A dishwasher not properly draining is not just an inconvenience but also a potential risk to your appliance’s functionality and your home’s cleanliness. Read on as Plumbing Doctor, LLC delves into the common reasons for drainage issues and how to address them effectively.

Check the Basics First

First, it’s crucial to ensure that your dishwasher has completed its cycle fully. A prematurely opened door might leave you with standing water. If your dishwasher stops mid-cycle, try running a complete cycle again. If the problem persists, attempting to reset your dishwasher or using the “cancel” feature could jump-start the drainage process. Simple fixes like these can often save a lot of time and hassle.

Potential Clog in the Filter or Drain Hose

One of the most common culprits behind a dishwasher’s inability to drain is a clogged filter or drain hose. Food particles, especially fibrous ones, can cause significant blockages if dishes are not scraped clean before being loaded. If you are dealing with hard water or frequent cooking, you may encounter this issue more frequently. It’s advisable to regularly inspect and clean the filter and hose to prevent such blockages, ensuring smooth operation.

The Role of Your Garbage Disposal

A clogged garbage disposal or an improperly installed hose can prevent water from draining out of your dishwasher. To resolve these drainage issues, try running your disposal to clear any blockage. Additionally, maintaining a clear path in the drain hose by ensuring it has no kinks or obstructions is critical for proper drainage.

Inspect and Clean the Air Gap

An often-overlooked component is the air gap installed alongside your kitchen faucet. This serves as a crucial part of preventing sewage from backing up into the dishwasher. If your home features an air gap, checking for and cleaning out any debris can be a game-changer in resolving draining issues.

Dealing With Clogged or Damaged Hoses

After ruling out simpler issues, inspecting the dishwasher’s drain hose for kinks, blockages, or damage is the next step. A hose obstructed by debris or installed improperly can disrupt water flow, leading to standing water in your dishwasher. If necessary, replacing a damaged or persistently clogged hose is a relatively straightforward solution that homeowners can undertake or call a professional for assistance.

Let Our Plumbing Experts Check Your Drainage

Regular maintenance and cleaning of your dishwasher can prevent many drainage issues from arising. However, when the problem persists or you’re in doubt about handling any aspect of your dishwasher’s maintenance, Plumbing Doctor, LLC is here to help. Our expert team is equipped to address any plumbing concerns, ensuring your dishwasher runs smoothly again. Give us a call today at (908) 873-6686, or fill out our online form.

Heavy rainfall is often seen as a relief during hot summers, heralding a drop in temperatures and nurturing the environment. However, what’s beneficial to nature can sometimes pose challenges to our home infrastructure, especially the plumbing system. Since weather patterns can bring significant rainfall in the area, it’s crucial to understand how these conditions might impact your residential plumbing. 

In this post, we discuss how heavy rain can affect your plumbing system and what you can do to mitigate potential issues.

Blocked Drains

One of the immediate effects of heavy rain is the increased risk of blockages in your drains. As rainwater rushes through your property’s external drainage system, it often carries along debris such as leaves, sticks, and trash. These things can accumulate fast, leading to clogged pipes and slow water flow. Such blockages can cause extensive damage to your plumbing system if not addressed promptly.

Pressure and Pipe Damage

Heavy rainfall doesn’t only increase the volume of water your plumbing system has to manage; it also adds significant pressure on your pipes, particularly those laid underground. The soil surrounding these pipes becomes saturated, making it heavier and causing it to exert more force on the pipes. This added pressure can cause pipes to shift, bend, or break, resulting in leaks or severe burst pipes, which are costly and problematic to repair.

Increased Ground Saturation and Plumbing Disruption

The ground saturation from prolonged rainfalls doesn’t only pressure the pipes. It can also lead to a softer substrate that shifts more easily, potentially misaligning your plumbing infrastructure. This issue is compounded in residences with older plumbing systems, which may not be fully equipped to handle such stress. Older homes may experience more frequent and severe damage during heavy rainfall.

