Category: Uncategorized

Signs to Schedule a Water Heater Installation

Although replacing a water heater is rarely on a homeowner’s to-do list, it’s essential to schedule one quickly to avoid major inconveniences. Households depend on functioning water heaters to provide hot water for bathing, cooking, laundry, and other daily tasks. There are numerous signs homeowners can watch for that can indicate their water heater is starting to fail and needs to be replaced.

Corrosion in the Hot Water Tank

Corrosion can be a key indicator that a water heater needs replacement, as a corroded water heater weakens the metal and is at risk for leaks. Corrosion is usually evident to homeowners by rusty-colored water, or they might notice a metallic odor or taste in their hot water.

Other signs that households might notice are visible rust on or even inside the tank and leaks around the tank. Another sign of water heater corrosion that homeowners might notice is rusty valves. If the water heater’s valves are rusted, it’s likely that the inside of the hot water tank is too.

Lack of Hot Water

One of the most obvious signs that a water heater needs to be replaced is a lack of hot water coming from plumbing fixtures and appliances. Households might also notice lukewarm water instead of hot water coming from their fixtures, or they might notice they are running out of hot water sooner than usual. These problems can happen for a variety of reasons, some requiring replacement, while some may only require repairs or maintenance.

Some common issues that can cause temperature problems for the hot water are a buildup of sediment in the system or a malfunctioning heating element that cannot properly heat the water. A broken thermostat can also reduce the availability of hot water, as it can prevent water from heating to the ideal temperature. Other issues that can cause a lack of hot water are an undersized water heater for the house and an aging system that cannot properly heat the water.

Age or Needing Frequent Repairs

If a household’s water heater is getting older, it can perform inefficiently and malfunction, so getting a water heater replacement is recommended. For standard storage water heaters that typically last 10 to 15 years, replacing them after 10 years is recommended. Tankless water heaters can go longer without needing to be replaced since they can last 20 years. However, these are estimates. The exact water heater life expectancy will depend on numerous factors, including how well the system is maintained and the water quality.

If a water heater malfunctions often and needs frequent repairs, it’s also recommended to replace it. Since a new water heater will not have the same chronic problems and inefficiencies, homeowners can save on repairs and energy costs. When experiencing any issues or signs of trouble with a water heater, plumbers can help determine the best solution.

About Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter

Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter has been serving Gilbert and the surrounding areas since 1989. They offer affordable prices, fast service, financing, and the latest technology. Call them today for water heater installation and replacement in Gilbert, AZ.

How Homeowners Can Avoid Burst Pipes

When a pipe bursts, it can quickly cause massive water damage to a home. This can leave homeowners scrambling to call for emergency plumbing repairs, stop the water, clean up the mess, and assess the damage. Fortunately, homeowners can help prevent burst pipes in their homes by preventing some of the most common reasons why pipes burst.

Clogs

A clogged pipe can put homes at risk of a burst pipe. A blockage in the pipe can lead to increased pressure in the line, causing it to burst eventually. Homeowners can prevent these from occurring by taking steps to remove clogs or prevent them from forming in the first place. One of the top methods property owners can use is to schedule regular drain cleaning services. During these appointments, plumbers can remove clogs or clean residue and debris from the lines using hydro jet drain cleaning before they form clogs.

Plumbers also suggest that homeowners do the following to avoid clogs:

• Use drain screens over the home’s drains to collect hair, food, and other debris.
• Dispose of food scraps in the trash and not in the kitchen sink – even if homeowners have a garbage disposal.
• When flushing the toilet, only flush toilet paper.

Freezing

While frozen pipes are more often associated with colder climates, pipe freezing can also occur throughout Arizona. Frozen pipes can be a significant risk to homes, as they can expand and burst, leading to a major plumbing emergency.

To prevent their pipes from freezing, plumbers recommend that property owners perform the following tasks:

• Ensure pipe insulation is in place and check that the insulation is in good condition and doesn’t need to be replaced. If pipes aren’t insulated, insulate the pipes.
• Keep cabinet and interior doors open to allow the heat to reach pipes.
• Maintain a consistent temperature inside the home, and keep the heat on when away from the home or on vacation.
• Disconnect garden hoses and drain the water from the pipes leading to outdoor faucets or hose bibs.

Corrosion

Corrosion and decay can cause pipes to deteriorate, putting them at risk of pipe bursts.

