Tag: plumbing maintenance

“Do I need a sump pump?” It’s a question that might not have crossed your mind until it’s too late. 

 

Picture this: It’s a dark, stormy night, and you’re snuggled up in your cozy home , watching your favorite movie. Suddenly, you hear a strange gurgling sound coming from below. Before you know it, you have a massive mess on your hands.

 

If this sounds like your worst nightmare, then you need to consider installing a sump pump in your home. In this blog, we’ll explore three compelling reasons why you need a sump pump in your home.

What is a Sump Pump? 

When it comes to protecting your home from water damage, a sump pump is a crucial component that can make all the difference. The sump, a naturally constructed pit, is located below the main surface of your basement floor and serves as the basin for the pump. 

 

The pump itself is equipped with specialized valves that can sense the slightest increase in water levels or pressure. When the water reaches a certain level, the sump pump automatically kicks into gear, pumping the excess water out of the basement and away from your property through an effluent discharge line.

Do I Need a Sump Pump? How To Tell. 

Reason 1: Protect Your Home from Water Damage

If low-lying areas of your home, such as the basement, crawlspace, or patio, have flooded or suffered water damage in the past, installing a sump pump is a must. Even if the flooding or damage was minor, the lingering moisture could lead to mold growth, wood rot, and pest infestation. 

 

These issues can harm not only the health of you and your family but also pose a threat to the structural integrity of your home. A sump pump, however, can prevent these problems by efficiently removing excess water from these low-lying areas. With a sump pump, you can have peace of mind knowing that your home is protected from water damage and its potential health risks.

Reason 2: Your home has negative grading

Is your home located on a piece of land where the ground slopes toward your home? If so, you may have a negative grading problem, which can cause rainwater to pool near your home, putting it at risk for water damage. Negative grading occurs when the land around your home slopes downward, leading to water flowing toward your house instead of away.

 

The good news is that a sump pump can help mitigate the negative effects of negative grading. By collecting and redirecting water away from your home, a sump pump can help prevent water from seeping into your home’s foundation and causing serious damage.

Reason 3: The water table in your home or neighborhood is situated at a high or shallow level 

Living in an area with a high or “shallow” water table can be a cause for concern, especially during monsoon season. As the water table rises, the risk of flooding increases, putting your home and belongings in danger. 

 

Worse, if your home also has negative grading, stormwater will be directed straight toward your house. The result? Water damage, mold growth, and pest infestations can jeopardize your health and safety.

 

Check with the Arizona Department of Water Resources’ groundwater data inventory to determine if your home or neighborhood has a high water table. However, the levels are always changing, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for water that pools in your yard after it rains. If you notice water that stays for up to 2 days, the water table has temporarily risen above the grade of your yard.

How Big of a Sump Pump Do I Need? 

Choosing the right sump pump size is essential for successful and economical drainage. It might seem like a good idea to install a larger sump pump, but doing so might actually reduce the pump’s lifespan and necessitate more frequent and expensive replacements.

 

Start by looking at the data plate on your current or former pump to determine the proper size for your house. If feasible, maintain the same horsepower (HP), but be aware that manufacturer output can differ. Gallons per minute (GPM) delivered, float switch type, and sump pit size are a few things to consider.

 

It’s also important to factor in the conditions the sump pump will be working under, such as the vertical lift off the pump, the degree of the elbow in the pipe, and the length of the horizontal pipe. 

Conclusion

A sump pump can prevent flooding and mold growth, wood rotting, and pest infestations, which can harm your health and threaten your home’s structural integrity. So if you’re asking yourself, “Do I need a sump pump?” the answer is most likely yes!

 

Don’t fall for those over-the-top plumbing commercials that promise a good laugh but deliver an inflated bill. At Custom Plumbing of Arizona, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional service at a fair and transparent price. Say goodbye to gimmicks and hidden fees. We have you covered across Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, Buckeye, Cave Creek, Anthem, Chandler, Avondale, Gilbert, Peoria, Surprise, El Mirage, Apache Junction, Mesa, Tempe, and Goodyear. Contact us today at 602-866-2665 to schedule your appointment.

