Are stubborn clogs wreaking havoc on your plumbing system? If so, the answer is hydrojetting. It unleashes a torrent of cleaning power against persistent blockages.

Solving Plumbing Problems With a High-Pressure Solution

Hydrojetting offers several key benefits for your plumbing system. It employs high-pressure water jets for debris removal and clog clearing. Effective pipe-cleaning scours the interior of your pipes, eliminating all the grease, food particles, mineral scale, and even tree roots! Therefore, it plays a prominent role in clog prevention and pipe maintenance.

This cleaning method often boosts water flow and pressure, optimizing your plumbing system’s performance.

Outlining the Steps in Hydro Jetting

The hydrojetting process begins with a plumbing system inspection. Your plumber will use a video camera to locate major blockages. This safe approach helps us determine whether it’s an appropriate solution for your piping system.  

After the inspection, the plumber will insert a high-pressure hose into your pipes. The hydrojetting machine pressurizes the water, sending it through the hose and into your plumbing system. This high-pressure water dislodges debris and flushes it out of your pipes, restoring proper flow.  

When To Consider Hydro Jetting Over Other Drain Cleaning Methods

Hydrojetting is a versatile solution for a variety of plumbing problems. We find it particularly useful for sewer line maintenance and stubborn blockages that traditional methods cannot handle. 

Several plumbing issues serve as indicators for hydrojetting, including:

• Recurring clogs, despite your best efforts, suggest a deeper problem for a long-term solution. Bid farewell to future clogs. 
• Slow drains are another common sign of buildup within your pipes. High-velocity water cleaning can clear these blockages to restore proper drainage.
• Sewer line backups, a more serious issue, can compromise your home’s water quality. Regular high-pressure water cleaning can keep your plumbing system in top shape.

Targeted Cleaning With Hydro Jetting Applications

Hydrojetting isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Our technicians use various nozzles and advanced techniques based on the situation. Here are common examples of hydrojetting applications:

• Grease and fat removal: Restaurants and food processing facilities often benefit from hydrojetting to remove grease and fat buildup in their pipes.  
• Tree root removal: When tree roots are the cause of severe blockage in sewer lines, the application of highly pressurized water may be a viable option.
• Municipal and commercial sewer systems: Hydro jetting is the perfect choice for cleaning large-diameter pipes in municipal and commercial settings.  

Pick Superior Plumbing & Drains 

At Superior Plumbing & Drains, we understand the importance of a properly functioning plumbing system. We use state-of-the-art equipment to provide long-lasting solutions for our customers. 

Our experienced technicians will assess your plumbing system and recommend the best course of action to keep your pipes flowing freely. Call Superior Plumbing & Drains today at (704) 289-6858 for reliable hydro jetting services in Monroe or Charlotte or (980) 357-9200 for Gaston services.

We often don’t think about our home’s water pressure until we’re in the middle of a shower and the stream suddenly becomes a trickle or when we can’t get enough water from the kitchen sink to wash dishes. Though water pressure is something we rarely ponder, it’s essential to maintain the ideal water pressure rating to ensure our plumbing system functions efficiently and to avoid potential damage. This blog will help you understand everything you need to know about your home’s water pressure, including what the ideal rating is and how to maintain it.

The Ideal Water Pressure Rating for Homes

The ideal water pressure rating for a home typically ranges between 60 psi (pounds per square inch) and 80 psi. If your home’s water pressure is within this range, you should experience a strong and steady flow of water from all fixtures. However, anything above 80 psi is considered high water pressure and can put strain on your plumbing system, leading to leaks, burst pipes, and increased wear and tear on appliances. On the flip side, low water pressure can make simple tasks like showering, washing dishes, or running multiple appliances at once frustratingly difficult.

How to Test Your Home’s Water Pressure

How do you know how high (or low) your home’s water pressure is? The good news is that finding this figure is quite simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to testing the water pressure in your home:

• Get a Water Pressure Gauge: You can purchase a water pressure gauge at most hardware stores. This handy device attaches to a hose bib or faucet to provide a water pressure reading.
• Turn Off All Water-Consuming Appliances: Before testing, make sure to turn off any appliances that use water, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and sprinklers. This ensures an accurate reading.
• Attach the Gauge: Screw the water pressure gauge onto an outside hose bib or laundry tub faucet. Make sure it’s tight enough to prevent leaks.
• Open the Faucet Fully: Turn the faucet all the way on and check the gauge. The dial will indicate the water pressure in psi. Ideally, you want a reading between 60 psi and 80 psi.

If your water pressure reading is outside this range, you may need to adjust your pressure regulator or consult a professional plumber.

How to Maintain Your Home’s Water Pressure

Maintaining proper water pressure in your home involves regular checks and adjustments to ensure everything is functioning correctly. We recommend taking the following steps based on whether your water pressure is too low or too high:

• For low water pressure: If your reading is below 40 psi, there could be an issue with your main water supply, a blockage within your plumbing system, or sediment buildup in your water heater. It’s best to consult a professional plumber to diagnose the problem and provide an accurate solution rather than making guesses in the dark and risking extensive damage.
• For high water pressure: If your reading is above 80 psi, you can install a pressure regulator. This device is connected to your main water supply line and helps regulate the incoming pressure to a safer level for your home’s plumbing.

Feeling Under Pressure? Call Our Plumbers for Help Today!

If you’re experiencing issues with your water pressure or need help installing a pressure regulator, the experts at Superior Plumbing & Drains are here to help. Our team of skilled professionals can ensure your plumbing system is operating at its best and keep your water pressure within the ideal range to prevent damage. Contact our plumbers today to schedule a plumbing repair, a water jetting service, or a water heater service in Charlotte, NC, or one of the neighboring communities.

You may have heard that it is important to be careful about what you put down the drain, but you may not have realized that you still need to be mindful of what goes into the kitchen sink drain, even when you have a garbage disposal. While these devices are designed to grind up food waste, they are not invincible and can become damaged or clogged if used improperly. To help you avoid these common pitfalls, we’ve compiled a list of things you should never put down your garbage disposal. This list includes everything from common kitchen waste to surprising household materials that can wreak havoc on your drain.

Coffee Grounds

It might seem like coffee grounds are harmless since they are small and granular, but they are actually one of the top things you should never put down your garbage disposal. When wet, coffee grounds clump together and form a dense, paste-like substance that can clog your drainage system. Over time, this can lead to slow drains and backups. Instead of flushing them down the garbage disposal, consider composting your coffee grounds or disposing of them in the trash.

Potato Peels

Potato peels may seem harmless, but they are surprisingly problematic for garbage disposals. The starchy content in potato peels can turn into a thick, gluey paste when ground up and mixed with water. This paste can coat the blades and the sides of the disposal, leading to clogs and reduced efficiency. It’s best to throw potato peels in the trash or compost them.

Fibrous Foods

Fibrous foods, such as celery, asparagus, corn husks, and artichokes, should never be put down your garbage disposal. These foods contain long, stringy fibers that can wrap around the disposal blades, causing them to jam and become less effective. Additionally, these fibers can get stuck in the drainage system, leading to blockages. Dispose of fibrous foods in the trash or compost bin instead.

Egg Shells

There is a common myth that egg shells can help sharpen the blades of your garbage disposal, but this is not true. Egg shells can actually damage the disposal. The thin membrane inside the shell can wrap around the blades, while the crushed shells can accumulate in the pipes, leading to clogs. It’s best to dispose of egg shells in the compost or trash.

Starchy Foods

Starchy foods like pasta, rice, and bread should never be put down your garbage disposal. These foods expand when exposed to water, which can cause blockages in the pipes. Additionally, the starchy residue can form a sticky paste that clogs the disposal and pipes. It’s better to throw starchy foods in the trash.

Small Bones

While garbage disposals can handle small amounts of soft food waste, small bones from chicken, fish, or other meats should never be put down your garbage disposal. Bones can dull or break the blades and cause significant damage to the disposal’s motor. It’s best to dispose of bones in the trash.

Onion Skins

Onion skins are another surprising item that should never be put down your garbage disposal. The thin, papery layers can bypass the disposal blades and get stuck in the pipes, leading to clogs. It’s better to throw onion skins in the trash or compost them.

Fruit and Vegetable Pits

Hard fruit and vegetable pits, such as those from avocados, peaches, and cherries, should never be put down your garbage disposal. These pits are too hard for the disposal to grind up and can cause serious damage to the blades and motor. Dispose of fruit and vegetable pits in the trash.

Grease and Oil

Grease and oil should never be put down your garbage disposal or any drain. When grease cools, it solidifies and can cause blockages in the pipes. This can lead to slow drains and backups. Instead, pour grease and oil into a container and dispose of it in the trash.

Paper Towels and Napkins

Paper towels and napkins or tissues should never be put down your garbage disposal. These materials do not break down easily and can cause clogs. Dispose of paper towels and napkins in the trash.

Need a New Garbage Disposal? We’re Here for You!

Keeping your garbage disposal in good working order involves more than just knowing what not to put down it. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning your garbage disposal with ice cubes and cold water, can help keep it running smoothly. It’s also helpful to seek professional services as soon as an issue occurs.

Our team at Superior Plumbing & Drains can handle garbage disposal installation, repair, and maintenance to ensure your kitchen runs efficiently. We can even provide drain cleaning services to halt problems in their tracks. Contact us today to book a service and don’t sweat the small stuff!

Drain maintenance is an essential aspect of home ownership that is often overlooked until a problem arises. Clogged drains can be a nightmare, causing slow drainage, corrosion, flooding, and, in some cases, sewage backup and costly repairs. Fortunately, with regular care and the use of effective drain maintenance tips, homeowners can prevent these problems before they start. This guide provides practical advice on how to keep drains clog-free, ensuring your plumbing system operates smoothly year-round.

Catch Hair Before It Enters the Drain

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain your drains is by preventing hair from going down the shower drain. Use a strainer or hair catcher and clean it regularly. This small step can significantly reduce the risk of clogs.

Be Careful With Grease and Oil

Never pour liquid fats, oils, or grease down your kitchen sink. As they cool, they solidify, sticking to the inside walls of your pipes and attracting other debris, which can quickly lead to a blockage. Instead of pouring them down the drain, dispose of these substances in the trash.

Be Mindful of What Else Goes Down the Drain

In addition to grease and oil, avoid putting coffee grounds, eggshells, and other non-soluble materials down your drains, as they can solidify and cause blockages. Dispose of these items in the trash instead of washing them down the sink.

Regularly Clean Your Drains

One of the most effective ways to prevent clogs is by regularly cleaning your drains. Remove any visible debris, such as hair, food particles, or soap scum, from the drain openings using a drain snake or a plunger. This simple step can significantly reduce the likelihood of clogs forming in your pipes.

To give your drains an even deeper clean, try some of these drain maintenance tips:

• Flush With Hot Water: Flushing your drains with hot water weekly can help melt away any fatty substances clinging to the sides of your pipes. Boil a kettle of water and carefully pour it down the drain to help keep things flowing smoothly.
• Baking Soda and Vinegar Treatment: This natural cleaning solution is excellent for keeping drains clog-free. Pour half a cup of baking soda, followed by an equal amount of vinegar, down the drain. Cover the drain to contain the reaction, and after about an hour, flush with hot water. This method helps break down fatty acids and keeps your drains smelling fresh.

Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

While it may be tempting to use chemical drain cleaners to clear clogs, these products can actually do more harm than good. They contain harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes over time and may not effectively remove stubborn clogs. Instead, opt for alternatives like baking soda and vinegar or a drain snake. For recurring clogs, schedule a professional drain cleaning service.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

Despite your best efforts, some clogs can be stubborn or indicative of a larger issue. In such cases, professional drain cleaning is necessary. Highly trained plumbers can thoroughly remove any buildup from your pipes with specialized tools and equipment, such as hydro-jetters, and keep your drains running smoothly.

Tackle Clogged Drains Today!

Are you tired of dealing with clogged drains and recurring plumbing issues? Superior Plumbing & Drains is here to help! As part of our commitment to providing top-tier service to our valued clients in and around Charlotte, NC, we are offering a special deal on our hydro-jetting service for April 2024.

For just $595*, our experienced technicians will perform a thorough jetter service, clearing your drains of any buildup. Whether you’re a homeowner or a commercial property manager, this offer is available to you. Contact us now to take advantage of this limited-time offer and to receive more drain maintenance tips. With our team on the job, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your drains are clean and clog-free.

If your sewer line ever becomes clogged, you know how unpleasant the experience can be. Preventing problems with drains and sewers is essential. Given that your wastewater lines are often located beneath your property and underground, an unexpected issue could cause severe financial hardship.

Most repairs to sewer pipes are complicated. Unfortunately, most procedures for removing blockages from underground sewage pipes involve digging the pipe up and cleaning it manually.

Sewer jetting is the best solution for any drain, no matter the situation. It helps with an emergency clog or to reduce buildup.

What is Jetting Sewer Lines or Sewer Jetting?

You can usually get liquid drain cleaners in most stores if you have a clogged drain. While this may help in the short term, you should expect it to be transitory. Liquid drain cleaners pose health risks and might corrode your pipes. That’s why there’s a technique known as sewage jetting or hydro jetting.

The specialists use a hose with a nozzle to push pressured water into the sewer line. This aids in dislodging obstructions and pushing out undesired material from the main sewer line. The flood is powerful enough to rip out tree roots and erode wooden structures. It’s a risk-free choice because it doesn’t involve any chemical processing.

How Does A Sewer Jetter Work?

Sewer jet trucks clear obstructions from kilometers of buried pipes. Trucks like these may be vacuums, jet cleaners, or a hybrid. Additionally, the equipment used for sewer jetting includes a water pump, pipe, and nozzle that generates exceptionally high water pressure. The high-pressure water pump creates the water pressure required to operate the nozzle.

Moreover, the high-pressure water jet can be directed into the sewer line with the nozzle fastened to the end of the hose. The water jetter’s flexible hose is inserted into the drain, and it can clear as much as 350 feet of pipe, including the most inaccessible sections.

Next, the jetter is activated via remote control to begin forcing pressurized water (often between 1,500 and 4,000 PSI) into the line and obliterating the obstructions and deposits lining the inside of the pipe. All done, the piping is left clean and undamaged.

Always trust professionals with the controls of a water jetter since only they know how to adjust the pressure to the appropriate level for the size of the drain pipe being cleaned.

What Causes Sewer Drains To Block?

The sewage drain is the primary conduit for all domestic wastewater to exit the building. All sinks, tubs, toilets, and garbage disposals should be connected to the main sewer line.

Sewer drains are prone to clogging because their materials are heavy and abrasive, which may lead to a lot of trouble and expense for homeowners. In addition to root invasion, the following can damage drains and lead to backups:

• Cooking oil and grease
• Unavoidable accumulation of minerals
• Dental Floss
• Hair
• Baby wipes
• Food particles and other debris

However, professionals can conveniently help you eliminate the clogged lines by jetting the sewer lines.

What Are Signs Of Blockage?

Some of the warning indicators of a potential obstruction are as follows:

• When flushed, the toilet creates a gurgling sound or overflowing.
• The drains are emitting a foul odor.
• It takes a long time for the water to drain from the sinks.
• The flushing of the toilet causes water to back up in adjacent drains.

When is Sewer Jetting Useful?

Sewer jetting is the best option when jetting a sewer line that has become wholly clogged. The high-pressure water jets used in sewer jetting may quickly clear out obstructions, saving you the trouble of digging up your entire yard.

