As winter approaches, Etobicoke homeowners and property managers must prepare for the challenges that cold weather can bring. One of the most common and potentially costly issues during the winter season is pipe damage. Frozen and burst pipes can lead to water damage, expensive repairs, and inconvenience. In this blog, we will explore best practices to prevent winter pipe damage.

Indoor Prevention

Recognizing the preventative measures you can take within your home will enable you to protect your home from the harsh cold of winter. 

Insulation is Key:

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas, such as attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
• Use pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape to wrap around exposed pipes.

Maintain a Consistent Temperature:

• Keep your home heated consistently, even when you’re away.
• A lower heating bill is a small price to pay compared to the cost of repairing burst pipes.

Emergency Shut-Off Knowledge:

• Ensure all household members know the location of the main water shut-off valve.
• In case of a burst pipe, turning off the water quickly can mitigate damage.
• Know when an emergency requires a professional, and learn about identifying when to call an emergency plumber.

Be Mindful of Appliances:

• Insulate pipes connected to appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and ice makers.
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for winter maintenance.

Open Cabinet Doors:

• During particularly cold nights, open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
• This helps prevent freezing in these vulnerable areas.

Check for Leaks and Drips:

• Regularly inspect your plumbing for any leaks or drips.
• Address any issues promptly to prevent them from worsening during cold weather.

External Prevention

Like internal prevention, taking action to ensure the outside of your property is secure will help protect your home during the colder months.

Seal Gaps and Cracks:

• Seal any gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior to prevent cold air from infiltrating.
• Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal openings around windows, doors, and vents.

Professional Inspection:

• Consider hiring a professional plumber for a winter pipe inspection.
• They can identify potential issues and provide recommendations.
• Requesting camera inspections for your property can help you ensure the stability of your drainage going into winter.

Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses:

• Before winter, disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and faucets.
• Store hoses in a dry, indoor space to prevent damage.

Insulate Outdoor Faucets:

• Install outdoor faucet covers or wrap them in insulated material.
• This helps protect exposed outdoor faucets from freezing.

Contact D. Jason Plumbing

Preventing winter pipe damage is not only cost-effective but also essential for maintaining the integrity of your Etobicoke home. By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can protect your property from the costly and inconvenient consequences of frozen and burst pipes. Contact D.Jason Plumbing to discuss how to keep your pipes warm, your home cozy, and your winter worry-free.

In today’s fast-paced world, technological advancements are not limited to smartphones and computers; they extend to our everyday conveniences, even in the bathroom. One of these innovations is the bidet, a bathroom fixture that’s gaining popularity for good reasons.

Understanding the benefits of a bidet in your Etobicoke home will help you consider why adding a bidet to your bathroom could be the right decision for you.

Hygiene and Cleanliness

One of the most compelling reasons to consider a bidet is its superior cleaning ability. Unlike traditional toilet paper, bidets use water to cleanse, leaving you feeling fresh and clean after each use. This not only improves your personal hygiene but also reduces the risk of skin irritation and infection.

Accessibility

Bidets are becoming more accessible with the introduction of bidet toilet seat attachments that can easily retrofit onto existing toilets. This makes bidet technology available to a broader range of individuals, including those with limited mobility. Explore more of the latest trends in home plumbing technology and how they can benefit you here.

Environmental Impact

Bidets are eco-friendly options compared to the massive amount of toilet paper used daily worldwide. The production and disposal of toilet paper contribute to deforestation and environmental pollution. Switching to a bidet can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable planet.

Cost Savings

While the upfront cost of a bidet may seem substantial, it can lead to significant savings in the long run. With the reduced need for toilet paper, you’ll save money on recurring household expenses. Bidets also tend to last longer than traditional toilets, meaning fewer maintenance costs over time.

Improved Comfort

Bidets offer a more comfortable and gentle cleaning experience, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or certain medical conditions. The adjustable water temperature and pressure settings cater to your personal preferences, ensuring a comfortable and soothing wash.

