Services we Provide
Water Heater Services
Main Water Line Repair
An essential part of the plumbing system, water lines deliver on-demand water to faucets, toilets, showers, baths, washing machines, dishwashers, and other
When to Repair:
Age: If your water heater is less than 8 years old, a repair might be more cost-effective.
Minor Issues: Problems like a faulty thermostat or heating element can often be fixed without replacing the entire unit.
No Leaks: If there are no leaks and the tank is in good condition, repairs might be sufficient.
When to Replace
Age: If your water heater is over 8 years old, it might be time for a replacement.
Frequent Repairs: If you find yourself frequently repairing the unit, a replacement could save you money in the long run.
Leaks: If the tank is leaking, it’s usually a sign that you need a new water heater.
Efficiency: Older models are less energy-efficient. Upgrading to a new, energy-efficient model can save you money on your energy bills.
Tankless Water Heater Services
Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater Installation
Many people ask whether it's worth upgrading from a traditional water heater to a tankless model. While tankless systems aren't right for everyone, they offer several advantages, including energy efficiency, longer lifespan, unlimited hot water, and space savings.
Energy Efficiency
Tankless water heaters are up to 34% more efficient than traditional water heaters, so you can save hundreds of dollars every year on your energy bills. Plus, they last twice as long as traditional water heaters, so they're a better value for your money.
Longer Lifespan
While we're on the subject of saving money, it's worth noting that tankless water heaters last twice as long as traditional systems. So, although they cost more upfront, they're a better value for your money.
Unlimited Hot Water
Families with high hot water demands often run out of hot water too quickly. If you're one of them, a tankless water heater might be right for you. Tankless water heaters don't rely on a storage tank, so you get an unlimited supply of hot water for as long as you need it.
Space Savings
If you’ve used a storage-tank water heater, you know how much space they take up. Tankless water heaters are wall-mounted, allowing you to reclaim usable floor space.
As mentioned, tankless water heaters aren’t suitable for every application but call PlumbLink Plumbing & Maintenance today, if you’d like more information and discuss your options.
An undetected water leak can cost you thousands in water damage and create a breeding ground for harmful mold and mildew. We providing personalized service and a fair price
Water Leak Detection Service
When you suspect a leak, leave it to PlumbLink Plumbing & Maintenance If you have a water leak, our plumbers will find it and fix it quickly.
Sometimes leaks can be inconvenient, occurring in plumbing lines that lie deep within a wall, floor, or underneath a slab. If it goes unnoticed, it can waste water, cause problems, and potentially serious damage, including rot, mildew, and mold.
Most of the pipework within your home or business is not visible, making it much harder to locate, troubleshoot, and remedy. One of the best ways to protect your property is to understand the types of leaks that can occur, common signs to look for, and certain situations that make it more likely for leaks to happen.
Signs of an Unseen Water Leak
Unseen water leaks can wreak havoc in your home. The longer a leak goes unrepaired, the worse the damage can get. Unfortunately, some water leaks are difficult to detect, so you must be aware of the symptoms so you can call for repairs as soon as possible.
Low Water Pressure
If you have normal water pressure that’s suddenly reduced to a trickle, it could mean you have an unseen water leak.
Damaged Walls or Ceilings
Sometimes, a symptom of a water leak is moisture damage on your walls or ceiling. Call a plumber as soon as possible if you see signs of warped wallpaper, bubbling or cracking paint, or water stains.
Sudden Spike in Water Bill
You probably have a good idea of how much your water bill will be every month. So, if you notice a sudden spike and you’re not using any more water than usual, it probably means you have an undetected water leak.
Mold & Mildew
Another common sign of water leaks is mold and mildew growth caused by excess moisture. The problem with mold and mildew is that it doesn’t take long to grow, and cleaning it doesn’t solve the problem — you have to get rid of the cause, which is the water leak.
Rushing Water Noise
If you hear running water when you’re not using any, it could mean there’s a leak in the system.
