How Often Should Your Sump Pump Run in the Rain?

How Often Should Your Sump Pump Run in the Rain?

  • Plumbing
  • Sump Pump
how-often-should-my-sump-pump-run-in-the-rain-mchales

As a homeowner, it’s important to understand how your sump pump functions during heavy rain. With McHales sump pump service, your home is protected by this critical component of any waterproofing system. They protect your home from flooding and water damage by pumping excess water away from your foundation. But how often should your sump pump run in the rain? Let’s explore.

What is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a device that removes accumulated water in the sump basin. The sump basin is typically located in the basement or crawlspace of a home and collects excess water from the surrounding soil. The sump pump then pumps this water away from the foundation to prevent flooding and water damage.

How do Sump Pumps Work?

Sump pumps use a motor and impeller to create suction and draw in water. The water then pushes through a discharge pipe and away from the home’s foundation. Electricity or a battery backup system power sump pump systems. 

Why is my Sump Pump Important in the Rain?

Sump pumps are especially important during heavy rain because they help prevent flooding and water damage. Without a functioning sump pump, excess water can accumulate around your foundation and seep into your basement or crawlspace. This can cause costly damage to your home and personal belongings.

How often should my Sump Pump run in the Rain?

Your sump pump’s necessary frequency during heavy rain depends on factors like rainfall, soil conditions, and pump capacity. In general, a sump pump should run whenever the water level in the sump basin reaches a certain height. This height can be adjusted based on your specific needs and the conditions around your home.

Professional inspections and maintenance may be necessary to ensure your sump pump functions properly. A professional can also help you determine the appropriate frequency with which your sump pump should run in the rain based on your home’s unique needs.

Keep Your Basement From Flooding With a Sump Pump

Your sump pump is an essential component of your home’s waterproofing system, especially during heavy rain. Understanding how your sump pump functions and how often it should run can help you prevent flooding and water damage in your basement or crawlspace. If you have any questions or concerns about your sump pump’s function, be sure to consult with one of our technicians here at McHales.

In conclusion, it’s crucial to know how often your sump pump should run in heavy rain to safeguard your home from potential damage. With McHales sump pump services, you can have peace of mind knowing that your sump pump is working correctly and providing reliable protection for your home. Regular maintenance and inspections by the McHales team can help ensure that your sump pump is functioning at its best and providing adequate protection for your home during heavy rain.

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By McHales

6 Winter Plumbing Tips To Prevent Problems

6 Winter Plumbing Tips To Prevent Problems

  • Plumbing
winter plumbing maintenance from mchales

Winter can be a tough time for homeowners when it comes to plumbing issues. Cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze, drains to clog, and water heaters to malfunction. In this blog, we will discuss some of the most common plumbing problems and our winter plumbing tips to prevent them.

Winter Plumbing Tip #1: Insulate Frozen Drain Pipes

Frozen drain pipes can be a major problem during the winter months. When water in the pipes freezes, it expands, causing the pipe to crack or burst. This can lead to major water damage and costly repairs.

Source of the issue

Drain pipes are often located in unheated areas of the home such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics. These areas are more susceptible to freezing temperatures, which can cause the water in the pipes to freeze.

Damages or repairs

A frozen drain pipe can cause water damage to your home and can also lead to costly repairs. If the pipe bursts, it will need to be replaced and any water damage will need to be repaired.

Winter plumbing tips for frozen drain pipes

To prevent frozen drain pipes, homeowners should insulate pipes in unheated areas of the home. This can be done by wrapping them in insulation or using pipe sleeves. It is also important to keep the temperature in the home above freezing during the winter months.

Winter Plumbing Tip #2: Avoid Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are another common problem during the winter. Cold temperatures can cause grease and oil to solidify, which can lead to clogs in the pipes.

Source of the issue

Drains can become clogged during the winter months due to a buildup of grease and oil. When the temperatures drop, these substances solidify and can cause blockages in the pipes.

Damages or repairs

Clogged drains can cause water damage and can also lead to costly repairs. If left untreated, the clog can cause the pipe to burst, resulting in water damage to your home.

Winter plumbing tips for clogged drains

To prevent clogged drains, homeowners should avoid pouring grease and oil down the drain. Instead, they should be disposed of in the trash. It is also important to keep an eye on drains and address any clogs as soon as they are noticed.

