Can tap water really cause serious burns?
Yes. Most Boston hot water heaters are set to a temperature of 60°C (140° F). Water this hot can severely scald a child’s skin in just one second.

A scald is a second-degree or third-degree burn caused by hot liquid or steam. Hot coffee, tea, soup and other hot foods are the most common causes of scalds to young children. Hot tap water is a less common cause, but these scalds are often more severe – and they are easy to prevent.

To prevent tap water scalds, the hot water at all your taps should be no hotter than 49°C (120°F). At this temperature, it takes about 10 minutes to burn a child’s skin.

Tap water scalds can happen anywhere that the water is too hot – not just in the bath. Children have been scalded by hot tap water when playing at the sink, or by putting their hands or feet into a bucket filled with hot tap water for household cleaning.

Why are children more at risk?
Children are more at risk for tap water scalds because:

• A child’s skin is thinner and more sensitive than an adult’s skin. A child’s skin burns more quickly – so even a very short exposure to water that is too hot can cause a serious burn.
• Young children cannot move away from hot water quickly. Many tap water scalds happen when a child is in the bath or playing at the sink. If the water is too hot, a child will get a deep burn that covers a large portion of his or her body. The child may need repeated surgery and skin grafts over many years.

Elderly people and people with certain disabilities or medical conditions (such as diabetes) are also at high risk for tap water scalds. This is because their skin may not be able to feel heat quickly or because they cannot move away from hot water quickly.

How can I find out the temperature of my hot tap water?

1. Use a thermometer which can show high temperatures, like a meat or candy thermometer. Or you can use a special testing card for hot tap water. These should be available from your Boston public health offices. Run the hot water tap for two minutes. Make sure the tap is turned to the hottest setting. If you have used a lot of hot water in the past hour, wait two hours before you do this test. Fill a cup with the hot water. Put the thermometer in the cup.
2. Wait 30 seconds and look at the temperature. If it is higher than 49° C (120° F), you need to lower your water temperature.

How can I lower the temperature of my hot tap water?
Lower the temperature of your hot water heater. The easiest way to prevent burns from hot tap water is to turn down the setting on your hot water heater to 49°C (120° F). Do this only if you can easily see the thermostat dial on the outside of the tank.

If you choose this option, there are some important things you should know:

If anyone living in your Boston home has a long term or serious illness, check with your doctor before turning down your water heater. DO NOT lower the temperature of your water heater if anyone in your home has health conditions such as:

• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• HIV/AIDS
• an organ transplant cancer
• a weakened immune system (from disease or from taking medicine that suppresses the immune system).

People with these conditions are more at risk for legionnaires’ disease, a type of severe pneumonia.

Read the manual for your water heater before changing the setting on the thermostat dial. If you do not have a manual, contact the company that made the water heater. Their number should be posted on the heater. If you rent your water heater, contact the rental company.

• Gas and oil-fired water heaters have thermostat dials located on the outside of the tank. If the dial has numbers on it, turn the dial down to 49° C or 120° F. If the dial has words like Hot, Warm (or Medium), and Vacation, turn the dial to the Warm or Medium setting. That is approximately 49° C. (The water will still feel quite hot at your taps, but will not cause a scald burn in seconds.)
• Do not lower the temperature of your water heater below 49° C or a Medium setting. A lower setting can lead to the growth of the bacteria that causes legionnaires’ disease.
• After adjusting the temperature, wait 24 hours and then test the temperature of your tap water again using a thermometer. Sometimes a heater requires several adjustments before you get the right temperature.
• Water heaters may continue to pose scalding risks, even when turned down. Be sure to practice safe bathing and to supervise children closely.
• If you have an electric water heater, do not lower the temperature setting below 60° C. The bacteria that causes legionnaires’ disease grows more easily in some electric water tanks because of the way they are designed. You can still lower your water temperature by installing safety valves. Talk to your qualified Boston plumber, the company that made your heater, or the rental company for your water heater.

Install mixing valves to control the temperature of your hot tap water.
Devices called mixing valves or tempering valves can be installed in the plumbing pipes at various places. These valves control the temperature of the water before it leaves your taps. Inside your water heater, the temperature can be scalding hot, but the valve will mix in cooler water if needed, to ensure that water at the tap is no hotter than 49° C.

Talk to a qualified Boston plumber or the rental company for your water heater for proper installation of mixing valves.

There are three ways you can use mixing valves:

• You can install a master mixing valve right at your water heater. This will control the tap water temperature everywhere in your household.
• Or, you can install mixing valves in the hot water pipes that go to separate areas of your household – for example, to the bathroom and kitchen.
• Or, you can install mixing valves at individual taps – for example, at each sink and bathtub.

The cost of installing mixing valves will depend on how many you install and whether there is other plumbing work or renovations going on at the same time. One valve costs may cost in the range of $100 – $150, not including labor.

