HPS Plumbing Partners with Wounded Heroes Fund

HPS Plumbing Partners with Wounded Heroes Fund HPS Plumbing is celebrating 60 years of business and recently held a celebration dinner for its employees at the Buck Owens Crystal Palace. Raffle tickets were sold for various company giveaways with all proceeds going to benefit the Wounded Heroes Fund, a local charity to support America’s veterans and their families. At the conclusion of the raffle, HPS employees were able to raise $6,500 with the company offering a matching donation. A team from HPS including Vice President Scott DenHerder, Operations Manager Justice Gradowitz and Human Resources Manager Jamie Ramos recently met with Director of Programs and Outreach Casey Schaubslager to tour the home of their new facility and turn over a check for $13,000 to help fund future growth and operations. The Wounded Heroes Fund is a local charity offering support services to veterans struggling to readjust to civilian life through grant programs, life skills training, animal therapy, and work-study opportunities. To find more information on how to offer your support, please visit www.thewoundedheroesfund.org. What’s The Importance of Water Filtration Common and Preventable Plumbing Issues Keep your sprinkler working this winter.

Tips to Keep Your Drains Healthy During the Holidays!

Tips to Keep Your Drains Healthy During the Holidays! Your drains are an integral part of your plumbing system, and it’s crucial that they’re treated with care. In a lot of cases, it’s tempting to treat the toilet or kitchen sink like a trash can, but these practices can cause a lot of damage up front and over time. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help keep your drains healthy year-round, but especially during the holiday season. Keep reading for more helpful tips and tricks! Bathroom Drains Toilets Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just an intimate gathering for close friends and family, there will be plenty more people in your home than usual. Unfortunately, not everyone has the same bathroom etiquette as you. As a friendly reminder for everyone, there’s only one type of trash that belongs in the toilet, and that’s toilet paper. Items that should absolutely never get flushed down the toilet include: Flushable” baby wipes Flushable” kitty litter Facial tissues Feminine hygiene products Q-tips and cotton pads Dental floss Sink drains The easiest thing to do when cleaning up from dinner is scraping the scraps directly into the sink and letting the garbage disposal handle the rest. However, there’s only so much your garbage disposal and plumbing can take. In order to prevent malfunctions, and clogs, avoid tossing these food items in the sink! Fibrous Foods Fibrous foods, including celery, corn husks, and pineapple, should stay away from the garbage disposal. Because of these foods’ stringy nature, they tend to get caught around the blades or hammers of your disposal. This causes them to trap other foods and form a clog. Starchy Foods Starchy foods are delicious and common at holiday gatherings. Some of the most popular foods include pasta, potatoes, and rice, and while they seem harmless, they tend to break down into a paste that can easily stick to the sides of pipes and drains, causing blockages. Coffee Grounds and Egg Shells These ones are a little deceptive, but coffee grounds and eggshells can be sneakily damaging. They seem like they would just flush right through the garbage disposal and down the drain; however, they have a tendency to pile up and cause a sludgy mess that catches other food debris in the process. Bones After you break the wishbone, don’t toss it down the kitchen drain! Bones are incredibly durable and won’t break down in the garbage disposal; instead, if they make it past the disposal, they’ll get caught further down in your kitchen pipes. If you do end up with a clogged drain, don’t automatically reach for the convenient chemical drain cleaners. While they might seem harmless, they are actually eroding your pipes every time you pour them down a drain. Instead, contact a trusted professional at HPS Plumbing Services. Drain cleaning is one of our specialties, and we would be happy to help get your plumbing in working order today. Call us at (661) 426-2166 or visit our website to get more information and schedule an appointment! What’s The Importance of Water Filtration Common and Preventable Plumbing Issues Keep your sprinkler working this winter.

Dangers of Fabric Softeners!

