Top 3 Types Of Water Filtration Systems And Which To Choose?

Many homeowners invest in water filtration systems because they want better quality drinking water. In fact, a lot of homes have contaminated and polluted tap water that is unsafe for consumption. Research shows that about 2 million Americans don’t have access to clean water. Water filtration systems allow you to enjoy safe drinking water all the time. There are many different types of water filtration systems that provide different benefits. In this blog, we will cover the top 3 and which one you should choose for your home!

1. Distillation

This is the oldest type of water filtration system. It works by heating the water to a boil, removing all the harmful elements. In short, it is a process that relies solely on evaporation to purify your water. While this filtration method requires less water and energy, it does produce clean water a lot slower than other types. If you’re looking for a quick solution, then this one may not be for you. However, if saving water and energy is a top priority, consider distillation.

2. Ion Exchange System

This method filters water using bead-like materials that remove dissolved and ionized impurities from your water, calcium, magnesium, chloride and nitrite. . These exchangers will actually exchange one ion for another, hold it temporarily, and then replace it with other ions that are more acceptable, such as sodium, hydrogen and hydroxide. The two ion exchange methods are deionization and softening. For better drinking water, you want these ions to be removed – such as carbon dioxide and silica. The ion exchange system is used for removal of ions from water. If you are dealing with hard water, scale build-up, nitrates and arsenic, then an ion exchange system may be right for you.

3. Carbon Absorption

This is a method that is widely used in a lot of home water filters. In fact, it is one of the more popular and effective water filtration systems on the market today. A water filtration system that uses carbon absorption not only removes odor and taste, but it can also remove gases and chemicals. Carbon filters are designed to remove contaminants through the process of absorption. Think about a carbon filter as a magnet. It attracts the dissolved impurities and contaminants found in water and traps them. If you’re not only looking to not only make your water safer, but also make it taste better, than carbon absorption is a cost-effective and efficient way to do just that!

Contact MA Williams For All Your Water Filtration Needs in Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas Today!

Contact the pros at MA Williams today for all your water filtration needs. Our background-checked and drug-tested technicians want to build relationships with all of our customers. That’s why we provide personalized service that is designed to solve all your specific and unique plumbing problems. If you need a repair, maintenance, installation or replacement, look no further than MA Williams today! Call us at 804-684-8300 or fill out our online form here.

Signs Of A Hidden Water Leak In Your Home And What To Do About It

Not all leaks are obvious and in your face. Some are hidden behind walls, pipes, and underground. Detecting water leaks early on can save you a lot of money and help you avoid signficant water damage. Here are the top 8 signs of a hidden water leak in your home – and what to do about it.

1. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is typically caused by sediment buildup in your pipes and fault valves. There’s nothing quite like stepping into the shower after a long day only to be met with low water pressure. If you notice sudden low water pressure, this could be a sign you have a hidden water leak on your hands.

2. Mold or Mildew

Mold thrives in moist climates. You may notice mold around your windows, shower, sink, or other areas of your home that are prone to getting wet. If you notice mold in areas that you normally wouldn’t expect, then you likely have a leak. However, no matter where the mold is located, it can be harmful to your health and shouldn’t be ignored. Make sure you address it right away.

3. Foul Odors

Do you walk into a room and get met with a musty smell? This usually indicates mold or mildew, which also indicates a leak. There is likely stale water accumulating somewhere hidden that you cannot see. Know that foul, unexplained odors aren’t normal, and if you notice them, you should contact a plumber right away.

4. High Water Bills

Water bills are more likely to rise in the spring and summer as you are using more water for things like watering the lawn and flowers, filling up the swimming pool, and washing your car. Unless you have out-of-town guests or a change in your daily routine, though, your water usage is likely the same each month. However, if you notice your water bills are skyrocketing one month for unexplained reasons, then it could be due to a hidden water leak.

5. Damaged Walls and Ceilings

It’s hard to miss stained walls or damaged ceilings. Whether the paint is starting to peel, your ceiling is beginning to sag, there are visible water stains on your wall, or you notice water pooling on your walls or ceilings, you shouldn’t ignore it. These could all be signs of a hidden water leak.

