Emergency Services

 Having water coming up the shower drain can be confusing and worrying. It’s a clear sign that something is wrong with your plumbing. While it may be tempting to dismiss it as a minor issue, water coming up the drain often indicates a deeper issue that needs attention. Let’s find out what it might mean and how to address it before it turns into more expensive damage. The Most Common Culprit: A Clogged Drain Pipe One of the most common causes of standing water in your shower is a clog in the drain pipe. Over time, hair, soap scum, and debris build up in the pipes, creating a partial or complete blockage. When water from other devices, like the toilet or washing machine, comes back up, it looks for the path of least resistance. If the main drain is clogged, water may back up through the shower drain instead of flowing through the sewer as it should. A Warning Sign of a Main Sewer Blockage In severe cases, backed-up water in the shower can indicate a blockage in the main sewer line. T...

 Keeping your drain system clean and functional is essential to maintaining a healthy and efficient plumbing system. Over time, debris, grease, and other waste can build up in your pipes, leading to slow drainage, blockages, and even serious plumbing problems. High pressure drain cleaning, also known as hydrojetting, is an effective and environmentally friendly method for removing stubborn clogs and keeping your drains clear. Effectively removes stubborn blockages Unlike traditional drain cleaning methods that can only partially remove blockages, high pressure drain cleaning completely removes debris, grease, hair, tree roots, and other clogs. The powerful jets of water can break down and remove buildup, restoring proper water flow. Prevents future blockages One of the most important benefits of high-pressure drain cleaning is that it not only removes existing blockages, but it also helps prevent future blockages. By thoroughly cleaning the interior walls of your pipes, you reduce ...

 There's nothing worse than coming home after a long day at work and finding out you don't have hot water. It can be easy to jump to conclusions, but don't worry. The problem could be simpler than you think. No Power If you have an electric water heater and it's not producing hot water, you may have a minor electrical problem. Start by checking the circuit breaker and make sure it hasn't tripped. If the breaker is on, try checking the power cord. Make sure it's plugged in properly and there's no damage to the cord. Next, try looking for the safety switch near or on the water heater thermostat. Not all water heaters come equipped with this switch. If you can't find it, your water heater may not have one. No Gas or Gas Leak If you have a gas water heater and it's not producing hot water, there may be a problem with the gas line that connects to the water heater. Start by investigating the gas line connected to your water heater. It will probably be yel...

  Be gentle with old drains A partial clog can be solved by cleaning the drain. Older pipes can be damaged by using drain cleaning chemicals, so opt for a naturally biodegradable drain cleaner or use this homemade solution: pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, then slowly add a cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain for five minutes, then flush with a litre of boiling water. When to use a plunger Some clogs require the use of a plunger. The secret is to create a vacuum. If you are working on the kitchen sink, you must close the dishwasher pipe and seal the drainage openings of the other sinks. If it is the sink or bathtub, plug the overflow opening with a wet rag. With at least a couple of centimetres of water in the basin, quickly soak several times, pulling sharply upwards at the end to move the clog away.  When to try other tools If soaking fails to remove the clog, use an auger. If the drain opening is clogged, sometimes a clothesline with a small hooked end succe...

  Is your water heater not working properly? Does the water seem to take forever to heat up? Or does the hot water suddenly turn cold without warning? One of the worst things to experience is a lack of hot water on a cold winter's day. Nobody likes to take a shower with lukewarm or even cold water in the middle of winter, so it is best to keep an eye out for signs that your water heater is not working as it should. Knowing the telltale signs of a malfunctioning water heater means you can make a quick repair and restore hot water to your home. Warning signs of a faulty water heater There are several signs to look out for that indicate that the water heater is not working as it should: Lukewarm or cold water . One potential sign of a water heater failure is a lack of hot water. If you notice that the water temperature throughout the house does not exceed a certain temperature and produces semi-warm or lukewarm water, it may be time to have it inspected. Hot water does not last long ...

