Protect Yourself and Your Home from Contractor Rip-offs, Scams and Shoddy Work!

As winter comes to a welcome end and we enter the spring season, homeowners inevitably will be besieged by offers, promotions and come-ons from all kinds of home improvement contractors and installers – plumbing, air conditioning, doors, windows, remodelers, landscapers -- you name it. Most will be legit...but some won't be.

Unfortunately, fraudulent contractors are extremely common in the home improvement industry…and they really seem to come out of the woodwork around this time of year. Because this area is so specialized and intimidating to many homeowners, it is easy to get taken advantage of by a disreputable “professional.”

Whether you are looking for a home improvement contractor to perform routine repairs, install equipment or perform major reconstruction and remodeling, here are a few simple tips to ensure that your home improvement contractor or installer is on the up and up.


Get It In Writing
Make sure to thoroughly read and understand the written contract for your home improvement project before you sign. Discuss your questions and get clarification. If you are not given an estimate and a contract in writing, or if your contractor is unwilling to explain things to you clearly, hire someone else. If you don’t understand a contract, don’t sign it; you could obligate yourself to repairs that you are not prepared to pay for. And don’t give any oral commitments to any work; as Yogi Berra once said, “An oral contract ain’t worth the paper it’s written on!”


Cheaper is Not Always Better
When it comes to home improvements, you almost always get what you pay for. Be wary of contractors that promise things that sound too good to be true. If your instincts tell you something strange is is up, you are probably right. Cheap contractors usually use cheap materials, sell cheap equipment and employ cheap, inexperienced, low-quality labor. And that can cost you a lot more in the long run -- both in operation costs and in future repairs.

Fraudulent contractors often try to scare homeowners with news of urgent or emergency repairs…or fantastic deals that you must act upon immediately. Do not let anyone pressure you into costly repairs on the spot; seek a second or third opinion to be sure. Always shop around and get multiple estimates. Focus on getting the best value; not the best price.


Check Credentials
Is your contractor properly licensed? Can he get all the permits to legally perform your home improvement or repair? Does he have a favorable rating from the Better Business Bureau? Does he belong to professional and industry trade organizations? Does he follow the industry’s best practices? Reputable contractors can answer yes to all these questions.


Get a Referral
Word of mouth is crucial in hiring a good contractor, but you have to be sure your referral is coming from a reputable source. Never base your decision on the word of a solicitor or stranger. Instead, ask friends, family members and neighbors, or consult a referral service that provides the names and contact information for qualified, pre-screened professionals in your area. Do not just go for the cheapest price estimate—take the time to get a solid referral; you could save thousands, especially if that amazing deal offered by the door-to-door salesman turns out to be a fraud. The best home improvement contractors have been in the business for some years and have a track record of customer satisfaction.


Read Home Improvement Contractor Reviews
There are plenty of websites that offer unbiased customer reviews of local businesses and contractors – among them Yelp, Insider Pages, Angie’s List, Local.com – as well as business directory sites (Yellowpages.com etc.) and search engines like Google, Yahoo and Bing. Take the time to go to these sites and check out reviews. Click Here to View a List of Customer Review Sites!


Beware of “Travelers”
“Travelers” are door-to-door solicitors that come knocking in hopes of gaining your trust and your business; this is one of the most common contractor frauds. These scam artists will talk fast, promising steep discounts on everything from roofing to bathroom remodeling. They will often cite their exclusive access to overstock building supplies as the reason for their great deals. The best way to protect yourself is to politely decline the sales pitch from the start, but you can also check the yellow pages for the name and number of the contractor at your door. If you cannot find a listing, tell him to hit the bricks.


Never Pay Up Front
No reputable contractor or installer will ever ask for payment until after the work is completed to your satisfaction, and will never require cash payment. If your contractor asks for payment up front or insists on doing a cash-only business, find a new contractor.


Do Not Get Your Own Building Permits
Another common tactic employed by fraudulent contractors is to request that you secure any necessary building permits yourself. A good contractor will do this for you — that is why you are paying him to do the work.


If You Are a Victim of a Fraudulent Contractor...
If you think you have been a victim of a fraudulent contractor, take immediate action to fix the situation. Consult a lawyer to find out if you have any legal recourse and report the incident to your local Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau. You may also need to involve local law enforcement if you believe a crime such as larceny or identity theft has been committed.


Check Out Our Contractor Checklist!
Horizon Services offers a 21-Point Contractor Checklist covering all the primary questions you need to ask BEFORE you select any home improvement contractor. It’s MUST-READING for all homeowners thinking of making any home improvement. Click Here!



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What You Can Do If Your Cellar's a Smeller!

If you’ve ever spent time in a stuffy, musty basement you don’t need anyone to tell you how unpleasant the smell can be. Worse than dirty gym socks, worse than rotten eggs, worse than…well, there aren’t many things that smell worse. A smelly basement is especially problematic for homeowners who want to use their basement as additional living space for a den, extra bedroom, or entertainment room -- or if you're looking to sell your home.


Where is That Basement Smell Coming From?
Usually, bad basement smells come from humidity and moisture that comes up from the ground. Because the basement is below ground level, this moisture never really goes away and just keeps accumulating. Mold and fungus grow and spread, causing the unpleasant smells. The only way to permanently get rid of odors is to get rid of the moisture.

While totally removing moisture and condensation from your basement is not realistic, there are plenty of steps you can take to dramatically reduce the amount of moisture entering the space and eradicate that horrible musty basement smell.


Cover Sources of Basement Moisture
Dirt that is left exposed will attract moisture, which then seeps into your basement through the foundation and leaves behind a nasty smell. You can try to fix this problem by covering the dirt around the outside of your home with plastic sheeting, mulch, or gravel. This should help block some of the moisture and improve the smell in your basement.

Exposed water pipes may get cold and collect condensation, allowing moisture to build up. Insulating pipes in and around the basement can really help reduce moisture and tamp down the smell.


Turn Up the Heat
Moisture and heat generally do not get along. One of the best ways to eliminate excess condensation in your basement is to crank up the heat. If your home’s HVAC system doesn’t have a control for the basement, you can try one of these alternatives:

• Open basement window curtains to let warming sunshine in during the day. Shut them at night to hold heat in and prevent overnight condensation when temperatures drop.
• If your boiler or furnace is located in a separate basement room, leave the door open to allow heat from the unit to raise the temperature in the rest of the space.
• Place a small space heater in the basement and run it whenever someone is home. Even a few hours of extra heat can make a big difference.

