Ways To Prevent Condensation on The Toilet Tank

How To Prevent Condensation on The Toilet Tank By Leone PlumbingHave you noticed sweat-like droplets around your toilet tank? If you do, is it something that you should be concerned about? Toilet sweating is caused by the moisture or condensation on the toilet tank. This condensation leaves your bathroom floor damp for several days. Let’s talk more about toilet sweating and what can we do about it.

Why Is My Toilet Tank Sweating? Is It Bad?

Condensation on the toilet tank forms during warm weather. If the weather is warm, condensation forms when damp air touches a cold surface. The excessive moisture will then drip off your bathroom floor leaving it wet for too long. The constant dripping of water on the bathroom floor may lead to mold growth, and it can become a habitat of bacteria which causes serious illnesses. If left ignored, this condensation can also damage the bathroom flooring over time. Leaving your bathroom floor wet for so long makes it slippery and can be a safety hazard for toilet users as well.

How to Prevent Condensation on the Toilet Tank

Here are the ways you can stop condensation on the toilet tank.
Install a Drip Tray
Installing a drip tray is a less costly solution for toilet sweating. Putting a drip tray under the toilet tank keeps the dripping moisture off the floor. This will also prevent your bathroom floor from possible damage caused by the excess moisture dripping from the toilet tank. You need to empty the tray regularly to keep it from overflowing.
Insulate Your Toilet Tank
Insulating the tank’s interior keeps it warm and prevents condensation on the toilet tank. Doing this requires you to empty the tank and fit the insulating foam panels, and glue them to the tank’s interior. You can visit a nearby hardware shop and ask for DIY insulation kits.
Anti-Sweat Valve Installation
Installing an anti-sweat valve to your toilet tank is another best solution. This plumbing part adds hot water to the toilet’s water line. It raises the temperature in the toilet to heat both the bowl and the tank. The hot water coming into the toilet tank is enough to keep it warm which keeps condensation from forming.
Minimize Moisture
A change of habit in using the toilet can also make a difference. Make it a habit to open the bathroom windows or turn on the bathroom fan during and after you shower. Doing this ventilates the area and prevents moisture from forming. You can also invest in placing a dehumidifier in your bathroom to minimize the amount of air moisture in the room.

What Do I Do If My Toilet Is Still Damp and Wet?

Condensation On The Toilet Tank Concern Solution by Leone PlumbingIf you keep on seeing puddles of water around the toilet and on the bathroom floor, it can be more than toilet sweating. It’s possible that the culprit is not the condensation on the toilet tank. You might be dealing with a serious plumbing issue! If this happens, call us right away to have your toilet checked and fix.
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The Advantages Of Hiring A Licensed Master Plumber

Professional plumbing repairs solution by Leone PlumbingWorking with plumbing issues nowadays can be done DIY through the available resources we can find online. But let’s face it! Fixing water pipes for example is not fun to deal with. It requires skills, experience, and extensive training like a master plumber. Not everyone is gifted with working hands that can fix plumbing issues. There is nothing wrong with DIY plumbing. But how keen are you to do the job? If saving money is the reason why most homeowners are resorting to DIY repairs, it can also be more costly if the DIY repair effort goes wrong.

Why Should You Hire A Master Plumber?

A master plumber is an expert when it comes to dealing with minor and major plumbing repairs. They have spent years of experience, training, and certification to become an expert in their craft. They adhere to local codes, guidelines, and regulations and it ensures a continuous hassle-free repair. Most importantly, hiring a master plumber guarantees quality and effective repair solutions.

The Advantages Of Hiring A Licenced Master Plumber

Provides High-Quality Output
Whenever you hire a master plumber, quality of work is assured! They do the job right by following a set of standards or codes that comes with their license. You can never go wrong with hiring them.
Lay Out A Thorough Diagnosis
They are well-trained and equipped with a high standard of skills capable of identifying the root cause of plumbing issues. They will provide you with a detailed diagnosis of the problem and solutions to keep the issue from repeating.
Utilizes Up To Date Tools & Equipment
There is always the right tool and equipment for every plumbing job. Master plumbers know very well the appropriate tools for every job and they even use the latest equipment to fix your plumbing problems.
You Can Save More Money
Looking from the exterior, it may look like you have resolved the plumbing issue with DIY solutions but the interior problem isn’t. This can lead from one plumbing issue to another which may cost you more than you expect. Professional plumbers are not only resolving the issues they were called for, but they may also detect in advance other external and internal plumbing issues in the process. It will save you more money if unseen plumbing issues are detected in advance. It is better to fix them right away rather than make them worse in the future. Leone Plumbing Licensed Master Plumber
Free Of Liability
Professional plumbers hold a license and are insured. If the repair accidentally caused damages to your property, you are not liable to handle the expense for the damages. The plumber’s insurance can cover the damages for you.

