Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

Regular plumbing maintenance can keep your home’s plumbing system working properly all year. Plumbing maintenance takes only a little time and it will help minimize plumbing problems that will require more time and money to repair.
Bathroom
Fix leaking faucets or showers. A small leak in a faucet or shower could get worse over time. The amount of water that is leaking may seam insignificant, but even a little water can cause water damage which can be quite costly to repair. Not to mention the gallons of wasted water that a leak can produce. Check for faucets leaks regularly to catch them early.

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• Clear slow drains. Debris that collects in sink and tub drains will cause the water to drain slower and slower over time. It only takes a few minutes to clear the debris out of the drain and get it flowing again. This should be done every few months or when you notice a drain slowing down.
• Clean faucet aerators. Calcium builds up inside a faucet aerator over time and it can obstruct the flow of water. You may notice lower water pressure or an irregular spray in the faucet or shower as the calcium build up. To fix this problem just remove the aerators and clean them out on a regular basis.
• Fix running toilets. The working parts of a toilet can start to wear down over time and cause problems. Often this involves running water such as when the toilet handle sticks and it needs a little jiggle or you hear water running when the toilet is not flushed. It may seam like it is not a big issue but a running toilet can waste an incredible amount of water. Often the repair that is needed is quick and inexpensive. Fixing a running toilet should be a regular item on your plumbing maintenance checklist.

Kitchen

• Check for kitchen sink leaks. The kitchen sink gets a lot of use and can often be the source of leaks. Leaks can occur at the faucet, at the sink strainers, at the garbage disposal, or from any sink accessories. Check the top and bottom of the sink carefully for any active leaks or signs of water damage on a regular basis.
• Check for garbage disposal leaks and maintenance requirements. The garbage disposal can also be a source of leaks that can easily go unnoticed. Check the garbage disposal for signs that it is developing a leak. Also, it is a good idea to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintaining your unit.
• Clean the kitchen sink drain. Consider using a mild home made drain cleaner through your kitchen sink drain on a regular basis. This will help to break up the usual buildup in the drain and keep the water flowing.

Septic and Sewer A main line stoppage or a sewer back up is a serious plumbing problem that is best to avoid. Regular maintenance is the best way to do this.

• Maintain the septic system. To avoid problems with your septic system have it inspected regularly. Septic tank pumping is an important part of maintaining the septic system and an inspection will let you know when pumping is necessary.
• Maintain your sewer main. If you have regular main line stoppages try to prevent them through regular maintenance. Be aware of how your sewer main line is functioning and how long it usually takes between stoppages. For houses where tree roots cause regular sewer main problems it is a good idea to schedule regular sewer main snaking as a preventive measure. Look out for the signs of a sewer drain clog and catch it before you have a full stoppage.

Checklist To Winterize Plumbing In The Home

The cold winter months can wreak havoc on your home's plumbing system if you aren't prepared for the temperature drop. Frozen water in pipes can be inconvenient at best and destructive at worst. As a good preventive measure get ready for winter with this winterize plumbing checklist.

1. Fix Leaks

Even the smallest water leak can turn into a big problem when temperatures drop. Take the time to check all exposed pipes indoors and out for leaks. If you wait for the water to freeze the damage to surrounding pipes is likely to be more significant. If your pipes are insulated feel for moisture that might have been soaked up by the insulation if there is a hidden leak.

 

2. Insulate Pipes

A basic preventive measure you can take is to make sure that any exposed pipes are well insulated. To locate exposed pipes look in your attic, crawl space, and garage. If you can see the pipe it needs to be wrapped with insulation foam. Pipe wrap insulation is inexpensive and easy to install and it can save you on heating costs as well as keeping your pipes protected.

3. Swamp Cooler

An evaporative cooler, also known as a swamp cooler, is another source of water that needs to be drained before winter. To winterize your swamp cooler turn off the water and power to the unit first. Drain the water out of the cooler and the water supply line to the unit as well. This is a good time to clean the interior and change the pads. Finally, cover the swamp cooler with a cover or tarp to keep it dry over the winter months.

