Plunger

·  Also known as a force cup or a plumber's friend.

·  Used to clear blockages in toilets sinks and tubs.

·  Combination plungers (usually black in color) consist of two cups, one inside the other.

·  Recommend combination plungers for clearing toilets.

Auger

·  Also known as a snake.

·  Consists of a coiled spiral cable, usually 1/4î thick and of varying lengths.

·  The most basic type has a z-shaped handle used to crank the cable as it snakes through the drain.

·  Another type uses a funnel-shaped container to store the cable and then to spin it as it works its way through the drain.

·  Professionals use an auger attached to a drill or other device that spins the cable. Usually these versions can maneuver a much longer cable.

Closet Auger

·  Also known as a toilet auger.

·  Used for clearing toilets. Better than a regular auger because it is more rigid.

·  Consists of a short cable with a crank.

·  The handle is covered with a rubber sleeve to protect the porcelain in a toilet bowl.

Sewer Tape

·  An alternative to the auger, but not as effective in difficult blockages.

·  A flat metal band with a hook on one end

 

Chemicals

·  Used to clear stopped-up drains by chemical action. Most liquid drain cleaners are heavier than water and will seek out the stoppage, even if the sink, tub or bowl is full of water.

·  Cleaners are typically a combination of potassium hydroxide, which turns grease to soft soap, and thioglycolic acid, that dissolves hair. Others may contain sodium hydroxide, sulfuric acid or lye.

·  Toxic liquids should carry warnings and must be used with caution.

Standard Toilet

·  Made of vitreous china and finished with a high-gloss glaze.

·  Designed to be durable and sanitary.

·  White and almond are most common colors.

·  Federal law mandates that all new toilets use no more than 1.6 gallons per flush, compared to old models that used 3.5 gallons or more.

·  Gravity-fed toilets operate with a conventional flush, where water draining from the tank is released into the bowl and its weight and gravity pull waste down the drain.

·  Pressure-assisted units use pressure built up within the water supply to increase the force of the flush. These tend to be noisier than gravity-fed models, but the bowl empties quickly (within 4 seconds). The larger water seal surface results in fewer stains. Since the trapway on pressure-assisted models has fewer bends, it is less likely to clog than a gravity-fed system.

·  A third type of toilet uses a pump to assist the flushing operation with increased pressure. Some models are even designed to flush automatically when the seat lid is closed. Dual flushers feature a lever that uses 1.6 gallons for solid waste removal and 1.1 gallons for liquid waste.

·  The rough-in is the distance from the finished wall to the center of the sewer outlet. Standard rough-ins are 10", 12" or 14". Another style is the one-piece toilet

 

Flush Handle

·  Activates the flush valve ball.

·  Usually sold in combination with the trip lever.

·  Attaches with a left-handed screw, which screws on in a counter-clockwise direction.

 

Flush Valve Seat

·  Located at the bottom of the tank.

·  Surrounds the opening that lets water into the bowl.

·  Kept closed by a rubber flush ball or flapper.

·  The flush valve seat is attached to the Overflow Tube, which drains water back into the bowl if the water level goes above it. This is a good safety precaution if the inlet valve fails

 

Flapper Valve Seat Ball

·  Also called a Flush Valve Seat Ball, this device sits on the flush valve seat and attaches to the trip lever with a chain, rod or guide arm.

·  When the outside handle on the toilet tank is pressed down, it raises a trip lever that pulls the flapper off its seat. Water inside the tank pours through the opening to flush the toilet bowl.

·  The valve stays closed with water pressure. However, once the trip lever lifts the device, it remains off the seat by floating on top of the water until the tank is empty. As the water level drops, the flapper gradually settles back into the opening, sealing it so the tank can refill for the next flush.

·  A new style design has replaced the older ball-style. It is connected to the float arm with a chain and eliminates many of the problems associated with wires, rods and guide arms

 

 

Ballcock

·  Also known as a fill valve or inlet valve.

·  Controls refilling the tank.

·  Consists of multiple parts, but is commonly sold as a complete unit. Parts include: upper lever, float rod, lower lever, plunger, valve seat, refill tube, nylon seat, eye screw, body, hush tube, regular shank, shank gasket, lock nut, coupling nut washer, riser pipe and repair shank.

·  Older models use a float ball. When repairing them it is best to replace the entire unit instead of trying to repair its parts.

·  Newer models eliminate the flat ball and may have an anti-siphon feature that keeps toilet water from backing up into the water lines.

 

Float Ball

·  Part of the Ballcock.

·  When the water level raises it, it shuts off the valve that lets water into the tank.

·  Made of plastic or copper.

·  Should be replaced if it develops cracks or corrodes and let water inside.

 

Tank-To-Bowl Hardware

·  Creates a secure connection between the tank and the bowl.

·  Consists of long brass bolts with rubber washers and a large foam-rubber washer.

