Category: Plumbing

By [company_name]

Did you know that many water heaters are only expected to last for around ten years? Many homeowners don’t think about changing their home’s water heater. However, if it’s maintained, it can lead to a variety of costly issues.

Instead of waiting until it’s too late, it’s important to know how to keep your water heater in good condition. Knowing how to drain a water heater can be an effective way to keep your water heater up and running in good condition.

So keep on reading and we’ll teach you several helpful tips for draining your water heater.

1. Prepare Your Water Heater

The most important tip to prep your water heater for draining is to make sure that it’s turned off. You’ll need to know what kind of water heater you have in order to turn it off.

If you have a gas-powered water heater, then you should turn its switch to “pilot.” The pilot light is going to stay on when you do this. However, the water won’t continue to be heated.

An electric water heater will usually have a switch that connects it to electricity. If you’re having a tough time figuring out where the switch is, you can check for a board above the heater.

Sometimes, the switch is hidden inside the switchboard. You need to make sure that the power is off before you flush the tank.

2. Let the Water CoolL

It’s a good idea to let all of the water in the tank cool off completely before you continue. Many people underestimate how long this could take.

You should expect it to take between a few minutes to a few hours for all of the water to cool down. The amount of time you need to wait will depend on the size of the heater.

The water inlet valve should be in the “on” position during this step. It’s important that you wait to continue before you flush the water pipes. This is so that you don’t accidentally burn yourself or damage the items where the water will be released.

3. Flush the Pipes

After several hours have passed, you want to flush the pipes. You’ll need to turn the cold water inlet switch off to do this properly.

You can probably find this switch towards the top of the heater. It’s also where water gathers before being heated.

Now, go to a sink in your home and turn the hot water on. If possible, go to the floor above where the heater is located.

Let the faucet run until the sink is cool and all of the excess water in the pipes is flushed out. This is in order to relieve any pressure that might have built up in the pipes.

After you flush the pipes, you want to open the pressure valve.

4. Transfer to an Outdoor Drain

Next, you’ll have to drain the water heater into a drain that’s outside of the house. You can do this with a long garden hose.

5. Connect to the Pump

If your water heater sits above ground then you just need to connect the hose to the tank. Once you do that, gravity will force the water down and out of the tank.

If your water heater is below ground, you’re going to need to get a small pump and connect it to the hose in order to get the water out.

6. Collect Water

You want to have a bucket on hand to collect the water. Collecting the excess water with a bucket can prevent you from wasting a lot of usable water. Many people will put the hose in a garden area so that they can water their plants.

Collecting the water in a bucket will also let you see how much sediment is in your tank. If the water in the bucket is clean, then your heater is probably in good condition.

If there’s a lot of sediment in your buck, then you’ll need to flush out the water heater.

7. Flush the Water Heater

In order to flush the water heater, you’ll need to disconnect the hose. You then need to turn off the water tap and pressure relief valves.

Now, fill the tank with water and drain it again. You’ll have to repeat this step until it’s fully drained of any sediment.

Each time you drain your water heater, you want to turn on the cold water valve briefly. This is going to release cold water into the tank to refill and drain again.

8. Contact the Professional

Does draining your water heater seem like a lot of work? Does it seem difficult and even dangerous?

If you want to get your water heater drained or repaired but don’t want to do it yourself, you’re in luck. A professional plumbing technician can do all of this work for you and make sure that the job is done quickly and properly.

The Importance of Knowing How to Drain a Water Heater

Hopefully, after reading the above article, you now have a better idea of how to drain a water heater. Knowing how to do this properly will allow you to enjoy hot water throughout the year and extend the life of your home’s water heater.

Are you looking for help with the plumbing in your home? If you are, then make sure to contact us today and see what our experienced plumbing technicians can do for you!

By [company_name]

Water heaters account for almost a fifth of residential energy use. So, for example, if your annual energy expenses amount to $2,000… about $400 of that is for hot water alone.

And if you have hot water heater problems, you’re likely spending even more in the form of wasted water and money, and possible health and safety hazards, such as accidental scalds.

I Need Water Heater Repair or Replacement!

The good news is that not all faulty heaters warrant a replacement right away. There are also some troubleshooting steps you can take before you call a San Antonio plumber.

No Hot Water

If you have no hot water at all, the first thing to check is that your heater has power. In many cases, the problem isn’t the heater itself but the circuit breaker. Your circuit breaker may have tripped, stopping the flow of power to your heater. Check your circuit breaker and make sure the switch for your water heater is set to “ON.”

If it’s not the circuit breaker, the next thing to inspect is your water heater thermostat. If you have a digital thermostat, check if the display shows anything at all. If you have a conventional one, make sure the knob or valve isn’t set to “OFF” or a very low temperature.

If there’s nothing wrong with the setting of your heater, try resetting it. Most water heaters, be it tankless or a storage type, has a red “reset” button. Press this and wait for a few minutes before running hot water at the tap.

You could also be out of gas if your water heater runs on gas or propane. Be sure to check your propane tank level or be sure your gas company hasn’t shut off your gas.