4. Pump House

Prevention and planning are key for a smooth winter season when your water comes from a well. Proper insulation of the pump houses can keep pipes from freezing. For added protection it is important to insulate any exposed pipes in the pump house. A heat source is also needed to keep the temperature of the pump house above freezing.

5. Outside Hose Bibs

Protecting the hose bibs and pipes from the cold is very important. Start by removing any garden hoses that may be connected to outdoor faucets. By removing garden hoses you ensure that water doesn’t stay trapped in the hose bib where it can freeze and damage pipes. Drain any water the hoses may have in them before storing. Protect garden hoses by storing them in the garage or shed during winter.
To protect hose bibs from the cold you can drain collected water and insulate them. In places where temperatures drop significantly every winter many homes have dedicated shut off valves for outdoor hose bibs or faucets. If you happen to have a shut off valve you can turn the water to the hose bibs off. You will then need to drain any water that is already in the pipes. This can be done by opening the hose bibs and letting the water drain completely. If you don’t have a shut off valve you can protect hose bibs and outdoor faucets by insulating them with hose bib covers. Hose bib covers are inexpensive and easy to install. The insulation that these foam covers provide will keep the hose bibs from freezing.

6. Sprinklers System

The pipes of your irrigation system are a likely place for water to collect and then freeze in cold weather. To winterize your sprinkler system turn off the water and flush out any collected water by turning on each valve.

7. Locate Your Water Main

Lastly you should be sure to locate your water main in case of an emergency. Should you be faced with a burst pipe due to freezing you’ll want to be able to shut off the water quickly to minimize damage.

 

How To Avoid Septic Tank Problems

Septic tank problems are one of the more difficult problems to deal with because of their dirty nature. People who are not used to them will find them gut-wrenching, making the task quite impossible. Calling a plumber would be the next best thing to do but unfortunately, they can be quite costly too. The best and most obvious way to dealing with this dilemma is by avoiding septic tanks problems through cleanliness and maintenance. This article will look into the common septic problems and how to avoid them.
Excessive use and dumping of oil and grease can clog up both the upper chamber of the tank and the inlet drains because they can take quite some time to degrade. Aside from the clogging, you will most likely notice some unpleasant odors due to the clog. It will also make emptying the tank a much more difficult time when that time of the year comes along. A simple solution for this problem is to lessen your oil and grease usage. If you can’t seem to curb them, try using a separate system for your oil and grease where you can dump them without affecting your septic tank.
Throwing non-biodegradable items such as plastics down the drain can also lead to clogging the pipes or the soil. It isn’t too much of a hassle really to dispose of garbage properly because it will ultimately do you good in the long run.
Too much water filling your system can also lead to failure or shutting down. This may also be the result of too many food particles that are present in your system. Avoid overloading your system at all costs. Again, proper disposal is stressed to avoid this problem.
Certain chemicals can also harm your system as well as some septic tank additives that are thought to help the system. Adding or disposing of paints, pesticides and solvents can lead septic tank damage and will render it totally useless. Through proper disposal, you will be doing yourself and mother nature a favor. It will also extend the life of your system thereby sparing you from the hassles and expenses that come with repairs.
Lastly, never try fixing something that you have no knowledge of. It may make matters worse than it already is. Unless you have the knowledge and skill as well as the stomach to fix your septic tank, it would make everything easier for everyone if you just call the local health or environment authorities to assess the problem.
Septic tank problems are very hard to fix but ironically, it isn’t very hard to avoid. Repeated several times in the article is the need for proper waste disposal which isn’t impossible to do. Just make sure to have trash cans nearby where you can throw away your non-biodegradable wastes with ease instead of throwing them down the drain and you’ll be problem free. It may be difficult at the start because of what you’re used to but as time goes by, you’ll get used to proper disposal.

How to Care for Your Septic Tank and Septic System

Septic System Ongoing Maintenance

If you live in a rural area you probably have a septic system instead of a sewer connection. Taking care of your septic system isn't difficult, because modern systems function efficiently when you follow a few basic guidelines. Put these tips to use for a clean and trouble-free septic system.

Divert Rainwater From the Septic Drainfield

• A soggy drainfield won't absorb and neutralize liquid waste. Plan landscaping, roof gutters and foundation drains so that excess water is diverted away from the septic drainfield.