Winter Plumbing Tip #3: Water Heater Issues

Water heaters can also experience problems during the winter months. Cold temperatures can cause the water in the tank to freeze, which can damage the heater.

Source of the issue

Water heaters are located in unheated areas of the home such as basements and garages. These areas are more susceptible to freezing temperatures, which can cause the water in the tank to freeze. Normally, the tank won’t freeze. However, if your water heater is no longer heating the water inside due to a compromised heater or energy supply, this issue can occur.

Damages or repairs

A frozen water heater can cause the tank to burst, resulting in water damage to your home. The heater will also need to be replaced, which can be costly.

Winter plumbing tips for water heaters

To prevent water heater issues, homeowners should insulate the tank and any pipes connected to it. It is also important to keep the area around the heater above freezing during the winter months.

Winter Plumbing Tip #4: Address Sump Pump Issues

Sump pumps are used to remove water from basements and crawl spaces. However, they can experience problems during the winter months due to freezing temperatures.

Source of the issue

Sump pumps are located in unheated areas of the home, making them susceptible to freezing temperatures. When the water in the pump freezes, it can cause the pump to malfunction. It’s not uncommon for your sump pump to work overtime during the winter either. When snow melts and the ground thaws, excess water can cause your sump pump to be constantly working.

Damages or repairs

A malfunctioning sump pump can cause water damage to your home and can also lead to costly repairs. If the pump is not working properly, water can build up in the basement or crawl space, causing damage to the structure and any personal belongings stored there.

Winter plumbing tips for sump pumps

To prevent sump pump issues, homeowners should make sure the pump is in good working condition before the winter months. This includes checking the float switch, ensuring the discharge pipe is clear, and checking the power supply. It is also important to keep the area around the pump above freezing temperatures during the winter months by insulating it or using a heating device.

Winter Plumbing Tip #5: Insulate Septic Lines

Frozen septic lines can cause problems during the winter months. When the water in the lines freezes, it can cause blockages and damage to the septic system.

Source of the issue

Septic lines are located underground and can be susceptible to freezing temperatures. Cold temperatures can cause the water in the lines to freeze, which can cause blockages and damage to the system.

Damages or repairs

Frozen septic lines can cause sewage backups and can also lead to costly repairs. If the lines burst, they will need to be replaced and any damage to the septic system will need to be repaired.

Winter plumbing tips for septic lines

To prevent frozen septic lines, homeowners should make sure the lines are properly insulated. This can be done by covering the lines with insulation or using pipe sleeves. It is also important to keep the area around the septic system above freezing temperatures during the winter months.

Winter Plumbing Tip #6: Prevent Basement Floods

Basement floods can be a common problem during the winter months due to frozen pipes, clogged drains, and malfunctioning sump pumps.

Source of the issue

Basement floods can occur due to a variety of reasons, including frozen pipes, clogged drains, and malfunctioning sump pumps. Cold temperatures can cause the water in the pipes to freeze and expand, causing them to burst and flood the basement. Clogged drains can also cause water to back up and flood the basement, and malfunctioning sump pumps can cause water to build up in the basement.

Damages or repairs

Basement floods can cause water damage to the structure of the home and personal belongings stored in the basement. The cost of repairs can be significant, and it can also lead to mold and mildew growth.

Winter plumbing tips for basement floods

To prevent basement floods, homeowners should take steps to prevent frozen pipes, clogged drains, and malfunctioning sump pumps. This includes insulating pipes, avoiding pouring grease and oil down the drain, and keeping an eye on the sump pump. It is also important to keep the temperature in the home above freezing during the winter months.

Winter Plumbing Problems Solved

In conclusion, it is important to be proactive about winter plumbing problems and address them before it’s too late. By taking steps to prevent common issues such as frozen pipes, clogged drains, and malfunctioning water heaters, homeowners can avoid costly repairs and water damage to their homes. Don’t wait for the problem to happen, take necessary precautions and be prepared for the winter months. Call McHales if you are experiencing any of the listed issues, or if you need an expert plumber otherwise! Don’t forget to check out our Google reviews!

By McHales

6 Tips to Maintaining a Clog-Free Toilet

6 Tips to Maintaining a Clog-Free Toilet

  • Plumbing
Maintaining a Clog-Free Toilet McHales

As a homeowner, chances are good that you have already experienced the displeasure of a clogged or overflowing toilet. In addition to the mess, a toilet that clogs or overflows frequently can cause lasting damage to floor coverings, sub-floors, plumbing infrastructure, and even the ceiling below, when the toilet is located in an upper-level bathroom. In addition, any moisture that remains after the clean-up can result in unhealthy mildew and mold growth long after the job has been completed. These tips will help you avoid any problems in maintaining a clog-free toilet.