If you do not have access to your water heater:

Turning down the thermostat of large water heaters in multi-unit buildings is NOT recommended. Harmful bacteria can grow in large water heaters set too low. Also, there may not be enough hot water for everyone in the building.

If you live in an apartment or multi-unit building and do not have access to your hot water heater:

• Ask your Boston landlord or property manager to make sure that the hot water at your taps is no hotter than 49° C (120° F). One option is to install mixing valve(s) in the hot water pipes so that the hot water is a safer temperature everywhere in your apartment. An alternative is to install a mixing valve at each of the taps in your kitchen and bathroom.
• If you cannot get mixing valves installed in your hot water pipes, you can use other devices to help protect your child from tap water scalds.

What other devices are available to help prevent tap water scalds?
Some other devices available include:

‘Anti-scald’ or ‘shut-off’ devices: These are products that attach to the faucet or tap. Some models actually replace the faucet. If the water gets too hot, these devices slow down the water to a trickle. You can restart the water by mixing more cold water into the tap.

Anti-scald devices are available in safety specialty shops, some Boston hardware stores, and some children’s product stores. They cost about $10 to $50, depending on the type of product. Not all models fit on all kinds of taps, however, and although these products are promoted as “do it yourself” items, they may require adapters or the help of your Boston plumber to install them.

Tap guards: A tap guard blocks your child’s access to the hot water tap. These can be found in many Boston home improvement and child safety stores.

Does lowering my hot water temperature increase the risk of bacteria infection in my house?
A concern often raised about lower water temperature is the risk of bacterial growth – particularly legionella. Legionella is the organism that causes legionnaires’ disease, a form of severe pneumonia. These bacteria live naturally in ponds, streams and rivers, and also grow in indoor plumbing systems – mostly in hot water tanks.

Many things affect how much legionella will multiply and whether they create a health risk for people. These factors include:

• the temperature of the water
• the mineral content of the water
• the type or design of the water heater
• whether people in the household are healthy or sick.

Legionella does not pose a risk to drinking water. To make someone sick, the bacteria must be inhaled through water droplets. Many people have been exposed to legionella and do not get sick.

Most people should have no health concerns about lowering their hot water temperature to 49° C (120° F). Please note these important precautions:

If you have an electric water heater, do not lower the thermostat setting below 60° C. Legionella grows more often in electric water heaters because of the way they are designed. You can install mixing valves instead. Any adjustments to electric water heaters should be done by a qualified Boston plumber.

Do not lower the thermostat of your household water heater below 49° C. Legionella grow best when the inside of the heater is less than 49° C.
If anyone living in your home has a long term or serious illness, check with your doctor before turning down your water heater. Do not lower the thermostat setting of your water heater if anyone in your home has health conditions such as:

• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• HIV/AIDS
• an organ transplant
• cancer
• a weak immune system (from disease or from taking medicine that suppresses the immune system).

If you have any concerns about legionella, you can protect your family from tap water scalds by installing mixing valves instead.

What about my dishwasher? Don’t I need very hot water to clean the dishes?
Makers of dishwashers and detergents often recommend that hot water should be 60° C for their products work effectively. However, tests show that dishwashing detergents will perform with good to excellent cleaning results at temperatures as low as 38° C.

When dishwashers operate with hot water at 49°C, some water spotting on dishes may occur. Safe Kids Canada recommends that preventing scald burns from too-hot tap water should have higher priority than the need for spotless glasses. You can wipe glasses with a clean dish towel to remove spots. As an alternative, many newer models of dishwashers have internal temperature boosters. Incoming water is heated quickly to help clean the dishes. This feature adds about $45 to the price of a dishwasher.

Will the water be hot enough for my cleaning and bathing if I lower the temperature of my hot tap water?
Household cleaning and bathing do not need water temperatures hotter than 49° C. For example:

• Comfortable bath water is between 37° and 40° C.
• Although a lower temperature may have caused problems with washing clothes years ago, newer styles of washing machines and laundry detergents are effective with hot water at 49° C or cooler.
• In the kitchen, you can kill germs on cutting boards and other surfaces with a mild bleach solution – 1 tsp (5 ml) of bleach in 3 cups (750 ml) of water.

Will I run out of hot water more quickly if I lower the thermostat of my water heater?
This is not likely to happen. In a survey conducted five years after the Washington state government required household water heaters to be set at 49° C, three-quarters of people who had lowered their hot water temperature reported no concerns about their supply of hot water.

If you often run out of hot water, it is more likely that you need a water heater with a bigger tank to meet the hot water demands in your Boston household.

