Cracking the Code of Your High Water Bills: Tips to Lower Your Monthly Expenses

Have you noticed that your monthly water bill is higher than usual? If so, you’re not alone. Many homeowners struggle with high water bills, and it can be challenging to figure out the cause. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to lower your monthly water expenses.

1. Check for Leaks
The first step to lower your water bill is to check for leaks. Leaks are one of the most common causes of high water bills, and they can be difficult to detect. Check for leaks in your toilets, faucets, and pipes. If you notice any leaks, have them repaired as soon as possible.

2. Upgrade to Water-Efficient Fixtures
Upgrading to water-efficient fixtures is another effective way to lower your water bills. Replace your old toilet, showerheads, and faucets with water-efficient models. Water-efficient fixtures use less water, which can lead to significant savings on your water bill.

3. Fix Running Toilets
Running toilets can waste a lot of water and significantly increase your water bill. If you notice that your toilet is running continuously, have it repaired immediately.

4. Limit Outdoor Water Usage
Limiting your outdoor water usage can also help lower your water bill. Water your lawn and plants during the early morning or late evening hours when the sun is low, which will prevent evaporation. Consider installing a rain barrel to collect rainwater that can be used for watering your garden.

5. Monitor Your Water Usage
Monitoring your water usage is another effective way to lower your water bill. Use a water meter to keep track of your water usage and identify any sudden spikes in consumption. If you notice any significant changes in your water usage, investigate the cause.

Lowering your monthly water bill can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. By following these simple tips, you can significantly reduce your water usage and save money on your water bill. If you’re experiencing issues with your plumbing system or want to upgrade to water-efficient fixtures, contact WM Plumbing for professional assistance. Their expert team can help you identify the cause of your high water bills and provide solutions to reduce your monthly expenses.

Further Reading

Water Bill Adjustments and Credits | Miami-Dade County

Why Is My Water Bill So High? Here Are 5 Possible Reasons

What to do about high water bill? | 7 News Miami

What is FOG and Why is it a Problem?

Fats, oils, and grease, commonly known as FOG, are substances that can cause significant issues in plumbing systems. They are byproducts of cooking and are typically found in kitchen wastewater. FOG can stick to the insides of pipes, accumulate over time, and cause blockages that can lead to serious plumbing problems.

When FOG is poured down the drain, it can start to solidify as it cools, eventually causing buildup and clogs in the pipes. This can result in slow-draining sinks, toilets, and showers, as well as unpleasant odors and backups. FOG can also cause damage to the sewer system, as it can build up in the pipes and eventually cause blockages that can lead to sewage backups and overflows.

Why is FOG a Problem?

FOG is a problem for several reasons. First, it can cause blockages in pipes and wastewater systems, leading to costly repairs and cleanups. Additionally, FOG can create health and environmental hazards. When FOG accumulates in the sewer system, it can lead to overflows and backups, which can result in contaminated water supplies, illness, and environmental damage.

Another reason why FOG is a problem is that it can be difficult to remove once it has solidified in the pipes. This is why it’s important to prevent FOG from entering the plumbing system in the first place.

How to Prevent FOG Buildup

Preventing FOG buildup in your plumbing system is relatively simple. Here are some tips to help you avoid FOG-related problems:

  1. Don’t pour FOG down the drain: Instead, pour it into a sealable container and dispose of it in the trash.
  2. Scrape dishes before washing: Remove excess food and grease from dishes and cookware before washing them.
  3. Use a strainer: Install a strainer in your sink to catch food scraps and other debris that can contribute to FOG buildup.
  4. Regular maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance for your plumbing system, including inspections and drain cleaning services in Doral, FL or beyond to remove any buildup that may have accumulated.

Why You Should Only Flush Toilet Paper

The sewer system is a crucial part of any home or business, as it ensures that wastewater is safely disposed of. However, the system can be easily compromised by the things that we flush down our toilets. Flushing non-degradable items can cause blockages in the sewer system, leading to costly repairs and health hazards. In this article, we will discuss how to protect your sewer system and why it’s important to only flush toilet paper.

