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Contrary to popular myth, plumber Thomas Crapper did not invent the flush toilet. One of his contemporaries, though, did create the first toilet that prevented sewer gases from entering the home. Englishman Joseph Adamson’s 1853 design — the siphon flush — eventually made obsolete both the chamber pot and the outhouse. Adamson’s invention, like all modern toilets, relies on the tendency of a moving liquid to continue flowing, even in defiance of gravity: The tank is kept full, and during a flush, the water rushes into the bowl, creating a surge over the weir (or dam). The flow stops when the bowl is empty, and the tank refills in preparation for the next flush.
Originally, tanks were placed high above the bowl to get water moving forcefully enough to clear the weir, but by 1915, narrower, smoother porcelain passageways allowed quieter, 5- to 7-gallon tanks to be mounted on the backs of bowls. The next giant leap in toilet technology came in 1994, when federal law restricted tanks to 1.6 gallons per flush, but to those who used the first generation of low-flow toilets, this leap seemed more of a stumble. “They often needed two flushes,” says This Old House plumbing and heating consultant Richard Trethewey. Manufacturers largely fixed that problem by further modifying the passageways to move a reduced amount of water more vigorously into the bowl.
Anatomy of a Low-Flow Toilet
FLUSH LEVER: Pulls the lift chain.
LIFT CHAIN: Opens the flapper. A chain float limits the flush to 1.6 gallons by closing the flapper when the tank has drained to a set level.
OVERFLOW TUBE: Protects against an accidental overfilling of the tank.
FLOAT: Shuts a valve on the supply line when the tank level reaches a predetermined depth.
FLAPPER: Releases tank water into the bowl. When released by the chain float, drops against the flush valve seat, sealing the tank so it can refill.
TRAP: Holds water in the bowl, blocking the entry of sewer gases, until the flow from the tank pushes the water over the weir.
SIPHON JET: Concentrates flow from the tank, jump-starting the siphoning effect.
RIM HOLES (not shown): Release water during the flush, cleaning the sides of the bowl.
You can easily integrate this water-saving fixture into your home. Your Orange County plumber can fill you in on the best low-flow toilet for your Orange County home and can handle the installation of your low-flow toilet easily and efficiently.
Article Source: http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,213021,00.html
While setting up a bathtub in your Orange County home , one of the crucial steps that need to be undertaken is to set up a bathtub drain. There are three types of tubs available in the market and installation of a bathtub drain is common to all of them. These are tubs set on legs, tubs set on a base and a built-in tub. The bathtub drain kit comes in a variety of finishes, chrome, bronze, nickel and brass. You will need to do some preparation. If you have an existing bath tub, remove the plaster and drywall. For a new bathtub setup, you will need to assemble the following tools.
- Glue
- Plumber’s putty
- Drain assembly
- Trap pipe
- Swivel connector with washers
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
Step 1: Bathtub
The bathtub should be installed and put in place in your Orange County bathroom.
Step 2: Fix Drain
Take the drain assembly, remove nuts and washers from it and put the plumber’s putty under the rim of the drain. After doing this, the drain rim should be put under the drain hole. It should be held firmly for some time.
Step 3: Fix Gasket and Nuts
The rubber gasket on the bathtub should be put on the part that hooks to the tub. Slide the nut and washer onto the overflow pipe as well as the drain shoe. A drain T-fitting needs to be put on the overflow pipe. Connect the drain and overflow pipes to the drain T-fitting. Tighten the nuts with pliers. While doing this, care should be taken that too much pressure is not applied.
Step 4: Connect the Trap
A drain T-fitting needs to be put on the overflow pipe. The drain and overflow pipes need to be connected with the drain T-fitting and the nuts need to be tightened with pliers. The trap on the plastic pipe needs to be pulled down far enough so that the tailpiece can be fitted onto the bottom of the T-fitting. During this process, ensure that the connections are made evenly and fittings are not used in the wrong position. The pipes should also have been measured to the correct size.
Step 5: Tailpiece
A thin coat of pipe joint compound needs to be applied to the threads on the tailpiece. This needs to be fitted into the T-fitting on the trap pipe.
Step 6: Nuts and Washers
Slip the nut and washer onto the tailpiece. These need to be tightened appropriately.
Step 7: Trip Waste and Stopper
Connect the trip waste by feeding the linkage into the overflow tube opening in the tub. In case of a pop-up plug, the trip lever should be left open. In case of a plunger, the drain screen should be put over the drain.
