Saddleback Plumbing Heating & Air Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Plumbing’

Never Attempt These Plumbing Services on Your Own

Monday, February 4th, 2013

At Saddleback Plumbing we have told our valued customers time and time again that the plumbing installation, maintenance and repair services needed in your home must be performed by a professional Tustin plumber. There is just no other way to ensure that your plumbing services are completed safely and effectively. A qualified, licensed plumber must handle any plumbing service you need in Tustin, CA. Some do it yourself type homeowners have a hard time accepting this very true advice, though. Here are a few examples of some very real reasons why you should not attempt to service your own home plumbing system.

Never, ever attempt to service your hot water heater on your own. This very useful appliance can also be very dangerous if it is compromised by a novice attempting to service it. As water is heated it not only gets hot but also builds up pressure. Attempting to service you water heater on your own puts your safety at risk as well as the condition of your house. Keep the hot water inside your water heater where it belongs. Call a professional plumber for any water heater repair in Tustin.

Another very helpful but potentially dangerous part of a home plumbing system is the natural gas lines. Never, ever attempt to pipe natural gas into your home on your own. You will be putting your home at risk for exposure to a carbon monoxide leak or fire. It is just not worth it. You may even be in violation of local laws and insurance policies. Do the right thing for your safety and safety of your home and family. When you need a natural gas appliance hooked up or if you suspect a leak in your natural gas line, call a professional Tustin plumber. Only then can your natural gas problems be resolved safely.

For more information about the importance of hiring a professional plumber in Tustin, call Saddleback Plumbing. We are proud to serve residents in the Tustin area and we look forward to helping you live more safely and comfortably. Call today to schedule service.

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Plumbing Tip : What Does Plumbing Maintenance Involve

Tuesday, January 29th, 2013

Is it time for routine maintenance for your plumbing system? Call the Irvine plumbers at Saddleback Plumbing! We can handle all your plumbing maintenance needs, including providing tips and advice on how to get the most out of your system. Remember that routine maintenance can prevent repair issues, slow drains, clogs, and other problems. Call us any time for your next service!

Here are some tasks we can do during routine maintenance.

Video Pipe Inspection

When we provide a maintenance service or respond to a repair need, our plumbers send a video camera down your plumbing system to inspect the inside of the pipes. This allows our plumbers to get a close-up look at any kind of plumbing problems that might be further down the pipe or drain line. We’ll be able to see exactly where the problem is and what specifically is causing it. For instance, if there’s a tree root causing a leak in a sewer line, we can see that and know the best solution for this issue.

Gas Piping Maintenance

When you call us for a repair or maintenance service, we also inspect your gas piping. Our plumbers are trained and certified to work with gas lines and earthquake emergency shut off valves. We test these safety devices to ensure that they will work when you need them.

Professional Drain Cleaning

With a professional drain cleaning, our Irvine plumbers will thoroughly clean your plumbing system safely and effectively. Hydro-jetting uses a powerful stream of water to clear out any clogs or blockages that are in your plumbing system.  While only one way to clean your system, hydro-jetting will not damage your plumbing system. Drain cleaners use harsh chemicals, so avoid using conventional drain cleaners.

Call Saddleback any time for your next plumbing maintenance service!

 

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Plumbing Tip 13: DIY Drain Cleaning

Monday, January 7th, 2013

Not many people think about the drain system in their homes. However, your plumbing system plays a huge role in your home’s operation and in your comfort. Every day, your drains safely and hygienically remove the waste water from your home. That’s why it’s so important that when you need to have your drains cleaned in Mission Viejo that you work with a plumbing contractor that has the skill and experience to keep your drains working well. Here at Saddleback Plumbing, we have over 20 years of experience offering fast and reliable drain cleaning in Mission Viejo. We thought it would be helpful if we put together some of the benefits that regular drain cleaning can offer your home.

Common Drain Problems in Mission Viejo, CA

With all the use that your drains get, it should come as no surprise that eventually they start to have problems. Here are some of the most common drain repairs that we see in Mission Viejo, CA.

  • Clogs – Obviously, this is probably the most common problem that we get called to fix. Tree roots, soap scum, hair, food and other debris, are fairly common sources of clogs.
  • Leaks – Over time, your drains can start to leak. If the drains start to leak in your home it can potentially lead to water damage. But if your drains are leaking under your property, you’ll start to notice soft spots in your yard or smell sewage. These types of leaks can cause tremendous damage to your property and can sometimes lead to slab or foundation cracks.