Dangers of Fabric Softeners! Fabric softener sales have been declining steadily over the last few years, and there are a number of factors to blame. Some say it’s because younger generations don’t know what to use it for, while others say it’s because people are finally realizing just how toxic they can be. We’re going to dive a little deeper into the latter point, investigate what makes fabric softeners toxic and also show you some solutions to this laundry problem. Is Fabric Softener Toxic? While there’s a debate over what really lead to the decreasing fabric softener sales, there’s no debate over whether or not fabric softener should be considered a “clean” product. According to research done by health and wellness experts, there are several types of harmful and toxic ingredients in fabric softeners and even in dryer sheets. Some of the most harmful ingredients include: Benzyl acetate – linked to pancreatic cancer Benzyl alcohol – linked to upper respiratory tract irritation Ethanol – linked to central nervous system disorders Limonene – a known carcinogen (cancer-causing substance) Chloroform – a neurotoxin and carcinogen Fragrances and dyes – can cause skin irritation as well as allergic reactions Glutaraldehyde – can cause respiratory issues and skin irritations Hexylene Glycol – associated with eye, skin, and respiratory irritation Hydrochloric Acid – can cause severe burns and skin damage and is toxic when inhaled. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Di-C14-18) – a chemical that can cause serious eye damage or skin irritation. What makes them even more toxic is that they stay in your clothes for long periods of time, which is what allows fabrics to stay soft and static-free. Softeners soak into your clothes and then into your skin, causing irritation, while dryer sheets release chemicals into the air when they heat up. What Are the Alternatives to Fabric Softener? To avoid their exposure to chemicals and toxins, more and more people are searching for alternatives for these softening products. No one wants to sacrifice their comfort in their clothing or their health. Some of our favorite alternative options include: Use vinegar to soften clothes. Vinegar is a great alternative to chemical-based fabric softeners! Vinegar will help to brighten the colors, soften the fabrics and even eliminate odors. Just make sure that you’re using distilled white vinegar to avoid any odd stains. Use wool dryer balls. Wool is a natural way to reduce tactic from your clothing! These dryer balls will eliminate your need for dryer sheets in the future – and they’re reusable, so you’ll be helping the planet! Add a water softener to your home. Water softeners remove minerals from your home’s water supply, which makes it easier for detergents to absorb into your clothing and rinse out. Without soft water, your detergent will form a thin film on the clothing, causing premature fading, stiffer fabric, and less comfort for the wearer. Hard water is a common issue throughout the state of California, and while it’s most known for its irritating water spots and limescale buildup, it also has major effects on the state of our skin and laundry. If you’ve grown tired of dealing with the effects of your hard, unfiltered water, then it’s time to inquire about installing a water softening system for your home. Do Dryer Sheets Cause Cancer? As mentioned earlier, dryer sheets contain chemicals that react with the air when heated up to create formaldehyde, which is a probable human carcinogen. Other common pollutants from dryer sheets are acetaldehyde and benzene, which are also commonly found in vehicle exhaust. Dryer sheets have been linked to respiratory illnesses including asthma, and in some cases cancer.  At HPS Plumbing Services, we offer water softeners and filtration systems for your home all throughout Bakersfield and San Diego. Visit our website today or give our team of water specialists a call today to learn more about our services can how a water softening system could benefit you and your family! What’s The Importance of Water Filtration Common and Preventable Plumbing Issues Keep your sprinkler working this winter.

Tips for Falling in Love with Your Bathroom Again

Tips for Falling in Love with Your Bathroom Again If your bathroom feels a little neglected, there are a few easy ways to make it feel brand new again. You can fall in love with your bathroom all over again by installing more efficient plumbing, replacing old or faulty faucets, and replacing old pipes. Here are seven ways to make your bathroom the oasis it was always meant to be. Update Your Fixtures If your sink looks worse for wear, it might be time for an update. Choosing new fixtures is an easy way to add style and personality to your bathroom. You can also say goodbye to those pesky leaks by installing updated fixtures. Not sure where to start? Our team at HPS Plumbing Services will gladly guide you through the process and help you decide on the right fixtures to fit your plumbing needs. Replace Old Pipes If your plumbing is constantly giving you trouble, it might be time for an upgrade. You can improve your water pressure by replacing old pipes and finally get rid of that nagging drip. We offer various pipe replacement services to fit your needs and budget. Re-grout Those Tiles If your tile looks a little lackluster, re-grouting is a quick and easy way to give it new life. Re-grouting will also help protect your tiles from future damage by filling in any cracks or gaps. We can re-grout your entire bathroom so you can enjoy your like-new bathroom in no time! Install A Low-Flow Toilet Looking for a way to save water and money? Consider installing a low-flow toilet. Low-flow toilets are pretty standard when you purchase a new one, but if your toilet is on the older side, it may waste more water per flush. These toilets can save you up to 1.6 gallons of water per flush. Add A New Shower Head Is your shower feeling a little boring? Give it an upgrade with a new shower head. Some shower heads don’t require much maintenance and can make your shower more exciting, like a rainfall shower head, a detachable shower head, a waterfall shower, and more! There are plenty of choices you can choose from. Not only will you feel like you’re being enveloped in luxuriousness each time you step in the shower, but you’ll also potentially save water depending on the shower head you choose. Go Tankless Never run out of hot water again by making the switch to a tankless water heater! Tankless water heaters heat water on demand and are a great choice for homes with large families, so you’ll always have hot water when needed – without waiting for the tank to refill. Plus, they’re much more energy-efficient than traditional tank heaters, so you can save money on your monthly energy bill. Incorporate Color We know that most homes on social media have neutral colors, but after a while, you may want to switch things up in your bathroom and use color to boost your mood! Ready to take things up a notch? Introducing color into your bathroom design can take it from “blah” to “wow” in no time. Whether you want to paint the walls, add some colorful towels, or install a vibrant backsplash, adding color is an easy way to add personality and pizazz. Upgrade Your Home’s Plumbing with HPS Plumbing Services There are endless possibilities when it comes to updating your bathroom. You can fall in love with your bathroom again by installing more efficient plumbing, replacing old or faulty faucets, replacing old pipes, and more. So what are you waiting for? Give us a call today at (661) 426-2166 and let us help you transform your space! What’s The Importance of Water Filtration Common and Preventable Plumbing Issues Keep your sprinkler working this winter.