If you still don’t get hot water, you may be dealing with a faulty heating element. Your thermostat may also be malfunctioning, and it may need repair or replacement.

Either way, if none of these troubleshooting steps work, it’s best to get in touch with a San Antonio plumber ASAP. This way, the plumbing expert can diagnose the exact cause of your hot water woes.

Tepid Water

If your hot water taps produce lukewarm water, it may be due to a faulty heating element. However, you should still check your thermostat as someone may have adjusted it. If the temperature setting did change, set it back to at least 120 ºF.

According to the Department of Energy, 120 ºF is enough for most households.

If you’re still getting tepid water, you may have limescale formation inside your water heater. Limescale usually forms from dissolved minerals, especially calcium carbonate (CaCO3).

Hard water contains a lot of CaCO3, and over time, it can build up on water fixtures. This includes your water heater’s heating element and the pipes connected to it. If this happens, the minerals can act as insulation, making it harder for your heater to warm the water up.

The thing is, many parts of San Antonio get supplied with hard water. In fact, the San Antonio Water System delivers water with a hardness rating of 15 to 20 gpg. Such hardness classifies as either “very hard” (11 to 15 grain per gallon) or “extremely hard” (over 15 gpg).

If you have a storage-type heater, you can try flushing the tank first. This can help get rid of loose mineral deposits that may be clinging to your heater.

If your water remains tepid, ring up a San Antonio plumber. Your tank may already need a deeper cleaning as well as a new anode rod. It’s also a good idea to invest in a water softener so that you can prevent future limescale build-up.

Always Running Out of Hot Water

This usually means that you have an undersized water heater tank. Your too-small system is no longer enough to supply your hot water demands. In this case, your best option is to consider upgrading to a new, larger water heater.

Variations in New Temperatures

If you have a tankless water heater, these variations may occur if you run several hot water taps at the same time.

Keep in mind that on-demand heaters often have an output rate of 2 to 5 gallons per minute. This is lower compared to traditional storage-type heaters. Because of this, a tankless heater may not be able to satisfy simultaneous demand for hot water.

However, the same can happen if you have an undersized water heater tank.

In any case, please note that sudden changes in water temperatures can be a scald hazard. If you get exposed to water heated to 140 ºF, it can take as little as five seconds to sustain a burn injury.

The best way to resolve limited output is to install an extra tankless water heater. You can also get a bigger tank if you prefer a storage-type heating system.

Flucuations in Water Pressure

These usually happen alongside temperature variations due to simultaneous hot water use. However, these can also occur if you have a faulty Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV). It may have corroded so much that it’s no longer able to maintain proper pressure.

In many cases, the first problem you’ll encounter with PRVs is a leak. If it does drip water, place a bucket right below the valve and then try opening and closing it a few times. This may help seat the valve back into place.

If there’s a large leak or the dripping is too heavy, you likely need a valve replacement. Get in touch with your friendly but professional San Antonio plumber as soon as possible.

Water Heater Leaks

The average San Antonio household uses a little more than 7,000 gallons of water each month. However, others use 50 times more than that, which means they consume about 350,000 gallons per month! While some know where their water goes, many others don’t, as they are unaware of leaky heaters and pipes.

Aside from the waste itself, leaks can also spur the growth and spread of molds. This can be a health hazard, especially for those with allergies and asthma. Experts say that molds contribute to at least two in five asthma attacks in US homes.

With that said, it’s best that you perform regular checks on your water heater. If it leaks, have it inspected and repaired immediately by a professional plumber.

Get All Your Hot Water Heater Problems Fixed Now

There you have it, your ultimate guide to common hot water heater problems and what you can do to fix them. If you tried the DIY troubleshooting steps, and they didn’t help, please know that our team is here to help. Get in touch with us here at [company_name] so we can have your heater woes fixed as soon as possible!

By [company_name]

Are you looking for effective tips to prevent a clogged drainpipe? Learning how to prevent your pipes from clogging can save you lots of time and hassle. It can also help you to avoid expensive costs to repair your pipes.

How can you avoid the stress of dealing with a clogged drain? Let’s discover six tips that you can use to prevent plumbing emergencies in your kitchen.

1. Don’t Throw Grease Down the Drains

How often do you pour grease down your kitchen sink? If this is your regular habit, you might need to make frequent calls for a plumbing service.

Over time, an accumulation of grease can result in the severe clogging of your drains. This could also damage your plumbing system.

This does not mean that you should be scared about cooking your favorite meals with grease.

How should you get rid of it to prevent your drains from clogging? Dump the grease in a can or disposable container. You should also remove the extra grease from your frying pan by wiping it with a paper towel.

This is the easiest way for you to avoid a messy situation with your drains.

A quick tip: before you prepare meals in the kitchen, make sure you leave out a can or container you’re ready to throw away. This is a helpful way for you to remember that you should not pour the oil down the drain.

2. Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is a useful and common household product that you can use to keep your drains clear. You can create a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to pour down your sink.

