Tag: emergency plumbing

What is Hydro Jetting and Its Benefits?

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Hydro jetting is a powerful method of cleaning and clearing out clogged pipes, drains, sewers, and other plumbing systems. It uses high-pressure water jets to break up tough blockages that conventional methods cannot clear away. Hydro jetting offers several advantages over traditional drain cleaning techniques, including more thorough cleaning and increased pipe life expectancy. 

In this article, we will discuss how hydro jetting works, its benefits, potential applications as well as common mistakes to avoid when using it. We will also provide tips on maintaining a hydro jetted system for long-term success. 

Our current customers in Santa Cruz Country have found hydrojetting their sewer line much more effective and beneficial than using a snake through their sewer line.

Request a quote or call (831) 316-7338    

How Hydro Jetting Works

Hydro jetting is a process that uses high-pressure water jets to clear out clogged pipes, drains, sewers, and other plumbing systems. This cleaning method is extremely powerful and can be used to break up tough blockages that cannot be removed with traditional methods such as snaking or augering. Our Santa Cruz hydro jetter typically comes in the form of a trailer-mounted unit with a hose attached to the end that is used to deliver the water at high pressures. When the hydro jetter is activated, the pressurized water runs through the hose and sprayer tip at a pressure between 2500-4000 PSI (Pounds per Square Inch). These powerful jets travel at speeds of up to 60 feet per second (40 MPH), providing enough force to cut through even the toughest debris, like roots and grease. The nozzle also creates an abrasive action on any material it encounters, scouring away built-up sediment, scale, or rust from your pipes.

This process helps restore your plumbing system back to its original condition and removes even the most stubborn clogs. In addition to clearing blockages from your pipes, hydro jetting can also help remove mineral deposits from your plumbing walls which can cause corrosion over time. The high-pressure blasts break up these deposits so they can be flushed away without damaging your system’s piping structure. Hydro jetting also provides a more thorough cleaning than other methods since it can reach difficult areas like inside bends and tight spaces in your pipes where dirt often accumulates. 

Finally, using hydro jetting regularly as preventative maintenance can help extend the life expectancy of your plumbing system by removing built-up sediment before it becomes an issue. This type of maintenance will help keep your pipes functioning smoothly while preventing future problems from arising due to clogs or corrosion caused by mineral deposits.

The Benefits Of Hydro Jetting

The benefits of hydro jetting include:

  • Clearing out stubborn clogs and blockages that traditional methods can’t remove.
  • Removing mineral deposits from plumbing walls to prevent corrosion over time.
  • Providing a more thorough cleaning than other methods since it can reach difficult areas like inside bends and tight spaces in your pipes where dirt often accumulates.
  • Extend your plumbing system’s life expectancy by removing built-up sediment before it becomes an issue.

plumbing trucks parked outside house

Potential Applications For Hydro Jetting

Here in Santa Cruz County, hydro jetting can be used for a variety of applications in both residential and commercial plumbing systems. It is especially useful in clearing stubborn blockages that cannot be removed by conventional methods such as snaking or augering. The process of hydro jetting is also effective for cleaning out grease, roots, and scale that tend to accumulate in pipes over time. 

Additionally, it can be used for preventative maintenance to help extend the life expectancy of your plumbing system. In residential homes, hydro jetting is often used to clean out clogged drains such as kitchen sinks, showers, bathtubs, and toilets. It can also be used to clear root-infested sewer lines, remove mud from septic tanks, and unclog storm drain lines. 

Hydro jetting is also a great option for emergency maintenance when other methods fail to produce results. In commercial buildings, hydro jetting can be used for various applications, including cleaning grease traps, flushing floor drains, and unclogging sewer lines. Hydro jetting can also be used on large industrial pipelines to remove built-up scale and corrosion from the interior walls of these pipes. This type of maintenance helps keep these systems running smoothly while preventing costly repairs down the line due to clogs or corrosion caused by mineral deposits. 