To catch and prevent pipe corrosion before it can cause a burst pipe, plumbers suggest that property owners:

• Schedule pipe repair or repiping services at the first sign of corrosion, including discolored water or water with a strange smell or metallic taste.
• Schedule routine plumbing maintenance and inspections with a plumber so they can catch corrosion early.
• Install a water softener, which removes many minerals in hard water that can contribute to corrosion.

About Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter

Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter has more than 30 years of experience serving Fountain Hills and the surrounding areas. They provide fast response, 24-hour emergency service, and affordable prices. Call them today for plumbing services and burst pipe repair in Fountain Hills, AZ.

What Is Hard Water?

Hard water contains high amounts of dissolved minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. These minerals are typically found in rocks and soil and can end up in your water supply through leaching. When hard water runs through pipes, it can leave behind deposits of these minerals. Over time, these deposits can build up and cause problems with your plumbing.

There are two types of hard water: temporary and permanent.

Temporary hard water occurs when bicarbonates dissolve in water. It usually happens when water comes into contact with limestone or other rocks. The bicarbonates make the water alkaline, raising the pH level and causing skin irritation. However, these effects are temporary and will disappear once the water is no longer in contact with the rocks.

Permanent hard water occurs when sulfates, chlorides, and nitrates dissolve in water. These minerals come from the soil and cannot be removed by boiling or filtering the water. Permanent hard water can hurt your health if you drink it over an extended period. It can also damage your plumbing and appliances.

What Is Soft Water?

Soft water is water that contains a low amount of dissolved minerals. The majority of public water supplies are considered to be soft water. Soft water is easier on plumbing because it doesn’t leave behind mineral deposits. It’s also better for laundry and dishes because it doesn’t cause soap to form scum.

How Hardness Is Measured

Water hardness is typically measured in grains per gallon (gpg) or milligrams per liter (mg/L). Water with a hardness of 1 gpg or less is considered soft, while water with a hardness of over 7 gpg is considered hard.

You can tell if you have hard water by looking for these signs.

Soap Scum

When hard water mixes with soap, it forms a sticky film called soap scum. Soap scum can build up on fixtures and laundry machines, making them less effective.

Stiff Clothes

Hard water makes it difficult for the detergent to work properly. As a result, your clothes may come out of the wash feeling stiff and grimy.

Spotty Dishes

Have you ever noticed spots on your dishes after they’ve been washed? That’s because hard water prevents dishwashing detergent from fully rinsing away.

If you suspect you have hard water, you can have your water tested by our experts at Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter.

The Effects Of Hard Water

Hard water can cause a variety of problems in the home. These problems are typically related to plumbing and appliances.

Washing Machines

Over time, the mineral deposits left behind by hard water can damage washing machine components, such as hoses and pumps. This can lead to leaks and decreased efficiency.

Dishwashers

Hard water can also cause problems for dishwashers. The mineral deposits can build up on dishes and cause them to become dull. Dishwashers may also have decreased efficiency due to using more detergent to clean hard water.

Water Heaters

The mineral deposits left behind by hard water can also build up in water heaters. This can lead to decreased efficiency and, eventually, the need to replace the water heater.

Plumbing

Hard water can cause various problems, such as decreased water pressure, clogged pipes, and leaks.

Skin and Hair

Hard water can cause skin irritation and dryness. It can also make hair feel straw-like and difficult to style.

How To Treat Hard Water

Chemical treatment is one of the easiest ways to deal with hard water. This involves adding chemicals such as lime or sodium carbonate to raise the pH level of the water. It makes the water less corrosive and less likely to cause damage to plumbing.

Another option is to install a water softener. A water softener works by exchanging the minerals in hard water for sodium ions. This process is known as ion exchange. Water softeners can be installed at the point of entry, where water comes into your home, or at the point of use, where you need soft water.

Dealing with hard water can be a daunting task. But with the right water treatment, you can keep your home and appliances safe from the damaging effects of hard water.

If you are concerned about the hardness of your water, don’t hesitate to reach out to Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter. Our plumbing experts will help install a new water purification system in your Fountain Hills, AZ, home, ensuring that you and your family have access to clean, safe water. Our plumbers have a wealth of experience in water softening, water heaters, reverse osmosis systems, and more.

Contact us today and learn more about our plumbing services.

1. Turn Off The Water

Turning off the water is the first and most important thing you need to do when a pipe bursts. This will help prevent further water damage and make repairs much easier. You will likely find the main water shut-off valve in your basement or utility room.

