Category Archives: Sewer Issues

Warning Signs Of A Clog In The Sewer Line

April 2, 2017DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issuesmatt

Chances are, if you have a clog in your sewer line, you will not be able to see it. Sewer clogs can cause an extensive amount of damage. Most homeowners are aware that sewer lines help transport waste from the home into sewer mains located underground. Beyond this, homeowners do not give any thought to their homes sewage system, until something goes wrong.

Clogs within the sewer lines can cause raw sewage to backup into other drains around the home. As the other drains clog with waste, the damages that occur can be massive. Not to mention, the longer a homeowner waits to fix a sewage issue, the more expensive the repair. Homeowners that acknowledge warning signs quickly can eliminate expensive repairs. There are a few things that homeowners need to pay attention to.

Clogged Drains Or Toilets

A common red flag that signifies a possible sewer problem is water coming back up out of the drain. Gurgling sounds may accompany the issue, as the water raises to the surface of the sink or tub. According to DC sewer services, your home will speak to you if there is a sewage issue.

In a residence, all plumbing lines run together. If you start noticing after using your washing machine, that the toilets start making noises, or there is water around the basement floor drain, this could be a sign of a sewage problem. Most clogs will occur within the main sewer line or in one of the secondary lines supporting it.

Tree Roots

Tree roots are another common cause for clogged sewer lines. This occurs a lot in older homes. In newer homes, clogs commonly occur due to feminine hygiene products, thick toilet paper, or paper towels, being flushed down the toilet. Older pipes are different from newly laid pipes.

In places where vegetation is abundant, tree roots can crush piping systems. Remember, older piping systems were not built like modern systems. Overtime, the pipes will start to deteriorate, requiring them to have to be replaced. Slow flowing drains, and gurgling sounds coming from toilet bowls are the first signs to tell if the clog is caused by tree roots.

Shut Off The Water Source

If there is a clog in your plumbing system, and you suspect that the issue is caused by a sewer drain, there is one thing you must do first. You need to shut off the water at the source of the problem. If you do not know where the source of the issue is coming from, simply turn all water off in your home.

Homeowner that can access the sewer cleanout line in their homes can remove the cap to release the pressure in the line. The sewer cleanout line is normally a round, short, white pipe that has a rubber cap on top of it. Releasing this line will force the water that is clogged in the pipe, to be released outside, instead of coming back into your residence.

To maintain the sewage system in your home, fill your sinks to the top twice a month, and then let them drain. The added pressure ensures proper flow. This will help move any waste that is trapped in the line.

Five Crazy Things People Do To Ruin Their Plumbing

March 26, 2017DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Energy Efficiency, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issuesmatt

If you are searching for a career with job security, consider becoming a plumber. This advice is based on two inevitable truths. First, people are always going to need access to plumbing that works properly. Also, people are always going to do questionable things to stop their plumbing from functioning correctly. Keep in mind that being a plumber is an admirable job.

The crazy things that people do to ruin their plumbing can be remarkable. There are five things that create plumbing issues that can be avoided. To some, avoiding a plumbing issue may seem like common sense. There are people that are unaware of what they should do to maintain their homes’ plumbing systems correctly.

Do Not Leave Hoses Connected In The Wintertime

Leaving a hose connected to the water faucet outside is a common plumbing error. Unlike Christmas lights, water hoses can damage your plumbing, if not removed during colder seasons. If the hose freezes onto the spout, this can impact the faucet and the supply line. Not to mention, you will have to replace your hose as well.

Do Not Use Lots Of Drain Cleaners

When used properly, drain cleaners can effectively help clear clogged drains. But anything can be hazardous when it is used in excess. If too much drain cleaner is used, it can corrode the drain materials, and make the clog worse.

Do Not Pour Grease Down The Kitchen Drain

Most people can recall watching their mothers or grandmothers cooking, and pouring the grease from their meals into the kitchen sink. If this has become a habit for you, stop doing it. Pouring grease down your sink can destroy your piping system. Grease is one of the most common reasons why drains clog.

Do Not Put Anything Into Vent Pipes

Most people do not understand what the significance of a vent pipe is. There have been people who have run electrical lines such as television cable into their homes through their plumbing vent pipes. Contrary to widespread belief, vent pipes do serve a purpose.

The pipes are put into place to allow air to flow through the drains. This helps to promote drainage, and prevent suction. The air flow also helps eliminate sewer gases that come through the sewer main. If a hole is cut through the vent pipes, sewer air will seep into your home, requiring you to call on sewer services in DC to fix the issue.