Remember that sewer jetting is only effective for clearing obstructions. Sewer jetting won’t work if the broken pipe is the source of the issue.

The same holds true for root invasion situations. Because root invasion causes damage to the pipe itself, the problem cannot be solved with sewer jetting to remove the roots, which may or may not be possible.

Why It Must Be Done

Reliability is paramount when keeping the sewage system in tip-top shape, and city maintenance teams do regular maintenance by flushing sewers. Often, sewer jet systems are over a century old and require frequent cleaning and maintenance to clear clogs and maintain them operational.

How Often Should Sewer Jetting Be Done?

If you care about keeping your sewer system in good shape, sewer jetting is necessary. It’s safe, it’s non-invasive, it’s good for the environment, and it’s a must. If you jet your lines regularly, you can avoid dealing with the hassle and expense of fixing blockages in the future. A licensed plumber can tell you how often you should clean your drains and sewers by jetting them.

This is conditional upon the following:

• Consider the pipelines’ age and general state of disrepair.
• The frequency with which the plumbing and drains are utilized.

Scheduled sewer jetting should be performed every 18 to 24 months on a typical residential property. To avoid taking on any preexisting or developing blockages in a new house or business, it is also wise to have jetting done before you move in.

Can I Do Sewer Jetting on My Own?

Hydro jetting sewer pipes, while entertaining to imagine doing on one’s own with a pressure washer, is better left to experts. Sewer jetting equipment used by professionals is significantly more powerful than your average pressure washer, making it more hazardous to operate.

Of course, even if you did manage to acquire one, you’d still need a way to get through the line and the obstruction. If you don’t handle it right, you could end up with a much worse problem than just a clog if you damage your pipes. This is why you should never attempt hydro jetting on your own.

Conclusion

Hydro jetting may be the solution if you have a tough blockage and don’t know what to do. Blocked drains and sewage lines are a significant nuisance to homeowners and a major health hazard, so they must be cleared as soon as possible to prevent health problems and the spread of disease. Professionals can perform sewer jetting to ensure optimal wastewater flow and clean pipes.

Imagine you’re getting ready for work in the morning – the last thing you want is a clogged toilet. But that is a likely scenario if you do not select the right toilet paper. The wrong toilet paper can entirely clog your pipes depending on how old or new your residence’s plumbing system is.

This is a hassle and can even create substantial damage resulting in costly repair bills. So save yourself the trouble of dealing with clogged plumbing by making sure you get the best toilet paper for your plumbing.

Old Plumbing

Plumbers tend to visit older houses with aged plumbing systems frequently. Their ancient pipes are more susceptible to clogs because of sludge – the disgusting wet paste of hair, chemicals, grime, and other nasty waste products accumulating in drainage systems.

Hence, if you live in a house that is a few decades old, you have to be extra careful with your choice of toilet paper. You should generally avoid facial tissues (even if they feel good on your derriere) and paper towels since they tend to break down slowly in water.

The best toilet paper for old plumbing is designed to disintegrate rapidly in water so that it easily dissolves and passes through even the narrowest pipes. But paper that dissolves slowly will then rest at the bottom of lines and clog them. In the case of old plumbing systems that are already under a lot of strain, this can rapidly accelerate into a full-blown clog.

Therefore, your toilet paper options are limited when dealing with aging pipes. Here are two plumber-recommended toilet paper brands you can consider:

Scott Rapid-Dissolving Toilet Paper

This product is designed to disintegrate in water rapidly. In fact, many airlines and trains use it because it is perfect for their planes and carriages’ narrow piping. Therefore, it is also great for an older house with older plumbing.

Ideally, it would be best to look out for toilet paper brands that state they are “rapid-dissolving” on the packaging. That is how you know they are the best tissue paper for sewer pipes. Scott Rapid-Dissolving Toilet Paper is also quite soft, making it comfortable to use.

Angel Soft Toilet Paper

Just because you want paper that dissolves quickly does not mean you have to compromise your comfort. Angel Soft Toilet Paper is remarkably comfortable to use, even on sensitive skin – making it very kid-friendly and the safest tissue paper for plumbing. Plus, it contains no additives, meaning it does not cause skin irritation and is eco-friendly.

New Plumbing

Very few are fortunate enough to live in a new house nowadays. But if you are one of them, you will not have to face the same problems that people in older homes do. New plumbing is not as susceptible to clogging. This is not just because of the lack of sludge build-up but also because newer plumbing is tactfully designed to reduce the chances of blocking.

So what toilet papers should people with newer houses get? Ideally, it would help if you still avoided more robust articles like paper towels and facial tissues. No matter what, these tissue papers are likely to build up in your pipes and make them clog quickly. Therefore, you still have to purchase toilet paper that breaks down easily.

But since you do not have to prioritize their dissolvability above everything else, you have the option to select a paper that enhances your life in other areas. So here are two toilet papers you could consider:

Quilted Northern Ultra Plush Supreme

Toilet papers come in either 1, 2, or 3-ply. A ply describes a single layer of tissue paper, and the more layers a leaf has, the softer it is. Naturally, the increased number of plys comes at the expense of dissolvability. Plumbers advise 1-ply toilet paper for use in the bathroom as it is the best toilet paper to prevent clogs.

However, with the Quilted Northern Ultra Plush Supreme tissue paper, you can get a soft 3-ply toilet paper that will feel fantastic on your skin but will not clog your pipes. These tissue papers are designed to disintegrate quickly in the water despite their thickness. So if you want luxurious toilet paper that eliminates the risk of clogging, this is the brand for you.

Presto! Ultra Soft Tissue Paper

Presto is the brand for you if you want an affordable toilet paper that is easy on your budget but will reliably flush with your toilet. It comes in six rolls for minimal cost – an excellent deal! It is an Amazon Brand beloved by many because it is affordable while still being the best toilet paper for flushing.

Although Presto is designed for use as tissue paper and dissolves very quickly in water, it is still slightly stiffer than rapid-dissolve toilet paper. Therefore, as inexpensive as it is, it might not be suitable for houses with older pipes. However, homeowners with new piping need not worry – Presto appeals to your wallet and your pipes.

Wrapping Up

If you were wondering, “What tissue paper do plumbers recommend?” this was all you needed to know, depending upon how new or old your pipes are. So long as you make the right purchasing choice, you should be fine either way.

Alas, life is easier when you have a refreshed plumbing system. Instead of being constantly anxious about a clog, you can use toilet paper that is extra soft or super affordable.

That said, if you are living in an older house – as is often the case in Charlotte – with piping prone to clogs, you should seriously consider getting in touch with Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC.

By letting our professional plumbers refurbish your house’s piping, you can rest easy, knowing your plumbing will not seize with a slight mishap.

Clogged drains are a significant annoyance – unfortunately, they happen frequently. But probably no blockage can be as troublesome as a clogged toilet, which often leads to leakages, and overflowing water, among other issues.

The question is who to call for a clogged toilet when the blockage is severe. Although a plunger may suffice to resolve straightforward buildups, severe ones need to be addressed by a bathroom plumbing specialist.

According to studies, the typical person will use the restroom for well over a year in their lifetime. Because of this, your bathroom must have a toilet that functions well at all times.

How do you know if the toilet is clogged? Following are some tell-tales along with information on when to call a plumber for a clogged toilet.

What Are The Possible Reasons For Clogged Toilets?

Here are some most common causes of clogged toilets out of the numerous possible ones.

A blocked toilet might frequently result from using and discarding a good amount of toilet paper in one flush. Some toilet paper does not simply dissolve; this material builds up over time.

Typically clogs result from various items, including sanitary napkins, tampons, and other feminine hygiene products. Also, the jam may result from flushing down diapers and baby wipes. These large, difficult-to-dissolve items clutter at the bottom, jamming the system.

Absorbent materials include cotton balls and similar objects. But even too much of them result in clogs.

Likewise, if hair is flushed frequently, it tangles with other items inside pipes, causing a significant clog.

Moreover, children can also end up clogging toilets by flushing down toys, food, and other items.

What Happens If A Toilet Is Clogged For A Long Time?

Is a clogged toilet an emergency? While it’s typically not disastrous to let a clogged toilet sit overnight, fixing the problem is recommended.

Most water-soluble components will eventually dissolve; however, some residual items may remain, leading to blockages. Simply put, there are more opportunities for a clog to worsen the longer you ignore it.

Ultimately, this obstruction may build pressure on your overall plumbing system, leading to leaks in other areas, especially if your toilet is older or your pipes aren’t in optimal condition.

Your sewer line and toilet are filled with unsanitary materials. When these materials are exposed to the air, they produce unpleasant odors and pose health risks.

To prevent these problems, Google for clogged toilet repair near me.

When Should You Contact A Plumber If Your Toilet Is Blocked?

How do you recognize when to call a plumber for a clogged toilet? Here are some of the most visible signs

The Plunger Doesn’t Work

A plunger is usually the only tool required to restore water flow if you have encountered a jam caused by excessive toilet paper use. However, if that does not work, more effort must be put in.

A baking powder and dish soap solution alongside a plunger may help disseminate clogs. Drop in the mixture and use the plunger after five minutes. However, if that doesn’t work, call a plumber.

The Toilet Won’t Stop Running

This issue could indicate that the water flap regulating water flow from the tank to the bowl is not appropriately placed.

In this case, it can cause frequent clogs, so your water flap and other tank components may require repairs or replacements. So, one should reach out to a plumber for help.

The Toilet Is Clogged With A Foreign Object

If a foreign object is lodged into the toilet and then flushed, it may cause significant damage to the sewage system septic lines.

This is especially important if you have curious children experimenting by launching things down the toilet bowl. A professional must be hired to retrieve all items, including plastic toys, electronic devices, etc.

Foul Odor

A strange scent may be a tell-tale of a graver issue. Hidden leakages are usually triggered by overly clogged toilets, which can cause many bathroom issues.

There could also be significant damage behind bathroom walls or underneath the flooring, resulting in mold and an unpleasant smell. Professional services are recommended because you can’t do much in this situation.

Cracks In The Tank

Although a toilet should ideally be long-lasting, the tank or bowl may break. However, the toilet might still be operational, depending on the location of the crack.

Replacing it yourself is not exactly straightforward, and you may end up causing further damage. So, hire a qualified plumber to help you with the repairing process.

The Toilet Has Loose Flooring

If you have a wobbly floor or tiles, it is an indication of moisture damage caused by a leak.

If this issue is not timely addressed, the dampness may spread to other parts of the surface, causing additional damage through corrosion. Hence, you must contact a plumber immediately to fix and repair the problem.

Home Repairs

If declogging requires you to go the extra mile, i.e., take steps that do not need a plunger—don’t DIY it!

You must contact a plumber immediately before the clogged toilet causes any health hazard and leads to overflowing water.

One can also realize when to call the plumber for clogged toilets if common problems arise, such as waste that will not flush, a slow discharge or a rising water level in the bowl, and strange gurgling sounds when flushing.

How Does A Plumber Clear A Clogged Toilet?

One may be curious about how plumbers unclog toilets and what do plumbers use to unclog a toilet.

Plumbers help remove clogs, hard deposits, and hard water minerals and handle various other home sewage problems. Let us take a look at the process they use:

Investigate The Issue

Professional plumbers spend the first few minutes testing the clog and determining its source.

Plunger Preparation

Plumbers prepare their plungers for use by immersing them in hot water to soften the rubber, allowing them to form a good shield around the bowl.

Plunge-In Area

They start with gentle plunges and increase the intensity, depending on how stubborn the clog is. Typically, 15 to 20 hard plunges are enough to restore water flow.

Utilizing A Toilet Auger

If the clog remains, despite using a plunger, then plumbers will use a toilet auger or toilet snake. This cable-like tool is used to reach the clog deep inside the toilet.

Hydro-Jetting System

Plumbers use condensed water jets to flush away decades of grease, soap, and other dirt accumulated in your drain and sewer lines.

What plumbers use to unclog a toilet includes a closet auger or other tools to repair various plumbing problems, such as dripping faucets, draining pipes, a faulty water heater, sink or shower clogs, leaking toilets, etc.

Key Takeaways

Even though most clogs can be cleared with a plunger or hot water, some should be left to the experts. Their years of experience and expertise allow them to address clogging-related issues seamlessly.

And who better to reach out to than Superior Plumbing and Drains! Get in touch today! We will get to the bottom of it, literally and figuratively.

Sewer lines help transport the wastage from your home into underground main sewer lines. As a homeowner, neglecting the maintenance of sewer and drain lines can cause a major slip-up. The majority of homeowners give little to no consideration to sewer line cleaning until a significant issue arises.

Sewer and drain lines should be inspected once in six months. If not, they may get clogged or blocked, causing extreme damage inside and outside your home. Let’s discuss the importance of sewer line cleaning.

What Are Sewer Lines?

A sewer line or pipe is a duct installed inside properties to eliminate waste material. They come in various sizes and materials. The prime purpose of these lines is to transport wastage from residential properties or commercial buildings to the central sewer disposal system.

Over time, these sewer lines decay or become damaged, needing cleaning, repair, or rarely a replacement.

Clogged sewers or blockages result in a multitude of problems. If a drain clog happens, the wastage, including dirty water, grease, debris, and toxic material, has no place to exit but to sit. As a result, it brings unfortunate pungent smells, and the built-up waste gives off an unhealthy and toxic environment to your home.

3 Signs Pointing To Getting Sewer Lines And Drains Cleaned

Here are three significant signs of why your sewer lines need to be cleaned.

1. Drain Clogs

Clogs can happen in several areas, including any part of the pipe, sewer lines, or fixture traps. To solve this problem, the exact place from where the clog originates has to be located. Cable (snake) sewer line cleaning services should be employed for more severe and messy clogged drains. This method involves using a flexible rotating cable that burrows through any tough clog if the operator knows how to use it correctly.

2. Slow Draining

Water beginning to set into the sink or traveling back into the drain could be due to slow draining. If the water takes too much time to drain, the drain is most likely not cleaned in ages – causing a clog.

Slow draining of water happens when small particles of food, grease, plastic wrappers, etc., have accumulated together, forming a clot. This clog collects every minute particle until you get thorough sewer line cleaning and inspection.

3. Foul Odor

If you have started to encounter a pungent and foul odor coming from your sink or drain, there might be a chance your sewer lines have decayed and rotted. It mostly happens when foreign particles, including soap, oil, debris, and food, get jammed inside the lines.

Benefits Of Sewer Line Maintenance And Cleaning

Clean sewer lines and drain pipes offer long-lasting benefits that every homeowner will appreciate. It includes; saying goodbye to clogs, saving costs on water bills, avoiding floods, and much more. We’ve put together some great benefits to help you understand why timely sewer line cleaning is a must.

No More Blockage

Sink clogs can be manageable on your own for a short period, but the longer you avoid getting them fixed, the more it risks the sewer pipes. No matter what size or type of sewer lines or drainage system you have, they should be cleaned regularly to prevent extra repairing costs and massive catastrophic blockages.

Speeds Up Drainage

Nothing is more deadly than a sink, bathtub, shower, or toilet filled with putrid water. Poor sewer line maintenance or cleaning can result in debris, food, and wastage forming, further causing slow drainage. Cleaning out sewer lines can frequently prevent clogs, providing a smooth flow to the drain. Furthermore, having sewer lines flushed and cleaned to avoid a buildup can speed up the drainage system.

Eliminate Foul Odor

A buildup accumulation of waste within the sewer lines can cause a strong foul odor to fill the entire home. Unfortunately, the source of these smells is hard to eliminate without professional sewer cleaning line equipment.

