Five Most Common Reasons for Drain Cleaning

No one wants to walk into the kitchen or bathroom and find slow or clogged drains. Unfortunately, it’s almost certain to happen at one time or another. Let’s look at the five most common drain problems that you may encounter. These are situations that will likely lead to a call for drain cleaning.

A Frequently-Clogged Drain May Need Cleaning

While you should expect to have to occasionally clear a sink or shower drain, having to clear clogs in the same area on a regular basis may be signaling a larger problem. It could be that you can’t reach or clear a large clog. Instead of constantly wasting time on this task, contact a professional plumber to determine the root cause and remove the clog…for good.

More Than One Clogged Drain May Need Cleaning

Similarly, if you experience multiple clogs at the same time, it’s likely a sign of a larger issue in your pipe system instead of the fixture. In this case, you won’t be able to reach your pipes on your own, and a professional should be brought in to inspect and correct the issues quickly.

Slow Drains

Having a slow-running drain might seem like a small issue to experience, but never underestimate the headaches it can cost. Drains run slowly for a variety of reasons, including mineral or grease buildup, a larger clog, or something more costly that’s beginning to fail. Contact an expert right away for a full diagnostic checkup.

Foul-Smelling Drains

Pay attention to the smells coming from your drain. An occasional smell of sewer water is normal, but a persistent foul smell radiating from your drains needs to be addressed. It’s possible that an outside pollutant has entered your pipes that can cause contamination if not corrected as soon as humanly possible.

Flooded Areas in Your Home

Of the situations addressed in today’s blog, unexpected water in your home is definitely the most pressing. A flooded basement can be a sign of sewage system failure and needs to be fixed immediately. Standing water in your home is a risk to the structure itself and to your family’s health. Calling the right professional to assist with flood damage repair cannot wait. It’s an emergency. Hire the right experts.

Drain Problems? Call Team Rooter Immediately!

Now that you know the five most common drain problems you might encounter, it’s time to find the right plumbers. The team at Team Rooter has decades of experience serving pipes across the Los Angeles County area. When you need drain cleaning, contact our team. Anytime, 24/7. We’ll be there and get you moving again fast.

 

 

What to Expect During Backflow Inspections

Backflow is what happens when unclean (non-potable) water flows in the wrong direction. This is a dangerous situation because these problems can lead to contaminated drinking water. It can happen in any piping system–from a pool, the sewer, or even a sprinkler system. If you suspect an issue, scheduling a backflow inspection quickly could save you a costly commercial plumbing repair.

Types of Backflow Devices

There are two main types of backflow systems. These are a reduced-pressure principle device and double-check valves. In either case, a mechanical backflow preventer is what keeps the unclean water from flowing back into the clean water. This preventer is the primary point of concern when an inspection takes place.

What Happens During Backflow Inspections?

Inspections should be completed on commercial plumbing every year. These inspections diagnose potential issues before they become major problems. During an inspection, a trained plumber will take a close look at your plumbing assembly. They will also check where your water lines meet the public water source for any signs of stress. Taking a closer look at your lines is important because they are exposed to weather and other environmental factors that can be damaging. Your expert should also take a look at the status of your backflow preventer to make sure that nothing needs to be adjusted.

What If Damage Is Found?

A certified plumber will make recommendations if they detect damage. In many cases, the plumber can give an estimate and complete the work on the same day. It is critical to have any commercial plumbing issues corrected right away. A damaged backflow system is a public safety risk. Be mindful that the cost of inspection and repair can vary depending on the location of your system, the ease of access, and the level of damage that needs to be corrected. 

If you need an inspection or if you need plumbing system repairs, hiring the right plumbing company is key. The experts at Team Rooter assess and repair these issues with care and speed. When you need commercial plumbing support in Los Angeles, get Team Rooter. Contact us today!

Sewer Services in Los Angeles County

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When you need to have work done on your sewer system, time is of the essence. You don’t want to waste a lot of time trying to find a plumber to handle your needs. Let’s take a look at things for you to consider when finding the right company for sewer services in Los Angeles County.

