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Advice From Your Experienced Plumber On Ways Of Preventing Sewer Backup

Advice From Your Experienced Plumber On Ways Of Preventing Sewer Backup

A functional home is your family’s safety net and luxury place away from the world. This is where you enjoy relaxed moments and build treasured memories. However, danger and catastrophe are lurking within this comfortable shell you have created for yourselves most of the time. When most homeowners think about their home’s plumbing system, they do not consider its possible health hazards. However, a clogged sewer with the necessary services by a plumber can and will put your household at risk. When your home’s sewer system clogs up, everything held up in the line by the clog in that sewer line backs up and finds its way back into your house. That means you and your family will get exposed to dangerous pathogens and bacteria in the wastewater, which will cause serious medical issues if not addressed immediately. Therefore, you should have a regular plumbing service for your home and take the necessary steps to prevent a sewer backup.

Be Cautious of What You Flush

The most common cause of sewer line clogs in most homes is flushing the wrong things down the toilet. As any plumber will advise, you should never flush anything down the toilet other than water, human waste, and toilet paper. Everything else carries a significant risk of clogging your bathroom or, even worse, your entire sewer line. Therefore, you should pay close attention to what you are letting down your toilet system into the sewer line. In addition, it is important to train children adequately and early on how to use the toilet and, most importantly, what they can and should flush.

Also, if you and your family are used to draining water from basins and buckets into the toilet, you should stop immediately. This is because if something such as a piece of socks or a cotton ball is forgotten in the water, it could cause more damage than foreseen. Such water should be disposed of outside the house where you can see all the contents as it flows away. You should put a small trash can next to your toilet to eliminate the temptation of disposing of things in the toilet basin.

If you suspect that you have been putting the wrong things down the toilet, it is best to schedule a pipe cleaning service from your plumbing technician as soon as possible. Catching an accumulation of materials in the pipes early will prevent a clog from forming and also contain a sewer backup.

Invest In a Backflow Prevention Valve

After checking all the above items on your list, you can go a step further and invest in a backflow prevention valve. A backflow prevention valve will allow water to flow through the sewer and out of your home. In addition, during a clog, the valve will keep the sewer from flowing back into your house. Consequently, you will notice a nasty smell indicating a clog.

Cater to Your Trees and Roots

Although trees beautify your yard and give your home a great environment, they can be a significant problem for your sewer line, especially when not well looked after. When the trees grow and roots spread, they can damage your sewer line by punching through it and creating a clog inside.

Therefore, you should hire a professional to regularly trim tree branches and roots away from the sewer line. In addition, consider having a plumber check the pipes regularly to ensure they are not damaged. However, if the roots have already damaged the pipes, the plumbing technician will clear them and advise on the best step forward. However, if the damage is too severe, you may need to replace the sewer line.

Replace Old Sewer Lines

If your plumbing system has existed for a long time, it might be time to change to a new one. Modern plumbing fixtures and pipes have better features, such as corrosion resistance and a longer life span. On the other hand, due to its years, your system may have corrosion or be delicate to shifting soil and tree roots. Therefore, you are at risk of sewer backup if the system is damaged. Therefore, instead of waiting for a complete system failure that may damage your home, it is best to replace those pipes. A new plumbing system will lower the clog risk and keep your home efficient for years.

Be Mindful of Your Drain

Another essential step in preventing a sewer backup in your home is being careful of what goes down your drain. The kitchen drain clog is a significant reason for plumber visits to most households. When washing your utensils, it is tempting to dispose of everything on the plates down your garbage disposal and thus your drainage. This may harbor the possibility of wreaking havoc on your home’s plumbing by causing a clog. Notably, though the materials successfully go down the drain a few times, they might accumulate inside your drain pipes. Consequently, the accumulation will build up in time, causing a clog and the possibility of a backup. Therefore, it is advisable to watch what goes down your drain system.

Additionally, if you have oil, grease, or other particles on your dishes, wiping them before putting your plates in the sink is advisable. Remember, although cooking oil and grease may run under warm water, they eventually solidify when they cool, forming a coating around your drain pipes. The solidified oil then traps all the particles, such as food and hair, creating a clog and increasing the risk of a silver backup. To avoid particles going down your drain, ask your plumbing technician to install a sieve over your sink’s drain to hold the particles, if any.

