We Floridians definitely love our central A/C systems, but if an air conditioner is not properly maintained, mold and mildew may develop.  At that point, your A/C system becomes a serious health hazard.  On the positive side, your air conditioner is actually a deterrent to the development of mold when clear of mold itself.  Without air conditioners, it would be much more difficult to properly balance indoor moisture levels.

The interior of any dwelling is vulnerable to the development of mold in a high humidity atmosphere.  Excessive moisture can be caused by a leak somewhere, such as in the roof, pipes, kitchen and bathroom fixtures, windows, doors and even the foundation.  Other sources of humidity are more obvious, such as improperly ventilated clothes dryers or surprise flooding.  A home or commercial building should also be free of cracks, open windows or crawlspaces, which allow moisture from inside from the outdoors.

Central air systems develop mold from a combination of dust, water and other bacteria that begin manifesting while the unit is off.  Therefore, consistently running an A/C unit will greatly reduce the risk of mold growth.  Setting your thermostat at a moderate level and keeping it there is effective.   If the size of your A/C unit is properly matched to accommodate the square footage of the building, this also helps to prevent mold problems.  Having your air conditioning system cleaned and checked regularly by a certified technician will also help to reduce the risk.

Mold testing kits are available at hardware stores and will also help to validate where a mold problem is located.  Identifying a mold infestation is imperative to the health of everyone spending time in the building.  If a mold outbreak is found in a commercial building, an employer may be liable for employee health problems related to mold exposure.

Mold can cause a great number of health problems, especially in pregnant women, small children, the elderly and anyone with a fragile immune system.  When mold is inhaled into the lungs, it threatens all body organs including the lungs, liver, kidneys and the brain. The following list suggests just some of the more obvious health complications possible from exposure to mold and mildew:

If mold remains within a home or commercial building for extended periods of time without being treated, health conditions will progressively increase and become more life threatening.  Cancer, brain damage and other very serious health matters are included.

Having an air conditioner cleaned and maintained regularly is the best way to avoid mold air conditioning problems in the home.  Contact Rapid Rooter in South Florida to get a free quote on regular A/C maintenance programs, emergency repairs and new installations.  Call toll free at 877-202-6874, or visit us online at http://www.rapid-rooter.com.

A toilet that does not stop running is another one that may catch your attention with the annoyance factor that it creates. If you have already replaced a seal or the flapper and it did not stop the problem, you may need some professional assistance. To confirm your analysis, take a look at your water meter and to see if it changes when no water is running. That might provide all the proof that you need. However, there are more places for you to investigate. Sometimes you may smell a musty odor in the floor, and that is usually a sign of a leak. Sewer & drain pipes are often areas where leaks are detected. You need to take action as soon as possible to prevent the damage from getting any worse.

We use the latest technology available in video cameras for leak detection in your water supply and sewer lines. Residents of Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties have relied on our service for more than 16 years. Our full service line of plumbing installation and repair includes getting a licensed plumber to your site at any time of the day or night. Your problems in sewer & drain locations are important to address as soon as they are found. A condition that is ignored may lead to the onset of mold, a potential health problem for your family.

Rapid Rooter is your safest bet for getting the services of qualified and experience professionals who take an interest in your plumbing requirements. When you exhaust everything you know how to do to stop a leak, give us a call and let us help you get it done.

The need for a functioning septic system is obvious to any homeowner. Water and waste that need to be removed from the home, is delivered to system’s major components to be efficiently processed. The two major areas of the system are the septic tank and the absorption, or drain field. When solid waste enters the septic tank, it gradually settles to the bottom, leaving household oils and grease floating at the top where they are delivered, along with any waste water, to the drainage field. Once in the drainage field, liquids are filtered through a series of perforated pipes, gravel, and soil, leaving any particulate matter behind. Water is then naturally absorbed by soil and root systems.

If not properly maintained, septic systems can not only fail, but have the potential to create serious pollution problems. Although solids will partially decompose in the tank, they will eventually reach capacity. At that point, a professional company such as Rapid Rooter, should be contracted for routine pumping & service. Maintaining a system is not something that a homeowner should ever attempt. Professionals like Rapid Rooter understand the mechanics and biology of the system, and have the equipment and skills to do the job right.