Health Benefits

Bidets can provide relief to individuals with conditions like hemorrhoids, constipation, or urinary tract infections. The gentle stream of water promotes better hygiene and can alleviate discomfort associated with these issues.

Enhanced Toilet Hygiene

Bidets can help keep your toilet cleaner by reducing the spread of germs and bacteria. Traditional wiping often leaves behind residue, whereas bidets offer a more thorough clean, reducing the risk of bacterial contamination in your bathroom.

Modern Aesthetics

Bidets come in various styles and designs, making them a stylish addition to any bathroom. Whether you prefer a standalone bidet or a bidet toilet seat attachment, there’s an option to complement your bathroom’s aesthetics.

Contact D. Jason Plumbing

Bidets are more than just a luxurious bathroom upgrade; they offer numerous practical benefits that can improve your hygiene, save you money, and contribute to a more sustainable environment. As the bidet revolution continues to gain momentum, it’s worth considering this innovative addition to your bathroom for a cleaner, greener, and more comfortable future.  Contact D.Jason Plumbing today to discuss plumbing solutions for your Etobicoke property.

Toilets are an essential part of our daily lives, and when they malfunction, it can be both frustrating and inconvenient for your Etobicoke property. Fortunately, many common toilet problems can be diagnosed and fixed without the need for a professional plumber. In this blog, we will guide you through troubleshooting some of the most typical toilet issues and recognizing when it’s time to call the professionals in.

Toilet Running Continuously

One of the most common toilet problems is a continuously running toilet. This issue can lead to wasted water and higher bills. To troubleshoot:

1. Check the flapper valve: Lift the tank lid and inspect the flapper valve. If it’s not sealing properly, it may need cleaning or replacement.
2. Adjust the float: The float controls the water level in the tank. If it’s too high, water will continuously run. Adjust it to the recommended water level.
3. Inspect the fill valve: If the fill valve is damaged or malfunctioning, it can lead to continuous running. Replacing the fill valve might be necessary.

 

Weak Flush

A weak flush can be frustrating and ineffective. To resolve this issue:

1. Check for clogs: Ensure there are no obstructions in the trap or drain line. Use a plunger or auger to remove clogs.
2. Adjust the water level: If the water level in the tank is too low, it can result in a weak flush. Adjust the float to the recommended level.
3. Clean the jets: Mineral deposits and debris can accumulate in the flush holes and rim jets. Clean these with a wire hanger or specialized toilet cleaner.

Read more about recognizing why your toilet won’t flush properly to ensure you are taking the appropriate troubleshooting measures.

Leaking Toilet

A leaking toilet can lead to water damage and increased bills. To identify and fix leaks:

1. Add food colouring to the tank: If the water in the bowl changes colour without flushing, you have a leak in the flapper valve, which should be replaced.
2. Check the wax ring: If water is seeping from the toilet’s base, the wax ring may be damaged and should be replaced.
3. Tighten connections: Inspect all connections, including the tank bolts and supply line. Tighten any loose fittings.

 

Noisy Toilet

A noisy toilet can be annoying, especially if it makes hissing or whistling sounds. To troubleshoot:

1. Inspect the fill valve: A noisy fill valve may indicate it’s time for a replacement.
2. Check for obstructions: Ensure there are no foreign objects in the toilet tank or bowl that could cause noise.
3. Tighten loose parts: Tighten any loose nuts or bolts that could cause vibrations.

 

Contact D. Jason Plumbing

Troubleshooting common toilet issues doesn’t always require professional help. With some basic knowledge and a few tools, you can often diagnose and fix these problems on your own. However, if you’re unsure or the issue persists at your Etobicoke property, contact D. Jason Plumbing to ensure an issue isn’t left unattended.

Yes, in general, Toronto’s tap water is considered safe to drink. It is sourced from Lake Ontario and undergoes a rigorous treatment process to meet the high safety standards set by the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks.

Living in Toronto, it’s natural to wonder about the quality of your tap water. Rest assured, the municipal drinking water in Toronto undergoes stringent measures to ensure its safety.