6. Strange Noises

Your pipes shouldn’t make a lot of noise – unless something is wrong with them. If you notice your pipes are making vibrating, rattling, or hissing sounds, then you may have a hidden water leak inside your walls or pipes.

7. Damaged Flooring

Is your flooring beginning to sag or warp? Is there a soft spot when you walk on it? Does your carpet appear wet in certain areas? All of these could be indications that you have a hidden water leak.

8. Your Water Meter Is Running

One of the best ways to tell if you have a hidden water leak is to check your water meter. First, turn off all the water in your home and make sure none of your water-using appliances are running. Then, watch your water meter and see if it starts to change. If it does, then that means you have a fast-moving leak. If it doesn’t change, wait a couple hours to see if it does. You are in the clear if you don’t notice any change after a couple hours. However, if it has, then you may be dealing with a slow-moving leak that still could use your attention.

What To Do About It

So, after reading the above signs, you’re fairly certain you have a leak. Now what? If you’re confident there’s a hidden water leak in your home, the best thing you can do is contact a professional plumber. A plumber can help you detect the leak and offer solutions for repair or replacement depending on the severity of the leak.

Contact MA Williams For All Your Hidden Water Leak Detection and Plumbing Needs in Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas Today!

Contact the pros at MA Williams today for all your leak detection and plumbing needs. Our background-checked and drug-tested technicians want to build relationships with all of our customers. That’s why we provide personalized service that is designed to solve all your specific and unique plumbing problems. If you need a repair, maintenance, installation or replacement, look no further than MA Williams today! Call us at 804-684-8300 or fill out our online form here.

What Are The Top Benefits Of Replacing Your Shower or Tub?

Overtime, your shower or tub can deteriorate and require repairs. The most common problem of all is water deteriorating, because your shower and tub get exposed to water at all times. Other common issues with showers and tubs include: stained shower doors, cracks, leaks, seal damaged, oxidized drains, stained and rusted hardware, and more. When you experience issues like this with your shower or tub, you could be facing severe water damage as a result. More often than not, these problems can result in mold growth, water stains, and general damage to your walls and roof. Replacing a shower or tub can be hugely beneficial for a number of reasons.

1. Resolves Plumbing Issues

If you have your shower or tub replaced by a professional, it can resolve any plumbing issues that may have plagued your bathroom. When you get your new installation, leaks and rust will be a thing of the past.

2. Ability To Upgrade

When you have to get your shower or tub replaced, it can be an overwhelming process. However, a huge benefit is the fact that you get the chance to upgrade – which can be exciting! Instead of having a standard shower or tub, you’ll get upgrade to a newer, more modern model if you’d like. Some upgrades homeowners rave about include:

• Water-Saving Showers and Tubs
• Jacuzzi Bathtubs
• Showers with Extra Jets
• Walk-In Showers and Tubs
• Modern Styles and Appearances
• High-Quality Finishes

3. Improved Comfort

If you’ve been having to deal with leaks, damages, stains and cracks, then you’ve likely felt anything but comfortable spending time in your bathroom. Many people go to the shower or tub to relax after a long day. It’s hard to do that when you’re looking at all the problems that need to be fixed. However, by replacing your shower or tub, you’ll have the opportunity to get a modern, ergonomic, even bigger shower or tub – one that is free of issues – so you can back to comfort as soon as possible.

4. Improved Convenience

Even though having to replace your shower or tub may not be something you want to do at this very moment, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Think about all the benefits that come from doing so – improved convenience being one of them. Replacing your old shower or tub gives you the opportunity to place faucets and other fixtures where you want them. Maybe before you had to reach far away to turn on the tub or shower. However, a new shower or tub can offer the convenience of placing these fixtures where you want them – and where it’s convenient for you.

Contact MA Williams For All Your Shower and Tub Repair and Replacement Needs in Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas Today!

Contact the pros at MA Williams today to schedule your shower and tub repair or replacement! Our background-checked and drug-tested technicians want to build relationships with all of our customers. That’s why we provide personalized service that is designed to solve all your specific and unique plumbing problems. If you need a repair, maintenance, installation or replacement, look no further than MA Williams today! Call us at 804-684-8300 or fill out our online form here.

