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What methods do professional plumbers use for drain cleaning?

Up front, a professional plumber will not use any type of chemicals for drain cleaning. And repairs that a plumber will find needed are often because the homeowner has used chemicals, an abundance of them, trying to do their drain cleaning.  The following three methods are the most commonly used ways a professional plumber will get the job done without leaving any toxic residue inside the pipes: 

• Motorized 

A common tool of the trade for plumbers is drain snakes, more commonly called augers. You can purchase your auger, but it will be manually operated, whereas the auger a plumber has will be motorized. This commercial-grade drain cleaning equipment is like an extra-long corkscrew. 

The coiled wire is placed into the drain and the motor pushes it through the blockage and clog, then either breaks it into pieces or pulls it up when the plumber pulls the auger out. There isn’t much that a motorized drain snake can’t break through. 

• Hydro-Jetting

This is another motorized piece of equipment that works by forcing high-pressure hot water through a hose and a small nozzle. As the plumber feeds the hose into a drain, the hot, scalding water blasts through the blockage and clog, breaking it apart and clearing all contaminants away. That contaminant in a kitchen is typically FOG (fats, oil, grease) and hair, soap, and toothpaste scum in the bathrooms. 

This method of drain cleaning should only be done by a professional plumber because of the amount of pressure. A homeowner using this type of equipment may succeed with drain cleaning, and repairs will likely be needed afterward by a professional plumber. 

• Video Camera 

When a plumber needs to know the precise location of the clog, before the drain cleaning and repairs start, they use a video camera to give them a visual inside the pipes.  

They do this with specialized equipment that consists of a small camera, and an LED light that are mounted on a fiber-optic cable. This setup is then sent into the drain and the camera relays pictures of the pipe’s interior to a computer or TV screen. This pinpoints the exact area of the blockage or problem and the plumber can do the drain cleaning and repair as needed. 

How much do these drain cleaning and repair methods cost? 

Many variables will affect the cost of professional drain cleaning and repair jobs.   The severity and type of blockage or clog, and the difficulty of getting to the area that needs attention are two of the biggest factors.  Some plumbers will have a flat rate and others will charge by the hour. The more defined the equipment used, the more the job will cost. 

So, if the plumber needs to use the video equipment method, it will cost more than if they can complete the job with an auger.  For bathroom or kitchen sink, drain cleaning and repairs can cost up to $300 or more. But if the plumber needs the video camera method and repairs a sewer line once the clog is found, it can cost upwards of $1,000 or more. 

How can a homeowner clean drains without causing damage to the pipes?

There are several DIY and home remedies for drain cleaning that you can use. These are all excellent for keeping drains clean, but if the drain is already clogged, it may take a few hours to bust through the clog. Most of the items in these DIY methods you’ll already have on hand! 

#1: Baking Soda & Cider Vinegar

Baking soda is a common alternative for drain clearing and should be used on a regular basis for maintenance that can avoid expensive plumber drain cleaning and repairs. Mix together 1 cup of each, baking soda and cider vinegar and pour the mixture into the drain. Run hot water for a few minutes and if the clog is still there, repeat this process. 

#2: Baking Soda & Lemon Juice

Using the same portions of 1 cup each of baking soda, and lemon juice, poured into the drain and running the hot water for a few minutes. This method not only is great for drain clearing and drain cleaning, but it smells good too! 

#3: Alka-Seltzer®

If you don’t have any baking soda in the cupboard, go to the medicine cabinet and get the Alka-Seltzer. Drop between 2 and 3 tablets into the drain and then add a cup of cider vinegar. Wait 2 minutes to allow the Alka-Seltzer to work, and when you see the bubbling foam coming up, turn on the hot water. 

#4: Boiling Water

Another alternative is pouring a pan of boiling water into the drain. Then run the hot water for a few minutes so that the FOG that the boiling water loosens doesn’t solidify again. 

Ending With A Cup or Two of Prevention

Maybe you don’t need any drain cleaning and repairs right now, but that doesn’t mean you won’t at some point!  You can take steps now by using the baking soda/vinegar or baking soda/lemon juice methods we listed once a month to keep your drains clean, clear, and fresh smelling. 