If you notice any of these signs, call PlumbLink Plumbing & Maintenance to schedule an appointment to determine whether you have a water leak.
Water Leak Detection & Burst Pipes
Water Heater Services
Water Line Services
Main Water Line Repair
An essential part of the plumbing system, water lines deliver on-demand water to faucets, toilets, showers, baths, washing machines, dishwashers, and other household appliances that require water to operate.
The water pipe or water line that carries the pressurized fresh water is frequently made of steel, copper, plastic, or cast iron. Utilizing the network of high-pressure water pipes, fresh, clean water is brought to residential and commercial properties for drinking, cooking, washing, and bathing.
Your local water company is in charge of providing your home or business with safe drinking water. They clean the water, add chemicals to make it safe, and store it until it gets pumped through underground pipes to your faucets. They measure how much water you use with a meter on your property.
Signs You Need Main Water Line Repair
Now that you know how essential your main water line is to your safe drinking water and home’s plumbing, it’s wise to be aware of problems affecting water quality and performance.
Water lines are susceptible to wear and tear because they're buried underground. Common causes of water line damage include corrosion, freezing, and tree root intrusion. If you think you have a water line problem, call PlumbLink Plumbing & Maintenance to diagnose and fix it.
Drain Cleaning
Clogged Pipe Repair Service
Clogged drains are the most common plumbing problem homeowners face. Each year, many clogged drains occur in households. Clogs can quickly occur because the average diameter of plumbing pipes is only 3-4 inches.
Stoppages don’t happen only in the drains that lead directly from your plumbing fixtures but also in your larger sewer lines that run under the home and underground through the yard, connecting to the main sewer line. If your main sewer line is blocked, sewage can back up into your home. A sewer drain clog is a plumbing emergency because the wastewater can't drain out and may come back into the house. The blockage can be caused by tree roots, grease, hair, or mineral deposits. The blockage can cause health hazards, damage to valuables, and damage to your house or office.
Homes that are connected to the city's sewer system typically have one sewer drain pipe that runs underground from the house to the street. This pipe connects to the main sewer line.. Each plumbing fixture has its own drain that connects to the main drain. So your sinks, tubs, showers, toilets, washing machines, dishwashers, etc., have their independent drain that leads to the main drain connected to the main sewer line. If the main drain clogs, the wastewater starts to back up all the drains in the house.
Most Common Causes of Clogs & Stoppages
If you're a homeowner, you'll probably encounter a drain clog at some point. It could be a slow draining sink or a bathtub that doesn't drain properly. No matter what the cause, it's important to have a plumber take care of it as soon as possible.
Drains are some of the most heavily used plumbing fixtures in a home, so it's no wonder that clogs are so common. If you're having a problem with a clogged drain, don't hesitate to call PlumbLink.ca to get it fixed quickly and efficiently.
Knowing the common reasons drains clog can help you prevent it from happening.
Hair
Hair is the most common reason for clogged drains in the bathroom. It mixes with soap and shampoo to form a sticky mess that's hard to remove. If you have a clogged drain, call PlumbLink Plumbing & Maintenance to schedule an appointment to have it cleaned.
Dirt
If you work outdoors and track in a lot of dirt, it can turn into mud when you wash your clothes. This mud can obstruct your drains.
Non-Flushable Items
Flushing feminine hygiene products, paper towels, cotton balls, baby wipes, and diapers down the drain is a bad idea. These items are not flushable and can clog the toilet or the main sewer line. The only things that should be flushed down the toilet are human waste and appropriate toilet paper.
Tree Roots
A tiny crack or hole in your main sewer line is an invitation to tree roots to invade your pipes. Tree roots seek out and thrive in moist environments, and once inside your pipes, they will grow and multiply, eventually blocking the flow of water and potentially crushing the line.
