Water hardness doesn’t really affect our well-being. While hard water, minerals like calcium and magnesium are harmless, they can build up in shower heads, water-using appliances, and pipes—causing clogs and corrosion. A water softener can avoid these plumbing issues by filtering out hard water minerals. It’s not required but can protect pipes, appliances, and the look, smell, and taste of water.

How A Water Softener Works

Water softeners used in homes are also known as ion exchange units. They contain resin beads with salt or potassium that has a negative charge, which attracts positively charged calcium and magnesium atoms like a magnet. The hardness minerals are thus trapped by the beads and exchanged for sodium or potassium. Some units can remove copper, manganese, and iron as well.

A concentrated solution of water and salt removes the buildup of calcium and magnesium when the water softener is full. Water and salt (held in a secondary storage tank) are positively charged so repel minerals of the same charge, causing them to separate from the beads. The chloride solution is then washed down the drain. Known as regeneration, this process occurs when water isn’t being used, like when your family is asleep at night.

How To Use A Water Softener

The manufacturer’s instructions provide details on installation and use, which are important to follow to ensure your water softener works correctly. They will also tell you how to maintain the unit. Water softener settings are important; check that the unit is set to the hardness level of your water supply; if set too high, the softener will waste water and be more costly to operate. Also, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for filling the unit with sodium or potassium chloride.

If copper plumbing has recently been installed in your home, wait a few weeks before running the water softener. A thin mineral layer will form in your plumbing during that time. Therefore, the risk of consuming high levels of copper will be reduced.

You can also choose which water supplies you want to soften. The most common are sinks, showers, and laundry hookups. It’s not uncommon for people to only have only their hot water treated. Cold water taps, toilets, basement sinks, and hose bibs generally don’t require water softening.

Issues That Can Occur

Water softeners are generally quite reliable. But they can develop clogs that may cloud your water supply. Backwashing or adding a sediment filter can remedy this. Iron or manganese can clog the resin if it’s exposed to air or chlorine. Known as fouling, this may require adding a water filter; if you use commercial cleaners, only do so per the manufacturer’s instructions. Contamination by bacteria and fungi is another potential issue. It can reduce the softener’s effectiveness, which can be prevented by disinfecting your water supply.

Other Considerations

What does a water softener do for your home and family? Aside from what we’ve already covered, here are other things to consider, such as:

• Health: Calcium, iron, and magnesium are not harmful. In fact, they are essential nutrients found in the body, so if removing them from the water supply, you may need to find alternative dietary sources. Hard water can also dry out or irritate your skin, or lead to dull hair, so these are factors to weigh in your decision. A water softener introduces some salt to drinking water, which can matter to someone with high blood pressure or other health concerns.
• Environmental: Chloride found in water softeners can affect fish and other aquatic creatures and cannot be easily removed from drinking water. Whether you have a private well is another consideration, as the chloride can reach natural water sources through your septic system. Therefore, ask your water company if the local wastewater treatment plant removes chloride, so it doesn’t reach lakes, streams, and groundwater.

Professional Water Quality Services You Can Count On

HomeX Plumbing and Rooter provides high-quality water softeners, filtration systems, and treatment solutions in the Anaheim area. We can help improve water quality to protect your family and plumbing system. You can also trust our licensed plumbing technicians for all types of plumbing repairs and installations. To schedule your water softener appointment, fill out our service request form today.

It’s easy to take your Anaheim home’s plumbing system for granted. After all, except for the plumbing fixtures, most of your home’s plumbing system is hidden inside the walls or under the floor. Sometimes, it can be easy to get into bad habits that can cause damage to your plumbing system without you realizing it.

The good news, though, is if you follow some basic recommendations from HomeX Plumbing & Rooter, you can greatly reduce the amount of wear and tear you put on your plumbing system and help prevent serious damage to the system that could cause major problems in your home.

Watch What You Put Down Your Drains

Some people make the mistake of using their home’s plumbing system as a water-filled garbage can. Unfortunately, this approach will quickly leave you with damaged pipes that require major attention from HomeX Plumbing & Rooter.

Dumping items like grease, eggshells, coffee grounds, and paint down your drains can cause clogs, corrosion, and other problems that will significantly reduce the effectiveness of your home’s drains. Even if you have a garbage disposal, most food waste items are better left to the garbage can to ensure you don’t unintentionally cause damage.

Remove Excess Minerals

For supply lines, excess minerals in the water can be detrimental. As these minerals flow through the pipes, they tend to either corrode the metal in the pipes or stick to the walls of the pipes, thus restricting the flow of water. Since you can’t change the hardness of the water that comes into your home unless you move, the best way to handle hard water is to invest in a water softener.

These devices utilize chemical processes to remove the excess minerals from the water, so your home’s plumbing system stays safe. Given the complex nature of water softeners, it’s best to have a plumber from HomeX Plumbing & Rooter install one if you want to protect your home’s plumbing system.

Maintain Your Septic System

If you live away from the city and rely on a septic system to take care of your waste, it’s important to maintain your septic system so you don’t end up with problems that back up into the rest of your home’s plumbing system. As a homeowner, you can take care of your septic system by watching what you put down the drain. This ensures you don’t put too much demand on your septic system and helps you maintain proper drainage in the area around your septic system. Adapt these good habits on an ongoing basis to protect your system.