If you don’t like the idea of using vinegar, you can substitute it with lemon juice. Create this mixture and flush it down your drain with hot water.

Another great technique you can use involves a mixture of baking soda and salt. You need to flush this mixture down the drain with hot water.

The combination of vinegar, baking soda, and hot water creates a chemical reaction that removes drain blockages.

These techniques can help to maintain the freshness and cleanliness of your drains. These household items are fairly cheap and help you to avoid serious plumbing issues.

3. Use a Strainer

Don’t overlook the benefits of using a drain strainer for your kitchen. A strainer is a valuable item that you can use to prevent an unfortunate drain clog.

When you’re cooking, you can accidentally dump certain things down your drain. This could cause future problems for your drain. A strainer is a handy tool to catch hair, food, and other items that slip down the drain.

For these reasons, a strainer is one of the best home remedies you can use to keep your drains clog-free.

You can install a strainer for all the drains in your home. You also need to remember to clean your strainer regularly.

4. Use Your Garbage Disposal Wisely

Most clogged drain issues occur from the incorrect use of a garbage disposal unit. You should be observant of the things you’re putting in your garbage disposal.

You could be in the habit of dumping certain food scraps that cause significant problems. Some of these could include popcorn kernels, apple seeds, and peach stones.

These items don’t grind well and will cause potential drain problems. Celery stalks, eggshells, and food bones can also cause your disposal unit to jam.

You need to keep in mind that you should not use your garbage disposal like a trash can. Non-food items that you put in your disposal can cause significant damage.

You also need to inform your family members to avoid putting non-food items in your unit. Non-food items can destroy the blades and motor of your garbage disposal unit.

The damage to your unit could result in expensive repairs. Depending on the damage, you may have to get a new replacement.

Your disposal unit can also break down if you don’t maintain it properly. You need to treat your disposal unit with care like other appliances you own. Schedule regular maintenance for your unit to keep it running at its optimal performance.

5. Invest in a Sink Plunger

A sink plunger for your kitchen can help you to prevent a badly clogged drain. A kitchen sink plunger comes in handy when you’re dealing with minor clogs.

This is a convenient tool that you can use solely for your kitchen.

6. Schedule a Routine Drain Cleaning

Are you in the habit of cleaning your drains? When you’re cleaning your kitchen, you should also pay attention to your drains. This is a common area that you might overlook when you’re doing your kitchen chores.

To keep your drains clog-free, you should remember to perform routine drain cleaning.

While you might be unable to prevent every clog, regular cleaning can help to minimize issues. With drain cleaning, you can remove all types of debris from your strainer.

Since you use your kitchen every day, you should engage in weekly routine cleaning. This keeps your plumbing system in top condition throughout the year.

Regular maintenance can help you to avoid the big headache of unclogging your drains.

Contact Skillful Experts to Work on Your Clogged Drain

A clogged drain in your kitchen can occur at any time. This can become a nightmare and make your kitchen chaotic.

Fortunately, you can follow these helpful tips to avoid the stress of having a clogged drain.

Do you need professional advice from reputable plumbing experts that you can trust? If you’re looking for a plumbing professional, you can contact us for more information.

By [company_name]

Having plumbing issues in your home or building? Have you tried correcting the issue but it seems like it’s a bigger problem than you thought? When you need a plumbing issue corrected, it’s time to contact a professional plumber in San Antonio.

Professional plumbing service will be able to help you fix all your plumbing issues correctly. Before you decide what service you’ll hire, though, you’ll want to first ensure you’re choosing someone who’s reputable and the best person for the job.

How will you know if the company you decide to hire will meet your expectations? There are several questions you should ask a plumber before hiring them. Continue reading below for our list of questions you should ask before making a final decision.

1. Do You Have Proper Licenses?

Professional plumbers in San Antonio are required to have proper training and licenses. When a plumber has a plumbing license, you can trust that they know what they’re doing and can get the job done properly. You can visit the plumber’s website to verify their license.

If you don’t find information about their plumber’s license online, you can call and ask them to provide you with proof of such. Make sure to do your research to ensure the license is legitimate before you decide to hire them.

2. How much Experience Do You Have?

Another great question to ask your future plumber is how much experience they have. How many years has that particular plumber been in business? An experienced plumber will know how to address a variety of plumbing issues.

An experienced plumber will have a good amount of reviews online about their services. Previous clients will write out reviews of their own experiences either good or bad. You’ll be able to find them online and read through them.

If their reviews are good, then you can consider hiring them. These reviews will also give you some insight into what you can expect when you hire them for your own plumbing trouble.

3. What’s Covered in the Estimate?

Before having work done, you’ll want your plumber to give you an estimate. You should get a few estimates from different plumbers and compare the costs. You’ll also want to ask each plumber what’s covered in the estimate.

The most accurate estimate will be done in person when your plumber is able to inspect the problem with their own eyes. Ask the plumber if the costs of labor are included in this estimate as well.

