Skip to main content

Rated: 4.9 / 5 based on 2,000+ reviews. Read our reviews

We're available! Call 518-545-3271 to schedule your service

Should You Invest in a Whole-House Water Filtration System?

Water flows from every tap in your home, but do you really know what’s in it? For families in Clifton Park, NY, and throughout the region, tap water can contain everything from chlorine and sediment to minerals that leave stains and buildup throughout your home.

A whole-house water filtration system promises clean, safe water from every faucet, shower, and appliance. But with installation costs and various system options to consider, many homeowners wonder if it’s truly worth the investment.

This guide will help you weigh the benefits, costs, and signs that indicate your home could benefit from whole-house water filtration.

What Is a Whole-House Water Filtration System?

A whole-house water filtration system is installed at your main water line, ensuring every drop of water entering your home gets filtered before reaching your faucets, showers, and appliances. Unlike point-of-use filters that treat water at individual taps, this comprehensive approach addresses water quality throughout your entire home.

Several types of filtration systems are available:

Carbon filters excel at removing chlorine, improving taste, and eliminating odors that make water unpleasant to drink or smell.

Sediment filters catch particles like sand, dirt, and rust before they can damage your plumbing or stain your fixtures.

UV filters use ultraviolet light to neutralize bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms without adding chemicals.

Reverse osmosis systems target specific contaminants based on your water quality needs, providing the most thorough filtration option.

Signs You Might Need One

Several red flags indicate your home could benefit from whole-house water filtration:

Strange tastes or odors coming from your tap water signal the presence of chlorine, sulfur, or other contaminants. If your water tastes metallic, smells like rotten eggs, or has a chemical aftertaste, filtration can help.

Dry skin or dull hair after showering often results from hard water or chlorine exposure. Many residents notice softer skin and shinier hair after installing filtration systems.

Staining on sinks, tubs, or laundry typically comes from iron, manganese, or other minerals in your water supply. These same minerals can cause white or colored clothing to look dingy over time.

Scale buildup in appliances and fixtures shortens their lifespan and reduces efficiency. If you notice white, chalky deposits on your faucets or inside your coffee maker, the mineral content may be too high.

Well water users and residents in areas with known water quality issues should strongly consider whole-house filtration as a precautionary measure.

Benefits of a Whole-House Water Filtration System

Healthier Water for Drinking, Cooking & Bathing

Filtration systems remove harmful contaminants like lead, chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and microorganisms that could affect your family’s health. You’ll have confidence that every glass of water and every meal prepared with your tap water is as clean as possible.

Protects Plumbing and Appliances

Filtered water reduces scale buildup and mineral deposits that can damage water heaters, washing machines, dishwashers, and pipes. This protection helps your appliances run more efficiently and extends their operational life.

Better Skin, Hair & Laundry

Softer, cleaner water feels gentler on your skin and hair. Clothes washed in filtered water stay brighter and feel softer because harsh minerals and chemicals aren’t dulling fabrics or irritating sensitive skin.

Environmental & Cost Savings

Whole-house filtration reduces your family’s dependence on bottled water, cutting plastic waste and grocery costs. Additionally, appliances that run more efficiently thanks to cleaner water can lower your energy bills over time.

What Does Installation Involve?

Professional installation typically takes place where water enters your home, before it reaches your water heater. A licensed technician will assess your current plumbing setup and water quality to recommend the most appropriate system for your needs.

The installation process involves connecting the filtration system to your main water line and may require some plumbing modifications. Most installations can be completed in a few hours, though complex systems or unique home layouts may take longer.

At Grasshopper Heating Cooling & Plumbing, we start with a thorough water quality assessment to identify specific contaminants and recommend the right filtration approach for your Clifton Park home.

Is It Worth the Investment?

The upfront cost of a whole-house water filtration system varies depending on your water quality needs and the type of system you choose. However, many homeowners find the investment pays for itself through several long-term benefits.

Reduced bottled water purchases can save hundreds of dollars annually for families who regularly buy drinking water. Extended appliance life means fewer replacements and repair costs over time.

Beyond financial considerations, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your family has access to clean, safe water from every tap adds significant value. Many homeowners also find that water quality improvements increase their home’s overall value.

Why Choose Grasshopper Heating Cooling & Plumbing

As trusted experts in home comfort and water quality throughout Schenectady and the Capital Region, Grasshopper Heating Cooling & Plumbing provides honest assessments, professional installations, and dependable ongoing support.

Our team understands the unique water quality challenges facing homeowners in Clifton Park and surrounding areas. We serve as your one-stop shop for plumbing, HVAC, and electrical needs, ensuring all your home systems work together seamlessly.

Take the Next Step Toward Cleaner Water

Ready to discover what’s really in your water and explore your filtration options? Grasshopper Heating Cooling & Plumbing offers free in-home water quality assessments to help you make an informed decision about whole-house filtration.