Toronto’s Municipal Drinking Water System

Toronto’s drinking water is sourced directly from Lake Ontario. Water is pulled from the great lake and transported through a series of submerged pipes, and directed to water treatment facilities throughout the city where it is filtered and treated to remove impurities.

The City of Toronto uses the same quality standards for its municipal tap water that are set by the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks. 

To maintain the highest standards, regular testing is conducted on the GTA’s drinking water—over 6,000 times annually, to be precise. The public may access test results through local water utilities or annual reports that may be found on Toronto.ca.

For those who seek extra reassurance, self-test kits with test strips for bacteria, lead, pesticides, nitrites/nitrates, chlorine, hardness, and pH are an option. Alternatively, you can collect a water sample from your tap and take it to a local water lab to gauge its quality.

Addressing Lead Pipes and Drinking Water

Residents of older homes in Toronto built before the 1960s who suspect they have lead pipes can avail themselves of free tap water testing. To initiate the process:

Pre-register for a lead testing kit.

• Collect the kit from a Toronto Public Health location.
• Follow instructions to take a sample and return the kit.
• Results are typically delivered within 30 days via phone or email.

Enhancing Water Safety with Filters

Although Toronto’s water treatment process is comprehensive, the possibility of contaminants leaching from old or corroded pipes remains. To address this, consider installing a water filter.

Water filters offer protection against by-products like lead, microplastics, and chlorine that might find their way into your tap water. Filters can also improve taste and odour by removing chlorine.

Various filter technologies cater to different needs:

• Activated Carbon: Highly effective, this filter removes over 70 common contaminants without depleting essential minerals.
• Reverse Osmosis: Offers comprehensive contaminant removal but eliminates healthy minerals as well.
• Ion Exchange (IX): Removes specific substances while retaining desirable minerals.
• Distillation: Utilizes heating and condensation to purify water.
• Ultraviolet Light Filters (UV): Effective against waterborne organisms but should be used alongside another filter for other contaminants.

Can You Trust Toronto Tap Water?

In conclusion, Toronto’s tap water is generally safe to drink due to the stringent treatment and regular testing conducted by the City of Toronto, adhering to the standards set by the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks. Residents can access water quality reports on Toronto.ca for detailed information.

While the water is safe, some individuals may choose to use filters for added peace of mind or to address specific concerns like older plumbing. If you have concerns about lead pipes or are considering installing a water filter,  our licensed plumbers can guide you toward the right filter for your needs and even handle the installation. Contact us today to get started. 

Summer is a time when many residents of Etobicoke like to spend time at the cottage, visit family across the country or the world or take some time to visit a place they’ve always wanted to go. If you are fortunate enough to be in the process of planning a vacation, you may have a checklist for what you need to pack or what you want to see and do during your travels. But if you are going to be away from your home for any length of time, you should also have a plumbing checklist.

By doing some simple checks and tasks before you leave on holiday, you can help to avoid plumbing problems from occurring during your vacation. Here is a simple summer vacation plumbing checklist to follow.

1. Check for leaks.

You wouldn’t want to return to your Etobicoke home from a relaxing vacation only to discover that a leak from your toilet had flooded your bathroom. Take some time to inspect fixtures and exposed pipes for leaks. If you suspect you have a leak, be sure to get it fixed before leaving for your holiday.

2. Clean and clear drains and disposals.

If you know you have a clogged drain or disposal, clean and clear it before your vacation. Over time, clogged drains can begin to stink, and that is not a smell that you want to come home to!

3. Shut off the main water valve.

If you are only going away for the weekend, this may not be necessary. But for longer trips, having shut off the main water valve can save you a lot of headache should there be a major leak while you are away. Now if you have someone staying at your home while you are on vacation, you will want to leave the water on – although it is still a good idea to leave the number of an emergency plumber like D. Jason Plumbing with them.