To provide the best care to your septic system, though, you need to have it flushed out every three to five years by HomeX Plumbing & Rooter. Although this is an ongoing cost, the cost of maintaining your septic system is far lower than having to replace it because you ignored it. After all, digging out a septic tank requires a lot of time and heavy equipment that can increase your repair bill greatly.

Keep The Pressure In Check

No one likes dealing with a lack of water pressure. Low water pressure makes it difficult to wash dishes, take a shower, and perform many other daily activities. On the other end of the spectrum, though, excess water pressure can cause serious issues with your plumbing system that you must avoid.

If your pipes are kept under excess pressure for long periods of time, they will inevitably develop leaks at the joints or cracks in other locations. In extreme cases, your pipes could even burst, resulting in a major mess that will require the efforts of HomeX Plumbing & Rooter to fix.

Therefore, if you notice that water comes spraying out of your plumbing fixtures even when the water is turned down low, it’s a good idea to put measures in place to control your home’s water pressure. In some cases, you may need to contact your local water provider to ask them to investigate the problem. You can also install a pressure regulator that reduces the flow of water to an acceptable level so your pipes don’t sustain any damage.

Stay In Control

One easy way to avoid damaging your home’s plumbing system is to understand how it works. By knowing where various control valves are located, you can prepare yourself to act quickly when you notice a problem. You will want to know the locations of the main water shutoff valve, individual fixture valves, and the location of all hookups for various fixtures.

It’s important to note that the location of these valves could vary depending on when your home was constructed. For example, in some homes, the main shutoff valve is located out by the street below the ground under a metal cover. In other homes, the main shutoff valve is located inside the home, making it easily accessible in an emergency.

If you can’t find these important components, we at HomeX Plumbing & Rooter are happy to help. In any event, make sure you have the proper tools to adjust the valves and the knowledge of where the valves and hookups are located.

Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals

Another key to preventing damage to your home’s plumbing system is to avoid chemical drain cleaners as much as possible. While it’s true that many chemical drain cleaners are quite effective at removing clogs, there’s a reason they’re good at what they do: chemical drain cleaners are incredibly caustic. This means they can eat through just about anything thanks to the chemicals they’re made from. This explains why the packages of these cleaners urge you to wear gloves and other protective gear during the drain cleaning process.

The problem with using something that powerful is that it could cause significant damage to your drains if your pipes are already showing signs of weakness. To avoid this problem, it’s better to call HomeX Plumbing & Rooter to take a look at the problem. Our experts have the skill in removing clogs effectively.

Clean Drains Sooner Rather Than Later

The time to have your drains cleaned is not when water no longer flows through them. Instead, you want to be proactive and have your drains cleaned regularly to prevent any significant buildup on the walls of the drainpipes.

After all, the longer that you let gunk accumulate on the walls of your pipes, the more likely it is that this gunk will have a chance to endanger the structural integrity of the pipes. Therefore, it’s a good idea to call HomeX Plumbing & Rooter every couple of years. Our trained professionals will inspect your pipes and take care of any problem areas.

Call The Experts

When it comes to many plumbing issues, it’s easy to get in over your head quickly on something that seems quite simple. Therefore, if you’re not sure how to tackle a problem with your plumbing system, be sure to call the experts at HomeX Plumbing & Rooter. We have experience in plumbing repair, water heater repair and replacement, water leak repair, and much more. Don’t hesitate to contact us at HomeX Plumbing & Rooter today to schedule an appointment.

As a homeowner or renter, plumbing problems can pop up when you least expect them. Yet, the majority of these issues can stay undetected for a while. When left unattended, they can result in costly repairs. Plumbing problems arise due to the system’s wear and tear or aging.

Most of these issues may seem simple to solve, but you can cause additional problems if you try doing the repairs by yourself. That said, you need to hire a certified and experienced plumber to work on any plumbing issue, whether big or small. Below are some of the plumbing problems that you may encounter.

Dripping Faucets

Dripping faucets are one of the leading plumbing problems that people encounter in their homes or apartments. You may not realize the amount of water lost from the faulty taps until you pay a hefty water bill.

It mainly happens when a damaged internal washer becomes stiff, dislodged, or torn, allowing water to drip. If the issues persist, corrosion may occur, which only makes it worse. Therefore, as soon as you notice any dripping faucets, call a professional plumber to fix them.

Leaking Pipes

A leaking pipe, whether minor or severe, can cause extensive damage to your floors or furniture. With time, small leaks escalate and may lead to other larger issues that need replacements or fittings. The damp conditions also encourage mold growth.

The problem can stem from damaged pipe joints, stubborn clogs, cracked seals, pipe corrosion, and incorrect pipe laying. The longer you take to fix leaky pipes, the more damage they cause to your home and plumbing system.

Sometimes, fixing leaky pipes such as the U-joint under the sink may seem like an easy task, but it can be very messy when done wrongly. Let a professional plumber handle the problem to minimize risks.

A Clogged Or Running Toilet

There is nothing as frustrating as a toilet bowl that fills up but never drains. Mostly it occurs when you flush undissolved waste into the toilet. Other times, it might be due to a mix of paper and human waste. You can try fixing the issue with a sewer snake, auger, or plunger. If the blockage does not loosen up, contact a plumber immediately.

Other times, your toilet could function well, but too much water continually runs. With a running toilet, you might waste up to 200 gallons of water daily, resulting in higher bills. The issue happens when the inner toilet parts fail to work correctly. It can result from worn-out flash valves, corroded toilet handles, refill tube problems, or sediments affecting the flushing or filing activities.