Do keep in mind there might be some unexpected delays or costs due to complications that can arise. Leave room for these uncertainties when establishing a final cost.

4. What Type of Insurance Do Yout Have?

A reputable plumbing company will have insurance in place in case something were to happen while the plumber is there completing the work. Without proper insurance coverage, you could be at fault for any accidents that occur.

Even if a plumber is hurt on the job due to their own fault, you could still be at fault because it happened on your property. To prevent this from happening, ask the plumber what type of insurance they have and what it’ll cover.

If the plumber doesn’t have insurance, then you’ll want to consider choosing someone else.

5. Can You Provide Me With References?

A reputable plumber will have a few references from past clients. It’s up to you to ask the plumber for these references. Once you’re given a few references, you can then call them one by one.

Do be sure to give each reference a call. Calling each reference yourself is the only way to ensure that each reference is a true reference. This will also allow you to ask previous clients any questions you might have.

Ask them what type of service they received and if they were happy with the work that was done. Ask if any issues arose during the services and how these issues were handled.

6. When is Payment Due?

Depending on what type of work is being done and how big of a job it is, the payment scale might be different. It’s important to ask your plumber how payments will be made and when they’ll be due.

For example, if it’s a small project, there might only be one payment due once the project is complete. If it’s a larger project that spans a week or longer, then small payments might be due several times throughout the process.

Knowing how and when payment is due is essential for ensuring you don’t miss a payment, and for helping you plan ahead financially.

7. What Does the Cleanup Process Look Like?

Once the issue with the plumbing is corrected, there might be quite a mess left behind, especially if the issue was a sewage backup. Some plumbers will clean up after the work is done, but others will not. This might be something you want to ask your plumber before hiring them.

If the plumber does include the cleanup in their services, is there an extra fee associated with it? Know this information beforehand to ensure there are no surprises down the road.

Find a Professional Plumber in San Antonio

Are you in need of a plumber in San Antonio today? Leave any plumbing issues in your home or building to the professionals. A reputable plumber can correct issues with plumbing systems without error.

Fill out a request for service form today to see how we can help you!

By [company_name]

It happens to everyone eventually. You go to flush the toilet, and nothing happens. Or maybe you run the water in the faucet, and soon you have a miniature pool in your sink. You likely have a clogged drain.

You’ll recognize a clogged drain, as water does not flow easily and may even overflow outside of the sink, tub, or toilet.

Why Does a Clogged Drain Happen?

There are plenty of items that can clog a drain.

But here are some of the most common culprits that contribute to a clogged drain:

• Foods and fats, especially in the kitchen sink
• Paper products like Kleenex, toilet paper, wet wipes, or feminine products
• Hair
• Soap particles
• Dirt and dust
• Foreign objects such as toys, jewelry, etc.
• Makeup including powders, creams, and liquids
• Tree/bush roots in outdoor drains

Many times, people try to discard products through plumbing pipes. If you need to discard a product, read the back of the label to see the proper way to throw it away. Generally, too much of anything will cause a clog, so if you must flush or wash it down, do so sparingly or simply find a trash can.

Best Drain Cleaner: 8 Choices & Tips

Whether or not you toss something down the drain purposefully, drains will get clogged eventually. While a clogged drain is an annoyance, it’s usually a quick, low-cost fix. In some cases, you can probably unclog your drain with items around your home. Here are some ways you can unclog your drain and get the water flowing again.

1. Plunger

One of the first tools many people turn to for unclogging the toilet is a plunger. With just a little pumping action, you can unclog your drain in a matter of minutes, especially if the clog is minimal.

While the plunger is great for toilets, you can also use it for sinks and other drains. Small plungers are perfect for the task and are easily stored under cabinets. Tip: keep a toilet plunger separate from drain plungers for hygienic purposes.

2. Commericial Drain Cleaners

Commercial drain cleaners are available in most home improvement and grocery stores. Coupled with time and hot water, most drain cleaners work well on most clogs. But if you have a septic tank, try to avoid commercial drain cleaners. They can damage the delicate bacteria that keep your septic tank running well.

3. Homemade Drain Cleaner

Did you know that you can make your own drain cleaner with just a few products you’re likely to already have at home?

The best ingredients for a clogged drain are vinegar and baking soda.

Start by pouring hot water down the drain. Add 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup of baking soda to the drain, depending on how big your drain is. Then, using 1 cup of vinegar and 1 cup of hot water, pour it down the drain.

You should start to see fizz or bubbles creep over the drain, and this is normal and necessary. Let the solution sit anywhere for 5-10 minutes and then rinse with hot water.

4. Wet-Dry Vac

A wet-dry vac is a great way to unclog your drain that could come in handy.

You’ll want to hold the hose over the drain as tightly as possible and turn on the wet-dry vac. Suck out all the liquid first then switch to dry.

5. Take Apart U-Pipe

Pipes are composed of many different parts, but one distinguishable part is the U-pipe.

The U-pipe has a U shape and is easily found under the sink in most drains. This is a prime place for clogs to happen. The U pipe can be removed by using a plumber’s wrench.