  1. Use toilet paper that is safe for your sewer system.

When choosing toilet paper, it’s essential to pick one that is safe for your sewer system. Avoid using toilet paper that is too thick or textured as it can clog the pipes. Look for toilet paper that is labeled “septic-safe” or “flushable,” as these types of toilet paper are designed to break down quickly in water.

  1. Avoid flushing non-degradable items.

The most common culprits that cause blockages in the sewer system are non-degradable items such as wet wipes, dental floss, feminine hygiene products, and paper towels. Flushing these items down the toilet can cause them to get stuck in the pipes, leading to blockages and even sewage backups.

  1. Educate others in your household or workplace.

It’s important to educate everyone in your household or workplace about the importance of protecting the sewer system. Make sure that everyone knows what can and cannot be flushed down the toilet. Consider posting signs in your bathroom to remind people of what can be safely flushed.

  1. Get regular maintenance.

Regular maintenance of your sewer system can help prevent blockages and other problems. Consider getting your sewer system inspected and cleaned by a professional plumber once every two years or as recommended by your local regulations.

  1. The risks of not protecting your sewer system.

Flushing non-degradable items can cause blockages in the sewer system, leading to costly repairs and health hazards. When the sewer system is blocked, the sewage can overflow, causing unpleasant odors, sewage backups, and even contamination of the water supply.

By taking simple steps to protect your sewer system and only flushing toilet paper, you can prevent major blockages and damage to your plumbing. It’s also important to schedule regular maintenance with a professional plumber to ensure that your system is running smoothly and efficiently. At WM Plumbing Septic Tank & Grease Trap, we offer a range of services to help keep your plumbing in top shape. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our drain cleaning services and more. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in maintaining a healthy and functional sewer system.

Further Reading

EPA Encourages Americans to Only Flush Toilet Paper

12 Everyday Items You Should Never Flush Down Your Toilet

10 Tips For Cleaning and Maintaining Your Toilet

How to Choose the Right Water Heater for Your Home or Business

small water heater reflected in a bathroom mirror

Are you in the market for a new water heater but don’t know where to start? With so many options available, choosing the right water heater for your home or business can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry – with a little bit of knowledge and guidance, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs and budget. Here are some tips for choosing the right water heater for your home or business:

Determine Your Hot Water Needs
The first step in choosing a water heater is to determine how much hot water you need on a daily basis. This will depend on the size of your household or business, as well as your daily activities.

A larger household or business with high hot water demands will require a larger capacity water heater than a smaller household or business with lower hot water demands.

If you have higher than average hot water needs, then one option is a tankless water heater. Tankless water heaters provide continuous hot water without recharge time, and are only limited by the number of simultaneous applications. That means that everyone in your house can take a shower back-to-back, and larger units will also allow two or more hot showers at a time. But there are limits.

Another option worth considering is to install multiple water heaters. Some homes are actually built to use two heaters, with one in the front of the house and one in the back. This can also help if your pipes are poorly insulated, since the water won’t have to travel as far to reach your shower, sink, or appliance.

Consider Energy Efficiency
Choosing an energy-efficient water heater can help you save money on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Look for water heaters with an Energy Star label, which indicates that they meet or exceed energy efficiency guidelines established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Choose the Right Type of Water Heater
There are several types of water heaters to choose from, including tankless, storage tank, heat pump, and solar water heaters. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient and can provide unlimited hot water, but they are more expensive upfront. Storage tank water heaters are less expensive upfront, but they require a larger storage tank and can run out of hot water if not sized properly. Heat pump water heaters are more energy-efficient, but they require a larger space and can be noisy. Solar water heaters are the most energy-efficient, but they require a sunny location and are expensive upfront.

