1.  Should I flush those additives down my septic system?

NO! From our experience when we pump septic tanks, the tanks that do not use the expensive additives actually look better. If you use your septic system on a regular basis there is no need to put additives down the drain. Organic matter such as digested food and toilet paper give the bacteria plenty to work on.

Remember there is no substitute for maintenance and by maintenance we mean septic pumping. That is the only way to remove sludge.

So use this rule:
Full time use 4-6 people 1000 gal Pump every 3-5 years
Part time use 4-6 peope 1000 gal Pump every 5-7 years

Do note this all depends on an appropriate size of septic tank for the number of people using the system and the age of your leach line.

Don't wait until you're backing up and you can't flush...give us a call to check out your septic system before you have a problem.

2.  How do I best maintain my water heater?

We recommend flushing your gas or electric water heater a least twice a year to reduce calcium sediment in the bottom of the tank. Our water supply has some of the highest readings of water hardness which wrecks havoc on our water heaters. There is only two ways to prevent sediment build up; a water softner or a water conditioning unit like Easy Water by Freije.

A salt softner removes hardness whereas a water conditioner physically changes the minerals so they don't stick to your fixtures, glass and appliances.

If you are tired of hard water ruining your investments give us a call to discuss your water conditioning needs!

 

3.  How do I winterize my home?

Winterizing your home is one of the most important steps to protecting your investment. You should have your home in a winterized state no later than the end of October. At least once a year we receive a call that a pipe busted and flooded the whole house and no one was home, it was a second home. Now you have to deal with a high water bill, a claim on your home insurance and cleaning up the mess. Avoid this nightmare by properly winterizing your home.

Here are some recommendations:

1. Always turn off YOUR shut off valve, when you are not there. If you do not have one, see FAQ #4
   
   
2. If you plan on using your cabin in the winter, we suggest a PARTIAL winterization; draining all lines, using anti-freeze in your p-traps, leave your water heater on vacation mode and turning your heat on a minimum of 55 degrees. This method is more expensive in the long run, but makes it convenient for you when you return.
   
   
3. A COMPLETE winterization is shutting down your home until the spring. We drain your water heater, pump in RV anti-freeze into your waterlines and shut down every fixture. Pour anti-freeze in all p-traps, toilets and pumps such as washing machines and dishwashers. We also suggest winterizing irrigation lines as well. This is the best and most affordable method in preventing your pipes from freezing. No heat is necessary for this application. Saving you hundreds of dollars in heating expense.
   
   
4. Finally, if you have a chronic problem with freezing up in the same place year after year give us a call so we may give you a FREE ESTIMATE to fix your plumbing problem!
   
   

 

4.  What's the importance of installing/replacing a stop and waste valve?

A stop and waste valve is used as a shut off valve on your incoming water line for residential and commercial applications. Most stop and waste valves are located approximately 18" to 24" from your water meter and are composed of brass body with a weep hole either on the side or bottom of unit.

Arizona Water Company requires you to have your own stop and waste valve. The valve is usually installed approximately 1' - 2' below ground level (depends on the depth of your water meter) and you turn it on/off with a water key.

Avoid installing gate valves they do not offer the ability to drain your line, this is a very important feature. If you have a second home request a ball valve stop and waste, which seems to operate more smoothly and may have a longer lifespan.

If you need to install or replace an existing stop and waste give us a call for a FREE ESTIMATE.