·  One size fits all toilets

 

Bowl Gasket

 

·  Also known as a wax ring.

·  Seals the joint between the toilet bowl and the drain piping in the floor.

·  Some types have a plastic ring inside to add protection. For a better seal, use two rings, one on top of the other

 Closet Flange Bolt

 

·  Secures the toilet bolt base to the floor flange.

AC Toilet Water Supply

 

·  Connects water supply to toilet.

·  Flexible types are easiest to install.

 

Toilet Seat

 

·  Made of plastic or kiln-dried hardwood.

·  Hardware should be sturdy and non-rusting. Metal hardware should be solid brass with a quality finish.

·  Some toilet seats have ìeasy-on, easy-offî hinge posts that facilitate installation by the homeowner. These hinge posts also make it practical to remove the seat for thorough cleaning.

Tubs & Showers Safety Tips

·  Old cast iron bathtubs are heavy. Use at least two people to remove it and make sure to protect all of the floor surfaces as you carry it out.

·  Consider adding grab bars next to the tub or toilet, a slip-resistant bottom to the tub, shower seats or transfer seats, toilet guardrails, night lights and rounded edges on vanities and doors

 

Bathtub

 

·  The standard Drop-In tub installs within a tile or solid-surface surround within three walls of the bathroom, while the old-fashioned Clawfoot tubs are freestanding.

·  Standard size for tubs is 60" wide, 30" deep and 14" high.

·  Whirlpool and deep tubs are designed for soaking and relaxation. These tubs can be separate or incorporate a shower combination.

·  Cast iron tubs are the most durable and do not stain or scratch easily.

·  Acrylic is a better insulating material so the water takes longer to cool, and its light weight and flexibility makes it a better choice for larger tubs.

·  Fiberglass tubs are easy to install, but are more apt to fade and scratch.

·  Tub and shower combinations are typically made of reinforced fiberglass with a polyester finish.

 

Tub Surround

·  Attaches to drywall, plaster or most any solid surface.

·  Comes in three or more pieces that snap or caulk together for a leak-free fit.

·  Inexpensive alternative to tile and good solution for keeping bathroom walls around the shower easy to clean.

·  Sell color-coordinated caulk with this product.

Shower Stall

·  Some units come in one piece, mainly for new construction or major remodels.

·  Some units come in multiple pieces that snap or caulk together to be a leak free.

·  Sell color-coordinated caulk with this product.

·  Easy to clean and some manufacturers claim they will not chip, crack or peel.

 

Towel Bar/Towel Ring

·  Often sold in a style that matches other bathroom accessories, and some manufacturers will match them to light fixtures.

·  Mount on the wall or shower door.

·  Fancier models are stand alone and heated.

·  Sold in a variety of finishes.

 

Grab Bar

·  Installed for safety around tubs to help prevent falls.

·  Also used as a handrail to help anyone who may have trouble sitting down or standing up.

·  Never use a towel rod in place of a grab bar.

·  Never install diagonally, as a personís hand might slide if footing isnít secure.

 

Tub/Shower Door

·  An attractive alternative to shower curtains.

·  Usually easy to install and require few tools.

·  Door mounts on a frame that is adjustable to all standard bathtubs.

·  Sell caulk with this product.

Standard Showerhead

·  Usually has full-range, adjustable sprays and features self-cleaning rims and swivel ball joints.

·  Is typically made of chrome-plated brass or plastic. Plastic models are less expensive but also less durable.

·  All new models must meet the federal standard flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute, although some deliver a more satisfying shower than others.

Massaging Showerhead

·  Uses water pressure forced through a diverting valve to create one or more pulsating water actions.

·  In most cases, users can vary the amount of pulsing pressure or force to their liking.

·  Available in hand-held or permanently mounted models. While all offer massaging action of one or more kinds, they can all be easily converted to conventional shower action.

Continental Shower

·  A versatile wall and hand shower combined.

·  Some brands feature on-off flow control built into the handle, which is a brass push-button diverter valve that permits instant switch from showerhead to hand shower and a 6' flexible hose and hang-up bracket.

·  It can be easily attached to existing shower arms.

Showerhead Features, Finishes and Styles

There are many things in the house that we use everyday to which we don't give much thought. The showerhead is certainly one of those things. If you are like me, the last thing that you are thinking about in the morning is what you could possibly do to make your daily shower a more pleasant experience. Most of us just want to know which way the coffee is. But right now you're awake, and if you are reading this, you must be thinking about showerheads. Whether you are remodeling your entire bathroom or just thinking about making a small improvement, keep these options in mind as you make a very simple upgrade to your daily routine.

