending on what fuel source you choose to use for your device. A constant supply of hot water will be delivered to the various faucets and appliances throughout your home.

Tankless Water Heater Sizing

Most homeowners are familiar with tank water heaters having a designated gallon capacity. For example, a house with three to four people will typically need a 50- to 60-gallon water heater. When it comes to tankless water heaters, they’re measured in gallons per minute. There are tankless water heaters ranging from 2 to 12 gallons per minute. Most homes need about 5 to 10 gallons per minute.

When determining the ideal size of tankless water heater for your home, consider the number of plumbing fixtures and appliances you have that may use hot water. A quick way to get a ballpark for the gallons per minute your new tankless water heater needs is to add up the flow rate for all of your fixtures and water-using appliances. This number will ensure that you can comfortably run multiple fixtures at once without compromising the temperature of your hot water. A plumbing professional can do these calculations for you and recommend an appropriate size.

Maintenance Requirements

Both tankless and tank water heaters require regular maintenance to stay in tip-top condition. In general, you’ll want to have your tankless water heater evaluated by a licensed plumber every year. This will help remove sediment buildup and ensure each internal component is functioning optimally. If you live in a region with hard water, you may need to have this service done every six months.

Energy-Efficient Operation

One of the most significant benefits of tankless water heaters is they offer energy-efficient operation. A traditional tank water heater is constantly burning energy to keep the water in its storage tank nice and hot. With a tankless water heater, you don’t have to waste any of this energy. Rather, when you actually need hot water, your unit will burn fuel or use electricity to heat your water. When you turn your hot water off, it won’t use any energy. High energy efficient operation translates to more energy savings for homeowners.

Lifespan

Tankless water heaters can last 20 years or more. Traditional water heaters often last between 8 and 12 years. This is because there is no standing water where sediment can settle or a holding tank can corrode and leak. Furthermore, tankless water heaters have more easily replaceable components than traditional tank water heaters. This gives them the ability to last even longer before they need to be replaced.

Space Saving Design

One of the biggest differences between a tankless and a tank water heater is their size. A tank water heater has a large cylindrical tank that takes up quite a bit of space. On the other hand, a tankless water heater is a fairly small rectangular device. These devices can be easily mounted on a wall to help minimize their impact on your overall living space

Reliable Tankless Water Heater Service

Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling offers reliable tankless water heater services to South Charleston, WV and the surrounding towns. Our experts can assist you with all your heating, cooling, indoor air quality, ductwork, and plumbing needs. Call us today to get the professional assistance that you need.

Natural gas and propane are two of the most popular residential fuels on the market today. Each offers clean burning fuel coupled with affordable prices. However, it’s important to realize that these gases can be dangerous when they leak into the air inside your home. If you experience any of the gas line issues we’re going to discuss below, call a licensed plumbing professional to fix the issue sooner rather than later.

1. Rotten Egg Smell

One of the most disturbing smells that you may come across is that of rotten eggs. While natural gas doesn’t have a smell to it, the gas company opts to add mercaptan to it. This is a bad-smelling substance that allows homeowners to easily detect when they have a leak in their natural gas line. If you smell this sulfur, you should turn off your natural gas valve quickly and exit your home. You never want to hang around an area where natural gas is leaking as it can be damaging to your health, even resulting in suffocation.

2. Hissing Noise

Gas that is pumped into your home is naturally under pressure. Whenever one of your gas lines develops a hole or crack, the pressure of the gas will force it out into your indoor air. This will produce a very loud hissing noise directly at the hole or crack. Be sure to shut off the supply of gas when you hear a hissing noise to prevent excess gas buildup in your home.

3. Visible Piping Damage

Any part of your gas piping that is exposed can be susceptible to accidental physical damage. If you notice a kink or crack appear on any of your gas lines, it’s a cause for concern. Even if there is no hissing noise indicating a leak, you’re better off having the line repaired by a licensed plumbing professional before the problem gets worse.

4. Higher Than Normal Gas Bills

While we all expect our gas bills to be on the rise in the winter months as we run our heating systems to stay warm, they shouldn’t be spiking at other times of the year. If you’ve noticed that your gas bill has gone up significantly, it’s likely an indication of a leak somewhere in your gas line. It’s vital to remember that a large portion of your gas line is hidden underground and in your walls where you can’t inspect it for physical damage.