If the burst pipe is in a plumbing fixture, like a toilet or sink, you can turn off the water at the valve beneath the fixture. If you cannot find the shut-off valve or if it is not working, you will need to turn off the water at the main water supply for your home. Once the water is turned off, it is important to avoid using any plumbing fixtures in your home, as this can cause additional damage.

2. Drain The Remaining Water

Once you have turned off the water, you will need to drain the remaining water from the pipes. You can do this by opening up all the faucets in your home and allowing them to run until they are empty. You may also consider draining any water appliances, like your washing machine or dishwasher.

It is important to note that even after draining the remaining water, there may still be some residual moisture in the pipes. This is why it is important to take any wet items out of your home as soon as possible to prevent further damage. If you have a sump pump, you can also use this to help remove any remaining water from your basement or crawl space.

3. Locate The Pipe

Locating the burst pipe can be tricky, especially if the water has already caused extensive damage. However, it is important to find the pipe so that you can make the necessary repairs. Start by checking any exposed pipes in your home, like those in your basement or crawl space.

To find the location of the burst pipe, you can also look for any signs of water damage. This may include stains on your ceilings or walls, peeling paint, or warped floorboards. Once you have found the location of the burst pipe, you can begin making the necessary repairs.

Making repairs to a burst pipe can be difficult and expensive. However, taking the necessary steps as soon as pipe bursts can help to minimize the damage and make repairs easier.

4. Call A Plumber

Once you have taken care of the immediate situation, it is important to call a plumber to help with repairs. A plumber will be able to assess the damage and make the necessary repairs to prevent any further issues. They can also help you determine if there is any structural damage to your home and what steps need to be taken to correct it. Our team of professionals at Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter is ready to assist. We’re a dedicated plumbing service provider for customers in Fountain Hills, Mesa, and nearby areas of Arizona. Our plumbers can help you repair or replace burst pipes if you live in this vicinity.

5. Take Evidence For Insurance Claims

If your home is insured, you will need to take some time to gather evidence for your insurance claim. This may include taking photos of the damage, getting estimates from contractors, and keeping any receipts for repairs. Filing an insurance claim can be lengthy, but it is important if you want to be reimbursed for the damages.

6. Clean Up The Area

Once the repairs have been made, cleaning up the affected area is important. This may include removing any wet items, cleaning up mold or mildew, and repairing any damage to your home.

Finally, it is important to open windows and doors to help ventilate your home. This will help to prevent any mold or mildew from growing in the future.

Rely On The Pros

Taking the proper steps when a pipe bursts can help to minimize the damage and make repairs easier. Be sure to call a plumber, take evidence for insurance claims, and clean up the affected area. Most importantly, don’t forget to ventilate your home by opening windows and doors. At Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter, we provide various plumbing services, including repairing and installing pipes, water heaters, and sewer lines. Contact us today to request service.

Feminine Hygiene Products

You should never flush any feminine hygiene products down the toilet. These products are made of very absorbent materials that expand and take up room in the pipes. They also often use plastic and other materials that won’t break down over time. Feminine hygiene products can back up the toilet’s trap, stopping all other waste from being flushed down. It’s best to keep a trash can in your bathroom to dispose of feminine hygiene products and other non-flushable items.

Toilet Paper

Using too much toilet paper is one of the most common causes of toilet clogs. While toilet paper is designed to disintegrate over time, too much bunched together can slow the process down. You may end up with clogs in the toilet trap or further along the line. If your toilet paper use is causing frequent clogs, it may be time to start courtesy flushing. Flush the waste down before flushing the toilet paper. You should also try folding your toilet paper rather than bundling it into a ball.

Family Accidents

Accidents happen all the time, especially in homes with a lot of family members. Bathrooms are full of small items like makeup bottles, toothbrushes and soaps that can easily fall into the toilet. These sort of solid objects will cause hard clogs in your plumbing. Depending on the size of the item, you may have to call in a professional to remove the issue. You can’t prevent every accident, but you can minimize the number of small bathroom objects left out on the counter and shelves. You should also talk to your kids and family members about plumbing safety.

Bowl Fresheners

Have you ever used toilet bowl fresheners? These deodorizers are often clipped onto the side of the bowl, allowing the fresh-smelling soap to sit in the water. High-quality deodorizers are relatively safe as long as you’re monitoring them. However, low-quality bowl fresheners can fall apart over time, dropping large plastic pieces into your toilet. Many toilet bowl cleaners and deodorizers will actually cause septic issues that require expensive repairs. The best way to keep your toilet clean is to use a septic-safe cleaner and scrub it by hand.