Features and Spray Patterns

Structurally, there are two different types of showerheads. The first is a fixed head. The showerhead is threaded directly onto the supply arm that protrudes from the wall. Most have a swivel in the neck that will allow the user to aim the water spray in the general direction that they want. For the most part, the height on fixed head shower systems is determined by how high the plumber ran the supply line up the wall when the house was built, but there are a few designs that have a two piece neck. This allows for greater flexibility in height and allows the user to adjust the showerhead for more comfortable use. No one like to use a shower that doesn't allow them to stand comfortably under the spray.

The second type of shower head is a hand-held unit. These are attached to the wall by a length of flexible tubing. The hand-held unit itself clips into a hanger that may be mounted at the end of the supply arm or on a bar that allows the height of the clip to be adjusted. There are many benefits that come with these handheld units. They make it very easy to bathe children, and they are often used in handicapped accessible bathrooms because they can be used while sitting down.

The most important features that draw many to consider a new showerhead are the variety of spray patterns available. Depending on personal preference, you can find everything from a very wide, circular head that produces a rain-like shower, to a head that produces a hard, almost sharp stream. There are also many variations in between these two extremes and most manufacturers offer adjustable models so that one showerhead can be used in a household of many people, allowing everyone to shower happily.

One of the most popular styles is a pulsating showerhead. A mechanism inside the showerhead causes the water to come out with varying bursts of pressure, creating the feel of a massage. Many products within this style are also adjustable, allowing for the amount and type of massage pressure to be personalized.

Showerhead Finishes

Another feature to consider is the finish of your showerhead. The availably of finish options for custom bathrooms has increased quite a bit in recent years. Choosing the finish used to be as simple as deciding whether you wanted chrome or brass. That was it. With the onset of the recent interior design boom though, manufacturers have realized that homeowners want the opportunity to customize their living spaces and to make them as comfortable and unique as possible. They have done quite well in expanding their portfolios when it comes to finish options. The old stand-by finish options are of course still available, but there are several new players on the market that can really liven up your space. Of course, it makes sense to have all of the fixtures in the bath space match, so it is recommended that the rest of the fixtures in the bathroom be purchased to have an identical finish as your fantastic new showerhead. Having said that, let's look at a few of the finishes that are available.

Traditional chrome is shiny and works very well in most bathrooms simply because it matches basically everything. The downside is that it tends to show water spots, and requires constant wiping and cleaning in order to maintain its shine.

A brushed finish is often called a brushed nickel by some manufacturers, while others refer to it as brushed chrome. This has a matte finish and is much less reflective than its chrome counterpart. It does a much better job of hiding dirt and water spots, and gives a bathroom a much softer and warmer feel.

Brass fixtures do not seem to be used as much as they once were, and they tend to have a smaller style selection available than do the chromes and brushed nickels. This simply marks a trend in style. From the standpoint of functionality, there is no difference. The brass fittings tend to require a little more cleaning than do the others, but if your goal is to create a luxurious and rich looking space in your bathroom, then this may be the way to go.

Oil rubbed bronze has become an immensely popular look in the past few years. It is a dark finish, almost black, that has highlights of the bronze showing through it. This is a popular finish to use in rooms that use a lot of dark wood in the trim work and on the floor. They are also very popular in bathrooms that use a lot of rustic looking tile. When it first came out, the available selection with regard to styles was fairly limited. With the immense popularity of the color though, most manufacturers have stepped up the availability of this finish and now the selections are quite good.

As mentioned above, if you are changing your showerhead simply because you want to change the color or finish, then it's a good idea to go ahead and do the entire bathroom (i.e., the lavatory faucet, the bathtub filler, and the shower valve system). If, however, you simply want to change the function of your shower, then you should have no trouble at all selecting a showerhead that meets your needs and improves the quality of the time that you spend there. You shower everyday - make it something that you enjoy!

Sewage is one of the most dangerous substances that can enter buildings. Unfortunately, people don't understand the hazards that sewage creates, particularly for small children, the elderly and those with immune system or respiratory problems. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) offers these facts to dispel some typical myths.

Myth #1 - Sewage from oceans, lakes or rivers is clean. This water contains contaminants such as microorganisms, bacteria and pesticides. Trapped inside walls or under floor coverings, it doesn't take long to become a "smelly" health hazard.

Myth #2 - Chlorine bleach decontaminates sewage. While bleach is a remedy, it's quickly inactivated by sewage. Even dead fungi and bacteria may contain chemicals that cause an allergic response. Affected areas should be cleaned thoroughly, followed by appropriate disinfectant application.

Myth #3 - Sewage-saturated carpets can be "saved." Absolutely not! Porous materials, such as carpet, pad, upholstery, bedding, wicker, paper goods, or fabrics that can't be washed in hot water, must be disposed of safely.

Myth #4 - Partially sewage-flooded buildings are safe. Not unless contaminated areas can be sealed off to prevent cross-contamination of other areas. Only trained professionals using specialized equipment are qualified to restore sewage damage.

Complete cleaning and decontamination by a professional following the IICRC S-500 Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration is important.

