Plumbing Tips

Gurgling sounds coming from your drains are quite common, especially in the kitchen drain and toilet. A gurgling sound is essentially air escaping your drain. This sound tends to occur when your pipes are having a difficult time draining, suggesting that there is an obstruction somewhere along your drain lines. This could mean a clog forming in your drain or a blocked vent pipe. This potential obstruction is likely creating suction which pulls water in the p-trap thus creating the gurgling noise. 

Here are several ways to silence this annoying sound and prevent more serious problems from occurring in the near future.

Clogged Drain

Some obstructions in your drain may be minor and resolved with a few quick home remedies. However, if the problem persists, call a professional plumber to perform a thorough camera inspection of your drain system that will allow them to establish if the situation is not more severe. By being proactive and scheduling an annual hydro jetting for your drains, you are likely to be able to prevent this problem altogether and maintain adequate flow throughout your plumbing system. 

Main Sewer Line Clog

A main sewer line clog creates negative pressure which pushes air back up through your drains, instead of letting it flow through. Though some minor drain clogs can be resolved with good maintenance, this is not the case when it comes to your sewer line. Main sewer line clogs are much more serious and do not resolve themselves on their own. A main sewer line clog can pose a serious, toxic, and expensive hazard if left unresolved quickly. 

Fortunately, if a bubbling toilet is the only sign you are seeing, do not panic. Chances are the only thing that is clogged, is your vent pipe.

Blocked Vent Pipe or Faulty Air Admittance Valve

A vent pipe, located on your roof, connects all of the drain lines together and is responsible for allowing free airflow to balance the pressure in your plumbing system. These vents are prone to be blocked by debris or nests, which block the airflow and trap gasses inside, resulting in gurgling sounds emanating from your drains. The solution is simple – remove the obstruction and allow gasses to escape, restoring proper airflow. 

Some homes have an air admittance valve instead of a vent pipe. An air admittance valve is typically installed just behind the P-trap and does the same thing as a vent pipe – it allows air to enter the drain system. A broken or improperly installed valve can cause gurgling noises due to uneven pressure. Luckily, they are not difficult or expensive to replace. 

While generally speaking gurgling sounds are no reason for immediate alarm, if they persist for an extended period of time despite your best efforts to resolve the issue, they may point to a bigger problem deeper in your drain system. Addressing this early on will save you significate time and funds down the line. Call your trained professionals here at VIP Sewer and Drain Services today and stop the problem in its tracks!

Purchasing a new home can be an exciting and equally stressful endeavor. Between obtaining loans, scouring the market for the perfect property, negotiating prices, and closing costs, things like plumbing can get overlooked. That’s because many home-buyers heavily rely on the general-home inspection to reveal everything they need to know about the property. However, what many don’t realize is that while a general home inspection covers the overall plumbing system – it doesn’t cover everything you should know, before making a purchase. 

What’s included in a general home inspection?

The home inspection will include anything that’s affected by water flow such as piping, showers, bathtubs, sinks, faucets, toilets, and spigots. Inspectors will look at all exposed plumbing pipes and fixtures and check for leaking, rusting, and cracks. They will check for any amateur, plumbing work or repairs that do not meet codes. They will check for cross-connection or contamination issues and inspect walls, flooring, and ceilings for any evidence of moisture or water damage.

He will check all installed fixtures such as the garbage disposal, water heater, and dishwasher. If the property has a sump pump the inspector will check that it works properly.

What’s not included in a home inspection?

The state of your drain system. While a home inspector will look for visual signs of water damage that could indicate a drain issue, they will not perform a camera inspection to check the actual condition of your pipes and search for the root of the problem. This is important to understand because many serious or potential plumbing problems are not visible to the eye right away. What this means is that while your dream home may pass the general inspection, things can quickly turn into a nightmare as plumbing problems come up in the not-so-distant future. A small leak in the drain system may not reveal itself until some time later, leaving you with a demanding repair you were not prepared for. 

The sewer line. Most inspectors will only inspect your home up to the city limits, meaning they will not look at the sewer line. Just like your drain, sewer lines can be the cause of severe and costly plumbing problems. Yet many home inspectors won’t consider the sewer line as the extension of a home, overlooking the opportunity to catch a potential problem. Requesting a sewer camera inspection is definitely something you should add to your to-do list when searching the market for a new property. 