Benefits of Regular Drain Cleaning in Mission Viejo

When you have your drains regularly cleaned and inspected by a professional Mission Viejo plumber, you should notice several benefits. First, your drains will work better. When you have a plumber cleaning and inspecting the plumbing in your home, they can catch small clogs or blockages before they turn into major issues. This is a great way to keep your drains work well. Second, you can potentially reduce the need for costly repairs. During regular drain cleaning visits, your plumber will be able to detect small repairs or problems that would otherwise just get worse.

When you need any kind of drain cleaning in Mission Viejo, call Saddleback Plumbing. Our plumbers are very friendly and highly trained to work on all components of your plumbing system. Call us today to learn more about drain cleaning services that we offer throughout the Orange County and Mission Viejo area.

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Plumbing Tip : When Something Goes Wrong

Monday, December 17th, 2012

Indoor plumbing is such a common luxury that we tend to not even think about the system and its many components that make life so convenient in Irvine. We expect to be able to open a faucet and get a steady supply of hot water. When we use the bathroom we expect the toilet to flush and the bathtub to drain away waste water. When something goes wrong with your plumbing in Irvine, though, you may find it difficult to stop thinking about the system that makes all of those conveniences possible. Whatever plumbing services you need, a professional, certified plumber from Saddleback Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning can help.

Plumbing Installation

Whether you are remodeling or building a home or you need to replace a portion or your entire plumbing system, only a professional can handle the surface. A lot of fresh and waste water is moved throughout your home every day. These pipes are hidden in your walls and beneath your floors. The last thing you want to deal with is a problem in such inaccessible areas. Avoid water damage and schedule professional plumbing installation.

Video Pipe Inspection

Plumbing systems pose a number of challenges because so many potential problems can go unseen. A video pipe inspection allows us to take a look directly into your pipes. That way we can locate any problems and ensure that they are totally resolved. Call today to schedule service.

Slab Leaks

Few problems in your home have as much potential to do serious damage as a slab leak. These leaks occur beneath the concrete foundation of your home. They are difficult to notice, difficult to access and an all-around headache. Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer for slab leaks in Irvine and how you can tell if there is a slab leak lurking below your home.

These are just a few of the exceptional plumbing services we offer. Our Irvine plumbers have the training and skills to handle any plumbing job you may need. Remember to call Saddleback for any services you need related to plumbing in Irvine.

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The Guide for Preventing Slab Leaks

Monday, December 3rd, 2012

The Mission Viejo plumbers are here to help whenever you have a slab leak in your home. We are fully trained and certified to quickly locate and repair all types of slab leaks. We can inspect any home’s plumbing system and slab for possible signs of a leak. We have the tools and experience to handle any leaking or faulty plumbing line before any further damage occurs.

However, there are steps to take to prevent slab leaks from occurring and damaging your home.

Slab Leak Detection and Prevention

Unlike leaks in other parts of your plumbing system, slab leaks are not always easy to spot. Basically, a slab leak means any type of leak underneath the slab foundation of your home. This is why it is important to detect it early and call a plumber as soon as you can.

Whether it’s a pinhole leak or burst pipe, the water may be dispersed to other areas away from the leak. It might also be dripping or leaking into the soil outside the slab. Call the Mission Viejo slab leak detection experts at Saddleback if you are experiencing any of these problems:

  • A sudden settling or movement in your slab foundation
  • A drop in water pressure
  • An unexpected increase in your water bill
  • Puddles or consistently damp areas outside around the slab
  • Damp spots on the floors

The best way to prevent slab leaks is with routine maintenance for your entire plumbing system. Regular drain cleaning will also help. At Saddleback, we have the trained, certified staff to handle all your slab leak prevention and detection needs.

Why Call As Soon As Possible for a Slab Leak Repair

A slab leak can cause a lot of damage to your home and property. If you suspect you have one, or if you’re concerned about the condition of the pipes in home, give us a call. We’ll inspect the slab and give you an honest and accurate estimate of the cost of any repairs.

We can also give you specific recommendations for maintenance and preventive care that might help you avoid a sudden break or leak. Call the Mission Viejo plumbers at Saddleback as soon as you suspect a slab leak, contact Saddleback today!