Will I save money on energy costs if I turn down the thermostat of my hot water heater?
According to Environment Canada, hot water tanks account for 14 per cent of home energy use. Only home heating uses more energy. Lowering the setting of your hot water heater from 60° C to 49° C will reduce your heating bill, but some of this saving may be offset by an increase in the amount of hot water you use. In the end, you will likely see modest savings, in the range of $30 to $40 per year, possibly higher if energy costs rise. Insulating your hot water tank can also save up to 10 per cent on your energy use for heating water.

Our child has asthma. Don’t we need very hot water to help get rid of dust mites in her bed linens?
Allergens produced by live dust mites, which commonly live in household textiles such as bed sheets, clothing and curtains, are one of the main causes of allergic disease. The Asthma Society of Canada recommends that clothing and bedding be washed in water at least 55° C to kill dust mites and their allergens.

Instead of using very hot water, there are several options. A dust mite control additive can be used in a low-temperature wash. Dust mites will also be killed by drying fabrics at a high setting for one hour.

If you need to use very hot water for laundry in order to kill dust mites, you can still lower the hot water temperature in all other areas of your Boston household. Mixing valves to control hot water temperature can be installed in the hot water pipes for all areas except the clothes washer.

Article Source: http://www.safekidscanada.ca/professionals/safety-information/scalds-and-burns/tap-water/hot-tap-water.aspx

If you are looking for a professional water heater contractor in the Greater Boston Area, then call 1-800-431-5660 or complete our estimate request form.

Water hammer is a specific plumbing noise, not a generic name for pipe clatter. It occurs when you shut off the water suddenly and the fast-moving water rushing through the pipe is brought to a quick halt, creating a sort of shock wave and a hammering noise. Plumbing that’s properly installed has air chambers, or cushions, that compress when the shock wave hits, softening the blow and preventing this hammering. The chambers can fail, though, because water under pressure gradually absorbs the air.

If you never had hammering and then it suddenly starts, most likely your Boston plumbing system’s air chambers have become waterlogged. You can cure water hammer by turning off the water behind the waterlogged chamber, opening the offending faucet and permitting the faucet to drain thoroughly. Once all the water drains from the chamber, air will fill it again and restore the cushion. If the air chamber is located below the outlet, you may have to drain the main supply lines to allow the chamber to fill with air again.

The air chamber will not drain properly if it’s clogged with scale or residue from chemicals or minerals in the water. The chamber always should be larger than the supply pipe to preclude such clogging. Since the chamber is simply a capped length of pipe, however, all you have to do to clear it is remove the cap and clean out the residue.

What do you do if there are no air chambers built into your plumbing system? You must do something, because water hammer pressures may eventually cause damage: failure of fittings or burst pipes, for example. Because water hammer is most often caused by water pressure that’s too high, the first step is to reduce the water pressure if possible. Sometimes this isn’t feasible because a reduction in pressure may result in only a dribble of water at an upper-floor faucet if one on the first floor is turned on.

Where the idea is a workable one, you can reduce pressure by having your Boston plumber install a pressure-reducing valve in the supply line that comes into your Boston home. The same purpose is served by installing a globe valve at the head of the affected pipeline. But this too may result in pressure too low for proper operation when other faucets are open.

If pressure reduction is not feasible or is ineffective, install the necessary air chambers to prevent water hammer. If you have no room to make the installation without tearing into a wall, go to a Boston plumbing supply dealer and find out about the substitute devices designed for such problem areas. Many of these devices have a valve that makes it easy for air to re-enter the system.

The next time you hear noises or clatter coming from your Boston home’s plumbing system, try the solutions mentioned in this article. The same goes for leaking, sweating, or frozen pipes. If you can solve the problem right away, you can prevent it from becoming more serious.

Article Source:  http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/plumbing/how-to-fix-pipes5.htm

If you are looking for a professional plumbing repair contractor in the Greater Boston Area, then call 1-800-431-5660 or complete our estimate request form.

Water flowing in pipes can cause all kinds of weird noises. We all know what water running through a pipe sounds like, but what about some of those other plumbing sounds – like creaks or cracking sounds, rattling, whistling and the most annoying or scary of them all, that loud banging noise? Let’s look at what causes those sounds and how you can fix them.  You should be able to manage most of these, but if the problem persists you should seek the service of your Boston plumber. He can easily handle any pipe repair or installation that may be necessary.

Creaks or a cracking sound
These are usually caused by the expansion and contraction of the water pipes themselves. As hot water runs through a pipe, it naturally heats the pipe, causing it to expand slightly. Once the water stops flowing, the pipe cools and the metal contracts, resulting in the creaking or cracking sound. The easiest way to fix this is to put some insulation around the pipe, or if the pipe is running through a tight fitting hole in the wood framing, cut a notch in the framing so the pipe can expand and then contract without that creaking sound.