A plumbing system is essential to the comfort and health of your home. Therefore, it is vital to care for it and consult a professional when necessary. Contact us at Clarksburg Plumbing for any plumbing services and questions.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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How To Choose A Plumber To Handle Your Drain Cleaning Service

Are your drains moving slower than normal? It could be time for a drain cleaning service to keep your plumbing system working well. Having a professional plumber handle the work ensures it’s done correctly to keep your pipes and drains in good condition.

Your drains are an important part of your home. They carry away all the wastewater and help keep things sanitary. They can also get clogged easily, even if you’re careful about what you put down your drains. It’s easy for a little grease here and a few food scraps there to get past your watchful eye. Kids might also toss things down your drains when you’re not looking. Those things can build up in the pipes, causing them to narrow and potentially get blocked completely. A professional drain cleaning service eliminates the problem and keeps your water flowing well. Use these tips to help choose a company to clean your drains.

Check the Available Services

Your first step in narrowing down the options is making sure the company offers drain cleaning. While most plumbers do offer this service, it’s important to verify that they do. Some plumbers specialize in only certain services, or they might focus on commercial plumbing instead of residential. Consider what types of drains they clean. You might need help with sinks, tubs, toilets or even your sewer line if your drains are slow. Find a company that can handle it all, so you don’t have to call for a second plumber to finish the job.

Research the Company’s History?

Find out how long the company has been in the area to look for a successful track record. If they’ve lasted for several years or even decades, they’re likely doing something right. You can also look at the experience of each plumber. Even if the company itself is relatively new, it might be led by plumbers with extensive experience in the industry.

Review Credentials?

Just as important as how long someone has been in the industry is their credentials. Start by making sure you’re dealing with a licensed plumber — you should only allow a licensed plumber to handle your drain cleaning and any other plumbing services. You also want a company that’s fully insured so everything is covered if something goes wrong. Consider the vetting process the company uses when they hire plumbers. For instance, everyone at Clarksburg Plumbing undergoes a background check and has at least an apprentice license.

Read Online Reviews?

Plumbing companies can make themselves sound great, but hearing from real customers can give you better insight into their services. Look at overall ratings for the plumbers you’re considering, and read the reviews people have left on independent sites. Consider the overall experiences people had. It’s common to have one or two negative reviews. But if you see lots of bad reviews, especially if it’s the same issue over and over, you might want to keep looking. ?

Ask About the Process?

When you talk to the plumbing company, ask them what’s involved in a drain cleaning service. Find out how they get rid of the clog and what type of tools they use. Even if you don’t know much about drain cleaning, you can tell a lot by how they answer. If they seem knowledgeable and can give you lots of details on the process, they likely know what they’re doing.

Most plumbers don’t recommend liquid drain cleaners as the chemicals are dangerous and potentially damaging to your plumbing system. Instead, the plumber might use tools like drain augers or snakes to physically move the gunk out of the pipe. Some plumbers also use video inspection equipment with tiny cameras that give them a visual of what’s happening inside the pipe.

Get a Detailed Quote?

The pricing could be a deciding factor when choosing a drain cleaning company. Ask for a detailed quote based on what type of drain cleaning you need and how many drains you have. A reliable plumber will give you an accurate quote before they do the work so you know what to expect. Gather quotes from all the plumbers you’re considering to get a good comparison.

Keep in mind that the lowest price isn’t always the best option. Some companies are more thorough and use more advanced plumbing equipment for better results. A plumber who’s a lot cheaper than others should raise your suspicions. They might cut corners or not guarantee their work. You could also be dealing with a plumber who’s not licensed or insured.

Look at the total package plus the quote to help you choose the best company for the project. If you find a price you like, refer back to your research on their credentials to make sure they’re qualified to do the work. Ask about guarantees on the work as well so you know you’re covered if the service isn’t successful. Letting an inexperienced plumber who doesn’t guarantee their work clean your drains could result in damage and the need for more repairs.

Consider the Availability?

When you decide it’s time for a drain cleaning service, you don’t want to wait. How quickly the plumbing service can get to you could influence your decision. In some cases, you can’t wait because the clog is becoming a major issue and making your sink or tub unusable. If it’s severe enough, you might need emergency plumbing services to tackle the clog. ?

