Plumbing, Heating and Bathroom Remodeling Blog

The Importance of Plumbing Inspection And When Is It Necessary

November 17, 2023 Lester Nono Pipes, Plumbing, Sewer Lines No comments yet

Plumbing Inspection Service by Leone Plumbing and Heating

Maintaining a home is important for the safety and comfort of your family. As a good maintenance practice, it is a good idea to have your home inspected once in a while to avoid any plumbing issues. It is also recommended for older homes which are vulnerable to deterioration. However, maintaining a home can be challenging, especially in those hard-to-reach and concealed areas such as your plumbing system. In this blog, we will get to know more about plumbing inspection and what it entails.

What Is A Plumbing Inspection?

A plumbing inspection is a full and in-depth look at your plumbing system. The purpose of conducting an inspection is always to prevent or detect plumbing issues that need to be fixed. When you hire a professional plumber, he will conduct a thorough inspection of your indoor and outdoor pipes. For hard-to-reach and concealed areas in your plumbing system, a professional plumber may use an inspection camera to inspect any damages that need to be fixed on the lines.

When Does a Plumbing Inspection Become Necessary?

A thorough plumbing inspection is necessary because of the following reasons.

To Protect Your Home From Deteriorating

Do not underestimate small leaks or clogs on your drain. Disregarding these plumbing issues may lead to extensive damage to your home. Regardless if it’s a small water leakage or a simple clog that you can fix by using a toilet plunger, you must take it seriously if it keeps recurring. This can be a sign that something terrible is going on in your home’s plumbing system.

To Avoid Untimely And Costly Plumbing Repairs

Regular plumbing inspections can prevent any small issues from escalating into a worse plumbing concern. As many say, “Prevention is better than cure”, it is also applicable when you are maintaining your home. Do not let simple plumbing issues become big. Otherwise, the untimely repair is much more costly than a plumbing inspection. Plumbing Inspection done by Leone Plumbing

Plumbing Inspection done by Leone Plumbing

Before Buying A Home

Buying a home is quite an investment. You have to make sure that you catch potential plumbing issues early before sealing the deal! This is recommended if you are buying an old home since it is much more prone to damage.

If You Are Selling Your Home

A plumbing inspection is also necessary when you sell your home. Showing documents of the inspection report to the potential buyer is a good selling point! It will prove to the buyers that the house you are selling is of good value.

Trust Only A Professional To Inspect Your Plumbing System

You can ensure an accurate result and quality plumbing inspection through a licensed plumber. If you are looking for the best plumbing service in the Rochester, New York area, then contact us! Our team of professional licensed plumbers is here at your service!

Prevention and Removal of Limescales In The Plumbing System

October 27, 2023 Lester Nono Drains, Plumbing, Sewer Lines No comments yet

Limescales Prevention and Removal Service By Leone Plumbing and Heating

At some point, a home may encounter issues with limescale building up on a plumbing system. It happens over time which affects the performance of your plumbing system. Today, we will talk about the causes of limescale buildup and how we can treat and prevent it from accumulating on pipes.

What Causes Limescale to Buildup On Pipes?

Most homes that are affected by mineral or limescale build-up are those that are located in areas that use hard water supply. Hard water is known to have a high concentration of dissolved calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals transform into a hard crust inside the pipes. These mineral deposits are not only building up inside the plumbing system but they can also accumulate inside your water-using appliances. If not treated, you may encounter plumbing issues such as:

Low Water Pressure
Clogged Pipes
Corroded Pipes

How Do We Prevent Limescale From Building Up On The Plumbing System?

Before we talk about the different solutions to remove the lime buildup, you should know the ways you can prevent it from accumulating.

Installing An Inline Filter

Installing an inline filter on the incoming water line is one way to prevent minerals from building up on pipes. These filters remove minerals and other substances from the water preventing them from accumulating in the pipes.

