Sewer lines are most often clogged by tree roots. When this happens most sewer stoppages can be cleared through a cleanout. The best thing you can do is cut the roots and treat your sewer with a foaming agent which will retard growth up to 70%. There can be instances where a repair/replacement is needed although very seldom is this required. Fortunately, Heaton & Son can take care of it quickly and easily. Many companies will try to sell you a new sewer or relining when, in fact, proper cleaning will suffice. If you have a sewer cleanout and you notice gurgling or slow flushing toilets you can remove the cleanout cap to get relief outside in your yard instead of having the back-up mess in your tub or shower.

Hard water contains a high concentration of dissolved minerals, like calcium and magnesium. In its pure form, water does not contain these minerals and is naturally soft. But as it passes through the ground and rocks such as limestone, it picks up those hard water minerals.

Soft water contains little to no extra elements. This can occur naturally, or soft water can be produced with water treatment equipment that removes the hard elements.

The minerals in hard water make it better for drinking, not only because of the health benefits, but also the taste. Soft water, however, often tastes salty and is sometimes not fit for drinking.

Hard water can take a toll on clothing, making laundry look dingy. It can cause spots and residue on dishes, and soap scum on bathtubs. Hard water can eventually damage household appliances, glass around tubs and showers and takes a toll on plumbing fixture finishes, as well as use up more energy.

When it comes to cleaning, soft water allows the soap to lather better and dishes will be left cleaner. You will often use less soap and detergents overall with soft water. The shower curtain and bathtub will be soap scum-free. And clothes and skin will feel softer. Soft water can also prolong the life of washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters. Energy bills are noticeably lower in homes with water softeners.

The most important thing to do is avoid overloading the kitchen sink with too much food. Avoid large amounts of grease. Run a fair amount of water when rinsing food particles.It is also advisable to add ice cubes and fruit pit once in a while, as this creates a scouring action and helps to prevent foul odors.

Enzyme based drain cleaners are OK (provided you take proper precautions) however these are a temporary if at all fix. It’s best to clear stoppages with a cable and or jetter for proper long term drain cleaning.

• Warning Signs you have a leak:
  • A drop in water pressure
  • Water stains on your ceiling, floors or walls, a warm spot on the floor
  • A higher than usual water bill
  • An increase in your home’s humidity
  • A foul odor, usually noticed by visitors
  • Mildew formation
  • Strange noises
    • If you hear hissing or dripping sounds near your fixtures, there is a good chance that water is flowing somewhere it shouldn’t be.
  • Sudden puddles
    • If you notice damp spots on your carpet or your floor is discolored, something beneath may be leaking.
  • Rusty pipes
  • Large wet spots in your yard

It’s always good before an earthquake to have your gas valve serviced so that you can easily turn the gas off, (they can become stuck in the on position after years of not being shut off) , the gas company will be happy to do this for you. It is also wise to zip tie or secure the correct wrench in the gas meter area. Lastly, you can also install an earthquake valve that will shut your gas off automatically in a severe earthquake.These valves are easily reset to turn gas back on!