It Is Always Best To Hire A Master Plumber

There is nothing wrong to resort to DIY plumbing solutions but remember all the risks that come with it. Avoid all the regrets! Contact us and let our professional plumbers do the job.
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Different Types Of Slab Leak Repair And What Causes Slab Leaks

Slab Leak Repair Service By Leone PlumbingA slab is a layer of plain concrete that is used to create flat surfaces like roof decks, ceilings, and floors. It is a thick structure that is supported by beams, columns, walls, or the ground. Sturdy as it may seem, a slab is still vulnerable to leaks. Slab leaks may lead to costly repairs due to water damage and the leaking wastewater can be a health hazard. There is no better solution than slab leak repair. But how is it done? Let’s talk about the different types of slab leak repair and what causes slab leaks.

How Can You Tell That A Home Or Building Needs A Slab Leak Repair?

Slab leaks are very common in older homes or buildings since they use galvanized steel pipes or copper which are prone to corrosion. When the pipes deteriorate, it releases water and even sewage under the structure. Faulty installation of pipes is also one of the culprits. Another contributing factor to slab leaks is the natural shifting of soil, underground stream, and even earthquake. The pressure brought by these natural ground movements may cause the lines to break which leads to slab leaks. Since all of these happen underneath, it is very hard to identify a slab leak. However, there are signs to watch out for. The following signs can tell you that you need a slab leak repair. Leone Plumbing Slab Leak Repair Solution
  • Warm spots or water stains on the floor.
  • Foul odor from floors and walls.
  • Cracks on floors, walls, and ceilings.
  • Unusual water puddles around the house or building.
  • Visible soil shifts around the structure.
  • Uneven growth in lawn or foundation plants.

Different Types Of Slab Leak Repair

There are different types of approaches when it comes to slab leak repair. Depending on the impact of the damages, here are some of the different types of slab leak repair.
Slab Replacement
In worst-case scenarios, the entire slab may need to be replaced if the leak caused large damages and if the pipes are in bad condition. This is a very disruptive method and expect that it can affect your regular household or business activities.
Pipe Repair
Pipe repair requires fixing the damaged area of the pipe. This may involve replacing a section of the pipe, patching, or sealing the leak.
Trenchless Repair
A trenchless repair is the least disruptive solution since there is no need to demolish the structure.
Pipe Rerouting
This repair option is ideal if there is difficulty to access the leak and if the pipes are in poor condition. Rerouting bypasses the old pipes by running new pipes alongside them.

Don’t Take Slab Leaks Lightly!

Slab leaks can create serious damage to your property. It can damage the walls, floors, and foundation of your home or building. The longer that it’s left untreated, the more damage it can do! Let our expert plumbers help you with your urgent slab leak repair. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
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How To Deal With Plumbing Issues In An Old House

Leone plumbing old house maintenance service. The good old days always bring nostalgic memories. Memories that are worth remembering especially if they happened in an old house. Older homes usually treasure cherished moments with family and friends. That is why for someone who owns an old house, it is very important to maintain each aspect of its structure including the plumbing system.

Plumbing Problems In Old Homes

Old homes are charming with their classic and rustic appeal. Attractive as it seems, the plumbing inside an old home can be as old as the structure itself which can lead to plumbing issues. But do not let these plumbing issues diminish the charm of your old house! Here are the common plumbing issues you may experience in an old house and how you can resolve them.
Obsolete Pipelines
Vintage houses constructed over 3 decades ago may contain piping materials that are considered outdated today.  The common piping material used back then was lead which was initially restricted during the 1920s and was totally banned by 1986. It was then replaced by galvanized steel pipes that became a popular option until the 60s. However, galvanized steel is prone to extensive corrosion that causes rust contamination in the water supply. Thus, polybutylene pipes became a popular choice during the 70s to the 90s. Later, it was found that polybutylene pipes have a high risk of bursting and leaking. For obsolete pipes, we recommend upgrading old plumbing to PEX piping which is more durable and can last longer. Leone Plumbing Water Piping Solution
Bellied Pipes
Over time, encased or underground pipes can be affected by the gradual movement of the house. The pipes underneath may begin to slope or “belly” which restricts water flow and creates puddles that accumulate waste. This can result in toxic wastewater seeping into your home. If left unresolved, pipe bellies may cause blockages or leaks over the course of time. Depending on the circumstance, trenchless pipe repair can be the best solution.
Old Plumbing Fixtures
Accumulation of limescale on old plumbing fixtures is common in an old house. Also, old fixtures and connections tend to fall apart causing leaks and flooding. To minimize the amount of limescale, we recommend installing a water softener system. Toilet repair and replacement are also recommended.
Root Invasion
Old sewer lines are prone to root invasion that causes severe clogs and sediment build-up. In this case, snaking the line using several snake machine tips is recommended. Trenchless pipe repair can be done if the situation calls for it.
Improper Repairs
For old homes that are standing for many decades, it’s possible that plumbing repairs weren’t done right. DIY is an affordable solution but at the same time risky. It would be best that you contact a professional plumber to assess your plumbing system for proper treatment.