Even if a clog has happened in one line or drain, it can spread throughout every drainage system, which develops an unpleasant odor. It’s important to get sewer line cleaning and inspection if you notice such issues.

Prevent Leaks

Chemical deposits and toxic wastage in clogged and dirty lines and drains can cause the main sewer pipe to decompose and crack quickly. Unlike clogs and slow drainage, identifying and fixing a leak is the most crucial issue. Finding leaks and holes within sewer lines is only possible through frequent sewer line cleaning, extending the functionality and life of a plumbing system, and preventing any chances of leaks due to decaying.

Methods To Clean, Repair, And Replace Sewer Lines

Clogged sewer lines and drains are exasperating and vigorous issues that often lead to a flood of wastewater around drain pipes, gurgling and noisy sounds, and a smell of foul rotting wastage coming from sewer lines. With various services in today’s market, here are some great methods for sewer line cleaning used by professionals for both commercial and residential properties.

1. Chemical Cleaning

For clogged drains and sewer lines, chemical cleaning is used. It includes a solid or liquid form of acids and alkaline poured into the clogged area. The chemical mixture reacts and dislodges the blockage.

2. Airburst Drain Cleaning

With accelerated gas such as carbon dioxide, airburst drain cleaning is done to unclog sewer lines. The gas creates a strong force that breaks down and eliminates the system’s accumulated clog. This method is more accessible and faster than using chemicals to address a blockage; plus, It’s one of the best methods to reach clogs deep down the sewer system.

3. Snake Cleaning

A long flexible thick rod called a drain snake (known as a plumbing auger) is used to unclog sewer lines. It has a hand crank on one side, and on the other, it has a corkscrew. The corkscrew drills the clog, breaking it down.

Conclusion

Cleaning and unclogging sewer lines and drains on your own can be a challenging task, therefore, turn to professional and experienced plumbing service providers.

At Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC, we provide sewer line cleaning and inspection services. Our services ensure safe and efficient cleaning and repairing of sewer lines and drainage systems.

There is nothing quite like realizing that water levels have slowly sneaked up to your ankles, and you’re just halfway through your shower. It’s even worse when you see the water little by little dripping instead of going swiftly. One simple word – EW!

A blocked drain leads to nasty odors, still water, infections, and anger. Certainly, there’s nothing worse than getting a clogged drain in the kitchen or bathroom – the two most used rooms in any house. We’ve been there, and it throws daily routine off when you discover a clogged drain in the dishwasher or the sink.

There can be many reasons for this, from rinsing food plates, cat litter, dirt particles, soap residues, hardened grease to hair. According to a study, 3 out of 9 drain blockages are caused by Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG) accumulating in the drain pipe. Fortunately, there are more than a few techniques you can try at home before you need to call in professional help.

It happens to the best of us, and next time you become a victim of a clogged drain, don’t resort to using store-bought chemicals. Instead, consider a natural clogged drain home remedy; you never know it might work better than those harmful and expensive clog cleaners.

Here are some simple yet effective clogged drain cleaning remedies to open up those drains using everyday staples. What’s more, they are ridiculously simple.

Best DIY Clogged Drain Remedies For Your Home

Clogged drains are a nightmare, no matter if it’s in a tub, sink, dishwasher, or shower – when the water doesn’t go down the pipe, your anxiety levels start rising. Of course, the next thing is you call a plumber as you have no unclogging solution at home. But wait, you can rely on home remedies for clogged drains.

Here are some excellent natural remedies that make stagnant water instantly disappear down the pipe:

Pouring Boiling Hot Water Down The Drain

When you come across slow drainage in your bathroom or kitchen, the first thing that comes to your mind is how to unblock this clogged drain. Well, sometimes the simplest things provide the best remedy, no matter how easy they may seem – all you need to do is pour piping hot water.

The boiling water works great against a clogged drain in the sink. But it’s the most effective when the clog is made of organic matter and not plastic-based gunk. Also, the water should be boiling; otherwise, it won’t dissolve any organic matter stuck in the sink.

However, don’t pour boiling water down the clogged drain pipe when you have PVC pipes. As the heat from the water could lose the joints, it could result in a more significant issue than just a clogged drain. On the contrary, no need to worry when you have metal pipes. Also, never pour hot water into a porcelain sink bowl; you might end up with a cracked sink.

Bring A Vinegar And Salt Solution To The Party

Vinegar and baking soda are your best friend when it comes to keeping your home clean.

Indeed, many people suggest boiling water for oily clogs while baking soda and vinegar for others. But in fact, when you combine both in the right way, trust me, you can eliminate most clogs with just one simple solution. So no matter it’s a clogged drain pipe or a clogged drain tub, this natural remedy works perfectly.

First, make sure all the water has gone down the clogged drain pipe. Now, plug the drain and pour a half box of baking soda followed by half cup vinegar down the drain pipe. The baking soda and vinegar will combine, causing a fizzy reaction, forcing the clog to loosen up. Let it all sit for one hour. Now, pour a pot of hot boiling water down the drain. Repeat only when necessary.

Plunger To The Rescue

Do you know that plunger is multipurpose and can be used on your bathroom and kitchen sink? What’s more, they are pretty effective with unclogging your shower drains as well. So while it doesn’t help with other clogged drainage zones, one thing is for sure, your sink will be free from blocked drains.

Make sure that your plunger has a cup shape and not the other flanged types. Otherwise, you will get no relief from clogged drains. These curved plungers are adequate for the clogged drain in the sink and are primarily found in houses; if not, they are highly inexpensive and can be found at any local supermarket.

Simply begin the plunging by removing all the drain filters. Then start by applying sharp yet fast actions. Don’t forget to periodically check-in between whether your clog has been resolved or not. Always have an airtight yet clean fit before trying to unclog the drain. Moreover, before plunging, make sure your plunger has water in it; it’s a biggie.

Try Peroxide For Problematic Drains

So you have a clogged drain in the tub and have tried the above remedies, but none of them provided relief. Well, try this mixture; combine half a cup of baking soda with an equal quantity of peroxide. Now, pour this down your clogged drain in the tub. After it, don’t forget to pour boiling water and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, wait for the magic to happen; after 30 minutes, you will see water going down the pipe with ease.

Snake It Out

When all fails, it may be time to resort to the physical removal of clogged drains. A drain auger or snake is the perfect tool to unclog even the most stubborn ones. With this method, you can reach deep into the clogged drain in order to dislodge or pull out whatever is preventing the water from flowing.

Remove the stopper to get access to the drain opening. Then, insert the auger down the drain opening, crank the handle and capture all the gunk clogging your pipes. Once satisfied, pull the wire to remove all the debris and other matters to unclog the sink.

Sometimes, one might need to loosen the connectors and even go beyond this point to fix the clog. The debris might be stuck inside the pipe that goes into the wall, so insert an auger and remove anything you can reach. Once all pipers are clear and clean, reassemble them and check the water flow. You have probably already removed the clog preventing the water from flowing.

Wrapping Up

Dealing with a clogged drain can be just another day for homeowners. So, of course, your first reaction is calling a professional plumber. But, while a plumber can surely fix the problem, why not give home clogged drain cleaning remedies a try and save some money?

All the techniques discussed above are known to help unclog household drains. Moreover, the ingredients listed above are likely available in your home, saving you trips to local shops and money.

Living with a clogged toilet is impossible; no ifs or buts about it. And this usually happens when we get in the habit of flushing non-flushable items. Unfortunately, many companies now advertise items that clog the toilet as flushable, such as baby wipes, tampons, kitty litter, and toilet brushes. As they are labeled ‘flushable’ and ‘biodegradable,’ people don’t hesitate to flush them down the toilet drain.

Of course, we don’t know the damage it’s causing until the drains start to back up. And by then, it’s usually too late. These items take a long time to decompose, resulting in a clogged toilet.

It’s best to pay close attention to notice the first signs of a clogged toilet and rectify this situation on time. Keep reading this article to find out all the reasons that cause clogged toilets.

Why Toilets Get Clogged and How To Fix It?

If you are thinking, why is my toilet clogged again? You must be doing something that results in a clogged toilet. Learn the reasons and clogged toilet solutions to ensure your toilet gets clogged as little as possible.

1. Partial or Completely Blocked S-Trap Drain
2. Damaged or Restricted Sewer Lines
3. Old or Low Pressured Flushing System
4. Blocked Plumbing Vents
5. Hard-Water Build Up

1. Partial or Completely Blocked S-Trap Drain

On the back of the toilet, you can see an S-shaped pipe that comes up the floor or ground, winding into the toilet bowl. This pipe is called an S-trap drain, responsible for evacuating odorous sewer gases that do not pass through the toilet bowl and can enter the house.

Some toilet designs also use P-trap instead of S-trap, but it serves the same purpose. If your S-trap or P-trap is completely clogged, it will block the main toilet frequently. That is because a clogged S-trap or P-trap causes water backflow. Water takes longer to flow down the toilet drain after flushing if it is blocked.

Use a drain snake for the clogged toilet to clear the blockage. If you can’t remove the blockage this way, you need to call a plumber.

2. Damaged or Restricted Sewer Lines

The main sewer line exiting your house is mostly underground, emptying in the municipal sewer system or a septic tank. Even if it is protected from dirt, weather conditions, and debris because it is underground, if you have trees in your area, their roots can wrap around the pipe and constrict the water and waste flow.

Sometimes, sewer pipes also get punctured due to trees or area disturbance around the pipeline. As your private sewer line is directly connected with the main sewer pipe, dirt and rocks can enter your house sewer line from the damaged point. When these foreign items keep collecting over time, they clog the sewer, leading to toilet blockage.

A restricted or damaged sewer line is an issue that only a professional can fix. However, you can ensure that your sewer line area isn’t rocky and stays well maintained.

3. Old or Low Pressured Flushing System

Old flushing systems lose their power over time, creating less pressure whenever you flush them.

An old toilet and flushing system cannot properly break down the waste despite regular maintenance. When waste doesn’t break down properly, it accumulates and blocks the sewer line. This ultimately results in a clogged toilet.

If this is an issue with your toilet system, then the solution for the clogged toilet is to change your flushing system ASAP. But if the problem persists after changing your flush system, then this means your sewer lines and toilet is clogged with tissue papers and feces. You must call a plumber to clean and remove waste from your sewer pipes.

4. Blocked Plumbing Vents

In a modern toilet and plumbing system, roof vents flush out the air from the drain pipe. This prevents air vacuum formation, which interferes with drain flow. The air must circulate for the plumbing pipes to work smoothly, replacing the air vacuum.

If the roof vent is filled with stray leaves, branches, debris, or bird’s nest, it disturbs the air and drain’s flow, clogging the toilet. When this happens, the water stays trapped in the plumbing. As pipes don’t have enough space to contain it, the water starts flowing back up or creates a leak in the lines to escape.

This is a problematic blockage to spot because not many people know blocked plumbing vents result in clogged toilets. The blocked plumbing vents warning signs are:

•         Water takes too long to drain
•         Dry or empty flush tank
•         The rotten smell of toxic sewer gases
•         Gurgling sounds from the draining system

The clogged toilet home remedy to fix blocked plumbing vents is by cleaning out the debris and making sure birds and animals don’t wander in to build a nest. However, you must be careful because you must scramble across the roof to unclog the plumbing vent. That is why most people let specialists do this job.

5. Hard-Water Build Up

Hard water is a global problem, and America ranks high on the list because 85% of water in America is hard water. Even though using hard water is not fatal, it creates multiple adverse effects on the skin and the plumbing system. Hard water has natural minerals such as calcium and magnesium, making a white chalk-like film on faucets, showers, and inside drain pipes.

Hard water is terrible for the plumbing system because it reacts with residual soap water. This results in soap buildup in drain pipes which clogs the drain and damages fixtures’ quality. Moreover, the minerals form a white film that is difficult to remove from toilets. This buildup reduces the space for water and waste as they pass through the pipes. And the more hard water you have, the stronger the film it creates inside lines.

The best way to fix this issue is to use a solution to flush out all the residue buildup from your toilet and drain system. In addition, it’d be best to install a water softener that decreases the high mineral amount from the water before usage. This ensures that white film-like substance doesn’t accumulate in your toilet again.

8 Signs to Identify Clogged Toilet

Now that you know the reasons behind your clogged toilet, here are the signs that can help you spot it before it can severely damage your toilet system, drain pipes, and sewer lines:

1.       Slow water drainage from the toilet bowl, or the water backs up after flushing
2.       A full toilet bowl or water overflowing from the toilet bowl after you flush
3.       Foul and bad odors coming from the bathroom, toilet, shower stall, bathtub, and kitchen sink
4.       Sewer gases buildup in toilet and bathroom
5.       Emission of toilet paper and overflow of water from the gully trap
6.       Gurgling noises coming from toilet, pipes, and drains
7.       Stagnant and standing water on the ground, near pipes, toilet, and plumbing
8.       Leakage of drain pipes from multiple points

Unclog Your Toilet – Get Professional Help!

A clogged toilet system can result in discomfort as it is terrible for hygiene and waste disposal. In addition, if you ignore a blocked toilet system for long, it results in severe and permanent damage to drain pipes and sewer lines. That is why you must check for clogged toilets whenever significant signs appear. Also, as you know the exact reason behind the clog, use the correct solution without trial and error.

Getting into a hot, steaming shower only for the water to pool at your feet is a disappointing start to the day. But what is the issue?

A clogged drain is usually caused by the accumulation of soap scum and hair that has been collecting for a long time.

However, before calling the plumber, examine whether you have the necessary tools to complete the work yourself or not.

You may be able to fix the clogged shower drain all by yourself using some of the most accessible home remedies and tools.

So before we discuss how to clear a clogged shower drain, let’s first elaborate on what causes it.

What Causes Clogged Shower Drain?

Clogged drains can lead to damp, slippery, and, in some situations, smelly restrooms. And if yours suffers from similar symptoms, it may be time to investigate.

Blocked-up shower drains are a common problem; hence, it’s nothing to split hairs over. With that said, here are the six things that can lead to a clogged drain:

1. Oils Or Grease

Most people believe that grease only affects kitchen drains. But, unfortunately, the same thing happens in the shower since oil or grease can come from your shampoos and hair.

Moreover, they do not dissolve in the water and float to the top, and when they move through the drains, they lodge on the walls of the system.

2. Chemicals

Conditioners, soaps, hair conditioners, shampoos, disinfectants, and bathroom cleansers are all loaded with hazardous chemicals that could be harmful to shower drains. These chemicals eventually collect in the drainage system, clogging it.

3. Trash Or Other Products

Obstructive objects like toys, wrappers, or a bottle cap that you may have dropped in the bathroom could be the reason behind your clogs.

These things tend to slide far and become entangled in the small crevices of the pipelines.

4. Bathroom Drains

Hair, soap scum, and skin flakes form on the walls of standard shower drains, interfering with water flow. If left unchecked for a lengthy period, they result in a clogged drain.

To fix this, unscrew the drain plug and use a plunger to wipe out everything accumulated in the drains.

5. Hard Water

The first and most fundamental cause of clogged shower drain is hard water. Such water comprises mainly minerals and micro-solids, which accumulate on the pipe wall.

Whereas if the system is not maintained regularly, these obstructions will layer on and eventually restrict the water passage.

Moreover,  whenever your shower drain becomes clogged because of hard water, you could use a softening chemical to wipe away the particles and enable the system to work correctly.

