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» Tulsa Plumber Reveals Top Late Gifts for Plumbing Dads

Wednesday, June 19th, 2013

If you’re running a little behind, but you want to make it up to your favorite Tulsa plumber with the perfect Father’s Day present, we’ve gathered a few items that any plumbing Dad would love to receive!

Plumber Shirt – There are a number of plumbing shirts, some more tasteful than others, but we wanted to share this one! It’s simple design features a faucet “dripping” the words “Plumbers – Go with the flow”. You can even get a matching pair of pajama pants!

Glass Water Faucet Sculpture – For the plumbing Dad whose days in the field are over, consider decorating his desk! This beautiful sculpture is the perfect conversation starter, as well as a great decoration and reminder of your appreciation for him.

Tie Clip – Keep your favorite plumber looking his best all day or night with this tie clip! The gold bar and silver wrench embellishment ensure that he can wear it with almost any outfit.

Belt Buckle – For casual days, make sure that Dad is still showing his plumbing pride with a pewter belt buckle. The word “plumber” is adorned with two pipe wrenches to really make it stand out!

Paper Clip Holder – Give your favorite plumber a functional desktop decoration! This fun sink-shaped decoration also features a magnetic faucet, giving the illusion that there are paper clips flowing from it. With this unique item, he can keep everything on his desk organized as well as show his pride for the industry.

Faucet Cufflinks – We have saved the best for last! These creative cufflinks are perfect for the debonair drain-cleaning dad. We think they can be a fun accessory to a serious suit.

Most of our Tulsa plumber dads would love to receive any of these great gifts, but remember that it’s the thought that counts! Now that we’ve helped you choose a gift, if you need help choosing a plumber – the answer is clear. Contact AAA AUGER today!

Tags: AAA AUGER, belt buckle, Contact AAA AUGER, Father's Day, faucet cufflinks, fun plumbing, Glass Water Faucet Sculpture, last minute gifts, plumber shirt, pluming gifts, top Father's Day gifts, tulsa plumber
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» Fort Worth TX Plumbers’ Tornado Safety Tips

Wednesday, May 29th, 2013

Based on the recent severe weather in the U.S., our Fort Worth, TX plumbers wanted to share some tips to help you and your family stay safe in the event of a tornado.

First, it’s important to note the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. A tornado watch indicates that the weather conditions make it possible for a tornado to form. Usually this means that the National Weather Service has seen clouds begin to circulate on their radars. A warning means that there has been a funnel cloud spotted and you need to go inside to a storm shelter or the nearest safe place in your building.

Many websites and relief agencies, such as the American Red Cross, suggest moving to an interior room in the house. As shown in the graphic from AccuWeather.com below, it is recommended to get as far away as possible from the windows of your building. You may have heard that a bathroom is the safest place in the home, however, it is actually the basement. By staying underground, you are less likely to get hit with debris, you are also out of the way of the tornadoes path above. If the area does not have an underground space available when this threat appears, find the room closest to the middle of the building on the lowest floor.

This safe room is most likely a bathroom on the main floor. Bathroom walls are considered some of the most sturdy in many buildings due to the plumbing pipes running from deep in the ground up through the walls. With the extra support of this piping, stay in a bathtub and make sure to put a mattress over it to protect yourself from any flying debris, or the event that something does begin to cave in on top of you.

Our Fort Worth, TX plumbers want to keep you and your family safe in any event. If you have any other questions about how to stay safe during a tornado watch or warning visit www.redcross.org.

Tags: AccuWeather.com, American Red Cross, Bathroom, Fort Worth TX plumbers, National Weather Service, pipes, Red Cross, tornado safety, tornado tips, tornado warning, tornado watch, What to do in a tornado
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» 24 Hour Plumber Shares Old Home Plumbing Problem: Galvanized Pipes

Tuesday, May 14th, 2013

With the shift in the housing market, more and more homeowners are buying older homes. We love the idea of a fixer upper, but our 24 hour plumber would like to warn about one plumbing problem that can arise from a common material of the time, galvanized pipe.

First, the easiest way to check if your home has galvanized pipes is to go to a frequently used faucet and turn on the hot water. If this temperature produces low pressure, your home, most likely, has galvanized pipes. This type of piping that, over years of use, can begin to corrode and plug up plumbing lines. Due to high temperatures, the hot-water pipe lines are generally the first to start undergoing this process.