What is Included in a Pressure Tank?

You depend on water for bathing, cleaning, cooking, and drinking, so professional help like pressure tank repairs may be needed when problems arise with your well system. Because of this, you should be familiar with the main components of your well. These include: 

• The Casing: This is a tube installed in the ground. It contains a well pump and a pipe that moves water up to the ground’s surface. The casing also prevents the hole from collapsing while keeping contaminants out of the water supply. 
• The Cap: Arranged at the top of the casing, this component keeps rainwater and small critters out of the well. A screened vent on the cap also keeps insects out. 
• The Pump: This component pulls water from the ground and pushes it into your home. The well pump is submersible, so it is installed inside the well casing several feet underground to operate quietly. 
• The Pressure Tank: This is a 3 to 4-foot tall cylinder component located in the home to store water and distribute it with even pressure. It also provides additional storage for wells of low yield, with a pressure switch that cycles the pump on and off, and when any parts of this component malfunction, pressure tank repairs are an absolute must.
• The Pitless Adapter: This fitting is attached to the well casing. It is buried underground approximately 4 feet and routes the water supply line from the pump into the home. 
• The Screen: This component is attached to the casing at the bottom of the well. It keeps gravel and sand out but allows groundwater to enter, though it isn’t necessary in bedrock. 
• The Wellhead: This component is typically around 12” above ground level, covering the well. 

What is the lifespan of a pressure tank?

Water quality is a critical factor in the lifespan of the pressure tank. If your home has a water supply with the proper-sized pressure tank, the average lifespan can be up to 15 years. 

Generally, a low-quality pressure tank will have a maximum lifespan of 5 years, and pressure tank repairs are often more expensive than replacing the tank. The more expensive the pressure tank, the longer its lifespan, up to 30 years, maybe longer, with proper maintenance and professional pressure tank repairs as needed. 

How do you know if a pressure tank is damaged?

Without a pressure tank, the water that comes into a home from a water well would be nothing more than a spritz. You wouldn’t be able to shower, wash clothing, or dishes. The pressure tank is essential for a home to have sufficient water pressure, and when it malfunctions, pressure tank repairs are a must. 

A common problem with a water well’s pressure tank is the bladder ruptures, allowing water to enter the system. As air enters the tank, it dissolves into the water and dissipates, and the tank can’t maintain proper water pressure. The following are six other possible problems you may experience that require pressure tank repairs: 

• 1. Electric Bill Increase – An increase in the electric bill is a subtle indication that you may need pressure tank repairs. When the pressure tank becomes waterlogged in the upper chamber, it can cause the pressure pump to cycle more frequently.
• 2. Fluctuating Pressure Gauge – You can mount the pressure gauge on the pressure tank. Watching the gauge fluctuate signals a faulty pressure tank and indicates you need repairs. 
• 3. Faucet Spurting Air – When the pressure tank bladder ruptures, air mixes with the water, resulting in air coming out of the faucet with the water because of uneven pressure.
• 4. Strange Sounds—When the bladder ruptures, the pressure switch responds with fluctuating pressure. You should hear repeated clicking if the gauge doesn’t indicate an issue. 
• 5. Water Pressure Loss—If you have a complete loss of water pressure, check the circuit breaker first to ensure it hasn’t tripped. If you have installed a water filtration system, check the filter. It may need to be cleaned or changed. 

Keep The Water Coming! 

Following all recommendations for maintaining and upkeep of a water well is essential. Doing so will give you better-quality water, a longer lifespan for your water well, and the ability to make any needed repairs, especially pressure tank repairs. If you need pressure tank repair in Victorville, CA or any nearby cities, the team at Inland Pro Plumbing is available to provide you with the services you require. 

Give us a call today at 760-951-1721 to learn more about the assistance we can provide. Our professionals are always available to provide you with the services you need, whether you are seeking the installation of a new well system or you need repairs. 

What is a main line in plumbing?

