Wednesday, December 21, 2022

Accidentally Flushing Something Down The Toilet

 We’ve all had it happen to us before. Maybe the clasp on your bracelet broke or it slipped off your wrist? Perhaps your toddler decided it was a great idea to submerge one of their toys? Or maybe you knocked something off the bathroom counter and straight  into the toilet? Whatever the case might be, if something has been accidentally flushed down the toilet in your house, here are the steps you should take next: 

Try Reaching For It With A Bent Hanger

Take a wire hanger and fashion it into a nearly-straight line, and mold one end into a small hook shape. Insert the hooked end into the toilet to try and retrieve the lost object, but be very careful that you don’t further push it down into your pipes. If the item in your toilet is metal, affix a small magnet to the end of the hangar to remove it easier. 

Try A Plunger

Never underestimate the power of a good old fashioned plunger. The gentle pressure from a plunger is often enough to dislodge objects stuck in your toilet, especially larger objects that don’t move too far down your pipes.

Remove The Toilet

Turn off your toilet’s water supply and remove the lid from the tank. Next, use a scoop or a wet vacuum to remove all remaining water from the tank and the bowl. Remove the screws or bolts from the bottom of the toilet, detach the water supply line from the tank, and then gently lay the toilet on its side. You can then look up into the toilet and retrieve your flushed item. 

Last Resort: Call A Plumber

It’s usually best to call a professional plumber, especially when you’ve tried several of the above steps and nothing is working. An expert plumber will retrieve the item without causing any unnecessary damage to your toilet or your pipes, and they have experience with even the most serious clogs. 

If you have any bathroom plumbing questions, or would like more information, please contact our team at Cross Town Plumbing today or visit us at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/accidentally-flushing-something-down/

Wednesday, December 14, 2022

Tips For Choosing The Right Bath

 

Are you in the market for a new bath? Nowadays there are so many choices you might feel overwhelmed and not know where to start. Especially since there are so many factors to consider like the shape, material and cost to install a new bathtub. Our team at Cross Town Plumbing has compiled tips to help you make the best choice for your new bathroom. 

The Shape Of The Bathtub

Single-ended baths: A single-ended bath has the taps and the drain at the same end, so it’s designed for one person to sit in, with their feet pointed towards the taps. 

Double-ended baths: A double-ended bath features the taps and the drain in the center, and it’s ideal for bathing two kids at once, or for people who prefer to share. It’s also a popular choice for taller people.

Consider The Material 

Acrylic is a popular and budget-friendly choice. It’s light, easy to care for and keep clean. Acrylic tubs are also versatile, and can retain heat very well – ideal for those who enjoy hot showers. However, you can’t use abrasive cleaners on an acrylic tub, or else they’ll get scratched. 

Steel is another option. Steel tubs are durable, affordable, and considered lightweight compared to alternatives like porcelain. The downsides of a steel tub are that the water cools quickly because steel conducts heat, and it has a tendency to chip easily. 

Cast iron is a classic choice for freestanding baths. It’s durable, easy to clean, and retains heat very well. Cast iron is very heavy, so ensure your floor can handle the weight of a cast iron tub. 

The Types Of Baths

You have a range of options to choose from, including:

  • Freestanding baths
  • Shower baths
  • Corner baths
  • Inset, built-in, or straight baths for smaller spaces

Bath Construction Costs

There’s no one-size-fits-all cost for installing a new bath. The cost will be determined by several factors, such as size, the material you use, the style of your bath, and the extent to which your existing space needs to be modified to be made suitable for a new tub. Call your local plumbing company to get an estimate. 

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/the-right-bath-for-your-home/

Monday, November 28, 2022

4 Benefits of Granite Countertops

 If you’re remodeling your kitchen, there are many design details to keep track of. Are you repainting the old kitchen cabinets or are you replacing them all? Will you be updating all of the appliances? What kind of backsplash design did you have in mind? These are all very important aspects of a kitchen remodel, but we’re going to focus on arguably the most important detail: the countertops. Think about it, you use your countertops everyday to prepare food, to store small kitchen appliances and to enjoy and serve meals on. With that said, have you decided what material you’ll use for them? Granite is an excellent choice for many reasons, our team explains some of the major benefits below. 