Contact us today to schedule your assessment and learn how clean, filtered water can improve your family’s health, protect your home’s plumbing, and provide lasting peace of mind.

Slow Drains? Here’s How To Tell If You Have a Partial Clog or a Bigger Sewer Issue

You turn on the faucet and notice water quickly pooling in the sink. Slow drains strike again. This frustrating plumbing issue often signals underlying problems that could worsen if you ignore them.

Slow drains can disrupt your daily routine and potentially lead to costly repairs. Grasshopper Heating & Cooling understands how concerning these symptoms can be for homeowners. 

What Causes Slow Drains?

Slow drains typically result from a gradual buildup inside your plumbing system. Hair, soap scum, grease, food particles, and mineral deposits accumulate on pipe walls over time. These materials create partial clogs that restrict water flow without completely blocking it.

You may notice the problem developing gradually. What once drained quickly now takes several minutes. This drain buildup can worsen over weeks or months until the water barely moves.

Warning Signs of Partial Clogs

Partial clogs display several telltale symptoms before they become complete blockages.

  • Water that takes longer than usual to empty from sinks, tubs, or showers indicates potential problems.
  • Unpleasant odors emanating from your drains suggest bacteria growing on trapped debris.
  • Gurgling sounds when water drains can arise from air trapped behind partial obstructions.

You’re likely dealing with a localized issue if you notice these signs in a single fixture. However, you might have a more serious problem when multiple fixtures drain slowly simultaneously.

DIY Drain Cleaning Solutions

Several home remedies can address minor slow drain issues. You can try pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain. Wait 30 minutes, and then flush the drain with hot water.

Use a plunger for sinks to create pressure that can dislodge minor clogs. Avoid chemical drain cleaners that can corrode pipes, as these create more problems than they solve.

When Slow Drains Signal Bigger Problems

Sometimes, slow drains indicate more significant issues beyond simple partial clogs. A sewer line blockage affects multiple fixtures throughout your home simultaneously. Look for water backing up in toilets when you use the washing machine or shower.

A plumbing vent blockage restricts air circulation, causing slow drainage and gurgling sounds. Tree roots can infiltrate underground pipes, creating persistent, slow-draining issues that worsen over time. These situations require professional attention to prevent property damage and health hazards.

Professional Solutions for Stubborn Clogs

When DIY methods fail, professional intervention becomes necessary. Expert plumbers use specialized equipment, such as drain snakes, to physically remove blockages.

Video inspection cameras help identify the exact location and nature of obstructions. Hydro jetting employs powerful water pressure to scour pipe interiors, removing even the most stubborn buildup and preventing future plumbing obstructions. 

Prevent Future Slow Drains Today

We understand the frustration slow drains can cause in Clifton Park homes. Our experienced Grasshopper Heating & Cooling technicians specialize in diagnosing and resolving all drainage issues, from simple partial clogs to complex sewer problems.

Don’t let slow drains disrupt your home. Call us today at (518) 241-1758 for professional drain services in Clifton Park, New York, and the surrounding areas. 

How To Protect Your Pipes in Freezing Weather

When temperatures drop, your pipes are at risk of freezing, which can lead to costly water damage and major repairs. Taking the right precautions before winter sets in can help you avoid frozen or burst pipes and the headaches that come with them.

At Grasshopper Heating & Cooling, we want to help you keep your home safe from winter damage.

Insulate Your Pipes for Freeze Protection

One of the best ways to prevent frozen pipes is by adding insulation. When pipes are exposed to cold air, the water inside them can freeze and expand, increasing the risk of bursting. Insulating pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces, helps retain heat and prevent freezing.

Here are some effective insulation materials:

  • Foam pipe wraps: These are easy to install and great for keeping pipes warm.
  • Fiberglass insulation: This insulation works best for large pipes and extremely cold conditions.
  • Heating tape: Convenient tape provides direct heat to pipes that are most at risk.

In addition to freeze protection, insulating your pipes improves energy efficiency by reducing heat loss.

Use Pipe Wraps To Prevent Freezing

Pipe wraps add an extra layer of insulation, helping to maintain warmth even in subzero conditions. They are especially useful for exposed pipes or those in unheated spaces.

Common types of pipe wraps include:

  • Self-sealing foam wraps: They’re simple to apply and ideal for both indoor and outdoor pipes.
  • Reflective insulation wraps: These wraps reflect heat back into the pipes.
  • Rubber-based insulation: This insulation is flexible, moisture-resistant, and perfect for outdoor use.

Protect Outdoor Faucets From Freezing

Outdoor faucets are especially vulnerable to freezing since they are directly exposed to the elements. If water inside an outdoor faucet freezes, it can cause the connected pipe to burst.

To protect your outdoor faucets:

  • Disconnect and drain garden hoses before winter.
  • Install insulated faucet covers to shield them from the cold.
  • Shut off the outdoor water supply and drain any remaining water.