Flooding

Proper drainage is critical in ensuring that excessive rainwater is channeled away from your home efficiently. Blocked storm drains and gutters can lead to flooding, which poses a risk not only to your plumbing but to the structure of your home as well. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning gutters and ensuring downspouts are directing water away from your foundation, is essential. Additionally, consider installing a sump pump if you have a basement as it is an effective measure against flooding.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

It’s important to know how to recognize early warning signs of plumbing stress caused by heavy rainfall. Slow drainage might be your first hint that a blockage is forming. Similarly, any changes in water pressure or discoloration of water can indicate a fractured pipe or a more severe issue within your system. Addressing these signs early can prevent most emergencies.

Plumbing Doctor is experienced and equipped to handle plumbing issues caused or exacerbated by heavy rainfall. Count on our team to keep your home safe and dry, no matter the weather. Call us at (908) 873-6686 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment.

You have two options for clearing clogged pipes in your home: snaking and hydro jetting. Both methods are popular for different reasons, and choosing the right one depends on the specifics of your plumbing issue. Here’s a simple guide to help you determine the best approach for your situation.

Understanding Snaking and Hydro Jetting

Snaking

This technique involves using a metal cable with an auger at the end, which is inserted into the drain to physically dislodge the blockage. It is time-tested and particularly suited to address minor blockages. One significant advantage of snaking is that it is less likely to damage older, fragile pipes.

Hydro Jetting 

This method utilizes a high-pressure water stream to blast through blockages within the pipes. It can clear clogs immediately and clean the interior walls of the pipes, removing grease, mineral buildup, and other debris that could lead to future clogs.

When to Choose Snaking

Snaking is ideal for simple clogs, especially those close to the drain opening. It’s often the preferred choice for homes with older plumbing systems that may not withstand the intense pressure from hydro jetting. 

When to Choose Hydro Jetting

Hydro jetting stands out for its ability to provide a thorough cleaning inside your pipes. It’s highly effective against stubborn clogs, including those caused by tree roots or built-up grease. While it might come with a higher upfront cost than snaking, the investment pays off by significantly reducing the likelihood of future clogs.

Plumbing Doctor has the expertise to inspect your pipes and recommend the most effective, most cost-effective, and safest solution for your specific situation. Call us at (908) 873-6686 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment.

A toilet tank that won’t fill up can be quite an inconvenience. It could halt the daily flow of your life and result in bigger issues. Understanding the common reasons behind this problem and knowing how to address them can help you save time and avoid the need for emergency repairs. Continue reading to find out the usual culprits behind this toilet issue.

Common Reasons Behind a Toilet Tank’s Failure to Fill

Debris in the Water Supply

Over time, debris can accumulate in your plumbing system, such as in the valve body, supply line, or shut-off valve. This buildup can restrict the flow path of water, slowing down the filling speed of your toilet tank. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the cleanliness and functionality of these components.

Worn-Out Fill Valves

The fill valve plays a crucial role in refilling your toilet tank post-flush. If your toilet has been in use for a significant period, typically seven years or more, the internal components of the fill valve may start to wear out. This wear can affect its efficiency in refilling the tank.

Faulty Float Mechanism

The float mechanism controls the water level in your toilet tank. If the float is improperly adjusted or becomes damaged, it can prevent the tank from filling correctly. Sometimes, a simple adjustment or replacement of the float can remedy the situation.

Steps to Troubleshoot and Resolve the Issue

Flushing Out Debris

One of the first steps in troubleshooting a toilet tank that won’t fill up is to clear out any debris. This process involves shutting off the water supply, flushing the tank, and carefully removing and cleaning the valve’s components. Flushing your water supply system to remove accumulated debris can often resolve slow filling issues.

Inspecting and Replacing Fill Valves

If flushing out debris doesn’t solve the problem, inspecting the fill valve for signs of wear or damage is the next step. Replacement parts are readily available and can be a cost-effective solution. Opting for high-quality replacement valves can ensure reliability and longevity.

Adjusting or Replacing the Float Mechanism

An improperly functioning float mechanism can often be the culprit. Adjusting the float to ensure it stops water at the correct level may resolve the issue. If the float mechanism is damaged or worn out, replacing it is a straightforward and effective solution.

Professional Assistance Is a Call Away

While DIY solutions can be effective for minor issues, complicated problems may require the expertise of a professional plumber. Plumbing Doctor offers comprehensive plumbing services, ensuring your toilet and other parts of your plumbing system operate efficiently and effectively. If you’re unsure about tackling plumbing issues on your own or if you’ve attempted repairs with no success, it’s important to call in the experts.