Keep a bucket nearby to catch the water that’s collected in the drain. Once the U pipe is removed, take out anything that might be causing the clog and rinse the pipe with hot water. Tip: Use a different sink to rinse your pipe before re-installing.

6. Snake

A plumber’s snake is a great way to break up clogs and get your water flowing freely. The snake helps you find the clog and break it up by cranking the handle. Plumber snakes are a bit cumbersome to use, depending on the size and location of the clog, but they can be very effective. Overall, if you’re experiencing heavy or frequent clogs, they might be worth adding to your home repair arsenal.

7. Boiling Water

Running hot water can help clean drains. But did you know that boiling water can help release a clog?

Simply heat water to a boil and pour it down the drain, in small amounts. WARNING: Some PVC pipes might not handle hot water especially well, so stay clear of pouring boiling water down the drain if you have PVC pipes.

You can also add a bit of dish detergent to the boiling water to help break up grease or other particles in the drain.

8. Call the Professionals

While all of these solutions are great for small drain problems, if you have a stubborn clog, you’ll want to call in a professional. It’s unwise to take chances to probe your pipe further, especially if you have a nasty clog.

If you’ve tried unclogging the drain yourself, or you have a substantial backup, pick up the phone and call your local plumber.

Unclog Your Drain

If you’re looking for the best drain cleaner these are some great options. Again, it will depend on the severity of your clog and whether or not you need to call a plumber.

If you’re looking for a local plumber, call our knowledgable and skilled plumber today for any of your plumbing needs! Contact us today to schedule your service and start seeing clearer drains.

By [company_name]

Do you ever wonder how much your garbage disposal can take? Whether you’re new to using these tools of convenience or have had one for several years, you need to learn what not to put in a garbage disposal.

Homes with garbage disposals can see some of the worst clogged pipes. People look at them like they’re invincible and can handle anything thrown at them. However, this type of thinking leads to big problems down the road.

What Not to Put in the Garbage Disposal

The problem with garbage disposals is that most drainage issues don’t dwell on or near the surface. Severe drainage blocks occur further down the line, where food and other particles get stuck and dam up the pipe.

Unfortunately, because this happens beneath the surface, most homeowners don’t know they’re doing anything wrong. In their minds, once it clears the garbage disposal, the mess is gone forever. However, this is hardly the case, especially when you’re putting the wrong types of foods and other materials through garbage disposal.

As homeowners continue to unintentionally misuse their garbage disposal, the problem builds and builds, leading to a total blockage that can be several meters long.

The question then is what things fall under the category of what not to put in a garbage disposal? Keep reading to find out.

1. Grains of All Kinds

Grains are the staple of most of our diets. It can be argued that we eat too many of them, which is partly to blame for the health epidemic facing America today. However, grains such as pasta, bread, oats, and rice can be even worse for your plumbing.

Grains expand when exposed to moisture, even after they’ve been cooked. Most of them also become gummy or sticky. For this reason, grains are on the top of the list of what not to put in a garbage disposal.

As they clear the disposal, there remains a possibility that they’ll stick to the pipes. From here, they’ll swell and block other items from passing through.

2. Fruit, Vegetable, and Animal Skins

Fruit, vegetable, and animal skins are all incredibly fibrous. When you send them down a garbage disposal, there’s a good chance they never get fully ground or shredded. This can lead to a major blockage.

3. Fiberous Vegetables

Many vegetables don’t pose a problem or risk for your garbage disposal or your pipes. However, fibrous vegetables such as kale, asparagus, and celery can leave the remaining fibers tangled up in the blades. This can make your garbage disposal less efficient and lead to bigger problems in the future.

4. Potatoes/Potaoes Peels

Potatoes are incredibly starchy and are a natural type of sugar. When cutting potatoes, you may notice how pieces tend to stick to your knife blade. Similarly, when shredded and grinding potatoes in a garbage disposal, it creates a sticky, gummy mess.

5. Fat, Oil, and Grease

Some of the most important items on the list of what not to put in a garbage disposal are fat, oil, or grease of any kind. While it may seem innocent enough to wash them down the drain, these items aren’t water-soluble.

They will stick to your pipes and most will solidify and become solids. Washing oil, fats, and grease down the drain is sure to create big blockages, even if it takes years to do so.

6. Broken Glass

There are a lot of things that can damage your plumbing and garbage disposal. Inorganic materials, such as broken glass can wear down your blades and damage the inside of your pipes. It may seem convenient at the time, but it’s never a good idea to send hard, sharp objects down the drain.

7. Seafood Shells

Seafood shells are also hard on your garbage disposal blades. They can easily ding up or dull your blades, as well as create blockages in the pipes. Instead, consider using them as compost for your garden.

8. Plastics, Stickers, and Other Wrappers

Inorganic materials don’t break down the same way organic materials do. For example, if you’re tossing stickers from produce into the sink for the garbage disposal to take care of, you’re making your pipe vulnerable to blockages in the future. Avoid throwing any kind of trash or food wrapping down the disposal, such as plastics, aluminum foil, cardboard, styrofoam, etc.

