Sewage Line Repair & Replacement Services

The sewer system is one of the essential systems in your home and a necessary component of everyday life. It plays a vital role in the function of your plumbing system. This is why when you experience a broken or blocked sewer line, you face a major plumbing emergency that requires a prompt reaction. Sewer line repairs are quite an undertaking, so it is important to immediately call for professional plumbing help rather than trying to resolve the issue on your own. To determine if sewer line repair is needed, it is best to request an inspection from a professional sewer line specialist.

During the inspection, the plumbing specialist will assess the sewer line for any existing breaks or issues in order to determine if sewer line repair or replacement is necessary. They may use specialized tools including sewer cameras and sewer probes to identify any problems. Once an issue is identified, they can provide an estimate for the cost of any repairs needed.

How Much Does it Cost to Replace or Repair a Sewer Line

Depending on the severity of the problem and particular circumstances related to it, sewer line replacement may be the more cost-effective option. To avoid repairs and early replacement, keep in mind that you should have your sewer line regularly checked and maintained.

So you’ve got a clog? Don’t worry, it happens, and it happens often! Clogs are one of the most common plumbing emergencies. And one of the most annoying ones, as well. Drains can be blocked for a variety of reasons, from cooking oil and washed off food to hair and soap residue. Even if you’ve noticed that water in your tub or kitchen sink is draining slowly, you should deal with it as soon as possible before it becomes fully clogged. The good news is that armed with the right tools and techniques, you’ll be able to combat most minor clogs without having to resort to your trusted Mira Mesa plumber or a reputable plumber in the area you live in. Here are a few useful remedies and tips that will help you handle a clogged drain and keep the water flowing.

1. Home remedies

If caught early, partial clogs can be cleaned with common natural household remedies such as vinegar, baking soda or even just hot water. They are usually quite simple and effective in clearing slow-draining sinks.

Hot water

This is your best friend in case of a grease buildup, but keep in mind that water should be hot before you pour it down the drain. Cold water will just harden the grease. You can heat it up in a large stock pot on the stove.

The sewer system is one of the most important systems for your household. It is essential to your everyday needs. Imagine if you weren’t able to take a shower, use the dishwasher or the sinks. These appliances are all connected to the sewer line. So nobody wants clogged lines and the sewer to overflow. Especially because these sewer line issues can be really stubborn. Chemicals might seem like a simple solution, but there’s a catch! Harsh chemicals and acids can temporary resolve the problem, but may damage the pipes and lead to a bigger one. Don’t do it yourself! If the sewer line gives you a headache, the experienced and skilled professionals at Plumbing Plus can help you with sewer line repairs or replacement and any plumbing San Diego issue.

Inspection

The first step the professional you called should take is to locate the problem. Sewer camera inspection allows the plumber to accurately and efficiently diagnose the issue without the risk of damaging the pipes. After the technician determines that the clog is causing the problem, there are two ways to deal with it.

Plumbing snakes

Plumbing snakes or plumbing augers are a traditional and most common method of dealing with clogs. Snakes consist of a metal tube with a cable inside with blades or corkscrew auger at one end and a motorized crank or a hand at the other. J-shaped plumbing snakes are intended for toilets, while the ones with a straight tube are used for sink drains.

Home remodeling is a great way to give your kitchen or bathroom a brand new look and improve their functionality. It also gives you a chance to make better choices in terms of equipping your home with eco-friendly products. We’re not just talking materials, but features like appliances and fixtures as well. For example, old fixtures tend to spend more water while new ones were specifically designed to prevent water waste. The same goes for other appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. New models work just as well using significantly less water. That said, if you are planning a home remodeling project in the near future, here are some of the best ways to ensure you save more water courtesy of the leading San Diego plumbers in Plumbing Plus.

Toilets

Surprisingly, toilets are the biggest water consumers in most households according to a study conducted by WaterSense, a program supported by the EPA. Their study shows that toilets are responsible for as much as 30% of water consumption in an average home. The strict federal regulations meant to limit toilet water usage did not help much either. While the standard is 1.6 gallons per use, older toilets can use up to 6 gallons! If you choose a water-efficient toilet you could reduce water consumption in your home by as high as 60%. New toilets use around 1.28 gallons per flush and can help you save a lot of water and money in the long run.

Most homeowners use their plumbing system carelessly, forgetting that everything they flush could come back to haunt them if they aren’t careful. When used improperly, the odors can rush back through the pipes and permeate your home, leading to an unpleasant situation. But the smell is not the worst problem to come from this. The sewage odors could also affect your health as they carry all sorts of dangerous pathogens. Even if you are somehow able to withstand the smell if you ever experience this issue the most important thing you should do is to contact an experienced San Diego plumber to find its source. There are some steps you could take on your own to temporarily take care of the problem, but make sure to contact an expert to make sure that there are no other underlying issues causing this problem.

Reset the Trap

Luckily, the most common cause of this unpleasant odor is often solved easily. It involves a little element known as the trap. Located at the U-shaped bend under your sink, the trap is there to build a barrier between your drain and the sewage system. It does so by holding water which creates this barrier that doesn’t let any foul smells into your home. However, if you haven’t used a drain for a while the trapped water may evaporate, causing the smells to invade your home. To solve this simply leave the water running through that drain for a few seconds to reset the trap. If the drain is on your bathroom floor simply pour a bucket of water down that same drain. If this does not solve the issue, proceed to the next step.

As homeowners are becoming more environmentally aware, new technologies and methods are being developed to save our natural resources. The chances are that every household is spending way more water than it actually needs and that they can find ways to save a lot of it. The bathroom and the kitchen are the areas where water is used the most and are the perfect place to start the effort. The reasons for excessive water use can vary from the homeowner’s habits to plumbing issues that require a San Diego plumbing repair expert. In this article we are going to list some of the ways you can cut excessive water spending, saving a lot of water and money in the process.

BathroomDon’t Leave the Faucet Running

Do you keep the water running while you’re brushing your teeth? It’s a common habit and one you have to get rid of if you want to cut excessive water consumption. The same goes for shaving! Instead of letting the water run consider using a bowl.

Adjust Water Flow

New and improved shower heads can boost your enjoyment while reducing the flow rate. Moreover, they can be easily set up without professional help. Consider replacing the shower head and a faucet with one of these low flow models.

Many San Diego homeowners feel comfortable fixing minor plumbing issues themselves. But some emergencies are too serious and too difficult to tackle yourself, especially without proper tools and experience. You have to learn to recognize which plumbing emergencies demand expertise and which ones don’t. Clogged sewers and broken water heaters are some of the most common emergencies best left to a reputable San Diego emergency plumbing service, as they can be messy and even life-threatening. But hiring an inexperienced emergency plumbing service is equally as bad as trying to handle dangerous situations on your own. That’s why it is important to be able to determine whether the service you are thinking of hiring is reliable and experienced enough. To help you with that we have come up with a list of five questions you need to ask any 24 hour plumber in San Diego before you decide if you want to put your safety in their hands.

Is Your Team Licensed?

The first on our list is at the same time probably the most important question. Being licensed means that the service has a written proof of their expertise, education and training that satisfied the industry standards. Individually, that means that the plumber has gone through extensive training as an apprentice and passed all the qualifying tests afterwards.

Many San Diego homeowners call us only when there’s a plumbing emergency. When faced with something less pressing, like a simple clog, many homeowners bust out their DIY drain cleaning kit and take a shot at the nasty clog themselves. Though more often than not, even the most DIY-savvy homeowners turn to a professional San Diego drain cleaning service when the clog refuses to go away. Their most common weapon in this situation is your average drain cleaner. But did you know that these products contain acidic chemicals that could cause irreparable damage to your pipes? Naturally, not all products are based on the same chemicals and some are certainly more dangerous than others. There are tons of different brands and types stacked on the shelves of every local market, and come in the form of a gel, powder or liquid. But one thing they all have in common is that they are extremely dangerous, not just to your plumbing and your health but to the environment as well.

What Makes Average Cleaners So Dangerous?

These products rely on a chemical reaction that generates heat to dissolve the clog. The main ingredients in most of these cleaners is lye, a liquid metal hydroxide derived from leaching ashes from potassium carbonate, or potash. Under high temperatures these chemicals alter the clog’s structure, making it more liquefied and easier to dissolve. Other products rely on nitrates or bleaches to corrode the blockade. While effective in most cases, these chemicals burn not only through the clog but the PVC or steel pipes as well. Furthermore, these products often produce gases that can be harmful if inhaled. These products are dangerous if they come in contact with your skin or eyes. Look at the label more carefully and you’ll see tons and tons of warning signs. If you plan on using these, be sure to wear protective gear like goggles and gloves. If you come in contact with these chemicals, contact a doctor immediately. But most importantly, keep these products away from children!

