Common Drain Problems And How To Solve Them With Drain Cleaning Service

5/7/2023

When it comes to home maintenance, understanding your drain system may not be at the top of your list. However, drains play a critical role in maintaining the sanitation and comfort of your home. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common drain problems and share practical tips on how you can correct and even prevent them with a professional drain cleaning service.

Four Common Drain Problems You Might Encounter

1. Clogs and Blockages

Perhaps the most common issue homeowners face with their drains are clogs and blockages. These are often caused by an accumulation of substances that don’t break down easily in water, such as:

• Hair: This is a major culprit, especially in bathroom drains.
• Grease and oil: These substances can solidify in your pipes, leading to blockages.
• Food particles: Certain types of food waste, like coffee grounds or tea leaves, can build up in your pipes over time.
• Foreign objects: Everything from small toys to sanitary products can cause blockages if they accidentally end up down the drain.

2. Slow Drains

Slow drains can be a sign that a blockage is forming. The reasons behind slow drainage are often similar to those causing clogs – an accumulation of debris in your pipes. But slow drains can also be indicative of more severe issues, like a problem with your sewer line.

3. Bad Odors

Neglected drains can start to produce unpleasant smells. This is often due to food debris that has become trapped in the drain and begun to decompose. Bad odors can also arise from sewer gases coming up through your drains, which could indicate a problem with your plumbing vents.

4. Recurring Issues

If you’re experiencing recurring clogs or slow drains, it’s possible there’s a deeper issue in your plumbing system. This could be anything from tree roots infiltrating your sewer line to pipes that have become damaged or corroded over time.

Preventing Drain Problems: Simple Steps for Homeowners

While these types of drain problems are likely to come up over time with the realities of life and years of use, here are some practical steps you can take to avoid them for as long as possible:

• Practice mindful disposal: Be aware of what you’re putting down your drains. Avoid flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper down your toilets. In your kitchen, refrain from disposing of grease, oil, and food debris down your sink. Use a separate container to collect these wastes and dispose of them in your regular trash.
• Use drain guards: Installing drain guards or strainers in your showers, tubs, and sinks can catch hair, soap residue, and other debris, preventing them from entering your drains and causing blockages.
• Perform regular drain maintenance: Regularly flush your drains with hot water to help dissolve oil and grease buildup.
• Schedule regular professional drain cleaning: Even with the best at-home care and preventative measures, it’s beneficial to hire drain cleaning service to have your drains professionally cleaned on a regular basis. This ensures any buildup that you can’t reach is properly cleared, preventing potential issues down the line.

Emergency Drain Services

Sometimes, clogged drains can escalate into an emergency situation. At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas, we understand that some drain issues can’t wait. That’s why we offer emergency cleaning service available around the clock. Whether it’s a severe clog causing a backup or a slow drain turning into a complete blockage, our team is ready to tackle the problem promptly and efficiently. Our swift response time and attention to detail ensure that we address the issue right the first time, minimizing the impact on your daily routine and the potential for further damage. When you need us most, we’re just a call away.

You may have an emergency drain situation if you experience multiple and simultaneously clogged or slow-draining fixtures all at once, as this can signal a severe blockage in your main sewer line requiring urgent attention. You might also notice sewage or wastewater backing up into your fixtures, which is a clear sign of a severe blockage in the main sewer line. Furthermore, you could experience water pooling around floor drains and even notice water damage appearing on walls, ceilings, or floors. Flooding can result from clogged or backed-up drains, leading to structural damage and promoting mold growth, making it an emergency situation.

How bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas Can Help

When it comes to professional drain cleaning service and maintenance, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas is a trusted choice. Our team of experienced professionals is equipped with state-of-the-art tools and techniques to address any drain problem, big or small. We are always committed to delivering exceptional customer service to ensure your plumbing system is functioning optimally.

At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas, we understand that every home is unique, and so are its plumbing needs. That’s why we customize our services to best suit your specific situation and preferences. We take the time to understand your concerns and answer any questions you may have, ensuring you feel confident about the solutions we provide.