9. Hard Organic Products

Just because an item is organic doesn’t mean it belongs in the garbage disposal. Fruit pits, nuts, and seeds all represent the top organic material on the list of what not to put in a garbage disposal. These items will damage the blades and will not be fully shredded.

10. Coffee Grounds

While running water has a way of breaking up coffee grounds, they don’t belong in the sink or the garbage disposal. Coffee grounds can get muddy, dense, and difficult if they aren’t properly disposed of. If you make a habit of dumping them down the drain, you can expect major blockages in the pipe.

11. Animal Bones

The occasional small bone accidentally sent to the disposal isn’t the end of the world, but your garbage disposal wasn’t designed to handle that kind of material. Like fruit pits and other hard organics, bones can damage the blades and will rarely make it past the disposal.

How Do You Dispose of These Items?

Organic products can go in a compost pile. Once composted, use it in your garden or on indoor/ outdoor houseplants. All other items should go in the trash. For fluids, like oil and grease, let them cool down, then pour them into an aluminum can, jar, or zip lock bag you are throwing away.

Need Plumbing Help?

It seems clear that the list of what not to put in a garbage disposal is quite extensive. In fact, there are several things not listed in this article that should never go down there. We recommend using the trash for the majority, if not all of your items.

Look at your garbage disposal as a safety net to catch accidental particles, rather than as the primary means for disposal of unwanted foods or other items. However, if you’re already in a pickle, we can help.

Contact us today if you’re experiencing any drainage problems or other plumbing issues. We offer a wide variety of services including garbage disposal repairs, pipe cleaning, and more.

You go to flush the toilet and it clogs up, again. This is about the third time this week. Looks like it’s time to call someone out for another de-clog.

But instead of repairing it, you should consider replacing it. Every appliance has an expiration date, and your toilet is no exception. Once it’s reached a certain age, the repairs are only going to get more frequent.

So, how long do toilets last? Check out this guide to see all the signs that your toilet is wearing out on you.

Your Toilet is Clogging Several Time a Week

Clogged toilets are annoying, but they aren’t that big of a deal unless they’re happening more than once or twice a week. Sometimes clogs can be caused by someone flushing something random down the toilet, but if the overflowing water seems frequent enough, then that’s a problem. The parts of the toilet in charge of flushing have likely worn out, and your toilet may need to be replaced.

Cracks

You walk into the bathroom and almost slip on a puddle that’s formed around the toilet. If you clean it up and almost slip on the same puddle later, then you may have a crack or a leak.

To tell if it’s a crack, put a bit of dye in the water. If you see the color on the floor later, then that means you have a crack, and a total toilet replacement is due. If you leave the problem alone, it will lead to expensive mold build-up and floor damage.

You’re Having it Repaired too Often

Do you feel like you’re having a repairman come out every other week for repairs? You might be better off getting it replaced. The expense may not seem that bad for the first few months of this song and dance, but the price can stack up.

The same can be said if your toilet requires a bunch of expensive repairs all at once. It could be cheaper for your wallet to get a new one.

It Wobbles

Sitting on a toilet shouldn’t offer the same challenge as riding a mechanical bull. Excessive wobbling and rocking aren’t normal at all. Fixing it could be as simple as having a repairman come out to tighten the bolts up a little.

If that doesn’t solve the problem, that means you have a bigger issue on your hands. The floor underneath the toilet may be rotting due to a water leak. If this is the case, you’ll have to get the floor fixed and trade up for a new toilet.

The Toilet Runs Even When it Hasn’t Been Flushed

You haven’t flushed the toilet in hours, but you can still hear it running. You might be able to get rid of your problem by taking the lid off the back of the toilet and jostling the flapper valve.

If that doesn’t work, then your only alternative is to call a plumber. They’ll be able to tell you if the problem can be fixed, or if you need to purchase a new toilet.

Surface Damage

Cosmetic reasons are a good a reason as any to replace your toilet. If it has a bunch of scratches on the surface it’s not going to be easy to clean.

No matter how hard you scrub, you’re not going to be able to get rid of all the grime. That’s not too appealing to guests.

It Refuses to Refill

If your toilet refuses to refill when it’s flushed then that means there’s a problem with your fill valve. Any experienced plumber will be able to replace the valve with no problem.

If replacing the valve doesn’t fix your refill issue, then getting a new toilet may be the answer.

Rust and Corrostion

As the toilet ages, you can expect to see a little bit of rust and corrosion on it. The good news is that you can replace the parts of the toilet that’s rusted instead of getting rid of the entire thing.

Unless the whole toilet is covered in corrosion. Then there’s no way of saving it. You’ll have to get a new one.

Flushing Problems

You try to flush your toilet, but it refuses to do the job. A professional will have the parts and experience to fix the mechanism that’s causing the problem. If it still won’t flush or has a weak flush, you’ll need to trade it in for a new toilet.

Is Your Toilet on it’s Last Leg?

