Raymark Plumbing and Sewer

The 5 Most Commonly Asked Plumbing Questions, Answered

From a dripping faucet to a broken water heater, plumbing problems can pop up when you least expect them. And when they do, it’s important to have a trusted plumbing company that you can rely on for prompt, professional service. Raymark Plumbing & Sewer is a family-owned business that has been serving the Seattle area for over 45 years. We’re known for finding solutions to problems when other plumbing companies could not. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most asked questions by our customers.

Why is my drain clogged?

Some of the most common reasons for clogged drains are oil, fat, and grease buildup, food debris, and hair and soap scum. These build up over time and eventually cause your drains to slow down or become completely blocked. If you notice that your drains are starting to drain more slowly than usual, contact a plumbing professional right away so they can clear the clog before it becomes worse. Remember to put garbage in the garbage can and not down your drains. This is true of the toilet too.

Why is water leaking from my shower head?

Water leaking from your shower head is most likely due to a problem with the washer. The washer is located at the point where the water supply line connects to the shower head. Over time, these washers can become worn out and need to be replaced. Keep in mind that shower fixtures differ greatly, depending on how old the shower head is. But a qualified plumbing professional should be able to solve the problem. Shower head clogs can also result from a build up of calcium.

Why is water pooling around my water heater?

If water is pooling around your water heater contact a plumber right away. This could be indicative of a serious problem and could be a faulty pressure relief valve. This valve is designed to release excess pressure from the tank to prevent the tank from exploding. If this valve is not working properly, it can cause water to leak out from the base of the tank. Another possible cause of this problem is a cracked tank. Both problems should be repaired by a qualified plumbing professional as soon as possible.

Why won’t my toilet flush?

There are several things that could cause a toilet to not flush properly. One is that the flapper valve located in the tank may not be sealing properly, resulting in water constantly running and trying to fill the toilet tank. Another possibility is that there may be something blocking the toilet drain—such as a toy, wadded toilet paper, feminine hygiene products—preventing it from flowing freely and causing the toilet to get backed up. If you’re unable to identify and fix the problem yourself, contact a plumber so they can assess and make the necessary repairs. Remember, the toilet is a large drain. We recommend flushing only the 4 Ps: pee, poop, puke, and (toilet) paper.

Why don’t I have hot water?

If you have no hot water, one possibility is that the pilot light on your gas water heater may have gone out. You can relight it following the instructions in your owner’s manual, or call a plumber to relight it. If relighting the pilot light does not solve the problem, there may be an issue with your thermostat—in which case, you’ll need to call a plumber who specializes in water heater repair so they can assess and make any necessary repairs or adjustments. If you have an electric water heater, we’d want to know how old it is. After 10 to 15 years, they start to fail and a new tank may be needed.

At Raymark Plumbing & Sewer, we’re here to help with all your plumbing needs—big or small. If you have any questions or concerns about your home’s plumbing system, don’t hesitate to give us a call or send us an email today. Our team of qualified professionals are more than happy to help.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer is a full-service residential plumbing and sewer company. Raymark is in Seattle, WA, and has been a family-owned business for over 45 years. Raymark offers honest, upfront pricing, a 100 percent workmanship guarantee, and 24-hour emergency services. Raymark is known for finding solutions to problems when other plumbing companies could not. As a result, Raymark is the plumber that other plumbers recommend.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer
10710 Lake City Way NE
Seattle, WA 98125
(206) 440-9077
https://www.raymarkplumbing.com

5 Frequently Asked Plumbing Questions

The home plumbing system is often something that homeowners know little about. And that’s okay! There are plenty of resources out there to educate yourself, and there are always experienced plumbers to help you out when things get… let’s just say, clogged up!

If you’re ready to learn a little more about your home, read on to soak in our explanations to three common, yet important plumbing questions many people have!

Why Won’t My Toilet Stop Running?

If your toilet won’t stop running, it is most likely because there is a problem with the fill valve. The fill valve controls the amount of water that goes into the toilet tank. If the fill valve is not working properly, it can cause the toilet to run constantly. There are a few things that you can do to try to fix the problem yourself. First, you can try to adjust the float. The float is what controls the water level in the tank. If the float is set too low, it will cause the toilet to run constantly. You can also try to clean out the fill valve with a toothbrush or a small wire brush. If these things do not work, you will most likely need to call a plumber.