The Cost of a Poorly Maintained Toilet

According to census data published by the United States Census Bureau, the numbers of new home constructions with three or more bathrooms each now outnumber new homes built with one to one and one-half bathrooms by a ratio of nearly ten to one, based on the samples taken. With the number of home toilets rapidly growing, the cost of damage from clogged or overflowing toilets also rises exponentially. 

Clogged or overflowing toilets can result in costs to homeowners. This includes:

  • replacement/repair costs to flooring, subflooring, walls, and trim materials
  • replacement/repair costs to plumbing pipes and fixtures
  • repairs to drain and sewer lines
  • possible mold remediation from frequent or latent water infiltration
  • higher water bills when toilets are not operating correctly and must be flushed multiple times to move waste through the system

In addition to monetary costs, families who frequently deal with clogged or slow toilets are being forced to sacrifice much of the enjoyment they should get from living in the home. The good news, however, is that homeowners can avoid this type of damage to their homes with these simple tips designed to help keep home toilets functioning properly.

1. Teach Family Members What Objects & Materials Should Never Be Flushed

Many clogged toilets are caused each year due to improper use. In most of these cases, family members, both children and adults, attempt to flush materials down the toilet that should not be introduced into any type of sewage disposal system. These materials include common household items, such as: 

  • Paper products – including cleaning wipes, feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, cotton swabs, cigarette butts, paper towels, facial tissues, diaper liners, and excessive amounts of toilet tissue
  • Miscellaneous household waste products – including kitty litter, human or pet hair, grease, oils, dental floss, ashes, potting soil, and dust and dirt from vacuums or dust pans
  • Other objects or materials – including children’s toys, small articles of clothing like socks, medications, pet food, potting soil, sand, gravel, or other miscellaneous materials or objects

2. Provide Alternate Disposal to Encourage Proper Toilet Usage

A great way to prevent inappropriate objects and materials from being placed into the toilet is to provide an alternate disposal option for family members and guests who use your bathroom. To do this, place a small trash can near each toilet in the home. Doing this is an economical, effective way of preventing future clogged toilet issues because something was flushed that should not have been flushed. 

3. Keep Surfaces Clear of Small Items That Could Easily Fall Into the Toilet

Many clogged toilets also result from accidents where an object is knocked into the toilet accidentally. This often happens when nearby counters or over-the-toilet shelving is filled with small objects, such as jars, bottles, sponges, and cosmetics. When these objects land in the toilet and are flushed accidentally, a clog situation is a likely result. Keeping these areas clear of small items will improve your efforts in maintaining a clog-free toilet.

4. Flush Twice When Necessary

If the toilet has a large amount of waste or toilet paper in it, flushing twice may be necessary to completely empty the bowl. But a toilet that always needs to be flushed multiple times probably already suffers from some type of clog or plumbing problem.

If a toilet in your home is having to be flushed multiple times, the extra water usage is placing an additional burden on both your plumbing system and the family water bill. When this problem occurs homeowners may want to prevent excessive water bills and further damage to their plumbing by having the problem diagnosed and repaired by a professional. 

5. Learn to Plunge & Do So As Needed

Another cause of clogged toilets and the damage that results is ignoring or postponing obvious signs that the toilet is malfunctioning. Even when the toilet does empty by flushing it multiple times, flushing over and over is not healthy for the plumbing system and can cause more serious plumbing problems over time.

Homeowners who experience slow flushing action may be able to relieve the problem by using a plunger to help free the clog and push it through the pipes. To do this effectively, follow these steps: 

  • Insert the plunger into the toilet bowl, tipping it to allow any trapped air in the bell of the plunger to escape
  • Position the plunger over the drainage hole and plunge vigorously to move the water both directions in the drain to loosen and free the clog
  • Be patient and repeat the process until the clog is freed and the toilet bowl empties
  • If plunging does not give results and the clog remains firmly in place, calling a professional to clear the clog may be necessary

6. Know When You Need Professional Help

Plumbing problems that go unsolved are one of the most common reasons for water damage and mold issues in homes today. This is all the more reason to be proactive about maintaining a clog-free toilet. If you are a homeowner with toilets that flush slowly, threaten to overflow, or require the frequent use of a plunger, calling McHales to fix the problem quickly will help you avoid the costly, inconvenient home repair bills later. Check out our customer reviews if you are unsure!