Are Tankless Water Heaters a Good Investment?

Tankless water heaters can be a smart investment for many homeowners, offering several advantages over traditional tank-style water heaters. One of the primary benefits is energy efficiency. Tankless heaters heat water on-demand, which means they only use energy when hot water is needed. This can result in significant energy savings and lower utility bills compared to constantly heating and reheating water in a storage tank.

Another advantage is the unlimited supply of hot water. Tankless heaters can provide a continuous flow of hot water, eliminating the risk of running out during long showers or multiple hot water demands. They also take up less space, making them ideal for homes with limited storage.

However, tankless water heaters do come with a higher upfront cost and may require specialized installation. The payback period for these units depends on factors like local utility rates, usage patterns, and the initial investment. Overall, if energy efficiency, space savings, and endless hot water are priorities, tankless water heaters can be a wise long-term investment for your home.

Consider the Fuel Source
Water heaters can be powered by electricity, natural gas, propane, or solar energy. The fuel source you choose will depend on the availability in your area and your personal preferences. If you’re replacing an older water heater, it typically helps to stay with the same fuel source. Otherwise you’ll also have to pay for new utility connections, which can be relatively expensive.

Choose a Reputable Brand and Professional Installation
Choosing a reputable brand of water heater and having it installed by a professional plumber can ensure that your water heater is reliable and safe. Look for brands with a good reputation for quality and customer service and be sure to have your water heater installed by a licensed and insured plumber.

Don’t Forget the Warranties

One of the biggest benefits of choosing a reliable brand is that you’ll also enjoy better warranties. Ideally, your water heater should be covered for the first few years of its life, and also offer you coverage for parts and labor. Speak with your plumber, or directly with the manufacturer, to learn more.

We’re Happy to Give Personalized Advice

In conclusion, choosing the right water heater for your home or business requires careful consideration of your hot water needs, energy efficiency, type of water heater, fuel source, and professional installation. With the help of a trusted professional plumber, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs and budget. Learn more about our water heater installation services and how we can help you choose the right water heater for your home or business.

What makes hiring a professional plumber a better choice than DIY plumbing?

When it comes to plumbing issues, it can be tempting to try to tackle the problem yourself. However, there are several benefits to hiring a professional plumber that can save you time, money, and frustration.

One of the main benefits of hiring a professional plumber is expertise. Professional plumbers have the experience and knowledge necessary to accurately diagnose and fix plumbing issues. They are trained in the latest techniques and have access to specialized equipment that can help them quickly and effectively solve the problem.

In addition to expertise, professional plumbers offer a level of convenience that DIY plumbing simply cannot match. Plumbing issues can be time-consuming and messy to fix, especially if you are not experienced in the field. Hiring a professional plumber can save you time and the hassle of dealing with a potentially difficult and stressful situation. Additionally, professional plumbers can help you identify and address underlying issues that may be contributing to the problem, providing a more comprehensive solution.

Another benefit of hiring a professional plumber is safety. Plumbing issues can pose a significant risk to your home and personal safety. A professional plumber has the training and experience necessary to safely and effectively address plumbing issues without putting you or your home at risk.

Furthermore, hiring a professional plumber can ultimately save you money. Attempting to fix a plumbing issue yourself can lead to further damage and costly repairs down the line. A professional plumber can identify the root of the problem and provide a lasting solution, preventing the need for additional repairs or replacements.

So, when it comes to plumbing, forget about DIY and give us a call.

Preventive Plumbing

Is there such thing as preventive plumbing? The answer is yes. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent plumbing issues before they occur, saving you time, money, and the inconvenience of unexpected plumbing emergencies.

Most homeowners and business owners don’t think about their plumbing systems until something goes wrong. However, waiting for a plumbing disaster to occur can be both expensive and disruptive.

