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Santa Monica Plumbers: Signs You Need Sewer Repair

Like most homeowners, you likely take your sewer for granted. This is a problem because the second something goes wrong with your sewer line, it has the potential to disable your entire plumbing system. What’s worse, if you don’t get sewer repair quickly, it can cause massive amounts of damage to your property. So what are the signs you need some sewer repair? And how do you find the best Santa Monica plumbers to help with your sewer line? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this issue. That way, you can get your home’s plumbing back on track as soon as possible. What Is a Sewer Line? Before we explore signs that you might need sewer repair, it’s important to understand what your sewer line is. You can think of sewer lines as the infrastructure that transports waste away from your home. Not only does it consist of all of the plumbing found underneath your home, but it also includes all the city lines it flows to. Some common materials used for sewer lines include concrete, plastic, cast iron, and lead in older homes. Most homes have sewer lines buried beneath the house’s foundation. However, if you live in an apartment, multiple sewer lines likely connect into one main one leaving the property. Signs It Needs Repairing In this section, we’ll review some of the clear signs that you’re experiencing sewer problems. If you notice any of these problems, contact one of the nearly 500,000 plumbers in the United States. They’ll inspect the symptom to see if the problem is from your sewer line. 1. Bad Smells Around Your House Does your home smell like raw sewage? If so, you should look into sewer repair immediately. Sewage smells are supposed to stay inside the pipes. If they’re exiting your drain, your sewage line is either backed up or leaking. Now, you might think that the smell of raw sewage is impossible to ignore. And, in many cases, it is. However, sometimes it can be more subtle. This usually happens when it mixes with other strong smells in the house. Cooking, smoking, and mildew can all disguise the smell of sewage. So make sure you smell everything closely, especially around the bathrooms. 2. Gurgling Sounds From Your Toilet When You Flush It’s normal for your toilet to make sounds when you flush it. However, be on the lookout for slow flushes that result in a lot of gurgling sounds and bubbles. In some cases, your toilet might even make these sounds when you’re not even using it. This is usually a sign that there’s a clog somewhere within your sewer line. When the waste reaches this clog, it tends to push back in the direction it initially came from. This results in bubbles and a gurgling sound when you flush. If this issue gets terrible enough, it can result in your toilet backing up after you flush it. This should be avoided since it can cause unsanitary conditions and water damage. 3. Mold Growing On Your Walls If your home plumbing is backed up, it’s likely causing a dramatic rise in humidity within your home. Sadly, as most people know, certain types of bacteria thrive in a wet environment. This specifically includes many types of mold. If you notice mold growing on your wall, it could be from your sewer system. This is especially true if it’s growing on the walls around your toilets. Sadly, mold on the walls doesn’t just look unsightly. It can also represent a major health risk. As such, the second you notice a little bit of mold, you should contact a professional. That way, you can reduce the severity of the problem. 4. Flooding and Soft Spots in Your Yard Lawns should be able to absorb water easily. As such, if you notice large puddles in your lawn or soft spots in the soil, it might be time to call a sewer repair company. This can be a sign that there’s a crack or break in your sewer line. That means that raw sewage is leaking on your lawn. There are a lot of things that can cause cracking in your sewer line. Cold temperatures can cause the liquid to expand into ice and break the pipes. Corrosive chemicals are another common culprit. Or it might simply be old age. Regardless, you should replace the line in question as soon as you can. Otherwise, it might worsen and require an entire replacement. 5. Large Amounts of Pests Around Many pests, like rats, flies, and termites, love the damp conditions that a broken sewer line creates. Often people will make the mistake of calling an exterminator instead of a plumber when they notice increased pests around. However, this is tackling a symptom and not the source of the problem. If you don’t deal with the problem that’s causing the dampness, the pests are just going to come right back. 6. Ultra-Green Patches in Your Yard You might think that bright green patches on your lawn are a good thing. However, this can be a sign that there’s sewage leaking. While the sewage might have a fertilizing effect on your grass early on, it will cause a lot of trouble down the line. How to Maintain Your Sewer Line If you’ve had a close call with your sewer line, you might be wondering how to prevent problems in the future. The good news is that with routine maintenance, you can significantly prolong the life of your sewer system. For starters, never flush harsh chemicals down into your sewer system. These chemicals are bad for the environment. On top of that, they can also be corrosive. That means that they actually eat away at the material surrounding your sewer lines. Instead, consider a more natural alternative. For example, pour some baking powder down your drains. Wait five minutes, then pour down vinegar to create a chemical reaction. You should also read this guide

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The Dangers of an Untreated Gas Leak