Ask Your Friends and Family about Sewer Services

One of the ways to find the right sewer service company is to ask those you know: friends, families, and neighbors. Ask those around you who have experienced similar issues. Take their recommendations under consideration before doing too much work on your own. Trust your network for who to hire and who to avoid.

Do Your Homework

Once you have some recommendations from friends and family, take a closer look at local companies online. Review each company’s website, read reviews on Yelp, Angie’s List, and other help boards. Strangers can provide a wide array of views on your options–be cautious of companies with too many positive reviews.

Compare Sewer Service Plans

As you’ve begun narrowing down your sewer service options, see what services each company will and will not offer. Review their experience level with some of the future services you might have a need for. Take the time to see where you can save by hiring a new on-call plumber.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask the Right Questions about Sewer Services

Finally and most importantly–never be afraid to ask the tough questions. Not all sewer services are created equal. It’s better to ask too many questions than to spend too much money for not enough service. Be sure to verify that your finalists are licensed, bonded, and insured accordingly.

Now that you’ve learned what to look for in sewer services, give Team Rooter a call. You’ll see that we’re your go-to team in Los Angeles County. Contact us today!

How to Find Commercial Plumbing in Orange County

commercial plumbing

One common misconception about plumbing is that a residential plumber can do all the same things that a commercial plumber does but on a smaller scale. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Let’s take a look at four factors to consider when hiring a commercial plumbing company in Orange County and the surrounding areas.

Availability

When you are in the market for a plumber to handle jobs at your commercial property, chances are that you need your situation evaluated and the work to be completed quickly. This is particularly important when leaky pipes or broken toilets are a part of the equation. Look for plumbing companies that advertising 24-hour emergency services. A plumbing service that’s available on your schedule is far better than a service that leaves you waiting. Waiting time is wasting time for your business.

Location

Similarly, you should look for local commercial plumbers first. Considering how long it can take to get from another job on the other side of town in Orange County traffic, that’s a lot of wasted time. It’s also important to consider how billable hours, travel fees, and fuel surcharges can quickly increase your cost. As an added bonus, supporting the local business community can pay dividends as time goes on.

Experience

It might sound like common sense but be sure to review the experience of the commercial plumbing companies you’re considering. Verify that they are licensed, certified professionals that will be able to complete your specific job effectively. Consider the level of experience that the potential companies have in your unique situation. Similarly, check online reviews on sites like Yelp. Previous customer reviews can reveal a lot more than a company would tell you on the phone or face to face.

Guarantees and Warranties

Finally, consider hiring only commercial plumbing companies that will stand behind their work. Many commercial companies will provide limited or extended warranties on parts, labor, or both. A guarantee or a warranty shows that level of pride that the company holds in their parts, their employees, and the quality of work to be done for their clients.

Ready to Hire the Best in Commercial Plumbing?

Now that you’ve learned what to look for in a commercial plumber, give Team Rooter a call. You’ll see that we’re your go-to team for commercial plumbing needs in Orange County. Contact us today!

A Complete Guide to Dealing With a Clogged Drain

clogged drain

There will never be a “good time” for a clogged drain in your home, but there are some clogged or slow-running drain situations that you can handle on your own. Of course, there are other clogs that require professional assistance. Let’s take a look at a few ways that you can try to clear a clogged drain before calling a trusted professional like Team Rooter.

What Causes Clogged Drains?

A clogged drain is usually caused by debris or a foreign object that has become lodged in your drain pipes. It could also be the result of residue or build-up that needs to be flushed away. In most instances, acting quickly with the right tools can save you from a costly (and messy) repair.

Drain Cleaner

One easy way of handling a clogged drain is a bottle of drain cleaner. Pouring it down the drain and allowing it to work might loosen the clog and solve the problem quickly. You should consider that drain cleaner is a chemical, and it should be used with caution to avoid injury.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

If you would prefer a non-chemical solution, you can try vinegar and baking soda to clear your clogged drain. Pour the vinegar first and follow it up with baking soda. In a matter of seconds, the combination will go to work on minor clogs.

Boiling Water

Another way of clearing a clogged drain is pouring boiling water from the stove or a tea kettle down the impacted drain. It might need to be repeated, but it’s the cheapest approach. If boiling water doesn’t work on its own, clear the water from the drain by hand (using a cup or other vessel) and pour salt down the drain, followed by more water. Give it a few minutes to work and try flushing the drain again.

