Category: Residential Plumbing Services

How often should you have your sewer lines cleaned? When your sewer lines are clogged, they cause a lot of problems. From plugged toilets to clogged sink drains and less-than-pleasant sewer smells, it’s worth catching the issue early on. Luckily, you can prevent this problem by having your sewer pipes cleaned periodically. But how often should you have this done? Let’s find out!

Home and Business

Commercial and residential pipes require different levels of cleaning. Commercial lines should be cleaned every 18 to 22 months because they are used more often than residential ones, which should be cleaned every 3 to 5 years. Businesses that are high-risk due to their heavy drain usage should make sure their commercial sewer lines are clean, like restaurants and hotels.

 

People with septic systems can go a long time before getting their septic systems cleaned out, but it’s still a good idea to have this done every few years. You should ensure to get this done at least every two years if you own a large house and have a big family, as you would create more sewage waste in the interim.

 

Causes of Sewer Line Blockages

Sewer lines that are clogged or backed up can have many different causes, including:

  • Tree and plant roots

Believe it or not, you can be at a greater risk for backed-up sewer lines if you live near a tree. This is because the cracks in your pipes created by the roots or tendrils from the tree will quickly become more significant problems that can break your lines. This is a potential problem, especially for trees on residential property.

  • Sagging pipes

A sagging pipe, also known as a bellied pipe, occurs when the moist soil around an underground pipe changes its position. Over time, the pipe can begin to sag in the unsupported area. The sagging line will start to collect sewer waste and blockages. The first sign of a sagging pipe is usually a slow drain or a backup in your home’s plumbing.

  • Grease

Grease can build up in your pipes and cause them to clog. Doing things like pouring oil down the drain might seem like a good idea, but it can solidify and clog your pipes. Residential drainage lines should be hydro-jetted around once a year, while grease traps should also have routine maintenance.

Warning Signs Your Sewer Line Needs to be Cleaned

Here are some signs that your sewer line requires a deep cleaning:

  • Sewage is leaking from your drain, bathtub, sink, or toilet.
  • Plumbing is making bubbling or splashing noises.
  • Water can back up and flood other parts of your home using equipment like a dishwasher or washing machine.
  • Recurring blockages.
  • Slow drain.
  • Unpleasant odors.

 

Routine Sewer Line Cleaning and Video Inspection

Video inspection and routine sewer line cleaning can help you stay informed about the state of your home’s plumbing system. If you’re buying a house, find out detailed information about its plumbing history, how recent repairs have been done, and what to expect. Then, protect yourself against saggy pipes by following a regular maintenance schedule. In general, it’s recommended that homeowners should schedule 18-month sewer line cleanings.

 

Give us a Call to Schedule Your Plumbing Appointment Today

How often should you have your sewer lines cleaned? Custom Plumbing of Arizona offers sewer line cleaning services to keep your home or business functioning properly. Our team of experts will assess your needs and recommend a schedule for cleaning your sewer lines. Contact us today at 602-866-2665 to learn more about our services.

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What is biofilm in drain pipes? You likely don’t think of your sink or bathtub drain as a home for living creatures, but drains, in fact, often attract bacteria and other microbes. Ever seen scum build up in a drain and clog it? That’s biofilm! Biofilm is made of layers and layers of micro-organisms that have been living undetected under your roof–that is, until the biofilm starts clogging the drains, which occurs when it mixes with debris like hair and soap.  

In this article, we’ll explore what causes biofilm to form, how it can affect your pipes, and how you can keep it from happening in your home or business.

What is Biofilm in Drain Pipes?

Biofilms are groups of microorganisms that form colonies on surfaces, resulting in a thin, slimy film. You might have encountered biofilm while clearing a hairball from your shower drain. Biofilm can also form on your faucet or the inside of your sink drain pipes. Some examples of organisms that produce biofilm include but are not limited to:

  • Bacteria
  • Fungus
  • Algae
  • Protists 

What Causes Biofilm?

Now that we know what biofilm is, let’s take a look at what causes it to form. Biofilm is formed when bacteria create a sticky, extracellular polysaccharide matrix that binds bacteria to a surface.

You can imagine a single bacterium clinging to the inside of a pipe. As it multiplies,  these microbes get stuck to each other until there’s a large colony. But, of course, it takes a specific kind of environment for these bacteria to stick, such as a moist one like in a bathtub or shower.  Ever seen a ring of film around the drain? That’s biofilm!