Do Not Throw Trash In Your Toilet

Not throwing trash into a toilet seems like common sense. But one of the most common reasons why plumbers are called into a residence is to fix a clogged toilet that is caused by an object. There are lots of people that believe if they flush something down the toilet, they will be rid of it forever.

When something is flushed down the toilet, it does not disappear into the great beyond. Instead, it will lead to a drain pipe that is roughly three inches around. This pipe leads into a different drain pipe that controls the drainage in your entire home. Trash can accumulate in one space, causing a huge clog in your entire piping system.

Plumbing Upgrades To Consider For Your Washington, D.C. Home

March 9, 2017Bathroom Remodeling, DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issuesmatt

There are many great plumbers here in the Washington, D.C. metro area who are able to help you with any plumbing upgrades and repairs you might need for your home. Undertaking such upgrades and repairs may seem like a daunting task, but with a little help from the professionals, it can be a breeze. This article will list some of the many plumbing upgrades and repairs that might be necessary for your home.

Shower Repair

For many of us, the morning (or evening) shower is the most relaxing part of our day. With a shower upgrade, it can be even more relaxing. A good D.C. area plumber will be able to adjust the water pressure exactly to your tastes. They will also be able to repair or replace your showerhead, so that the water flow is exactly how you like it. Such upgrades will not only make your shower more comfortable, they will actually save you money, as leaky showers are a major source of water waste here in the D.C. area. If you have recently purchased a brand-new shower or bath, a plumber will be able to help you install your new purchase.

Drain and Sewer Upgrades

If you are looking to perform a major renovation on your home or property in the city of Washington, you need to be aware of the D.C. drain and sewer codes, as it is necessary that your property is always in accordance with these codes. Before you begin your upgrade, consult with a local plumber. They will tell you exactly how your plans will alter the drainage and sewer system on your property. If needed, they can provide the necessary adjustments, so that you are still in-line with local regulations, even though your property underwent a dramatic change. A good plumber can also perform drainage and sewer repairs on your property. If your sewer line is broken, or your septic tank needs repaired or replaced, a good plumber will be able to get your property back in tip-top shape.

Emergency Plumbing Repairs

Let’s face it: plumbing emergencies happen, especially in old houses. Washington, D.C. is home to many beautiful, charming, historic houses. Unfortunately, with all of that charm and history often comes old, rusted pipes and outdated plumbing systems. And let’s not forget that even newer homes can have plumbing problems every now and then. If you find yourself waist-deep in a plumbing emergency, whether it is a clogged drain, a broken pipe, a broken water heater, or a backed-up toilet, you need to have a D.C. plumber who you can call at a moment’s notice, and who you can rely on to fix the situation promptly and for a reasonable price. This may seem like a very tall order, but fortunately, there are many plumbers here in Washington, D.C. who provide 24-hour services. If you can find a go-to plumber here in the D.C. area, all of the sudden your plumbing emergency becomes much more manageable.

Three Reasons To Thank Your Local Plumber

February 9, 2017Commercial Plumbing, DC Plumber, Sewer Issuesmatt

The phrase, “first world problems” is an adage that has become conversational in modern day society. Living in America, there are certain things that people feel they are entitled to. Clean water, waste removal, and operational bathroom facilities are a few of things that people feel they should have, without question. Although these things may seem minuscule to some, the work that others must put in to deliver these services is complex.

The Necessity of Clean Water

Water is something that every living creature needs to survive. But, years of torture on the environment, coupled with a growing population, has made it impossible to keep natural waters clean. Science has shown what the effects of untreated water have on the body. Many wouldn’t consider taking a drink of water from a muddy pond, but without DC sewer services you might have to. It is the job that these plumbers and service members do, that helps keep water safe for consumption.

The task of purifying water, and ensuring that water is delivered properly, takes interaction from two separate entities. Plumbers have the task of ensuring that your pipes are in working order, so your water can be delivered to your residence. If a pipe is busted, corroded, or clogged, this could adversely affect the water that is delivered into your home.

Imagine A World Without Waste Removal

It is a warm Saturday morning, and after pouring yourself a cold glass of water, nature decides to call. You walk into your bathroom, carry out the deed and go to flush the toilet; but the water doesn’t move. You panic, and start looking around the toilet to see if there is anything you can do to fix the problem. There is nothing wrong with the toilet, the problem is your waste services.

