News - Jeff's Kitchen Bath & Beyond Plumbing

Why Drain Cleaning is Crucial in your Home

Posted on February 26, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

Most people clean their homes on a regular basis to ensure their family and loved ones stay safe and healthy. However, few people consider regularly having their drains cleaned to stop the buildup of clogs and halt the formation of dangerous bacteria, mold and germs in a drainage system. Employing a professional plumber to regularly clean and maintain your drains can reduce costs associated with damage caused by clogs and germ buildup.

Clogged drains are a problem many people do not consider to be a problem until their drains become completely clogged and a sink, bathtub or shower is filled with a large amount of smelly waste water. Germs and bacteria, such as mold and mildew buildup in clogged drains and can cause health problems when only a small buildup reduces the flow of waste water passing into the drains. In order to ensure the continuing health of a family and residents in a building making sure the drains are cleaned at regular intervals can remove bacteria and potentially dangerous germs.

In many homes clogged drains can lead to bigger, more expensive repairs requiring far more work and disruption than a simple cleaning operation carried out by a qualified plumber. Cleaning drains can show other problems to a plumber at an early stage, such as other damage and bad odors often associated with drain damage and clogs. Employing a knowledgeable and professional drain cleaning service is a safer way of cleaning drains than an individual conducting a do-it-yourself cleaning job; qualified plumbers are experts in handling cleaning equipment in order to minimize the amount of damage and possible problems associated with cleaning drains.

Drain cleaning can remove a large number of dangerous products from a drainage system, such as degrading food waste and human waste trapped within the home drainage system. Larger objects and toilet paper can also become trapped and require removal from the drainage system.

Drain cleaning can be a serious job if your pipes have been facing backlog and clogging for a long period of time. Only a professional drain cleaning from a local Orlando, FL expert like Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath & Beyond can ensure your system stays operational healthy. Call us today at (407) 968-1801 for our competitively priced service for your residential drain maintenance.

Everything you should know about slab leaks

Posted on February 19, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

Slab leaks can be a serious issue if not dealt with promptly. If left untreated, slab leaks can eventually lead to erosion of the foundation itself. Slab leaks occur when the pipes within a home structure are corroded and start to leak. Usually these pipes are placed next to critical components of the home like flooring, supports or fixtures and this leaking poses a pretty big threat to your home if it affects these key components.

It is important for one to thoroughly look for signs of a slab leak before it’s too late. One of the most common signs for a slab leak is finding water seepage through the cement foundations of the home. There may also be a slight accumulation of flooding water. These are all signs that the pipes within a slab may have been ruptured and are currently leaking water. While it may take some time for symptoms to be seen from a slab leak, once they are noticed they should be repaired as soon as possible.

There may also be more noticeable signs of a slab leak such as low water pressure within the home lines and an increase in the water utility bill. Subtle hints like this should worry you enough to ask a professional for a thorough inspection of your pipes. Plumbing leaks and damages may be extensive without you even realizing. The longer you wait, the more you will spend in utility bills – all the while the problem is worsening with time.

Typically, a slab leak repair is accomplished by using a jackhammer to chip away at the foundation area that is need of repair. Once the slab has been cracked away at, the piping within the slab may then be repaired. It may also be necessary for one to have the water pipelines re-routed. While it may cost some money to repair a slab leak, these expenses are well worth it when compared to the potential damage costs an untreated leak could lead to. It is more beneficial for one to consult with a professional contracting company that specializes in slab leak matters to receive professional service from servicemen who are trained to repair these types of leaks.

Orlando, FL’s go-to plumber for slab leaks, piping repairs and residential plumbing maintenance is Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath & Beyond. Call us (407) 968-1801 at for our supreme residential plumbing service. We offer accurate pipe inspection at competitive pricing if you think your system is having problems.

Determine if your Home Needs Repiping

Posted on February 12, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

Having your home repiped is a big deal. It can be done all at once or in sections, room by room. Sometimes it will only be a bathroom or a kitchen that needs to be done. The most certain way to determine what needs done, is to have a plumber come and inspect. But this can cost money you may not need to spend. Here is a short list of things to look for, before you contact your local plumber.

1. Lack of temperature control – When you get scalding water through your shower head if somebody turns on the dishwasher, you might need new pipes. The problem here is differential pressure between hot and cold lines, and can be caused by worn, blocked, or leaking pipes.