Don’t wait to get your drains cleaned professionally. Clarksburg Plumbing is ready to help with highly skilled plumbers and the right equipment to do the job well. We can handle routine drain cleaning as a preventative maintenance tool, and we’re available 24/7 for plumbing emergencies if you have a sudden clog that stops up your whole system. Call us to schedule your appointment now.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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What To Expect During Water Heater Installation

No one likes to hear that they are going to need a new water heater, but water heaters only last on average about ten to 12 years. On occasion, you see a water heater last longer, but either it is a tankless model or it is a standard model that is no longer that efficient. Keep in mind that just because a unit is still working doesn’t mean that it is saving you money. In fact, it may be eating up so much energy that it is actually costing you money which is just one more reason to weigh the benefits of water heater installation.

Most people don’t worry about preparing for water heater installation because it occurs as part of an emergency situation. In general, people don’t think about replacing their water heater until the old model dies and it becomes a same-day situation. In this case, there isn’t a lot of time to prepare for replacement, but if you are actually proactively replacing your unit because you are experiencing issues and know it is old you might be wondering how the process will go.

It is only natural to want to prepare for your water heater installation if you can, but there isn’t a whole lot that you need to worry about. The plumbing company you choose will take care of most of the basics including choosing the new unit. This can take a lot of the stress off you as a homeowner, but there are still some factors you will need to consider. For instance, some people opt for a tankless water heater instead of the standard water heater when the time comes to upgrade or replace their old unit. While a traditional unit is by far the more popular choice, it is something to think about.

Most tankless units have a higher price tag associated with them upfront, but they cost less to run since they heat water on demand. This means that the water heater is not constantly running all of the time which will save you money and reduce your energy consumption. In addition, tankless water heaters tend to last twice as long as traditional units, so there are definite perks to thinking about upgrading to a tankless unit. However, if the upfront cost is still too high, there are different tiers of standard tanks that you can talk to your plumber about as well.

When it comes to the actual installation, there is very little that you will have to worry about. Ideally, most plumbers prefer to have a four-foot radius clear to work around the water heater, but they will work with the space you have if your water heater is tucked into a corner. If your water heater installation is last minute, they will be aware of that fact and be careful not to damage your property, but if you have some time to prepare this is an excellent way to make sure that any items around your water heater are safe.

Outside of that, the only thing you need to worry about is making sure that someone is home to let the plumbers in. They will remove the old unit and then check all of the lines to make sure they are still sound coming into your home. Once they determine the water and gas lines are still good, they will hook them up to a new unit and then turn the unit on to test it. If everything has gone as planned, then the water heater will start to heat up water and you will be set.

Unless your water heater is being replaced due to a sudden leak or explosion, the actual installation is very straight up and there should be very little mess to deal with once the installation is complete. In addition, any plumbing company that values their customer will clean up any debris or mess that they caused. Most companies pledge to leave your home better than they found it because they value the impression that they make on their customers. Plumbing can be a messy business, but that doesn’t mean that the plumber will leave the homeowner to deal with it.

This brings up the final point, which is that prior to your new installation, you should do a little research and make sure you choose the right plumber for the job. You shouldn’t feel uncomfortable having a plumber in your home, and you shouldn’t have to worry about cost or experience while the job is underway. If you do some research before you call a plumbing company you can rest assured that the job is getting done correctly by someone you trust. The installation is the number one fact that determines the lifespan of your water heater, so make sure your installation goes well.

You can do this by researching plumbers online and reading reviews that have been left by others. These days it is extremely easy to find reviews online, and while they aren’t all valid, in general, you can get a feel for how a plumber treats their clients based on the tone of the comments. You also will want to make sure that you check that any plumber you invite into your home is properly bonded and insured since this will protect you as the homeowner.

Are you thinking about installing or replacing a new water heater in your home? Don’t stress the details. Give Clarksburg Plumbing a call and we will take care of all of the details for you. Contact us today to schedule your appointment or learn more about replacing your water heater.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

Photo By iQoncept at Shutterstock

A Detailed Guide To Shower Parts And Problems From Your Reliable Plumber

There are very few things that are calming to the human spirit. Fortunately, a soothing hot shower and a calming environment are available in your home. Your home is your little slice of heaven where you let go of all the day’s burdens and unwind. Imagine getting home after a long winter day of work, hopping into the shower waiting for that calming streaming of hot water to contact your skin, and as this happens, a pool of water is also forming at your feet. What should have been a calming moment of the day is now interrupted as you slowly realize the drain is not working correctly and the shower pressure is gradually reducing. Now you must call a plumber to avoid a catastrophic situation instead of relaxing and enjoying the soothing shower. Having a shower that works is the foundation of a good day, making it an essential part of your home, so it is vital to have its basic knowledge.

