Everything you Need to Know to Handle Slow Draining Sinks

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Your Guide to Dealing with Slow Draining Sinks

Slow-draining sinks are an issue that most homeowners deal with at one time or another. It’s a common issue, but thankfully it’s also one that’s relatively easy to resolve. It’s particularly easy to handle if you treat your pipes well and stay on top of plumbing maintenance.

So, worry no more about slow-draining sinks or drains. Here is a cheat sheet from local professionals that will help you handle all of your sluggish-drain issues. And the good news is that keeping your drains running smoothly will not only alleviate some of your worries, but it will also help to keep your pipes clean and avoid more serious plumbing issues in the future.

What Causes Slow Draining?

A number of things can cause drains to be slow. In kitchen sinks, the most common cause of the problem is food or liquids that are put down the drain. Foods with grease, oil, or fats are particularly difficult on pipes as they cling to materials that they come into contact with.

slow draining causes

This means that not only do these materials start buildup on pipes, but they also trap other debris, which makes the issue worse. In bathroom plumbing, hair is the most common cause of sluggish drains. Other common causes are tree roots in pipes, deteriorating pipes, or accumulated buildup in your home’s piping system.

Tips for Fixing Slow Drains

fixing slow drainsThere are a number of ways to fix slow drains. Sometimes simply pouring boiling water down the drain will help to clear the blockage. Additionally, vinegar followed by baking soda and then boiling water can be an effective way to clear a clog.

In some cases, using a plunger can help to clear the drain. An old plumber’s trick to clear a clogged pipe is pouring a bucket of water down the drain as quickly as possible. The force that the sudden surge of water creates often will clear the blockage.

When the blockage is more substantial, a plumber's drain cleaning solution is to use a snake to clear the blockage. Snaking a pipe might seem like a simple process, but it can cause problems to pipes if not done correctly. As a result, this is something that should only be done by professionals that know what they’re doing.

Easy Ways to Prevent Having Slow Drains

The best way to prevent slow drains is to take good care of your pipes. Avoid putting fats, oils, and grease down the kitchen sink. Additionally, only put toilet paper in the toilet. Another good way to take care of your pipes is to regularly clean them by pouring boiling water down the drain. Further, it’s important to regularly have all of your home’s pipes cleaned. This is easy maintenance that will help to keep your pipes and drains in good condition.

preventing slow drains

If you have questions about sluggish drains or need to have your pipes cleaned, contact a trusted professional. Staying on top of plumbing maintenance helps to avoid the headaches, stress, and expense that come with a plumbing emergency.

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing has been providing quality plumbing services in Miami for over 30 years. Their team of trained professionals is committed to excellent customer service and quality workmanship.

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Have You Ever Wondered How a Plumbing Snake Works on Clogs?

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Discover How Snaking Pipes Can Be of Help in Clog Removal

Plumbers use a pipe snaking tool to clear clogs that block drains. The tool consists of a long metal cable with a handle with an uncoiled spring at the end. Typical plumbing snakes can stretch up to 50 feet, with the ability to coil it up for ease of storage.

Usually, a snake or pipe auger comes in handy for clogs that are too stubborn to remove with a plunger. This article discusses the process of snaking pipes and how it can help remove some of the toughest blockages from your plumbing.

Removing Visible Obstructions Made Easy

removing visible obstructionsBlockages have a strange way of occurring unexpectedly. If you don’t take any steps fast enough, your drains will stop flowing completely, and can eventually lead to a bigger problem like burst pipes.

Before you call a plumber, you could try a few quick fixes such as pouring boiling water, baking soda or white vinegar into the drain. This can help breakdown the blockage and often removes smaller ones altogether. Similarly, you can stop this issue altogether in high-usage areas like your tube or kitchen sink by adding a drain filter - just remember to clean it.

Essentially, when you’re dealing with a clog, the first thing you should do is to try and remove visible blockages from the troubled area. If the clog is small enough, this will fix it, and you’ll be back to working order in no time.

Using the Snake for Drain cleaning

Snaking is not a replacement for drain cleaning, and an even less competitor when referencing hydro-jetting vs. snaking. So first off, you need to ensure that the drain is clear of obstacles. As mentioned earlier, boiling water and chemicals when poured into the drain help dissolve grease.

Nonetheless, using a snaking pipe is not difficult. You may have to put on work clothes as the task will get you dirty. Once you identify a point of entry, insert the snaking pipe into the drain. Do not force it but begin to rotate its handle slowly and maintain a consistent pace. Proceed until you encounter the obstacle.

drain cleaning

Once found, the snake will wrap into or around the blockage. After a bit of spinning, you can pull the snake, which will essentially pull the blockage out of the pipe. In some cases, you may have to repeat the process, but eventually, the pipe will be completely free and clear.

Contact a Professional Plumber

professional plumberSnaking until you eventually clear a clog sounds easy. That is not a surprise. However, cleaning your drain after unclogging involves a lot more work and experience and could possibly leave you a broken pipe to repair.