Use Drip Prevention To Avoid Frozen Pipes

Letting your faucets drip slightly during freezing weather can keep your pipes from freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze than stagnant water, reducing the risk of blockages and bursts.

Here’s how to use drip prevention effectively:

  • Let faucets drip overnight when temperatures are at their lowest.
  • Focus on pipes along exterior walls, as they are most vulnerable.
  • Use both hot and cold water taps to keep the entire system moving.

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling Keeps Your Pipes Safe

Now that you know how to protect your pipes in freezing weather, you can take action to prevent damage before winter arrives. Insulation, pipe wraps, and drip prevention all play a key role in keeping your plumbing safe.

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling provides expert advice and solutions to protect your home’s plumbing throughout the winter. Our team specializes in heating, cooling, and home comfort services tailored to your needs.

If you need help protecting your pipes in freezing weather, call us at 518-545-3271. 

Most Common Winter Plumbing Problems

Are you concerned about winter plumbing problems? Grasshopper Heating & Cooling keeps your home safe with reliable plumbing repair, inspections, and maintenance. Keep reading to learn about how you can avoid these issues.

Frozen Pipes Across Your Property

Your indoor and outdoor pipes become vulnerable once outdoor temperatures drop below freezing. When your pipes freeze, it can rupture your water supply lines, sewer lines, and more. It can cause damage to your yard if it bursts outside your home.

Protecting Your Pipes From Freezing Temperatures

How can you protect your pipes from cold weather? Take the following preventive measures to prevent freezing in cold temperatures:

  • Disconnect hoses and drain water from them before storing them.
  • Turn off any water lines that provide water to your outdoor spigots.
  • Leave your outdoor faucets open all winter.
  • Install pipe insulation in your outdoor plumbing or any pipes in your exterior wall.
  • Cover your outdoor drains with weather-proof sleeves.
  • Have pressure relief valves installed on water lines.

Drains That Clog Frequently

When you have a frozen drain line, it can affect your drains throughout your house. Drains are like arteries; when they have buildup or minor clogs, they can’t handle the same water flow capacity. Your drains won’t empty as quickly and will back up or clog frequently.

Fixing and Reducing Your Risk of Clogging Drains

When your kitchen sink drains clog in the winter, try pouring boiling water down them. You can also run the garbage disposals to help troubleshoot winter plumbing problems. If neither of those works, you should call a plumber for help.

You can protect outdoor drainage systems or metal drains in the same way you protect your pipes. Implement the following habits:

  • Avoid sending fibrous (fruit peels), grainy (coffee grounds), starchy (rice), and fatty substances (cooking oil) down the drain.
  • Regularly clean your garbage disposals.
  • Don’t use chemical drain cleaners (they corrode pipes).
  • Install a catcher in your drains to reduce the amount of soap scum and hair entering your pipes.

Your Water Heater Runs Out of Hot Water

If your water heater can’t produce enough hot water, showering feels challenging. Does your hot water last about an hour before running out? You may need to drain it or install a bigger model.

Best Practices for Maintaining Your Water Heater

How can you protect your water heater from winter issues?

  • Consider whether upgrading to a tankless model can better meet your needs and give you a longer supply of water.
  • Schedule annual maintenance check.
  • Install a water heater blanket.

Your Sump Pump Backs Up Frequently

Consider it one of the worst winter plumbing problems when your sump pump fails. You’ll need your sump pump to keep your basement dry if you’re anticipating a large snow melt. Schedule repairs quickly.

What Are the Best Ways to Care for Your Sump Pump?

How can you protect your sump pump from freezing in the winter?

  • Schedule regular maintenance.
  • Confirm your basement has a steady supply of warm air.
  • Insulate its discharge line.

Issues with a Frozen Septic System

A septic system remains vulnerable to freezing in the winter. From the septic tank’s access cover to the septic pipe outlet, if any portion freezes or clogs, you’ll see backups in your home. You should schedule immediate help even though the frozen ground makes winter repairs more difficult.

Can You Prevent Your Septic Tank From Freezing?

How can you help prevent your private sewage system from freezing?

  • Insulate your septic tank cover and tank by laying a straw over it.
  • Pump your tank before winter.
  • Never drive on your tank or drainage field, especially in the winter.

Snow Melt That Floods Your Basement

Melting ice and snow buildup can flood your basement. The invading water could cause damage to your home if you don’t have proper drainage. You can’t always predict what level of snow and ice will cause a problem.

How to Prevent Problems From Snow Melt

Take the following precautions to prevent basement flooding:

  • Patch cracks with hydraulic cement.
  • Install and maintain a sump pump.
  • Immediately clear snow in a five-foot radius around your foundation.

Schedule Reliable Plumbing System Services Today

Do you need help fixing or preventing winter plumbing problems? Grasshopper Heating & Cooling can fix all plumbing issues.