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If you are facing a clogged drain in your home, then the time has come to think outside the box and look into high velocity water jetting services like those offered by Custom Plumbing of Arizona. 

Water jetting is a powerful method for quickly clearing a clog that can save you from having to call in a professional plumber all the time. With enough pressure, water can even cut through diamonds with ease! This article details how you will find out how water jetting is used, the cost,  as well as how it benefits your home or business. 

What is High Velocity Water Jetting?

If your drains are blocked, high velocity water jetting is a technique that can clear your drains in next to no time at all. This process pushes water at a tremendous velocity through your pipes and helps break down and remove any debris accumulated in your drains. 

Blocked drains can often cause toilets, sinks, and basins to malfunction as the water doesn’t drain away as quickly as it should. Many people try to use chemical drain cleaners, and although they can be helpful, they can also cause the condition of your pipes to deteriorate.  As a result, high velocity water jetting will unblock your pipes quickly and safely to unclog your drains.

 

How Does it Work?

Hydro jetting requires specialized tools that force water through your plumbing system at high pressures. Before beginning, your plumber will inspect your pipes to make sure they are not too damaged to withstand the high velocity water jetting process. Once the plumber approves your pipes for hydro jetting, they will insert a jetting hose into your plumbing system and begin pumping water into it at an appropriate pressure.

Depending on your system’s condition, your plumber will adjust the pressure to avoid damaging your pipes. High velocity water jetting can clear your pipes of many different types of debris–grease, dirt, and even solid objects are no match for highly pressurized water! This type of plumbing work should always be performed by a professional to avoid causing expensive damage to your plumbing system.

 

Benefits of High Velocity Water Jetting

There are many benefits to high velocity water jetting, including: 

  • It works well

Your plumbing pipes are blasted with water using water jetting, which uses a high-pressure hose. The combination of high-pressure and water makes for a very effective method of cleaning and clearing any obstructions inside your pipes without causing damage.

In addition, water jetting clears the obstruction out of the line, while other techniques like snaking may only partially do so.

 

  • It saves you money

Even though water jetting your plumbing may be more expensive upfront than other options, it will save you money in the long run. Other plumbing problems, such as a damaged pipe or leak, which can be expensive to repair, can be avoided with clean and clear plumbing.

 

  • Environmentally friendly

High velocity water jetting is an environmentally friendly way to clean surfaces. The water is propelled through the air at high speed and can quickly remove large amounts of dirt, dust, and debris. This process is also safe for the environment since it does not use gas or chemicals.

 

How Much Does it Cost

If you’re considering a water jet treatment for your home, the first question is how much it costs. Prices for high velocity water jetting can vary widely depending on the machine and the location. Generally, prices start at around $250  and go up from there.

 

Ready To Get Your Water Jetting Job Done By Professionals? 

You don’t have to spend your days in extreme boredom and frustration wondering when you’re going to see a clean pipe again. Contact Custom Plumbing of Arizona at 602-883-2761 today for high velocity water jetting; our team of trained plumbing experts will come out and give you the relief and satisfaction that comes with having clear pipes again!

In addition, our team of experts can help you determine which type of water jetting is best for your specific needs and give you a detailed estimate of what it will cost.

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Whether it’s clogged drains, backed-up sinks, or a flooded basement, we all have had to deal with some kind of drain blockage that won’t go away. In this article, learn how to fix these issues safely and effectively by using a few simple ingredients and items in your kitchen cabinet.

How Does Baking Soda Unclog a Drain?

Baking soda is a kitchen staple that can work wonders to clean drains that are smelly and clogged. In kitchen drains, common clogs come from fat, oil, and grease. For bathroom drains, baking soda is a great way to clean drains that are smelly and clogged. In kitchen drains, common clogs come from fat, oil, and grease. For bathroom drains, clogs often form from hair and scum from personal products. So before using chemical drain cleaners or disassembling the drain trap, try baking soda to see if it does the trick.

