Consolidated Plumbing Blog

Unless you’re a plumber, shopping for toilets isn’t likely your idea of fun. But a home improvement project, necessity or switch to a more energy-efficient lifestyle may have you browsing toilets online or in your local hardware store. With so many choices, it can be difficult to understand the differences between the most basic models and those that are equipped with more features. Continue reading →

Slow drains are one of the most common plumbing problems in homes today. Whether it’s a clog in the kitchen sink or the shower, homeowners are quick reach for a liquid drain cleaner as the cure. The challenge with cleaning your drains this way is two-fold: the cleaners are filled with dangerous chemicals and the liquid cleaners are not effective at removing the clog, just pushing it further into your plumbing system. Continue reading →

The moisture and food particles left behind in a garbage disposal make it a prime spot for bacteria and mold to grow. If you notice a sewage smell creeping up from your kitchen sink, chances are the garbage disposal is the source. When it’s time to tackle the stench, it’s important to use caution to clean the garbage disposal safely and effectively. Continue reading →

As with many parts of your plumbing system, the septic tank probably gets little thought until something goes wrong. However, it can be one of the most costly repairs if small issues are left untreated. From leaks to overdue septic tank pumping, problems can lead to expensive, messy repairs. Most septic tanks are designed to last for 40 years or more, but you should keep up with routine maintenance. Continue reading →

A traditional water heater lasts for 10 to 12 years. With regular maintenance and proper repairs, you can extend the life of your unit and help it run more efficiently. Many homeowners aren’t familiar with water heater maintenance and don’t consider it a priority until the flow of hot water stops or a leak appears. One of the most important aspects of regular tank maintenance is clearing out sediment that’s settled at the bottom of the tank. Continue reading →

More than 1 in 10 homeowners remodel a bathroom each year. Roughly 21 percent of those remodels are of the master bathroom with a minimum budget of $7,500. Whether you’ve purchased an aging home in desperate need of an update, or you’ve lived in your house for decades and you’re ready for a change, a bathroom remodel can breathe new life into one of the most used spaces in the home. Continue reading →

The most common plumbing emergencies often come with a steep repair bill, but in many cases, the needed repairs can be avoided. Even for the not-so-handy homeowner, understanding common plumbing problems and what causes them can build your awareness and help extend the life of your fixtures and plumbing system. Continue reading →

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, nearly 10 percent of homes in the Unites States have undetected leaks that account for 90 gallons of wasted water per day. Leaks not only cause an increase in your monthly water bill, but they can also damage your home and cause undesired tree root growth in your yard. One of the best ways to detect possible plumbing leaks is to understand the most common situations that cause leaks to form. Continue reading →

If you’re looking for a permanent solution to hard water in your home, a water softener may be the best cure. The initial investment of a softener system can be costly, so homeowners should test their water and speak with a local professional plumber before committing to the purchase. A hard water test can be purchased from Lowe’s or another home improvement store. Continue reading →

Although trees on the front lawn may add character to your property, they also have the power to wreak havoc on your underground plumbing system. Problems, such as leaks, can develop without you even realizing it, and small leaks can turn into big problems in a short period of time. Continue reading →