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ABOUT PLUMBING
Home Plumbing Overview
Maintaining your home plumbing is important. Your house's plumbing is composed of many different components including pipes for carrying water and other liquids, fixtures for controlling water flow and pressure, and venting systems for releasing gases and odors. Here are some tips on how to take care of your plumbing and keep the water flowing.
What is Home Plumbing?
Home plumbing is an essential part of any residential property. It serves a variety of functions, from disposing of wastewater to providing clean drinking water. Plumbing systems are composed of many different components, including pipes for carrying water and other liquids, fixtures for controlling water flow and pressure, and venting systems for releasing gases and odors.
In order to ensure that your plumbing system is functioning properly, it is important to understand the basics of home plumbing and take the necessary steps to maintain it. If a plumbing issue arises, it is best to contact a professional plumber as soon as possible. They will be able to diagnose the issue and offer solutions to resolve the problem quickly and effectively. Home plumbing can lead to some complex drainage issues. Taking the time to understand the problems and properly resolve them will help you ensure that your plumbing system remains in good condition.
Do you need help fixing or repairing the plumbing in your home? We can help! find a local plumber to fix clogged drains, install new fixtures, and repair your pipes. Our network of professionals has the experience and knowledge to fix your plumbing.
What Are Common Plumbing Problems?
Plumbing problems can be a nuisance and cause a lot of disruption to your daily life. Common plumbing problems include clogged toilets, leaking pipes, dripping faucets, and backed-up drains. Some of these problems can be difficult to diagnose and often require the expertise of a professional plumber to solve the issue or snake the line.
Clogged Toilets
Clogged toilets are generally caused by items that are flushed down the toilet and get stuck in the pipes. The clogged area can often be cleared by using a plunger and dish soap. If the clog is significantly blocking the pipe, a snake or auger may have to be used.
Leaking Pipes
Leaking pipes can arise from things like inappropriately installed seals, misapplied plumbers tape and putty, or old and worn out fixtures. The leak can also be a sign of a much larger issue like high water pressure.
Dripping Faucets
The seals and water values within faucets can loose their watertight efficiency over time causing them to leak. Replacing the valve cartridge within the handles usually fixes the problem and stops the dripping.
Backed-up Drains
A lot of gunk gets washed down the drain and can cause a pipe blockage. Backed-up drains can be caused by a variety of things building up in the trap and pipe such as hair, soap scum, food particles, and grease.
Preventative Plumbing Tasks
Preventative plumbing maintenance is an important part of home upkeep. Your home's pipes should be inspected, main lines cleaned, and worn-out toilet and faucet parts replaced on a regular basis. This helps to avoid the other common plumbing problems above.
NEXT STEPS
Find Plumbing Help
Diagnose your plumbing problems using the following steps. Start by fixing the most common problems above along with cleaning your drains, watching what you flush, dealing with blockages, and understanding your water quality. You can also find plumbers and drain cleaning experts to help you with more advanced plumbing problems.
Clogged Toilets
Are you dealing with a clogged toilet? Fixing a clogged toilet can be done with the right supplies and a little bit of know-how. Here are the steps to unclog your toilet. Start by shutting off the water valve. This will stop water from running into the bowl. Use a plunger to plunge the toilet a handful of times until the clog is gone. Usually 8 to 10 times will do the trick. Make sure you have a solid seal around the opening of the plunger before plunging - this helps create suction and pressure to break up the clog.
Extreme clogs or flushed solid materials may need more effort to unlodge them. If plunging doesn't work, try using an auger. An auger is a long cable that has a crank handle at one end and an adjustable head at the other. Insert it into the toilet bowl and twist it around until it reaches the clog. Crank the handle to break up the clog and then remove it from the bowl. Turn the water valve back on and flush the toilet. With these simple steps, you should now be able to unclog your severely stopped up toilet.
The Dish Soap Trick for Blocked Toilets
Using dish soap to unclog a toilet is an easy and cost-effective solution for clogging your toilet. Test this method with your toilet using the following steps. First, pour approximately 2 tbsp to 1/2 cup of dish soap into the toilet bowl, and wait for a few minutes. Then flush the toilet, and plunge it a few times. If successful, you will watch as the clog dissipates and the toilet flushes normally.