Use Water Softeners

Using water softeners is a known effective way of preventing the build-up of lime in the plumbing system. Through a process called ion exchange, it works by exchanging minerals like calcium and magnesium for sodium or potassium. This process removes the amount of minerals (e.g. calcium and magnesium) in the water that may build up in the plumbing system.

Use Deionized or Distilled Water

Using deionized or distilled water won’t contribute to lime buildup since they are free of minerals.

Installing Stainless Steel Pipes

Installing or upgrading to stainless steel pipes is also recommended to avoid issues with lime buildup. Stainless steel pipes are known to be resistant to corrosion and rusting (which are often the result of limescale buildup).

Removing Limescale Buildup From The Plumbing System

Home remedies such as pouring vinegar on the drain and leaving it overnight can help dissolve stubborn limescale. Vinegar is an effective dissolving agent due to its acidic properties. After leaving your drain with vinegar overnight, just flush it with hot water. Another home remedy you can use is baking soda. You can use baking soda as an abrasive agent to scrub minerals that are building up on pipe surfaces. Simply mix a cup of baking soda with two cups of warm water (consistency should be similar to a paste). You can also regularly pour hot water on pipes to flush the minerals before they accumulate and clog the pipes over time.

Having Problems Dealing With Stubborn Lime Buildup?

Minerals building up on your plumbing system can be a very difficult problem to deal with. If home remedies and preventive measures don’t resolve the issue, the best option is to contact a professional to provide a better solution! So contact us today to schedule an appointment. We are here to help!

Sewage Backup: What Causes It To Happen And How To Fix It?

October 19, 2023 Lester Nono Pipes, Plumbing, Sewer Lines No comments yet

Sewage Backup Service Solution By Leone Plumbing and Heating

One of the major plumbing issues that cause extensive damage to your home is sewage backup. This happens when wastewater backs up through your drains, sinks, and toilets. Plumbing issues like sewage backup not only wreak havoc on your home but it can also pose a health risk to your family. Let us find out what causes this plumbing concern and what we can do to fix it.

What Causes A Sewer Backup?

Knowing the root cause of the problem can help you avoid the cost and inconvenience of sewage backup. Here are the usual causes.

Municipal Street Sewer Issues

What Causes Sewage Backup And How To Fix It

We recently had a client who experienced sewage backing up from the municipal street sewer being overwhelmed during rainstorms. It caused massive sewage backups in their nicely finished basement. This often occurs when the municipal sewage system is overloaded with water and the sewage eventually backs up through the basement floor. Although a municipal sewer line can handle loads of water, excessive rain can still overload the system. So as soon as you see dripping water on your basement floor, contact a professional plumber to check and fix the issue before it gets worse! It’s also important to contact the local public work office in the municipality if the issue persists.

Outdated and Old Sewer System

An outdated and old sewer system is common in old houses (usually built before the 1950s). Their sewage system is usually made of cast-iron pipes, clay pipes, or Orangeburg (fiber conduit pipe). These type of pipes may be durable, but it also deteriorates over time. It’s a good idea to schedule a regular sewer line inspection to check if the old pipes are still intact and ensure that they are not leaking. Otherwise, replace your old sewer system with PVC or ABS plastic sewer pipe to avoid the stress of sewage backup.

Tree Roots Obstruction

Tree roots always find ways to look for good water sources. They can even sip through tiny cracks in pipes until they can invade and damage the sewage system. One way to get rid of these unwanted tree roots is by cutting them using a snake machine with several tips for cutting and retrieval. Depending on the condition of the pipes, they may also need to be replaced if there are damages caused by root invasion.

How To Prevent Sewage Backup From Happening?

Proper plumbing maintenance is still a good method of prevention. We suggest that you schedule a sewer line inspection with a trusted plumbing professional to check the condition of your sewer lines. We also advise that you do a regular pipe cleaning to prevent any clogs that can cause serious backups. Avoid fat, oils, and other solid materials from flowing down the drain as it can also cause blockages that trigger sewage backup.