5. Poor Performing Appliances

One clear indication that there may be a problem with your gas line is the poor performance of your gas-powered appliances. If you observe that your stove, for instance, is not maintaining a consistent heat level, it could be a sign of gas line trouble. To confirm if the issue lies with the gas line itself and not just the stove, test another gas-powered appliance in the household.

6. Dead Shrubbery

One lesser-known sign to look for that indicates a problem with your gas line is dead shrubbery. Any greenery that’s positioned near where your main gas line enters your home can be susceptible to gas poisoning. If your gas line is leaking, the shrubbery will start to die back and look sickly. If all of your other exterior greenery seems to be doing fine, it could be an indication you have a leak in your main gas supply line that needs to be addressed by a licensed plumber.

7. Faulty Valve

As your gas line enters your home, there will be a main supply valve that allows you to turn off the entire supply line. Furthermore, as you follow your gas lines throughout your home, you’ll notice that there’s a manual valve near every appliance. This is important to help turn off the gas supply when swapping out an old appliance for a new one. Unfortunately, any of these valves can become faulty over time. They can end up allowing gas to leak out, or they can get sealed shut and not allow any gas flow to your appliance at all. In most cases, you’ll need to have the faulty gas valve replaced with a new one.

Expert Gas Line Service

Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling offers expert gas line service to the entire South Charleston, WV community. We can also help with all of your plumbing repair, cooling, heating, ductwork, and indoor air quality needs. Give us a call today, and we’ll schedule a service appointment for you.

Are you experiencing issues with a toilet in your home? Toilets are prone to developing various issues over time since they are typically some of the highest-use fixtures in a home. While a plumber can repair most common toilet issues, at some point, the toilet will need to be replaced. As such, we recommend watching out for all of these signs so that you can get your toilet replaced before it stops working or develops any more serious issues like leaks.

Cracks in the Tank or Bowl

The majority of toilets are made from porcelain, and this is mainly because porcelain is strong and durable while also being non-porous and easy to clean. The issue is that porcelain can be prone to developing hairline fractures as a result of age or things getting dropped on the toilet.

At first, a hairline fracture in a toilet is primarily a cosmetic issue. However, the fractures can grow larger over time to cracks and leaking in the toilet tank or bowl. In some cases, this can also result in the tank or bowl suddenly breaking and causing a major flood in the bathroom. While rare, there have been situations where a toilet bowl suddenly cracked while someone was sitting on it, resulting in injuries.

Toilet Frequently Clogs

Toilets are prone to clogging if you use too much toilet paper or try to flush other solids like paper towels, wet wipes, or feminine hygiene products. This is something you can easily avoid by trying not to overload the toilet and never flushing anything but waste and toilet paper. That said, older toilets sometimes develop issues where the trap underneath the bowl is obstructed. When this happens, the toilet will clog up far more frequently than expected.

When you have a clog, you need to be mindful of the methods you use to unclog it. You should only use a plunger to address toilet clogs. Drain cleaning products might be effective at breaking up certain types of clogs, but the ingredients in the products can cause serious problems with your pipes. These chemicals are so harsh that they can weaken the drain pipe under your toilet, triggering cracks and leaking. Some products also produce excessive heat when they come into contact with water. The heat helps them work effectively, but it can also warp drain pipes, increasing the chances of leaking.

Toilet Is 30+ Years Old

In 1994, the US Congress passed the Energy Policy Act that required all new toilets to be low-flush models that use no more than 1.6 gallons of water per flush. If you have a toilet in your home that is more than 30 years old, you can be almost certain that it is a standard-flush model. In this case, it likely uses around 3.5 gallons of water per flush. Replacing an old toilet like this with a new low-flush toilet is a great way to lower your water bills since it will use less than half as much water each time you flush it.

You can reduce your water usage even further if you opt to have a dual-flush toilet installed. A dual-flush toilet has two different flushing options, one for solid waste and the other for liquids. The full flush will still typically use around 1.6 gallons while the partial flush will typically only use around 1.28 gallons. While the difference between the flush and partial flush may not sound like much, it can add up since people generally flush liquid waste more times a day than they do solid waste.

Inefficient Flushing

When low-flush toilets were first introduced, most of them were poorly designed and didn’t work all that well. As such, it often required flushing the toilet multiple times before all of the solid waste went down. This issue is why many people resisted installing low-flush toilets for quite some time. Luckily, there have been many advancements that have allowed modern low-flush toilets to work far better and flush completely every time. This means that you should never have to worry about needing to flush more than once to get all of the solid waste to go down.

