New Year's Resolutions for Your Bathroom

Have you made any New Year's resolutions for your home?  Bathroom upgrades are one of the easiest resolutions to keep!  Here are a few bathroom upgrades that provide satisfaction all year long.

2015 Bathroom Upgrades:

• Showerhead - A shower is not just a place to get clean, it can also a way to relax at night or wake up in the morning.  A new showerhead can better suit your home's shower needs!  Newer showerheads can also help you conserve water without sacrificing the quality of your shower.
• Toilet - Upgrading your toilet bowl is an easy, cost-effective bathroom remodeling option.  A more efficient, low-flow fixture can help conserve water and lower your monthly bill.  
• Faucets - A new faucet can change the look of your bathroom.  Replace an outdated faucet with a modern option that better matches your bathroom design.  Newer faucets can also help you reduce water waste.

Check out this article for more tips on how to remodel your bathroom in 2015.  You can also contact our remodeling experts by calling 585-216-3058.  We offer the best in design and value!  Call to learn more about our bathroom remodeling services and to schedule a free in-home estimate.

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Plumbing Tips for the New Year

Are you ready to say goodbye to 2014 and welcome in the New Year?  Here are a few plumbing tips to help  keep your home in good shape for the New Year!

Plumbing Tips:

• Follow Proper Garbage Disposal Use - It's easy to get careless with what you put down your disposal.  Starchy, stringy vegetables can wrap around the blades and clog the disposal.  Commit to knowing what you should and shouldn't put down the drain.
• Update Your Bathroom - Don't put off your bathroom remodel any longer.  Make 2015 the year you enjoy a beautiful, new bathroom. New faucets and low-flow toilets can help you use less water and save on your monthly water bill.
• Keep Grease Out of Your Drains - Don't become forgetful with your dish washing habits!  Wipe grease off of all of your pots and pans before putting them in the sink.

Check out this article from Patch for more tips on how to care for your plumbing system in the New Year.  You can also contact our plumbing professionals by calling 585-216-3058.  We can help you with all of your plumbing repair and bathroom remodeling needs.

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Tips to Help Maintain Your Plumbing System Through the Holidays

Holiday celebrations can put a lot of strain on your plumbing system.  Here are a few tips to keep your home free of clogged drains through the new year!

Holiday Plumbing Tips:

• Wipe Down Pans -If you are cooking with oil, make sure that you wipe down your pots and pans before putting them in the sink to be washed.
• Use Drain Screens - Drain screens help keep left over food particles from getting down your drain.  They are also good to have in your bathroom shower to keep hair from causing clogs.
• Only Flush Waste - If you are having guests over this week, remind them to throw away paper towels, cotton swabs, and other products that can clog your plumbing system.  Place a garbage can in the bathroom so that they can throw these items away instead.

Check out this article for more tips on how to keep your plumbing system working smoothly.  If you do experience any plumbing problems through the new year, call 585-216-3058 to contact the plumbing technicians at AP Plumbing.  Our professional plumbing technicians can help you with all of your plumbing repair needs!   

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Common Holiday Plumbing Problems

The holidays are a busy time of year.  As you have families and friends over to celebrate this weekend and through the upcoming week, here are a few tips to help you prevent common holiday plumbing problems.

Prevention Tips:

• Run the Dishwasher at Night - Chances are you will have a lot of dishes to do after your holiday party.  Instead of running the dishwasher during peak hours, run it at night.  This will help put less strain on your plumbing system and prevent issues with water flow.
• Keep Oil Out of Your Drains - Holiday cooking often includes a lot of oil.  When you clean your pots and pans after making dinner, wipe the oil off first.  Grease might look like a liquid, but it will actually harden in your pipes and block the drain.
• Be Conscious of Your Disposal - Garbage disposals are a great way to keep extra scraps of food out of your drains.  However, certain stringy, fibrous foods like carrots and celery can clog your disposal.  Keep stringy foods out of your drain!