You Can Trust Us For Your Sewer Maintenance Needs!

Trust Rochester New York’s best plumbers for your home’s sewer maintenance. Contact us to schedule an appointment and we are here to help you!

Deciding Between Water Heater Repair Or Replacement

September 26, 2023 Lester Nono HVAC, Leaks, Plumbing, Water Heaters No comments yet

Water Heater Repair Or Replacement By Leone Plumbing

The water heater is an essential appliance that we use almost every day in the kitchen, shower, and laundry. We need it most especially during the winter to keep us warm. But what would you do if your water heater is no longer heating up or if it is leaking? Would you go with water heater repair or replace the whole unit? What are the things you need to know before deciding?

Life Expectancy Of A Water Heater

Knowing the age of your water heater can help you decide whether to replace the unit or go on with the repair. Usually, a water heater may last up to 12 years depending on how it is maintained. The unit can be prone to leaking and tends to be working inconsistently if it is more than 10 years old. However, a professional plumber can extend the life of the unit through simple repairs like replacing the pressure relief valve. It may save you from buying a new water heater.

When Is Water Heater Repair Necessary?

Leone Plumbing water heater repair service

Looking out for the following red flags can help you determine if your water heater needs repair. If you are experiencing these signs, it is best to contact a professional plumber.

Water Is No Longer Heating

Over time, lime sediments may build up inside the tank reducing the capacity of the water heater. The accumulated build-up of sediments reduces the available water to be heated.

Rusty Water

The corrosion inside the tank may become obvious through the water that is coming out from the unit. If you can find rust in your water, it is an indication that the water heater is breaking down inside due to corrosion.

Leaking Water

Check the seams and joints of your water heater regularly if there are any leaks. The appliance is designed to be a tight or closed system and moisture outside of it means something is wrong inside. Persisting leaks on your unit call for a water heater repair.

Unusual Noise

If your water heater is making a rumbling noise while in operation, it means that the system is struggling to work properly. Something might be interfering with the water heater and preventing it from working normally. Hearing this odd noise indicates that your water heater needs to be checked and repaired immediately.

When To Buy A New Water Heater?

If your water heater is more than 10 years old and beyond repair, then it’s time to get a new one. If you are not sure about the age of the unit, look for it’s brand and serial number then check with the InterNACHI resource to find out. Before purchasing a new water heater, think about the following.

Gallon Capacity and Recovery Rate

Find out the number of gallons the heater can heat on an hourly basis.

Actual Dimension

You need an accurate measurement of the area where you will put the unit. Get the exact height and width.

Look for the Efficiency Rating

You can save energy and money with high-efficiency water heater units. Look for the sticker (usually on the side) that lists the estimated operational cost of the unit.

Need A Water Heater Repair or Installation Service?

We always have you covered! We are Rochester New York’s best plumbers and we are here for your water heater repair or installation. Contact us and we’ll talk to you soon!

Avoiding The Common Mistakes Of Installing New Drain In Sink

September 14, 2023 Lester Nono Bathroom Remodeling, Sewer Lines No comments yet

Leone plumbing installing drain in sink service.

Have you been exploring DIY? There are many DIY resources available online. You can fix things at your own time and convenience… and at your own risk! Though doing DIY is a fun thing to do, there is always a risk involved especially with plumbing jobs. There are things that an amateur cannot do that a professional plumber can do! But if you are settled with DIY solutions, then you need to know the common mistakes to avoid when installing a drain in the sink.

What Are The Common Mistakes Of Installing A Drain In The Sink?

Doing things DIY is an accomplishment when done right. However if not done correctly, it can lead to serious plumbing repairs which cost too much time and money. To avoid common mistakes in installing a drain in the sink, we listed some of the things that you need to avoid when working with DIY drain installation.