In most cases, drain cleaners, plungers, and home remedies won't solve a clogged drain. If you have a clogged drain, you'll need to call PlumbLink Plumbing & Maintenance
Backed-up drains are never convenient. When a stoppage forms, the tell-tale sign is usually slow drainage or multiple plumbing fixtures backing up at the same time. Toilets are typically the first plumbing fixture to display problems because they use the biggest drains. If your toilet doesn’t flush properly or makes gurgling noises when water is being used in other parts of the home, you most likely have a plumbing problem.
If you suspect a drain clog is developing, don't wait until the clog stops the water flow completely. Call one of our expert plumbers at PlumbLink Plumbing & Maintenance today to have the clog cleared before it becomes a bigger problem.
When slow drainage is addressed, usually a general plumbing service call can restore free flow to your drains and pipes, ensuring that your home stays free of backed up waste and sewer water. At PlumbLink Plumbing & Maintenance, our friendly and trained plumbers can handle any drain cleaning job. We have the right tools and expertise to ensure that your drain cleaning is done properly, safely, and cleanly.
Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting Services.
If you are a homeowner, you are probably aware that a clogged drain is a common problem. Clogs can be caused by a variety of things, including grease, hair, and other debris. In some cases, a simple drain cleaning snake can be enough to clear the clog. However, if the clog is deeper in the drain, it may be necessary to call a plumber for professional help. A plumber has the experience and tools to quickly and efficiently clear any clog, no matter how severe. So, if you have a clogged drain, don't hesitate to call PlumbLink Plumbing & Maintenance to get it fixed quickly and efficiently.
What is Hydro Jetting?
Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to clean drains and pipes. It is a safe and effective way to remove clogs and debris, and restore drain flow. Hydro jetting is an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical drain cleaners. It can be used on all types of pipes, and is especially effective on heavily clogged drains. Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to clean the interiors of a plumbing system.. Hydro jetting is an extremely effective method for cleaning your drains. It blasts through clogs and scours years of grease and debris from the insides of your pipes, thereby improving the flow of your drains.
Repiping Services
Repiping
If your home is over 50 years old and you’re dealing with constant water restrictions, leaks, and other issues, you may need to call a repipe contractor and ask whether it’s time to repipe your house.
When to Call a Repipe Contractor
If your home was built before the 1970s and you’ve never remodeled or upgraded your plumbing system, your plumbing system is due for a replacement. However, there are some signs that indicate it should be done sooner than later.
Discolored Water
When pipes go bad, it can cause water discoloration. So, if you notice your water is red, brown, or yellow, consider it a red flag that means your pipes need replacing.
Foul Water Taste
Many people drink bottled water because they don’t like the smell or taste of the water coming from the tap. But, if you drink tap water or brush your teeth with it and notice a foul taste, it could mean there’s a problem with your pipes.
Age
You should know how old your home is and your pipes are probably the same age. Pipes over 50 years old are probably ready to be replaced, especially if they’re lead. Homes manufactured in the 1920s typically have lead plumbing systems, while homes in the 70s typically use galvanized steel. Both piping materials were fine for the period but haven’t stood the test of time and must be replaced with safer, more durable materials.
Frequent Leaks
Lead and galvanized steel pipes corrode as they age, causing leaks. Eventually, the pipes degrade so thoroughly that constantly repairing them stops making sense, and it’s better to spend your hard-earned money on a new, more reliable system.
Noise
Noisy homes are said to have character. But sometimes, noises indicate a serious problem, like in your pipes. If your pipes make banging, shrieking, or squealing noises, call a plumber to diagnose the problem and determine whether repiping is in order.
Repiping Benefits
It’s understandable for homeowners to put off repiping their homes because of the expense and inconvenience. However, repiping is more economical than you think and provides many benefits besides getting a new plumbing system.
Money Savings
Sure, repiping your home is an expense, but considering how much money you’ll save not repairing leaks or bursts, and the accompanying water damage, it’s well worth the investment.
Adds Value
Speaking of investment, when it comes to remodeling and home improvement, repiping your house is an excellent way to increase your home’s value, which can be beneficial if you decide to sell it.