You can make some simple modifications like adjusting the float and adequately positioning the fill tube. If such adjustments fail to work, you might need to replace some toilet tank components, and such a task requires professional assistance.

Faulty Water Heater

After a long, busy day, there is nothing as devastating as getting in the shower, only to realize that you have a faulty water heater. The leading cause of water heater issues is the accumulation of sediments. They reduce the heater’s efficiency, limiting its ability to supply hot water throughout the house. When this happens, you can drain the tank and clear off these blockages.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that the wrong size or type of heating system can cause plumbing issues. For instance, a two-bedroom apartment cannot use a similar-sized heater with a five-bedroom home. If the tank has leaks, it can also affect the heater’s efficiency. In such a situation, have a professional fix the leak.

Sewer Problems

Having a backed-up sewer is the last plumbing problem you would want to encounter. It results in foul odors all over your home. A clogged sewer line also affects all other drains in your house. For instance, your sink and the bathroom may start to create a water pool.

Sewer problems arise when you flush hard-to-breakdown items like food particles or makeup wipes. Once they combine with other materials, they form concrete, resulting in a backed-up sewer.

Also, if big trees are next to your house, the roots can squeeze their way into the sewer. It isn’t easy to diagnose, but an experienced plumber can make a quick assessment and help you out.

Low Water Pressure

If the water from your tap only tickles instead of gushing out, there could be pressure issues. Deposits, buildup, blocked sewers, hidden water leaks, or pipe corrosion are the leading causes of low water pressure.

You can try cleaning the aerator in your kitchen or bathroom faucets using vinegar. If the issue persists, contact a licensed and well-trained plumber. This way, you will prevent expensive future repairs.

Worn-Out Hose Bib

A hose bib can’t last through several seasons, especially if you live in icy regions. After a long cold season, the bibs cracks due to the sudden temperature change. Even when there is a minor opening, water can leak for a long time, causing a spike in water bills.

On the other hand, large leaks can spill all over the place, damaging your property. Those who wish to avoid constant hose bib replacement should consider installing frost-free hose bibs to reduce persistent leaks.

Clogged Or Slow Drains

When there is a blockage restricting water flow, then your sink will drain slower than expected. It’s a prevalent plumbing problem since sinks easily collect soap, hair, fat, or food remnant. Routine cleaning will help minimize such cases.

If you experience slow drains, the only way to restore water flow is by cleaning out the trapped debris. You can use a plunger or a chemical clog remover. If ignored, it will worsen with time, and your sink will be blocked entirely.

Keep in mind that a clogged drain can also result in health hazards, and you need to fix it as soon as it happens. If you experience multiple clogged or slow drains, chances are there is a larger problem in the sewer line. In such a case, you need to seek professional help from an experienced plumber.

Call On HomeX!

When you experience any of the above plumbing problems, you must act as fast as possible. A simple leak or clog can turn into a significant problem requiring emergency services or expensive repairs.

While there are some simple problems that you can fix, more complex plumbing tasks requires a professional approach. For most homeowners, the DIY route appears as an economical alternative to handle plumbing issues quickly. However, since you don’t have the required experience and appropriate tools, you will likely spend too much time on a project, and you’ll end up calling a professional to complete it.

An experienced plumber can handle all projects accurately and even diagnose any other underlying issues in your system. Anytime you need help with your plumbing system, contact HomeX Plumbing & Rooter. We provide our reliable services across Anaheim, CA, and the surrounding areas.

Our plumbers can handle pipe installations and replacements, slab leaks, water heater repairs, commercial plumbing, and gas line plumbing services. We also offer bathroom plumbing, green plumbing, and drain installations & cleaning services. To schedule an appointment and enjoy any of our services, call us now, and we will be glad to serve you.

The plumbing in your Anaheim home is designed to deliver water where it is needed, and hearing noises in the pipes is reason for concern. At HomeX Plumbing & Rooter, our plumbing experts help residents of southern California troubleshoot their plumbing systems to remedy odd sounds.

Repairing Plumbing Noises On Your Own

Plumbing noises normally indicate that there is a problem with the plumbing inside the walls, floors and ceilings of your home. Accessing the pipes, valves, connections and fasteners can be difficult if you are not familiar with residential plumbing designs. You can take some easy steps to fix the noise, but the repairs may not be easy, even for the most experienced DIY homeowners. You also want to know that the job is done properly, so it is best to leave the work to a professional technician from HomeX Plumbing & Rooter.

Are Plumbing Noises Emergencies?

Hearing noises come from your pipes may be alarming, but it does not necessarily mean that you have a plumbing emergency. For your peace of mind, though, we are always available to come by and take a look at the system. We can perform the necessary repairs and recommend upgrades to your plumbing to ensure that your family has the water it needs, and that your home is safe from water damage.

1. Thudding

Thudding sounds, also known as water hammering, is the most common sound that comes from the pipes of homes in Anaheim and southern California. This sounds like a loud vibrating noise inside the walls. It is caused by a rush of water traveling through the pipes and hitting a valve that is not open. Because the water has no path through the pipe, it hits the valve with force and causes the sound. Water hammering can damage the connections and pipes, so the problem needs to be addressed. Typically, this means that the air chamber is filled with water and needs to be flushed out to restore equilibrium in the plumbing system. We recommend that you have one of our technicians come take a look. If you notice the thudding sound on a regular basis, installing a water hammer arrestor may be recommended.