Finally, hydro jetting can be used in agricultural settings as well. On farms with septic tanks, it can be used to clear away mud build-ups and flush the tank with water, so it stays efficient and functions properly. Hydro jetting is also effective at removing stubborn blockages from irrigation lines which helps ensure that crops get enough water without any interruptions. 

Tips On Maintaining A Hydro Jetted System

Hydro jetting is an effective way to keep your plumbing system running smoothly, but it’s important to maintain it properly to get the most out of your investment. Here are a few tips on how to maintain a hydro-jetted system:

  1. Schedule regular maintenance checks. Hydro jetting should be done regularly, ideally every six months, depending on your usage and how often you encounter clogs or blockages. Scheduling professional inspections and cleanings with a qualified plumber can help ensure your system runs efficiently for years to come.

  2. Avoid putting certain substances down your drains. Grease, oils, fibrous food remnants, and other materials can cause clogs and damage your plumbing system if they are not disposed of properly. Be sure to avoid these substances altogether or dispose of them in the proper receptacle when necessary.

  3. Don’t flush anything other than toilet paper down the toilet. Foreign objects such as wipes, cotton swabs, and feminine hygiene products can cause major blockages, requiring hydro jetting. To prevent this from happening, make sure everyone in the household knows not to flush anything other than toilet paper down the toilet!

  4. Check regularly for signs of corrosion or mineral deposits on fixtures and pipes. Over time minerals like calcium and magnesium can build up inside your pipes leading to corrosion or blockages if left unchecked for too long. Performing regular inspections around sinks and bathtubs can help identify any spots where these minerals may have built up so you can take action before any major damage is done.

  5. Install water softening systems or filters where needed. Hard water contains higher levels of minerals that can worsen problems caused by corrosion over time if not treated accordingly. Installing whole-house water softening systems or filters on individual fixtures can help reduce mineral build-up in your plumbing system, making it easier to monitor for signs of wear or damage associated with hard water use over time.

  6. Make sure you hire qualified professionals for any repairs or maintenance work. Hydro jetting is best left to experienced plumbers as it requires specialized equipment and expertise to do the job right without causing unnecessary damage to your pipes or fixtures in the process!

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Common mistakes to avoid when using a hydro jetter include:

  1. Not scheduling regular maintenance checks

  2. Disposing of grease, oils, fibrous food remnants, and other materials down drains without proper disposal methods

  3. Flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet

  4. Failing to check regularly for signs of corrosion or mineral deposits on fixtures and pipes

  5. Not installing water softening systems or filters where needed

  6. Hiring unqualified professionals for repairs or maintenance work
Questions? give us a call (831) 316-7338

 

Final Thoughts

Hydro jetting is an effective way to clear blocked drains and pipes and remove build-up from your sewer lines. Not only does it provide a lasting solution by completely removing debris, but it can also be completed quickly with minimal disruption. 

Additionally, hydro jetting is environmentally friendly since no harsh chemicals are used in the process. Hydro jetting may be right for you if you’re looking for an efficient and eco-friendly method of clearing out clogged or damaged plumbing systems. Make sure to consult a professional plumber before attempting any repairs yourself! If you’re looking for help with your plumbing, we’re here for you. Reach out to us today, and we’ll work with you on your hydro jetting or any other plumbing needs.

What Causes Sewer Gas Smell in Your House

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There are many things homeowners will experience, some good and some bad, but one certain thing is that you’ll experience some odd smells. 

There will be a time when sewer gas starts to seep into your home, and it won’t be pleasant. Imagine rotten eggs or cabbage. Not only is it a nuisance in smell, but it’s also quite dangerous and can indicate a bigger problem – like a leak. Fortunately, not all gas backups are serious and may be fixable without calling in reinforcements! In this article, we’ll go over what sewer gas is, its dangers, its causes, how to fix it, and how to prevent it in the future.

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What Is Sewer Gas?

So, the big question is – What is sewer gas? Sewer gas is a generic term that refers to a combination of different gasses that are produced by the decomposition of human waste. Sewer gas is produced when water and waste products are not properly disposed of. These gasses include methane, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and hydrogen sulfide. While most of these gasses are odorless, hydrogen sulfide is responsible for the signature “rotten egg” smell associated with sewer gas. However, many of these gasses are dangerous and can be a health risk.