Plumber Working on Water HeaterYou might think a water heater leak is just a small issue, while in fact it could quickly evolve into a serious problem. Even if the amount of water leaking is small, it can still cause serious damage to your floors and walls. Even worse, water leaking from the heater might also be a sign of a more serious issue. Sometimes a simple leak could lead to a catastrophic flood which could cause a lot of damage to your home and demand expensive repairs. Our skilled plumbers have dealt with countless cases of water heater repair in San Diego, from innocent to severe, and in this article are going to answer the frequently asked questions concerning this issue.

Why is water dripping from the water heater?

There is a number of reasons why your water heater might be leaking. A common one occurs when the expansion vessel collapses and allows water to pour from the auto air vent. Once the water has no place left to expand, it will start leaking from the expansion pipes. However, not every leak has to be connected to the water heater. Check out whether the leak might have been caused by condensation or other nearby appliances. Other water lines, like the softener discharge could also be the cause of the leak. Once you’ve eliminated every other option, check the fittings on the heater for obvious signs of leak. If there are none look at other sources.

Whenever you experience low water pressure in your bathroom or any other single room, there is a list of a few simple troubleshooting tips you can use to determine whether the problem lies in the faucet, the pipes or somewhere else. Sometimes the problem may lie in the fixtures, but it might also require you to ask for help from an expert plumber in Ramona, if, say, the problem is in your heater. Our experts have compiled a handy list if you ever experience such an issue in your home.

Check the Pressure in Your Neighborhood

If you are experiencing low water pressure in your entire home, the problem might not lie in your home, but the entire neighborhood. If you recently purchased a new home and keep experiencing low water pressure constantly, ask around your neighborhood to determine whether this is a common occurrence. If this is the case, a water pressure booster could solve your problems easily. If your new neighborhood does not share the same issue, maybe the previous homeowner installed a regulator to reduce the pressure from the main line. If you find it, ask a plumber to change the settings so that it allows a higher water flow.

Finding the Problem within Your Home

An emergency can strike at any time, and one of the most dangerous and devastating kind is a plumbing emergency. Plumbing emergencies can range from minor ones such as broken or frozen pipes to more serious ones like broken sewer lines or gas leaks. These could have hazardous effects on your home and your family. While regular maintenance can significantly reduce the chances of such a disaster striking, having an emergency plumber in San Diego you trust on speed dial is extremely important should an emergency ever occur.

I’m A Skilled DIY Homeowner. Why Should I Call a Plumber?

While having emergency plumbing tools at your disposal and knowing how to use them is a great thing, it could not hurt to have a 24-hour plumbing service in your contacts list. Knowing your way around a plumbing emergency could save you from the immediate danger and could save you some money, but the underlying issue might simply be too much for a DIY’er to handle. This is why it is important to seek professional help, a trustworthy plumber with the right tools and the years of experience of using them. Of course, there are some plumbing emergencies that you should not toy with at any cost and during which it is absolutely imperative to seek professional help. Some of these emergencies are:

Taking care of faulty plumbing is not a simple undertaking as many would lead you to believe. Depending on the service you need, you may need to hire a plumber with a particular set of skills and equipment, and hiring a trustworthy Escondido plumber will guarantee that you are getting the premier service done by a professional plumber with apt technical expertise. However, looking for quality service you may fall victim to a sham plumbing company, offering questionable services or simply trying to make you buy their product. This is why you have to think things through before deciding who to hire. Here are some of the things to know when looking for professional local plumbing service in Escondido.

Door-to-Door Plumbers

Escondido homeowners sometimes get an unexpected knock on the door from a person wearing a uniform and claiming to be a plumber looking to check their plumbing or water heater. They are more than likely to inform you that your water heater is in terrible shape and sway you into buying a replacement. In most cases, these people are simply representatives of sham companies hunting for naïve homeowners to purchase their expensive products. Before hiring a plumbing service, make sure you check their reputation to avoid falling prey to these predators.

All the drains in your home are connected to the main sewer line that carries the wastewater from your home to the city sewer system. However, as we previously expanded upon, the sewer line is susceptible to an array of potential hazards that can slow down or completely stop the wastewater flow. This is far from a mere inconvenience as this can cause horrible damage to your home. These problems include leaks, clogs, damage caused by tree roots or shifting soil. If you are lucky, the worst problem you will be faced with is not being able to use your plumbing system. The worst case scenario ranges from property damage to health risks due to wastewater exposure.

One of the ways to approach sewer line replacement in San Diego is by using a method called trenchless sewer line replacement. This is a very fast, effective and tested method to resolve any sewer line issues on residential and commercial properties, eliminating some of the issues associated with the traditional sewer replacement method.

What is Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement?

Trenchless sewer line replacements doesn't require extensive digging or excavation because a new pipe is created within the existing one instead of creating a large trench. There are many benefits of trenchless sewer line repairs. It is less disruptive to the property, faster to complete, and has lower overall costs.

Foam Insulation for PipesThe winter can be extremely harsh on your plumbing system. The sudden drop in temperature can cause a variety of plumbing issues, which is why it’s extremely important to prepare for the upcoming season by addressing all the problems and doing everything to prevent new ones from developing. As the premier plumbing service in San Diego, Plumbing Plus deals with winter plumbing problems on a regular basis, which is why we’ve compiled a list of preventive measures you can follow to make sure your plumbing system is ready for the upcoming season.

Fix Any Leaks

Even the smallest leak can wreak havoc when the temperatures decrease during the upcoming months, especially since San Diego is prone to winter frosts at night. This is why it is important to check any exposed pipes, both inside and outside your home, and see if there are any leaks. If you wait for the winter to pass to fix the leak, the damage from the frozen water to the adjacent pipes can be severe. If the pipes are insulated, check the insulation as well. There might be hidden leaks in there you aren’t even aware of. Fixing the leaks before winter will not only save your pipes but your money as well. This is why you should schedule a checkup with a reputable plumbing service in San Diego and deal with these issues before they escalate.

The plumbing and the sewer system are among the most, if not the most important systems in your home. The two working together in harmony is key to a normal life. Without the sewer system, you wouldn’t be able to use your shower, sink or washer. Being that it is so important, proper maintenance is crucial if you want your sewer system to last. However, if you’ve neglected it for too long, chances are you are going to need to repair the sewer line to ensure it keeps serving you well. Here at Plumbing Plus, we offer the best and most reliable sewer line repair in San Diego, and here are just some of the reasons you should consider repairing your sewer line.

The Most Common Sewer Line Issues

The most common reason you might need a plumber to come over is that a clog had formed in the sewer line from all the buildup. Grease, soap scum, food leftovers, and other junk will pile up over time and clog your sewer line. The first symptom of a clogged sewer line is noticing that the plumbing is slow, which quickly escalates into a complete clog and inability to drain. Another common problem giving San Diego homeowners a headache is tree roots growing into the pipe. Trees, like all plants, seek water and latching onto your sewer line is like striking a gold vein to them. The roots might grow into the weak points of the sewer system, like the joints, or even break through the pipes themselves if they are old and their structure had been compromised. Fed by the water that is constantly replenished, the roots will continue to grow and ultimately block the sewer line completely. Another issue can arise from human error. If the joints connecting the sewer line were improperly connected in the first place, they will inevitably start to leak at one point. This will result not only in water leaking out but the sewage as well. Apart from the obvious implications, this could potentially cause serious health issues in your neighborhood. All of these problems will cause your drains to run very slow at first. You might experience localized floods in your basement or the toilet from time to time. This is the final warning sign that you should seek professional sewer line repair in San Diego before the problem escalates further.

Tankless water heaters are growing ever more popular with San Diego homeowners, due to being cost effective and the fact that they are an innovative step forward compared to old water heater models. However, because tankless water heaters are relatively on the market, many homeowners are discouraged to make the decision and switch to tankless because they are not sure whether they are as good as advertised. A lot of homeowners are also discouraged by myths perpetuated on the internet, questioning everything from efficiency and cost to the safety of tankless water heaters. In this article, leading San Diego Tankless Water Heater distributor, Plumbing Plus, will address these notorious myths and shed light on how efficient tankless heaters really are.

Are They Really Cost-Effective?

The most common myth on the web is that tankless water heaters are extremely expensive to use. The truth is tankless water heaters are a significantly cheaper option than regular water heaters. In fact, using a tankless water heater can reduce your electrical bill by up to 20%. Simply by not storing unused water but rather providing hot water when needed, tankless water heaters are extremely energy-friendly. Standard water heaters store water in large tanks and keep it warm during the entire day, and you end up paying for heating the water you may not even use.