There are several benefits to preventive plumbing. One of the main advantages is cost savings. Preventive plumbing measures help detect and address minor issues before they become major problems. This can save you from having to pay for costly repairs or emergency plumbing services. Additionally, regular maintenance can help extend the life of your plumbing system, saving you from having to replace your pipes or fixtures prematurely.

Another advantage of preventive plumbing is the improved efficiency of your plumbing system. Regular maintenance can help keep your system functioning optimally, which can save you money on water bills. A well-maintained plumbing system is less likely to waste water, which can also benefit the environment.

Get in touch with WM Plumbing Septic Tank & Grease Trap today, and we’ll work with you to create a customized preventive plumbing plan that meets your specific needs.

Inspect Your Pipes with Camera Inspections

Your plumbing system is an essential part of your home or business. It ensures that clean water comes in and wastewater goes out. Unfortunately, over time, pipes can become clogged or damaged. That’s where camera inspections come in. At WM Plumbing Septic Tank & Grease Trap, we offer camera inspections as part of our plumbing services. Here’s why you should consider a camera inspection for your pipes.

What is a Camera Inspection?

A camera inspection is a non-invasive method of diagnosing problems with your plumbing system. A small, high-definition camera is inserted into your pipes and captures real-time footage of the inside of your pipes. The footage is displayed on a monitor and is used to identify issues such as blockages, leaks, or damage.

Benefits of Camera Inspections:

  1. Early Detection: Camera inspections allow our plumbers to detect problems early on. This can help prevent major issues down the road, such as a pipe bursting, which can cause significant damage and be expensive to fix.
  2. Saves Time and Money: By using a camera inspection, our plumbers can quickly and accurately identify issues without having to take apart your plumbing system. This can save you time and money in the long run.
  3. Accurate Diagnosis: With a camera inspection, our plumbers can accurately diagnose the problem. This means that the repair work will be more efficient and effective.
  4. Non-Invasive: Camera inspections are non-invasive and do not require any digging or excavation. This means that your property will not be disturbed, and the inspection can be completed quickly and efficiently.
  5. Preventive Maintenance: Regular camera inspections can help prevent problems from occurring in the first place. This can save you time and money in the long run, as you’ll be able to catch issues before they become major problems.

At WM Plumbing Septic Tank & Grease Trap, we offer camera inspections as part of our plumbing services. Our plumbers are trained to use the latest technology to provide accurate and efficient inspections. Contact us today to schedule a camera inspection and keep your plumbing system in top shape.

The Benefits of Installing a High-Efficiency Toilet

As a homeowner, you are always looking for ways to save money on your utility bills while also doing your part for the environment. One of the best ways to achieve these goals is by installing a high-efficiency toilet.

What is a High-Efficiency Toilet?

A high-efficiency toilet (HET) is a toilet that uses less water per flush than traditional toilets. HETs use less than 1.28 gallons per flush, compared to traditional toilets that use between 1.6 to 3.5 gallons per flush. Some high-efficiency toilets also come with two flush buttons – one for liquid waste (number 1) and one for solid waste (number 2). The dual flush option can save even more water as it uses less water for liquid waste and more water for solid waste.

Benefits of Installing a High-Efficiency Toilet:

  1. Save Water and Money: A high-efficiency toilet can save up to 16,500 gallons of water per year for a family of four. By using less water per flush, you’ll save on your water bills and help protect the environment by conserving water.
  2. Improved Functionality: High-efficiency toilets are designed to perform better than traditional toilets. They flush more efficiently, have better drainage, and are less prone to clogs and backups. Additionally, toilets with two flush buttons allow for even more control and customization of water usage.
  3. Environmentally Friendly: By reducing the amount of water used per flush, high-efficiency toilets help conserve water resources and reduce the strain on the environment.
  4. Improved Home Value: Installing high-efficiency toilets can increase your home’s value, as they are a desirable feature among homebuyers.