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Getting the Most Out of Your Plumbing System in Lake Forest

Monday, November 19th, 2012

If the plumbing system in your home in Lake Forest is working right, you probably don’t think much about it when you flush the toilet or take a shower. But when your plumbing system breaks down, you start thinking about it quite a bit. At Saddleback Plumbing, our Lake Forest plumbers respond to a lot of calls for service in the Lake Forest area. We thought that it would be helpful for our customers if we put together a quick list of some things that will help you get the most out of your plumbing system.

Regular Maintenance

Maintenance is one of the best ways that you can protect your home and your plumbing system. Regular maintenance should always be performed by a professional plumber. A licensed plumber will have the experience and training to know exactly what to look for and how to fix any potential problems. Here are a few things that your plumber might do during maintenance.

  • Pipe inspections – Using a small video camera, plumbers can look inside your home’s plumbing system to find any problems. They can also discover clogs or blockages that are in the process of forming.
  • Leak detection – During regular maintenance, your plumber can look for small leaks or places where leaks might occur.
  • Drain cleaning – Having your drains regularly cleaned is a great way to keep your plumbing system working well consistently. With regular maintenance, you can stop blockages before they completely block your plumbing and your water wont’ drain.

Your Garbage Disposal

One area in your home that gets a lot of use is the kitchen. One great way to get the most out of your kitchen’s plumbing system is to be careful about what you let go down the sink. Here are a few things that you shouldn’t put down the garbage disposal.

  • Grease – We all love bacon. But the grease that forms from cooking it should never go down your sink. Once it gets into your plumbing system it will cool and form a sticky solid. This can trap other food and form a clog.
  • Stringy or starchy foods – Foods like celery, asparagus have strong fibers that can get wrapped around your garbage disposal or clog up your drains. Starchy foods like pasta, rice and potato skins expand when the get in water. As they expand they can clog up your drains as well.
  • Bones and fruit pits – These are hard and dense materials that your garbage disposal probably won’t be able to break apart.

If you would like to learn more about plumbing maintenance in Lake Forest, then call the expert plumbers at Saddleback. We would love to schedule a time to visit your home and look over your plumbing system. Contact us today!

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Plumbing Tip : New Features to Consider Before Buying a Tankless Water Heaters

Monday, November 12th, 2012

Are you considering buying a new tankless water heater for your home? Our plumbers can help you choose the right model, and we’ll make sure you get the right size and install it for you. If you’re considering a tankless new water heater or if you’re looking for ways to reduce your energy consumption, here are some things to consider:

Energy Use

There are two basic types of water heaters: traditional storage tank and tankless. Tank water heaters use a large tank of water that’s kept hot all the time by an electric or gas burner. As the hot water is consumed, more water fills the tank. Tankless water heaters convert cold water to hot water as the water is being used. In terms of energy consumption, tank-style heaters consume energy to maintain a large supply of hot water throughout the day, even if it’s not being used. Tankless heaters consume energy in short bursts, so you’ll want to take that into consideration.

Flow Rate

The other consideration is flow rate. Tankless units vary in their ability to produce hot water on demand. The amount of hot water they produce is measured in gallons per minute. Deciding which size tankless unit is correct for your home should be based on your family’s typical hot water needs. For 1 to 2 bathroom homes, look for models that can deliver at least delivers 3.4 gallons per minute. A shower and a dishwasher each consume about two gallons of water per minute. So for a tankless unit to comfortably serve both with a little to spare would probably require a capacity of five gallons per minute.

Size and First Hour Rating

All water heaters, whether traditional tank models, tankless, or hybrid, have different hot water delivery capacities. A water heater’s capacity is measured by its First Hour Rating (FHR), which is the number of gallons of hot water it delivers in an hour. Getting a heater with a low FHR could mean taking cold showers. Getting one that’s too large could mean you’re wasting energy.

When thinking a new water heater, first think about how much hot water is used in your home each day. Secondly, call the folks at Saddleback Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning. Our staff would be glad to help you calculate which size tankless unit is right for your home.

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Plumbing Tip: Why Proper Drain Installation is Important

Monday, October 22nd, 2012

The drain and sewer system in your home is a very important component of residential plumbing systems. It is the one system that is responsible for removing the waste water from your home to ensure that your home environment remains sanitary. Not only does this system include the drain lines and main sewer line, but there are other components that are integral to this process.

The plumbing experts at Saddleback Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning are committed to educating our customers about their plumbing system and why it is important to have it properly installed and maintained. We’ve included a list of the main parts of the drainage system in your home and how each of these components work together to make sure that your plumbing system is effective and worry free.

