Easy Rooter Plumbing

Why is My Bath Water Yellow?

After a long, tiring day, nothing can beat having a rejuvenating hot bath! However, when you stumble into your bathroom and find that your bathwater has turned yellow, your calmness may soon shift to perplexity and distress. If you get into this situation, don’t freak out, as there are numerous possible reasons for experiencing yellow bathwater. In this blog, we’ll explore those culprits and offer effective remedies, all endorsed by emergency plumbing contractor in Reno NV. Let’s delve in!

Reasons for Yellowish Bath Water

● Rusty Pipes

Rusted pipes are one of the most prevalent causes of discolored water. Rust leeches in water when your home’s plumbing system employs ancient or rusted pipes, giving your water a yellowish tinge. It isn’t merely an aesthetic problem; it may also influence your house’s water quality.

● Sediment Accumulation

Sediments, including silt, sand, and minerals, can collect in your plumbing system over time, notably in the water heater or pipes. When these particles combine with water, they cause it to seem yellowish or murky. Thus, it’s best to have a periodic plumbing inspection and periodically clean your water heater to avert such issues from transpiring. Sediment accumulation is also a red flag that your water heater needs special attention.

● Water Source Contamination

The water source might be to blame for the yellowish water! If you rely on a water well to fulfill your water needs, your water may seem yellow or brown, owing to the presence of iron or sulfur in the well water. Organic particles in surface water sources such as lakes and rivers can also impact watercolor.

● Water Treatment Chemicals

Water treatment plants use chemicals, such as chlorine and chloramine, to disinfect and purify the water. These compounds can sometimes react with organic substances in the water, causing discoloration.

Solutions for Yellow BathWater

● Contact a Plumbing Contractor

Are you encountering a persistent yellow bathwater? It’s best to confer with a reliable plumbing repair contractor in Reno NV, to inspect the issue and provide expert repair solutions to problems like rusted pipes, silt accumulation, and other concerns.

● Water Testing

Water testing may be necessary in some instances to establish the specific source of discoloration! Consult a plumbing contractor to collect and examine water samples to determine the presence of toxins or minerals causing the discoloration.

● Pipe Replacement or Cleaning

If rusty pipes are to blame, your plumbing contractor may advise pipe replacement or cleaning! It can considerably enhance your water’s quality and avert additional discoloration.

● Flushing the System

Flushing your plumbing system is a typical way to remove silt accumulation. To eliminate collected sediments, empty the water heater and run the water through all taps. It’s best to enlist professional plumbing contractor services in Reno NV, to safely and successfully perform this task. Alternatively, you can periodically drain your plumbing system for flawless functioning and prevent recurring sediment buildup.

Final Thoughts

While experiencing yellow bathwater is alarming, understanding its causes and varied remedies can help you fix the problem quickly. However, if you detect persistent water discoloration, contact plumbers immediately to safeguard your family’s health and safety. They are well-versed with the knowledge to diagnose the problem and accomplish the required repairs or replacements to retain your water in its neutral, transparent state. So, don’t jeopardize the purity of your water, and seek professional assistance to dive in and solve the issue instantly!

What Are the Different Types of Plumbing Pipes and Their Uses?

An effectively working plumbing system can make a substantial difference in ensuring your house’s flawless comfort. Since a plumbing system consists of a complex maze of pipes, recognizing the different types of plumbing pipes used in the house can help you make an informed decision in choosing the appropriate one for your situation. Alternatively, you can seek assistance from an experienced plumbing repair contractor in Reno NV, to inspect your house’s plumbing system and recommend the ideal pipe. This guide breaks down the primary plumbing pipes, facilitating your search to determine which is best for your space and application.