Gas leaks in the United States are certainly exploding: In fact, a serious gas leak occurs every 40 hours and over 120 people have died as a result in recent years. Many American homes rely on gas for heating, and gas-powered stoves are still prevalent in older models. If you have a gas line, it is important to know how it works and what red flags to watch out for. Have you ever wondered how to identify gas leaking in or around your residence? Here are some of the main signs of a gas leak and what to do if it happens to you. What is a Gas Leak? A gas leak occurs when gas escapes from a container, usually a pipe, and causes unintended consequences. Since gas leaks usually happen quickly, you need to take action as soon as you know what is happening. Some of the most common places for gas leaks to happen include gas pipes, gas appliances, and gas lines. However, the majority of gas leaks are a result of gas appliances, like stoves. Propane Leaks Propane leaks are extremely dangerous, and if you suspect you have one, you should vacate the building immediately. You should contact local emergency authorities and also the propane supplier to notify them of the leak. You will smell a rotten egg scent or sulfur if there is a propane leak. Manufacturers use this to make leaks easily identifiable so you can handle the situation accordingly. When you have a propane leak, there is a risk that the gas could catch fire. Do not turn on any light switches and turn off open flames to avoid accidents. You should then check the propane tank for signs of a gas leak. You can apply a special solution to reveal leaks, then try opening the cylinder valve on the tank. Bubbles will form if there is a leak. Depending on how severe the leak is, you may be able to get back into your home after a few minutes. Emergency services personnel or your utility company may be able to give you guidance on how long to stay away from the residence. Carbon Monoxide Leaks Carbon monoxide leaks can be some of the most deadly because carbon monoxide gas is both colorless and odorless. This means that if you have a leak, you may not even know about it until it is too late. If you have a carbon monoxide leak in your home, it can be extremely toxic and even deadly. The best way to tell that you have this type of leak is by installing a carbon monoxide detector. Check the carbon monoxide detector regularly and make sure that it still works. Most models will give you an alert if the battery is low so you can put in a fresh one. Carbon monoxide poisoning can happen in a matter of minutes or hours, so once you figure out there is a leak, it is best to get all people and pets out of the house. If you have time, open your windows to bring in fresh air with oxygen. Natural Gas Leaks Natural gas is by far the most common type of gas used in American homes. Although it is generally safe to use, you should still be on the lookout for signs of a gas leak from the natural gas lines on your property. You should look at your natural gas appliances regularly to make sure that they work properly. These can include your stove, water heater, or clothes dryer. Similar to propane, manufacturers of natural gas put odor in the gas so you will be able to tell if there is a leak. If you smell sulfur or rotten eggs, you need to get out of the house now. Many homes come equipped with a way for you to turn off the natural gas yourself. If you suspect a gas leak, it is best to turn it off so you do not allow more gas to come into your house. If there is a natural gas leak, call your emergency natural gas department, or emergency services. Get out of the house quickly while the problem is resolved. Most importantly, before you start any construction or projects that involve digging on your property, call local authorities so you do not hit gas lines when you dig. It could cause major damage if you accidentally strike a natural gas line. Signs of a Gas Leak in Your Home Although gas leaking can cause many different symptoms in your home, there are some telltale signs to look out for. If you see any of these, you should assume there is a gas leak in your house and take appropriate action. Pilot Flame Color Normally, your pilot flame color should be a bright blue. This shows that it is working properly. Gas appliances that have pilot flames include gas stoves, water heaters, furnaces, and gas fireplaces. If your pilot light goes out for any appliance, it could be a sign that you have a gas leak somewhere else, and the gas isn’t getting to it properly. A yellow or orange pilot light is a sign that you have a carbon monoxide leak. Since carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, this is a good indicator and you should pay attention to it. Sulfur Scent Propane gas and natural gas give off a sulfur smell, or rotten eggs when there is a gas leak. This is to alert you that there is a gas leak so you can take action. If you have an older grill, you may get a brief scent of sulfur when you turn it on if it has been a long time. However, a strong scent is a red flag, especially on a newer grill. A Hissing Sound A gas leak in a pipe within your home may produce a hissing sound. If your appliance is off and you hear hissing, then it is a good indicator that you

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10 Signs It’s Time to Call an Emergency Plumber in Palmdale CA