Cleaner Water
As mentioned, pipes made with outdated materials can make your water look and taste terrible. Galvanized steel pipes are known to rust after a certain point, and lead presents its own problems. Repiping your home with copper or PVC eliminates corrosion and gives you cleaner, better-tasting water.
Better Water Pressure
It’s common for calcium and sediment deposits to build up in older pipes, reducing water pressure. Replacing your worn-out, clogged plumbing restores the preferred water pressure to make washing and other household chores easier.
If you’re unsure whether you need to repipe your home, call one of our experienced technicians for an inspection and to discuss your options.
Kitchen Plumbing & Garbage Disposal
If you spend a lot of time in the kitchen preparing meals, you know how much food waste it creates. And even when you don’t cook, buying meals means there’s still plenty of garbage to throw out. Many homeowners opt for a garbage disposal installation to solve the waste problem. We also help the customers that decides to take them out for what ever reason
Our Kitchen Sink Repair & Replacing faucets
If you’re like most homeowners, your kitchen is the central hub of your house. Whether it’s cooking meals, washing up, or cleaning, your kitchen sink is one of the most used fixtures in the house and is one that wears out the quickest. We also replace kitchen faucets when the time has come for renewing it
However, many people continue using their worn-out sinks longer than they should, leading to plumbing problems and less convenience in the kitchen. If you’re unsure when is the right time to replace your kitchen sink, here are some signs to watch for.
Visible Wear and Tear
One of the most obvious signs that your kitchen sink is past its prime is when it’s visibly worn out. Signs of wear can range from cracks or chips in the basin. The problem is that visible cracks will only worsen over time, so it’s a good sign that you should replace your sink once it’s damaged.
Constant Repairs
Another reason to consider replacing your old sink is if it requires constant repairs. Whether it’s persistent clogs or a faucet that drips no matter what you do, eventually spending more and more money to repair it stops making sense, and replacement is the better option.
Outdated Design
It wasn’t that long ago that pink, sky blue, and pea green were all the rage for kitchen and bathroom sinks. While your pink sink might still function, it’s not easy on the eyes, and it won’t win you any points when your neighbors come to visit. If you’re still rocking a pastel-colored sink, consider replacing it with a modern stainless steel design that’s easier to clean and better matches your decor.
Modern Technology
Lastly, consider upgrading your kitchen sink to a new model that supports smart home technology. Smart faucets work with home assistants like Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit that respond to voice commands so you can tell it to dispense an exact amount of water. These smart faucets also have built-in technology to reduce your water usage to save you money on your water bills.
Bathroom Remodeling - COMING SOON!!!
Benefits of Remodeling Your Bathroom
If you’re like most homeowners, you have a never-ending list of repairs, upgrades, and remodeling projects on your to-do list. Building an ideal living space takes time, and most people do it one room at a time. One room that usually is the first on their list is the bathroom because it’s one of the most used, and fixtures wear out more quickly.
Let’s look at why bathroom renovation should be high on your home improvement priority list.
Adds Value
It’s a fact that most homebuyers pay particular attention to the home’s bathrooms, and some will actually pass on a home if they’re too outdated. If you’re not planning on staying in your house for long, it’s wise to update the bathroom to help maximize the sale price and attract buyers. And, if you are staying, upgrading the bathroom adds beauty and function.
Safety Upgrades
People who live in older homes often have unsafe bathrooms, especially if older residents live in the household. Upgrading the bathroom to add safety features like anti-slip flooring in the tub or shower, handrails, and upgrading outlets to GFCI receptacles go a long way to making your bathroom safer for everyone.
More Space
It’s easy for a bathroom to become small and cramped as your family grows, so remodeling is an excellent way to reclaim space and add storage options to keep clutter at bay.
The great thing about remodeling your bathroom is that it doesn’t have to be done at once if your budget doesn’t allow it; you can do a few things at a time, which makes it more cost-effective but still gets you closer to your goal.
