Perry Hall, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/17/2012 -- Homeowners in the Baltimore MD area can take several precautions when dealing with plumbing problems, according to Baltimore plumbing contractor Joseph Bahr of Ace Plumbing. Many of the problems that he is called upon to fix, such as some clogged drains, drippy water faucets, and stuck garbage disposals would be easily repaired by the knowledgeable homeowner.

Mr. Bahr says that most garbage disposals that “just quit working” are only stuck. When he goes out on a service call to repair one of these, he often just uses a large screwdriver to “break loose” the cutting blades in the disposal. Since he’s there, he cleans the disposal, too, but the homeowner could fix the disposal with just a broom handle. The key is to prop the handle against a cutting blade and push. This will dislodge whatever is blocking the blade, and save the homeowner the cost of a service call. You should also look for a reset button on the disposal, as this may cause your disposal to start working again.

BALTIMORE PLUMBER GIVES TIPS FOR PLUMBING REPAIR

Another pointer from Mr. Bahr is concerning faucets that drip. Often, people think they need an entire new faucet. This is not the case.

Usually, they just need to replace the washer in the tap – where you turn the water faucet on. By replacing the washer, you’ll enable the faucet to turn off completely. This washer will get corroded just like anything else that comes in constant contact with water, and the buildup of calcium and other minerals will keep the valve from closing completely. Of course, the valve itself may be damaged and need replaced, too – a bit more of a challenge. Just be sure to turn the water off under the sink before you attempt to dismantle the faucet, or you’ll have a water fountain in your sink. Once the water is turned off, you can begin to dismantle the faucet to replace the deteriorated washers. Once the washer is replaced, gradually turn the water back on to see if the leak persists.

To unclog a drain in an eco-friendly way, Mr. Bahr suggests an old elementary science project: soda and vinegar. Pour about ½ cup of soda down the drain, and follow up with a cup of white vinegar. The reaction will often clear drains without the need of a plumber. You may need to add another ½ cup of vinegar – you can hear when it stops fizzing in the drain.

Joseph Bahr is the owner and operator of Ace Plumbing, and has served the people of the Baltimore area for 25 years. As a licensed Baltimore plumber , he can install and repair sinks, faucets, disposals, and toilets. If your house has low water pressure, he can troubleshoot the problem and fix it. He is also a 24 hour contractor, so if you have an emergency, you can call him.

For more information about taking care of your plumbing, or to request service, contact Joseph Bahr, of Ace Plumbing, at (410) 256-7900. He services most of the Baltimore area, including Perry Hall, Carney, Nottingham, White Marsh, Parkville, Bel Air, and Pikesville.

Company Name: ACE PLUMBING LLC
Contact Name: Joseph Bahr
Company Address: 4007 Schroeder Avenue, Perry Hall, MD 21128
Contact Phone: (410) 256-7900
Contact Email: info@aceplumbingbaltimore.com
Website: http://www.aceplumbingbaltimore.com/