Types of Different Home Plumbing Pipes and Their Uses

● PEX Pipes

Known as Cross-linked Polyethylene, PEX is a water supply plumbing pipe composed of exceptionally durable plastic. Its sturdy nature allows it to endure high water pressure and is versatile enough to be feasibly established into walls, ceilings, basements, and crawlspace. Unlike other plumbing pipe materials, PEX is cost-effective and straightforward to cut and join, making it the most favored plumbing pipe. It’s mainly available in two colors: red for hot water and blue for cold water.

Use:

As cited above, PEX pipes are highly recommended for distributing hot and cold water throughout the house. Additionally, these pipes are ideal for cycling reclaimed water, distinguished by purple markings from potable water. Moreover, PEX pipes are suitable for hydronic plumbing and distribution.

● Copper Pipes

The vibrant reddish-brown color of copper pipes signifies that they are mostly made of pure copper and are widely used for domestic water supply pipes, as it doesn’t pose any health problems, unlike plastic plumbing material. While copper pipes are very resilient and may be readily cut using a tube cutter or hacksaw, their expensive pricing may make them a less viable option for most homeowners.

Use:

Copper pipes are best for sinks, showers, tubes, and other fittings. However, despite their name, they are somewhat flexible, enabling you to achieve the desired shape without damaging the pipe. When it comes to plumbing installations, it’s best to consult an emergency plumber in Reno NV, to offer you the best and most appropriate solution considering your situation.

● PVC Pipes

PVC (Polyvinyl chloride), made of white plastic material, is an ideal alternative for homeowners with a tight budget. In comparison to galvanized steel pipes, PVC pipes are lightweight, inexpensive, versatile, straightforward to install, and, most importantly, corrosion-resistant, making them suitable for domestic and commercial usage. Moreover, owing to the PVC pipe’s incredible endurance to high temperatures, they are appropriate for hot water systems.

Use:

PVC pipes are prominently used for drainage, waste, and vent systems since they are less effective at withstanding high-pressure water. They are also suitable for cold water supply lines.

● Galvanized Steel Pipes

Galvanized steel pipes are a common choice for older buildings because they offer strength and the ability to withstand high pressure. However, their weight can make installation more challenging compared to other types of pipes.

Use:

Galvanized steel pipes are ideal for water supply lines and gas lines.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the appropriate plumbing pipes is essential for ensuring the durability of your plumbing system. PVC pipes offer affordability and versatility, while copper pipes provide strength and dependability. PEX pipes are known for their flexibility, while galvanized steel and cast iron pipes are traditional options commonly found in older buildings. If you reside in Reno, NV, and wish to guarantee that your plumbing system remains reliable and long-lasting, it is crucial to have access to professional plumbing services. Seeking professional assistance will help you maintain your plumbing system in optimal condition.

How Long Do Garbage Disposals Last?

Garbage disposals are innovative kitchen devices that grind away food waste efficiently, making cleanup simple and convenient. If you’re using this nifty device, you’ve undoubtedly pondered how long this handy equipment would last. What is the average lifespan of a garbage disposal? Is there a certain number of years you should wait before enlisting plumbing contractor services in Reno NV, for its repair? Get answers to your questions in this blog, highlighting the factors influencing the longevity of your garbage disposal. Let’s commence!

The Lifespan of a Garbage Disposal

Although there’s no definitive answer to this, as its longevity varies, experts generally agree that well-maintained disposal may last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. Of course, some may exceed this range while others may fall short, which is where the factors influencing durability come into play.

Factors Affecting the Garbage Disposal’s Longevity

● Bad Quality and Brand

Similarly to any other appliance, the build quality and brand play a crucial part in determining how long your garbage disposal will endure. Purchasing a reliable brand recognized for manufacturing long-lasting equipment can often extend the life of your disposal.

● Usage Habits

The way you utilize your garbage disposal has a significant influence on its longevity. Since these devices handle light food wastes rather than heavy-duty materials, items such as bones, fibrous vegetables, and non-food items should be avoided. Running cold water while using the garbage disposal also helps prevent the engine from overheating.