Air It Out
Improving air circulation through your basement can help dry up moisture and get rid of bad smells. Installing an exhaust fan in the basement is a good idea, as is running a simple standing or box fan. In pleasant weather, open basement windows to let fresh air into the room. And putting your laundry dryer in the basement, with the outgoing air vent directed out of the basement, can also help improve air flow and dry the air.


Dehumidify Your Basement
Perhaps the most effective way to eliminate moisture from a musty, moldy basement is to get a dehumidifier. These devices pull moisture from the air, collecting water in a built-in reservoir. Empty the basin regularly and you’ll have a fresher, more pleasant basement.


Install a Sump Pump In Your Basement
If your foundation rests over a well or water table and if your basement is prone to dampness, groundwater leaking and flooding, consider installing a sump pump in your basement. Sump pumps funnel and collect basement moisture in a pit dug into the foundation and pump it out of your home. A Horizon Services plumbing technician can recommend and install a sump pump system that's ideal for your basement.


Could It Be Your Sewer or Water Lines?
Is the smell especially foul? The source could be sewage waste slowly seeping into your basement due to obstructions in or damage to your main sewer and water lines leading out of your house. Over time, these lines can rsdily clog up with waste; crack, bend or break; or even be penetrated by creeping roots from trees and shrubs. This can cause sewage to back up into your home or seep your yard and foundation into your basement.

One sure sign of sewer and water line problems, besides the smell, is if water does not flow easily down your toilet, sinks or tubs, or makes unusual gurgling, bubbling sounds when it does. If you suspect such a problem, don't delay: call a professional sewer & water line repair/replacement contractor like Horizon Services. If left untreated, the problem could result in a major backup of sewage waste into your home; this is not only extremely unsanitary, it can result in permanent damage to floors, carpets and other parts of your home.


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When Plungers Fail, Kick It Up a Notch!

Nobody likes having a clogged sink, toilet or tub. For most people, drain clogs rank at or near the top of life's list of inconveniences. It’s probably a safe bet that you can work a plunger or have had to use an over-the-counter chemical drain cleaner to unclog a problem drain. And in most cases, these time honored drain cleaning tactics will do the job nicely. But when these traditional clog-busting methods don’t work or you’re dealing with a particularly nasty clog, what can you do? Time to pull out the big guns!


Get Physical to Clean the Drain

If you’re tried a plunger or chemical drain cleaner and the clog still hasn't been cleare, you may need to take a more physical approach. You can purchase a plumbing snake for around $20 at most home improvement or plumbing supply stores. These long, thin tubes go straight down the drain to catch and remove hair, debris and sludge that have caused the clog. If your sink is blocked, clean out the trap and feed the snake into the pipe that way. Try covering the overflow valve to build up pressure that can help blast the clog away.

A power auger is an even more powerful physical option to stubborn clogs. You should only use an auger if you have more than basic plumbing experience so you don’t risk damaging your plumbing. If you don’t feel up to the task yourself, it’s best to call in a professional plumber. The upside of hiring a pro is that he or she can do a whole system inspection to make sure you don’t have to deal with tough clogs again.


The Non-Chemical Approach to Drain Cleaning and Maintenance
Commercial chemical drain cleaners usually contain harsh chemical agents that cause nasty fumes, burn your skin and damage your clothing, floors and surfaces. They can also be quite expensive. For a cheaper, greener approach, a solution of plain old baking soda and vinegar or boiling water can do the trick on many clogs. The most common cause of drain clogs is accumulated hair, so adding a bit of hair removal cream to the drain can help break up the clog.

To maintain a clear drain, use an enzyme culture solution once a month to break down grease and debris; these all-natural, organic products can also eliminate odors from pipes and drains. You can find these products at most home and hardware stores.

If you do go the chemical route, don’t ever mix cleaners; the chemicals can react violently and cause serious damage to pipes or septic systems, not to mention produce harmful vapors.


When All Else Fails, Call The Pros!

If you’ve tried all the above methods to clear your clogged drain, then your problem is probably more serious than just a run-of-the mill clog. You could have significant accumulation of hair or grease...or a foreign object may have become lodged in the drain. Even worse, your could a broken or leaking pipe somewhere in your drain system. If left untreated too long, these issues can compound and lead to more serious problems that may require a total plumbing and drain system overhaul.

For super-stubborn clogs, call a professional drain cleaning contractor. If these is a good indication that the problem is more serious than a typical clog. Nationwide, the average cost of hiring a pro to unclog a drain is about $250. Though this sounds like a lot for a simple blocked drain, it's better to spend a little now to avoid more costly damage in the future. And if you call the drain cleaning pros at Horizon Services, you get one of the best drain cleaning deals available anywhere: Horizon will clean and clear any drain, any time, any size for the unbeatable price of $149. That's a small price to pay for instant gratification!




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Everything You Wanted to Know About Toilets...But Were Afraid to Ask!

It's the centerpiece of every bathroom. It's where many of us do our best thinking. It's the good ol' toilet. But it's not just a piece of porcelain sculpture filled with water. The toilet actually has a long and fascinating history. The Horizon Comfort Zone has collected some little-known factoids about the toilet. The next time you head to the seat of honor to take care of business, keep these facts in mind...and you'll be flush with knowledge!



Who Invented the Flush Toilet?

The concept of a flushable toilet -- in which water is used to clean the bowl after its use -- has been around for about 4,000 years! According to archaeologists, the palace at Knossos, Crete (built way back around 2000 B.C.) contained latrines that were cleaned by water stored in a reservoir and delivered to the bowl through a piping system. Similar devices were also used in ancient Persia, Greece and Rome.

Toilets using a chain to open a valve and deliver water to the bowl were well in use in England by 1775. These devices were usually built into small closets. To this day, people in the United Kingdom frequently refer to the bathroom as the "water closet" or "W.C."

The kind of flush toilet we're most familiar with today was designed in the late 1800s by an Englishman named, appropriately, Thomas Crapper. Crapper's toilet was the first to employ a device that would automatically stop the water from flowing into the reservoir after it was filled. Before this, many people would leave the water flowing continually to clean the bowl.

For more information, check out History of Toilets!



Fun Toilet Tidbits You Can Share at Your Next Party or Social Gathering!

