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So, that brings us to the question, “What are the worst things to put down a garbage disposal?”. The garbage disposal can easily become a trash can of sorts, so it is no wonder things are tossed in it without any regard to the damage it can cause. The answer is these 5 things you should never put in your garbage disposal are as follows, and surprising peelings isn’t on this list: 

Fats and Grease 

Never drain the butter, fat, grease,  vegetable oil, or any meat trimmings in your garbage disposal. These will create problems from the bottom to the top, starting with the blades. As you keep adding these things, the become solid and other food items start sticking to them. The disposal blades become less effective and the drain gets clogged.  

Animal Bones

Garbage disposal blades are powerful, but if anything can wear them down, it is animal bones. Finished with that fried chicken or BBQ ribs? Put the bones in the actual trash, not the garbage disposal. 

Stringy Foods

Brussel sprouts, celery, string cheese, or any kind of stringy foods do not belong in a garbage disposal. The strings will get wrapped around the garbage disposal base under the blades, wearing the motor out because it can’t spin as it should. 

Pits and Seeds

Oh yeah, that yummy guacamole, or the cherry pie, peach cobbler, and other fruit or vegie dish everyone loves all have pits or seeds. Keep those pits and seeds out of the garbage disposal! Use your strainer and put them in the trash. They will simply bounce around inside the garbage disposal, never going anywhere, just wearing the blades out. 

 Coffee and Tea Grounds

Coffee and tea grounds are a big no-no, which surprises most people. While these may look like a powdery substance, when the get wet, they stick to the sides of the garbage disposal and over time, the drain gets clogged, making the garbage disposal can become sludgy acting. 

Can you plunge a garbage disposal?

Yes you can with a few special steps. Because a garbage disposal handles a lot of food particles, we sometimes have problems with the garbage disposal and sink not draining occasionally. A typical sink plunger will work if the clog is located in the disposal drainpipe. However, a clog in the disposal unit itself needs to be cleared before you can  use the sink plunger. 

How do you unclog your garbage disposal?

Here we provide the steps you need to follow and keep from having to call plumber:

1. Not sure where the clog is? Turn on the garbage disposal and if it is humming but not turning, that is where the clog is located.
2. Turn the power off at the main breaker then get under the sink and using an Allen key wrench, stick it in the small opening on the bottom of the unit in the center. Turning it clockwise until it resist, then turn the other way until it resist. Keep going back and forth until the resistance stops. 
3. Plug the opposite drain with the drain stopper and run water in the disposal side until it is half-full.
4. With the sink plunger over the disposal drain,  push it down slowly and pull back up. Repeat this process until the water is moving down the disposal side. 
5. Now, remove the sink plunger and turn the power back on to the garbage disposal. Run water in the drain for a few minutes then turn the garbage disposal on and let any food waste get washed away.         

Never attempt to use a garbage disposal without water! The water is the lubricant that makes the garbage disposal operate smoothly. Water also washes whatever you grind down the drain. Call (310) 454-2010 today for your garbage disposal repair needs in West Los Angeles, CA.

Is a leaky faucet dangerous?

An unrepaired leaky faucet may not seem like it can cause much danger, but it can create major problems in addition to the cost to your water bill. A leaky faucet is often indicative of other problems, which we will discuss as this article progresses. 

Can a leaky faucet be repaired?

In most cases, like 99.99% of leaky faucets, repair is possible and a must.  As a homeowner, you can repair a with some basic tools, and video instructions available on YouTube. Some big box home improvement stores offer free classes for the types of home repairs too. If you aren’t a DIY homeowner, calling a plumber sooner than later is recommended when it comes to a leaky faucet. 

While it may seem to be a harmless leak right now, it is wasting water, a natural resource and an expensive luxury having it brought into your home. A two-fold issue that should be remedied as soon as it is noticed. 

What causes a leaky faucet?

• O-Ring ISSUES: O-rings are a common issue for a leaky faucet. This small rubber ring is found in the valve stem can be damaged over time and become loose. This will cause a leaky faucet just under the faucet handle and a simple fix is to replace the O-ring. If the leak faucet is around the base of the spout, you’ll need to replace two O-rings. However, if the faucet spout has pitted, common where there is hard water, new O-rings aren’t going to fix the leaky faucet and you’ll need to replace the entire faucet. 
• Valve Seat CORRODED: A leaky faucet can often be caused by a corroded valve seat. This is where the compression mechanism connects the valve and cartridge is seated against. If your faucet has brass internal parts, you may need replace the faucet. 
• Damaged or LOOSE WASHER: If you have a leaky faucet after turning the water off, this is usually caused by a damaged or loose seat washer, a common issue. These washers in newer faucets are usually a plastic valve cartridge that will need to be replaced occasionally. Some also have springs that should be replaced at the same time. 