Rattling
The cause and remedy are similar to the cracking sound. The rattling sound comes from the pressure of water running through a loosely attached pipe, causing it to vibrate slightly. When a loose pipe vibrates against something solid, like framing or the strapping designed to hold it tightly, you hear the rattling sound. Stopping the pipe from vibrating will fix the rattle. Put some cushioning around the pipe or fasten the strapping more securely so the pipe won’t vibrate.

Whistling
This is usually caused by water flowing through a restricted section of the plumbing. The restriction can be sediment in the pipe or a defective washer or valve. If the whistling only occurs when a particular faucet is turned on, that’s likely where the problem is, and replacing the washer or repairing the valve seat should fix it. However, if the whistling sound occurs when any faucet is turned on, the problem is more likely in the main water supply valve itself. Adjusting the water pressure at the main water valve may dislodge the impediment, or the change in water pressure itself could get rid of the whistling sound. If that doesn’t eliminate the problem, you may have to get the water valve replaced.  This is most likely a task for your Boston plumber.

Banging
The loud banging sound when you shut off the water flow is actually called “water hammer,” and is a fairly common complaint in older Boston homes. The flow of water through the pipes contains energy, and when the flow is abruptly stopped, this energy causes the loud banging sound. Initially a home’s plumbing system was built with short pieces of pipe that filled with air and acted as air cushions to absorb the water’s energy when the flow was stopped abruptly. However, over time the air has leaked out, meaning there is no air cushion left to absorb the water energy.

You can put that air cushion back into your plumbing system by turning off the main water supply and opening all the faucets in your Boston home to drain the system. Next, turn the water supply back on and work your way up through the house, turning off the faucets as water flows through them. This should trap some air in the air chamber so it will once again provide the cushioning effect. If this doesn’t work, you can buy a “water hammer arrester” that attaches directly to the water supply pipe where the water hammer originates.

If your Boston plumbing is making any of these sounds, you should be listening because it’s telling you it needs some plumbing maintenance. The sound is caused by something not working properly in your system and if you ignore it, over time, that small sound could lead to larger problems.
Read more: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/waterhammer#ixzz1mHkQ1peF

If you are looking for a professional plumbing and heating contractor in the Greater Boston area then call 1-800-431-5660 or complete our estimate request form.

There are several different types of plungers available to clear partially or completely clogged drains, but all use basically the same principal. A plunger is used to create a positive or negative pressure inside the pipe to loosen the blockage and allow it to flow down the drain. As a first line of defense against any clog, a plunger is a safe bet.  However, if you’re clog proves to be too much for this simple tool, your Boston plumber can handle any clog you’ve got.

Sink Plunger

This is the standard plunger that we all recognize and has probably been around as long as indoor plumbing. Consisting of a pliable rubber cup and handle, this plunger is capable of creating both a positive pressure (by forcing the cup down) and a negative pressure (vacuum) when pulled away from the fixture. Variations on the design are typically limited to the size of the cup and length of the handle.

The sink plunger; as it name suggests, is best used on sinks or relatively flat fixtures to which it can create a suction seal. When using the sink plunger:

• Cover the overflow hole of the sink or tub;
• Keep the fixture partially full of water, because water is not easily compressed it will place a stronger force on the blockage;
• Plunge forcefully in both directions for several minutes until the drain clears.

Toilet Plunger

The toilet plunger is very similar to the sink plunger but has a larger cup and a fold out flap that will fit into the trap of the toilet. The flap can also be left folded in for use on sinks, floor drains and other fixtures. If used correctly, this plunger will clear nearly all toilet clogs and should be your first line of defense before calling your Boston plumber. To use a toilet plunger follow these steps:

• Fold out the flap on the plunger;
• Keep the toilet about half full of water;
• Insert the plunger so that the folded out cup goes into the drain opening and try to form a suction seal with the toilet bowl;
• Being careful not to splash yourself, forcefully plunge up and down several times and remove the plunger. Repeat adding more water if necessary.

You want to test and see if the toilet will drain once you think you’ve cleared the clog, but don’t do this by flushing the toilet again until you’re sure the clog is removed. To test for drainage you have to add water. This can be done one of two ways.

The first way is to slowly pour water into the toilet as from a bucket.

The second way is to open the toilet tank lid and SLOWLY lift the flapper seal at the bottom of the tank until water begins to enter the bowl. Do not lift the flapper all the way up or else the toilet will flush.

If water goes down the toilet easily, the clog is cleared. If not, then try again by repeating the previous step and this step a time or two more.

Article Source:  http://www.plumbinghelp.ca/articles_types_of_plungers.php

If you are looking for a professional drain cleaning contractor in the Greater Boston Area, then call 1-800-431-5660 or complete our estimate request form.

