At Falcon Plumbing, we have a proud history of helping our customers solve plumbing problems of every kind.

We also have a customer-friendly track record of helping you avoid problems in the first place.

Here are several you can employ to good advantage to help keep your plumbing systems and fixtures in top working order.

Self-Help Tips

To keep your repair costs at a minimum, here are some self-help tips we know you’ll find useful:

1. Don’t pour grease down your kitchen drain.
2. Be careful what else you put in your garbage disposal.  Fibrous foods like lettuce, cooked vegetables, and potato skins don’t easily grind up – if they grind up at all – and eventually will cause your drain to back up
3. Use organic vs. chemical drain cleaners for the good of the environment and to help prevent internal pipe corrosion that can later cause pipe leaks and cracks.
4. Run water when you use the disposal and keep it running for a few seconds after you turn it off.
5. Don’t operate the dishwasher if you think there’s a problem. It discharges into the disposal.
6. Check your washing machine hoses from time to time for leaks and loose connections.
7. Always use a screen or filter (hair snare) over lavatory and tub drains to snag hair and other objects that otherwise can cause your drains to clog.
8. To help a blocked toilet from getting worse, keep a plunger and drain snake handy at all times.  Start with the plunger and then move to the snake.  Even if you think you’ve gotten the clog pour a bucket of water down the toilet before attempting to flush it.  If  the water doesn’t go down, the clog is still there.
9. Periodically check the pipes below your kitchen and bathroom sinks for any leaks.
10. Attaching an aerator (the small screen at the end of a faucet) will help reduce water consumption by as much as 50% with no loss of pressure. If your pressure should drop, it could be as simple as removing the aerator and cleaning it.

Of course, no matter how careful and diligent you might be, sooner or later you’re bound to experience a plumbing problem that requires professional assistance.  And that’s exactly what we’re here for, 24/7, and with no overtime charges ever.

Contact Falcon Plumbing today for the service you need…from the people you trust.

Miami-Dade:   305-251-7333
Broward:         954-455-6444
Click here to schedule service now

Molds are part of the natural environment.  Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided.  Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air.  Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet.  There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture.

Here’s how to keep an eye out for possible mold growth and how to prevent it.

The Kitchen

Where should you start when you’re trying to prevent water damage? Where many people spend the most amount of time:  the kitchen.

• The Dishwasher: Periodically check for leaks under the sink where the hose connects to the water supply. Look around the base of the dishwasher for evidence of leaks, such as discolored, warped or soft flooring materials, or water damage to nearby cabinets.

• The Refrigerator: If your refrigerator has an icemaker, make sure the hose connection is securely attached to the water supply line. Also, a wet spot on the floor may be a sign of a crimped icemaker line about to burst.

• The Sink: Replace deteriorated caulk around sinks and check the pipes under the sink for leaks. A slow-draining pipe may indicate a partially blocked drain that needs cleaning.

The Bathroom

Not surprisingly, the bathroom has several common culprits that cause water damage.

• Showers and Bathtubs: Remove and replace deteriorated or cracked caulk and grout. Water from a broken supply pipe behind the wall can leak through these damaged sealants, causing stains or soft areas around nearby walls and floors. Leaking drain pipes and shower pan leaks are also common sources of water damage. If necessary, contact a plumber or contractor for help.

• Sinks: Check under the sink for leaks from water supply lines or drainpipes. If necessary, contact a plumber or contractor for help.

• Toilets: Clogs can result from too much toilet paper or objects such as hanging bowl deodorants. Also, some chlorine tablet cleaners may corrode internal plastic or rubber parts, leading to a leak.

The Laundry or Utility Room

Here are two often hidden and very fertile breeding grounds for mold.

• Washing Machine: Check hoses regularly for bulging, cracking, fraying, and leaks around hose ends. Replace the hose if a problem is found or every 3 to 5 years as part of a proactive maintenance program. To help make sure the hose doesn’t kink, leave at least 4 inches (or 11 centimeters) between the water connection and the back of the washing machine. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully.

• Water Heater: Most water heaters last 8 to 15 years. Wet spots on the floor or a rusted tank may signal a leak. Water heaters should be installed on the lowest level of the home, next to a floor drain, or inside a drain pan piped to the floor drain.