● Maintenance Routine

Regularly maintaining your garbage disposal can substantially add more years to its life. To keep it clean, consider crushing ice cubes and citrus peels, helping prevent obnoxious smells. Furthermore, make it your routine to check for leaks, corrosion, or unexpected noises.

● Water Hardness

The water hardness might also affect your disposal’s lifeline, as it can trigger mineral accumulation and corrosion, causing your disposal to wear out sooner. However, you can alleviate this issue by installing a water softener.

Signs of a Worn-Out Garbage Disposal

As your garbage disposal ages, it may exhibit a few signs that it’s nearing the end of its useful life, necessitating a professional inspection by a reliable plumbing repair contractor in Reno NV. So, keep an eye out for:

● Unusual Noises

Grinding or rattling noises that weren’t there previously might indicate mechanical deterioration.

● Frequent Jams

If your garbage disposal often jams, it could imply that its components are becoming less efficient.

● Leaks

Persistent leaks despite tightening connections indicate that the disposal’s seals or pipes are failing.

Knowing When to Call For Professional Assistance

If your garbage disposal manifests signs of wear and tear, it’s better to address the issue sooner rather than later. Seek assistance from a reliable emergency plumbing contractor in Reno NV, if you notice any of the above-cited signs. They can evaluate the situation, give professional advice, and perform repair or replacement services.

Final Thoughts

While the actual lifespan of garbage disposal is unresolved, you can certainly influence how long it lasts by using and maintaining it properly. Therefore, keep your disposal functioning correctly, invest in a quality machine, follow excellent usage practices, and execute periodic maintenance.

Do Bath Bombs Clog Drains?

Assume you’ve had a long, exhausting day; and are yearning to relax in a warm, soothing bath. As you unwind, you add a delightful bath bomb to enhance the experience. But wait, you suddenly wonder, “Do bath bombs clog drains?” Well, fear not! We’ll unveil the truth about bath bombs and their impact on your plumbing. We’ll also share some tips all endorsed by experienced plumbers in Reno to keep your drains clear so you can enjoy your bath time worry-free.

What are Bath Bombs?

Before we delve into whether bath bombs can cause drain clogs, let’s first comprehend what they are. Bath bombs are popular bath additives made from essential oils, scents, colorants, and effervescent agents. They fizz and dissolve when dropped into the water, releasing pleasant aromas and colors, creating a luxurious and relaxing bathing experience.

The Ingredients Dilemma

While bath bombs may seem harmless, paying attention to their ingredients is crucial. Some bath bombs contain non-dissolvable components, such as glitter or flower petals, which can pose a risk to your plumbing. These solid particles can accumulate in your drain pipes, leading to blockages over time.

Do Bath Bombs Clog Drains?

The answer isn’t straightforward. While bath bombs may not directly clog your drains, the residual ingredients they leave behind can cause trouble. The oils and fats in bath bombs can adhere to the inner walls of pipes, attracting other debris and forming a sticky buildup. Over time, this accumulation can restrict water flow and lead to clogged drains.

Tips to Prevent Drain Clogs

• Choose Bath Bombs Wisely:

Opt for bath bombs labeled “drain-friendly” or “septic-safe.” These products are designed to dissolve completely, minimizing the risk of clogs.

• Use a Drain Strainer:

Before filling your bathtub, place a drain strainer over the drain opening. This simple tool captures larger debris, preventing it from entering your pipes and causing potential clogs.

• Rinse the Tub:

After enjoying your bath, rinse the tub thoroughly with hot water. It helps wash away any residue from the bath bomb, reducing the chances of buildup in your drains.

• Hot Water Flush:

Regularly flushing your drains with hot water can help melt away any oily residue that may have accumulated. Run hot water for a few minutes after using a bath bomb to keep your pipes clear.

• Regular Maintenance:

Consider scheduling routine plumbing maintenance, including septic pumping, with trusted professionals in your area. For instance, if you’re in Reno, seek reliable plumbing contractor services in Reno NV.