Hard Water and a Leaking FaucetMost American households, roughly 85% of them, share the same water condition known as hard water. As water passes through rocks and soil on the way to our home, it picks up various minerals which are dissolved in the water, for example magnesium and calcium. When the content of these minerals in the water is above average to high, the water is considered hard. Some claim that hard water can have negative effects on your health, your skin and your hair. Any plumber in San Diego will contend that hard water can damage your plumbing system as well, leading to a plumbing emergency. All things considered, here’s why having hard water in your home is bad and how to prevent large-scale water damage.

The Bad Sides of Hard Water

Hard water is laced with minerals known to leave stains on your dishes or clothes. This residue can make your clothes itchy and ruin them over time, as well as leave a white coat on your dishes. Hard water contains minerals like lead, iron and zinc which have no health benefits and can cause a variety of health issues such as acne, irritation, skin inflammation and are linked to psoriasis. Some studies even link using hard water to hair loss, due to the high amount of positively charged minerals that react with your hair. This can cause a variety of issues such as an itchy scalp, dandruff, split ends and worst of all, hair loss. While some people prefer the taste of hard water, depending on its mineral structure, hard water can be smelly and undrinkable too. The best way to check if your water is safe to consume is to consult the local Water Quality control report.

In our last article we touched upon some useful tips you should know in case you ever face a plumbing emergency. Plumbing emergencies occur without a warning and it is important to keep your head cool and not do something that will only make matters worse. Your first step should be to shut off the water supply and call a professional to assess the damage. That’s why it is important to look up a few 24/7-service San Diego plumbers and have their contacts by your side. Apart from that, we give you some of the most frequent emergencies and how to handle them until help arrives.

1. Faucets leaking or dripping

Leaking or dripping faucets should be handled sooner rather than later, as even a small leak can significantly impact your water bill. You can either choose to try and repair the faulty faucet yourself or call a professional to handle it for you. In either case, be sure to cut the water supply to the sink or the bathtub as soon as you notice a leak. You can find the valve under the cabinet, while the bathtub valve should be behind the access panel in a wall near the tub faucet. Depending on whether hot or cold water is leaking you need to turn only the respective valve off. However, when you change the faucet you need to turn both off.

Plumber Plunging a SinkA plumbing emergency usually occurs without a warning, but high temperatures are known to be the cause of a large percent of plumbing emergencies in San Diego. With the summer heat lurking around the corners, it is good to know what you can do to prevent a disaster. The best way to avoid any serious damage is to contact Plumbing Plus, the best San Diego Emergency Plumbing service, but there are some things you still can do to minimize the damage and avoid major repair costs in the aftermath.

1. Know the location of your main valve

Every homeowner has to know where their main valve is. In case you ever go through a plumbing emergency, the first thing you will need to do is to close this valve. It may not be always necessary, but knowing where it’s located will give you peace of mind. If your home is on the municipal water supply, your main valve will probably be in the vicinity of the water meter or around the exterior access point of your home’s crawl space. If your home is using well water, the valve will likely be located near the well pump or in the well house.

2. How to handle hot water leaks

If you find that hot water is dripping or leaking from a faucet or from the supply lines, the first step should be to close the main valve to prevent draining the hot water tank, and shut the breaker supplying electricity to the hot water immediately after. If the water heater is running empty, it could damage the heating unit leading to a costly replacement. To prevent this simply make sure you shut down the water heater’s power if you discover a leak.

Hair Caught in DrainMost homeowners enjoy spending time in their bathroom, whether they are taking long and relaxing showers, taking selfies or getting ready for work. Many of them aren’t even aware that some of their daily habits can be extremely harmful to the plumbing. Leading San Diego Plumbers have compiled a list of 5 harmful habits that you need to root out immediately!

Treating your toilet like a trash can

Many homeowners realize that the toilet is not a valid replacement for a trash can only when it becomes too late. Things other than toilet paper like wet wipes, paper towels and some feminine products do not belong in the toilet, they belong in the trash. Instead of using a toilet, get a small trash can next to it if you haven’t already, in order to avoid plumbing problems before it is too late.

Mind your long hair

If you have long hair, you should try to prevent it from reaching the pipes. Hair mixed with dirt and soap will clog your pipes before you know it. To prevent this, make sure you have a drain filter in place to stop the hair from reaching the pipes and prevent a disaster.

Hard water: Bathroom enemy number 1

Drain Cleaning Poway California If water flows away very slowly, it is a clear indication you have a clog somewhere down the drain. Note if you require a 24 hour plumber click here. Drains commonly get clogged because people often use them as garbage disposals. As a consequence, gunk builds up and you need to clean the drain, before the water and debris cause a dirty mess in your kitchen or bathroom. Luckily, there are some things you can do yourself, while others require you to consider professional Poway, California drain cleaning options.

What you can do

The good news is that large-scale drain cleaning can be prevented if you change some of your habits concerning garbage disposal. There are some simple DIY tricks you can try out and save money, energy and water.

Plunge shallow clogs

If the gunk isn’t located deep, you can simply use a plunger. It is a rather unpleasant experience, but it gives immediate results with shallow clogs. Just make sure you have your bathroom gloves on. If, however, gunk is visible and sticking out from the drain, simply use a coat hanger hook and take it out.

Mix baking soda and vinegar

Running Water From a FaucetPlumbing Fixtures and Fittings Future Market With rapid advancements in technology in general, an average American household cannot be imagined by cutting-edge technology. Homeowners now strive to build a smarter, healthier and cozier home but also save water and energy. All of these factors have been influencing the plumbing market so far and the demand for plumbing fixtures and fittings is forecast to rise 6.3 per cent annually until 2019. Take a look at the most prominent trends concerning plumbing fixtures and fittings.

Energy-efficient plumbing fixtures and fittings

One of the most visible trends is the popularity of energy and water-saving plumbing fixtures and fittings. In California, the tendency to save water has a major influence on the demand for products. Kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects are the most common, since the whole plumbing structure and layout often have to change for maximum effect. Designers are backed up by a host of environmental regulations put forward by the government. Consequently, the market is on the rise. There are a couple of technologies and products that have been in high demand and will reportedly stay so:

Homeowners across the US have turned more environmentally-conscious in recent years. Many now consider energy-saving options for their homes, especially options for saving water. To that end, modern dishwashers are not only time-saving, but can also save water. However, whether you use a newer or an older model, there are some typical mistakes you make when loading your dishwasher. Pay attention to these so you don't waste time, money and invaluable water.

You mix metals

If two heterogeneous metals touch, they interact. This happens most often with silver and stainless steel. As a result, dishes made of these metals can get scratched on the surface. In order to keep your dishes clean and intact, don’t load different metals together.

You put delicate, hand-painted china in the dishwasher

Whether it’s family heirloom or simply an expensive souvenir, the chances are you aren’t using hand-painted china on a daily basis. More significantly, these pieces are kept for their sentimental or decorative value. Either way, they should never be washed in a dishwasher, because they might get grazed on the surface, chipped or broken in half.

Water Dripping From FaucetIf you are looking for ways to save more water at home, the best and safest way is to buy energy and water-efficient products, ranging from toilets, washing machines and dishwashers to sprinkler nozzles. Even though they can save both your water and money in the long run, they may outweigh your current budget. However, check out 5 ways to save more water at home (and more money for utility bills), without investing much.

Get a dual-flush toilet

Installing dual-flush toilets may significantly contribute to saving water. Basically, a dual-flush toilet treats solid waste differently from liquid waste, which makes it different from standard American type toilets. More specifically, it comes with two flush options: liquid waste is disposed of with a half-flush, while a full-flush is reserved for solid waste. In that way, you save can save as many as 3 gallons of water per flush, since a standard full-flush uses 3-5 gallons, as opposed to ‘’low-flush’’ which uses only 1-2 gallons. Take a look at more water-efficient sanitary ware.

Install low-flow showerheads

A long hot shower can use up to 10 gallons of water per minute, whereas the low-flow option uses less than 2 gpm (gallons per minute). If you don’t want to cut down on the amount of time you spend in the shower, consider having water-efficient showerheads – they are relatively cheap and easy to install. You can save approximately 8 gallons of water per minute with every relaxing shower you take!

Plumber Working Under SinkPlumbing projects shouldn't be taken lightly, because in most cases, doing it properly and avoiding further damage requires hiring a skilled contractor, which means you need to organize yourself in terms of time and money. Luckily, there are so many simple tricks you can do that don't require calling the plumber. Ranging from common sense ones to those that need you to get your hands a little dirty, check out some of the simplest tricks and become a confident DIY plumber in San Diego!