By McHales

Things That May Be Wrong If Your Sewer Keeps Backing Up

Things That May Be Wrong If Your Sewer Keeps Backing Up

  • drain cleaning
  • Plumbing
  • Sewer Replacement
Sewer Keeps Backing Up

If your sewer keeps backing up you already know you have a problem. It’s just a matter of how big of a problem you have. Sewage backing up into your home or onto your property is a worrying and disgusting headache for any home owner. There’s plenty of things you may have to fix with your plumbing if its backing up regularly. Sewers are fairly complex systems that the average homeowner doesn’t pay much mind to, but they play an important role keeping our lives sanitary and healthy. Wastewater contains pathogens and various other disease-causing microorganisms.

Clogs

Clogs are the easiest sewage problem to solve, since they’re the only ones the homeowner has any real sense of control over. Flushing plumbing inappropriate materials ends with them getting stuck up in the pipes and blocking the wastewater, causing it to backup through the pipes. When your toilet won’t flush or your sink drains slowly, it can be easy to mistake it for an issue with that plumbing fixture alone. And backups are a common symptom of a common plumbing clog. What separates them is that a sewer clog occurs further down in the plumbing; most commonly the lateral or the mainline, which connect your home’s pipes to the municipal sewers.

A number of things cause these types of sewer clogs including, but not limited to:

  • Pouring fats, oils, and grease (FOGs) down the kitchen sink
  • Baby wipes
  • Solid waste deposits
  • Hair deposits
  • Soap scum
  • Tree roots

Collapsed Pipes

Being so far out of sight, it’s hard to tell exactly when a pipe somewhere along the line breaks down. When this happens, however, you can probably be able to guess when it happens based on the amount of sewage backing up through your toilet and up into your yard. Pipes normally don’t collapse on their own; their typically made to last longer than most of us will be around. However, tree root intrusions are liable to  grow outward and damage roots. When roots grow, they seek out water and are naturally attracted to the water within the pipes. A collapsed pipe is a serious problem that requires a full pipe replacement to fix.

Municipal Issues

Unless you’re on a septic system, your sewer line connects to the municipal sewer system. The main line in your home that connects to the city’s sewer system, from which point it goes to the treatment plant for cleaning and processing. Most local municipalities by law do a very thorough cleaning and service of their sewer systems but occasionally things do take unexpected turns for the worst. In the event your sewer backup is related to the municipal system, there’s not a ton you can do as a homeowner short of calling the city and urging them to act on the problem.

Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!

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Most Common Reasons Why Your Water Heater Stopped Working

Most Common Reasons Why Your Water Heater Stopped Working

  • drain cleaning
  • Plumbing
  • Sewer Replacement
water heater stopped working

In our experience, there’s never a good time to see your water heater has stopped working. It’s such a core part of what makes your home comfortable that losing it even for a few hours can be a massive problem.  While you can always call us at Payless to fix any and all issues with your system, we think transparency is important and want you to know exactly what’s wrong with your water heater.  We’ve looked at our records and narrowed down some of the most common reasons water heater stop working. 

  1. Poor Installation Just like a carpenter needs the right tools for the right job you water heater system needs to be properly fitted to your home and your needs. Often, new homeowners find that the previous owners did a slipshod job of installing the water heater. Maybe you had children and expanded the size of your household. An improperly sized system does not provide the results you’re looking for.  Be sure that you have the right heater for your home. 
  2. Rust Rust is an inevitable problem whenever you’re dealing with anything metal, especially water heaters. To prevent against this, water heaters come equipped with devices called sacrificial anodes, which act as deterrents to rust damage. Over time, these anodes wear away. Check your system annually and give us a call if you notice these rods failing. 
  3. Air Quality In order to heat your water, a process called combustion needs to occur. Essentially what this is is that air is taken into the water heater and used to heat the water. But if that air is low quality or contains corrosive fumes? Bad air can destroy your water heater from the inside out. 
  4. Water Pressure Speaking generally, 80 PSI should be your maximum water pressure. If it’s much higher than this, you need to fix the problem  before the damage becomes permanent. 
  5. Accumulated Sediment  The water in your heater contains a lot of minerals and chemicals. Over time, these compounds build up within your system into a sludge-like substance which, as you could imagine, disrupts the efficiency of the water heater. Draining and cleaning the tank regularly can help prevent this, but without regular maintenance, you may need to call a professional to fix the issue. 
  6. Age Time stops for no water heater. Just like people, water heaters get old. They get worn down and parts deteriorate.  Water heaters generally last about a decade or so. If your system is 10+ years old and you’re noticing a decrease in your water quality, it may be time to give us a call. 