Step 8: Check and Test
There should be no loose connections. All the connections should be reinforced with glue. There should be no leakages. Check and test by filling the bathtub with water and then draining it.
Should you encounter any difficulties, call your Orange County plumber to complete the job easily and efficiently.
The basic idea behind water-saving devices is to restrict water consumption rates where heaviest use occurs. Indoor Orange County water usage runs at about 40 percent for toilets, 30 percent for baths and showers (more for baths), 15 percent for clothes washers and 15 percent for cooking and kitchen use.
TOILET WATER SAVERS
The first target for water conservation is the toilet. A number of devices are designed to reduce the amount of water used to flush a conventional toilet.
One such device is a dual-flush mechanism that allows about one-half tank flush for liquid waste by depressing the tank lever handle in the normal manner and full-tank flush for solid waste by depressing the lever and holding it down. These devices can save from 40 to 50 percent of normal water consumption.
There are also water-saving toilets that have smaller holding tanks and use less water to flush.
Leaks in the toilet tank can also be a source of excess water usage. These are usually due to worn out parts. Leaks can be detected by adding dark food coloring to the tank and checking about 20 minutes later to see if the toilet bowl water has turned the same color.
SHOWERS AND BATHS
Showers and baths are the next target for water saving. The most common devices are flow-control valves, flow restrictors and aerators that can be added to existing fixtures. New showerheads can also be installed that feature water-saving capabilities.
There is a distinct difference between a flow-control valve and a flow restrictor. The flow-control valve restricts the flow of water to about 2.75 gals. per minute, automatically making adjustments for water-pressure changes.
A flow restrictor does not make an automatic adjustment if the pressure changes. Therefore, more water is used as the pressure increases.
Some of these devices have manual controls to adjust water flow from flood to shutoff. Many include a weep to help prevent back pressure in the pipes.
Many of these showerheads also have manual controls to adjust the amount of water flow so less water can be used for soaping and more for rinsing.
These devices help restrict the flow of water from a typical rate of seven gals. per minute to about two to three gals.
FAUCETS
The third target for water saving around your Orange County home is the bathroom and kitchen faucets. Like the shower or bathtub, water is consumed at the rate of about 7 gals. per minute. A restrictor (or aerator) can reduce the flow to 2- to 3- gals. Per minute.
There are models which automatically adjust the flow to 2- to 3- gals. per minute. There are models which automatically adjust the flow rate according to water-pressure changes and other models which do not make automatic compensations. Some have manual controls for the Orange County homeowner to preset the amount of restriction.
Several states, such as New York and California, have code requirements on faucets and showerheads. Since these water-saving devices also control the proportion of hot water used, they have the additional selling point of being a fuel saver.
regardless of state mandated use of water saving devices, it is in your best interest to modify your water usage. Your Orange County plumbing contractor knows the benefit of all these devices and can advise you as to which will be most beneficial in your case and will then gladly install any water saving plumbing fixture for you.
Article Source: http://www.acehardware.com/info/index.jsp?categoryId=1267597
A few decades ago, it you wanted to soak in a hot tub, take a dip in the pool, or sweat it out in a sauna, you had to either join a gym or stay at a luxury hotel. But with new technological advances and more affordable prices, a lot of this equipment can now be installed in your Anaheim home. However, what if you want to have a combination of all these fixtures? What if you want to have a soak, a sweat, and a bath all at once? Then you may want to look into steam showers when planning your bathroom remodel. A steam shower will provide all three capabilities and more.
Controlled Condensation
Steam showers are a traditional stall with regular heads and fixtures. And though you can take a regular bath within the enclosure, you also have the ability to turn this space into a steamy sauna. A generator heats the water to a boil and then this hot water vapor is pushed out through jets that line the walls and ceiling. The surfaces are constructed of specialized material made to withstand the extreme heat without damage (the surrounding temperature can range anywhere from 90-115 degrees). Plus, the unit is thoroughly sealed so moisture cannot enter your Anaheim bathroom to ruin wallpaper, paint, or drywall.
Curative Powers
You may be wondering: Besides the obvious extravagance, why would you want to invest in these contraptions? First off, they’re very relaxing, which is great after a long day of work. But relaxation also has many health benefits as well.
Increased Circulation: Hot air helps thin the blood and enhance the body’s circulation, which alleviates arthritis, fatigue, and soreness.