Pipe Problems

Your pipes can acquire buildup over time that affects the flow of water and waste. Scum, calcium and debris can start to stick to the walls of your pipes, constricting their overall size. You may begin to struggle with more frequent clogs that never seem to fully go away. This is often a problem with older homes that have brittle or compromised plumbing. A licensed plumber can appraise your home and determine how best to maintain and repair your waste pipes.

Toilet Clog Prevention

Dealing with a toilet that constantly clogs can be frustrating. If you’re practicing safe plumbing habits but are still struggling with clogs, you may need to have your waste pipes and septic system evaluated. There could be an issue with your toilet flapper or mineral buildup in the toilet. It’s even possible that the clog is moving along your pipes and building in size over time. If a toilet issue is left to worsen, it can eventually lead to septic issues like wastewater backing into your home. Trust your local plumbing company to keep your pipes clean and maintained.

Superior Plumbing Services

Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter proudly provides exceptional plumbing services to families in fountain hills, az, and the surrounding communities. We’ve been committed to excellence since we opened in 1989. Our team is highly responsive to your plumbing needs and sends out plumbers as quickly as possible to restore your home’s comfort.

We offer premium plumbing and leak repair services. We can repair your sewer line, install a water treatment system or detect slab leaks. Our experienced plumbers will also expertly handle water heater inspections, maintenance and replacements. Trust our crew to always strive to earn your 100% complete satisfaction. Call Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter today to schedule your appointment.

1. Keep Gutters And Spouts Clean

The gutters and spouts on your roof are designed to direct water away from the foundation of your home. If these are not properly maintained, they can easily become clogged with leaves, sticks, and other debris. This means that your gutters will not be able to redirect water as efficiently, which may lead to flooding or a leaky roof.

To avoid this, it is important to regularly clean your gutters and spouts. You can do this yourself, or you can hire a professional to do it for you. In addition to cleaning your gutters and spouts regularly, make sure that they are attached securely so that they will not fall off during bad weather.

2. Install A Sump Pump

If you live in an area that gets heavy rainfall like Fountain Hill, AZ, it is important to have a sump pump installed in your basement or crawl space. A sump pump will automatically turn on when excess water starts to pool in the area and push it out of your home. This can help prevent severe flooding in your basement and will keep your home dry.

If you think that a sump pump may be the right solution for you, it is best to consult with an experienced professional at Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter. They will inspect your home, identify areas that are at risk of flooding, and recommend a high-quality sump pump system.

3. Check For Leaks Regularly

Leaks are one of the most common causes of water damage in homes. A small leak from a pipe or faucet can easily go undetected, but over time it can cause serious damage to your home. To avoid this, it is important to check for leaks regularly and have them repaired as soon as possible.

One way to check for leaks is to listen for any strange sounds coming from your plumbing. Another way is to keep an eye on your water bill. If you notice a sudden increase in your water usage, there may be a leak somewhere in your home, and it is important to have it fixed before any serious damage can occur.

4. Know Where Your Water Shut-off Valve Is

In the event of a major leak or flood, it is important to know where your water shut-off valve is located. This will make it much easier for you to quickly turn off the water in your home, which can help minimize any damage that occurs as a result of the leak.

If you are not sure where your water shut-off valve is located, ask your plumber or consult with the previous owners of your home. Once you find it, make a note of the location so that you can easily access it in case of an emergency.

5. Install Water Detectors

Water detectors are another important tool for preventing water damage in your home. These small devices can be installed near potential leak or flood areas, such as your water heater, washing machine, or sump pump.

If a leak or flood does occur, the water detector will sound an alarm, which will give you time to take action and prevent any serious damage from occurring. Water detectors are relatively inexpensive and can be found at most hardware stores.

6. Get An Annual Water Damage Inspection

Your home is constantly exposed to a variety of threats, including water damage. While you can take steps on your own to prevent leaks and floods, it is also important to have your home inspected by a professional at least once a year. This will allow them to identify any potential risks so that they can be fixed before they cause any serious damage.

An annual water damage inspection is especially important if you live in an area that is prone to floods. If you are not sure whether or not your home needs to be inspected, consult with a local contractor at Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter who specializes in water damage prevention.