Just think of how quickly the issue of no waste servicing could escalate over the course of a few days. It is hard to imagine living in a world without sewer service and septic tanks to ensure that your daily waste is properly disposed of. The odor alone from waste buildup is enough to make someone sick, add onto the fact that there is nothing to eliminate the buildup, and things could get bad fast.

Daily Showers Would Be No More

Could you imagine not being able to walk into your bathroom and take a hot shower in the morning to wake you up? Or even better, not being able to take a shower or bath because your utilities in your bathroom are not functioning? Operational toilet facilities are important to residents and businesses alike. The task that goes into ensuring that these facilities remain operational falls on plumbers offering sewer repair services.

Thankfully, we can all be proud that we live in the so-called land of entitlement, because we do not have to go without the things that many people take for granted. We can wake up, pour us a cold glass of water, eliminate waste whenever nature calls, and take our morning showers without worry. It is the plumbers that decide to work in this type of field that we should all be thanking. Without them, this world would be a dirty clogged up mess.

Three Reasons To Hire Sewer Services

February 7, 2017DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, How To, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issuesmatt

The importance of maintaining a functional plumbing system is often overlooked by homeowners. If the plumbing system in a building is properly maintained, an expert will rarely have to be called in to render services. Overtime, a neglected system can cause problems that will get worse as time proceeds. Proper maintenance can stop problems from occurring, but most people do not understand how important their sewage systems are until it’s too late.

The pipelines that are used in sewage systems are delicate. If the system is not adequately maintained, it can cause a company offering sewer services in DC to have to intervene to rectify the issue. There are three reasons to consider employing a professional if you begin to experience sewage issues. A professional service can properly diagnose the sewage problem, clean out blocked pipes, and help eliminate further damage to the piping system.

Properly Diagnose The Sewage Problem

Clogs within the sewage system occur when something is blocking the one of the pipelines. If a clog is not fixed promptly, this could cause the pipes that are being blocked to crack or burst under pressure. Pipes that are cracked or burst will need to be rectified by a professional. They will identify the cause of the issue and resolve it.

Clean Out Blocked Pipes

Clogged pipes happen for a variety of different reasons. The most common reasons why they occur is because of objects being flushed down the toilet that should be disposed of by a different means. Baby diapers, tissue rolls, and tampons are commonly flushed down the toilet, instead of being disposed of properly. If these items are flushed down the commode, they can cause massive problems.

It is vital that only things that are intended to be flushed down the toilet are disposed of in this matter. In most cases, only toilet paper should be put into a toilet, because it will disintegrate over time. Once an item has obstructed the flow of water, it can cause any water that is flushed into the pipes to come back up, because it has no way to pass through.

Eliminate Further Damage To The Piping System

If a clogged pipe or sewage leak is not fixed immediately, the issue can spread throughout the property. The sewage can spew over to the front lawn of your residence, basement, or any area that water is being fed to. Homeowners that attempt to fix the problem on their own, without any plumbing experience can cause further damage to their piping system.

Trained sewage professionals know what to do to ensure that further damage does not occur. These professionals will identify the cause, use their specialized equipment to fix the issue, and help eliminate any further damage to the piping system. They understand how the system runs and operates, making the task of fixing the issue seamless.

As mentioned before, the sewage system in a dwelling is complex and delicate. Maintaining the system and getting it properly fixed if anything goes wrong helps ensure the safety of your household. Raw sewage has been linked to adverse health complications. It is important to get any sewage related issues fixed properly to avoid further damage to your dwelling and your health.

The Importance Of Plumbing And Sewer Services

January 16, 2017Commercial Plumbing, DC Plumber, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issuesmatt

Plumbing and sewer services are essential to the health and safety and the health and safety of your family. And if you own a business, you have to consider the safety of your customers and employees as well. Plumbing and sewer services ensure the water in your home or business is safe for use. Plumbing and sewer services also efficiently carry waste and wastewater away from your home or business. If improperly handled sanitary water and sewer gases can pose serious health risks.

Examples Of Sewer Services

A professional plumber can provide a variety of sewer services including sewer and drain cleaning for both your home and your business. They can also use specialized cameras to spot breaks or clogs in your residential or commercial sewer lines that are invisible to the naked eye. Professional plumbers can remove blockages in sewer lines whether the lines are made of cast iron or ceramic materials. Professional plumbers can replace or repair sewer mains if necessary as well.

Hiring A Master Plumber Instead Of Doing It Yourself (DIY)

Hiring a professional master plumber to provide sewer services and repairs will ensure that the job is done accurately and efficiently the first time around. This will save you money in the long term because you won’t have to hire a professional to fix mistakes that you could possibly make while attempting to do the work yourself.