 

Water Systems: Pumps, Filters, Heaters and Tanks

 

Water Systems 

·  Water filter cartridges should be changed regularly. Once they have reached their filtering capacity, they can begin to release previously filtered substances or block water passage altogether.

·  Always leave the cold water gate valve open when the water heater is in use.

·  Never store combustible or flammable products, such as gasoline, paint thinner, aerosol cans, etc., in a room with a gas water heater. These items can emit vapors that may come into contact with the gas pilot light and cause a fire.

 

Tank Water Heater

 

·  Can operate on either gas or electricity.

·  Copper-, stone- and glass-lined water heaters perform better than unlined aluminum or galvanized steel heaters.

·  A stainless steel alloy called HWT is designed to resist corrosion as well as the lined models.

·  Unlined galvanized steel tanks perform least well, but they are the least expensive and may prove satisfactory in localities where the water supply does not have adverse effects on equipment.

·  To stop tank corrosion, a magnesium-coated metal rod is available. It is hung inside the tank 3" or 4" away from the bottom. Because the magnesium paper eventually will be eaten away, the rod should be inspected from time to time and replaced when necessary.

·  Better-grade, non-metallic gas water heaters are also popular.

·  The tanks, although more expensive than metal models, are light, easy to install and corrosion-proof.

·  Advise homeowners to partially drain their water heater once or twice a year to remove the accumulation of sediment, which can affect operation.

Tankless Water Heater

·  Can operate on either gas or electricity.

·  Tankless water heaters are small heating units that are hooked into plumbing lines and heat water only as needed. They do not store water, but heat it as it moves through the unit.

·  Larger tankless heaters are installed at the point where water enters the house; smaller units are installed at the point where water is used and require more than one in a house. Some operate on house current, others on gas.

·  Some of the larger units require different size plumbing lines and different size flue vents than do tank-type heaters.

·  If gas-fueled, the heater must be properly vented; if electric, it may need to be wired with two units in series which may not be practical for existing home wiring. Larger units require a 220V or 240V line. Smaller units will operate on standard 110V lines.

·  Tankless heaters are more expensive than tank types. However, they do produce savings in annual energy consumption and cost.

·  Although tankless heaters will deliver continuous hot water, they are limited in quantity. The central units cannot support hot water demands from several points at the same time; obviously, the smaller units will heat water delivered only at the points where they are installed.

·  Because of the high initial cost and the fact that American consumers are not used to the limitations these heaters place on the availability of hot water, their recommended use is to supplement existing tank-type heaters or in summer homes or locations where demand for hot water is light.

Water Softener

·  Help remove minerals (magnesium, calcium, iron) that cause "hard" water.

·  Quality water softeners have either fiberglass linings or steel tanks that have double coatings of epoxy for guaranteed rustproofing.

·  Fiberglass tanks prevent electrolytic action that causes excessive rust and corrosion because there is no metal-to-metal contact. When water enters the home, it is directed into the water softener. Water passes over a mineral bed, with minerals holding the lime and magnesium present in the water.

·  Chemicals in the water softener unit must be regenerated, cleaned or replaced. The regeneration process happens by reversing the flow of water through the softener tank and adding sodium chloride or potassium chloride. The reversed water flow quickly flushes accumulated minerals from the chemical

·  Quality water softeners have solid brass and copper valves and bearings. Iron or steel parts are seldom used in a quality softener because salt can cause rust.

·  One of the best ways to sell water softeners is to offer free tests to homeowners to determine the hardness of their water. If the water shows 8 to 10 grains hardness, a water softener is recommended to assure the home of sufficiently soft water. If tests show 15 grains of hardness, a water softener is necessary. The test is easy to conduct. Have the customer bring a sample of home water to the store; dip the specially treated paper into the water. Paper color will change depending on water hardness. Testing kits will contain hardness charts.

Water Filter

·  Used to remove bacteria and/or chemicals suspended in water to improve its taste and smell. Filters either install under the sink or at the point where the water supply enters the building (whole-house filters). Others mount on the faucet or countertop.

·  The basic types of water filtration devices are activated-carbon filters, reverse osmosis, distillation and aeration.

·  Activated-carbon filters are the least expensive water filtration devices. They can remove impurities and improve water taste and odor, but do not eliminate dissolved minerals or bacteria. One solution is to combine a carbon filter with a chlorination system.

·  Reverse-osmosis systems take out dissolved lead, mercury,cadmium and other heavy metals that are present in the water, but will not eliminate microorganisms. They are also relatively expensive.

·  Distillation removes most impurities in the water system. Distillers work slowly and must be cleaned regularly

·  Aeration reduces, but does not necessarily eliminate, the levels of iron, chlorine and other gases in the water. It works best when combined with other treatment forms.

·  Some filters feature cartridges that can be cleaned and reused several times before replacement.