Conclusion

Bath bombs can pose a risk to your drains if not used carefully. While they may not directly clog your pipes, their ingredients can accumulate and lead to troublesome blockages over time. By following our tips and adopting good plumbing practices, you can minimize the chances of drain clogs and enjoy your relaxing baths without worry. And remember, if you encounter persistent clogs or require professional assistance, consult reliable and skilled plumbers. Keep your drains clear and your bathing experiences blissful!

How To Fix A Leaking Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals are an effective and essential kitchen appliance, facilitating the easy disposal of fast food. However, like other household appliances, they may exhibit problems with time, such as leaking. A leaky garbage disposal can be infuriating and detrimental, notably when it emits odors, attracts pests, or creates a mess in your kitchen. If you’re also in a similar situation, fret not, as we have enlisted the tried and true ways to fix the leaky garbage disposal. Yet, before diving in, it’s worth noting that some predicaments need professional assistance. So, if you’re not confident in your ability to fix the issue or unsure about the root cause of the problem, it’s best to seek plumbing contractor services in Reno NV.

Steps To Resolve A Leaking Garbage Disposal

Turn Off The Power To The Garbage Disposal:

Ensure to turn off the power to the garbage disposal before commencing any repairs. You can do this by unplugging the unit or turning off the circuit breaker that regulates the power to the disposal.

Locate The Source Of The Leak:

Once the power is off, examine the garbage disposal to determine the source of the leak. Typical sources of leaks include the sink flange, the dishwasher hose, and the drainpipe.

Tighten Loose Connections:

If the source of the leak is a loose connection, such as the connection between the sink flange and the garbage disposal, you can tighten the connection to fix the leak. Use a wrench to tighten any loose nuts or bolts.

Replace Damaged Parts:

If the cracked dishwasher hose or a worn-out sink flange is the culprit, you may need to replace the damaged part. You can easily purchase it from any hardware store or consult a professional for assistance.

Inspect The Seals:

The seals on the garbage disposal can also cause leaks. If the seals are worn or damaged, consider replacing them. Remove the old seals and install new ones, ensuring to tighten them securely.

Clean The Garbage Disposal:

An accumulation of food waste and grease can cause leaks in the garbage disposal. Use a garbage disposal cleaner to remove any buildup and clean the unit thoroughly.

Test The Disposal:

Once you’ve completed the repairs, turn the power back on to the garbage disposal and test it for leaks. Run water through the unit and check for any leaks. More significantly, if your garbage disposal is connected to a septic system, seeking septic system services in Reno NV, is prudent.

Preventative Measures for Garbage Disposal Leaks

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips for precluding your garbage disposal from leaking:

Avoid putting non-food items in the garbage disposal, such as paper towels and plastic, as they can damage the unit and cause leaks.
Use cold water when running the garbage disposal. Hot water can cause grease and oils to liquefy, which can build up and cause leaks over time.
Don’t overload the garbage disposal. Only dispose of small amounts of food waste at a time to prevent overloading the unit.
Keep the garbage disposal clean. Regularly cleaning the unit can prevent food waste and grease accumulation, which can trigger leaks.

What Should Not Go Into A Septic Tank?

People living in remote or rural areas without connectivity to a sewage system might have separate septic tanks, which is one of the best and most sustainable ways to dispose of your property’s wastewater. However, most people never consider what goes into their septic tanks. While it may be tempting to believe that anything you flush or pour down the drain will just disappear, inappropriately managed septic tanks may encourage a plethora of problems, culminating in costly repairs or replacements.

Understanding what should and shouldn’t go down your drains is imperative to keep your septic tank healthy and save money on expensive plumbing contractor services in Reno NV. Consequently, as a private septic tank owner, it’s your responsibility to avoid flushing anything that might harm the good bacteria of your septic system. Continue reading to learn the few don’ts for your septic tank.