If your toilet is refusing to flush, or it’s covered in corrosion and rust, it may be time for you to replace it. While sometimes it can be salvaged with a few repairs, if your toilet is old it might be on its last leg.

How Long Do Toilets Last?

When your toilet starts to show issues, stop and think about how old it is. While there’s no exact age limit on a toilet, if it’s a decade or older, it may start acting up.

Even if it’s not being a cranky old toilet, you may save money on your water bill by replacing it. New toilets use up fewer gallons of water per flush compared to ones that were made before 1994.

Is it time for you to get a new toilet? Contact us to request toilet repair or service. We look forward to handling your plumbing needs.

By [company_name]

Your home’s plumbing is like the body’s nervous system. You can’t see it, but when there’s a problem with it, you’ll know.

Keeping your home’s plumbing healthy and functioning prevents all kinds of disasters.

Unfortunately, many homeowners damage their plumbing unintentionally. They either attempt a DIY plumbing repair themselves, use harsh chemicals in the drains, or make other poor plumbing decisions.

Curious about what could be damaging your home’s plumbing? Keep reading for the top five causes of home plumbing disasters.

1. Harsh Chemical

Just because a chemical’s packaging says it’s intended for the drain doesn’t mean you should use it. Many of those chemicals that claim to destroy whatever is clogging your pipes can also destroy the plumbing.

Most homeowners run into clogged pipes from time to time. Perhaps your kids flushed something they shouldn’t have.

The fastest solution is to buy one of those off-the-shelf drain cleaning products and pour it down.

Unfortunately, those harsh chemicals can eat away at the materials in your plumbing and wreak more havoc than a clog. So, what should you do instead?

Try a gentler clog-removing mixture instead of the intense chemical ones. You could pour dish detergent mixed with boiling water down the drain. Or, baking soda and hot water combo followed by vinegar.

When these natural DIY methods don’t work, it’s best to call a professional. They can remove the clog while ensuring your pipes are safe.

2. DIY Repairs

DIY renovation shows make home repairs seem simple and easy. They empower the average Joe to pick up a wrench and repair his or her plumbing themselves.

This is one of the top causes of plumbing disasters.

There are some plumbing problems that are suitable for an amateur to attempt to fix. For example, a clogged toilet or leaking shower head.

However, almost every other problem with your plumbing should be handled by a professional. The average homeowner doesn’t have the expertise and experience to carry out repairs effectively.

Often, they end up damaging the plumbing even more and then calling a professional.

It’s smart to build a strong relationship with a plumber in your area. Preferably someone who provides regular maintenance services so you never experience a plumbing emergency.

3. Using Poor Insulation

San Antonio has beautiful weather most of the time. However, it also averages about 16 days of freezing temperatures per year.

If your home’s pipes aren’t well insulated, you could experience some serious plumbing problems.

It’s easy to forget about insulation around plumbing because you don’t see the pipes every day. When the weather is usually mild, you don’t have to worry about freezing pipes.

However, during those 16 days when the weather drops, you need to worry. Pipes that aren’t well insulated can freeze and then burst.

Fixing burst pipes is more costly than replacing some old insulation. Prior to the colder months, have a plumber check your insulation. They’ll tell you if you’re missing insulation or if it needs replacing.

4. Flushing Things You Shouldn’t

It’s not just children that are notorious for flushing things down the toilet that they shouldn’t. Many adults aren’t aware of which items can get flushed and which can’t.

In fact, some products that claim to be flushable on their packaging still shouldn’t be flushed.

So, how can you tell what can and can’t get thrown in the toilet? Teach your children and fellow adults the following rule: the only things that go in the toilet are toilet paper and human waste.

Here are things that should never go in the toilet:

• Baby wipes and wet wipes
• Feminine hygiene products
• Cotton balls, Q-tips, and dental floss
• Diapers
• Children’s toys

These items, and many others, can get lodged in the plumbing of your house or further down the sewage line. Often, a DIY clog removal method won’t be strong enough and you’ll need to call the plumber.

To prevent your little ones from flushing something they shouldn’t, consider making a sign to put beside the toilet. It could be a friendly reminder that dinosaur figurines don’t take baths in the toilet bowl.

It’s also important to note that whatever gets flushed can contaminate your city’s groundwater. That’s why it’s never recommended to flush medications or cigarette butts down the toilet.

5. Tree and Shrub Roots

This major cause of plumbing problems is often out of the homeowner’s control. If you have trees or shrubs on your property, their roots could affect your pipes.

Roots are drawn to sources of water for hydration. Sometimes that water comes from the rain soaking into the soil. Other times, they find water from a leaky plumbing pipe underground.

The roots will start to grow into the plumbing pipes to absorb all the water. However, this damages the pipes and causes more water to leak.

Not only could this run up your water bill, but it can affect the quality of your water. It’s especially common in older buildings and houses with large trees.

What’s the solution to roots damaging your plumbing? Having a professional plumber and tree-remover dislodge the roots from your pipes and replanting the tree elsewhere.