Fix chipped enamel on a sink

Scrub the chipped area with the sponge and rub 400 to 600-grit “wet-and-dry” sandpaper over it so it hardens and becomes rough. After that, mix epoxy ingredients according to the label, but pay attention the color of the mix matches the enamel. When the mix is ready, fill it into the chip using a small brush, and allow for drying time specified on the label. And don't forget – you shouldn't scrub that area for the next 7 days.

Silence chattering pipes

The reason why your hear pipes rattling at night is water pressure that might have loosened the pipe nails. The simple trick is to replace existing nails with 1-1/4-in. coarse-thread drywall screws and add one pipe strap per joist. Pipe straps are cheap so the more you put, the merrier.

When you need to hire a plumber, you may wonder whether a local business would give you a better service than a statewide or nationwide one. Since Plumbing Plus is a local plumbing service, of course we advocate for local businesses and here is why.

Expertise and reputation

One of the key criteria for hiring a certain plumber is their level of expertise and their reputation. A skilled, experienced and reputable plumber guarantees maximum efforts to complete the job promptly and efficiently, which is what every customer wants. Plumbing problems are among the most annoying ones and every home or business owner wants to get them over and done as quickly as possible, so that they can resume their everyday activities. And no one wants the problems to come back. It is easier to determine the reputation and expertise of a local plumbing business because their former customers live in the area. Many times, friends and relatives can offer recommendations and valuable insights into how a local plumbing business handles jobs. On the other hand, local businesses depend on the community and their success is entirely contingent on the quality of services delivered in that exact area.

Have you decided to have your bathroom remodeled? Here's what's trendy this year, if you are looking for ideas. National Bath And Kitchen Association reports that homeowners have become more interested in sleek, unfussy design that looks contemporary and fresh. Rustic elements haven’t been done away with, but they have become incorporated in the sleek glamour.

The floor is the centerpiece

The floor can be the blank canvas for the homeowners' creativity. Bold tile design, shape or color can be the element that brings everything else together with its uniqueness.

Think about grout

Grout isn't just a building material. It can be integrated into the design concept. Matching color of the grout and tiles will give the bathroom a continuous look, whereas a darker shade or a contrasting color can complement the tiles beautifully. A contrasting grout color would do great with an ornate tile pattern.

Gray is the king

Color gray has become hot with a capital H. Gray is wonderful because of it so flexible and can work in different combinations, both as a complementing and an accent color. And it doesn't work excellently with various colors only – it's also highly transformative with different materials.

When water supply line leaks

The water supply line is buried minimum 3 feet below the ground and leaks are difficult to identify. They cannot be noticed through a spike in water consumption because the leaks are located before the point of the water meter. What can sometimes happen is that water travels back to the meter and pools up in the meter box. If you can rule out built-up rain or irrigation run-off, then you’re probably looking at a signal of water supply line leak. Damp soil around the area where the water supply rises above ground is also indicative of a leak. In severe leaks, water will seep through the soil directly above the leaking point. If you suspect or know your water supply is leaking, you should immediately contact the water utility and refrain from making any repairs with your plumber.

When fixtures leak

Leaking faucets, showers and tubs can be repaired in-house if you’re a handy person. A fixture that drips every other second will waste over 1,000 gallons a year. That explains why you shouldn’t just let dripping faucets be. The type of repair depends on which type of faucet you have: one with a compression valve, a ball type, a cartridge type or one with ceramic discs.

Garbage disposal is a fantastic appliance that makes everyday living easier and duties more manageable. It’s quite a sturdy machine and most problems arise from improper operation and maintenance. If you keep in mind a few things when it comes to how you run your disposal and maintain it, the chances of plumbing and drain problems will be brought down to a minimum.

Do:

• Clean the disposal from time to time with a little dish soap and cold water and let it run for a minute or so.
• Prevent odors and microbes by using Borax, which is a natural sanitizer and completely safe for the components. You can also throw in some lemons and oranges or let some baking soda sit for several hours before running the machine.
• Use the disposal regularly. If you leave it unused it can get corroded and food particles can build up and obstruct parts from moving.
• Throw food waste with a strong flow of cold water. Cold water will make grease solidify into lumps, so it won’t coat the parts and it will be chopped.
• Grinding chicken and fish bones, egg shells and pits will act as a scourer that will clean the grinding chamber.
• Large pieces of waste shouldn’t be crammed into the disposal. Rather cut them up beforehand and throw them in one at a time.
• Wait till the grinding is finished before you switch off the motor. Cold water should be running the whole time. Turn off the water some 15 seconds after the disposal is switched off. This way remaining particles will be washed off.

Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

Did you know that water heaters are the second biggest energy consumers among your household appliances? Consequently, they can cost you hundreds of dollars every year, and with electricity prices increasing steadily, this figure only goes up. The problem with traditional water heaters with tanks is that they are not energy-efficient enough. They waste a lot of energy because they need to keep the water hot even when you are not using it. Tankless water heaters are an eco-friendly generation of plumbing installations. Tankless water heaters are somewhat novel in the States, but they have long been used in Europe and Japan. The basic idea is to heat water only when you need it and in that way reduce energy waste. How does it work? Upon turning on the faucet, water enters the system and activates the detection sensor. This ignites the burner and the water flows through the heat exchanger, acquiring the set temperature. When the faucet is turned off, the system is off as well. What are the benefits? The advantages of a tankless propane water heater hold over a tank heater are various. Here are some of them:

Plumbing Problems Caused by High Temperatures

Scorching high temperatures bring about some frequent plumbing problems. Here are some things you might want to be careful about. Detecting a plumbing problem early on usually minimizes the stress and the financial burden. So, check these at your home and nip the problem in the bud.

Slab Leaks

It quite surprising, but the number one factor contributing to leakage in the pipes below your floor are high temperatures. Not exactly boiling temperatures as such, but more the reaction between them and copper pipes that carry water. Do you notice any droplets of water on a wall or under the carpet? Is there any mildew there? Does some part of your floor feel warmer than the rest? That could be a case of a hot-water pipe leak. Call in professionals to investigate your slab leak properly and to prevent any further damage to your home.

Clogged garbage disposal

Be careful while preparing summer cookouts. Your garbage disposal is not as tough and durable as you think, so be careful what you send down there. This is especially true about watermelon and corn, any other hard and fibrous stuff. Maybe it won’t clog the disposal, but it’ll probably affect the blades, which are the heart of this kitchen amenity. Refrain from throwing cooking oils and grease left over from grilling, as these can also prove harmful. It’s a good idea to let some cold water run through the drain for a few seconds before and after you use the disposal.

Are you thinking of improving the quality of the water you use in your home? Many homeowners who are considering this investment are unsure about the differences between water filters and water softeners and their respective benefits. A basic understanding of the essentials concerning these two upgrades should make it easier for you to decide which would work better for you.

What Does the Name Say?

Water filters are all the systems that treat water and remove contaminants from it. They can vary in size – from small reversed osmosis drinking systems to large whole-house systems that filter all the water of a home. Water softeners also treat the water in the whole home by removing minerals from it, making the water soft and eliminating scale. So, the phrase water filter includes a much broader range of products and water softeners are types of water filters. Other filtration systems can specifically target a chemical or contaminant, such as carbon, iron, sulfur, fluoride, and sediments. These filters are completely different from what we call whole house filtration.

The ins and outs of whole house water filters:

Whole water house filters use multiple technologies to purify water and extract contaminants. Sophisticated media are used to remove contaminating and polluting substances in various ways – adsorption, exchanging of ions, filtering of microns, catalytic conversion, and oxidation. This variety of media makes it possible to clean the water from a wide scope of chemicals – from natural to man-made to heavy metals. Most systems function on the principle of trapping and converting chemicals in their matrix and then disposing of them through backwashing or containing them in a media or cartridge which are replaced on a regular basis. To treat microbes, ultraviolet lamps attack the DNA of microbes thus sterilizing the water. There are also screen, sieve and membrane types of filtration.