We provide a wide range of services, from replacing pressure relief valves to repairing your home’s main drain line. We help prevent mold growth and damage to your home with preventive maintenance and prompt repairs for water leaks.

Why Is My Garbage Disposal Leaking Underneath?

Garbage disposals might just be a modern marvel. The appliance eliminates slimy food remnants after you rinse your dishes and place them in the dishwasher. At some point, however, you may find yourself facing an unexpected mess in the cabinet beneath and suddenly asking, “Why is my garbage disposal leaking underneath?”

Read Grasshopper Heating & Cooling’s diagnostic guide on how to fix a leaking garbage disposal unit. It takes more than some plumber’s putty to plug that leak, so be sure to keep the team’s number on speed dial.

What Causes a Leaking Garbage Disposal?

A garbage disposal unit might leak because of the following circumstances:

  • Regular use: Garbage disposal leaks happen more frequently as the disposal ages. In the worst-case scenario, you’ll replace that old disposal.
  • Too much garbage: Rinsing too much or excessively large portions down the sink drain might clog and build water pressure. Eventually, the pipes will spring a leak.
  • Inappropriate food waste going down the sink: Things like coffee grounds and apple cores wreak havoc on the disposal machinery. It’s best to avoid them.

Homeowners who aren’t sure how to safely navigate garbage disposal problems don’t have to worry. Plumbers like Grasshopper Heating & Cooling can check that the unit is connected properly to the kitchen sink drain and flush clogs to prevent garbage disposal leakage.

How to Find Leaks on Garbage Disposals

“Why is my garbage disposal leaking underneath?”

You can often pinpoint the problem area on a leaking garbage disposal unit if you run cold water from your sink into the sink drain. Open the cabinets and watch the water leaking from the exposed plumbing. Put a bucket beneath the sink to catch the running water.

Where does the leak come from? The average garbage disposal unit is cylindrical with a cone-like tapered top. It should be connected or adjacent to the sink plumbing. Identify whether the disposal leak drips from the top, side, or bottom of the appliance. Then, read below to learn how a trained plumber might fix a leaking garbage disposal unit.

Leaks at the Top Might Be the Sink Flange

The sink flange is the metal mounting ring that connects the sink with the disposal. Many homeowners find their flange to blame for the leak.

Check for loose metal connections and tighten or re-attach them to solve this problem. You might also discover cracks across the disposal casing, allowing water to seep through the structure.

Leaks on the Side Are Because of Loose Drain Lines

Typically, the garbage disposal drain pipe connects to the dishwasher drain pipe. That dishwasher hose connection empties food remnants into the garbage disposal drain. Then, the waste collection travels to the sewage system through a second drain pipe.

The existing drain line connecting the unit, dishwasher hose, and sewage drain has a metal clamp on each connection to secure the pipe materials. Is that clamp secure? Professionals will inspect these drain pipe lengths for holes or cracks that might cause a leak, too.

Leaks From the Bottom Are Because of Damaged Seals

If the garbage disposal is leaking from the bottom, it might be because one of the internal seals or the rubber gasket has loosened or broken. A broken seal allows water to escape from the bottom-most portion of the unit.

A plumber from the team at Grasshopper might replace that internal seal or fix it with some plumber’s putty. However, you’re usually better off having the whole disposal replaced.

Why Is My Garbage Disposal Leaking Underneath? Other Reasons for a Failing or Leaky Garbage Disposal

Leaks aren’t the only issues that arise in garbage disposals. For instance, the mounting assembly can slowly loosen, masking a garbage disposal leak and other problems. The reset button may also get stuck, cutting power to the garbage disposal.

In any situation that involves power, like a reset button or breaker box, it’s best to leave repairs to the professionals. Otherwise, you could risk electrical shock and other injuries. For safety reasons, get a skilled plumber like Grasshopper Heating & Cooling to repair things and help you prevent future leaks.

Call Grasshopper Heating & Cooling to Fix It!

“Why is my garbage disposal leaking underneath?” Why not contact Grasshopper Heating & Cooling for answers and relax knowing you have all the professional disposal unit service you need? We can replace parts, put in your new garbage disposal installation, or issue garbage disposal repairs to ensure it can run efficiently.

Whether you need professional help with a garbage disposal flange, unresponsive reset switch, or clogged drain lines, call 518-545-3271 to schedule your plumbing service with us!

Why Did My Garbage Disposal Stop Running?

You run your garbage disposal after rinsing the dishes to pulverize any food waste left in the drain. But the garbage disposal stopped working, much to your dismay. “Why did my garbage disposal stop running?” you mutter, wondering where you left your allen wrench and needle nose pliers.

Read Grasshopper Heating & Cooling’s brief garbage disposal guide below to quickly troubleshoot the problem. Our plumbing experts know what makes this appliance fail and shared their knowledge.

How You Can Tell You Have a Broken Garbage Disposal

Press the reset button when the garbage disposal stops working. This might help reboot it without a big fuss. Otherwise, look out for the following additional symptoms:

  • The garbage disposal smokes.
  • You hear a humming noise.
  • The sink water is draining slowly.
  • You can see leakage coming from the drain line.

