Tag: repairs:

When Does the Garbage Disposal Need Repairs?

Three Signs That Warrant Garbage Disposal Replacement or Repair 

Garbage disposals are ideal for keeping the plumbing system in good shape in many homes. By grinding up waste and carrying it away from the home, homeowners rarely worry about clogs causing problems. But, like everything else, garbage disposals don't last forever. Once they hit the 10-year mark, problems can become inevitable. 

Some signs that a garbage disposal may need repairs or replacement include: 

Strange Noises (or None at All) 

noisesGarage disposals generally make grinding sounds while turned on. However, these sounds could point to a problem that requires professional attention: 

  • Rattling. A loose component could make a rattling sound, threatening to fall off. A utensil stuck in the drain could also be the culprit. 
  • Humming. If the garbage disposal makes a humming noise (but doesn't turn on), this could mean that the motor is on, but the impellers aren't spinning. 
  • Screeching. The motor or its bearings might be worn out. 

If a homeowner turns on the garbage disposal and doesn't hear anything, this could mean there's a problem with the power supply. Sometimes, this may require an electrician's assistance to get to the problem's root. 

The Device Stops Working Efficiently 

Ideally, a garbage disposal should chop up waste, then lead it into the plumbing system. If the garbage disposal stops working properly, this could lead to clogs and other headaches. Many times, if the disposal turns on and the blades spin, the blades themselves may need sharpening or replacing. 

A homeowner may also benefit from a professional's assistance if they constantly have to press the reset button to get things working again. They might have to do this if: 

  • The garbage disposal gets easily overwhelmed
  • The garbage disposal turns off suddenly
  • Waste needs help getting further down the drain

When a plumber evaluates a garbage disposal, they look at many things, including the power supply, motor, and blades. They may also ask the homeowner questions about how long and often they've had the device. The information they find can help them diagnose and fix an issue. 

Foul Odors 

smellsHomeowners may notice foul odors from the kitchen sink when a garbage disposal needs repairs. Garbage disposal smells can indicate many things, including: 

  • A clogged garbage disposal. When food or waste doesn't entirely go down the drain, the waste may decompose, causing a stink. 
  • Backup. Hopefully, the sewer isn't backing up into the kitchen sink. Yet, if the garbage disposal hasn't worked efficiently, this could be a problem. 
  • Mold growth. Mold can grow on top of decomposing food. This creates more than a smell; the mold can spread to other parts of the house, causing respiratory complications. 

Watching how-to guides and YouTube videos only takes a homeowner so far. When in doubt about a problem with the garbage disposal, they should call a professional plumbing service. 

About Affordable Plumbing, Heating & Air 

Affording Plumbing, Heating & Air promises three things. First, homeowners can expect well-groomed, professional plumbers at each appointment—or they don't pay anything. Next, they waive overtime fees and promise guaranteed satisfaction. For more information about their plumbing services, residents of Fairhope, Alabama, can call now.

Distribution Links +

Trenchless Pipe Repairs: A Guide for Homeowners

Understanding the Modern Plumbing Method of Trenchless Repair

When there is a serious problem with a large pipe, like a main drainage or supply pipe, a person will think of plumbers using excavators to dig a trench to access the problem pipe. While this is an effective method that plumbing professionals still use, it can destroy a lawn and may even end up causing structural damage to the home. Tried and true methods of pipe repair that are minimally invasive may be a cost-effective and efficient solution to a home’s plumbing problems.

Methods for Trenchless Pipe Repairpipe

While trenchless pipe replacement is not as well known as its more traditional counterpart, the method has been around for over 50 years and is incredibly effective. There are several ways of repairing pipes without digging up a yard or putting holes in walls or floors. Listed below are the main types of trenchless repair:
  • Slip Lining: This form of pipe replacement has been used effectively since the 1940s and involves sliding a pipe of a slightly smaller diameter into the larger damaged pipe.
  • Pipe Bursting: This is similar to slip lining, forcing a new pipe into the same space the old one occupied. It breaks the old pipe and cannot be used in cases of collapsed pipe.
  • Spray Lining: Professionals using this method thoroughly clean the pipe to be repaired with hydro-jetting and then spray it with a practically indestructible coating, plugging leaks and creating a smooth surface for excellent water flow.
  • CIPP: Cured-In-Place Pipe is a repair method in which a flexible material such as felt is impregnated with epoxy, put in place, and allowed to cure or harden, thus creating a replacement pipe.

What Pipes or Problems are Eligible for Trenchless Repair?

Unfortunately, one cannot use trenchless sewer line repair in every circumstance. Traditional methods will need to be employed if a pipe is fully broken or collapsed. One can fix many plumbing issues with one of the previously-mentioned noninvasive methods. Here are some of the pipe issues that one can repair with trenchless methods:

  • Corroded pipes
  • Cracked pipes
  • Punctured pipes
  • Misaligned pipes

The material of these pipes can vary widely, and one can use trenchless repair on most types of pipe, including cast iron and clay.

savingWhy Homeowners Should Consider Trenchless Repair

Trenchless repair can be more cost-effective than traditional methods (often saving hundreds of dollars), but it is usually completed more quickly and with far less destruction. The collateral damage from traditional methods can be more expensive to repair than the cost of the plumbing fix. A sewer line replacement, for example, might take a week using traditional methods but may only take 24 to 48 hours using trenchless sewer line replacement. The materials used in trenchless methods are also not subject to corrosion and can last more than fifty years without needing any maintenance. 

About Affordable Plumbing, Heating & Air

For more than 20 years, Affordable Plumbing, Heating & Air has provided Fairhope, AL and the surrounding areas with 24-hour service every day of the week. They strive to educate their customers to help them make the best decisions for their homes. Call today to experience their white glove clean up and upfront pricing on plumbing repair.

Distribution Links +