Finding Sewer Services In Your Area

The easiest way to find professional sewer services in your area is by word of mouth. You can ask friends, neighbors, family members or coworkers for a trusted recommendation in your area. If you’re looking for sewer services in DC for example, asking someone who you know and trust will ensure that you have a positive experience. You can also use the internet to search for a professional plumber that provides these services. However, this method will require more research on your part because you have to verify that the company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and offers the services that you need, at an affordable price. You should also make sure that the company you choose puts everything in writing and provides exceptional customer services. The company should be willing to accommodate your schedule and they shouldn’t hesitate to show their license upon request. And if the company provides free estimates, that’s great too.

Preventative Plumbing Maintenance

Having a professional plumber inspect the plumbing system of your home or business on a regular basis can prevent the need for costly repairs in the future. Some examples of preventative plumbing maintenance tasks include repairing small leaks, and performing routine water heater repair and maintenance. Routine preventative plumbing maintenance can help your home or business conserve water as well. And conserving water will help save money on your utility bills. Your home or business will not only be greener but you’ll be saving some green too. These are just a few of the reasons why the importance of plumbing and sewer services cannot and should not be overlooked.

How Do You Know When You Need Emergency Plumbing Services

January 12, 2017Commercial Plumbing, DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issues, Water Heatersmatt

Plumbing emergencies can jeopardize the health and safety of you and your family. But how do you know if the plumbing problem you’re experiencing is a plumbing emergency and not just a common plumbing problem? Here are a few situations that should be considered plumbing emergencies. If you experience any of these situations, you should consult the help of a professional plumber as quickly as possible.

Drainage And Sewer System Backups

Clogged sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers can be a sign of a serious plumbing emergency. If left unattended for too long a clogged drain can quickly go from draining slowly to overflowing or flooding. A professional plumber can help you assess and fix these situations before they turn into an emergency.

Water Heater Repair Or Replacement

A water heater is an essential part of any residential or commercial plumbing system. The water heater is what delivers hot water to your home or business. Your water heater gets used more frequently when the temperature drops, but it should be tested and maintained on a regular basis to ensure maximum efficiency and conserve water in your home or business. And since proper water heater maintenance will conserve water, it will also save you money on the utility bills for your home or business. Either a shortage of or the absence of hot water is a sign of a problem with your hot water heater. Having no hot water puts the health and safety of you and your family at risk. And if you own a business, it can make your fellow employees, and customers sick as well. So if you’re experiencing one or both of these issues, you should consider it an emergency and contact a professional plumber immediately.

Leaks

A leak might seem like a minor problem. But if it’s not repaired as quickly as possible, it can lead to even bigger plumbing problems. For example, a leak in your wash machine hose, can lead to a major flood in your home’s laundry room. A professional plumber can assist you with the repair of all types of leaks in your home or business including drains, pipes, plumbing fixtures, and toilets. A professional plumber can even help you with the heating and cooling (HVAC) system in your home or business too. If you have a leak in your home or business, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a professional plumber right away.

Reliability

If you do have a plumbing emergency like the ones described above, you can count on a professional plumber to resolve the problem quickly and efficiently without disrupting your daily routine or your busy schedule. A professional plumber will also provide exceptional customer service and be willing to answer any questions that you may have.

Finding Emergency Plumbing Services In Your Area

If you’re looking for emergency plumbing services in your area, word of mouth is the best way to find them. If you need a DC emergency plumber for instance, you can ask a friend, family member, or a neighbor for a recommendation. You can use the internet as well but in an emergency you may not have the time to do all the extra research that will be required. These tips should help you determine if you’re experiencing a plumbing emergency and how to find a professional plumber to help you.

Why Sewer Services Are Important

November 29, 2016DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issuesmatt

Sewer services are important because they keep the plumbing system of your home or business running safely and efficiently. Without quality sewer service, you’re putting the health and safety of your family, customers, or employees at risk.

Types Of Sewer Services

There are a wide variety of sewer services that reputable plumbing companies offer. Some examples of commonly offered sewer services include things like pipe rodding, preventative maintenance, leak repair and noise elimination services, as well as the use of specialized underground cameras to pinpoint drain and sewer issues that are invisible to the naked eye.

Holiday Plumbing Help

With the holidays right around the corner, it’s important to make sure your plumbing system is in working order. Here are a few simple tips to avoid time consuming, costly and embarrassing plumbing problems during the holiday season when your house is filled with guests.