The septic tank. Another important area a general home inspector will likely omit is the septic system. To identify a defective septic system the home inspector will check for visible signs of damage but they will not inspect the state of the actually septic tank. Many homeowners don’t commit to regular home maintenance due to a lack of knowledge or time resulting in minor problems growing into larger issues. To further investigate the septic tank, a specialist would need to insert a small camera into the system. The home inspector will not when the tank was last pumped, or whether or not the tank it’s far from wells or streams. He will check the sludge level and ensure the tank is the appropriate size for the home. 

While a home inspection covers many important aspects of the home, it will omit some big-ticket items related to the plumbing system. For this reason, it is highly recommended that you hire a professional plumber to perform a thorough camera inspection and check all the areas of the plumbing that do not meet the eye. Camera inspections are an inexpensive solution that will leave you feeling confident about your decision.

In the market for a new California home? Contact your trained, professionals at VIP Sewer and Drain Services for a camera inspection and take the plumbing guesswork out of home buying.

Certain plumbing woes can be easily addressed and prevented by smart homeowners with the proper tools and knowledge. While everyone should learn best practices to keep their plumbing system working effectively as long as possible, certain plumbing problems can arise even to the most vigilant. Here are five signs you should call a plumber as soon as possible.

Sewer Smells. Sewer gas is a mixture of compounds released during the decomposition of organic and industrial waste. One of these chemical compounds is hydrogen sulfide, a gas that is toxic to the oxygen system of the human body. Fortunately, while sewer smells can point to a serious plumbing issue such as a damaged drain, they can also be caused by a dried-out p-trap or blocked vent pipe. Nonetheless, sewer smells are extremely harmful so understanding what causes these smells and addressing the issues immediately is crucial. 

Sewage Backups and Blockages. All drains lead to the same place – the sewer line. Your drains rely on your main sewer line to drain properly. When your main sewer line is clogged, waste or water coming down from one fixture won’t be able to drain through the sewer line and will come right back up through the next available opening. This can create a messy and expensive problem and should not be overlooked. 

Another sign of a blocked sewer is spillage or standing water in your cleanout. A cleanout is a capped pipe that gives you direct access to your sewer line. It is often located outside of your house, or in some cases, your basement. If you see these signs of sewer blockage, don’t hesitate and call your plumber immediately! 

Mold Growth. Dark spots of mold growing on your ceiling, walls, or floors are dangerous signs of water leaking. This could be due to a damaged roof but it can point to severe plumbing issues related to your drain, water, or sewer lines. As a living organism, mold will quickly multiply in dark, wet environments causing detrimental damage to your property and posing dire health risks to you and your family. 

Odd noises. Odd noises coming from your plumbing system can point to an array of issues, some of which are simple to fix. What you want to listen for is a loud banging or hammering sound. This sound can sometimes be heard as you’re shutting off the water in your faucet, but can sometimes be heard while the water is still running and indicates uneven water flow that sets a shockwave through your pipes. Your plumbing system has air chambers known as hammer arrestors, that act as a cushion to absorb this shock. However, sometimes these chambers fill up with water which prevents the hammer arrestors from fulfilling their intended purpose. While you can take steps to drain your pipes of water to refill these chambers with air, sometimes the hammering sound can suggest you have a faulty water pressure regulator. Constant shockwaves of pressure against your pipe cause them to crack and even burst, creating expensive damage. 

Leaking or Damaged Water Heater. A leaking water tank can be the result of serious corrosion. Neglecting your water heater can cause it to malfunction which in severe cases can have fatal results. A dysfunctional water heater can suddenly and without warning overheat the tap water on very short notice causing scalding and even 3rd-degree burns. A faulty water heater can also emit harmful gases into your home. Some signs of this include melted plastic fixtures on your water heater, condensation on your water heater, or rusty valves. If you spot any of these symptoms in your water have it inspected promptly. 

With proper maintenance and care, you can rest assured that your taking good care of all aspects of your plumbing system. Doing so will save you time, stress, and money down the line. Here at VIP Sewer and Drain Services, we are ready to assist you with all sewer and drain problems. 

Water leaks are among the most common plumbing problems. From cracked pipes to leaky fixtures, water leaks can seem like a minor issue – but left ignored can cause a lot of extensive and expensive damage. Catching a leak in the early stage is crucial in preventing this from happening. Here are four tale-tell signs that you have a water leak that needs to be addressed immediately. 