About Stainless Steel Sinks

Stainless steel sinks aren’t “perfect”; no material is perfect for all conditions/situations. We are not aware of any material that is more durable and more “ideal” for sinks than quality stainless steel.

Stainless steel sinks are made from nickel bearing stainless steel. The mellow satin surface is compatible with any décor and color scheme. It is timeless and elegant, and like fine silver, its beautiful finish becomes lovelier with use and age. A quality stainless steel sink, with proper care and maintenance, will give you a lifetime of service.

Why Stainless Steel is “Stainless When the chromium in the stainless steel is exposed to oxygen an invisible layer of chromium oxide (Cr₂O₃) is formed. This layer is impervious to water and air giving the stainless steel exceptional corrosion resistant properties.

6 Reasons Why We Like Stainless Steel Sinks

• Tough – Stainless steel is more durable than porcelain and cast iron, and more forgiving than composites. Stainless steel sinks won’t chip, nick or crack. Thin stainless sinks can get dented, but “cheap” sinks of any other materials tend to have less life (longevity) than a “cheap” stainless steel sink.
• Luster – Stainless steel will not rust, stain or fade, and the finish resists scratches. It keeps its luster longer while other materials will show their age.
• Absorbs Shock – Stainless steel sinks on impact will “give” to cushion glasses and dishes against breakage.
• Easier to Clean – Stainless steel retains its luster when cleaned with household cleanser and a soft towel. Healthcare facilities trust stainless steel sinks due in part to their sanitary surface.
• Greater Capacity – Stainless steel has strength and flexibility that allows for deeper sink bowls. It has more overall usable space than porcelain or cast iron.
• Compliments Any Décor – Stainless steel sinks have clean lines and a cool texture that reflect surrounding colors and patterns. Also, it compliments any décor long after trendy colors are out-of-style.

Chlorides Today, chlorides are found in most soap, detergents, bleaches and cleansers; chlorides can be aggressive to stainless steel. However, chlorides are very water-soluble. Therefore, thorough rinsing of your sink after each use to remove any chloride residue and a weekly scouring is all that is required to keep your sink looking bright and shiny.

Scratches Like many metallic surfaces, your stainless steel sink will scratch. These are merely usage scratches and over time will blend into the overall finish of your sink.

Water Quality The quality of your Boston water can affect your sink’s appearance. If your water has high iron content, a brown surface stain can form on the sink giving the appearance of rust. Additionally, in areas with a high concentration of minerals, or with over-softened water, a white film may develop on the sink. To combat these problems, we suggest that the sink be towel dried after use, and again, on a weekly basis, the sink should be cleaned.

Food Heavy salt concentration or foods containing high levels of salt should not be allowed to dry on the sink surface. Rinse your sink thoroughly after use.

Cutting Your sink is designed to serve as many things, but should not be used as a cutting board or chopping block. This type of use will lead to deep scratches in the sink finish and will dull your knives.

Routine Care

• Most dirt & stains: Use soapy water or ammonia-based cleaner.
• Watermarks: Wipe with damp cloth then towel dry.
• Disinfecting: Occasionally wipe surface with diluted household bleach (1 part water /1 part bleach).
• Maintenance: Occasionally clean by filling the sink one-quarter full with a 50/50 water/bleach solution. Let soak for 15 minutes, then wash sides and bottom as solution drains and thoroughly rinse.

Precautions

• Do… It is best to rinse sinks thoroughly after each use. Thorough rinsing can be done by running the water for a few minutes and rubbing the cleaned area with a sponge.
• Do… Avoid exposing sink to strong chemicals, such as paint removers, oven cleaners, etc. If contact occurs, quickly flush the surface with water.
• Do… Run cold water when pouring boiling water into sinks to try to minimize temperature shock. With stainless it isn’t as important to remember that compared to other materials though.
• Do… Towel dry after each use to prevent mineral deposits from building up on the surface of the sink (although with a good quality stainless sink you can buff it back to the original “new” finish even after many years of scale and mineral build-up.
• Do… Scour the sink once a week, being sure to rub in the direction of the satin finish lines (best not to purchase a “mirror” finish).
• Do… Remove nail polish with a non-acetone based nail polish remover and flush with water.

