Company: B&L Plumbing and Heating

Check Out These Patriotic Plumbing Facts for Independence Day

check out these patriotic plumbing facts for independence day

Be Free From Ignorance About Plumbing!

Civilization as we know it could not have existed without the state-of-the-art municipal plumbing and sewer infrastructure that we enjoy today. Despite being a global public health technology, Americans did have some significant contributions to the development of all things plumbing-related. 

On Independence Day, take a moment and celebrate with these Colorado Springs plumbers as they share fun facts about plumbing in the US. 

Important Plumbing Developments in American HistoryThe Tremont House hotel exterior in Boston featuring elegant architecture, American and French flags, and a black car at the entrance, symbolizing historical significance in hospitality and plumbing advancements.

The Tremont Hotel in Boston: The Tremont House was the US’s first modern hotel that touted many hospitality firsts. It was designed specially to house the latest plumbing that included flush toilets and bathtubs. It also included such luxuries as locked rooms, free soap, and bellboys. At the cutting edge of social advancement, it even had a dining room where ladies could eat alone since women dining alone was frowned upon in the early 1800s. 

American Inventor Joseph Gayetty: The first brand of toilet paper sold in the US was manufactured by Joseph Gayetty. It came in 1000 sheet packs and was made of rough fibers of Manila Hemp. The paper was medicated with aloe, which drew criticism from doctors groups that called Gayetty a quack. It was supplanted as a household name by the release of “splinter-free toilet paper” manufactured by the Northern Tissue Company in 1935. 

Presidential Plumbing: The White House has not always been the symbol of luxury that it has come to be known as. As indoor plumbing was starting to be installed in new, luxurious structures in the 1820s, the White House was left behind. Not until nearly three decades after plumbing moved indoors, the White House finally have a fully functioning bathroom. President Millard Fillmore oversaw the installation of a bathing room on the second floor in his quarters, complete with heated water and flushing toilets. Before this, presidents bathed in a nearby river or occasionally in tubs with water heated in kettles.  

Modern porcelain toilet, symbolizing advancements in indoor plumbing and public health, relevant to historical context of White House plumbing installations.

Toilet Facts

Municipal sewer systems went a long way towards improving public health, but the final step was making toilets porcelain. As toilets made their way indoors, most were made of wood that harbored pathogens. Porcelain is non-porous and easy to clean, so it became the material of choice.

It doesn’t matter which hemisphere a toilet is in as to which direction it flushes. The spin of the Earth is too subtle to affect the direction of the flush. Eddy currents are better predictors of the direction a drain will spin. 

Other Fun Plumbing Facts

The word “plumbing” is from the Latin root “plumbum” which was the word for lead. Early pipes were made of lead, and up until recently, lead has been used in plumbing. This is also why lead is abbreviated “Pb” on the periodic table. 

The original toilet paper patent from 1891 shows toilet paper with the loose end on top. This was the first time toilet paper was put on a roll and perforated. So, the original inventor intended for tissue to be dispensed from the top, not the bottom. 

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating has been the only plumber Colorado Springs, CO customers have needed for over 20 years. A veteran-owned company, they fix any plumbing problem for residential and commercial customers. Always seeking a competitive edge, they offer their after-hours service with no additional charges. Call now for plumbing services!

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Don't Let a Broken Dishwasher Wreck the Fun of a Summer Cookout!

don't let a broken dishwasher wreck the fun of a summer cookout!

A Busted Dishwasher Could Keep You From the Backyard Festivities

Dishwashers make everyone’s lives easier. Without them, cooking and cleaning would be much bigger and more time-consuming tasks. It’s so convenient to be able to load up the racks, pop in a bit of detergent, and let the machine take care of the day’s dishes. It means there’s more time to enjoy the summertime activities like relaxing and playing in the backyard. 

But when the dishwasher goes on the fritz, it can be more than an inconvenience. It’s one thing to have to wash the dishes by hand, but it’s another to have dirty water leaking all over the floor. Keep reading to learn about the most common dishwasher problems, how the pros fix them, and how to help prevent them in the first place.

Man sitting on kitchen floor with head in hand, frustrated by leaking dishwasher, highlighting common appliance issues.