Don’t wait for drain problems to become severe before taking action. Invest in regular drain maintenance and professional drain cleaning service to keep your plumbing system in peak condition. By doing so, you’ll not only save yourself from the inconvenience of drain issues but also protect your home and family from potential health hazards.

At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas, we’re always ready to assist you with your drain cleaning needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you maintain a healthy and well-functioning plumbing system.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

Find out our service area here.

Photo By nasirkhan at Shutterstock

4 Common Issues That Require An Emergency Plumber

Modern plumbing systems are quite reliable. This explains why you rarely think about your plumbing system despite the fact that you need it every day. However, this does not mean that your plumbing system is indestructible. Indeed, as a homeowner, there is a good chance that your plumbing system will develop a problem at some point. Considering the importance and sensitivity of your plumbing infrastructure, most plumbing problems you will run into in your house will need to be addressed urgently. However, you should fight any temptations to try DIY plumbing solutions, no matter how quickly you would like to see a given plumbing issue fixed. Instead, you need to have a professional emergency plumber you can trust to help you when you have any plumbing emergency in your house. This is because improperly done plumbing jobs can have costly consequences. Besides, some plumbing jobs could put you, your family, and your home in grave danger. But what exactly can prompt you to seek the services of a professional emergency plumbing service? Below is a rundown of some common plumbing situations you can run into.

A Burst Water Pipe

A water pipe can burst due to many reasons. For example, if a pipe passes near a tree, the roots of the tree might coil themselves around the pipe and damage it. Besides, if the ground in which a pipe is laid is shifting for some reason, it might put the pipe at risk of getting damaged. But whatever the cause of the issue might be, it will have the effect of causing the pipe to spill a lot of water within a short time. Besides, a burst pipe can cut off the supply of water to your house or cause a severe drop in water pressure. Although this problem seems straightforward, it is usually more complex than it seems. As such, unless you are a professional plumbing contractor, you should not waste your time and other resources trying to fix it yourself. Instead, you will need to make a quick call to your emergency plumber as soon as you notice a burst pipe in your house. By getting the issue fixed on time, you will not only minimize the wastage of water but also prevent getting your home flooded.

A Blocked Toilet

When materials that don’t get easily degraded find their way into your toilet, they might cause a blockage. Examples of such materials include paper, polythene, and ‘flushable’ wipes. But whatever the cause of the problem might be, it will make the wastewater fill up your toilet bowl instead of rushing out of sight as soon as you flush the toilet. Unfortunately, this will create a nasty site that might render your bathroom inaccessible. Besides, a blocked toilet can expose your family to the risk of catching serious bacterial and fungal infections. However, unless the issue can be resolved with a plunger, it is best to leave it to professionals. This is because trying to insert crude tools like wires into your toilet could leave the toilet damaged. Therefore, when you notice your toilet is blocked, you should simply call a professional emergency plumber to get it fixed correctly. Professionals will come with the right tools to resolve the situation correctly and in a way that does not put your plumbing system at risk of getting damaged.

A Broken Water Heater

The water heater is an essential part of your plumbing infrastructure. Its job is to heat water and make hot water available anytime you need it. The water heater, like other appliances, can break down or develop problems that could negatively affect its efficacy and efficiency and even put your family and house in danger. For example, if the water heater is leaking, it might expose your pets and children to the risk of getting severely burned. Besides, a leaking water heater might create dampness that could invite a mold infestation, which could comprise your indoor air quality and trigger or worsen allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. Therefore, when you notice water pooling around your water heater, you will need to ensure that the issue is urgently addressed by a professional plumbing contractor. Other water heater issues that will need the urgent attention of a professional plumber include no hot water, tepid water, and water getting dangerously hot, among others. Professional plumbers deal with water heaters every day, and it will be easier for them to accurately diagnose the underlying cause of any water heater issue you might run into and ensure it is addressed accordingly.