The Dangers of Sewer Gas

While the smell of sewer gas may be unpleasant, it can also be dangerous. Inhaling high concentrations of sewer gas can lead to headaches, nausea, respiratory problems, and even death. Additionally, sewer gas is flammable. If there is a build-up of sewer gas in an enclosed space, it could ignite and cause a dangerous explosion. So it’s important to take precautions if you suspect there may be a problem. 

If you smell sewer gas in your home, immediately open windows and doors to ventilate the area. Next, try to identify the source of the smell, and if needed call a plumber to inspect your plumbing to identify and fix the problem.

What Causes Sewer Gas Smell - Expert Plumbing

What Causes Sewer Gas Smell in Your House?

There are several possible causes of sewer gas smells in your house.

One possibility is that there is a leak in your home’s sewer system. This could be caused by a cracked pipe or a faulty seal around a pipe joint.

Another possibility is that your home’s plumbing vents are blocked. Plumbing vents allow sewer gasses to escape from your home, so if they are blocked, the gasses could build up and cause a smell. Vents can become blocked by snow, debris, or even animal nests.

Finally, another possibility is that you have a dry trap. A “trap” is a U-shaped section of pipe designed to hold water and create a seal that prevents sewer gas from entering your home. If the trap becomes dry, it will no longer be able to create an effective seal and sewer gas can escape. This can happen if the trap is not used often enough or if there is a leak in the pipe.

In the next section, we’ll review ways to fix gas leaks. 

Fix Sewer Gas Smell in Santa Cruz - Expert Plumbing

How to Fix Sewer Gas Smell in Your House

If you have a sewer gas smell in your house, there are ways to fix it at home. The first step is to identify the location and that helps decide how to fix it. Here are a few places to check and solutions if that’s the sewer gas culprit! 

First, check all of your home’s plumbing vents. Make sure they are clear of debris and snow. If not, clear it out. You may need to use a ladder to reach the vents on your roof.

Next, check all of the traps in your home’s plumbing. If any of them are dry, try to pour some water into them to see if that solves the problem.

Finally, sewer gas can enter your home if there is a gap or crack in the foundation. This is pretty challenging for someone to identify, so if you still notice a smell after taking the first two steps, we recommend calling a plumber to inspect your pipes and make any necessary repairs.

Once the source of the sewer gas smell has been identified, it is important to take steps to fix the problem. In some cases, this may be as simple as fixing a leaky pipe or sealing cracks in your plumbing. In other cases, more extensive work may be necessary. If your home has an outdated sewage system, it may need to be replaced. This is a major project that should be done by a professional.

Preventing Sewer Gas Smells

The best way to deal with sewer gas smells is to prevent it from happening in the first place. This can be done by properly disposing of water and waste products, and by keeping your plumbing in good working condition. The best way to prevent sewer gas smells is performing regular maintenance to identify problems before they become serious.

If you do smell sewer gas in your home, take action immediately to ventilate the area, inspect your home for anything you can fix on your own, and call a plumber to inspect your plumbing.

Sewer gas can be a nasty surprise. But by taking some simple precautions, you can prevent it from becoming a problem in your home.

Questions? give us a call (831) 316-7338

Your Can Trust Santa Cruz’s Expert Plumbing To Help with Sewer Drain Repair

Smelly sewer gas is not just bad-smelling, it’s also dangerous. We’ve reviewed what causes sewer gas smells, how to manage and remove them, and how to prevent them in the future. However, if the problem persists, you may need to call a professional plumber for help. Professionals will be able to quickly identify the cause, fix it, and keep your home safe. 

If you’re suffering with sewer gas smells or any other plumbing issue, we’d love to help. Contact us today!

Have A Water Leak? Here are 6 Signs You Have a Water Leak

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Are you certain you have a water leak? Some plumbing leaks are obvious to repair. But some leaks can be hiding behind your home’s walls or even the ceilings, making it difficult to find and – what’s worse – it can cost you thousands of dollars in damage if you don’t detect the leak before it causes an issue and a major headache.