• Don’t… Allow food or beverage residue, metal canned products, or mild steel or cast iron cookware to remain on sink surface for long periods of time as this can result in permanent staining of the sink.
• Don’t… Cut directly on sink surfaces.
• Don’t… Set hot pans directly into sinks.
• Don’t… Scour the sink across the satin finish lines. Scouring across the satin finish lines can damage the original sink finish.
• Don’t… Allow liquid soap or other household cleansers to dry on the surface of the sink. Most brands contain chemical additives, which will affect the finish.
• Don’t… Use drain cleaning products that contain sulfuric or hydrochloric acid.
• Don’t… Leave standing solutions of chlorine bleach and water in the sink for extended periods of time. Chlorides, which are found in most soaps, detergents, bleaches, and cleansers, are very aggressive to stainless steel. If left on the sink too long they can cause surface pitting.
• Don’t… Use a steel wool pad to clean your sink. Steel wool pads have a tendency to break apart and small particles of steel can become embedded in the surface of the sink. The steel particles will rust and will give the appearance that the sink itself is rusting.
• Don’t… Use rubber mats or dishpans in the sink to protect the finish. Leaving rubber mats or dishpans in the sink can lead to surface rust or possible pitting. Instead use stainless steel bottom grids. If you do use mats or dishpans please remove them after each use.
• Don’t… Leave wet sponges, cloths, or cleaning pads on the sink. This can lead to surface rust.

If you’re ready to replace your current sink or are starting from scratch, contact your Boston plumber for all your sink and fixture installation needs.

Article Source: http://www.plumbingproducts.com/stainless-steel-sink-care.html

If you are looking for a professional plumbing contractor in the Greater Boston Area, then call 1-800-431-5660 or complete our estimate request form.

Even though you can’t buy the Hang Fung gold toilet for your master bath, there are plenty of other fancy fixtures available to accent your Boston bathroom. But you’re going to have to shell out big bucks for them.

The Neorest 600 certainly falls into this category. The Neorest takes the cake as the most expensive commode available for purchase in the home. Produced by bathroom fixture manufacturer Toto, the Neorest 600 is a tankless, one-piece toilet. It may not be gold, but you could call it green: It’s a low-flow toilet, conserving water by sending only 1.6 gallons down the drain per flush. But you’ll be too busy sitting in awe of the Neorest to yearn for the water-frivolous days of the full-flow toilet. It’s also a bathroom dynamo, doing all of the work your old toilet used to make you do.

When the Neorest senses your approach, the toilet lifts its lid, inviting you to have a seat. Once you do your thing, a gentle blast of warm water cleans your bottom. This is followed by the toilet’s air-dry function. And after you get up, the toilet flushes the ionized, self-cleaning bowl and deodorizes the air [source: Toto]. With all of these features, maybe the $5,800 retail price for the Neorest 600 isn’t so much, relatively speaking [source: Forbes]. Plus, you can find them for sale as low as $3,159 [source: Buy Plumbing]. Of course, you can get a regular residential toilet in the U.S. and Canada for around $150, but these certainly don’t come with the bells and whistles the Neorest offers.

If you’re going to remodel your Boston bathroom, why not go all the way? How about some gold leaf inlay in the counter’s backsplash? And what about Italian marble tile for the bathroom’s floor?

Be sure to install the big fixtures first. There’s the Idrolux “L” shower, which retails for around $24,000. This freestanding shower includes UV panels, designed to give you a healthy, tanned glow while you bathe [source: Idrolux]. If you don’t like standing when you scrub down, you can opt to rest easy in 21 inches of warm water in Kohler’s Kallista Archeo bathtub. Before you sink into the tub, check the price tag: This freestanding copper bathtub goes for more than $66,000 [source: Forbes].

How about a nice sink, too? The Italbrass Mezz’aria dual basin sink might look nice reflecting the blue UV glow of your tanning shower — the wall-mounted floating sink is stainless steel. The nearly $7,500 price tag doesn’t include the complementary mirror to go above it, but you’ll want a mirror from another company anyway [source: Quality Bath]. Seura offers wall-mounted, over-the-sink mirrors as large as 45 inches wide that feature an LCD television embedded inside. You can get ready and watch the news at the same time. When turned off, the TV disappears, and the fixture looks like a normal mirror [source: Seura]. The mirrors and their frames can be customized per order, and they fetch around $5,000 for the 45-inch model [source: Home Annex].

Still, starting your day off in your Boston bathroom with all of these luxury features would probably put a pretty good spin on things. And who can put a price on that feeling?

If you do purchase a Toto, your Boston plumber will happily handle the installation for you.  Meanwhile, be sure to contact your plumber for any other plumbing repairs you may need help with.  You may just find yourself in need of toilet repair services for your regular old Boston bathroom fixture.

Article Source: http://home.howstuffworks.com/most-expensive-toilet-in-world1.htm

If you are looking for a professional plumbing repair contractor in the Greater Boston Area, then call 1-800-431-5660 or complete our estimate request form.

What You’ll Need

You’ll need to have these tools on hand to caulk bathroom fixtures in your Boston home:

• Putty or utility knife
• Strong household cleaner
• Clean rags
• Chlorine beach
• Silicone caulk or bathtub caulk
• Scissors

Because tubs and sinks are used practically every day in your Boston home, the caulking between the fixture and the wall often cracks or pulls loose. When this happens, water seeps into the opening and damages the joint and the surrounding wall. Use silicone caulk or bathtub caulk to make the repair. Use the following steps to recaulk kitchen and bathroom fixtures:

Step 1: Use putty knife or utility knife to remove all old caulk from joint.