A Frozen Water Pipe

In winter, the water in your water pipes might be at risk of freezing. Unfortunately, blocks of ice in your pipes could make it impossible for water to flow through the pipes. This means that a frozen pipe might cut off the supply of water in your house. Therefore, when you have a frozen pipe in your house, you need a professional plumber to help you restore the supply of water as soon as possible. Professional emergency plumbers are familiar with such issues, and they know what needs to be done to ensure that the issue is resolved quickly and correctly. They will also improve your pipe insulation and advise on how you can prevent the issue from recurring in the future.

The Bottom Line

As you can see, several plumbing issues can make it necessary for you to seek emergency plumbing services. Failure to fix them urgently could cause serious disruptions in your house and even expose your home and family to serious dangers. Therefore, you need to have an experienced emergency plumbing contractor on speed dial. If you are looking for a dependable plumber you can call anytime you have a plumbing emergency in your house, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas is the answer. We have been in the business for a long time, and you can count on us not to disappoint you. Call us for more information about our company and services.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

Photo By Jag_cz at Shutterstock

Unusual (But Necessary) Reasons To Call In A Plumber

There are some obvious reasons when you know you need a plumbing pro to deal with your plumbing system. There are also some unusual–even downright weird reasons to call a professional plumbing company. bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas is a leading plumbing company that offers a full range of plumbing solutions for homes and businesses. If you notice anything unusual about your pipes or another aspect of your plumbing system, be sure to call in the professionals.

Gurgling Noises

If you hear gurgling noises, there’s a good chance that you need to call a plumber. Gurgling is typically a sign that a clog is forming somewhere in your plumbing system. Many people overlook this noise because so long as there isn’t water backing up and water appears to be flowing down the drain, there’s no visual reason to call a plumbing company.

Keep in mind that blockages don’t always develop all at once. Frequently, clogs form gradually. Yet, even small clogs can prevent water from flowing normally through the pipes. Partial clogs will cause water to partially back up within the drain itself, which is why you might hear a gurgling noise with no other outward sign.

If you ignore the gurgling noises, there’s a good possibility that the clog will continue to grow until it becomes a complete blockage. At that point, you likely will experience wastewater backup and will need the services of a plumber. So, if you hear gurgling, take care to have your drains cleared.

Fruit Flies

Fruit flies coming out of a drain is a weird problem, but more common than you might think. Plumbing systems aren’t immune to pests. The waste and water they contain can be a draw for pests like insects. Even with the best efforts, food waste can wind up in your plumbing system and get caught in its twists and bends.

If food is left to decay in your pipes, it can attract insects. Consequently, if you ever witness fruit flies coming from your kitchen drain, there’s probably some food debris decaying in your plumbing system. Although many household cleaners that contain bleach can kill fruit flies in the drain, if you haven’t used the sink in a couple days or simply haven’t used a cleaning product, it might be just enough time for fly larvae to hatch.

Once fruit flies get into your home, they can be difficult to eradicate. There are fruit fly traps available at home improvement centers and hardware stores, but it’s crucial to target the source of the problem–the decaying food in your drain. If you haven’t had your drains professionally cleaned in a while, a fruit fly problem is a good time to call in a plumbing pro to scour your drain system thoroughly.

Something Smells

Food waste in the drain system can attract pests and cause clogs, but it can also cause bad odors. Food isn’t the only thing that can cause your drains to smell. Biofilm is another big cause of unpleasant drain smells. Biofilm is a combination of soap residue and bacteria. These goopy materials can coat your drain system and cause those seriously bad odors.

Although cleaning products might help you reduce drain odors, they might not be powerful enough to actually clean your drains the way professional drain cleaning can. If you find that your drains begin to smell frequently, it’s best to call in a plumber to clean them. Masking odors isn’t as effective as removing the cause of the odors. Hydro jetting equipment, for instance, will wash away substances like biofilm and food waste that are causing those terrible smells to occur.

Orange Water

Do you ever see orange water coming through your sink or tub faucet? It’s a weird sight to see, but not as uncommon as you might suppose. There are a couple of reasons why you might see orange water. Orange water is often a sign of corrosion. This corrosion might come from your pipes or your water heater.