If you’re reading this blog, chances are you’re not a plumber. You’ve probably heard pipes are usually made of copper in the US, but it’s likely PEX pipes are unfamiliar to you. That’s understandable. PEX pipes have been used in Europe for decades and have demonstrated excellent performance and numerous benefits. In order to make an informed decision about your home piping, we’ll provide you with the basics on PEX and copper piping. First of all, PEX is an abbreviation that means cross-linked polyethylene pipe. The plastic undergoes processing, which makes it long-lasting and able to withstand extreme high and low temperatures. It can also endure creep deformation resulting from stress exposure and chemical deformation that acids and alkalis can cause. As a result, PEX piping is great for both hot and cold water. PEX pipes also use a coloring code – red pipes for hot water, blue pipes for cold and white for any. PEX is a flexible material, it feels like a hardened garden hose. It can resist breaking in cold temperatures and doesn’t have as many joints as copper, which relieves your budget for piping. Copper is also flexible and long-lasting and it has the benefit of reducing bacteria, because of its biostatic atmosphere, which is an important consideration. It’s also generally corrosion-resistant and can withstand ultraviolet rays unaltered. For these reasons, it can be used outside, as opposed to PEX pipes that don’t have this option. However, the only scenario when copper can corrode is when the quality of water is conducive to that, when it’s too acidic or basic. (Then again, just because it corrodes, it doesn’t mean the water is bad for use.) Having in mind both the advantages and disadvantages of PEX and copper pipes will give you a better understanding of what would fit your needs. The good sides of PEX are that it’s installation-friendly and flexible, in terms that it can be used with hot and cold water and that it can go with metal and PVC pipes. PEX has fewer joints so the installation is quicker and leakage chances are reduced. The installation cost is also lower because PEX needs fewer fittings due to its elasticity. Because PEX can expand and contract in response to stress and temperatures, it’s less likely it will burst. Every supply line is valved, which comes in handy when you need to have some repair work. PEX can have an optional pressure balance system. The downsides of PEX are that it cannot be used outside because of ultraviolet rays. It’s also got a shorter life and isn’t recyclable. Because it acts as an impenetrable membrane, water may get contaminated. When the pipes are left outside for a longer while, they could get damaged. Advantages of copper include durability, flexibility and an easy installation. It’s resistant to bacteria, so the quality of water is ensured. It’s weather-resistant and withstands corrosion and ultraviolet rays, making it a good choice for outside use. It’s flame retardant and doesn’t give off toxic fumes in a fire. It’s safe in natural disasters, for example earthquakes, because its elasticity doesn’t allow it to snap easily. Lastly, it’s eco-friendly because it can be recycled. Copper has a few disadvantages including priciness, possibility of corrosion, a possible metallic taste of water and possible breakage during extremely low temperatures. With PEX pipes you get a lot of advantages, but the tools used have to be right. The soundest idea is to call in a professional plumbing service like Plumbing Plus to make sure the job is done properly. Plumbing Plus has the expertise and the equipment needed to install PEX pipes. The products we use are always the highest quality and you can rest assured that your investment will be worthwhile. If you are considering doing repiping in your home and if you live in San Diego and the neighboring counties, don’t hesitate to call us right now.

As many of us are well aware, San Diego is in a severe drought that has only gotten worse over the last few months. At Plumbing Plus we want to help our customers and fellow San Diegans find ways for how you can prevent water waste in your community. It is our responsibility as San Diego community members to do our part to help our city recover from its current water crisis. Common plumbing issues that contribute to large amounts of water waste are leaky pipes, running toilets, and outdated plumbing systems. While these may not seem like pressing matters that require your immediate attention, they can lead to larger issues within your plumbing system and are directly responsible for water waste in your home. One slightly leaky faucet can be responsible for wasting 3 liters of a water a day and 350 gallons of water a year. This isn’t even considering a more severe leak. Want to know how you can prevent water waste in your home? You can start by hiring a professional plumber to come out to your home and inspect your home’s plumbing system. By having a plumber inspect your plumbing system they can catch any flaws in the system and bring them to your attention before they become cumbersome problems. Regular maintenance of your home’s plumbing can prevent larger issues from emerging and can save you money in the long run. While regular maintenance is great for catching potential issues early, there are also proactive means to making your home actively involved in San Diego water conservation. Low flow is the way to go for those committed to reducing their water usage. Switching your showerheads and toilets from conventional fixtures to low-flow requires a financial investment on your part but will save you money in the long run and reduce water waste in your home. Low flow fixtures can save up to 240 gallons of water per person a week, which is a significant impact you can make in your environment. At Plumbing Plus, we can help you switch your bathroom fixtures over to low flow versions through a wide selection of quality brands we are positive you will be happy with. Our experienced technicians can install your low flow toilet or shower head in no time and you can be part of San Diego’s water waste prevention community. If your plumbing is already environmentally friendly, you may be wondering how you can prevent water waste in your home on a daily basis. Above and beyond making sure your plumbing is in tip top shape, you can make small adjustments to your family’s lifestyle. Catching the cool water that comes out of the shower while you wait for the water to heat up can save up to 50 gallons of water a week that can be used for watering plants, washing the car, or whatever else you can think of. Washing dishes all at once at the end of the day, only running the dishwasher or regular washer when you have full loads of dishes or clothes, and many other innovative solutions can help you reduce water waste in your home. Together we can all make a difference in San Diego’s drought. Each home that actively reduces their water waste can help save 1000’s of gallons of water being wasted each year. If we all work together to help San Diego recover we can help our city become the best that it can be.

2015 High Tech Bathroom Trends As technology becomes more and more impressive, it is no surprise that people are seeking high tech bathroom solutions. As the leading plumbing company in San Diego, Plumbing Plus has forecasted the 2015 high tech bathroom trends we will be seeing this year. San Diego is a particularly trendy city that is known for its adoption of innovation solutions in luxurious bathrooms of all varieties. Convenience is key in the busy lives of San Diegans living each day to the fullest; many of the 2015 high tech bathroom trends are centered on bringing this much needed convenience into the bathroom. Walk in showers have been a prime choice for many bathroom remodels over the last few years, but for added convenience we’re seeing modified walk in showers are now the way to go. Double showers, with smart technology integrated into them are going to be big this year. Double showers offer the spacious comfort of the walk in shower but with added convenience. Double showers allow two people to shower at the same time under their own individual shower head, with their own customized water settings. The ability to customize water temperature, flow, and pressure make high tech double showers the very best option in comfort and convenience. In addition to custom shower technology, high tech faucets are one of the hottest 2015 high tech bathroom trends being seen in San Diego bathrooms and kitchens this year. High tech faucets are faucets that are sensor-operated, providing a means to hands free hand-washing. While sensor-operated faucets aren’t something , they’re seen in nearly every public restroom and establishment, they are now making their way into homes. Those with small children can see a variety of benefits from sensor-operated faucets, above sanitary benefits, the sensor only engages in water flow when it is active so you won’t have to worry about overflowing sinks from forgetfulness. While high tech faucets are convenient and sanitary, they also reduce water waste, saving about 70% of water that would otherwise just go down the drain, which has become a priority for San Diego residents in the face of the current draught situation. Not all 2015 high tech bathroom trends are about convenience, some are about being environmentally conscious which is becoming increasingly important in today’s society. Low flow and dual flow toilets have become popular options for bathrooms in 2015. Low flow toilets come in two types, single flow and dual flow. While both types of low flow toilets conserve water, dual flow toilets are the more efficient of the two. Dual flow toilets offer two options for flushing waste so that unnecessary water usage does not occur. Low flow toilets provide home owners a means to conserving water in their home that can directly affect the water situation in their community. While converting to a low flow toilet may be more expensive up front, they can greatly reduce your water use which will reflect on bills in the future. Low flow toilets are one of the top 2015 high tech bathroom trends that we will be seeing in more and more San Diego bathrooms because not only do they reduce water waste, they allow you a way to contribute to conservation in a manner that is convenient to you and your family. These 2015 high tech bathroom trends are sure to pick up traction over the next year in San Diego bathrooms. Upgrading to high tech solutions in your bathroom can provide increased convenience, reduced costs in the long run, and potentially benefit the environment. If you are interested in integrating some of these high tech solutions into your bathroom, Plumbing Plus is San Diego residents’ choice for all their plumbing solutions. Whatever upgrades or changes you want to make in your bathroom this year, Plumbing Plus is here to lend a helping hand.

Plumbing is not something that is at the top of people’s minds and when it does come to mind, let’s just say the picture isn’t very pretty. Something many people do not realize is that plumbing isn’t all rusty pipes and clogged toilets, it does, however, play a large role in each of our daily lives.

Advances in the Plumbing Industry There was a time in history where there was no running water or organized plumbing technology systems, luckily for us we do not live in that time. Today, we have moved past the 1980’s simply functioning toilet and shower, there are a wide variety of ways to add a touch of luxury to your home through an expert plumber and some beautifully made fixtures with the newest of technology. There are nearly limitless options to creating a personalized, relaxing experience in your bathroom from “smart” shower systems to toilets designed to meet your personal preferences.

