Plumbing Archives - Dogtown Heating, Air & Plumbing

Insulating Your Plumbing Ahead of Winter

November 8, 2024

The temperatures in Urbana, IL, can get quite chilly in the winter months. The average temperature in the winter is just below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop into the teens, especially at night and in the northern part of the state. When it comes to your plumbing system, it’s incredibly important that cold air doesn’t cause water in your pipes to freeze. This can lead to a plumbing disaster and extensive structural damage. Insulation is one way that you prevent plumbing issues in the winter months. What Is Plumbing Insulation?

The Future of Plumbing: Smart Toilets and Fixtures

August 8, 2024

The plumbing industry is evolving rapidly, and we’re seeing more homeowners and businesses embrace innovative technologies. Among these advancements, smart toilets and fixtures are gaining popularity for their convenience, efficiency, and environmental benefits. But what exactly are smart toilets and fixtures, and how can they improve your everyday life? Understanding Smart Toilets and Fixtures Smart toilets and fixtures are designed with cutting-edge technology to enhance the user experience. These devices go beyond basic functions, incorporating features like automatic flushing, self-cleaning mechanisms, and even heated seats. Some smart toilets can be controlled via smartphone apps, allowing you

The Role of Plumbing in Sustainable Living

June 5, 2024

In today’s world, sustainable living has become a crucial aspect of our daily lives. From reducing energy consumption to minimizing waste, every effort counts. At Dogtown Heating, Air & Plumbing, we believe that plumbing plays a significant role in achieving sustainability in our homes and communities. Here’s how effective plumbing practices can contribute to a greener, more sustainable lifestyle. 1. Installing Low-Flow Water Fixtures Water is a precious resource, and efficient plumbing systems are essential for conserving it. Modern plumbing technologies, such as low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets, can significantly reduce water usage without sacrificing performance. By installing these fixtures,

The Importance of Water Quality in Plumbing Systems

February 1, 2024

When it comes to plumbing, we often focus on fixing leaks, unclogging drains, and ensuring our pipes are in tip-top shape. However, one crucial aspect that sometimes slips under the faucet is the quality of water running through your plumbing system. At Dogtown Heating, Air & Plumbing, we believe that understanding the importance of water quality is key to maintaining a healthy and efficient plumbing setup. What’s in Your Water? Ever wondered what lurks within the water flowing through your pipes? It’s not just H2O. Different minerals, chemicals, and impurities can hitch a ride into your plumbing system,

This Is How You Protect Your Pipes From the Big Freeze

October 18, 2023

Just like you bundle up with layers of clothing during the winter months, do the same for your plumbing. Snow, ice, and cold temperatures will freeze your pipes into ice and burst when you turn on the faucet. Prevent thousands of dollars in plumbing repairs by protecting your pipes from the big freeze. Insulate Exposed Plumbing Visible outdoor pipes are more prone to freezing than pipes hidden from view. Cover those pipes with foam insulation, heat tape, or heat cables. Shield exposed valves, handles, and faucets with a faucet cover, and insulate exposed pipes in the

Should You Invest in a Tankless Water Heater?

February 21, 2023

When most people think about a water heater, they think about a tall tank that is situated in their basement. Those tall cylindrical tanks are referred to as tank-style water heaters, and they’re slowly being replaced with more modernized tankless models. If you’re in the market for a new water heater, there are a few different reasons why you should consider investing in a tankless water heater over a tank-style one. Hot Water on Demand One of the biggest benefits of investing in a tankless-style water heater is that it will produce hot water when you

3 Most Common Plumbing Repair Emergencies

December 21, 2022

Plumbing emergencies are often unexpected and can cause damage to your home if not addressed quickly and correctly. Knowing the most common emergencies and how to handle them can help you be prepared and minimize the damage. With this knowledge, you can keep your home running smoothly and save yourself from expensive repairs. 1. Burst Pipes Unlike leaks, which are generally easy to detect, burst pipes are often sudden and unexpected, causing thousands of dollars in damage. If you suspect your pipe has burst, turn off the water to the house at the main valve. You

3 Things to Consider When Choosing the Right Size Tankless Water Heater

June 13, 2022

Tankless water heaters are becoming more and more popular as people become aware of the benefits they offer. These heaters save you money on your energy bill, but they also take up less space than traditional water heaters. If you are thinking about installing a tankless water heater in your home, choosing the right size for your needs is important. Below are things to consider when choosing the right size for your home. 1. The Number of Bathrooms in Your Home Tankless water heaters are rated by the maximum flow rate they can provide. This is

What Does a Toilet Fill Valve Do?

March 15, 2022

Some parts of your toilet like the toilet fill valve can be replaced as a DIY project. The fill valve is usually found on the left side of the tank and has a tailpiece that goes through the bottom of the tank. Function of the Toilet Fill Valve The fill valve opens and closes when you flush the toilet to allow for proper water flow in the tank. It goes through natural wear and tear, so having to replace the fill valve eventually isn’t unusual. If your fill valve is an older model that uses a

3 Reasons Why Your Drinking Water Is Dirty

January 12, 2022

A healthy and clean water supply is critical to a functioning home. However, some man-made and natural environmental factors can contribute to a decrease in the quality of the water that flows out of your taps. Here are three possible reasons why your water quality is poor and what you can do about them. Industrial Pollution If you live in an area with a significant presence of industrial zones and factories, pollution can seep into your local water supply from the surface. These pollutants can include oil, chemicals, and other toxic substances. Consuming water contaminated