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Why Does My Toilet Keep Clogging?

. Posted by in • Austin
a bathroom

We all take our toilets for granted because it’s always there. But we realize its value when we ask, “Why does my toilet keep clogging?” A clogged toilet is frustrating and even embarrassing, especially when you have guests over. Several things can cause this problem, but the usual culprit is excess toilet paper down the drain.

If your toilet keeps clogging, here’s how to troubleshoot the issue and have it running smoothly again. If these solutions don’t work, it’s time to seek the help of the pros. Professional plumbers will diagnose the problem and perform the necessary repairs and replacements.

Reasons Your Toilet Keeps Clogging

Here are the common answers to the question, “Why does my toilet keep clogging?” and how to address these issues.

You Flush Foreign Objects Down the Toilet

Many homeowners think they can get away with flushing various items down the toilet. But, many of these things can cause clogging. Paper … Read Full Post »

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What Is a GFCI Outlet?

. Posted by in • San Antonio
a GFCI outlet

While electricity is a must-have at home, it comes with safety concerns. Fortunately, GFCIs or ground fault circuit interrupters significantly reduce the risk of getting shocked or electrocuted. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), electricity-related accidents have fallen by 80% since the 1970s because of these quick-to-react outlets. Today, the law requires GFCIs in all new homes. It is also a good idea to have them installed in older houses.

Here’s everything you need to know about GFCIs, including what they are, how they work and how to troubleshoot issues.

What Is a GFCI Outlet and How Does It Work?

Before learning how a GFCI works, it helps to define what ground faults are first. Electricity runs through insulated wires to reach wall outlets, switches and appliances inside our homes. But when it is in its raw state, it is impossible to control how electricity behaves. As shown by lightning, electricity … Read Full Post »

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How to Unclog a Clogged Sink Drain

. Posted by in • Dallas-Fort Worth
a kitchen sink

Homeowners don’t realize how much they depend on their sink until it’s clogged. When this plumbing fixture isn’t working, you can’t wash your hands, fruit, vegetables and dishes. Unfortunately, all households will deal with a clogged sink at some point. It happens when food particles, hair, soap scum, grease and other debris get stuck in the drain.

Getting out of this sticky situation doesn’t have to be complicated. Some DIY methods can help free up your sink and let the water drain again. If none of them work, it’s time to contact a professional plumber to come to your rescue. A licensed plumber has the tools and expertise to address any plumbing concern.

DIY Methods to Deal With a Clogged Sink Drain

The first step is to identify what type of clog you are dealing with. A kitchen sink clog is different from a bathroom sink clog. Kitchen sinks usually have a garbage … Read Full Post »

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Bed Bug Size: How To Identify These Pests

. Posted by in , • Houston
a bed bug

We all need quality sleep to function our best. But something as small as a bed bug can ruin a good night’s sleep. These tiny pests can leave itchy bite marks during the night, causing skin irritation.

If you think you have a bed bug infestation at home, identification is the first step in treating the problem. Here’s a guide to help you recognize bed bugs and confirm their presence in your home. After identification, the next step is to contact pest control professionals. They know how to control bed bugs so you can enjoy your sleep again.

Bed Bug Size, Color and Habits

Bed bugs can be hard to recognize because they may be confused with other insects. But, there are ways to set these pests apart from other household pests.

You can identify adult bed bugs by their wingless, reddish-brown bodies. They’re around a quarter of an inch long and are flat … Read Full Post »

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What Do Rats Like To Eat?

. Posted by in , • Austin
a rat on a pipe

Rats are voracious eaters who spend most of their time looking for food. Most people assume that these unwanted pests will eat anything they find. However, rats have preferred types of food and even favorite food items. Keep reading to learn more about what rats like to eat.

The best way to control rats is to enlist the help of professional pest control services. An expert can provide a treatment plan that is tailored to your home and rat infestation.

What Do Rats Like to Eat?

Rats are big eaters with what seem like insatiable appetites. They are considered omnivores, which means they prefer to eat fruits, vegetables and meat.

If they had their way, rats would prefer a diet of sweet fruits such as berries, apples and bananas. For vegetables, they like carrots, lettuce and broccoli. They will eat any type of meat and they enjoy grains.

