British Columbia is considered the “warmest” province in all of Canada for reasons ranging from its coastal location, to the urban island heat effect it experiences. However, the concept of “warm” is subjectively defined by Canada—a predominantly cold country. Therefore, while Canadians know British Columbia as their “warmest” province, it is still considerably colder than most other locations around the world. Truth be told, winters in the area are cold enough to freeze water, a fact that poses challenges to the populace. Frozen water in pipes is a serious household problem in British Columbia winters. The ice in the pipe effectively blocks off water flow, drying out boilers and bathroom fixtures, and risking further complications if not resolved immediately. Malfunctioning plumbing and a faulty furnace in Port Coquitlam could use some help from specialists like Milani Plumbing, Drainage & Heating. Ice-blocked pipelines aren’t just inconveniences; they pose dangers to homes. As water expands considerably upon freezing, the resultant pressure inside the frozen pipes can compromise the plumbing, cause cracks and leaks. In the worst cases, the pipes could inevitably give way and burst open, spilling water everywhere, which can cause even more freezing, damage flooring, or even encourage mold growth. Defrosting the pipes could often be safely managed by pouring some hot water on the afflicted area. It’s not advisable to use powerful heating tools such as a blowtorch to melt the ice; as such things could damage the plumbing even more than the ice could. Even after melting the ice away, homeowners might still be faced with a permanently damaged segment of pipe. Pipes that have been damaged by frost can be repaired by highly competent West Vancouver plumbers. They can quickly detect and seal any leaks, and identify problem areas that might have frozen water blockage in the future. The capable individuals could also replace pipes which are damaged beyond repair with more durable ones. Winter might be a time for hockey, sledding, and skiing; but in British Colombia, it’s also the time when home plumbing could be in grave danger. Homeowners throughout Canada are concerned about such natural occurrences every time the temperatures plunge to freezing. Should any damage occur, residents should quickly have the pipeline mended before it gets worse.
By virtue of its coastal location, British Colombia isn’t as frigid as other Canadian provinces. However, the area is beset by severe frost at times, with temperatures plunging low enough to cause uncomfortable shivering and frozen outdoor fixtures, to the great inconvenience of residents. Of all the troubles they can cause, winters can do their worst on a home’s plumbing. Particularly icy winters can freeze the water right within the home's plumbing. While not all the water within the pipe might actually freeze, the frozen portion could be sufficient to block off water flow completely. Ice forming in a water pipe can lead to even worse problems when the expansion causes the pipe to rupture or burst. For such situations, residents can seek help from a local plumber in New Westminster such as the capable personnel of Milani Plumbing Drainage & Heating. Temperatures in British Colombia can reach lows that were previously unheard of. At one time, an area within the province clocked in a glacial -58.9 degrees Celsius—one of the lowest temperatures ever recorded in all of North America. Even boilers aren’t safe, since Vancouver has had several cases of heating flow being interrupted by ice-blocked pipes. It’s a serious problem that cannot be easily resolved through do-it-yourself (DIY) efforts. Popularly available insulated pipes that supposedly prevent water from icing over cannot complete guarantee that this plumbing problem will not occur. If the water already starts out as icy, then it’s enough to build ice blockage over time as it passes through the pipes. There’s no real way to prevent freezing cold water from solidifying; but the damage it can cause can be prevented. The only way to completely deal with frozen piping is to get help from a qualified plumber. The professional will know what to do to remove the blockage, as well as repair any part of the pipeline which might have burst. The plumber might even suggest some tips to prevent future freezes from interrupting proper water flow. Although many Canadians might regard British Colombia’s weather as mild; arctic outflows can come unpredictably and cause critical freezes. Such weather can affect pipes, causing them to ice up, possibly disrupting the function of your Vancouver heating system. Frozen pipes have to be delicately handled by plumbers before they burst and cause even more damage.
Vancouver operates a 3-1-1 hotline for residents to gain telephone access to municipal services. Although a hotline, 3-1-1 answers in a citizen service center (CSC) and addresses only non-emergency concerns like water quality. While any plumber in Coquitlam like those of Milani also attends to water quality issues, they’re not really the persons to go to when the problem lies with the city’s sewer system. It raises an interesting question: “When should you call a plumber; and when should you call 3-1-1?” A water supply problem reported to the CSC is usually forwarded to the proper response team from the city’s utilities. Unlike private plumbers, these government workers have access to the main and secondary water lines that run underneath the city.
Dial 3-1-1 if your water is brown or cloudy, or if it has a weird taste or smell. Problems with discolored water can be reported through 3-1-1 if the situation persists after the tap has been running for at least 15 minutes. The discoloration could be the result of mineral sediments that were dislodged from inside the pipe during sudden surges or changes in water pressure. Another possible reason could be air in the pipes.