#1. Resistant Against Scratching and Chipping

Your countertops go through a lot of wear and tear over the years, especially kitchen countertops. Did you know that granite is the second most durable material in the world, second only to diamonds? While it’s always recommended to use chopping boards to cut up vegetables and other foods, your granite countertops won’t scratch or chip and should last you for years to come.

#2. It is Moisture, Heat and Stain Resistant 

Anyone who enjoys cooking knows how important it is to work on surfaces that can withstand high temperatures, moisture, and the occasional staining. You can place a hot pan straight onto a granite countertop (although we recommend using a pot holder!), and food and drinks that frequently leave stains like beets, turmeric, red wine and tomato sauces won’t damage granite. Also, the kitchen is one of the major places in your home where moisture is ever-present, so you don’t want countertops that can’t withstand moisture. 

#3. Each Piece of Granite is Unique 

There are no two pieces of granite on earth that are the same, so you’ll have countertops that are completely unique to you. There are many different types of granite and it comes in a range of colors, so you can select the specific color that matches the color scheme you’re going for. Granite also has a classic look that will never go out of style, so while the decor in your home will likely change over the years, your countertops will stay looking great for decades to come. 

#4. Granite Is Very Affordable

Granite is a popular choice because it’s very affordable, ranging between $50 to $200 per square foot, including installation costs. The total cost will depend on how thick you want your countertops to be, so speak with a professional installer to get an idea of how much granite countertops will cost based on your style preferences.  

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/granite-countertop-benefits/

Monday, November 21, 2022

Tankless Water Heaters Or Not?

 Is it time to replace your water heaters? Are you trying to decide between a hot water tank or a tankless water heater? Your water heater is one of the most frequently-used appliances in your home, so it’s important to invest in one that will last you for years to come, while also being energy efficient and affordable. With that said, we’re here to highlight tankless water heaters and how they just might be the right choice for you. 

Tankless Water Heaters Are Cheaper

Tankless water heaters are the cheaper option in the long run, because unlike hot water tanks, they only heat up the exact amount of water that you need. If you have a hot water tank, it’s constantly re-upping the hot water supply. Not only that, hot water tanks expend more energy to keep the water hot, even when you aren’t using it. 

They Are More Energy Efficient

Because tankless water heaters only heat your water on demand, they are more energy efficient than hot water tanks. As we briefly touch on above, a hot water tank works around the clock, while a tankless water heater only expends energy during the exact times you’re using hot water. You won’t have to worry about 40-50 gallons of unused hot water sitting in a tank.

Tankless Water Heaters Last Longer

Did you know that tankless water heaters have a lifespan of more than 20 years? Compared to hot water tanks which last on average between 10-12 years, it’s easy to see why a tankless water heater is a great investment. For homeowners who plan to stay in their homes for decades to come, a tankless water heater will stand the test of time. 

Types Of Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters either run on electricity, natural gas, or propane. Some of the market-leading brands include Rinnai, Rheem, and Stiebel Eltron, and they can be installed inside or outside of the building. However, we recommend installing the heater as close to your appliances as possible. 

Where To Find The Perfect Water Heater For Your Home

At Cross Town Plumbing, we stock many market-leading tankless hot water heaters, and we can advise you on installation, cost, and other important elements to consider when making your choice. 

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/tankless-water-heaters-or-not/

Tuesday, October 25, 2022

Avoiding Drain Flies: A Guide

 Have you noticed little flies buzzing around the sinks in your kitchen or bathroom? These are most likely drain flies. As annoying as they are, they’re extremely common and most of us will deal with a drain fly infestation at some point in time. Drain flies take up residence in septic tanks, sewers, and drains, and they often come up through your piping systems. The good news is there are several steps you can take to banish them from your home. 

Clean Your Drains

Think about how much waste and debris you put down your drains on a daily basis. So it’s no surprise that drain flies are attracted to the build-up of gunk in your drains. One way to keep drain flies away is to regularly clean your drains with a snake, which is a long metal tool used to remove clogs and eliminate build-up in your pipes. 

Flush The Drain With Boiling Water

Boiling water kills drain flies and any larvae that are waiting to hatch. Pouring boiling water down your drains can also dislodge any clogs or build-up in your pipes. If you start to notice drain flies in your home, we recommend immediately pouring boiling water down your pipes once or twice a day for a week – and then see if the problem persists. 