What Substances are Okay to Put Down the Garbage Disposal?

The garbage disposal is a handy tool that can help to keep your kitchen clean. However, there are some things that you should never put down the garbage disposal. These include grease, oil, fat, bones, coffee grounds, and egg shells. These substances can clog up the garbage disposal and cause it to break. If you are unsure about whether or not something is safe to put down the garbage disposal, it is always best to err on the side of caution and throw it in the trash.

Should I Use Chemical Drain Cleaners?

If you are experiencing a slow or clogged drain, you may be tempted to use a chemical drain cleaner. However, we would not recommend this. Chemical drain cleaners are harsh and can damage your pipes. They can also be dangerous if used improperly. If you must use a chemical drain cleaner, make sure that you follow the directions carefully and do not use more than the recommended amount.

There you have it! We hope you now know something you didn’t know before, and we encourage you to continue learning more and more about your home’s plumbing. Remember, if you stumble upon any plumbing issue in your home that you aren’t able to solve by yourself, don’t hesitate to call a plumber. Unfortunately, plumbing systems aren’t always easy to deal with, so working with a professional is typically your best bet, as they have the experience and expertise to mitigate any plumbing issue quickly!

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer is a full-service residential plumbing and sewer company. Raymark is located in Seattle, WA, and has been a family-owned business for over 42 years. Raymark offers honest, upfront pricing, a 100 percent workmanship guarantee, and 24-hour emergency services. In fact, they are known for finding solutions to problems when other plumbing companies could not. As a result, Raymark is the plumber that other plumbers recommend.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer
10710 Lake City Way NE
Seattle, WA 98125
(206) 440-9077

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How To Know When It’s Time for A Sewer Inspection

Most homeowners know that maintaining their side sewer line is important. But what are some indicators that it’s time to schedule a sewer inspection? Raymark Plumbing & Sewer is sharing signs to help you avoid problems with your sewer line:

– Slow or clogged drains

If your home has multiple drains that are draining slowly or not at all, it’s likely there is a clog in your home’s sewer line. Sewer line clogs can be caused by many things, including tree roots, grease build-up, or objects that have been flushed down the toilet.

– Sewage backup

If you notice sewage or wastewater coming up through floor, laundry, or shower drains, there is a problem with your sewer line. If more than one toilet is backing up or doesn’t flush properly, that can be another indicator of a problem with the line.

– Strange smells

If you notice an unpleasant sewer-gas smell coming from your drains, it could be a sign of a sewer problem. This is especially true if the smell is coming from more than one drain in your home.

– Gurgling sounds coming from your drains

If you hear gurgling sounds coming from your drains, it means that air is being forced through a blockage in your sewer line. This can be caused by a number of things, including a clog or a break in the sewer line.

If you experience any of these issues, it’s time to call in the plumbing and sewer experts. Sewer camera inspections can pinpoint the exact location and nature of the problem, so it can be fixed expertly and efficiently. And when it comes to clogged sewer repairs, nobody does this better than Raymark Plumbing & Sewer. We have the experience and expertise to fix your plumbing and sewer systems. When these are operating as designed, you have peace of mind. Give Raymark a call today.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer is a full-service residential plumbing and sewer company. Raymark is located in Seattle, WA, and has been a family-owned business for over 45 years. Raymark offers upfront pricing, a 100 percent workmanship guarantee, and 24-hour emergency services. Raymark is known for finding solutions to problems where other plumbing companies could not. Raymark is the plumber that other plumbers and your neighbors recommend.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer
10710 Lake City Way NE
Seattle, WA 98125
(206) 440-9077
https://www.raymarkplumbing.com

Why Homebuyers Should Invest in a Sewer Scope Inspection

A typical inspection of a property provides important information on the current state of the home, but it may not always uncover all there is to know. If you’re looking to acquire a property, particularly one constructed more than 20 years ago, a sewer scope examination is a good investment. A sewer scope examination will reveal any concerns with a home’s sewage system, which may cost thousands of dollars if ignored. This blog will explain everything you need to know about a sewer inspection, from warning signs to maintenance recommendations.