The soap acts as a lubricant, helping to loosen the clog and allowing it to be flushed away. Additionally, dish soap is effective because it is designed to break down grease, which is often one of the major culprits in toilet clogs. It's important to note that while dish soap can help resolve many clogs, it's not a guaranteed solution to all plumbing problems. If your toilet remains clogged after trying this method, you should contact a plumber.
Leaky Pipes
Leaking pipes can be a constant problem in older homes and contribute to water damage. Here are a few ways to identify and fix a leaking pipe. The first step is to identify the source of the leak. If the leak is coming from a joint fitting in the pipe (like in a trap), you will need to tighten the washers around it. If the leak is coming from a crack in the pipe, you may need to replace the pipe.
Once the source is identified, you will need to turn off the water supply up line from the area you want to fix or replace before attempting any repairs. Once the water is shut off, you can adjust the joint or remove the damaged pipe, and replace it with a new one. Make sure to use a sealant like plumbers tape around the threads to ensure a tight fit. If the pipe will be exposed to cold temperatures, you can also use an insulation wrap to protect it. Turn on the water supply when you are finished and check for any remaining leaks. These steps should help you troubleshoot and fix most leaking pipes.
Dripping Faucets
Dripping faucets are another common problem in houses with older fixtures with values which do not seal well. Here's how you can stop the leak and cease the constant dripping. First, turn off the hot and cold water supplies to the faucet on in lines from the wall. This can usually be done by turning the valves located under the sink. Next, remove the handle of the faucet and locate the screw that holds the handle in place. Unscrew the faucet's handle screw and set it aside. Take out the stem of the faucet and inspect it for signs of wear or damage. If necessary, replace the stem or valve cartridge (depending on your fixture model) and then reattach the handle.
Once you've finished, turn on the water supply and test your work. If you still hear dripping, you may need to replace or adjust the washer. To do this, unscrew the bonnet nut, remove the old washer, install a new one, and then screw on the bonnet nut. When you are done, turn on your water supply and check for leaks once more. These steps will help you troubleshoot your dripping faucet. If the faucet is more than a few years old or you cannot find the right replacement valves, you may need to replace the unit.
Clean Your Drains
Maintaining clean drains in your home is essential for preventing clogs and keeping your plumbing system running smoothly. Taking a few simple steps can make a big difference in the performance of your plumbing, so don't ignore your drain's water flow. Start by regularly pouring a cup of boiling water down each drain in your home. This helps to dissolve greasy buildup, food particles, and soap scum that can accumulate and cause clogs.
You should use a plunger if you have any slow-moving or clogged drains. Be sure to use a plunger that's the right size for the drain and apply gentle force as needed. If that doesn't help, you can try using a squirt of liquid dish soap or liquid drain cleaner to break up any remaining buildup. However, avoid using chemical cleaners too often as they can damage your pipes. If the other methods are unsuccessful, call a professional plumber to inspect the blockage and repair your drain. Taking these steps will keep your drains clean and help prevent costly plumbing problems later down the line.
Snaking Blocked Drains
Blocked drains make need occasional snaking depending on the magnitude of the problem. For example,a house's main line or a kitchen drain which has a lot of grease, food, and other particles washed down it can build up over time and cause water to stop flowing. When this happens, you need to use a drain snake or powered auger to remove the blockage. The wire head on the auger's line will break apart and remove any larger clogs.
Visually Scoping Your Sewer Line
Scoping a sewer line or main plumbing line with a camera is an efficient way to identify blockages and other potential issues with drains. By getting a visual live feed, you can easily determine whether or not the blockage is located within the drain itself or if it is a more significant issue. To begin, you will need to locate the line's plumbing cleanout point and measure its diameter. It often has a white PVC pipe cap with a square nut on the end.
You will then need open the cap and attach the appropriate sized camera line to the end of your snake line. Once this is done, carefully insert the camera line into the access cleanout, taking care to avoid any sharp bends or turns that could cause damage to the line. As you progress, the camera will allow you to view any blockages or damage inside the pipe in real time on an LED screen or tablet. Once you have identified the source of the blockage, you can then choose a suitable course of action for clearing it. By using this technique, you can quickly and accurately diagnose drain problems without having to resort to costly excavation methods.