Is it Bad for Your Health?

Now you’re probably wondering if the biofilm is dangerous for humans. Indeed, the bacteria and other microbes contained in biofilm can be hazardous to your health.

There are a lot of bacteria and fungi in your environment, and most of them aren’t good for you to come into contact with or consume. For instance, imagine having a lot of bacteria hanging around your home and cluttering your living space. What’s even more frustrating is that these types of bacteria can’t be seen!

One study shows that biofilms on medical implants can grow and cause infections when they enter the body.

Luckily, there are two good pieces of news. First, biofilm can be treated. Second, not all biofilms are harmful. Some can be beneficial and put to good use, such as in the utilization of biofilm for treating wastewater and cleaning up gas and oil spills.

How to Remove Biofilm from Your Drinking Water

  • Water Filtration

One way to remove biofilm in drinking water is through water filtration systems. You might think of a filter pitcher you put in the fridge, but there are much more sophisticated and robust ways to do this.

A whole-house water filtration system filters all the water in your home. This provides peace of mind, knowing that the biofilm and other contaminants are gone.

  • Pipe Jetting

If you want to make sure your drinking water and drain pipes are always clean and fresh, consider having a professional come out and clean your pipes. This process is known as “pipe jetting/cleaning” and allows you to have freshly cleaned pipes without completely replacing them throughout your home.

  • Whole Home Pipe Replacement

If your old pipes are worn and damaged, it’s time to replace them. You can expect this to happen more frequently in older homes than newer ones, but if you need a complete replacement, you’ll need to hire a local plumber in your region.

Contact Custom Plumbing of Arizona for Biofilm Removal

What is biofilm in drain pipes?  If you have noticed a foul smell coming from your drain pipes, it may be due to the presence of biofilm. If you are experiencing any issues with your drain pipes, contact Custom Plumbing of Arizona at 602-883-2761 for professional assistance.

Posted on Author webdevCategories Commercial Plumbing Service, Residential Plumbing ServicesTags Leave a comment on What is Biofilm in Drain Pipes?

If you are one of the many people who needs to maintain your water heater, you may have some enlightening questions to ask yourself, such as “how to maintain a water heater?” If so, you aren’t alone! There are many parts to a water heater that requires maintenance, so if you are not sure how to keep your water heater running and what steps to take, this article can help.

What is a Water Heater?

A water heater is a device that provides hot water on demand. It is used in homes and businesses to heat water for cooking, bathing, and other needs. Heaters come in different sizes and shapes and can be used with gas, electricity, or oil. Water heaters are usually located in the basement or attic of a home. 

Depending on your home’s energy source, you may need to purchase a specific type of water heater. There are two types of water heaters: electric and gas. Electric water heaters use electricity to heat the water, and gas water heaters use natural gas or propane to heat the water.

Tips and Tricks on How to Maintain a Water Heater

You can do a few things to keep your water heater running smoothly and efficiently. Here are a few tips: 

Test the temperature-pressure-release valve

1.Shut off the power.

2. Turn off the cold-water supply valve.

3. Put a bucket under the pipe connected to the TPR valve, which is usually located on the side or top of the tank. This valve releases pressure if the tank gets too hot.

4. Let the water out of the tank using the tab located on the valve. If water continues to flow after you release the tab, drain the tank partially and install a new valve.

Check the anode rod

1.Attach a hose to the tank’s drain valve and release a few gallons of water into a bucket or down a drain.

2. Unscrew the rod. If the rod is less than ½ inch, wrap the threads with Teflon tape, place the bottom of the rod in the water tank, and tighten securely. If headroom is limited, use a segmented rod.

Drain the tank and wash out sediment

1.Drain the remaining water left in the tank, then briefly rinse your tank by opening the cold-water supply valve and letting pipes drain. Keep repeating until you get clean water from the hose.

2. Close the drain valve, refill the tank, and restore power to the unit. 

Adjust the temperature

1. Use the temperature dial to lower your energy bills and unscrew the cover. Set the dial at 120 degrees. Every 10 degrees you lower the temperature can save you 5% in energy costs.

