The Best Way to Plunge a Toilet

Are you dealing with a clogged toilet in Northridge, CA ? This plumbing problem is one that most people have to deal with at some point. Before calling a plumber for toilet unblocker services, watch this video to learn the best way to plunge a toilet.

Bell or cup style plungers are used to unclog sink and shower drains. Flange style plungers are designed for use on clogged toilets. Plumbers recommend blocking off other drains in the vicinity before you begin plunging, such as shower and sink drains. By preventing the air from escaping through these drains, you’ll gain more plunging power.

Causes of a Clogged Toilet

Poorly functioning toilets can be frustrating and messy. If you’re frequently dealing with a clogged toilet in Northridge, CA, there are several potential causes. How the toilet is used, its mechanics, and your drain line can each play a role in regular clogs.

A common cause of blocked toilets treated by plumbers is flushing the wrong materials. Flushed hair, floss, paper towels, plastic, and diapers can all cause your toilet to clog. In other cases, people try to flush more than a toilet is designed to handle. Older low flow toilets often clog when too much material is flushed at once.

Another cause of clogs seen by plumbers is a clogged drain line. When buildup or objects accumulate in the pipe, a clog can choke the water supply. If a clog affects the line to the septic or sewage system, it can prevent your toilet from flushing properly. Finally, make sure that your toilet is getting enough water. If the water supply line isn’t fully open, your toilet may not be filling correctly.

Clogged Toilet

The Technology of Pipe Repair

If you have a water leak near Northridge, CA, and that leak is coming from one of your underground pipes, you might qualify to receive trenchless sewer repair. This revolutionary pipe lining technology is cutting the cost—and the time—of lengthy and pricey pipe repairs.

If your piping is cracked or degrading, your plumber might recommend one of two types of trenchless repair methods. The first method, pipe lining, uses an epoxy to line and essentially transform your old pipes into new pipes. After digging one hole, the plumber will insert a balloon of sorts into the pipe and feed epoxy resin along the damaged pipe. This coats the pipe, and the plumber waits for it to cure—typically 2-6 hours—and you have an almost brand new pipe.

The second method, pipe bursting, requires two holes. A new pipe is fed through the old one, causing the old one to fracture. Pipe bursting may not be a feasible option for every pipe. Talk to your plumbing and heating company about the best option for your pipes.

 Pipe Repair

How to Fix a Galvanized Pipe

Fix Galvanized Pipe Although there was a time in America when galvanized pipes were used extensively in home plumbing systems, they are rarely (if ever) used in newer homes. Part of the problem with galvanized pipes is the fact that they have the tendency to react with minerals contained in the water, which develops scale buildup that can lower water pressure, cause clogged drains, and even affect the water quality in your home. Galvanized pipes can also corrode from the inside out over time, which means cracks and potentially costly water leaks. Although your best option is to have your Northridge plumber repipe your galvanized plumbing system, there might be scenarios in which you simply need to fix a small area of piping. In that case, here are some tips for fixing a galvanized pipe that has become damaged or busted.

Turn Off Water Supply
First, make sure you turn off your home’s water supply. The last thing you want to do is unscrew a fitting or cut off a piece of damaged pipe only to deal with a sudden rush of water inside your home. If you aren’t sure where the water shut-off valve is located, take a minute to find out so you know how to turn off your water supply in the event of a plumbing emergency.

Estimate Condition of Nearby Pipes
Before you proceed with repairs, estimate the condition of the galvanized pipe near the damaged section you are working on. If it appears that other areas of the pipe may soon develop a leak, or if corrosion is very bad, consider getting an estimate on replacement piping services instead. In some cases you might be able to save a lot of money in the long run by replacing galvanized plumbing now instead of paying for multiple plumbing repairs down the line.

Replace the Damaged Section
If you only need to replace a small section of pipe, carefully cut the damaged section out on both sides using a reciprocal saw. Next, screw a female PEX or PVC fitting on both ends. Finally, install the carefully measured piece of PEX or PVC plumbing into the fittings and brush a waterproof sealer on the fittings to prevent leaking.