If you have any plumbing concerns in Colorado Springs, our team at B & L Plumbing is more than happy to offer assistance! Here are some answers to common plumbing questions:
Frequently Asked Questions
Our experts are here to offer some helpful insight on frequently asked plumbing questions—give us a call if we didn’t answer yours!
Will My Home Insurance Cover Sewer Line Damage?
- Sadly, most homeowner's insurance policies won’t cover sewer line repairs and replacements as they are often considered preventable. However, your provider might cover the damage if it's caused by a third party—like a contractor or tenant—or it was sudden and unexpected. We recommend scheduling regular professional maintenance to limit the effects of wear and tear and extend your sewer line’s lifespan.
Which Water Heaters Qualify for a Tax Credit?
- Natural gas, oil, and propane water heaters require an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of at least 95% to qualify for a tax credit. Meanwhile, electric heaters need to have a minimum 2.2 Uniform Energy Factor (UEF). If you plan on getting a tax credit for your water heater, make sure you have a copy of the Manufacturer’s Certification Statement.
Can My Water Heater Blow Up?
- Excess pressure inside your water heater—likely stemming from tank sediment buildup or component failure—can cause your water heater to explode. If you have a gas unit, a gas leak could also lead to an explosion. By making proactive choices when it comes to plumbing maintenance, you can easily prevent these costly problems.
How Can I Clear My Drain Without Chemicals?
- Pouring boiling water down your drain may clear a minor clog, but this DIY fix is only effective to an extent. If you want to restore the full performance of your plumbing fixture, reach out to our team for assistance. We use specialized tools and techniques to safely and effectively eliminate even the toughest clogs with reliable hydro jetting services.
What’s the Difference Between Drain Cleaning and Sewer Cleaning?
- Drain cleaning involves treating the individual fixtures in your home, like your kitchen and bathroom sinks, showers, toilets, and washing machines. When all your drains run slowly, however, that suggests the need for different treatment—sewer cleaning. Sewer cleaning address clogs deeper in the line.
Are Septic Tank Additives Necessary?
- Your septic tank is designed to handle waste treatment on its own without any need for additives unless stated otherwise by the manufacturer. Many of the septic tank additives on the market also lack regulation, formal certification, and standardized testing, making it challenging to assess their effects. If you want to maintain the health of your septic system, we recommend scheduling regular inspections and maintenance. If you keep up with regular maintenance and have continued problems with your system, it may be too small for your household size or need to be replaced.
Which Septic Tank Treatment Is Best for My Home?
- Instead of buying ineffective treatments, you can follow these simple care tips to maintain your septic tank’s efficiency:
- Get the system assessed and pumped regularly.
- Don’t plant deep rooting trees and shrubs near your septic tank or drain field.
- Don't flush anything but waste or toilet paper.
- Limit your water usage.
Have other plumbing questions? Feel free to call us at 719-638-7341 for expert advice or to schedule service in Colorado Springs.