Humidity Therapy: Moist air raises the metabolism and improves the respiratory system. Plus, it works up a sweat which helps to remove toxins from the body.
Hydro-Acupuncture: The jets can work together to provide a body massage in order to relax, rejuvenate, and relieve muscle aches. You can even get a foot massager installed to help rub down those doggies after a long day.
Aromatherapy: You can also add essential oils and scents to the water vapor to create a relaxing atmosphere. It helps to reduce stress, calm the body, and lift your mood.
Luxury Accessories
Steam showers aren’t just functional; they’re also luxurious, decadent, and completely comfortable. It’s supposed to create the feel of a spa, retreat, or resort. Therefore they come with all kinds of fun features to make the experience more enjoyable and tranquil. The options range from simple to splendid depending on your budget and personality. You could simply install a timer to control the length of a soak. Or put in a bench seat: this straight-forward installation goes a long way in terms of relaxation. But there are also high-end innovations, such as television, telephone, and audio/video jacks (you can even have inputs for your iPod). Something you may want to consider is an emergency button: it’s not a luxury as much as a necessity. These call for help in case of a fall, or they notify customer service if you need help with something. You can discuss any and all of these features with your Anaheim plumbing contractor prior to making a decision about the steam shower perfect for your household.
Read more: http://www.servicemagic.com/article.show.Steam-Showers-Can-Massage-Away-Your-Worry.14493.html#ixzz1tdD5gdr1
Replace your gravity flush toilet with a high-efficiency model.
The newest generation of high-efficiency toilets (HETs) are 20 percent more efficient than current federal standards. HETs not only take water efficiency to higher levels, they are frequently capable of flushing more waste. HETs are currently offered by all major fixture manufacturers.
There is very little correlation between the amount of water flushed and the effectiveness of a toilet. In testing, some 3.5 gallon-per-flush toilets cannot consistently flush 250 grams of waste, while some 1.1 gallon toilets reliably flush a full 1,000 grams.
At a minimum, a toilet should be able to reliably flush at least 250 grams of solid waste and 24 sheets of toilet paper. The standard maximum performance rating tests a toilet’s flushing ability up to 1,000 grams.
HET’s can be dual-flush, pressure-assisted, or gravity flush. Each technology has pros and cons.
Dual-Flush HETs
These toilets have two-flush controls: one for liquid waste and the other for solids. When used properly, the overall average flush volume is typically around 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF). A variety of quality manufacturers make dual-flush toilets, some meeting the 1,000 gram test maximum. Some dual-flush toilets are lever operated, requiring the user to raise the lever for a small flush and depress the lever for a full flush. Others have two distinct buttons to select the flush. With the lever style dual-flush toilets, there is a possibility that users will not be conscientious enough to lift the lever when a small flush will suffice, thus resulting in higher than expected water use. The button style design requires a conscious decision.
Pressure-Assisted HETs
These toilets employ a closed vessel inside the tank. When pressurized water enters the vessel, air is compressed at the top. When the water is released, the air expands rapidly, creating a high-velocity jet of water that pushes the waste through the trap. Eight major manufacturers make pressure-assisted HETs that flush with just 1.1 gallons and are capable of consistently disposing of 500 to 1,000 grams in a single flush. Although pressurized units have become quieter, some people object to the brief, but noisy flush. A benefit of pressurized units is that they are flapperless.
Gravity Flush HETs
The new generation of gravity flush high-efficiency toilets typically have enlarged flappers and waste trapways. Through computer modeling and extensive testing, engineers have developed models with superior siphoning action to help pull the waste through the bowl. Gravity flush HETs are available that are capable of flushing up to 1,000 grams of solid waste. Gravity flush HETs use flappers and many of the flappers are proprietary, which may make it difficult to find replacements at your Anaheim neighborhood hardware store.
regardless of which type of toilet you ultimately decide on, your Anaheim plumber can easily handle the plumbing installation.
Article Source: http://www.snwa.com/consv/indoor_toilets_high.html
April 30, 2012 at 3:14 pm | Category: Plumbing
There are variations in clothes washers, but all are basically big tubs that fill with water, agitate to scrub clothes, and then spin to wring out the water. Of course, in addition to these basic functions, they may have any number of sophisticated features. Most types also incorporate an electronic timer and controls.
