Running water and flushing toilets are a luxury most of us take for granted until something goes wrong.
Northridge Plumber can fix all kinds of problems with your plumbing system, from leaky pipes to clogged drains. You should know some things about your plumbing system to keep it in good condition.
Few things are as enjoyable as having good water pressure in your home. It makes washing machines and dishwashers work faster, helps sprinklers perform better, and gives you that luxurious feeling when showering. Having the right water pressure also keeps pipes, fixtures, and appliances working efficiently, which saves you money and prevents damage to your plumbing over time.
There are many reasons why your water pressure may be low. If you’re not sure, have your plumber check your water meter and the shut-off valves at the water line inlet to your home. Then have the plumber test your water pressure in every fixture and appliance to find out where the problem is coming from.
Another common reason for low water pressure is a leak in your home’s water lines. A leaking pipe can cause major problems, including water damage, mold growth, and even structural damage. If the problem isn’t fixed quickly, it can lead to expensive repairs.
Water pressure is measured in pounds per square inch, or psi. The psi is the amount of force that water comes into your home from the water line, and the psi will vary depending on the distance from the water source and the height of your house. A plumber can test your psi to determine if it’s within the safe range or if you need a water pressure regulator installed.
Corrosion and mineral build-up in your plumbing lines are other causes of low water pressure. The corrosive deposits can restrict the flow of water and even cause a complete blockage in your plumbing lines. This will require a detailed plumbing inspection and possible replacement of your pipes.
If you have a water softener or home filtration system in your home, these can cause lower than normal water pressure as well. If you have these devices in your home, consult the user manuals for instructions on bypassing them when you are testing your water pressure.
High water pressure puts extra strain on your plumbing pipes, which can eventually push apart fittings and joints and cause water leaks in your home’s plumbing. The best way to solve this issue is to have a plumber install a water pressure regulator for your home.
Drain cleaning is a vital part of maintaining a home. If you neglect to clean your drains, they can become clogged and septic systems may back up into your home. Clogged drains are usually quite noticeable, causing gurgling noises as water tries to push through the build-up. Regular drain cleaning can help prevent these issues and save you the headache of dealing with a serious clog in the future.
The most common drains that get clogged are kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, and bathtubs and showers. These drains are a gathering point for food waste, grease, hair, soap scum, and other debris that can cause a build-up that blocks the flow of water. Kitchen drains can also be prone to clogs from coffee grounds, tea bags, and egg shells. To prevent clogs, dispose of these items properly and use a drain stopper in your garbage disposal to reduce the risk of clogs.
Often, a drain clog can be easily fixed using household tools. You can try pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain to break up any stuck on debris. For a serious clog, you can use a hand snake or a machine auger to remove the blockage. If you don’t have either of these tools at home, you can purchase them from a plumbing supply store or online. These devices are much more effective than liquid drain cleaners and they are safer for your pipes, family, and pets.
If you have tried these DIY methods and are still experiencing a slow draining, it’s time to call a professional. These services can eliminate major clogs and even unclog toilets, showers, and tubs. They can also address foul odors that could be a sign of sewer line problems.
Many homeowners use liquid drain cleaners to clear clogs in their homes. However, these products can actually do more harm than good. Most liquid drain cleaners contain caustic chemicals that can corrode and destroy your plumbing system. Home plumbers are able to provide you with safe and effective drain cleaning services that will restore your home’s plumbing health and prevent costly damage.
A home addition is a great way to expand your living space. It can add a new bedroom, entertainment room, bathroom or kitchen to your house. It may also involve closing in an open patio, basement or attic into a usable room.
Home addition costs depend on a lot of factors, such as size, type and design. Local and labor-related prices also play a major role in determining the overall cost of the project. A general contractor can give you a more accurate estimate of the costs.
A plumber who specializes in home remodeling and construction can help you plan the entire renovation. He or she will know about the zoning laws and building codes in your area. They will also be aware of any issues with water drainage, septic systems and electrical wiring. These elements will need to be regulated correctly to avoid expensive problems in the future. They will also be able to help you find strategies for financing your home improvement project, including cash-out refinance options. This is especially attractive during times when interest rates are low.
The sewer line is where the wastewater created by your drains and toilets goes. When this line gets blocked, sewage will back up through your plumbing lines and into your home. This is not only a health hazard, but it can also cause damage to your walls, floors and carpets. A sewage backup is a major emergency that must be addressed immediately.
The smell of sewage is the most obvious sign of a problem with your sewer line. This foul odor is produced when sewage is forced into your plumbing system because the line is backing up. The sewage may even be flowing into your basement or other lower levels of your home. If this is the case, you will need to evacuate the area immediately and call a plumber to remove the sewage as soon as possible before it can cause any further damage to your home.
If you notice that your toilets are not flushing as they should be and plunging them does not help, this is a good indicator that there is a problem with your sewer line. This could be caused by food waste, oil and grease, or other items that are not meant to be flushed down the drain. In some cases, a whole house sewer line can get clogged if these items are allowed to build up over time.
Another common cause of a sewer backup is heavy rains and flooding events. This can overflow municipal storm drains and saturate the ground, causing water to flow into residential sewer lines. As the water moves through the sewer line, it can erode the lining and create cracks. When these cracks are caused by tree roots, it can lead to a clog.
You should also watch out for any wet spots in your yard. If you notice puddles, sinkholes or lush areas in your yard, this is an indication that the sewer line is breaking down and needs to be replaced. The best way to prevent these problems is to contact a professional plumber for routine maintenance on your sewer lines.