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 Leaky pipes, corroded fitting or outdated fixtures may not be visible during a casual walkthrough, but they can cause major headaches later.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.

If you’re going to remodel a bathroom in your home, you should upgrade your plumbing as well. Here are five reasons why this is a job that you should not fail.

More Options

A bathroom remodel is all about change. If you choose to leave your plumbing the way it is, you might run into problems that could bring your plans to a halt. However, if you have a plumber on your team, new opportunities will arise, and you can be more flexible with your blueprints. For example, you could place a tub in a new location or move your sink to a different spot that has better lighting.

Opportunities to Save Money

Not only can one plumbing mistake cause clogs, pipe damage, or leaks, but it can also lead to a high utility bill. When a plumbing system is updated or upgraded during a bathroom remodel by a plumber, he will take the lead. If any problems arise, the plumber will handle it.

Fewer Risks

During a bathroom remodel, there should never be any guesswork. If there is any uncertainty, you could accidently misalign a pipe and trigger a slow leak.

With help from a plumber, you can prevent disasters. A professional knows how to work around existing plumbing and how to incorporate new pipes correct way.

Energy Perks

Newer products are far more efficient than older, outdated products. This means that if you replace an old water heater with a new one that’s Energy Star certified, it can significantly decrease your utility bill. However, in order to take full advantage of an energy-efficient appliance, you’ll have to set it up correctly, and this is why it pays to hire a plumber.

Resale Value

If you plan to sell your home in the future, new plumbing can be very beneficial. When potential buyers scout new homes, they should consider the state of its plumbing system. An inspector will likely check for leaks, the condition of the water heater and pipes, the water pressure, and the main sewer line. Faulty plumbing can be a deal breaker because it can lead to bigger issues for new owners later on.

The Path to New Plumbing

Don’t let a plumbing problem derail your bathroom remodel. If you need a plumber for any reason, contact the Plumbing Doctor at www.plumbingdoctornj.com.

Many do not realize the dangers of putting oil down the drain. Although you may not develop an immediate clog, fats can line your pipes over time and cause significant blockages. Fats mix with hair and soap and form formidable clogs that are impossible to remove without professional intervention. By avoiding sending grease down your drains, you could save hundreds of dollars and many headaches. Learning to avoid putting grease down the drain can help you prevent clogs and keep your plumbing lines running smoothly and effectively. We can help you determine the cause of clogs and prevent them.

Oil Causes Damage to Your Plumbing

The number one cause of sewer drain clogs is FOG (fats, oils, and grease). Not only can putting oil down the drain negatively impact your plumbing system, but it can also cause harm to your neighbors and the environment. When you send oil down the drain, it mixes with wastewater from your neighbors and the community. As it travels through the pipes, it breaks into glycerol and fatty acids and mixes with calcium. The soapy consistency of these blobs makes them challenging to remove because they can grow to enormous sizes.

Fatbergs, as the city calls them, cost thousands of dollars to remove and prevent the city from carrying out proper water treatment tasks. Preventative measures are critical for protecting everyone’s water supply.

Protect Against Oil Clogs

While it is impossible to avoid all grease, there are alternatives to sending oil down the drain. We recommend the following to our customers to help them keep their drains running smoothly:

• Absorb excess oil with a paper towel before washing greasy pots, pans, and dishes.
• Pour oil into a tin can and freeze it before disposing of it.
• Save cooking oil in a metal-lidded tin for reuse.

Taking these initiatives can protect your home’s plumbing system and those of your neighbors and community. Think before you put anything down the drain, as it can cause clogs that become expensive to remove. 

Seek a Professional Plumber

Plumbing Doctor, LLC is committed to helping you protect your plumbing system against nasty clogs that could risk your family and home. Do your part to protect your plumbing and neighbors by implementing the above tips. Call us for regular maintenance to clean your pipes of any residue that could lead to clogs. 

We have over 20 years of experience and will be there to handle the toughest clogs. Call us today to schedule your appointment right away. 

If you can’t file a homeowner’s insurance claim for plumbing repairs, what is it good for? It helps to understand what homeowner’s insurance is meant to do versus what you are expected to do as a homeowner. Then you can file claims when you need help most and plumbing issues actually apply.

Homeowner’s Insurance Is for Emergencies

Homeowner’s insurance exists for emergency purposes only. If it didn’t, homeowners would be filing claims every single time something needed to be fixed. Insurance companies would go bankrupt trying to keep up with all those repair claims. Instead, your insurance is for the purpose of fixing something that was damaged out of your control and was quite unexpected. An example would be pipes bursting in extreme cold. That would be a valid claim for insurance to pay out if your insurance company sold you a policy that covers such an issue.