If the water pressure is not noticeably low, there is still a chance that your piping needs to be replaced. Previous homeowners may have replaced only the galvanized pipe that was in dire need, however, there may be some lines underneath that are soon to fail. When galvanized piping does start to wear out, it can be a huge cost to replace the entire system, so many homeowners opt to replace the certain pipes that need immediate attention. This is the more economical option, however, this simply postpones the inevitable.

Another way to see if the galvanized pipes have been updated is to look under the sink to inspect where the piping is coming from. Old plumbing is typically run through walls, while newer plumbing runs up through the floor to connect under the sink. Also, if the home has a crawl space, you or your plumber can get a better look at the inner workings of your plumbing.

Have you recently purchased an old home? What kinds of plumbing stories do you have? We’d love to hear about it! Go to our Facebook page and post your story on our wall.

To prevent a small plumbing problem, like low water pressure, from becoming a huge nightmare, contact our 24 hour plumber to give you a plumbing evaluation.

Photo Credit: Flickr

Tags: 24 Hour Plumber, AAA AUGER, Contact AAA AUGER, emergency plumber, Facebook, galvanized, galvanized pipes, homebuyer, old home plumbing, old home problems, old home tips, old plumbing
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» San Antonio Plumbing Service Explains: What is Greywater?

Thursday, April 25th, 2013

You may have heard about the popular “rain water harvesting” practices, but our San Antonio plumbing service wants to share the latest trend in green home living called, greywater. This type of wastewater accounts for about 50 to 80 percent of the total amount of water that households use. Make sure you use it!

What is Greywater?

Greywater is the non-toxic water used in bathtubs, showers, sinks, washing machines and dishwashers. Though gray water does not need to be thoroughly filtered for some uses, other uses may require the filtering of detergent, cosmetics, grease and other impurities. Reusing greywater reduces the amount of freshwater that you and your family use.

How do I collect it?

Collecting greywater can be as easy as placing a bucket in the shower or sink. You can also find many ways to collect the excess water from appliances with devices that divert water from sewer lines.

How can I use it?

Gardening – When applied directly to the soil, plants get more nutrients than clean water. Do not use on fruit and vegetable plants that are eaten raw.

Toilet flushing – Instead of flushing the water down the drain, consider a system that pumps greywater into the tank.

Washing Clothing- This would require a system hooked up to your washing machine, but reusing the rinsed water for the next load could make a big difference on your water bill.

Do you use greywater in your home? Let us know about it on Twitter at @AAAAUGER.

If you are looking to find ways to save water, contact the San Antonio plumbing service that has a real interest in keeping your home green!

Photo Credit: Flickr

Tags: @AAAAUGER, AAA AUGER, Contact AAA AUGER, eHow, eHow.com, Facebook, garden with greywater, green, green technology, Greywater, greywater collection, how to use greywater, New Mexico State University, NM State, Texas, toilet flushing, Twitter, UMass, University of Massachusetts, wash clothing with greywater, what it greywater
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» Austin Texas Plumber Shares 5 Trees That Cause Plumbing Problems

Tuesday, April 23rd, 2013

Our plumber in Austin Texas always strives to do our part to keep the earth green. In honor of Arbor Day, we want to encourage our customers to do the same and plant trees and other greenery Friday, April 26. However, to best avoid an Arbor Day plumbing disaster down the road, be weary of the beautiful but harmful trees listed below:

1) Silver maple –This fast-growing shade tree is generally found in the Eastern and Midwest regions of the U.S. The silver maple’s shallow root system is notorious for cracking driveways and sidewalks. It’s also harmful to your home’s sewage pipes and underground plumbing.

2) Willow – Though this tree’s wispy branches add a sense of romanticism to your yard, their root system is anything but sweet. Its roots insatiable appetite for water will stop at nothing to get it. This results in the “terrorization” of sewer lines and irrigation pipes.

3) Magnolia – The sweet smell of magnolia is well known, however, most people may not know about the destructive power of their roots. Similar to the root system of the silver maple, they grow along the surface, however, these roots have the added strength of being almost rope-like. Similar to the willow, these flexible and sturdy roots seek out cracks in pipes in search of water.

4) Poplar – These popular shade trees are have similar characteristics of the three trees listed above. However, even if you decide to plant this tree far away from your plumbing or home, its surface roots can grow two to three times the height of the tree. That means that the roots can be anywhere from 160 to 450 feet from the base of the tree.