1. Your water bill suddenly spikes. 

Though it is perfectly normal for your water bill to fluctuate, it is not normal to see a constant increase if your water usage is remaining about the same. This is an indicator that the extra water is sneaking out from your pipes. Compare your water bills month to month and pay attention to any unusual activity or sudden spikes. This is the number one sign of an existing water leak.

2. Stains, discoloration, or mold on walls and around cabinets.

Stained, damaged, or sagging walls, ceiling or floors, mold or mildew, and unsightly peeling or blistering paint or wallpaper. These are all signs of an increased amount of moisture in the designated area. A leak near your kitchen sink or near your washing machine can cause bubbling in your walls, or furniture, wet stains, mold, and unpleasant odors. Being vigilant and on the lookout for these signs, is key to catching and fixing a water leak before it causes more taxing damage to your property. 

3. Pooling in your yard or extra patches of lush grass.

You may encounter excess pooling in your yard, after particularly heavy rainfall. However, persistent pooling of smelly water in your yard is a certain sign of a leak in your sewer pipe. Alternatively, it could indicate an overflowing septic tank that needs to be pumped. Fortunately, you won’t have to search far and wide for the source of the problem, as it is definitely located right underneath the pool of waste in your yard. 

Similarly, areas of grass that have suddenly become very healthy, lush, and green, with no extra effort on your part, could mean that a sewer line is leaking deeper under the ground and fertilizing your lawn. This will surely attract rodents and insects that are attracted to sewer lines and can easily squeeze through small cracks and openings. 

4. Funky smells.

Leaky pipes in your bathroom walls or under the shower will allow sewer smells to escape. Most of these pipes will be hidden in your walls or under your fixtures so accessing them will not be easy. If sewer-like odors are coming from your toilet or washing machine this could point to a clog in your main sewer line. When sewer gasses cannot pass through the sewer line, they are then forced into your home. This is not only extremely unpleasant but also hazardous as these gases are toxic and can have a detrimental effect on your health. 

How to prevent water leaks?

Water leaks are pretty common so having an annual inspection of your plumbing system will help keep your pipes in good shape and address any issues in their early stages before they create a leak. Be mindful of what causes water leaks, such as rapid temperature drops, root infestation, broken seals, clogged pipes, or simply regular wear and tear.

If you suspect you may have a water leak somewhere in your plumbing system, call a plumbing professional to perform a water leak detection service. Here at VIP Sewer and Drain services, we have over 20 years of experience in the plumbing industry are we’re fully equipped and skilled to tackle any sewer and drain-related problem. 

Plumbing issues tend to sneak up on us at the least desirable time – like when you’re cooking a big Thanksgiving dinner for your family and really need your garbage disposal to do its thing or entertaining friends that have come to stay the weekend for Christmas and discover your shower drain is a little ‘bloated’. Nothing puts a damper on a New Years Eve party like sewer smells and a backflowing toilet! 

Here are a few quick drain tips to keep in mind for your next big party so these unwanted nuisances are avoided altogether.

Protect your drains.

Be kind to your kitchen sink. The kitchen sink is a vital fixture when preparing a big meal for your loved ones. To avoid a slow, smelly, or clogged kitchen drain remember that if your kitchen sink is not equipped with a garbage disposal, do not treat it, as if it is. Doing so will guarantee a nasty clog forming in your drain pipes. 

Respect your garbage disposal. Always turn your water and disposal on before adding anything down the drain. Run cold water for at least 15 seconds after using the disposal to keep certain materials in their solid state. This ensures that everything is grounded up and flushed completely down the main line. 

Remember that your garbage disposal is not a garbage can. Never let grease, oil, stringy foods such as banana peels or celery, bones, coffee grounds, egg shells, fruit pits and peels, or pasta enter your drain. 

Add drain traps. A drain trap is an excellent, little and inexpensive tool that can prevent unwanted buildup in your drains. Remember to clean them out about once a week to keep your drains working efficiently.

Clean your drains regularly. A professional drain cleaning service will thoroughly clear all your drains and eliminate any existing buildup. For this purpose, we highly recommend scheduling a hydro jetting service, an easy, non-invasive, and efficient method of cleaning out your drain pipes and sewer line. It effectively loosens sand, grease, scale, and residue from the inside of your pipes and flushes them out completely. 

Maintain all components of your plumbing.

Maintain your water heater. Your water heater has to work extra hard during the winter months, to keep the water warm for you and your guests. To make sure it is working optimally, keep the dial temperature at no higher than 120°F and perform a routine flush to remove the sediment that gathers over time.