Pumping & service should be a fundamental part of any homeowners annual maintenence schedule. A sewer & drain service will ensure that the investment a homeowner has made in the septic system is well protected. Major failures may result in costly repair bills, or even the prospect of replacing an entire system. Investing in maintenence is money well spent.

For many, just the thought of decorative remodeling can stimulate us.  It seems that a great deal of re-decorators choose a theme based on designs and styles identifying earlier times, such as antique bathroom fixtures. Claw foot tubs are a good example of how using an antique fixture style can make a distinctive difference in bathroom or kitchen decor.

A retro bathtub design suggests a cottage-bungalow look, which is appreciated and very popular here in South Florida as its look also suggests a Key West accent.  In the latter part of the nineteenth century, this bathroom fixture would have been made from cast iron and porcelain and found in the more well-to-do homes.

Refinished, original clawfoot tubs can be easily found, but you also have a more up-to-date (and probably less expensive) option.  Modern replica bath fixtures (like the clawfoot tub) are available and now made of fiberglass, or other contemporary materials.  Shower fixtures are also available for many bathrooms using this tub model.

Following behind the era of the clawfoot in the 1920’s was the pedestal tub.  This style of  bathroom fixture is similar to the clawfoot tub, but sits on an oval base with a straight back and flat front rather than legs.  Wood may be used for the base allowing you to paint a color to match your bathroom interior.  Otherwise, the pedestal bathtub is more likely to be made of a porcelain or acrylic.

Vintage looking or antique plumbing fixtures are a great way to spruce up a bathroom or kitchen in any home. Combining these historical features with a modern approach will not only make you feel more at home, but it will also impress guests. By accentuating a room with crystal ornamental light fixtures, stained-glass lamps and rustic framed mirrors, there’s a hint of a Victorian art-deco chateau.

Rapid Rooter is available in Palm Beach, Broward and Dade counties for remodeling installs on kitchen and bathroom fixtures.  You can also count on them for repairs or routine maintenance by calling 877-202-6874, or visiting online at South Florida Plumbers

Times have definitely changed and most homes now have automatic dishwashers which are installed within the kitchen cabinets.  Portable dishwashers are still available, but it’s not typically the norm.   Nonetheless, what used to be one of the most bothersome chores within the home became “not quite so bad”.  There are still quarrels over who is going to take care of emptying and filling the dishwasher.  Regardless, the task is done in less time and without getting those awful wet, soggy, wrinkly hands.

Most of us count on our dishwashers a great deal.   As a matter of fact, when it is not working, fixing or replacing a dishwasher is usually top priority.  Regular dishwasher maintenance and proper handling will keep your dishwasher running efficiently without surprise breakdowns.  The first (and maybe the most important) thing you can do to maintain your dishwasher is use it.  That’s correct.  Long periods of not running the dishwasher may allow the seals to dry out and cause cracking, which will eventually lead to additional problems such as leaks.

Another important factor to maintain and improve the performance of your dishwasher is water temperature.  A dishwasher requires water to be a minimum temperature of 130° to adequately operate.   A cooler temperature may result in left behind greasy film and soap residue.  Running the faucet until the water reaches a hot temperature before starting the dishwasher will promote a better wash.  If your home water system generates hard water, consider also using a dishwasher rinse aid to help control left-behind film and residue.

Sometimes a dishwasher accumulates rust; especially in a unit installed within a well system.  Dishwasher racks may also begin to rust and deteriorate and can be responsible for spots found later on dishes.  However, these racks can be repaired and replaced.  Dishwasher filters should be changed regularly and spray arms should be checked for and freed of clogs.

You may want to consider upgrading your dishwasher if you haven’t done so within recent years.  Newer dishwasher models are more energy efficient, and the less energy and water consumed by an appliance, the more you save money and the environment.

Rapid Rooter is available to assist South Florida residents and businesses with new dishwasher installations or unit repairs; as well as installations and routine maintenance for plumbing and/or air conditioning.  For a free estimate, give us a call in Palm Beach, Broward or Dade at 877-202-6874, or visit us online at South Florida Plumbers.

When you are ready to buy a new A/C, there are some important points to consider.  First of all, you want to be sure you select a unit with higher efficiency ratings than your existing air conditioner.  If your current system is more than ten years old, you are going to see a reduction in your electric usage up to 50% with a new and higher efficient A/C unit.