2. Mild Knocking

If you have an older home with copper pipes, you may notice a knocking sound when you use hot water in your home. The nature of copper means that it expands as hot water passes through the pipe, and then contracts as the metal cools. During this process, the pipes may rub against surrounding structures, such as joists, other pipes, brackets and studs. The expanding and contracting of the pipes is not enough to damage the plumbing, so it is mostly a nuisance. You can try to reduce the temperature setting on your hot water heater to see if that helps. Some people may recommend wrapping the pipes with foam, but this can be costly because you need to open up the walls to access the copper pipes.

3. Banging

Plumbing pipes in Anaheim and southern California homes are designed to deliver water at a specific pressure. Optimally, the range should be between 40 psi and 80 psi to prevent damage to the pipes, faucets and appliances that use water. If the water pressure is set higher than 80 psi, you can expect to have some noise from your pipes. Reduce the pressure setting to see if that fixes the problem. A pressure regulator helps maintain the best water pressure inside the pipes. If you are having problems with high water pressure or if your home does not have a water pressure regulator, schedule an appointment with one of our technicians to replace or install a regulator.

4. Rattling

Plumbing pipes in Anaheim and southern California homes are suspended by metal fasteners in the ceiling and walls. When the fasteners fail, the pipes may move around and cause a rattling sound. The problem needs attention because the movement of the pipes can damage connections and cause hidden leaks. Call us to schedule a time for one of our technicians to come by and replace the fasteners.

5. Humming

We find that humming sounds happen most often in homes that rely on well water. Take a look at the water pressure setting on your water tank. It should be at 55 psi. If you aren’t sure how to check to change the pressure on your water tank, call HomeX Plumbing & Rooter so we can inspect the system for you.

6. Squeals

High-pitched noises, such as squeals, whistling and whining, that come from your plumbing system typically indicate that the valves need some repairs. One of the bolts, nuts or other small pieces of hardware may be broken, worn out or missing. This is one of the easiest repairs to make for plumbing noises. You can check the hardware on the valves to find the source of the problem, then simply replace the broken piece. We can also schedule a time for one of our technicians to take care of the problem for you.

7. Gurgling

Your drains may make noises due to issues inside the pipes that take water to the sewer system, such as a gurgling noise either just below the drain or in the walls. Gurgling noises tell you that the pipe is partially blocked and needs to be cleared. Cleaning out drain pipes can be a messy and time-intensive job, so it is best that you contact HomeX Plumbing & Rooter to get the problem taken care of right away.

8. Dripping

If you hear a dripping noise in the walls or ceiling of your southern California home, call HomeX Plumbing & Rooter right away to schedule an appointment with one of our technicians. In most cases, a dripping sound in the walls and ceilings indicates a leak. Even the smallest drip can cause a great deal of damage to the structure of your home and provide an ideal environment for mold growth. We will get a technician to your home quickly and let you know the repairs that are necessary.

When To Call A Professional For Plumbing Pipe Noises

Some noises from plumbing pipes do not require repairs, such as the mild knocking and squeaks from the expansion and contraction of copper pipes. As a homeowner, though, you want to know that your plumbing system is reliable and not causing damage to your home. If you hear unusual noises from your pipes, the safest option is to contact HomeX Plumbing & Rooter for an evaluation. Our technician will let you know the source of the noise and if any repairs are recommended.

Plumbing Services From The Experts

The plumbing in your Anaheim home is designed to deliver water where it is needed, and hearing noises in the pipes is reason for concern. At HomeX Plumbing & Rooter, our plumbing experts help residents of southern California troubleshoot their plumbing systems to remedy odd sounds.

Owning a home can be very expensive. You will often have to cover maintenance costs, pay taxes and bills. Most homeowners are constantly looking for ways to cut costs. One major thing that you can save on is the water bill. When you aren’t careful about water usage, most of it goes into wastage, and you will be paying for water that you don’t necessarily need. Here are various tips from HomeX Plumbing you can use to minimize water usage, save money and manage your bills better.

Replace Inefficient Equipment

Buying more efficient equipment can result to lower water bills. When shopping for new washing machines or dishwashers, look for those with a higher ENERGY STAR rating. Although efficient appliances will cost you more upfront, they will result in long-term savings. Such equipment uses less energy and water compared to regular washers. Also, note that a front-loading washing machine uses less water than a top-load model.

Fix Any Leaks Within the Plumbing System

Keep an eye on the pipes, faucets, sinks and fix any minor leaks as soon as possible. A single drop each second may translate to several gallons of water lost in a year. You will therefore end up paying for water that you didn’t use.

Constantly check for underground pipe leaks. Some signs include extremely wet soil near the house, less water pressure than usual, moisture or water accumulation in the basement. If you notice any of such indications, it’s a good idea that you call a professional plumber to help with repairs.

Wash Clothes and Dishes Efficiently

Avoid running your washing machine to clean a few clothes. It wastes a lot of water and even strains the appliance. Instead, wait until you accumulate a whole load of clothes and wash them together to reduce the number of times you run the machine. It’s also a good idea that you skip the permanent press cycle that uses too much water. Reduce the amount of detergent used to avoid extra rinses.