If you are concerned about water damage in your home, it is important to take action to prevent it. The best way to do this is to consult with an HVAC professional at Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter. We specialize in water damage prevention and can help you take the steps necessary to protect your home. Contact us today in the Fountain Hills area to schedule a consultation. We also offer a variety of other home improvement services, including plumbing.

Unlimited Hot Water Supply

Imagine a scenario where everyone in the house wants to shower simultaneously. With the traditional water heaters, you might run low on hot water by the third shower in a row. But tankless water heaters heat water on demand, so you should not experience running out of hot water. Tankless water heaters produce up to several gallons of hot water per minute, allowing you to run your dishwasher and washing machine and take a shower without problems. With a traditional water heater, if the tank runs out of hot water, you have to wait for a long time for the water to heat up.

Space Saving

Another huge benefit of tankless water heaters is that they take up less space than traditional water heaters. Their compact designs allow you to mount them on the wall, which conserves space. Tank-style heaters take up huge floor space, often in the basement. If you have small or limited spaces, a tankless water heater is ideal.

Energy Efficiency

Tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient than traditional water heaters. They only heat water quickly, on-demand, and at the required temperature, significantly saving energy costs. A tankless water heater significantly reduces energy wastage, lowering your energy bills. Their efficiency at providing hot water supply in your home is higher than tank water heaters. With a tank water heater, the electricity consumption is more since the appliance’s thermostat regulates and maintains constant hot water until it is used. Then, the tank fills with cold water and must be heated and maintained again.

Enhanced Safety

When investing in a water heater, safety is a primary concern for most families. A top advantage of tankless water heaters is their several innovative features that enhance safety. For instance, some tankless water heater models have monitoring systems that give you details about water flow and pressure. That’s uncommon in tank-style water heaters.

Moreover, tankless water heaters have more replaceable parts than conventional water heaters, having less impact on the environment. The ability of this water heater to heat water on demand also enhances its safety. Since a tankless water heater holds little water, it reduces the risk of explosion or overheating. It also reduces the chances of leaks, and if a leak occurs, there is less water damage than produced by traditional water heaters.

Less Maintenance

Tank water heaters require regular maintenance, especially if you have hard water. The benefit of installing a tankless water heater is it requires less maintenance, significantly reducing total costs. You might need an annual cleaning if you have hard water, which is easy to do. There’s no need to inspect the anode rod often like you need to do with a tank water heater. An important aspect of tankless water heater maintenance is cleaning its filter often to prevent sediment buildup.

Durability

If you intend to replace your current water heater or are installing a new device, it’s best to choose a tankless water heater and enjoy an extended lifespan. Tankless water heaters can last double the lifespan of traditional water heaters. Tankless water heaters also have a longer warranty, which is beneficial to a homeowner, especially if you need a component replacement or repair, which the manufacturer handles.

Get Tankless Water Heater Services Today

These are some of the benefits of installing a tankless water heater. Thanks to the rugged construction and long-lasting materials, tankless water heaters have a typical lifespan of about 20 years or more, with low operating costs. Moreover, most models have replaceable parts, making them environmentally friendly. Another reason that investing in a tankless water heater is advisable is that it requires less electricity or gas to operate than tank water heaters.

Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter has a team of experienced and well-trained plumbers to help with tankless water heater repair and maintenance. We also provide leak detection services, drain cleaning, and sewer repairs. Contact Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter today for more information about the tankless water heater services we have available, including installation and maintenance.

If your garbage disposal stops working, we recommend you give these handy tips a try before calling in the pros at Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter. If you find that you need the assistance of a plumber to resolve the problem, contact us, and we’ll dispatch a seasoned plumber to help you fix your garbage disposal.

Safety First

Before you check or fix your garbage disposal, first disconnect the power. Turning off the power ensures you will not get cut by blades if the unit unexpectedly turns on while you’re fixing it or be injured by an electric shock. In some cases, you may also need to disconnect the pipes.

Garbage Disposal Doesn’t Turn On

If your disposal fails to turn on at all, electrical issues might be the cause. Or it’s highly likely that your disposal was overloaded, causing it a reset switch to trip to avoid damage.

To fix this issue, verify that your unit is on and plugged in. If it’s plugged in and still not turning on, flip the breaker and check if there’s a blown fuse. If these tricks don’t fix your issue, check for clogs. In most instances, the clog is removable using a pair of tongs. Once you remove the clog, turn your disposal on to see if the blades spin freely. If none of these operations work, call Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter for assistance. We’ll assess the unit and its electrical connections to diagnose the issue. If we cannot repair the problem, we’ll help you choose a new unit and install it safely and professionally.