And depending on the type of home you have – for instance, if your house’s foundation is built on a concrete slab, a water leak can be even harder to detect. Slab foundations typically have pipes running underneath your home and can develop leaks as the pipes get older.

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Avoid Costly Damage To Your Home & Get Your Water Leaks Fixed Quick

Detecting a water leak early can save you hundreds and even thousands of dollars. Here are 6 signs Santa Cruz homeowners like you should look out for when trying to identify and repair leaks ASAP.

1. Saggy Ceilings

A sagging ceiling is often caused by a leaking pipe or a leaky roof. You might see some discoloration paired with the ceiling sag. A saggy ceiling can be potentially dangerous and will need to be fixed immediately. We want to avoid a complete collapse of your ceiling, which can be extremely dangerous by putting you and your loved ones’ lives at risk, and it could be extensively expensive to repair.

2. Ceilings with Water Stains

As mentioned above, if you see spots or discoloration on your ceiling, this could be a sign of a water leak. The plumbing leak indicator could be telling you there’s a roof leak, but it could also possibly be a leak from your bathroom – if you bathroom is upstairs, and you notice the spot is directly below that bathroom.

However,  typically, you won’t see signs of a water leak on your ceiling until the leak has been accumulating there for a while. So we at Expert Plumbing suggest you address the issue as soon as you are aware of it.

3. Rusty Pipes

If you have an older home, your house might be fitted with galvanized steel pipes and/or drains. Unfortunately, galvanized steel will corrode and develop rust – which leads to water leaks.

Look at your exposed pipes. Do you notice any signs of rust? Discoloration or stains? Flaking? This could be a sign of corroded pipes! We suggest you replace those rusted pipes because complete corrosion occurs, leading to faulty pipes overall damage to your home.

4. Reduced Water Pressure

Low water pressure is a common indicator of a plumbing leak. Reduced water pressure can be caused by faulty valves, water leaks or a buildup of sediment in your pipes. Whenever you have this type of leak, there is simply less water that’s able to go through the pipe.

Are you noticing a sudden decrease in your water pressure? If you can rule out faulty valves and sediment buildup, then it may be pointing to a water leak somewhere in your plumbing system.

Questions? give us a call (831) 316-7338

5. Mold and Mildew

Water leaks that persist will eventually lead to mold and mildew. Mold can be particularly toxic to both allergy and asthma suffers, but also to the average person who can develop upper respiratory conditions. Left unattended mold may turn into “black mold,” which is extremely toxic and should be looked at by a professional.

Mold grows as a result of standing water or moisture caused by the condensation from uninsulated pipes. Examples of this include water leaking into a basement, a leaky pipe, or a leaking hose from your washing machine.

If mold and mildew damage gets out of hand and has shown to be extensive, it is in your best interest to get the mold out as fast as possible. Typically, crews will wear complete protective suits in order to remove all of the mold and everything that is contaminated by it. It is important to check the surroundings near the mold that was found because mold can damage drywall, wood and other building materials. Taking expedited action in this situation is needed in order to keep your home safe and your family’s health protected.

A constant musty odor, for example, is often an indicator of mold growth. Growing and spreads molds emit gasses that give off a musty smell. It’s important that you don’t ignore seemingly small things such as this. Taking care of repairs like this as soon as possible will help prevent problems and costly repairs in the future.

6.  Peeling or Blistering Paint or Wallpaper

If your home’s wallpaper or paint is peeling or blistering, it may be a sign that there could be a water leak inside the wall. But by the time you see the wall begin to peel and blister, the leak has most likely been there for quite some time – and needs your immediate attention and action to prevent damage to your home.

Wood and drywall are great at absorbing moisture, but you don’t want them to do that! If there is a water leak in the wall structure of your house, it means the structure underneath your wall is most likely damaged and needs to be replaced as soon as possible.