Modernized Toilets The era of luxury toilets is upon us, no longer reserved for the rich and famous, ordinary families can enjoy the perks of affordable, technologically advanced toilet options. With sleek, cutting edge design to match the superior functionality, modern toilets are both aesthetically pleasing as well as impressive in their performance. Many premier brands are offering high performing toilets with functions such as, ToTo’s “SoftClose” toilet to reduce the loud smack of the closing toilet seat, to their highly personalized “Neorest” line that can sense who is using the product and their preferences, which includes several toilet models. While having a tech-savvy, modern toilet may seem nonsensical, more and more people are realizing that while a small improvement, luxury toilets are part of the luxury bathroom experience.

According to the American Gas Association, more than half of U.S. homes use natural gas for space heating and home appliances. Natural gas is indeed one of the safest and cleanest fossil fuels. It is also highly combustible, so if you happen to have a gas leak, you are at risk of fire and explosion. Only one electrical spark can initiate the combustion. That’s why if you spot a leak, you should immediately call your trusted 24-hour plumbing service San Diego and have the problem solved as soon as possible. Large gas leaks are far easier to detect by smell, but smaller ones may go unnoticed for a long time. Exposure to natural gas can affect your health and cause natural gas poisoning. If you or your family members experience sudden and unexplained symptoms like dizziness, nausea, fatigue, headache and respiratory problems, you should act promptly. Exposure to high or extreme levels of natural gas can cause unconsciousness and may even be deadly.

“Rotten egg” odor

Natural gas is actually odorless, colorless and tasteless. This is why it’s distributed with an odor additive. To help detect a gas leak, utility companies add a chemical called mercaptan, which contains sulfur. It’s a smell which is hard to miss. If you smell a “rotten egg” odor in your home, it’s a tell-tale sign of a gas leak.

In our last article, we touched on several signs that may warn you of a natural gas leak. Once the leak is detected in your home, both electric and fire sources will become a hazard. Natural gas cannot burn by itself and won’t ignite without getting in contact with oxygen and an ignition source. Any spark, no matter how small, could cause an explosion. Even turning a light switch on or off may ignite the leaked gas. This is why you should immediately contact a trusted 24-hour emergency plumber San Diego for an emergency gas leak and line repair. Before making the call, it’s important to follow these basic steps and avoid a potential explosion. Here’s what to do.

If natural gas has ignited

Keep in mind that there are two preconditions for the ignition. It requires the right mixture of natural gas with oxygen to initiate an explosion in an enclosed space. For an average home, at least 10 percent of gas needs to spread through the air before it can combust. Then, if a leak from a natural gas appliance or pipe has found a source of ignition, you’ll face an open flame. If gas ignites, don’t try to extinguish it. Even if you do, it will likely reignite as gas keeps pouring out of the damaged pipe or appliance. This will create a more dangerous situation. The only safe way to put out the fire is to leave it to the professionals. So let it burn, leave the house and call the utility company, fire department or another qualified professional.

Tips for Maintaining Your Water Heater

In recent years, new, upgraded, and modified plumbing code requirements and the rising cost of manufacturing intricate plumbing equipment have driven the expense of replacing a water heater noticeably. Plumbing Plus is dedicated to doing our part to help our clients and community get the most out of their water heaters to delay a big replacement expense as long as possible. The best way to both increase a water heater’s life expectancy and increase efficiency – which reduces operating costs and increasing operational safety – is usually performing routine maintenance.

Annual Flushing & Inspection

Most people wouldn’t drive their car for a year without changing the oil and rotating the tires. So why do so many people choose to just “set it and forget it” when it comes to water heaters? It is an expensive investment that needs routine maintenance, just like a vehicle, even if it is not as obvious.

Water heater manufacturers usually recommend an inspection and flushing of the water heater, which removes sediment that collects within the tank, be performed once a year by a professional. Water heater flushing may need to be performed even more frequently, though, based on the water hardness rating in your region. “Hard water” is water that is high in mineral content, like calcium and magnesium. In San Diego County, the water hardness rating is consistently 14 or 15 gpg. To put this into context, “very hard water” has a rating of 11 gpg.

Why Water Filtration Systems are Worth the Investment

Did you know the average person spends over $100 per year on bottled water? If you have a family of four, that means you’re spending close to $500 every single year on water alone. So, is there a better solution? There sure is! Adding a water filtration system to your home has a number of benefits and it goes well beyond simply saving on bottles.

A whole house water filtration installation is a great way to take your ordinary tap water and turn it into so much more. While it’s a big investment, it’s one that we believe is worth the time and money. By making the change, you can create an improved quality of life for you and your family. See below to find out why it’s worth the investment, plus some additional benefits!

Top Spots For Water Filtration

While a whole house water filtration system will, as the name implies, filter water throughout your entire house, there are certain areas where you’ll notice drastic improvements:

The Bathroom: water filtration systems will provide limescale protection for tub and bathroom fixtures in addition to providing healthier skin and hair. After all, hard water can dry out your skin and leave your hair feeling brittle and damaged.

Hidden Dangers of Unfiltered Water

You probably already know that dirty water doesn’t taste so great and you may even know that it could potentially make you sick. But there are lots of hidden dangers lurking in unsanitary, unfiltered water and they can take a more toll on you and your family. See below to find out five things using or consuming dirty water can do to you, that may not be top-of-mind:

1 - Vomiting and Diarrhea

You may be thinking contaminated water could give you a minor cold or maybe even a headache, but did you know it can cause severe vomiting and/or diarrhea?

Bacteria and parasites commonly found in water supplies can cause some major problems within your gastrointestinal tract including the above, in addition to aches and pains and cramping.

2 - Reproductive Issues

It may sound like a bit of a stretch, but drinking polluted water for an extended period of time can lead to reproductive problems like infertility. If you’re planning on having a child any time soon, you may want to put some strong thought into switching over to a cleaner, purer source of water.

3 - Hepatitis A

Negative Effects of Hard Water on Plumbing

Hard water? That doesn’t sound possible, right? Water is a liquid so, how can it be hard? Well, if you’ve ever noticed ugly stains in your sinks or bathtubs or have noticed chalky-looking deposits on faucets or shower heads, you’ve actually witnessed the results of hard water right before your eyes. So, what exactly is hard water and why is it so bad? Find out below!

What is Hard Water?

No, hard water doesn’t actually feel “hard” to the touch. It’s simply water that contains a high level of mineral content. In fact, hard water is the natural result of minerals like calcium and magnesium that accumulate in water during the water cycle.

Hard water can be found both in well water and in city water (or from your local municipality) and the more minerals found in the water, the “harder” the water becomes.

Where can hard water be found, you ask? It’s quite simple. Hard water can be found both in the groundwater in your area and in the drinking water that flows through your plumbing fixtures. As water passes over limestone underground, it has tendencies to pick up calcium and magnesium deposits which eventually end up in your home.

Sometimes it’s fairly easy to figure out if you have a leak in one of your pipes—the signs alone can be pretty clear. Things like wet flooring, ruined drywall, or puddles of water in your yard or lawn can all pretty much tell you that there’s a leak without really having to look at your plumbing to determine that for yourself. But what this issue more than likely does not tell you is where the leak is.

In the past, finding a leak was very much a matter of making an educated guess and then digging in with heavy machinery. If the guess was wrong, your plumber would have to dig up more of your property until they found the leak and fixed it. That could lead to a horrendously expensive process that took a ton of time and then a ton of extra money to restore when done. As a result, something like a slab leak, broken sewer line, or broken water main was devastating for homeowners.

However, today that isn’t the case. When you’ve got a leak, the San Diego plumbers from Plumbing Plus are equipped and trained in modern leak detection technology that completely avoids the needless digging while still locating the leak accurately.

How It Works

A leak detection service starts by shutting off your water, draining your water lines, and then filling them with pressurized air. From there, our plumbers use a specialized tool that’s equipped with a hyper-sensitive microphone that can detect even faint, high-pitched noises. If the leak is small, the air rushing through your pipes will still be able to escape, which causes noise. While that noise may not be audible to your ears normally, the hyper-sensitive microphone can pick it up and amplify it, thus showing your plumber where the leak is.

You grab a glass from the cabinet and turn on the faucet to the cool setting. You fill your glass and take a big gulp only to realize it just doesn’t quite taste as fresh and clean as some of the water you’ve gulped down in the past. You put the glass down and head over to the laundry room and as you take the load out of the dryer and begin to fold, you realize your clothes just don’t seem to be as crisp and bold as they once were. What could be the issue?

