Tag: drains

5 Easy Drain Cleaning Tips for Pet Owners – McHales Plumbing

Mar 22, 2023

5 Easy Drain Cleaning Tips for Pet Owners – McHales Plumbing

  • drain cleaning
5 Easy Drain Cleaning Tips for Pet Owners - McHales Plumbing

If you’re a pet owner, you know that they can bring joy and love to your home, but they can also bring a lot of pet hair, debris, and other messes that can clog up your drains. Keeping your drains clean and free of blockages is important to prevent costly plumbing issues down the line. In this blog post, we will share 5 easy drain cleaning tips for pet owners that will help you maintain healthy and clean drains.

1. Use Non-Toxic Drain Cleaning Solutions

Pet owners should avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can be toxic to pets and humans alike. Instead, opt for natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar. Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of vinegar and pour it down the drain. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes before flushing it down with hot water. This will not only clean your drain but also remove any bad odors.

2. Brush Your Pet Regularly

Regularly brushing your pet’s fur can help prevent hair from accumulating in your drains. Depending on the breed of your pet, you may need to brush them every day or once a week. Use a grooming tool that is appropriate for your pet’s fur type to avoid causing any irritation.

3. Clean Up Pet Waste Promptly

Pet urine and feces can cause blockages in your drains if they are not cleaned up promptly. Use pet-safe cleaning solutions to clean up any messes, and dispose of waste in the trash instead of flushing it down the toilet. Flushing pet waste can cause serious plumbing problems, especially if you have a septic system.

Pet waste can contain high levels of bacteria, which can cause corrosion and damage to the pipes. Over time, this can lead to leaks and blockages. Additionally, pet waste can cause foul odors to emanate from the drains, making it unpleasant for people to be around. If pet waste is flushed down the toilet, it can also cause problems in septic systems as it can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the tank. Therefore, it is important to clean up pet waste promptly and dispose of it in the trash to prevent clogs and plumbing problems.

4. Schedule Regular Drain Cleaning Maintenance

It’s important to schedule regular drain cleaning maintenance to prevent clogs from forming. Depending on the size and number of pets in your home, you may need to clean your drains more frequently than the average homeowner. Professional drain cleaning services can help ensure that your drains are clean and free of blockages.

5. Use a Drain Strainer

To prevent pet hair and debris from entering your drains in the first place, use a drain strainer or stopper. These are inexpensive and easy to install, and can save you a lot of time and money in the long run by preventing clogs from forming. You can find drain strainers at your local hardware store or online.

Easy Drain Cleaning Tips for Pet Owners

In conclusion, these easy drain cleaning tips for pet owners can help keep your drains clean and free of blockages. By using non-toxic drain cleaning solutions, brushing your pet regularly, cleaning up pet waste promptly, scheduling regular drain cleaning maintenance, and using a drain strainer, you can ensure that your drains are in good condition and prevent costly plumbing problems.

If you need professional drain cleaning feel free to call McHales for fast and efficient drain cleaning services.

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By McHales

10 Warning Signs Your Drains or Sewers Need to Be Serviced

Feb 12, 2021

10 Warning Signs Your Drains or Sewers Need to Be Serviced

  • drain cleaning
  • Sewer Replacement
drain and sewer service

Maintaining the health of your sewers and drains is important because it eliminates foul odors and prevents water overflow issues, as well as prevents expensive home repairs and health problems. Read on to discover our 10 warning signs that your home needs drain and sewer service.

1.Multiple Clogged Fixtures

Multiple clogged fixtures are the most common sign of drain and sewer problems. Fixtures that frequently pose a threat include bathtubs, toilets, and showers. These clogs are caused by a buildup of debris, such as hair, excess paper, and non-flushable items.

2. Slowly Draining Fixtures

Common causes of slowly draining fixtures are soap scum build up and an accumulation of hair and other debris, including foreign objects.

3. Wet Spots on Landscapes

Wet spots on landscapes are eyesores, and they kill your home’s curb appeal. Wet spots are puddles of standing water that make your lawn look like it is flooded in different places. Standing water not only attracts mosquitos and suffices as a perfect breeding ground, but it also causes your grass and plants to become over-hydrated.

4. Unpleasant Odors

Unpleasant drain odors derive from venting problems, dry p-trap, and sewer line issues. Unpleasant odors that come from the drain due to sewer problems are an indication that there is a block or a break within the sewer line.