Plunging

Depending on the nature of the clogged drain, you might also consider using a plunger. This technique will require patience and trial and error, but with some elbow grease, you may be able to dislodge the clog without the use of chemicals.

Snaking

One last way of dealing with a clogged drain is using a snake. A snake is a long piece of plastic with grooves or “teeth” cut into it that are designed to grab onto debris. Snaking is particularly helpful in clearing hair clogs in bathroom sinks and shower drains.

For A Stubborn Clogged Drain, Call A Professional!

If you’ve tried some or all of these methods to no success, bring in the pros at Team Rooter. Our team has over two decades of experience clearing clogged drains. We’ll find the problem and work quickly to get your pipes back to working order. We guarantee it. Contact our team to fix your clogged drain today!

Top Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

tankless water heaters
Photo by Kirsten Marie Ebbesen on Unsplash

 

You need a new water heater due to building a new home, remodeling, or maybe your old one simply quit working. As you begin shopping for options, you run across tankless water heaters. This option is pricier than standard water heaters, which means you may almost skip over that option and go with the same storage tank unit you have always had. Wait, though – it might be worth looking at the benefits of this tank before making a final decision. If cost alone was the only consideration, the tradition tank-style heaters would win. Those heaters have downsides, though. And tankless water heaters can solve those downsides.

Endless Hot Water

Have you ever taken a shower after a partner or child, and the water was tepid or even cold? Storage tank water heaters can only heat the reserve water they have on hand, fill and heat the new batch. This means in houses with heavy water usage, you experience lapses in hot water. Tankless water heaters circulate water through high-powered coils and keep a steady stream of hot water flowing.

Standby Losses Eliminated

Tankless water heaters come in electric or gas options. They heat on demand with higher power usage when under pressure to supply, but because they do not have reserve water in them, they are not constantly reheating it. In traditional tank systems, the water constantly reheats, even when you are not home or using the water. Therefore, these tanks cost more than tankless systems on power usage.

Tankless Water Heaters Have Longer Lifespans

The lifespan of tankless water heaters is twice the lifespan of standard units. While a high-quality standard tank lasts a decade, tankless models can end up lasting two decades. This longer lifespan lengthens the warranty on these units and can significantly extend the coverage for repairs that might arise on tankless versus lower warrantied standard water heaters. Also, other pluses include added tax benefits, utility bill reduction, and warranty coverage for issues that might arise.

Space-Saving Benefits

Most traditional storage tanks require a corner in a basement or a built-in storage space in apartments or condominiums. This space concern disappears with tankless water heaters, as all they need is a small area to mount to a wall. For apartments and other small houses, this consideration alone makes it worthwhile to consider a tankless system.

Contact Team Rooter To Learn More About Tankless Water Heaters

Now that you know some of the advantages of a tankless water heater, do your research to determine which system is right for you. Your water demands, the size of your home, and your budget are all critical considerations. As always, when making a decision like this for your home, a professional should be consulted to give you all your options. Call Team Rooter today to discuss tankless water systems and your options.

 

 

 

Kitchen Plumbing is Different. Here’s How.

kitchen plumbing
Photo by Jacek Dylag on Unsplash

When people think of plumbing, they think of pipes. Of hot and cold water flowing when they need it. We don’t usually give plumbing another thought until a problem arises, or we decide to replace and remodel a room. The facts are that all the plumbing in the house runs on the same schematics.  Overall, three things make kitchen plumbing a bit different than bathroom plumbing. These factors are the size of kitchen projects, complexity versus bathrooms, and costs.

Size of Projects

When you look at a kitchen versus a bathroom, the square footage alone tells you the size of a project will differ. Look a little deeper, and you will see other major differences in the kitchen plumbing. Do you have a disposal under your sink? That will require waste lines, either to a dishwasher or by itself. Speaking of a dishwasher, it also has solid waste that will require a drain fitting. Also, an air gap fitting ensures dirty water does not make its way back to the dishwasher. Do you have an ice maker anywhere in the kitchen? Whether it’s in the refrigerator or freestanding, that will need a pipe as well. What about a second sink for food prep, or in the bar?