Because a washing machine is a large consumer of both energy and water, the key to selecting the right one is to purchase the most energy-efficient model that fits your lifestyle and space and to always use the right amount of detergent for the washer and your Orange County water hardness.
In terms of lifestyle, think about how often you use the washer and what you wash. If you wash often, you will get the best performance from a stainless-steel tub. Those who wash less frequently will probably do fine with porcelain-coated steel or high-grade plastic.
If your wash includes a variety of fabrics and levels of dirtiness, choose a machine that offers specialty cycles such as delicate and extra soak, as well as one for a second rinse. Multiple water-level settings ensure the most efficient wash for loads of different sizes. Some machines can boost water temperature to sanitize a load.
For those with limited space in their Orange County homes, there are stacking washer-dryer units in either full-size or apartment-size capacities. Remember that the size of your washer should match your dryer’s capacity.
Other items to consider are automatic temperature regulators (a must in cold climates, they ensure that wash water comes in at a constant temperature for the setting) plus additional insulation and reinforced frames, both of which reduce noise.
When buying a new washer, pay careful attention to the warranty. Be clear about both the term and the extent of the coverage. Also be aware that some washing machines are much easier to work on than others. Some new types have a cabinet that is easy to detach and lift off for easy access to the parts.
There are two styles of washer: top-load, which is the most common, and front-load, which provides the greatest energy efficiency.
A top-loading machine, also known as a V-axis because the agitator turns on a vertical axis, allows you to access the wash tub without bending. While a top loader costs less initially, it is less energy efficient in the long run. It uses regular detergent and offers the greatest selection of models and options.
A front-loading machine, called an H-axis because its agitator turns on a horizontal axis, is gaining in popularity because of its energy efficiency. This type uses from one-third to one-half the amount of water of a top loader, which also means that much less heating. And, because it spins faster, clothes come out needing less time in the dryer. Although they save on energy costs, front loaders are more expensive at purchase, and some require a special detergent.
Your Orange County plumber can inform you as to what is available and which is most suited to your needs. Once you have reached a decision, your plumber can also take care of the plumbing installation should you need assistance.
Article Source: http://www.hometips.com/buying-guides/washing-machines.html
April 25, 2012 at 4:51 pm | Category: Plumbing
Sump Pump Basics
A sump pump usually stands in a sump pit — a hole with a gravel base about 2 feet (60 centimeters) deep and 18 inches (45 centimeters) wide — dug in the lowest part of your Anaheim basement or crawlspace. As the pit fills with water, the pump turns on. It moves the liquid out of the pit through pipes that run away from your home to a spot where the water can drain away from your foundation. The pipe usually has a one-way valve called a check valve at the pump end to keep the water from flowing back into the pit.
Most sump pumps turn on automatically through a float activator arm or a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor works just like its name suggests: Water exerts more pressure on the sensor than air does, which causes the pump to activate. The float activator works a lot like the one in your toilet tank. A buoyant ball floats on top of the water, manually moving the arm as the water level rises. You can also buy a manually operated pump, which works only when you decide to turn it on, but these aren’t as common because of their lack of convenience. Automatic pumps also have an option for you to activate the pump if the float arm or sensor should fail to work.
The typical home sump pump uses a centrifugal pump to move water. When the motor is on, it causes a screw- or fanlike device called an impeller to turn. Using centrifugal force, the spinning impeller forces water toward the sides of the pipe, creating a low-pressure area at its center. Water from the pit rushes to fill the void, and the impeller’s spinning action pushes it out through the pipe.
Sump pumps for Anaheim home use are powered by electricity and use standard household current, so they don’t require specialized wiring beyond a grounded outlet. Since the pump is always in or near water, it’s a good idea to have a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) on the outlet to prevent accidental electrocution.
There are two primary sump pump designs, both of which are about 2 1/2 to 3 feet (76.2 to 91 centimeters) high. A submersible pump rests in the water. It’s encased in a waterproof housing, with the pump itself at the bottom and the outlet pipe near the top. A flat screen or grate covers the bottom of the pump to keep out debris. When the pump turns on, water is sucked up through the grate and routed into the pipes and out of your home.
The other common type of sump pump is the pedestal pump. Pedestal pumps look something like a long stick with a fat head. The pedestal keeps the pump out of the pit, away from the water even when the pit is full. An inlet pipe reaches down into the bottom of the pit to draw the water out. Since the motor and pump are out of the water, pedestal pumps are usually louder — but less expensive — than submersible pumps.