These issues typically indicate something amiss deep within the system. But what do they mean, and how do they contribute to the garbage disposal not working?

Clogged Garbage Disposal Drain Trap

The problem might originate from the depths of the drain trap. The sink’s drain piping probably has excessive food waste trapped inside if the garbage disposal is not working. You need to unclog the sink drain pipe with a cup plunger to loosen and free the debris.

Otherwise, the issue might be deeper inside the drain system where the discharge drain line expels waste substances. The discharge tube or discharge pipe collects food debris from the disposal trap.

You might have small blockages in the discharge line or sink’s plumbing system with boiling water, baking soda, and white vinegar. But you should avoid pouring chemical drain cleaners down the sink since they can corrode plumbing materials.

Power Supply Problems

Electrical issues are sometimes responsible for a broken-down garbage disposal. Some examples include:

  • A tripped circuit breaker: Power surges following an outage can trigger the circuit breaker in charge of your garbage disposal. Check the breaker box for flipped switches and restore power to them.
  • Loose connections: Burnt wires or an unplugged power cord keep electricity from flowing the device. Securely plug the cord back in or request help from a plumber to tackle wire damage.
  • Flipped reset button: The reset switch acts like an internal breaker. If the reset button flips in the wrong direction, it cuts electrical power.
  • Malfunctioning disposal switch plate: You likely have a switch installed on a wall that lets you turn the disposal on without opening the sink cupboard. Sometimes that switch doesn’t work correctly and keeps power from flowing to the appliance.

Jammed Flywheel

“Why did my garbage disposal stop running?” You wonder, scratching your head as the garbage disposal hums without pulverizing food. The garbage disposal is not working because the flywheel might be stuck in one position. Tiny particles, like coffee grounds, can become wedged in flywheel.

One small, precarious piece of food can keep the unit from doing its job. You can try to free the foreign objects by inserting a wooden spoon into the drain. Tap the spoon on the blades to encourage the item to loosen. Tongs might work for larger substances.

Motor Issues

A motor frying, overheating, or dying might be to blame if your garbage disposal stopped working. Motors fail for numerous reasons, including:

These issues almost always require a skilled plumber’s keen eye.

Preventing Garbage Disposal Problems

What can you do to protect your garbage disposal and prolong its lifespan? Our team has a few recommendations based on our experiences in fixing these convenient appliances:

  1. Use a drain strainer. Drain strainers are metal covers that fit over the drain opening. You can lower the cover onto the opening before rinsing plates and cookware to capture large food particles.
  2. Rinsing the lower grinding chamber with cold water. Let cold tap water flow through the drain system after every disposal use. This leaves a clean pathway for your next operation.
  3. Grind more modest amounts of food. Never grind more than one cup of food at a time. Doing so could overheat the system.
  4. Dispose of destructive substances in other ways. Things like egg shells, rice, oil, and celery can destroy a garbage disposal faster than anything else. Read through a list of things to throw away versus grind up with the disposal unit.

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling Fixes Out-of-Order Garbage Disposals

“Why did my garbage disposal stop running?”

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling can figure it out. We can also install a new garbage disposal unit if your old one burns out. Call 518-545-3271 for service from NATE-certified plumbers.

What Is the Best Deodorizer for Garbage Disposal?

Your kitchen’s garbage disposal can collect many bad smells given the amount of food scraps and liquid that pass through it. If you want to keep it smelling fresh, you might be wondering, “What is the best deodorizer for garbage disposal smells?”

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling shares some ways you can clean your garbage disposal and eliminate foul odors. Discover simple methods to get rid of any nasty garbage disposal stench and keep your home smelling clean.

Prevent Smells in the First Place

Why does your garbage disposal stink? You might not think about the food waste you’re sending down the sink but try to be mindful of items that end up in the disposal. As the scraps build up inside, they can form harsh odors that waft throughout the kitchen.

You can use various natural remedies to eliminate smells but the best course of action is to prevent them in the first place. Avoid putting the following items into garbage disposals to keep them from smelling:

  • Grease: Pouring grease down the drain not only makes increases the risk of the garbage disposal clogging but also allows different substances to stick. You’ll not only have to deal with a clogged drain but also harsh odors.
  • Runny foods: You’ll have to clean your system thoroughly when runny foods like eggs or honey get stuck inside the disposal.
  • Small food particles: You might not think that ground coffee beans or other small items would cause a smell, but they contribute to clogs and require a good clean.

Try Baking Soda and Vinegar

What is the best deodorizer for garbage disposals? Experts swear by the proven home remedy of mixing baking soda with white vinegar. All you have to do is pour about a half a cup of baking soda into the kitchen sink drain followed by a half a cup of vinegar.