However, rats are not picky when they … Read Full Post »

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My AC Is Not Cooling Below 75 Degrees

. Posted by in • Dallas-Fort Worth
a thermostat

Air conditioners make homes more comfortable on hot and humid days. So, it can be frustrating when the AC is not cooling below 75 degrees, even if it has been running for hours. Many factors can cause this issue, including clogged filters, refrigerant leaks and the wrong unit size. While it’s possible to troubleshoot it yourself, it is best to contact an HVAC professional for your AC problems.

Why Your AC Is Not Cooling Below 75 Degrees

Many people prefer their homes to be colder than 75 degrees, especially when it is hot outside. If your AC can’t reach below 75 degrees, here are the possible issues you might be dealing with.

Clogged Air Filter

Air filters are an essential AC component, trapping dirt, dust and debris. However, they can become clogged over time, hampering airflow. This can lead to a variety of issues with your AC system. To prevent costly AC problems, clean … Read Full Post »

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San Antonio River Walk Christmas Events

. Posted by in • San Antonio
the san antonio river walk at christmas time

Looking for San Antonio River Walk Christmas events to enjoy with your family and friends this holiday season? Look no further! Here is your definitive list of all the most fun, festive, heartwarming and twinkly things to enjoy in San Antonio. This list includes activities along the city’s famed central attraction, its beautiful downtown River Walk.

San Antonio is beloved by residents and tourists alike for its rich history, its colorful blend of cultures and cuisines, and its lively sense of fun. All these elements truly come to life during the holidays. It’s not hard to find incredible lights displays and fun Christmas events in San Antonio.

And nowhere in San Antonio is merrier or brighter during the holidays than at the River Walk. The popular area is a beautiful place to visit on any day of the year. But, when millions of colorful holiday lights cascade from the trees and reflect … Read Full Post »

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Your Guide to the Christmas Parades in Bryan, Texas

. Posted by in • Bryan-College Station
Santa on his sleight at a Christmas parade in Bryan, TX

If you’re looking to experience a fun and festive Christmas parade, Bryan, TX, is the place to be this holiday season. There are several Christmas parades in Bryan to choose from—though only one is a lighted parade, with lighted floats, firetrucks and other vehicles.

There are also many other local events to help you and your loved ones kick off a merry and festive holiday season. Let’s take a look at the best of Bryan at Christmastime:

  • Santa Arrival Parade: Santa comes to town the day after Thanksgiving, on Friday, November 24, 2023, and downtown Bryan is illuminated for the Christmas season. This early evening event is free and open to the public. Come see Jolly Old Saint Nick circle the square as twinkling lights kick off the season of merriment!
  • Downtown Bryan Holiday Stroll & Lighted Parade: This is Bryan-College Station’s one and only lighted Christmas parade. Beginning at 6 PM on … Read Full Post »

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What Are the Benefits of a Sprinkler System Backflow Preventer?

. Posted by in • Houston
a sprinkler head

When you turn on your showers and faucets, clean water is typically there. But many don’t know that clean water can come into contact with contaminants on its journey to our homes. If you have a sprinkler system, something called “backflow” can happen, causing hazardous materials to enter your home’s water supply line.

That’s why it’s crucial to install a sprinkler system backflow preventer. Contact an irrigation professional to help you choose the best kind for your home.

What Is a Sprinkler System Backflow Preventer?

Before discussing what are the benefits of a sprinkler system backflow preventer, it’s helpful to know what a backflow is. The water inside the supply system usually flows in one direction. But when the water travels the opposite way back through your sprinkler system, it’s called backflow.

The water that comes into your home from the municipality travels at a specific pressure level. But certain factors can cause the … Read Full Post »

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Why Is My Water Heater Making Noises?

. Posted by in • Corpus Christi
a technician working on a water heater

Do you hear strange noises coming from your water heater? Whether it’s a rumbling sound, a hiss, popping or high-pitched whistling, these noises will have homeowners scratching their heads.

Each type of noise a water heater makes could indicate an underlying problem in your plumbing system. Once you identify the type of noise coming from your water heater, contact a professional plumber to make the necessary repairs.

Why Is My Water Heater Making Noises?

Water heaters often make strange noises when they have maintenance issues or need repair. There are several noises that a water heater could make, so it’s important for homeowners to understand them and what each noise means so that they can take the proper action.

Staying on top of water heater maintenance is the best way to ensure that your water heater has a long lifespan and your home doesn’t experience a lack of hot water. Keep reading to learn … Read Full Post »

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