The same case applies to a dishwasher. Running a fully-loaded machine uses less water than hand washing the dishes. You can also skip the prewash step.

Install Energy-Efficient Showerheads

Replace your showerhead with a low-flow model to save on water bills. Ensure that it has a flow rate of not more than 2.5 gallons per minute. Inefficient models let out up to five gallons each minute. Also, although long showers may feel luxurious at the moment, they result in higher water usage. Hence, opt for shorter showers, and you will most likely see a difference in your water bills.

Don’t Leave The Water Running

Avoid leaving the tap on as you brush your teeth. It might seem like a harmless action, but when repeated, it can drive your water bills higher. Additionally, make it a habit to switch off the shower while lathering up. You can then turn it on when ready to rinse to avoid water wastage. If you need to wash fruits or vegetables, fill the sink with water instead of washing them in running water.

Update Or Modify Your Toilet

The toilet is where most of your household water goes to. You can use an average of 13 liters of water per flush. The idea is to try and flush less water. You can choose to install low-flow toilets into your house, which uses around 1.3 gallons per flush. Also, you can consider the dual flush toilet that has two flush options for different amounts of water. Always use the half flush, especially for liquid waste.

You can also adjust your current toilet to achieve the same effect. Take a plastic bottle, fill it with water, then put it into the tank. The bottle takes up space otherwise occupied by water. With every flush, you will save as much water as the one in the bottle. Alternatively, you can add a brick into the toilet cistern to reduce the amount of water flushed.

Be Creative With Your Gardening

You can lower your water bills by watering your plants early in the morning or later in the evening. There are fewer chances of evaporation, and the soil has a better water holding capacity. When watering, position the sprinkler correctly so that the water goes where it’s needed. Further, you can cut costs by planting native or drought-resistant grass, flower, trees, or shrubs in your garden.

Additionally, mulch your plants to reduce evaporation and maintain moisture even after the rains. If you are still using a regular garden hose to water your plants, consider replacing it with the soaker hose to control water usage better. Also, save your household water for reuse in the garden. It entails reserving your cooking water, collecting water with a bucket while showering, and redirecting water from the washing machine into the lawn.

Collect Rainwater

Use a large container to collect rainwater. You can attach a rain barrel to capture the water on your rooftop. The amount you save will depend on the amount of water harvested. If there is adequate rainfall in your area, collecting a large amount can help minimizes your bills to almost nil. You can then use the water to clean your clothes, house, dishes, or water your garden. If you maintain proper hygiene while collecting the water, you can also use it for drinking or cooking purposes.

Adjust Water Temperature Away From The Sink

When you draw your drinking water directly from the faucet, you might waste a lot of it as you wait for it to cool or heat. For instance, on sunny days, the water from your taps appears somewhat warm. If you want to drink cold water, you might feel tempted to let it run for a while till it gets as cooler as you wish. Over time, this will waste a lot of water that spikes up your bill.

It’s, therefore, a good idea that you store a container of drinking water in the fridge, so you have access to cool water when needed. In case you need hot and your tap produces cold water, heat the water on a stove rather than letting it run.

Repair Broken Water Meter

If you notice a huge water bill and you haven’t changed your usage, check the meter. Turn off the water, and if the meter is still running, then it might be broken. Notify your water providers or call a professional plumber to help you fix it.

Call On HomeX!

Although you can’t live without water, there are various things that you can do to minimize wastage or excessive usage, as outlined above. With the ever-rising cost of water treatment and increasing water demands due to the growing population, water has become scarce and expensive. Even if some tips only help save a gallon of water each day, it will add up, and with time, you will make substantial savings on your water bills.

Should you need help with your plumbing system, you can always reach out to HomeX Plumbing & Rooter. We offer various services, including leak detection and repair, green plumbing, drain, water heater, and treatment services. Our company serves Anaheim, CA, and the surrounding areas. Call us now to book an appointment and enjoy our incredible services.

We all like having a clean and pleasantly smelling bathroom. However, this is not always the case. At times, a sewer smell in your shower room can be so unpleasant that ventilation or air fresheners cannot help. Finding the causes of the sewer smell in your bathroom is a good idea to help you get rid of the bad odor. Below are some of the probable causes of sewer odors in your bathroom and effective ways to eliminate the foul smell.

Dry P-Trap

One of the common causes of sewer odors in your shower room is a dried P-trap. A P-trap refers to a U-shaped pipe that’s designed to hold and trap water. It holds sufficient water to prevent unpleasant sewer odors and gas from creeping up your drains when working properly.

If you don’t use your bathroom often, the water may evaporate from your P-trap with time. However, if you regularly use your shower and are still noticing a sewer odor from the drain, it might indicate more serious problems. For instance, your P-trap could be leaking, preventing it from trapping and holding water.

A dry P-trap may be difficult or pretty easy to fix based on the reasons it is dry. If the water evaporated because you don’t use the shower frequently, turn on the shower and allow water to run for several minutes to refill your P-trap. When the P-trap is full, the sewer gases will stop leaking into your shower room. If the unpleasant odor persists, pour a gallon of water into each drain in your house, including the toilets and sinks.

If the bad smell remains after running some water through all your drains, you might be dealing with a leaking or old P-trap. To get better results, call your plumbing contractor to inspect and replace the P-trap.

