Identifying Hidden Leaks

Hidden leaks are exactly what the sounds like – not visible. They are usually located outside, inside your home, or in the walls. Most commonly, people report hearing water running and not being able to identify the source or seeing water on the floor and not being able to see where it is coming from. Once the water becomes visible, there is an increased chance of damage to your home.

Once you decide to seek help for your hidden leak, your plumber will trace your lines. Once they locate your hidden leak, they can then begin to determine the best way to fix your problem. Some of these solutions are fast and simple, while others may require a bit more work. However, the longer you wait to resolve hidden leaks and other plumbing issues, the more potential damage can be done to your home.

What Are Your Options for Resolving Hidden Leaks?

Generally, you have two options when it comes to resolving these issues – repair or re-piping. It depends on the severity of your leak and the age of your pipes in determining which is best for you.

• Repair – Once the plumber locates your leak, it can more than likely be fixed fairly simply. However, if the leak is in a difficult spot such as under your foundation or behind a wall, it can be a destructive repair process. Also, if you have deteriorating pipes, fixing one leak may cause another one to spring elsewhere.
• Re-piping – If you have old copper or plastic pipes, re-piping is usually your best option. This involves replacing and upgrading most of the existing pipes in a home. It will not only fix the problem, but also prevent other leaks from coming up due to deteriorating piping. The peace of mind that many homeowners achieve from not having to worry about leaks due to our 10 year labor and 20 year manufacturing warranties.

The Rinaldi Difference

We encourage our customers to shop around when they are trying to find plumbers to help them with hidden leaks. This is because we know that they will come back to us for a variety of reasons. We have been in this industry since 1974, and our experience shows in everything we do. Our knowledgeable team works faster and utilizes the latest technology and techniques to provide you with options. Our prompt, same day service means you don’t have to worry about your hidden leaks for another day, which saves you money in the long run as well. We value your home just as much as you do, so our courteous and experienced crew can fix your plumbing issues today so that you don’t have to worry about tomorrow.

To learn about our hidden leak detection services and how we can help you repair and prevent a potential plumbing disaster, call us at (407) 413-9795.

In general, plumbing companies offer repairs and installations for water heaters, water pipes, and sewers/drains, in addition to offering preventative maintenance on them.

Water Heaters

Most plumbing companies will install and/or repair water heaters. These companies have a firsthand understanding of how important it is to have hot water available for immediate use. Water heaters are available as a storage tank or tankless. Your plumbing professional will be able to assist you in helping to decide which type is best for your home and your budget, in addition to installing it and repairing it if need be.

Water Pipes

Pipes are something that people have the most problems with, whether the pipes are frozen or leaking or clogged. Your local plumber will be able to install any and all pipes for you. With their many years of experience with working with pipes, they understand which ones will work the best in your home, and they’ll be able to come to your rescue when there is a pipe emergency that you cannot handle on your own.

Sewers/Drains

Sewers and drains require a lot of preventative maintenance. If there is a blockage in your drain that you are unaware of, it can cause a lot of problems that will cost you a lot of money in the long run to repair. Plumbers will be able to check for any problems with sewage pipes and drainage lines and catch them before they turn into big problems.

Traits of a Trustworthy Company

A trustworthy plumbing company will be accredited by the Better Business Bureau, and if they are accredited, the BBB logo should be prominently displayed on their website. The company will be guaranteed to have employees who have the proper licenses and bonds to work in the industry. Before choosing a company, make sure that they have the legal clearances and that you trust the people who will be coming into your home. Remember, you need to feel secure when you have a stranger coming into your home to perform these services.

  If you would like an estimate of any of the services that we offer, call us at (407) 413-9795.

Wider French drains work better than narrow ones because there is more gravel in wider drains than narrow ones. By having more gravel, silt takes more time to fill up the spaces between the pipe and the gravel, which makes the drain last longer. Also, a wider French drain will allow for water to disperse better than a narrow one. If you were going to build a drywell (which is a way to transfer extra water deeper into the soil) at the end of your French drain, having a wider trench will make it a lot easier to build one.