Don't Overload the Septic Tank and Drainfield

• Check faucets and toilets for leaks; make repairs if necessary.
  
• Use aerators on faucets and flow reducer nozzles on showers to help lower water consumption.
  
• Reduce water levels for small loads of laundry.
  
• Wait until the dishwasher is full to run it.
  
• Use a displacer to reduce the amount of water needed to flush the toilet.

Keep Trees Away from the Septic System

• Discourage root damage by keeping trees at least 100 feet away from the septic system.
  
• Trees with very aggressive roots, such as willows, should be even farther away from the system.

The Toilet Isn't a Garbage Disposal

• Never flush cat litter, disposable diapers, sanitary napkins, tampons, paper towels, facial tissues, coffee grounds, or cigarette butts and filters. They'll clog your septic tank in less time than you might imagine.

Use Garbage Disposals Wisely

• A garbage disposal can double the amount of solids added to a septic tank.
• Choose a top-line disposal that grinds food into tiny particles that are easier for a system to digest.

Minimize Heavy Duty Cleaners

• Overuse of heavy cleaners kills beneficial bacteria in the septic tank, so solids won't break down as well.

Do Not Pour Grease Down the Drain

• Grease can clog the septic drainfield, making it impossible for soil to absorb liquids. If that happens you'll need a new drainfield.

Avoid Hazardous Chemicals

• Varnish, paint thinners, motor oils, gasoline and other similar chemicals can ruin your system and are a hazard to groundwater. Dispose of them properly.

Protect the System from Damage

• Do not drive over the drainfield, build a structure on top of it, or cover it with concrete or asphalt.
• Do plant grass on the drainfield to minimize soil erosion.

Perform Regular Maintenance

• Solids must eventually be pumped from the tank. Many experts advise a family of four with a 1,000 gallon septic tank to have the tank pumped after 3-5 years of full time use. Other experts say you can go much longer between pumping operations.
• Never attempt to open a septic tank yourself. Gases and bacteria in it are dangerous.

Read more here

Conserve Outside

Overview Why Save Water Outside? Despite our rainy winters, we get less rainfall than Tucson, AZ during the summer months. That's when our reservoirs are lowest, and demand for irrigation water is highest. Choosing drought-tolerant plants, building rich soil, watering wisely, and following the other key steps below will help you.

• Save money on water bills
• Save time maintaining your garden
• Protect your family's health by reducing the need for chemicals
• Protect our environment
• Grow a healthy, beautiful yard and garden all year 'round!

How To's Make the most of the water you will use in the summer:

• Aerate lawns in the spring to better absorb water.
• Mulch planting beds to decrease evaporation.
• Select the right plants for the right place - consult our new Plant List.
• Tune-up and improve your irrigation system - rebates are available!
• Wash your cars at locations that recycle their water.

5 Steps to Save Water Whether you're starting from scratch or improving an existing garden, follow these five steps:

• Build healthy soil with compost and mulch for plants with deeper roots, fewer pest and weed problems, and lower water needs.
• Choose the right plants that that are pest-resistant, require less water, and match the sun, shade, and soil in your yard. Use the Plant List to select the right plants for your garden,
• Practice smart watering to prevent plant disease. If you have an automatic watering system, check our Irrigation/Sprinkler System Rebates.
• Think twice before using pesticides. Keep your plants healthy by creating a garden that prevents problems before they start.
• Practice natural lawn care and enjoy a healthy lawn that needs less water, fertilizer and pesticides.

Read more here
 

Surviving Arizona Summer Heat

The Heat Can
Make You Sick!
Heat Cramps
Muscle spasms or cramps are an early warning sign
of heat illness. Immediately get to a cooler place
and rest. Lightly stretch the affected muscle. Drink
1/2 a glass of water every 15 minutes.
Heat Exhaustion
Sweating heavily, headache, upset stomach or
vomiting, and dizziness are all signs of heat
exhaustion. Cool, moist, pale, or flushed skin
(turns red) are also signs of heat exhaustion. Heat
exhaustion can become heat stroke. Immediately get
to a cooler place and rest. If symptoms worsen, get
help immediately. Drink 1/2 a glass of water every
15 minutes.
Heat Stroke
Hot, red skin, dizziness and confusion: rapid weak
pulse, and rapid shallow breathing are signs of
heat stroke. If a person was sweating from activity,
skin may be wet; otherwise, it will be dry. Call
9-1-1 or your local emergency number. Immerse
in a cool bath or wrap with wet sheets and turn
on air conditioning and a fan. Watch for breathing
problems. If you are helping someone and they
refuse to drink water or are throwing up, don’t give
them anything to eat or drink.