Should I Repair or Replace My Water Heater? Top 5 Things To Consider

Is your water heater on the fritz? Are you wondering if it’s time to repair or replace it entirely? That can be a tough question to answer. However, there are 5 things you can consider that might make that choice a little easier for you.

1. The Age Of Your Water Heater

If your water heater is older than 10 years and starting to fail, it may be more cost-effective to just replace it rather than repair it. Chances are, at that age, your water heater will start to experience issues more frequently from here on out. Instead of investing time and money into multiple repairs, consider replacing it.

2. How Often Repairs Are Needed

A great way to know if your water heater needs to be replaced is to track how many times it needs to be repaired in a year. If you’re finding that you’re making frequent calls to your plumber to come fix your broken water heater, then you’ll want to look into a replacement instead. While repairs are often cheaper than replacements, they can add up over time. Water heaters shouldn’t need to be repaired more than 1-2 times a year. If you’re finding that your system needs more love than that, then look into a replacement.

3. The Demands of Your Household

Are you finding that your water heater is too small and/or not able to keep up with the demands for hot water in your household? You may start to notice an increase in your energy bills, or you run out of hot water much quicker than you should be. If your water heater is no longer providing for you, then you should look at having another one installed, or perhaps a larger one, that can keep up with your household demands for hot water.

4.  How Your Water Looks

Water should be clear – always. However, if you find that it’s discolored, it could mean that your water heater has started to rust or corrode. Not only that, but it could also mean that mineral sediment has built-up and started to coat the bottom of your water tank. This is usually due to a lack of maintenance. Usually, it’s something that can be repaired by a professional without needing a full replacement.

5. Signs Of Problems

If you notice signs of issues, such as leaks, strange sounds, or you’ve lost hot water entirely, then you should contact a professional right away. Leaks, for example, are a common sign that something is wrong with your system. Usually, a leak that is small enough can easily be repaired. However, if the leak is significant enough, your plumber may recommend you replace your tank – especially if the leak isn’t repairable or if the repair will cost more than the replacement itself. A professional will help you decide, depending on the issue, whether a repair or replacement is better for your situation.

Contact MA Williams For All Your Water Heater Repair and Replacement Needs in Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas Today!

Contact the pros at MA Williams today to schedule your water heater repair or replacement! Our background-checked and drug-tested technicians want to build relationships with all of our customers. That’s why we provide personalized service that is designed to solve all your specific and unique plumbing problems. If you need a repair, maintenance, installation or replacement, look no further than MA Williams today! Call us at 804-684-8300 or fill out our online form here.

Top 5 Spring Cleaning Tips For Your Home’s Plumbing

Are you starting to open your windows to breathe in that fresh air? That can only mean one thing – it’s spring! If you’re like most Americans, you’re probably already thinking about all the spring cleaning you have to do this season. When it comes to cleaning, don’t forget to give your plumbing some attention. Here are the top 5 spring cleaning tips for your home’s plumbing.

1. Inspect Your Pipes

One thing to make sure is that there are no leaks coming from your pipes. If you spot drips or leaks, don’t wait to have it looked at. Not only could it cause damage to your home, but it could also cause your water bills to skyrocket.

2. Clear Your Drains

A lot of homeowners are unfortunately well versed in what happens when the drains aren’t clean. Water backups and clogs aren’t easy to forget. Usually, it’s at this point that you’d run to the store to pick up a bottle of chemical cleaner. However, you should think twice before doing this. The chemicals in a lot of these cleaners can actually do more harm than good to your pipes. Instead, consider having them professionally cleaned by a plumber this spring!

3. Check Out Your Water Heater

Your water heater is usually out of sight, out of mind – until something goes wrong with it. This spring, make sure you check around the tank for any signs of leaks. Once you’ve done that, then flush your water heater to remove any sediment buildup. Not only can this buildup cause your water heater to not operate as efficiently, but it can also reduce its lifespan. Having it drained and flushed annually by a professional plumber is the best way to ensure this doesn’t happen.