At WM Plumbing Septic Tank & Grease Trap, we understand the importance of conserving water and protecting the environment. We offer a wide range of high-efficiency toilets, including models with dual flush buttons, that will help you save water and money. Contact us today to learn more about our services and products and upgrade your bathroom with a high-efficiency toilet.

What is a Grease Trap and Why is it Important for Your Business?

If you run a restaurant, commercial kitchen, or any other food service business, you know the importance of keeping your kitchen clean and functioning properly. One of the essential components of a well-functioning kitchen is a grease trap. In this article, we’ll explore what a grease Interceptor is, how it works, and why it’s important for your business.

What is a Grease Trap or Grease interceptor?
A grease trap is a plumbing device that captures grease, oils, and fats before they enter the main sewer line.

How Does a Grease interceptor Work?
When wastewater flows from the kitchen sink, it enters the grease Interceptor. The Interceptor slows down the water flow, allowing any grease, oil, or fat to rise to the surface. The grease and oil are then separated from the water and trapped in the grease trap. The cleaned water continues through the trap and flows into the main sewer line.

Why is a Grease Interceptor Important for Your Business?
Proper maintenance and cleaning of a grease Interceptor are crucial to keep your kitchen running efficiently. If grease and oil are not captured by the grease Interceptor, they can cause blockages in the sewer line, leading to costly repairs and backups. Regular cleaning of the grease Interceptor is necessary to prevent foul odors and maintain proper hygiene in the kitchen.

In addition, many municipalities require commercial kitchens to have grease Interceptors installed to comply with local regulations. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to fines and penalties.

If you need assistance with installation, cleaning, or maintenance of your grease trap, do not hesitate to contact us here.

Best Kitchen Faucets

If your kitchen is hopelessly out of date or ill-suited to your needs, turning it into a more functional space can be a laborious, and often expensive, endeavor.

On the other hand, if your kitchen works well for you, but you want to make some kind of improvement, there are many reasonably priced, quick, and even DIY ways to give it a makeover.

You can make a surprisingly big impact to your kitchen – and make it quite a bit more user-friendly – by changing the faucet in your kitchen sink. Although used many times each day, the faucet is often ignored by homeowners unless it springs a leak, or is replaced as part of a larger kitchen remodel. And while it’s true that it demands attention in either of those situations, it’s also true that sometimes, just replacing an old, ugly, or dated faucet with a newer model is all you need for a fresh take on your kitchen.

To get the lowdown on kitchen faucets we’ve even consulted Nina, a gourmet chef and interior designer.

But choosing a new kitchen faucet can be difficult. There are many brands, models, and options available, and various configurations as well. That’s where we come in!

If you are ready to choose a new faucet, check out our five recommendations. But if you’d like to learn more about the various types of faucet available and how to choose the right one for your kitchen, read on.

Count your mounting holes

Assuming that you are not buying a new sink along with a new faucet, you need to know the number of faucet mounting holes in your existing sink. These are the holes – typically covered by some sort of base plate – for the faucet spout, taps, side sprayer, soap dispenser, and other mounted accessories.

Your sink will have anywhere from one to four mounting holes. Your new faucet can’t require more holes than those that already exist on the sink, although it can require fewer holes. For example, if your sink has three mounting holes, and you choose a faucet that needs one hole for the spout, one hole for the cold water tap, and one hole for the hot water tap, you’re fine. But that’s not the only option. You can work a variety of combinations for the existing holes; for example, you could install a single-hole faucet, side sprayer, and soap dispenser.

You can also choose a faucet that requires fewer holes than your sink offers, then cover the unused holes with a longer base plate. What you cannot easily do, however, is install a faucet that requires more holes than already exist in the sink.

Wall-mounted vs. deck-mounted faucets

An increasingly popular option is a wall-mounted kitchen faucet, which, as the name suggests, attaches to the wall right over the sink.

This isn’t an option in kitchens with a window over the sink, but these faucets do provide an uncluttered, open look to the sink area, and also make it easy to clean around the sink’s top.