6. Dead Skin Cells And Hair

Whenever you shower, you might naturally lose several strands of hair. Furthermore, dead cells also run through your shower each time you shower.

Such dead skin cells and hair can adhere to the sides of your drainage pipe, obstructing the water flow.

Installing a hair collector in the drain can be helpful, but dead cells and hair will inevitably clog the drain at some point.

How To Fix A Clogged Shower Drain?

Once you know why your shower drain is getting clogged, you will want to know how to fix a clogged shower drain with the most straightforward methods.

With that said, here are the three ways to clean your blocked-up shower drain:

Use Chemicals

The majority of supermarkets and hardware stores sell powerful chemical cleaners meant to unclog drains. Pay close attention to the directions.

How to Use Chemicals to Unclog a Shower Drain

• Follow guidelines on the box and avoid using too much. The quantity you use will vary
• Put on goggles and gloves
• Do not combine your chemicals. It might result in toxic gas
• Chemicals should be thrown down the drain

Remember: Never use chemicals carelessly, as they can destroy your drain pipes, mainly if used frequently. Yet, utilizing chemicals is often a quick, simple, and inexpensive procedure.

Use A Plunger

You must be wondering how to unclog the shower drain with a plunger? It is considered one of the easiest and safest ways to unblock shower drains.

The type of obstruction, the location of the blockage inside the drain, and the architecture of the drain will all influence how effective plunging is.

Whereas if the clog is deeper and composed of hair, for example, you may struggle to obtain sufficient suction for successful plunging.

How to Use a Plunger to Unclog a Shower Drain

• Try applying wax or petroleum jelly to the adhesive pad’s edges to improve the seal
• Fill the shower with enough water to immerse the plunger’s end
• Plunge with vigor

Remember: Plunging is yet another strategy with a poor success rate. However, it is always worth trying because the process doesn’t require much time nor money.

Pour Boiling Water

Cleaning a clogged water drain can be difficult, time-consuming, and a bit expensive. Therefore, you will want to look for home remedies for the clogged shower drain.

And that is one of the wisest decisions. Why look for expensive chemicals, tools, or any services when you can clean your shower drains with just water.

This can occasionally decompose the soap or oil clogging the drain and clean it.

How To Use Boiling Water to Unclog a Drain

• On the stove, boil the water till it starts bubbling
• Boiling water should be poured through the drain
• Choosing a funnel or something like that is preferable to keep the water contained as you drop. Moreover, you do not want to splash hot water on any expensive bathtub or shower equipment

Remember: When you use this procedure alone, this may not help, particularly if you have a significant obstruction that includes a lot of tangled hair and has grown up quite a bit. Therefore, when combined with another approach indicated above, it may partially eliminate the obstruction and function.

How Much Does It Cost To Unclog Main Drain?

Typically, a professional drain snake costs about $229. Based on the complexity or severity, the fee might range around $145 and $334. Persistent clogs or broken parts might raise your repair price.

The estimated cost to repair a drain is approximately $220, ranging from $85 to $575. Moreover, plumbers frequently charge a fixed rate for a drain cleaning service.

Therefore, additional issues may need labor costs of approximately $200 per hour, in addition to the price of parts.

Wrap Up

It can be challenging to clear clogged shower drains all by yourself. However, with the steps mentioned above, you can try doing it without spending a lot of money.

Fruit flies are pesky tiny pests that may infiltrate your home without your knowledge. And since they are lured in by decaying fruit and vegetables, your kitchen seems to be a perfect breeding ground for them.

However, once they’re in, fruit flies will move around, investigating your home after they have infested your kitchen.

Furthermore, they have an uncanny ability to nest in your plumbing systems and bathroom drains.

Where In The Bathroom Are They Found?

Fruit flies in the bathroom are typically seen around sinks, showers, and baths; moist cloths, bath towels, rags, and sponges are other favorites.

Unfortunately, anything and everything that retains moisture can draw fruit flies and serve as a perfect breeding area for these irritating pests.

Worse, they are notorious for breeding fast, so if you do not sort out the problem immediately away, it will grow.

Have you noticed a lot of fruit flies inside your bathroom? These might be found near your plumbing systems for a range of reasons.

If you are concerned about a possible infestation, we will go through the most common reasons why you have so many fruit flies in your bathroom:

Why Do You See Fruit Flies In The Bathroom?

Imagine going to your bathroom and finding several fruit flies out of nowhere! It is nothing more than a nightmare.

And then you question yourself, “why am I finding fruit flies in my bathroom?” or “how to prevent fruit flies in the bathroom?” and so on.

But do you know the actual reason? If not, we will tell you what causes fruit flies infestation in your bathroom.

Moreover, fruit flies are typically seen in restrooms as they thrive in damp environments. A toilet drain is rich in wet organic waste, making it ideal for them.

And as female flies may produce hundreds of eggs every day, what began as several flies can soon multiply into thousands of insects. This results in a swarm of fruit flies in the bathroom drain.

On the other hand, fruit flies are attracted to plumbing fixtures that gather moisture, such as shower and sink drains. These flies dwell and reproduce in the warm, damp atmosphere. The larvae and eggs often go unnoticed because bathroom drains are not immediately accessible to householders. However, fruit flies will continue to grow unless you hire expert drain cleaning services.

With that said, here are the four reasons that you find fruit flies in your bathroom:

1. Clogged Drains

Fruit flies are known for reproducing in bathroom sink drains. This is because flies are drawn to decaying and rotting debris in your drains.

Once your sink becomes blocked with waste, it produces a filthy, wet environment in which fruit flies thrive.

As a result, homeowners are recommended to wash their shower and sink drains daily. In addition, clogged sinks must be removed as soon as possible by a professional plumbing expert.

The more you wait to unblock your sink, the further chances fruit flies will have to reproduce in large numbers.

2. Plumbing Leaks

Fruit flies are more likely to arrive in the bathroom if your plumbing is neglected. Moreover, fruit flies are commonly caused by compromised plumbing.

Therefore, when you observe an unexplained pool of water underneath the sink, you most likely have a leakage in your plumbing.

Furthermore, unwanted leaks can create a pool of stagnant water on the bathroom floor. And because this could attract a swarm of fruit flies, you should get a plumber to look at it.

3. Messy Bathrooms

As a result of long-term neglect, a cluttered bathroom can become a breeding ground for fruit flies. Remember, they are drawn to damp towels strewn haphazardly on the floor or the wet garments flung carelessly in the side.

Therefore, if you do not clean up afterward, the bathroom will become a favorite spot for fruit flies.

As a general guideline, wash any pool of standing water on the ground and avoid leaving stagnant water in your sink.

Moreover, you should also be wary of any unclean sponges or damp rags that may be lying about. After using them, make sure to thoroughly clean and dry them.

Regularly cleaning your bathroom can help reduce the number of fruit flies.

4. From Kitchen To Your Bathroom

Fruit flies are not always common in toilets but congregate in kitchens. In reality, after establishing into your house, such flies may begin in the kitchen and go to your bathroom.

Furthermore, your kitchen is an elevated area that draws many fruit flies. Such bugs are attracted to the odors of rotting food and decomposing rubbish.

On the other hand, fruit flies are particularly attracted to dirty kitchens. For example, many households might have had a kitchen sink piled high with dirty plates and stagnant water.

There might also be a lot of decaying vegetables and fruits in open containers. So, If you do not clean up after yourself in the kitchen, you may be promoting a fruit fly infestation, which can swiftly migrate to your bathroom.

How To Get Rid of Fruit Flies?

After some time, these fruit flies start irritating you, and why not! You may want to get rid of them as soon as possible.

However, before calling any professional cleaners, you will probably scour the internet for how to get rid of fruit flies in the drain? How to get rid of fruit flies in the bathroom? Why do I have fruit flies in my bathroom sink? How to get rid of fruit flies in the bathroom drain? And several other things.

Here are some ways to eradicate fruit flies from your bathroom:

Use White Vinegar

You must be wondering how to get rid of fruit flies with white vinegar or how to get rid of fruit flies with vinegar? It may make no sense to you; however, that is possible!

Yes, you can say bye to those nasty bugs using a simple ingredient found in almost any kitchen or pantry.

If your pane cone traps or plastic wrap are not working, consider adding at least three drops of liquid soap to a cup of vinegar and keeping it uncovered.

Since the soap reduces the interfacial rigidity of the white vinegar, the fruit flies will drown.

Try Wine Or Beer

Place an old bottle of beer or wine near the area in which the annoying fruit flies are discovered. The old drink will draw them in; however, the bottle’s short neck works as a shield to hold them in.

Homemade Drain Cleaner

If you are wondering how to get rid of fruit flies in the bathroom drain, try making a homemade drain cleaner.

To keep them from breeding in the drains, clean them out with boiling water or hot white vinegar. This will eliminate any eggs within the pipes, making the environment hostile for them.

On the other hand, you can also use a drain snake to manually wash the pipes and eradicate any debris to which the flies are drawn.

Then, wrap the drains with duct tape for almost 24 hours – any residual flies should attach to the duct tape.

Wrap Up

Fruit flies can be annoying and can create a mess in your bathroom. However, they do not sting or bite, but who wants to have any creepy flying bugs in their bathrooms.

So, if you want to get rid of them, try using the three simple ways mentioned above. Moreover, maintain the hygiene of your bathroom, clean it regularly, wash the drains, and make sure there is no standing water on the floor.

If you’ve ever called a plumber for help because you noticed an unusual odor coming from your drain or your water isn’t draining as it should, chances are that they performed a sewer camera inspection.

A sewer camera inspection is a process by which a professional feeds a cable with a camera at the end through your pipes, enabling them to see any roots, bellies, or breaks in the line.

These inspections allow plumbers to locate damage or problems without more invasive means like digging underground. They also give the plumber a valuable look at the inside of the pipe, where the problems often occur.

When and Why Do You Need a Sewer Camera Inspection?

Usually, camera inspections are done to detect the source of a problem. There are several signs you may need a camera inspection:

• Sinks that don’t drain
• Inconsistent water pressure
• Toilets that don’t flush properly
• Visible leaks inside or outside the house

If you notice any of these signs, call a professional to check out the problem.

Normally, it’s not enough to know that there is a problem in the drain; a technician will also need to know where the problem is and what material may be causing a clog. This way, they can determine the best way to resolve the issue without using the trial and error method.

Additionally, a thorough inspection will uncover any cracks or other issues that may cause you problems down the road. You can learn more about camera inspections in this guide from The Spruce.

Sewer camera inspections are often performed in conjunction with a sewer and drain cleaning service. The cleaning service may be performed before an inspection as pipes that haven’t been cleaned in some time will have build-up, making it hard for the technician to see anything through the camera.

Technicians may also perform the cleaning service after a camera inspection if the inspection reveals that the source of the problem is simply a dirty pipe.

Drain and Sewer Cleaning Services

There are several types of cleaning services that your pipes may need before a camera inspection. If you are conducting a home inspection or performing routine maintenance, you can schedule a residential drain cleaning service.

This service will thoroughly clean the line, removing any blockages and enabling the technician to conduct the full camera inspection.

However, if you are experiencing a leak or severe blockage, you may need to seek the help of an emergency drain cleaning service right away.

Emergency Cleaning Services

Your home may require emergency drain cleaning in some situations. In the case of a plumbing emergency such as flooding, foul odors, cloudy water, pooling water, or water backups, you should immediately search for “emergency drain service near me” to find an available professional.

In the Charlotte area, you can skip the search and contact Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC directly. We have staff on call 24/7. If left untreated, the underlying cause of these issues will often get worse and more expensive to fix, so reach out to us today.

What to Expect During a Drain and Sewer Cleaning 

A drain and sewer cleaning involves several distinct steps, including:

Preliminary Questions 

Technicians will often ask about the history of your home and sewer system. They’ll want to know what, if any, maintenance you’ve had done and what types of problems you may have had in the past.

Diagnostics

The technician will run tests and inspect areas where there are suspected backups. This investigation helps ensure they are using the right equipment to solve the problem.

Running the Cleaning Machine

This is an automated process that clears and cleans the line.

Testing the Results 

The technician will run a test to make sure everything is running as it should. Once the sewage has drained out of the sewer line, they will run several fixtures simultaneously to test flow.

The average drain cleaning service takes about 1 to 2 hours to complete. To prepare for a scheduled cleaning, you should clear a path to your access point to make room for equipment and remove any items that might be in the way.

If there is already backed up water or sewage, you should remove it yourself or with the help of a remediation company before the technician arrives.

Should Sewer and Drain Cleaning Be Done Routinely?

The short answer is yes. A good rule of thumb is to have your sewer lines cleaned every 18 to 22 months. Depending on the history of the home and previous problems, your home may require cleanings more often.

Consult with your trusted technician to decide on the appropriate cleaning schedule. If you’d like to learn more about your home sewage system and best practices, visit this homeowner’s guide from the EPA.

Look no further if you are seeking a camera inspection or drain cleaning in Charlotte, NC. The professionals at Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC lead the way in efficient and timely drain cleaning in Charlotte.

Have you noticed water pooling around the drain when you take a shower? Is there a bad odor coming from your kitchen sink? These are just a few indicators that you have a clogged drain.

When it comes to drain cleaning, plumbers approach the issue in many different ways. Traditional techniques have involved augers, snakes, or harsh chemical dissolvents. One of the best methods is high-pressure drain cleaning, as it comes with several benefits. Check out just six of them below!

What Is High-Pressure Drain Cleaning?

Professional plumbing experts often perform high-pressure drain cleaning (also known as hydro-jetting) to blast through clogs. This method is proving to be the most beneficial drain cleaning technique for many reasons. It involves a plumbing technician using a flexible hose connected to an adjustable nozzle. The nozzle emits a high-pressure stream of water into your pipes to shatter clogs.

Learn more about the benefits of high-pressure drain cleaning here:

1. Produces More Thorough Results

When it comes to clearing out clogged drains, high-pressure cleaning produces the most effective results. Many different items and conditions can cause blockages, including grease, coffee grinds, tree roots, hair, and more.

When it comes to other drain cleaning methods, most clogs and sludge often require more than one technique. On the other hand, high-pressure drain cleaning is effective and gets the job done on the first try.

That is because the high-pressure stream of water spins in multiple directions when blasted into the pipes, tackling different types of blockages from various angles and forcing it out of place.

2. Faster Than Other Drain Cleaning Techniques

High-pressure sewer and drain cleaning are excellent because of how quickly they work. Hydro-jetting can clear blockages significantly faster than any other method.

Other drain-cleaning methods require poking and pushing at a clog to remove it from the drain. Of course, that is a time-consuming, tedious task. High-pressure drain cleaning, on the other hand, blasts clogs and blockages out at rapid speed.

When you opt for high-pressure drain cleaning, an expert can clear several blockages throughout a drainage system quickly and efficiently. That saves time for both the plumbing technician and the homeowner!

3. More Cost-Effective Than Traditional Methods

It’s no secret that drain and sewer cleaning services aren’t always cheap. Whether it be a standard service for a small clog or an emergency cleaning, these expenses can add up and wreak havoc on your bank account.

Fortunately, high-pressure drain cleaning is the most economical way to clear drains. That is because no heavy equipment or costly chemicals are necessary. The process requires no drilling, so there’s no service charge.

All it requires is a plumbing professional to administer the hydro-jetting blasts that will clear the pipes, and the job is all done. It’s this simplicity that makes high-pressure drain cleaning the most cost-effective.