5. Gurgling Noises

Gurgling noises in your drains are the result of grease and dirt buildup. Due to this buildup, air bubbles cannot flow freely through the pipes. This causes water to drain slowly and creates a gurgling noise.

6. Frequent Drain Clogs

Kitchen sinks clog more than any other drain in the home. Common causes of frequent drain clogs include food, grease, hair, and small objects. Items that should not be placed down the kitchen drain include paper towels, egg shells, coffee grinds, produce stickers, and corrosive substances.

7. Overflowing Toilets

Overflowing toilets are more common than many people think, especially in a home with three or more people living there. Toilets overflow because of a blockage within the pipes.

8. Leaking Pipes

The different causes of leaking pipes include strong pressure within the pipes, the amount of oxygen in the water, and the water’s pH. An abundance of oxygen in water causes pipes to corrode rapidly. An imbalance in water’s pH causes pipes to rust and deteriorate.

9. Water Damage

Broken and leaking pipes are the common cause of water damage. Other causes of water damage include sewer backup, overflowing bathtubs, and broken toilets.

10. Expensive Household Bills

Water and sewer bill expenses are based upon consumption. When you have leaking pipes and other sewer and plumbing problems, your sewer or water bill can skyrocket. Some leaks in the home are easier to locate than others. Bathroom leaks are easier to find than kitchen leaks because kitchen sinks have more complex piping systems.

Situations That Occur When Sewer and Drain Issues Are Ignored

When sewer and drain issues are left unattended, they can increase or be compounded with other problems. Homeowners suffer a great deal of discomfort, inconvenience, and expense when their services have to be interrupted or when they are unable to use their plumbing fixtures. Homeowners put themselves at higher risk for additional pipe leaks, malfunctions, and even more expense. The most devastating problem when sewer and drain issues are ignored is sanitation. Flooded toilets and sinks are the perfect breeding ground for germs and bacteria. With a decreased level of sanitation, you and your family are at risk for contracting and spreading diseases and developing health issues.

The Benefits of  Drain and Sewer Service Issues In a Timely Manner

Handling issues with your sewer and drain as soon as problems arise has many advantages, including improved longevity of plumbing fixtures and reduced risk of water damage. Plumbing fixtures that are maintained properly will save money because you will not have to frequently replace the fixtures. Sewers and drains that work properly have a reduced chance of experiencing leaks, which reduces the risk of water damage. The level of sanitation is improved because germs and bacteria will stay where they belong. To add an extra layer of protection from germs and to control the amount of bacteria, you can routinely pour bleach down your drains and use it when you clean your toilet. Peace of mind is a benefit that cannot be compared to any other benefit. You do not have to stress yourself worrying about the health of your family and the condition of your home. You can sleep peacefully knowing your sewer and drains are functioning correctly. The misery of spreading germs and bacteria, household damage, and expensive repairs is a thing of the past.

 

Do not ignore what appear to be simple sewer and drain issues. What seems minimal at the time could be progressing into a major problem.

If you need drain and sewer service, call McHale’s today and avoid back-ups in your home!

By McHales

7 Common Signs That You Need a Holiday Drain Cleaning

Dec 18, 2020

7 Common Signs That You Need a Holiday Drain Cleaning

  • Plumbing
7 Common Signs That You Need a Holiday Drain Cleaning

Clogged drains can be a frustrating nuisance, but having a dirty drain during the holidays could mean bursting pipes in your home. The winter season already puts enough strain on your plumbing, freezing your pipes and wearing down your water heater. No homeowner wants a home flooded from a burst pipe, which is why it’s important to keep your drains clear this holiday season. Check out our 7 common signs that you need a holiday drain cleaning:

When You Should Clean Your Drains

Plumbing problems can be frustrating, and a dirty drain can disrupt your daily activities. It might be tempting to overlook one clogged drain, but a clog left untreated can result in costly damages. Your plumbing is complicated, but you can avoid most plumbing catastrophes by thoroughly cleaning your drains and routine maintenance. The more you clean your drains, the better, as it never hurts to be proactive with your plumbing. Clogs however, can happen despite how often you clean your drains, which is why it’s important to know the warning signs of a dirty drain. To prepare your drains this holiday season, here’s what to watch for.