 As homeowners, we occasionally have to deal with a leaking pipe . But if the pipes are constantly leaking, the problem could be more serious. What is the cause of leaking pipes and how can the problem be solved?  Common causes of pipe leaks Pipe leaks can be caused by a wide range of problems. Sometimes an external factor can have an impact on the pipes, such as changes in temperature, water pressure or even shifts in the foundation of the house. However, internal plumbing problems can also be the culprit. Weak or corroded pipes can often leak, as can clogged pipes. Is a small drip really a problem? If it is a minor leak, you may not see the importance of rushing to solve the problem. After all, how much damage can a small drip cause? In these situations, one should not think about the water leak, but about the larger problem that is causing it. Although it may have a simple solution, such as adjusting a joint or gasket, it could also be a sign of a bigger problem beneath the...

  A professional drain cleaning is one of the best things you can do for your drain lines and yard drains. It is quick, easy and gives immediate results. In addition, drain cleaning can help prevent more serious drainage problems in the long run. But what is the difference between a professional drain cleaning service and a do-it-yourself cleaning? And what can homeowners expect from a visit with professionals? We explain this below. Do-it-yourself drain cleaning vs. professional cleaning When you think of drain cleaning, you probably imagine a bottle of chemicals that you buy in the shop and pour down the drain. These chemicals are not always effective. In some cases, they can even damage the pipes! Professionals not only use superior detergents, but also additional tools to remove debris and make the pipes more efficient. Why call in a professional? Professional drain cleaning has several advantages. Although household drain cleaners can loosen blockages, many homeowners end up ...

  Leak detection can help determine the location and source of a leak, saving you time, money and stress due to extensive leaks/water damage and repairs. But how exactly does leak detection work? And how can you start as a homeowner?  Know the signs of a leak The first step in leak detection is to know the signs of a leak. Looking for more subtle signs can help detect a problem before it becomes serious. These signs include more expensive water bills, the presence (or smell) of mould, water stains on walls or ceilings and possibly low water pressure. If you notice these changes, call a licensed plumber to inspect your system and assess whether there are any problems and what the best actions to take are. Outdoor water leaks Leak detection is a service offered or recommended when further diagnosis is needed to determine the source of a leak. Outdoor water leaks can be difficult to detect for several reasons. For example, pipes are usually buried underground, which makes access...

  The bathroom, with all its plumbing , is the place most prone to leakage, with the bathtub at the forefront. In most cases, people do not realise the bathtub is leaking until mould forms, or they see water leaking from the ceiling under the bath.  Also, if you live in a rather old property and are wondering how to locate the source of the leak, read on and discover the causes and possible solutions for water leaks from under the bathtub. Why does the bathtub leak from underneath? Bathtub leaks should not be ignored, even if they start small. Over time, they grow larger and can cause flooding. You already know that mould can also form, so this is another reason not to put off a repair. So why is the bathtub leaking underneath? The bathtub is cracked - this is the first and most obvious cause, but it is not always so obvious. Some cracks may be as subtle as a hairline, but they still cause problems. Watch the water carefully for any areas that appear to be sucked downwards. ...

  Toilet tank leaks can cause a very annoying hissing sound that continues even after flushing. If you hear such a noise coming from the toilet tank even when it is not in use, it means that your toilet has a leak somewhere. If water from the tank drips into the bowl, there is probably a problem with the flush valve. Water Before proceeding further, locate the isolation valve under the toilet pipe and turn off the water. Flush the toilet to expel the water that is currently in the tank. After shutting off the water, the tank will not fill up. Rinse valve Watch carefully as water flows down through the flush valve as you flush the toilet. The discharge pipe below is the pipe where the water returns to the tank. Above it, you should see a rubber ring and a valve that fits into the hole at the bottom of the tank. Remove the drain valve and check the rubber washer. It may have shrunk, which is partly the cause of the leak. Remove it and fit the new valve. Replacing the valve washer R...

