Why Annual Backflow Testing Is So Important
Though they’re preventable, backflow incidents continue to occur across the state. These incidents lead to boil water advisories, municipal water supply contamination, and other issues, and it’s because of these risks that bi-annual backflow testing is legally required. As a local business owner, you may wonder why and if you need to perform these tests. We have you covered, and we’ll answer all your backflow testing questions in this easy guide.

What Is Backflow Testing and Is It Required In South Florida?
Since 1990, Florida’s building codes have required that residential and commercial irrigation systems have backflow prevention systems in place. The state mandates bi-yearly testing to prevent the contamination of the public water supply. No matter the size or configuration of your irrigation system, our licensed plumbers can perform backflow tests that meet the state’s requirements.

What Is Backflow and How Does a Backflow Preventer Work?
When South Florida plumbing systems work properly, water moves in one direction. For instance, drain lines carry wastewater away from the area’s homes and businesses, while water supply lines carry fresh water into buildings. When water flows in the opposite direction, it’s known as backflow. When backflow occurs, it’s a serious problem because of the risk of water contamination. Exposure to dirty water can lead to serious safety and health risks, but backflow prevention devices can minimize the chances of such a disaster. Backflow preventers are best thought of as entryways that connect South Florida plumbing systems to municipal pipes. They let potable water in while keeping wastewater out of the city’s water supply. Call today to schedule a visit by one of our certified plumbers.

Why Is Backflow Such a Big Problem?
Most of the time, plumbers in South Florida deal with problems such as sewer and drain clogs. While these issues are serious, they often pale in comparison to the challenges posed by backflow. These incidents are rarely discussed, but they’re surprisingly common. When wastewater and chemicals make their way into the water supply, it may lead to skin burns, respiratory issues, and other injuries. One milliliter of sewage contains up to one million microorganisms, and that alone is a good reason to schedule regular backflow testing by a plumber in South Florida.

The Need For Regular Backflow Prevention Testing
Backflow prevention devices have a lifespan of roughly 40 years. While that sounds impressive, it’s important to remember that these systems consist of numerous moving parts. Springs, screws, seals, bolts, and nuts don’t last as long as the backflow valve structure does. With use and with time, they’ll break down, which will lead you to ask “How do I know if my backflow preventer is broken?” Any malfunction within a backflow preventer can lead to the complete failure of your commercial plumbing system. Problematic systems typically have delayed response times, and in severe cases, they won’t work at all. It’s because of these potential problems that regular backflow testing is essential. With these tests, a South Florida plumber can check systems for signs of premature wear. From there, they will perform backflow replacement and repairs to keep the devices from failing. Bi-yearly backflow prevention testing minimizes the risk of water contamination. These crucial inspections keep wastewater from flowing into the municipal water supply, and they also ensure that the public water stays clean and safe to consume.

The Most Common Backflow Issues
Backflow prevention systems typically include two check valves. If both valves malfunction, a disastrous backflow may occur. The first valve opens at a specific water pressure, which is usually 2 PSI. If there’s a problem, though, it may open at a lower pressure. The second valve is designed to prevent backpressure-related backflow. If this component fails, water may get past it. In other instances, backflow preventers fail because of a too-high or too-low opening point. Either issue will negatively affect the performance of the entire assembly. Our quality plumbers can service and replace these systems, which prevents water contamination and other issues.

Regular Testing Stops Backflow Before It Starts
Now that you’ve learned what backflow is and how it’s prevented, it’s time to look for a reliable testing company. We’re authorized by the state to conduct these assessments, and we’d love to put our experience to work for you. If you’re living or working in South Florida, we can help keep your irrigation system and your residential plumbing in great shape. No matter how big or small your plumbing problem is, you can count on us for quality workmanship and excellent customer service. We’re a team of friendly, professional, and local plumbers, and we invite you to get in touch with us today. Call or click to learn more about backflow testing or to schedule an annual backflow test or backflow repair appointment with the best plumbers in the area.