·  Filters based on ceramic technology will remove up to 100 percent of bacteria as well as chemicals, tastes and odors. Some have proven effective in removing such contaminants as algae, chlorine and detergents found in many urban water supplies.

·  Another under-sink model even reduces levels of MTBE, a gasoline additive that contaminates some wells and municipal water systems.

·  Always study information about the specific filters that you are selling.

Sump Pump

·  Used to discharge ground water that accumulates around a basement that is below the water line. The basement should have a drain tile around it to collect ground water and convey it to the sump in the basement.

·  A Submersible type pump is a motor and pump sealed in one unit that rests in the sump pit.

·  A Pedestal pump sits in the water, but the motor is mounted on a column above the water. They are available in automatic or manual models, either gravity-fed or self-priming operation.

·  Pump capacity is rated by gallons-per-hour pumped as well as lift pressure generated to how high the liquid is to be pumped. Submersible Sewage and Effluent pumps are for continuous use in moving large volumes of water containing solids.

·  Some pumps have battery backup, and a combination electric and battery-powered sump pump is now available.

All-Purpose Pumps

·  Lightweight pumps used to clear flooded basements, drain low spots after a heavy rain, etc. Used by farmers, boaters and campers as well as homeowners.

·  One type operates off a 12V battery and can be attached to a car, truck, tractor or boat battery.

·  Another type uses a standard 115V house current.

·  Most units pump from 250-500 gallons per hour and are self priming and easy to operate

Utility Pumps

·  Larger than all ‑purpose pumps and often gasoline powered.

·  Used to pump manholes, for irrigation and lawn sprinkling, for fire protection and as an emergency water supply during power failure.

·  Capacities range up to 85 gallons per minute. Suction lifts up to 25'.

·  Another type is a high pressure, hand held utility pump that adds as much as 80 lbs. to intake pressure. It operates on 115V current, and when connected to a standard garden hose, can be used to hose down hard surface driveways and window screens, to wash cars and boats and to clean animal-housing areas. They will also draw water from shallow wells, tanks, etc.

Homewater Systems

·  Consists of a pump, a pressure tank and switch.

·  The tank will supply water between the cut-on and cut-off pressure setting on the pump, usually 20-40 psi. While 20-40 lbs. pressure is adequate, 30-50 lbs. or 40-60 lbs. is best for home supplies. Since the tank supplies small amounts of water, the pump does not have to turn on each time a faucet is used.

·  Pumps are shallow-well or deep-well. Shallow-well pumps are installed at well depths of 25' or less. Where deep-well pumps can be used in water depths of 300' or greater, depending on altitude.

·  Horsepower rating determines pump size. Pumps used in theaverage home are 1/3-, 1/2-, 3/4- or 1-hp. When helping customers choose a pump, find the required capacity by counting the number of faucets in the home (count tub faucets as two) and multiplying by 60. This is the number of gallons-per-hour the pump should supply from the well. Remind customers to allow for additional appliances that use water.

·  Home water-system pumps are usually centrifugal or jet. This type builds a centrifugal force, which lifts the water.

·  Older homes may have a piston pump. A piston pump builds pressure that pulls water up through the casing.

·  There are several important terms to know when selling a pump: Well-sized. The inside diameter of the well indicates proper size pump, ejector, cylinder or drop pipe (pipe that is lowered into well casing to transport the water) and foot valve (located at the bottom of the drop pipe to keep water from flowing backward into the well). Pumping level. The vertical distance in feet from pump to water level while the pump is operating. If pump is installed away from the well and is on higher ground, this elevation must also be included.

·  Most wells draw down (water level goes down inside the well as water is pumped into the home) so this must not be confused with standing water level.

·  Average discharge pressure: The usual average discharge pressure is 30 lbs., halfway between the 20-40 lb. switch setting of most water systems. When the tank is installed away from the pump at a higher level or when house or yard fixtures are above the pump and tank, a greater pressure is needed and a larger pump must be used.

·  Capacity required: This is the discharge capacity of the pump in gallons per hour necessary for satisfactory service. The pump should have enough capacity so that it does not need to work more than the equivalent of two hours a day in intermittent service.

·  Well points: These are used to drive wells in soil that is soft and primarily free of rock and where water is known to be close to the surface. Points are screwed onto the end of pipe to be lowered into the ground; then the point and pipe are driven into the ground with a sledgehammer or mallet. Well points have strainer baskets on the ends that sift out dirt and small stones.

Septic Tank 

·  A large watertight settling tank that holds sewage while it decomposes by bacterial action.

·  Made of asphalt‑ coated steel, redwood, concrete, concrete block, clay tile or brick.

·  Tanks must be sized to suit the house. Two bedroom homes need minimum 750 gallon tanks, according to the U.S. Public Health Service. Three bedroom homes need 900 gallon tanks and four bedroom homes require 1,000 gallon tanks. Garbage disposers, washing machines and dishwashers are figured in this estimate.