Avoid Low-Quality Materials

Quality indeed comes with a cost. However, it is more costly to pay for yearly (sometimes monthly) repairs using low-quality materials. Even if you do DIY sink installation right, it can be a failure when joints become loose causing drains to leak. If you are concerned with your budget, there is always a place to look for low-cost and quality materials. You can visit any Habitat for Humanity store near you. Here, you can find gently used home improvement materials that fit your budget. Installing a new drain in the sink can be budget-friendly without compromising quality.

Over Usage of Plumber’s Putty

A plumber’s putty is a flexible sealant that is used when installing a drain in the sink. It can provide a leak-proof seal for a long time when applied correctly. Too much plumber’s putty can make your drain installation project look sloppy. It can also damage other parts of your sink’s plumbing if overly done due to improper fixtures.

Applying Less Than The Required Amount Of Plumber’s Putty

If overusage of plumbers’ putty is bad, it’s the same if you apply less than the required amount. Applying a very small amount of plumber’s putty can leave air pockets or spaces that allow water to leak through. This can also impact the durability of the sink since parts are not firmly fixed. Make it a habit to read the manufacturer’s instructions to know the exact amount of putty to apply.

Avoid Using Corrosive Cleaning Agents In the Sink Drain

Most people rely on acid cleaning agents for a quick cleaning result. However, using acid to clean the drain can be damaging due to its corrosive properties. You can instead switch to eco-friendly products that are safe for the environment and also for your drains (old or new).

What To Do With Persistent Drain Issues?

Installing a new drain in the sink is a quick way to resolve drain issues. But what if plumbing issues are still occurring? If your DIY install attempt fails, then it’s time to get help from a professional plumber. Contact Rochester New York’s best plumbers right now to schedule an appointment. Leone plumbing sink drain installation

What Makes My Air Conditioner Water Leaking?

August 25, 2023 Lester Nono Drains, HVAC, Leaks, Plumbing No comments yet

Causes air conditioner water to leak and what can be done about it.

A leaking air conditioner is a very unsettling issue to handle. Looking at your air conditioner water leaking on the floor is such a messy sight. It adds to the discomfort given by the hot summer weather! Why is your air conditioner water leaking and what can be done about it?

Common Causes of Air Conditioner Water Leaking

To handle the issue of air conditioner water leaking, you have to be aware of the following causes.

Deteriorating Pipes

How old is your AC? Old deteriorating pipes may cause the AC water to leak. One possibility is that the pipes are not actually leaking and instead, condensation is forming on the pipes because the insulating cover has deteriorated. Purchasing a new cover would solve this problem. If the water is still dripping despite replacing the pipe cover, it’s possible that the leak isn’t condensation but an underlying problem with the pipe itself. In this case, it would be best if you contact a professional plumber to inspect and fix the problem.

Unwashed or Greasy Air Filters

The AC’s airflow can be blocked if the air filters are dirty. It hampers the air to get into the evaporator coil until it becomes cold and freezes. Eventually, the frozen water would melt excessively causing it to leak indoors. It’s better to replace the air filter if it’s filthy!

Clogged Drainage

Always remember that water will always find its way to get out. Dirt and dust collected on the drainage can block the water. To avoid this problem, make it a habit to regularly check the AC drainage for any clogs that block the water flow. If the issue keeps on persisting after cleaning the drainage, then it’s time to seek help from a professional.

Leaky Refrigerant

The refrigerant is one important component of an AC that converts warm air into cool air. If there is a gurgling or hissing sound coming from the indoor unit, and when the AC is not blowing cool air as it should be, these can be signs that you have a leaky refrigerant. A refrigerant leak is not only harmful to your health but also to the environment. It’s best to contact a professional to deal with this issue.

Incorrect AC Installation

Water from your AC may leak if the unit is installed unevenly. AC water may flow indoors causing unpleasant puddles. If your AC is unevenly installed, contact a professional plumber to place your AC correctly.

Do You Need Help Fixing Your AC Water Leaking?

If you need a hand to fix your AC water leaking, contact us and our team of professionals is here to help! We are Rochester New York’s best plumbers. We commit to providing quality service for all your plumbing needs.