What is it about pipes in a coastal area that are so apt to give you trouble, more so than you would find inland? Or if you are in need of an odd fact or two for your next get together in the backyard, we have some. You will find what you are looking for here.
We at Ace’s Plumbing can tell you why. A veteran-owned and run operation out of Bluffton, SC, we put over 40 years of collective experience into our work for Hilton Head and the rest of the Lowcountry. We make it a point to pass on some of what we have picked up over the years. Any questions regarding your home, pick up the phone and call (843) 929-5721.
For the most part, plumbing is not on people’s minds until there is a problem. Yet there is plenty of science and history to be found in the pipes of your walls. We thought we would put down a few entertaining facts.
The Ancient Side of Plumbing
“Plumbing” is derived from plumbum, the Latin for lead; early pipes were fashioned from it and that accounts for “Pb” being the periodic table’s designation for the element. Then there are the Romans who, millennia ago, had aqueducts and public baths as part of their large scale systems. Modern plumbing has improved on that considerably with materials that are safer and will stand up to a coastal home.
Challenges of the Coast
One enjoys life in the Lowcountry but the humidity and salt air do not make it easy on a plumbing system. A case can be made for giving yours a bit more care:
- Exposed fixtures and pipes are prone to faster corrosion from the salt
- Condensation from the high humidity is a source of concealed moisture
- The water table and sandy soil have their effect on underground drainage
- Outdoor plumbing takes its toll during heavy rain and storms
- In historic parts of town you may still find pipe materials of a certain age
Awareness of these things will stop a minor matter from turning into something major.
More Water Use Than One Would Imagine
A homeowner might be hard put to believe this, but in the course of a day doing dishes, running the laundry and so on, hundreds of gallons are consumed by an average household. Let a faucet drip and you are throwing away thousands of gallons before the year is out. It is best to put a stop to leaks when they start; even an inconsequential drip will show up on the bill and do its damage in time.
Your Water Heater is Hard at Work
You only notice the water heater when it stops producing hot water. In reality it is among the most industrious appliances in the house. Mineral content in the water will leave sediment in the tank, making the unit labour and not last as long. Some routine care is all it takes to ensure you have hot water on demand.
Habits Matter
Everyday habits are the culprit in many a plumbing woe, though a change or two can be protective of your system:
- Do not let grease go down the drain to clog the pipes
- Nothing but toilet paper and waste should be flushed
- Cold water should be on with the garbage disposal
- Make sure you know where the main shutoff valve is
- An occasional look under the sink for any moisture
Not difficult to do and it spares you trouble later on.
Make it Worthwhile to Have a Pro
There is an interest in plumbing, but certain tasks require a trained hand. As a licensed and insured firm we do residential and commercial work at Ace’s Plumbing, remodeling included. We are open 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday and provide free estimates and financing, with flat rates and no surprises. Our guarantee is 100 percent satisfaction.
Should you be left pondering your own home after this, we are at your service. A nagging leak, a project you are considering or just to ask us something, call (843) 929-5721 and we will apply our experience to the job.