Plumbing Doctor is equipped to handle plumbing challenges, ensuring peace of mind and the smooth functioning of your home’s plumbing system. Call us at (908) 873-6686 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment.

From clogged sinks to overflowing toilets, just about everyone has had plumbing problems in their homes at some point. Some of these issues seem like they would be easy to fix, but many require the work of a licensed plumber. Your home’s plumbing system is more complicated than you might think, and trying to fix certain problems might just make them worse. While we recommend calling a plumber if you have any doubts about your plumbing, here are five plumbing problems that you should never try to fix yourself.

1. A Clogged Sewer Line

A clogged sewer line is a serious problem that you should never tackle on your own. Not only would it be way too difficult for someone to handle without the proper training and equipment, you could do thousands of dollars worth of damage to something that will affect your entire property if you do something wrong.

2. Leaky or Burst Pipes

If you have a leaky pipe in your home, never assume that you can just tighten a joint or patch it with plumber’s tape. The pipe will need to be replaced. This is a more dangerous and difficult task than you might think, so leave it for a professional if you want it done correctly.

3. Water Heater Replacement

Water heaters can last for years, but they need to be replaced if they start to leak or make unusual sounds. Since you’re dealing with hot water and your gas lines, you should never attempt to replace a water heater on your own.

4. Gas Line Repairs

Speaking of gas lines, you should never attempt to repair them on your own. Leaky gas lines are incredibly dangerous and can cause an explosion in your home. If you suspect that you have a gas leak anywhere, evacuate your home and contact someone who can fix it as soon as possible.

5. Flooding and Standing Water

If you have flooding or standing water anywhere in your home, your problems are bigger than a clogged sink or toilet. Even if you’re able to fix the source of the flooding, you still need to deal with problems like water damage and mold. There’s also always the chance that you haven’t completely fixed the leak that caused the flooding in the first place, so contact a plumber to look over your home.

As a rule, you should never attempt to fix any plumbing problem bigger than a clogged sink. If you have any plumbing problems that you think are beyond you, contact Plumbing Doctor for repairs.

Slab leaks, which occur in the water pipes hidden beneath your concrete foundation, can be a real headache. However, many homeowners have no idea when one is present because they often do not know the signs. Here are some signs to watch out for that indicate a slab leak.

Listen for the Sounds of a Leak

One of the first clues to a slab leak might be the sound of running water when no taps or appliances are in operation. This sound can be faint at first, but it might become more noticeable over time. Pay attention, especially at night when things are quieter.

The Floor Is Hot

Slab leaks often occur in hot water lines, and that heat can transfer to the floor above where the problem is occurring. So, if you notice a specific area of your floor feels warm to the touch, especially compared to other areas, it could be a sign that a leak is beneath it. This is more likely on tile or hardwood floors because carpet can insulate the heat a bit more.

Water Woes: Big and Small

A slab leak can cause a variety of water issues for you. You might see unexplained puddles of water around your foundation inside and outside of your home. This is a red flag, especially if you do not have any recent plumbing problems or a leaky appliance. Another sign to look for is cracked walls or floors near the suspected leak site. As the water leaks, it can cause the ground to shift, and this will most definitely lead to cracks.

The Bill Is in… and It Is High!

One of the most common signs of a slab leak is a sudden and significant increase in your water bill. This happens because the leaking water is going to waste, and it will be reflected in your bill. If you have not changed your water usage habits but see a spike, it is a good idea to investigate further.

Calling in the Professionals

If you suspect a slab leak, it is important to call a professional plumber right away. Slab leaks can cause severe damage to your foundation and other parts of your home, so it is best to address them as soon as possible. A plumber can use specialized tools to locate the leak and determine the best course of action for repair.

If you suspect that you have a slab leak, hurry up and call Plumbing Doctor, LLC. We will come to perform an inspection and solve the problem before it becomes a severe disaster. Our aim is to ensure our clients in Somerset, NJ and the surrounding areas feel comfortable and safe in their homes and that their plumbing performs optimally. Let us do the heavy lifting and handle your stress.

You might have heard about something called a sewer camera inspection. You may wonder what exactly it is and why you might need one. Here is a detailed explanation about what such inspections are and why they are important.