The main line is more commonly known as the sewer line. This is the plumbing line that takes the wastewater from your house and sends it to the city sewer line or into a septic tank. When it breaks, collapses, or gets clogged, that’s when you need sewer or main line plumbing repair.  When your mainline backs up, it is important to know where your cleanout is located.

What is the difference between a sewer line and a main water line?

Picture a divided roadway running underground between your home and the city connection. One lane is headed into your house – that’s the main water line and only clean water is in that lane. The other lane is coming from your house – that’s the sewer line and only wastewater is in that lane. 

The main line plumbing is located under the sewer side of that road. How can you tell if your main line is clogged? The main line, aka the main sewer line, is the side of the road that sends all the wastewater to the city sewer system. Typically, wastewater flows fairly easily, but they do break, collapse are become clogged by tree roots. There are 4 ways you can tell if the backed-up shower, sink or tub drains are clogged on your end or if you’re going to need main line plumbing repair service. Those 4 ways are: 

• Multiple drains are slow: One drain is usually just a plunger fix, but when you have multiple drains running slow, it is frequently an indication of a clog in the main line, plumbing repair by a professional will be needed. 
• Backed-up water in the drains: If your washing machine water starts coming up in the bathtub or a sink, or worse, the toilet, this is an indication you need main line plumbing repair service. 
•  Gurgling noises: If you are hearing gurgling noises as a drain or toilet drains, or while the washing machine is draining, this could be a main line plumbing repair issue and will need professional service. 
• Drains smell like a sewer: If any of the drains have a foul smell coming from them, you have main line plumbing repair issues.

Can a homeowner do main line plumbing repairs?

While it is best to have a professional plumber provide you with main line plumbing repairs, in a pinch, you do it yourself with a few basic tools. Those tools include a pair of heavy-duty work gloves, a pipe wrench, a professional-level auger (plumber’s snake), and a garden hose.  The following steps will clear anything that is clogging your main line plumbing, repairs for a broken main line (sewer line) should be addressed by a professional plumber: 

• Loosen the drain pipe cap using the pipe wrench all the way. 
• Open the pipe cap and allow any buildup to drain out completely.
• Feed the auger cable (plumber’s snake) into the drain pipe.
• Run the auger as far as it will go until the clog is busted up and then a little further.
• Run the garden hose into the drain and turn the water on full blast.
• Pull the auger out slowly, little by little, rinsing off with the water hose.
• Replace the drain cap and tighten it with the pipe wrench.

How is a broken underground sewer pipe repaired?

Unless you have a lot of time on your hands, and don’t mind getting dirty, any underground main line plumbing repairs should be done by a professional plumber. They will use of the following methods: 

Trench Main Line Plumbing Repairs

This is the most affordable way but it will cause damage to your landscape. The plumber will determine where the problem is and then dig up the old lines and either repair it if possible or replace it. ​

Trenchless Main Line Plumbing Repairs

If your lawn is your masterpiece, the plumber can avoid digging and take these steps for your main line plumbing repairs.  Your plumber will then go through these steps:

• Dig an entry hole to work from.
• Create a mixture of epoxy resin.
• Cut the right amount of cloth pipe liner.
• Fill the cloth liner with the epoxy resin.
• Insert the cloth liner into the old pipe using a machine.
• Add hot water for the epoxy to cure.
• Remove the cloth liner. 
• Run a special plumbing camera through to make sure they cover all problem areas.
• Cover the access hole they created.

The process will take up to 2 hours for the epoxy resin to cure before the main line plumbing can be used. 

Trenchless Pipe Burst Main Line Plumbing Repairs

Sometimes the sewer line is too damaged to use the above trenchless main line plumbing repairs, so the plumber will use another trenchless method. They will create an access hole as above then using a specialized drill tip, they will insert a new pipe into the damaged pipe. This will cause the old pipe to finish breaking apart and the new pipe will be connected to the house and the sewer opening. 

Keeping The Lines Clear

When you determine that you may need main line plumbing repairs as we’ve talked about here, you should call a few plumbers and get quotes. Ask about all three methods mentioned and get their bid along with their warranty on the work. And remember, if you need main line plumbing repairs in Victorville, CA  or any nearby cities, you can always count on our professionals to provide you with the high-quality services you need. Call 760-951-1721 today if you’d like to learn more about how we can help you.