When you rent a home, you rely on your landlord to call the shots about emergency maintenance. As a homeowner, however, it’s up to you to know when to call for backup. The number of homes for sale in Palmdale is on the rise, which will lead to an influx of new homeowners. The transition from renting to owning comes with a number of perks, but it also comes with a serious learning curve.  Today, we’re going to talk about the signs that you need to call an emergency plumber in Palmdale, CA. Some issues simply can’t wait. Read on for ten signs that your plumbing problems are an emergency and require immediate attention. 1. Toilet Overflow Few surprises are more unpleasant than discovering your toilet has overflowed. Oftentimes, a toilet overflow results from trying to flush a clogged toilet. Because you’re introducing a full tank of water to a toilet that can’t drain, the water has nowhere to go but out. Your toilet may also overflow due to other toilet tank issues, like a float that isn’t properly adjusted and allows the tank to overfill. As a homeowner, the culprit isn’t your main concern when your toilet is gushing water all over the floor. Your main concern is stopping the flow. First, turn off the water at the source by turning the supply valve located on the wall behind the toilet clockwise. Then, call your local plumber. Even if the water looks clean, it could be contaminated with germs that you don’t want all over your bathroom floor. 2. Gas Smells Did you know that natural gas is odorless and that that “gas smell” comes from added ingredients like mercaptan? These additives are designed to empower homeowners to act fast in the face of a gas leak. If you start to smell sulfur or rotting eggs, it’s time to call an emergency plumber right away. That’s right, your plumber is the one to call when you have a gas leak—and you shouldn’t put it off. Gas leaks cause many safety hazards, in part because gas is flammable. Plus, exposure to gas in the air can cause a slew of symptoms including dizziness, fatigue, confusion, headaches, and respiratory irritation.  If you suspect a gas leak thanks to that stinky smell or a hissing sound coming from your gas line, don’t stick around to investigate. Head outside and give your plumber a call.  3. Signs of Water Damage Unless you know that the water damage in your home was caused by a leaking roof or a natural flood, you’re going to want to involve your plumber. Signs of water damage include: mold spots discolored walls, ceilings, or floors sagging ceilings or floors persistent wet spots These signs could indicate a leak somewhere in your plumbing system. Even a small leak can lead to hundreds of gallons of wasted water, an increase in your water bill, and major structural damage. Worst case scenario, the leaking pipe bursts over time, leading to a flood.  4. Flooding Unfortunately, pipes can burst for a number of reasons. A single crack can weaken the pipe, and the continued flow of water can cause that pipe to burst. A blockage caused by sediment, clogs, or frozen water can also create a pressure buildup that causes the pipe to burst. No matter the reason, when you realize that a burst pipe is causing flooding in your home, call an emergency plumber. A single burst pipe can release gallons of water at a time. If the flooding is coming from your main supply line, you’re looking at even bigger problems.  The longer a flood continues, the more difficult cleanup and restoration will be. Once water seeps into structural materials like your foundation or even your insulation, you’re looking at thousands of dollars in repairs. 5. Changes in Water Pressure You’re taking a shower and suddenly, it’s next to impossible to get all of the shampoo out of your hair. The water pressure in your shower has dropped. What’s the problem? If you’re lucky, there’s a simple fix, here. You can remove the aerator from the showerhead or faucet and check for sediment buildup. If there is, cleaning that sediment may solve your problem. However, if the water pressure has changed all over the house or you don’t discover a sediment buildup in the aerator, it’s time to call an emergency plumber. Detecting the problem will require professional investigation and repairs.  6. Changes in Water Temperature We’ve all experienced the displeasure of running out of hot water halfway through a shower. If it happens every once in a while, you may simply need a bigger water heater tank to accommodate your household usage. If it’s happening all the time or you can’t seem to get any hot water, it’s time to involve a plumber. The average water heater lifespan depends on the type of water heater you have. For example, a typical tank system should last between 8-12 years, while a modern tankless system can last upwards of 20.  A plumber can determine if the issue is age or something more serious. For example, you may not realize that your water heater is leaking somewhere in your home or basement. No matter the cause, an emergency plumber can restore your hot water so that you can get back to your day-to-day hygiene needs. 7. Frozen Pipes There was a time when Palmdale residents wouldn’t have to worry much about frozen pipes. However, after the storm system we saw in the LA area last February, it’s clear that we may have more below-freezing days than we used to. Because many Palmdale homes aren’t meant to thrive in low temperatures, this could lead to an influx of frozen pipes. As we’ve mentioned already, when a pipe freezes, it’s prone to burst. There are ways to prevent this from happening, like increasing insulation near your most vulnerable pipes, but many homeowners don’t realize the risk until it’s too late.  How do you

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What Is Hydro Jetting? And the Benefits to Your Drains