My Kitchen Faucet Won’t Turn Off

How to Diagnose and Fix a Running Faucet A faucet that won’t stop running is one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face. It’s an annoying issue and can also be very costly if not addressed quickly. The good news is, diagnosing and fixing a running faucet isn’t as difficult as you might think. In this blog, we will review some of the most common causes of a running faucet and provide tips for fixing it yourself or when to call a professional. Identifying the Cause of Your Running Faucet The first step in diagnosing and fixing your running faucet is identifying the cause. The most common reasons are worn-out washers, faulty seals, loose handles, clogged aerators, and broken pipes. To determine which is causing your problem, remove the handle from your faucet and check for any signs of wear or damage. If nothing looks out of place or damaged, the cause could be entirely different. Checking Washers and Seals If you find that your washer or seal is worn out or damaged, then this could be causing your problem. To replace these parts, remove them carefully with a pair of pliers and purchase new ones at your local hardware store. Be sure to get washers/seals that match the size/model of your existing ones, so they fit when you install them. Tightening Loose Handles If you notice some play in your handles when you turn them on or off, this could be another potential cause for your faucet to stop running. To fix this issue, simply tighten the handle with an adjustable wrench until it’s snug enough that there is no play when turning it on or off. Cleaning Clogged Aerators A clogged aerator can also be responsible for why water continues to run even after you turn off the tap. If this is causing your issue, you should be able to resolve it by cleaning out any debris inside the aerator with needle-nose pliers or similar tools before reattaching it back to your faucet head securely. Replacing Broken Pipes In some cases, broken pipes may be responsible for why water continues to run after you turn off the tap; if this is causing your issue, then replacing those pipes should solve it quickly enough as long as you have basic plumbing skills. You may want to call in a professional if necessary, depending on how complex your piping systems are—this way, you can ensure that everything gets done correctly. Testing Your Fixture After Repairs Once the repairs you’ve wrapped up repairs, test out your fixture by turning on both hot and cold water taps simultaneously to check that everything works as expected. If not, then double-check all connections before calling in a professional who specializes in plumbing repair. Benefits Of Professional Help Calling a professional specializing in plumbing repair can save time and money down the road because they know exactly what needs to be done and how best to do it with minimal disruption and costs associated with additional labor hours. Plus, they have access to specialized tools and equipment that may not otherwise be available, such as video inspection cameras, which can allow them accurately diagnose any underlying issues without having to do any destructive digging around pipes, etc. Additionally, they have access to certain parts and materials, which may help speed up repairs significantly compared to trying to do things DIY style. Tips For Choosing A Reliable Plumber When choosing someone who specializes in plumbing repairs, research their reputation online first. Read reviews left by previous customers or ask friends/family about their experiences — before making any commitments. Then once you’ve narrowed down the list based on these reviews, remember to compare estimates from multiple companies to know precisely how much the job will cost before starting work. Finally, make sure to get a written estimate outlining the scope of work and timeline well in advance so there are no surprises once the final bill arrives. As usual, you can rest assured that our team at HPS Plumbing Services is here to keep our home’s plumbing working its best. We will repair your broken faucet and create a maintenance plan to help keep it in good condition year-round. Talk to our team at (661) 426-2166 to learn more about our residential plumbing services. What’s The Importance of Water Filtration Common and Preventable Plumbing Issues Keep your sprinkler working this winter.