As plumbing systems age, corrosion can occur naturally as a result of oxidation. Similarly, as a water heater ages, its tank can develop corrosion and rust too. The result is that you may begin to see orange, rusty water. To ensure the safety of your water quality, you may need to contact a plumbing professional to test your water and get to the bottom of your orange water problem.

Bubbling Ceiling

Do you notice that your ceiling or wall is bubbling? Bubbled paint indicates that a moisture problem is present. Your plumbing system contains pipes that run above ceilings, behind walls, and under floors. If these pipes spring a leak, even a very small one, the water coming from the pipe can cause bubbling and trigger a mold problem. Bubbling can also be a sign of a roof leak or some other leak, but if it is a plumbing leak, you’ll need a plumbing pro to make the necessary repair or to replace the leaking pipe.

Mystery Increase in Water Bill

An increase in your water bill can be a weird occurrence, especially if rates haven’t increased and you haven’t changed your water usage to account for the increase. A water bill increase could signal a leak somewhere in your plumbing system. Perform an inspection. Make sure there are no toilets running. A running toilet can cause a spike in your water bill. If you can’t pinpoint a cause, you should schedule a professional inspection with a plumber from our team.

Call us if you experience unusual or commonplace problems with your plumbing system. Our plumbing technicians can tackle any plumbing problem.

At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas, we have a reputation for our outstanding workmanship and fair pricing. We can help keep your plumbing system functioning optimally from one year to the next.

See our previous blog on this topic here.

Photo By Ahmet Misirligul at Shutterstock

Maintaining A Healthy Home With Regular Drain Cleaning Service

If you’ve ever experienced the inconvenience of a clogged drain, you know how disruptive it can be to your daily routine. However, did you know that it’s not just these major blockages you need to worry about? Regular maintenance and drain cleaning service are pivotal in maintaining a healthy and comfortable home. Let’s dive into why this is so important.

Benefits of Regular Drain Cleaning

1. Preventing clogs and blockages: It’s easy to overlook what goes down our drains, but over time, small items, grease, and grime can accumulate, leading to slow-running or even completely blocked drains. A seemingly minor issue can escalate into a full-blown plumbing emergency if water starts to back up, potentially causing flooding and water damage to your home. By ensuring your drains are cleaned regularly, you prevent the build-up of debris and keep water flowing smoothly.
2. Reducing foul odors: In addition to preventing clogs, drain cleaning plays a significant role in reducing foul odors in your home. Over time, food particles, grease, and other waste that pass through your drain start to decompose, causing unpleasant smells. If left untreated, these odors can permeate your home, making it less comfortable for you and your family. Regular drain cleaning service eradicates these odor sources, keeping your home smelling fresh and inviting.
3. Preventing damage to pipes and plumbing systems: Like any system, your home’s plumbing requires routine maintenance to stay in peak condition. A blocked drain puts excess pressure on your pipes, potentially leading to cracks or even pipe bursts. Regular cleaning minimizes this risk, extending the life of your pipes, and saving you from costly repairs or replacements down the line.
4. Improving overall hygiene and sanitation: The health benefits of regular drain cleaning can’t be overstated. By keeping your drains clean, you minimize the risk of bacteria and mold growth, which are often associated with stagnant water in blocked drains. These can lead to a host of health issues, including allergies, skin problems, and respiratory conditions. By maintaining clean drains, you contribute significantly to a healthier, safer living environment for you and your family.

Environmental Benefits of Regular Drain Cleaning

Another often-overlooked advantage of regular cleaning service is its positive impact on the environment. When drains are properly maintained, they function more efficiently, reducing the amount of water that is wasted due to leaks or slow drains. Plus, by preventing major blockages and subsequent pipe damage, you can avoid the need for extensive repairs or replacements that often require significant resources and can contribute to environmental waste.