2. If you’re going to be gone more than three days, turn off the water heater or set the thermostat as low as it goes.

Insulate the pipes

1. Buy some self-sticking 3/8-inch-thick foam pipe insulation that matches the pipes’ diameter.

2. Apply the insulation over the cold-water pipe. This will prevent condensation during summer.

3. Tape the insulation in place using the attached adhesive, working your way down the pipe. If the pipe is close to the flue, wrap it with a layer of fiberglass pipe-wrap.

Insulate the heater

1. Cut the insulating blanket to fit around the pipes, temperature control, and TPR valve.

2. Foil tape should cover cuts in the insulation on a tank to prevent leaks, but not the top of oil and gas heaters.

3. Place an oversize circle of insulation on the top of an electric heater, and secure it tightly to the side of the tank.

Need Help Maintaining Your Home’s Water Heater? Contact us Today!

If you have more questions on how to maintain a water heater, don’t hesitate to call Custom Plumbing of Arizona. Our experienced professionals are here to help, and we will get your system up and running as quickly as possible. 

We also offer 24/7 emergency service which means you can be sure we’ll be able to take care of it. So give us a call today at 602-883-2761 to schedule a repair or checkup!

Posted on Author webdevCategories Plumbing Service & Repair Phoenix AZ, Commercial Plumbing Service, Residential Plumbing Services, Water Heater, Water TreatmentTags , Leave a comment on How to Maintain a Water Heater?

Do you have low water pressure? Mornings can be difficult when trying to rinse your hair under a showerhead that barely produces a trickle. Low water pressure can be caused by various factors, some of which are exclusive to the room and others that affect the entire house.

Unfortunately, you may not know how much you rely on water to complete various jobs until you have a water supply problem.

In the worst-case scenario, you may be without water for an extended period. This blog post dives into what is happening when your pressure suddenly drops, why this happens, and how to fix small problems like this.

The 5 Most Common Causes of Water Pressure Problems

If you live in an area where the water pressure is low, it can be difficult to shower, wash your dishes, and use the bathroom. Decrease in pressure is also a common problem in homes built before the 1960s. Here are the five most common causes of decrease in pressure:

 

  • Failing Pressure Regulator

Pressure regulators keep the water flow from becoming too extreme. If the pressure in your entire house suddenly lowers, it could signify a malfunctioning pressure regulator.

 

  • Leaks

Leaking pipes frequently cause decreased pressure. Leaks in the plumbing redirect water flow, leaving you stranded. Sound or dampness in the vicinity can help you locate a leak.

A plumber may ask you to turn off all of the house’s water faucets and keep track of the water meter. If it reveals increased usage a few hours later, you probably have a slab leak.

 

  • Closed Valves

A water meter valve and the main shutoff valve are found in most residences. One of these valves may be closed or partially closed if you experience backflow pressure throughout the house.

 

  • Aging Infrastructure

Older pipes and pumps can often lose water pressure over time due to corrosion and wear. In some cases, this can be due to natural corrosion in underground water supplies.

If you’re having a hard time with your pressure, it might be worth investing in a water softener or filtration system to help restore lost pressure.

 

  • Low water tank capacity

If your house or apartment is built on a large plot of land with limited water resources, your municipality may have restricted how much water your property can use.

In some cases, this may also be due to environmental concerns – like contaminating local groundwater supplies by wastewater runoff – which may lead to higher water bills for homeowners.

If Your Home Utilizes a Pressure Regulator Check That It’s Fully Operational

A pressure regulator is put immediately after the main shutoff valve in specific homes in areas with greater than normal pressure to guarantee that the plumbing fixtures and pipes within the residence are not damaged by excessively high water pressure.

 

Additionally, the pressure that exceeds the standard PSI for a residential residence puts undue strain on the water system’s fixtures and valves, causing them to burst and causing major water damage if not contained.

 

In addition, if your home has a regulator, your backflow pressure could be caused by the regulator’s current setting or a damaged regulator, resulting in higher or lower water pressure than usual.

Some Ways to Fix Low Water Pressure

  • Fix the leaks in your plumbing

Once you’ve discovered a leak, you can clean and seal it yourself. More severe leaks may require replacements and the intervention of a professional plumber. 

 

  • Open Valves

The main shutoff valve is usually situated on an outside wall or in utility areas like the basement, laundry room, or garage.