Read on to learn whether you need one of these pumps in your home and what to do to keep it working once it’s installed.
Choosing a Sump Pump
Depending on the laws in Anaheim, you may not need a sump pump. For example, if you’ve never had standing water in your basement and it’s consistently warm and dry, a sump pump probably wouldn’t do you much good. However, if the area under your house floods occasionally or feels damp and smells musty, there’s a good chance you have an issue with moisture entry. Along with other waterproofing steps, a sump pump would make your basement a healthier space and protect any possessions and appliances you store there.
One way you can check whether moisture is getting into your Anaheim home through your basement floor or walls is by taping a 2-foot-square (61-centimeter-square) piece of plastic onto surface and leaving it in place for a day or two. If you’re not sure where the moisture may be coming in, it’s a good idea to do this in multiple spots. After a couple of days, check under the plastic — if it’s wet, you have a moisture problem.
The first step in dealing with basement moisture is to air it out and run a dehumidifier. Since most moisture that ends up in a basement comes from water draining around your foundation, check to see that your gutters and downspouts are in good repair and directing water at least 6 feet (1.8 meters) away from your foundation. In a couple of weeks, repeat your plastic sheet test — if it shows moisture, a sump pump may be a good idea.
Since sump pumps have many options available, when choosing one, you need to make some decisions:
- Manual or automatic: Although manually operated sump pumps are available and slightly less expensive, an automatic pump is far more convenient.
- Horsepower: Sump pumps are commonly one-quarter to one-third horsepower. More powerful motors will pump more water, but you don’t need to go overboard if your moisture problem is minor.
- Head pressure: Head pressure is the height a pump can raise water. For example, a pump with head pressure of 12 feet (3.7 meters) can raise water to that height, minus about 10 percent for physical limitations like bends in pipes. The pump you choose must be able to lift water out of the sump pit and up to the outlet pipe.
- Cord length: You need to be able to plug a sump pump directly into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet — you shouldn’t plug one into an extension cord.
- Voltage: Most sump pumps for use in U.S. homes operate on standard 110-volt circuits. Pumps with 220 or 4690 volts are available but are more commonly used in industrial applications.
- Backup and alarm systems: Choose the alarm notification and backup system that fits with your personal lifestyle.
Sump Pump Installation
You can have your professional Anaheim plumber install a sump pump in your home, but if you’re a reasonably handy person, it may be a job you can take on yourself. Here’s an overview of how to install a sump pit and pump in your basement if you should decide not to have a plumber install your sump pump.
- Determine where water, sewer and utility lines enter your home. You want to put your sump pit away from this existing infrastructure at the lowest point of your basement (you can use a laser level to determine this point). The pump should be at least 8 inches (20 centimeters) away from an outside wall and close to a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet.
- Figure out how you are going to route the outlet pipe — usually 1 1/2 inch to 2 inch (3.8 to 5 centimeter) PVC. Running it up through a rim joist is usually the easiest way to get the pipe to the outside.
- Purchase your sump pump and liner together. The liner, essentially a heavy plastic tub with slits to allow water to enter, will determine the size of the hole you dig. You want to dig the hole at least 3 inches (7.6 centimeters) wider than the liner and about 6 inches (15.2 centimeters) deeper. You can use the liner as a starting template and enlarge your outline by 3 inches (7.6 centimeters).
- Dig the hole to the depth recommended by the sump pump manufacturer, then level the bottom. The easiest way to cut through the concrete is to use a jackhammer.
- Put the liner into the hole and fill around the outside with coarse gravel. Also put about 6 inches (15 centimeters) of gravel in the bottom of the pit. Tamp it down firmly to ensure the bottom stays level.
- Attach the discharge pipe to the pump, and place the pump into the pit, making sure it stands upright and level.
- Cut a piece of PVC drain pipe 1 foot (30.5 centimeters) long. Drill a hole in the rim joist to accommodate the discharge pipe and install it in the hole.
- Measure and cut pieces of PVC pipe to run from the pump to the inside of the pipe through the rim header. Dry fit all the pieces, and when you’re sure they are right, cement them together.
- On the outside, fit a piece of discharge pipe onto the pipe protruding through the rim header. Run it to the discharge area, then cement the pipe in place. The discharge pipe should have a small vent hole that’s out of the water but drains into the pit. This vent hole is designed to prevent an air lock from forming in the lower part of the pump.