Homeowners pay thousands of dollars for home repairs every year. This includes everything from repairing broken windows and fixing broken patio pavers to renovating your kitchen or cleaning clogged drains. When you own a home, you will inevitably encounter problems with your plumbing. After all, no pipe or piping system is made to last forever. Problems with your plumbing are almost endlessly varied. Some issues are challenging to fix and should be tackled by a professional, while others can be done DIY. If you currently have blockages in your plumbing system, your plumber may suggest hydro jetting. But why should you consider this method? Here are some of the main benefits you will get if you decide to invest in this cost-effective, efficient option. What Exactly Is Hydro Jetting? Hydro jetting is a technique that plumbers use to clean clogged pipes and drains. Instead of using chemicals, it uses heavily pressurized water to remove debris that may have blocked your pipes. The water is used to give your pipelines a thorough scouring. This scouring will remove mud, dirt, grime, and bacteria. While hydro jetting is highly effective, it may not be suitable for older pipes. This is because the water has a lot of weight as it goes through the piping system to remove blockages.  However, if you have newer pipes that have become clogged, hydro jetting is the perfect cost-effective solution to getting these pipes cleaned out without much contamination. During the hydro jetting process, the plumber will use what is known as a jetter. The jetter will contain a tank of water, a nozzle, and a hose. It will also have a device that will pressurize the water so that it shoots out into your plumbing system. It’s Versatile Hydro jetting is very versatile, making it one of the best ways to unclog your pipes. It is often felt that hydro jetting is only helpful for commercial pipes, but this is not necessarily the case. Hydro jetting can work wonders on domestic piping as well. The good thing about this method is that it can remove even the toughest clogs. The clogs you have been unable to remove through snaking, chemical drain cleaners, or other (typically ineffective) DIY methods can easily be removed by hydro jetting your pipes. Hydro jetting can remove grease and sludge build-up in your pipes as well. If food particles are clogging your drains, hydro jetting can also take care of this. It’s Effective on All Kinds of Plumbing Systems Hydro jetting is effective on a variety of different plumbing systems. It rarely matters what type of piping you have; hydro jetting will remove clogs effectively. It will work on steel, cement sewer, cast iron, resin-based, and clay pipes. It will also effectively remove particles such as soap, sand, and mud from your pipes. If bacteria is trapped in your plumbing system, hydro jetting can also remove this.  Additionally, bacteria can leave your pipes smelling unpleasant. There are times when you may be able to smell this coming up through the drains, especially in your kitchen.  Hydro jetting will clean all the pipes, solving the problem once and for all. It’s Environmentally Friendly One of the most significant benefits of hydro jetting is that it is very environmentally friendly. It does not use chemical methods to remove clogs from your pipes and drains. It uses only pressurized water, and this will cause no harm to the environment. If you live near a major water body and want to clean and unclog your pipes effectively, you don’t have to worry about chemicals draining into that water body. Hydro jetting your pipes with pressurized water is an environmentally friendly, non-invasive way of dealing with clog removal. It’s Extremely Effective Some homeowners hesitate to try hydro jetting because they believe it is too simple a method. Since it does not involve many tools, it can seem as if this method is too easy and will not work for unclogging more challenging blockages. However, the fact that it uses so few tools and is not invasive is one of the reasons why hydro jetting is so beneficial. Other traditional plumbing methods can cause build-up from the residue left behind from the work. This can mean your drains will clog up more quickly over time. Hydro jetting, however, cleanses your pipes thoroughly without leaving any chemical residue or debris behind. The pressurized water is so intense that it can remove large or tiny particles that may be clogging your drains. It’s One of the Most Sanitary Method Available Another benefit of cleaning your pipes through hydro jetting is that it helps eliminate all the mess that can happen when you are trying to clean your pipes. For example, traditional methods of unclogging pipes may cause sewage and other waste materials to back up. All of this waste can get into your home and must be cleaned up as quickly as possible. This makes the entire process unsanitary, which is detrimental to your health—and your children and pets if you have a family home. Hydro jetting, on the other hand, provides a quick and easy method that unclogs your pipe without putting your plumber or your home into a lot of contact with sewage. This will prevent contaminants from entering your home and causing unpleasant cleanups or illnesses. It Prevents Clogs and Blockages From Forming A great benefit of hydro jetting is that it prevents clogs from forming in the future. For some plumbing procedures, you may not be able to proceed before you have thoroughly cleansed your pipes. For example, you may be unable to do pipelining or section point repair without first unclogging and cleansing your pipes. Hydro jetting provides an essential first step toward these processes. However, an essential benefit of hydro jetting is that it is a preventative method for future clogs. When you use hydro jetting to remove clogs that are just beginning to form, it prevents them from getting even more extensive and damaging your pipes over time. When minor

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Top Tips on How to Choose the Right Commercial Plumbing Services