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Although water heaters are one of the most integral parts of the plumbing system of a home, they are also one of the most overlooked. Because they are tucked away in closets, basements, and even in attics, homeowners sometimes neglect their water heaters, leading to plumbing issues. With a little maintenance, homeowners can avoid the cost and aggravation of water heater repair. This information will help homeowners in South Florida understand the importance of water heater maintenance. 
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Why Is Water Heater Maintenance So Important?
Two enemies are constantly warring against your water heater. These are sediment and rust. When these two cause damage, homeowners need to call quality plumbers, to ensure the repairs are carried out precisely. Both of these can lead to water heater leaks, which is something no homeowner wants to face.
Water heaters are lined with glass to prevent them from rusting. Over time, minute openings can develop in the liner, causing rust to form. Once the rust grows, it will eat away at the integrity of the metal tank and will eventually lead to leaks. The other enemy to a water tank, sediment, is formed by calcium carbonate. This mineral settles to the bottom and forms a thick layer. When sediment forms, it renders the heating elements useless and even affects gas-heated tanks. When a water heater has been neglected for many years, homeowners will face the need for a new water heater installation. Besides the cost of replacement or repair, neglecting your heater could lead to a leaking water heater problem that causes significant water damage. Maintenance is one of the most important steps a homeowner can take, to ensure their water heater performs efficiently and does not create any problems that would require the services of licensed plumbers. 

Different Types of Water Heaters
Homeowners have a few options available for water heaters. The following offers information on each of the types and how they work. To ensure you choose the right one for your home, it is wise to consult with certified plumbers.

Coventional Storage Tank
When homeowners seek water heater installation South Florida, they often choose conventional tanks. This water heater is heated by gas or electricity and has a storage tank that is made of steel. This tank holds the heated water and refills it as needed. Conventional water heaters are typically less expensive than some other types, such as a tankless water heater. The biggest drawback of this water heater is it only holds a specific amount. If you have a large family, other options may be better. 

Tankless Water Heaters
This type of water heater is often referred to as an on-demand heater. As its name suggests, there is no holding tank with this type of water heater. Instead, the water passes through super-heated coils that can heat the water immediately, so it is available on-demand. Tankless water heaters come in different sizes, so it is important to consult South Florida water heater installers, to ensure you choose the right size for your family’s needs. This is an ideal water heater for large families. Tankless water heaters are high in energy efficiency but are more difficult to maintain and more expensive than some tank versions. 

Heat Pump Water Heaters
This water heater is often referred to as a hybrid water heater. Because this unit does not directly generate heat, it can help homeowners save money on their electricity costs. Instead of using electricity or gas, it uses heat from the air and the ground to heat the water supply of the home. Although it is cost-efficient to run, it also one of the most expensive water heaters to purchase. It requires more space than some other types and is not a good choice for areas of the country that remain cold for long periods. 

What to Do When Repair Issues Arise?
A water heater will last up to thirteen years, as long as it is properly maintained. A lack of maintenance will lead to the need for water heaters repair. One of the most common repair issues with South Florida water heater repair is leaks. When leaks begin in a home, floor damage can happen rapidly. Water heaters can also lead to other residential plumbing problems. When issues arise, homeowners need to call South Florida Plumbing and Backflow. We are the residential and commercial plumbing experts home and business owners rely on for all their water heater repair needs. Our team of water heater installers will come out and replace your old water heater with a newer and more energy-efficient model that will serve your home well. If you are unsure of how to maintain your water heater properly, call us. We will keep it running at its prime, helping to prevent the costly water damage that occurs with leaks. Give our water heater installer a call today to schedule your appointment. South Florida homeowners rely on us to get the job done right and on time, every time. 

Many homes in the United States have cast iron pipes, especially those residences built before 1975. These plumbing systems corrode over time, which leads to their structural integrity being compromised. In fact, experts estimate 76 million homes in the United States remain at risk of problems with their plumbing, and insurance companies often fight to avoid paying on claims related to damage from cast iron pipes Florida failure. What do homeowners need to know regarding this common problem, and how should they proceed if their cast iron plumbing appears to be failing?

​What is Cast Iron?
People started using cast iron piping back in the seventeenth century for plumbing. Builders continued to install the pipes in homes and other structures for centuries for a variety of reasons. Plastic piping wasn’t available back in the seventeenth century, and cast iron lasts for decades. In fact, the pipes last as long as 100 years and can handle high pressure and heavy loads. People preferred this option as the iron deadens the sound of water and sewage as they make their way through the pipes. However, these pipes remain susceptible to oxidation and homeowners need to know what to look for that may suggest they need to look into replacing their cast iron plumbing and have this task completed without delay.