How to Clean a Clogged Drain With Baking Soda and Vinegar

If you’re having trouble getting your drains cleared, you may want to try using baking soda and vinegar. Here are some clogged drain baking soda techniques:

  • Heat Boiling Water

Boiling water can be heated in a large microwave-safe measuring cup or a tea kettle on the stovetop.

  • Pour Boiling Water and Dish Soap Into the Drain

Squirt a bit of dish soap into the drain and slowly pour boiling water down the drain. The dish soap will help dissolve the grease and clean the drain.

  • Pour Baking Soda Into the Drain

Pour one cup of baking soda into your sink or a bucket. If your sink is too small to pour directly down, use a funnel or measure out the amount you need and pour it in.

  • Follow With Vinegar

Pour a cup of vinegar into the drain and then pour a cup of baking soda after it. You’ll see some bubbling. The reaction will help clean your pipes and remove any build-up from the pipes.

  • Flush With More Hot Water

Wait five minutes after the pipes stop fizzing and flush two cups of water through your drain. Use boiling water if necessary to clean it out. If it still doesn’t work, repeat the preceding instructions.

How to Clean a Clogged Drain With Salt and Baking Soda

If the baking soda and vinegar didn’t work, use a clogged drain baking soda technique with salt. Do this at night to prevent any more waste from accumulating.

  • Pour Baking Soda Into the Drain

Add one cup of baking soda to the clogged drain.

  • Pour Salt Into the Drain

Add 1/2 cup of salt to the baking soda. You can let this combination sit in the drain overnight.

  • Flush With Boiling Water

In the morning, heat two cups of water to a boil, then pour this hot water into the sink. 

  • Flush With Tap Water

If the clog begins to release, continue to flush with hot tap water. If not, you may need to repeat the process or try the baking soda and vinegar method. Moreover, if neither works, it is likely that you will need to disassemble the drain trap to clear the clog.

No More Clogged Drains With Custom Plumbing of Arizona 

If using baking soda, salt, and vinegar to break up a clog doesn’t work, you might need to call a plumber. Custom Plumbing of Arizona can help you get the drainage problem fixed quickly and effectively. To find out more about our drain cleaning services, contact us at 602-883-2761.

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Did you know there are ways to keep a grease trap in good working order? In this article, we will give you some tips on how to clean a grease trap effectively! 

Grease traps are a common plumbing fixture found at home and across commercial establishments. These filters trap grease and other debris before it can reach your drains and sinks. As a result, they need to be cleaned regularly. 

What is the Importance of Installing a Grease Trap?

Regular drain cleaning services can keep your plumbing in good shape. Grease traps are extremely important in preventing grease, and other food from ending up in your sewer system. This can cause blockages and flooding, which can lead to costly repairs. Plus, it’s illegal to discharge wastewater untreated into waterways. So, if you have a grease trap installed, clean it regularly and replace the filter if necessary.

How to Clean a Grease Trap?

Grease traps can be a pain to clean, but it’s important to do so on a regular basis. Here are 8 steps on how to clean a grease trap:

  1. Detach the lid from the grease trap gently with a pry bar

    There are grease trap gaskets right under the cover, so proceed cautiously during this process.

  2. Inspect the grease trap’s parts once the lid is removed

    During cleaning, you’ll need to remove and replace parts; to put them back in correctly, you’ll need to know where the pieces are and how to install them. To get better results, creating a diagram of the trap’s interior would be beneficial, which you can consult when re-installation is done.

  3. Insert a wooden dowel or measuring stick into the grease trap

    Allow the grease and oils to mark the dowel by gently guiding it to the bottom of the trap and gently swirling it there. Using this guide, you can determine how much debris is in the trap. This needs to be written down and recorded in a FOG report provided by the EPA.

  4. Use a small bucket to remove any standing water from the tank of your grease trap

    Drain out the excess grease trap water with a bucket or small pump. Set this water aside.

  5. Remove the waste from your grease trap with the small bucket

    Fill the trap with the bucket, then remove the solidified waste. Put the debris in a water-tight container, such as a large plastic trash bag.

  6. Scrape down the lid and the sides of the trap with your bucket

    By doing this, you’ll be able to stop debris that you’ve knocked loose but haven’t yet removed from quickly building up.

