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Author name: Rai

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Tips for Reducing Water Waste at Home in Canada

Upgrade to High-Efficiency Models Upgrading to high-efficiency boilers, water heaters, toilets repairing or other fixtures and appliances makes a big difference in the amount of water waste in your home. Newer, higher efficiency models use considerably less water in order to run effectively,  Have Regular Plumbing Inspections Done Getting your plumbing inspected regularly will keep your plumbing running at its most efficient and prevent water waste. Regular service also means that any minor issues that aren’t noticeable in day-to-day use will be identified and addressed before they become major problems that cause water waste, damage, and could be very costly to fix later. Book Service Install Flo by Moen Flo by Moen is an innovative smart home water security system that allows you to monitor and control your home’s water supply with an app from anywhere in the world. Flo senses leaks and irregular moisture, so it helps you detect leaks that would otherwise go unnoticed. It also allows you to shut off your water from any location, making it easy to prevent water waste and water damage even when you are away from home. Don’t Ignore That Leak You know that minor drip you noticed under your sink and just didn’t feel like dealing with? Please deal with it. Even a seemingly tiny leak wastes a lot of water once you add it all up. Fixing a leak as soon as you’re aware of it is better for the environment and your monthly bills. Not only that, but getting that leak fixed right away when it is still minor will prevent you from having to fix a much bigger (and more expensive!) problem later if the leak gets bigger or the pipe bursts. Install a Water Meter Installing a water meter is a worthwhile investment because it allows you to track fluctuations in your water usage and pinpoint exactly how much you are using. You’ll also be able to accurately measure the decrease in water waste from following the steps outlined above, so you can see your progress as you work to waste less water. Ready to install a water meter, upgrade to a more efficient system, or need any other plumbing services? Call Pink Plumbing today!

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Everything You Need to Know About Tankless Water Heaters in canada

How Do Tankless Water Heaters Work? A tankless water heater is a compact water heating system that does not require a conventional tank because, instead of storing hot water, it heats the water on demand as you use it in your household. As soon as you turn on any hot water tap in your home, a tankless water heater will take cold water and heat it immediately through a heat exchanger, then send it through your home’s plumbing system to wherever hot water is desired. What are the Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater? Compact Tankless water heaters are wall mounted and very small compared to conventional tanks, which are large and freestanding. The size of tankless water heaters is attractive to both small-home dwellers and those with larger houses because it allows you to use your space more effectively and is not an eyesore. Tankless water heaters are typically more fuel efficient as well.  No More Waiting Around for Hot Water Because tankless units heat water on demand, you will never run out of hot water. No more waiting for a tank to heat up after running cold.  Environmentally Friendly Because tankless water heaters are so much more efficient than regular hot water tanks, you can feel good about saving energy and leaving a smaller footprint. Longer Lasting Tankless water heaters are much more durable than hot water tanks. Generally, they last more than double the lifespan of a conventional hot water tank. Monthly Fuel Savings  Although purchasing and installing a tankless water heater is more expensive up front than a hot water tank, it will save you money on your monthly fuel bills and is better for the environment.  Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for Me? Because of the benefits listed above, more and more people are upgrading to tankless water heaters in their homes. Generally speaking, these units are preferable to hot water tanks. If you have a smaller up-front budget, a conventional tank is the more affordable option, however a tankless model will pay for itself over time. Are you ready to upgrade to a tankless model or need some maintenance on your current water heater? Waterline’s got you covered. Selling Your Home?  A tankless water heater can add to the value of your home. With the addition of new and upgraded plumbing and heating technology like a tankless water heating system, the value of your home instantly increases. If you are planning to sell your home soon and would like help boosting its value, call Pink Plumbing today!