Use Enzyme Cleaners From A Plumbing Store

If boiling water isn’t doing the trick, visit your local plumbing store for something stronger. Plumbing stores will have enzyme cleaners that won’t damage or corrode your pipes, but will be effective in removing debris and build-up from your plumbing system. We don’t recommend using store-bought drain de-cloggers unless you know for sure they won’t harm your pipes. 

Don’t Let Water Stay Stagnant

Drain flies are attracted to pooling water. Which means if your sinks are clogged or you leave stagnant water in your sinks often, you’re creating an easy attraction for drain flies. Some easy steps you can take is to rinse your dishes out right away after using them, and don’t let them sit too long in your kitchen sink with pooling water. 

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/avoiding-drain-flies-a-guide/

Tuesday, October 18, 2022

Choosing The Right Type Of Valve

 Are you trying to select the right type of valve for your plumbing application? Whether it’s for your shower, dishwasher or perhaps something a little bit bigger like your sprinkler system,  there are many factors to consider. If you’re unsure, we recommend consulting with a plumbing professional to discuss valve features and recommend what’s best. In this article, our team explains the various types of plumbing valves and important things to consider when making your choice. If you have any questions along the way, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help. 

What Are The Types Of Valves?

Some of the most common types of valves include:

  • Ball valves
  • Metering valves
  • Needle valves
  • Toggle valves
  • Pinch valves
  • Relief valves
  • Regulators 
  • Check valves
  • Butterfly valves

Be Sure Of The Size

Selecting the properly sized valve is critical. Undersized and oversized valves can cause operating problems in your plumbing system. For example, a valve that is too small can cause a build-up of pressure, while a valve that is too large doesn’t properly regulate the flow in the transfer system. If you would like a second opinion, we recommend checking with a trusted local plumber to ensure your valves are properly sized. 

What Does The Valve Need To Do?

Valves have two basic functions: shut-off and regulation. The action you need the valve to perform will determine which type is right for you. Ball valves are used to stop fluids from circulating, butterfly valves control the flow rate of fluids, and needle valves are used to regulate low-flow gases or liquids, just to name a few. 

Consider What The Valve Is Made Of

Valves come in a range of different materials, including plastic, brass, stainless steel, and PVC. If your valves will be coming into contact with extremely hot water or gases, you’ll need to use a material that doesn’t corrode or slowly melt from the high temperatures. Valves used in applications for restaurants and other food suppliers must also adhere to certain regulations, so please seek guidance from a professional who can ensure you’re also selecting the safest option for your patrons. 

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/choosing-the-right-type-of-valve/

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

Top 3 Drain Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs!

 A clogged drain can really disrupt your day, especially if it’s a shower drain and you only have one bathroom in your home. Whether it’s a kitchen sink, a bathroom sink, or a shower, drain cleaning is a regular part of home ownership, and unfortunately we see many common drain cleaning mistakes that can make the problems worse. Our team at Cross Town Plumbing explains the top three mistakes you should avoid when cleaning your drains. Please contact us with any questions. 

Improper Plunger Use

A plunger seems like a simple tool and not one that can be used improperly, but we’ve seen it many times. There are two types of plungers – a sink plunger and a toilet plunger – and we recommend you have one of each on hand at all times. When trying to fix a clogged toilet, people often plunge in an up-and-down motion really quickly, which can cause dirty water to splash on themselves and the floor around the toilet.

Instead, make sure the toilet plunger has completely covered the drain, then plunge slowly up and down, never lifting the plunger from the drain. Slow and steady, wins the race and the clog should come loose. 

Don’t Use Liquid Drain Cleaner

You can buy a variety of liquid drain cleaners at any grocery store, and it seems like a quick fix for a clogged drain, but these cleaners contain harmful and corrosive chemicals that can end up causing a lot of damage in the long run. It’s especially important to avoid liquid drain cleaners if you have PVC or older metal pipes because these cleaners can lead to rust and corrosion. Call a professional if you have a stubborn clog you can’t get to come loose. 

Using A Drain Snake Incorrectly

A drain snake is a great tool if it’s used correctly. If you force the drain snake through bends and corners in the pipes, you can cause damage to the lining of your plumbing system, and we’ve seen this happen frequently with the added assistance of power tools. If the drain stake you’re using still isn’t solving the problem, give a professional a call.