- Finish up by caulking around the hole in the rim header both inside and outside and supporting the discharge pipe inside the house by attaching it to walls or joists.
- Finally, adjust the float valve on the pump following the manufacturer’s directions. Check the operation by pouring in two or three buckets of water, then plug in the pump.
Sump Pump Maintenance
Most sump pumps are equipped with water level or flood alarms, usually battery powered, that alert you if the pump isn’t working properly and water is backing up. More sophisticated systems can notify your alarm company or call your cell phone if the water starts to rise. Fortunately, this shouldn’t happen often. Sump pumps on the whole are quite reliable. But as with any other important piece of equipment, regular maintenance is always a good idea. Spend a few minutes every couple of months, when heavy rains are forecast and in early spring to ensure reliable sump pump operation. Basic sump pump maintenance is usually as simple as doing these few jobs.
- Make sure the pump is plugged in to a working ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet and the cord is in good shape. In damp areas, GFCI breakers may trip, effectively shutting off the sump pump. Check in on your sump pump periodically so you can reset the GFCI if necessary.
- Ensure the pump itself is standing upright. Vibrations during operation can cause it to fall or tilt onto one side. This can jam the float arm so it can’t activate the pump.
- Periodically pour a bucket of water into the pit to make sure the pump starts automatically and the water drains quickly once the pump is on. If the pump doesn’t start, have it serviced.
- Physically remove a submersible pump from the pit and clean the grate on the bottom. The sucking action of the pump can pull small stones into the grate, blocking the inlet or damaging the pump over time.
- Ensure the outlet pipes are tightly joined together and draining out at least 20 feet (6 meters) away from your foundation.
- Make sure the vent hole in the discharge pipe is clear.
Another important point is the sump pump’s power supply. The fact that sump pumps rely on electricity to operate does make them vulnerable in the event of a power outage. Fortunately, there are backup options available. For some people, at least those on municipal water systems — and assuming the city water system is still functional — water-powered sump pumps that don’t need any electricity are an option. These pumps literally use the pressure of flowing water to pump water out of the sump. The downside to this design is that the pumping process uses virtually the same amount of city water as the quantity of water it pumps out. So, while water-powered pumps aren’t necessarily a good choice for a main pump, they offer a viable option for a short duration backup pump.
Sump pumps with backup battery power are also commonly available. The backup power comes from a car battery — or even better, a deep cycle boat battery. Most of the systems charge the batteries while the power is on, ensuring the battery is fully charged in the event of a power outage. Alternatively, a trickle charger used for car batteries is also an option.
Some Anaheim homeowners use backup gasoline or diesel generators to provide their own electricity in the event of a power outage. Since a small sump pump needs 800 to 100 watts to operate and can draw up to 1,800 watts when starting, a backup generator needs to be sized properly and, of course, well maintained.
Article Source: http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/plumbing/sump-pump4.htm
Opening up, modifying, or entirely removing one or more walls is relatively easy but guaranteed to make a mess. In addition, you must patch the floor, walls, and ceiling.
Before you remove any wall studs, you must determine whether or not the wall is a bearing wall—part of your Orange County home’s structural system
Be aware that plumbing, wiring, or other mechanical equipment within a wall can make removal far more involved. Rerouting plumbing, in particular, can add significantly to the work. If this proves too difficult a task, your Orange County plumber is trained to quickly and efficiently remove walls.
To prepare for demolition, mask off the area with plastic sheeting to prevent the dust from permeating your home, and protect the floor with drop cloths. Turn off the electrical circuits that supply power to receptacles, light switches, and wires in the wall. Pry off any moldings.
To remove gypsum wallboard (drywall), punch through the center of the panel with a hammer and use a prybar to extract the pieces. To dispose of plaster and lath, smash the plaster with a sledge hammer and then pry off the lath.
1. Pry any remnants of surface material off the studs of the wall you intend to take out. On the walls that adjoin it, remove the surface material back to the first stud. Pull any remaining nails from all exposed studs.
2. Make sure water and electrical circuits are turned off and then remove any wiring or plumbing from the wall; properly cap pipes and terminate circuits. If you’re unfamiliar with this type of work, call an Orange County electrical or Orange County plumbing contractor.