·  Household sewage flows into the septic tank and decomposes. Sludge collects on the bottom of the tank and liquid effluent flows out to a distribution system. The distribution system is a series of underground disposal lines that radiate outward from a central distribution point; the effluent seeps into the earth.

·  Sludge remaining in the tank must be cleaned out periodically to prevent this layer from building up enough to cause clogging of disposal lines or household sewer lines.

·  Under ordinary use, the tank may need cleaning at two to four-year intervals, but most experts recommend that the sludge level be inspected every 12 to 18 months. Inspect by opening a special manhole cover or trapdoor located at or near ground level.

·  Septic tank cleaners dissolve sludge through enzyme activators that regenerate the natural bacterial activity of decomposition for which the tanks were designed. These natural bacterial activators continue from the tank into the drain and tile field.

 Water Well Checkups are a Must

 

What if you never changed your car oil or looked under the hood? How long would your car last?

When it comes to water wells, many well owners pay little attention to maintenance and water quality. Yet, it's just as important. Few things are more vital than the water you and your family drink. A water well checkup by a qualified contractor will help ensure a reliable supply of fresh drinking water.

"If it's important, you schedule it," said Kevin McCray, National Ground Water Association executive director. "That's what we do with dental checkups, pediatric visits, even cars under warranty. Since the water you drink is important, we encourage all well owners to mark a date on the calendar each year to call and schedule a well checkup."

For many well owners, that time could be now. The National Ground Water Association (NGWA) recommends a well maintenance check and water test at least every 12 months. If you haven't done so, now is a good time for a well checkup before a problem occurs, McCray said.

According to NGWA, a well checkup should include:

• A flow test to determine well output.
• A water-level check before and during pumping, if possible.
• A pump motor performance check including amp load, grounding and voltage.
• A pressure tank and pressure switch contact check.
• A well equipment inspection to assure it is sanitary and meets local codes.
• A water test for coliform bacteria, nitrates and anything else of local concern. (Additional tests may be recommended if water appears cloudy or oily, if bacterial growth is visible on fixtures, or if water treatment devices are not working properly.)
• A clearly written report that explains results and recommendations, and includes all laboratory and other test results.

Your septic system needs bacteria to break down organic matter to keep itself alive and efficient. Today's cleaner and detergents are hard to digest and can kill the bacteria that are needed, Every time you shower, wash clothes, or dishes, you send high concentrations of detergents into your septic or greywater system. Disinfectants, deodorant soaps, toilet bowl cleaners and even mouthwash kill the beneficial bacteria. These pollutants pass through your septic tank, leach field and eventually into the environment. Contaminated leach fields and dry well become "bio-dead" and prevent the ground from absorbing and breaking down effluents.

Until now, the only products available to the consumer were "extended" powders or "water down" liquids with low bacteria populations or "counts." These products are limited to digesting proteins, starches and fats.

ONE FLUSH Septic & Plumbing Energizer Concentrate was originally designed for industrial and municipal waste treatments facilities. Eight different strains of bio-genetically engineered bacteria digest and biodegrade proteins, starches, fats and paper. Compounds such as detergents, hydrocarbons, sulfur and phenols are toxic to ordinary bacteria. ONE FLUSH bacteria digest and biodegrade these pollutants and prevent them from harming your systems and the environment.

The efficiency and versatility of ONE FLUSH make it essential for preventing and solving many problems around the kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, yard and garden, RV's and camps. ONE FLUSH can be used for septic and greywater systems, cesspools, dry wells, leach fields, drains, garbage disposals, grease traps, outhouses, RV and pit toilets, manure pits, lagoons and even to make compost.

Forget Ordinary Powders and Liquids

Commonly available powders contain ordinary bacteria from low to very low concentrations. A recent analysis revealed all other products tested had more aerobic bacteria than anaerobic bacteria. Aerobic (air present) bacteria are useful for certain applications. Anaerobic (air absent) bacteria are the ones needed most for septic systems. If you compare the numbers in the Anaerobic Plate Count comparison below, you will find that one half-ounce pack of ONE FLUSH contains as many bacteria as 109 pounds of RID-X. Enforcer has 10% of the number of bacteria in ONE FLUSH.

Ordinary liquids are usually watered down and sometimes formulated with detergents, glycols and perfumes. Going back to the comparison chart that one half-ounce pack of ONE FLUSH contains as much anaerobic bacteria as 30 quarts of Roebic K-37.

Forget Once-A-Year Treatment

You cannot depend on one product to maintain your septic system after a full year's abuse. A monthly maintenance approach prevents problems, restore your system, and biodegrades pollutants before they enter the environment.

Product Comparisons

The above values were obtained from an analysis performed by an independent laboratory. ROEBIC is a registered trademark of ROEBIC Laboratories, Inc. RID-X is a registered trademark of Reckitt & Benckiser Inc ZEP/ENFORCER is a registered trademark of Zep/Enforcer Products Inc.