Get Your Plumbing Fixed by a Professional
Hiring a professional plumber can be a wise decision if you're dealing with plumbing issues. They provide you with expert advice and ensure that the job is done safely and correctly. Professional plumbers have the experience and skills necessary to diagnose and repair plumbing problems, such as clogs, leaks, and water damage. Plumbers are also knowledgeable about the latest technologies, such as tankless water heaters, that can help you save money in the long run. They can provide you with maintenance services and inspections to prevent future plumbing issues from occurring. Hiring a professional plumber often proves to be an investment that will benefit your home and help you avoid expensive more repairs in the future.
Use Toilet Paper Properly
Toilet paper is one of the most essential items in our bathrooms, yet many of us don't know how to use it properly to help our plumbing. It's important to be aware of the right way to use it to ensure our pipes don't become clogged and toilets keep flushing. So, lets talk about why it's important to be mindful of how much toilet paper you're flushing down the toilet.
Too much toilet paper can cause problems in your pipes and sewage system. When you flush too much, it clogs your toilet, your pipes, and potentially your municipal sewage system. When this happens, you may need to call in a plumber if its bad enough which can lead to costly repairs. It's best to avoid this situation altogether by using only the amount of toilet paper that you need. Don't use too much and don't flush it down the toilet if it's not necessary.
Proper usage looks like this. To start, always fold toilet paper when wiping. Wadding it up can cause a blockage if too much is flushed at one time. It's also important to use just enough toilet paper when wiping. Using a minimal amount like about two squares of toilet paper each time helps prevent clogs.
Toilet Paper and Septic Tanks
If you have a septic tank, be extra careful about how much you flush. Septic tanks have limited space and cannot handle large amounts of toilet paper at once. Make sure to spread out your toilet paper usage over several flushes if you have a septic tank. Also, if you are using a large amount of toilet paper with a septic tank, consider using a trashcan to dispose of it instead of flushing it down the toilet. This should help prevent any blockages in your plumbing system.
Keep Plumbing System Well-Maintained
It is important to keep your plumbing system in good condition in order to ensure that it runs efficiently and without any issues. Regular maintenance of your plumbing system will save you money and prevent calling out a plumber for emergencies. To ensure your plumbing system is running smoothly, start by inspecting all of the pipes and fixtures on a regular basis. Look for any signs of corrosion or damage and take steps to fix them right away.
Pay attention to any changes in water pressure, as this can indicate a problem with the plumbing. Make sure to unclog all drains as soon as possible and replace any worn or corroded pipes. Always keep an eye out for signs of leaks or blockages and take the necessary steps to repair them. Call a professional plumber if you are not comfortable with handling the repairs yourself or are unsure of how to handle the situation. By following these simple steps, you can keep your plumbing system well-maintained and running smoothly.
Preventative Plumbing Maintenance
Preventative plumbing maintenance is an important part of keeping your home's plumbing system in it's best shape. This type of maintenance involves inspecting, cleaning, and replacing worn-out parts and pipes on a regular basis to keep your plumbing running smoothly. Common preventative maintenance tasks include inspecting pipes and fixtures for leaks and blockages, cleaning out drains and disposals regularly, checking for corrosion, and replacing worn out parts.
It's also important to check for potential water damage and make sure the pipes are properly insulated to reduce the risk of bursting. Measuring water pressure PSI over time in your home can also help identify any potential issues ahead of time. Regular preventative maintenance can help extend the life of your plumbing system. By taking the time to inspect, clean, and replace worn-out parts, you can future proof your house.
Check For Blockages Regularly
Regularly checking for blockages in your sewer and drain pipes is an important part of home maintenance. Blockages can be caused by a variety of factors, but the most common are grease, soap and oil build up, food particles, hair, and other debris. If left unchecked, these blockages can lead to water backups, foul odors, and basement flooding. It’s important to identify the problem before it gets out of hand.
To help prevent blockages, always dispose of cooking grease and oil in the trash and avoid putting fibrous materials like celery or potato skins down your drains. You should regularly inspect your drains for clogs and tree roots while taking steps to clear them before they become a bigger issue. Regularly cleaning your drains with a quality chemical cleaner or using a drain snake can help keep your pipes running smoothly.