Missing Cleanout Plug

The other reason for sewer odors in your shower room might be a missing cleanout plug. When it is missing, sewer gas will bypass your water trap and eventually enter your bathroom. You can find this plug inside your floor drain. Remove the opening grate to verify if the plug is inside your drain bowl. If it’s missing, purchase a replacement cleanout plug at your local hardware store to fix this problem.

Bad Bacteria

There are lots of bad bacteria that go into your sewerage system. However, if these smelly microorganisms find their way up to the toilets, they might cling to the toilet bowls and begin to multiply. That is especially common during hot and humid climates where bacteria thrive.

The good news is that you can eliminate these microorganisms by utilizing bleach. However, rather than switching the bleach around your toilet bowl, put some of it into the flush valve or the overflow pipe. Using bleach will eliminate all these unwanted guests hidden in your system.

Biofilm Accumulation

We use a wide range of products when we are taking a shower. Shampoos, soaps, shaving cream, and body oils wash down your drains along with other debris like hair and skin cells. With time, all these substances usually build up along the vertical pipes, and P-trap found underneath your bathroom. This substance buildup is known as a biofilm.

As biofilm accumulates, it starts releasing a sewer smell from the decomposing debris and bacteria. The bacteria produce a sticky matter that enables them to easily cling to your pipes’ sides, making them quite hard to remove without some specialized products. With time, the sewer smell will not only become noticeable in the bathtub or shower but in the whole bathroom.

Eliminating the biofilm and the unpleasant odors it creates in your shower drain is a pretty easy process that doesn’t need a plumbing professional. To eradicate the sewer smell from your shower room, unclog the debris that’s feeding the bad bacteria in your drains.

Leaking Wax Ring Seal

Leaking wax ring seals can also be the main source of sewer smells in your bathrooms. A wax ring might leak with time because of a broken seal. Leaks in the seals allow sewer gases to find their way into your shower room from beneath the toilet. To solve this problem, temporarily remove your toilet and immediately replace your wax ring. You can also utilize some plastic shims between your floor and the toilet stool to prevent your toilet from shaking and damaging the newly-installed wax ring.

Sink’s Overflow Buildup

The other reason why you might experience annoying sewer odors in your bathroom is a buildup in the sink’s overflow. Check your sink to see if it comes with an overflow mechanism. This hole offers some relief if your sink is overfilled. The sink’s overflow can accumulate grime with time like any other appliance near water, contributing to the foul smell.

Try cleaning the overflow hole utilizing a bottle brush to remove any buildup. A water and chlorine solution can also be an effective way to clear any grime in the overflow.

Cracked Or Broken Sewer Line

If your sewer line is cracked or broken, it can also cause unpleasant smells in your bathroom. Loose connection joints can also create problems that lead to sewerage odors. If you detect leakage in your sewer line, it’s always a good idea to call your plumbing contractor to investigate the issue further and make necessary repairs.

Vent Problems

A P-trap connects to a pipe that extends to the wall and then through the roof. The vent outlet acts as an outlet for unpleasant sewer smells. It also lets in fresh air into your bathroom. If your plumber vents this pipe to the wrong place, you might notice sewerage odors in your shower room. Check to see if you can identify where the odor is originating from. If it appears like it’s coming from your wall, it is most likely a problem with your vent pipe.

The pipes may also become clogged from various outside elements like piles of leaves or birds nesting. They might also have cracks that allow the foul smell to spill out. Unfortunately, you might not be able to find the problem yourself. It would be best to hire a professional plumber to locate and solve the problem.

HomeX Is Here For You!

These are the common reasons why you are experiencing sewer smells in your bathroom drain. If none of the mentioned quick solutions eliminates the smell, it’s wise to contact a professional from Homex Plumbing & Rooter in Anaheim to thoroughly investigate the problem. Our plumbing experts will not only identify the exact causes of the unpleasant smell; they also have the professional tools, know-how, and experience to eradicate it for good.

We are committed to understanding the current issue and your demands to help us serve you better. Our firm offers various services, including drain installations, plumbing repairs, drain cleaning, plumbing installations, bathroom plumbing, leak detection, plumbing repairs, and water heater system repairs & installations. The other specialized services we offer are gas line plumbing, slab leaks, green plumbing, and water treatments.

Your bathroom does not have to stink. If you cannot identify what is causing the annoying smell, contact us today, and we will help you enjoy a fresh, clean smell while in your tub or shower.

Whether you’ve just bought a new house or just upgraded your pipes, you should opt for water quality testing. Most water supplies are complex ecosystems with all sorts of impurities. Various microorganisms and substances may be present that can cause harm or illness. In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified 90 types of contaminants along with acceptable levels of concentration.

Fortunately, there are many types of water quality testing, including for coliform bacteria, dissolve solids, pH, hardness, nitrates, ions (like chloride and sulphate that can cause bad tastes and odors), excessive fluoride, and groundwater contaminants such as pesticides, arsenic, or even uranium.

Top 5 Reasons to Get Water Quality Testing

Knowing Your Water Is Safe To Drink

Laboratory testing is the only sure way to know if your water is safe to drink. Most harmful contaminants aren’t visible. The water may taste fine but harbor dangerous bacteria. Numerous chemicals that can be present as well. Some may lead to immediate sickness or persistent health problems that don’t appear for several years, including digestive, reproductive, and neurological disorders. Many contaminants are even deadly.