Other factors to keep in mind when shopping for a new A/C are the: 1)  number of windows in your home; 2) size of your home; 3) type of insulation in the walls; 4) position of your house which faces the sun throughout the warmest times of day; 5) amount of people living in the household; 6) quantity of computers in your home and how often they are operated (a lot of heat generates from a laptop, or desktop computer); and 5) number of other appliances in your home which produce heat.

After you have selected and installed your new A/C unit, there are a few more ways to save energy with your A/C.  Those of us here in South Florida who stay south for the long, hot summer are more than familiar with the high cost electric bills that occur from simply trying to remain cool.  Keeping the sun out of the home or office as much as possible with drapes, curtains or blinds is highly recommended and will make an immense difference in how hard your air conditioning unit will need to work.

Monitoring your A/C thermostat will also contribute to a reduction in energy costs.  FPL suggests you keep your device set at 78° with the fan switch set at “AUTO”.  Also, change your A/C filters monthly.  In addition, if you have been running your ceiling fans when no one is in the room, you are wasting electricity.  These fans only cool you off, not your home.  Do yourself a favor and keep all fans off unless you are there with them.

For other suggestions about purchasing a new air conditioning unit in Broward, Dade or Palm Beach counties; or for an A/C assessment, repairs, or new A/C installation, call Rapid Rooter for a FREE estimate toll free at 877-202-6874, or visit us online at South Florida Plumbers.

In South Florida, we’re more likely to hire unlicensed plumbers when a big hurricane or tropical storm is headed our way, or after storms have caused damage. Unfortunately, a lot of unlicensed plumbers don’t have their license because of felony convictions or because they took part in illegal business practices.

Which begs the question: Why would your home to someone like that?

There are things you can do to avoid falling victim of contractor fraud at the hands of your next plumber (or roofer or contractor):

1. Simply put, ask your plumber for a license number. If that plumber refuses to provide a valid license number it is very likely that he or she is unlicensed.
2. Verify the license number on the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation Website.
3. Ask for a hard copy of your plumber’s license.
4. Check his or her driver license to make sure the picture and the signature match the photo I.D.
5. Check with the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation to make sure the company has worker’s compensation insurance. If they don’t, you could be held responsible and can be liable in an injury-related lawsuit.

Home repairs can be expensive enough as it is. Don’t fall victim to plumbing or contractor fraud and end up with even more expensed than expected. Protect yourself. Hire licensed, experienced plumbers (like the professionals of Rapid Rooter).

So far, no asteroid has hit and we’re all still here.  For the most part, other than a failing economy and political chaos, life here on Earth has continued as usual.   However, the year is only beginning.  We have eleven more months to go. Nonetheless, before worrying about the mysteries and possibilities of 2012, those of us who are staying in South Florida after February (possibly earlier) must think about preparing for the hot and humid year to come in South Florida.

Anyone staying in Palm Beach, Broward, or Dade counties for the spring and summer needs to start thinking about air conditioning maintenance.  Some Florida homes with old units may want to think about purchasing a new A/C system, or quite possibly, a new thermostat.   Installing a programmable thermostat can actually reduce your electric bill.  Putting in ceiling fans throughout the home is another way to keep the house cooler and take some of the pressure off your A/C unit.  The less your air conditioner has to work, the more money you will save.

There are some things you can do on your own to get you’re A/C system ready for the dreadful heat.  First of all, A/C filters need to be changed regularly; especially if you haven’t been using you’re air conditioner much during the cool season.  When using your system regularly, the filters should be changed monthly.  Also, if you kept your A/C condenser unit covered during the cooler months, the coils should be hosed down to help increase proper air flow.  Air ducts should also be cleaned and checked for leaks.

Some South Florida residents turn off their air conditioners around October and don’t turn them back on again until around February or March.  How these families get through the warmer winter days when the temperature reaches the 80s, I have no idea.  But there are many Floridians that do.  If you happen to be among the “No A/C bunch”, I highly suggest testing your system before things really heat up.  You do not want to find yourself without air conditioning when it’s too late and a/c technicians are at their busiest.

