Common Plumbing Questions Answered

Learn answers to common Common Plumbing Questions Answered. Learn about the different types of plumbing repairs and how to spot a problem before it becomes a major issue.

Owning a home is a huge milestone, but it comes with a lot of responsibilities. When plumbing issues arise, new homeowners may feel especially alarmed or confused. Since much of any plumbing system is interconnected, it can be difficult to discern exactly what the problem is and where it’s originating from. Fortunately, regular plumbing services can prevent most non-emergency issues.

Certain plumbing issues are more common than others. Whether you’re troubleshooting a basic plumbing problem or educating yourself for what problems may arise, you have come to the right place.

What should I do when my sink won’t drain?

Good sink practices can prevent a sink from clogging. Never pour bacon grease or any other solid fat down the drain, and educate yourself on what can and can’t be broken down by your garbage disposal. Otherwise, professional plumbing services are the next step.

What is the odd sewer smell in my home?

If you cleaned the house from top to bottom but still notice a lingering sulfurous, unpleasant odor, you may be dealing with a sewer leak. Over time, a leak can cause water damage to the foundation of your home – not to mention it’s extremely unsanitary. Call a plumber as soon as possible if you suspect a leak.

Why is my water pressure low?

Blockages, buildup, and valve problems can cause low water pressure by obstructing the water’s ability to flow. If others in your neighborhood are experiencing low water pressure as well, there may be a problem with the municipal water system that will likely be fixed shortly. Otherwise, you may need to get your pipes cleaned or replaced to resolve the issue.

Why did my water bill suddenly increase?

The first sign of a hidden leak is an unexpectedly high water bill. Try to identify the sources of any dripping noises or running water sounds to find where the leak may be coming from. The next step is to call your plumber – they will have the equipment and expertise to repair the leak and bring your water bill back down to normal.

What can I safely put in my garbage disposal?

Modern garbage disposals can tolerate most food waste. This being said, avoid putting particularly hard or fibrous foods such as shells, bones, fruit rinds, or husks down the garbage disposal, because they can damage your sink and pipes. Similarly, avoid using hot water while you run the garbage disposal – doing so can melt solidified fats and cause them to harden and form gunky blockages further down in your pipes.

What’s the difference between hard and soft water?

Scientifically speaking, the only difference between hard and soft water is the level of minerals they contain. Hard water contains significant amounts of calcium and magnesium, while treated soft water only contains sodium. This variation can make a world of difference in your home, however: hard water is harsh on fabrics, can damage equipment, leaves a scummy residue, and often causes skin irritation.

Trustworthy Common Plumbing Questions Answered

For more answers to your plumbing questions, talk to us at Shepherd’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning. Give us a call at (650) 422-2466 to learn more about how we can help with your plumbing needs.