When is it time to replace your water heater?

For the most part, when you replace your water heater depends on its type, size and age. On average, most water heaters last about 10 years. Electric water heaters will typically last a little longer than gas water heaters. Good maintenance, such as regular flushing, will help your water heater last longer.

If you have a tankless water heater, you can expect it to last about 15-20 years. Again, regular maintenance will ensure its longevity.

Water heater replacement is recommended if you’re spending more on repairs than you would buying and installing a new unit.

Can I install a water heater myself?

While it’s not impossible for you to install a new water heater yourself, it’s not recommended, especially if you have no plumbing or electrical training. Not having any training can put you, your family and your home at risk of injury or damage.

Moreover, you’ll need to get the water heater to your home, you’ll need all the right tools and additional supplies, and you’ll need to get a permit from the city. You will also have to get the city to come out and inspect it after it’s installed.

When it comes to water heater replacement, plumbing professionals are your best choice. They’ll have all the right skills and equipment to install the water heater and they’ll be able to get the necessary permitting and inspections from your city. All you’ll have to do is enjoy the hot water.

What are the signs that your water heater needs to be replaced?

If you think it might be time to replace your water heater, here are 6 ways to tell it’s time to replace your water heater:

• Water pools around its base: If water is standing around the base of the water heater, you probably have a leak. Water heater replacement will preserve your home from water damage.
• Rusty water appears in the sink: If your water appears rusty or there are rust stains around your sink, this is usually a sign that your water heater is rusty as well. When you replace rusty water heaters, you’ll improve the water quality and prevent leaks.
• Metallic smell or taste to water: Metallic odors or tastes usually indicate that the water heater’s metal tank has begun to corrode.
• Cold water that won’t heat: If you get hot water one day but can’t the next, your water heater–probably the heating element–is worn out and it’s time for a new one.
• Age: Any water heater that’s 10-15 years old is probably beginning to show signs of wear, even if you’ve kept it maintained. Professionals can test it to see if you need a new one.
• Constant repairs: If you’re constantly having to repair your water heater, you’re usually better off getting a new unit. You’ll save money in the long run.

Water heater replacement, gas or electric?

When choosing between installing a gas or electric water heater, the main thing to consider are your needs and budget. Both have advantages and disadvantages, although electric water heaters tend to be a little cheaper to install and often last longer than gas water heaters.

Gas water heaters also tend to use more energy than electric units. But, if you have gas lines already installed in your home, then installation costs might not be as high.

Again, you’ll have to weigh your options based on what you need for your home, as well as your budget.

Water heater repair vs. replacement

Several variables come into play when choosing to repair or replace your water heater. One big factor is age. The older your water heater is, the more likely it will be worn. You’ll tend to see problems like rust or corrosion or leaks that make it hard to repair.

No matter how old your water heater is, if you’re constantly calling your plumber out to repair it, you’ll be better off getting a new water heater. You’ll end up spending less money in the long run.

Is a tankless water heater better?

Tankless water heaters have their advantages and disadvantages. Of course, the biggest advantage of installing a tankless water heater is that you get hot water on demand. You won’t have to wait for the water to heat up before you shower or wash dishes.

But, initial installation can be expensive. And you may need more than one tankless water heater in your home, depending on the size of the home and the size of the unit you install. These costs, though, are often offset because tankless water heaters have fewer problems than standard water heaters, so you’ll save on maintenance costs. They also tend to last longer–about 15-20 years–than standard models.

How quickly can a plumber come out?

An emergency plumber is usually available 24 hours a day and will come out as soon as possible after they receive your call. The plumbers at Inland Pro Plumbing prioritize emergencies and fast and effectively make repairs. Our goal is to make sure your plumbing is working dependably again.

How do you avoid plumbing emergencies?