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A Guide to Clogged Drains in canada

How to Prevent a Clogged Drain Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain Take care not to put anything down the drain that can cause damage or blockages. This means being mindful of not letting small food bits and other debris down the drain, and never pouring oils or fats down the drain after cooking. Oils and fats may seem harmless because they are liquid when hot, however once they are washed down the drain they will cool and congeal, creating blockages. Instead, collect cooking oils and fats in a can or other container and then dispose of the entire thing. Use Drain Strainers Do you often find yourself with a clogged shower drain or a kitchen sink blocked up by gunk? Drain strainers are your new best friend. Use drain strainers in your shower to catch hair and soap bits before they go down the drain and prevent too much food debris in the kitchen sink from washing down the drain and causing blockages and foul odours. Don’t Flush Those “Flushable” Products Many products, such as baby wipes, makeup-remover pads, and kitty litter, often advertise as “flushable,” but these products are not actually safe to flush down the drain. All of these so-called flushable products take a long time to break down and can easily clog your pipes. How to Clear a Clogged Drain Don’t Use Liquid Drain Cleaners Many people’s first reaction to a clogged drain is to reach for a bottle of store-bought drain cleaner, but this actually does more harm than good. Liquid drain cleaners contain corrosive chemicals that eat away at pipes, causing damage and significantly bigger problems than a clogged drain. Do Use a Plunger The best way to remove clogs is to use a plunger. This will not harm your pipes the way chemical drain cleaners will. To use a plunger, add a little bit of water to your shower or sink, position the plunger over the drain, forming a tight seal around the entire drain, and pump the plunger up and down. Call in the Professionals If your plunger is no match for a particularly stubborn clog, it’s time to call in a plumber for professional drain cleaning services. Professional drain cleaning is done using either a snake, which is a long metal auger fed through your pipes to remove blockages, or with hydro jetting, a technique that sends pressurized water through your pipes to dislodge difficult clogs. These techniques are effective for removing tough clogs and will not cause any damage to your plumbing system. For professional drain cleaning and all your other plumbing needs, call Pink Plumbing today!

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Signs That it’s Time to Replace Your Pipes in canada

Wondering how you’re supposed to know when it’s time to replace your pipes? Here are the biggest signs to watch out for. Pipe Material Different pipe materials have different lifespans, and some are no longer installed in new homes due to ineffectiveness or associated health risks. Look into the expected lifespan of the pipe material used in your home, and if they are reaching that age, consider replacing them now, before they begin to fail. If you live in an older home, there is a chance that your pipes are made of lead, which is a toxic and hazardous material. If you discover that you have lead piping in your home, have it replaced immediately. Discoloured Water If you notice that your water seems at all discoloured, don’t ignore it. Often the cause of water discolouration is rusty pipes. As pipes rust and deteriorate, rust flakes will get into your water, causing it to change colour, usually with a brownish or reddish tinge. This is an indication that your pipes are corroding and will fail soon. If you notice water discolouration, call a plumber and have your pipes inspected as soon as possible. Need your pipes inspected? Pink Plumbing’s got you covered! Give us a call today. Visible Signs of Deterioration Check any exposed pipes in your home for visible signs of deterioration. This includes rust, cracks, flaking, bumps, and dents. As pipes age they will begin to deteriorate, and if you can see that happening, it is probably time for a pipe replacement. Have a plumber inspect your pipes and determine whether you just need a portion of pipe replaced or whether your whole system requires replacement. Low Water Pressure There are a number of factors that can cause low water pressure in the home, but it can be a sign that you need new pipes. If your pipes are old and beginning to fail, there could be multiple leaks in pipes throughout your plumbing system, which makes for lower water pressure and is likely causing water damage behind your walls. If you notice a dip in water pressure, book a plumbing inspection to find out whether the problem is failing pipes or something else such as a blockage or pressure-reducing valve issue.  

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Signs You Need to Change Your PRV in canada

Do you know what a PRV is and how to tell when it’s time to have it replaced? If the answer is “no”, don’t worry! We’ve got all the info you need. What is a PRV? First things first, what the heck is a PRV, anyway? It’s short for pressure-reducing valve and it’s the device that reduces water pressure as water enters your home so that it does not damage your plumbing and fixtures. PRVs contain rubber parts and springs, both of which will wear down and fail over time, so it is important to watch for signs that it may be time to replace your PRV. Abnormal Water Pressure Unusually high or unusually low water pressure are both potential indicators of a failing PRV. If you have low water pressure in one faucet specifically if another faucet is running simultaneously, this is likely an issue with the PRV. However, unusually high water pressure is also a sign of a failing PRV because it indicates that the PRV is no longer doing its job and is allowing high-pressure water into your home system without regulating it.  Strange Noises If you hear unusual noises such as thumping, vibrating, and hammering from your pipes, this often indicates that it’s time to change your pressure-reducing valve. These types of noises can indicate a number of different problems, not just a failing PRV, so you should always have a plumber inspect and evaluate the issue to determine whether your PRV needs replacing or if there is something else going on that requires maintenance. Call Pink Plumbing today to book a plumbing inspection Leaks Leaky pipes or faucet leaks can both be signs of a failing PRV, as well as a leaky PRV itself. Leaking pipes and faucets can be the result of water pressure that is too high, which tends to happen when there is a problem with your PRV. If you notice a wet patch around where your PRV is installed, you have an issue with your pressure-reducing valve. There may be a problem with the valve itself, a broken spring, or a blockage. Depending on the exact nature of the issue, your PRV may need to be repaired or completely replaced. Hire a plumber to come and check it out sooner rather than later. The longer you ignore it, the worse (and more costly the problem will become.