Complexity of Kitchen Projects

As you can see from the information above, complexity is a factor in kitchen plans. Whether you need to repair, remodel, or build a kitchen from the ground up, good planning is still critical. Ensure any power switches needed for appliances such as the dishwasher, disposal, and refrigerator are not close to water lines. Also, for the best outcome, make sure to hire a professional to approve any major drawings or schematic changes. Looking at the placement and planning of garbage disposal lines hooked from one appliance to the other, water supplies and cabinets, flooring, and countertop placements is important. You want all the plumbing to be out of sight and not easily damaged. Plumbing repairs or fixes after the fact are expensive, so engage the best team to ensure the work done right the first time.

Cost of Remodeling or Replacing

On average, kitchen remodels range up to $57,000, with an average of around $19,000. Bathrooms are usually up to about $40,000, with the average being $17,000. Also, when considering a remodel due to size and complexity, kitchens usually take one to six months, while bathrooms have a current industry average of about 18 days. Always keep in mind, though, that kitchens will pay better dividends when you go to resell. Kitchens are the main selling point of real estate, and updated kitchens can sell a house faster.

Contact Team Rooter For Help

When deciding on projects or repairs affecting kitchen plumbing, remember the size, complexity, and cost of these are significant. Ensuring the right professional helps determine pipe placement, appliance line layouts, and the like is critical. The kitchen can add value to any home, but you want to ensure that the job is done well. Contact Team Rooter for help today!

Everything You Need to Know About Hydro Jetting

Hydro jetting
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It’s likely that the first time you heard the phrase “hydro jetting” was from a plumber delivering unwelcome news during a visit. Your pipes experienced a problem like clogging or back up. The plumber explained that the hydro jetting process will use high-pressure water. Forcing the water under pressure into the pipes clears blockage and contaminants in its path. Before you agree with their diagnosis and treatment plan, if you have questions we are here to help answer them.

When Is Hydro Jetting Used?

Hydro jetting is proposed by a professional when the standard process of snaking or other methods would not be effective. Only trained professionals should treat pipes in this manner. Please note that this is not a complicated process, but if not done correctly, it can cause more damage. This process shoots water between 1500 PSI and 4000 PSI, depending on pipe dimensions and application through the pipes. Professional plumbers will adjust the nozzles for drain size, type of clogs, and other factors for the best results. Knowing how to make small adjustments and other considerations to successfully hydro jetting requires someone with specialized knowledge in this area.

Benefits of Hydro Jetting

Snaking moves through the pipes and removes clogs. Hydro jetting cleans pipes and fixes any known clogging issues. This cleansing causes better overall water flow. Also, cleaning the pipes will help cut down on bacteria that pipes develop over time and use. Snaking can remove simple root intrusions if cutting heads are applied. Due to the water pressure used, hydro jetting cuts both residue and root intrusion down extensively.

Can Hydro Jetting Damage Pipes?

Old houses and those with extensive tree root issues could be at risk of added damage if hydro jetting is allowed. This is why only a professional should do this service. Further, ensure that the plumbing professional has done a thorough inspection of your system. Professionals must take cracks or other safety issues with your pipes into consideration. Choosing a licensed and insured professional is necessary for your peace of mind.

Precautions You Need to Take

If you have a septic system, hydro jetting may not be your best option. Hydro jetting cleanses the pipes of bacteria, which septic systems rely on to break down waste. If you do have a septic tank and wish to do jetting, ensure you ask questions about the professionals’ credentials. How often have they done this service? What precautions are they taking to protect the septic system and pipes?

Additionally, pipes with extensive tree infiltrations could be at risk for damage from hydro jetting. If this is a known contributing factor to your plumbing concerns, ask about using a camera. A camera is sent through the pipes to better see damage already in place. It can show whether there are tree roots and help determine if this process could cause added damage.

Finally, always ask for references and credentials. Ensuring the professional does due diligence should alleviate risks. Unfortunately, pipes are areas that are not easily accessible. Damage to these can be a time-consuming and expensive fix. Always hire the best professionals for hydro jetting or any plumbing service.