Well, if it was just one thing or the other, there’s a chance it could be an issue with either the faucet or the appliances. But since you notice that most things in your home that involve water are falling into the same categories, it’s most likely an issue with your water. The solution? You may be a good candidate for a water conditioning or softening system, or you may simply need to have a water filter installed in your home.

What are the differences between water conditioning and water filtration? Find out below!

What is a Water Conditioning System?

This type of water treatment system, also known as a water softening system, works to remove minerals from your home’s water supply. What does removing minerals do? It helps prevent scale buildup from hard minerals such as calcium and magnesium that can have lots of negative effects throughout your home.

If you're looking for an effective way to clean out your pipes, you can't forget to hydrojet. This process helps you tackle serious clogs and blockages, leaving you with squeaky clean pipes that drain effortlessly every time

Hydrojetting is a powerful pipe cleaning solution that flushes plumbing with high-pressure water to remove dirt, debris and grime that has built up on the interior walls. Over time, pipes are prone to collecting plenty of residues that don't disappear with a simple rinse.

If you've tried over-the-counter drain cleaners, you might have noticed that they don't offer permanent solutions and should be avoided at all costs as they can wreak havoc on your pipes. In many cases, frequent blockages and water back-up is caused by dirty pipes caked with grease, dirt and other waste.

How does a hydrojet power washer work?

First and foremost, it's important to acknowledge that hydrojetting should only be done by a trained professional plumber. The process is all about skill, and if you don't know the intricacies of home plumbing, you could wind up rupturing your pipes and costing yourself thousands of dollars in damages.

A hydrojet power washer is a hose that is attached to a pressurizing device. A plumber connects the hose to your pipe through a cleanout, a special area in a pipe that allows for easy access.

Wouldn’t it be nice if you never had to reach for a plunger or for that bottle of drain cleaner ever again? Not only would you save time, you’d save money on those chemical cleaning products as well as on plumbing repairs if and when those clogs got out of hand. Well, we can’t guarantee that you’ll never have a clogged drain again, but if you follow the 10 tips below, you’ll certainly reduce the risk!

1 - Use Drain Strainers

You should be using these inexpensive, yet effective devices in all sinks, showers and tubs throughout the house, especially where you don’t have garbage disposals installed. It’s an easy way to prevent food scraps and hair from entering the drain — two of the primary culprits of most clogged drains.

2 - Bottle or Jar Cooking Grease

It can be quite tempting to pour grease, oils and fats down the drain after cooking a delicious meal, but do whatever it takes to stop yourself. Instead, let them cool a bit in the pan or dish and then pour them into an old sauce jar or glass bottle. It’s best to dispose of them in the trash.

3 - Perform Weekly Maintenance

Just like other devices and equipment in your home, it’s a good idea to get in the habit of doing a bit of maintenance on your drains. Once a week, pour a few dashes of baking soda down there, followed by a cup of vinegar. Then rinse with hot water to keep things flowing.

An overflowing toilet is every homeowner’s nightmare. When simple plunging won’t stop the cascade of water pouring onto your bathroom floor, it’s time to get to the root of the problem to avoid it from happening again. The following plumbing issues could be the culprit.

Clogged Lines

One of the top problems with overflowing toilets is clogged drain lines. Usually, a plunger can be a quick fix, but if the clog is rooted deep inside the drain, you may need to enlist professional help from a plumber.

The Main Sewer Line

Foreign objects that get stuck inside your main sewer line can cause a host of plumbing problems, including a toilet backup. Roots from trees are notorious for getting into sewer lines and can wreak havoc on home plumbing systems.

Septic Tank

If your home runs on a septic system, your household wastewater runs from your pipes into a storage tank underground. Sludge, grease or other solids that don’t always break down, can cause clogs. If you are having persistent toilet overflow problems, you may need your septic tank to be pumped.

Older Toilets

If you’ve had your commode in your bathroom since 1985, it may be time for an upgrade. Older toilets tend to be low-flowing, and for large families sharing a bathroom, it may not be able to keep up.

Protecting Your Plumbing in the New Year

As we ring in the New Year, we commonly make resolutions to better ourselves in some way or another. But what about our homes? What can we do to help our plumbing run smoothly throughout the year? Here are three easy plumbing resolutions you can make for the New Year and tips on how to stick to them.

1. Schedule Regular Maintenance

One of the best ways to maintain your plumbing is to schedule regular maintenance. Many jobs can be accomplished by a professional plumber, or you can do it yourself by checking for common problems and fixing them before they become more significant. Some things you can check for include the following:

• Leaks

• Clogs

• Corrosion or rust

• Improper installation

• Water Quality

Poor water quality here in San Diego, is the leading cause of most plumbing problems. By keeping an eye on these things, you can catch minor problems before they grow into a larger issue. If you need to call a plumber, you'll be able to give them a better idea of what's wrong and help them diagnose the issue more quickly.

Choosing the right water heater for your home is crucial to impacting your daily life and monthly expenses. With various types, sizes, and features available in the market, finding the perfect fit for your needs can be overwhelming. This blog post will discuss the top factors you must consider when selecting the right water heater for your home, ensuring you make an informed decision for your household's comfort and energy efficiency.

Determine Your Water Heater Type

Several water heaters are available, including tankless, storage tanks, heat pumps, and solar-powered models. Each type has advantages and drawbacks, so you must consider your household's specific needs and preferences. For instance, tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand and are energy-efficient, while storage tank models have lower upfront costs but may consume more energy in the long run.

Evaluate Your Household's Hot Water Needs

Understanding your household's hot water needs is essential in determining the proper size and capacity of your water heater. To calculate your daily hot water usage, consider the number of people in your home, the frequency of showers, and the appliances that require hot water. The hot water demand calculator can help you estimate your daily hot water consumption and select a water heater with the appropriate capacity.

Plumbing issues can cause significant damage to your home and put your family's safety at risk. Knowing the best practices to protect your home and loved ones from plumbing disasters is essential as a homeowner. This blog post will discuss the top 5 plumbing safety tips every homeowner needs to know. By following these guidelines, you can prevent accidents, save money on repairs, and ensure the well-being of your family.

Know the Location of Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve

One of the most critical plumbing safety tips is knowing the location of your main water shut-off valve. In case of a major leak or burst pipe, you need to be able to quickly turn off the water supply to your home to minimize damage. The main shut-off valve is usually located near the water meter, which can be found inside or outside your home. Familiarize yourself with its location and operation, and ensure all family members know how to use it.

Install Water Leak Detectors

Water leaks can cause significant damage to your home and lead to mold growth, harming your family's health. Installing water leak detectors in high-risk areas such as your kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry room can help you detect leaks early and prevent costly damage. These devices can alert you to the presence of water through an audible alarm or a notification on your smartphone. Some advanced leak detectors can even automatically shut off the water supply to prevent further damage.

When it comes to home repairs, it's tempting to take matters into your own hands. For those with a knack for DIY projects, this can be a fun and rewarding way to save money on minor repairs. However, when it comes to plumbing, there are certain issues that should never be tackled by anyone other than a professional plumber. In this blog post, we'll explore the top 5 plumbing disasters you should never attempt to fix yourself, and why it's crucial to leave these tasks to the professionals at Plumbing Plus in Poway, CA.

1. Sewer Line Blockages

Sewer line blockages can cause serious damage to your home and pose a significant health risk. These blockages often result from tree roots growing into the sewer line or foreign objects getting lodged in the pipe. Attempting to clear a sewer line blockage yourself can lead to further damage to the pipe, as well as potential exposure to harmful sewage. A professional plumber has the necessary tools and expertise to safely and effectively clear sewer line blockages.

2. Gas Line Repairs

Gas line repairs are another task that should never be attempted by a DIY enthusiast. Gas leaks can be extremely dangerous, leading to fires or even explosions if not properly addressed. Attempting to repair a gas line yourself can put your family and your home at risk. If you suspect a gas leak or need a gas line repair, it's essential to contact a professional plumber with experience in gas line repairs immediately.

Going on vacation should be a time to relax and enjoy life, but the last thing you want is to come home to a plumbing disaster. There's nothing worse than finding your home flooded or dealing with costly water damage due to a burst pipe or other plumbing issue. But don't worry, Plumbing Plus is here to help! In this blog post, we'll share our top 5 tips to prevent plumbing disasters while you're away on vacation. Follow these precautionary measures and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is safe from potential plumbing problems.

1. Inspect your plumbing system before you leave

Before you embark on your vacation, take the time to inspect your plumbing system for any signs of wear, damage, or potential issues. Look for leaks, cracks, or other signs of damage on your pipes, faucets, and appliances. If you notice any issues, it's essential to address them before you leave. Don't hesitate to call in a professional plumber from Plumbing Plus to help you with any necessary repairs or maintenance.