Common Plumbing Problems & How to Fix Them

Common Plumbing Problems & How to Fix Them Plumbing problems can be a major headache for homeowners in Bakersfield, CA. Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet or a clogged drain, plumbing issues can be a major inconvenience and even a health hazard. That’s why it’s important to know how to identify and fix common plumbing problems quickly and efficiently. Clogged Drains One of the most common plumbing issues is a clogged drain. This can be caused by a variety of things, including hair, soap, and food particles. To fix a clogged drain, you can use a plunger or a drain snake. If the clog is caused by a buildup of grease or soap, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner. However, if the clog is caused by a more serious issue, such as a tree root, you may need to contact a professional plumber for help. Leaky Faucets Leaky faucets can be a major nuisance, and they can also lead to higher water bills. To fix a leaky faucet, you should first turn off the water supply. Then, disassemble the faucet and inspect the O-ring and other components for signs of wear and tear. If the O-ring is damaged, replace it with a new one. You should also check the valve seat for signs of corrosion or damage. If it’s damaged, you may need to replace the entire valve. Running Toilets A running toilet can be a major cause of wasted water, and it can also be a major annoyance. To fix a running toilet, you should first check the flapper valve. If it’s damaged, replace it with a new one. You should also check the chain and make sure it’s not too long or too short. If it’s too long, it can prevent the flapper valve from sealing completely. Low Water Pressure Low water pressure can be caused by a number of things, including clogged pipes, corroded pipes, or a faulty pressure regulator. To fix low water pressure, you should first check the water pressure regulator. If it’s not functioning properly, you should replace it with a new one. You should also check the pipes for signs of corrosion or clogs. If the pipes are corroded or clogged, you may need to have them replaced. Sewer Line Issues Sewer line issues can be a major cause of plumbing problems. To fix a sewer line issue, you should first inspect the pipes for signs of cracks or leaks. If you find any, you should contact a professional plumber to have them repaired. You should also check the vent stack and make sure it’s not blocked. If it is blocked, you may need to have it cleared by a professional. At HPS Plumbing Services, we understand how important it is to identify and fix common plumbing problems quickly and efficiently. That’s why we offer a wide range of services to help you with any plumbing issues you may have. Our team of experienced plumbers can help you identify the source of your plumbing issue and provide you with a comprehensive solution. What’s The Importance of Water Filtration Common and Preventable Plumbing Issues Keep your sprinkler working this winter.

How to Fix a Leaky Faucet in 5 Easy Steps

How to Fix a Leaky Faucet in 5 Easy Steps Are you tired of the constant dripping sound of a leaky faucet? Not only is it annoying, but it can also waste a significant amount of water and increase your water bill. Fortunately, fixing a leaky faucet is a simple DIY task that you can do yourself. Here are five easy steps to fix a leaky faucet: Turn off the water supply Before you start fixing the faucet, make sure to turn off the water supply to prevent any water from flowing. You can usually find the shut-off valve under the sink. Remove the handle Use a screwdriver to remove the handle of the faucet. You may need to pry off a cap or cover to access the screw. Replace the O-ring or washer Once you have removed the handle, you will see the stem of the faucet. The most common cause of a leaky faucet is a worn-out O-ring or washer. Use pliers to remove the old O-ring or washer and replace it with a new one. Reassemble the faucet After replacing the O-ring or washer, reassemble the faucet in the reverse order that you disassembled it. Make sure to tighten all the screws securely. Turn on the water supply and test the faucet Finally, turn on the water supply and test the faucet to make sure it is no longer leaking. If it is still leaking, you may need to replace the entire faucet. By following these five easy steps, you can fix a leaky faucet and save water and money. If you are not comfortable doing it yourself, you can always contact a professional plumber like HPS Plumbing Services – Bakersfield to do it for you. What’s The Importance of Water Filtration Common and Preventable Plumbing Issues Keep your sprinkler working this winter.