Experts say cloudy water generally does not pose a health threat. However, it can be a concern if you’re in the middle of washing the dishes or doing the laundry.
Don’t forget to ask your neighbors if they’re also experiencing the same thing. It’s possible that the entire water supply system in the neighborhood has the same problem.
Plumbers in West Vancouver should be brought in for localized problems, or those that affect a single house. Water pressure problems may be attributed to a few maladjustments such as a partially-closed shutoff valve or a faulty water softener. Frozen water pipes, major shifts in water pressure, and excessively hot or cold water are such situations. Most problems such as frozen pipes might have DIY solutions, though. Using a blow torch is ill-advised as it may start a fire if you’re not careful; a hair dryer will suffice. In addition, leave the tap open for water to flow through the ice. Do these things until the tap delivers water at normal pressure again. If you’re still confused, you can consult the Vancouver government online for a complete list of water problems they can address. There’s always the right man for the right job.
A toilet needs to be properly cleaned and maintained to prevent clogs and the proliferation of bacteria. However, for most homeowners, cleaning what is often considered to be man’s greatest disease prevention innovation usually consists of nothing more than a quick swipe around the toilet bowl, ignoring the tank entirely. Mold and minerals accumulating inside your toilet tank can foul the system, or promote bacterial growth that could pose a health hazard to you and your family. While reputable Richmond plumbers like Milani Plumbing Drainage & Heating Ltd can always be engaged to inspect and repair a clogged toilet for you, there are some measures you can take to ensure that your toilet tank is always working properly and free of bacterial infestation. Cleaning your toilet tank may not be on top of your chore list, but it’s a good idea to do it once in a while. It’s easy to do; just follow these simple steps. The first thing to do is remove the tank lid, pour in a cleaning solution, and let it stay for a while. Afterwards, scrub the inner wall with a toilet brush. Be careful not to detach any chains or tubes. If it’s necessary to detach them, make sure you know how to put them back in place. Flush the toilet three to four times to rinse out the cleaning solution completely. Instead of using commercial chemical cleaners, you might prefer to use ordinary household materials to clean your toilet tank. Vinegar is a great toilet cleaning solution because not only is it chemical-free, it is naturally antibacterial and acidic. The low pH helps remove or dissolve minor mineral deposits like lime and calcium. If you’re one of those people who don’t feel that something is clean enough unless you can smell sanitary fumes burning your nose, then go ahead and use bleach. It’s a great disinfectant that gets rid of mold and kills bacteria. You’ll need to use it alongside vinegar though, as bleach won’t have any impact on lime and calcium deposits. A Langley heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning expert is only a phone call away. If you’re not up to the task of cleaning your toilet tank, you can let a professional handle it for you. In case of a clog, these professionals can be reached 24/7, so always keep their number handy.
Surrey and Coquitlam are both cities in the Canadian province of British Columbia. The main difference between the two is that Coquitlam is a suburb, whereas Surrey is a large metropolitan area. Regardless of which city you live in, proper home maintenance has similar importance and processes. For instance, if your Surrey heating system breaks down, then you can perform similar ways of troubleshooting for repairs as when you are in Coquitlam. These are a few things you can do to check if your heating system is operating properly. The Thermostat Your heating system’s thermostat is the device that senses and controls the temperature so that it is kept at a set level. If the system is on but the display is dark, check for a possible faulty or drained battery. Dust the electrical connections within the thermostat, as dirt and dust particles may interfere with its proper operation. Heat Pump The heat pump basically transfers heat from a heat source to a heat sink against a temperature gradient, a quantity that describes the changes in temperature as a function of distance and altitude. It is composed of an indoor and outdoor unit. Switch on your unit and listen outside for the sound of the motor and compressor (the latter has a more distinct hum than the motor). If one turns on but not the other, your unit may have some electrical problems. Gas Heater In contrast to the heat pump, gas heaters are powered by fuel. One of the most common problems of this unit is noise. Strange sounds coming from your heater may be due to access panels that have become loose, damaged belts, a dirty burner, etc. If your burners are off and the sound remains, your pilot light might need adjusting. Repair or Replacement After identifying the problem in your heating system, you can now decide on whether you should call in professional contractors for repairs, or simply buy replacement parts to install yourself. Many contractors like Milani Plumbing, Drainage and Heating can help you out either way. For more serious heating issues, call a dependable plumber in Coquitlam or Surrey for maintenance. Don’t take for granted the value of a well-functioning heating system and the consequences of a damaged one. Whether you live in a cozy suburban area or in the fast-paced metropolis, your home needs warmth—literally and figuratively—to withstand the cold seasons.