Consult With Your Plumber  There’s a lot of misinformation out there about water heaters. We only covered a select handful here. Still have questions about tankless water heaters? Give us a call at McHales! Our team of experts can answer any and all questions you may have about water heaters, tankless or otherwise.

Water heater stopped working? Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!

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A Guide to Cleaning Your Sewer and Drain Lines

A Guide to Cleaning Your Sewer and Drain Lines

  • drain cleaning
  • Plumbing
  • Sewer Replacement
sewer cleaning

Nothing is more important than considering the health of both your sewer line and drains. Much like any other system in your home, both of these systems are prone to problems, especially clogs. A clog usually occurs when there is some sort of blockage found within your pipes. This is precisely why regular sewer and drain cleaning is so important. 

Thankfully, there are ways around these series of backups and sewer and drain cleaning are fairly easy services to navigate once you get a professional on board. If you follow the following steps, you can keep your pipes running smoothly. 

Typical Causes of Sewer Backups

Sewer backups can lead to In terms of residential backups; there are many contributing factors. These include:

  • Tree Root Intrusion 
  • Grease Accumulation
  • Improper disposal of paper products

If you do have a sewer line clog, follow these following steps to clear the blockage.

How to Remove a Sewer Line Clog with Sewer Cleaning 

Use a pipe wrench to loosen the cap on your main drain line before you open it entirely. Once the cap is loosened, open it and let the buildup drain out. Once the cap is opened, make sure to step out of the way. If there is any waste caused by the clog, the backflow will spill out of the main line drain. Make sure to let it run off entirely before attempting any further repairs. 

Next, feed the auger cable down the drainpipe. Each auger, or plumbing snake, is different, so be sure to follow the instructions that come with the tool for best results. However, the general principle is that you should gently feed the auger cable into your drainpipe until you hit the clog. You’ll know when you’ve hit it because the cable will get progressively harder to move through the pipe. Allow the auger to run until the clog has been removed. You’ll be able to see when it happens because the water level in the drainpipe will begin to gradually decrease and then drain out entirely.

That said, don’t stop running the machine as soon as the clog disappears. There could still be smaller pockets elsewhere in the pipe, which may cause additional problems down the road. Once the clog has been removed, spray the hose down your drainpipe at full blast. Doing so will simultaneously remove any lingering debris that is stuck in the pipe and clean off the auger. 

Afterwards, pull the plumbing snake out of the pipe slowly. You most likely want to hose the auger cable off a few times before winding it back onto the machine. When you’re done, place the cap back on your drainpipe and use the pipe wrench to tighten it up. 

Avoid Clogging Your Drains

While grease is the absolute worst substance you can put in your drain, there are other objects that should be avoided all together. This is especially pertinent if you have a garbage disposal unit as part of your drain system. These items include the following:

  • Bones
  • Fibrous fruits/vegetables: This includes celery, artichokes, asparagus, lettuce
  • Coffee Grinds
  • Fruit Pits: Includes avocado pits, peach pits, etc.
  • Corn Husks
  • Egg Shells
  • Potato Peels
  • Pasta, Rice and Grains

If these items much like grease or oil, can clog up your drain or prevent the garbage disposal blades from working properly. If the blades are jammed, this can also increase the buildup in the disposal drain.

If you do experience a clogged drain, there are ways to remedy it. 

Cleansing Your Drains

If your drains do have a clog, there can be a number of indicators. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent drains from clogging. 

  • Run hot water through the sink after each use. Hot water keeps oils in food products running down the drain, rather than building up on the interior surface of pipes, which can make drains sluggish and lead to clogs.
  • Throw a handful of baking soda into the drain and follow it with hot water. Baking soda is a terrific cleaning agent, and it’s also great for absorbing foul odors and leaving your drainpipes smelling like a rose. Okay, maybe not like a rose, but a lot better than they otherwise would.
  • Pour 1 cup of vinegar down the drain and let it sit for 30 minutes; then chase it down with very hot water. Vinegar is a wonder cleaner. It contains acetic acid, which acts as an excellent organic solvent in removing an organic buildup of crud in pipes. 

