How Do Sump Pumps Work? A Dover, DE Plumber’s Guide

December 3rd, 2012

If you live in Dover, DE, you may have heard about sump pumps and wondered how they work. The plumbers at Boulden Plumbing have been offering high quality plumbing services throughout the Dover, DE area for many years. We’ve installed, repaired and maintained sump pumps in many homes. We thought it would be helpful if we put together a simple explanation of how they work and the benefit they are to your home.

Sump Pump Installation

A good place to start in explaining how sump pumps work is to start with their installation. Here are the basic steps.

  • The first step is to dig a hole in the lowest point of the house (typically the basement)
  • Following that, a perforated plastic sleeve is lowered into the hole that will hold the sump pump and allow water into it.
  • The sump pump and an activator float are placed in the hole.
  • A long plastic ejector pipe is attached to the sump pump and run outside your home.

How Sump Pumps Work

As water starts to fill your basement it will naturally flow to the lowest point and begin to fill the sump pump’s hole. When the water rises high enough, the float will activate the sump pump. The pump will push the water up and out of your house.

Sump Pump Benefits

If you’ve ever heard of someone who came back from vacation to a flooded home then you know why sump pumps are important. Sump pumps protect your home from flooding and water damage. They can potentially save your home from thousands of dollar in damage. Additionally, water damage can also cause slab and foundation problems that can cost even more to fix.

Boulden Plumbing offers complete sump pump services throughout the Dover, DE area. We would be more than happy to talk with you about installing a sump pump in your home. Give us a call today!

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Wilmington Plumber Tip: Different Kinds of Plumbing Traps

November 26th, 2012

Appliances that use water and are installed inside a house all require some form of a water trap in the waste pipes to provide a water seal to drains or outside atmosphere. These traps are important in preventing bad odors from entering the house, as well as keeping out bacteria and insects.

The Wilmington, DE plumbers at Boulden Plumbing have provided you with some examples of the most common plumbing traps that can be found:

The ‘P’ Trap

The ‘P’ trap usually has a screw joint half way along so that when it’s installed the outlet can be moved through about 270° in the horizontal plane so that it will mate with a horizontal waste pipe coming in from an angle. One benefit of the ‘P’ trap is that after it’s installed it can be removed for clearing blockages, or any other problems, and the remainder of the pipe will not be affected. A downside to the ‘P’ trap is that its formation needs a good amount of space in order to fit within the rest of the waste outlet.

The ‘S’ Trap

The ‘S’ trap usually has a screw joint half way along so that when it’s installed the outlet can be moved through about 270° in the horizontal plane so that it will mate with a vertical waste pipe coming up ‘off center.’ The advantages and disadvantages of the ‘S’ trap are the same as the ‘P’ trap.

The ‘Bottle’ trap

The ‘Bottle’ trap usually unscrews at the bottom as a means by which to clear blockages.  The output for the waste pipe is always horizontal.  The ‘Bottle’ trap takes up less radial space under a waste outlet and is ideal for pedestal mounted sinks where space is usually very limited. They can, however, be deeper that the ‘P’ and ‘S’ traps.

The ‘Shallow’ trap

The ‘Shallow’ trap is most often used on devices, such as baths and showers, where there isn’t much space above the floor. Where fitted to a bath, a banjo connector is normally used above it for the overflow from the bath. This type of trap doesn’t always meet regulatory standards for water seal depth.  In instances in which there isn’t an alternative to fitting a shallow trap, it will be necessary to run a deeper trap further along the pipe where space allows, and definitely before the pipework enters a stack pipe, or discharges.

The ‘Shallow’ trap with a connector for the bath overflow.

Similar to a shallow trap described above but with an addition inlet in the bend. Usually this type of trap is supplied with a blanking plug fitted in the second inlet and a separate connector for this inlet must be purchased. The point of the second inlet is connecting the hose from the bath overflow. This removes the need for a banjo connector above the trap, allowing these traps to fit where space is very limited.

These ‘Shallow’ traps have the same challenges as an ordinary shallow traps in that in instances where there aren’t alternatives to running a shallow trap a deeper trap will need to be run further along the pipe line.

Call the Wilmington, DE plumbers at Boulden Plumbing if you have further questions.

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Dover, DE Plumber’s Guide: 3 Things You Should Never Put Down Your Garbage Disposal

November 19th, 2012

If you live in Dover, DE, you’ve probably heard about some of the things that you should never put down your garbage disposal. There is a lot of misinformation floating around the internet about what you can and cannot put down your garbage disposal. We thought it would be helpful for our customers in the Dover, DE area if we put together a simple list of 3 things that you shouldn’t put in your garbage disposal.