Drain Lines

The drain lines in your home should be able to remove heavy volumes of waste water from your home. That’s why it is imperative that they do so without getting clogged by materials, such as paper products or food waste. While homeowners can help by being careful about what they put down the drains or flush down the toilets, the installation of the drain and sewer system also plays a role in waste management for your home.

The plumber who installs the system should take into consideration the number of bathrooms and kitchen plumbing appliances you have, the age of your pipes for additions, and other considerations that are related to the layout of your home and local plumbing codes. These calculations will help to prevent any issues with the drain system in your home.

Sump Pumps

The drainage inside your home is just as important as the outside drainage, which includes sump pumps in some areas. Sump pumps remove any groundwater that gets into the lower parts of your home, and in areas prone to flooding, this is an essential part of preventing water damage. If you decide that you need an outdoor drainage solution for problems related to heavy groundwater, we install and maintain sump pumps and can create a custom plan fitted to your situation.

Proper installation applies whether you are adding a new fixture, a full bathroom, kitchen, or whether you are simply replacing any part of your existing drain and sewer system.

Call the professional plumbers at Saddleback Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning for all plumbing needs in Irvine, CA!

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Plumbing Tip: What Does a Drain Trap Do?

Monday, September 24th, 2012

There are many components in an Orange County home’s plumbing system but few require as much persistent homeowner attention as a drain trap. If your drain trap is clogged or you simply are interested in learning more about that U-shaped stretch of pipe beneath your sink, here is a quick overview.

The Flow of Water into the Drain

When water enters the drain in your fixture, it goes through the tailpiece and into the drain trap, then through the main drain line out of your home. It all makes perfect sense except for that little U-shaped stretch of pipe that always seems to get clogged with food, grease and hair. Why is it there if all it does is get clogged?

The answer to this question is directly related to the way in which plumbing is designed to work. Drain pipes all lead directly to a sewer line which then exits your Orange County home and goes into the sewer. That sewer line contains all of the waste and waste water from your home and as a result, a lot of decomposition takes place here, producing large volumes of sewer gas.

Sewer gas is not only unpleasant, it is unsafe, and it must therefore not be allowed to enter your home. A drain trap is used for this purpose as it will hold water as a barrier against any backflow of sewer gasses when your drain pipes are empty. Gravity ensures that there is always enough water in the trap to keep this from happening.

Maintaining Your Drain Trap

Regular flushing of the drain trap is highly recommended to prevent clogs, and if there are any fixtures in your home that you don’t often use, it is recommended that you pour enough water down the drain to keep the trap from evaporating and allowing sewer gasses to enter your home. Do these things and your system should continue to work properly moving forward.

For more information regarding your Orange County home’s plumbing, contact Saddleback Plumbing, Heating & Air today!

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Plumbing Tip: Why Timely Slab Leak Repairs are Important

Monday, August 20th, 2012

Slab leaks are leaks from pipes under the foundation of your home.  Therefore, to prevent damage to the foundation, it is essential that when a slab leak is found, it is repaired quickly.  Backed by years of field experience, the Orange County plumbers at Saddleback Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning can detect and repair slab leaks and other plumbing issues in your home. Call us any time you suspect a slab leak.

Slab Leak Repairs Done Quickly and Done Right

Many homes that are built on concrete foundations have soft copper piping installed either along the soil underneath or within the concrete slab.  The piping runs various lengths throughout the concrete slab foundation and then out of the slab into various plumbing applications throughout the home.

It can often be hard to identify when a slab leak actually begins.  This is because the piping is laid underneath layers of flooring and then cement.  Often, by the time a slab leak is detected, it has been leaking steadily for enough time to damage the cement foundation, saturate the soil underneath, and even made its way to the flooring and or the bottom of the walls along the first floor of a building.

By the time you notice a slab leak, a timely repair is essential; otherwise, the damage will continue to spread, not only causing cosmetic issues by damaging flooring and furniture, but eventually causing issues with the stability of your foundation.

When you live in a home located on a concrete slab foundation, it is important to watch for additional signs of a slab leak, such as higher than normal water bills, and the sound of running water when the faucets are all off.  Being alert to these symptoms can mean finding a slab leak much earlier and avoiding major water damage to your home.

The professional plumbers in Orange County at Saddleback Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning use state of the art technologies to pinpoint slab leaks so that every repair is performed efficiently, and with as little damage to home fixtures as possible.  If you think your home has a slab leak, let our experts help you today!

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