  Starting the day with a weak shower is unsatisfying. Although you sometimes have to learn to live with low water pressure, it is good to give your guests or family members the pleasure of using high water pressure. Low water pressure can easily ruin your reputation as a landlord! Therefore, you must solve low water pressure problems and obtain a healthy water flow for you and your future guests. Contact the neighbours first Contacting your neighbours will help you understand if they also have the same problem. If so, the problem could be with the municipal water system. Like the plumbing in your home, the municipal water system is also prone to clogging, leaks, corrosion and build-up . Test the water pressure If the problem only occurs inside the house, then action should be taken. However, before calling a plumber, you should test the water pressure yourself, using a working pressure gauge with a connecting pipe. Simply screw the pressure gauge onto a hose and then open the tap....

  Do-it-yourself enthusiasts make a number of common mistakes. Here are the main plumbing mistakes to avoid. Not having the right tools You have finally decided to tackle a plumbing job at home: it can't be that difficult, can it? You have pulled out the trusty toolbox. Inside is a set of grinding wheels, a bent screwdriver that doubles as a chisel, a rusty tape measure with half the numbers missing and a blunt hacksaw. These types of tools will not get you far and will certainly hamper your chances of getting the job done with ease. Before undertaking any plumbing work , make sure you have the right tools for the job. Adjustable spanners, pump pliers, a set of screwdrivers, a tape measure and a well-made hacksaw are the bare minimum. Over-tightening of hydraulic fittings and pipe connections Over-tightening of plumbing fittings, whether plastic, brass, copper or iron, can cause serious problems. Over-tightening a plastic drain fitting can cause the nut to slip. Over-tightening an ...

  Low water pressure or uninterrupted, intermittent or no water supply makes a bidet faucet inefficient. When the bidet faucet stops working properly, it's time to find the cause of the problem and fix it. To repair a bidet faucet or replace it with a new one, you only need basic plumbing knowledge.  Check the aerator If the bidet mixer does not have sufficient pressure or only a small amount of water is coming out of the opening, there may be a problem with the aerator. The aerator filters the water coming out of the opening and may be clogged with solid debris. To repair the aerator, it must first be removed. To do this, turn off the tap. It is not necessary to switch off the main water supply. To remove the aerator, simply turn it anti-clockwise until it comes off. Pull out the deposits inside the aerator with a finger. To remove the deposits in the filter, soak it in white vinegar for about ten minutes. Then use a toothbrush to remove the deposits. Rinse the aerator thoro...

  If you're still on the fence about whether you should hire a plumber to fix the problems with your plumbing system or just do it yourself, here are some good reasons in favour of the first option: Knowledge and experience A professional plumber has spent years obtaining a licence and accreditation. Many of them attend technical plumbing courses to learn how to properly perform repairs and properly handle tools and equipment to ensure everyone's safety. After completing the courses, they apply for an apprenticeship to gain experience before getting their licence as a plumber. The apprenticeship lasts around 2 to 5 years and is designed to ensure that trainee plumbers are able to take on jobs from customers independently. When you hire a plumber , you can be sure that he has the knowledge and experience to provide excellent plumbing services. His license prove that he can take care of your plumbing system and fix any problem you have with it. Cost Effective Many homeowners cho...

 On the complicated road to home ownership, unexpected plumbing problems often crop up. From a seemingly harmless drip to an urgent burst pipe, these problems can disrupt daily life and affect the comfort of your living space.  Fortunately, the expertise of professional plumbers can quickly fix these common problems and ensure that your home remains a place of comfort and functionality. Let's take a look at five common plumbing problems that require contacting a qualified plumber so you can make an informed decision when it comes to your home.  IMPROPERLY RUNNING TOILETS: THE SPOOKY MENACE A toilet that runs constantly can be more than just annoying - it's a drain on your resources. This problem is often caused by a faulty check valve or a malfunctioning fill valve. A professional plumber can expertly diagnose the problem and ensure that water is conserved and your energy bills don't skyrocket. SMELLY DRAINS: UNCOVER THE CAUSE OF THE ODOUR Few things are as unpleasant as...