Everything Else Isn’t Covered

Some insurance companies offer coverage for backed-up sewer drains and clogged sewer pipes, but that isn’t every company. Standard repairs like a clogged toilet, a faucet that won’t turn on, or a shower that doesn’t seem to have any water pressure or water coming out of the shower head is not something covered by insurance. Those are your typical out-of-pocket costs of owning and maintaining your home. 

Attempts to File Claims for Things Not Covered Could Be Disastrous

Attempting to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance for plumbing repairs not covered by insurance could be disastrous. The insurance agent may not even take your claim or acknowledge it. Worst case scenario, you have insurance that will be revoked for improper use of claims filing. Then you would not be covered for anything really serious that happens during your lapse of coverage on your home. Stick to filing claims that your insurance policy specifically covers and nothing else.

Since the drainage system is mainly out of sight, most homeowners forget their drains until something goes wrong. Although a professional plumber can quickly and effectively remedy most drain problems, calling in plumbing professionals repeatedly can be a hassle. At Plumbing Doctor, LLC, we know the inconveniences and damage a severely clogged drain can cause, so we’re here to help you avoid these situations. In this article, we’ll share five handy drain maintenance tips to help you keep your drains working effectively year-round.

Watch What Goes Down the Drain

Your drains and sewer pipes are built to handle human waste and water. Flushing items like sanitary napkins, paper towels, diapers, feminine hygiene products, food particles, grease, hair, and other items can cause major clogs in your plumbing.

Install Drain Guards

Drain guards help prevent hair, soap scum, food particles, and other debris from getting into your drains. They come in different types and sizes and are readily available in local hardware stores. If you are unsure which one to pick, our plumbing professionals can help. You should always clean them when they come filled with debris to maintain proper water flow.

Avoid Chemical Cleaners 

When dealing with a slow-flowing drain, you can become tempted to pour chemical cleaners to dislodge the obstruction and restore normal water flow. However, these products have harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes and present health risks to your family. Instead, use natural ingredients, such as vinegar and baking soda, to clear your drains.

Use the Right Plunger

When you encounter a blocked drain, the first thing that crosses your mind is to use a plunger to dislodge the clog. Although effective and safe, it will only work if you have the right plunger.

A cup plunger works effectively on flat surfaces like bathtubs and sinks. It forms a vacuum seal over the drain and pulls the water and debris from the inside. In contrast, a flange plunger features an extension at the end to fit nicely into toilet drains, making it easy to create the needed suction to remove a clog. If plunging doesn’t do the trick, you may need a more thorough approach, like professional hydrojetting or drain snaking.

Invest in Professional Drain Cleaning Services

For massive clogs, it’s best to enlist professional drain cleaning services. Removing the clog can worsen the situation, particularly if you don’t have the proper training and tools. Meanwhile, a professional can do the job right and ensure the problem will not recur anytime soon, saving you money and time. 

Taking care of your drains is crucial for keeping your plumbing in pristine condition. By following these five tips, you can avoid serious problems and emergencies.

Your piping system is one of the most crucial components of your plumbing system. It provides convenient access to clean water throughout your house, from the garage to the kitchen and bathroom. Also, this system helps ensure that wastewater from your household drains properly. Although pipes can last for years, they wear out over time, needing a replacement. And since most of the pipes in your home are out of sight, it can be challenging to know when you need to replace them. In this blog, we’ll explore four common signs that indicate your property needs repiping. 

Frequent Pipe Leaks 

A single isolated pipe leak isn’t a cause for concern. However, if you keep experiencing recurring plumbing leaks, that’s a sign that pipe repair isn’t the best option. Over time, the walls of pipes gradually and steadily thin as water flows through them. Minerals in your water, pipe material, and other factors can speed up this process. When the pipe walls become thin and weak, they can form tiny leaks or breaks that can result in water damage to your floors, walls, ceilings, or under sinks. If you’re experiencing persistent leaks, it’s time to consider repiping services from Plumbing Doctor, LLC. 

Noisy Pipes

Once you turn on your water, you should only hear the sound of the water as it moves through the pipes. But if you hear strange gurgling, squealing, shrieking, or knocking sounds, your pipes could have a problem. Although you may overlook this problem, failure to address it can result in pipe bursts and structural damage down the road. Whole-house repiping will help eliminate unusual sounds and prolong the life of your plumbing. 

Reduced Water Pressure 

Reduced water pressure throughout your home is another sign of a problem with your pipes. As your pipes age, especially if you use hard water, they may suffer from corrosion or sediment buildup that narrows the pipe’s interior walls, restricting water flow. If your water pressure has reduced over time, it might be time to repipe your home. 