Bathroom Tub Replacement
As mentioned, you don’t have to remodel your bathroom all at once; you can do it a fixture at a time if you like. Besides the bathroom sink, the tub is probably one of the most used in a typical bathroom, and depending on how old it is; it won’t take long to show signs of wear.
Because people rely on their bathtubs for relaxing and washing, it’s good to note signs that it might be time to replace them.
Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew make your bathtub look disgusting; they also can cause health issues like respiratory problems if it gets out of hand. Sometimes, when mold and mildew get out of control, it’s better to replace your old bathtub instead of spending days trying to clean it.
Stains
You’re probably used to dealing with stains left behind if you live with hard water. Sometimes, stains become so embedded in the porcelain they’re nearly impossible to clean. Stains are unsightly, and they can carry loads of bacteria and germs.
Cracks and Leaks
Bathtub cracks are difficult to fix, and if they’re deep enough and leaking, the only thing you can do is replace the tub because repairs are typically a short-term fix. Most leaks are obvious — you see puddles around the base of the tub. However, some leaks are only identified by filling the tub and monitoring the water level over a few hours. Leaks will worsen and cause water damage and mold, and mildew growth.
Clogged Toilet & Repairs
Our Clogged Toilet Repair
Your bathroom toilet is probably the most used fixture in the house, and it’s a toss-up between it and the kitchen sink suffering from the most clogs. One problem with the toilet is that too many people treat it like a trash can, flushing things that should go into the garbage instead.
The key to preventing clogged toilets is to know what causes them in the first place, and here’s a list of the most common ones.
Flushing Non-Flushable Items
You’d be surprised at what people try to flush down the toilet: items like feminine hygiene products, paper towels, cotton balls, etc. However, one of the biggest headaches for plumbers and water treatment plants is the “flushable” wipes. Personal wipes are only flushable in that they can fit down the drain. These products don’t deteriorate like toilet paper and wreak havoc with your toilet and in municipal treatment plants. The bottom line is: if it’s not toilet paper or human waste, put it into the trash.
Blocked P-Trap
The P-trap is a P-shaped pipe designed to keep sewer gas odor from coming into your home. If this trap is partially clogged, it reduces the amount of water that can drain per flush. Sometimes, you can use an auger to clear the obstruction; however, it’s best to call a plumber to ensure you get all of the material out.
Blocked Plumbing Vents
Many homeowners don’t realize it, but your plumbing requires ventilation pipes to ensure proper drainage and protect against sewer gas from getting in. It’s easy for the vents to become clogged, causing your toilet to stop flushing or flush inconsistently.
Damaged Main Sewer Lines
Even though your sewer line is buried underground and well-protected from the elements, it’s not impervious to damage like tree roots and soil erosion. If the main sewer line is punctured or implodes, it causes drainage problems throughout the house, including your toilet.
While you can prevent most toilet clogs by minding what you flush down the drain, when things are beyond your control, call a plumbing professional for help.
Toilet Replacement
You can chalk some toilet problems to bad flushing habits, while others may mean you need a new toilet installation. Let’s look at the most common situations where installing a new toilet might be your best option.
Too Many Repairs
When the costs of repairing an old toilet begin adding up, you have to ask yourself whether it’s worth continuing down that road or if the money could be better spent upgrading to a more reliable model.
Frequent Clogs
Sometimes, old, low-flow toilets lack the flushing power to get the job done. Low flow toilets are designed to save money by limiting how much water you use per flush, but some older models aren’t as efficient as newer ones, and you end up dealing with constant clogs.
Cracks
Another problem with older toilets is developing hairline cracks. Hairline cracks will only get worse and eventually lead to leaks. It’s a good habit to inspect your toilet for minor cracks and leaks every time you clean it.
High Water Bills
If you don’t have a low-flow toilet, you’re probably spending more on your water bill than necessary. Traditional toilets use up to 5 or 6 gallons per flush, while newer low-flow models typically get the job done with less than 2. The savings will add up quickly for an average household and show up in a lower water bill.