Why does my faucet drip after I turn it off?

A faucet that continues to drip after it has been turned off is usually a faulty cartridge or stem. The mechanism is an in-line shut-off valve and if the rubber washers are worn, it allows the water to continuously run, aka leaky faucet. Replacing the rubber washers will usually fix this type of leaky faucet. 

If your faucet is the cartridge style or disc ball style, there are several metal and plastic parts that can deteriorate and wear out. Mineral deposits also accumulate around them so they can’t seal as intended by design.  You can use white vinegar to clean these parts will usually fix this leaky faucet problem. 

Your Water Bills: Utilities are high enough as it is and there aren’t too many of us that are fond of paying them. If you have just one leaky faucet, your water bill is increased by 10 percent each month. 

Environmental Damages:  The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) reports that the average household with a leaky faucet is wasting as much as 10,000 gallons of water in one year. That is almost 300 loads of laundry! 

Additional Damage to Your Home: A leaky faucet is putting stress on the plumbing and if you have a clogged drain, the backup and overflow can cause even more damage. 

Need help with a leaky faucet in West Los Angeles, CA? Call (310) 454-2010 today!

To clear a drain with cola, you’ll need at least a two-liter bottle of the drink. It needs to be at room temperature before you pour it down the drain. Once it’s reached room temperature, you pour it down the drain and let it fizz for about an hour so the phosphoric acid does its job. Colas are also good for removing lime scale. Make sure to rinse your drains well to get rid of the syrupy residue after the clog is removed. If you have stubborn clogs or your drains are damaged and need expert drain repair and clog removal in West Los Angeles, CA, you can always count on the team at Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc.. Get help today by calling (310) 454-2010.

How do you unclog drains?

Drains can get clogged in a variety of ways from hair to grease to mineral build-up in your pipes. Clog removal can be a task you can perform yourself or you can let professionals like those at Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc. help you. When you do unclog a drain yourself, it’s best not to use off-the-shelf chemical drain cleaners. Repeated use will damage your pipes. It’s preferable to try the following methods:

• Boiling water often works on simple clogs. Just heat water to boiling and pour it down the drain after removing as much standing water as you can. Pour salt down the drain beforehand for extra help. Rinse with hot water after the clog is cleared. 
• For kitchen sinks, check your garbage disposal, as clogged disposal can sometimes cause water to back up in your sink. Run the disposal to see if you can clear the clog. Otherwise, you may need to have your disposal repaired or unclogged.
• Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar or baking soda and salt. When using vinegar, pour the mixture down the drain, and after it stops bubbling, wait 15 minutes and rinse with hot water. When using salt, you’ll have to wait a few hours to allow it to work before rinsing with boiling water.
• Plungers are very useful tools to have around for clog removal. To create a tight seal before plunging, fill the sink with enough water to cover the bell of the plunger. 
• Use a bent wire clothes hanger to remove hair and other debris from the pipe. 

How do I unclog a drain naturally?

When you have minor clogs, it’s better to use natural remedies for clog removal rather than harsh chemical cleaners that can damage your pipes. Baking soda and vinegar are two of the better natural ingredients for cleaning clogs. For most drains, you need a mixture of 1 cup baking soda and 1 cup vinegar. All you need to do is simply pour boiling water down the drain and then add the baking soda and vinegar. Let them bubble and fizz for about 15 minutes before rinsing the drain with more boiling water. Baking soda and salt also work to clear drains.

What is the best drain clog remover?

While baking soda, vinegar, and hot water are some of the best natural drain cleaners. But, they only work for minor clogs. Tougher clogs will require stronger materials. While it’s best not to use corrosive cleansers, there are stronger cleansers on the market today that will not harm your pipes. For clog removal using an off-the-shelf cleanser, look for an enzymatic cleanser like Bio Clean. If you want to avoid cleansers altogether, you might want to buy a manual plumber’s auger or snake. You still have to be careful not to damage your pipes using snake tools but snakes are the preferred tool plumbers use to remove clogs. With cleansers and tools follow all directions.  

Removing clog in sink

For clog removal in kitchen and bathroom sinks, probably one of the best tools to have around is a plunger. For best effect with a plunger, fill the sink with water until it covers the plunger’s bell. You’ll have to make vigorous strokes with the plunger until you hear the clog get suctioned from the drain.

What destroys hair in a drain?