Read this article for more tips on how to prevent plumbing problems through the holidays.  If you do experience any plumbing problems, call 585-216-3058 to contact the plumbing technicians at AP Plumbing.  Our professional plumbing technicians can help you with all of your plumbing repair needs!   

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How to Prevent Frozen Plumbing Pipes

Is your plumbing system ready for the winter?  Freezing temperatures can put your plumbing at risk!  If the water in your pipes freeze, they can expand and burst.  Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to prevent frozen pipes and keep your plumbing working smoothly through the cold winter months.

Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes:

• Disconnect Hoses - Don't leave your garden hoses outside!  Disconnect all of your gardening hoses and install covers on outside faucets to keep them from freezing.
• Keep Cabinets Open - Open your kitchen cabinets and let the air circulate.  If your cabinets are closed when your heat is low, the pipes may freeze!
• Check Exposed Pipes - Do you have exposed pipes in your basement or on exterior walls?  Insulate them with foam insulation wrap or heating tape.  This is especially important in areas that aren't heated like basements and crawl spaces.

Read this article for more tips on how to prevent frozen pipes or give us a call.  Our plumbing technicians can help you winterize your home, as well as address any plumbing problems you may have.

Call 585-216-3058 to contact AP Plumbing.  Our professional plumbing technicians can help you with all of your plumbing repair needs!   For more tips, Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Holiday Bathroom Cleaning Tips

Is your bathroom ready for the holiday season?  Here are a few tips to help you clean before family and friends come to visit.

Bathroom Cleaning Tips:

• Gather Cleaning Products - Put all of your cleaners, rags, paper towels and sponges in a place that is easy to get to.  Having all of your bathroom cleaning supplies in one place will save you time.  You won't have to rush between rooms to get what you need!
• Break it Down - Make your big cleaning projects more manageable by breaking them down into smaller home cleaning tasks.  
• Use Disinfectant - Make it a priority to disinfect the toilet, sink and faucet handle with a disinfectant cleaner.  You don't want to get sick during the busy holiday rush!
• Replace Bath Towels - Wet towels and washcloths are a breeding ground for mold and mildew.  Replace them every three days to keep your bathroom at it's cleanest!  
• Close the Toilet - Keep your toilet lid closed before you flush.  This helps prevent stirred-up germs from escaping into the air!

Check out this article for more bathroom cleaning tips to implement during the holidays.  Contact our plumbing technicians if you experience any plumbing problems!  

Call 585-216-3058 to contact AP Plumbing.  Our professional plumbing technicians can help you with all of your plumbing repair needs!   For more tips, Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Why Does Your Shower Have Low Water Pressure?

Do you have low water pressure?  Low water pressure is common when two plumbing fixtures are running at the same time.  You might notice the water pressure is the shower is low when you're running the washing machine.  However, if your water pressure is always significantly low, there could be another reason behind your plumbing problem.  Here are a few of the most common causes.

Low Water Pressure Causes:

• Home Valve - Valves can be turned off on accident.  Even if slightly turned from the on position, your valve could restrict water flow through your home and to your shower.
• Leaks - Even small leaks can lower your home's water pressure.  If you notice that your water usage has increased, you should contact a professional plumbing technician to check for leaks.
• Peak Hours - Low water pressure could be the result of using your water at the same time as everyone else.  If your neighbors are watering the lawn at the same time every morning or evening, this could reduce your water pressure too!
• Mineral Deposits - Mineral deposits can keep water from flowing freely through your pipes.  This is especially common in older houses or in homes with galvanized iron pipes.

Read this article for more tips and information on why you might have low water pressure in your shower.  You can also call 585-216-3058 to contact AP Plumbing.  Our professional plumbing technicians can help you with all of your plumbing repair needs!   For more tips, Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

How to Prepare Your Plumbing for the Winter

Are you ready for the cold winter months?  Preparing your plumbing system for the temperature drop can help you prevent plumbing problems this year.  Here are a few tips to help you get your plumbing system winter-ready.