What is a sewer scope inspection?

A sewer scope inspection is an excellent way to gain a thorough knowledge of a home’s sewage systems. The examination will be carried out by a professional home or sewer inspector. The first step is to put a plumbing camera with a long, flexible cable down the drainpipe of the residence. The scoping camera transmits live video to a screen so the inspector may look for blockages, damaged pipes, or other significant issues in the sewage system.

Why should you get a sewer scope inspection?

Without a sewer scope inspection, you could end up purchasing a home that has a damaged sewer system which can be both costly and dangerous to individuals living in the home. From a structural standpoint, a broken sewer system can cause mold growth, cracking/shifting in the foundation, or flooding inside the home or out into the yard. Shifting gears, the health risks can be plentiful as well from mold spores and harmful gases such as carbon dioxide and methane that can seep into the house. Not to mention that water that comes from a broken sewage pipe can have cholera, E-coli, salmonella, and even viruses such as Hepatitis A in it.

How much does a sewer scope inspection cost?

When compared to the expense of repairing a busted sewer line, the cost of an inspection is minuscule and should take no more than an hour to complete. The cost of replacing sewage drains ranges from $2,500 to $30,000 while the inspection itself can range anywhere from only $125 to $350. If the damage is significant enough to result in water damage, foundation problems, or fungus development, you may be spending thousands of dollars on repairs. Don’t overlook a sewer inspection just because the present system is working properly. Everything above the ground may seem ideal, but you could have a catastrophe waiting to happen beneath your home.

What are some key indicators that you need a sewer line inspection before buying a home?

If you’re buying a home, make sure there aren’t any indications of sewage issues present. Some tell-tale signs are patches of grass that seem extra lush — sewage can serve as a potent fertilizer. If there are large trees surrounding the home, then it stands to reason that there will be large roots growing beneath the ground. You want to make sure no roots are actually growing into the pipes. Another good rule of thumb is that if a home was built over 20 years ago, it’s likely that the piping material is outdated and could easily crack or break which requires pipe relining or replacement.

Sewer scope inspections are essential for homebuyers because they provide crucial information about the condition of a home’s sewage system. Without an inspection, you could end up purchasing a home with a damaged sewer system, which can be costly and dangerous.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer is a full-service residential plumbing and sewer company. Raymark is located in Seattle, WA, and has been a family-owned business for over 45 years. Raymark offers honest, upfront pricing, a 100 percent workmanship guarantee, and 24-hour emergency services. In fact, they are known for finding solutions to problems when other plumbing companies could not. As a result, Raymark is the plumber that other plumbers recommend.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer
10710 Lake City Way NE
Seattle, WA 98125
(206) 440-9077
www.raymarkplumbing.com

5 Silent Signs You May Have a Plumbing Problem

Although many plumbing issues make themselves known through noise, odor, or sight, it is important to know that not all plumbing issues are obvious. Signs of trouble can be subtle and easy to ignore. In fact, many people only realize they have a plumbing issue when it ‘suddenly’ becomes a serious problem. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s important to call a professional plumber right away.

Bubbling or Stained Paint on the Ceiling or Walls

A common silent sign of a plumbing issue is when the paint on your walls or ceiling starts to bubble or stain. This is indicative of a water leak, which if left unaddressed, can cause serious damage to your home. If you notice any bubbling or stained paint in your home, be sure to call a plumber right away to take a look.

Multiple faucets in the Home Have Very Strong Water Flow

If you’ve noticed that several of your faucets have strong water flow, it could be an indication of a larger issue with your home’s water pressure. If left unchecked, constant high water pressure weakens the pipe joints and leaks occur. If left unaddressed, the result is serious water damage. A pressure reducing valve may be the solution, but your plumber will know for sure.