Grease

When you fry bacon in the morning for breakfast, what do you do with the grease that’s left over? If you’ve been putting it down your kitchen sink, it’s probably starting to cause problems in your drains. When heated, grease turns into a liquid and when it cools it actually solidifies. This gooey solid will cling to your pipes and start to attract other pieces of food and form a clog.

Potatoes, Rice and Pasta

When you put potatoes, rice or pasta in hot water what happens to them? They soften and expand as they absorb the water. When you put those things into your garbage disposal they do the same thing. After you’ve washed them into your pipes they will continue to expand and can eventually clog your drain.

Fibrous Vegetables

Fibrous veggies like celery are hard for your garbage disposal to break down. In small amounts these types of foods might be okay but it’s still a risk. Because vegetables like asparagus and celery have such tough, long strands, it’s very difficult for your garbage disposal to break them apart. You might end up washing a mushy ball of vegetables fibers into your drain which is never good.

Other Materials

You wouldn’t believe the materials that we’ve had to clean out of people’s garbage disposals. Some other things that you shouldn’t put down your garbage disposal include paint, engine oil, fruit pits like peaches or avocados, coffee grounds and bones. All of these things pose a danger to your garbage disposal and your drain system.

If you have any questions about your garbage disposal in Dover, DE or if you need garbage disposal repairs, call the experts at Boulden Plumbing. We have years of experience offering comprehensive plumbing installation, repair and maintenance services in Dover, DE. We would love to talk with you about how we can help. Give us a call today!

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Why Consider a Solar Water Heater in Wilmington DE

November 12th, 2012

Did the energy bill for your Wilmington DE home decrease this month? Probably not. Energy prices seem to always be on the rise. People are looking for new and creative ways to lower their monthly expenses. Solar energy has gained popularity in Wilmington DE because of the potential it has to decrease your consumption of electricity. In this blog post we’re going to discuss solar water heating: how it works and why it might be a good option for your home.

What is a Solar Water Heater?

Some people confuse solar panels for solar water heaters. A solar panel array use the sun’s light to generate electricity. A solar water heater actually uses the sun’s heat energy to heat up water.

How a Solar Water Heater Works

Solar water heaters are pretty simple pieces of equipment. They have a large collector that is installed on your roof or somewhere on your property that gets a lot of sunlight. Water is pumped through the collector through a series of tubes. The heat from the sun warms the water and it is returned to your water heater’s tank. The hot water naturally collects at the top of the tank to get pumped into the home. In warmer climates, like in Florida or California, these types of water heaters can achieve temperatures over 200° F.

Solar Water Heater in Wilmington DE

But what about the winters in Wilmington DE? There isn’t much heat available when the temperature drops. Well, according to a recent study conducted in Toronto, even during the months of January and February, a solar hot water heater could produce water temperatures over 80° and 90° F. This is a great way to supplement the work of your current water heater during the winters.

Energy Efficiency

The main benefit for solar water heaters is a decrease in energy consumption. You use your water heater everyday probably to shower, wash dishes and more. Water heaters account for a large percentage of your monthly bill. By capitalizing on the renewable, limitless energy from the sun you can potentially greatly reduce the amount of energy that you have to buy.

If you have any questions about solar water heaters and if they’re a good choice for your home in Wilmington DE, contact Boulden Plumbing. We have experience working with solar water heaters and can help you decide if your home would benefit from one.

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Advantages of Using Video Pipe Inspection in Your Dover DE Home

November 5th, 2012

If you have any problems with the drains, sewer lines, or plumbing fixtures in your Dover DE home, it’s important to locate the source of the problem as quickly as possible to prevent further damage to the plumbing system.

Video pipe inspection enables professional plumbers to locate blockages, check for cracks or leaks, and determine the best approach for making any needed repairs as efficiently as possible without damage to your property.

If you have any problems with your plumbing, call one of the qualified Dover DE plumbers at Boulden Plumbing today and set up an appointment.

Here are some reasons plumbers use video pipe inspections and the advantages to this technique.

Less Invasive Investigation of Plumbing Problems

Instead of hours of costly digging to locate and repair pipes, a video pipe inspection makes it possible to insert a small, fiber optic video line into a drain pipe and check for issues without tearing up large chunks of your property.  A video inspection line is fed inside your drains to look for leaks, blockages, or other problems that can only be detected with a camera. Once our qualified plumbers find the cause of the problem, we can use the camera to determine the best repair methods.

Detecting Root Penetration and Overall Plumbing Inspections

Video pipe inspection is typically used to check for small leaks and blockages in residential plumbing systems, but it can be used to look for any roots penetrating the sewer and drainage lines. If you own an older home, video camera inspections are ideal for inspecting the overall integrity of your plumbing system. Additionally, video inspections can locate issues when other techniques, such as water jetting, have not been successful at cleaning debris from a pipe or sewer line.