• Over five billion gallons of water are flushed down toilets each day in the United States.
• The average toilet is flushed eight times a day.
• The toilet uses more water than any other home appliance.
• The average person uses the toilet 6-8 times per day or 2500 times a year.
• The average person will spend three years of his or her life on the toilet
• Women, on average, take three times longer than men when using the toilet.
• The average life expectancy of a toilet is 50 years.
• Most toilets flush in the key of E flat.
• The first toilet tank ever seen on a TV show was on Leave it to Beaver.
• The first toilet being flushed in a motion picture was in the film Psycho
• The first toilet stall in a public washroom is the least likely to be used. It is also the cleanest.
• The French King Louis XIII (1601-1643) had a toilet built under his throne and was known to receive visitors while sitting on the toilet.
• 40% of the world's population has no access to toilets.
• The first commercially available toilet paper was developed in England in 1880 and sold not on a roll, but as individual sheets in a box
• The Scott Paper Company of Chester, PA produced the first toilet paper to be available on a roll in 1890.
• According to a survey by Kimberly-Clark, men prefer to fold their toilet paper and women prefer to wad it.
• According to studies, an average roll of toilet paper lasts about five days in the bathroom.
• Americans use an average of 57 sheets of toilet paper a day.
• On average, the Pentagon goes through 666 rolls of toilet paper in one day.
• Only 30% of people in the world use toilet paper.

Some Well-Known People Who Died While on the Toilet

• Heliogabalus; Roman emperor (204-222 A.D.). Murdered by his bodyguards.
• Arius; Christian theologian and heretic (256-336).
• Edmund II; King of England (980-1016).
• James I; King of Scotland (1394-1437). Assassinated.
• Henry III; King of France. (1551-1589). Assassinated.
• Arthur Capel, Earl of Essex; English politician (1631-1683). Committed suicide on the toilet while imprisoned in the Tower of London.
• George II; King of England (1683-1760). After a breakfast of hot chocolate.
• Catherine the Great; Russian empress. (1729 - 1796). Died of a stroke.
• Lenny Bruce; American comedian (1925-1966). Heroin overdose.
• Evelyn Waugh; English novelist (1903 - 1966). Obsesity and drug abuse
• Elvis Presley; American singer (1935-1977). Arrythmia caused by abuse of prescription drugs.
• Don Simpson; American film producer (1943 - 1996). Drug overdose.

Other Popular Names for the Toilet:

• John
• Head
• Can
• Loo
• Privy
• Chamberpot
• Throne
• Commode
• Porcelain Altar
  

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Don't Get Left in the Cold with a Plumbing Emergency!

It's a new year. Winter has officially arrived. Already, most of the nation has experienced has experienced an episode or two of nasty winter weather...including cold temperatures. Unfortunately, winter is also the time when your home is most prone to plumbing problems -- both routine and outright disasters.

Most of the more serious winter plumbing problems -- like cracked, burst and frozen pipes -- should be left to the plumbing experts. But as homeowners, there are plenty of things we can do ourselves to prevent these plumbing mishaps and to ensure that our home plumbing systems work as efficiently as possible all winter long. A regular round of checks and some preventive steps can be easily carried out to help maintain the long-term optimal working of your plumbing system and save on costly plumbing repair bills.


It's Always Wise to Winterize!

If you didn't do it before winter arrived, make sure now that any outside hoses are disconnected from faucets and and outside pipes turned off and drained, as water in them will freeze and expand. This will cause pipes and fittings to crack and burst. This can lead to serious leaks and even flooding. This can happen to plastic as well as metal pipes.

This shut-down of external pipes can be made easier if your home has shut-off valves installed, which will close them down and drain the water off. Once effectively disconnected, the exterior faucets can then be protected from the cold weather with lagging.

If you have pipes situated in areas of the home that are not heated, such as garages, these can be insulated from temperature extremes using heat tape or insulating sleeves available at most hardware stores.

To increase energy efficiency, seal doors and windows from drafts using materials you can buy in any home centers. This will keep warm air inside your home, adding a few degrees of warmth to your pipes and fixtures.

Check your water heater, which has an extra burden placed on it during cold months, flushing it out to get rid of any build-up of sediments, as these cause corrosion and greatly effect efficiency and longevity of the unit. Drain off a few gallons using the faucet situated near the base of the unit. Also check the pressure release valve, which should snap smartly back into place when lifted after allowing a spurt of water to the drain. If it is slack, get somebody in to replace it.

The water heater’s thermostatic control should be set according to the season. In winter you’ll want optimum performance, of course, at about 120 degrees Fahrenheit. You may also have to clean debris such as dead leaves from around the downspouts to allow for better drainage after the coming thaw.

It's important to prevent ice build-up in your pipes during the winter. Try not to let any sink, tub or toilet go idle for too long. Be sure to use as many fixtures as regularly as you can so water doesn't accumulate in one place and freeze. One good idea to make sure that water keeps flowing throughout your pipes is to leave faucets on at a very slow trickle...especially at night when temperatures can take a sudden plunge.

Going on a winter vacation or plan to be out of the house for an extended length of time? It’s a good idea to close the main water valve and then open the faucets at the top and base of the house to drain the system, keeping the heat on as you do so.

You need only a very basic set of tools to maintain your home plumbing system this winter. A pipe wrench is probably the most important, enabling you to get a good grip on pipes and fittings. A pair of pliers will help you to adjust nuts and bolts, but these can damage fittings if you slip up, so get some smooth sleeves to fit. These tools are fine for the small maintenance jobs you’re likely to be carrying out, but for bigger home plumbing jobs it’s best to get the professionals in, otherwise things could take a turn for the worse.


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Read This BEFORE You Tackle That Plumbing Job Yourself!

With the rising cost of…well…everything, more and more homeowners are turning to do-it-yourself (DIY) projects for everything from growing their own produce to car repairs. DIY home improvement has always been popular, and there are benefits and drawbacks to undertaking these projects yourself.

When it comes to DIY home plumbing, there are thousands of plumbing resources available—books, videos, online resources, television shows, magazines, and more. DIY plumbing is attractive because it seems relatively easy and can save a significant amount of cash over hiring a contractor or professional plumber. But before you take on that plumbing project, consider the pros and cons of DIY plumbing.