Garbage Disposal Hums, But It’s Not Working

If your garbage disposal makes a humming sound yet doesn’t work, the flywheel has likely jammed. If you face this issue, stop the unit immediately. If you continue to use the disposal when there’s a jam, the motor might burn out and cause irreparable damage, necessitating a complete garbage disposal replacement.

To correct the problem, use a wrench that came with your garbage disposal and place it at the turning hole at the bottom of the grinding compartment. Turn the wrench clockwise to blast away items jamming up your unit’s impeller or flywheel. When the jam gets dislodged, you’ll quickly turn the wrench.

Once you dislodge the jam, turn the power back on and then press the disposal’s reset button. Run cold water for some minutes as you flip the wall switch on and off to remove the materials left in the compartment from the disposal.

If your disposal doesn’t work after performing this operation, call Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter for repairs. Our plumbers will examine your unit to determine other causes of a jammed flywheel, including corrosion or rust.

Garbage Disposal Doesn’t Drain

If your garbage disposal doesn’t clear waste, there’s likely an obstruction. If you turn the unit on and water doesn’t flow into the drain or it backs up in the sink, this problem points to a blockage in the drain trap. This drain trap has either an S-shaped curve or a P-shaped pipe. When you dispose of too much food, the debris flowing through the disposal can rest in the curves and form clogs, resulting in slow drainage.

To fix this issue, disconnect the drain trap from the unit. Before doing this, place a bucket under the drain to collect water initially blocked by the clogged trap. Then, poke a drain cable through the trap to remove the debris causing the obstruction. Alternatively, you can use an auger to remove the clog if you cannot reach it with a cable. When you clear the clog, pour hot water into the drain.

If this tip doesn’t do the trick, it’s time to call Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter for help. There’s likely a clog further down the drain that needs to get removed to get your garbage disposal back in action.

Professional Garbage Disposal Repair

If your garbage disposal stopped working and you cannot diagnose the problem, call Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter for professional repairs. We have licensed and insured plumbers who will inspect your equipment to determine why your disposal stopped working and perform the necessary repairs to get it running again. Since 1989, we’ve served the Fountain Hills, AZ residents with their plumbing installations, repairs, replacements, and maintenance needs.

1. Water Draining Slowly From The Sink, Shower, Or Bathtub

A slow drain in your sink, shower, or bathtub is probably the most obvious sign of a clogged drain. This problem is caused by soap scum, razor clippings, food scraps, and any other type of debris that has the misfortune to fall into your drain.

The solution to this problem is to clear the drain of any hair or other debris that might be clogging it up. You can use a plumber’s snake or a plunger to clear your drain. Another viable solution for this problem is to boil a pot of water and to pour it down the drain. This will remove soap scum and dissolve other debris that might be caught up in the drain.

2. Bad Odors Coming From Sinks And Bathtubs

Bad odors coming from your kitchen sinks or tubs indicate that there might be something rotting in the pipes. Such smells can be caused by small food particles or organic materials decomposing in the drain.

The best way to fix this issue is by using a plunger or plumber’s snake to clear out your drain. You can also use boiling water, baking soda, and vinegar to clear out the blockage.

3. Toilet Doesn’t Flush Properly

If your toilet isn’t flushing properly and you’re finding yourself having to flush multiple times, this is an indicator that something is up.

This problem results from an accumulation of toilet papers or foreign objects like sanitary napkins, wipes, or children’s toys lodging themselves into your toilet’s pipes.

Your best bet is to use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to clear the obstruction. If this problem persists, you might need to call a professional drain cleaner to clear the blockage.

4. Water Pooling Around The Base Of Your House

If water is pooling around your front porch, back porch, or other areas near your home’s foundation, there is a good chance that there might be clogged drains or sewage issues.

This problem is mainly caused by grease buildup in the kitchen sink drain. Grease buildup in the drains hinders water flow, creating a soggy mess around your home’s foundation.

To fix this problem, you will need to clear your kitchen sink drain. You can do this by removing your sink’s trap and using a plunger to clear the drain. If this doesn’t fix the problem, you will need to call a professional plumber.

5. Plumbing Rumbles When You Turn On The Sink

If your plumbing system emits a rumbling noise when you turn on the sink, it means that water is beginning to back up in your drains. This is a sign that there might be an obstruction in your pipes.