In showers, tubs, and bathroom sinks, hair is often the main culprit that causes clogs. Hair is also tough to remove as it clumps with soap scum and other materials to create a clog. While the most effective way to remove hair from a drain is to snake it out with an auger, once again, for a natural way to dissolve hair, use baking soda and vinegar. Of course, chemical drain cleaners will work, but you still risk damaging your pipes. 

Clog removal washing machine

Clog removal for washers is similar to other clog cleaning methods. If the clog is deeper than the trap, you can clear it with baking soda and hot water or use an auger. Tougher clogs might require a high-pressure wash with a hydrojetting system. If it’s the trap that’s clogged, you will have to unseal the bottom of the trap to allow the water and dirt to drain out. 

Sewer clog remover

A sewer stoppage will typically require the help of a plumber. Clog removal often requires the line to be snaked but serious clogs or blockages like tree roots might require the plumber to use a hydrojetter which sends bursts of water at high pressure to break through the blockage. To find the clog, plumbers may have to send a camera down the line.

The first thing you want to do is check the circuit breaker. It may need to be reset or blown a fuse replaced. If it trips the breaker again or blows a fuse, you’ll need to call a professional electrician.

The next thing to check is the thermostat. If it is getting power but not cutting on to heat the water, replace it, or have a water heater repair service call to replace it. 

The last check is the heating element. If the water heater is getting power (first step) and the water isn’t getting hot, replace the element. Some water heaters, this step is easy. If you’re not comfortable with doing this, call a professional water heater repair service.

Do you call a plumber to fix a hot water heater?

Well, it can depend on the problem you’re having with your water heater as we described one issue above, the circuit breaker or fuse box that would need an electrician.  What about other issues though, do you call an electrician or a plumber, or maybe an HVAC tech.

The first call for water heater repair should be to a professional plumber. From there, they will determine if there is additional professional service needed. Some electrical and HVAC issue a plumber can handle, some issues require certification and licensing. 

A few specific issues when to call a plumber would be:

• Strange squealing, whistling noises coming from the water heater
• Rusty water 
• Low pressure for the hot water
• No hot water 
• Leaking water from water heater
• Gas pilot light keeps blowing out

A few example problems that require a professional electrician:

• Circuit breaker trips 
• Fuse keeps blowing or fuse box overheats
• Loose wiring 

What causes the reset button to trip on a water heater?

The reset switch is for your safety, although it can be aggravating. It usually trips because something isn’t working right with the water heater, and the water is getting too hot for user safety. Why is the water getting too hot is more the issue with the reset button. Here are a few issues of reset buttons: 

A water heater’s working is basic. The water in the tank is pressurized and fills and heats from the bottom. There are an upper heating element and thermostat and a lower heating element and thermostat. If the element or thermostat goes out on either one, it will flip the reset button. 

In addition to the elements or thermostat that trip the reset button, the following are issues that may flip the reset button, or you may need a water heater repair:

• A bad high-limit switch is bad.
• Loose wiring in either of the heating elements.
• One of the heating elements has short. 
• It could be how the water is wired, meaning the wiring in your house may be causing the reset button to flip.

What are the signs you need a new water heater?

Here are some indicating signs that water heater repair isn’t going to enough:

Water Heater Is Outdated

Find the serial number tag on your current water heater. With most manufacturers, the first two numbers on the serial number are the year the unit was manufactured. Or visit the manufacturer’s website or help in determining the age. If the unit is ten years old – time for a new, more efficient model. 

Water is Rusty 

If the hot water is coming out rusty, that indicates the inside of the tank is rusted.  If you don’t replace the unit soon, it will eventually spring a leak, not to mention, you’re bathing, cooking, and drinking that rusty water. 

Leaking Water Heater

The metal expands as it heats up, and if there is a slight fracture in the water heater tank, it can start leaking. A small leak will eventually become a bigger problem as it begins to damage the basement, garage, or utility closet where the water heater is installed. Before you decide to buy a new heater, you may be able to do water heater repair leak by checking all the fittings and make sure they are tight or need replacement. 

If your water heater isn’t providing enough hot water or doesn’t stay hot for a good shower, call a plumber that offers water heater repair service. It may be repairable; you may need to replace it. But a professional plumber can tell you, either way, do an internet search for “water heater repair in my area” and get quotes for service calls. Call (310) 454-2010 today for your water heater repair.

Why Did My Sprinklers Stop Working?

Are you wondering why your sprinklers stopped working? The answer may be quite simple. The first thing that you should do is go to one of the irrigation valves and turn the solenoid a quarter-inch to half an inch counter-clockwise. If the valve happens to open and the sprinklers turn on, then you will know that the valve is working. Subsequently, you will need to check the controller and the field wiring. If the valve did not turn off the sprinklers, then you will know that the water to the valves is off still.