Your Old Home Needs A Professional Touch!

Give yourself peace of mind while reminiscing the good old days. We are here to provide the professional touch that your old house needs! Contact us now.
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When Should I Be Worried About Pipes Freezing?

Pipes Freezing Solution By Leone PlumbingPipes freezing during the winter season can bring trouble to your plumbing system. How long can your pipes stand the freezing temperature and when should you be worried about pipes freezing? Let’s talk about the issue that freezing pipes can bring and the precautions that everyone can take.

Why Do Water Pipes Freeze And Burst During The Winter?

One plumbing issue to watch out for during the winter season is the bursting of pipes. A pipe may burst if it is not able to handle the pressure that arises from freezing water. During winter, the water inside the line expands as it slowly freezes. While it gets close to freezing, the pressure inside the pipe increases. If the water pressure gets too high for the pipe to handle, it will indeed rupture! The freezing water causes the lines to contract and the weak areas of the pipe may burst. It is recommended that you get your pipes checked and repaired before the winter season.

Should I Be Worried About Pipes Freezing?

If the outside temperature is at less than 20 degrees Fahrenheit, then you should be worried about pipes freezing! Water begins to freeze as the temperature drops which causes the pipes to freeze. Cold winds can also freeze the pipes. Pipes with cracks or holes allow the cold air from the outside to blow in and may cause ice formation. Once the pipe is freezing, it is at risk of bursting, resulting in leaks and unexpected flooding. But don’t let these scenarios worry you. There are precautions that you can take to prevent your pipes from bursting.

Precautions To Prevent Pipes From Freezing And Bursting

The contraction of pipes caused by the cold weather is something that we cannot control which may cause leaks. However, there is something you can do to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Here are some of the precautions you can follow:
  • Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
  • Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.
  • When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe (even at a trickle) helps prevent pipes from freezing.
  • Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
  • If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, and set it to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

Protect Your Pipes From Bursting This Winter

The winter season can be fun without being worried about your plumbing system. Preventive measures can alleviate the concern you have with pipes freezing. If you’re dealing with a burst pipe or water leak this winter, just contact us and we are here to help you!
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The Pros and Cons of Installing a Sharkbite Fitting on Pipes

  Leone Plumbing's take about installing a sharkbite fittingSharkbite fittings have been a revolutionary innovation when it comes to plumbing repairs. Installing a sharkbite fitting is simple to use and convenient. In minutes, you can easily connect or fix leaks without soldering and replacing the pipes. However, if you ask professional plumbers, soldering pipes is still better. Let’s talk about the pros and cons of installing a sharkbite fitting to determine which is best for you.

Sharkbite Fittings vs Soldering Pipes

A sharkbite fitting may become loose over time if not properly installed. There has been cases where homeowners call because their home is flooded due to a sharkbite fitting popped off. From a professional standpoint, we strongly recommend soldering pipes since it is a proven effective option. Push-fit fittings (like sharkbite fitting) don’t have the credibility that soldering has. Soldering pipes have been around for a long time before the trend of using push-fit fittings. Some people believe installing a sharkbite fitting is much more convenient than soldering. In this case, whether you solder the pipes or use a sharkbite fitting, there are factors that you need to look at such as:
Your skill and level of experience
Soldering a pipe requires a level of skill and experience like a professional. A professional plumber have mastered the skill of soldering pipes over the years. You may do soldering yourself by purchasing the required tools, but it may lead to a low-quality output which can worsen the problem. For a non-professional, it’s the right choice to use a sharkbite fitting since it is easy to install.
Place of the repair
Installing a sharkbite fitting would be effective in easily accessible places like below the sink or on a water heater connection. Soldering is recommended for hard-to-reach places like underground or behind walls since these places are unnoticeable and we have to ensure that the pipe connections are secured. Push-fit fittings are not recommended in hard-to-reach places since their failure rate is high. Fixing pipes underground or behind walls can be challenging and you should never resort to DIY fixing.
Your budget
Installing a sharkbite fitting is indeed a quick fix and much more convenient. However, convenience always comes at a cost. For a standard half-inch pipe, it may cost you $8.00 to $10.00 per fitting. For a basic copper fitting, it can cost up to $5.00 for the same size. If there are several fittings to replace, the cost difference may add up quickly. Soldering pipes on the other hand may cost less than installing sharbite fitting and it’s a long-term solution.

Choose An Option That Fits Your Needs

Installing a sharkbite fitting is a convenient and quick-fix solution. But if you opt for a long-term solution, soldering is the best option due to its credibility and result. Copper pipes may last 50 to 70 years as long as it is installed properly and well-maintained. If you are unsure about your decision, you can contact us and we are here to help you!
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