4. Environmentally Safer Than Other Techniques

Another benefit of high-pressure drain cleaning is that it is more eco-friendly than other techniques. For example, some plumbers use harsh cleaning agents for residential drain cleaning. These products are awful for the environment. They can also enter the water system and have toxic results. And that’s saying nothing of the potential for backups and spills that may result in skin irritation, injury, or some other type of physical harm.

On the contrary, high-pressure cleaning uses only water to clear clogs from drains. There are no harsh chemicals or toxins used in the process. It is simply a strong, high-pressure water stream that cuts through blockages and leaves pipes clear without any environmental pollution.

5. Efficient for Cleaning Drainage Lines

High-pressure is the superior drain cleaning method because of its efficiency for drainage lines. Drain line clogs can build up from soap residue, fats, grease, sediments, mineral deposits, paper towels, toilet paper, and other waste. These substances and materials can form a thick sludge that is hard for many drain cleaning methods to cut through.

Well, drain cleaning methods besides hydro-jetting, of course. High-pressure cleaning can blast through any type of thick sludge with ease. The strength of high-pressure cleaning can also cut through even the most stubborn clogs, leaving pipes perfectly clear. That makes it the most efficient option for homeowners looking to repair or renovate their drainage systems.

6. Kills Bad Odors in Your Home

It’s important to remember that many blockages in your pipes come from stuff like food, hair, grease, and more. These materials often lead to bacterial growth in your pipelines, which often produces foul smells and odors. Such bacteria can also pose a serious health risk to you and your family.

Using high-pressure drain cleaning to clear out these blockages will effectively rid your home of any foul smells and eliminate waterborne germs or other health risks that could result from stagnant water build-up.

Contact Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC for Charlotte Drain Cleaning

If you are looking for high-pressure drain cleaning in Charlotte, NC, contact Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC!

Our team of expert technicians provides a variety of drain cleaning and plumbing services throughout the area. That includes emergency drain cleaning, water heater repairs and installations, drain and sewer services, and more!

Many calls we get at Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC could be avoided with a bit of foresight. Homeowners often treat their pipes as all-purpose disposals. However, some things should simply not go down the drain. Don’t let a clogged and overflowing drain disrupt your day. Even if you have a high-quality sink garbage disposal, these foods can lead to clogs and more severe plumbing damage over time.

Eggshells

Your sink garbage disposal is a great place to dispose of most food waste that would typically go to your compost bin. However, anyone putting eggshells down their drain is going to need emergency drain cleaning sooner or later.

How do you determine what foods are suitable for the garbage disposal? Most importantly, the food should easily break up and eventually dissolve in water. That way, your drain can wash it away. Unfortunately, eggshells don’t break down all that quickly.

Your eggshells will shatter into many small pieces going through a garbage disposal, but they’re just going to sit there afterward. It will take a lot of water to soften these hard-shell fragments, giving rise to a significant clog over time.

Grease

Most types of meat give off grease when cooked—some more than others. Bacon and hamburger often leave substantial oil in the pan. Homeowners think it can go down the drain just fine since it’s a liquid, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Grease does not mix with water. Even with thorough mixing, oil or fat will separate into a distinct layer that sits on top of the water. That becomes a problem once the oil gets to your drain’s P-trap (the pipe that holds a small amount of water to prevent gases from entering your home).

The grease will sit on top of the water instead of flushing through to the other side. There, it will congeal into a solid mass that will accumulate other gunk and food waste. Eventually, you’ll need some plumbing drain service to handle this mess.

Coffee Grounds

Coffee grounds—a common compostable waste—have no business being in your garbage disposal. First of all, garbage disposals can’t grind them up any more than they’ve already been ground. It’s the same as dumping them down a regular drain.

The coffee grounds you pour down the drain aren’t going to dissolve in water. You’ve already extracted everything that dissolves when made coffee. The grounds are the leftovers, and they will not be washed away easily.

Enough coffee grounds in your pipes will form a dense sludge that will call for residential drain cleaning. That can quickly spiral into a much worse situation if other debris gets stuck in this sludge.

Flour

The defining property of flour is that it will make dough when mixed with water. When you put flour down your drain, it will mix with water and make dough. Then you’ll have pipes full of dough that will need drain and sewer cleaning services to remedy.

The chunks of wet flour left in your pipes will allow other particles to build up, eventually leading to major clogs. You may think that running enough water will dilute the flour enough to wash away, but that just isn’t how it works.

You should always place flour in the compost or garbage bin to avoid major plumbing repairs. Otherwise, the flour can wash deep into your plumbing before it eventually takes hold and forms a clog.

Bones

Like eggshells—but even worse—bones don’t dissolve or break up in water. They are incredibly hard, even when cooked, and can essentially last forever for our purposes.

Even small bones from fish or chicken will lodge themselves in your plumbing and provide a surface for more clutter to cling to. Over time, a clog forms, and you’ll need some drain cleaning and plumbing help.

Your garbage disposal might seem good enough to break up bones when traveling down the drain, but those pieces aren’t going anywhere. Bones are among the very worst things you could put down your drain.

Celery

Of all foods, this food may be a bit less expected than the others on the list, but it can be just as bad if not worse. Celery has long fibrous strands that can cause severe problems with your garbage disposal.

Foods that present a similar problem can include the following:

• Corn husks
• Asparagus
• Carrots
• Artichokes

These strands wrap around the rotating blades like a string, eventually causing them to seize up. You’ll have to call in emergency drain service near me to fix this, rather than possibly injuring yourself trying to unjam it.

Plumbing Services When You Need Them

Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC provides excellent drain cleaning and 24/7 emergency services for when you need plumbing help immediately. Our experienced team can provide any installation, repair, and drain cleaning in Charlotte, NC, you need.

One of the most frustrating problems any homeowner can have is a clogged drain. This seemingly simple issue can be a major headache and even cost thousands in water damage (maybe that’s how they got the phrase “money down the drain”) if not dealt with promptly. In fact, according to Home Advisor, the average cost of water damage repair is a staggering $2,582.

While even the best-kept homes will eventually need professional residential drain cleaning, there are some steps you can take to reduce the chances of a major clog.

Make sure you keep an eye out for signs that your drains need to be cleaned. In the meantime, use these proven solutions to keep your pipes clog free.

1.  Don’t Overuse Your Garbage Disposal

Despite its name, the garbage disposal is not designed to be used as a trash can. Far too often, homeowners overload their disposals with plate after plate of food debris, grease, and even chicken wing bones.

Overusing your garbage disposal will eventually result in a clog. To make matters worse, after so much misuse, you are likely to ruin your disposal. At that point, you will need to replace it, which can cost anywhere from $150 to $950, according to Home Advisor. This does not include the costs of drain cleaning and plumbing services.

The lesson is you should only use your garbage disposal to get rid of small food debris. Any bits of food that make it past your strainer or drain screen can easily be handled by your disposal. However, you should not intentionally scrape large quantities of waste down your sink drain. You should also avoid putting pasta, rice, and other starchy foods (which will expand when wet) down the garbage disposal.

Your garbage disposal is not the only commonly overused drain in your house. Oftentimes, homeowners use toilets as another quick disposal tool. This can quickly turn into a major clog that will require professional plumbing drain service. Nothing but human waste and toilet tissue should be flushed down the drain.

2.  Stop Hair from Entering Your Drains

Grease is the biggest enemy of your drains, but hair is not far behind. Every time anyone in your household takes a shower, clumps and clumps of hair get sent down your shower drains. While this may not seem like a big deal, it can cause you major issues in the long term.

Hair-related clogs tend to be especially difficult to clear. They can sometimes even necessitate an emergency drain cleaning to prevent serious damage to your home.

Fortunately, keeping hair out of your drains is fairly simple. For starters, you should brush your hair before taking a shower or bath. This will remove most loose stands ahead of time so they won’t end up in your drains. You should also install a shower drain screen or in-drain hair catcher, but more on that a bit later.

3.  Clean Your Drains Regularly

It can be easy to neglect the drains in our home and forget how they figure into our plumbing systems. After all, in most homes, the majority of plumbing is out of sight. But, as noted above, the consequences of clogged drains can be devastating, so it’s very important your drains don’t go neglected.

To keep your drains clear, you should give them a good cleaning about once a month. As long as you implement the other tips in this guide, you shouldn’t need to clean them more often than that.

While all your pipes and tanks need to be cleaned at some point, too, you should pay special attention to your sink and bathtub drains. These two areas are the most common sources of clogs and other malfunctions.

Fortunately, DIY drain cleaning is quick and easy. We recommend cleaning your drains before you start other housekeeping projects since the cleaning supplies need time to work. By the time you finish mopping, doing laundry, or completing other chores, the drains should be good and clean.

Note that, if used repeatedly, the chemicals in commercial drain cleaners can do serious damage to your plumbing and even harm the environment. If a commercial cleaner fails to do the job the first time, call a professional plumber.

Instead of commercial products, you can try using vinegar and baking soda. Pour them down your drain, give them some time to work, and then run hot water for a few minutes. This process should wash away any debris and reduce your risk of encountering a major clog.

4.  Use Drain Screens

Drain screens are a simple and cost-effective way to prevent clogs. You can pick up a pack of drain screens from your local home improvement store for only a few dollars. Simply place them over each of your drains and periodically dump out any debris that accumulates.

Drain screens will reduce the risk of major clogs by catching large debris that shouldn’t be in your pipes. If the screens get damaged or worn out, simply replace them.

Superior Drain Cleaning and Emergency Drain Service Near Me

While the tips above can certainly help you avoid clogs, there may come a time when you need emergency drain cleaning in Charlotte, NC. If that happens, partner with the trusted team at Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC.

Our expert plumbers provide a full array of commercial and residential services. Schedule our drain and sewer cleaning services today and protect your home from the dangers of water damage. Once you experience the high quality of Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC, you will never want to do business with anyone else. We look forward to serving you.

Just like any other home appliance or amenity, your residential plumbing system requires regular maintenance to function at its best. Specifically, you need to schedule regular drain cleaning service every 18 to 24 months to remove debris and prevent clogs. Hydrojetting may be just what you need.

Backed up pipes are not only frustrating, but they can be quite costly, as well. In fact, they can cause serious water damage to your home, which can cost thousands of dollars to repair. Unfortunately, homeowners insurance may not cover your entire claim, either.

When you’re researching drain cleaning services, you have likely encountered the phrase “hydrojetting.” However, you may be unsure of what this is or why it is beneficial when compared to traditional drain cleaning practices.

To help you choose the best contracting service for your Charlotte home, we’ll detail everything that you need to know about jetters.

What is a Hydrojetter?

Simply put, a hydrojetter is a specialized drain cleaning device. This tool utilizes a pressurized stream of water to blast away debris within your home’s plumbing system. A jetting service can have your pipes working like new in no time, preventing the need for serious repairs or emergency service visits.

During a jetting service, the contractor will insert the hose into your drain and active the equipment. The jetter will begin blasting away debris. The contractor will carefully feed the hose into your pipes until the entire network has been cleaned. They will likely need to reposition the jetter one or two times during the service to address all of the pipes in your home.

Every jetter will need a fuel source and a water supply. Jetters may be powered by electricity, gasoline, natural gas, or even diesel. The most powerful jetters are typically diesel powered, which are suitable for the widest variety of jobs.

Different Types of Drain Jetters

Drain jetters are a unique plumbing tool that comes in various styles and sizes. Smaller, handheld jetters may be suitable for simple drain cleaning. However, large pipes like your home’s main sewer line will require a more powerful jetter. Commercial jetters are the most versatile form of jetter.

Portable Drain Jetter

A portable drain jetter is a small, handheld plumbing tool. These devices are almost always powered by an electric motor. They are beneficial because a contractor can easily transport it inside your home and place it exactly where it is needed. They are also safe to use indoors because they do not create hazardous fumes.

On the other hand, these types of jetters are not strong enough to unclog large pipes or your main sewer line. Most plumbing contractors rely on heavy-duty jetters, as they are capable of cleaning the pipes throughout your entire residence.

General Plumbing Jetter

Plumbing jetters are also available in a mid-sized model. These jetters are typically mounted to a metal frame and look similar to a pressure washer or portable generator. They have wheels so that a contractor can easily transport them to the necessary location. This type of jetter may be powered by electricity or a traditional fuel source, depending on the model.

High-Pressure Jetter

High-pressure or commercial jetters are the most powerful type of jetter. They are either mounted to a trailer or on the back of a flatbed truck. While these jetters may be powered by one of several fuel sources, diesel powered jetters are extremely popular.

Commercial jetters have hose reels mounted to the trailer. These reels contain hundreds of feet of tubing, allowing the contractor to access drains anywhere on your property with ease. They include several different sizes of hose, depending on which drain is being cleaned.

Alternatives to Pressure Jet Drain Cleaners

The common alternative to jetters are plumbing snakes. This type of drain cleaning service has been around for decades and is a great option for removing a localized clog. However, snakes are inefficient for cleaning your entire plumbing system.

Snakes are long metal tools that are fed into your piping system. The contractor must manipulate the snake within your pipe and manually detect any obstructions. Oftentimes, the contractor will detect and remove large blockages, but may overlook smaller debris.

While jetting services cost a bit more than a traditional pipe cleaning, it is also much more effective. When you have your pipes cleaned with a high powered jetter, all of the debris will be removed, which will leave your pipes working like new.

Benefits of Hydrojetting

Hydrojetting is one of the most efficient means of cleaning your home’s plumbing.  It can help you to avoid major repair costs and frustrating plumbing issues. Not only that, but jetting may also extend the life of your plumbing system.

Jetting is not just good for your home; it is also good for the environment. Since jetters only use pressurized water, there is no harmful runoff to drain into the sewer system.

Line Jetter Services Near Me

If you are ready to take advantage of the many benefits of hydrojetting services, then you need to contact Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC. Our professional and friendly team will get your plumbing system working like new in no time. We use a high-powered diesel jetter to ensure that you get the best cleaning service possible.

Let’s face it:  One of the most frustrating things that you will experience as a homeowner are clogged drains and sewage backups. However, clogged drains create more than just a major headache. They can also cause major water damage to your Charlotte, NC, home.

The cost of water damage repair can be thousands of dollars and not everything may be covered by your homeowners insurance. You can avoid many costly repairs by scheduling routine drain cleaning for your home’s plumbing system.

To help you stay prepared, we have listed 5 common signs that you need sewer and drain cleaning services.

You Are Experiencing Slow Drains

One of the earliest warning signs of a drainage problem is slow water flow. If you have realized that your tub, shower, or sink has suddenly started to drain more slowly than usual, then you likely have an obstruction in your pipes.

Do not wait until it becomes a full-blown backup. Schedule a Charlotte drain cleaning service and protect your home from water damage. Drain cleaning is quick and affordable, especially when compared to the substantial cost of repairing serious water damage.

You’ve Never Had Residential Drain Cleaning

It does not matter how old your home is; drain and sewer cleaning services are a necessary maintenance service that you must not neglect. If you have never scheduled drain cleaning for your home, then it is a good idea to book an appointment.

Generally, it is a good idea to have your drains cleaned every 18 to 24 months for the best results. Putting it off longer than this can open your home up to clogs or slow drainage issues. In addition to scheduling drain cleaning, you should also have your plumbing inspected every few years to check for damage or obstructions.

You Have Frequent Clogged Drains

Even the most well maintained drains can experience a minor clog every now and then. However, you should not be dealing with daily or even weekly clogs. If you are, then you need to schedule a drain cleaning as soon as possible.