Toilet Needs Frequent Repairs

One last sign that it’s time to replace your toilet is if it keeps having issues and you frequently need to have it repaired. Almost every toilet will require some repairs over its life, but having to repair your toilet frequently usually means it’s wearing out. While repairing the toilet will get it working again, replacing it will cost less overall compared to having to frequently pay to have it repaired.

At Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, we have decades of experience providing reliable plumbing, heating, and air conditioning services in South Charleston and the Kanawha Valley area. Whether you’re dealing with a clogged toilet, need a new toilet, or require any other plumbing or home comfort service, contact us to get the expert help you need.

Not all toilet clogs are fixable with a plunger. Knowing when to call a plumber to fix a clogged toilet is paramount to protecting a home’s plumbing system.

1. Toilet Won’t Flush

Toilets clog for a number of reasons, including mineral buildup in pipes and excessive use of toilet paper. Flushing non-flushable things like paper towels or feminine hygiene products are other common causes of clogs. A plunger or a plumbing snake may occasionally remove small blockages. However, if the clog persists or is really severe, it might be a symptom of a bigger problem with the plumbing system, like a tree root issue. Tree root incursions from nearby trees can infiltrate sewer lines, causing blockages that prevent proper drainage and flushing. If your toilet has a clog and won’t flush, it’s best to call a plumber to find out why. Only then can you fix the problem and avoid further trouble with your plumbing.

2. Slow or No Draining and Toilet Overflows

When a clogged toilet prevents water from draining properly, the water may back up and spill over the bowl’s rim. Overflows can cause structural damage to flooring and walls, leading to costly repairs. Moreover, stagnant water can foster mold and bacteria growth, posing health risks to occupants. A plumber will assess the clog’s severity, using specialized tools like augers or hydro-jetting to dislodge the blockage and fix the drainage issue, mitigating the risk of future overflows.

3. Foul Odors

A clogged toilet can lead to foul odors due to the buildup of waste and bacteria in stagnant water. These odors can have a musty, mildewy smell or a rotten egg smell due to hydrogen sulfide gas. Plumbers typically use a process of elimination to identify the source of the odor, checking for blockages in the toilet’s trap or sewer line. Once identified, they’ll use tools like drain snakes or hydro-jetting to remove the clog and eliminate the odor. This restores proper drainage and prevents future foul smells. Plumbers may also recommend preventive measures like regular drain cleaning to maintain optimal flushing.

4. Water Backing Up Into Other Fixtures

A toilet clog can cause backups into other fixtures due to a blockage in the main sewer line, preventing wastewater from flowing freely. This can lead to backups in sinks, showers and bathtubs, posing health risks and potential water damage to the home. Plumbers use equipment like sewer cameras to locate the blockage and then employ techniques such as hydro-jetting to clear the obstruction.

5. Stuck Foreign Object

Foreign objects, like cotton balls, dental floss, hair ties, diapers and Q-tips, in toilets can lead to minor clogs and even complete blockages. To remove the blockage and get the toilet working again, plumbers usually use augers or drain snakes. Depending on the severity of the problem, plumbers may need to remove the toilet in its entirety. This sometimes happens when the foreign object is badly stuck or causes damage to the plumbing system.

6. Water Pooling Around the Base

As a result of the water being unable to drain correctly, it might pool at the base of a clogged toilet. This happens when water backs up and overflows because the blockage prevents it from flowing into the sewage system. The dangers posed by the collected water include the formation of mold and mildew and water damage to the subfloor, flooring, and neighboring walls. In most cases, a plumber will need to use augers or hydro-jetting to locate the blockage and remove it. This will restore normal drainage and make sure the problem doesn’t happen again.

7. Gurgling Sounds or Other Strange Noises

Clogged toilets sometimes make strange noises, like gurgling, bubbling or even whistling. These sounds usually mean there is air in the pipes, water is having trouble passing past the obstruction or there is an imbalance in the pressure inside the plumbing system. No matter the cause, it’s imperative to fix the problem as quickly as possible to minimize potential damage to the home and its plumbing system.

To fix strange noises coming from a toilet, plumbers will first diagnose the underlying cause by inspecting the toilet and plumbing system. They will check for blockages in the pipes, ensure proper venting and examine the fill valve and flapper for any issues. Depending on the findings, plumbers will then proceed with the appropriate repairs, which may involve adjusting the water pressure, replacing worn-out components or clearing obstructions.

Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling is an industry leader in plumbing, heating and cooling services in South Charleston, WV. If you have a clogged toilet problem, contact us today to schedule a fast and effective repair.