4. Check the setting on your water heater.

Certain water heaters will have a vacation setting or conservation mode that can be turned on when you are going to be away from home. As long as you don’t have a house sitter who is going to need to take hot showers, switching your water heater to this setting can help you save on your utility bills.

5. Test your sump pump.

Summer storms can wreak havoc in many parts of Ontario, including Etobicoke. If your home has a sump pump, be sure to check that it is in good operating condition before you leave for vacation.  Sudden heavy rains can overload the sewer system, which can cause water to enter your basement.  Recently, in May of 2021, seventeen homes were flooded on Saturn Road, Boreal Road and Tranquil Road in Etobicoke due to heavy rain.

To test your sump pump, pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to be sure that the pump turns on. Making sure this vital piece of equipment is working can save you from coming home to a flooded basement!

Contact D. Jason Plumbing

If you have any concerns about the plumbing in your Etobicoke home, be sure to get your plumbing inspected before leaving for vacation. And to be extra safe, leave our number with a trusted friend or neighbour when you go.

Pouring the wrong things down your drain can result in bad odours, frustrating blockages, unexpected calls to your plumber, and, ultimately, long-term damage. Knowing what is and is not safe to pour down your drain will help you maintain the integrity of your plumbing.

What Is Not Safe To Pour Down My Drains?

Many property owners believe that if something fits, it’s safe to pour it down the drain, which is far from the truth. While there are obvious things that are a risk to the integrity of your drains, the most dangerous ones are less obvious.

Although you can contact us to discuss our Drain Cleaning Services, it’s also important to recognize proactive actions you can take in your day-to-day life.

Some of the most damaging things to put down your drain include:

Grease: Food grease is one of the most detrimental substances to pour down your drain. It coats the inside and creates a buildup that will prevent the flow of liquids from smoothly going down your drain. As time goes on, grease buildup can result in full blockages and costly repairs.

The city of Toronto recommends you let cooking grease, such as bacon fat, harden at room temperature in a paper towel. Once the grease has solidified in the paper towel, you can place it in the green bin.

Hair: Like grease, washing hair down your drain can have both immediate and long-term impacts on the integrity of your drains. While small amounts of hair may only slow drainage, as time passes, it can result in more impacting blockage on the surface and along the line of your property.

Coffee Grains: While a cup of coffee alone is safe to pour down the drain, residual grains are problematic. Contrary to popular belief, coffee grains do not dissolve in water. By pouring them down your drain, you are creating/ adding to existing minor blockages in the line.

Harsh cleaning chemicals: While there are many drain cleaning products on the market designed to assist with unclogging drains, there are many household cleaners that can be detrimental. The wrong products will gradually eat away at your pipes and cause serious issues.

Other household items that you should not put down your drains include:

Any solid food, including rice and pasta, thick sauces, honey, nail clippings, medication, paint, eggshells, doughs or other flour-based products, oatmeal, and many other household products.

What Preventative Measures Can I Take?

Accidents happen! Spills, young hands, and other mistakes are inevitable, but there are proactive actions you can take to prepare should something unsafe end up in your drain.

These include:

Drain catchers: These are available for various sink types, including a wide range of kitchen and bathroom sinks. They will act as a barrier between the surface of your drain and the pipe below to prevent food, hair, and other random objects from going down your drain.

Preventative High Pressure Clean: Maintaining the integrity of your drains is invaluable to you as a property owner. If a drain shows any indication of being blocked, or you want to be proactive, you should review our blog on The Benefits of High-Pressure Drain Cleaning.

What Is My Drain Equipped To Handle?

Now that we have reviewed the risks of what not to put down your drain, you might be asking yourself what is safe? The list of things that are safe to pour down the drain in your Etobicoke property is surprisingly short. Liquids such as water, milk, tea, juice, and most other fluids are safe. If you are unsure if the liquid is safe, it’s best to play it safe and dispose of the substance in a sealed container in your garbage.

Contact D. Jason Plumbing Today.

If you’d like help ensuring your drains are running smoothly or would like to discuss preventative maintenance, contact us today.