Most people take their plumbing for granted when it’s functioning properly. But, it’s wise to stay alert to problems that could lead to costly repairs. Some things to watch out for include:

• Minor leaks: A little bit of water leaking around faucets or even drips might not seem like a problem, but it can lead to costly repairs. Periodically, check for leaks or drips around pipes, faucets, valves, dishwashers, refrigerators, toilets and other fixtures and appliances.
• Water pressure: Keep an eye on your water pressure. Low pressure from showers or faucets, for instance, often signal leaks are present. Low pressure throughout the home could even indicate a water main leak. Keep tabs on fluctuating water bills, as well. High bills, especially when there’s less usage, may signify leaks.
• Clogged drains: Stay alert to what goes down your drains, especially hair and food scraps, as these materials are the usual suspects when it comes to clogs. Keep an eye on drains that are moving slower than normal. This usually means they are clogged.

What is the most common plumbing item to fail in a residential home?

Emergency plumbers typically answer calls for clogged drains and toilets, as well as leaky faucets and pipes. These are some of the most common repairs that we make. Leak repairs usually involve either patching the leak or replacing the pipe or fixture. Another common repair service that we provide is water heater repair and replacement.

We also tend to problems such as constantly running toilets as well as low water pressure. Something like a constantly running toilet usually involves replacing the flapper or valves, which are fairly easy repairs. Low water pressure can be complicated. It could indicate anything from a clog or minor leak to a break in the main water line.

How long do broken pipes take to fix?

As with most repairs, the time it takes to repair a broken pipe will vary. If the break is small and not severe, a pipe can be repaired in a single afternoon. Severe breaks, especially underground, can take much longer. This will depend on the type of repair and the location of the break. Severe breaks or breaks in underground pipes or pipes behind walls or under floors can take several days or a week or more to repair.

How do you know if your pipes are bad?

When it comes to emergency plumbing repair, bad pipes are a leading reason plumbers are called out. Here are a few things to look for to tell if your pipes are bad:

• Standing water: Any water puddling under sinks or around toilets or anywhere in your home is typically a sign that you have bad pipes. Catching these leaks quickly can save you money in costly repairs later on.
• Leaky faucets: Dripping faucets are sometimes more than a nuisance. While it could just mean a simple repair, it could also mean you have bad pipes. At the very least, leaving that drip untouched will waste a lot of water.
• Noisy pipes: Your pipes should never make noises like rattling or whining. Noises are a sure sign of a problem that a professional can diagnose and repair.
• Discolored pipes: Discoloration, particularly around joints, are signs that you have a leak.
• Slow drains: If water is slow to drain this means you have a clog. Clogs near the drain are often something you can clear yourself. But if something like tree roots or other debris is causing a clog further down the line, then you’ll need the help of a professional.
• Foul odors: If you’re catching bad smells from drains you probably have a problem in your sewer lines. Sewer odors usually mean problems with traps or vents and will need prompt attention.
• High water bills: A sudden, unexpected increase in your water bill is frequently a sign that you have a leak somewhere in your plumbing pipes.
• Dirty water: Any water that comes out of your pipes should be clear. Any sort of discoloration could mean anything from rust to sewage in the water.
• Bubbling paint: If the paint on your walls or ceiling begins to bubble or crack, you probably have a pipe leak in those areas. You might also have a roof leak. A plumber with good leak detection equipment should be able to tell whether the leak is coming from your pipes or from your roof or other source.
• Dark green patches on the lawn: If you see dark patches on your lawn, this may indicate a problem with your sewer line.

Can water leaks be dangerous?

Even the smallest water leak can leave cause enough damage to affect your family’s health and your home’s value. Here are two examples of what can occur with a small, simple water leak: 

• Fungus and Mold

An undetected water leak will create serious fungi and mold that produce spores that infiltrate the air inside your home. This leads to health issues which can be worse for anyone that has breathing conditions already. 

Homes with high humidity can have a high level of mold spores. Water speeds up their growth. Mold is ugly, but it is the unseen damage that can cause more harm. The spores spread through the air, causing, and irritating allergies, coughing, nasal congestion, sneezing, and sniffling. Anyone with a weak immune system suffers the most. 

• Financial Concern

Leaks cause water pressure drops, yet you’ll see water bills increase. In addition to the expense of the water bill increase, there is structural damage to be dealt with too. 