Regular drain cleaning also minimizes the use of harsh chemical drain cleaners, many of which can harm the environment when they eventually make their way into our water systems. By investing in regular drain cleaning service, you’re not just maintaining a healthy home—you’re also doing your part to protect our planet.

Maintaining Your Drains Between Professional Cleanings

There are steps you can take at home to keep your drains in good condition between professional cleanings. These include:

• Being mindful of what goes down your drains: Avoid disposing of grease, oils, and food particles in the sink. Use a separate container for these items and dispose of them in the trash.
• Using drain guards: Install drain guards in your sinks and shower drains to catch hair, soap scum, and other debris before they enter your drain system.
• Regularly flushing your drains with hot water: Running hot water down your drains at least once a week helps break down oil and grease deposits, preventing them from hardening and sticking to the pipe walls.

While taking steps to maintain your drains at home is important, it’s equally crucial to rely on professionals for thorough drain cleaning. Regular drain cleaning service is an investment that pays off by helping you maintain a healthy and comfortable home

How to Know If Your Drains Are Clogged

Believe it or not, it’s not always easy to know if your drains are clogged, but identifying a clogged drain early can save you from potential plumbing disasters. Obvious signs include slow-draining water and unpleasant odors emanating from the drain. However, less noticeable indicators can be frequent gurgling sounds or a change in your toilet water level. You may also notice water backing up in odd places when using plumbing fixtures. If you observe any of these signs, it’s definitely time to call in drain cleaning professionals to investigate further.

How bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas Can Help

At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas, we pride ourselves on our expertise in drain cleaning. Our team of professionals is equipped with advanced tools and techniques to thoroughly clean your drains to ensure they remain free from blockages and odors. Our goal is to provide you with the best service possible, minimizing the inconvenience of drain issues and maximizing your home’s comfort and safety.

Furthermore, we understand the importance of customer satisfaction. We work closely with our customers to always hear your concerns and provide customized solutions to meet your unique needs. Our commitment to providing excellent service means you can rest assured that your drains are in capable hands.

Finally, remember that a well-maintained home is not just about aesthetics or comfort—it’s about health and safety, too. By ensuring your drains are cleaned regularly, you’re investing in the well-being of your home and everyone who lives in it. So, don’t wait for a major blockage to prompt action. Embrace proactive drain maintenance and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a smoothly functioning drainage system.

Remember, at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas, we’re always here to help with your drain cleaning needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for advice or service, because a clean drain means a healthy home.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

Photo By Rawpixel.com at Shutterstock

Special Edition: A Review Of Rheem Tankless Water Heaters

Rheem tankless water heaters have become popular for many homeowners today, thanks to their high energy efficiency ratings and little space use. Rheem has earned a name in the industry because of its expansive experience, reputable customer service, and high-quality products. Also, compared to other brands like Rinnai, it offers many tankless water heater options, including condensing, mid-efficiency, and electric.

With a wide selection, it may be challenging for most homeowners to know the Rheem tankless water heaters to select for their needs. But no need to worry. This plumbing review will help you learn the best units, so you pick the right one for your home. Please continue reading to find out more about these top five rated picks.

#1 Rated Pick: Rheem RTGH-84DVLN-2 Gas Tankless Water Heater

This super condensing direct-vent natural gas water heater utilizes a NOx low-emission burner to produce hot water at a rate of 8.4 gallons per minute (GPM). It operates within a temperature range of 98 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. On the efficiency scale, it has a high rating of .93 UEF, and the user can easily activate the water-saving mode.

In addition, It’s built with EcoNet technology that alerts you of any potential issues and makes it easy to control it from wherever you are. This tankless water heater is considered the best overall, an excellent option for the average household who prefer something modern and efficient.

Here are some advantages and disadvantages of the Rheem RTGH-84DVLN-2 gas tankless water heater:-

Pros

• High energy efficiency rating.
• It can work at altitudes of 8400 feet.
• It has a unique water-saving mode.

Cons

• Very Expensive.
• Not ideal for outdoor use;
• No recirculation pump.