  Water leaks can cause enormous damage to your home and property if they are not repaired in time. Water stains on the ceilings, walls or floors are usually the first signs of a water leak. But what if you can't recognise any obvious signs? Here are seven ways to find hidden leaks in your home before you call for a water leak repair. Test the water meter One way to detect hidden water leaks is to perform a water meter test. Turn off all the taps in your home and check the water meter. If it is still running, then you have a water leak. Even if the water meter reading does not change immediately, you should check it again after a few hours and compare the readings. If the water meter has moved, you may have a slow-flowing leak. Water pressure test Another way to detect hidden water leaks is to check the water pressure in your home. Turn off all taps and measure the water pressure. If the pressure is lower than normal, check for a water leak. Listen for running water If there are n...

  Sometimes plumbing problems can be solved by yourself. In other cases, you need to call in a professional. Here are some signs that you should call a plumbing professional . You smell sewage If you smell sewage in your home or garden, it could be a drainage problem or a blockage in your pipe. Don't ignore the odour as it can lead to bigger problems if a blockage is not cleared by a plumber. Water gurgles up If one drain starts gurgling while another is in use, or if a drain gurgles while you are using it, there is a problem with your plumbing. The gurgling means that something is obstructing the flow of water and air in your plumbing or that a vent pipe is clogged. In either case, you should not use home remedies but call a plumber. The tap drips incessantly A constantly dripping tap can cost you dearly over time. It could mean that you have a crack in a pipe or that a pipework element has not been installed correctly. The safest and possibly most cost-effective solution to a con...

  If you are removing a sink in the kitchen , bathroom or laundry room, you will need to disconnect the drain from the waste pipe. Unless you are planning a new sink, you will probably want to remove it and patch the wall. When you open up the wall, you will probably find that the stub has vertical connections to the basement drain and the roof. If you can find these pipes in the attic or crawl space, it is possible to cut them off and remove them. If you cannot find them, it is probably better to seal the pipes behind the wall. Locate the studs on either side of the drain stub you want to remove with a stud finder. Using a box cutter and a wall saw, cut a rectangular piece of drywall that extends at least to the sides of these studs and about three feet above the drain stub to the floor. Cut through the drywall in the middle of the stud faces so that you have access to wood to which you can attach the new drywall. Using a hacksaw, cut the PVC pipe anywhere in the wall that will a...

  One-handle kitchen faucets make food preparation and cleanup easier. With just one handle, you can get the water to the right temperature for your work with just one hand. You can't fix a leaky kitchen faucet with one hand, but this is a problem a homeowner can solve. Perhaps the most difficult part is finding the right replacement part for the cartridge. You may need to disassemble the faucet and take the damaged cartridge to a hardware or plumbing store to make sure you get the right part. Turn off the water supply to the kitchen faucet under the sink. If there is no supply valve, turn off the water supply throughout the house. Run the water out of the faucet to drain it. Place a plug in the sink to catch any parts that might slip out of your hand. Remove the decorative cap on top of the faucet by prying it off with the tip of a screwdriver to expose the screw that holds the handle in place. Some faucets have rubber plugs that cover an Allen screw on the bottom of the handle. ...

  It's relatively easy to fix a leaky sink trap without having to call in a plumber, which would also prove to be extremely costly. If you notice that water is gradually dripping onto the floor, then water is clearly leaking through a crack in the sink's trap. There could be two reasons why the water is dripping onto the floor: first, the connections between the traps could be loose, and second, the pipes could be cracked or clogged with debris, causing water to leak out. With some basic plumbing knowledge and a few plumbing tools, this task can easily be done yourself at home. This task should only take a few hours of your time. Turn off the water supply The first step is to shut off the water supply completely before trying to find the exact cause of the leak. To do this, simply turn off the shut-off valves that are located near the sink. This step is useful if you don't want the floor to be full of water. Check the connections of the trap The next step is to find out wh...