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How to Shut Off Your Gas in Case of Emergency in canada

When Should I Shut Off My Gas? If your home has sustained significant damage or you suspect that there is any risk of danger in having your gas on, such as when there may be a leak, you should shut it off immediately, go outside and call a professional to inspect the situation. Signs that you have a gas leak include hearing the sound of escaping gas and/or smelling rotten eggs. Gas is naturally odourless and that rotten-egg smell is actually added as a safety precaution so that it is easy to smell if there is ever a leak, so never ignore that odour! It is also important to shut off your gas if a natural disaster like an earthquake has caused major damage to your home and has likely damaged a gas line in the process. To recap, turn off your gas immediately if: How to Shut off Your Gas So, if you need to shut off your gas in the case of an emergency, how do you do it? It is essential for any homeowner with a natural gas connection to know exactly how to shut off their gas in order to keep themselves and their home safe. Make sure that you know where your main gas shutoff is located and how to operate it. You may need a wrench to turn your gas on and off at the main shutoff, so it is a good idea to keep a wrench nearby the shutoff at all times, making it easy to get to quickly in an emergency. In addition to the main shutoff, most gas appliances have individual valves so you can just shut off specific appliances if needed. If your appliance is older and does not have one, it is a good idea to have a shut off installed.  Trust Pink Plumbing for All Gas Services Whether you need a safety inspection done, a gas line repaired or installed, or any other gasfitting services, call Waterline today for professional, efficient service.

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How (and Why) to Clean Your Toilet Tank in canada

Why You Should Clean Your Toilet Tank When was the last time you cleaned your toilet tank? This is a chore that many homeowners overlook because they don’t know why it’s important. The fact is, cleaning your toilet tank keeps things running smoothly and prevents future damage. When you clean your toilet tank, you get rid of dirt, rust, and mineral buildup, all of which can cause plumbing issues if ignored for too long. We recommend cleaning your toilet tank regularly, at least twice a year.   How to Clean Your Toilet Tank You will probably want to wear rubber gloves for this job in order to keep your hands clean and safe. Once you have your rubber gloves on, gently lift the lid off of your toilet tank and place it carefully on a towel on the floor.  Pour white vinegar into the water in the tank until the liquid level is at about an inch below the top of the tank. Let the vinegar sit in the tank for about 12 hours so that it can work to dissolve mineral deposits and rust. After the 12 hours, flush the toilet two or three times to flush the vinegar out of the tank. Once the vinegar has been flushed from the tank, turn off the toilet’s water shutoff. This is usually a small valve located close to the floor under the toilet. Now, flush the toilet again to drain the water from the tank. Now you have an empty toilet tank and can clean the inside walls of the tank using a scrub brush and an all-purpose cleaning spray. Use a sponge to wipe down the metal parts inside the tank, removing rust that has been loosened from the vinegar treatment. Turn the water valve back on and flush the toilet. Take a look at the tank and make sure that the water inside looks clear. If the water is not clear, flush it again and repeat as needed. Once the water looks clear, replace the toilet tank lid and you’re done. If your toilet needs repairs or you are in need of any other plumbing services.

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Why Choose a Gas Barbecue in canada?