Dramatic Increase in Your Water Bill

If you’ve noticed that your water bills have gradually increased over time, it could be indicative of longer showers or an additional person living in your home. However, if you see a sudden and unexplained spike in your water bill, there is a good chance it could be due to a hidden plumbing leak. This is especially true if you haven’t made any major changes to your water usage habits.

Water Discoloration

If you notice discoloration in your tap water, it’s important to take action right away. This could be an indication of rust or other sediment build up in your pipes. A repipe, a replacement of your internal water lines, maybe needed to resolve this. Sediment and debris build up over time in old galvanized lines, narrowing the diameter of the pipe and compromising your drinking water.

An Extra-Luscious Green Spot in Your Yard

If you notice an exceptional green patch in your yard, it could be due to a hidden water leak. A broken or leaky pipe underground can slowly seep water and cause an area of your lawn to become greener and lusher than surrounding areas. Standing pools of water in your lawn when it hasn’t been raining are another indicator.

If you’ve noticed any of these silent signs of a plumbing issue in your home, be sure to call a professional right away. These issues won’t go away on their own and will worsen over time. A professional plumber will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and make recommendations to fix it before it causes serious damage to your home.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer is a full-service residential plumbing and sewer company. Raymark is located in Seattle, WA, and has been a family-owned business for over 45 years. Raymark offers honest, upfront pricing, a 100 percent workmanship guarantee, and 24-hour emergency services. In fact, they are known for finding solutions to problems when other plumbing companies could not. As a result, Raymark is the plumber that other plumbers recommend.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer
10710 Lake City Way NE
Seattle, WA 98125
(206) 440-9077
Https://www.raymarkplumbing.com/

How Do I Know When it’s Time for a Sump Pump Replacement?

If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about your sump pump until it’s too late. And that’s usually when you start seeing water in your basement! A sump pump is an essential part of any home, and if it’s not working properly, it can lead to some serious damage. In this blog post, we will discuss 5 indicators that it might be time for a sump pump replacement. Keep an eye out for these warning signs, and don’t wait until it’s too late!

Increased vibrations

If you start noticing increased vibrations coming from your pump, it could be a sign that the bearings are starting to go bad or that the impellers are damaged or bent.

The Pump Cycle Seems Irregular

If you start noticing an irregular pump cycle, turning on and off excessively, it’s definitely time to replace your sump pump. This could be a sign that the pump is starting to fail.

Your Sump Pump Isn’t Being Used Much

When a sump pump is not being used consistently, its efficiency may reduce drastically. It is important to test your sump pump in between heavy rainfall, as this will help you notice any signs of problems.

You Hear Odd Noises

If you start hearing strange noises coming from your sump pump, it’s definitely time to replace it. This could be a sign that the pump is about to fail, due to jammed or damaged parts.

It is Clearly Running for Too Long

If your sump pump is running for an extended period of time, this could be a sign that the pump no longer has sufficient horsepower to run properly.

If you’ve been experiencing any of the five signs listed above, it may be time to replace your sump pump. A sump pump is an essential piece of equipment for keeping your home and property safe from water damage. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to replace your sump pump, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified local plumber for assistance!

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer
10710 Lake City Way NE
Seattle, WA 98125
(206) 440-9077
https://www.raymarkplumbing.com

3 Tips for a Clean Dog and no Drain Clog

If you have a dog, you know that they get dirty and can shed a lot of fur or hair. Bathing your dog can be a fun and bonding moment. It can also be a real chore. That dirt, hair, and fur in your bathtub can lead to drain clogs and drain water backups. To avoid clogs, review these helpful tips to help you bathe your dog and avoid plumbing problems.

Pre-Bath

Brush your dog regularly, and before the bath if possible. Brushing helps remove any loose hair, dirt, and parasites, and will minimize the amount of debris that goes down the drain. Dog experts recommend you brush your dog every couple of days, no matter the length of their coat.

Put a bath mat or towel in the bottom of the tub so your dog can stand securely without slipping.

During the Bath

Use lukewarm water and talk to your dog while bathing them. Your dog wants to feel comfortable and calm in the tub.

