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Important Plumbing and Heating Questions Answered
Arthur Abbotts & Co • 10 May 2019
Many systems in our homes require proper plumbing to function and we rely on them on more or less a daily basis. From central heating to hot showers, we need plumbing to go about our everyday lives and when these systems work so flawlessly, it’s easy to sometimes take them for granted. However, a plumbing catastrophe has the power to disrupt your day and potentially even your week, so it’s important to know how to handle such situations effectively when they do crop up.
Whilst systems that utilise plumbing are reasonably complex, there are certain issues that will likely present themselves to homeowners again and again. When it comes to diagnosing and fixing a leak or blockage, there are countless websites that all claim to have the solution to your problem, but when articles are packed full of technical jargon, it’s easy to get lost in amidst the waffle.
In the event of a plumbing breakdown, all you want is a straightforward solution in order to get your system back up and running again. So, in order for you to nip problems in the bud early, we’ve made a list of a few FAQs about plumbing, giving you the power to solve all of your plumbing woes as soon as they arise.
What is the best way to tackle a blocked drain?
This is arguably one of the most common plumbing problems that every homeowner will face at one point or another. Whether your shower water isn’t draining properly or your toilet is brimming with water after being flushed, a blocked drain can be both distressing and off-putting.
So, what’s the best way to deal with a blocked drain? First of all, it’s important to note that, in the event of an emergency, professional help is only a phone call away. Experienced plumbers will be able to tackle your blockage with ease and what’s more, they’ll arrive at your property promptly to try and minimise disruption to your day. However, in the event of a minor blockage, there are some home remedies you can try that will likely be able to solve the problem.
Firstly, assess whether you can see anything that’s visibly blocking the drain and remove it. For example, hair or lids to bath products can often be the culprit when it comes to a bathtub blockage and once this has been removed, you may find that your water drains just fine.
However, if you don’t have any luck with this, it may be time to whip out the plunger. Whether you’ve got a sink, toilet or bath blockage, get the appropriate plunger for the job and this will hopefully loosen the blockage and lift it up so it can be removed. Whilst this is never going to be a pleasant experience, plunging is one of the most effective ways of clearing a clogged drain, so it’s definitely worth a try.
Liquid drain cleaners can also help to clear a blockage, however, some contain harsh chemicals that can actually damage your pipes, so be mindful of this when making your selection. If none of these tactics are having any effect, it may be time to contact your local plumber as they’ll have the tools and expertise needed to locate the blockage and remove it with ease.
How do I prevent pipes from freezing?
Whether you’re going on a two week holiday or you’re taking a long weekend away for a much-needed break, there’s always the worry of pipes freezing over in the winter. Even when taps aren’t on, our pipes usually have a bit of water coursing through them and if this freezes, it can leave you without running water and may even cause your pipes to burst.
At a time when you’re supposed to be relaxing, the last thing you want to be doing is worrying about the state of your property back home- so what can you do to give yourself peace of mind? One thing you can do is to insulate any pipes that are particularly exposed to the cold using foam, rubber or fibreglass sleeves as this will add an extra layer of protection.
Another simple strategy is to put your heating on a timer so that it comes on whilst your away. Even having it on for an hour or two a day will reduce the likelihood of your pipes freezing over, so it’s definitely worth a go. You should also leave all internal doors open as this will help the warm air to circulate, ensuring your pipes don’t get too chilly. Finally, seal up any cracks and holes that are letting cold air into your property as this could well cause the temperature of your pipes to drop.
Strange noises coming from your boiler? How central heating experts can help
A noisy boiler can be quite unsettling and potentially dangerous to deal with if you’re unsure of what the problem is. Whilst we don’t recommend tinkering with your boiler if you’re not a trained professional, it’s beneficial to know what noises to listen out for so that you can call a plumber in good time.
Banging or ‘kettling’ noises signify a build up of limescale which means that your boiler is not in the best condition and is likely operating inefficiently. Whilst there are products you can buy and apply yourself to help clear up the problem, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and contact a professional plumber as they’ll be able to accurately diagnose the problem and follow the best course of action.
If there is a gurgling sound coming from your boiler, this likely means that there’s some air trapped in the system which may also result in your radiators not heating up properly. To begin with, you could try bleeding your radiators as this could well be the problem. However, if you’re still having trouble, it’s advisable to contact a plumber to ensure the issue doesn’t worsen.
Dripping, tapping and humming are just a few of the other sounds that could signify a fault with your boiler, so if you pick up on any of these noises, we’d suggest contacting central heating engineers sooner rather than later. Not only is a damaged boiler likely going to be operating inefficiently, but it could also potentially be harmful, so it’s important to get this checked out as a matter of urgency.