Schedule a sewer or drain cleaning with a call to McHale’s today!

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When Should I Replace My Old Plumbing?

When Should I Replace My Old Plumbing?

  • drain cleaning
  • Plumbing
  • Sewer Replacement
replace plumbing

For many homeowners in and around Bucks County, their plumbing system is something they take for granted; it’s in the background working for them and doing it’s job. Out of sight, out of mind. That is until something goes wrong. Plumbing repairs are one thing, but some times pipes are in such a state that they just need a replacement.

Because our pipes are so hidden from our view most of the time, it can be hard for homeowners to determine exactly when they need pipe replacement. Visual signs become hard to pick up when you can’t actually get a visual. Thankfully there are other signs to tell when when it’s time to replace your old plumbing.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is one of, if not the, biggest signs that the pipes you have are on their way out. Regularly, low pressure can be caused by a number of different issues. But consistent, regularly low pressure is a surefire sign you need to replace your old plumbing. You might notice that the water pressure in your shower isn’t as strong as it used to be, or that you are not getting much pressure from the sinks. This means that the pipes may be in the early stages of failing at that point, or they may have already progressed in that direction. 

Murky Water

Is your water coming out of the faucet a little cloudy? Failing some sort of major water crisis in your local area, the most likely culprit behind this type of activity is a failing plumbing system. Murky water is a cause for alarm due to health reasons, so if you notice it be sure to call a plumber ASAP.

Rust

Given that pipes run throughout a person’s house, people are sometimes going to see rust spots in odd places throughout their homes if they have old and rusting pipes that need to be replaced. This is more common in older houses. In some instances, this rust is pervasive enough to effect the exterior and interior of the pipe, which ultimately compromises it’s structural integrity and overall water quality. 

Wet Spots in and Around the Home

Surefire signs of plumbing leaks, seeing water pooling in areas where it shouldn’t means you’ve got issues. Don’t make the mistake of thinking someone spilled something or the water came from the outside. Unexplained household leaks are often caused by failing older pipes and not by water coming in from the outside.

 One household leak could have multiple sources. However, if people have several household leaks, and they seem to occur in areas that are heavy on the plumbing, it’s a sign that something is wrong with the internal piping system.

Cracks and Holes

Failing plumbing has a number of consequences, not least of which is wider architectural damage to your house. Cracks, holes, and other unexplainable damage to your home are often the result of pipes failing just behind the walls. This is one of the more serious symptoms of a plumbing system in need of replacement, so don’t hesitate to call us if you see it.

Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!“”

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By McHales

How to Patch A Leaky Pipe While You Wait For a Plumber

How to Patch A Leaky Pipe While You Wait For a Plumber

  • Plumbing

While we at McHales love to see the DIY spirit, somethings just require a professional touch. Leaky pipes are a prime example. When water is coming out of anything but your faucet or shower head, it’s going to take more than a little duct tape to fix the problem in a meaningful way and that’s where we come in. And while our response times are among the fastest in the biz, we can’t teleport directly to your home. Meanwhile, you still have a leaky pipe, which can lose as much as 250 gallons of water through a 1/8 inch crack. While they aren’t permanent fixes, there are some band-aid solutions you can apply to stop the flow temporarily. Here are some easy things you can do to hold down the fort while you wait for the cavalry to come.

Pipe Epoxy

You’re probably already familiar with these types of products since they’re widely available at most hardware stores. Basically, it’s a chemical compound that starts out soft and hardens over time after application to a leak. Think of it like putting some water resistant glue over the hole. They can be relied on for a few weeks, but you still need a plumber to come out and fix the issue once and for all. A temporary solution, but an easy one for the average person to access and deal with. There’s a lot of different brands out there, but for our money, here are some of the ones we recommend:

  • Flex Paste
  • J-B Weld Epoxy Adhesive
  • Oatey Fix-It Stick
  • Gorilla Epoxy Adhesive