Maintain your sump pump. A sump pump is a precautionary mechanism, responsible for directing water out of the sump basin which is usually located on or underneath the lowest level of your home. They are responsible for removing groundwater intrusion during rainy seasons as well as flooding caused by burst pipes.  

Regularly maintaining your sump pump includes cleaning it, checking the valve, cleaning the filter, and testing it at least once a year. If you suspect your sump pump needs some attention, you should have it looked at and, if need be, repaired as soon as possible, to ensure your sump pump works appropriately in the case of an emergency situation.

Know your plumbing system.

Knowing the basics about your plumbing system can make your life a lot easier in the face of a plumbing problem and aid in the prevention of one. Some things you should know include:

• Where your water comes from
• Location of your main water shut-off
• How to read your water meter
• Whether or not you have a septic tank
• Location of your clean-out and if you even have one
• How to shut off individual fixtures
• How old are your pipes
• Who to call in case of an emergency 

You can find our full guide on the 10 Things You Should Know About Your Plumbing System in our Resource Library.

Following these tips will keep your drains running effectively and avoid unwanted surprises during your next holiday party. But for plumbing emergencies that don’t take a day off, your friends at VIP Sewer and Drain Services are available 24/7!

Fixtures with constant contact with water are prone to rust stains and calcium buildup. This includes your faucets, sinks, tub, and toilet. It can be frustrating when you put forth an effort to keep your bathroom sparkling clean, only to find that these unsightly stains and buildup have invaded your fixtures. 

What exactly causes rust stains and calcium buildup? Understanding this will help you remove and prevent this from happening in your home.

Rust Stains & Calcium Buildup

Rust forms when iron particles come in contact with water and oxygen. Think of metal canned products, such as shaving creams that leave a rusty ring in your tub. This most often occurs in homes that rely on well water or where water has a high pH level, high calcium concentration, or high alkalinity, all referred to as hard water. 

Just like rust, calcium buildup is also caused by hard water. Where rust forms from the iron particles in hard water, calcium buildup, or limescale, is the result of the calcium particles in hard water. This is a common problem, often spotted around the spout of your faucet or on your shower head. 

Removing Rust Stains & Calcium Buildup

Rust and calcium will dissolve away in acid-based products. Avoid using chlorine bleach as this can make rust stains permanent. 

Vinegar. Vinegar is the most common and recommended household acid, which quite effectively removes rust stains and calcium buildup. Spray vinegar onto the affected area and let it soak for a few minutes – longer depending on the severity of the staining. The key is to scrub the stain away before letting the vinegar dry. Repeat the process until the stain is completely gone.

Because vinegar is an acid, it eats away at metals, hence its effectiveness at removing rust and calcium buildup. However, be mindful not to drain excessive amounts of it as doing so can harm your plumbing over an extended period of time. Also, keep vinegar away from stone countertops such as granite or marble as it will eat away at the surface.

Citric Acid. If you’re not too fond of the smell of vinegar, citric acid is a great alternative for rust and calcium removal. Citric acid is found in lemons, limes, and any other citrus fruit. There are a few ways to approach the stain with citric acid.

First, you can slice a lemon in half, apply some baking powder to the sliced edge and treat it like a sponge, scrubbing away the stain or buildup. Alternatively, you can combine lemon juice with baking powder to create a paste, apply it to the stained area and leave it be for an hour or so, allowing the acid from the lemon juice to break down the minerals. 

Gentle Abrasives. This method will require the most physical labor on your part but can be a simple and quick solution for mild rust stains or buildup. Baking soda, table salt, or pumice powder can be used to gently scrub away stains and buildup. Wet the affected surface with water or an acid-based cleaner, sprinkle your powder of choice, and buff gently. This is safe and gentle enough to prevent damage to the porcelain, fiberglass, or enamel finishes of bathroom fixtures, while still getting the job done.

Preventing Rust Stains and Calcium Buildup

Unfortunately, even if you successfully remove all rust stains and calcium buildup, without proper maintenance they will continue to reappear. 

As we mentioned before, rust stains and calcium buildup are the results of iron-rich, hard water. You can counteract this by installing a filtration system to soften the water, thus preventing future stains. Avoid placing canned or metal containers and products in your shower, tub, or sink. These are very likely to rust as they come into contact with water. Keep your bathroom dry and wipe up residual water after you shower or wash your hands to prevent buildup. Promptly address water leaks that can cause stubborn rust stains over time and use acid-based cleaners in your regular cleaning routine. 