Sump Pump Services
Sump Pump Installation
A sump pump is your home's first line of defense against flooding.
A sump pump is an excellent investment that can protect your home against water damage from flooding and the expense of repairs and cleanup. If you’ve never considered a sump pump, here are a few reasons for doing so.
What is a Sump Pump?
A sump pump is a device that sits in a pit at the lowest part of your house, typically the basement, and it is designed to protect you against flooding. Here’s how they work. The system sits idle until it’s needed. When heavy rains occur, and the ground becomes saturated, the water might flow into the basement. Because the pump sits at the lowest point, the water flows towards it, which activates the pump. Once activated, the pump removes the incoming water and drains it into a storm drain or pond to prevent it from flooding your basement.
Besides pumping out flood water, sump pumps offer additional benefits, including:
Protection from water damage
Protection from mold and mildew growth
Protects appliances
Discourages insects and pests
Protects your foundation from cracks
Gives you peace of mind if you’re away during a storm
Now, you might be asking yourself whether you really need a sump pump.
Keep in mind that moisture is common in basements and crawl spaces, and having a sump pump can significantly reduce it. Also, if you live in an area that receives heavy rainfall, there’s always the potential for flooding and installing a sump pump provides you with insurance that you’ll be protected. So, the adage applies with sump pumps: It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
Our Sump Pump Maintenance
Your sump pump won’t do you any good if it doesn’t work when called on, so it’s essential that you keep it in proper working condition.
Here are a few tips to ensure your sump pump will be ready to work during a flood.
Test it Regularly
A heavy rainstorm isn’t the time to find out that your sump pump isn’t working. So, it’s wise to test it at least once a year by filling a bucket of water, pouring it into the sump, and seeing if the unit kicks on. You’re good to go if it powers on and begins removing the water.
Clean the Inlet Screen
The inlet screen is located at the bottom of the pump and is where water enters. The inlet screen acts as a filter to prevent the pump from getting clogged, so if the filter screen is dirty, it will impede water from getting in, rendering your pump ineffective. Check the inlet screen once a year and clean it if necessary.
Inspect the Discharge Line
The discharge line is where the water drains away from the house, and it can become clogged like the inlet screen, so check it once a year as part of your maintenance routine.
Check the Power Source
Your sump pump should be connected to a GFCI outlet to protect it in case of a power surge. Test the outlet once a year by pressing the reset button to ensure the system is getting power.
Watch for Issues
Lastly, it’s essential to pay attention to your sump pump and watch for issues that indicate you may need to replace it, such as:
Strange noise during operation
Rust
Continuously cycling on and off
Nonstop running
Motor failure
Water Filtration - COMING SOON!!!
Water Filtration System Installation
Many people either don’t like the smell and taste of their tap water or think it’s unsafe to drink. And because of that, they spend hundreds of dollars a year on bottled water, which produces tons of plastic waste. If you’re one of those people, maybe it’s time to consider installing a whole home water filtration system.
Let’s look at some of the benefits.
Better Tasting Water
In most cases, the water you get from your municipal supplier is safe to drink, but water treatment plants use chemicals like chlorine to kill bacteria and other pathogens, which make the water taste funny; that’s why many homeowners use bottled water instead of drinking their tap water. Still, other homeowners have water with high mineral content, affecting taste.
Installing a water filter removes the offending chemicals and neutralizes the taste, making it more palatable.
You Have Old Plumbing
If your home was built before 1960, there’s a chance you have some lead or galvanized metal pipes. As we know, lead pipes are dangerous and should be replaced as soon as possible. However, you can protect yourself against lead poisoning by installing a multi-stage water filter.
Better Well Water
Many rural homeowners rely on well water as their primary water source. And while most private wells produce clean, healthy drinking water, the widespread use of pesticides and other chemicals has contaminated many private wells. Installing a reverse osmosis water filter goes a long way to removing pesticides, nitrates, toxins, and heavy metals from well water, making it healthier and safer.