Winter Plumbing Tips:

• Remove Outdoor Hoses - Remove hoses from your outdoor yard faucets.  
• Schedule a Furnace Check-Up - Having your furnace checked once a year can extend the life of your overall system.  Our experienced technicians can identify problems before they start to have an effect on your home and your energy bill.
• Change Your Filters - You should check your furnace filter once a month and replace it when you see that it is getting dirty.  Dust and other particles can limit airflow and reduce the efficiency of your system.
• Turn Off Your Sprinklers - Turn off your sprinkler system and flush out any collected water.  This will help prevent water from collecting and freezing int he cold weather.
• Insulate Plumbing Pipes - Insulate any exposed pipes with insulation foam to save on heating costs and keep your pipes protected.

If you have any questions about how to prepare your plumbing system for the drop in temperature, give us a call.  Our plumbing technicians can help you prevent winter plumbing problems this year.

Call 585-216-3058 or visit our website for more information on our plumbing and remodeling services.  For more tips, Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

How Can You Avoid Holiday Plumbing Emergencies?

It's the holiday season!  Many families spend more time in the kitchen with their loved ones during this time of year.  Here are a few tips to help you prevent plumbing emergencies this holiday season.

Holiday Plumbing Tips: 

• Use a Strainer - Make sure that your drains have strainers int hem to catch hair, soap, and fibers that can clog your drains. 
• Invest in a Sink Plunger - Sink plungers are smaller than toilet plungers.  Place the plunger over the sink drain hole and make sure that there's enough water to create a seal.  This can help dislodge the clog.
• Be Careful What You Flush - Remind guests to throw away paper towels, baby wipes, and other paper products.  These items can quickly block your drain line!  

If you experience any plumbing emergencies this weekend or through the holidays, give us a call!  Our plumbing professionals can help you with all of your plumbing needs.

Call 585-216-3058 or visit our website for more information on our plumbing and remodeling services.  For more tips, Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Tips to Prevent Plumbing Problems This Thanksgiving

Are you ready for Thanksgiving?  Remember to keep greasy dishes from clogging your drains!  Here are a few tips to help you prevent plumbing problems this year.

Tips to Prevent Plumbing Problems:

• Watch Your Garbage Disposal - Be careful what you are putting down your garbage disposal.  Get rid of leftovers by throwing them away in the trash.  When you do use your garbage disposal, make sure you only put very small quantities down it at a time.
• Keep Water Running - Keep your faucet running as you use your garbage disposal.  Run it for a few seconds even after you turn it off to help keep the drains clear.
• Wash Dishes By Hand - Avoid running the dishwasher if you think that there is a problem.  Dishwashers discharge into the disposal!
• Avoid Grease - Avoid pouring grease or cooking oil from your Thanksgiving meal down your kitchen sink.  Always wipe off any pans before washing them.

For more tips on how to prevent plumbing problems this Thanksgiving, check out this article.  If you do experience any plumbing problems, give us a call!  Our professional technicians can help you clear your drains.

Call 585-216-3058 or visit our website for more information on our plumbing and remodeling services.  For more tips, Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Tips to Help Keep Bathroom Drains Clear

Keeping your drains clean isn't always an easy task.  Toothpaste, shaving cream, hair and soap are just a few of the things that can keep your drains from working efficiently.  Here are a few tips to help you keep your drains clear.

Keep Drains Clear with These Tips:

• Run Hot Water - Running hot water down your drain for about thirty seconds, once a week will help clear the drain.  This will help prevent a blockage before it occurs!
• Salt and Vinegar - Pour 1 tablespoon of salt down the drain, followed by a quarter cup of plain white vinegar.  Let it sit and then run hot water down the drain to clear out the salt.
• Liquid Bleach - Pouring half a cup of liquid bleach down the drain will help keep the plumbing running smoothly.