How Sewer Camera Inspections Work

Imagine a tiny camera on the end of a long, flexible cable. That is what a sewer camera inspector uses to see what is happening inside your sewer line. The camera is fed into a cleanout, which is a special access point in your plumbing system. The camera transmits live video footage to a monitor to allow the inspector to see the inside of your pipes.

Why Bother Looking Inside Your Sewer Line?

There are a few reasons why you might want to get a sewer camera inspection. Here are some of the most common ones.

Clogged Pipes

If your drains are slow or backing up, a camera inspection can help identify the cause of the clog. The plumber will be able to determine whether the problem is due to a buildup of grease, hair or other debris. The camera can also reveal the location of the clog to make it easier to fix.

Broken Pipes

Tree roots, shifting ground or even old age can damage your sewer line. A camera inspection can show pipes that need repair.

Buying a New Home

Before you buy a house, it is a smart idea to get a sewer camera inspection. This can help you avoid any hidden plumbing problems that can cost you some serious money down the road.

Benefits of a Sewer Camera Inspection

The advantages of getting a sewer camera inspection are numerous. Here are a few notable ones.

Time and Money Savings

By pinpointing the exact location and cause of a sewer problem, a camera inspection can save you time and money on repairs. Without the camera, a plumber might have to dig in multiple places to find the source of the issue, and this can become quite costly.

Less Invasive Repairs

Once you know where the problem is, repairs can often be done without digging up your entire yard. This can save you money on landscaping costs and guarantee your yard looks nice.

Peace of Mind

Knowing the condition of your sewer line can give you peace of mind. You will know if there are any potential problems lurking underground, and you can address them before they become major issues.

If you need a sewer camera inspection, contact Plumbing Doctor, LLC. We here at Plumbing Doctor value our role within the community. We believe in fair market pricing for above average work, and our aim is to keep people safe and comfortable in their homes. We serve clients in Somerset, NJ and the surrounding areas.

Though you are excited to buy a new home, this process involves many important steps to ensure that you are making a wise investment. Scheduling a plumbing inspection is one of the steps you must take. Getting a plumbing inspection might not seem as glamorous as choosing paint colors or furniture; however, it is critical for  your future comfort and financial stability. Consider what such an inspection is and how it will benefit you.

What Is a Plumbing Inspection?

A plumbing inspection is a thorough examination of the pipes, fixtures and systems that make up the plumbing in a house. This is typically performed by a licensed plumber who checks for any existing issues or potential problems that may lead to costly repairs in the future.

Identifying Hidden Problems

While a house may look perfect on the surface, there is a chance that there are hidden plumbing issues lurking beneath. Leaky pipes, corroded fitting or outdated fixtures may not be visible during a casual walkthrough, but they can cause major headaches later. A plumbing inspection helps uncover these hidden problems before they become emergencies.

Ensuring Proper Functionality

Imagine moving into your dream home only to find out that the shower doesn’t drain correctly, or the toilet constantly runs. A plumbing inspection ensures that all plumbing fixtures and systems are functioning as they should. This includes checking water pressure, drainage and the performance of appliances, such as water heaters and sump pumps.

Preventing Future Expenses

Investing in a plumbing inspection upfront can save you money in the long run. By identifying and addressing issues early on, you can avoid costly repairs or replacements down the road. Fixing minor problems now can prevent them from turning into major disasters later.

Negotiating Power

If the inspection reveals plumbing issues, you can use this information as leverage during negotiations with the seller. You may be able to negotiate a lower price or ask the seller to make repairs before closing the deal.

Peace of Mind

Buying a house is a significant investment, and you want to feel confident that you’re making the right choice. A plumbing inspection provides peace of mind because you know that the plumbing in your new home is in good condition. It allows you to move in with confidence  because you know you will not face any unexpected plumbing surprises.

While a plumbing inspection may seem like an added expense, this is a small price to pay because it will provide you with peace of mind and financial security. So, before you sign on the dotted line, be sure to schedule a plumbing inspection by calling the Plumbing Doctor, LLC. We provide service to clients in Somerset , NJ and the surrounding areas, and we pride ourselves in providing quality workmanship.