To prevent clogs, place a strainer over the drain if the drain opening allows this. If the drain plug won’t allow a strainer, put the strainer in place when you pull the plug. Inexpensive metal mesh strainers can be purchased from a hardware store and can be easily cleaned. The intent is to catch debris before it goes down the drain. Empty the strainer in the garbage can or compost.

Post-Bath

After your dog is out of the tub, wipe it down with a paper towel to catch any hair or dirt attached to the tub walls and bottom. Do this while the tub is wet, and then clean the tub as you normally would. We recommend always leaving the tub clean so it’s ready for your bath.

Towel or air dry your dog. Give them a treat for taking a bath. Say, “You are such a good dog.”

Follow these tips to bath your dog and avoid drainage issues. And if you do experience a clogged drain, call a local plumbing company right away before the problem has a chance to grow and become a larger back up.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer is a full-service residential plumbing and sewer company. Raymark is located in Seattle, WA, and has been a family-owned business for 45 years. Raymark offers honest, upfront pricing, a 100 percent workmanship guarantee, and 24-hour emergency services. In fact, they are known for finding solutions to problems when other plumbing companies could not. As a result, Raymark is the plumber that other plumbers recommend.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer
10710 Lake City Way NE
Seattle, WA 98125
(206) 440-9077

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How to Clean Your Garbage Disposal:

Steps and Tips from a Seattle Plumber

Garbage disposals are one of the most used appliances in the kitchen. The average person uses their disposal two to three times a day, and many people dispose up to a half pound of food scraps each time they use it. Even though we may not think about cleaning a garbage disposal, it gets dirty too. Read on for tips from a Seattle drain cleaning company on how to clean your garbage disposal so that it continues running smoothly and doesn’t smell like garbage.

Never put your fingers near the blades while cleaning the garbage disposal. Even when sticking a brush or spoon in the disposal to clean it, always turn off the power to prevent the disposal from accidentally starting while you are cleaning.

Clean the baffle with dish soap and a sponge. Generally, the baffle is located under where the sink flange sits, right below the drain hole in the kitchen sink basin. It also may be behind an access panel or tucked away somewhere else. After locating the baffle, scrub it with a sponge and soapy water. Use kitchen tongs to hang onto the sponge.

Use an old toothbrush or another small brush to clean out any remaining food scraps in other parts of grinder. Do not be tempted to use your fingers.

To clean the grinding chamber, pour a cup of ice cubes and then some dish soap into the disposal and then run cold water through the disposal. If there are still any stubborn bits of food, use a wooden spoon to help break them up.

Next, add baking soda and vinegar. Pour a half of a cup of baking soda into the disposal. Do not use baking powder as it creates gooey clumps. Add some white vinegar. Let that sit.

Cover the drain opening with a rag or stopper for about 10 minutes. Turn on the cold water and let it run for about 30 seconds to a minute.

Lastly, run hot water through the disposal for a minute or two.

If you notice any strange sounds or other abnormalities with your garbage disposal throughout this process, call a local plumber for help.

Know that garbage disposals were not designed to grind great quantities of food. They are intended to grind up small amounts of food scraps. Put any large amounts of food into your compost or garbage.

Taking care of your disposal means it will consistently run smoothly, smell fresh, and last a long time.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer is a full-service residential plumbing and sewer company. Raymark is located in Seattle, WA, and has been a family-owned business for 45 years. Raymark offers honest, upfront pricing, a 100 percent workmanship guarantee, and 24-hour emergency services. They are known for finding solutions to problems when other plumbing companies could not. As a result, Raymark is the plumber that other plumbers and long-time customers recommend.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer
10710 Lake City Way NE
Seattle, WA 98125
(206) 440-9077

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10 Easy Plumbing Tips for Any Homeowner

Plumbing issues are no joke. They can be a major headache, but luckily there are some things you can do to avoid them. Here are 10 plumbing tips that will help you keep your pipes in tip-top shape and save you money on expensive repairs.

Be mindful of what you flush down the toilet. Many so-called flushables are not really flushable. Wipes and kitty litter can cause clogs.

Inspect your faucets and fixtures for leaks on a regular basis. Leaks increase your water bill. If looking to repair a faucet, know that repairs can cost more than a new faucet. Things are no longer made to last a lifetime and some faucets are purposely designed to not be repaired.