Common Dishwasher Issues To Watch For

A variety of things can go wrong with a dishwasher. Most are relatively minor issues with fairly simple fixes. If the dishes come out covered with water spots or a cloudy film, the rinse aid may have run out. Or the home may have especially hard water that’s leaving mineral deposits on the dishes. Fortunately, there are special detergents made specifically for hard water. 

If the dishes aren’t getting very clean, the upper discharge housing gasket may need replacing, the spray arm may have become clogged with debris, or a wayward dish or utensil could be obstructing its movement. There may also be food particles trapped in the strain screen - an issue usually accompanied by a nasty odor.

More severe issues include a dishwasher that won’t drain, won’t fill, or won’t stop filling. These could be caused by a faulty pump, worn or broken valve, or malfunctioning float switch (a device that tells the dishwasher when it has enough water). A leaky dishwasher may have a faulty pump, loose or damaged drainage hose, or a cracked or worn gasket.

When To Call for Professional HelpProfessional plumber repairing a dishwasher, demonstrating expertise in appliance maintenance and troubleshooting.

Homeowners can solve many of the smaller dishwasher problems - cleaning the spray arm or strain screen, freeing a stuck float switch, tightening a loose drain hose, etc. But when it comes to replacing faulty parts or performing more complicated repairs, homeowners are better off enlisting the help of a professional plumber.

Dishwashers are complex machines, and any errors made during repairs can cause further damage. The risk of injury from burns or electrocution is also a factor when working on dishwashers, so a trained and licensed technician should only make some repairs. Pros have the knowledge and the right tools to pinpoint and solve even the trickiest of problems safely.

Avoid Future Mishaps With Proper Maintenance

Homeowners can avoid many dishwasher problems altogether by keeping the unit clean and well-maintained. First, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions in the owner’s manual for proper loading and operation. This usually includes scraping off excess food waste before putting dishes in the racks, not overfilling the racks or the detergent compartment, and keeping the spray arms free from obstructions. 

Second, a little routine cleaning every few months goes a long way. Wiping down the door gasket with a damp cloth helps ensure a proper seal. Clearing debris from the strain screen and cleaning the filter (if the dishwasher has one) helps reduce clogs and odors. Wiping off the sprayer arm and clearing any obstructions with a toothpick or pipe cleaner helps the sprayer function properly. 

It’s always best to consult the owner’s manual for specific instructions - some manufacturers even include extensive DIY maintenance checklists to help homeowners preserve and protect their dishwashers.

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

The experts at B&L Plumbing and Heating have been serving Colorado Springs, CO, with pride for over 20 years. As an award-winning, veteran-owned business with countless 5-star reviews, they are all about providing outstanding service and workmanship at an honest, competitive price. B&L offers financing, membership perks, and 24/7 emergency service with no after-hours fees. Call now for plumbing service!

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April Showers Sometimes Bring May Septic Struggles

april showers sometimes bring may septic struggles

The Relationship Between Heavy Rains and Septic Tanks

The sweet smell of rain and the flowers of May are just a few benefits that spring showers bring. But, most people don’t think of the problems those showers bring along with them. The truth is, despite all the greenery and color that April showers feed, the deluge of rain from spring weather can lead to major plumbing headaches for a home’s septic tank. Homeowners should keep an eye out for any sign that spring rain may compromise their septic tank. Not sure what to look for? Keep reading to find out.

Puddles forming on a wet surface during heavy rainfall, illustrating potential flooding issues affecting septic tanks.

Signs of Trouble From Flooded Ground

A home’s septic tank system is designed to treat wastewater using various methods. However, nearly all septic systems require being underground, handling water treatment over a slow, lengthened period. Thus, when the ground becomes saturated with excess external water, trouble ensues.

Most septic systems are buried 2-4 feet below the top of ground soil. When the soil area above the septic tank becomes flooded, the system can no longer clean water. Sewage may back up into the home. Note that water underneath the septic tank isn’t the problem; it’s floodwater sitting on top that causes trouble. 

When floodwaters have risen above the normal water table, it’s essential to reduce the water home pumps through the septic tank. Homeowners can take shorter showers, prepare no-cook meals, use paper dishes, and flush water only when necessary to reduce the pressures on the system. A septic system will not be safe to use until the ground has dried out and a professional septic service has flushed the system properly post-flooding. 

Identifying a Clogged Drainfield

Septic drain fields will give several signs of clogs or damage when trouble comes up in the system.