Parts of a Shower?

The shower is one of the few systems in a home that most homeowners will correctly name. However, even in the naming, most will only know the parts that make the general shower assembly. These parts include the faucet, shower head, and tub spout. Knowing these parts by name only is understandable since getting the entire system and how it works can be overwhelming. Fortunately, you will need to know everything about your shower quickly. You can always call a nearby plumber to fix it in an emergency. Below is a breakdown of each part and what it does.

Shower Head

This is where the water you enjoy emanates from. Shower heads come in different shapes, sizes, and designs, sometimes altering water flow to your specific needs.

Shower Arm

A shower arm is an extension pipe connected to the wall flange. Its primary purpose is to supply water and provide the shower head with an extension.

Shower Flange

In lay terms, this is the pipe hole cover where the shower arm starts. The covers come in different designs, which, in most cases, complement the showerhead designs. The shower flange also functions as a decorative element for a shower.

Shower Pipe

This vertical pipe connects the shower head assembly to the diverter valve. A professional plumber will connect it behind the shower wall. The shower pipe is made of plastic, copper, or galvanized iron.

Diverter Valve

The next part of a shower system is the diverter valve which is the primary part. You can find it behind the faucet set. The primary purpose of a divert valve is to control the water flow to the shower head. The cold and hot water lines also converge before getting to the showerhead.

Faucet Set

The faucet set is also generally referred to as taps. It is the part that allows you to control water release by either turning it on or off. The faucet set is the most customizable part, connecting to the diverter valve.

Tub Spout

The purpose of a tub spout is to provide a large water flow in showers or tubs. Therefore, to meet this purpose, it is found under the faucet. It contains a diverter for easier switching of the water flow between the spout and the shower head.

Shower Pan

When taking a shower, this is where all the water is collected and directed toward the drain. The shower pan protects the entire home from leaks from the bathroom.

Drains

The drain is the other vital part of a shower, which helps empty your shower water into the drainage system.

Common Issues Associated with Showers

When your shower starts to experience issues, it is not advisable to try and open it or find where the problem is. Instead, you should contact a plumbing professional. The plumber will outline the best cause of action after investigating. If the issue you are experiencing arises from your shower being old, it is best to change the entire shower system. The shower pipe assembly is the other part of your shower system that is familiar with issues. A professional technician will help you improve water flow by replacing the shower pipe or using a snake to unclog the line. Replacing the pipe assembly and the valve will resolve any shower issues you might be encountering.

In contrast, if you keep experiencing recurring problems with your shower drain, the main issue could be in your sewage line. Therefore, you should contact a professional technician for further investigations. Also, the problem could be your home’s main line. The water heater is the other part that usually experiences issues in the shower system. Has your shower been taking longer than usual to dispense hot water? Then it is time to consult a plumbing technician since the problem could be your water heater or shower valve.

Signs That You Need to Replace Your Shower Assembly

Shower fixtures are normally built with a 25 to 50 years lifespan. However, sometimes they only last for a short time. Some of the signs that show when your shower needs to be replaced include the following;

Repetitive Clog

It might be time to change your shower if it clogs up frequently. A shower system should last from one regular maintenance to the next in normal operation. This should only be an exception if something gets down the drain and clogs it.

Old Age

Although a shower system is designed to withstand daily operation, it will eventually age. Therefore, it is best to replace it when you notice it occasionally breaks down. In addition, look out for rust, water flow problems, and leaks.

Knowing the parts and operation of your shower is advantageous. However, having a reliable, professional technician you can rely on during leaks and clogs goes a long way. Contact us today at Clarksburg Plumbing for any plumbing needs.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

Photo By Pavel Adashkevich at Shutterstock

Signs You Need A Water Heater Replacement

Have you ever woken up to a warm shower only to get hit with cold water early in the morning? This may be a sign you need to check your water heater for damage. While some of the arising issues can be sorted through a quick fix, some cannot and may require you to get a new system.