Be Kind To Your Septic Tank By Avoiding The Following!

Kitchen Waste:

While draining the liquid down the drain is acceptable, food should be thrown away since grease or oil may accumulate and block septic tanks. Pouring solids in the kitchen sink may damage the bacteria’s health and prevent them from breaking down adequately, causing them to decompose in the tank or drainage field.

Ensure you clean your plates thoroughly or purchase a plug-hole waste collector to prevent big food particles from draining into the tank. However, if your drain becomes clogged, don’t use abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals to unclog it since they’re also designed to kill bacteria. Instead, seek professional assistance.

Bathroom Trash:

While showering, use shampoos, soaps, or conditioners sparingly since excessive usage might compromise the efficient working of septic tanks. Flushing sanitary pads, tampons, diapers, baby wipes, paper towels, cigarette butts, kitty litter, plastics, dental floss, hair, and condoms are forbidden on the toilet. To minimize blockages and solid accumulation, only flush human waste and toilet paper into the septic tank, eliminating the need for frequent septic pumping in Sparks.

Drain Cleaners:

Laundry:

Consider using eco-friendly detergents while washing your clothing, though soap is OK in moderation. Alternatively, get a water-efficient and appropriate washing machine size, as washing tiny loads of clothing with large water quantities wastes both electricity and water.

Water Softeners:

Water softeners utilize salt to trigger an ion exchange and discharge saltwater into the tank through the waste overflow, making them incompatible with septic tanks. They also tend to flush large water volumes at once, which might flood the system.

Bleach:

Bleach is highly detrimental to the septic tank’s good bacteria, which should be avoided or used cautiously. Although a tiny amount of bleach is fine, excessive usage may destroy the beneficial bacteria in the septic tank, further resulting in groundwater pollution.

Cosmetics:

Since heavy metals present in cosmetics, such as zinc, chromium, silver, cadmium, and titanium, find their way to the septic tank when washed in the sink, they eventually leak out of the septic tank due to their non-biodegradability and contaminate the groundwater. Therefore, certified and experienced plumbers in Sparks advise avoiding pouring them down the drain if you have a septic system.

The Bottom Line!

Your house’s plumbing and sewage systems contribute significantly to keeping your home comfortable. Understanding which items to avoid flushing down the drains will assist you in extending the life of your septic system while eliminating costly breakdowns. Septic tank maintenance is crucial if you want your home’s plumbing to function appropriately.

What Should You Not Do With A Septic Tank?

Your septic system is a crucial part of your home. Over 26 million homes in the U.S. use septic systems to treat wastewater. Improper care can lead to water contamination, reduced property value, and health issues. Consulting experts for plumbing repair in Reno NV ensures optimal performance. Educating people in your household about the functioning and maintenance of your septic system is necessary. It can help you save money, extend its lifespan, protect family health, protect your property value, and care for the environment. A properly installed and maintained system can last a long time.

Here Are The Don’ts To Remember:

Using Additives
By introducing extra sediments into the system, which could clog your drain field, these items may be dangerous. The chemicals can contaminate the surface and groundwater. If you feel you must use additives, ensure to use the approved ones. Use of any unapproved addition is prohibited.
Garbage Disposal Use
Garbage disposal increases the number of solids and grease in your system, which may cause drain field failure. Everything that is flushed down the drain enters the septic tank. What goes down the drain affects the efficiency of your septic system. If you must use one, keep it as minimal as you can.
Construction Over Drain Field
Refrain from constructing a patio, decks, storage sheds, and sports courts over the drain field. This will prevent soil compaction and pipe breakage. Soil compaction makes it difficult for oxygen to reach the earth. Bacteria need this oxygen to treat and decompose sewage.
Emptying Hot Tub or Pool
Never empty a pool or hot tub into a septic tank. Draining a large quantity of water into your septic tank is a risk since it can disturb the contents of the tub and clog the drain field. Instead, follow local laws and regulations and drain your hot tub or pool away from your drain field.