Water quality testing is especially important if your water supply comes from a lake or pond. The presence of nutrient rich sediment can affect water quality. And groundwater is much more prone to contamination than sources that lie deep underground.

Track Changes In Water Quality

Periodic water sampling helps determine a baseline value for the contaminants being tested for. Nutrient levels, alkalinity, and conductivity can be tracked over time to identify any imbalances that might mean the water source is unhealthy. Routine testing helps decide what treatment products to use and how to apply them, as treatment requirements may change based on water conditions.

Water quality testing can focus on dissolved oxygen; if levels fall, fish kills can occur. This can provide a look into water quality. Testing is therefore an ongoing process rather than a one-off activity.

Identify The Source Of Contamination

Changes in water quality can occur due to sewage runoff, which may fluctuate depending on weather conditions. A heavy rainstorm can lead to water contamination. Human and animal waste, disinfection byproducts, pipe corrosion, and anti-microbial additives can too. Land use practices, such as livestock or fertilizer use, can impact water quality, as can manufacturing processes like releases of heavy metals.

By knowing what impurities are present, and the types of facilities and activities in your area, you can identify contamination sources. It’s also possible to identify the types of water treatment needed to make water safe for your home.

Determine Whether You Need Water Treatment

As hinted at earlier, you can’t determine water quality through sight and taste alone. Water quality testing can be highly specific, allowing laboratories to identify exact pollutants and their concentrations. Depending on the results, you can know whether you need a water filtration system, water conditioner (if you have hard water with high mineral concentrations), or a water treatment solution that improves purity and quality.

Measure The Effectiveness Of A Treatment Method

It’s also important to know the pH of the water source. Some herbicides and algaecides will only work at certain pH levels. This, in addition to the ability of many harmful substances to grow and multiply, make it important to track how effective a water treatment method is. Water quality can change from one time to another, and one location to another, affecting the efficacy of any specific treatment. Periodic testing after implementing any remediation strategy can therefore keep families and entire communities safe.

Water Quality Services from HomeX Plumbing and Rooter

We know that water quality is as important as the condition of your plumbing system. Serving Anaheim and Southern California, our professional plumbers are skilled at checking your water supply and using a variety of methods to improve water quality. To schedule water quality testing and learn more about what we can offer, call 714-924-3746 today or visit our website!

Are you having a bad hair day? Believe it or not, the cause could be low water pressure.

The water pressure in your plumbing system is usually around 40 to 45 pounds per square inch, controlled via a pressure regulator, which can be adjusted from 25 to 75 psi. If your water pressure is lower than it should be it can cause a variety of issues. Faucets may not run as strong, showerheads may be weak, and washing machines may take longer to clean your clothes.

Troubleshooting Low Water Pressure

It is important to know why you have these problems. There may be simple ways to correct the water pressure or your plumbing may need to be repaired. Here are some reasons for low water pressure:

A Valve Is Restricting Water Flow

Two valves regulate water flow into your home. You can find the main shutoff valve near the main city supply pipe inside your house. To ensure normal water flow, you must fully open it. If someone leaves it partially closed after a repair, you may experience a drop in water pressure. Fortunately, you can easily adjust the valve by turning a wheel-like handle counterclockwise or a lever handle into a position parallel to the pipe direction.

The water meter valve is typically next to the water meter outside. Only personnel from the water meter company can use it. This valve is often closed during plumbing repairs, but a technician might forget to fully open it. If the issue persists after a repair, contact your local utility.

Faulty Pressure Regulator

If your plumbing system has a pressure regulator, the device’s failure can result in a decrease in water pressure. Its purpose is to safeguard your pipes by reducing input pressure. When the pressure regulator malfunctions, all fixtures will be affected simultaneously, often abruptly (in some cases, water pressure may surge, potentially causing damage). You can test it by attaching a water pressure gauge to the hose spigot outside your home. While you can replace the unit, it’s advisable to contact a plumber with experience in pressure regulator repair or installation.

Pipe Problems Causing Low Water Pressure

Your entire home water supply runs through pipes. A problem anywhere in the system can interrupt water flow, such as:

Clogged Pipes: A clog can build up anywhere in a pipe, just as it can under the drain. Even a small amount of buildup can reduce water pressure. This can be sediment, grease, hair, or calcium residue caused by hard water.
Corroded Pipes: While copper pipes can last for over 50 years, and brass up to 70, galvanized steel pipes may start corroding after only 20 years of use. Corrosion is most common in older homes. Most of the time, corrosion is on the inside; it is only visible by inspecting pipes with a camera.
Leaking Pipes: A pipe with a hole, crack, or rupture causes water to leak. Much of it might not be reaching faucets and fixtures. The issue manifests as low water pressure, if the water is running at all. Meanwhile, the leaking water can cause a flood, lead to mold, and cause major damage to your plumbing and home.
A Fixture Needs Repair: Sometimes, water pressure may be lower at a particular faucet. The cause can be a clogged aerator, stuck valve, or bad washer. Constant dripping is a sign that the washer needs to be replaced. Leaks at the base of a faucet or a problem with a valve or supply line can also cause changes in water pressure.

The Cause Is Outside Your Home

A low water pressure problem may not even originate inside your house. Instead, the issue could be with the water supply company and their equipment. In such cases, there’s nothing you can do to fix the problem. Most likely, the supplier is diligently working to restore service. On another note, a potential cause could be a change in municipal water regulations. While your water supplier must comply, you have the option to have a water pressure booster system installed to compensate.