  • Standing Water & Smells: If stinky puddles are developing around the septic tank area, there’s a high likelihood of a clog somewhere along the line. As water continues to rise and develop, sewage may start backing up in the home.
  • Extreme Plant Growth: If the septic field has a garden growing and the rest of the yard looks brown, well, there’s probably excessive water in the drainage field from a clog producing the plantlife. 
  • Slow Indoor Drains: Slow drains in a home that runs on a septic tank signal drainage issues in the system itself, and a clog may be the cause of the slowness. 
  • Backflow: Whenever sewage is backflowing into a home, there’s likely a problem with the septic tank. This is indicative of water not getting pumped away from the septic tank properly. 

Usually, septic tank clogs are solved with a high-pressure jet of water or pipe replacement as needed.

How To Protect Septic Tanks From the Threats of Spring RainsSeptic tank installation site with a concrete tank in a dug-out area surrounded by grass, relevant to septic system maintenance and drainage issues.

There are several steps for homeowners to take to prevent spring rains from damaging their septic system.

  • Regular Pumping and Maintenance: Septic tanks should be pumped every three to five years, minimum, and always after any flooding. A plumber should clean effluent screens during the maintenance as well. 
  • Install a Backflow Preventer: All homes with a septic tank should have a backflow preventer installed. The device will stop sewage from backing up into the home during a flood.
  • Have a Minimal Water Plan: Homeowners should create a plan for minimizing water usage whenever they are at risk for flooding. They can write out how the household will reduce water by flushing less, shortening showers, scheduling laundry, cooking less, etc., and keep a stash of clean clothes, paper plates, and bottled water on hand. 
  • Protect the Drain Field: Homeowners should be mindful of what goes on around the drain field. Sump pumps and gutters should never drain near the drain field. Vehicles should not be parked on the drain field. Additionally, plants and trees should not be grown near enough to the drain field for roots to damage the system.

Knowing the risks of spring rains on a home’s septic system is the first step to protecting it from flooding. A qualified septic maintenance provider can help homeowners create the right plan for protecting their system from any spring flooding. 

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

For over 20 years, B&L Plumbing and Heating has been solving their Colorado Springs, CO community’s plumbing problems quickly and affordably. Their team builds personalized solutions to fit your project, budget, and style. From basic sink installation to a septic tank repair, the experts at B&L Plumbing and Heating are ready to help. Give them a call for plumbing service today!

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Spring Is the Best Time for Drain Cleaning!

spring is the best time for drain cleaning!

No Spring Cleaning Checklist Is Complete Without Drain Cleaning!

Springtime is the perfect season for cleaning. With the longer days and nicer weather, homeowners can open up the windows to let in some sunshine and a nice breeze while they tackle those long-neglected cleaning chores. There’s one area of a home that seldom gets added to the list, however: drains. The kitchen and bathrooms may even get cleaned every week, but many homeowners let their drains go years without a thorough cleaning - and they usually pay the price in clogs, nasty odors, or expensive repairs. Fortunately, this is one spring cleaning task that can (and should) be outsourced to a pro.

Why Routine Drain Cleaning Is So ImportantProfessional plumber using a plunger to clear a clogged sink, highlighting the importance of routine drain cleaning for preventing clogs and odors.

Anyone with a clogged drain knows that it’s no fun. Whether it’s a stopped-up sink or a shower that drains too slowly, it makes for a messy and unpleasant experience. And in drains that don’t get cleaned often enough, it’s just a matter of time before a clog forms. Even before the obstruction becomes large enough to affect water flow, it can produce offensive odors as it decays inside the drain. Dirty drains are also more likely to harbor mold and mildew.

Many homeowners turn to store-bought chemical drain cleaners or other DIY methods to battle clogs and odors, but these solutions can damage the plumbing system if used improperly or too often. By hiring a professional, homeowners can be sure their drains are cleaned safely and thoroughly.

Drain Cleaning Methods Used By Professionals

Plumbers and drain cleaning specialists have a few tools and methods at their disposal for clearing clogs and removing nasty buildup from pipes. Flexible metal coils called drain snakes are often used to drill through obstructions and pull them up out of the pipe. However, drain snakes are not very effective when removing mildew or other grime from the pipe walls.