If you’re already experiencing problems with mold, call us right away at 305-251-7333.  Other services we offer than can help prevent and stop mold growth are:

• Finding and repairing water leaks
• Whole-house plumbing inspection
• Water heater maintenance and inspection
• Sump pumps
• Back-up sump pumps
• And more.

Remember:  mold can do more than damage your home.  It can be hazardous to your health.

Contact the professionals at Falcon Plumbing today.  We’re always ready to help.

305-251-7333
Click here to ask questions or schedule service now

Nobody likes to wake up in the morning, step out of bed, and feel wet, squishy flooring under their feet.

Plumbing is one of those luxuries that we tend to take for granted until the day that you can’t flush your toilet or take a hot shower. Chances are that you never thought about having a plumber out until it gets to that emergency status of a flood, backed up drain, or no hot water.

Much like you should see the doctor every year; your plumbing system needs the same attention and care. The best way to prevent a plumbing disaster is to have regular, thorough whole house plumbing inspections. Most people don’t realize that this service even exists. It does, and it can save you many headaches down the road.

When was the last time you were under your crawlspace to check and make sure that nothing was leaking? How about flushing your water heater flushed as required by the manufacturer on an annual basis? Have you had the water pressure checked, ever?

At Falcon Plumbing, we inspect all your plumbing fixtures and systems and give you a detailed written report.  If we find problems in the making, we’ll point them out and recommend the best course of corrective action.

Here’s just some of what our inspection includes for your greater comfort, convenience, and safety:

1. Leaks in exposed pipes.
2. Signs of corrosion that could indicate water or pipe issues. 
3. Water pressure…if it’s too low, there could be problems in your water lines or built-up sediment.
4. Speed of drainage in sink and tub drains…if water is draining too slowly, it could mean you have a clogged drain or blocked vent pipe.
5. Water heater gas leaks…to help ensure your family’s safety and the integrity of your water heater.   In the process, we also drain the unit to remove sediment that’s settled to the bottom. Sediment build-up can cause hard water conditions and leaks in your faucets.

And that’s just a small sampling of what our inspection includes.  We invite you to contact Falcon Plumbing and schedule a whole-house plumbing inspection today…it’s one of our ultimate “peace of mind” services.

Miami-Dade:         305-251-7333
Broward:                954-455-6444

Contact us today to ask questions or schedule service nowwww.FalconPlumbing.net

Like most appliances, water heaters have improved greatly in recent years. Today’s models are much more energy efficient. That’s why you probably couldn’t replace your existing water heater with the same exact model…and you probably wouldn’t want to. Instead, you may be able to purchase a more efficient water heater that will save you money on energy each month. That’s why you shouldn’t just consider the initial purchase price – think about how much it costs to operate. You could save hundreds of dollars in the long run.

Look at it this way:  some cars get 15 miles to a gallon, while other, more efficient vehicles can go 30 miles or more on a gallon of gas. In the same way, some water heaters use energy more efficiently. Buy one of those and you’ll spend less money each month to get the same amount of hot water.

Gas vs. Electric Water Heaters

Gas water heaters use natural gas to heat water.  A chamber filled with water is heated by burning the gas.  The main benefit of a gas water heater is energy conservation; since the heating process is gradual, less energy is consumed. With a gas water heater, you also are able to control the rate and extent of heating.

By contrast, an electric water heaters uses a copper coil is to change electric energy into heat energy.  Electric units can heat water very quickly and can reach very hot temperatures.

Advantages of Natural Gas Water Heaters

1. Quick recovery. Gas water heaters recover twice as fast as electric units.
2. Lower operating costs.  Typically costs less to operate than an electric storage tank model.
3. Safety. Natural gas water heaters have an excellent safety record, especially when properly maintained.
4. Minimal environmental impact.  Of all the fossil fuels, gas burns the most efficiently.

Advantages of Electric Water Heaters

1. Lower purchase cost.  Electric water heaters cost up to $700 less to purchase.
2. Lower installation cost
3. Longer lifespan.  Natural gas water heaters have built-in corrosive elements that typically shorten their lifespan when compared to electric water heaters.
4. No greenhouse emissions.  Electrical water heaters are more environmentally friendly than gas.

Which type is right for you?  It’s not an easy choice, especially when you factor in another popular option:  tankless water heaters.  We’ll cover these in a future article.