A French drain can be installed by any homeowner, however, it is a very long process and proper precautions must be taken. If you are uncomfortable with using digging tools for an extensive period of time, laying down piping, or pouring rocks and gravel, it is highly recommended to call a French drain specialist. They will know the right type of French drain that will work the best, in addition to the proper length and width and where it should start and end. These specialists have extensive knowledge of French drains and will be able to better understand the underlying problem that you are having.

If you do feel comfortable and confident in performing these activities, then:

Step 1: Plan

The first step is to consult your utility company to determine where the cable lines are in your lawn so that you don’t accidentally dig them up. After this is done, you need to plan out where your drain is going to flow.

Step 2: Dig

After planning out the route of your drain, you need to dig the trench. 6” by 12” is usually recommended, although there is no standard size. Be sure that your trenches will have an appropriate slope (try for a 2 percent grade) so that the water will flow easier.

Step 3:  Add gravel and pipe

Lay out a layer of gravel at the bottom of the trench, and then place the perforated pipe on top. The pipe should be covered in a fabric filter, and should be surrounded by at least an inch of gravel.

Step 4:  Add sand

Cover the gravel with coarse sand so that the water will filter through it.

Step 5: Plant sod

You can cover the sand with sod to replace the grass that you originally dug through. If you’re going to use sod, be sure to clean the soil from the roots so that the dirt does not infiltrate your new drainage system.

Installing a French drain is a very complicated process that can lead to problems if it is not done the proper way. The best way to go about it is to hire a professional so that they can provide you with their excellent service and be sure that there are no complications associated with the project.

If you’re having drainage problems, call us at (407) 413-9795.

The best way to evade the chances of you needing to call upon an emergency plumber is to have a company that can offer you preventative maintenance. Most plumbing companies have a 24/7  availability so that they can be your regular plumber in addition to your emergency plumber. Once your relationship with them is established, whether or not they became your emergency plumber before or after your regular plumber, they will most likely be in your evoked set of plumbers. You will call upon their services for the next time that you need plumbing assistance.

Emergency plumbers have the knowledge and skills to solve the plumbing issue that you’re having. They offer the same services as regular plumbers, such as installing or repairing pipes, water fixtures, sinks, bathtubs, and several more systems in your home. The most common emergency plumbing situations are:

• Pipe burst
• Frozen pipes
• Leaks
• Clogged drains/toilets
• Gas leaks

For some of these urgent situations (pipe bursts, frozen pipes, leaks), shut off the main water valve to prevent any more water from escaping, then call in your plumber to repair the pipe or insulate it properly. In the case of a clogged drain or toilet, it’s possible to unclog it yourself with a plumber’s snake or a plunger. If the clog is too large or unattainable with these tools, then you must call in the work of a professional. The gas leak, however, is something that cannot be fixed on your own. Evacuate your home immediately if you suspect a gas leak and call in help from a professional from there.

Plumbers are trained to respond quickly to your service call, and to provide knowledgeable advice when fixing the problem that you have, especially in an emergency.

To learn about the services we offer in an emergency plumbing situation, call us at (407) 413-9795.

A certified backflow tester is a professional who has extensive knowledge of plumbing and how to properly check backflow devices. This person will know the proper equipment that is necessary to keep your drinking water safe for use. They will install the device, and come back annually to check and make sure that the part has not been worn out or if there is a problem with it. There is a class that needs to be accomplished before certification is granted, and the classes are available in several states. It is illegal to perform backflow testing activities

Generally, companies that specialize in several plumbing services have their employees trained in knowing not just about plumbing, but also about backflow devices. There are also companies that are specific to just providing backflow services. In either case, these companies want to be sure that they have a knowledgeable staff that will be able to provide their clients with all of the information needed to make informed decisions regarding the safety of their water supply.

The health and safety of your family is contingent upon a clean water supply.  Having a certified backflow professional to test your backflow and water supply annually is a step to prevent harmful and contaminated water from entering your home and harming your family.