People call commercial plumbing services the most when there’s a problem at their homes, according to recent statistics, and businesses are no different. A busted pipe, leaky faucet, or broken toilet are some reasons people call plumbers. When there’s trouble in the pipes, you need the best plumber to handle your situation quickly. Several things to know when choosing a plumber include experience, licensing, availability, and price. It’s also important to ask family and friends for their recommendations.  Here’s more on how to choose Santa Monica plumbers for your business. Experience Experience matters. A recent survey found that consumers want “knowledgeable experience” regarding customer service.  Ask your potential plumber about how many years they’ve been in business. Will they be doing the job, or will they have an employee perform the work? If you want the job done right, hiring someone with plumbing experience is essential. You’ll get peace of mind knowing your plumber will use the right tools and materials for the job. Moreover, you won’t have to call another plumber to fix shoddy work. Commercial Knowledge You might have a plumbing issue that requires an expert, whereas the area is a tight fit, or the plumbing hardware is a family heirloom. Can they do the job? It’s essential to know how much experience your plumber has in doing these jobs.  For example, restaurant sinks can be a tricky fix. They might require special parts and materials you can’t buy at the local hardware store.  Additionally, customers, clients, and employees will use commercial equipment far more often than plumbing used at home. It has a higher risk of breakage and will require more maintenance.  A clogged drain could become unblocked thanks to a residential plumber, but can they fix a complicated system, such as a sewer system, with multiple outputs and drains? It takes a commercial expert to know the difference.  Lost hours due to a plumbing issue means you lose money as a business owner. You need a reliable and dependable commercial plumber to get the job done quickly so you can be back up and running.  Licensing A plumbing license is required to do business in California with more than $500 in materials or labor. A plumbing license proves a plumber has the skills and tools necessary to do the job. A state board must approve applicants and must have proven plumbing experience. A license also means your Santa Monica plumber has the necessary professional standards.  One of the first steps in hiring a plumber is asking for their license. You should think of it as an ID badge!  Never trust a plumber who doesn’t have the proper paperwork. Plumbing Insurance It’s essential to have people fixing your pipes and faucets to have plumbing insurance. However, in California, the law is tricky. California law only requires plumbers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If someone is hurt on the job, the employee can collect against an employer’s workers’ comp policy. For example, they can receive money for injuries and lost wages. Ask if your plumber has workers’ comp insurance. The last thing you need is someone getting hurt and coming after you for injuries in an ‘on the job’ accident.  Even though there are no requirements for plumbing insurance, ask if your plumber has contractor insurance. You can go after the plumber’s insurance company if the job is done wrong. The policy also protects plumbers from theft.  Availability  A broken pipe, water heater, or flooded basement can happen at any time of the day. Ensure to ask your plumber about their availability. You want an available plumber, whether it’s 2 AM or Sunday afternoon.  Some plumbers charge extra for off-hours work. Many plumbers will tell you about their upfront pricing policy.  Also, it might be better to have a Palmdale, CA, plumber do work during the off hours, minimizing disruptions to your business. Ask if working late into the night is a possibility.  Price Will your plumber work by the hour, or will there be a flat rate?  Many plumbers work by the hour, so it’s essential to understand how much you will pay. Discuss with your plumber if different types of jobs require a different rate.  For larger projects, ask about a contract. When you put things in writing, both parties will know what to expect. In addition, the price will likely be lower than the hourly rate.  Find out how you will pay your plumber. Discuss whether you will get an invoice. Bigger jobs might require a payment plan.  Ask for an itemized receipt. Paperwork such as this is important for taxes. It’s also a good idea to have a history (and record) of the type of work the plumber did should you need future upgrades.    Professionalism Good characteristics and professionalism are important when hiring a commercial plumber. Remember, who you hire for work at your commercial space ultimately represents your standards and qualities.  Effective Communication You want a Palmdale, CA, plumber who is on time and communicates effectively. You also want someone who responds to your phone calls quickly.   Problems and cost overruns mean good communication between you and your plumber. Plumbers should notify you immediately if something costs more or if they can’t get a part. In addition, if the job takes longer (or there’s an interruption), a good plumber should notify you immediately. Proper Dress There’s a good chance plumbers will work while your business is open – complete with the building’s clients, customers, and employees. You want a plumber adequately dressed. Safety Concerns  Ensure that your plumber will secure the area they are working in to avoid contact with other employees. Ask others to avoid the area, so people don’t get hurt. Plumbers should come with the proper signage to close kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, and walkways.  Proper Tools  Having the right tools for the job is important. Improper preparation means more time traveling back to their garage to gather the right tools and materials.  Proper tools also ensure that your plumber does the job right.   Location Hire a plumber near

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Reasons to Invest in Professional Drain Cleaning Services

Did you know that a household leak can waste around 10,000 gallons of water each year? 10% of homes have water leaks that waste over 90 gallons every day. Not staying on top of routine plumbing maintenance can result in water leaks and other problems going undetected.  One of the things you should regularly schedule is drain cleaning services. There might be a few drains in your house that are slow to drain, but you don’t consider them a major concern. Unfortunately, failing to act on clogged drains can result in major plumbing problems for your home.  Stop trying to clear your drains using home remedies. This guide will discuss why you need to contact a professional drain-cleaning company for assistance.    Save Yourself Money and Time You’ll avoid having to pay for expensive plumbing damage and repairs if you don’t have clogged drains. Staying on top of drain cleaning maintenance can help you avoid major problems, such as: Significant clogs  Slow draining Issues with your septic system  Burst pipes Water contamination  Corroded drains You might have recently noticed that your water bill is much higher than it usually is. As we mentioned earlier, you might have a water leak that you’re not aware of.  You’ll also spend less money on drain cleaners you can buy at your local hardware store. These products can be harmful to your drains and not fix the problem causing your clog in the first place.  If you wait too long to contact a plumber, you might have to have your drains replaced. That means your floors and walls will have to be torn out.    Avoid Using Harmful Chemicals Drain cleaners might seem like an easy fix to eliminate slow drains, but they can do more harm than good. Unfortunately, the toxic chemicals in these products can cause more harm than good.  Drain cleaners give off a lot of toxic fumes. These fumes can linger after the cleaner has gone down the drain. The unpleasant smells can irritate your eyes and nose, even stinging as you breathe them in.  The chemicals can also erode your pipes because they’re very caustic. They have to so they can break up big clogs.  One of the main ingredients in drain cleaners is hydrochloric acid. If you use the chemical a lot, it can break down PVC systems or old pipes over time. This could cause your pipes to develop leaks.  A professional drain cleaning company will identify the source of your leaks, using environmentally friendly methods to get rid of them. They have safer solutions than pouring copious amounts of chemicals down your drain.    Advanced Technology  A drain cleaning business can use products that you can’t find in stores. For example, they might use hydro jetting to clean your drains. This method utilizes high-pressure water to eliminate debris that’s clogging your pipes.  Another method plumbers use is snaking. They insert a flexible, long rod into your drain. The rod clears anything that might be blocking the flow of water.  While you can buy snakes at your local hardware store, they’re likely not strong enough or long enough to reach what’s blocking your drain. You might end up shoving the debris farther into your pipe or not reaching it at all.  Plumbing companies will also have endoscopic snake cameras. These cameras are attached to the end of a special snake tool. The tiny camera has a light on the end, helping plumbers see what’s located in the pipes.  Another tool plumbers have at their disposal are sink augers. Another term for them is drum auger. Plumbers use this tool to clear showers and sink drain clogs.  The auger includes a steel cord that gets put inside the drain. They’ll then turn the handle to extend the cord out into the pipe. The corn pushes through and into clogs, breaking them up.  While you could have a plunger in your bathroom, plumbers have specialized ones. They come in different shapes and sizes to help them with various drain-cleaning projects. For example, toilets need a ball-shaped plunger to clear clogs since it creates better pressure.    Getting Rid of Bad Smells You might notice unpleasant smells wafting from your drains and sewage system if there’s a blockage. That means toxic particles are getting into the air you and your family breathe. Some of the things that can accumulate in your drains include:   Dirt Hair Soap Scum Organic elements If your drains are clogged, the above items start to break down as various bacteria eat away at them. That’s what causes the nasty smells to come from your drain. These odors might indicate that you could be dealing with a bigger problem. A drain cleaning company can remove drain smells by getting rid of the clog. You don’t have to worry about breathing in toxic odors.   You Don’t Know What You’re Dealing With You can’t determine what’s clogging your drains if you don’t have any experience. You might think that a clog in your shower is caused by hair buildup in the drain. A kitchen sink clog might be a result of solidified grease or stuck food waste.  What material is clogging your drain determines how it should be taken care of. A plunger might be effective for clearing a sink or toilet clog. A snake tool is the best choice for getting rid of a shower clog.  You might’ve accidentally dropped something down your drain, like your wedding band or earrings. That could be nearly impossible for you to retrieve.  Professional plumbers have specialized tools, like drain endoscopes, that enable them to look down the drain. They can find lost items and see exactly what’s going on with your drain. The plumber will formulate a strategy on how to best unclog your drain without damaging anything.    Prevent Wall and Floor Damage Overflowing water can cause wall and floor damage. If you don’t address the damage quickly, you might end up with a mold problem. On