Better Looking Clothes
Do your clothes look dingy and faded after only a few washes? The problem may not be your detergent but your water. Water with high mineral content causes clothes to fade more quickly; installing a water filter to remove the minerals results in brighter, longer-lasting clothes.
Reduced Stains
Another problem stemming from hard water is the stains it leaves behind in your sinks, tubs, and showers. If you’re sick of fighting the never-ending battle of scrubbing these stains away, consider installing a water filter to remove the minerals.
Our Reverse Osmosis Filtration Systems
Most experts agree that you should opt for a reverse osmosis system if you want the most effective home water filtration.
Reverse osmosis works by forcing unfiltered water through a semipermeable membrane to remove contaminants with fresh water coming out of your tap and brine as waste. Most reverse osmosis filters comprise three, four, or five stages, depending on your filtration needs.
Choosing a reverse osmosis filter is that you get a sediment filter to remove particles like dirt, dust, and rust; a carbon filter to reduce volatile organic compounds, such as chemicals; and a semipermeable membrane to remove the dissolved solids.
Reverse osmosis filters are effective at removing:
Fluoride
Salt
Sediment
Chlorine
Arsenic
Volatile organic compounds
Herbicides and pesticides
Stoppages & Drain Clogs
Clogged Pipe Repair Service
Did you know that clogged drains are the most common plumbing problem homeowners face across the United States? Each year, 15 million clogged drains contribute to the stress level of frustrated homeowners. Clogs can quickly occur, with average plumbing pipes being 3-4 inches in diameter.
Stoppages don’t happen only in the drains that lead directly from your plumbing fixtures but also in your larger sewer lines that run under the home and underground through the yard, connecting to the main sewer line. The main line can be blocked by tree roots, grease, hair, mineral deposits, and other stoppages resulting in sewage backing up into the home. With nowhere for the wastewater to go but back into the house, a sewer drain clog should be considered a plumbing emergency because of the potential health hazards, possible destruction of valuables, damage risk to your home or office, and more.
Homes connected to the city’s sewer usually have one sewer drain pipe running underground from the house to the street, connecting to the main sewer line. Each plumbing fixture has its own drain that connects to the main drain. So your sinks, tubs, showers, toilets, washing machines, dishwashers, etc., have their independent drain that leads to the main drain connected to the main sewer line. If the main drain clogs, the wastewater starts to back up all the drains in the house.
Most Common Causes of Clogs & Stoppages
As a homeowner, you’ll probably face at least one drain clog in your life, and likely more. Maybe you notice water pooling when you’re showering, or perhaps the kitchen sink doesn’t empty as quickly as it used to.
Considering how much use the drains in the average household get, it’s no wonder clogs are so prevalent.
Knowing the common reasons drains clog can help you prevent it from happening.
Hair
Hair is the most common reason drains clog in the bathroom. Hair mixes in the drains with shampoo and soap, creating a sticky, tangled mess that’s difficult to remove.
Dirt
If you work outdoors, you probably bring a lot of dirt home, which turns into mud when you put your clothes through the washing machine and clogs your drains.
Non-Flushable Items
The only things you should flush down the toilet are human waste and appropriate toilet paper. Many people treat their toilet like a trash can, flushing feminine hygiene products, paper towels, cotton balls, baby wipes, and diapers down the drain. These items aren’t flushable and are notorious for clogging the toilet or main sewer line.
Tree Roots
If you have a tiny crack or hole in your main sewer line, nearby tree roots seek this easy water source and get into your pipes. Once inside, the roots grow and stop water flow completely, and can crush the line.
In most of these cases, drain cleaners, plungers, and home remedies won’t solve the problem, and you’ll need a drain cleaning professional.
Backed-up drains are never convenient. When a stoppage forms, the tell-tale sign is usually slow drainage or multiple plumbing fixtures backing up at the same time. Toilets are typically the first plumbing fixture to display problems because they use the biggest drains. If your toilet doesn’t flush properly or makes gurgling noises when water is being used in other parts of the home, you most likely have a plumbing problem.