The Perks of Professional Drain Cleaning

The Perks of Professional Drain Cleaning When it comes to maintaining a well-functioning plumbing system, ensuring your drains are clean and clear is crucial. Clogged drains can lead to a range of issues, from foul odors to costly repairs. While some homeowners may attempt to tackle drain cleaning themselves, there are numerous benefits to enlisting the help of professional drain cleaning services. In this blog post, we will explore the perks of professional drain cleaning and why it’s worth investing in the expertise of HPS Plumbing Services. Thorough Inspection and Diagnosis One of the major advantages of professional drain cleaning is the ability to conduct a thorough inspection and diagnosis of your plumbing system. Trained technicians have the knowledge and tools to identify the root cause of your drain problems, whether it’s a simple clog or a more complex issue like tree root intrusion. By pinpointing the exact problem, professionals can provide targeted solutions, saving you time and money in the long run. Advanced Techniques and Equipment Professional drain cleaning services utilize state-of-the-art techniques and equipment that go beyond what’s available to the average homeowner. From hydro-jetting to video camera inspections, these advanced methods ensure a comprehensive and effective cleaning process. By removing even the most stubborn debris and buildup, professionals can restore your drains to their optimal functionality. Preventative Maintenance Regular drain cleaning not only resolves current issues but also helps prevent future problems from arising. Professional drain cleaners can provide tailored maintenance plans to keep your drains in top condition. By scheduling routine cleanings, you can avoid costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system. Health and Hygiene Benefits Clogged drains can harbor harmful bacteria and emit unpleasant odors, posing health and hygiene risks to your household. Professional drain cleaning eliminates these concerns by thoroughly sanitizing your drains and ensuring proper wastewater flow. By maintaining a clean and hygienic plumbing system, you can protect the health and well-being of your family. Eco-Friendly Solutions Professional drain cleaning services often prioritize eco-friendly practices. By utilizing environmentally safe products and techniques, they minimize the impact on the environment while still achieving excellent results. Choosing professional drain cleaning not only benefits your plumbing system but also contributes to a greener and more sustainable future. Investing in professional drain cleaning services from HPS Plumbing Services ensures a hassle-free and effective solution to your drain problems. With our expertise, advanced equipment, and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can trust us to deliver exceptional results. Remember, maintaining clean and clear drains is essential for the overall health and functionality of your plumbing system. Don’t wait until a minor issue becomes a major headache. Contact HPS Plumbing Services today to schedule a professional drain cleaning service that will leave your drains flowing smoothly. What’s The Importance of Water Filtration Common and Preventable Plumbing Issues Keep your sprinkler working this winter.

Ultimate Guide: Tips for Keeping Your Pipes from Freezing in the Winter

Ultimate Guide: Tips for Keeping Your Pipes from Freezing in the Winter Winter is a beautiful season, but it can also bring some challenges, especially when it comes to plumbing. Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and potentially burst, leading to costly repairs and water damage. As a trusted plumbing company in Bakersfield, CA, HPS Plumbing Services is here to provide you with valuable tips to help you prevent frozen pipes this winter. Read on to discover practical steps you can take to keep your pipes flowing smoothly during the coldest months of the year. Insulate Your Pipes: Proper insulation is crucial in preventing frozen pipes. Start by identifying any exposed pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, or attics. Use pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape to cover these vulnerable areas and keep them warm. Don’t forget about outdoor faucets and pipes; insulating them with faucet covers can provide an additional layer of protection. Let the Faucets Drip: When temperatures drop below freezing, allowing your faucets to drip can help prevent pipes from freezing. Running water, even at a slow trickle, keeps the water flowing, reducing the risk of ice formation. This simple technique can save you from potential pipe bursts and subsequent headaches. Maintain Adequate Heating: Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature is essential to prevent frozen pipes. Keep your thermostat set at a temperature that won’t allow your home to become too cold, even when you’re away. This will ensure that the heat reaches all areas, including those where pipes are located. Open Cabinet Doors: In colder areas of your home, such as kitchens and bathrooms, open the cabinet doors to expose the pipes to the warmer air inside your home. This allows heat to circulate around the pipes, keeping them above freezing temperatures. Remember to remove any harmful chemicals or cleaning products from the reach of children or pets. Shut Off Exterior Water Sources: Before the first freeze hits, it’s crucial to shut off and drain any exterior water sources, such as garden hoses and sprinkler systems. Disconnecting and draining these outdoor water sources will prevent any remaining water from freezing and causing damage to the connected pipes. HPS Plumbing Services By following these practical tips, you can significantly reduce the chances of your pipes freezing during winter. However, if you encounter any plumbing issues or need professional assistance, HPS Plumbing Services is here to help. Our team of experienced plumbers is well-equipped to handle any plumbing emergency, including frozen pipes. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Taking proactive steps to protect your pipes from freezing can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. For more information on how to prevent frozen pipes, we recommend visiting the Environmental Protection Agency’s guide on winterizing your plumbing system. Don’t let frozen pipes ruin your winter. Contact HPS Plumbing Services today for expert assistance and reliable solutions. Trust us to keep your pipes flowing smoothly all year round! What’s The Importance of Water Filtration Common and Preventable Plumbing Issues Keep your sprinkler working this winter.