2. Discolored water – If your water has taken on a rusty hue, your pipes may be corroding, rusting, or allowing contaminants into your water supply. Rusty, muddy, or metallic flakes are common indicators.

3. Reduced water pressure – Blocked or leaky pipes reduce water pressure. Even if you have always had low water pressure, this could have been the cause all along. Plumbing that supplies water needs to be a closed system to maintain proper pressure. Obviously, a clogged or blocked water supply will have reduced pressure, simply because there is a lack of unimpeded flow.

4. Age of the building – Older buildings may still have lead pipes, which can be a health hazard in themselves. Older copper water lines may have been joined with lead based solder. Older PVC lines may have slow leaks in the joints from a lack of preventive care. If your home is older, it really is necessary to have the pipes checked by a plumber, and not just a general contractor.

All of these problems are signs of rusty, blocked, leaky or corroding pipes. The only way to know for certain what the underlying cause is, and if you need repiping, is to contact your local plumber. As with any expense in home repair and improvement, you should try to get at least two opinions and estimates. The best Orlando, FL plumber for the job is Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond. Call us today at (407) 968-1801 for an affordable home plumbing evaluation and for the most competitive prices on home repiping.

Everything you should know about slab leaks

Posted on February 8, 2013 by chad siemer

Slab leaks can be a serious issue if not dealt with correctly. If left untreated, slab leaks can eventually lead to erosion of the foundation itself. Slab leaks occur when the pipes within a home structure are corroded and start to leak. Other main affecting factors that can cause a slab leak might also be shifts within the foundation due to a shift in the ground.

It is important for one to thoroughly look for signs of a slab leak before it’s too late. One of the most common signs for a slab leak is finding water seepage through the cement foundations of the home. Alongside water seepage, there may also be a slight accumulation of flooding water. These are all signs that the pipes within a slab may have ruptured and are currently leaking water. While it may take some time for symptoms to be seen from a slab leak, once they are noticed they should be repaired as soon as possible. However, there may also be more noticeable signs of a slab leak such as low water pressure within the home lines and also an increase in the water utility bill.

Typically, a slab leak repair is accomplished by using a jackhammer to chip away at the foundation area that is need of repair. Once the slab has been cracked away at, the piping within the slab may then be repaired. However, it may also be necessary for one to have the water pipelines re-routed in another direction if need be. While it may cost some money to repair a slab leak, the costs of repairing a slab leak versus the potential damage an untreated leak could lead to is well worth the cause. It is more beneficial for one to consult with a professional contracting company that specializes in slab leak matters to receive professional service from servicemen who are trained to repair these types of leaks.

Slab leaks can cause great damage to the foundation of your Oviedo home, do not let them go unattended! contact Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond, our highly specialize plumbers will fix all of your plumbing problems. Call us today at (407) 968-1801.

How to Optimize Your Water Heater Performance

Posted on February 6, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

Most people do not give much thought to their water heater. This device quietly sits in a closet or basement corner doing its job. Water heaters do not receive and do not require much interaction. Even though water heaters are fairly hands-off devices, a few things can help keep water heaters running at peak efficiency. Water heaters are designed to provide hot water as needed. In order to perform this function, water heaters keep a certain amount of hot water at all times.

No matter how well designed a water heater is, at least some portion of this heat escapes. This lost heat means that a water heater has to work harder than necessary to maintain its supply of hot water. Water heater blankets are an easy solution – they insulate water heaters, allowing them maintain more of the interior heat. Less energy loss means less time spent heating water. Water heater blankets are made of special materials designed for insulation tasks. Ordinary blankets do not perform the same function as water heater blankets.

Corrosion is one of the major problems that water heaters face. Corrosion can affect the taste and appearance of water as well as reduce the overall performance of a water heater. Periodic inspections help to prevent corrosion problems.

Regular professional maintenance also helps to keep water heaters running optimally. Qualified professionals perform a number of tasks to ensure that water heaters are working in a safe and effective manner. These tasks include sediment removal, valve inspection and pressure testing.

Water heaters are a significant household expense. The average water heater lasts for about 13 years if maintained properly. Do not wait for your heater to show you it is having troubles. A proactive homeowner should contact a local plumber to assess and maintain their water heater at least once a year. Save money in the long run by taking the precautions early. Water heater repairs will cost more than any maintenance.