4. Check Your Toilet

If you notice any worn out parts, leaks, or parts that need adjustment, don’t wait to have it looked at. First of all, you should check your toilet to make sure everything is in working order. Then, inspect it for any leaks by doing the “food coloring trick”. Drop some food coloring into the toilet tank and wait about 15-20 minutes. If you notice colored water in your toilet bowl, then it’s a surefire sign that you have a leak.

5. Scheduling Plumbing Maintenance

Even if your plumbing system appears to be working fine, you can never go wrong with a preventative plumbing maintenance. After all, there really is only so much spring cleaning for your plumbing that can be done yourself. A professional will be able to come to your home and conduct a plumbing inspection and maintenance to check for any signs of malfunction or failure. This helps you catch problems early on before they become major.

Contact MA Williams For All Your Plumbing Needs in Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas Today!

Contact the pros at MA Williams today to schedule a plumbing maintenance! Our background-checked and drug-tested technicians want to build relationships with all of our customers. That’s why we provide personalized service that is designed to solve all your specific and unique plumbing problems. If you need leak detection or repair services, or a plumbing maintenance, look no further than MA Williams today! Call us at 804-684-8300 or fill out our online form here.

How To Prevent Common Garbage Disposal Issues?

Your garbage disposal works hard for you, day in and day out. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to take it for granted and forget that it’s there – until it stops working. There are some ways to prevent common garbage disposal issues, such as jamming and clogging. Here’s how!

1. Avoid Grinding Certain Foods

Contrary to the name, a garbage disposal isn’t a garbage disposal. You should only put small bits and pieces of certain foods and liquids down there – and steer clear of others. These are some of the foods you should never put down your garbage disposal if you want to prevent issues:

• Eggshells
• Potato Peels
• Fibrous Foods
• Coffee Grounds
• Pits and Seeds
• Rice and Pasta
• Bones
• Grease, Oil and Fat
• And More

2. Use Plenty of Water

When you’re rinsing food off the plate and grinded it up in the garbage disposal, you should also plan to use plenty of water. Even after all the food has gone down the drain, continue to run water through the disposal for several more seconds to allow it to flush out any remaining food particles. Not only will this help your garbage disposal run better, but it will also get rid of some of those unpleasant odors you may be dealing with.

3. Clean Your Garbage Disposal

While many people clean out their sinks often, we don’t think too much about cleaning our garbage disposal. However, you should clean it on a regular basis to keep the sinks drain clear. Not only that, but this can also help remove some of those foul odors. If your sink is starting to smell, it should be a sign that your garbage disposal needs to be cleaned.

4. Avoid DIY Projects

Whether your garbage disposal is in need of repair or replacement, it’s best to leave that one to the pros. You may think doing it yourself will save you money, but it could actually end up costing you more in the long run – especially if something goes wrong and causes the initial problem to worsen. To avoid running into any potential obstacles, contact a plumber for help with all your garbage disposal needs.

Contact MA Williams For All Your Garbage Disposal Needs in Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas Today!

If you suspect you may have a problem with your garbage disposal, contact the pros at MA Williams today! Our background-checked and drug-tested technicians want to build relationships with all of our customers. That’s why we provide personalized service that is designed to solve all your specific and unique plumbing problems. If you need garbage disposal repair or replacement services, look no further than MA Williams today! Call us at 804-684-8300 or fill out our online form here.

Top 5 Key Benefits Of Hydrojetting Your Clogged Pipes

Whether it’s hard water, trash, or tree roots, your pipes are likely to get clogged eventually. Luckily, there are many different ways you can get those hard-to-reach clogs. However, one of the best ways to unclogging your pipes is by hydrojetting. Here are the top 5 key benefits to hydrojetting your clogged pipes.

1. Non-Invasive

One of the biggest benefits of hydrojetting your clogged pipes is the fact it’s non-invasive. Often times, when homeowners have issues with their main sewer line, plumbers have to dig a trench to access the pipes. Not only can this be expensive and time-consuming, but it can also create quite the mess. However, you don’t have to worry about that with hydrojetting. It’s a process that doesn’t require plumbers to have to dig up your yard to access the pipes.