For other useful plumbing tips or frequently asked questions, visit our Resource page.

This list includes the bare essential plumbing tools that will keep you from having to reach for the phone every time a plumbing issue arises. In some cases, these tools will save you the inconvenience of calling a plumber to deal with a clogged toilet, while one of these tools could potentially save you thousands of dollars in the event of a serious leak.

Here are some valuable tools to pick up the next time you’re at the hardware store to ensure you’re fully equipped. Keep them handy along with the contact information for a local emergency plumber and you’ll be well prepared the next time a plumbing disaster arises.

1. Plunger

The most basic plumbing tool everyone should have is a plunger. While this may seem like an obvious answer, what many folks don’t realize is that there are two different types of plungers you’re going to want to have around.

Cup plungers. Cup plungers, are what you likely think of first when you hear the word ‘plunger’. They resemble an oversized suction cup on the end of a stick. What you may not know is that these types of plungers are actually not intended for use on toilets. While it won’t hurt to use a cup plunger in a toilet bowl, these plungers are designed to work on sinks or tubs.

Flange plungers. Flange plungers have longer handles and softer, smaller cups that extend down the bottom. What makes flange plungers different is that they are designed to fit inside a typical toilet drain. They create a much better seal around the drainpipe’s end and apply force more effectively to clear a clog. 

2. Auger

Plumbing snakes, often called plumbing or drain augers, are the next tool you’ll want to have in your toolbox, for the difficult clogs that won’t budge after plunging. A plumbing snake is essentially a cable you extend into your drain. This cable has an auger, a drilling device, that works its way through a clog. Once you feel the resistance and push past it, you then reel the snake out to remove the clog. 

Just like plungers, there are augers specifically designed for toilets. These toilet augers have a curved rubber or silicone head which allows the cable to reach beyond the bend at the bottom of your toilet without damaging the toiler bowl. Snaking is a rather easy and affordable solution to a drain clog. A drain snake can cost as low as roughly $69 and then climb up in price as you choose longer cords and more advanced engineering. Most homeowners will be able to unclog a drain with a drain snake on their own and in fairly little time. Drain snakes are gentle on your drains so this is the perfect solution for pipes that are older and more fragile

3. Wrench

An adjustable pipe wrench is used to loosen and tighten pipes and fittings, or simply grip them to hold them in place. This type of wrench will cause surface damage and so should not be used on surfaces with decorative finishes or where the damage may distract from the aesthetic.

4. A 5-Gallon Bucket

A large 5-gallon bucket is one of the most versatile tools you can have in your home. It can come in handy during a minor leak to catch excess water or in the event, that one of your pipes bursts and you need to haul out larger amounts of water. 

5. Plumber’s Putty/Tape

Plumber’s putty is a paste that creates a watertight seal by filling in excess space between connections or fixtures. It can be used on small holes or cracks to temporarily seal these until the pipe can be replaced or fixed by a plumbing professional. Similarly, plumber’s tape, when properly applied, allows a secure, leak-free connection. In addition to helping prevent leaks, Teflon tape also helps prevent pipe connections from seizing up, which makes it much easier to remove them in the future.

6. Washers and O-rings

A set of spare washers and O-rings can save you from leaky faucets and other minor plumbing issues. Drips and leaks are often caused by these parts becoming worn, so simply replacing the washers and/or O-rings renews the seal to stop the drip.

Having these basic plumbing tools for emergency plumbing situations can help you save time, money and allow you to salvage a plumbing issue until a professional can provide a more permanent solution. But don’t count on a quick fix to be the final fix as this can create bigger and more complicated problems in the near future. For plumbing emergencies, don’t hesitate to call your professional plumbers at VIP Sewer and Drain Service 24/7. 

Dishwasher problems are among the most common kitchen plumbing problems faced by homeowners. While these issues are rarely difficult to fix, they can be quite a nuisance. Let’s go over common dishwasher problems, potential causes and solutions. 

Dishwasher draining issues

A dishwasher that is not draining is at the top of the list of common dishwasher plumbing problems. A potential cause for this is an air gap in the hose connected to your dishwasher. This air pocket could be preventing water from fully draining out. Another culprit could be a backed up garbage disposal. In either case, this can be easily fixed by simply running your disposal for approximately 30 seconds. 