The Difference Between ONE FLUSH & Ordinary Bacteria

Not only are there more bacteria in ONE FLUSH. they are better. ONE FLUSH bacteria are more efficient and more effective than ordinary bacteria. They actually digest pollutants that kill ordinary bacteria.

 

Supply Lines

If you live in a home that was built in the past 50 or 60 years, your water supply is quite likely built of copper tubing. In earlier days, iron pipe was the standard for residential construction, but iron is heavy, awkward to work with and requires a lot of specialized tools like pipe threaders - plus the fact that it deteriorated over time meant it wasn't always the best option. Copper, on the other hand, is light, relatively easy to work with and doesn't deteriorate over time. So copper pipe has become the standard for water supply pipes in most of the world.

Types of Copper Tubing

There are two types of copper tubing, known by their highly technical names as "hard" and "soft." Actually the proper names are "tempered" for hard pipe and "annealed" for soft, but those names are very rarely used. Hard pipe is used in new construction and renovation where it is relatively easy to gain access to the inside of the walls or exposed copper pipes. Soft (or flexible) pipe is more often used in repair work, since it is easily bent around existing obstructions.

Both hard and soft copper pipe come in a range of standard sizes, from 1/4" all the way up to 2". The homeowner will most likely run into pipes that are 1/2" (used for tub and shower supply lines), 3/8" (kitchen and bathroom taps), and 1/4" (toilet supply lines and refrigerator ice makers). The larger sizes are used primarily for supplying water to a building or in outdoor construction.

Copper pipe also comes in various thickness, designed for different applications.

• Type M is the most common type of copper pipe sold. Relative to other copper pipes, it's relatively thin walled, but it does meet most building codes and is used in lots of residential construction primarily for running water pipes to fixtures. Type M copper pipe is marked with red lettering.
• Type L pipe is thicker walled and used for providing water services or where the pipe will be exposed. Some contractors will use type L for home construction, and building codes in some jurisdictions do require Type L for residential building. Type L pipe is identifiable by its blue lettering.
• Type K is the thickest and is primarily used for running pipe from water mains to a meter or in underground lines. Type K pipe is marked with orange lettering.

 

Copper Pipe

·  Rigid copper pipe is good for new installation. Soft or flexible copper pipe is good for repair work since it can bend around obstacles without multiple cuts and joints.

·  Type K is heaviest, used in municipal, commercial, residential and underground installation; Type L is medium weight and is the most commonly used in residential water lines; Type M is hard and thin.

·  Recommended for light domestic water lines and not permitted in some city codes or for underground use.

·  Common sizes are 3/8", 1/2 and 3/4".

·  Refrigeration tube has moisture removed and ends sealed for better performance of refrigerants. Often used in heater connections but may corrode. For heater connections, use flexible brass or aluminum.

·  Larger sizes also used for DWV (drain-waste-vent) applications.

 

PVC Pipe

 

·  PVC stands for Polyvinyl Chloride.

·  Used for carrying cold water, irrigation, as conduit and for DWV (drain-waste-vent) projects.

·  Rated by thickness and strength. Common ratings (thickest to thinnest) are Schedule 40 (most common), Class 315, Class 200 and Class 125 (generally used for irrigation).

·  Available in sizes from 1/2" to 2". White in color

CPVC Pipe

·  CPVC stands for Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride.

·  Used for both hot and cold water supply or chemical distribution systems.

·  Good for temperatures at 200° F in pressure systems and non-pressure systems.

·  Requires special solvent cement that is different from cement used for other types of plastic solvents. Most solvents will indicate this on the can.

ABS Pipe 

·  Means Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene.

·  Made from a thermoplastic resin. Lightweight and easier to use than metal pipe.

·  Commonly used for DWV (drain-waste-vent) applications or for underground electrical conduits.

·  Available as either solid wall or cellular core construction

 

Black Poly Pipe

 

·  Used for carrying low-pressure cold water. Common applications include golf course sprinklers, underground conduits or to carry corrosive liquids and gases.

·  Good chemical and crush resistance.

·  Lightweight enough to cut with an ordinary knife or a fine-toothed hacksaw blade.

PEX Pipe 

·  PEX stands for crosslinked polyethylene.

·  Chief advantage is its flexibility and strength. It can make turns around corners without couplings.

·  In a PEX plumbing system, a separate line is run from the main water supply to each fixture in a set up much like a circuit breaker box.

·  Used for carrying hot and cold water.

·  Excellent chemical resistance to acids and alkalis, but do not use for fuel oil, gasoline or kerosene systems.

·  Do not weld with solvents. Join with heat fusion, flare, crimp ring or compression fittings.

 

Galvanized Pipe

·  Has zinc coating that prevents rust if not scratched.

