Q: Why is there noise coming from my pipes?

A: If your house waste system is made of ABS plastic piping - on occasion this pipe can make a ticking noise caused by the changes in temperature of water running through it. This is not a defect in the waste system, just the physics of expansion and contraction of the pipes. Another source of noise may be from the water heater vent pipe. The vent is double walled pipe and may expand and contract at different rates. This can sometimes cause noise as hot air moves through the vent piping to the outside. Again, there is nothing wrong with the system and little can be done to eliminate this noise. 

Q: What happens when roots get inside lines?

A: Some pipe materials are more susceptible to root intrusion than others. Clay tile pipe is easily penetrated and damaged by tree roots. Concrete pipe and PVC pipe may also allow root intrusion, but to a lesser extent than clay pipe. PVC pipe usually has fewer joints and the tightly fitted joints are less likely to leak because of settlement around the pipe. Once roots have entered the pipe, they continue to grow and expand, exerting considerable pressure at the crack or joint. The increased pressure often breaks the pipe and may result in total collapse, which requires repair or replacement. If not disturbed, the roots will completely fill the pipe with multiple hair-like root masses at each point of entry. The root masses quickly become clogged with toilet tissue, grease and other debris flowing from homes and businesses to the main sewer, resulting in reduced flow and slowed drains. A complete blockage may occur if the roots are not removed and root growth impeded.

Q: How often should I have my septic system inspected?

A: Septic systems should be inspected and pumped a minimum of once every three to four years. You may not be experiencing any problem now, but a full septic tank may allow unwanted solids to flow into the drain field, which is the part of the system that consists of a distribution box, with a series of connected pipes. Each pipe allows water to flow into a bed of stone that drains into the ground. If paper and other solids flow into the drain field, it becomes blocked and ineffective. A blocked drain field is costly to repair or replace 

Q: What should I do if there is no hot water?

A: Before calling for assistance: if the water heater is electric, check to make sure the circuit breaker for the heater is turned on. If it is a gas heater, make sure the pilot light is burning. Check to see if a valve for the gas is turned off and relight the pilot once turned on. Instructions for lighting the pilot can be found on the side of the heater. 

Q: Why does it take so long for hot water to reach ____________?

Q: Why is the water pressure on my showerheads so low?

A: The same regulations that restrict the amount of water in your toilet, also restricts the flow of faucets and showerheads. Devices are installed which restricts the maximum flow to 2.5 gallons per minute. This is a federal regulation and the devices should not be altered. 

Q: My showerhead and faucet aerators have a buildup of a white substance around the area where the water comes out. Is there anything I can do other than replace them?

A: The unsightly buildup is mineral deposits. To remove these deposits from the showerhead, take a plastic bag and pour a cup of vinegar in it. Place the bag over the showerhead and use a twist tie to hold it in place overnight. In the morning, remove the bag and use an old toothbrush to gently scrub off the deposits.You might be able to remove the aerators from the faucets and allow them to soak in the vinegar overnight.

Q: Is it okay to use toilet cleaners in the tank?

A: Cleaning tablets and chemicals should never be put in the tank. Tablets can affect the function of the flush mechanism and potentially cause the toilet to run and overflow. The chemicals used can cause damage to plastic and rubber components. It is better to clean the bowl as necessary. 

Q: What can I put in my garbage disposal and what should I do if it gets jammed?

A: Before putting food down the garbage disposal you should run cold water while the disposal is on. Then put small portions of soft, non-fibrous food into the disposal. Examples of food you should not put down the disposal are banana peels, cornhusks, artichoke leaves, bones and eggshells. You should never pour grease down the disposal. If the disposal should get jammed, unplug the disposal and remove the stuck item. You may then have to push the red reset button or flip the fuse box breaker. When in doubt about what can go in the disposal, just put it in the garbage instead.   

Q: I have a foul odor coming from my garbage disposer. What can I do to eliminate this odor?

A: Foul odors occur from a buildup of food debris within the disposer. To eliminate this odor, place ice cubes and lemon or orange peels in the disposer and run for 30 seconds. Next, squirt a little liquid dish detergent into the disposer while it is still running. Finally, run cold water for about 30 seconds to rinse all the debris away.

A: Hard water and chemicals can damage the finish of your plumbing fixtures. Avoid abrasive or acid based cleaners. Instead use liquid or foam cleaners made for cleaning fixtures. Always dry the fixtures off after cleaning and use. This will keep hard water from breaking down the protective finish, which causes tarnishing, and corrosion.