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What Is Hydro Jetting and How Does It Work? The Complete Guide

Have you seen the latest drain-cleaning hack? Online creators are suggesting you use bleach to clear away drain blockages. Don’t do it! This seemingly simple solution can cause a whole host of other problems, including creating dangerous fumes in your home. Plus, they’re not even effective at removing clogs. Not to mention chemical cleaning tricks like these aren’t the best for the environment. If you’re stuck with a clogged or smelly drain, what’s the best solution? You need to try hydro jetting! Hydro jetting is a simple, eco-friendly technique that fixes nearly all plumbing clogs. Read on to learn how it can help clear your drains.   What Is Hydro Jetting? Have you ever seen how effective a pressure washer is at cleaning houses and patios? Hydro jetting uses the same principle but to a degree suitable to household plumbing. A professional hydro jetting team connects their jet to your drain and blasts away! The high pressure from the jet clears away all sorts of debris, leaving your pipes clean and clear.   What Problems Can Hydro Jetting Fix? Because hydro jetting is so powerful, it can clear many clogs that other methods can’t. For example, it can clear clogs caused by debris or hair. But these can also be unblocked by simpler methods. What other techniques can’t do is a clear buildup in the pipe. Over time, wastewater we pour down the drain can line the pipes with gunk deposits. Grease or mineral buildup around the pipes makes the pipe itself thinner. This leads to slower drainage and can even start to smell. But this is a tricky fix! You can’t use a plunger to remove the mineral buildup lining your pipes. The only effective solution is using a hydro jet to clear the entire pipe.   How Does Hydro Jetting Work? As hydro jetting uses a lot of pressure, it has to be done by professionals. Here’s how it will work on the day.   Step 1: Inspection First of all, the plumbing team will visit your home. Using a camera, they will inspect the blocked pipes. This helps them determine how much pressure they can safely use.   Step 2: Cleaning Once they know how much PSI the pipes can take, they’ll begin clearing your pipes with the hydro jet. Any loosened debris and other clogs will break up and be washed away down the plumbing system. Then your drains will be good as new!   Call the Hydro Jet Drain Cleaning Experts Hydro jetting is an efficient and permanent solution to blocked drains. The process clears nearly every type of blockage there is. And for many issues, like grease and mineral buildup, hydro jet cleaning is the only solution. Are your pipes draining too slowly for your liking? Or has your kitchen sink developed a smell you can’t get rid of? Then it’s time to call us in for an inspection. We’ll investigate your plumbing problems and identify the best solution. If you want your drains clearer than ever, get in touch with us now!

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Snaking a Drain vs Hydro Jetting: Which Is Better?