·  Use primarily for carrying water or waste. Do not use for gas or steam.

·  Common water sizes are 3/8", 1/2", 3/4" and 1". Common waste sizes are 1-1/2", 2" and 3".

·  Often sold in pre-threaded standard lengths, or can be custom threaded.

·  Use only with similar galvanized pipe fittings, not with black pipe fittings.

·  Measured using the I.D. (inside diameter)

 

Black Iron Pipe

·  Not treated for rust resistance.

·  Used for carrying steam or gas.

·  Used only with black iron pipe fittings, not galvanized fittings.

·  Measured using the I.D. (inside diameter).

Water Supply Tube

 

·  Used to connect a water supply line to a faucet fixture, toilet or appliances. Several types available.

·  Plastic type is flexible and inexpensive but not designed for exposed connections.

·  Ribbed chrome type bends easily without kinking.

·  Braided type features pre-attached connector nuts at both ends and can be flexed to fit.

·  Chrome-plated copper or brass tubes are more rigid than other types and are good for exposed applications.

·  The most common size is 3/8", with lengths ranging from 6" to 72".

 

Vinyl Tubing 

·  Economical and used in a variety of applications.

·  Usually joined with pressure fittings and clamps

Trap

·  Installed under sinks and tubs to route wastewater to the drain.

·  Bridges the gap between the sink tailpiece and the drain line.

·  The bend in the trap uses gravity to hold water and prevent sewer gas from seeping into the house.

·  Attach using slip nuts

·  Three configurations include: P trap, S trap and J bend.

·  Most common sizes are 1-1/4" and 1-1/2".

·  Also available is a trap with flexible tubes that help in connecting misalignments of the tailpiece and the drain line.

·  Available in plastic and chrome-plated brass

Tub Drain 

·  Uses an overflow opening to control draining in a tub.

·  The Spring type consists of an assembly controlled by a lever that moves a pop-up plug up and down. It is easiest to install, especially in retrofits.

·  The Weight type consists of an assembly that controls a weight that lifts up or down out of the drain hole. It is also controlled by a lever.

Pop-Up Drain

·  Also known as a P.O. drain.

·  Controls the mechanism in a lavatory sink with a plug that can open or close the drain.

 

Fitting Types

·  Solvent chemicals for joining PVC and other solvent welded pipe and fittings have fumes, so use plenty of ventilation when using them.

·  When sweating a joint, use a flame shield to keep the propane flame from setting fire to surrounding areas, such as wooden floor joists.

·  Use safety glasses or goggles, especially when soldering or applying pipe glue to a joint above your head. Also, be sure to wear a hat and gloves.

·  Always use lead-free solder on water lines

Soldered Fitting 

·  Used to join copper pipe.

·  Unthreaded. Joined by soldering, or sweating, using flux, solder and a torch.

Threaded Fitting

·  Most commonly used in steel fittings, but some plastic and copper fittings will be threaded.

·  Uses pipe dope or PTFE tape on the threads when joining to prevent leaks and corrosion.

·  If the threads are on the interior, the fitting is female. If the threads are on the exterior, the fitting is male.

·  IPS means Iron Pipe Size, and also refers to threaded pipe.

·  MIP means Male Iron Pipe size. It refers to a male threading that will fit an IPS pipe.

·  FIP means Female Iron Pipe size. It refers to a female threading that will fit an IPS pipe.

 

Solvent Weld Fitting

·  Used for unthreaded plastic pipe

·  Has specially-formed sockets into which plastic pipe is inserted.

·  Bonded with cement that is compatible to the type of plastic being connected.

Compression Fitting

·  Achieves a watertight seal by tightening a nut, which compresses a ring onto the pipe.

·  Avoids threading, gluing or soldering a pipe connection.

·  Used with water supply tubes or other unthreaded ends of pipe.

·  Can also be used to connect two different types of pipe, such as plastic and copper.

·  Can be removed and reinstalled or retightened

Flared Fitting

·  Operates the same as a compression fitting, but one end of the pipe is flared.

·  Used in refrigeration, small appliances and oil heating

Insert Fitting 

·  Sometimes used with flexible plastic pipe.

·  Inserted onto the pipe and compressed and sealed with an adjustable clamp.

 

Adapter Fitting

·  Any kind of fitting that helps connect two different types of tubing, such as copper and galvanized steel, or threaded and solvent weld, or two different sizes that are usually incompatible.

·  A dielectric fitting connects pipe of dissimilar metals (such as copper and galvanized metal) to prevent corrosion in the copper pipe.

·  Two main types, reducers and bushings, are used to convert from one size to another

Flexible Fitting

·  Short lengths of flexible and soft plastic that is very flexible and forgiving.

·  Generally used for drain fittings in repair applications or to tie into existing drainage systems.

·  Fits over an existing pipe and tightens with a clamp.

nuts