  • Water starts to back up. When using the faucet, bathtub, or shower, the water should always drain. Water should never go up your drains, but if you notice after flushing a toilet or running the faucet that water starts to back up versus drain down, it could be a clogged drain.
  • Foul odors. One of the most unpleasant warning signs of a clogged drain is the foul odor of sewage. A drain that’s clogged accumulates all the waste that’s flushed down the drains until the odors come back out the drains. Kitchens with garbage disposal can also be notorious for foul sewage odors, especially when enough food particles build up inside your drains.
  • Odd sounds. Listen carefully to your drains. When a drain is blocked, water is then forced through small spaces or to change course which can result in bubbling or gurgling sounds. If you start to hear odd gurgling sounds from your drain, it’s time to clean your drains. 
  • Frequent clogs. Clogs can be a common plumbing problem, but if they happen often enough, it could be caused from a clogged drain. Some clogs can be resolved with a plunger or drain cleaner, but if you notice the same fixture keeps clogging regardless, you’ll need a plumber to professionally clean your drains.
  • Multiple clogs at the same time. Not all clogs require calling in a plumber, but multiple clogs at once is problematic. If you notice multiple different fixtures have clogged all at once, it means there is a clog deeper inside your sewer line and requires a professional drain cleaning.
  • Slow drains. A slow drain is one of the most common signs of a clogged drain, as no water fixture should have a slow drain. Watch your sinks and water appliances. If you notice it takes more time than usual to drain the sink or your washer or dishwasher is still full after the cycle, it’s time to clean your drains.
  • Fruit or drain flies. Any buildup of food or waste inside your drains will attract flies. Tiny fruit flies are more than just an annoying pest; they can become a health risk, and are usually attracted to the scent of a clogged drain. Drains flies are another pest to watch out for, as they like to breed in drains and sewer lines. If your home has some clogged drains, you might start to notice drain flies buzzing in your bathroom.

How to Clean Your Drains and Keep Them Clogged Free

Knowing when to clean your drains is a good place to start, but it’s best to start habits that keep your drains clean and prevent future clogs. A clogged drain left untreated can result in costly plumbing problems, but luckily they can be avoided with proper care and cleaning practices. Here’s what you can do to keep your drains clean this holiday season.

  • Avoid chemical drain cleaners. Although chemical drain cleaners can be an easy and instant fix for some clogs, they’re incredibly toxic and eat at your pipes over time. There are several non-toxic drain cleaners available such as vinegar and baking soda, which work naturally well to eliminate odors and flush down any stuck waste.
  • Avoid flushing down food waste. Garbage disposals are great if you have them, but contrary to what you might think, it’s to flush down as little food waste as possible. Most foods will clog your drains and break down the blades. Kitchen sinks without a garbage disposal are even less equipped to handle any food waste that goes down the drain. Do your best to avoid flushing food down by scraping and rinsing your plates. Avoid flushing down fats, greases, and oils, as well as starchy foods.
  • Use drain strainers. It’s not just food waste that clogs your drains, but hair, soap scum, and other random debris, which is why it helps to place drain strainers on top of your drains. Make sure to periodically clean out your drain strainers so that your drains can drain properly.

Keep Your Holidays Fun and Festive with Clean Drains

A clog can be a frustrating, if not common plumbing problem, but the winter season adds the additional threat of your pipes freezing. No homeowner wants a flooded home in the dead of winter, that’s why it’s important to keep your drains clean and clear this holiday season. Not all clogs, however, can be cleaned yourself, and that’s where the professionals come in. A licensed plumber can treat your drains and guarantee your holidays stay dry and happy. Don’t wait until you smell sewage, call McHales today and schedule your holiday drain cleaning.

By McHales

Signs That Your Home Needs Drain Cleaning

Mar 30, 2020

Signs That Your Home Needs Drain Cleaning

  • drain cleaning
Drain

Maybe it’s happened to you before: Suddenly, none of your home’s drains work anymore. When a plunger or hot water fails to work, you may be experiencing a clog or blockage deeper within your system. Clogs can be a major disruption in your home that affects your daily routine. In order to remedy plumbing problems before they escalate, you may need professional assistance. Here are the signs that your home needs drain cleaning:

Warning Signs

When it comes to your plumbing, it tends to show you signs of an issue before anything major happens. Being aware that your home’s drains need clearing in the first place can prevent them from getting clogged — and you could have saved yourself a lot of hassle and money. Here are the major signs that you need drain clearing:

  • Foul odor. Your drains should never smell. A bad smell is a sign of a bad clog forming in the drain system. Since the clog captures more and more organic waste, that waste will simply sit and rot in the drain. Sometimes it attracts little fruit flies that gather around the drains in the kitchen and bathrooms. The clog and flies can eventually even attract vermin and become a health hazard to you and your family.
  • Slow drainage. If you notice that your bathroom or kitchen drains keep getting slower and slower, then there’s a problem somewhere in the drain. It could be a simple, superficial clog, but it could also be something more serious. Tree roots are constantly looking for their food source: water.In their search, it’s not uncommon for them to break into a pipe of yours.  It could also be a damaged drain that has caved in due to shifting ground or some other cause.
  • Your toilet won’t go down. If your toilet won’t drain and plunging doesn’t help, then you probably have a clog further in the sewer line. In order to maintain sanitary bathroom conditions and keep up with your daily routines, you should have a professional locate the problem immediately.
  • Strange noises. When clogs build up and water is slow to drain, it can create gurgling and bubbling noises in the drain. It can also be a signal of a crack or leak somewhere in your system.
  • Standing water. If you have a serious clog, then the water from the drain system will eventually back up. You’ll first notice it in the shower and bath since those drains are closest to the floor. If the problem gets worse, you’ll notice it in the sinks and your toilet as well. If water is left to build up, you may face potential water damage or mold contamination.

If you notice one or more of these signs, you should call a plumber right away. A professional will be able to locate the problem and get your plumbing back up and running in no time.

Prevention Is Key

Of course, you can minimize the chances of needing drain clearing by maintaining your drains properly. Twice a month, clean your kitchen and bathroom drains with a homemade cleaner. Most store-bought ones have harsh chemicals that can actually damage your pipes or surroundings if they leak. Pour a pot of boiling water into the drain, followed by half a cup of baking soda. After a few minutes, pour a cup of vinegar and more hot water in. Cover the drain and let the mixture work in for about five minutes, then flush the drain with very hot water.

Don’t wait until it’s too late – call McHale’s for all of your drain cleaning and clearing needs. 

By McHales

5 Signs You Need Drain Opening in Bucks County

May 17, 2019

5 Signs You Need Drain Opening in Bucks County

  • drain cleaning
  • Plumbing
drain opening by McHale's in Pennsylvania

Like any area of your home, drains can fall into disrepair and need some attention. Whether its loose hairs, food debris, or dried cleaning products, it’s likely that you’ll have to deal with drains clogging. You may try store-bought drain cleaners as a way to clear your drains before calling a plumber. However, these chemical cleaners are a bandaid that never truly fixes the root of the problem. Luckily, you can call McHale’s to help alleviate your drain clogs, perform a professional drain opening in Bucks County, and take advantage of our $88 drain opening special. But how do you know when the problem has gone beyond a slightly sluggish drain and into a need for a plumber’s help?

Here are five signs that you need a professional drain opening in Bucks County:

Slow draining.

When it comes to clogged drains, one of the easiest signs to notice is slower drainage. Is your sink or bathtub draining slower than it normally does, if at all? Is your washing machine or dishwasher still have a lot of water in it after a cycle? As well as being an inconvenience, this is a sign of a blockage somewhere in your pipes. A professional drain cleaning will release the clogs in your drains and allow water to easily flow through your pipes.

Backed up drains.

When drains need cleaning, sometimes water that should have been drained will come back up. You might have gurgling toilets or standing water in your sink. If water is going back up the drain, it’s a sign that it should be cleaned.

Sewage smells.

One of the more unpleasant and noticeable signs of a clogged drain is the smell of sewage. When drains are clogged, anything that goes down into the drain will build up and rot in the lines. This can become even more noticeable and disgusting if you live in a warmer area. If you smell sewage in your home, it’s a good idea to act quickly.

Fruit and drain flies.

When waste and other sewage starts building up in your drain, it’ll start to attract flies. Fruit flies like the smell and can be a health risk when they get into your kitchen and food. Meanwhile, the aptly named drain fly (also known as sewer or filter fly) likes to breed in septic tanks, sewers, and clogged drains. If you start noticing lots of flies, you’ll definitely want to start cleaning your drain.

Strange noises.

If your drains are clogged, they may start making some odd noises. When drains get clogged, the water may be forced to go through small spaces or change course. This can result in strange gurgling or bubbling noises.

Why is McHale’s my best choice for my plumbing problems?

Instead of relying on harmful drain cleaning products that don’t solve the problem, call McHale’s to clean your drains. Our plumbers are fully certified and have years of experience. We have the technology and experience to handle it all, and we come to your house fully stocked. Call for a drain opening now, and you can get your drains clean for only $88! If your drains are slow, producing bad odors, or making odd noises it’s best not wait. Call McHale’s today to get your plumbing back in tip-top shape!

By McHales