These basic pantry ingredients form a chemical reaction that will fizz inside your garbage disposal and eliminate existing scraps or particles. Wait a few minutes and then flush out the smell and remaining fizz with hot water.

Utilize Ice With Salt and Vinegar

Cleaning your garbage disposal and getting rid of unwanted odor is as simple as grabbing some ice cubes, rock salt, and vinegar. These household staples are ideal for cleaning debris inside the walls of the disposal so your kitchen doesn’t stink. They combine to scrub any kitchen waste while a hot water rinse completes the process and leaves you with a fresh-smelling sink.

Follow these steps for effective at-home garbage disposal cleaning:

  • Place two ice cubes into the drain.
  • Put either three tablespoons of rock salt or a cup of vinegar into the garbage disposal.
  • Turn on the system and let it operate for a minute.
  • Turn off the disposal and then rinse it with warm water.

Manually Scrub the Garbage Disposal

When you run water from your kitchen faucet and can’t escape the smell coming from your garbage disposal, it’s a telltale sign that it’s due for cleaning. But what is the best deodorizer for a garbage disposal? You don’t have to look further than items already inside your kitchen.

Run cold water into the disposal and then start cleaning it with dish soap and a bottle brush. Manual cleaning allows you to get rid of stubborn food particles and the odor that they emit.

Use Deodorizing Citrus Fruits

While ice, baking soda, and rock salt can effectively clean a garbage disposal, many homeowners prefer to use citrus fruits like:

  • Lemons
  • Oranges
  • Limes
  • Grapefruit

The acidity of these fruits is powerful enough to cut through lingering bacteria and best of all, you’ll enjoy a wonderful, fresh citrus smell after cleaning. Cut up some of the produce, including the peel, and stick slices of fruit into your garbage disposal. Let the system run for a few seconds as you let some cold water run.

If you don’t have any fruit on hand, you can pour some mouthwash into the disposal and let it run to safely get rid of waste and build-up. Mouthwash is also powerful enough to eliminate bacteria without damaging the equipment.

Enhance Your Kitchen Plumbing With Grasshopper Heating & Cooling

After reading this guide, you no longer have to wonder, “What is the best deodorizer for a garbage disposal?” Everything from baking soda and vinegar to citrus fruits can help freshen up your kitchen sink and keep your garbage disposal clean. For help repairing or installing this vital plumbing fixture, reach out to Grasshopper Heating & Cooling at (518) 545-3271.

How Do You Unjam a Garbage Disposal?

Your kitchen’s garbage disposal prevents clog-forming food waste from going down your sink drain. However, a jammed garbage disposal can fail to ground up food and leave you dealing with unwanted odors and poor plumbing. How do you unjam a garbage disposal and get it working properly?

The plumbing experts at Grasshopper Heating & Cooling share the process they follow when handling malfunctioning disposal units. Reading this information lets you know what to expect during a typical repair service.

Evaluate Any Performance Problems

Before you contact a plumber for repairs, it’s important to figure out what’s wrong with your unit. Take note of the issues you’re experiencing, such as:

  • A humming sound when the system runs
  • A slow-draining sink
  • The light switch won’t turn on or off
  • A leak at the bottom of the disposal

Contact a plumber and explain what’s happening with your system. They can typically figure out what’s wrong with your unit based on the symptom and fix it quickly.

Gather the Appropriate Tools

When troubleshooting measures aren’t enough, how do you unjam a garbage disposal? Plumbers tasked with fixing jammed garbage disposals need to gather various tools, including:

  • An Allen wrench
  • A hex wrench
  • Needle nose pliers
  • Screwdrivers
  • A sink plunger

This equipment will come in handy when the system can’t grind up food particles or you hear the motor hum.

Rule Out Electrical Issues With the Circuit Breaker

Ask an expert, “How do you unjam a garbage disposal?” and they’ll tell you the first step often involves basic electrical troubleshooting. A quick inspection will let a plumber know if the problem stems from faulty electrical systems, such as a tripped circuit breaker or a power cord that isn’t connected directly to the wall outlet.

As long as there isn’t water leaking from the bottom of the unit, specialists can restore power to the system by adjusting the internal circuit breaker or plugging it into an electrical outlet. Most disposals have a reset button as well that you can press to restore its function. You’ll often find the reset power switch at the bottom of the garbage disposal.

If the disposal still doesn’t work, it’s worth exploring replacing an old fuse box or electrical service panel. When all electrical components appear fine, plumbers may have to remove a hard object that’s stuck inside the sink’s drain.

Rotate the Blades and Impeller Plate of the Garbage Disposal Unit

A foreign object may prevent the motor shaft and blades from rotating properly. To correct this issue, your Clifton Park plumber needs to move a disposal wrench back and forth on the outer edge of the unit beneath the sink. With the system still in the off position, they can take a wooden spoon or broom handle and put it into the disposal to dislodge the stuck impeller plate.