Problems That May Arise When Cast Iron Plumbing Fails
Several problems arise when cast iron pipes fail. The sewer might back up into the home or drains could become clogged. Water damage to the home often accompanies problems with cast iron pipes, and homeowners might find they have a pest infestation or mold growth. These serve as only a few of the many issues that might arise because of pipe corrosion, and the system needs prompt attention to minimize any damage.

What Contributes to Cast Iron Piping Failure?
Many things other than corrosion could contribute to the failure of cast iron piping. Tree roots often spread into the plumbing system and damage the pipe. Extreme weather changes impact the longevity of the plumbing system, as does the type of soil. In addition, water quality affects the condition of pipes in the home. What does the homeowner need to look for when determining whether the pipes in the home are failing?

Signs Cast Iron Pipes are Failing
Homeowners frequently want to know what signs to look for when it comes to the failure of their plumbing system. Several things show the plumbing system within the home needs professional attention. The following serve as a few examples of what homeowners need to look for.

Changes in the Water Color
Brown or yellow water coming from faucets in the home suggests a plumbing issue. Rural homes and those residences that get water from a well often see discolored water. If the home doesn’t fall into one of those categories, damaged pipes likely led to the change in water color.

Frequent Leaks
Pipes develop leaks. However, when the leaks become more commonplace, it serves as a signal that the pipes cracked or have sustained damage from sulfuric acid. Have a plumber check the system to see where the problem lies.

Slow or Stopped Drains
Water should flow freely through drains and toilets. If the drains have slowed or completely stopped, this suggests pipe damage. Drain cleaners and openers contain sulfuric acid, which could make the problem worse in iron pipes. For this reason, it’s best to call in professionals to determine what is going on. The problem could lie in the cast iron sewer pipe, which the homeowner wouldn’t be able to detect without the proper tools.

Unpleasant Odors
A cast iron pipe rusting and leaking in the home could lead to unpleasant odors. Cracked pipes release sewer gas into the home, which is unhealthy for the occupants of the residence. Sewer systems are airtight other than the vent stacks. When homeowners smell an unpleasant odor that appears to be coming from their plumbing system, they need to call us right away.

Mold
People often learn they have a plumbing issue when they spot mold in the home. Mold doesn’t need excessive humidity to grow, and a crack pipe behind a wall can bring about this problem. Never try to treat the mold alone, as the reason for the growth must be determined. A plumber becomes of great help at this time.

Changes in the Landscape
People often look inside the home when they suspect a plumbing issue. However, signs it is time to replace cast iron pipes often appear outside of the residence first. If the lawn suddenly looks green and vibrant in certain areas, homeowners need to learn what has changed. Raw sewage serves as an excellent fertilizer for lawns, and the green areas suggest there is a leak in the plumbing system. Look for puddles in the yard, as that is likely where the leak will be found.

Why Call Us?
If you suspect you need cast iron pipe repair, you should seek help right away. Give our team a call and we’ll be happy to come out and assess the situation. The team handles everything from minor repairs to whole-house repiping. When the home has cast iron piping, replacing the pipes serves as the best option. Repiping the home offers many benefits. Water pressure and the overall efficiency of the plumbing system increase, and the homeowner receives a warranty that boosts the property value. Furthermore, potential buyers won’t want to address any issues with cast iron plumbing in the future, so having this work done makes it easier to sell the home when that time comes.

​Homeowners often worry about the cost to replace cast iron drain under house or complete a whole house repipe. Fortunately, help may be available. Individuals with homes built before 1975 might find their insurance must pay for the cast iron pipe repair. A failure to do so by the insurance company could lead to the homeowner filing a cast iron pipe lawsuit Florida. We work with clients to find the source of their problems. If it results from their cast iron piping, we have an attorney to assist clients in getting the matter resolved. Nobody should have to take on this task alone, and we ensure our clients have help when they need it most. Call South Florida Plumbing and Backflow today!