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/drain-cleaning-mistakes-to-avoid/

Wednesday, September 14, 2022

3 Tips for Choosing the Best Plumber

 Are you in need of a good plumber? Maybe you’ve just moved to a new area, or you are a new home owner. The plumbing systems in your house  need regular care and maintenance just like everything else, and investing in a trusted plumber is absolutely worth it. Our team at Cross Town Plumbing is happy to share our top three tips for choosing a good plumber, and if you have any questions please contact us. 

Proper Licensing

Your plumber should be licensed, insured, and certified by whichever state you live in. Each state has different requirements and some states do not require licensing, so if this is the case where you live, we recommend you check to see if any formal complaints have been filed against the plumbing company you are considering hiring. Most plumbers have their license, insurance, and certification information available for you to see on their website. 

Business Experience

You want to hire a plumber who has been in business for at least several years, and who has experience working on properties that are similar to yours. Check and see how long your potential plumber has been in business, and also check that they regularly work on homes or businesses with similar plumbing systems to yours. If in doubt, you can always call and ask what their particular specialties are. 

References

A reliable plumber will happily provide you with references from past and current clients. Whether you obtain the references from the plumber themselves, or you do some internet searching before making your decision, checking references is a must. One thing to note about online reviews is that people are more likely to leave negative reviews than positive ones, so if a certain plumber has numerous positive reviews and only a small number of negative ones, don’t put too much emphasis on the not-so-great reviews. 

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/choosing-the-best-plumber/

Thursday, August 25, 2022

4 Plumbing Issues to Check Before You Buy a House

 Buying a house is an exciting yet stressful time. We’ve heard from many homeowners that it ended up costing them more time and money than originally intended due to existing plumbing issues they weren’t aware of when purchasing the home. To be sure you know exactly what you’re getting into before buying, we recommend always checking for some common plumbing issues before signing any final contracts. Here’s what to look for when checking plumbing in your potential new home: 

Faucets, Sinks and Toilets

Testing the sinks and toilets throughout the house will give you an understanding of the water pressure, and the general health of the plumbing. You should:

  • Check underneath all sinks for signs of leaks
  • Turn on all faucets and flush all the toilets
  • Watch how quickly the water drains down the sinks
  • Check around the base of each toilet for signs of leakage or rust

Main Sewer Drain

There are several issues you might encounter with the main sewer drain, like tree roots growing into it, or breakdown due to age. Unfortunately checking the main sewer drain isn’t as simple as flushing a toilet. You’ll need a licensed plumber to conduct an inspection and verify that there aren’t any issues or signs of damage. A damaged sewer drain can be very costly to repair, so it’s critical that you have this checked before buying a house. 

Water Heater

Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home, and one you’ll rely on every day. When it comes to the water heater in your potential new home, check for the following:

  • Any unusual noises coming from the tank when you switch it on
  • Discolored water, or water with particles coming out of the hot water tap
  • The age of the hot water heater. If it’s more than 12 years old, chances are it will need replacing soon
  • Rust or corrosion on the tank

Water Meter and Supply

Looking at the water meter is a telltale way to check for leaks. Shut off all of the faucets throughout the home and take a look at the water meter. Is it still turning? That means the plumbing system has sprung a leak somewhere. 

If you’d like more information about how to check out any potential plumbing issues before you buy a house, please contact our team at Crosstown Plumbing today and visit our website at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/check-for-these-plumbing-issues/

Tuesday, August 9, 2022

Signs Your Hot Water Heater Needs to be Repaired or Replaced

 Your hot water heater is an essential appliance in your home, but because it’s out of sight, it’s easy to forget it exists until something goes wrong. Most homeowners are not in the habit of regularly checking on their hot water heater, so when it breaks or malfunctions it can quickly become an urgent situation. Here are three of the most common signs that your hot water heater needs to be repaired or replaced. 

Irregular Water Temperature

You’re enjoying a relaxing, hot shower after a long day, when suddenly the water starts running cold. It’s happened to most of us before and it’s definitely not a pleasant experience. If you notice your water temperature is fluctuating often from hot to warm or cold, there might be an issue with your hot water heater. Mineral deposits build up over time and can cause irregular water temperatures, so the best thing to do is ask a professional to inspect your hot water heater. 

Discoloration of Water

If you’re getting yourself a glass of water from your kitchen sink and notice the water has small dark particles floating in it, or the water is brownish in color, it’s time to have your hot water heater checked. Sediment leaking into your drinking water can be a health hazard if it goes untreated. Your tank will need cleaning as soon as possible if you’re encountering this issue. 