Read more here

Federal Tax Credit

Energy Efficient Federal Tax Credit

Take advantage of the Federal tax credit of up to $1500 dollars off. Credit available towards the purchase and install of new energy efficient equipment until December 2010. In addition a new energy efficient air conditioning unitl will save you money over the years on utility costs.

Federal Tax Credit Chart
AC Split Systems
16 SEER 13 EER n/a HSPF = 30% or $1500 max.

AC Package Systems
14 SEER 12 EER n/a HSPF = 30% or $1500 max.

Heat Pump Split Systems
15 SEER 12.5 EER 8.5 HSPF = 30% or $1500 max.

Heat Pump Package Systems
14 SEER 12 EER 8 HSPF = 30% or $1500 max.

TEP $250 Rebate - Efficient Home Cooling

The Efficient Home Cooling Program provides rebates towards the purchase of qualifying high-efficiency air conditioners and heat pumps. The amount of the rebate depends on the efficiency (SEER) of equipment you purchase. View rebate schedule.

Tucson Electric $250 Rebate

Save up to $1,750.00 by using both rebates!

Top 6 Home Cooling Steps

Running your air conditioner during the summer months can raise your energy bill quite significantly. Learn how to save money while air conditioning your home to a nice cool temperature.

1. Keep the Filter Clean

A dusty filter reduces air flow. Examine the unit's air filters once a month and clean or replace filters when necessary. Keeping your filters clean can cut the energy used 5 to 15%. Keep heat-producing appliances, such as televisions or lamps, away from the thermostat. The heat they produce can fool your thermostat into continuing to cool. Extra: If you are looking to replace your thermostat, you may want to choose one that offers a warning LED each month to remind you to change the filter.

2. Maintain the Ducts and Vents

If you are using a central air conditioning unit, make sure the air ducts are properly insulated, especially those that pass through the attic or any other unconditioned areas. You may want to have a specialist check for holes or leaks in the ducts. Duct tape can offer a temporary repair, but you will want to have any holes or leaks properly fixed. Make sure furniture does not obstruct air conditioning vents. Close off unused rooms and close vents in those rooms.

3. Check for Household Leaks

Make sure air isn't escaping through unnecessary openings such as fireplace dampers, doors and windows. Take a good look at the seals around doors and windows to see if weather stripping or caulk needs to be applied.

4. What You Do Around the House

Natural light is great, but the sun's heat can raise the temperature in your home. Make sure blinds and drapes are closed to help reduce the sun's thermal heat. If you are intent on letting the light in, install reflective film on the windows to block some of the heat. You also want to reserve heat and humidity producing tasks like cooking and doing the laundry to early morning or late evening.

5. Use Your Fans

Fans can also help cool your home. No one is saying that a fan can replace your air conditioner, but they can give supplemental cooling. Substituting fans for air conditioners on milder days can save 60% or more in energy costs. Appropriately setting the fan on your air conditioner can help you save as well. Set the fan speed on high except in very humid weather. This helps push cool air around the house.

6. Set the Thermostat to the Best Temperature

Turning your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit is the best setting for your air conditioner during warmer months. Reducing your home's temperature 72 degrees Fahrenheit could increase your cooling costs 12 to 47 percent. Also remember, setting it really low at first will not help your home cool faster. It will use more energy and if your forget to adjust it, you will be running far less efficiently than you think.

Read more here

ScaleBlaster Water Softeners

Introducing ScaleBlaster, the "Going Green" alternative to water softeners. The ScaleBlaster Water Softener prevents soap that won't lather well. Lime scale deposits on faucets, sinks and other plumbing fixtures. Mold and mildew on shower curtains. Shortage of hot water and poor water pressure and bad tasting water.