Pipe Tape

Literally a band-aid solution. These are exactly what they sound like: tape you put around your pipes to stem the flow of water. Pipe tapes are most commonly made from resin impregnated fiberglass/PVC tape so they can stand up to the water flowing underneath. It work really well on joints and elbows, which are some of the more common plumbing fixtures that spring leaks in the first place. Since they are essentially heavy duty pieces of tape, they do eventually lose their adhesive quality over time usually in a , but in a pinch, pipe tape can be a life saver for a homeowner trying to stop a leak before a plumber arrives. Here’s a few of our recommended brands:

  • Rescue Tape
  • F4 Tape
  • Blue Monster
  • Gorilla Waterproof Tape

Rubber Pipe Connectors

In the event of a major leak at a joint or elbow, a little tape isn’t going to do much for you. Rubber pipe connectors are the thing you’ll need. This remedy is best for leaks that occur around joints or in the middle of water piping. And while it’s much more effective and longer lasting than both epoxies and tapes, it’s a lot more difficult to apply for the average homeowner without extensive plumbing know-how. They may not be the best choice to patch your leaky pipe while waiting for a plumber, we do have some products we tend to recommend for those who it is right for.

  • Watts Rubber Fittings
  • Fernco
  • Cherene

Pipe Clamps

Clamps are another common quick fix while waiting for a plumber. Though more often found in commercial settings, they work just as well holding together a leak in a private home. These pieces of metal are screwed, bolted, wrapped, or otherwise affixed to the pipe, covering the leak. They’re often pretty cheap and easy to apply, so they remain a popular choice among those in need of fast plumbing repairs. And where other products have some variance based on brands, pipe clamps are largely the same no matter which brand you go with. The differences are in the types of clamps, which will vary based on where your leak is and what type/size of pipe you’re dealing with.

Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!

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Signs You Need Professional Sewer Cleaning

Signs You Need Professional Sewer Cleaning

  • drain cleaning
  • Plumbing
  • Sewer Replacement
Sewer Cleaning

Why’s sewer cleaning so important? Our sewer system is one of the most out of sight systems in our homes, and as most people can attest, “out of sight” generally means “out of mind.” Unfortunately, it is also one of the most important systems in modern life when it comes to sanitation and cleanliness. So when something goes wrong with it, such as a clog, a leak, or a full blown sewer burst, it’s more than an inconvenience; it’s a threat to you and your family’s health. Regular , professional sewer cleaning is one of the best ways to keep a trained eye on your sewer system, keep it clean, operational, and safe.

Foul Smells

You don’t need to be a career plumber to know that toilets can smell from time to time. Normally, these odors pass in time. If you’re noticing sustained, heavy, oppressively strong odors in and around your home (particularly from your piping) this can be an early sign of a major blockage. This is usually where most homeowners call a plumber, as it’s one of the more unpleasant issues to have happen in your home. Regular cleaning can make sure the inside of your home keeps smelling as beautiful as it looks.

Water Backing Up

Have you noticed water not going down the drain quickly while you’re in the shower? The sink isn’t quite clearing after brushing your teeth in the morning? Common sewer blocks prevent water from heading down the drain quickly. Much like how plaque can clog an artery and cause blood to flow more slowly through your body, a blockage in your plumbing system can cause your water to funnel through a too-small-to-run-efficiently space. Thankfully, a plumbing block is easier and safer to remedy than a clogged artery: a simple can to one of the pros at McHales can have any blockage removed and cleaned out in just a few short hours.

Gurgling Sounds

You may notice these coming from inside your walls after flushing a toilet or taking a shower. This is indicative of a growing blockage somewhere in your plumbing. As blockages begin to form, the water rushing through the more confined space creates air pockets that make these unpleasant gurgling noises. These can be disconcerting to hear, and understandably so. Once a drain and sewer cleaning service removes the blockage in question, these sounds should disappear as well.

Flooding in Your Yard

If a foul smell in your bathroom is a red flag, then flooding in your yard is equivalent to an air raid siren blasting in your ear. Flooding of foul smelling liquid is indicative of a sewer line burst, one of the most serious plumbing issues you can come across. This means one of your pipes has burst and the raw sewage therein has seeped up through the dirt and into your yard. Not only is this absolutely disgusting, it damages your property and poses a serious health hazard. If you notice your lawn is flooding from below, especially it’s a bad smelling, dirty liquid, it’s well-past time to call in a plumber to preform sewer cleaning: you need full blown sewer repair, a much more costly project.