Frequent clogs are a sign of an obstruction within your plumbing system. While the actual clog may be caused by debris that has accumulated near the entrance to the drain, there is likely more to the story. For example, an obstruction deep in your pipes can cause water to drain slowly. This slow-moving water can allow waste to become lodged in your pipes, especially at bends or curves.

If it seems like your home’s plumbing system is not working like it should be, do not ignore these warning signs. Doing so can cost you thousands of dollars and leave you dealing with preventable plumbing issues.

Your Drain is Completely Backed Up

One of the most obvious signs that you need a professional drain cleaning is a total backup. If you have standing water at multiple drain locations, then the main sewer line to your home is the likely culprit.

Oftentimes, the water will begin to accumulate in your shower or tub because these lines are lowest to the ground. However, ignoring the clog or continuing to use water with a blocked sewer line will cause overflows elsewhere. Problems with the main sewer line can quickly result in water damage to your home.

Many homeowners make the mistake of thinking that the main sewer line does not need to be cleaned due to its large diameter. However, it is important to remember that this pipe is responsible for transporting wastewater from your entire home into the sewer or septic tank. This means that any debris washed down your drains will eventually enter your sewer line.

Items like grease, flushable wipes, and hair can accumulate in this large pipe and cause serious plumbing issues. Fortunately, residential drain cleaning services address these obstructions and help to keep your plumbing system working like new.

You’ve Noticed Unusual Odors or Sounds

If your pipes have been gurgling or producing unusual odors, do not ignore this serious warning sign. Both of these are symptoms of a clog within your pipes.

When debris becomes trapped in your plumbing line, the odor will make its way back to the drain entrance and into your home. If debris and wastewater is draining all the way to the sewer system, then these odors will not be present.

The gurgling sound is also indicative of a clog. As water forces its way past an obstruction, it can produce abnormal noises.

Drain Cleaning in Charlotte, NC

If your home’s plumbing system is experiencing any of these issues, then you need superior drain cleaning services! Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC is the premier plumbing contractor in Charlotte, NC.

Our experienced professionals provide a full array of plumbing repairs and maintenance, including emergency drain cleaning service. We use diesel-powered drain jetters to provide a superior level of clean! Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment.

A clogged drain or sewer line is one of the most frustrating things that you will encounter as a homeowner. Sewage backup is not only an inconvenience, but it is entirely unpleasant. Major drain clogs require professional plumbing services. In the past, the plumbing professional would come out to your home and dislodge the blockage with a tool known as a snake. While many companies still use these devices today, a plumbing jetter is the better solution. This high-powered plumbing tool can quickly rid even the worst clogs and get your drains working at their best.

What is a Plumbing Jetter?

Plumbing jetters, also known as pressure jet drain cleaners, are a commercial plumbing tool designed to clean your drains and remove blockages. The device uses high-pressure water jets to get rid of obstructions and allow water to flow freely through your pipes.

Plumbing jetters are a much safer alternative to caustic drain cleaners, which are harmful to consumers and the environment.  A jetter consists of the following components:

• Motor
• Pump
• Hose reel
• Hose
• Various nozzles

The jetter will also need a water source. Some jetters include a storage tank but most connect to your home’s water supply.

Are There Different Types of Plumbing Jetters?

There are many different types and sizes of jetters in use today. The ideal type of jetter will depend on the service being provided and the size of the drain that is being cleaned.

Some commonly used jetters are electric drain jetters and portable drain jetters. These types of jetters are extremely quiet due to the electric motor. They are great for residential and commercial applications as they can be used indoors.

Portable jetters are excellent for small pipes and are most often used to unclog obstructions in sinks or toilets. They are not suitable for large commercial applications or for clearing out a main residential sewer line.

Despite their benefits, both of these jetters produce limited power due to their compact electric motors. The ideal option are diesel-powered jetters.

Why Is a High Pressure Jetter the Best Option?

The largest type of jetter is referred to as a high-pressure or commercial jetter. This piece of equipment is either attached to a trailer or placed in the back of a flatbed truck. Most high-pressure jetters are powered by a diesel engine, which yields a substantial amount of power.

Despite their size, diesel-powered jetters are by far the most versatile. They are equipped with hundreds of feet of hose so that they can reach anywhere in your home or business. The hose size can be reduced to fit smaller drains through the use of adapters. They also feature several different nozzle sizes.

A high-pressure diesel jetter can handle any blockage regardless of size. They can be used to clean out municipal sewer lines or main drain lines leading to large commercial spaces. This is by-far the most effective type of jetting service.

General Water Jetter vs. Plumbing Snake

As mentioned above, some plumbers still rely on plumbing snakes to unclog drain lines. A snake is essentially a flexible metal tool that is manipulated into your piping to remove obstructions. While modern snakes are often equipped with cameras and lights to provide an in-depth look at your plumbing system, they are not the ideal way to unclog a drain.

Major obstruction and heavy debris can be especially resistant to a plumbing snake. In addition, grease clogs are difficult to remove with a snake. This is because grease is soft and tacky. The snake will easily poke through the grease obstruction, but it will not be able to remove the build-up.

On the other hand, a high pressure jetter can easily blast away any clog. Jetters will get rid of any debris on the walls of your pipes and improve their overall function. They are the ideal means of cleaning plumbing lines and removing obstructions.

What Types of Clogs Require Jetter Services?

Practically any type of obstruction in your pipe can be removed with a jetter. As noted above, grease clogs are one of the most common and frustrating types of clogs to deal with. Jetters can get rid of grease much more easily than other drain clearing tools.

Hair can also clog up residential drain lines. Like grease, hair is very difficult to remove with a drain snake. This is because the strands of hair can become entangled around the snake. Blasting it away with a jetter is all too easy though.

Foreign objects and plant debris are the other sources of residential drainage issues that can require the use of a jetter. Whether your child flushed down their favorite toy or you used one too many of those “flushable” wipes, a jetter can remedy the issue in no time.

Benefits of Line Jetter Services

While no commercial equipment is completely without drawbacks, jetter services are pretty close to perfect. They can get rid of the most severe obstructions with ease. In addition, jetter services are extremely efficient. In fact, the average jetter service visit lasts only 1 to 2 hours, while a major plumbing repair can last up to 8 hours.

Jetters are even safe for the environment. As noted above, drain cleaners are extremely harmful. Since jetters only use pressurized water, they are the much safer alternative.

Jetter Services in Charlotte, NC

If you are dealing with frequent clogs and mounting plumbing repair costs, then it is time to contact Superior Plumbing & Drains, LLC about our jetter services. We can clean your drains and get rid of pesky clogs in no time! Our professionals are available 24/7 for all your plumbing needs.

Of all of the various plumbing problems that you might face in your home, line blockages are one of the most frustrating. Blocked lines can lead to serious damage that can cost you thousands of dollars. They are also responsible for secondary issues, such as clogged drains, and can even result in a contaminated water supply. A typical drain clog can be cleared with traditional tools, such as a snake. However, snakes do not work well when you’re trying to clear drains through softer debris like grease. The best tool for grease-related clogs is a drain jetter.

What is a Jetter?

A jetter or pressure jet drain cleaner is a specialized plumbing tool that is used to clear your pipes. Jetters are very powerful and work by employing high-pressure water jets to clear any obstructions from your pipes. They are useful for residential and commercial applications. Plumbers can even use a plumbing jetter on larger municipal sewage systems.

What Powers a Jetter?

Among the power source options for jetters, diesel is the most effective. They are extremely versatile and durable. These jetters are much larger and are mounted to a trailer or a rack in the bed of a truck. The pressure is adjustable so that it can meet the needs of any job.

Larger lines, such as the main sewage line of your building, may require a high-pressure diesel jetter.  Commercial jetters are also used for municipal sewer lines. They require water reserves to guard against outworking the water supply found at the job site.

Despite their size, diesel-powered jetters are a great option for indoor use, as well. They often include hydraulic hose reels with speed control options so that the line can be fed into your clogged pipes. The hoses are several hundred feet long and can reach any plumbing inside or outside of your residence. Different hose sizes can be attached to the jetter to fit within pipes of a smaller diameter, too.

What Causes Clogged Plumbing Lines?

While there are many potential causes of clogged plumbing lines, they can be divided into one of four categories:  Hair, grease/food waste, foreign objects, or plant roots. An accumulation of any of these types of debris can result in blockages that require the use of a general water jetter. However, grease and foreign objects tend to be the worst offenders.

Plants are drawn to water sources. Over time, the roots of a plant can infiltrate your pipes and cause leaks. The roots can also collect other types of obstructions and form a complete blockage. Jetters are useful for breaking up roots, but you may need additional repairs if cracks are present in your pipes.

Hair accumulates in your drains when members of your household bathe or shower. This hair will eventually clog up your drain lines. However, hair-related blockages can usually be cleared out with a snake or another tool. Severe cases can require the use of a jetter.

Grease and food waste result in drain line clogs. The primary source of grease clogs will be from your sink or dishwasher, but some grease is also drained into your plumbing lines from your washing machine.  These types of clogs are some of the most difficult to remove, due to the characteristics of grease.

Grease is both soft and tacky, which means that it will adhere to your pipe walls. Snakes will typically just poke a small hole in the food waste but will not be able to remove the clog. Grease blockages are most often found at the places where your pipe bends or turns. The most efficient way to remove these obstructions is through the use of a high-pressure jetter.

The fourth cause of drain blockages is foreign objects. Whether your little one flushed their favorite toy down the drain by “accident” or you used one too many “flushable” wipes, these odd items can cause stubborn clogs. Jetters can dislodge toys or break up an accumulated bundle of wipes much more easily than other tools can.

What is Considered to Be a Plumbing Emergency?

Any plumbing problem can disrupt your day-to-day routine. However, certain issues should be considered to be an emergency, as they require prompt attention. As a general rule, any disruption in water service that poses a risk of damage warrants a call to a professional plumber. Here is a list of the five most common plumbing emergencies:

• No running water
• Water heater failure
• Stopped up drain
• Backed up sewer
• Burst pipe

Of these five frequently encountered issues, three of them are related to blockages or clogs in your lines. A lack of running water and sewer back-ups can result in burst pipes if they are ignored.

While a stopped-up drain may sound like it’s an easy fix, it is important that clearing is handled appropriately. You should avoid dumping a bottle of caustic drain cleaner in your sink or shower. These cleaners do not address the root of the problem and can even be very dangerous. If the cleaner does not clear the blockage, the plumber that responds will have to contend with your clog and the harmful cleaner.

The easier approach for these types of blockages is to contact a professional plumber. They can clear out your drain with a line jetter and get your plumbing lines working in no time. Jetters are much safer than harmful drain cleaners. They are also environmentally friendly because they only use water to clear your lines.

Jetter Services Near Me

If you are experiencing clogged lines, then you may benefit from jetter services. While you can purchase a jetter yourself, these devices are very expensive and can damage your pipes if improperly used. That is why it is best to leave this task to the experienced plumbers at Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC.

Our professionals are available day or night for all of your plumbing needs. We offer fast, award-winning service when you need it most. Contact us today and experience the Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC difference!

While most people get their heaters serviced regularly and clean out their gutters before winter strikes, one vital utility can often be overlooked:  The frozen sewer line. This is understandable, since the majority of a plumbing system is out of sight.

However, a frozen sewer line is not to be taken lightly. It can cause frustrating sewage backups and even significant damage to the plumbing in your home. The best way to prevent frozen lines is through regular sewer and drain cleaning.

What Causes a Sewer Line to Freeze?

As you might expect, your sewer line can freeze when the temperatures go below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. There is usually at least one other contributing factor, as well, but the temperature alone can be the cause of a frozen line. The complicating factors that can lead to a frozen sewer line include:

• Faulty insulation around  your pipes
• A sudden drop in temperature, which is common in the winter months
• Lack of water flow in an exposed drain
• Blocked pipes
• Thermostat or heating malfunction in the home

Just like any other utility in your home, your sewer system needs to be serviced annually. Regular plumbing and drain cleaning can protect you from frozen sewer lines and costly leaks. Early detection of faulty piping is the best way to prevent the need for major repairs.

How Do Pipes Become Blocked?

Pipe blockages are often associated with a sink or a tub not draining as it should. While this is a common result of blocked pipes, they can also increase your risk of a frozen sewer line. Many things can cause obstructions in your pipes and sewer line, but they can be divided into four main categories:  Hair, food waste, plant roots, and foreign objects.

People shed hair when they bathe, which accumulates in the drain pipes. You can stop some of this hair from entering your pipes with a screen or barrier, but if it gets through, it will eventually cause a clog. When that happens, you need to have your drains cleaned.

Washing food waste or grease down the sink is a sure way to cause clogged sewer lines. Grease will adhere to the sidewall of a pipe and catch other debris. Save yourself the headache and throw food waste and grease in the trash, where it belongs.

Plants are another potential pipe blocker. Since plants seek out water, they can grow into your pipes and cause cracks. Finding and removing these plants can be nearly impossible to do by yourself. However, professional plumbers have the tools necessary to scope out your drains and remove these pesky obstructions.

While hair and plant-based blockages are mostly out of your control, whether you flush foreign objects is not. As a general rule, you should avoid flushing anything down the toilet other than biological waste and toilet paper. This means that you should not flush paper towels, tissues, or “flushable” baby wipes, as all of these items fail to properly break down in a sewer system.

How Often Do I Need Drain and Sewer Cleaning Services?

Regular plumbing drain service and sewer line cleanings can help to prevent frozen pipes. But exactly how often do you need these services? The recommended time frame for preventative sewer cleaning is every 18 to 22 months. If you are experiencing drainage issues more frequently, there may be a more significant problem that will need to be repaired.

Signs of Frozen Sewer Lines

Following the tips above can help you to prevent frozen sewer lines. While this information can help to protect your pipes, it is not foolproof. That is why it is also important to recognize the signs of a frozen line. Two of the most recognizable clues include strange odors or noises coming from your sewer pipes. Gurgling sounds or foul smells are strong indicators that your pipes are backed up.

If you see water where it should not be, then you may have a frozen or damaged sewer line. Damp ceilings or walls are pretty obvious signs, too. The formation of sinkholes or puddles outside your home should also prompt a call to a professional.

Frost on easily visible pipes, such as those in your basement or underneath a faucet, is another sign of frozen pipes. A lack of water coming out of your faucet is another strong indicator, as well.

How Do I Know If My Sewer Issue is an Emergency?

Any plumbing issue can be frustrating, but not all of them are necessarily an emergency. For example, a faucet that has a very slow drip or a shower that has started to drain a little slower may be able to wait. However, the following items should always be considered to be urgent and prompt a call to a professional:

• No running water
• Failed water heater
• Completely clogged drain
• A sewer backup
• A broken or burst pipe

When in doubt, it is best to have your plumbing system checked out.

What is Emergency Drain Cleaning?

Emergency drain cleaning involves prompt service to clear the blockage of your sewer lines and other pipes. This service can be performed anytime, including after-hours and on the weekends. The sooner your frozen or blocked sewer lines are cleaned, the better the outcome will likely be. Putting it off can subject your home to serious water damage and leave you with a major repair bill.

During the service call, the plumber will identify the source and location of your blockage. They will then remove it and repair any damage that may have occurred to your pipes.

Emergency Drain Service Near Me

If you are experiencing frozen sewer lines or other plumbing emergencies, Superior Plumbing & Drains, LLC, can help. We proudly provide emergency drain cleaning in Charlotte, NC. One of our experienced and courteous plumbers will be available 24/7, 365 days a year for all of your plumbing needs.