If you’re struggling to find a fix ditch the DIY methods and opt for professional help. Trained plumbing contractors have the expertise, heavy-duty machinery, and tools needed to break up and remove any blockage in your plumbing.

Not only will it provide you an effective fit, but also you’ll have some peace of mind knowing you have someone to call on if the issue returns!

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing offers burst pipe repairs, kitchen plumbing, toilet repair, and drain cleaning, among other services. The company provides its expertise to clients in Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. It is a family business with over 25 years of existence.

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New And Exciting Plumbing Tips for The New And Exciting Year

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Smart Tips You Can Use To Help Save Water

It’s that time again when people ring out the old year and ring in the new year. During this time many folks are making new years resolutions. Some want to get healthier and some want to learn new things. As a homeowner, there is plenty to learn in order to keep your home comfortable and in good working order.

While you should always work with a plumbing expert to keep your home in tip-top shape, there are some things you can do to make a difference. In this article, plumbing professionals will cover easy to implement tips you can use for a more successful new year.

Address Water Leaks Quickly

saving waterAs most all have heard elders say “1 inch of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. In other words, if you do preventative maintenance on your plumbing it will prevent you from having to have repairs done later. Check for drips or leaks in and around your pipes, faucets, and showerheads.

Also be sure to check appliances such as garbage disposals, refrigerators, and water heaters, as these appliances can also be sources of leaks that most people would not suspect. Even the smallest leak can have a big impact on your home.

Not only can it cause damage to countertops and cabinetry, but if left unrepaired for extended periods of time, you can see an increase in your water bill along with a decrease in water pressure.

Another general maintenance tip is to check drains for slow draining or clogs. One of the more common plumbing issues you can face in your home, a clog can easily damage plumbing if left uncleaned. While your toilet and kitchen sink are generally the main culprits, be sure to look at any outdoor drainage spots as well in order to save water.

Making the Switch to Eco-Friendly Pipe Materials

Copper is commonly used for water pipes and is also considered eco-friendly. The installation of copper pipes does not require solvent-based adhesives for installation. These adhesives contain harmful compounds take are not environmentally friendly. Copper is also a recyclable metal.

eco friendly

While PVC is the most commonly used pipe material in most homes, it can actually have a big impact on the environment. Not only does it require harsh adhesives to seal, but it’s also a challenge to recycle. While you’re not always going to have a need for pipe replacement, if you are planning an upgrade in your home, switching to eco-friendly pipe materials can help.

Don’t Forget Your Water Filter

water filtersProper basic plumbing maintenance of your existing water filter will ensure the cleanliness of the water and improve your entire plumbing system. Water filters are meant to do what the say, filter the water. These filters will remove dirt, debris, harsh chemicals from your water.

Not only does this make the water safer to drink, but also it can help with your plumbing system. How? Those same impurities that can harm your health, can also hurt your plumbing. Whether it’s harmful bacteria that eat away at your pipes or mineral deposits that create blockages in your plumbing, keeping impurities out of the water can help limit repairs.

Also, since you’ll be drinking more water at home, you’ll be spending less on purchasing bottles. The New Year is an amazing time when you can truly make a difference in your home. Get started today with some of the helpful tips above!

Call Falcon Plumbing Today

Falcon Plumbing specializes in residential and commercial plumbing services. They provide plumbing services by appointments and provide 24/7 emergency service with no overtime charges. They believe in old fashioned customer service to the community and can help you with all your plumbing needs.

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What you Need to Know about Water Damage and Homeowner's Insurance

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Does Your Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Water Damage?

While you work to protect your home from certain types of damage, unfortunately sometimes things happen that lead to damage. This is true for all aspects of your home, including your plumbing systems. Although many plumbing problems can be avoided through timely maintenance, the reality is that no one is immune to plumbing emergencies, and such emergencies are often stressful and expensive.

One way to make these events a little less overwhelming is by having homeowner’s insurance that will pay for any water damage that you have. Understanding what your homeowner’s insurance covers and adjusting your policy to cover more types of water damage can help give you the peace of mind that your home will be protected even if you experience a plumbing emergency or water damage from other events. Here are some tips to help ensure that you’re prepared for such an occurrence.

Coverage for Water Leaks

A number of policies will cover water damage that comes on suddenly. Many Allstate policies, for example, contain language that says the policy covers water damage that is “sudden and accidental.” In most cases, this would include damage from water leaks. Policies that have this type of coverage will cover repairs resulting from leaks, a burst pipe or a ruptured water heater.

water leaks

If you’re unsure about whether you’re covered for leaks, it’s a good idea to check your policy for similar language and terms or to ask your agent for more information about water leaks - it could mean added savings in the midst of an emergency.