Check out this article for more tips on how to keep your bathroom drains flowing and call our office with any questions you may have.  If you do experience any plumbing clogs, our professional technicians can help you clear your drains!

Call 585-216-3058 or visit our website for more information on our plumbing and remodeling services.  For more tips, Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Bathroom Remodeling: Before and After

Looking to upgrade your current bathroom?  Our design professionals can tailor your remodel to meet your needs, desires, and budget.  Take a look at a few pictures from one of our recent bathroom remodels!

Before:

After:

Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website for more information on our plumbing and remodeling services.  For more tips, Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Garbage Disposal Maintenance Tips

Garbage disposals are a great way to get rid of unwanted leftovers.  However, grease, potato peels, pasta, and other foods can actually damage your blades and clog your pipes.  Here are a few tips to help prevent plumbing problems and extend the life of your garbage disposal.

Garbage Disposal Tips:

• Run Cold Water - Cold water is a great way to keep your garbage disposal clean by allowing the blades to grind up food and push it out the drain pipe.
• Use it Often - Running your garbage disposal on a regular basis will help keep leftover food from hardening inside.  Even if you don't have anything to grind up, run the disposal every few days to prevent odors, clogs and rust.
• Flush it Out - Run your disposal for about a minute after it has finished grinding up the waste.  This ensures that all the food has been flushed out and helps prevent clogs.
• Reduce Waste Size - Your garbage disposal is not designed to handle large chucks of food.  Cut waste into smaller chunks and only put a few pieces in at a time to avoid clogs and damage.
• Grind Citrus Fruits - Orange, lemon and lime peels can help keep your disposal clean.  Toss a citrus peel in to help clear excess waste and eliminated any unpleasant smells.  Ice cubes work well too!

If you do experience any problems with your garbage disposal, give us a call.  Our experienced plumbing technicians can clear your clogged drains and give advice on how to keep your disposal running smoothly year-round.  Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website for more information on our plumbing services.

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photo credit: Chris Winters via photopin cc

How Do You Know If Your Sewer Drain Is Clogged?

Do you suspect your sewer drain is clogged?  Knowing the early warning signs can help you address your plumbing problem early on.  Here are a few common of the signs to look out for.

Signs Your Sewer Drain is Clogged:

• Flushing the Toilet - Look to see if your toilet water backs up or it coming out of the tub after you flush.  When flushed water can't go down the sewer drain, it usually flows back up the pipes.
• Running Faucet - Look for trapped air when running your bathroom sink.  If your toilet bubbles or the water is rising when you are running the faucet, you likely have a sewer line clog.
• Using the Washing Machine - Your sewer drain may be clogged if the water draining out of your washing machine causes your toilet to overflow or backup into the shower.

For more information on how to know if your sewer drains are clogged, check out this article.  You can also give our plumbing technicians a call.  Our plumbing technicians can determine whether or not you have a sewer drain clog and help you clear the line.  Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office today.

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What Causes Your Drains to Smell?

Are your sink drains smelly?  This kitchen or bathroom plumbing problem can be frustrating.  Fortunately, it's usually simple to fix! 

Common Causes:

• Garbage Disposal - Garbage disposals are designed to get rid of food particles in the drain.  However, sometimes grease can stick to the grinder.  Try using ice cubes to clear the drain.
• P-Trap - The u-shaped section of the pipe below your sink is called a p-trap.  When your plumbing is working efficiently, a little bit of water stays int he bend to keep gases from drifting out of the sewage system and into your home.  If you notice a smell, these gases might be coming up into your home.

If you notice your drains smell, read more here and give us a call.  Our plumbing technicians can help you pinpoint the reason and determine whether or not drain cleaning will be the best solution for you.  Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office today.

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What Shouldn't Go Down Your Disposal?

Photo Source: Flickr/David Winer

Your kitchen garbage disposal is a great way to get rid of food scraps. However, some foods can clog your pipes and harm your disposal blades.  Avoid putting these foods down your disposal to keep it running smoothly.

