Standardized plumbing dates back to 2700 BCE, but that doesn't mean it's something we all understand today. Most people aren't familiar with their plumbing or how to take care of it. If you want to learn more, keep reading to find the answers to common plumbing questions and discover when it's time to call a professional.
1. Why Does My Drain Get Clogged? Clogged drains occur when something accumulates and blocks water from draining properly. Clogs occur most often in kitchen and shower drains. In the kitchen, avoid dumping grease because it will harden and create clogs. Dispose of food items on the garbage disposal side of the sink or in the trash. In the bathroom, soap and hair are often the cause of clogs in your drain. 2. What Can I Put in the Garbage Disposal? Garbage disposals shred food waste into small pieces that move through the plumbing system with ease. Fruit, vegetables, meat scraps, and leftovers are all safe to put down the disposal without harming the system. Other items, like eggshells, grease, animal bones, nuts, and seafood shells, should go in the trash instead. These items can cause wear on your garbage disposal and are harder to break up, resulting in a clogged drain. 3. Why Do I Run Out of Hot Water? When hot water isn't lasting as long as it once did, there are a few possible causes. Possible causes are calcium build-up in your tank, something wrong with your water heater, or the incorrect size for your home. If you suspect something isn't right with your water heater, consider hiring a plumbing service to come to inspect it. 4. Are Chemical Drain Cleaners Safe? Regular use of chemical drain cleaners is not recommended. Chemical cleaners are toxic and can eat away at your pipes, leading to the deterioration of your plumbing. Repairing deteriorated pipes is a big fix, so instead of using drain cleaners to fix clogged pipes, call a plumbing company to do the job. 5. Why Is My Toilet Running? Running toilets are one of the most common plumbing problems. This problem often occurs when the flapper isn't completely closing on the flush valve. Fortunately, it's an easy fix by jiggling the toilet handle. If jiggling doesn't work, it may be time to replace your flapper valve. Bonus: What Should I Do if I Notice a Plumbing Issue in my Home? If you notice a problem with the plumbing in your home but aren't sure how to fix it, don't try to handle them on your own. Trying to fix something without the knowledge can result in further damage. Look for a company that specializes in plumbing services if you notice any problems with the following: • Slow draining sinks • Low or No water pressure • Back-flow • Burst pipes • Leaks • Frozen pipes • No hot water Do your research when looking for someone to hire. The best plumber will assess the issue and give a repair estimate before starting the job. Get Help with Plumbing Today Having a problem with your plumbing and need a professional? Look no further than service Plus Plumbing & Heating. Service Plus is a trusted source for plumbing in Kamloops that offers 24/7 expert assistance in your time of need.