For water heater repairs and maintenance in Orlando, FL call Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond. Our expertise will ensure your investments last. Call us at (407) 968-1801 or schedule online for 10% off!

Tank Water Heater vs Tankless Water Heater

Posted on January 28, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

Homeowners have two options when it comes to water heaters- tank and tankless. Usage and location as well as the energy source will need to be considered when determining which is best for you. Tank water heaters are available in electric, natural and liquid propane models. Tankless hot water heaters are only available in electric and natural gas. Fuel types will play a key factor in determining initial set up costs as well as long term usage costs.

Tank Water Heaters
Tank water heater models powered by electricity and gas last an average of 10 years, while natural gas models typically last up to 13 years before replacement is needed. Poor maintenance on tank water heaters, especially in areas with hard water, can shorten the lifetime of the water heater. Tank water heaters are less expensive to purchase and install than tankless water heaters, but can cost more to operate. Tank water heaters keep a constant supply of hot water available.

Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters can last anywhere between 15 and 20 years with proper maintenance and repair. Tankless water heaters are much more energy efficient then tank heaters because they only heat water as it is needed. The average home owner can save up to $100 a year on their water heating bill with a tankless water heater. However, the cost to install a new tankless heater can sometimes offset the benefits. Gas powered tankless heaters require larger gas lines that can be costly to install.

Considerations
New technologies are making tank water heaters more energy efficient and less expensive to maintain. When correctly sized, a tank water heater will have plenty of hot water available when needed. Tankless water heaters are easier to install. They are smaller in size and can be mounted closer to use points for a faster delivery of hot water. It is important to remember though, that the entire venting system will need to be replaced when converting to a tankless water heater.

Still not sure which water heater is right for your Oviedo home? Contact Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond, we will help you make the right choice. Call us today at (407) 968-1801.

The Secrets of Early Leak Detection

Posted on January 18, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

Water leaks will commonly appear in homes. They ordinarily occur where appliances and plumbing fixtures are located. This would be places such as the bathroom, kitchen, garage, pool, patio, laundry, or even near the water meter.

A water leak in a home will worsen over time and can cause a great deal of damage. When such a thing is suspected, it is always a good idea to call a plumber. Such a plumber will offer 24/7 service so you do not have to have damage accumulate prior to have the leak taken care of. They will have experienced personnel on hand who can take care of all your leak detection needs.

Although many people depend on detecting water leaks by sight or sound there are new devices on the market that can detect a leak that would not otherwise be apparent. Qualified plumbers are well aware of these very convenient devices.

One of these is called a ‘spot detector’. This device can sense water leaks via a sense probe or by a visual indicator. It may be one device or several strung together to cover a larger area. Plumbers also use what is called a hydroscopic tape-based system in which a tape is placed around an infrastructure or equipment and monitored. When the tape becomes wet, an alarm will show there is a leak.

A common leak detector that a plumber can install is an Active Leak Detection System. This system is installed to stop, automatically, the flow of water when an alarm goes off. There are two types of this system.
First is the Individual Appliance System, which is hooked to a single appliance. When a leak is detected, it will automatically shut off the water supply to that appliance.
Second is the Whole House System. This system places numerous sensors throughout the home and shuts off the main water supply when a leak is detected.

Early leak detection is the key to avoiding serious damage and costly repairs. Contact Jeff”s Kitchen Bath & Beyond. We are your Oviedo Plumbing Specialists. Call us anytime at (407) 968-1801

Is it important to have a garbage disposal?

Posted on January 9, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

Most homeowners in Lake Mary, have a garbage disposal. They don’t give it a second thought. They clean off the dishes into the sink and all the excess food goes down the disposal. It is a simple way of keeping the trash free of smelly food. No need to take the trash out everyday because it is full of smelly, rotten food.

It is important to take care of the disposal. Start by turning the water on before putting anything down the drain. Make sure there are not spoons or other things in the way. This is a common mistake and is hard on the disposal and will ruin anything that gets stuck in the blades.

Feed the food into disposal slowly. Make sure plenty of cold water is helping the food flow through the pipes. It is easy to hear when the disposal is empty because the sound of the motor will change. Continue to run water and then turn the switch off.

Most people enjoy having a disposal because there is no need to worry about rotting food in the trash. Sometimes animals like to get into these things if left to long in the trashcan. It can be dangerous for the animal and a mess to clean up if it gets spread all over.