Purchasing Flood Insurance

flood insuranceWhile most insurance companies don’t offer flood insurance, you can purchase a flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program. This program offers a way to reduce the impact on those affected by floods.

If you’re concerned that your home could flood, it’s a good idea to learn more about this option. You can purchase a policy that covers your home and one that covers its contents.

For homeowners worried about flooding, this is a great way to have some peace of mind that your home will be covered even in the event of a catastrophic flood. You can talk to your insurance agent to learn more about these policies and to find one that’s right for you.

Finding Reliable Water Damage Services

If you have a plumbing emergency and water damage, there are lots of things to do. In addition to repairing the issue, it’s important to clean up water damage as soon as possible to avoid additional problems. As such, it’s a good idea to use professionals that know how to dry an area and eliminate risks for mold and mildew.

water damage services

Many plumbing companies provide water damage services, and, usually, those that don’t can refer you to a reputable company. So, if you’re in need of water damage services, it’s a good idea to contact your plumber for help and advice.

Falcon Plumbing Is Here to Help!

Falcon Plumbing has been providing quality plumbing services to the Miami area since 1986. They can handle all jobs - no matter how big or how small - and their priority is their clients’ interests. A woman-owned and operated business, they pride themselves on being tough on plumbing issues and gentle with their customers.

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The Spook In Your Home Could Be Pipe Noises Not a Halloween Ghost

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Is Your Plumbing System Making Scary Sounds?

It is that time again! Halloween is around the corner and homeowners find themselves letting their imaginations get the better of them. Strange noises in water pipes can disturb a restless night's sleep in more ways than one.

Whether it’s terror or the horrors of costly repairs, spooky pipe noises are hard to overcome. This article will discuss some of the more common causes of those strange noises, and give homeowners an idea of how to resolve them once and for all.

October Brings Out The Pipe Spooks

The month of October is full of thrills and chills that are meant to keep you up at night. Halloween comes at the cost of imagining there is more to the spooky noises homes can make during the night.

One aspect of a home that can be particularly creepy is the plumbing system. Pipes, when not working at top capacity, can make some unusual sounds that are not normal. While these noises can be offputting, and the Halloween atmosphere lends to spooky thoughts, these sounds are (for the most part) actually harmless.

Issues like water pressure and malfunctioning mechanisms can cause plumbing pipes to emit sounds that are outside the normal plumbing sounds. All of these sounds can be corrected when the homeowner is aware of the cause.

Water Pressure Can Cause Scary Humming

water pressureWater pressure that is not at an optimal level can cause many problems to arise in water pipes. One of the most disturbing of those problems is a humming noise. Generally, the humming noise is caused by water pressure that is too high.

As the water pressure is too high, it is moving at a fast rate through your pipes. This can cause a vibration that will produce a humming sound. An easy way to check is to make sure the water valves are working correctly.

While the humming noise is present, turn off each valve one at a time until the noise stops. Once the sound is eliminated, you can safely assume that this particular valve needs repair. In the case of a broken valve, or if the sound persists, a professional will be required to assist with the situation.

Toilets Can Whistle Without Supernatural Help

A whistling toilet can be offputting when the cause is unknown; especially in severe cases where the toilet screeches loudly. As with humming though, the problem exists within the plumbing. The most common cause of a whistling toilet is the fill valve.

When a toilet flushes, there is a fill valve in the tank that measures the amount of water that goes into the tank. As the water is filling, the valve is open. The valve is attached to a bobber that rises with the water. When the water reaches its designated amount, the bobber stops rising and the valve closes.

whistling sounds

The whistling noise is a side effect of a valve that is old, damaged, or broken. When the valve is unable to open or close correctly, the pressure escaping creates a whistling noise. In the right circumstances, it can create a screeching noise that can be unsettling.

Generally, replacing this mechanism will stop the problem, however, homeowners are encouraged to call an expert when not familiar with the repair/ replace process as it can lead to bigger more costly repairs.

Air Bubbles Create Loud Bangs

air bubblesLoud banging noises can be startling when they happen in the middle of the night. Chances are, if they are connected to your water pipes, the noise will happen while you are standing at the sink. Though this can still be startling, it is another product of water pressure.

Air bubbles are created in water pipes when the water pressure is too low. Another signal of air bubbles besides banging is when the water stutters when the faucet is first turned on. On the other hand, water pressure that is too high can also cause banging noises in the form of water hammers.

Water hammers are caused by the water traveling too fast towards the faucet when the faucet is turned off. Like a car crash, the water comes to a sudden stop and will cause a loud banging sound to come from the pipes. Either of these issues is repairable with the assistance of a professional plumber.

Falcon Plumbing Is Available For Spooky Assistance

Woman-owned and operated, Falcon Plumbing is the expert in the Miami FL area. With no overtime charges, Falcon Plumbing is equipped to handle all of your spooky plumbing needs 24/7. With a unique understanding of the homeowner's needs, they have been proudly servicing the community since 1986.

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