DIY Plumbing Pros

One benefit of DIY plumbing is that you can usually trust who you’ve hired – as long as you trust yourself! Though asking for referrals from friends and family is a generally reliable way to find a good professional, many homeowners are wary of inviting contractors into their homes. When you know you can do the work yourself, you never have to worry about the skill or reputation of workers in your house.

Also in the pro column, many basic plumbing and drain repairs -- like unclogging a slow drain or plunging a stopped up toilet –- are relatively easy and quick. It may seem silly to call a professional plumber on these occasions, so knowing how to do them yourself can save a lot of hassle and a ton of cash...especially on weekends or holidays when plumbers’ rates jump drastically.


DIY Plumbing Cons

The main problem with DIY plumbing is that there are a lot of unknowns to contend with. Even simple projects like repairing a leaky faucet or changing a shower head can quickly become more complicated than the average weekend warrior can handle. And a plumbing mistake can be far more costly than messing up the paint job in your living room or installing a crooked chair rail in your dining room.

Another DIY plumbing con is that changing your home’s plumbing significantly, such as expanding your kitchen or adding on a bathroom, usually requires a permit from your local municipality. For plumbing amateurs, navigating this often complex process can be difficult and may cut into your project deadline and budget. Professional plumbers are adept at cutting through bureaucratic red tape in order to secure the proper permits, ensuring your plumbing job is completed on time and on budget.

If you carry homeowner’s insurance, your carrier may require that any significant plumbing work be conducted by a licensed professional. If this is the case and there is any damage done to your home during the course of the plumbing project, your insurer will only pay on a claim if the work has been performed by a qualified plumbing contractor; if you do the work yourself and a disaster occurs, you’ll have to foot the bill out of your own pocket.

Plumbing is often physically taxing work. Carrying pipes, knocking out walls, shimmying into tight spaces, and loosening tight or rusty pipe joints requires strength and stamina. Plumbing and drain jobs often require the use of chemical solvents, welding and soldering equipment, torches and other potentially harmful materials and tools. If you’re not up to the task physically, best to leave the work to a plumbing pro.


Bottom Line: Don’t Take Chances With Your Home's Plumbing

If you have some plumbing knowledge and are a natural handyman, many plumbing jobs can be done on a DIY basis. But let’s face it – in this day and age, most homeowners – male and female – aren’t very mechanically inclined. Plumbing is a complex skill that requires years of training. Letting an inexperienced person play with plumbing is like letting a child play with a loaded gun. Bad plumbing work today will lead to extensive and expensive plumbing repairs tomorrow. When in doubt, call the plumbing professionals at Horizon Services. You’ll get a quick, accurate diagnosis of your plumbing problem and effective, affordable plumbing solutions that you can trust.


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Keep Your Eyes and Ears Open for Key Plumbing, Heating and Cooling Signals!

Your bathroom is one of the most versatile and functional rooms in your home. It helps you stay clean, takes care of waste, and can even help you unwind at the end of a long day. With so many different functions, it’s not surprising that your bathroom can become overworked. The good news is that if you pay close attention, your bathroom will often “tell” you exactly what it needs. Here are some common messages your bathroom may be sending you.

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Plumbing DIYers...Take the Time To Do It Right!

If you do any of your own simple plumbing repairs, you know that tightening plumbing fittings is not always the easiest task on your to-do list. Taking your time and following these basic tips will help you turn a wrench like a pro without damaging your plumbing fixtures.

1. Hand Tight is Right. It seems to go against common sense, but plumbing fittings don’t have to be super tight in order to function properly. In fact, pipes should only be hand tight to help aid the flow of water throughout your home. The unique construction and configuration of pipes means they are made to be tightened just enough; making them super tight can actually prevent water from flowing properly. Over-tightening will also warp the rubber fittings inside the pipes over time, which can increase the risk of leaks. Turn a plumbing fitting only until you feel it tighten, then stop. Continuing to turn past that point can lead to trouble.
   


2. No Stripping. Plumbing fittings look like extra large bolts. Inside each bolt are threads that allow the fitting to screw onto the pipes to create a tight seal. If you tighten the fittings too much, you may strip the threads inside the fitting or on the outside of the pipe. As with any household screw, once the threads are stripped it’s nearly impossible to get the fitting to tighten on the pipe. This makes it more likely that a leak will develop, and it also increases the chance of a cracked or burst pipe in extreme weather or high water pressure.
   


3. Lefty Loosey, Righty Tighty. This isn’t just a playground rhyme; it really works. Turning a screw, opening a jar or bottle, operating a faucet, and adjusting a plumbing fitting all function on the same principle. Turning to the left loosens the plumbing fitting; turning to the right tightens it. Remembering this simple rhyme can prevent a bad seal and stripped fittings. It’s also handy in a pinch if you need to shut off the water supply quickly.
   


4. Plumber’s Tape is Your Friend. One of a plumber’s most trusted secret weapons is common plumber’s tape. It is usually made from silicone and helps create a stronger, waterproof seal on pipes and fittings. Using plumber’s tape around fittings while you tighten them will prevent over-tightening, protect against leaks, and ensure a good seal. Plumber’s tape is available at most home improvement or hardware stores in the plumbing section.
   


5. Keep Pipe Fittings Warm. If you’re working on exterior pipes located outside your home, it’s wise to keep plumbing fittings wrapped in magnetic insulation. Water that is allowed to leak or spray from loose fittings outside in cold weather increases the likelihood of freezing, cracking, and bursting—which means big trouble inside your home, too. Wrapping outdoor fittings to protect them from harsh weather will help maintain a constant temperature and ensure your pipes stay in good repair. You can also find pipe insulation at home improvement, hardware, or plumbing supply stores.
   

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Chemical drain cleaners are useful for clearing all sorts of tough clogs. However there are a variety of risks and dangers with using these chemicals to clear your drains. Many of these chemicals emit harsh fumes that can be harmful if they are inhaled. Many can burn and scar if they come in contact with your skin. And they can damage clothing, floors, counters...even your pipes themselves if not used properly. The following tips will help you use these drain cleaners safely.


Avoid the Most Harmful Cleaners

Some chemical drain de-clogging agents use lye or acid. These harsh chemicals are not only harmful to your health, but they can also contaminate waste water and cause damage to PVC piping. If you must use a cleaner with acid or lye, be sure to wear gloves and a protective mask. Ventilate the room as much as possible, and store them properly when you’re finished—opt for cleaners with a child-proof safety cap or put them in a locked cabinet or on a high shelf.