Why is my tap leaking and do I need to contact a plumbing service?
Leaking taps are extremely common, but that doesn’t stop them from being a nuisance. From the irritating dripping sound to the hefty water bill, a leaking or dripping tap can be extremely problematic and should not be ignored.
Taps are used on more or less a daily basis and with this in mind, wear and tear is inevitable. If the tap is leaking near the top, this may be a sign that the washer (or seal) is damaged and this will likely need to be replaced. This is something that you may be able to tackle yourself, however, if you’re worried about exacerbating the problem, contact a plumber with experience to get the job done fast.
There are other aspects of your tap that may be worn or corroded and if you’re unsure of where the problem lies, it’s always better to contact a plumber rather than risking getting yourself into a stickier situation. Whether you’ve got a leaking tap or pipe, a professional plumber will be able to diagnose the problem quickly and efficiently before fixing it to the highest standard.
From unblocking drains to boiler installation, Arthur Abbotts & Co has the expertise to give you the assistance you need
At Arthur Abbotts & Co, we pride ourselves on offering a top quality service at an affordable price. Whether you require central heating installation or you need assistance designing and installing a new bathroom, we’ve got the expertise to assist and our customer service is second to none.
If you do find yourself in amidst a plumbing emergency- don’t panic. We offer a 24/7 emergency service, ensuring that whatever the time of day, you’re never left alone in your time of need.
If you’re looking to find a plumber near you, contact us today and make Arthur Abbotts & Co your first port of call for all of your plumbing needs.
There’s nothing better than enjoying a day at the spa with a loved one, whether you spend the day drifting around a heated pool, detoxifying in a scented steam room or relaxing with a glass of crisp champagne at the poolside. However, for most of us, a day at the spa is a once in a while treat- but why not make it a weekly or even daily activity? Transforming your own bathroom into a tranquil, spa-like sanctuary doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg- with just a few tweaks, you can convert your basic, functional bathroom into a relaxing home spa. Here are a few ideas to get you started: Declutter the space When it comes to creating the ultimate zen bathroom, you need to begin by clearing away your bathroom clutter and installing plenty of clever storage. If you have children, make sure there’s space to store the kids’ bath toys away so you can convert your bathroom from hectic play area to relaxing spa within seconds. With regards to storage, fitted cupboards are ideal as they create clean lines and leave plenty of floor space to lay down a couple of plush bathroom rugs. A calming colour scheme Once you’ve cleared away the clutter, the next step is to inject some colour into the space. Soft colour combinations are key; although the classic bathroom is all-white, this can feel clinical, so mixing white with a soft blue or dusty teal creates the perfect balance. Blues and greens are tried and tested calming bathroom colours, but if you want to add the luxury spa feel, add touches of silver and pewter. On the other hand, if you wish to create a totally natural-looking spa, use tan and other sandy colours and integrate natural stone throughout the room. Add luxury fixtures Whilst you may not have the budget to update your entire bathroom, adding a few luxurious fixtures and fittings will ensure your bathroom offers a spa-like experience without breaking the bank. Install a rainforest shower head so that you can enjoy a truly extravagant shower every morning. You could also swap your plain old faucets for a stylish new set with a high-end finish. Next, consider the decor of your bathroom- why not decorate your walls with intricate mosaic tiles or install a luxury marble-look floor? Finally, depending on your budget, you could also get a dimmer switch to set the mood in your new bathroom and replace your radiators with heated towel rails or even install underfloor heating. Integrate plants and nature If you’ve visited a spa, you’ll probably have noticed that nature plays a key role in setting the atmosphere. Be sure to decorate your new bathroom with houseplants and flowers- not only do they look good, but they’ll also make the air feel healthier and fresher. If you have space, get a large palm or fern to inject a dose of tropical paradise. Or, if your bathroom is compact, hanging plants and small potted plants will have the same impact. Finishing touches A spa wouldn’t be complete without plush, fluffy towels and a comfortable dressing gown and slippers- invest in quality linen and your bathroom will feel like a sumptuous spa in no time. Aromatherapy is key to every spa experience as it boosts relaxation and relieves stress. So, be sure to have plenty of scented candles around the room, or burn essential oils for a natural, calming atmosphere; lavender and jasmine are well-known for their calming qualities, perfect for when you’re enjoying a long hot soak. Are you looking to create a spa experience in your bathroom at home? Look no further than Arthur Abbotts & Co. We offer quality bathroom installations and upgrades in Leicestershire, as well as a trusted emergency plumber and general plumbing service. To find out more, get in touch with our expert team of plumbers and bathroom fitters today.
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