Summer is almost upon us, and you know what that means: barbecue season! But what type of barbecue is best for you? Here are the top reasons why we recommend going with a natural gas barbecue. Affordable Fuel Option Natural gas is less expensive than propane or charcoal. While a natural gas barbecue is more costly up front, the savings on fuel costs will add up to make it a more affordable option in the long term. Never Run Out of Fuel There’s nothing worse than realizing you’re out of propane or charcoal when you’ve still got some steaks to cook. Barbecues hooked up to a natural gas line in your home will never run out of fuel, so you never have to worry about being caught off guard in the middle of cooking. Need a gas line installed? Call our expert gasfitters today! 604-438-7465 No Waiting Around A gas barbecue ignites instantly and you do not have to wait around for it to heat up, whereas with charcoal you need to light it well before you intend to start cooking in order for the coals to heat up enough. Gas barbecues offer the convenience of being able to start your cooking immediately after firing up the grill. Easy Cleanup Charcoal can get messy, leaving black marks and ash on your utensils and patio. Gas-fueled barbecues are clean and do not leave behind any mess, so all you have to do is wipe down the grill and cleanup is over. More Controlled Cooking Gas barbecues allow you to easily control your cooking temperature and distribute heat evenly, giving you a more consistent cooking experience. This means you can cook your steak exactly the way you like it every time and can cook more complicated recipes that have very specific requirements. If you are looking to get a gas barbecue for the summer months and need a gas hookup or line installed, call Waterline today! Our experienced gasfitters will get the job done professionally and efficiently for a reasonable price.

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DIY Plumbing Maintenance Tips in canada

These simple DIY plumbing maintenance tips go a long way in keeping your home plumbing functional and efficient. Learn How to Use a Plunger Properly & Invest in a Good One (or Two) A good plunger is your best friend when it comes to clearing clogs. We recommend getting two plungers, a cup plunger and a flange plunger, so that you have the proper equipment to deal with clogs in both flat-surface drains like sinks and tubs and curved-surface toilet drains. To use a plunger effectively, place the cup over the drain and slowly push the handle down until the plunger forms a seal around the drain, then rapidly move the handle up and down until the blockage is removed. Flush Out Your Hot Water Tank Over time, hot water tanks build up sediment deposits which decrease efficiency and can damage the unit. Flushing out your hot water tank to get rid of sediment and keep things running smoothly is easy to do yourself. For detailed instructions on how to flush out your own hot water tank. Clean Limescale Regularly If you notice white, flakey buildup on your faucets and showerheads, this is mineral deposits known as limescale. Limescale is very common, especially if you have harder water. Limescale buildup can clog up your showerheads and faucets, causing a dip in water pressure. Get rid of limescale on showerheads and faucets by cleaning them thoroughly. Do Regular DIY Inspections Give your plumbing a good once-over on a regular basis to make sure that you are aware of any issues that may need to be addressed. Take a look at all faucets, exposed pipes, and hot water tanks and carefully check them for rust, discolouration, puddles, condensation, and any sign of leaks. If you don’t take the time to inspect your own plumbing now and then, it is easy to completely miss signs of damage and end up having a much bigger problem on your hands later. Need a little professional help on top of your DIY plumbing maintenance? Waterline is here for you!

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What to Do in a Plumbing Emergency in canada

Turn off Your Water If you have a plumbing emergency like a burst pipe or a major leak, the first thing that you should do is turn off the water supply so that you don’t end up with unnecessary water damage. The faster you can get your water turned off, the more damage you can avoid. To make sure that you are prepared for an emergency, familiarize yourself with your home’s main water shutoff. Be sure that you know where it is and how to operate it. If you require any tools to do so, make sure that you keep them close by the shutoff so that you can easily grab them in a hurry. Call an Emergency Plumber in canada Once the water is off, call an emergency plumber. Let them know the basics of your situation and ask them to come as quickly as possible. A good emergency plumbing service will prioritize your emergency and get someone out to do your repairs. Waterline offers reliable, fast emergency plumbing services.  Set Up Buckets If you have water leaking onto the floor, set up buckets to catch the water while you wait for your plumber to arrive. This will contain the mess somewhat and save you from further water damage.  Keep Pets and Kids Away If you’ve got a bunch of water from your pipes or toilet pooling on the floor after a plumbing emergency, the last thing you need is your toddler or pup stepping in the puddle and tracking it all over the house. Kids and pets can easily make the mess bigger and it could be a safety risk to them as well. Make sure your little ones and fur babies stay clear of the area until it has been repaired. Clean Up What You Can If there is any water or mess that you can sop up with a mop, sponge, or towel, do that now. The more you can get cleaned up on your own, the less chance of severe water damage and the better you will feel.