2. Turn off the main water supply

One of the most effective ways to prevent plumbing disasters while you're away is by turning off the main water supply to your home. This will ensure that no water is flowing through your pipes, reducing the risk of leaks or bursts. To do this, locate the main shut-off valve in your home (usually found in the basement or near the water meter) and turn it off.

When we pay our monthly bills, we get used to a routine. A certain amount goes to electricity, another amount goes to gas, and another portion goes to water. Generally, how much you pay for each stays within the same range monthly, with normal fluctuations due to extended use. However, when we get a high water bill completely out of the blue, it is definitely cause for concern. At Plumbing Plus, our Poway plumbers want to help you determine possible causes for the unusual increase as well as solutions to help your bill return to a normal price.

You Probably Have a Leak!

Plumbing leaks are likely culprits for unusually high water bills. Because much of your plumbing remains hidden within your walls, under your cabinets, or beneath your home’s foundation, it tends to be out of sight and out of mind until a problem occurs. Unfortunately, this means that a leak can remain undetected for a while, causing hundreds, or even thousands, of gallons of water waste and making your water bill skyrocket. Therefore, it’s important to routinely check your plumbing fixtures for leaks.

Toilet Leaks

Have you ever gone to the restroom, flushed the toilet, and heard it continue to run long after use? This could be the cause of your abnormally high water bill. Depending on volume flow down the drain, a running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water a day. Fortunately, you can typically hear when you have a running toilet.

Popular Solutions to the Most Common Plumbing Problems

If you are having issues with your pipes or are concerned about the strength of your pipes due to their age, you might be looking into potential solutions. Two of the most common are pipe relining and pipe replacement, but these solutions are vastly different.

What Is Pipe Relining?

Pipe relining, also called Cured In-Place Pipelining (CIPP) is a method that allows us to replace your pipes without the costs associated with digging up and replacing existing pipelines. Pipe relining is a great way to resolve issues that arise due to structural damages, including cracks, misaligned pipes, and tree root damage. The pipe relining process goes as follows:

We put a drain camera in the pipe to find the cause of the issue.

We put a resin-saturated tube into the damaged pipe.

We inflate the tubing to fit properly against the pipes, causing the epoxy resin to adhere to the pipe.

The resin cures and bonds the tube and old pipe, creating a strong seal.

You might choose to have a pipe relining service instead of a pipe replacement for the following reasons:

Benefits of Point-of-Entry Water Filtration and Point-of-Use Water Filtration

A water filtration system is connected to your existing water supply to reduce harmful impurities and other contaminants in the local water supply. These impurities can result in sediment, bad taste, odor, hardness, and bacteria, all of which take a toll on your water quality. Water hardness is the amount of dissolved calcium and magnesium in the water. If your water is “hard,” your appliances might not work as efficiently. If this damage becomes significant enough, an emergency plumbing service might be needed. For this reason, installing a water filtration system is a great way to be proactive about the plumbing system in your home.

We offer two types of water filtration systems at Plumbing Plus: point-of-entry water filtration and point-of-use water filtration. Point-of-entry water filtration filters all the water in your home, while point-of-use filtration devices filter water at specific outlets like your kitchen sink. When it comes to point-of-entry water treatment systems, we directly install these systems at the point where the water enters the home. Clients who want all of the water in their home treated love these systems. Benefits of a point-of-entry filtration system include:

The holidays are upon us, and while they are certainly a time of joy and cheer for all, they can also spell disaster for your plumbing. With all the people coming in and out of your house, your plumbing system is likely to see more use this season than at any other time of the year. The last thing you want to do is deal with an emergency plumbing situation when your home is filled with family and friends, so take precautions now to ensure disaster doesn’t strike over the next few months. Our experienced Poway plumbers offer a range of special deals and promotions, allowing you to get the services you need this time of year without breaking the bank. Keep reading to learn our top three plumbing problems to avoid for the holidays, and make sure to call Plumbing Plus whenever you need affordable plumbing services.

The Top 3 Plumbing Problems to Avoid This Holiday Season:

1. Drain & Sewer Problems: Chances are your drains and sewer will get a lot of use over the holidays, putting them at greater risk for backups and leaks. Consider hiring Plumbing Plus for drain cleaning, and make sure your holiday season isn’t interrupted by any nasty sewer and drain line problems.

Pee-yew, what is that smell? Ever walk into the kitchen only to be smacked in the face with a foul smell that seems to be coming from the sink? Even if you use a sink strainer and are diligently using your garbage disposal to get rid of food scraps, that drain can still emit some very bad odors. So, what can you do to get rid of that stench? Find out below!

Why Does My Drain Smell?

1. The Sink Drains Have Gone A Long Time Between Uses, Resulting In Sewer Odors

All drain lines have a trap, which is a device that prevents sewer gases from coming back up in the living areas of your home. When the trap dries out, from not being used in a while, it can allow smelly sewer gases to rise up into your kitchen.

2. There Is Grease Decomposing In The Garbage Disposal

We recommend that you always discard grease into the garbage can instead of the sink, but sometimes it’s inevitable. As the grease cools, it tends to harden on the sides of the drain pipe and as it begins to decompose, that stench can rise up into your home through the drain.

3. There Is Food Trapped Within The Garbage Disposal

It’s probably no surprise that some food scraps can get stuck to the garbage disposal blades or in the drain, which can cause a smell. Old food typically gives off a moldy or rotten odor.

A gas leak can be a very dangerous problem. If you smell gas in your home, it is essential to evacuate immediately and call your utility company. This blog post will explain how to safely evacuate if you smell gas in your home and provide some tips for what NOT to do.

How to Detect a Gas Leak

There are several indicators that you may have a gas leak in your home:

• You smell a rotten egg odor. This is often the first sign that there is a gas leak.
• You hear a hissing or whistling sound coming from your appliances or the gas line itself.
• You see bubbles in standing water, dust clouds, or other visible signs of damage to the gas line.
• Your house plants may suddenly die.
• You experience symptoms similar to carbon monoxide poisoning (dizziness, headaches, and nausea).

If Your Home Has a Gas Leak

If you suspect that there is a gas leak in your building, it is important to evacuate immediately and get to a safe distance. As you leave, you should leave a door open. By leaving it open, you allow gas to escape and prevent it from dangerously building up inside your home.

Once you are outside, move to a safe location upwind and at least 100 feet away from your home. After everyone reaches safety, call your utility company and explain that you have a gas leak. Do not go back inside until the utility company has given you the all-clear. Once it is okay to return to the building, you should contact a licensed plumber to fix or replace your gas line.

The holidays are a time of celebration and joy, but they can also be a time when your garbage disposal takes on more than it can handle. From pumpkin pie remains to turkey bones, the holiday season can leave your garbage disposal clogged and smelly if you're not careful.

Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to keep your garbage disposal running smoothly after the holidays. Here are four tips on preventing clogs and maintaining your garbage disposal throughout the year!

Regularly Clean and Maintain

It is essential to clean and maintain your garbage disposal on a regular basis. Doing so will help prevent clogs and smelly odors from building up. You can do this by running cold water through the disposal for about 15 seconds each day, as well as using mild detergent to clean the blades!

Use Natural Cleaners

If you notice your garbage disposal starting to smell bad, you can use natural cleaners such as vinegar and baking soda to clean it out. Mix equal parts of both ingredients into a paste, pour it down the drain, and let sit for 20 minutes before running hot water through the disposal to flush it out.

Avoid Overloading Your Disposal

What Are The Benefits of Using A Water Treatment Service?

Water is essential to life, but it can also be filled with bacteria, chemicals, and other contaminants that are hazardous to our health. This is why many people use a water treatment service for their homes. A water treatment service can help improve your water's taste, smell, and appearance while also removing any harmful contaminants from your drinking supply.

Learn more about some of the key benefits of using a water treatment service.

Health Benefits

The most obvious benefit of using a water treatment service is that it helps protect you and your family from harmful contaminants in your drinking water. Many homes have older plumbing systems that can contain lead or other toxins that are dangerous if ingested. A professional water treatment service will be able to provide you with clean, safe drinking water free from these contaminants. They may also help reduce the presence of chlorine or other chemicals in the water, which may cause skin irritation or allergies.

Cost Savings

Another key benefit of using a water treatment service is the cost savings it provides. By investing in an effective system for treating your home’s drinking water, you not only protect yourself from potential health risks but can also save money on bottled waters or other beverages as well as lower your monthly utility bills by reducing waste due to inefficient plumbing fixtures or appliances related to poor quality tap water.