ScaleBlaster is a compact, state-of-the art, computerized system that is installed on the incoming waterline of the house or building.

This innovative product produces an oscillating electronic field using a unique and complex modulating frequency wave form that changes the physical shape, size and charge of the calcium molecules and causes them to lose their adhesive properties.

ScaleBlaster is installed on the incoming water supply line going to your house. It is non-invasive and no plumbing work is installed. It is easy to install and requires no maintenance, changing of filters or bags of salt.

(click photo for larger image)

The Causes of Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is a phrase often used to describe what is technically a low flow situation, where one or more fixtures in a home do not provide adequate water flow. There is a relation between pressure and flow, but it is possible to have adequate water pressure but still have low flow out of one or more fixtures. For this section, we will use “Low Water Pressure” for both low water flow and low pressure, as they both have the same effect: not enough water being supplied to the fixture.

Single Fixture Low Water Pressure

If the low pressure conditions exist only at one or just a few fixtures, we have specific recommendations that may help. For all faucets, view our Low Water Pressure in Faucets article. For showers, please see our Low Water Pressure in Shower Heads article.

Whole House Low Water Pressure

If every fixture in the house has low water pressure, the cause may be corroded piping, a restriction of the line due to a failed pressure relief valve (PRV) or backflow preventer, low municipal water flow or a valve partially closed.

Testing Water Pressure

While these can be hard to find, Pex Supply does sell hose bib water pressure gages:

These are simple to use. Make sure no water is running elsewhere in the home. Thread the pressure gage onto any hose bib, and turn on the bib. Write down the resulting pressure reading. It is your “static water pressure”.
Municipalities may supply water pressure from 20 to 100 PSI, but typical readings are 50 to 75 PSI. If your water pressure is above 40 PSI, your “low water pressure” problem is not a water pressure problem, but a problem with the flow of water through your plumbing system. If the pressure is below 20 PSI, contact your local water supplier. If you have a pressure reducing valve, or PRV, you can adjust the PRV by turning the hex head nut at the top of the bell counter-clockwise, and observing if the pressure is increased. See the PRV section below for disassembling and repairing a PRV.

Partially Closed Valves

Starting with the easiest solution first, verify that the shut off valve on the main water supply is fully open. Shut off valves are usually located where the plumbing enters the home. There are two basic types, the ball valve configuration and the gate valve configuration.
The ball valve usually has a handle similar to the image, where the long portion of the handle indicates the position of the ball diverter inside. When the handle is “in-line” with the piping, as shown in the photo, water can flow freely. Turning the handle 90 degrees shuts off the water entirely. Any position in-between restricts flow.

A gate valve, and its cousins that look similar such as globe valves, use a rotary handle to determine the position of the “gate” inside. Turning the valve handle to the right (clockwise) closes the gate, preventing water flow. Turning the valve handle to the left (counter-clockwise) opens the gate completely. Older valves may be stiff and seem frozen. Under the handle is the packing nut; using a wrench on it and turning it 1/8 turn, just barely loosening it, is often all that’s needed to “un-freeze” the handle.
Where else will valves be? If all the hot water seems to have a low flow situation, check the cold water inlet to the water heater; it should also have one of these valves. In some older homes, you may have multiple valves as plumbing has been reconfigured.

The PRV or Backflow Preventer

Some homes have a pressure reducing valve (PRV) or backflow preventer installed. A typical PRV is pictured at the right. The PRV has an internal assembly of springs and discs that regulate the pressure coming into the home. When these parts start to fail, the result can be reduced flow to the entire house.
Shut off the water before disassembling the valve. If the main water shut off to the home is before the PRV, you can use it to shut off the water. However, if the PRV is located before the main shut off, the water must be shut off at the meter or municipal supply, usually located at the edge of your property. If the parts inside the PRV are corroded or fused with mineral deposits, take all the parts to the plumbing department to obtain exact replacements. In some cases, you may have to replace the entire PRV.

Corroded Piping

Most often seen with steel or galvanized water piping after 18 to 20 years, the internal passageways of the pipe may be partially closed due to years of corrosion and mineral buildup.