Keep an eye out for hidden leaks. Check under flooring if possible, inside cabinets, and behind cabinetry where pipes may be concealed from view by insulation, drywall, and wallpaper. Look for small puddles. Concealed leaks can lead to mold growth and costly damage down the line, so it is always best to catch leaks when they are small.

Use strainers in your sinks and tubs to catch hair and other debris before it goes down the drain. These will help keep your drains clear and free of blockages.

If you have a garbage disposal, run plenty of water down the drain after turning it off. This ensures the food particles clear the drains and won’t dry in your pipes and cause clogs.

Clean out the filter in your dishwasher so it can trap more food particles. Cleaning it also prevents odors. Find your dishwasher manual to locate the filter.

Never pour grease or oil down your drain. Grease and oil are common causes of clogged pipes and backups in home plumbing systems. You can safely dispose of oils and grease by putting them in your regular trash.

When doing dishes, use the hottest water you can stand. Hot water helps the small amounts of oil and grease clinging to the sides of your dishes to flow through your pipes and not build up. Hot soapy water also kills bacteria.

Remove your hose from the hose bibb when freezing temperatures are predicted. Even frost-free hose bibbs need to be disconnected from the hose.

Clear leaves and debris away from all outside drains. Water needs to flow. Let the water go on its way and protect your home from water damage.

We hope this list proves helpful to you and saves you from a costly plumbing issue in the future. However, if you do find yourself in need of an experienced plumbing company, call Raymark Plumbing & Sewer at 206-440-9077.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer is a full-service residential plumbing and sewer company. Raymark is located in Seattle, WA, and has been a family-owned business for over 42 years. Raymark offers expert technicians, upfront pricing, a 100 percent workmanship guarantee, and 24-hour emergency services. In fact, they are known for finding solutions to problems when other plumbing companies could not. As a result, Raymark is the plumber that other plumbers recommend.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer
10710 Lake City Way NE
Seattle, WA 98125
(206) 440-9077

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3 Reasons a Plumber Should Assist with Your Bathroom Remodel

Remodels are exciting. It’s a wonderful feeling to watch a room completely transform. However, this exciting time can turn into a plumbing disaster if a mistake is made during the process. To avoid future problems, it is important that a contractor draw up plans and then share these plans with your plumber. Here are three reasons why your future self with thank you for doing so:

Installing Fixtures

Bathrooms have a large number of fixtures that need to be connected to water pipes, drain lines, and vents in the plumbing system. If a professional plumber doesn’t perform the work, major plumbing issues can occur immediately or in the future. One example we know of is when the owner of a new bathroom took their first shower, the water ran down the drain and then onto the floor, soaking the walls and furniture downstairs. After that, they called a recommended plumber to fix the newly installed plumbing. When you hire a professional plumber to install plumbing fixtures and pipes, you can be confident that they are installed properly and tested.

Flow

Plumbers know their materials and fittings. Years of experience teach the best methods to install, check, and test. Plumbing consists of many elements. It is not ‘plug-and-play’, especially in older homes. Plumbers are solution driven and this includes finding the most efficient way to route water, waste, and gas lines into and out of the house. Plumbers ensure the plumbing system is set up in a way that allows the best water and air flow and prevents potential bottlenecks and leaks.

Moving Pipes

During a bathroom remodel, the toilet, bathtub, and sinks may end up in completely new locations than before. This means moving and rerouting water supply and drainpipes, which can be a big job. Plumbers consider the location of the hot water tank (closer is better), whether the pipes are also employed under a stone or marble floor to heat the floor, and many other factors. In some instances, layouts can be complex. You won’t want to crawl over the toilet to get to the tub. An experienced and reputable plumber knows what to consider and recommend, ensuring your new bathroom is utilizing its plumbing in the most efficient way for both you and the plumbing system.

Let your contractor and local plumber handle the details and allow yourself to enjoy your new bathroom without worry. We hope your next remodel goes smoothly.

Raymark Plumbing & Sewer
10710 Lake City Way NE
Seattle, WA 98125
(206) 440-9077

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