What’s Causing Your Home Plumbing Disaster?

These are just five of the possible causes of home plumbing damage. Often, it boils down to the homeowner trying DIY repairs or the substances being poured and flushed down the drains.

You can prevent plumbing problems by avoiding these five factors and being proactive. The moment you notice a problem with your plumbing, call a professional.

If you’re located in San Antonio, Texas, and need an experienced plumber, contact us. We have the expertise, experience, and dedication to solve all types of home plumbing problems.

By [company_name]

Did you know that there are nearly 500,000 plumbers in the United States? A good chunk of them operate in San Antonio, Texas, and that number is expected to increase in the upcoming years. That’s because every homeowner needs the services of a good plumber every once in a great while.

But how do you hire one of the best plumbers in San Antonio? If you have a broken pipe or a clogged drain, how do you choose an experienced plumber from the thousands operating in your area? Here are 9 tips that cover everything you need to know about the plumber hiring process.

1. Make Sure the Plumber is Licensed

It can be very risky to work with a plumber without a license. This increases your chances of being ripped off as a homeowner, and you might not be able to report the plumber if he does a poor job. You can check the license of a plumber online or simply ask the plumber to provide you his license number. This simple background check gives you more peace of mind and ensures that you’re working with a trustworthy guy.

2. Your PLumber Should be Insured

Insurance is very important when dealing with home service companies, especially plumbers. Keep in mind that if the plumber is not insured, and he is accidentally injured on your property, you can be held responsible for this. In addition, if a plumber damages your property, you don’t have to worry about his ability to cover the damages. His insurance company should cover any damage. Why risk it when you can simply ask the plumber to show proof of insurance? His insurance policy should cover the cost of treating any property damage and injuries as a result of working on your house.

3. The Plumber Must Provide Some Sort of Warranty

A warranty policy should cover you for about 1 year, and it gives you more peace of mind that the work done is of high quality. Plumbers who don’t offer some sort of warranty might not be as confident in their services, so you should stay away from them.

4. You Should Work With Experienced Plumbers

It is true that a novice plumber who just started working might offer you a smaller price for fixing a pipe, but you shouldn’t fall for that. Remember that a faulty plumbing installation or a poor repair job can cause massive damages to your property. That’s why it’s important to work with experienced plumbers who have worked as a plumber for at least a few years.

5. Ask for References and Testimonials

If you work with an experienced plumber, you can also ask for proof of his work before hiring him. Many experienced plumbers in San Antonio can provide references or testimonials from past clients. It may be possible to contact some of these clients and ask for their feedback regarding the plumbing services offered by this company. Talking with past clients helps you better understand the services offered by a plumber, so take advantage of that.

6. Look Online for Reviews

Most plumbing companies have websites, and they probably have received reviews through the Google Places platform. These reviews are genuine, as they are left by past clients who have tried a plumbing service there in San Antonio before. Read some of these reviews and make up your own mind regarding the services offered by a plumbing company.

7. See if You Can Obtain a plumbing Quote Before Hiring

For simple things like installing a faucet or unclogging a toilet, chances are that many plumbers charge a flat fee, or they can give you a pretty accurate estimate on what you should expect to pay before they come out to your property. It would be great if you can obtain a plumbing service quote from at least three plumbing companies before deciding to work with one of them.

Keep in mind that the quoted price might or might not include travel fees and problem assessment. You should ask if there are hidden costs or if you need to pay extra for a particular service. Also, ask if your quote includes the cost of purchasing materials such as pipes, fixtures, a faucet, etc.

8. Ask About the Plumbers Availability

Most plumbers work in shifts, and they can arrive at your place during a particular time interval. Some of them are available in the morning through lunchtime. Others can be found mostly during the evening when people get back from work. Ask your plumber when he is available to perform a plumbing repair, so you know how to plan your day.

Keep in mind that some plumbers also offer emergency services. These cost more, but they are very efficient if a pipe broke in the middle of the night, and water is flowing all over your house. Ask if emergency services are available and note down the plumber’s number because you never know when you might encounter an emergency like that.

9. See if Your Plumber has Basic Social Skills

Your plumber doesn’t have to be an expert in conversations because this is not what he’s trained for. However, you might want to work with a plumber who has basic communication skills. This means that he is willing to listen carefully when you explain the problem, and he is willing to make you understand how the problem will be solved.

Keep in mind that for some plumbing jobs, you might need to cooperate with your plumber for many hours every day. If your plumber is polite and talkative, hire him. If he’s rude or shows signs that he doesn’t like when you ask questions, maybe you should find someone else.

Now You Know How to Hire the Right Plumbers in San Antonio!

As you can see, hiring the right plumbers in San Antonio is a matter of knowing your priorities and rights. The selection process doesn’t have to be complicated if you keep in mind our suggested tips.

If you have a plumbing emergency or just want to fix that leaky faucet once and for all, make sure that you contact us today. Our plumbing services are affordable and our experienced plumbers can tackle the plumbing needs of most homeowners in the San Antonio, Texas area.