Hydro-jetting is a better method for all-around cleaning and clog removal. With hydro-jetting, the plumber sprays the inside of the pipe with a high-pressure water hose. When using hot water, this is highly effective at clearing blockages and washing nasty residue off the pipe wall - even as far down as the sewer lines.

Keep Drains Clean Between Professional Cleaning Visits

Plumber using tools to inspect and maintain plumbing under a kitchen sink, demonstrating drain cleaning techniques.
Annual spring drain cleanings are the best way to prevent drainage issues and foul smells, but that doesn’t mean the drains should be neglected the rest of the year. There are perfectly safe and easy ways for homeowners to reduce the likelihood of clogs and keep nasty buildup at bay.

Pouring boiling water down the drains will help kill odor-producing germs and flush out oils and other gunk. But it’s even more effective to do this after pouring a generous helping of baking soda followed by vinegar into the drain and letting it sit for several minutes. The fizzy reaction will help break up minor obstructions as well as neutralize odors, so it’s a good idea to do this once a month, at least.

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

The veteran-owned B&L Plumbing and Heating has served Colorado Springs, CO with pride since 1999. Their clean, courteous professionals arrive promptly in full-stocked trucks, ready to answer any question and solve any problem. B&L provides up-front, competitive pricing, tailored options, and 24/7 emergency service with no after-hours fee. Call now for expert drain cleaning services!

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Don't Delay, Clean Your Drains!

don't delay, clean your drains!

What’s the Importance of Drain Cleaning?

Homeowners tend to look over the little things when it comes to home repairs. One thing they think is minor is actually quite major: their drain system. Most people don’t think to clean it until it’s too late and the water won’t go down. 

Cleaning the drains when needed helps improve the life of the drain and prevents leaks. When chemical deposits build up in the drains, it can cause corrosion, leading to cracked pipes and eventually leaking. Additionally, cleaning the drains can prevent foul odors. Drains can have a buildup of mold and bacteria if they aren’t taken care of, producing those awful smells coming from the drain. 

Lack of Clogs & Speedy Drains

It’s a no-brainer that clean drains will result in speedy drainage and reduced clogs. One of the most noticeable benefits of drain cleaning is quick drainage. The water won’t remain in the drain or slowly gurgle as it flows down the pipe if it’s free from blockages. When a homeowner hears the dreaded gurgle, that means the drain could be partially obstructed. 

When it comes to kitchen drains or other fixtures, there’s less chance of overflow or freestanding water appearing. This is especially important for toilet drains. Keeping those clean will prevent backflow, which is when the sewer backs up into the toilet. 

Odor & Repair ReductionWoman holding her nose, reacting to unpleasant odor, emphasizing the importance of clean drains to prevent foul smells in plumbing.

Not only do clean drains make water disposal quicker and prevent clogs, but it also prevents odors and possible repairs. When drains aren’t cleaned, they tend to build up with bacteria. The bacteria can live on the hair in the drain, soap film, toothpaste, and other remnants living in the drain. This causes a vile odor that’s rather unpleasant. Even worse, homeowners might get used to it.

In addition to reducing odors, cleaning drains can lead to a reduction in repairs. An unfortunate side effect of not cleaning drains is damage to the home. This can happen as a result of burst pipes and overflowing toilets and sinks from clogs. The damage can leak wastewater throughout the home, causing a mess and a health hazard. It can lead to discoloration of floors and walls, and it’s costly to repair. 

Can You Use Liquid Drain Cleaner?

If a homeowner is in a pinch and can’t get a plumber, they can use a liquid drain cleaner, but not too often. Chemical drain cleaners can damage the pipes and cause more harm than good. If there’s a visible clog that homeowners can’t undo or there’s an odor coming from the drains, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional plumber. 

Close-up of a drain with water flowing, representing plumbing maintenance and the importance of clean drains to prevent clogs and home damage.

When a plumber is called in, they’ll use a drain snake to remove a clog if a plunger won’t do the job. They may also utilize a camera system to see exactly how far into the drain the clog is and determine the necessary solution. 

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating is based out of Colorado Springs, CO. They are a veteran family-owned & operated company that offers fast & reliable 24/7 service. They don’t charge after-hour fees and have a variety of coupons available on their website. Contact them to schedule expert drain cleaning today! 

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