Foods to Avoid:

• Fibrous Foods - Celery, artichokes, asparagus, lettuce, corn husks, carrots, onion skins and potato peels can clog your disposal.  The fibrous foods wrap around the blades and keep your motor from operating well.  Dispose of these foods in the garbage instead.
• Bones - Keep those turkey bones out of your garbage disposal.  Bones and other hard foods can dull and even break your garbage disposal blades.
• Grease - Greasey foods will create a film over your garbage disposal blades.  Eventually, this grease will begin to decay and cause your disposal to smell.  Grease can clog your drains, too!
• Egg Shells - Egg shells can wrap around the shredder ring and can clog your pipes.
• Starches - Pasta, rice and other foods that swell with water can clog your garbage disposal trap.

For more information on what you should and shouldn't put down your garbage disposal, check out this Angies List article.  You can also contact our professional technicians if you experience any problems with your garbage disposal.  Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office today.

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How to Prevent Halloween Plumbing Nightmares

Have you carved your pumpkin yet?  Make sure you keep the pulp away from your drains!

Pumpkin pulp is one of the biggest causes of plumbing problems during this time of year.  Here are a few tips on how to keep you drains clear while carving your pumpkin.

Tips:

• Carve Pumpkin Neatly - Carve your pumpkin over old newspapers.  If you can, try carving outdoors to prevent your kitchen from getting messy.
• Careful Disposal  - Don't let pumpkin pulp go down your drain!  Carefully dispose of it in the trash.  Pumpkin pulp can can clog sink drains, toilets and even your garbage disposal.
• Toast Seeds - Instead of disposing of your pumpkin seeds, try toasting them!  Baking them in the oven with olive oil and cinnamon can make a great snack.

For more tips on how to prevent plumbing problems this Halloween, check out this article on how to handle your pumpkin.  You can also contact our professional plumbing technicians if you experience any plumbing problems in your home.  Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office today.

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How to Prevent Flooding from Pipe Leaks and Bursts

Knowing where the shutoff valves in your home are located can help you stop a flood before your home is damaged.  Here are a few of the valves you should be able to locate in your home or apartment.

Home Water Valves:

• Main Valve - If you have metered water, the shutoff valve will be on either side of the meter.  If your home has a well, the shutoff valve will be located on the house side of the pressure tank. 
• Hot Water - Your water heater should have a valve that controls all of the hot water in your house.  
• Toilet - This valve turns off the water specifically to your toilet.  They are typically located under the toilet tank.
• Sink - The shutoff valve for your sink is usually beneath the sink or within the cabinet or vanity.  There may be one valve for the hot water and separate one for cold water.
• Dishwasher - There may be a shutoff valve under your sink or in your basement.
• Washing Machine - The valve for your clothes washer is most likely located where the house-supply line meets your washer hose.

Read more about how to prevent flooding in your home in This Old House.  You can also contact our professional plumbing technicians if you experience any plumbing problems in your home.  Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office today.

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Tankless Water Heater Benefits

Photo Source: Wikimedia

Thinking of switching to a tankless water heater?  Here are a few of the many benefits they have to offer!

Tankless Water Heater Benefits:

• Space Saver - One of the biggest draws of a tankless water heater is that they take up much less room than traditional water heaters.  
• Energy Efficient - While tankless water heaters often require a larger upfront cost, your operating costs make up for it down the line.  It costs significantly less to heat your water.  
• On Demand Water - You don't need to wait for the tank to heat the water.  Tankless systems provide hot water on demand.  You don't need to waste energy heating unused water.
• Longer Lifespan - Tankless hot water heaters last much longer than water heater tanks.  Even if you plan on moving, they may be a good investment for your home!

Read more about the pros and cons of tankless water heaters on Apartment Therapy.  You can also contact our professional plumbing technicians for more information on tankless water heaters and whether or not they are the right choice for your home.  Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office today.

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