5) Oak – This sturdy, long-lasting favorite has a stealthy ability to quietly wreak havoc on your home. Its slow-growing root system features a taproot which grows straight into the ground. As the tree ages, new roots grow horizontally from the main taproot finding cracks in plumbing and home foundations. These lateral roots can grow to about 100 yards.

Have you had an experience with a tree invading your home’s plumbing system? Tell us in the comments below, or let us know on the AAA AUGER Facebook.

Take our plumber in Austin Texas’ advice and make sure your green thumb doesn’t turn into a big plumbing mess by researching the greenery that you want to add to your landscape!

Magnolia tree photo credit: Flickr

Tags: AAA AUGER, April 26, Arbor Day, Contact AAA AUGER, Facebook, Flickr, harmful trees, Magnolia, Oak, plumber austin texas, Poplar, Silver maple, Texas, trees that cause plumbing problems, Willow
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» Austin Texas Plumber Shares 5 Little Known Toilet Facts

Tuesday, April 9th, 2013

Our Austin Texas plumber loves coming across fun toilet facts, however we’ve recently found some that we had to share! Here are a few little-known fun and surprising toilet facts:

1.     Sir John Harrington, a writer and godson of Queen Elizabeth, invented the modern design we use today. However, it had to be perfected by Alexander Cummings, inventor of the S-shaped pipe underneath the fixture to keep foul odors at bay.
2.     In the 1880s, England’s Prince Edward, later referred to as King Edward VII, hired prominent London plumber, Thomas Crapper, to construct lavatories in several royal palaces in the kingdom.
3.     Thomas Crapper patented many bathroom inventions but he did not invent the modern toilet. He was however, the first one to display bathroom fixtures in a showroom. So, it is believed that his name became synonymous with new bathroom fixtures.
4.     According to Mythbusters, the toilet seat is one of the cleanest places in your home.
5.     Right after Congress passed the Energy Policy and Conservation Act in 1994, low flow toilets had not quite combined energy efficiency and practicality. Many people would go to Canada to buy high-flow toilets. Thankfully the technology on low-flow toilets has improved!

Which of these facts surprised you the most? Tell us in the comments below, or let us know on Twitter!

If you’re looking for a plumber near Austin Texas, call us today at 512.928.0467.

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» Tulsa Plumber Shows How To Organize With Plumbing Supplies

Tuesday, April 2nd, 2013

Spring means that it’s time to start that pesky spring cleaning and shape up the house for nicer weather. Our Tulsa plumber realizes that this might seem like an easy chore for some, but it may be harder for others especially when you get to that box of leftover plumbing supplies. Instead of throwing it all out, why not use your DIY skills and build something to keep you organized all year?

First, take an inventory of all the piping and wood that you have at your home. Then, draw a diagram of how you want the shelf to look, complete with dimensions and sizes. If you need some inspiration, you can find even more great plumbing supply shelving ideas from Apartment Therapy. Once you have completed the diagram, purchase any additional supplies you need from a local hardware store.

Before installation, consider spray painting the pipes and staining the wood in order to add a personal touch to the unit. Then, using a tubing cutter cut the pipes to the desired size for your design. Next, drill them securely into the wall and place the wood on top of the piping to create the shelves. Finally, begin to place items on the shelves and enjoy your new organizational space!

The greatest thing about these shelves is that they don’t take up a lot of space, perfect for small spaces in the home, but they create an interesting focal point in the room nonetheless.

Have you created any projects using leftover plumbing supplies? Tell us in the comments below, or on Facebook!

Remember, if you have any plumbing issues, contact our AAA AUGER Tulsa plumbers. We will always be happy to come out and help you with any plumbing services you may need.