#2 Rated Pick: Rheem RETEX-27 Electric Tankless Water Heater

Rheem RETEX-27 electric tankless water heater generates hot water at a rate of 5.3 GPM at 27,000 watts. It has an 80 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit temperature range with an easy-to-interpret digital temperature display. Also, it includes temperature controls that enable you to adjust the temperature in increments of 1 degree.

This product will satisfactorily meet the needs of a two-person household with a penchant for electric-powered water heaters and prioritize energy efficiency.

Advantages

• It has a 99.9 percent efficiency rating.
• Easy to install.
• Next-generation burner technology.

Disadvantages

• It makes noise when running.
• It requires horizontal installation.
• Low GPM rating.

#3 Rated Pick: Rheem RTE 13 Electric Tankless Water Heater

It’s a lightweight, compact electric tankless water heater that delivers hot water at a speed of 4.0 GPM at 240V. One good thing about it is it can fit almost anywhere you want the plumber to place it in your home.

Again, its heat exchanger is made of copper, enhancing heat transfer efficiency. The on-unit control panel allows you to switch to standby mode and use the dial function to change the temperature. This product meets EnergyStar requirements. This unit is suitable for a single-person household not interested in technology features.

Pros

• Energy Star rated.
• 7.25″ x 7.25″ x 7.25″ in dimension.
• Copper heat exchanger.

Cons

• Low 4 GPM – only suitable for smaller households.
• No digital display.
• Older model.

#4 Rated Pick: Rheem RTG-84DVLN Gas Tankless Water Heater

This natural gas condensing direct-vent tankless water heater has a .83 UEF efficiency rating. It generates hot water at a speed of 8.4 GPM with 180,000 BTU. The unit comes with an overheat film wrap that prevents it from being damaged by excessive heat; it also features a low emissions setting.

Additionally, it comes with a self-diagnosing system, 10 feet thermostat cable, a self-diagnosing system, and EcoNet technology.

If you’ve got a three-bathroom house and desire a moderate-to-higher cost gas tankless water heater, you can consider this product.

Some upsides and downsides to consider when investing in these Rheem tankless water heaters are highlighted below.

Pros

• A high 8.4 GPM can satisfy three bathrooms simultaneously.
• Silent operation.
• EcoNet technology.

Cons

• Some sensitivity to power surges.
• The direct ventilation system provides low installation flexibility.
• It is not equipped with a circulating pump.

#5 Rated Pick: EcoSmart ECO 27 Electric Tankless Water Heater

The EcoSmart ECO 27 Rheem electric tankless water heater is 99.8 percent efficient – can save up to 50 percent on energy consumption compared to typical tank-type water heaters. This product provides hot water at a rate of 5.3 GPM at 27,000 watts and 240V.

The copper and steel components contribute to a long unit lifespan, though they’re also easy to replace. Plus, they are easy to clean. You can use the on-unit control feature to alter the temperature within a temperature range of 80 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Advantages

• It includes copper and steel components.
• Cost-effective.
• 99.8 percent efficient.

Disadvantages

• No Bluetooth or WiFi technology.
• Not mountable outdoors.

In Summary

Rheem tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly options. They come with easy-to-read labels and controls incorporated with the latest technologies that offer modern convenience and ease of use by anyone. They are also safe options as they automatically shut the water off once it reaches a given temperature to avoid scalding.

Depending on the unit you buy, these tankless water heating systems have a higher level of effectiveness. However, for best results, it would help if you talk to a professional plumber before you can go shopping so you learn the best option.

Contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas for Top-Quality Services!

Going tankless is the trend now. When you install tankless water heaters in your home, you’ll enjoy cost savings and increased comfort in your home. At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas, we provide superior services for various tankless systems, including condensing and non-condensing. We also offer products from top brands like Rheem.

If you prefer the conventional storage-tank water heater, you can also get it. Our licensed plumbers also specialize in drain cleaning, water softening and filtration, and emergency repairs. Schedule online or call now to speak to one of us.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

Photo By Constantin Stanciu at Shutterstock

Check out this tip!