Regardless of the uncertainty developed from predictions of the current year, we all know it’s going to be a hot one again this summer, so call Rapid Rooter toll free at 877-202-6874, or visit us online at Broward Plumbers, to schedule a FREE estimate to have your air conditioner serviced before you are forced to spend a hot night without A/C.

Unlike city dwellers that go about living life with minimal concern about the maintenance of their running water, residents further away from town are forced to monitor and maintain water systems regularly, or else be subjected to the risk of polluted water.  If the water system experiences equipment problems, the home may quite possibly experience short periods without water at all.

If you plan on relocating to a more rural area where well systems are required, it will be to your benefit to educate yourself on owning and maintaining a well system before the big move.  When first claiming your property, you should conduct a basic water test on the current system in place.   It is highly suggested to initially retrieve a water sample from the well itself, and also a sample from inside the home (from the faucet).

Before purchasing anything for your well system, it is important to know the types of minerals and organics that are currently in the water.  This step will identify the appropriate substances, chemicals and equipment necessary to properly balance the water.   For example, some water tests will show high iron levels; others will indicate high sulfur, or organic levels.  Without a proper diagnosis, you could end up spending more money than necessary.

A basic water system will include a pump, pressure tank and water softener.  Some softeners are effective enough to remove an adequate amount of organics; avoiding the requirement to purchase additional equipment.   However, if the softener is not sufficiently removing unwanted organics; or if other high levels of minerals are present, additional equipment may be required to produce quality water.

Sporadically, your well system may encounter pump problems.  It’s a good idea to do a visual check of your equipment frequently to make sure your pump isn’t running too long, and the water pressure is at the level it should be.  If a pump seems to be a problem, it is suggested you contact the manufacturer, or hire a professional to assist you until you understand your well system fluently.

Finally and most importantly, identify your well point.  Most systems have a well point that comes out of the ground somewhere within the property.  It is extremely important that this well point is protected from obstruction.  Vehicles, mowers and any threatening mechanism should be kept far away from the well point.  It’s also a good idea to provide a cover for your water system equipment.  Storms and other natural disturbances can damage your system.

Rapid Rooter in South Florida is available to assist homeowners and businesses in Palm Beach, Broward and Dade counties with plumbing and air conditioning.   Call toll free for a FREE estimate at 877-202-6874, or visit us online at http://www.rapid-rooter.com.

The average person uses between forty (40) to eighty (80) gallons of water per day considering a daily routine of bathing, brushing teeth, flushing toilets, washing clothes and dishes, cooking; and considering a small percentage for other uses.   You can check your household water intake by reading and recording your meter for weekly usage .  Even better, once you have identified your weekly water intake, take it a bit further and record your usage on a daily (or even hourly) basis.   Then begin taking new steps in your daily routine to conserve water.  After changing your water habits, revisit your meter and see for yourself the difference and eventually, the savings.

Commercial businesses are notorious for allowing leaky faucets to drip either because employees fail to report such leaks, or the leaks are simply too low on the priority list.  With a struggling economy, it is in your company’s best interest to take care of those leaks.  If you are an employee, your employer will appreciate a water leak report and so will your community.  If you are the employer, you may want to consider having a routine plumbing inspection to avoid hidden problems.

There is a wide variety of faucet designs and repairing a faucet will depend upon the type of faucet your leak is falling from.  Many older faucets require the fixture to be taken apart to replace the washer (or whatever part your system requires to prevent leakage and distribute pressure).  However, most of today’s modern faucet fixtures do not include washers.  Even without washers, faucets can still leak, but these new fixtures are designed more durably.

Replacing an old faucet with a newer design is the ideal solution to avoid reoccurring leak problems and to encourage limited water waste.  In addition, today’s faucet models include attractive and unique designs at affordable prices that can really make a difference to the look of your kitchen or bath.  Should you decide to replace your old faucet, be sure to record the model information upon your purchase.   Identifying the type of faucet fixture will be necessary when requesting repair service, or purchasing any new parts in the future.

Whether you are ready for a new faucet; just want to repair your existing faucet; or interested in a full plumbing inspection, Rapid Rooter in South Florida can help.  Call today toll free to schedule a FREE, no obligation, estimate at 877-202-6874, or visit us online at  South Florida Plumbers.