The best way to fix this problem is always to remove the obstruction blocking your pipes. You can do this by using a plunger. If this problem persists, you might need an expert to look at your pipes and to clear the blockage for you.

6. Water Flows Up The Drain

Depending on the severity of the problem, water flowing up your drains can be a minor inconvenience, or it can be a major disaster.

The worst-case scenario is if your sink suddenly begins to fill with water and you can’t turn off the faucet. This indicates that there might be serious damage done to your home’s foundation, which could result from a flooded drain.

In the best-case scenario, water flowing up your drains can just indicate that something is blocking your pipes. In this case, you need to clear the blockage in your drain with a plunger or by using boiling water.

Clogged drains can be identified before they cause damage in your home. As long as you take care of these issues quickly, they shouldn’t cause more serious problems with your drain.

If you are located in Fountain Hills, AZ and need help clearing out your drains, you can call Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter today. In addition to our plumbing services, we also offer tankless water heater installation and shower repair and installation. Get in touch, and we’ll get your drains back on track.

1. Clogging

Almost everyone has dealt with a clogged toilet. They’re vexing, and clogs left unchecked can cause problems with your plumbing and property, like burst pipes, mold, or damaged flooring.

Flushing foreign things down the toilet might create some blockage problems. These can cause substantial issues with your sewer system, resulting in significant backups. A plunger could clear most small clogs, but when the situation is more severe, it’s time to bring in a professional.

2. The Flapper Isn’t Working Properly

Another typical source of toilet difficulties is worn-out or defective toilet components. The flapper is the part of the toilet that permits water to flow from the tank into the bowl and fill it up after you flush it. A faulty flapper valve can drive your toilet to flush by itself or to run continuously, causing your water bills to increase.

If your toilet tank keeps refilling on its own or if the toilet runs continuously, inspect the valve within the tank. If altering the valve does not fix this, you should have a competent plumber look it over before your water bills get out of control.

3. Float And Valve Problem

The float and valve are also tank components. They manage the water level in the toilet tank; therefore, an overflowing tank or a tank that does not fill correctly is most likely caused by a malfunctioning float and valve. If the valve is not fully open, the tank may not fill sufficiently, preventing the flapper from entirely closing the exit to the bowl. This may cause your toilet to flush. This problem can also occur if the float isn’t at the proper height. If it is lower, the tank will not fill sufficiently, causing your toilet to run.

4. Rusty Washer Bolts

There are two possible causes for discovering random pools of water under your toilet tank. One is rusty washer bolts. Examine the toilet bolts and feel the exterior and base of the tank for leaks. It’s possible that a leaky bolt washer just needs to be tightened.

5. Loose Connections

Another reason for a leaky toilet is loose connections. Even on toilets, it’s natural for components to slip out of position over time. Rubber linings, for instance, might deteriorate and enable water to soak through. Mounting bolts and supply tubes could become loose as well. You should have a plumber inspect these areas to verify that everything is properly sealed.

6. Broken Toilet Tank

Finding water surrounding your toilet is a dead giveaway that you have toilet trouble. One of the most serious problems is a damaged or fractured toilet tank. Although cracks are not always evident, the ensuing water is.

A faulty tank may quickly cause difficulties for your household, bathroom, floors, and utility costs if left unchecked. The valve on your toilet will continue to enable water to fill the tank. However, if your tank has a crack, it may never be totally full, forcing your toilet to run by itself. If that’s the source of your toilet difficulties, it’s time to replace the appliance.

7. Clogged Sewer Line

Although most toilet clogs indicate an issue with your toilet, some might indicate a larger plumbing issue: a sewer line blockage. Clogs in sewer lines can occur as a consequence of damaged pipes, shifting soil, tree roots, disruptions in the mainline, or flushing foreign objects. If several appliances, like your toilet and shower, have backed-up water, are slow to drain, or all have a repugnant smell coming from them, it might indicate an issue with your sewage line.

If this is the case, you should contact a plumber immediately. Allowing a sewage line blockage or crack to go unrepaired can be hazardous to your safety and property and can shut down the whole neighborhood.

At Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter, we offer residential services and repair throughout Fountain Hills, AZ, and the surrounding area. We are dedicated to resolving all your plumbing issues with our expertise in toilet repair, toilet installation, pipe repair, water heaters, leak detection, and water filtration. Contact Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter today if you’re having toilet problems or other plumbing issues.