A garbage disposal is an inexpensive appliance in the kitchen and most new homes have them. They are easy to install, but a good plumber can do it very quickly for a reasonable price.

Some people are using compost piles to put the food and garage in. It is the popular thing to do, but it is important to be careful about how this is used. Often bugs and flies get into the compost pile, so it is not the idea situation.

The garbage disposal is something that will be popular for years to come with people who like to keep their home clean and free from smelly garbage. They are simple to use and even the kids in the family can put food down them without worrying about any danger. They help keep pipes clean and fresh and are a popular selling point when someone puts the home on the market.

If you are thinking of adding a garbage disposal in your Lake Mary home or your current one is not working properly, Contact Jeffs Kitchen Bath & Beyond today at (407) 968-1801 to schedule a visit right away.

How to Prevent Burst Pipes in Orlando

Posted on January 2, 2013 by chad siemer

Though Orlando rarely gets bitterly cold in the winter, burst pipes can be a risk even if the temperature dips into the 50s. The risk of the pipes bursting is even greater if the home is a vacation home that isn’t used year round. However, a plumber can easily help a homeowner winter proof their home.

The first thing the plumber would do is turn off the water at the meter, or even have the local water company turn off the water to the house. Then, starting at the top of the house, the plumber should open up every single faucet, even the ones that the household doesn’t use very often. This would include an underground sprinkler system or an outdoor spigot. The plumber will then switch off and drain the water heater. In the end, the entire plumbing system will be drained in order to prevent a burst pipe.

The plumber will then go through the house, take out all of the clean out plugs in the sinks, take out the bathroom traps, then empty and replace them. He’ll need to siphon the water from the washing machine and the dishwasher. Then, he’ll pour an antifreeze and water mixture down the drains. He’ll flush the toilets, pour the antifreeze into the toilet bowls, then flush them again. The plumber will then pour full strength antifreeze down the bathtubs. However, he won’t pour antifreeze into the fresh water pipes.

When it comes to refilling the system again, the plumber will turn off all the faucets, then have the water restored to the house if it was cut off by the local water company. Then, the plumber will slowly open the main water supply valve.

The plumber has several options to choose from if the pipes do freeze. The first thing he’ll do is open the faucet the pipe serves to allow whatever steam to escape, for the steam itself can cause the pipe to burst. He can wrap layers of cloth around the pipe and pour hot water over it or use a heat lamp, electric heat tape wrapped around the pipe or even a blow drier. He might even tell the homeowner that the best thing to do is turn on the heat in the house and simply wait. In Orlando, it shouldn’t take long for a pipe to thaw.

Just experienced a burst pipe? do not sit around and wait! By assessing the problem quickly you can avoid unnecessary costly repairs! Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond are your Orlando Plumbing burst pipe repair specialist! call us today at (407) 968-1801.

Why a Home Water Filtration System is Important

Posted on December 19, 2012 by chad siemer

Poor water conditions for a home in Sandford can easily be solved by installing a water filtration system. This is an option for people that have city water or poor tasting well water. All contaminants and heavy sediments found in water will be removed by a water filtration system. This will prevent contaminants that appear on dirty dishes and cause damage to appliances, such as water heaters.

The most common element that is removed using a home water filtration system is iron. Filtered water is also free of microbes, such as viruses and bacteria. This means that water will be treated for safe drinking or for use when taking showers and baths.

City water often has high levels of chlorine from treatment plants. The chlorine taste in water can easily be removed by installing a carbon filtration system in your home. This is the best choice to get rid of the contaminants that cause water to have an odor or a bad taste. A carbon filtration system uses a filter that you need to replace once to twice a year.

You have many sixes of filtration system that can be installed in your home. They will have many types of ratings based on their capacity. This means that you are able to have good tasting water that can also be used for washing dishes, doing the laundry, and bathing.

One benefit of using a home water filtration system is a longer life for your appliances. There will be a reduction of minerals that can lead to failure over time. Appliances will run more efficiently because of the availability of clean water.

The filters used on this system is designed to have little effect on the flow rates of water. If you choose to install a carbon filtration system, then your home will benefit from the removal of chlorine. This can help to reduce the risk of cancers resulting from the by-products of chlorine.

A home water filtration system will assure that your water is free of contaminants for you and your family. Contact Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond, You Sandford plumbing experts. For more information, call us today at (407) 968-1801.