Canada may be approaching the last stretch of winter, but this doesn't mean the cold weather is over. In the British Columbia city of Port Moody, for instance, the temperatures remain below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, homeowners need to regularly check their furnaces to ensure that they are functioning at their optimum. Having strange noises emanate from your furnace is a sure sign that something is amiss. But what exactly could these noises mean? Here's a look at the possible meanings of those unusual sounds: Groaning People usually groan when they're in pain; and the same might be said of your furnace. A groaning noise typically means your motor’s main bearing assemblies (the mounts of the motor shaft that allows it to rotate smoothly) have had enough, and are calling out for lubrication, or renewal. Call on Port Moody furnace repair specialists like the ones from Milani Plumbing, Drainage, and Heating to have these affected parts repaired or replaced as needed. Squealing A squealing sound from a pig may seem cute, but the same can't be said when it comes from your furnace. This is because this noise usually indicates an air leak, something that's a serious matter that must be looked into immediately. Don’t attempt to pin down the source of the leak by yourself. Leave this job to the professionals. Clicking Like the squealing noise, this problem may seem nonthreatening at first; but it's likely to turn into something worse if you don't address it. A loud click usually means there's a leak in the gas valve; so when you hear this sound, immediately turn your furnace, as well as your gas line, off to stop more gas from leaking out. Again, don't try to trace the source of the leak on your own; call in the professionals instead. Popping or Rattling Popping and rattling sounds from your furnace typically mean loose ductwork. You can tighten the loose ductwork by attaching metal braces to affected portions. You can also add flexible insulation to the ducts to eliminate the rattling or popping noises. Once you hear any of these peculiar sounds, have your furnace checked immediately. A working furnace will help keep you warm for the rest of the winter. To further ensure a warm and comfortable home, consider hiring Surrey plumbing contractors to inspect and service your water heating system.
Maintenance Tips for your Water Heater and Furnace in Port Moody One of the benefits of choosing to live in the western Canadian province of British Columbia is having a variety of neighborhoods to choose from. From the busy metropolis of Vancouver, one of Canada's largest cities, to the cultural life in Port Moody, the City of the Arts, there's something for everyone. But no matter the difference in localities, the area's cool climate means there's at least one common feature that no home can thrive without: a trusty water heating system. Here are a few tips on how to maintain your water heater and its furnace in Port Moody or Vancouver. To prolong the service life of your water heater, don't keep it running at full blast all the time. Once in a while, decrease the temperature setting. This will keep your water from overheating and eventually rupturing the tank. Taking the temperature down a notch or two can also help reduce the energy required to heat your water, thereby taking some work off your furnace or heater. For those with heating systems that run on electricity, expect lower bills as well. Another important consideration in proper water heater maintenance is the pressure relief valve. A non-functioning or failed pressure relief valve can actually cause an explosion from too much pressure created within your water heater's tank. An 2007 episode of Mythbusters confirmed how an exploding heater can rocket through a house's roof and fly hundreds of feet in the air. Check your owner's manual to locate the pressure relief valve. Before checking the valve, make sure that you set the gas switch to pilot, or turn off the electrical current on your water heater. Next, raise the valve's lever halfway, then quickly release it and allow it to snap back into place. You should hear a gurgling sound as the valve allows water to be released into the drain tube. If you find any problems as you check your water heater, you can contact your local plumbers for help. Many plumbing contractors like Milani Plumbing, Drainage and Heating deal with damaged or old water heaters that might need replacing. Your trusty water heater in Vancouver or Port Moody can be as good as your best friend when you take good care of it. Just make sure that you don't overwork or neglect it, as doing so can lead to damage to your plumbing and to your home.