For now, count on the professionals at Falcon Plumbing to help you decide what’s best for you among all available options.  Contact us today for a free in-home estimate.

New Year’s resolutions are great things…especially if you stick to them and they help to make a positive change in your life.

Got room for one more?  Than nothing would fit the bill better than making green plumbing a high priority on your New Year’s “to do” list.  Here are three smart and very effective ways to get into the swing of things.

Low-Flow Toilets

Traditional toilets use anywhere from 3.5 to 7 gallons of water per flush. With a family of four, that can amount to hundreds of gallons of water every day. In contrast, environmentally-conscious low flow toilets use just 1.6 gallons per flush, max. Studies show that an average

family of four will save 22,000 gallons of water per year and $100 on their water bill.  Less water, greater pressure, and significant savings…that’s the beauty of a low-flow toilet.

Whole-House Water Filtration

Whole house filtration systems can eliminate the presence of chemicals, particulates, and microorganisms from every source of household water.  This, in turn, helps to extend the life of hot water heaters andplumbing fixtures, particularly if you have high sediment levels in your water supply.  Extended life also means a lower incidence of repairs for even greater savings.  And then there’s the obvious health benefit of drinking plus cooking and cleaning with the purest water possible.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters heat water by activating a set of coils that become hot when the unit is turned on. Tankless units conserve energy by heating only the amount of water needed and only when it’s needed.  They conserve water, too, as there’s no waiting for the water to get hot…with tankless units, you get hot water on demand.  What’s more, tankless water heaters are available for your entire home or single water sources, such as your kitchen sink.

More Green Plumbing Tips

• Never let water run unnecessarily.
• Take a five-minute shower, not a bath.
• Run washing machines and dishwashers only with a full load.
• Fix leaky toilets and dripping faucets.
• Install aerator faucets and low-flow shower heads.

And Now for Some Green Savings!

Today, like always, the professionals at Falcon Plumbing can help you go green to conserve money and natural resources…and all while enjoying more convenient and comfortable surroundings.  And it doesn’t get much better than that!

Miami-Dade:   305-251-7333
Broward:         954-455-6444

Click here to schedule service now

Is something wrong with your garbage disposal that requires professional plumbing assistance?

Here are 4 ways to know for sure, along with some simple and practical self-help tips.  However, should you need a professional plumber to do the job, you can now save $25 with the coupon on our web specials page.

1. Loss of Power.  First, check your fuse-box or circuit breakers. If you have power, look on the bottom of the disposer unit where you’ll find a small red button (on most models).  If this button is popped out, the disposal motor overload has gotten too hot. This usually only occurs if there’s a jam and you leave it turned on too long. Clear the jam and reset the overload safety by pressing in the red button. If it pops again when you turn the disposal on, the disposal is probably jammed. If you have power to the motor, it still won’t turn, and there’s no sound at all from it, your motor is probably worn out. That’s the time to call Falcon Plumbing.
2. It’s Jammed.  Things like corn husks, avocado leaves, or other high in fiber vegetable matter are just a few items that can jam your disposal and stop its operation.  Before you attempt to fix this yourself, make sure the power supply is shut off and NEVER PUT YOUR HAND IN THE DISPOSAL!  Always use a pliers or tongs!  Depending on the make and model of your unit, it can be fixed with an Allen wrench socket.  You can also try the handle of a broom, plunger, or mop inserted through the top opening of the disposal, and try to wiggle the masher plate back and forth to free any jams. The “red button” test is one more thing to try.  Before attempting any home remedies, consult your manufacturer’s guide for repair instructions and warnings.  And if none of the above works?  Call Falcon for same-day service.
   
3. The Disposal Leaks.  The determined DIYer will check the drain connections first. If the leak is coming from the drain pipe, you can replace the rubber gasket. If it is a new installation, check the ring near the sink flange and make sure that it’s tight.  If the leak is coming from the body of the disposal, that indicates rust and THAT, in turn, indicates the need for a replacement unit
4. Excessive Noise.  Sometimes a piece of metal, glass, bone, or other object will enter the disposal and cause quite a racket when you turn it on.  Loud noises can also result from loose mounting screws, worn bearings, broken flyweights, or the lugs or blades are worn out.  Garbage disposal lugs and blades wear over time.  Some models allow for the shredder ring to be replaced but, more often than not, worn out lugs and blades mean it’s time for a new disposal.

