Peterman Plumbing, Heating and Cooling
 

 
Frequently Asked Questions
 
    How often should i replace my furnace filter?  
       We recommend replacing your furnace filter during your fall and spring check-ups but some people like changing their filter more often. It only takes a minute to pull the filter out and check it. If it looks dirty and plugged it is time for a fresh one.  
 
    How often do i need to service my furnace and air conditioner?  
       Heating and cooling equipment should be serviced once a year to keep it in good running order and avoid untimely breakdowns due to dirty filters, plugged condensation drains or other problems that can be spotted during yearly maintenance. It is best to service the furnace in the fall just before heating season and the air conditioner in late spring before peak cooling season.  
 
    Why did my frostproof outside hydrant freeze and break?  
       Even though the outside faucet is "frostproof" you still need to make sure your hose is disconnected in freezing weather. If you leave your hose connected and the temperature dips below freezing the copper hydrant casing inside the wall on the hydrant can split. Another safeguard would be to install a “stop & waste” valve on the waterline to the hydrant. In the fall when you are done using the hydrant, shut the valve off and open the "waste" plug to drain the water from the line. In spring simply turn the valve on and you are ready to go.  
 
    What is safe to use to clean my new faucets with?  
       When you have a new faucet installed the plumber will give you the paperwork that came with the faucet. Read the paperwork to see what the manufacturer of your particular faucet recommends. Even with the "new" lifetime finishes on faucets today some care and common sense needs to be taken. A safe bet is usually soft scrub and a sponge.  
 
    Is there anything i can do to keep my disposal from smelling?  
       Baking soda, citrus peels and ice cubes will freshen the disposal and remove buildup from the blades.  
 
    I need to have my sewer cleaned every year because tree and shrub roots grow through the joints of the line and plug it. Is there anything i can do to avoid that?  
       If possible avoid planting shrubs and trees near the main sewer line that goes to the street. If you are not sure where the line is, the city can locate it for you. If you have existing trees and shrubs you can flush a small amount of rock salt down the toilet or place it directly in the clean out periodically will slow growth of the roots in the pipe but will not eliminate the problem. Even cutting the culprit down is not a sure fix because tree roots continue to grow for up to 10 years after a tree is cut down. Replacing an old clay tile sewer line with plastic pipe and not planting near the line is your best bet.  
 
    What is a backflow preventer and why do i have/need one?  
       A backflow preventer is a valve that is attached to your waterline to prevent water from back siphoning into the city water supply. E.P.A., environmental protection agency, and the city requires all businesses and anyone who has a lawn sprinkling system to have a backflow preventer. Backflow preventers must be checked for proper operation once a year. You will receive a notice from the city when your test is due.