Visible Pipe Corrosion

Since many pipes in your home are located beneath floors, behind walls, or under the home’s foundation, it can be hard to spot wear and tear and other problems. If some areas in your home have exposed pipes, like the basement, look out for signs of corrosion, like flaking, discoloration, bumps, or stains on the pipes. If you notice these signs on the exposed pipes, the hidden ones have probably suffered the same damage. Pipe replacement will go a long way toward preventing costly water damage and emergency repairs. 

Whole-house repiping can help guarantee the safety and health of your family. If you notice these signs, pipe replacement could be the ideal solution. Since repiping is a complex task, it’s essential to seek help from a reputable plumbing company. At Plumbing Doctor, LLC, we have everything it takes to get the job done quickly and professionally.

Water plays a crucial role in your day-to-day life, and the type of water you use affects your household and plumbing systems profoundly. Not all water is the same everywhere, and hard water is prevalent in some regions. Most homes have hard water due to calcium and magnesium ions in their water supply. While these minerals may not be bad for your health, they are bad for your plumbing. You know it’s hard water when it’s difficult to lather with your soap and rinse it off your hair and skin. As time passes, the accumulation of minerals in pipes can lead to various plumbing problems.

Clogged Drains and Pipes

Magnesium and Calcium from hard water go beyond your drain screen as each time the water passes through the drain, the minerals attach to the sides of the pipe. As you use the drain, more minerals attach to the deposits and eventually clog the drain. Just like how plaque can damage veins and arteries, scale from the amassing of the minerals in the faucets damages your plumbing system.

Reduced Efficiency and Lifespan of Heaters

Hard water has a detrimental effect on your water heater. The heater’s performance decreases, and it struggles to heat efficiently as a result of the minerals gathering on the heating elements. With the heater working twice as hard, there is increased energy use and reduced lifespan. According to the US Department of Energy, water heaters that use hard water lose about half of their efficiency after some time.

Leaks and Broken Pipes From Corrosion

The minerals in hard water contain destructive properties to particular metals used for plumbing in older homes. As the minerals slowly eat through the pipe, a small opening inside grows larger, resulting in a leak. If the corrosive section of the pipe remains unrepaired and the hard water deposits are still there, sections of your plumbing may disintegrate. Additionally, as the mineral deposits prevent water from flowing smoothly, the water gets pushed through the plumbing at the same volume and pressure, and the pipes break. You may then need to replace a large portion of your plumbing system.

Water softeners and descalers are the main solutions to address the issue of hard water in your home and need to be installed by a professional plumber. At Plumbing Doctor, we resolve all your plumbing issues exceeding expectations. Please don’t leave your plumbing issues unattended for long. Contact us and leave your plumbing problems in our highly trained hands.

How Can I Avoid a Plumbing Emergency?

A plumbing emergency can cost you your peace of mind, substantial repair expenses, and property damage. That is why our team at Plumbing Doctor recommends getting professional assistance on how to avoid them. Most plumbing issues usually develop over time. Therefore, when you fix them in their early stages, you can prevent a significant disaster. Simple things like checking what goes down the toilet and sinks and repairing leaks can significantly improve your plumbing experience. However, avoiding DIY activities that risk damaging your fixtures and pipes is essential. Leave the professional work to the trained plumbers for better results. Here is a piece that can help you know what you can do to prevent plumbing emergencies. 

1. Repair Leaks On Time

Leaks usually happen when a fixture or pipe develops a crack and allows water to escape. In most cases, it may begin with a few drops a minute, depending on the amount of water passing in the line. However, the flow rate increases over time, causing you to lose gallons of water a year. When you do not call for repairs early enough, the gap may widen, leading to a pipe burst that requires a more expensive repair session. 

2. Mind What You Flush

It is important to only flush human waste and sizeable chunks of tissue paper down the toilet. Avoid using the toilet to dispose of dirty water, female sanitary towels, hair, pieces of soap, and other huge solids. These items do not quickly disintegrate in water and may block the drains or sewer line, causing sewage backup. 

3. Invest in Drain Sieves

You can also prevent clogging by investing in drain sieves. These mesh-like items prevent solids from going down the drain by trapping them at the drain entrance. You can use them in the showers, bathtubs, and sinks, and remember always to remove the solids after the water drains. 

4. Schedule Regular Maintenance Checks

Our plumbing team recommends annual maintenance checks for your entire plumbing network. In these appointments, we check for leaks, aging, loose fittings, and other issues affecting your fixtures and lines. Adhering to regular assessments can prevent significant problems from developing since we will arrest the issues early enough. 

5. Avoid Harsh Drain Cleaning Chemicals

Our Plumbing Doctor team highly discourages the use of drain cleaning chemicals since they damage your lines. They cause the pipes to corrode, thus making them susceptible to cracks and pipe bursts. 

It is crucial to work with our plumbing team to help you know what best suits your plumbing system. Our plumbers give credible advice, and we always show up on time whenever you have a plumbing issue.