Kitchen Plumbing Tips

One of the most important things to remember when it comes to kitchen plumbing is to never pour cooking oil down the drain. This can clog the pipes or cause serious damage to your home’s plumbing system. You should also avoid putting kitchen waste down your garbage disposal. Another invaluable tip is to run your dishwasher or wash machine in the evening to save hot water for you, your family, and your holiday guests to use.

Bathroom Plumbing Tips

When you have a house full of out of town guests, there’s bound to be a lot of showers taken and a lot of toilets flushing. And this can take a serious toll on the plumbing in your bathroom. Here are a few simple tips to keep your bathroom plumbing running smoothly. Avoid taking showers one right after another. Instead spread them out throughout the day. If you have to take a shower right away, try to wait at least ten minutes between showers. You may also want to turn up the water heater to ensure there is enough hot water for you and your guests to use. However, the temperature of your water heater should not exceed one-hundred-and twenty five (125 degrees) Fahrenheit so you don’t burn yourself or your guests. If your shower has weak water pressure, fill a plastic bag with a cup of vinegar and place it over the showerhead. Let it soak overnight. In the morning remove the bag and use an old toothbrush to remove any mineral deposits that are left behind. This may help remove any buildup and get the water flowing correctly.

Frozen Pipes

Another plumbing hazard to avoid in the fall and winter months is frozen pipes. In order to keep your pipes from freezing, make sure they are installed in a well-insulated location. You should also make sure the location is properly heated. Outdoor pipes should be buried below the frost line. All your pipes should also be covered with pipe sleeves. And finally, let the faucets drip in extremely cold temperatures to keep pipes from freezing. If your pipes are already broken or frozen, the first thing you should do is turn off the main water line in your home to prevent flooding. The next thing you should do is contact a certified, licensed plumbing professional to fix the problem as soon as possible. Choosing one known for DC sewer services and drainage issues will be a good choice.

Damaged Sewer Warning Signs

November 17, 2016Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issuesmatt

Most of us have experienced our fair share of plumbing issues. Clogged drains, no hot water and leaky toilets can all seem like the end of the world in the moment. The bathroom is actually a complex system that involves a lot of working parts to run smoothly; for some reason, however, when even a minor issue in the bathroom arises we take all of this for granted and take tremendous pity on ourselves. In stressful times the most helpful thing is often a little perspective. So the next time you have a plumbing emergency in the bathroom, understand that it could be worse. It could be sewer damage. For the fortunate people who have never experienced sewer damage, and the potential health and financial risks that come with it, be thankful that you haven’t had such misfortune. While they are not as common as the more routine bathroom plumbing issues that were listed above, they can strike at anytime—it is important to be vigilant.

Beware Symptons

Below is a list of symptoms that may indicate that your underlying (literally) problem is sewer damage. Of course, if you are experiencing any of the following damaged sewer warning signs, it’s urgent that you contact a DC sewer services company or trained professional before it becomes a more serious health or financial issue. Keep in mind that the older your house is, the more susceptible you may be to a problem originating with your sewer line. Especially if you know you have a copper sewer pipes or drain lines.

Backups

Sewage backups will usually occur in and below the lowest sitting drain in your bathroom. Whether or not it is a problem with the sewer or a simpler clog in the drain is a matter of frequency and location. If the backup occurs frequently, for example, every time you run the drain or every time you flush the toilet, it is likely a problem with the main sewer line, since all of your bathroom pipes run through it. If the problem is clearly limited to only one drain, you may be in luck and only have a single clogged drain. That is a problem that can be solved without a trained professional—all you need is good enough eyesight to read the instructions on the back of a bottle of drain cleaner and some elbow grease along with a plunger.

Odors

Smelling sewer gas is a clear indication that there is a problem with your sewer line. These odors are not only unpleasant, they can actually be a health hazard for you and your family. If you are experiencing consistent sewer gas odors, it’s important to contact a professional to nip the sewer line issue in the bud.

Mold

In the same vein as odors, mold is another indication of sewer line problems that is both unpleasant and unhealthy. If mold is forming on the walls of your bathroom it may be due to a crack, rupture or puncture of the sewer line behind it.

Others

There are many other indicators of a sewer line problem. These include septic waste, rodents, insects, foundation cracks, sinkholes, lawn indentations, slow drains and more. Any nagging plumbing issues that you’ve been unable to solve on your own may require the investigation of a plumber to rule out these potentially hazardous problems.