$3,000 – that’s how much the damage from a burst pipe can cost. And in the winter months, this is even more likely to happen. The most common tips for avoiding a frozen or burst pipe this winter are usually to leave a faucet dripping. But there’s more you can do. Blockages are more likely to cause problems like a burst pipe when temperatures drop. It’s time to clear your drains before this happens! Snaking a drain and using a hydro jet are two popular techniques. Both are some of the best drain cleaning methods, and many plumbers recommend them over using a chemical cleaner. They yield professional results and can clear many serious issues. But which one should you use to clean your pipes? Read on to find out!   How Snaking a Drain Works Snaking a drain involves using a plumber’s snake. This is a tool with a corkscrew-like attachment at the end. As it pushes through a drain, it can grab onto blockages. Then when you pull out the snake, the blockage comes with it. Clogs that drain snakes can help with include:   Hair clumps Wet wipes Solid debris Essentially, if a drain snake can grab it, it’ll clear it. But that means drain snakes can’t fix everything.   How Hydro Jetting Works Many blockages aren’t solid enough for a drain snake to remove. These include: Oil deposits Fat or grease buildup Mineral buildup In these cases, a hydro jet will be more effective. Hydro jetting involves a plumbing professional clearing your drain with a high-powered pump. They attach the jet to your drain and pump high-pressure water down. This clears everything from buildup in the pipe to large chunks of grease or sludge.   Snaking a Drain vs. Hydro Jetting Is hydro jetting better than snaking? That depends on your home, and the blockage itself. If your pipes are relatively clean except for one solid clog, a drain snake may be the easiest solution. Snaking a drain is also a good choice in older houses or ones with older plumbing. These pipes may not be able to handle high-pressure water. But if your pipes can handle it, we recommend hydro jetting. It can clear blockages as well as buildup you didn’t even know was there. This improves the speed of your drainage and clears any bad smells.   Let the Experts Handle It! Whether snaking a drain or hydro jetting, it’s best to let professional plumbers handle it. Otherwise, you can damage your pipes further. A drain snake can scratch and damage your pipes if used incorrectly. This can compromise their integrity. Even worse, using a hydro jet without the proper experience can burst your pipes! Don’t risk either of these drain cleaning methods going wrong. Rather, call in the pros. We’ll identify the best approach for your pipes, and remove clogs without causing any damage. Do you need a drain cleared? Call us today!

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How to Choose the Right Leak Detection Service For Your Home

Did you know that simple household leaks waste almost 1 trillion gallons of water every year in the U.S.? Or that about 10% of American homes have leaks in them that waste nearly 100 gallons of water per day? These statistics should show you just how important it is to call a plumbing company if you suspect you might have a leak in your home. They’ll be able to provide you with the leak detection services you’ll need to make plumbing leaks a thing of the past. It doesn’t matter if you have a toilet that’s leaking or a slab leak that’s coming from your home’s foundation. Either way, you should begin looking for a leak detection service that you trust right away to lend a hand. Here is a guide on how to pick out the best leak detection service in Lancaster, CA for your home.   Begin by Googling “Best Leak Detection Services Near Me” As of 2022, there are well over 120,000 plumbing companies scattered throughout the U.S. You will want to take full advantage of this when you need to call on a leak detection service for help. Rather than simply picking out the first plumbing company you can find to help you with your leak detection needs, you should cast the widest net possible as you set out to search for the best service around. You can do this by Googling “best leak detection services near me.” This should put you in a position to create a really long list of local plumbing companies that specialize in leak detection in Lancaster and many of the surrounding areas like Palmdale, Santa Clarita Valley, and San Fernando Valley, CA. The more names that you’re able to add to this list, the better off you’ll be when sifting through them to find the best local plumbing service.   Research Every Local Plumbing Company You Can Find After you’ve worked your way through the process of compiling a list of local leak detection services, the next order of business will be researching each of them. This might sound like a daunting task, but you should be able to do it quickly by visiting websites for different services. On a plumbing company’s website, you’ll be able to find out:   How long a plumbing company has been in business   Which areas that a plumbing company serves   How a plumbing company can assist homeowners   What you’ll need to do to get in touch with a plumbing company You don’t necessarily need to spend hours researching individual plumbing companies. But you should set out to find out at least a little bit about each one. It’ll make narrowing down your original list of options so much easier for you.   See Which Specific Services Residential Plumbing Companies Can Provide One thing that you should keep in mind as you’re doing your homework on plumbing companies in Lancaster, CA and the nearby areas is that they’re all going to provide different services to people. You won’t necessarily be able to rely on all of them for leak detection services. For this reason, you should make it a point to look for a “SERVICES” tab somewhere on a plumbing company’s website. It’ll lead you to a list of the different services that a plumbing company is capable of providing to you. If you don’t see leak detection somewhere on this list, you’ll automatically be able to rule out this company as a possibility. You won’t want to waste your time communicating with a plumbing service that doesn’t have leak detection as a potential option for you.   Find Out Which Nearby Plumbing Companies Have Great Reputations As you poke around on the website for a plumbing company, you’re going to find that they’ll usually make it appear as though they’re the best option of the bunch for you. But are they really as great as they say they are? You should be able to answer this question after spending some time reading through online reviews for them. These reviews are going to shed light on what you can expect from a plumbing company from the start. If you find that a plumbing company has lots of negative reviews, that should be a big red flag. You aren’t going to want to count on a company like this to perform leak detection and repairs for you. You’ll instead want to focus your search for a plumbing company on only the companies that have a wealth of positive reviews from past customers. These reviews will let you know that these companies come highly recommended by others in the Lancaster, CA community.   Calculate the Costs Associated With Leak Detection Services If you take a look at the average cost to hire a plumber, you’ll find that the prices associated with plumbers often vary. One plumbing company might charge you prices that fall on the lower end of the spectrum, while others will charge a whole lot more than that. With this in mind, you shouldn’t call on the first decent leak detection service you can find and hire them to help you with shopping around first. You might end up spending way more than you planned to if you do this. It would be worth exploring what the various plumbing companies in Lancaster, CA will charge you for their services. You don’t necessarily want to just go with the lowest-priced company. But at the same time, you also don’t want to get stuck working with a company that overcharges for leak detection services. Your goal should be to locate a service that’s going to provide you with fair and affordable prices that will fit into your budget. It’ll make you feel so much better about hiring a plumbing company to help you out.   Figure Out Which Leak Detection Services Can Help You ASAP There are some plumbing-related problems that aren’t going to need to get dealt with right away. If, for example, you have a slow-moving drain in your