Not only do we offer emergency drain cleaning in Charlotte, but we also provide a full array of plumbing repair and installation services. Contact us today and experience our award-winning service.

For most people, the winter season brings to mind fun holidays, cozy evenings with family, and perhaps even a chance for snow. But the falling temperatures of winter can also present frustrating and inconvenient problems with your home’s plumbing systems. In severe cases, you may even need to seek emergency drain cleaning or plumbing services to resolve an issue.

When your home’s drain pipes freeze during the winter, it can cause significant problems for you and your family. Frozen drains can interfere with many of your daily activities. You may have to drive to a friend’s house to take a shower or wash your clothes. If temperatures are sufficiently low, frozen pipes can even be dangerous.

If elements of your home’s plumbing systems have frozen, you will need to contact qualified professionals for plumbing and drain cleaning services. However, you don’t have to wait until your drains are frozen in order to take action. In the following post, we will examine several ways to avoid freezing drains during the cold winter months.

Keep Your Heat On

While this might seem obvious, it is worth noting that decreasing the internal temperature of your home can cause pipes and drains to freeze. Many families plan trips to visit others during the holidays. If you are planning to travel during the winter months, you should keep the heat in your home active while you are away.

It would be a waste of energy (and money) to keep the thermostat set quite as high as you usually might while being at home. However, it is a good idea to set the thermostat to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This should provide enough heat to keep your interior pipes and drains from freezing while you are traveling. If you fail to control the temperature and it drops below a safe level, you may need a professional plumbing drain service to make repairs if your pipes become affected.

Keep Your Faucets Dripping

If you know that certain drains are vulnerable to freezing, keep the faucet above that drain open just enough to allow a trickle of water. When a faucet is dripping slightly, the pressure of the plumbing system decreases. Frozen pipes sometimes burst because of the pressure that is created between the faucet and the frozen blockage.

Freezing water is not the only factor that can cause clogged drains. However, during the cold winter months, frozen water is one of the primary reasons for blocked drain pipes. Keeping your faucets dripping will prevent too much pressure from building up in the drains and pipes.

If a faucet has both hot and cold taps, keep both taps open enough to drip. This will prevent both your cold and hot water pipes from freezing and bursting. If your shower or other bathroom pipes freeze, you may need to contact a plumbing company that can handle sewer and drain cleaning.

Find and Seal Holes and Gaps

Sometimes pipes freeze because cold air can reach the pipes from outside the house. Sealing up holes and gaps where the pipes go through walls or floors can prevent this. You can caulk or apply spray foam insulation around the holes in the floor or wall that surrounds the piping.

This will not only help you to avoid frozen drains and pipes, but it will also make your home more energy efficient. Keeping heat contained within your home will help your pipes to remain sufficiently warm. This can prevent the need to contact a plumbing drain service specialist.

Use Heating Tape on Pipes

Heating tape can be purchased from most home improvement stores. Also known as a “heat cable,” this tape provides an additional heat source to keep your pipes and drains above freezing temperatures. Wrap small areas of piping that are closest to the exterior of the house to decrease the likelihood that the water inside of those pipes will freeze.

While insulation is helpful for most pipes, heating tape is best for short sections of high-risk piping. Apply heat cables to any external pipes or drains that are close to outer walls. Heating tape is available in two forms:

• Self-Regulating:  This type of cable supplies more current as the temperature gets colder and decreases power as temperatures become warmer.
• Constant Wattage:  This type of heating cable provides a consistent amount of heat, regardless of the external temperature. You will need to plug and unplug this kind of heating tape as needed.

Using heating tape is an effective way to prevent both frozen drains and the need for professional sewer and drain cleaning services.

Apply Insulation to Pipes

Homes in warmer climates often lack insulation on their pipes. Areas in your home that are less insulated are also more susceptible to lower internal temperatures during colder weather months. While you may not need general insulation in an unfinished basement, crawlspace, or attic, it is important to protect any pipes in those areas from freezing.

Rubber and fiberglass pipe insulation can be purchased online or from home improvement stores. After you measure the length and circumference of the pipes in the un-insulated areas of your home, you can purchase insulation that fits the specifications you need. Insulation wrapping should fit snugly around the at-risk pipes. You can secure the rubber or fiberglass sleeves in place with adhesive tape.

While insulating your pipes will help you to avoid frozen drains, prolonged exposure to very cold temperatures will require more than just insulation. You may also need a heat source, such as heating tape or an appropriately warm internal home temperature.

Charlotte Drain Cleaning and Plumbing Services

The previous tips can help you to avoid frozen drains during the winter months. However, sometimes drains clog for other reasons. While preventative measures are always important, most homeowners will occasionally need superior drain cleaning services. Don’t get stuck wondering, “How can I find an emergency drain service near me?” Contact the skilled professionals at Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC.

If your pipes or drains are frozen or clogged, don’t wait to contact plumbing specialists. Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC provides expert plumbing services and drain cleaning in Charlotte, NC. Our qualified and well-trained team can handle all of your plumbing needs. Call us today at (980) 372-7151 if you live in the Monroe/Charlotte area or (704) 813-2888 if you live in the Gaston area or contact us online.

Most homeowners have experienced common plumbing issues, like having a drain that is clogged or a faucet with a water leak. But a different kind of problem arises when your faucets and showerheads don’t maintain the necessary pressure to provide you with all of the water that you need. Insufficient water pressure can make it incredibly frustrating to complete simple daily activities, like showering and cleaning.

While a typical U.S. household uses an average 300 gallons of water each day, we usually do not think about how that water reaches our faucets, toilets, dishwashers, and showerheads. In fact, most homeowners don’t even consider their water pressure until something goes wrong.

The average home’s water pressure is around 40 to 50 PSI (pounds per square inch). If the water pressure in your home has dropped below the standard PSI, it will be noticeable when you turn on your sink, bathtub, or shower.

Low water pressure can be a symptom of a wide range of underlying conditions. While the appropriate response to some issues is to simply wait for the problem to resolve, other problems will require contacting a plumbing professional for emergency water leak repair.

Let’s take a look at a few of the most common reasons for low in-home water pressure.

There is a Problem with the Water Supplier

If you have recently noticed a reduction in your home’s water pressure, don’t panic. Rather than immediately assuming the worst and hiring professionals to provide water leak repair services or searching your house for faulty pipes, ask your neighbors if they are experiencing similar issues.

If they are, then there could be a problem at the level of your local water supply company. Contact the local water supplier to find out if this is the case. You may simply need to wait until they have resolved the issue.

Certain repair processes, such as a water main leak repair, may also cause your tap water to run brown or cloudy. Be sure to ask if the maintenance or repairs will result in any water safety issues for your household.

The Main House Shutoff Valve Is Partially Closed

If you have spoken with your neighbors and the low water pressure issue is specific to your house, the next potential culprit is the main shutoff valve to your home. Unless you have had a history of leaking or burst pipes, you’ve probably never needed to locate the main shutoff valve for your house before.

This valve will likely be located inside of your home where the main water supply pipe enters the house. The valve might have a knob that looks similar to the valve on a standard water hose. For this type of valve, open it by turning the knob counterclockwise fully. Alternatively, if your main house shutoff valve has a lever, be sure that the lever is parallel to the corresponding pipe.

When the main shutoff valve is only partially opened, less water enters the home. This causes the water pressure to drop.

Clogged Pipes

While you might think that clogged pipes only develop just below drains, clogging can occur anywhere along the length of a pipeline. Some particularly deep clogs can hinder the flow of water enough to affect the water pressure in your entire home.

In the case of a clog that is deep inside your pipes or underneath your house, it is always best to call a professional plumbing company to manage the issue. When you attempt to address a clog that is especially deep without the proper training, you risk doing damage to the plumbing in your home and causing even more potential problems.

Leaking Pipes

One of the most common culprits of low in-home water pressure is leaking pipes. However, it does not take an enormous gushing leak to noticeably reduce the amount of water pressure in your home. When a pipe has developed a leak, some of the water that would have flowed to your faucets is misdirected.

Examine any pipes that you can access to determine if they are wet or if there is standing water nearby. If you don’t see any obvious wet spots but you suspect a leak, turn off all the faucets in your house and record the number on your water meter. Don’t use any water for a few hours and then check the meter again. If the meter has changed, a leak is very likely.

On the other hand, if you are able to locate the leak, you can implement the following stopgap measures:

• Turn off the water supply to stop the pipe from leaking
• Dry the pipe and area as much as possible
• Wrap a rubber plumbing patch over the crack or opening in the pipe
• Use electrical tape and a plumbing leak repair clamp to secure the patch

While a quick fix can help to stop the immediate problem, you will still need to contact a professional plumber to handle the leaking pipe and restore your water pressure to the appropriate level. Even if the rubber patch holds, a leaking pipe can damage the foundation of your home, cause rot in the surrounding wood, and introduce contaminants into your drinking water.

Although these are some of the most common reasons for low water pressure, it is important to note that there are a range of other possible causes, including:

• Shared multi-home pipelines
• Updated local water regulations
• Corroded pipes
• A failed pressure regulator
• A partially closed water meter valve
• Faulty fixtures

A trusted plumbing professional can diagnose and handle the problem, ensuring that your home provides the appropriate amount of water pressure.

Finding Water Leak Repair Near Me

If you are in search of professional water leak repair in Charlotte, North Carolina, contact the plumbing experts at Superior Plumbing & Drains, LLC. Whether you need us to diagnose your low water pressure issue, implement water faucet repair, or simply to repair a leaking toilet, our service technicians are available 24/7.

We have helped thousands of satisfied customers in the Charlotte area! Contact us online or call us at (980) 372-7151 if you live in the Monroe/Charlotte area or (980) 595-2696 if you live in the Gaston area.

Blocked drains are not only no fun, they can cause a cascade of harmful outcomes for homeowners and residents. Whether they happen as the result of a slow drain that eventually just stops or they’re sudden and out of nowhere, the problem posed is the same: you have water that needs somewhere to go but it just can’t.

While the reasons you might have a blocked drain can vary, ultimately your plumbing professional will know whether your situation requires something like an emergency drain cleaning or something a bit more involved like jetting. Regardless of the fundamental rain problem, once it’s resolved, knowing the biggest reasons behind most blocked drains can allow you to prevent these issues from arising again in the future.

With that in mind, today, we’ll address four of the most common reasons that you might experience a blocked drain that requires a superior drain cleaning from your local Charlotte drain cleaning experts at Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC!

Hair

Humans shed hair frequently. In the shower, it’s to be even more true! Dermatologist Wilma Bergfeld, MD, says, “Finding clumps of hair in the shower or on your hair brush is actually pretty normal.” She adds, “Most hair shedding should happen in the shower.”

It’s important to do what you can to attempt to prevent that shed hair from entering your drain system using things like drain screens or simply being diligent about collecting the hair from your drain after every shower. However, eventually, it’s all but inevitable that your shower drain will have some sort of hair related blockage. While you might be tempted to turn to a chemical drain opener when that hair does block up your drain, you should fight that urge, because chemical drain cleaners pose often invisible risks to you, risks to your pipes, and your future plumbing professional who, if your chemical cleaners fail, will now have to contend with caustic and dangerous chemicals in order to provide your emergency drain cleaning service.

Plant Roots

The silent and sneaky threat to your drains and plumbing systems is the one you have nothing to do with and can’t see without some special camera equipment: plant roots. Plant roots are constantly looking for water, and when your pipes aren’t stopped up, they’re full of what plants crave. So it makes sense then that over time, your pipes become a prime ground for the propagation of root growth for plants, so much so that they may even grow up into your home!

A professional has the tools of the trade that make it possible to diagnose and treat root problems that grow otherwise unabated in your pipes. When it comes to a root issue, there isn’t much you can do without professional assistance for a sewer and drain cleaning, so this problem is one where you’ll want to be vigilant about being attentive to the telltale signs of root growth: slow drains, gurgling sounds coming from your blocked drains, your DIY drain clearing efforts work but only temporarily, etc. When you start to notice a broader issue with your blocked drains, it is time to seek out drain cleaning and plumbing experts to assuage your fears and concerns.

Grease and Food Waste

The things that wash down our drains don’t simply disappear! So when we put things like cooking grease into our drains or food waste into our garbage disposals, they can wreak havoc in the lines in relatively easy to address within our homes or potentially in much more expensive parts of the sewer line out near the city hookups.

Regardless of where the issues may arise in your drains or sewers, a grease or food waste blockage will require drain cleaning and plumbing service. The folks at the Water – Use It Wisely conservation campaign explain, “Because the sewers get water from thousands of kitchens, the smallest amount of grease and oil can build up and completely clog a pipe as the fats and grease cling to the inside of drains and sewer pipes.” If you encounter a grease or food waste blockage, it’s critical to consult a professional to assess the threat that blockage poses to your system.

And make no mistake, using a garbage disposal does not eliminate potential issues for a food waste blockage! Water – Use It Wisely continues: “Garbage disposals only shred solids and do not prevent grease from food from building up again. Hot water or a dishwasher might melt the grease and push it further down the drain, but it will only solidify again once it cools, causing a build-up in the main sewer system.

Chemicals that claim to dissolve grease will only temporarily push the grease, affecting neighboring lines.” Because a chemical drain cleaner product will often void your disposal warranty, it’s important to avoid putting anything greasy or any kind of food waste into your drain or disposal intentionally, but should something happen where you find yourself in need of plumbing drain service, you should look for “emergency drain service near me” and contact us at Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC!

Foreign Objects and Other Unflushables

If grease and food waste are punch one in the combo, anything else that enters your drain that shouldn’t is the second punch! Erika Engelhaupt of National Geographic writes, “Huge blobs of fat and trash are filling the world’s sewers.” She explains that when one house puts grease into their drain and another house flushes something that’s not really supposed to be disposed of by the sewer, those two forces combine to create “fatbergs” in the main lines which cause havoc for everyone in the area around that enormous blockage.

Looking at a more micro view to the individual home, flushing things that aren’t actually intended for sewer disposal such as supposedly flushable baby wipes or paper towels can cause serious disruptions to your normal sewer system function and create an emergency need for plumbing and drain cleaning services. The Denver Post reported that as Americans faced the toilet paper shortages that marked the on-set of the Coronavirus pandemic in the United States, many people turned to items such as paper towels or napkins to meet their personal care needs. Unfortunately, because those products are not meant to dissolve or break down in sewers or septic systems, they gum up and eventually block your drainage pipes!

Additionally, for folks with children, there are often occasional oopsies where coins or toys or other non-toilet items find themselves flushed into the system anyway. There isn’t much to be done to prevent these emergencies really, because after all, kids will be kids. So when worst comes to worst and you find yourself fishing for G.I. Joes, step aside and let the pros do your residential drain cleaning!

What Do I Do When I Encounter A Blocked Drain?

Contact us at Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC, and we’ll take care of your drain problems today! We are the 24 hour plumber for the Charlotte area, and when you need drain and sewer cleaning services, we’d love to help. Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC is your superior choice for plumbing and drain cleaning service in the Charlotte, NC area!

Although it can be incredibly infuriating, having clogged drains is a very common problem that most people will experience at some point.

A backed-up sink, toilet, or bathtub can cause unpleasant odors, increase the chances of corrosion, and result in you having to rearrange your entire day. When you’re faced with a clogged drain, it’s wise to contact plumbing professionals, for emergency drain cleaning in Charlotte, NC.

