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Plumbing F.A.Q.'s
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I need basic plumbing repairs in my home to fix a leaky faucet or clear a clogged drain.  Is this what a plumber does?
Yes!  A plumber is a highly skilled worker who installs and repairs pipes and plumbing related fixtures, diagnose clogged drain problems and solves all problems related to water systems in your home.

What sets Knox Plumbing apart from the others is our dedication to continued training and education in the latest plumbing techniques and tools to do better work for our customers. This means you are guaranteed a courteous, professional and friendly plumber at your door, every time!

I want a new sink or faucet in my home but I don’t want to do it myself.  What options do I have?
Many homeowners are very capable of handling these kinds of jobs by themselves.  Some of the bigger home centers even show you how.  However, our experience has shown that some projects are better left to the professionals.  Yes, we’ve gotten more than a few calls from customers ‘stuck’ in the middle of a project.  Knox Plumbing provides custom builder quality installation and upgrades of sinks, toilets, laundry tubs, laundry hook ups, bathtubs, whirlpool tubs, showers, all kinds of faucets, garbage disposals and more.

What is Instant Hot Water?
Instant Hot Water is a hot water recirculation system that circulates hot water in your home.  When you open a fixture the warm water is there. There is no need to run water down the drain waiting for hot water to arrive.  Did you know that hot water recirculation systems save water, energy and money; the average family of four wastes up to 17,000 gallons of water per year just waiting for hot water to arrive.  A hot water recirculation system eliminates waste and provides the convenience of instant hot water.  They work in existing homes, too!  

The under-the-sink retrofit systems are designed for existing homes.  Knox can easily adapt a system to your existing plumbing.  

How do I un-jam my garbage disposal?
You may be able to insert an Allen wrench into the bottom of the disposer and "crank" it to help free up a jam. If this doesn’t work, DON’T USE IT!  You could cause serious damage to the disposal motor or even your home electrical system.  Knox Plumbing can usually fix a jammed up garbage disposal.  If we can’t, then the unit will probably need to be replaced.  Our expert technicians can give you the best advice and make quick work of it to get you grinding again!

What is the most common reason for sump pump failure?
The leading cause for sump pump to failure is usually a switching problem. Sometimes the pump can move inside the basin.  This movement causes the float that operates the switch to lodge against its side. Debris can also be a factor by interfering with the action of the pump switch. It is important to make sure that your pump switch and float arm assembly move freely.  The main thing to remember about sump pumps is that they don’t last forever…even if you never use them.  Internal part wear out and make them virtually useless when you need them most!  Knox Plumbing can test, maintain or replace any brand of sump pump.  For flood prone areas and homes that get water seeping in on a regular basis you may want to consider a sump pump back up system.  There are even non-electric systems that work in the case of a power failure.  

What causes low water pressure and what can I do about it?

There are several things that could cause low water pressure, including a partially closed or malfunctioning shut off valve, a crimped water line, or deposits that gather in older galvanized pipes. If your neighbors have strong water pressure, the problem is most likely between the water meter and your home. A qualified Knox Plumbing technician will be able to identify the problem and explain your options.
Is there really a difference between hard water and soft?
Yes.  In fact, the difference can be damaging to your home and your body.  Maybe you have experienced damaged clothing from the laundry, excessive soap consumption, pipe scaling, faucet and fixture deterioration, skin problems, or undesirable tastes or odors from your water.  If you have, then you have a water problem.  Knox Plumbing can solve your hard water worries with a variety of quality products for your home.

Conventional Water Heaters vs. Tankless Water Heaters.  

Conventional water heaters are by far the most common type of water heater in the U.S. today. They range in size from 20 to 80 gallons (or larger) and are fueled by electricity, natural gas, propane, or oil.   Called ‘storage’ units, these water heaters transfer heat from a burner or coil to water in an insulated tank.   The down side to a conventional water heater is that energy is consumed even when no hot water is being used.

Tankless water heaters do not contain a storage tank like conventional water heaters. A gas burner or electric element heats the water only when there is a demand for hot water.  

There are many things to consider when choosing conventional vs. tankless water heating systems.  Knox can guide you through your options and get the right system for home that will give years of service and efficient performance.

Can I get someone to come to my house today?  I need a plumber now!
Knox has technicians available specifically for emergency calls to diagnose and solve your plumbing problem right away.  Just call (407) 492-3203 or request a service call and Knox will answer!

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