How do you unjam a garbage disposal with tight blades? If there is any standing water left in the sink, plumbers will pass it through the drain with a plunger. They then loop an Allen wrench through the blade access hole and carefully rotate it until the blades begin to move with ease.

Use Safe Garbage Disposal Practices Going Forward

Now that you know what goes into unjamming your garbage disposal, it’s important to prevent this issue from happening again. Make sure you use the unit safely with the following practices:

  • Avoid putting tough food scraps into the unit: Banana peels, chicken bones, eggshells, and other waste can all damage garbage disposals. Keep your system safe by placing them in the trash bin instead of down the drain.
  • Run cold water when you turn the disposal on: Cold water prevents any fat or grease from liquifying and clogging your drain.
  • Use the system regularly: Letting the unit sit idle for long periods makes it prone to rust and corrosion.
  • Keep the blades sharp: Pour a cup of ice into the disposal and run it every so often to help sharpen the blades.

Other maintenance tips include using the reset button when necessary and replacing a worn-out shredder ring.

Let a Professional Plumber Fix Your Faulty Garbage Disposal Unit – Contact Grasshopper Heating & Cooling

At Grasshopper Heating & Cooling, we can answer all of your questions about kitchen plumbing, including, “How do you unjam a garbage disposal?” and “What are ways to keep a garbage disposal from smelling?” Reach out to our licensed plumbers if you’re having issues with any of your kitchen plumbing fixtures, including a jammed disposal. Call (518) 545-3271 to request immediate service.

What To Do When Your Water Heater Isn’t Getting Hot Enough

Are you stressed that your water heater is not getting hot enough and sick of lukewarm showers? When you call a professional plumber with Grasshopper Heating & Cooling, you’ll love how quickly you restore your hot water supply.

Why Your Water Heater Is Not Getting Hot Enough

From faulty heating elements to a broken dip tube, several issues can prevent your hot water heater from performing well. In many cases, calling a professional for water heater repair can fix the problem. But in some cases, you may need a new water heater tank or model. When that happens, consider upgrading to a tankless water heater or another innovative model.

Thermostat Issues

Both gas and electric water heaters have a thermostat at the bottom of the tank, which sets the temperature for your water. Most homes set the thermostat between 120 and 140 degrees, and anything lower likely won’t feel warm enough. You may have bumped your thermostat or you have a faulty thermostat that needs replacement.

Broken Gas Valve

If you feel your water heater is not getting hot enough, you may have a faulty gas valve, a feature included in all gas water heaters. The valve regulates the flow of natural gas, so if it doesn’t deliver enough to your water heater, you’ll have lukewarm water.

If you don’t know whether you have an electric water heater or a gas model, your plumber can tell you. You should also never replace the gas valve yourself.

If you smell rotten eggs or feel dizzy or nauseous, you could have a gas leak. Leave your home immediately and then call your gas company once you’re a safe distance away.

Power Issues

If you have an older electrical system or faulty wiring, your water heater may cause a blown fuse. You may not know when your water heater shuts off, but a lack of hot water is a clear sign you may have power issues.

Excessive Demand

If you recently increased your hot water demand or installed a hot water heater that is too small for your home, you may experience lukewarm water. This happens because the heating elements cannot warm the incoming cold water fast enough before it leaves the water tank. Tankless units almost always avoid this issue.

Sediment Build-up

When dissolved minerals and other debris settle at the bottom of the tank, it can hurt the effectiveness of your hot water heater. At worst, you’ll experience cold water, but with only a minor problem, you’ll have only lukewarm water. A plumber can clean the water heater tank, restore the correct hot water temperature, and even help you conserve energy.

Leaking Hot Water Tank

If you’re wondering why your water heater is not getting hot enough, inspect the hot water tank for condensation or puddles. Your water tank shouldn’t leak, but corrosion and wear and tear can cause enough damage to make a hole.

Worn Out or Broken Components

Over time, your hot water heater can develop wear and tear, which leads to the following issues:

  • Broken dip tube: The dip tube guides the cold water into the bottom of the tank over the two heating elements. A broken dip tube can prevent the tank water from adequately heating up.
  • Clogged drain valve: Clogged drainage can increase the sediment in the hot water tank and prevent you from obtaining adequate hot water.
  • Old anode rod: This rod helps prevent corrosion in your hot water tank, but you must replace it every three to five years.
  • Faulty heating element: If your dip tube leads to a broken heating component, you won’t get enough hot water for your home.

What To Do When You Lack Hot Water

If you don’t have enough hot water, follow these steps:

  1. First, check the thermostat on your device to determine whether you set it too low.
  2. Next, inspect the appliance for signs of damage or puddles on the floor around it.
  3. Inspect your fuse box or electrical panel for a tripped breaker.
  4. Call for repairs or replacement.

If the plumber determines you need a new water heater, use the opportunity to buy a more efficient model that will save you money in the long term.

