We have previously talked about rusted plumbing pipes in our post “Rust Never Sleeps“, talking about the plumbing leaks that can come from rusted pipes. As water plumbing pipes age they become weaker and the chance of a crack is greater, leaving you as a homeowner with the uncertainty of how much damage even a small leak could cause. However, there are many other problems that can arise from rust such as water quality, water temperature and flow rate, as well as much more serious and hazardous safety issues that can come from maintenance negligence but we’ll touch on that another time.

For now, watch our short tip videos on what to look for when it comes to your water heater. Remember, what your water heater looks like on the outside is usually a good indicator of what it looks like on the inside.

So now you know why its important to regularly check your water heater to be aware at the first sign of any problems. Rust is not friendly, in fact, its far from it. As it breaks down it does more than block your pipes, it affects you water supply. It can be irritating to your skin when bathing and can be dangerous when consuming. To create a mental image, just imagine the aluminum compounds of the anode rods of your water heater breaking down and sinking to the bottom of your water heaters. It would be the first out of your drain valve if you opened it, so in the same aspect it would be the same thing feeding into your pipes as you use water throughout the day. This can be extremely bad for your stomach, intestines and joints.

To be sure you don’t get caught with plumbing pipe leaks, have your plumbing and water tested every year.

As a leader for Gilbert plumbing repair, we want to offer all homeowners in the Phoenix area a free plumbing inspection through the end of March 2012.

The bathroom can quickly become a safe haven for germs and even life-threatening bacteria. This is one of the major reason it is essential to maintain a regular cleaning schedule with a home’s drains and pipes. So make sure your shower and bathtub are safe from clogs, mineral deposits, and life-threatening bacteria before your next bubble bath.

When Texas A&M University microbiologist Rita Moyes, PhD tested 43 water samples from whirlpools, she found that all 43 had mild to dangerous bacterial growth.  Almost all showed bacteria from fecal matter; 81% had fungi, and 34% contained staph bacteria.  According to Moyes, the main reason whirlpool tubs are so dirty has to do with the lining of the pipes.  Water tends to get trapped in the pipes, providing a breeding ground for bacteria.  When the jets are turned on, the germy water spouts out into the tub where homeowners will be soaking.

1. Flush the drains, toilets and grease traps at least once a month with BioBen. This will keep the pipes clear and issues resulting from clogged plumbing at bay. It also doesn’t contain any hazardous chemicals, so homeowners never have to worry about sacrificing the safety of the environment for the sake of a clean and functioning drain.
2. Fill each sink to the brim, and then pull up the stopper. The volume and weight of the water will completely fill the drain pipe and flush the drain line. Once every three months, fill every sink and tub in the house with water. With the help of friends or family members simultaneously pull all of the drain stoppers up and flush all toilets in the house. This large volume of water will help flush out the larger sized drain stacks and underground building drains.
3. Soak each showerhead in vinegar overnightand scrub off excess mineral deposits in the morning. This will help maximize water pressure. Simply tie a plastic bag filled with a cup of vinegar around the showerhead before bed and remove in the morning.

Pipes should be given a cleaning every six months by a professional plumbing service. In addition the cleaning of pipes and drains, look closely at pipes for cracks and breaks.  Cracks in the pipes can cause leaks, both slow and fast, which can ultimately lead to damaged cabinetry, ceilings and flooring, mold and even termites.

Regular cleaning of drains and pipes can prevent clogging, flooding, breeding of bacteria and ultimately preserves the condition of fixtures and the health of the occupants of the home.  Scheduling time to do a check-up on the piping in your home may be the best and most important choice to make this Valentine season.

If you’d like to schedule an appointment with us, feel free to visit us online at http://www.benfranklinplumbingaz.com/ or call 480-485-1111.

Any fashionistas looking for a little pop of glam in your accessories for the holidays? We l0ve easy to make, easy to wear, affordable, one of a kind statement pieces and thats why were so excited to share this with you. So try something unexpected like this…

You may have seen the hints of gold and copper accessories hitting the runways this fall and we’re here to tell you theres a very simple and affordable way to get this hair do yourself.

Did we mention it was actually pieces of piping? Not all plumbing pieces are used for plumbing repair. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing we love showing our customers the multi functions of the plumbing supplies we use everyday. Piping has the most range in use. You can look at previous blogs to see how its used as furniture pieces and storage and in future blog posts we’ll even show you easy, do it yourself holiday decor projects, as well as how to make one of a kind statement pieces. However, our favorite thing about piping is when you can actually wear it.

You can head to your local home improvement store and pick piping pieces in all shapes, sizes and metals. Once you pick out your pipe, while you’re still in the store ask for your pipe piece to be cut between one and three inches – depending on the size you’re looking for.

Then all you have to decide is whether or not you’re going to go for a sleek or casual pony tail, a cute braid, or experiment with different up do’s. Yes, it is really that easy! Who wouldn’t want to try out this glam, chic look.

To insert the clip into your hair, just twist the hair style and slip the clip up to the spot you would like it in. If you’re worried about it staying put just wrap a small elastic hair band under the clip.

Whichever way you decide to incorporate the DIY hair cuff you can be guaranteed the cuff itself will be the easiest part. We would love to see your styles. Check out our facebook page: and send us pictures that we can feature on our next DIY Blog!

Thanks to our friends at glitterandpearls.com for sharing DIY Plumbing inspired fashion tips!