2. Environmentally Friendly

Even though hydrojetting requires a lot of water, it’s definitely more environmentally friendly compared to other methods. A lot of plumbing methods to unclog drains use chemicals that can be harmful to the environment. Because hydrojetting doesn’t use chemicals or harmful techniques, it’s safe to use anywhere and everywhere.

3. Prevents Future Issues

Not only do you want to clear your current clogs, but we’re sure you also want to prevent future ones from forming. While conventional plumbing methods can clear out blockages and clogs of all kinds, they often don’t clear it all the way. Most of the time, some residue is left behind that can eventually lead to more clogs in the future. Hydrojetting, however, is highly effective in cleaning the entire diameter of the pipe, removing all traces of debris so you can go years without experiencing another stubborn clog in your sewer line.

4. Versatile

No matter what drain is experiencing the clogging issue, hydrojetting can clean a variety of different drains. It can clear blockages in your kitchen drains, laundry lines, bathroom sinks, tubs and shower, floor drains, and your main sewer line.

5. Cleaner and Faster

Hydrojetting is faster and more sanitary than other plumbing techniques. Plumbing can be quite the dirty job, and unclogging a drain or pipe is no exception to that. However, sanitation is still important. If you’re using some of the more traditional plumbing techniques, there’s a larger chance your plumber will come in contact with sewage and debris. On the contrary, hydrojetting is a faster method which means your plumber spends less time on your pipes and less contact with sewage and debris.

Contact MA Williams For All Your Plumbing Needs in Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas Today!

If you suspect you may have clogged pipe, don’t wait to address it! Contact the pros at MA Williams today! Our background-checked and drug-tested technicians want to build relationships with all of our customers. That’s why we provide personalized service that is designed to solve all your specific and unique plumbing problems. If you professional drain clearing services, look no further than MA Williams today! Call us at 804-684-8300 or fill out our online form here.

 

Pipe Leaks: The Heartless Ways Your Plumbing Can Ruin Your Valentine’s Day

Pipe leaks and plumbing are topics that aren’t exactly the most romantic, but they need to be discussed. There’s nothing like a plumbing emergency to ruin a perfectly good night with a loved one. Here are the heartless ways pipe leaks can ruin your Valentine’s Day.

1. High Water Bills

Bills can really ruin the mood, especially if they’re unexpectedly high. If you’re someone who uses the same amount of water each month, then you expect to spend approximately the same amount every time. If you get a water bill in the mail that is higher-than-usual, it could be due to a water leak in your home.

2. Bad Odors

Imagine trying to have a relaxing night with your Valentine, only to be met with wafts of bad odors. When you have a leak that hasn’t been addressed, it could cause a musty odor to take over the space. That’s why it’s always important to find and fix leaks right away.

3. Dripping Sounds

Dripping noises can be annoying – and a total mood killer! If you’re trying to have a good conversation, it can be distracting having to listen to the sound of drip, drip, drip from your kitchen faucet. Although, it could be a potential icebreaker topic – especially if you’re on a date with a plumber!

4. Damp Floors

Pipe leaks can cause areas of your floor to be damp or wet. Not only can this cause mold growth and bad odors, but it can also cause damage to your floor or carpet if not addressed right away. Wet spots on your floor can be frustrating to deal with, which can really put a damper on the night you were just having with your loved one.

Where there is water, mold and mildew will soon follow (24-48 hours later). You could also be looking at foundation cracks and other structural damage if not addressed quickly. Keep these things in mind if you notice damp spots on your floor!

Contact MA Williams For All Your Plumbing Needs in Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas Today!

If you suspect you may have a pipe leak, don’t wait to address it! Contact the pros at MA Williams today! Our background-checked and drug-tested technicians want to build relationships with all of our customers. That’s why we provide personalized service that is designed to solve all your specific and unique plumbing problems. If you need leak detection or repair services, look no further than MA Williams today! Call us at 804-684-8300 or fill out our online form here.

It’s the holidays and you know what that means. More and more of your time is being spent in the kitchen! Not only that, but if you are hosting out-of-town guests, then chances are your bathrooms are also being occupied and utilized now more than ever. Here are 8 common signs you need a professional drain cleaning this holiday season.