How Your Vancouver Drain Tile Installation Keeps Your Home Foundation Dry You know that spring has arrived in Vancouver when the weather has gotten warmer and snow has melted. The arrival of spring and the occasional rains that come with the season (on top of the melting snow) may cause drainage issues for your home. The ground surrounding your home becomes saturated with the water that ends up sitting in low spots. The wet ground around your home can create a slew of problems. Mowing your yard becomes difficult, stagnant water breeds mosquitoes, and your kids come back to the house wet and muddy. Contact a Vancouver drain tile professional like Milani so you can get rid of your water problems and enjoy the new season. Water seepage can damage your home's foundation, but a drain tile prevents that from happening. A drain tile is a special kind of pipe installed in a drainage system and is used to pull water away from the foundation of your home so that the water cannot penetrate. It is usually installed while the foundation is being built and it requires periodic maintenance and replacement. Installing a drain tile system involves digging a trench around the footings of your home. A filter barrier is then placed in the trench, inside which the drain tile is laid. The trench is then covered with gravel and then covered with another filter. The system of filters prevents dirt and silt from going into the trench and clogging it, while the gravel serves to filter water. (Water is naturally drawn to the gravel because the former can flow more easily through gravel than the surrounding soil.) The drain tile system has an outlet that allows collected water to disperse. The outlet may be adjoined to a sump pump if your home is on level ground or if it is situated lower than the surrounding ground. Otherwise, it may simply drain freely, with runoff water flowing into storm drains or trickling harmlessly downhill. It is important to regularly check that the trench and outlet remain free of dirt and silt. If the gravel gets packed with dirt, less water reaches the pipe as it remains pooled around your home. Anticipating water seepage is important. In the same way that you call on a Vancouver or Port Coquitlam furnace specialist to prepare for winter, you need to contact a professional drain tile contractor to help you get ready for spring.
For Coquitlam homeowners, there's nothing worse than having to wake up in the middle of the night to find that water's accumulating inside your home due to a burst pipe or leak. The thought of the damage water can do to your home and your budget is enough to make homeowners panic. When such a crisis occurs, you have to remain calm but act quickly. Here are a few reminders on how to hire a plumber in Coquitlam during these emergencies. Mitigate the Problem First things first: you have to stop the water from causing any more damage. If you have a busted pipe or if water is gushing from the walls or on the floor, you have to shut down the water supply. Once you've confirmed that you've stopped the water seepage or leaks, you can move to finding and hiring a plumber. Ask for Referrals Bursting pipes and leaks are not your average, everyday events, so it's understandable if you feel lost about what to do. The important thing is to remain calm and level-headed; panicking can only lead you to more costly consequences. To start, ask people you know for names of plumbers they could recommend. Relatives, friends, neighbors, colleagues, and real estate agents are all excellent sources of referral information. Pre-Qualify You may be in a hurry, but it's still important to determine each prospective plumber's qualifications. Fortunately, with today's technology, doing this is relatively easy. A simple Google search can already reveal many things about the plumbers you plan to hire. You can also check organizations such as the Better Business Bureau for any customer complaints they've had in the past. Interview After checking the plumbers' qualifications online, you should be able to trim down your list to one or two names. Now, it's time to nitpick on the services of each one. Ask about each plumber's work experience, license and certification, and pricing and warranties. Depending on their answer, choose one that would best fit your current needs. If it looks like you're dealing with a major job that may require some digging to replace burst pipes, for instance, you'll want to find a qualified emergency plumber who can do a good job of installing drain tile in your Vancouver home as well. There are many licensed and professional plumbers in the area, like Milani Plumbing, Drainage & Heating, that you can call.
With numerous tutorials and guides online, many Vancouver and New Westminster homeowners are tempted to solve house problems by themselves. While there's nothing wrong with that, they run the risk of dabbling with situations beyond their level of expertise, like major plumbing emergencies. For this reason, it's important for any responsible homeowner to know which situations require the aid of a professional plumber in New Westminster. Low Water Pressure Low water pressure throughout the house can be caused by several factors. This includes issues such as obstructions (rust or debris) in the water line, low water pressure supplied by the city, and even poor or faulty pipeline design. Given that there are many factors that can lead to low water pressure running through your home's plumbing, hiring a good plumber is your best shot to efficiently determine and resolve the problem. Water Heater Problems If your water heater is malfunctioning and not producing any hot water, it is better to call a plumber than to try to fix it yourself. With the exception of a hot water tank leakage, water heater issues and malfunctions are hard to determine. Blown fuses, faulty thermostats, bad overload switches, and damaged igniters are some of the many hard-to-spot issues that only a professional plumber can ascertain. Sewage Line Stoppage If water from your tubs, toilets, and sinks start to back up, it may be a sign that there's a blockage in your main sewer line. This problem usually requires special equipment that most homeowners don't have. For best results, you're better off hiring professional Vancouver drain cleaning plumbers. Frozen and Burst Pipe Burst and frozen pipes are emergency situations that require quick response. Bursting and frozen pipes can do a lot of damage to your home--not to mention your water bill, as you have to pay for all the wasted water. And although you can try to fix it yourself, you run the risk of making the problem worse if for some reason, new damage arises. For these situations, relying on professional plumbing services would be the most logical decision. Aside from emergency situations, residents from Vancouver, New Westminster, and other places in British Columbia also require the aid of plumbing service providers like Milani Plumbing, Drainage & Heating when doing major home renovations. Things like bathroom remodeling and pipeline rerouting should only be done with the help of expert hands.
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