To inquire about the backflow services that we offer, call us at (407) 413-9795.

In Store

Most supplies can be found at local hardware stores, such as Home Depot or Lowes. These stores have plumbing sections that are designated to help you find the right tools and supplies that you’ll need for your DIY repairs. In addition, purchasing in store will allow you to be able to ask knowledgeable workers any questions that you may have, and you’ll get an immediate response and they’ll be able to show you where to find exactly what you need. One of the biggest advantages of buying in store is being able to take the product home immediately and not have to wait a few days or pay for shipping. It’s also easier to return the product if it’s not what you needed. Hardware stores also often have online stores for items that may have been out of stock in store.

Online

The problem with in store purchasing is that they may not have an extensive selection of supplies, especially if the plumbing project you’re working on is a bit more complicated than just fixing a leaky pipe. Online purchasing solves this problem. Online plumbing supply stores offer an array of equipment, and both plumbing companies and individuals can use these online services for any project. Most online retailers have professionals available for you to call or e-mail for a quick response so that they can answer any questions that you may have regarding a particular item. They will be able to use their expertise with the plumbing industry and use their best judgment to help you to make a decision.

Differences

The biggest difference in shopping online and offline for plumbing materials is seeing the product in person and being able to return it easier if it’s the wrong supply that you need. Online stores also offer a wider array of supplies because they are also used by plumbing companies. With their representatives specializing in the plumbing industry, they have a bit more expertise than a hardware store employee who knows a lot about general home improvement. Both types of retailers also offer assistance with installation, which will save you the hassle of doing the project yourself.

If you are looking to find an estimate for your project, call us at (407) 413-9795.

Hot Water

A common problem is when no hot water is being produced. Sometimes, any issue with hot water can be fixed just by adjusting and resetting the thermostat settings or the high-limit cutoff. If resetting these does not work, they may need to be replaced.

The lack of hot water could also be caused by a problem with your thermocouple. A thermocouple is a device that is installed in front of the pilot light that signals the gas valve to shut off if the pilot light goes out, so it is a safety device. When both the pilot light and the thermocouple are not working, there is no hot water that is being produced. You can first try to re-light the pilot by following the directions that are located on the tank. If it does not re-ignite, then you have a thermocouple that needs to be replaced.

If the thermocouple is not the problem, you may have a problem with your dip tube. The dip tube prevents the incoming cold water and the outgoing hot water from mixing inside of the tank. With a broken dip tube, your water will only be coming out at a lukewarm temperature.

Rust

Another common issue is when rust-colored water is coming out of the unit. This rust can be caused by a corrosion that is occurring inside of the tank, or it can be caused by an anode rod that needs to be replaced. An anode rod is made out of aluminum or magnesium and is put in the tank in order to prevent rusting in the tank. It needs to be replaced every so often to avoid rust from being produced.

Leaks

Your heater may be experiencing leaking not from anything seriously wrong with it, but because of condensation. If water usually appears with the tank is first filled during the winter months but then disappears after warming up, then it’s a condensation issue and requires no action.

Other times, the temperature-pressure relief valve may be at fault. This valve emits the excess water when there is too much pressure. The extra pressure can be from the too high of a set temperature, too strong of a main water pressure setting from your house, valves not allowing hot water to expand in the tank, or the relief valve itself. Check out the owner manual to your unit if the valve itself is leaking, or contact a professional immediately.

Leaks can also be caused by drain valves or water pipes not being tight enough. In order to fix this, simply tighten the drain valve or the water pipes where there is a leak. If this does not work, they will need to be replaced.

Problems with the vent could also be a possible cause for leaks. If this is the case, then you need to shut off the water and clean the flue (a heat exchanger).

Many of these replacement parts can be purchased at home improvement stores, but if you have any doubt about how to install anything, call a professional. They have the knowledge to properly diagnose your problem and handle your gas water heater repairs.

We are open 24/7, so if you are experiencing any of the above problems, please don’t hesitate to call us at (407) 413-9795.