If you’re switching from a deck-mounted faucet to a wall-mounted faucet, you’ll need to have the sink’s water lines brought up to the wall opening.

How many handles?

A traditional faucet has two handles: one for hot water, and one for cold water.

Many people prefer a single-handled faucet in the kitchen, however, which has one lever or knob that rotates toward the left to make the water hotter, and toward the right for cold water. The single lever makes it much easier to work the faucet with wet or slippery hands.

Today, you’ll also find faucets with no handles at all. These hands-free faucets are triggered by a wave of the hand or a light tap, and are very convenient for busy cooks.

Basic types of kitchen faucets

Gooseneck

Gooseneck faucets have a high, arching spout, and are excellent if you wash a lot of large pots and pans. They require a deep sink; otherwise they are prone to splashing.

Pot filler

You’ll usually find these hinged faucets near the stove, where they are used to fill large pots for cooking pasta.

Two-handle

Although more common in bathrooms than kitchens, there are still many kitchen sinks adorned with this traditional, one-tap-for-hot-water and one-tap-for-cold-water faucets.

Single-handle

This is probably the most common type of kitchen faucet, at least in older homes. It has one tap, usually mounted on the spout, which rotates left for hot water and right for cold water.

Pullout faucets

This very popular design has a built-in, retractable sprayer that pulls straight out, making it easy to fill pots, clean the sink, and wash produce and dishes. These are one-handle faucets.

Pull-down faucets

Like a pullout faucet, there is a built-in, retractable sprayer, but with this design, the faucet spout arches up and over the sink, and the sprayer pulls straight down. These are good for very deep sinks, and also have a modern appearance that some homeowners appreciate.

Bridge

This old-fashioned faucet is making a style comeback. It has separate hot and cold water taps, but they are connected to the spout by above-sink metal bridges, rather than underneath-the-sink connectors.

Faucet finishes

The choice of finish is purely a matter of aesthetics, so go ahead and choose the one you like best, or that matches other metals throughout your kitchen.

While chrome is the most common faucet finish, you’ll find many other options, including brushed metals, matte finishes, satin sheen, and copper or polished brass.

Faucet features to consider

Faucets are fairly basic, but there are still a few terms and features you should know about.

Built-in filter

No more buying bottled water when you can easily filter your tap water.

Hot water dispenser

Super convenient when you want a quick cup of tea or coffee, this is another extra that requires one of the holes near your faucet spout.

Spray/stream selector

A button that lets you switch between a stream and a spray of water. It’s usually on the top or the side of the faucet’s head.

Temperature setting

This high-end feature holds your temperature even after you turn the faucet off, making it easy to return to your faucet later.

Magnetic lock

A feature of many pull-down or pullout faucets, the magnetic lock holds the faucet head in place while retracted.

Side sprayer

Not so popular now that pull-down or pullout faucets have taken over, a side sprayer is a separate, hand-held sprayer that mounts next to your faucet spout.

Soap dispenser

Instead of a bottle of dish soap sitting near your sink, you just pump it out of this handy attachment, which installs in one of the mounting holes next to your faucet spout.

Tips

The base plate, which is sometimes called the deck plate, covers any extra mounting holes on your sink. Deck plates can add a decorative touch to your kitchen, but they also add one more surface to clean.

Ceramic valves are the top choice for preventing faucet drips. Other types of valves are usually drip-free for years, but they can’t match the long-term reliability of ceramic.

Bronze faucets have a brownish tone and are often called “oiled” or “rubbed” bronze, but the surface is a coating (such as epoxy) rather than metal.

Make sure your faucet head has enough swing to reach the entire inside of your sink.

Faucet prices

While you’ll find builder-grade faucets that are less than $80, you’re far likelier to have problems with these models than somewhat more expensive faucets.

Generally, a good kitchen faucet with desirable extra features will cost between $100 and $300.

Source: https://bestreviews.com/best-kitchen-faucets

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