Whether you’re going on vacation for the winter or you need to winterize a summer home, draining your pipes is crucial if you don’t want them to freeze. West Virginia doesn’t get as cold as other parts of the country, but temperatures still drop below freezing, which is enough to do some serious damage to your plumbing.

If you want to make sure that you won’t have to contend with a major plumbing repair bill or fix any water damage in your home, here’s what you should do before it gets too cold.

1. Shut Off Your Main Water Valve

The first step in draining your pipes for the winter is to shut off the water in your house. You should know where your main water shutoff valve is already in case of an emergency. If you don’t, take the time to find it and make sure that you can reach it easily.

2. Turn on All of Your Faucets

Even though you’ve already shut off the water in your house, there will still be water in your pipes that can freeze. To drain all of the water, unlock all of your faucets and turn them on. Start from the lowest floor in your home – which is likely your basement or crawl space – and work your way through your home. Don’t forget the outside of your house; outdoor faucets are directly exposed to the cold and are more prone to freezing.

3. Flush Your Toilets

The water in your pipes will drain from your faucets after you unlock them and turn them on, but you’ll still have water in your toilets. This water can freeze and damage your toilets just like any of your pipes, so flush them to drain them of water. You’ll still have water in the “U” part of the toilet bowl, but that is unlikely to freeze.

4. Empty the Water Lines of Your Appliances

Appliances such as your dishwasher and your washing machine have their own water lines that need to be drained. After you’ve turned off the water in your house, run your appliances on the hot and cold water settings until no water comes out. This shouldn’t take that long if you’ve shut off the main water line.

5. Empty Your Water Heater Tank

If you have a water heater with a tank, it might still have water left after you’ve unlocked your faucets and run your appliances. This will need to be drained, so check the owner’s manual to learn how to do that. If you can’t figure out how to do that or you don’t feel comfortable doing so, contact Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling for advice. We will be glad to assist you.

6. Put Compressed Air Through Your Pipes

If you want to make absolutely sure that your pipes are completely drained, feed about 70 PSI of compressed air through your hose connector or basement faucet to force any remaining water out. You can rent an air compressor from most hardware stores, so check some stores near you if you need one. Otherwise, Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling can help you completely drain your pipes if you still think you need assistance.

Other Ways to Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing

Draining your pipes is a great way to keep them from freezing if you’re not going to be around for the winter. However, if you’re not going anywhere and need to keep your plumbing on, there are other things that you can do to keep your pipes from freezing. The first thing is to insulate any exposed pipes that are in your basement, garage, or crawlspace. All it takes is to wrap them in pipe insulation that you can purchase from most hardware stores.

The second is to open your faucets to a trickle at night. This keeps just enough water moving through your pipes to keep them from freezing but not so much that it will have a big impact on your monthly water bill. Finally, open the cabinets underneath your kitchen and bathroom sinks. This exposes the pipes underneath your sinks to the warm air that is circulating throughout your house and prevents them from freezing.

Contact Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling for Assistance

If you have any questions about draining your pipes or otherwise preventing them from freezing, Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling will be glad to assist you. We also offer plumbing repairs, installations, and HVAC services to homeowners. For more information about our plumbing services or if you have questions about winterizing your pipes, contact Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling in South Charleston, WV today.

A tankless water heater is an important appliance in many households, providing hot water on demand and eliminating the need to store gallons of heated water. Tankless water heaters provide a steady supply of hot water without taking up much space or using as much energy as traditional models. However, there are some potential downsides to using a tankless water heater that you should consider before making the switch.

Potentially Higher Purchase and Installation Costs

One of the main causes of high up-front installation costs for a tankless water heater is the cost of the unit itself. Tankless systems can be two to three times the price of a tanked unit. The installation will also cost more than a simple tanked water heater replacement as well. Tankless systems require additional plumbing and ventilation that traditional models don’t, which can add to the overall price tag. The installation may also include additional components, such as a pre-heater or flow control device, which can also add to the cost.

If you’re planning on replacing your storage tank system, you may need to reevaluate the location of your hot water heater. The location of the unit is typically higher on the wall than a tanked unit. Due to the higher intensity of the steam that comes from these units, the code for ventilation is stricter and may require a direct, vertical vent to the roof or out of the side of the home. In some cases, an installer may recommend that you relocate your hot water heater to a different location in the home.