Running Out of Hot Water Too Fast

It’s possible that one of the heating elements in your hot water heater is malfunctioning if your water only stays hot or warm for a short amount of time.  Most new models of hot water heaters are able to provide homes with a steady and lengthy supply of hot water, but it can be a big inconvenience when the heater stops working in your time of need.

If you’d like more information about hot water heater repair, or if you have any questions, please contact our team at Crosstown Plumbing today and visit our website at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/hot-water-heater-repair/

Thursday, May 19, 2022

Silent Signs Your House Has a Plumbing Issue

 All too often, you probably had no idea that your house had plumbing issues until it was too late. However, common plumbing problems are easy to spot, provided you know what to look for. Once you are able to recognize the signs, you can do the repairs before problems get out of control and more expensive. Here are four of the most common silent signs to look out for.    

Discolored Pipes

It is a good idea to check the pipes under your sinks and in your basement. Look for any discoloration, especially around the joints. This is a strong sign that there is moisture present and that you might have a leak that will probably worsen over time if you leave it. If you spot any discoloration, get a plumber to take a look at the joints as soon as possible.

Sewer Odor

If you start to pick up a sewer smell in your home, it probably means, either that one of your traps has run dry, or one of your vents has cracked. Vents and traps prevent sewer gases from entering your home. When they are not working properly, those gases cannot be released and start to build up inside the home. Traps can be repaired by refilling them with water, but vents can be a little more difficult to find and fix, as they are usually enclosed inside a wall. We recommend calling a plumber if it’s the latter of the two issues. 

Weak Water Flow in Multiple Locations

Low water pressure usually indicates a distribution issue. If it occurs in one location, you may just need to fix a faucet aerator, which is usually easy to deal with. If it happens in several locations, there is probably an issue with the water main or supply line. If you are seeing low water pressure in addition to any signs of leaking, you should take action immediately.  

Slow Drain

A drain that is slow to clear could be a result of blockage near to the drain itself, or something deeper in the pipes. If the problem is farther down the line, it might require a fair amount of snaking to clear it. If more than one of your drains is slow, it is a sure sign that you have a deeper problem. 

No matter what plumbing issues you may have to deal with in your home, get your tools, parts and accessories at Crosstown Plumbing Supply. Contact us for more information.

This blog was originally published at https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/plumbing-issue/ 

Thursday, May 12, 2022

Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner Should Know About



Not every homeowner is a plumber, but it is still a good idea to know at least a little about plumbing if you want to keep your home safe and functional. The longer you stay in a home, the more likely it is that you will experience some type of plumbing issue. It helps to know just a few simple actions to take when problems arise. These basic plumbing tips might help you to prevent the need for plumbing repairs. They will certainly help you to manage the situation and mitigate the damage as you wait for the professionals to arrive. Here are three essential plumbing tips that every homeowner should know.

Know Where the Water Shutoff Valves Are

One of the vital details you should know about your home is where to shut off the water supply. If there is an emergency or if routine maintenance needs to be done, knowing where the main shutoff valve is will help you to save time and prevent further plumbing issues.

Understand What Can and Can’t Go Down Drains

Not many people understand the limitations of household drains. If you want to know what you can wash down your drains, the answer is: not much! Your drains and pipes are designed to carry water and other liquids. Almost everything else will only clog them. Don’t throw things like coffee grounds, grease, or food scraps down the drain. Also, remember that your toilet is not a garbage can. Flushing almost anything other than toilet paper is likely to lead to clogged pipes.

Fix Leaky Fixtures Right Away

How many of us simply ignore a leaky faucet or a running toilet? They don’t seem to do much harm and appear to be little more than a minor annoyance. However, even the most minor leaks can lead to massive amounts of wasted water. One leaky faucet can shed up to eight gallons a day. It is better to fix these problems as they arise. Replacing a washer on a faucet is a quick and easy fix.

Whatever plumbing issue you may need to deal with in your home, get your parts, tools and accessories at Crosstown Plumbing Supply. Browse our product lines in plumbing, HVAC and Kitchen & Bath or contact us for more information.