Tags: AAA AUGER, Apartment Therapy, Contact AAA AUGER, DIY, Facebook, How To Organize With Plumbing Supplies, organizational ideas, Plumbing parts, shelf DIY, spring cleaning, Texas, tulsa plumber
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» Houston Texas Plumbing Services Shares How to Clean a P-Trap

Thursday, March 28th, 2013

Have you noticed that your sink is draining slower than usual? It may be a small clog in your P-trap. Your P-trap is the P-shaped pipe underneath the sink that prevents sewer gasses from seeping into the home. Follow our guide below to learn how to clean a clogged P-trap:

Shut off the water valve attached to the sink. It should be on the wall near the fixture.
Place a bucket under the P-trap to catch any water or debris that may fall once you have removed the trap.
Use a pipe wrench to remove the two coupling nuts on the trap. These are what attach it to the sink.
Once you have removed it, clean out any debris and determine if the trap or nuts look damaged or worn. If they do look like they need to be replaced, you can find them at most hardware stores.
After the trap is sufficiently clean on the inside and outside surface, reattach the P-trap. To prevent any leaks make sure that you properly seal each washer. During this process also be sure not to over tighten the connections.
Before removing the bucket under the sink, turn on the fixture’s water valve then turn on the faucet. While the water is draining, check that none of the connections underneath the sink are leaking. If there is a leak, try tightening the coupling nuts little by little, or disassemble and reattach the P-trap again. If it is still draining slowly, call a plumber to fix the problem.

Periodically cleaning out your sink’s P-trap can be an easy way to prevent costly clogs from forming. You can try doing this yourself, or contact the AAA AUGER plumbing services in Houston Texas to help you and make sure that all of your drains are functioning properly.

Tags: AAA AUGER, clogged drain, clogged p-trap, Clogged sink, Contact AAA AUGER, P-trap, plumbing services houston texas, plumbing services in Houston Texas, replace p-trap
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» Dallas TX Emergency Plumbing’s Tips to Avoid an Easter Emergency

Thursday, March 21st, 2013

Easter is upon us and that means food, family and fun aren’t far behind! Our emergency plumbing service in Dallas TX wants to help you prevent any plumbing emergencies from popping up. If you follow these tips below, there should be no reason for a plumbing disaster.

If you have any family or friends coming to stay at your house, remember to clean your shower and sink drains. Remove any hair and soap scum from drain covers and drain stoppers. Also prevent unwanted items from being flushed down the toilet by placing a small trash can in a highly visible area of the room. This will keep items such as wipes or cotton swabs from being tossed in the toilet.

If you and your loved ones all like to cook in the kitchen, your kitchen’s plumbing needs to be in the best shape possible. To avoid a clog in the sink, be sure to remind guests to thoroughly scrape excess food off their plates and into the trash before placing them in the sink to be rinsed. When making your famous Easter eggs and later peeling off egg shells, take care to throw the shells in the trash – not the sink. Even with a garbage disposal, egg shells are hard to break down completely and could cause a major clog. Also make sure that when cooking, fats and other cooking oils are not put down the drain. If you have to use your disposal, keep the water running to help lubricate the blades and ensure that all food is being properly disposed of.

By following these tips, your family and friends are sure to have a stress-free holiday!

No time is a good time for a plumbing emergency, but if one does pop up with guests around, don’t hesitate to call AAA AUGER emergency plumbing in Dallas TX at 972.222.2843.

Photo credit.

Tags: AAA AUGER, Avoid, Contact AAA AUGER, cotton swabs, Dallas TX Emergency Plumbing, drains, Easter Emergency, Easter plumbing tips, egg shells, plumbing emergency, Texas, Tips
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» Green Product Review: Grundfos Comfort Series UP-15

Tuesday, February 19th, 2013

We are always interested in new green technologies and our plumbing services division in Fort Worth recently came across the Grundfos Comfort Series UP-15, an instant hot water system. Read their full review below:

The average home wastes 12,000 to 38,000 gallons of water annually while waiting for water to heat up. Therefore, the most apparent benefits of the Comfort Series water circulation system are the convenience of having hot water on demand and the savings it provides the homeowner. Customers can also optimize the system and save energy by programming the timer to generate hot water only during peak demand times, such as early morning and evening.

The secret is all in the revolutionary Comfort Valve. This part of the device is installed under the fixture farthest from the water heater. The system uses the cold water line already in place to return hot water to the water heater.

This technology is catching on so quickly that some counties are making the installation of hot water recirculation pumps mandatory for all new construction projects!

Need help installing this system in your home? Call our Fort Worth plumbing service today! Stay tuned to our website for even more green product reviews as well.

Tags: AAA AUGER, Comfort Series UP-15, Contact AAA AUGER, Energy Savings, Green product review, Grundfos, instant hot water system, plumbing services fort worth, save energy, Texas, water circulation system
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