Power Outages

Tankless water heaters typically use electric starters, even when they run on natural gas or propane. While a tanked model will have a limited supply of warm water when your home loses power, this water is not available with an on-demand heater. Also, the electric starter cannot light the gas to heat your water if your home loses power unless it has a manual workaround.

They Can Take a While to Deliver Hot Water

The process of heating water can take time, and tankless systems need to heat the water as it flows through the pipes. This means that it can take several seconds before hot water is delivered from the tap. Some people may find this delay to be inconvenient, especially if their old system provided hot water immediately.

The rate at which each room in the home will receive hot water is based on the distance through the plumbing that the water must travel. Plumbing on a different floor or end of the home is typically the location where this is most noticeable. It also means that you must run (and waste) cold water for some time before you receive your hot water.

There is a workaround for this particular issue with tankless water heaters. Some homeowners will place a small under-sink heater with water that can be delivered quickly and is already heated. This means that you have access to a small volume of hot water right away for washing your face in a distant bathroom or filling the sink to wash dishes. These units are convenient, but each one can cost a few hundred dollars. This can add up if you are looking to have them in multiple rooms of your home. The additional time that comes with their installation will add to the overall price of the hot water heating system. Constantly heating this under-sink water will also reduce some of the energy costs that you are saving by removing your traditional hot water heater.

Overall, a tankless water heater can be an excellent choice for many households, but it’s important to weigh the potential downsides of such a system before making the switch. It’s also important to consult with an experienced professional before making a decision on which type of water heater is right for you. If you have questions about the potential drawbacks of tankless systems or would like to explore other options, please contact Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling today. We are happy to provide honest advice and help you find the best solution for your home. We also offer water heaters, drain cleaning services, faucet installation, backflow prevention and other plumbing services in addition to AC and heating systems installation, maintenance and repairs in Kanawha and Putnam County.

Sinks are a vital part of any kitchen or bathroom, and plumbing parts are essential for them to function properly. Each part of a sink’s plumbing system is necessary for water to be brought in and drained away or to operate faucets. Here’s a look at the most common plumbing parts of a sink.

Trap

The trap is a curved length of pipe that’s placed beneath the sink, and it serves two important functions. First, it prevents sewer gases from entering the home. Second, it traps a small amount of water in the curved base of the pipe, creating a seal that prevents moisture from traveling back up the drainpipe. Without a trap, air could move freely through the pipe, creating an unpleasant odor in your home.

When installing a trap beneath your sink, you have several options. You can buy a pre-shaped trap with its ends already connected or purchase the components separately and assemble them yourself. The latter may give you more flexibility, allowing you to customize the trap’s shape and size to fit your needs. Regardless of which type you choose, it’s important to work with a professional to ensure the trap is properly installed.

To keep your trap functioning optimally, cleaning it out regularly is important. This is especially true if you use it to dispose of food waste as grease and other residue can build up in the trap and cause clogs.

Gasket

In addition to the trap, a gasket is another essential component of your sink’s plumbing system. The gasket seals the connection between your sink and the drain waste system. It prevents water from leaking through the joint and helps keep odors from escaping. Depending on your setup, the gasket may be made from rubber, silicone, or metal.

To ensure a tight seal, use silicone caulk to cover the joint between the sink and the gasket. Without a properly installed gasket, you may experience leaking or even drainage problems. A professional plumber should tighten all the connections with plumber’s tape or putty to prevent leaking.

Jamb Nut

The jamb nut is an important component of your sink’s plumbing system. It holds the faucet in place and provides a secure connection. The jamb nut is a specialized locknut used to fasten objects together. It is a large, flat nut usually made of brass though plastic and stainless steel versions are also available. Its large size allows it to fit snugly against the sink’s surface, providing a secure fit.

For installation, the jamb nut is threaded onto the sink where the faucet will be attached. Once the faucet is in place, it is tightened until it is secure. If the jamb nut is improperly installed, it can cause leaks and other plumbing problems.

Coupling Nut

The coupling nut is a small metal fitting used to attach two pieces of pipe. It’s often used in sink installations, providing a tight seal that prevents the pipes from separating. The coupling nut is made of brass, copper, or stainless steel and comes in various sizes, depending on the type of pipe used. It’s easy to install and is generally very durable, making it a popular choice for plumbing applications. The coupling nut is often used with other fittings, including the slip joint nut, to ensure a secure connection between two pieces of pipe.