This blog was originally published at https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/plumbing-tips/

Wednesday, April 13, 2022

Bathroom Plumbing: Need to Know Tips


Your bathroom is one of the most frequently-used rooms in your home, so it’s no surprise that it requires some extra attention from time to time. Bacteria can build up quickly so regular deep cleanings, and quick wipe downs are recommended. In addition to keeping your bathroom space clean its best to stay ahead of maintenance. Waiting until something breaks usually results in very expensive repairs, if you keep up with regular maintenance the cost is much more manageable. 

We have a few bathroom tips for you to help keep your space clean and well maintained 

Essential Bathroom Plumbing Tips

  • Ventilation is a must-have. With so much water and steam, conditions in your bathroom are perfect for mold and mildew to thrive. And once you get a mold problem, no matter how small, it spreads quickly and can become difficult to manage. We recommend always keeping the windows cracked in your bathroom when possible, and if you don’t have windows, invest in a good fan.
  • Use drain covers to protect your drains. Loose hair, soap residue, and other debris can cause major clogs in your shower drain. Mesh drain covers prevent things from going down your drain, keeping your plumbing in good condition.
  • Replace any outdated pipes. Do you know when your bathroom plumbing was installed? If it was before 1970, chances are high that your pipes are outdated. We recommend calling a trusted plumber who can inspect them in more detail. Replacing pipes before they break will prevent further damage.
  • Schedule routine plumbing maintenance and drain cleaning. Don’t wait until there’s a big problem to call a plumber – not only is it inconvenient for you, but it can result in expensive emergency repair bills. Prevention and maintenance are key, and worth investing in. 

Is a Bathroom Deep Clean Worth it?

Believe the hype about deep cleaning! There are tons of different bacteria lurking in the corners of your bathroom, and on the surfaces as well. Here a few tips that might help to keep the germs away. It is easy to forget to clean your exhaust fan, but keeping it clean allows it to work efficiently to help fight against mold and mildew growth. To help limit the spread of germs, close your toilet seat before you flush. Wipe down the toilet and surfaces in your bathroom every couple if days rather than waiting to do a deep clean. This will make cleaning the bathroom easier and faster, because honestly, who wants to spend all their time cleaning the bathroom! And don’t forget to clean your shower curtain regularly, too. 

For more information about bathroom plumbing and keeping your bathroom in top condition, or if you have any questions, please contact our team at Crosstown Plumbing today. We look forward to hearing from you.

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/bathroom-plumbing-need-to-know-tips/

Water Purifiers, Softeners and Filters: Pros and Cons




Are you trying to decide between water purifiers, water softeners, and water filters for your home? Tap water quality varies greatly depending on where you live, and having a clean water supply for showering, cooking, and cleaning is very important. For people who aren’t satisfied with the quality of their tap water, and for those who want to prevent scale build-up, remove bacteria and other contaminants, and avoid corrosion, there are several water treatment options. Each water treatment system comes with its own pros and cons, which we explore in more detail below.

The Right Water System For You

Water Purifiers: These systems remove potentially harmful organisms and toxic metals from your water. They may not, however, remove all traces of pesticides and water purifiers require regular maintenance. They can also be costly to set up, making them a less attractive option for homeowners. 

Water Softeners: These systems remove minerals like calcium and magnesium from your water supply, resulting in better quality water for bathing, laundry, and cleaning. Soft water doesn’t require as much soap or detergent, and it also results in less scale build-up. However, you shouldn’t drink or cook with water from a water softener because they don’t remove lead and other metals, or the chlorine taste that can sometimes be present in water supplies.

Water Filters: These systems remove contaminants like arsenic and bacteria from your water supply, meaning you can cook with and drink filtered water. Water filters also remove the taste and odor of chlorine, and they’re very cost-efficient. Conversely, water filters reduce the flow rate of your water and the filtration systems require regular maintenance. 

How Do Water Purifiers and Softeners Work?

Water purifiers take in raw water, remove any contaminants, viruses and bacteria, then dispense the clean water to your home. They’re a good choice if you live in an area with an untreated water supply, or if you’re concerned about the quality of your tap water. Water softeners draw water into a tank, then use a process called ion exchange to remove calcium and magnesium from the water before dispensing it. 

For more information about water purifiers, water softeners, and water filters, or if you have any questions, please contact our team at Crosstown Plumbing today. We look forward to hearing from you.

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/water-purifiers-softeners-and-filters/