A clogged dishwasher filter or food particles from dirty dishes could be blocking the water flow. Check the inside of your dishwasher after emptying it out and clean your dishwasher filter on a regular basis to prevent this from happening. Ultimately, the dishwasher pump is the essential component that allows your dishwasher to drain. If the dishwasher pump is broken, you’ll instantly run into draining problems. If unpleasant odors are coming from your pump, this is likely a sign of draining problems. Call a professional to inspect the pump and establish if it can be fixed or if it may need to be replaced all together. 

It’s also important to understand that while your dishwasher is a separate fixture, it drains out into the same drainline as your kitchen sink. This means that if you have a clog in your drain it will affect your dishwasher as well and cause draining issues and water overflowing. Drain clogs can be a little more difficult to resolve but they can quickly escalate into large scale plumbing problems and therefore should be addressed quickly and appropriately.

Leaky Dishwasher

A leaky dishwasher is another common dishwasher problem that fortunately, is usually an easy fix. The first thing you should establish is if the dishwasher is leaking while the dishwasher is running or when you’re running the kitchen sink. If the problem seems to occur while the dishwasher is running, you should address the dishwasher and its component directly.

Dishwasher door. A good place to start is to check the door. A door that does not latch properly will enable water to leak out between the cracks. A few good turns with a screwdriver will tighten the latch and solve this issue. A door gasket is the rubber strip on the outer perimeter of your dishwasher that creates a seal when you close the dishwasher door. Check this seal for rips or signs of wear and tare, suggesting it needs to be replaced. 

Float Switch. Another potential cause of a leaky dishwasher is a faulty float switch. A float switch is responsible for regulating the amount of water your dishwasher fills up with. If this device is not working properly, your dishwasher will fill up with too much water, creating leaks in the process. To check this, open your dishwasher and pull out the bottom rack. Locate the float switch on the floor of your dishwasher. It is usually in the front right corner. Gently lift the float switch up and down and listen for a clicking noise. The clicks indicate that the float switch is working properly. If it is not, it’s possible it is damaged and needs to be replaced. 

Alternatively if your dishwasher is leaky while you are using the kitchen sink, then the dishwasher drainpipe is sitting too low. Position the drain pipe so that it sits higher than the sink drain to resolve this problem. 

For more troubleshooting tips on your fixtures, drain problems or plumbing best practices, visit our resources library and remember that for plumbing emergencies, our trained and licensed professionals are ready to assist you 24/7.

Schedule Appointment

While extremely cold temperatures cause the water in your pipes to freeze and expand, heat causes your actual pipe, plastic or metal, to expand and in extreme cases this can lead to cracks, leaks and pipes bursting. Should you be concerned? Not necessarily, but as the summer months bring heat waves, there are a few things you should keep in mind to maintain your drain system and avoid plumbing mishaps. 

Primary Heat Damage 

When it comes to extreme heat, there are a couple of ways this can affect or damage your plumbing system. Primary heat damage is how the rising temperature directly impacts your pipes and system. 

UV Damage

UV rays make a negative impact on more than just our skin. Overtime direct sun exposure can cause your pipes to become weak, brittle and warped. During winter months, exposed pipes should be protected with a proper layer of insulation but this is also true for the hot summer months. Though UV Damage to pipes isn’t something that will become noticeable right away, it is sure to occur over time as unprotected pipes eventually become weakened by direct heat. Taking steps to prevent UV damage to your exposed pipes is the most cost effective solution, but if you notice that your pipes look worn from the heat, call in a plumber for inspection before the matter gets out of hand.

Leaks, Cracks or Bursting Pipes.

The exposed pipes in your plumbing system are not the only pipes you should worry about. During the hot summer months, the pipes running underground are also at an increased risk of developing cracks and even bursting. That is because as the sun beams on the ground, the soil in your yard becomes parched and dry. This can cause shifting in the foundation of your home which inevitably affects the pipes running under your property. If your pipes are older and fragile, these shifts can be detrimental to your plumbing system’s integrity. 

Summer heat usually means your sprinkler system and garden hose see more usage which can also mean excessively high water pressure for your pipes. This puts your plumbing system under more stress and in a vulnerable spot, increasing the chances that cracks and leaks may develop.

Be on the lookout for warm water that comes out of cold taps, unusual spikes in your water bill and low water pressure. These can point to a leak somewhere in your plumbing system. 