Always Read the Label

Not all drain cleaners are created equal, and using the wrong cleaner can cause major headaches. Some cleaners can eat through your plumbing, some can damage your septic system, and some can cause serious burns if they come in contact with your skin. Before you use a cleaner, read the label thoroughly to ensure that the cleaner is safe for your intended usage. You’ll also want to look for any label recommendations about safety and cleanup in case of an accidental spill.


Prevent Clog Build-Up

Do your best to keep grease and debris out of your drains and you won’t have to rely on a chemical drain cleaner to remove clogs quite so often. You’ll also cut down on unpleasant odors and help your pipes work more efficiently. A simple salt water solution, poured down the drain every couple of weeks, will flush out grease and eliminate odors from showers, sinks, and garbage disposals.


Consider These Drain Cleaning Alternatives

Harsh chemical cleaners are not the only option you have to cure a clogged drain. There are several alternatives that are just as effective without the potentially harmful side effects.

A sewer jetter sprays an adjustable, high-pressure stream of water down your drains, powering away clogs quickly and without harsh chemicals. Because you’re only using water, there’s no chance of damaging pipes or fixtures or of contaminating your home with noxious fumes. You can purchase a sewer jetter at most plumbing supply stores or large home improvement warehouses. Be sure to read the instructions thoroughly before use.

There are also plenty of natural drain cleaning methods. One of the most effective uses plain baking soda and white vinegar. First, remove any standing water in the basin or around the drain. Pour about ½ cup of ordinary baking soda into the drain, followed by ½ cup of vinegar. The two substances will react inside the pipes, dissolving clogs and allowing water to flow freely again. You can repeat these steps as many times as necessary to remove the clog. While the smell of vinegar might not be the most pleasant, it’s certainly non-toxic and much better for your plumbing, your home, and your health than any harsh chemical drain cleaner.


Your Best Bet: Call a Drain Cleaning Professional

Are you a chemist? Do you really know what happens when this chemical comes in contact with that substance? The thing about chemicals is that they produce chemical reactions. You've seen enough mad scientist movies to know that chemical reactions are almost never mild!

Plumbers and drain cleaning professionals aren't chemists either. That's why they generally only go the chemical route as a last resort.

If you have a clogged drain that's so bad that you need to resort to chemicals, the problem is probably beyond your scope. At this point, call a plumbing and drain contractor such as Horizon Services. We have an arsenal of non-chemical tools and means at our disposal that can safely remove virtually any clog. And in that rare instance when chemicals are required, our highly trained drain cleaning pros know how to safely and cleanly mix and pour the chemical without harming your pipes, kitchens or bathrooms.


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Read This BEFORE You Try to Fix a Leaky Faucet On Your Own

Nothing is more annoying than the constant drip, drip, drip of a leaky faucet. If you’ve got the right tools, a leaky faucet in the kitchen or bathroom is one of the easiest DIY fixes around the house. However, keep in mind that all faucets are not alike. Here are some basic, leaky faucet tips and insight that do-it-yourselfers should know before they start taking things apart and trying to put them back together..


Types of Faucets

• Compression Faucets: Usually found in homes with older plumbing, the compression faucet is fairly common. There is a knob for hot water and another for cold water. When the knobs are turned open, the faucet opens and water flows through. Compression faucets leak when the washers on the knobs become worn or damaged. To fix a leaky compression faucet you generally only need to replace the washers.
  


• Washerless Faucets: Washerless faucets are another common type found in many homes; ball faucets, cartridge faucets, and disk faucets are all washerless fixtures. Despite their name, these faucets do have washers, along with many other components that allow them to operate properly. Any one of these components can fail and cause a leak, though washerless faucets are among the most reliable plumbing fixtures you can install in your home.
  


• Ball Faucets: They have a single handle that rotates on a ball, letting you move the handle left or right for hot and cold water. When the adjusting ring becomes loose, ball faucets can develop leaks. Other common causes of leaks in these types of faucets include failed cam washers, worn springs or worn valve seats.
  


• Disk Faucets: They come in single or double handle configurations. Both have a ceramic disk mechanism that opens and closes to allow water through. Disk faucets rarely fail, but the most common sources of leaks are worn seals, o-rings, and stems.
  


• Cartridge Faucets: They are usually single handle units with a cartridge assembly that allows water to flow. Cartridge faucets have a series of o-rings that can become warped or worn, causing leaks.
  

For Most Faucet Leaks, Consult a Plumber

Even if you think you can handle a simple leak repair on your own, it’s still a good idea to call a plumber for a second opinion. Most plumbers will be happy to talk you through a basic repair job over the phone, offering helping advice and educating you about the proper tools and parts you’ll need. If the repair turns out to be more difficult than you bargained for, a plumber will gladly make an appointment to complete the repair for you.

Whether you choose to repair a leaky faucet yourself or feel more comfortable hiring a professional plumber, the sooner you deal with the problem the better. Even minor faucet leaks have a nasty habit of compounding into major plumbing problems...and that can quickly add up to thousands of dollars in more serious plumbing repairs. A leaky faucet that goes ignored too long can cause substantial water damage, erode pipes, and compromise the water pressure in your entire house. Furthermore, a faucet that drips just twice per second wastes about 100 gallons of water each month, which can jack up your water bill significantly.

The plumbing professionals at Horizon Services can quickly diagnose the cause of your faucet leak or other plumbing problem and fix the problem inexpensively and reliably. Call Horizon today!



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Winter's Coming...Are Your Pipes Protected?

Pipe insulation is probably something you never think about as a homeowner. The fact is, though, that most home builders don’t think about it much either. Skimping on pipe insulation is one of the first places that shady contractors look to cut corners in order to present customers with a more attractive bottom line. However, proper pipe insulation is one of the most important facets of your home’s infrastructure; not only does insulation improve the performance and life of your plumbing, it also protects them against damage from extreme temperatures or weather.

If you feel that your home’s plumbing system is not properly insulated, you should consult a plumbing professional immediately. Here are some important things you should know about pipe insulation:


Frozen Pipes

The most serious threat to poorly insulated pipes is freezing temperatures. When the mercury drops, standing water left in pipes can freeze and expand, causing tiny cracks that may break open or burst altogether. It is essential that exposed pipes are properly insulated, especially in areas prone to below-zero temperatures. The cost of additional insulation is minute when you think about the cost of repairing damages caused by a burst pipe.