Step 2: Clean joint thoroughly with strong household cleaner. If joint is mildewed, scrub it with chlorine bleach. Dry joint thoroughly with clean rag wrapped over blade of putty knife.

Step 3: Apply caulk to joint. Cut nozzle of caulk tube at an angle so opening is a little larger than open joint. If you’re caulking several joints, start with the smallest joint and work up, recutting tube nozzle as necessary for larger joints.

Step 4: Let new caulk dry for several hours.

Don’t let it get wet during drying period. Let caulk cure completely (see manufacturer’s instructions) before using fixture.

It’s always a good idea to let your professional Boston plumber handle the initial installation of faucets and fixtures, which will ensure that they are properly caulked and sealed.

Article Source: http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/plumbing/how-to-recaulk-plumbing-fixtures.htm

If you are looking for a professional plumbing contractor in the Greater Boston Area, then call 1-800-431-5660 or complete our estimate request form.

As soon as you notice that the general temperature of your house is continuously dropping, there is a great chance that your furnace has stopped working. There are various reasons behind this sudden breakdown. Usually, these problems may warrant various types of Boston furnace repairs. While some of the furnace unit problems may be fixed using simple methods, you are not advised to try them. This is because most of these problems need to be addressed using extensive knowledge and a high degree of accuracy. If you attempt to address these problems yourself, you run the risk of compromising your safety.

One of the most common criteria for Boston furnace repairs is a blown fuse or a tripped breaker. When your fuse breaks down, your furnace indefinitely stops working. This usually happens when your furnace is required to work more than the ideal duration. Also, the electrical ignition that may occur on the blower or other electrical components of the furnace may cause the entire circuit to break down. When this happens, you should immediately check the panel of the circuit breaker. While you are waiting for your contractor to attend to the furnace and the fuse, you may turn off the switch for the furnace first. Aside from that, you may disconnect the fuse that directly connects to the furnace. For this job, your contractor will need to install a new fuse. Therefore, it is better if you have this part ready before the contractor comes over. After the appropriate Boston furnace repairs are done, you can expect the furnace to be running efficiently again.

Usually, gas furnaces use a small pilot light or flame to create the main source of heat. This pilot light helps in maintaining the proper gas flow to the furnace. There are various reasons that a pilot light breaks down. One of these is the interruption of the gas flow. A draft in the gas flow may also cause the gas flow to be delayed or completely blocked. When this happens, you need to contact a contractor to perform relighting of your furnace pilot. Before your contractor attends to the pilot light, you may help out by turning off the main power source of the furnace. The recommended method is to turn this off at the thermostat. After extensive Boston furnace repairs have been done, you can determine if the pilot light is properly working if the flame from the furnace remains lighted after you held the knob of the gas valve for around a minute.

Another problem that you may encounter with your furnace is the presence of a dirty furnace filter. This is one of the common problems because your furnace depends on it everytime you turn on the entire unit. When you turn on your heating unit, air starts to circulate through the main part of the furnace as well as the vents. Along with the air comes the debris. Various debris and dust particles can be stuck on different parts of your furnace. In the long run, the dust particles can significantly block the pathways where air circulates. When this happens, you may start to notice the decrease in heating levels that your furnace provides. For this concern, you have to contact your contractor to perform filter replacement as soon as possible.

If you are looking for a professional heating repair contractor in the Greater Boston Area, then call 1-800-431-5660 or complete our estimate request form.

Why do drains clog? The short answer is because of the way we use them. Obviously, even though it’s not supposed to happen, water isn’t the only thing going down most drains. In fact, knowing what has clogged your drain can be an important step in knowing how to clear the clog. At the kitchen sink, grease and small particles of food can make their way into the drain. In the bathroom, hair and soap scum are the biggest offenders. Over time, these substances can build up and begin to line the drain, and then one day, another piece of food or another clump of hair is all it takes to block the drain [source: Goodway].

Foreign objects, such as jewelry, bottle tops or toys, can also fall into a drain and clog it. If that’s the case, drain cleaners won’t help unblock the drain. You’ll need to remove the object or call  your Boston plumber to do it for you.

Assuming your problem isn’t a foreign object, first try to locate the clog. Start by removing, checking and cleaning the stopper or strainer at the entrance to the drain. Some strainers are easily removed by hand, but others may require a screwdriver or pliers. Remove anything you can reach and then try pouring hot water down the drain.

The next step is to try using a plunger on the drain, and if that doesn’t work, try removing and cleaning the sink’s trap. After that, you may want to try a sewer snake, or auger. If none of these efforts works, it’s time to use a drain-cleaning product [source: Harrison].