Unfortunately, there is not much that can be done to correct this problem, other than replacing the pipes. This is an expensive, labor and material intensive job. There are measures you can take to mitigate the effects of it while you save to have the house re-piped.
In most cases, homes with internally corroded pipes have “full flow” fixtures as well. Installing flow restrictors in the faucets and showerheads may help, especially when multiple fixtures are being used. For faucets, modern low flow faucets with aerators will seem to provide more flow than before. This won’t help your toilet tank to fill quickly, or your washing machine to fill any faster, but it can help reduce the appearance of low flow problems for showering, washing your hands, etc.

Read more here

Hot Water Heaters Tucson

Cummings Plumbing is the plumber to call if you need a new Gas or Electric Water Heater for your for your Tucson area home or business. We have over 50 years of experience with hot water heater replacements and upgrades.
Cummings Plumbing proudly offers, stocks and installs high quality water heaters from Bradford White, Rheem, RUUD and A.O. Smith. Contact us today to learn how a new high efficiency water heater can save you money on your utility bill.

You may be eligible for a $75 rebate from Southwest Gas on the purchase of your new gas hot water heater.

Employment Ops

In the spring of 1985, Larry Cummings Sr. opened Cummings Plumbing with one truck and one employee providing Tucson with some minor service work. Larry’s father and grandfather were in the plumbing business, so it was a natural progression for him to follow in their footsteps.

Leroy Johnson was the first Cummings employee and he is still with the company today as its vice president. Now Cummings Plumbing, Heating and Cooling’s employees number more than 60 and the company has 70 trucks.

We are currently accepting applications.

Toilet Repairs Sales Installs Tucson AZ

Cummings Plumbing can save you money on your water bill every month by replacing your old toilet with a new water efficient toilet. Low-flow toilets save a substantial amount of water by using only up to 1.6 gallons of water per flush compared with about 3.5 gallons of water used by a standard conventional toilet. Estimates show that for a family of four , a low-flow toilet could save an average of 20,000 gallons of water per year.
Cummings Plumbing proudly offers, stocks and installs high quality Kohler, American Standard, Briggs, Eljer, TOTO and Pro-flo toilets.
We can also fix and repair existing toilets and toilet problems.
Don't flush any more money down the drain; contact Cummings Plumbing today to learn more.

ScaleBlaster Water Softeners

Introducing ScaleBlaster, the "Going Green" alternative to water softeners. The ScaleBlaster Water Softener prevents soap that won't lather well. Lime scale deposits on faucets, sinks and other plumbing fixtures. Mold and mildew on shower curtains. Shortage of hot water and poor water pressure and bad tasting water.

ScaleBlaster is a compact, state-of-the art, computerized system that is installed on the incoming waterline of the house or building.

This innovative product produces an oscillating electronic field using a unique and complex modulating frequency wave form that changes the physical shape, size and charge of the calcium molecules and causes them to lose their adhesive properties.

ScaleBlaster is installed on the incoming water supply line going to your house. It is non-invasive and no plumbing work is installed. It is easy to install and requires no maintenance, changing of filters or bags of salt.

(click photo for larger image)

Coupons!

Air Duct Cleaning

Air Duct Cleaning And Installation
Cummings Plumbing Heating and Cooling installs, inspects and cleans air ducts. When an HVAC system is installed, the ductwork gets placed usually within ceiling crawl spaces. Cummings designs and installs this ductwork, which is connected to your furnace and/or air conditioner.

Every year, one of our professional technicians will inspect your system and help you decide if it needs cleaning. Should that be the case, we connect a truck-powered vacuum to your air duct system near the furnace. As the various outlets are closed off, a forceful vacuum is created on the entire system, enabling us to effectively remove dust and contaminants.

High pressure air hoses are run through all the duct work, from the register to the furnace. As the air is released through the hose, it scours the inside of the ducts, further loosening any remaining dust, mold and debris, which is quickly removed by the vacuum.

People who suffer from allergens or disease-causing bacteria will especially benefit. In addition, molds, viruses and fungus are removed, making a cleaner living environment. Cleaning air ducts may increase heating and cooling system efficiencies, help ensure longer life and perhaps even save money on repairs and monthly utility bills.