1. Slow Drainage

Are you noticing a wastewater pool in the sink, shower, or toilet? If so, this could be due to slow drainage as a result of a build-up in your pipes. By scheduling drain cleaning with a professional, you can prevent blockages from building up and causing even worse plumbing issues.

2. Strange Sounds

Many homeowners are familiar with the sound of gurgling water, but not many people know exactly where that sound is coming from. More likely than not, it’s coming from your pipes and drains. These strange noises you hear are caused by air trapped in your pipes due to a build-up. Pay attention to these noises when you flush the toilet or turn on your faucet, as this is a sure sign you need to clean your drains.

3. Stubborn Clogs

Are you noticing recurring and multiple clogs that just won’t go away no matter how much drain cleaner you pour down there? If there are multiple clogs happening at the same time, then it could indicate an issue with a main sewer clog. Regardless, any sign of a clog – no matter how big or small – is a sign that a drain cleaning is in order.

4. You’ve Used DIY Methods To No Avail

Most of the time when we notice clogs, our first instinct is to run to the store and pick up a bottle of drain cleaner. However, store-bought drain cleaner can actually wreak havoc on your pipes and not work as well as one may think. If you’ve used drain cleaner in the past and haven’t had luck clearing your drains, then it’s time to look into professional drain cleaning.

 Contact MA Williams For All Your Plumbing and Drain Cleaning Needs in Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas Today!

If you suspect you may need a professional drain cleaning this holiday season, don’t wait. Contact the pros at MA Williams today! We will clear your drains free of any clogs or blockages that are getting in the way of your day-to-day. Our background-checked and drug-tested technicians want to build relationships with all of our customers. That’s why we provide personalized service that is designed to solve all your specific and unique plumbing problems. If you are in need of professional drain cleaning services, look no further than MA Williams today! Call us at 804-250-5625 or fill out our online form here.

 

Top Reasons Why Leak Detection Services Are So Important In Winter

Professional leak detection is essential whenever you suspect a leak, but especially in winter for one main reason: temperature drop.

With winter comes cooler temperatures, and cooler temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing system – especially if you have a leak hiding somewhere out of sight.

Freezing temperatures make leaks even more likely to occur. Low temperatures can often lead to broken pipes, water damage, failing water heaters, and more.

Here are the most common leaks to be prepared for when temperatures drop. These are the reasons why professional leak detection services are so important in the winter!

1. Basement Leaks

Basement leaks are common in the winter, so leak detection services come in handy here. If you live in an area that experiences harsh and frigid winters, be mindful of the impact of snow. Accumulated snow that melts and causes run-off, creating leaks in your basement. Not only that, but if significant enough, it can also cause your foundation to crack. Before your basement leak gets out-of-hand, contact a professional plumber like those at M.A. Williams.

2. Plumbing Leaks

Frozen pipes are a common concern in the winter so it’s best to take action now before the temperatures drop. If you end up with frozen pipes, there’s a chance you also will be facing leaks or burst pipes as a result. When water freezes, it expands – which can cause your pipes to crack or burst. To avoid frozen pipes – and the potential for leaks – insulate any pipes that are exposed to the elements. Insulation can really help keep things from freezing. No matter how big or small your plumbing leak, you want to make sure you address it sooner rather than later. Letting leaks go unaddressed can cause further damage and costly bills down the line.

3. Roof Leaks

Last but not least, roof leaks are common when winter rolls around. Finding roof leaks and the source of the leak could be difficult without a professional’s help, though. Things like snow, ice build-up and rainy weather could make it hard to find the problem on your roof – and to do so safely. Some common reasons why your roof may be leaking in the winter includes:

• Ice Dams
• Poor Attic Insulation
• Exhaust Fan Condensation
• Low-Slope Roof

Contact MA Williams For All Your Plumbing and Leak Detection Services in Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas Today!

If you suspect you may have a water leak somewhere in your home, don’t wait to contact the pros at MA Williams! Not only will we find the source of your leak, but we will also work to repair it. Our background-checked and drug-tested technicians want to build relationships with all of our customers. That’s why we provide personalized service that is designed to solve all your specific and unique plumbing problems. If you are in need of professional leak detection services, look no further than MA Williams today! Call us at 804-250-5625 or fill out our online form here.