Bill Metzger Plumbing, Orange County CA - (949) 492-3558. #1 Plumber in Orange County & San Clemente CA since 1961.

Plumber in Orange County CA - Bill Metzger

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I've heard that the new toilets do not flush properly. What is the recommendation for toilet replacement?

When the federal government mandated that new toilets use no more than 1.6 gallons per flush, manufacturers had to develop a toilet that would achieve this but that would also flush properly (clear the bowl) and carry the waste to the city sewer or septic system. Since then, the complaints have forced the manufacturers to develop new ways of flushing toilets. One new way is the use of a pressurized toilet tank. This model looks like a regular toilet, but it has a pressure tank inside. When flushed, it works like a commercial toilet. A large surge of water enters the bowl and clears the bowl of any waste. These toilets work well, but are not as quiet as a conventional model.

What does it mean if water backs up in my bathtub when I flush my toilet?

When water backs up from your toilet into any of your other bathroom fixtures it means that your main sewer line is clogged. Bill Metzger Plumbing is equipped to handle any type of drain or sewer clog.

What could be causing the loud, knocking noise in my pipes?

A knocking noise in your piping system is generally caused by a loose washer in a faucet or by a faulty toilet ballcock assembly. Extreme pressure changes in the water supply can also cause a hammering noise. Bill Metzger Plumbing's service trucks are stocked with the necessary repair parts to resolve both of these problems.

What could be causing my water bill to be so high?

The most common causes of high water bills are running toilets or dripping faucets. These are simple inexpensives problems to solve. However, it is possible that your main water line could be leaking between the house and the street. Bill Metzger Plumbing is equipped to locate the leak in the pipe, excavate as required, and make the necessary repairs.

What is the purpose of a backflow preventer?

A backflow preventer prevents contaminated water from back flowing into the domestic water system. Backflow preventers must be tested annually to insure they are working properly. Bill Metzger Plumbing has licensed technicians trained to test, repair, or install backflow preventers.

PLUMBING TIPS

1) Install a Low-Flow Showerhead

Save water and money and still have ample water pressure by using a low-flow

showerhead. These showerheads can slash bathing-water consumption from

50 to 70 percent. There are many styles and features that you can choose from

to fit your needs. Give Cody Plumbing a call today and we can get you started.

2) Turn off the tap while you brush

Don't let your water dollars—and one of nature's most precious resources—run

down the drain. Just turn off the water while you brush your teeth. The average

bathroom faucet flows at a rate of two gallons a minute, according to the EPA's

WaterSense initiative. Simply remembering to turn off the faucet while brushing

your teeth makes a huge difference and helps you be more energy efficient.

3) Water your yard in the morning

The best time to water outdoors is in the morning. It reduces water waste and promotes healthy flora. Morning air is cooler, so less water is lost to evaporation than during the middle of the day.

4) Use a Pro Car Wash

It may surprise you, but commercial car washes use water more efficiently. They typically go through 45 gallons of water per car. Home washers typically use between 80 and 140 gallons. Commercial car washes must drain their wastewater into sewers instead of simply running it across your driveway into the land.

5) Fix that leak

Don't ignore that dripping faucet or leaky pipe joint. One faulty faucet wastes on average 3 gallons of water per day, reports the U.S. Geological Survey. If you’re having problems like this, give Cody Plumbing a call and we will get that drip/leak to stop. Remember, every drop really does add up.

HOME RESOURCE TIPS

1) Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is another natural substance that can be used to clean your home. Lemon juice can be used to dissolve soap scum and hard water deposits. Lemon is a great substance to clean and shine brass and copper. Lemon juice can be mixed with vinegar and baking soda to make cleaning pastes. Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle baking soda on the cut section. Use the lemon to scrub dishes, surfaces and stains. Mix one cup olive oil with ½ cup lemon juice and you have a furniture polish for your hardwood furniture.

2) Winterize your home

There are many steps you can take to winterize your home. Winterizing your home prevents leaks, frozen pipes, and damages to water heaters. Here are few things you can do to keep your home safe during the winter.

* Disconnect all water hoses that might expand or freeze from outside faucets.

* Check outside faucets to see if they are dripping or leaking. A pipe can unleash up to 250 gallons of water if it bursts.

* For pipes in unheated cold areas, you may consider insulating them with pipe insulation.

* Make sure your sump pump and pit are clear.

* If your home is not occupied during the winter for extended periods of time, make sure the heat is on and set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Also consider shutting off your home’s main water valve.

3) Choose Green Plumbing Products

Water efficient plumbing fixtures conserve both water and energy. They help create a cleaner environment and lower water bill. The following products will help make your home more efficient and environment friendly.

• Toilets

Low Flow Toilets use less gallons of water per flush, almost as much as 20 to 60 percent. Dual Flush Toilets offer two flushing options: low flow flush and high flow flush which are used accordingly.

• Faucets

Low Flow Faucets can save up to 2 gallons of water per day. If you’re looking for a new faucet, look for the WaterSense logo to ensure that you’re purchasing a reliable, high-efficiency faucet.

• Shower Heads

Low Flow Shower Heads save up to 2 gallons of water per day.

• Washers and Dryers

Front load washers and dryers can save the average family (4 members) over 5 gallons of water each day.

Plumbing Tips