Chemical Drain Cleaners

Be they liquid, gel or powder form, most of the drain cleaners you’ll find on store shelves use strong chemicals, and they come in liquid, gel and powder forms. All chemical reactions involve moving electrons, and drain cleaners work by either taking or giving electrons to the clogging substance, generating heat in the process. There are three main types of drain cleaners:

• Caustic drain cleaners contain substances such as lye and caustic potash. They’re bases, so they give electrons to the clogging substance, and their hydroxide ions create the reaction that clears the clog. Their alkaline, or basic, chemicals release heat and turn grease into a soap-like substance that’s more easily dissolved. These drain cleaners are typically heavier than water, which enables them to reach the clog through standing water.
• Oxidizing drain cleaners contain substances such as household bleach, peroxides and nitrates. These chemicals cause the organic material of the clog to lose electrons and become oxidized. The product is heavier than water, so it can move through standing water, and it releases heat and gas to help clear the blockage.
• Acid drain cleaners aren’t commonly found in stores, and some are sold only to plumbers. These typically contain high concentrations of sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid, substances that increase hydronium ions in a solution and attract electrons from the clog. The hydronium ions react chemically with the material in the clog, and the reaction releases heat, which is necessary to melt congealed grease [source: Sheridan].

Because most of these products generate heat, they may soften the polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, pipes found in most Boston homes today. However, such damage is rare if you use the drain cleaner as directed — damage is more likely to occur when drain cleaner is used on older, metal pipes.

Aside from their effect on the pipes in your Boston home, there are other disadvantages to chemical drain cleaners. They’re extremely toxic if swallowed, and they can burn eyes, skin and mucous membranes and eat through clothing. They can release noxious fumes, and if used improperly, they can cause explosions. These products can also harm septic systems by killing beneficial bacteria, and they can mar bathroom and kitchen fixtures.

If you use chemical drain cleaners, read the directions carefully and heed all the warnings. Use the product in a well-ventilated area, wear rubber gloves, and keep children and pets away from the drain. Never mix different drain cleaners, and don’t use a plunger in conjunction with drain cleaners.

Most drain cleaners advise waiting 15 minutes or more after pouring the product into the drain before flushing it with hot water. If your drain is still clogged afterward, you may need to repeat the process. If a few tries yield no results, it may be time to give your Boston plumber a call.

Article Source:  http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/plumbing/drain-cleaner1.htm

If you are looking for a professional drain cleaning contractor in the Greater Boston Area, then call 1-800-431-5660 or complete our estimate request form.

Garbage disposals offer Boston homeowners and renters alike the convenience of ridding themselves of unwanted items quickly and easily. It’s a simple fix for various types of waste and a staple in most every Boston home. But what happens if this handy device breaks down? In this article we will outline some simple plumbing tips and techniques to help you potentially fix your garbage disposal before deciding whether to call in your professional Boston plumber.

1. Keep Your Hands Out of the Drain

Fixing a broken disposal is not worth losing a hand over. Keep in mind that there is a motor and a blade underneath the drain which can cause serious injury if you’re not careful. Be sure to unplug all parts prior to attempting any sort of repair.

2. Tighten All Connections

Check for leaks by running water through the removal and tighten any connections where leaks are apparent. You may also try taking the entire unit apart and replacing the seal. If the leak persists, you should replace the drain gasket. If all of these methods fail, it’s time to take the unit in for servicing.

3. Check Breakers

As the garbage disposal is an electrical device, it has been known to trip circuit breakers in some instances. Thus, it’s a good idea to check and see whether the panels have been turned off. In this case, all that is needed is to flip the switch and reset the disposal.

4. Freeing the Flywheel

The flywheel is the piece of the disposal that spins the impeller, which cuts up the waste. This piece may have become stuck, in which case you’ll need a hex wrench to free it. Find the hex hole under the unit, apply the wrench, and rotate it until the piece is loosened.

5. Maintaining the Impellers

If you suspect the issue is that the trash is not being properly shredded, you may need to sharpen the impellers. In this case, you’ll need to remove the entire unit. Once this is accomplished, remove the flywheel and take the impellers out the sharpen them. Based on the type of unit, you may even be able to leave the impellers in place while sharpening.

6. Clog Removal

Remove the bolts on the drain pipes and inspect for any readily apparent clogs. Remove anything that is stopping the passage of waste and replace the pipes.

If you’ve tried each of these possible solutions and still find you have a problem on your hands, if just may be time to call in a professional Boston plumber. The damage you could potentially do by experimenting may end up costing you more in the long run. Play it safe, and when in doubt, ask for help.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anna_Woodward

If you are looking for a professional plumber in the Greater Boston Area, then call 1-800-431-5660 or complete our estimate request form.