Helpful Resource: 8 Reasons To Consider Water Heater Replacement Now

Schedule Hot Water Services With Grasshopper Heating & Cooling Today

When your water heater is not getting hot enough, don’t delay calling Grasshopper Heating & Cooling. From regular maintenance to installing plumbing fixtures, we perform every job with excellence and for a competitive price. We take pride that our services keep you safe and comfortable.

To book an appointment, call (518) 545-3271.

Why Does My Toilet Keep Clogging?

Dealing with a toilet that keeps clogging can be frustrating, especially if you’re not sure what’s causing the disruption in the plumbing system. Use this guide to narrow down the reasons why your toilet keeps clogging and reach out to Grasshopper Heating & Cooling for professional toilet repairs and drain cleaning services.

Common Causes of a Clogged Toilet

Frequent toilet clogs can happen for a number of reasons. You might experience water backup, slow drainage, and other issues due to the following scenarios, leading to toilet clogs.

Too Much Toilet Paper

If you have a toilet that keeps clogging, evaluate your toilet paper usage. Excess toilet tissue can cause sewer line clogs and prevent your system from flushing properly. Use limited amounts of single-ply toilet tissue to preserve your drainage system.

Flushing Non-Flushable Items Down the Toilet Bowl

Human waste and toilet paper are the only items safe for flushing. Sending non-flushable paper or hygiene products like cotton balls down the toilet can form a stubborn sewer line clog that affects other plumbing fixtures in your home.

Tree Root Penetrations

Say you take care of your plumbing system by flushing only appropriate objects down the toilet drain, yet you can’t seem to resolve your toilet clogging issue. Have an expert inspect your main sewer line for damage. Many homeowners have tree roots that obstruct their sewer pipes and create huge blockages.

Plumbers often recommend the following measures to repair the clogged sewer line:

  • Hydrojetting
  • Replacing the damaged pipe
  • Removing the tree

Not addressing the underlying problem will mean the toilet keeps clogging as well as shower drains, sinks, and other essential plumbing fixtures.

Using a Low-Flow Toilet

Homeowners with older low-flow toilets tend to deal with clogs more frequently due to the poor flushing pressure. You can conserve water while experiencing a more powerful flush with modern toilets.

Blocked Toilet Vent

Every plumbing and toilet vent penetrates the roof to release gases into fresh air rather than through your home. Debris like leaves or twigs can fill the vent and prevent your toilet from flushing properly.

Clogged Toilet Trap

Similar to your sink’s P-trap, every toilet comes with its own trap that blocks the flow of harmful sewer gases. The toilet trap can fill up with bathroom waste and other debris over time, which makes it difficult for wastewater to flow through the drain pipe.

How To Repair a Clogged Toilet

When a toilet keeps clogging, it’s equally important to know what’s causing the issue as well as how to fix it. Below are essential ways to both fix and prevent toilet clogs.

Use Basic Plumbing Tools

Excess toilet paper or an obstructed toilet trap can leave you dealing with a slow-draining system. A flanged toilet plunger can usually resolve the issue and cause water to flush at full force through the drain. Sealing the plunger’s rubber base over the drain and pumping it up and down with the handle can remove the blockage with suction force.

A toilet auger, also known as a snake, can tackle clogs caused by foreign or non-flushable objects. Plumbers carefully send the toilet auger through the drain and can either break apart or remove the blockage once they reach it.

Replace Outdated Equipment

For clogs caused by damaged sewer pipes or ineffective low-flow toilets, your best bet is to replace your existing equipment. Plumbers will recommend replacing your underground pipe material when hydrojetting and other sewer line repairs don’t resolve the issue. They can also upgrade your older toilets if they don’t flush properly or require frequent repairs.

In some cases, you might need to install new equipment to safeguard your plumbing. Homes with hard water, for example, can deal with clogged drains because of the mineral buildup. Installing a water softener alleviates this problem.

Change Your Habits

Clearing the clog could only be a temporary fix if you don’t change some of your bathroom habits. For example, continuing to use too much toilet paper or flush unsafe items will require ongoing repairs. Installing a bidet in your bathroom can help you avoid toilet paper clogs, and keeping a waste bin nearby allows you to properly dispose of other toiletries.

Schedule Professional Plumbing Services and Repair Any Toilet Issue

If your toilet keeps clogging due to blocked toilet vents, damaged sewer lines, or any other issue, reach out to Grasshopper Heating & Cooling. We offer unbeatable plumbing services in Clifton Park, NY and the surrounding areas and can restore your drain line so the toilet flushes properly. Submit our online request form or call (518) 545-3271 to schedule repairs to your toilet and drain lines.

Schedule Service

* By clicking “Submit”, I am providing express written consent to receive autodialed and pre-recorded calls, texts, and SMS/MMS with marketing communications from Grasshopper Heating and Cooling regarding home services at the phone number provided above, even if the number is on a corporate, state, or national Do Not Call list. Consent is not a condition to purchase services or products.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.