Obviously, outdoor pipes should be insulated, but even exposed pipes in your home can freeze if the temperature gets low enough. Be sure to look over pipes in the basement, attic, crawl spaces, under sinks, in utility rooms or garages, and in the laundry room and insulate them. If you should lose power during a winter storm or go on vacation during a cold snap, you could be forced to deal with the consequences of frozen or burst pipes.


Energy Costs

Believe it or not, insulating pipes can significantly impact your overall energy consumption. As utility costs rise and amid growing concerns about the environment, homeowners all over the country are paying more attention to how they use energy. Proper insulation around pipes limits heat transfer and provides a vapor barrier against moisture, which improves the thermal efficiency of your home and saves you money.


Water Damage

Poorly insulated pipes allow water to condense, which leaves pipes susceptible to standing water that can freeze in cold weather. This can cost you thousands of dollars in water damage to walls, ceilings, floors, and furniture. Condensation can also speed the deterioration of pipes, causing erosion, leaks, cracks, and gaps. By adding a bit of extra insulation, you can eliminate the potential for water damage from burst pipes and erosion.


Insulation Materials

The biggest problem with pipe insulation is keeping it dry. Traditional pipe insulation includes materials like fiberglass and minerals; these have been joined by flexible and rigid closed-cell glass products. Glass insulation provides a better barrier against moisture, helping pipes stay dry. Some contractors also use a wicking material that wraps around pipes to help absorb moisture and carry it away from the insulation jacket, where it evaporates. For underground pipes, most new insulation is made from polyurethane foam, which offers excellent protection and limits moisture accumulation.



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May The Force Be With You!

Water pressure is sort of like tires on your car: You never really notice it until something goes wrong. Showers slow to a pathetic drizzle. The dishwasher stops cleaning dishes. Garden hoses are rendered useless. Drinking water trickles out of your faucets. While most of us simply live with water pressure problems, there are several ways you can easily improve your home’s water pressure without too much fuss.


City Water Pressure

If you get your water from your local municipality, the main lines are laid underground where water pressure is very high. Friction causes the water to lose pressure as it travels through the main line and into your house. Even more water pressure is lost as it travels through your plumbing and out your faucet. The smaller the space, the more friction builds up. If you’ve got low water pressure coming from a faucet, chances are there’s too much friction somewhere between the main municipal supply line and your sink.

While this may seem like a pretty vague diagnosis, it’s relatively easy to pinpoint the problem.

Pipes that are too small generate more friction than ones that are larger. Even a fraction of an inch can make a big difference in improving water pressure. If you have ½ inch pipes in your house, replacing just the exposed ones with larger ¾ inch pipes can significantly increase your water pressure. You could also hire a professional to replace all the plumbing in your house, which will produce even greater water pressure results. If you’re building a new house, consider upgrading to larger pipes. You’ll pay a bit more, but the “hassle savings” alone will more than make up for the extra cost.

Another common problem that can affect water pressure is a blockage or build-up in your pipes. As water travels through plumbing it leaves small mineral deposits. Over time, these deposits can accumulate on the inside of the pipes and shrink their diameter, kind of like plaque that builds up in the arteries of people with high cholesterol. This essentially makes the pipes smaller and increases friction, impacting water pressure. The good news is that this kind of mineral build-up is obvious to the naked eye, so removing a small sample section of pipe will quickly shed light on the problem. There are many chemicals available on the market that will break down these deposits and flush them from your plumbing.

If your water pressure woes are sudden, the problem could be with the main water line. You should contact your water company and inform them of the issue; they will be able to provide more information or give you next steps to follow.


Well Water Pressure

If your home uses well water, you have a water pressure tank instead of a main municipal line. The water pressure tank can be the source of a whole other set of problems in addition to the ones that city water users have. A tank that’s too small can be ill-equipped to maintain adequate pressure when water is used in several places in your home at once. The tanks can leak, too, which causes a loss of water pressure. It’s wise to have your water pressure tank checked by a plumber or well professional if you experience any sudden changes in water pressure.


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Today’s New Plastic Piping Can Be a Smart Alternative to Traditional Plumbing Solutions!

PEX piping is fast becoming one of the most widely used and affordable plumbing solutions on the market. PEX is an acronym for “cross-linked polyethylene”. It is a bendable, plastic plumbing pipe that was first developed in the 1960s but has become extremely popular in recent years for residential plumbing purposes.

PEX plumbing has many advantages over traditional plumbing and piping materials – including copper and other plastics. It is easy to install, more affordable than copper and other metals, and has a reputation for great performance. PEX pipe is made through a special chemical process that gives it great strength. PEX piping is able to withstand a wide temperature range – from sub-freezing temperatures up to 180 degrees F. PEX piping is also quieter than most traditional pipe systems. PEX connections are much simpler to make and don’t require soldering or gluing like fixed metal pipes. Plus, PEX pipes can bend around corners, reducing the need for joints – which is where most leaks and pipe failures occur.

PEX is a Great Value:
One of the biggest benefits of using PEX pipe in your home is the cost. From materials to installation, PEX is by far the most cost effective plumbing you can buy. The pipe itself is cheaper than other materials, and you’ll also save big on installation and labor costs because PEX comes in longer, flexible sections with fewer fixings. The light weight and easy fitting of PEX makes the entire installation process much shorter than traditional plumbing, so you can outfit your whole home with PEX in dramatically less time than it would take to re-plumb conventionally.

PEX Delivers Performance:
PEX pipe has so far proven more durable than traditional plumbing, too. There’s no need to worry about potable water delivery because the plastic is resistant to most of the chemicals commonly found in water systems. The smooth interior of the pipes means less corrosive build-up and mineral deposits to clog the plumbing over time. The flexible material resists freezing and bursting much better than traditional metal pipes.

PEX Provides Maintenance Savings:
The convenience of PEX installation carries over into maintenance, too. PEX is much easier to repair or replace if something goes wrong, speeding repairs and saving you money on what is often the most expensive part of plumbing repairs—hourly labor costs.

PEX Has Some Drawbacks:
The one drawback of PEX pipe is that it’s not appropriate for outdoor use. Though it does resist damage from freezing when installed indoors, it won’t stand up to harsher outdoor temperatures. UV light can also break down the plastic, which can lead to big problems.