Your garbage disposal is a handy appliance for you to have, as it grinds up food for easy disposal and prevents your pipes from clogging. However, for it to function correctly, you must care for it, as this keeps unpleasant odors and residue at bay. One way you can care for your garbage disposal is to clean it thoroughly. If you are unsure how to properly clean your garbage disposal, follow the below steps.

Gather Essential Materials

Before you begin cleaning your garbage disposal, gather the necessary materials. You will need white vinegar, baking soda, dish soap, ice cubes, and citrus peels (like lemon or orange) for a natural and effective cleaning solution.

Steps for Cleaning

Start by turning off the power to the garbage disposal, as this will ensure that you are safe. Next, pour a cup of ice cubes down the disposal to help dislodge any debris stuck to the blades. Follow this with a handful of citrus peels to provide freshness. Once you have put the ice and the peels down into the garbage disposal, turn on the power again. Then, let it run until you grind everything.

Using Natural Cleaning Solutions

To deep clean and deodorize your garbage disposal, create a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the disposal, and then follow that by a cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture fizz and work its magic for 30 minutes before rinsing with hot water.

Scrubbing Away Residue

For stubborn residue, use a scrub brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub the inside of the disposal. Be sure to reach all areas, including the rubber splash guard and the underside of the rubber flaps.

Maintain It Regularly

Once you thoroughly clean your garbage disposal, you must maintain it regularly. Once a week, run citrus peels through it to maintain freshness. You can also freeze vinegar into ice cubes and grind them up to keep the blades clean and sharp. Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods, like potato peels or celery, down the disposal to prevent clogs. You should also schedule annual garbage disposal maintenance, which will involve a professional plumber cleaning and inspecting the unit thoroughly.

For help maintaining your garbage disposal, call on the Plumbing Doctor, LLC. When working with the Plumbing Doctor, LLC, you will receive nothing short of excellent service. The goal is to keep your plumbing in top shape and make your home a safe place. We believe in fair pricing for even the most complicated jobs, and your customer satisfaction is our priority.

While tap water is ordinarily clear, it can sometimes have a rust color when coming out of your faucet. Understandably, this can cause you to feel concerned, as you wonder about the safety of consuming such water. There are several reasons why your water can look rusty and understanding them will help you pinpoint and solve the problem.

Natural Minerals and Sediments

One reason your tap water may appear rusty is the presence of natural minerals and sediments in the water supply. Over time, minerals like iron and manganese can build up in the pipes. This is especially true in areas where there is older infrastructure.

Corrosion in Pipes

Another common cause of rusty-looking tap water is corrosion in the pipes. When metal pipes corrode, they release rust particles into the water. These particles give the water a brownish or reddish hue. Corrosion can occur due to age, low pH levels or exposure to chemicals.

Disturbances in Water Mains

Sometimes, disturbances in water mains can also lead to rusty-colored tap water. Construction work, repairs or sudden changes in water flow can stir up sediments in the pipes, and this can cause temporary discoloration.

Seasonal Changes

In some cases, seasonal changes can affect water quality. During periods of heavy rainfall or significant amounts of melting ice and snow, runoff can carry soil and sediment into reservoirs and water treatment plants. This can lead  to your water appearing discolored.

Water Treatment Processes

While water treatment plants work to remove impurities from tap water, certain treatment processes can cause discoloration. For example, the addition of chlorine or other disinfectants can react with organic matter in the water, and this will result in rusty or brown-colored water.

Old Plumbing Fixtures

If your home has old plumbing fixtures or pipes made of galvanized iron, they may contribute to this discoloration. As these fixtures degrade over time, they can release rust particles into the water. This is  especially true if they haven’t been properly maintained.

Steps to Address Rusty Tap Water

If you notice that your water has a rusty appearance, there are steps you can take to address the issue. Let the water run for a few minutes to flush out any sediment or rust particles. If the problem persists, consider installing a water filtration system or contacting  a professional plumber for assistance.

While rusty tap water may be unappealing, it is often not harmful to consume. However, if you have concerns about water quality or persistent discoloration, it is essential to take steps to address the issue. The first step is to call Plumbing Doctor, LLC. We serve clients in Somerset, NJ and the surrounding areas, and we look forward to helping you address your plumbing issues to make your water clear again.