Contact HomeX To Fix Low Water Pressure

If your water pressure has fallen, our plumbing professionals can quickly find the cause. Our team is equipped with the latest tools and repair methods and can fix any problem, no matter how big or small. For service in Anaheim and surrounding areas, call 714-924-3746 today!

Plumbers are often perceived as downright messy. If you ask around for a reliable plumbing company, it is easy to get discouraged by all the horror stories about dirty, expensive, and rude, sloppy plumbers. Despite the misconceptions, no two plumbers are the same. When seeking reliable plumbing, you’ll find most plumbers are in fact very professional and respectful. Many of the myths about bad plumbers turn out to be just stereotypes. We’ll now quickly debunk them for you.

Plumbers Are Dirty

A bad plumber can leave your home in shambles. Dust, dirt, and debris everywhere. It can take months to get your bathroom back in order and it seems like your home will never be clean again. With a bad plumber, yes; this can be your experience. But a good plumber is clean, honest, and extremely careful out of respect and in regard to providing great customer service.

HomeX Plumbers Are Clean: If you’re looking for a clean plumber, you can trust HomeX. Our business is BBB-accredited. Whether you have a water or gas leak, need drain cleaning, or a hot water heater, pipe, or other type of plumbing repair, your home will be left clean and tidy.

Plumbers Charge Too Much

When you call a plumber, you are destined to be ripped off. It’s always better to go the DIY route and save money. That’s what anyone with a bad attitude towards plumbers would say.

However, it is a myth that plumbers will overcharge customers. While reliable plumbing comes with a fair price, some may charge for after-hours service. As such, you should always ask for a quote ahead of time (for most companies, this is standard). Many plumbing service providers offer financing options, coupons, and discounts so you can save and get the service you need.

HomeX Is Committed to Professionalism and Affordability: Our plumbers are fully trained, licensed, and certified in their field and have years of experience. With our membership plan, you get a discount plus priority service and an annual plumbing inspection.

Plumbers Are Rude

People often fall for the myths that plumbers are snotty and loud. By the chances of running into a plumber who is a complete jerk is unlikely. Plumbing companies have high standards of customer service and you’re likely to find their staff to be extremely attentive and courteous. A qualified plumbing contractor will explain every repair or replacement option and answer all your questions.

HomeX Plumbers Are Highly Rated: We have a positive rating by the BBB and have been praised in reviews on Angie’s List. And, we’re extremely customer-oriented, so working with us will change your perspective on the plumbing industry.

Plumbers Are Never Prepared

Here’s a scenario no one wants. The plumber arrives but realizes they don’t have the proper tools, or they take apart your toilet but don’t have the replacement part they need. A plumbing visit that includes an “oops!” is unlikely to happen. Plumbers are in fact always prepared and stock the necessary parts and tools beforehand. If for some reason they don’t have the part you need, They’ll know the right one and how to get it quickly, and write it into your estimate.

HomeX Plumbers Are Always Prepared: Our professionals have over 25 years of experience and are always prepared to help you and your family. We can address any plumbing problem quickly no matter its size or scope.

Contact HomeX Plumbing & Rooter

Now that you are aware myths about plumbers are just myths, if you need a plumber in Anaheim, Garden Grove, Buena Park, and other communities in Southern California, we are ready to help. Our plumbers complete all types of projects with attention to the highest quality service. They are knowledgeable, certified, and trained so you can expect quick, affordable, and reliable plumbing solutions. Request service online or call 714-924-3746 to schedule a visit.

A water heater expansion tank solves the problem of thermal expansion affecting pipes and fixtures. Heated water increases in volume, stressing pipes and the water heater itself.

Homes often have a closed water supply system with valves to prevent backflow. Thermal expansion raises water pressure as temperature increases.

How it Works:

The expansion tank, connected to the cold-water line before the water heater, handles excess water volume. As water heats up, exceeding plumbing capacity, the tank accommodates the extra volume, maintaining safe water pressure. It’s also useful for fluctuating water supply pressure.

Tank Appearance:

Usually resembling a small off-white or blue propane tank, its size varies based on the water heater’s size. It features an air valve on top and a threaded pipe connection at the bottom.

Requirements:

Many cities mandate thermal expansion tanks for closed plumbing systems. Even without a requirement, installing one is beneficial, preventing potential issues and expenses.

Handling Multiple Heaters:

A 2-gallon tank typically suffices for a 50-gallon water heater. You can install one tank per water heater or a larger tank for multiple units. Ensure compliance with manufacturer specifications and local codes.

Lifespan:

While it can last several years, factors like tank quality and water quality impact its longevity. Leaks, condensation, air blockages, rust, or visible damage indicate replacement is necessary.

How Do I Test The Expansion Tank?

These tanks typically fail either because the internal rubber bladder wears out or the connection between the tank and water pipe corrodes and leaks. Proper installation is the best way to ensure the system continues to work, but you can test the thermal expansion tank. First, shut off the valve, so you can safely monitor water pressure visually, tap it with a metallic object to hear the difference in water and air, or bleed air out of the top valve (if air escapes, then the bladder is intact).

Contact Our Anaheim Plumber

For water heater expansion tank installation or repair, HomeX provides expert service. Our technicians are trained in cutting-edge plumbing technology, ensuring exceptional customer service. Get online service now!