Does your garbage disposal need to be replaced or repaired? Falcon Plumbing can do the job, and usually the same day you call. But before you do, click here to print and save the $25 coupon on our web specials page.  The coupon, in fact, is good for any plumbing repair at all…courtesy of your friendly Falcon plumbers.

Miami-Dade:   305-251-7333
Broward:         954-455-6444

Click here to schedule service now

You’re expecting company any minute. You’ve been cleaning and cooking all day long. Now you just want to clean out the sink, toss a few things into the garbage disposal, and…

…oops, nightmare of nightmares, you have a major clogged drain on your hands. What next? You try all known remedies, like using a plunger, a liquid drain cleaner, pouring boiling hot water down the drain, and whatever other homemade measures you’ve learned over the years.

And yet…nothing is working. Disaster?

It doesn’t have to be…not if you contact Falcon Plumbing! Not only do we offer same-day service…most often, we can be there within an hour of your call. And no matter how badly your drain or sewer line might be clogged, we’ll have the problem fixed in no time…and yet in plenty of time for your dinner party to move forward as planned.

You see, we have more than plungers, augers, and drain snakes at our disposal…we have and expertly employ the very latest tools of our trade, including:

• Inline video inspection to spot the exact location and extent of the problem.
• High-pressure water jetting to break up even the most stubborn of clogs.
• Pipe repair or replacement…if drain clearing doesn’t work, we can often repair one or more sections of your sewer and drain lines.
• Worst case scenario (and let’s hope you never need this), we can install and replace sewer and drain lines for any size property.

Here’s something else to consider.  The kind of liquid drain cleaners available in supermarkets are loaded with corrosive chemicals that, over time, will eat away at your pipe and, if used often enough, can cause cracks and leaks.  The smart alternative is Bio-Clean, an organic and environmentally sound liquid that does a better job with no pipe damage at all.

Need drain cleaning today?  Then contact Falcon Plumbing now!!  We’re here to help…on the double.

Miami-Dade: 305-251-7333
Broward: 954-455-6444
Contact us today to ask questions or schedule service now
http://www.falconplumbing.net/

Every home has a water heater, but many homeowners don’t really pay much attention to it provided it continues to work properly. Well, there’s a safety angle that needs to be considered here…one that pertains both to your home and family. Best of all, you don’t have to be an expert plumber to keep an eye on things. You just need to be aware of some basic water heater safety tips.

Turn it Down!
Start by lowering the water heater temperature to 120 degrees. Many plumbers may initially set your water heater to 140 degrees, a temperature that could cause scalding. Just remember to check the instructions for your particular model before adjusting the temperature control.

Check it Out!
Examine your water heater periodically. Check for water leaks which can damage your home…plus it could add up to a lot of wasted water. Check inside the combustion chamber where the flame should be burning mostly blue. The chamber should be somewhat free of dust, and the chamber roof free of rust and black soot. You should also check the burner periodically. If rust is collecting in the burner compartment, it’s time to have it serviced by a professional.

Overall, we recommend checking your water heater once a month while scheduling a professional tune-up and inspection once a year.

Clean it Up!
Keep the area around the water heater clean and clear. Dust can take years off a water heater’s life. Brooms, paint brushes and other items that commonly get stored in the utility closet can catch fire if placed too close to the combustion chamber or water heater.

Be on the Alert for Gas Leaks!
If you don’t already know how, learn how to smell or otherwise detect a gas leak. For starters you want to apply the smell test as close to the floor as possible. If you smell gas, here’s what to do next:

• Don’t turn on a light switch or touch anything that might cause static spark.
• Leave your house as immediately, leaving at least some windows and doors open.
• Call your gas supplier from a safe location outside the house.
• Turn off the main shut-off valve at the gas meter. If you don’t know what that is and want to be sure you’re doing it correctly, give us a call.

To play it even more safely, we recommend installing a gas detection meter. It will go a long way to ensuring your long-term safety.

When was the last time your water heater was properly inspected? If you can’t remember, then it’s been too long. For prompt and dependable service, with your satisfaction guaranteed, contact the plumbing professionals at Falcon Plumbing today.

Miami-Dade: 305-251-7333
Broward: 954-455-6444
Contact us today to ask questions or schedule service now
http://www.falconplumbing.net/