Tips To Remember

Routine Inspection and Maintenance
Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your septic system. Call the local certified experts for septic services in Reno NV. An accredited contractor inspects the system and pumps it every three to five years. Pumping prevents solids from flowing from the septic tank into the drain field, protecting it.
Secure It with a Lid
An improper lid poses a safety hazard because people can fall into it. To prevent a mishap, you should check that the access lids to tanks are not damaged. Additionally, installing “risers” make septic tank pumping and monitoring visits simpler and quicker. A secure cover and riser ensure better pumping, monitoring, and safety.

Conclusion

Knowing the basic functioning of your septic system is essential to identify problems. Make sure to have efficient water use because it improves the operation of a septic system and reduces the risk of failure. Whether you’re looking for routine maintenance or emergency service, consulting the licensed and reliable plumbing contractor services in Reno NV is a good idea.

How Do I Keep My Septic System Healthy?

The septic system is one of the essential yet overlooked functioning components of a home. Although most homeowners have separate septic systems, only a few people know the location of their septic tank. Many people don’t bother to think about what goes down their septic tank and the preventative measures they might take to ensure the health and longevity of the septic system.

Septic tanks have a life expectancy between 25 to 30 years and can last for more if maintained properly. To avoid expensive repair or replacement of your septic tank, call the professional plumbers in Sparks for periodic inspection.

Here we have enlisted some beneficial septic tank maintenance tips to keep your septic system healthy and functional for as long as possible.

Minimize Water Usage-

Reducing water usage contributes significantly to the optimal functioning of the septic system. Excessive water flowing into the septic tank can cause the system to back up. To avoid such instances, check for and fix toilet or faucet leaks, maximize washing machine and dishwasher loads, spend less time in the shower, and use water efficiently while washing your hands, cleaning the dishes, or flushing the toilet.

Schedule Regular Inspections And Maintenance-

You should pump your septic system every two to five years to ensure it functions properly. Whether or not to pump it every two to five years relies on the tank size, family members living in the house, and the type of waste materials goes into the septic tank. Contact the professional of septic pumping in Sparks to determine how frequently you need to pump your septic tank.

Don’t Treat Your Toilet As Trash-

Using your toilet wisely can help keep your septic tank healthy and prevent the accumulation of solids and clogging the drain field. Also, don’t pour grease, hot oil, paint, or fat down the drain, as it can clog or damage your septic system. When it comes to your toilet, never flush tampons, kleenex, cat litter, or dental floss apart from toilet tissues.

Avoid Using Household Chemicals-

It’s usual to keep your home clean using heavy-duty cleaners, but they can kill the healthy microorganisms in the septic tank. These good bacterias are responsible for breaking down the solid wastes that accumulate daily. Soaps, drain cleaners, and other hygiene cleaning products contain harmful chemicals that reduce the population of good bacteria in the septic tank. Hence, it’s preferable to use environment-friendly products.

Keep Trees Away From The Septic Tank-

Tree roots are one of the biggest enemies of the underground drainage systems. When roots reach near the pipe and tank, it can result in backup and damage to the septic system. Therefore, avoid growing trees near your septic tank or keep them at a distance of 100 feet from the tank.

Maintain The Area Around The Septic Tank-

One of the best things you can do to keep your septic system healthy and damage-free is to protect the area around your septic system. Ensure the area is always covered with lawn grass. Don’t use that area as a location for playing or parking. Never drive vehicles over the drain field, or place anything heavy.

Wrapping Up

Maintaining a septic system is never stressful and expensive. You have to pay attention to the material that goes in the septic tank. Avoid using harmful chemicals, disposing of garbage properly, limiting water usage, and maintaining your drain field are a few things you can do to keep your septic system healthy. Contact the professionals for plumbing contractor services in Reno, NV, to inspect the septic system.