But here’s the good news: There are a number of steps that you can take to prevent clogs, rather than only taking action after the drain has backed up. Conscientious homeowners who focus on maintenance, may be able to avoid or postpone the need for emergency drain cleaning service.

Let’s look at 6 useful tips to prevent clogged drains:

1. Keep Track of What is Going Down Your Drains

Drain clogs in sinks and tubs are rarely the result of one single object in a drain or a sudden event. Typically, severe clogs that require professional sewer and drain cleaning are the consequence of the slow buildup of non-liquid material over a long period of time.

Prevention of drain clogs starts by building a basic awareness of what materials are going down your drains when you use them. Drains are intended for the disposal of liquids and are not designed for the discarding of any type of trash.

While most of us know this, we may not always act on this knowledge like we should. Treating a drain as if it were a trash receptacle can cause big plumbing problems over time.

2. Pour Hot Water Down your Drain 

Some of the most common culprits of drain blockages are food-related substances that can congeal inside your pipes when you pour them down a drain. Kitchen sink clogs are often the result of oils, grease, and other fat-heavy substances that have solidified after disposal.

Ideally, none of these fatty substances would go down your drain at all. However, even with the best practices and care, some fats used in cooking might accidentally wind up in your drain and contribute to possible future clogs.

In order to counter this problem, pour a kettle of hot water down your drain weekly in order to help any solidified oil or grease to break down, maintaining a clear passage in your pipes. Be sure to pour the water down slowly and steadily to ensure that it doesn’t splash back and cause burns.

If you have been in the habit of pouring grease and oils down your drain, changing how you dispose of these substances will save you massive plumbing headaches in the future. Put leftover oils and grease into a sealable container and throw them away in the garbage, rather than sending them into your pipes.

3. Clean your Drains Regularly

Basic cleanliness and maintenance are key in preventing drain clogs. As noted above, typical clogs are the result of accumulations of substances in pipes over long periods of time. So, regular maintenance can help to counteract any gradually accumulating blockages.

Cleaning your drains can involve using a wire or bent hanger to retrieve any non-liquid material that is inside your pipes but not too far beyond the drain’s opening. This can include hair, bits of food, or other miscellaneous things that should not have gone down the drain in the first place.

You can also pour half a cup of baking soda or a full cup of vinegar into the drain. After doing so, wait about thirty minutes and follow up with hot water to help eliminate any foul odors that you might be experiencing due to gunk buildup in your pipes.

4. Avoid Damaging Drain Cleaners

It might seem intuitive to counter a clogged drain with an off-the-shelf drain cleaner. However, chemical drain cleaners have several downsides that make them much less useful than they seem. For instance:

• Burns and fumes: Because off-the-shelf drain cleaners typically create chemical reactions to clear out clogs, the active ingredients are often volatile and can cause noxious fumes or even burn your skin if you come into contact with them.
• Pollutants and Toxins: Because of the chemical reactions that these cleaners rely on to clean pipes, many of them contain pollutants that have the potential to contaminate the local groundwater if there are cracks or openings in any of the pipes that they travel through.
• Damage to your Pipes: The harshness of many common cleaners can result in new or further damage to your pipes. Whether by softening PVC or increasing corrosion in older pipes, these chemical-based cleaners can result in bigger problems for you in the future.

5. Use the Right Kind of Plunger

Another important element of maintenance that works to prevent clogged drains is investing in a high-quality plunger that is designed for your specific needs. Very often, a plunger is the first line of response in the case of a clogged sink, tub, or toilet.

However, many people don’t realize that there are two main types of plungers with specific and distinct purposes:

• Common Cup Plunger: A cup plunger is the standard plunger, consisting of a long firm handle and with a cup on the end for creating pressure to move and break up blockages. The shape of these plungers makes them ideal for flat surfaces like sinks and tubs, but not toilets.
• Flange Plunger: These plungers (also known as “toilet plungers”) have the same features as a common cup plunger, but also feature a flap that protrudes beyond the rim of the cup. This additional flap allows the plunger to create a seal with non-flat surfaces, like a toilet drain.

Make sure that you have a well-made plunger of the appropriate type on hand so that you can clear a clog quickly and effectively.

6. Place Drain Strainers in Sinks

One of the quickest and easiest ways to prevent any solid materials from going into your pipes is to place drain strainers in all of your sinks. These simple mesh strainers are often made of stainless steel and are available in various sizes to fit most sink drains.

Cleaning your drain strainers regularly is an important part of drain maintenance, as well. However, when properly maintained, these small accessories are one of the most cost-effective ways to ensure that no solid materials are unintentionally finding their way into your drains.

Professional Charlotte Drain Cleaning Services

If you are in search of professional drain cleaning in Charlotte, contact the experts at Superior Plumbing & Drains, LLC. Our drain service technicians have helped thousands of people in the Charlotte area. We are available 24/7, so contact us online or call us at (980) 372-7151 if you live in the Monroe/Charlotte area or (980) 981-4273 if you live in the Gaston area for qualified drain cleaning in Charlotte, NC.

There are a variety of drain cleaning solutions out there but not all are created equal in terms of environmental safety. When most people think of drain cleaning, they envision pouring chemicals down clogged or blocked drains in order to solve the problem. While these chemicals aren’t necessarily damaging to pipes, they do prove harmful to the environment. A high pressure jetter is known for being one of, if not the most, environmentally friendly ways to clean your drains.

Today, Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC will be explaining to you how a drain jetter works, why it is one of the most environmentally friendly drain cleaning options available, and why you should consider regular jetting services for your home or business. As North Carolina’s best plumbing company, our experienced plumbers have the knowledge necessary to answer all of your questions about all forms of plumbing jetters. Let’s get started!

What is a Drain Jetter?

Drain jetters are a form of plumbing equipment used to blast water through blocked or clogged pipes at high pressure. This form of drain cleaning is considered to be one of the most effective plumbing methods available to clear blockages and perform regular drain maintenance. When a pressure jet drain cleaner is used on your pipes, a nozzle is fed into the pipe and water pressure reaching up to 3,500 PSI propels it forward.

This extent of pressure works well in cutting directly through build up, cleaning the pipe and clearing the way for normal operation. This leads to a better functioning plumbing system overall and the convenience of jetting cannot be understated. While other drain cleaning methods involve more intrusive methods of reaching the pipe, jetting enables you to leave the pipe in-ground, eliminating the need for higher costs and the hassle of cleanup and repair.

How Environmentally Friendly Are Drain Jetters?

A clogged drain is no small problem. Aside from being incredibly inconvenient, a clogged drain can also cause water to back up in your pipes, damaging them. There is also a significant risk of  health issues associated with the buildup of accumulated waste.

While nobody wants to wake up to a clogged drain, the way that you handle the issue is important. Not only are some methods more effective than others, some are more environmentally-friendly as well. In order to truly understand the environmental benefits associated with drain jetters, we must first discuss the harmful impact that other drain cleaning solutions have on the environment.

Why You Shouldn’t Use Chemical Drain Cleaners

Many homeowners and business owners opt to use a chemical drain cleaner when the issue of clogged drains arise. Not only are chemical drain cleaners found just under your sink, they are also well-known for being cheap, quick, and easy to use. Unfortunately, there are a number of reasons that a chemical drain cleaner is far from the perfect drain cleaning solution.

One of the biggest downsides to using chemical drain cleaners is that they can actually cause further damage to your plumbing system. Considering that chemical drain cleaners work to clear blockages by way of a chemical reaction, these cleaners are caustic and can burn away more than just debris. Many chemical drain cleaners are known for eating away at plastic plumbing in PVC.

The second biggest issue associated with chemical drain cleaners, and the subject of this article, is that they are harmful to the environment. Not only are chemical drain cleaners toxic to you, they are also toxic to the environment. After all, after pouring a chemical drain cleaner down your drain, it has to go somewhere. When exposed to the properties found in most household chemical drain cleaners, local wildlife, plants, and water can be severely negatively impacted. As is the case with humans, chemical drain cleaners are toxic to animals. It has even been argued that the use of chemical drain cleaners may contribute to smog!

Jetting: The More Environmentally Friendly Drain Cleaning Solution

So what’s the difference in environmental impact between chemical drain cleaners and the use of high pressure jetters? As it turns out, the difference is significant. Homeowners and business owners who are conscious of their impact on the environment will be happy to hear that jetting is a completely environmentally friendly drain cleaning solution. But how?

Clean Water

The first reason that jetting is a more environmentally friendly drain cleaning solution is the fact that the process utilizes only clean water. Instead of using the harmful, toxic properties found in chemical drain cleaners, jetting uses clean water to break through blockages.

In many cases, the water used in jetting can even be reused! If the water can’t be successfully reused, it can easily be disposed of in a manner that is ethically responsible and safe, producing no harmful impact on the environment.

Can Be Used Indoors

Another benefit associated with the use of jetting to clean pipes and eliminate blockages is the fact that jetters can actually be used indoors. When running on propane, a cleaner form of fuel, a total of 36 times fewer pollutants are released into the air. This means that jetters can be used safely indoors in order to unblock drain lines connected to sinks, toilets, and showers.

Contact Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC For Jetting Services

Now that you understand why jetting is a much safer, environmentally friendly drain cleaning solution, it’s time to take the next step in clearing blockages and increasing the longevity of your plumbing system. Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC’s jetting services go a long way in increasing the life of your home or business’s plumbing and our expert plumbers are on standby to help. For more information about our jetting services, visit our Jetting Services page!

Grease is an enemy to your drain lines. Although flushing grease down your sink is the easiest option, it will cost you money in the long run. When it is poured down the sink, it solidifies and hardens at the bottom of the pipe making it difficult for solids to pass through. A snowball effect can occur when the hardened or solid grease catches debris flowing by and it builds and builds until your entire home is clogged. You can prevent this by simply throwing it in the trash once it’s cooled.

How to fix

If you would like to try and save some money, the first thing you can try is a degreaser. When pouring degreaser down the sink, turn on your hot water and it will help get rid of some of the grease. The hot water melts it while the degreaser washes it away. This is a quick and simple way to try and decrease the amount of grease and build up that is in your pipes.

Although degreaser helps decrease the amount of grease in your pipes, the only sure option for cleaning it out in your line would be to have a plumber come snake you pipe and place a camera in the line to ensure it has been cleaned thoroughly. If you have already flushed a lot of it down your sink you may need your line cleaned.

After snaking a drain some of the clog may remain, so as an extra assurance we suggest using a sewer camera to view the inside of your pipe. If you have something other than grease like a belly, roots, or a break in your line then a repair is required. If grease isn’t your issue and you’re trying to solve the problem of your clog you can read more on drain issues here.

Below is a video on how grease can coagulate and cost you a lot of money. We had to dig this line up due to repeat backups even after cleaning the line. We found that there was a belly (low spot) as well as plenty of grease that had settled in the pipe. Every time it was cleaned the grease would just sit because it couldn’t wash away until we dug up and repaired this section of pipe. As you can see, our technician had to mess with the grease before it finally let go. It is quite difficult to remove it without repair.

You’ve finally cleared that stubborn clog, but now it’s back. What’s causing it, and how can you stop it for good? 

Read more for expert tips on preventing recurring drain clogs.

Oil and Grease: Notorious for Causing Stubborn Clogs

After cooking bacon for breakfast, it may seem easy to pour the grease down the drain and move on with your day. But while it’s less messy than tossing it in the trash, grease, oil, and fats should never go down your sink. As they cool, they solidify and can quickly cause a major clog. 

To avoid this, pour the grease into a container, such as a coffee can, and dispose of it in the trash instead.

Food Debris That Doesn’t Belong in Your Drains

Your garbage disposal is designed to chop up food scraps, but there are some items it just can’t handle. Potato peels, rice, pasta, and bread, for example, turn into a sticky paste when ground up, which can clog your pipes, much like pouring glue down the drain.

As for the myth that eggshells can sharpen your disposal blades and prevent clogs, that’s simply not true. The membrane inside eggshells can wrap around the blades, causing the disposal to jam. Avoid putting them in the disposal to keep it running smoothly.

Using Your Toilet As a Dumping Ground

Plenty of people use their toilets as a dumping ground for foreign objects, paper towels, dental floss, and even cat litter. Your toilet is designed to handle waste and toilet paper; everything else needs to go in the trash.

That includes baby wipes. Don’t be fooled by the “flushable” label on some baby wipe packages. Even so-called flushable wipes take longer to break down than toilet paper. Flush too many, and you’ll have a serious clog.

Hard Water Wreaks Havoc on Pipes

Hard water doesn’t just make your hair and clothes feel grungy; it also does a real number on your plumbing system. Over time, mineral deposits from calcium and magnesium in the water can build up in your pipes, forming a hard, rock-like scale.

You can dissolve mineral deposits with a mixture of hot water and baking soda. Unless you do something to remedy the problem, though, they’ll come back soon enough. Consider installing a water softener if you regularly struggle with mineral buildup.

Sick of Dealing With Frequent Clogs? Call Our Expert Plumbers

Recurring drain clogs can cause more than just frustration—they can lead to serious blockages and even pipe damage if not addressed. If you’re hearing gurgling or noticing slow drainage, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. 

Contact Superior Plumbing and Drains at (980) 372-7151 for professional drain cleaning services today!

Are your drains giving off unpleasant odors or clogging often? These are clear signs that you need professional drain repair right away. Ignoring these issues can lead to major clogs, leaks, or even pipe damage. 

Below, we’ve highlighted five indicators that it’s time to call a plumber. For more helpful tips, including advice on drain cleaning, contact us today.

1. Your Sinks Take Forever To Drain

When you run the water in your kitchen sink, does it seem to sit there and drain slowly? While it eventually goes down, the delay is a sign of a partial blockage in your pipes. If left untreated, the water could stop draining altogether. Call a professional to clear the blockage before it worsens.

2. You Notice Smelly Drains

Are you noticing a foul odor, like rotting food or, even worse, sewage? If food is trapped in your pipes, it could be from something you accidentally tossed down the garbage disposal, such as onion peels or pasta. These types of sticky, stringy foods can clog the disposal, as it isn’t designed to handle them.

A sewage smell is a more serious issue. Raw sewage is not only unpleasant but also carries harmful bacteria that can pose health risks.

3. Your Drains Make Unsettling Gurgling Sounds

If you hear gurgling when you run the water, this is one of the biggest signs you need professional drain repair. Gurgling sounds happen when water flows over a blockage, causing the formation of air bubbles. Call an expert to handle the clog before it becomes a bigger issue.

4. You Regularly Reach for the Plunger

Do you experience clogs with alarming regularity? This points to a problem deep in your pipes that you can’t reach. Plunging and using drain cleaners may remove part of the blockage, but unless you address the deeper issue, the clog will keep coming back. A plumber can resolve the problem by running a snake down the line to dislodge anything caught there.

5. You Have Clogged Pipes Throughout Your House

Are your sinks, showers, and toilets all clogging or backing up? This is a sign of a system-wide problem that requires the help of a professional. You most likely have a clog somewhere in the main sewer line that’s impacting your entire house.

To resolve this problem, plumbers may use a technique called hydrojetting, which involves blasting the clog with high-pressure water. It’s a great option for tough situations where tree roots and soil are blocking the line.

Call Our Experts for Professional Drain Cleaning Today

Count on our team at Superior Plumbing and Drains to get your plumbing system back up and running again. We offer speedy service in Monroe, Charlotte, Gaston, and beyond.

To schedule drain cleaning and repair, call us at (980) 372-7151. Learn more today.