3. Knock out any fire blocks between the studs. Cut through all the studs except the end ones a few inches up from the floor. Pull and twist the upper lengths of the studs to free them from the top plate. Using a hammer, knock over the short stud blocks at the base and pry them up. Pull out or cut off any remaining nails.
4. Make a diagonal cut through each end stud at a downward angle and then pry out the two pieces, beginning with the lower half. Pull them free from the top and bottom plates and the anchoring studs in the adjoining walls.
5. If the top plate goes through the adjoining wall, cut it flush with that wall’s top plate. Remove the top plate by making a diagonal cut across it and then wedging a prybar between the two halves and pulling downward. Pull out any remaining nails.
6. As with the top plate, if the bottom plate goes through the adjoining wall, cut it flush at the end first. Then make an angled cut across it, taking care not to cut the floor. Pry up the plate and pull out any remaining nails.
Article Source: http://www.hometips.com/diy-how-to/wall-open-up.html
Families these days are eating healthier diets with less fried foods and fatty meats.
Yet many people don’t realize we must remain diligent in preventing fats, oils and grease discharges down our drains.
Cooking fats, oil and grease (FOG) are leading causes of clogged drains, back-ups, and sewage spills.
Keeping FOG out of your drains will keep the plumber away, save you money, prevent embarrassing backups, and inconvenient messy cleanups.
So where’s the grease? How can we trim the fat from our sewers and keep our pipes running smoothly?
Below is a list of many typical pipe-clogging foods to avoid washing down Anaheim drains:
• Oil and butter
• Mayonnaise and sour cream
• Cheese
• Sauces and dips
• Salad dressing
• Cake frosting
• Pie dough
• Gravy
• Turkey and chicken pan drippings
• Fat remaining on plates from BBQ steak
Eating a healthy diet, low in fat is great for our bodies.
By also placing our drains on fat-free diets, we help protect the environment and do our part to keep city costs down. Now that’s got to make you feel good all over!
Tips for fat-free drains:
Scrape food and grease from plates into the trash – garbage disposals don’t remove grease.
Place a strainer in your sink drains.
Pour off cooking grease from pans and bake ware into a resealable can. Let it cool before placing it in the trash.
Collect turkey frying oil and take it to a Anaheim household collection facility for free. The tallow company picks it up and recycles it.
Of course, we are all human – and being such may forget or overlook some of the offenders and wind up with a clogged drain. If that’s the case, rest assured that your Anaheim plumber can have your drains cleared in no time.
Article Source: http://www.elocalplumbers.com/blog/clog-prevention-tip-5461#more-5461
Are you tired of costly septic system maintenance?
Are you looking for ways to economize your Orange County household budget, better protect the environment and reduce septic system load? A greywater system is your answer. This is cutting-edge technology designed to safely recycle water from inside your Orange County home for reuse outside the home, taking pressure off septic systems. Read on to learn how greywater saves you money and water.
No more worrying about the need to increase or replace stressed septic systems. No more burnt landscaping because of drought-inspired water restrictions. Greywater is simple-to-use and provides ample water to keep the garden thriving and the maintenance man away.
How does it work?
Simple – the greywater system is easily installed by your licensed Orange County plumber. The small, inoffensive unit resembles a recycling container and recycles the water from your washing machine, bath and shower for outdoor irrigation use. The unit serves as a filtration system and does not store any water, so its capacity is unlimited.
How do I save money?
Easy. Every time you do a load of laundry, you’re also irrigating your garden. Plus, you cut the amount of water being deposited into septic systems: greywater will reduce the amount in half during the spring and summer months.
A family of four can reduce their water consumption by up to 40,000 gallons annually while protecting their septic systems. Greywater is used by many families to complement their septic systems. With greywater, you have the benefits of a larger septic without the cost. You can easily find affordable greywater systems.
Seems Like a Good Deal. What about maintenance?
Minimal maintenance of most greywater systems is required. Generally, greywater filters need to be cleaned every six months … a short, simple task. Some systems require maintenance every two months.
Is it safe?
Absolutely. Greywater is defined as water from showers, baths and washing machines. The greywater system filters out lint and debris. Soap levels are retained in the greywater as they add nutrients to the soil. All that is needed to safely reuse the recycled greywater from your washing machine is to switch to a detergent with low or no phosphorus. That’s it. Black water, which originates from kitchen sinks, dishwashers and toilets, is never used with the greywater system.
Article Source: http://www.elocalplumbers.com/blog/protect-septic-system-grey-water-5498
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