Sewer Line Repairs
Causes of Sewer Line Damage
Nobody likes talking about sewage problems, but it’s a part of owning a home. Without a functioning waste disposal system, your home and family are at risk of contracting diseases, mold and mildew growth, and other damage. These problems occur when there’s damage to your main sewer line. But what causes it?
Tree Roots
One of the most common causes of sewer line damage is tree root invasion. Tree roots are naturally attracted to wastewater, which is like fertilizer on steroids. Even if there’s a tiny crack or hole in your sewer line, it won’t take nearby trees long to notice and send their roots to take advantage. Once the roots get into the pipe, they grow uncontrollably, causing significant clogs and ruptures.
Physical Obstructions
Another common problem is physical clogs, and these occur mainly because too many people treat their toilets like garbage cans, flushing items that should go into the trash. Items like feminine hygiene products, personal and baby wipes, diapers, toys, cotton balls, etc. Your sewer system wasn’t designed to handle these items, so it’s easy for them to build up over time and cause a clog.
Rodents
You wouldn’t think that mice, rats, and other rodents could be dangerous to your plumbing system, but nothing could be further from the truth. Burrowing rodents loosen joints, cause small cracks to worsen, and build their homes in the pipes.
Age
Lastly, age and wear and tear take their toll on everything, including your plumbing system. Corrosion, sediment buildup, and soil shifting contribute to sewer clogs and ruptures. While you can keep an eye on your system through routine inspection and maintenance, eventually, you’ll have to replace your sewer line.
Backflow Testing - COMING SOON!!!
What is Backflow?
Backflow happens when water flows opposite from its intended direction. Backflow potentially introduces toxic substances into your drinking water like human waste, fertilizers, pesticides, chlorine and chemicals, and pathogens that can cause illness.
There are two main causes of backflow: Back pressure and back siphonage.
Back Pressure
Back pressure happens when your home’s water pressure needs exceed what the supply can give. Back pressure can be caused by a boiler or power washing system malfunction.
Back Siphonage
Back siphonage happens when there’s negative pressure from a vacuum in the supply pipes. The most common causes of back siphonage are water main breaks or increased demand for water, such as fire fighting. Back siphonage causes the normal water flow to reverse direction, pulling contaminants into your drinking water.
What is Backflow Prevention?
To protect your water against backflow contamination, you can install a backwater valve. A backwater valve or backflow preventer is a simple device that allows water to flow in its intended direction, and these devices are required in some municipalities.
Backflow valves contain a small flap that is typically open to allow wastewater to exit the home and enter the sewer line.
On each side of the flap is a flotation device. If the water flow reverses, the floats lift the flap to close, stopping the contaminated water from backing up into your plumbing system.
If you’re installing a backflow valve onto your existing plumbing system, you’ll need a professional plumber and a permit from your local municipality.
Reasons You Need Regular Backflow Testing
It goes without saying, but backflow preventers require routine testing to ensure they’re working correctly and providing adequate protection. Most backflow valves are marked with dates indicating when they should be tested.
So, why is this testing so important?
Protect Your Health
As mentioned, backflow can introduce various harmful chemicals and pathogens into your drinking water, which can negatively impact your health. Routine testing ensures your backwater valve is in good working condition and will protect your family.
Prevent Damage
If you’re a property manager, routine backwater valve testing is essential to guard against damage. If water flows back into your system, the high pressure can damage walls, and the contaminated water can cause pipes to corrode prematurely.
Environmental Protection
Lastly, backflow preventers protect against contaminated water entering the water supply and ending up polluting lakes and oceans.
Some Places We Work
Langley, Walnut Grove, White Rock, Surrey, Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge, Port Coquitlam, and many more
BC, Canada, V2Z 2B1
Business Hours
Mon - Fri 8am to 4pm
Sat - Sun by appointment
After hours text your name, address & pictures of emergency to +1 236-233-9696 and/or email the same details to emergency@plumblink.ca