Four Signs You Need Water Heater Repairs

Having your water heater go out is no fun. You rely on your water heater a lot more than you think, and when it goes out, you will really take notice. While you can’t stop your water heater from getting older, you can stay on top of things and keep your eye out for signs that it needs repairs before it gets so bad that it stops working completely.

Sign #1: It Is Nearing 10 Years Old

Water heaters usually last for about 10 years, and as they get close to this age, they may need more repairs to keep them running. You can find out how old yours is by just checking the stickers on the unit.

Sign #2: Leaks

One of the biggest and most obvious signs that something is wrong is a leak. You may not notice it until the leak is bad. However, if you make it a habit to check every week, you should be able to see if there is one.

Sign #3: Discolored Water

If you start to notice that when using the hot water, it has a tint to it, this can be a warning sign. In most cases, the water will be rusty. However, any discoloration is a reason to have the water heater looked at.

Sign #4: Odd Noises

Some noise during operation is normal, but any louder than usual noise is something that you should be watching for. Off noises, like rumbling, can signal sediment build up, which hinders how it works.

These four signs are things you need to be looking out for. If you spot any of them, then call in a professional to take a look. For more information water heater repairs in San Marcos, click here.

Leaking Water Heater

It is time to call an emergency plumber and replace this broken heater. It can’t be used without damaging your home, so don’t wait longer than you have to in order to get your hot water back!

How a Plumbing Emergency Can Damage Your Home If Not Fixed Quickly

Many plumbing emergencies result in water damage, the extent of which depends on how fast the problem is fixed. Overflowing toilets, pipe and faucet leaks, burst pipes – all of these release water that penetrates walls, floors and ceilings of adjoining rooms.

Surface Damage

The most visible consequence of water damage is the devastating effect it has on your home’s surfaces. Soggy carpeting, peeling wallpaper, bulging and peeling paint and plaster all have to be replaced, often at considerable cost.

Structural Deterioration

Even after surface repairs, water damage will continue to cause destruction in your house. Water that has been retained inside walls or flooring will cause expansion, rot and weakened structure as the building materials holding up your house deteriorate.

Mold

Finally, the dampness inside walls and floors encourages mold or fungal growth. Mold can grow on a variety of materials, including wood, concrete and plaster. Mold infestations are known to cause allergies and asthma, as well as aggravate any existing respiratory illnesses. It is extremely toxic to your health, and once it has grown and spread, it is often necessary to tear down and replace the infected parts of the house.

To limit the damage caused by plumbing, contact your plumber as soon as you discover the problem. To learn more about finding 24/7 plumbers in Escondido, visit this website.

New monthly plumbing quiz: pipes and valves

To change the direction of a single piping line from vertical to horizontal, use a:

1. 45 degree double tee
2. 2” clean out
3. 90 degree elbow
4. sanitary tee

read more

When Do I Need Sewer Repair?

If your drains are running slowly and there are yucky smells coming from them, it may be time for sewer repair in Escondido. While you may want to avoid the expense and try to ignore it, don’t. It can lead to bigger problems down the road, from pipe damage to flooding to contaminated groundwater.

A sewer system typically lasts about 40 years, so if yours is older you may need to replace it. If your house is new but you are connected to older pipes, it could be a problem as well. However if yours is newer, you likely just have a blockage or other problem that is relatively easy to remedy.

Sewage coming back out of drains is the most obvious sign that you need sewer repair in Escondido, but there are usually much earlier warning signs. You may hear a loud gurgling that wasn’t there before. Of course, an awful smell coming from the drain is also a good indicator.

When the drains aren’t running as smoothly as they should, there are several potential culprits. Kitchen sinks often become blocked by grease build up; plumbers recommend never pouring grease down the drain. Also, seals between plumbing can break, so water leaks out slowly instead of pouring down the entire line as it should.

As with anything, as drains get older they being to deteriorate. When they do, they become susceptible to plant growth. Tree roots often make their way around and into pipelines. Animals have even been known to build nests inside of them as well. Any of these problems can restrict water flow.

Fortunately, determining the problem doesn’t have to be guess work. A professional plumber can use a sewer camera designed to go inside the actual pipes. He or she can then take video pictures of the pipework and identify potential problems. Experts suggest having a pipe checkup done once per year to check for potential issues before they turn into complications.

If you have a small blockage, a plumber will likely start work with a drain auger. It is a long, flexible cable that can bend through your plumbing; when it reaches the clog, it can break it up into small pieces so it will clear the line. He or she may also use a high pressure hose to move out other debris.\

Foul smells and sluggish drains are prime indicators that your need sewer repair in Escondido. They may be the result of blocked pipes, loose seals or a decaying system. Visit this website for more information.

Bathroom Courtesy 101

The bathroom is usually the smallest room in the house or apartment, yet it’s one of the places that gets used the most. Make the best of your tiny space without adding clutter with these simple tips....read more

What’s Causing Sewer Smells in My House?

There are many potential causes of sewage smells pervading your home. Some may be simple and easily remedied while others will be more complex and require professional assistance. What’s important is that you identify the root cause early on and take action so that your family can resume living in comfort.

Check Your Traps

One of the most common causes of sewer odors in the home is the lack of a properly-functioning trap in your piping system. Drain pipes often utilize a P-shaped trap which is designed to maintain a small amount of water in the elbow at all times, creating an airlock which prevents sewer gases from traveling into your home. If this trap is not present or not functioning as intended, offensive odors can pass through uninhibited.

Piping Problems

Another frequent cause of sewage smells drifting into your residence might be damaged or leaking pipes. This is a particular concern for older homes with dated plumbing systems. Cracked pipes can allow sewage gases to vent directly or they can result in leaks which result in cumulative odors over time.

Vent Pipes, etc.

One final potential cause of unwanted smells from your plumbing system is a bad vent pipe. These vents are installed to allow sewer gases to escape your home; when they become clogged or damaged, the offending gases have nowhere to go except into the open air of your living space.

Each of these problems takes a different level of expertise in order to properly diagnose and repair. If sewage smells are making your home unlivable, don’t waste time—consult the pros to restore normalcy today. Visit this website to find out more about sewer repair in Santa Cruz.