  7. Clean the lids, trap sides, and parts with soap and room-temperature water

    Use a steel pot scrubber to eliminate extra trash and odor. Rinse the screens and components with water to get rid of the soap and debris.

  8. Properly reinstall any removed parts and replace the lid

    If you have to remove a grease trap, make sure to properly reinstall any removed parts and replace the lid. Grease traps must be tightly fitted and sealed to work properly, so don’t force anything if it doesn’t seem to fit properly.

Ready To Solve Your Grease Trap Problems With Custom Plumbing?

How to clean a grease trap? If you’re tired of dealing with grease trap cleaning, Custom Plumbing of Arizona can help. We offer a variety of services that can help make your life easier, including installing new grease traps, cleaning existing ones, and even providing maintenance services. We’re always here to help; call us at 602-883-2761 today.

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Want to learn how to unclog shower drain blockages? This article gives you four simple methods to try.

You might be familiar with the occasional clogged shower drain, made worse because many have no idea what to do about it. You can’t just run the water, and everything will work again – that’s not how it works! But you don’t have to worry about these pesky clogs when you try out these four simple methods to unclog shower drain blockages.

Why do Clogs Happen in the First Place?

One of the most common reasons clogs occur in shower drains is the buildup of soap in the drain. Soap residue and hair can form a clog when combined with water. This can cause the pipe to become blocked, preventing water from flowing properly. This is why regular drain cleaning services are critical.

What to do if you Suspect a Clogged Shower Drain?

First thing’s first: If you’re experiencing problems with your shower, it might be time to check out the drain. Clumps of hair are the most common culprit for clogged drains, but other things can get stuck there. If nothing is visible outside the grate or plug, you can try removing it and looking into the drain hole if necessary. 

 

Next: If you suspect that your shower drain is clogged, the first thing you should do is double-check that your drain is open. You’ll need to inspect the stopper and pipe close to the shower head to do this. If there’s room for water to flow between the plug and line, your drain is likely clogged.

4 Simple Methods to Unclog Shower Drain

Showering can be a relaxing experience, but it can also be frustrating when your shower drainage is slow or clogged. However, you can use a few simple methods to unclog your shower drain.

 

  1. Remove the clog by hand: An obstruction can be visible on the surface and is easily accessible. Put on a pair of rubber gloves and do your best to remove the clog. Small metal hooks made from a coat hanger are great just for this purpose, so your hands won’t get wet or dirty.

If the clog is more difficult to remove, try using a plunger or an auger. But, be careful not to damage the pipe or surrounding area.

 

  1. Use a drain snake: A drain snake, often identified as a plumber’s snake, is a piece of convenient, extendable drilling equipment available at hardware stores. You’ll use the snake’s hand crank to send a metal wire down your drain to extract whatever is clogging it.

Again, it’s important to use the right snake for the job; avoid using a drain snake designed for removing tree roots. The most common type of drain snake is the bendable type, which can go down drains as small as 1-1/2 inches in diameter.

 

  1. Use a pot of boiling water: If there are no visible obstacles and a drain snake hasn’t worked, contact with hot water can assist dissolve softer build-up like soap scum around the drain’s edges.

Repeat filling a pot with water and dumping it down the drain. Call a plumber if the obstruction is still not cleared after 30 minutes.

 

  1. Use a natural drain cleaner: If you want to clean your drains in a safe and natural method, choose a drain cleaner composed entirely of natural materials. While there are a few exceptions, most all-natural drain cleaners are safe to use and will not damage your pipes. 

They also have a pleasant odor, so you won’t have to worry about the smell of bleach or other chemicals. Use an apple cider vinegar-based drain cleaner if you want an all-natural, effective, and safe drain cleaner.

Let us Help you fix Your Shower With Quick Solutions From our Team of Plumbers

Do you need a hand to unclog shower drain blockages? Don’t panic! Contact Custom Plumbing of Arizona today, and we can help you get the problem fixed as fast as possible.

We have decades of experience dealing with all types of plumbing issues, so we are sure to be able to handle the situation quickly and efficiently. Don’t wait – call us today!

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