Leak Detection and Lowering Water Bills

Older pipes, or pipes that are exposed to extreme weather conditions, can have leaks that you could be unaware of. Even a minor leak adds up over time, and detecting and repairing leaks will lower your water bills and overall energy costs. Monitoring the water bills for your home can help with leak detection. If there’s been an unexplained rise in your bills recently, there could be a hidden leak inside your pipe system.

The advances of video inspection technology have made it easier for plumbers to inspect the plumbing system in your Dover DE home and determine the best solutions to any issues. Call Boulden Plumbing if you have questions or would like to set up an appointment with one of our qualified plumbers.

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Newark DE Bathroom Plumbing Guide: How to Clean a Fiberglass Bathtub

October 29th, 2012

Fiberglass bathtubs are very durable, and they have a look that can add a lot to the design of your Newark DE home’s bathroom. However, they require special care to keep clean and avoid discoloration. The methods and products that work well on porcelain or enamel tubs will not necessarily be successful on fiberglass, and can actually cause permanent damage. Follow these instructions to keep your fiberglass clean and shiny for years to come.

Word of Warning

First of all, never use an abrasive or harsh cleaning product on fiberglass, as it can destroy the finish. When selecting a product to use on your tub, read the indications on the label to make sure it can be used safely and successfully on fiberglass. If you’re in doubt, pass on that product in favor of one of the products mentioned below, as most consumers have found them to be safe for fiberglass.

What to Use

There are a few options for cleaning a fiberglass tub. The simplest is to use something you probably already have around the house– baking soda. You can use a solution of baking soda and water on a wet rag and wipe the tub. This should remove soap scum and other minor stains without damaging the finish. Be sure to rinse thoroughly. You can also take advantage of some elementary chemistry by sprinkling baking soda around the tub, then spraying with white vinegar. The fizzy reaction dissolves stains, and you can just wipe it off with a warm rag or sponge.

Another suggestion is to try oxygen-powered cleansing powders, like OxyClean. Fill the tub with water, add some cleaning powder and let it sit for a bit before draining. You may need to scrub a bit with a plastic brush to get everything loose.

One final suggestion is to try Mr. Clean Magic Eraser or similar product. Although they require some extra elbow grease to really be effective, they are powerful and can remove the tougher stains from fiberglass more easily than you think.

Try one of these strategies or a combination of them to keep your fiberglass tub clean and fresh, which of course helps keep you clean and fresh.

If you need bathroom plumbing service in Newark DE, give Boulden Plumbing a call!

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Wilmington Water Line Tip: Replacement and Repair

October 22nd, 2012

Even if you are comfortable doing some of the minor plumbing repairs in your Wilmington DE home, you should never attempt to replace a main water line on your own. Only a qualified plumber has the experience and required tools to replace the broken line and affected pipes. Additionally, the sooner you call a qualified plumber to repair or replace your main water line, the less potential there will be for further damage to your home. If you aren’t sure whether or not you need repair work on your water line, there are some definite signs to look out for.

Water backing up in your yard is one of the most obvious indications of a main water line break or leak, but you could also notice drops in water pressure or high water bills before this happens. If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to call a Wilmington plumber before it turns into a major hassle and expense.

While extreme weather can cause a water line to break, it’s typically caused by corrosion or root penetration. This is another important reason to have your pipes and plumbing system inspected once a year by a qualified plumber. Video scans of your pipes can detect any issues before they get worse.

Call Boulden Plumbing if you notice any obvious problems or suspect a leak in your main water line. Replacing a water line should be handled by a professional, and we have the experience, skills, and proper equipment required to get the job done safely and efficiently.

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Dover DE Plumber’s Tip: Steps for Installing a New Sewer Line

October 15th, 2012

Replacing a main sewer line in Dover DE is a major construction project that should only be done by a licensed contractor. There are strict codes for accessing and altering the municipal sewer lines in the Dover DE area that must be carefully followed. You must also locate all other service lines – gas, water, underground cable –  within the construction zone. Contractors are familiar with the process of obtaining the necessary work permits and other approvals.

Locate and Expose the Existing Line

The first step is locating and exposing the existing line. The contractor will locate where the line leaves your house and remove the dirt near the foundation to expose the line. A municipal planning map will give the location of where the line ties into the main sewer line. The contractor will use stakes and strings to mark the approximate location of the line across your yard, and then excavate until the line is fully exposed. Unless the distance between your house and the street is very short, the contractor will probably use power equipment to expose the line.

Cut and Remove the Old Line

Before cutting and removing the old line, the contractor may need to brace it if it’s made of cast iron or some other metal to prevent it from bending and cracking after it’s been cut at one end. The end nearest the house is usually cut first to ensure any residual material in the pipe has drained into the municipal line. Waste water moves passively, by gravity, so the line from the house to the sewer will run downhill. That also ensures that municipal waste water doesn’t run back into the line. The slope or angle of the run and distance from other utility lines is critical and must comply with local codes.