PEX Myths Debunked:
Plastic plumbing was popular in home construction in the 1980s, and it had lots of problems. Some holdouts continue to insist that PEX plumbing hasn’t changed much in the past 30 years. This simply isn’t the case. Today’s PEX is made of completely different material and has been proven reliable and low-maintenance for many years. Plumbers all across the country use the new, innovative PEX time and again; its reputation these days is much different than that of plastic pipes in the past.

If you’d like to learn more about PEX plumbing, talk to a Horizon Services plumbing technician. You’ll be able to compare costs, get information about what installation will entail, and determine if PEX is right for your home. Chances are, no matter where you live or how your home’s plumbing is currently set up, installing PEX piping can help your plumbing system work more efficiently and can save you money on expensive plumbing service and maintenance costs.



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A wall mounted sink is the perfect choice for small bathroom spaces and powder rooms. These units hang right on the wall, eliminating the need for a bulky vanity or countertop. Wall mounted sinks come in a variety of sizes, styles, and textures available, with models suitable for nearly any décor or bathroom. When shopping for a wall mounted sink, consider the following questions carefully and you’ll be sure to find a fixture that matches your needs.

When You Use a Store-Bought Drain Cleaning Solution, You Could Be Playing With Fire!

Dealing with a clogged pipe or slow-moving drain rates pretty high on the “ick” scale for many homeowners. Seeking ways to clear clogs without actually having to touch any undesirable substances, most of us reach for commercial chemical drain cleaning solutions. But while these over-the-counter liquid drain cleaners may be affordable and easy to use, they can ruin your plumbing, cause physical injury to you or your pets, and may actually do more harm than good if used incorrectly.

Most drain or pipe clogs are caused by hair, grease, soap, human waste, or other debris that collects in the plumbing. Store-bought chemical drain cleaners work on clogs by creating heat that dissolves the blockage. However, if the substance gets on porcelain, stainless steel, or aluminum bathroom fixtures it can cause corrosion that will ruin these surfaces. To prevent damage, pour the drain cleaner as close to the drain as you can and never use more than the minimum amount necessary to impact the clog. Most drain cleaning chemicals require that you add water to the cleaner or put the cleaner in standing water; do this slowly and carefully to avoid splashing.

Chemical drain cleaners can also damage PVC, old, or corroded pipes. If you have or think you have this kind of plumbing, an enzymatic drain cleaner is probably a wiser choice to resolve a clogged drain. While enzyme cleaners are sometimes less effective at dissolving clogs, they are much less corrosive to pipes and plumbing. You can also try a pipe snake if you’re nervous about using a drain cleaning solution.

If you have ever used a chemical drain cleaner, you know how noxious the fumes can be. To avoid breathing in these harmful gases, open the windows and doors in your bathroom and stand back as soon as you pour the cleaner into the drain. Never stand close to a clogged drain and watch the cleaner work.

Chemical drain cleaners contain a variety of different chemicals that can react severely if mixed. If you try one brand of cleaner and it doesn’t work, don’t try another kind. You could unintentionally set off a chemical reaction, release toxic fumes into the air, or even cause a sudden eruption of chemicals from your drain. Mixing different kinds of cleaners can also create reactions inside the pipes that will make it much more difficult—and in some cases even impossible—to remove clogs later manually.

Never, ever mix chemical drain cleaners with any product containing bleach. This can create deadly chlorine gas that is toxic to people and animals.

As with many things, you get what you pay for with chemical drain cleaners. An attractive price tag often hides an ineffective product with a low strength chemical mixture or unstable combinations of substances. You may actually spend more when you buy a discount brand product, as you’ll probably have to use many applications of it before you see results. It’s better to choose a mid- to high-priced product with a recognizable name and reputation for quality. An even better idea? Call a reputable drain cleaning contractor like Horizon Services. The drain cleaning pros at Horizon Services can unclog any blocked-up household drain quickly, cleanly, safely and inexpensively.

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Hey...Who Needs a Bathroom Stall When You Can Take a Spritz in Your Own Backyard?

More and more homeowners are embracing the outdoor shower as a fun and functional way to add value and interest to their homes. The new trend toward the outdoor shower leaves behind the feature’s roots in grungy campgrounds and rented summer cottages, though. Today’s outdoor showers are sleek, well-appointed extensions of the indoor bathroom...except they're located outside of your home.

So what’s driving this unusual fad toward the great outdoors?

“We spend so much time in cyber reality, in front of the TV or the computer, on the phone, in our cars, divorced from the natural world, that people really respond to something like an outdoor shower,” explains Ethan Fierro, a designer and author of The Outdoor Shower. “It allows you those 10 to 15 minutes to connect with nature.”

In fact, reclaiming outdoor spaces for traditionally indoor activities has been popular in home construction and renovation for some time.

“The outdoor shower is definitely part of the trend of people bringing the outdoors in, with people now building outdoor bathrooms and even outdoor kitchens,” says David Buchanan, a Boston-based architect.

Today’s outdoor showers aren’t just for those who live in warm climates, either.

“Clients who ask for outdoor showers aren’t usually deterred by a chill in the air,” says Elizabeth Demetriades, an architect in Lakeville, CT who has designed several outdoor showers for clients in the Northeast. “The showers are typically used until the onset of freezing weather mandates draining the pipes for winterization—and clients frequently push the envelope in this regard.”

Buchanan has noticed the same mentality in his clients.

“At a house we did in South Dartmouth, MA. Part of the appeal was that you could take a hot outdoor shower in chilly weather then crawl immediately into a warm bed,” he says.

While there’s definitely something appealing about the idea of an outdoor shower, there are certain considerations that must be taken into account before undertaking such a project.

Depending on building codes in your area and the design of your shower, you may be required to install an appropriate drainage system.

“When hot water—and by inference soap and shampoo—will be used, connection to a properly engineered septic or dry-well system is a must,” says Demetriades.

Be sure your architect and contractor have experience designing and building outdoor showers so you don’t run into any unforeseen environmental or plumbing issues.

Privacy is another consideration, but surprisingly it’s not as high a priority as you’d think.

“Many clients aren’t all that concerned with privacy, particularly in more rural areas where neighbors aren’t an issue,” explains Demetriades.

