To Pump or Not Pump?

One of the main services that must be performed on your septic system is regular pumping of the tank. For some, this can be a confusing issue as it can be difficult to know when you should pump and when you can wait a bit longer. The problem with septic tanks is there isn’t a simple way to check when your tank is almost full, at least not for homeowners. Due to the gases present in the tank, it can be dangerous to try to access the tank to check the level. So, how do you know whether to pump or not to pump?

Most septic tanks should be pumped about every 2-3 years; however, this is not a one-size-fits-all formula. Many factors determine how quickly your septic tank will be filled. The size of the tank is usually based on the number of bedrooms in the home. But, some houses have larger tanks than is needed, or more people may live in the house than the number of bedrooms. The size, amount of people in the home, waste habits and many other factors contribute to how often a tank must be pumped.

The best way to stay on top of the pumping for your septic tank is to have regular service performed on your septic system by a professional. Annual service helps keep your equipment maintained and assures that everything is working like it should. This is also a good time for your service technician to check your tank level. They can let you know an approximate time when you should schedule your next pumping. This way, you are not pumping too soon or not enough, keeping your septic system well maintained.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221

Tips on What to Do if Your Toilet Overflows

An overflowed toilet can create a mess. The curvy pipes that flush down waste can get clogged, and as more water comes in to whisk away the waste, it fills up the bowl. Before you know it, it can overflow onto the floor. Usually it is a local clog, often in the toilet itself, that can be removed with a plunger. To deal with a clogged toilet, follow these steps.

  • First, use a plunger to try and release the clog. Create a seal with the plunger around the exit hole in the toilet bowl and push down, then release and push down again without breaking the seal. Keep doing this until the water is sucked down.
  • Try flushing the toilet again. If it flushes with no problems, the clog is gone. Make sure to disinfected the plunger and the floor after cleanup; overflowed toilet water can release many harmful bacteria. Use bleach or another anti-bacterial cleaner.
  • If the clog will not budge or the toilet continues to fill the bowl, you may have other sewer line issues. It could be a clog in one of your pipes or a more serious issue. You can try to “snake” out the drain to find the clog. However, it may be more beneficial to call a plumber. They can determine where the clog is and make sure it is completely removed to remedy the problem.

Most overflowed toilets are a quick, albeit messy, fix. However, if plunging does not work, you may need to call in a plumber. It could be a toilet or plumbing problem that need professional repair.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221

Why You Need an Emergency Plumber

The worst time to choose a plumber is during a plumbing emergency. When you have a broken water pipe or a sewer backup into your home, you do not have time to do the necessary research to vet a plumber. The best approach is to choose an emergency plumber that you can trust before a plumbing emergency occurs. For most homeowners, it is not if, but when, they will need to call a plumber. Here is why you need to have an emergency plumber on speed dial and how to choose the right one.

For one, not all plumbers offer emergency service. They may advertise they handle plumbing emergencies, but that does not mean they will be available at two o’clock in the morning when you find a broken water pipe. You want to ensure that the emergency plumber you choose is available 24/7, 365 days a year. Even if it is Thanksgiving Day or another major holiday, you want to know your plumber will be there when you need them the most.

You need a plumber you can trust, an experienced, reputable company that will handle your plumbing emergency quickly and affordably. Having an emergency plumber can give you peace of mind when the inevitable plumbing issue occurs. Knowing the crisis will be handled and you will not get any unexpected surprises when it comes time to pay the bill can help reduce the stress of an emergency plumbing problem.

When choosing your emergency plumber, make sure to check their credentials. How long have they been in business? Are they licensed and insured? Do they handle both plumbing and sewer/septic emergencies? Do your research when you have time to do it right; then, put their number in your phone so when you have a plumbing problem, your emergency plumber is right there at your fingertips.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(404) 973-2471

Should You Drain and Flush a Water Heater Yourself?

Your water heater needs regular maintenance to keep it working great and to extend the time before replacement. Like most appliances, it can benefit from regular service to reduce wear and tear on the mechanisms. One maintenance service that should be done annually is a drain and flush of the tank. However, is this a DIY job or should you hire a plumber?

Draining and flushing your water heater tank is important to limit corrosion inside the tank. Minerals can collect in the tank and cause rust and corrosion. This can lead to leaks in the tank and a premature replacement of the water heater, which can cost thousands of dollars. Draining and flushing can remove these minerals and extend the life of your water heater.

You can drain and flush a water heater on your own, but it does take some know-how. There are several hundred gallons of water that must be carefully removed; a wrong move could cause water to flood your home, putting you at risk for water or mold damage. If you decide to attempt this procedure, make sure you research it carefully to ensure you do not cause more harm than good.

Another option is to schedule a tune-up or service for your water heater with a local plumber. Not only can they drain and flush the tank, they can inspect the other components on your water heater. There are many components that can need replacement over the years; proactive replacement can prevent water heater malfunctions and emergency repairs while extending the life of your appliance. If it has been more than a year since your water heater tank has been flushed, call your local plumber and schedule a service.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing, Inc.
106-M Oakgrove Road
Sterling, VA 20166
(703) 435-4441

Top 3 Signs You Need New Bathroom Fixtures

The bathroom is one of the most frequently used rooms in the home and one of the largest consumers of your water supply. Your guests visit this room regularly, making it important to keep it looking stylish; plus, you want to ensure you are not wasting water with older, less efficient fixtures. Here are three signs it is time to replace your bathroom fixtures.

  • Faucets leak or drip. Do you constantly have a shower or sink in your bathroom that drip or leak? While it may be something as simple as a washer that needs replacing in the faucet, it may be time to replace the shower or sink set completely.
  • Your water bill is high. Look at the amount of water your family uses each month. If it is too high, you may want to consider more efficient fixtures. The bathroom is a good place to start; replacing showerheads and your toilet with efficient models can save hundreds of gallons per day.
  • Outdated design. Sometimes, you just want a new look for your bathroom. Changing the fixtures in your bathroom is a cost-efficient option to improve the appearance. If the old faucet or sink is stained or outdated, opt for a newer design to give your bathroom a makeover.

If you are ready to replace your bathroom fixtures for efficiency or a new style, call your local plumber. Fixtures like your toilet or sink should be installed by a professional to ensure it is done right the first time. It can save you time and money in the long run to trust a professional plumber for your installation.

Posted on behalf of:
Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.
2120 McDaniels Bridge Rd SW
Lilburn, GA 30047
(770) 884-4678