Never Ignore Plumbing Issues

Whatever the case may be for your water leak, don’t ignore the signs. As your home ages, so does your plumbing. It needs to be taken care of, looked after and given a makeover from time to time. Fixing a water leak in your home is just part of the process, and every homeowner will need to fix at least one plumbing leak at one point or another.

Be sure to inspect all pipes, drains, valves and even washing machines for potential water leaks on a regular basis. Developing and having an awareness to signs that may indicate that there’s rust or corrosion in your pipes is an extremely important skills to have in your toolbox.

However, if you aren’t experienced in finding such leaks, or if you’re not sure about your plumbing skills on assessing whether something may or may not be a water leak, don’t hesitate to give Expert Plumbing in Santa Cruz a call right away! We’re no stranger to emergency plumbing and can help you right away!

You Can Trust Santa Cruz County’s Expert Plumbers

Don’t let a small water leak turn into something larger and, potentially, dangerous and costly. Call Expert Plumbing for all of your plumbing needs.

What to Do When You Need Emergency Plumbing in Santa Cruz, CA

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What Qualifies as an Emergency Plumbing Situation?

We know how stressful plumbing problems can have for you and your family. Here are five specific emergency plumbing services we offer our customers in the Santa Cruz area.

Fixing Broken Pipes

There are several reasons your pipes can break in half or suddenly burst:

  • Tree roots contorting underground pipes
  • Excessively high water pressure cause ruptures
  • Natural disasters can snap pipes in half

Then, there are pipes that get too old and they end up rusting and weakening. Instead of simply replacing a stretch of broken pipe, repiping your whole house might be necessary. No matter the cause or damage done to your pipes, Expert Plumbing can fix all your broken pipe issues.

Stopping Leaking Faucets

How do you know when your leaking faucet counts as a plumbing emergency? It’s an emergency when there’s a fast and unstoppable leak or when there’s high-pressure water shooting out of the faucet. No one wants to spend big bucks on a plumber, that’s why Expert Plumbing is the solution to all your problems. We offer great discount coupons to help our customers save money!

Then, you might have some of those hidden plumbing problems you just can’t find. You might have some hidden leaks somewhere in your house, flooding your floors, walls, or ceilings. No worries because we can find and deal with this issue as efficiently as we can.

You might be wondering, what causes these leaks to happen in your house? There could be several reasons such as:

  • Old rusted fixtures
  • Joints
  • Attachments

However, when you combine any of these with high water pressure, leaks become inevitable.

How can you prevent such bad leaks from happening? Having your plumbing inspected on a regular basis can help prevent such leaks from damaging your home. If not, you should have your leaking problems solved as soon as it occurs to prevent further damage.

Unclogging Drains

Most people can fix a simple clogged up drain. However, sometimes the clog backs up and spills water all over your kitchen or bathroom floors.

Why do these clogs happen? There could be several reasons a clog this bad occurs such as:

  • Malfunctioning garbage disposal
  • Build up of natural grime in your pipes

This is what’s considered a plumbing emergency and should be seen by a plumbing expert immediately. Expert Plumbing will help you remove the clog and clean out those pipes of yours to prevent any backups from happening again. You don’t want a flooded kitchen all day long!

Correcting Backed Up Sewers

Wastewater will spill from your toilets, tubs, and sinks if the sewer gets backed up. This becomes a bigger problem when it starts to pollute your yard. No one in your family should have to use a public restroom for too long. We can take care of it and have your wastewater system back up and running in no time.

We can fix your sewer problems with the following services: rooter cleaning and valves correction. Get one of our emergency plumbers today to help solve all your sewer problems.

Solving Toilet Issues

Running toilets have similar issues as backed up sewers and clogs. However, running toilets usually result from sediment build up, rusted connections, or malfunctioning inner parts. Our plumbing experts at Expert Plumbing can help you figure out the exact issue with your toilet and easily fix it.

Contact Expert Plumbing when you are overwhelmed with your plumbing emergency. Expert Plumbing is available 24/7 for any same-day emergency that comes your way. We will help you fix your leaking faucet or whatever service you need from our team of experts.