Sewer and drain cleaning in general should be regular parts of any homeowners maintenance checklist. Just like with your personal health, small issues can snowball out of control very quickly if left unchecked: the minor blockage in your pipes could become a full-blown, water-stopping clog, the leak can escalate into a massive burst sewer line, and so on. Save yourself the headache (and the financial pain) with a regularly scheduled drain or sewer cleaning to stop issues before they get out of hand.

Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!

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drain and sewer repair 

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10 Warning Signs You Need Drain and Sewer Repair

10 Warning Signs You Need Drain and Sewer Repair

  • Plumbing

Although maintaining a fully-functioning drain system is a vital element to the upkeep of any home, this luxury is often taken for granted. Indeed, the literal lifeblood of any home, although most people discount the vitality of maintaining a functioning drain system, its importance becomes evident just moments after it begins to malfunction. Rather than waiting until you are forced to endure mishaps such as leaking, frequent clogging, and more, the following is an overview of 10 warning signs that you need drain and sewer repair. 

1. Water Flooding in the Basement

One of the top tell-tale signs of a drainage problem is spotting standing water in your basement. Given that this is the lowest point of your home, it should come to no surprise that waters from things such as overflowing gutters or a fluctuating water table would convene here. 

2. Strange Gurgling Noises Coming from Drain

Your drain/sewer system should be virtually noise-free. Although there are certainly some exceptions, for the most part, you should not be able to hear what’s going on in your drainage system. If you hear strange gurgling noises coming from your system, this is a sign of some sort of blockage that should be addressed immediately.

3. Foul Odor Coming from Fixture Drains

In addition to that, if you smell any unexplained, unpleasant odors coming from your drain system, this is also a sign of an issue. You should never be able to smell things such as raw sewage assuming your day-to-day activities. If you notice a foul smell that can be likened to that of raw sewage, you may want to contact a plumbing professional as soon as possible. 

4. Home Came with Older Drainage System

Moreover, as with all elements of the home, your drainage system is subject to regular wear and tear. Perhaps, more so than most other elements of your home, your drainage system is one of the most often used parts of your home. Therefore, it makes perfect sense that having a home with an older drainage system would be subject to occasional to frequent malfunctions. 

5. Unexplained Spike in Water Costs 

In addition to that, if you have noticed an unexplained increase in your water bill, this may also be an indication of a drain issue. This is largely due to the fact that sewage system issues are related to things such as leaks and frequent clogs, each of which tends to waste an excess of water which causes an increase in your monthly fees.

6. Poor Water Quality

Moreover, if you have noticed a deterioration in terms of your quality of water, this is a serious sign that you should have your drain system checked immediately. Having drain problems can wreak havoc on your entire water supply by introducing an array of toxic materials and other potentially harmful contaminants. If you notice your water supply appears to be cloudy in nature, that it has a foul odor or anything else you feel is a cause for concern, contact a plumbing professional and have your drain system checked immediately. 

7. Low Water Pressure

In addition to that, if you have noticed that the pressure coming from your sink, bath, or toilet, you should definitely have your system checked. Many systems succumb to things such as tree roots or even feminine hygiene products, among other things. Once your system is sufficiently clogged, you will need a professional to remove the obstruction and get your system back in working order. 

8. Multiple Clogged Fixtures 

Although every drain system is subject to an occasional clog, if you have multiple fixtures in your home all clogged at the same time this is a cause for concern. Given that sewage systems tend to get clogged in the most unreachable places, if your drains seem to be moving more slowly than usual, you may have a massive clog in an unseen area of your home.

9. Slow Drainage

Furthermore, even if your system isn’t actually clogged and is just moving more slowly than usual, this is also a warning sign. In addition to potentially being clogged, your system may just begin to become more sluggish as things cease to work as sufficiently as they once did. 

10. Frequent Overflowing of Toilet

Lastly, if your toilet overflows frequently, this can be a massive sign that you need to have your drain system replaced. Indeed, while a well-functioning drainage system does not typically have such issues, a drainage system has sporadic issues in regards to the random rising and falling of toilet water levels and more. 

Overall, if you do not pay close attention to the early warning signs of your drain system you may end up paying dearly in the end. Not only will you be forced to endure hours, days, or even weeks without a properly functioning drainage system, but you will also put your home at risk for water damage, spikes in service fees and much more. If you can relate to any of the above warning signs, contact a professional plumber today for drain and sewer repair!

Call McHale’s for drain and sewer repair today!

Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!

Read Reviews From Our Happy Customers!

drain and sewer repair 

By McHales