Can water leaks cause structural damage?

Health issues are enough reason to address water leak issues, but the structural damage can be severe too. Discoloration, stains, and streaks are the most obvious results of the leak, that professionals with water leak detection equipment can catch before they get to this point. Left unchecked leaks cause deterioration in the flooring, framing, and support beams. 

What happens if you don’t fix a leak?

When you neglect a leak, the water will keep flowing, causing structural damage. Wood warps, floors and walls weaken, and foundations crack and weaken. With a damaged foundation, the rest of the structure is weakened. 

What happens if you have a water leak under your house?

A leak under the house, aka a slab leak, will cause three things immediately: 

• Water bill increase
• Water pressure drops
• Floor dampening

It is the consequences of this type of water leak that are expensive and long-lasting. Starting with mildew and mold, causing asthma and other respiratory issues.

The structural damage affects the foundation, causing it to shift, sink, and crack. The walls are weakened, and the carpeting and flooring become waterlogged. Your home will begin to have a foul smell, and the water leak will eventually destroy the landscaping. 

How can you tell if a pipe is leaking in a wall?

It is estimated by the EPA as much as one trillion gallons of water is wasted annually from plumbing leaks. As much as 90 gallons a day are from homes! With water leak detection, most of this could be eliminated. 

Here are a few ways to tell that you have a leak:  

1. Water Bills Skyrocket

A water bill increase in the summer is nothing unusual and having holiday guests can cause an increase, too. However, if you’re getting higher water bills for no obvious reason, you need to inspect your home for a leak. 

2. Mildew & Mold 

Even the cleanest of homes can have some mildew and mold growth in areas like showers and tubs. If you see mildew and mold outside of the tub, there could be a water leak. Mold on the baseboards and walls, ceiling, and floors, in the kitchen, are sure signs of leaks. 

3. Musty Odor

You usually smell mildew and mold before seeing it. So, when you can smell it, you need to look for it! If it isn’t obvious, it is probably inside the walls, under the flooring, or in the air vents. 

4. Damages and Stains

What may start off as a slightly dingy spot on the ceiling, can develop into a watermark. This isn’t something to overlook–a leak is likely causing this stain. It may be a roof leak; it could be a plumbing leak. Left unaddressed, the ceiling may begin to sag, taking away support for the walls, and eventually, affecting the flooring. 

5. Water Meter Running

If you suspect a water leak, detection can be done by turning all the water off inside and outside the house. Check the water meter and if isn’t moving, there is no water leak. If the meter is running, you have a water leak somewhere. 

6. Wet Areas

Random wet areas in the house or around the exterior, like puddles around the exterior walls or in the lawn, could indicate a leak. Where there are leaks, mildew and mold soon follow. 

7. Cracking Foundation

A house will settle over time naturally, which can cause hairline cracks in the ceiling and walls. However, a random, sudden crack that can’t be explained is probably from a water leak. 

How do you know you have a leak in your water line?

A water leak, no matter how small, shouldn’t be ignored. Leaks can cause serious damage and costly repairs. The following are indications that you may have a water leak inside your home: 

• A noticeable drop in water pressure
• Hissing, running, or splashing water noises
• Dirty or rusty water
• Mold odor and growth or increase of water-loving insects
• Sewage odor
• Increasing water bill over 2 to 3 months 

The following are indications that you may have a water leak outside of your home: 

• Saturated, wet areas in your lawn
• Potholes and sinkholes
• Sewage odor
• Unusually green area of the lawn
• Cracking paved areas around your home 
• Increasing water bill over 2 to 3 months

How do plumbers detect hidden leaks?

A professional plumber will have a tried-and-true routine in water leak detection, starting with a walk-through around your home. They typically check fixtures and under the sinks. They will inspect any irrigation system and pool system. They will then check the water meter check. 

After these things have ruled out any obvious leaks, they will use special equipment for water leak detection. This is an underground sound detection tool that involves headphones and a microphone that allows the plumber to hear running water ground. Plumbers may also use video cameras to find leaks.