Open Monday - Saturday 7am - 7pm 1050 S. Park Tucson, Arizona 85719 Phone: 520 293-6900 / Fax: 520 888-3517

Kitchen Bathroom Faucets

Kitchen, Bathroom Faucets And Fixtures
Get the perfect kitchen or bathroom faucet! Cummings Plumbing can help you match the style and finish of existing fixtures such as cabinet hardware and sink or basin material. We offer a wide selection of kitchen and bathroom faucets that feature excellent quality, stylish looks and superior functionality. We proudly offer, stock and install high quality faucets from Delta, Moen, Price Pfister and American Standard. Our low-flow plumbing fixtures are available in all the styles and colors of conventional fixtures. Low-flow fixtures are environmentally friendly, especially here in the desert as they save water, not waste it. For example, conventional shower heads use between 4 and 5 gallons of water per minute. Low-flow shower heads use about 2½ gallons per minute. A bathroom or kitchen faucet with an aerator can use 40% less water.

Open Monday - Saturday 7am - 7pm 1050 S. Park Tucson, Arizona 85719 Phone: 520 293-6900 / Fax: 520 888-3517

Polybutylene

Polybutylene And Pipe Replacement
Polybutylene is a form of plastic resin (the blue or grey plastic pipe) that was used extensively in the manufacture of water supply piping from 1978 until 1995. However, it became apparent over time that polybutylene pipes can leak or burst anytime without warning - destroying furniture, family heirlooms, and even causing structural damage.

In most cases it takes years for polybutylene systems to fail. While it may leak within a few years of installation, the majority of leaks start to occur in the 10-15 year time frame. In addition, insurance premiums could increase or insurance companies could limit coverage in homes with polybutylene leak claims.

Homes with polybutylene plumbing sell for less and take longer to sell because mortgage lenders insist on insurance documentation before closing. Frequently, a home inspector flags the problem, and the pipes are replaced before closing. Unfortunately, some prospective buyers simply ignore homes with polybutylene because they recognize it as a potential problem from the start.

Cummings Plumbing, Heating and Cooling expertly and efficiently repipes homes, with the payment for most jobs handled through escrow.

WE KNOW POLYBUTYLENE! You could have polybutylene pipes and not even know it. Make a proactive call now to Cummings Plumbing, Heating and Cooling for a free inspection and estimate. Cummings repipes water, sewer and gas lines.

Open Monday - Saturday 7am - 7pm 1050 S. Park Tucson, Arizona 85719 Phone: 520 293-6900 / Fax: 520 888-3517

Projects

No Project To Large Or To Small
Cummings Plumbing Heating and Cooling has successfully accomplished several projects with the Marana United School District. Some of these undertakings include:

Mountain View High School
Spring break was the perfect time to eliminate an age old problem with water supply volume to Mountain View High School. Cummings Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, along with the school district’s maintenance staff completed the job.

Mountain View High School Plumbing Project

Marana High School
Replaced 59 year old fire hydrant with new model. Hydrant was leading badly and work had to be done at night to prevent disruption of classes. The original old technology presented a difficult, but not impossible challenge for Cummings Plumbing, Heating and Cooling.

Butterfield Elementary School
Butterfield Elementary School’s new modular building required a Septic Tank and Leaching field. Neither sewer manholes in the street were accessible. Cummings Plumbing, Heating and Cooling performed the task within the deadline for school.

Marana High School Plumbing Project

Marana High School Marana High School has a packaged waste water treatment plant, which presented problems. The Septic crew at Cummings Plumbing, Heating and Cooling consulted with the original architect to complete the needed design changes for proper function. The system holds 72,000 gallons of product, which had to be removed, the plant was cleaned and numerous modifications were needed. The goal of the project was to add a valve which would allow the plant capacity to be cut in half during the summer, to keep the chemical process working as intended. All was done without major interruptions or delays.

No project is ever too large or too small for Cummings Plumbing, Heating and Cooling!

Open Monday - Saturday 7am - 7pm 1050 S. Park Tucson, Arizona 85719 Phone: 520 293-6900 / Fax: 520 888-3517