Use Water Softeners
If you're dealing with hard water in your home, it's important to consider using a water softener. Water softeners help reduce the amount of hardness minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, present in your water, which can cause issues like plumbing corrosion and build-up of soap scum. Soft water can improve the taste of your drinking water and make it easier to lather soaps and shampoos. Installing a water softener is easy and can be done with minimal effort.
To install a water softener, you need to select the right type of system for your home. Pick one which will work for the size and the number of bathrooms in your house. Once you have a system installed, you’ll need to maintain it regularly to ensure that it continues to work properly. Regular maintenance includes checking for salt levels, inspecting hoses, and replacing worn parts. With regular care, you can make sure that your water softener will continue to perform effectively and provide you with excellent quality water supply.
Install a Water Filter if Needed
If you're concerned about the quality of your drinking water, a water filter can be a great solution to purify your water source. Installing a water filter is a simple and cost-effective way to ensure that you and your family are drinking clean, safe water. It can help reduce contaminants such as lead, chlorine, and other chemicals, as well as reduce the presence of sediment and other particles that can affect the taste and odor of your tap water. You may also want to consider installing a filter if you live in an area where the tap water contains high levels of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron.
Depending on the type of filter you choose, it may also help reduce the presence of bacteria and viruses. When selecting a water filter, make sure to read the product specifications carefully. Some filters are designed to reduce certain types of contaminants while others may be more effective at removing multiple contaminants. Additionally, be sure to look for filters that are certified by third-party organizations such as NSF International or the Water Quality Association. This will ensure that the filter meets certain standards for safety and quality. Once you have selected a filter, follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and maintenance. This will help ensure that your water filter is working properly and providing you with clean, safe drinking water.
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Plumbing FAQs
Looking for plumbing answers? Check out the list of questions below.
Snaking your sewer line should be done regularly to prevent costly plumbing repairs. How often you should snake your sewer line depends on a few factors. If you use a garbage disposal, you should snake the line at least once a year, as the build-up of food particles can cause clogs. If you don't use a garbage disposal, then you should snake the line every 2 to 3 years. If you notice signs of a clog, such as backing up water or slow draining sinks and toilets, then you should snake the line immediately.
You should inspect your sewer line every 3 to 5 years. This will help to ensure any potential issues are identified and addressed before they become a major problem. It is also a good idea to have it inspected if you experience any signs of potential problems such as large tree roots in your yard, bad odors, slow drainage, or frequent clogging. Professional plumbers have access to larger bore snakes and augers and can pinpoint any issues that may be present in your sewer line. They can also provide advice and periodic resnaking services.
The cost of sewer line snaking can vary depending on the complexity of the job. A plumber will charge an hourly rate for the job, plus the cost of machine used. Factors that can affect the cost include the severity of the blockage, the length of the line, and the type of drain snake used. In some cases, a simple snaking may take only a few minutes and cost as little as $60 to $100. In more complex cases, such as when there is a broken pipe or a major clog, a plumber may need to use specialized equipment including a camera scope which can cost $300 to $500.
You should replace your kitchen sink every 10 years or so. You may need to replace it sooner if your sink is not professional grade or if you want to upgrade faucets and the new one will not fit correctly. You should also replace your sink if you notice any signs of rust or damage. To ensure that your kitchen sink remains in optimal condition, be sure to scrub it out and clean it regularly. If you take good care of your kitchen sink, it will last longer and you can get the most life out of it.
The best way to unclog a slightly blocked toilet pipe is with a plunger and by adding dish soap into the water. The plunger uses suction to create pressure within the pipes, which can help to break apart the clog and push it through the pipes. The dish soap helps to lubricate the blockage and break down fats and grease. For tougher clogs, you may need to use a toilet auger or snake. This tool inserts a long, flexible cable into the pipes and uses a crank to move the cable through the pipes and break apart the clog.
Fixing a leaky faucet is usually quickly fixed using the right parts. To start, you'll need to identify the type of faucet you have — whether it's a compression, cartridge, ball, or ceramic disc faucet. Once you've identified the type of faucet, you can purchase the correct parts from your local hardware store. Depending on the type of faucet, you can use adjustable pliers to remove corroded parts or replace an entire cartridge. Once all the parts have been replaced, turn the water back on and test the faucet. If it's still leaking, check all of the connections to make sure they are secure.