Contact Team Rooter Today

Hydro jetting may be an option to clear that nasty clog you have, but the benefits go beyond that simple fix. It can also clear bacteria, residue, and even tree infiltrations. Because of this, you must always do due diligence to hire the right professional. If you want to know whether it may be right for you, contact Team Rooter today!

 

How to Find the Best Water Heater For You

rooter service

Is it time to get a new water heater? If your heater is more than 10 years old, the answer is probably yes. Most water heaters only last for about 10 years. Plus, there’s never been a better time to buy a new one. Today’s water heaters are more reliable and efficient than they ever have been. Still, with so many water heater options out there, it’s tough to figure out which one is best for your home. Here are a few tips to make the decision easier.

 

Conventional vs. Tankless

First, decide whether you want a conventional water heater or a tankless one. A conventional water heater holds a tank full of water. It heats the water at the top of the tank, keeping that water constantly heated for when you’re ready to use it. A tankless water heater doesn’t heat water until you’re ready for it. As a result, it’s more energy-efficient than the conventional type. Both choices have pros and cons. Aside from the energy efficiency, for example, a tankless water heater can save you money throughout the year. On the other hand, tankless water heaters require a bigger upfront investment. Once you decide which option will work best for your home, you’ll narrow your options a lot.

 

Know Your Fuel Source

Next, decide which fuel source you want your water heater to use. Conventional water heaters use gas, electricity, propane, and fuel oil. Tankless water heaters come in electric or gas-powered models. A lot of people choose the fuel source that requires the least amount of conversion. For example, if your water tank area is already set up for an electric model, it’ll be easiest to choose that option.

 

Warranty

Now that you’ve started narrowing down your heater brands, take a look at the available warranties. It’s always a good idea to get the longest warranty you can find. If you’re deciding between two models, choose the one with the longest warranty. This way, if something goes wrong, you’ll know that you’re covered.

 

Available Space

Now, take a look at your available space. A lot of water heaters are bigger these days, so it’s important to make sure that you have the space that you need. If you can’t find a conventional heater to fit your space, then you may want to go the tankless route instead.

 

Water Heater Installation

Need water heater installation? What about repairs? Team Rooter can handle it all. Let our experts help you get the heater that your home needs. Get in touch with us today.

5 Quick and Easy Tricks to Fix a Clogged Drain

clogged drain

You don’t realize how important your drains are until one of them gets clogged. A clogged drain can be annoying. Thankfully, you can often clear them quickly. Take a look at the tips below. If none of them work for you, then give Team Rooter a call. We can handle even the most stubborn clogged drains.

 

Homemade Drain Snake

Drain snakes are cheap and easy to find. However, if you don’t have one on hand and want to unclog that drain right now, you can make your own. You’ll want to use something long and flexible. A wire hanger can get the job done if you bend it the right way. Use your homemade drain snake to pull hair and gunk out of the drain.

 

Boil Water

Some clogged drains just need some hot water. Boil some water in a pot or kettle. Then pour the hot water down the clogged drain. That may be all it takes to loosen the clog.

 

Use Dish Soap for Grease Clogs

In the bathroom, hair is responsible for most clogged drains. In the kitchen, the biggest culprit is usually grease. Thankfully, you probably have something on hand that’s designed specifically to get rid of grease: dish soap. If your kitchen sink is clogged, mix dish soap with hot water and slowly pour it down your drain. Give the solution an hour or so to work, then flush the drain with some more hot water. Repeat the process a second time if necessary.

 

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar can sometimes clear a clogged drain. Pour baking soda into the drain first, then slowly pour in some vinegar. The fizzing action can get rid of a lot of clogs.

 

Use the Right Plunger

Next, there’s always the classic plunger. However, make sure that you use the right one. The plungers that most people associate with toilets were actually designed for sinks and bathtubs. If you want to use a plunger, look up some different plunger designs first. You’d be surprised how many options exist. The key is finding a plunger that will create the best seal.

 

Clogged Drain? Call Team Rooter

Of course, some clogs just don’t go for the homemade approach. That’s where we come in. If you’re dealing with an extra-stubborn clogged drain, our expert team can handle the job. We’ll have your drain cleared in no time. Contact Team Rooter today so that you can start using your drain again.