Water heaters are designed to serve you for a few decades before major repairs and replacements. However, you can prolong the life cycle of your unit through regular maintenance and servicing, correcting minor issues before they get out of hand. Below are signs you need water heater replacement.

When Do I Replace My Water Heater?

Age

As mentioned, water heaters are designed to last a long time before replacements. However, these units cannot last forever, especially with technological advancement. With regular servicing, you can add a few more years to your unit as you work on installing a new water heater. Some old homes have old water heaters that rely on coal or wood furnaces to heat water. These systems need replacement, especially if you move into a house with one.

Homeowners with the latest models can check the serial number on their units or date to get the exact age of the water heater. You can also copy the serial number of your unit on the manufacturer’s website for more information.

Water Pooling at the Base of Your Unit

Aside from tankless water heating units, all other options have a tank to hold the heated water. The stainless steel tanks are insulated to maintain the temperature of the water. Due to continued use, these tanks are likely to erode, causing pools of water forming at the base of the unit. Regular maintenance and servicing may help prevent this; however, this may be a temporary fix since the tank will eventually erode.

A pool of water at the base of your water heater is a clear indication of a leak and, in some cases, could be a sign of more damage to your unit. Immediately you notice this; it’s advisable to have your plumber assess the situation and advise you accordingly. Replacing your water heating unit is the best approach in this case to prevent water damage or even mold growth.

However, keep in mind that not every pool may be a result of a leaking tank or pipe. Due to temperature differences, condensation is likely to occur, causing pools of water to form at the base of the tank.

Rusty, Colored Water

A clear sign of damage to your water heater is the rusty, colored water coming from your sink. This feature is common in old homes with outdated water heating systems. Other signs you should look for include stains on your bathroom sink or walls caused by rusty water from your tank. Most hot water tanks are made from steel that resists rust for decades. However, these tanks eventually become susceptible to rusting, causing the walls of the piping and tanks to erode.

Repairing a corroded water heating system is time-consuming and repetitive, especially if your system has seen better days. The best way to deal with this situation is to contact a reliable plumbing firm, such as Clarksburg Plumbing, for your water heater replacement.

No Hot Water

No hot water is one of the most common problems associated with water heaters. This issue often presents itself as an emergency; one moment, you are enjoying hot water, and the next, it’s cold. While there are several reasons why your water heater may behave this way, including electric malfunction for electric versions. Sometimes, you may run out of hot water, and the heater takes a while to heat up.

The best way to get to the bottom of this is to get a certified plumber to run diagnostics on your systems. During an inspection, the plumber can recommend replacing your tank’s heating element to improve its functioning. If the damage is extensive, then it may be time for water heater replacement.

Frequent Repairs

Regular use of your water heater makes it vulnerable to wear and tear over time, leading to major repairs to replace damaged or worn-out parts. With proper maintenance and care, your water heater will last up to 15 years without major problems. However, as the years go by, you will likely schedule more repair services for your water.

Lack of proper maintenance and heavy household use is the main cause of premature wear and tear, leading to frequent repairs. Immediately you notice you are paying for frequent repairs for your system; you could be dealing with a catastrophic failure. Instead of wasting money on frequent repairs, it may be time to replace your unit with a cost-effective and efficient one.

Strange Noises

A little noise from your water heater may not be a reason for alarm. However, frequent unexplained noises can be a reason to call your plumber. These sounds are often generated by mineral deposits around the heating elements and are likely to grow louder over time. Dirt and mineral deposits at the bottom of the tank make heating difficult, leading to other problems, including low water pressure and a limited hot water supply.

As the water gets heated, the mineral deposits and other dirt particles are jolted in the tank causing strange noises. Have a plumber flush the system before it causes premature wear to your heater.

Find a Reliable Plumber at Clarksburg Plumbing

A water heater allows you to enjoy the comfort of hot water in the shower after a long day. Dealing with frequent problems in your unit can be stressful and expensive, especially if you have to replace some parts. Instead of spending more on repairs, you can replace your water heater and enjoy optimal performance.

At Clarksburg Plumbing, we offer various plumbing services, including water heater replacement and servicing. Contact us for more on our services.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

Photo By julichka at istock

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