Secondary Heat Damage 

Secondary heat damage refers to indirect ways that summer activities and hot temperatures affect your plumbing system and can potentially pose problems down the line.

Root infiltration

During the warm summer months, most plants and trees reach their peak growing season. As the soil becomes dry, your roots expand in search for water and may become very attracted to your pipes where they sense the water, nutrients, and oxygen they need to thrive. Slow draining toilets, gurgling sounds, clogged pipes, unpleasant sewer odors or sinkholes are among the most common warning signs that tree roots have made themselves at home, inside your pipes. There are steps you can take to prevent roots from invading your pipes, but if this occurs, call a plumber immediately. Such a rich source of nutrients will give your roots more strength and will, to grow further into your plumbing system. 

Drain Clogs

Let’s face it – drain clogs are the number one plumbing issue year round. But understanding how summer activities impact your drains can help you lower your risk of encountering a clog, so you have more time to lay out by the pool. While BBQs, cookouts and deliciously refreshing summer fruits sound delightful to us, they can turn out to be a nightmare for your drain if you abuse your garbage disposal. Summer plumbing issues include all you beach bums who shower off sand down your drains. Where does this sand go? No where. It mostly stays inside your drain pipes. This also includes tanning oils that end up down your drain lines. They’re not good for the ocean and they are not good for your pipes, increasing your chances of buildup and blockage. 

Your plumbing system is already working harder to accommodate your sprinkler system and neglecting your drains in the process, will cause nasty clogs.

Winter or summer, rain or shine here at VIP Sewer and Drain Services our skilled and experienced professionals are ready to assist you with your plumbing needs, so that you can enjoy your summer break without the plumbing hassles. 

When facing inflation, home and business owners alike are forced to take on rising living costs, but your plumbing system does not have to be one of them, if taken care of properly. Your plumbing system plays a vital role in your daily life, whether you realize it or not. Taking measures to ensure your plumbing system’s good health will prolong its lifetime and keep unexpected plumbing expenses at bay. Here’s how you can make your plumbing system last longer! 

Know the basics about your plumbing system. It’s hard to take care of your plumbing system, when you don’t know much about it. Some basic things you should know include the location of your main shut-off and cleanout, how to read your water meter, how to shut off individual fixtures or where your water even comes from. This will help you act accordingly during inevitable emergencies and be mindful of how your plumbing system functions.

Practice safe draining. Keep your drain pipes clean and well maintained to prevent harmful clogs and ensure that waste drains completely. Know what shouldn’t go down your garbage disposal and your toilet (just because it says “flushable” does not mean it should be flushed). 

Check for leaks and address them immediately. There are several ways to detect a water leak. Comparing your water bills and keeping an eye on your water meter are a good place to start but your efforts should not end there. Water leaks can quickly turn into more severe plumbing problems, especially during the winter months when water expands and can cause your pipes to burst. Once you detect a leak, act quickly to address the issue and prevent it from causing more damage to your plumbing system. 

Don’t ignore odd noises coming from your plumbing system. Odd noises coming from your plumbing system are not all that uncommon and don’t necessarily point to serious problems. But they can become one if left ignored. Know what different plumbing sounds mean and how to address them. 

Adjust to the seasons. As the weather and circumstances change, so do your plumbing system’s role and needs. As spring and summer begins you’re likely to start using your sprinkler system and water spigots again after the winter months. Fall sends leaves and debri down your drains posing a higher risk of clogs forming as winter rolls in which is when you really need to keep the water in your pipes flowing to prevent it from freezing. Following an annual plumbing maintenance plan is a good way to give attention to all the areas of your plumbing system at the appropriate times. 

Clean your drains regularly. Keeping your drain obstruction free will prolong the efficiency and lifetime of your plumbing system as well as prevent damage to your home and potential health hazards to you and your household. Scheduling a regular hydro jetting service is the number one recommended method of drain cleaning as both a preventative effort as well as in the face of a severe drain clog. 

Know who to call in case of an emergency. Plumbing emergencies can happen to even the most vigilant home or business owner. Only call an experienced and skilled plumbing professional to address any plumbing concerns and rest assured your plumbing system is in good hands. A neglected job by an amature can not only worsen the problem and cause more damage but it can also become more expensive and time consuming to fix. 

For your drain and sewer needs our trained and professional technicians are ready to assist you and for plumbing emergencies we are available 24/7.