A gate valve looks like a wheel; turn it counterclockwise to open it.  In addition, as with a water meter valve, make sure the lever is parallel to the pipe when opening a ball valve.

 

  • Fixing a Broken Pressure Regulator

Sudden, house-wide fluctuations in water pressure are an easy way to spot a broken pressure regulator. Connect a water pressure gauge to an exterior water faucet where a garden hose is connected to confirm any suspicions.

Contact a professional to repair the damaged pressure regulator if the water pressure is below the permissible range of 52 to 75 pounds per square inch. 

Think We Can Help with Your Problem? Contact Custom Plumbing of Arizona

Do you have low water pressure? If you’re tired of dealing with the bad flow, contact Custom Plumbing of Arizona at  602-883-2761. The sooner we address it, the less damage it will cause, and the sooner you’ll have normal water pressure again.

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Why regular drain cleaning services are critical? Here’s why you should schedule yours.

Clogged drains are no laughing matter – they pose serious health risks to everyone living in the home. Dirty water slowly starts to accumulate without proper upkeep, and there is no way of telling when this murky mess will cause problems. As this dirty water spreads throughout the home, toxic mold and mildew grow out of control – creating additional problems that range from allergies to fatal illnesses. The situation gets worse when these pesky critters take refuge in stagnant puddles where they find a comfortable place to lay eggs; leaving you vulnerable to dangerous bugs like fleas, cockroaches, and rats!

 

A septic system can be a severe cause of a slow or halted drain. If the septic system is not maintained for an extended time, sewage may overflow the drain pipes and into the house. If sewage has overflowed into the leach field of a septic system, the lines there may need to be replaced at great expense. Masses of small tree roots invading the main subsurface drain are another source of clogged drains. Plumbers can get rid of them and offer advice on keeping the drain clear.

 

Why are regular drain cleaning services critical?

 

Every day, your drains are put to a lot of work, whether it’s doing the dishes, showering after a hard day, or washing your hands after gardening. These vital systems can withstand a lot, from filth, soap, and dirt to hair. Everything has a limit, and your drains are no exception. It’s time to call in the professionals. If you did not clean correctly, you’d reach that limit regularly, and you’d notice poor drainage or a significant clog. 

 

The Benefits of Drain Cleaning

If you don’t have a set of plans for drain cleaning, you should probably put it on your list of things to do. Proper drain cleaning has many benefits and gets rid of clogs so that your system works well all year.

 

The following are five significant advantages of drain cleaning:

 

1. Reduced blockage risk:

Most homeowners hire drain cleaning services to get rid of a clog or reduce the chance of a blockage issue. Debris can cause drains to block over time. Sluggish drainage and clogged drains, even drain fissures, can occur if this accumulation is not handled properly.

 

By keeping the gutters clean, you can stop clogs from happening. The inside of the pipe will be cleaner, which will make it easier for water and waste to flow through.

 

2. Decreased Odor:

When a blockage is severe, you might be able to tell just by the smell. Bacteria and even mold can form when food particles get stuck in your drains. It might cause unpleasant odors to spread throughout the house. Without a professional cleaner, it can be hard to get rid of these smells.

 

When you clean your drains regularly, the odors go away. When you clean your sewer, the smells don’t get into your home in the first place. Also, to reduce odors, we strongly suggest that you have the trap cleaned well.

 

3. Emergency repairs will be less expensive:

A severe blockage may result in burst pipes, leaks, and other issues. Although these plumbing difficulties are reasonably frequent, they are extremely costly. Do not expose yourself to the possibility of incurring high costs. By maintaining a clean drain, you guarantee that any problems with the plumbing system are detected before they become severe enough to need a complete pipe replacement.

4. Improvement of air quality indoors:

Bacteria and pests can reside in clogged drains, and when these toxins circulate into your home, they have the potential to degrade the quality of your indoor air.

5. Increased longevity:

Regular cleaning reduces the likelihood of repairs and can also extend the life of your drains.

 

Final thoughts

Regular drain cleaning services ensures not just a clean working drain but also a clean residence. Water from your plumbing system or sewage line may include bacteria, insects, and other pathogens. When the system is backed up or blocked, these toxins enter the residence. Regular cleaning helps prevent these filthy organisms from invading your house and endangering your family. Avoid health concerns and medical expenses by scheduling expert drain cleaning regularly.

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