Choice of Materials

Main sewage pipes are usually made of either cast iron, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene). Some older homes in Dover DE may still have lead sewage pipes. Cast iron had been the most frequently used material in home construction and is still popular, but PVC and ABS are the materials most frequently used in new home construction. They are cheaper than metal, easier to work with, and highly resistant to corrosion. However, the choice of materials will depend on whether a portion of the old line is to remain intact. The contractor will not want to splice a PVC line between two cast iron lines. Local codes in the Dover DE area may also call for specific materials. Like all plumbed lines, sewer lines are joined by prefabricated joints made of the same material as the pipes. Whether new joints will be included in the line replacement depends on how much of the old line is to be removed.  ABS and PVC pipes are attached to joints with glue. Cast iron pipes can be threaded or have bell-and-spigot (large diameter and small diameter) ends that fit together. Bell-and-spigot joints are then sealed with oakum, which is a flexible, fibrous material, and lead.

If you need drain or sewer service in Dover DE or the surrounding area, give Boulden Plumbing a call today!

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How to Lower Energy Costs for Your Wilmington DE Home: Water Heater Tips

October 8th, 2012

If you want to lower the energy costs for your Wilmington DE home, your water heater might not be the first place you’d think to save energy. However, when you add up the savings from a few easy steps that can improve your water heater’s efficiency, it can make a significant difference in your utility bills.

Here are some of the ways you can reduce the use of hot water in the home and increase your energy savings.

Saving Energy by Using Less Hot Water

Even if you own an energy-efficient, tankless water heater, and you try to conserve water as much as possible, hot water usage can always be reduced in other areas. Installing low flow faucets and fixtures can provide up to 60% in water savings because they reduce the flow rate (gallons per minute) for each fixture. Tankless water heaters are also more efficient when they are used with any application with a lower flow rate.

Replacing older appliances that require a lot of hot water with more energy-efficient models is worth the money and effort because of the energy savings you will get in the end. Make sure you fix any leaks on older hot water faucet or fixtures. A leak that costs a dollar or two extra per month doesn’t seem like much, but it will add up over time.

Lower the Temperature on Your Hot Water Heater

For every 10°F that you lower the water temperature on your hot water heater, you save between 3% to 5% in energy costs. The manufactured setting for most water heaters is 140°F, but most homes only require a maximum temperature of 120°F. Check your owner’s manual before you lower the temperature on your water heater to find out what the recommended settings are and how to change them.

Insulate Your Water Heater Tank and Water Pipes

Whether you have a gas or electric hot water heater, you can find fairly inexpensive and easy-to-install insulators or “jackets” for your water heater tank. Every tank has an R-value that determines how much heat it loses, so unless it is a high value, your water heater tank needs insulation. Call a professional or check your owner’s manual for the R-value of your hot water heater, but the general rule is that if the tank is warm when you touch it, you need more insulation.

You can reduce emissions and your energy costs simply by paying more attention to how much hot water you are using in your Wilmington DE home. For more tips and expert advice, call Boulden Plumbing to speak with one of our technicians.

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Wilmington Plumber’s Tip: Problems Roots Can Cause Your Sewer Lines

October 1st, 2012

Your sewer line is a major component in your Wilmington home’s plumbing, but because it is buried, rarely needs maintenance and almost always works as intended, most people forget about it. However, a sewer line can quickly become a much bigger problem if you allow tree roots to grow close to it. Here are some of the problems an errant tree can cause for your sewer line and what to do about them.

 What Roots Do to Sewer Lines

Trees actively seek water at all times. They grow slowly, but when they grow they move their branches toward sunlight and their roots toward water. On most developed properties attached to a city sewer system, the best source of water is the sewer line.

If allowed to continue, tree roots grow toward the sewer line and eventually infiltrate the line. It may take time, but eventually those roots will find seams and cracks in the pipe and break into it seeking water.

Over time, this will result in leaks, cracks and clogs in your line that can flood your lawn, back up in your home or cause problems for your neighbors.

Solving the Tree Root Problem

The first thing you should do is ensure there are not trees or shrubs growing close to your sewer line. If you don’t know where your sewer line is, check your property assessment or have a plumber help you find it. Remove any trees in the vicinity to avoid such a problem.

If you suspect a tree root problem, have your plumber perform a video inspection to check for roots and other blockages. If they find roots, high pressure jetting can often remove the problem completely.

Keep in mind that if the damage is advanced enough, you may need to have parts of your sewer line replace or relined. The actual work required will depend on the severity of the damage and the opinion of your plumber. Talk to a professional to learn more about what options are at your disposal.

A sewer line is vitally important to the operation of your Wilmington plumbing system. If you even suspect that a tree’s roots are infiltrating your pipes, contact Boulden Plumbing right away for a full inspection.

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