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Plumbing Problems You Should Not Ignore

By on December 26, 2016 in Bathroom, Commercial, Kitchen, Remodeling

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Homeowners that encounter plumbing problems often become overwhelmed with the situation. Small common issues are easy to fix with a quick DIY project or a quick call to the plumber. However, more serious issues can lead to extensive repairs and damage to your home. Some homeowners might put off fixing a small leak until it becomes a big problem. Below is a list of plumbing problems homeowners shouldn’t ignore.

  • Faulty Garbage Disposal – Not using your garbage disposal for a few days until you can fix it might sound like a good idea. But as the days go forward you will notice smelly odors and a blocked drain. Bacteria can quickly grow on food particles and could cause harm to your health if inhaled.
  • Expired Hot Water Heater – Hot water heaters often have an expiration date. It is recommended that you get it replaced before time runs out. Otherwise, you and your family will be forced to endure cold showers until the old or damaged hot water heater has been replaced.
  • Constant Running Toilet – The noise you hear when you enter the bathroom that sounds like water constantly running could grow into a larger problem. This is usually caused by a damaged or broken chain, float or valve. Sometimes it could be the result of something more serious that only a plumber is able to verify.
  • Leaky Water Heater – At first you might not notice a leaky water heater since it is often hidden behind a closet door. It is recommended to check the condition of your water heater on a regular basis to assure it is not leaking. This is especially recommended for water heaters more than five years old. Check the components, sides, floor and surrounding area for water leaks and damage. A small leak today can turn into a large flood in a few weeks.
  • Dripping Faucets – Your bathroom or kitchen faucets might have an annoying dripping sound that drives you crazy. This problem is often repairable with a DIY project. However, in some cases when homeowners have neglected to fix the issue it has grown into a larger problem, including an expensive water bill.

Keep in mind small plumbing issues often become larger problems down the road. It is best to repair or replace items throughout your home at the first sign of problems. It will save you money and time in the long run. Ignoring plumbing issues does not only lead to expensive repairs, it also can damage other areas of your home. Take action today and call a plumber to fix the issues in your home today!

Mokher Profile PicSince 1968, Chip Mokher & his team has provided South Florida with quality service with a commitment to our customers’ satisfaction. Our many years of experience has allowed us to serve thousands of homes and businesses in Miami-Dade County. We welcome the opportunity to serve you, please call us at 305-446-8266 or email us at chip@mokherplumbing.com

Liquid Drain Cleaners: Are They Safe?

By on November 7, 2016 in Kitchen

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Oh great! The drain is clogged again. Homeowners usually try to fix clogged drains with a quick DIY fix. The most popular product homeowners rush to the store to get is liquid drain cleaners. These cleaners might work temporarily but they can actually damage your pipes and make your family sick. The following details will explain further why you should consider calling a plumber instead of using drain cleaner.

Drain Cleaners and Pipes

Liquid drain cleaners contain an ingredient called hydrochloric acid that causes a chemical reaction meant to unclog the pipe. During this process, heat is generated from the chemicals in the liquid that help remove the clog. However, if you have plastic pipes, the heat can cause damage by melting and deforming the plastic. Continued use of the drain cleaner can also negatively affect metal pipes by causing cracks. These small cracks will gradually become larger and cause leaks in the future.

Drain Cleaners and Your Health

If you have ever used drain cleaner before you are aware of the harsh odor that fills your home. The ingredients in the cleaner are a combination of chemicals meant to destroy buildup and unclog the pipes. The fumes are immediately inhaled by the person using the product. Some homeowners experience irritation in their throat, ears, eyes, nose and lungs when using most drain cleaners.

Tips for Unclogging Your Drain Safely

  • Use a Plunger – A plunger is an essential tool that will help cure clogged drains. Every homeowner should own a plunger and use it when necessary.
  • Use a Plumbing Snake – Hardware stores usually carry a smaller version of a plumbing snake compared to the size plumber’s use. If your clog is minor a plumbing snake could help.

Why doesn’t liquid drain cleaner work?

Liquid drain cleaners might unclog some pipes. However, most clogs are created from a buildup of grease or hair. Drain cleaners aren’t meant to tackle severe clogs. If you use a drain cleaner and it doesn’t work, there are more serious issues involved. Some clogs are due to a crack in the pipe that is allowing debris to enter the pipes causing a clog. This is something a professional will need to handle.

Homeowners might feel that calling a plumber for a clogged drain is dramatic. However, it will benefit you in a variety of ways. A professional will determine the cause of the clog and fix it immediately, saving you money in the future. Using a plumbing service will also prevent you from coming into contact with harsh chemicals that can cause allergic reactions and health problems. If you have a clogged drain, call Mokher Plumbing today!

Mokher Profile PicSince 1968, Chip Mokher & his team has provided South Florida with quality service with a commitment to our customers’ satisfaction. Our many years of experience has allowed us to serve thousands of homes and businesses in Miami-Dade County. We welcome the opportunity to serve you, please call us at 305-446-8266 or email us at chip@mokherplumbing.com

 

Does Your Drain Smell Like the Sewer?

By on October 10, 2016 in Kitchen

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The overwhelming sewer smell oozing from the drains in your home can be difficult to ignore. Strong sewer odors can cause sicknesses such as vomiting and an overall unpleasant feeling. Homeowners immediately wonder what is causing this disgusting smell and how to get rid of it fast. There are quick and easy ways to deal with this nasty problem.

Dry Water Trap   

If the sewer odor is coming from a drain that doesn’t get used frequently there is a simple fix. The u-shaped pipe located under your sink is also known as the water trap. The shape of the pipe allows water to sit in the pipe and act as a barrier between your home and what is located further down the pipes. When drains are not used frequently the water in the trap evaporates and allows the sewer odor to come out of the drain and into your home. The simple fix is turning on the faucet and running water down the drain for about 30 seconds. If the sewer smell doesn’t go away there is a possibility something else is causing the odor such as dirty pipes.

Dirty Pipes

Is the odor coming from your kitchen sink? Chances are grime has built up inside the pipes due to exposure to food particles and other materials. The pipes need to be thoroughly cleaned by a professional to properly clear out the grime and debris causing the odor. A quick DIY project of cleaning the pipes with a brush will help temporarily until the plumber arrives.

Signs of a more serious issue include sewer odor coming from all drains within your home. This could be caused by an issue with the local sewer authority. Immediately contact the sewer company to ask about any problems in your area. They should provide details regarding the situation and a time frame for how long it will take to be fixed. In the meantime, you should open all of the windows in your home to allow the sewer odor to escape. If the problem doesn’t originate with the sewer company the problem most likely originates in your home.

Since sewer odor can cause nausea and sickness it is wise to get the situation taken care of right away. Contact a professional plumber to inspect your home and fix the problem. Don’t hesitate! Call Mokher Plumbing today to rid your home of that horrible sewer smell.

Mokher Profile PicSince 1968, Chip Mokher & his team has provided South Florida with quality service with a commitment to our customers’ satisfaction. Our many years of experience has allowed us to serve thousands of homes and businesses in Miami-Dade County. We welcome the opportunity to serve you, please call us at 305-446-8266 or email us at chip@mokherplumbing.com