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Water Heater Services in Palmdale, CA: A Complete Guide

Believe it or not, there are quite a few benefits of taking cold showers. You might want to take advantage of them every so often to improve your health. But there is nothing quite like taking a hot shower at the end of a long day. It’s why you’re going to need to keep your home’s water heater working the way it’s supposed to at all times. If you ever suspect there might be something wrong with your water heater, there are water heater services in Palmdale, CA, that can help. A plumbing company in the area should be able to assist you by setting you up with either water heater repair or replacement. Would you like to learn more about finding water heater services and figuring out which ones you should trust? Continue reading to check out our complete guide on hiring the best services to help you with your water heater issues. What Are the Most Common Reasons to Call On Water Heater Services? If you live in a home for a long enough time, you’re eventually going to experience water heater problems at some point. There are a whole host of reasons why you might need to call on one of the water heater services in Palmdale, CA, for assistance. Here are just a few of these reasons: – The water in your home is either too hot or too cold, and adjusting the thermostat on your water heater isn’t helping   – The water in your home appears to be discolored   – The water heater in your home is making more noise than usual when it’s turned on   – The water heater in your home has water leaking out of it If you see any of these signs, you might need to give a local water heater service a call to help you get your water heater working again. When Should You Reach Out to Water Heater Services for Help? Most of the water heater problems that we just talked about will put you in a position where you’ll need to call on one of your nearby water heater services to help you. But before you pick up the phone and call them, you might want to see if you can correct an issue with your water heater yourself. For example, if you don’t have any hot water coming out of the faucets in your home, you should head down to your water heater and make sure the pilot light for it is on. If it isn’t, you can try relighting your pilot light, and that might do the trick in some cases. But if it seems as though there might be bigger issues with your water heater than just your pilot light going out on you, that’s when you’ll want to get a plumbing company on the line. They can lend a hand to you when it comes to diagnosing the specific issue with your water heater. Which Water Heater Services Should You Rely On? If you attempt to make a basic water heater repair on your own and come up empty, you’ll need to hire one of the water heater services in Palmdale, CA, to help you. But you don’t want to just select the first service you can find and trust them to help you with your water heater. There are almost 125,000 plumbing companies operating throughout the country, including many that can perform water heater repair for you. Your goal is going to be to locate one of the best companies in the business and hire them to assist you. How can you do this? Well, there are a series of simple steps you can take to track down a trustworthy plumbing company: Google “water heater services near me” to see how many options you have Research each of the local water heater services in your area Look at which types of water heaters different water heater services work on Read online reviews for as many water heater services as you can to see which ones have the best reputations Try to obtain estimates from water heater services for water heater repairs The more you can find out about all the water heater services in your area, the easier it’ll be for you to pick one out. You shouldn’t have any trouble getting your hands on the information you’ll need to make a smart decision. Which Water Heater Services Should You Avoid? At this point, you know what you should look for in water heater services in Palmdale, CA. But it’s worth noting that you should also know about some of the red flags that you should keep an eye out for that’ll let you know that you should avoid certain water heater services. You shouldn’t agree to work with a water heater service if: – They don’t have a lot of experience, especially when it comes to working on water heaters   – They only know how to work on certain types of water heaters   – They aren’t forthright as far as their prices are concerned   – They aren’t located in your area   – They can’t prove that they have both a license and insurance That last one is very important. You shouldn’t ever allow a plumbing company to do any work in your home if they aren’t able to produce a license and insurance. You’ll put yourself in a tough spot if you hire a plumbing company like this and something goes wrong with a water heater repair or replacement. How Can Water Heater Services Assist You? When you welcome a water heater service from Palmdale, CA, into your home, they’re going to be able to provide you with assistance in a number of different ways. First and foremost, they’ll be able to inspect your water heater to see what seems to be the problem with it. They’ll also be able to recommend repairs that you can make to your water heater to fix it. If you choose to go through with repairing a water heater, they’ll provide you with

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