Traditional water heaters rely on constant heating of water, even when the hot water faucet is not being used. Oftentimes, the temperature of the water is far higher than is safe for use, and you have to turn on the cold water to create a comfortable temperature. Energy Star heaters are now available, so now they are a little bit more energy efficient. They are very large and bulky and take up a lot of space and are often unable to be transported once they’ve been installed. They also have a lifespan of only 12 to 15 years.

Tankless Water Heater

A tankless water heater is a water-heating system that only heats water when it’s actually needed. Unlike conventional water heaters, it doesn’t re-heat the same tank of water over and over again, causing a savings in energy costs. When a hot water faucet is opened, the device immediately heats up the water and sends it through the faucet. When the faucet is turned off, the device turns itself off; therefore your hot water supply does not get cut off. They have a longer lifespan than the conventional water heater, up to 20 years. They are also smaller and more portable and versatile and can be moved to almost anywhere in the house.

The Switching Debate

The issue that is stopping most people from switching from conventional to tankless is the price. The conventional water heater is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. It only costs around $300, and when it needs to be replaced, it can be replaced for around $500.

Tankless water heaters on the other hand are quite an expensive investment. The installation cost and the cost of the kit can be over $1,500, and to replace it would be around $3,000. Although it will save you money on energy costs from not constantly heating up water, these tankless heaters require a lot of energy to keep running.

If you’re deciding on whether to switch from a conventional heater to a tankless heater and would like more advice, call us at (407) 413-9795. 

All of the Orlando plumbing contractors at Rainaldi Plumbing are licensed to provide Orlando plumbing services including video pipe inspection to investigate the source and scope of plumbing issues, repiping to replace damaged or aged sections of sewer lines, and line plugging to isolate a section of your piping without interrupting the flow through that pipe. Line plugging is a time-saving Orlando plumbing contractor service that Rainaldi Plumbing is proud to offer.

Line plugging offers many advantages as an Orlando pipe repair service that an Orlando plumbing contractor can complete while you continue to use your plumbing for everyday tasks like washing your dishes, doing your laundry, and bathing. At Rainaldi Plumbing, we respect your time, so we would like you to understand that our Orlando plumbing contractors will not only provide exception plumbing services and plumbing repairs, but they will also complete the job on time and in a highly professional manner. Orlando line plugging services should only be executed by a licensed Orlando plumber or Orlando plumbing contractor. Line plugging is not a do-it-yourself task, unless of course you are a licensed Orlando plumber.

If you suspect that your plumbing is anything less than spectacular, then line plugging may be the right solution to your plumbing issue. Maybe you have noticed your bathtub has been taking longer than usual to drain – this may be the result of a soft drain blockage that is deeper into your piping than you or a drain snake can reach. Line plugging can isolate the clogged section of your pipe without shutting off water flow to your shower. Please contact an Orlando plumbing contractor at Rainaldi Plumbing to learn more about line plugging.

At Rainaldi, we employ a few different pipe repair techniques. For example, we can seal a pipe leak using water, air, or even steam, depending on the scope of the leak, the pipe material, and the degree to which we can access the pipe. Our Orlando plumbing contractors take special care to respond to unique plumbing issues with unique solutions. Rainaldi Plumbing’s Orlando plumbing services have been vouched for by engineers who have worked in various plumbing environments to ensure that the integrity of your plumbing is the highest possible.

A composite wrap is a permanent pipe repair solution for pipes that have incurred physical damage or pipes that have been submerged for long periods of time. Composite wraps are a pipe repair plumbing solution that does not disturb the operation of your pipes.

Hot taps use a drilling machine to infiltrate a pipe without interrupting its functioning or causing fluid to leak from the pipe while an Orlando plumber repairs it. The hot tap drilling machine can perform a wide range of pipe repairs and pipe restructuring. Similarly, line plugging is a pipe repair technique that reduces the risk of pipe leakage. Please contact Rainaldi Plumbing’s Orlando plumbing contractors to learn more about Orlando pipe repair services.