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The strongest drain cleaner is an acidic drain cleaner. When you have a clogged drain, it’s always best to try snaking or plunging it first. This method will ensure you do not damage your pipes. If that fails, give a drain cleaning product a try (at your own risk). 

Different types of drain cleaners have different uses. When you have a tough clog – hair, food, grease, soap scum, paper – an acidic drain cleaning product will be your best bet.

Keep in mind that you should never use chemical drain cleaning products in a completely clogged drain. These types of clogs require the product to sit in the drain for an extended period and this can cause damage to your pipes.
If a drain cleaning product doesn’t cut it, plumbing contractors in Edmonton can help. Contact a local, experienced plumber to have your drains unclogged and working like new in no time.

Drain cleaners can be bad for pipes. This is particularly true for chemically costic drain cleaners. 

Chemical drain cleaners create a chemical reaction in your pipes. This results in heat being emitted. It is this heat that can be bad for your pipes. Older and plastic pipes, especially, can be damaged by chemical drain cleaners. If you have plastic pipes and you use a chemical cleaner, the heat may melt the plastic. This can result in leaks and further damage. As well, drain cleaners are not good for septic systems.

To avoid damaging your pipes, try another method of unclogging your pipe first. If you’re unsure, call a professional drain cleaning plumber services provider to help you get the job done right.

The difference between a boiler and a hot water tank has to do with the way in which each uses the hot water that it produces.

Both boilers and hot water tanks take cool water, heat this water and then distribute it throughout a home via pipes. However, the water that is heated by a boiler is distributed throughout the home via pipes, radiators and radiant in-floor systems in order to heat it – to keep the rooms, floors, garage, etc. comfortable and warm.

On the other hand, a hot water tank heats water that is used for cooking and cleaning purposes – for showers, dishwashing, laundry, etc.

There are several preventive measures you can take:

• Insulate your pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, garages, and crawl spaces.
• Keep your home’s thermostat set to a consistent temperature, even at night and when you’re away.
• Allow faucets to drip slightly during extremely cold spells to keep water flowing.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

Chemical drain cleaners do work, depending on the type of clog you have and how tough it is. Chemical drain cleaners work by creating a chemical reaction in your pipes.

When using chemical drain cleaners, always make sure to choose the right type of cleaner for the job. Also, make sure you know what kind of pipes you have, and how old they are so you can avoid using any chemical drain cleaner that might damage your pipes. Older pipes can become damaged due to the chemical reaction created by chemical drain cleaners. This can lead to bigger issues, like leaking pipes, and the need for plumbing repair services.

To avoid damage, physical methods are always best. Plunging or snaking a drain will ensure that it is not damaged by chemicals. When in doubt, call a drain cleaning plumber for professional advice and assistance.

The amount of time it takes to get hot water from a new water heater depends on the size and type of hot water heater. A properly and professionally installed gas hot water heater will provide hot water most quickly. An average 40-gallon heater will only take about 30 to 40 minutes to provide heat water, while you can expect hot water from a larger tank (80-gallons) in approximately 60 to 70 minutes. Electric hot water tanks, on the other hand, will take a little longer. For an average 40-gallon electric heater it will take about 60 to 80 minutes and for an 80-gallon tank about 2 hours.

Tankless water heaters are the most energy-efficient hot water systems on the market. In fact, tankless water heaters can be approximately 35% – 80% more efficient than traditional hot water tanks. 

Tankless hot water heaters can be powered by electricity or gas. However, gas-powered tankless heaters are more efficient. In addition to being more energy-efficient, tankless water heaters cost less to operate (up to 50% less than traditional hot water tanks) and last longer (up to double the lifetime).

The plumbing professionals at ProSolutions PHAC recommend the following high-efficiency tankless water heater:

• Noritz EZ111 (Gas Powered)

Please note: Although tankless water heaters are the most energy-efficient hot water system, they are not for everyone. Our guide to tankless water heaters can help you decide if a tankless heater is the best option for your home.

There are several common signs that your hot water tank may stop working. Consider calling a water heater services company to take a look at and repair or replace your unit if: 

1. Your unit is getting old. The average water heater will last 8 to 10 years. 
2. Your water smells or is discoloured. For example, if the water looks rusty the unit may be corroding. 
3. You hear loud noises coming from your hot water heater. Loud popping or crackling sounds can mean sediment has built up in the tank.
4. Your tank is leaking or you notice water around the water heater.
5. Your hot water tank no longer provides enough hot water.
6. The water pressure has gone down and is not sufficient.