A coupling nut can provide an effective seal for years with the right fittings and installation technique. Once installed, the coupling nut should be checked periodically to ensure it’s still in good condition and performing optimally. With proper maintenance, a coupling nut can provide a reliable and long-lasting connection between the two pipes.

Tailpiece

The tailpiece is a short pipe used to connect the sink drain and trap to the main waste line. It’s usually made of ABS or PVC and is easy to install. It should be securely connected with a slip joint nut and washer, ensuring it won’t get loose over time.

When installing a tailpiece, it’s important to ensure the connection is watertight, or else you may have to deal with leaks in the future. Plumber’s tape should be wrapped around the joint to help create a tighter seal and prevent any water from escaping.

Sink plumbing can seem daunting, but it’s quite simple with the right tools and knowledge. Understanding how the different components of your sink’s plumbing system work together is the key to successful installation and maintenance. Working with a professional plumbing company like Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling is the best way to ensure your sink is installed correctly and will remain in good working order for years.

With our expertise, you can rest assured that your sink plumbing is in good hands. We can also help with water heater installations and repair, toilet repair and replacement, AC and maintenance, and heater installation and repair in the Kanahwa Valley. Contact Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling today to learn more about our services and how we can help with all your plumbing needs!

Getting new fixtures in an important room like your kitchen is an exciting experience. Your kitchen sink is a central hub for cooking, cleaning, washing, and other culinary tasks, providing you with a place to organize various activities. Outdated faucets, leaking fixtures, and substandard draining all contribute to less-than-ideal conditions that make kitchen work frustrating.

How About a New Kitchen Sink?

Several benefits come with putting in a new kitchen sink in your home. A new sink offers improved functionality compared to your old, outdated model. Enhanced styles can add a fresh new look to your kitchen and improve the overall style of your space. With an array of materials, finishes, and styles to choose from, you’ll find the perfect complement to your kitchen aesthetic.

A new kitchen sink can be the focal point for potential buyers, thus increasing the value of your home. Modern styles and colors make your kitchen look more attractive to buyers, allowing you to sell your home more quickly.

New sinks can provide a more sanitized space in which to work, particularly if your old sink was cracked, stained, or caked with bacteria. A clean sink with a smooth surface helps keep your kitchen cleaner and healthier. Choosing a sink with energy-efficient options will allow you to save both energy and water over time, reducing your water consumption and saving you money on utility bills.

Kitchen Sink Installation Timeline

The time that it will take a professional plumber to replace your kitchen sink can vary depending on the complexity of your project, the condition of your existing plumbing, and any other unexpected issues that can arise during installation. A basic swap without the need to modify countertops or cabinetry can be done in as little as two to four hours.

During the installation process, your plumber will need to remove your existing sink and faucet, install the new model, and connect water supply lines and drainpipe. He will also need to test the new appliance to ensure that it is functioning properly, and to assess for leaks and other issues that may need attention before work is complete.

Potential Problems May Add Time

Unfortunately, not all installation projects go as planned. Problems may arise that will add time to your project, and making sure that these issues are addressed will ensure that your job is done right. Problems with existing plumbing, such as corroded pipes or leaks, may require repairs or replacement before your sink is considered fully functional.

If your countertop is not level or damaged, your plumber may need to repair or replace it before setting your new sink and fixtures in place. Electrical components, such as garbage disposals and dishwashers, must be disconnected and reconnected during the installation process to make sure everything is draining correctly.

If, for some reason, your sink is not correctly sized for your kitchen, your plumber will need to modify your existing countertop or even order a new sink, which could add days and even weeks to the installation process.

There may be times when a sink installation reveals other hidden issues, such as plumbing problems or damage to surrounding walls and cabinets. Even if this damage isn’t considered a necessary fix, it may be in your best interests to correct these issues before installing new equipment and fixtures, or it could lead to additional damage that will cost you time and money to repair down the road.

These and other unforeseen issues could add hours, maybe days, to your project if parts and other components need to be ordered for project completion. During this time, make sure to communicate with your plumber to stay updated and informed about the project timeline and cost; working with an experienced professional will ensure that you yield the best outcome with regard to timing and price.

Let Us Handle the Details!

Proudly serving valued residents in the Kanawha Valley and beyond since 1979, Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling has solutions for all of your home comfort needs. HVAC repair, installation, maintenance, ductwork and indoor air quality assessment, plumbing repair, installation, and utility line maintenance are just a few of the many services we offer our customers. Let us handle the details of your next plumbing installation project, saving you both time and money as you upgrade your space. Contact Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling today for more information and to make an appointment.