You should think hard about your home’s location before taking the proverbial plunge. Modesty may not be your number one concern if you live out in the woods, but if your house sits in the middle of a suburban development you could risk raising more than a few eyebrows at the next neighborhood block party.

Another important privacy concern: sightlines. If your neighbor’s kitchen window overlooks the spot where you want to install your outdoor shower, you should probably find a more suitable placement.

And let's not forget sound. If you sing in the shower, the whole neighborhood can hear your enitre repertoire...for better or worse! And an outdoor shower can never duplicate that great audio quality and echo you get in a traditional indoor shower.



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Have you seen the new horror/science fiction movie Splice in which scientists combine the DNA of different animals to create incredible new hybrid animals? It's pretty scary stuff...especially when they start splicing together the genes of animals and humans. But outside of Hollywood, there are some other kinds of "genetic engineering" taking place that could have a major and beneficial impact in your home in the coming years

There’s a new movement quietly gaining momentum as we search for ways to reduce our energy dependence, improve our environmental outlook, and save money on rising utility costs. Part innovation and part science fiction, the technology of hybrid appliances is fast taking the scientific world by storm. Here are some of the unusual and novel appliance and fixture combinations you may see in your home some day soon.


The Washing Machine Toilet:

At first, putting a washing machine together with a toilet sounds downright unsanitary. But upon closer examination, the idea is fairly brilliant. The washing machine does a load of laundry as usual, but then stores the waste water from the rinse cycle and uses it to flush the toilet when it’s needed. Using dirty water to get rid of…well…dirty water just kind of makes sense, doesn’t it? Users will cut down on water consumption while solving another common household problem: limited space. By combining a bulky appliance that normally takes up a lot of space with a necessity already found in every single home and apartment in the country, the washing machine toilet could prove a god-send to those in a serious space-crunch.

Developed by a Turkish engineer, the washing machine toilet was recently entered in the Greener Gadgets design competition. Though it’s still in conceptual development, this hybrid appliance could revolutionize the way we do our laundry and our “business.”


The Toilet Sink:

If it’s good enough to get set up with the washing machine, why not pair the toilet with the sink, too? The toilet sink is meant to be another space-saver and reduces water consumption, too.

How does it work? The water in the toilet tank and bowl combine with gravity to flush waste. Fresh water then flows into each receptacle. With the sink feature, this fresh water can be diverted to the tap where it flows out just like a normal sink. The water that drains from the sink then flows back into the toilet bowl where it stays until the toilet is flushed again. So you’re always washing your hands with fresh water, but you may be flushing the toilet with grey water on occasion.

The downside of this neat little device is that you’d have to lean directly over the toilet seat to use the sink, so just be sure to keep the bowl clean!


The Tanning Shower:

It’s every prom queen’s dream: a shower that gives you a tan while you lather, rinse, and repeat.

Made by ProSun International, the SunShower was first introduced in 2006 when it won an award for best bath product at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show.

According to ProSun, the tanning shower emits a balanced, gentle UV light spectrum that’s similar to natural sunlight. It allows the user to tan just a little bit with each shower, rather than experience the UVA and UVB bombardment of one 10 or 15 minute session in a traditional tanning booth. Supposedly, this gradual tanning is easier on the body.

While there’s as yet no proof that these claims are true, tanning enthusiasts are already snapping up these powder room novelties.


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Get the Lead Out...More Plumbing Contractors are Pushing Plastic Piping Than Ever Before!

Remember that famous line from The Graduate? "I only have one word for you, Ben...plastics." These days, plastics has become THE WORD when it comes to pipe material for your home's plumbing, drain and sewer line systems.

We all know that lead pipes are bad. Thankfully, most new homes and remodeled plumbing systems now use alternatives including copper, bronze, and iron pipes. Plastic pipes are yet another option that is quickly gaining popularity with homeowners and plumbing contractors.

Plastic piping is versatile. They can be made virtually without joints, which means no leaks, easy installation, less maintenance, and fewer problems down the road.

Because it’s so adaptable, plastic plumbing is generally cheaper than other options and you can save significantly on labor and installation charges.

Extensive testing has proven that plastic is durable and hard-wearing, lasting a hundred years or more in some cases. Plastic pipes outperform copper and other metals by dozens of years.

As an environmentally responsible option, plastic pipes are well beyond any other material. They can be recycled or made from post-consumer content, which makes them a green choice for concerned homeowners.

So it’s clear that there are lots of advantages to using plastic pipes over metal or other pipe materials. But is plastic piping really the right choice for your home? To answer that question, it’s important to know a little bit about the different kinds of plastic pipes that are available.

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) are the most popular choices for plastic plumbing pipes. PVC is that stiff, rigid white plastic that we’ve all seen in various applications, from furniture to toys. PVC pipe is made from a plastic and vinyl combination material. The pipes are durable, hard to damage, and long lasting. A PVC pipe does not rust, rot, or wear over time. For that reason, PVC piping is most commonly used in water systems, underground wiring, and sewer lines. PVC pipe can be glued together with a special chemical solvent or fused and melted together by heat.

CPVC pipes are similar to PVC pipes but they are manufactured with a special chlorination production process. CPVC pipes share most of the features and properties of standard PVC pipes, but with a few differences. CPVC generally offers greater chemical and heat resistance. Structurally, CPVC is more ductile than standard PVC, providing greater crush and corrosion resistance.

Polyethylene (PE) is a flexible plastic that can be bent and shaped into just about any configuration. This kind of pipe can be curved around corners, which eliminates the need for fittings and significantly reduces the risk of leaks. Sections of PE pipe are usually joined using clamps or are melted together using heat. PE is slightly translucent and colorless; it’s a popular choice for geothermal heating systems, sprinkler systems, and other kinds of water supply systems.

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a hard black plastic pipe material that is similar to PVC, but generally cheaper. ABS is only appropriate for use in drainage lines and systems.

The growing popularity of plastic plumbing pipes has turned the head of many a plumbing contractor so it’s likely that yours will have an opinion about its use and appropriateness for your home. If plastic pipes are an option you’d like to consider, be sure to talk it over with your plumbing contractor. Only a trained professional can tell you if plastic is a smart way to go and should be able to give you more information about the types of plastic pipes that could work in your home.

If you have questions about whether plastic piping and pipe material are right for your home, contact Horizon Services. Our experienced plumbing, drain and sewer line professionals can give you a complete overview of plastic piping as well as other pipe material and help you make an informed decision.



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