How Long Do Sprinkler Heads Last?

If you are wondering how long your sprinkler heads will last, you may be pleasantly surprised by the answer. In general, the life expectancy of a sprinkler system is about twenty years. This is an average. If the components are taken separately, good quality sprinkler heads will last anywhere from between ten to fifteen years. Inexpensive sprinkler heads will only last about two or three years.

Is it Bad to Water Grass at Night?

If you are looking for the best time to water your lawn, you are in luck. Apparently, the best time to water your grass is in the early morning. Specifically, it is best to do so before ten o’clock a.m. The answer to why it is bad to water grass at night might surprise you. A lawn that is wet at night is conceivably the perfect condition for fungus to grow. A fungus is understandably a bad development for your lawn and for your household. Another thing that is bad for your yard is cutting the grass too short.

What is the Best Sprinkler System Brand?

Are you looking for the best sprinkler system brand? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Please review the following brands of sprinkler systems to find out more.

• Rain Bird. This brand was founded in 1933 and has been a respected sprinkler brand for many, many years. Rain Bird also provides products and services available in over one hundred and thirty countries.
• Hunter. This sprinkler system brand holds over two-hundred and fifty product patents and forty trademarks. The Hunter brand offers a diverse product line that includes spray sprinklers, central controllers, and weather sensors.
• NDS. This company began in 1972 when it designed and manufactured the first plastic catch basin. Afterward, NDS created lots of relevant products that appealed to consumers in both the residential and commercial markets.

How to Fix Lawn Sprinkler System

Are you looking to fix your lawn sprinkler system? If your sprinkler system is experiencing issues, it will be important for you to determine the cause and the right course of action. Is the problem is with a broken sprinkler head, you will need to carefully excavate the area. You will need to carefully remove the old sprinkler head. Next, you can replace it with a brand new sprinkler head that is suited to the system. After you have successfully installed the new sprinkler head, you can then test the system to see if it is functional. After you have tested it, you can then replace the grass that you have previously excavated.

How to Fix Lawn Sprinklers

You will need a series of tools and materials for a lawn sprinkler repair. It’s important for you to maneuver forward successfully, and thus you will need to know what you are getting into. If you are looking to replace just a few sprinkler heads, make sure to review your sprinklers and perform measurements. After purchasing your new sprinkler heads, which you can do on the internet or at a local hardware store, you will have some of the things that you need. You will also need a small shovel or a spade. The area around each of the sprinkler heads that you are looking to replace will need to be properly excavated. 

Next, the sprinkler head and riser will need to be removed. Inspect the riser for damage. It may need to be replaced. All damaged components will need to be replaced. Before you install a new riser, you will need to wrap the ends with plumber’s tape.

Lawn Sprinkler Repair

If you are looking to have a professional lawn sprinkler repair person come to your home to service your sprinklers, it will behoove you to find the right company or individual. There are a number of ways for you to locate a good lawn sprinkler repair company. The first thing that you can do is ask a friend or neighbor for a referral. The second thing that you can do is conduct an internet search with relevant search terms.

If you are in search of lawn sprinkler repair in West Los Angeles, CA, it’s important for you to find the best experts for the job. Our professional company is here to help. You can reach us at (310) 454-2010.

Does the gas company fix gas leaks?

With a leak you will need to call your gas company so they may shut it off immediately. If there is a source of the leak they will determine where it is, however any repairs that are necessary will have to be done by plumbers as they have the knowledge and materials to handle various types of gas line repair or other plumbing repairs.

Does homeowners insurance cover broken gas line?

A broken gas line repair job might be covered by your insurance depending on the type of situation that happened. If a contractor, for example, was working on the landscape and accidentally ruptured the gas line your homeowner insurance policy could repair this type of issue. The same may be said with a utility company making the rupture.

Who can cap off a gas line?

A gas safe registered individual who would hold a gas safe certificate would be required to handle capping a gas line. The pipeline would have to be checked that there isn’t any gas escaping around lines or appliances.

What does gas leak smell like in house?

Natural gas is essentially colorless and odorless which is why an additive like the harmless chemical mercaptan is added from gas companies to provide a distinctive odor. This will give off the smell of hydrogen sulfide or rotten eggs and this pungent smell is put in so that people are more aware that there is an abnormal situation occurring. 

Is a tiny gas leak dangerous?

Natural gas is toxic when inhaled and can in low amounts cause headaches and nausea. Higher amounts can be fatal with brain damage or even death. 

Can a gas leak in your house kill you?

A gas leak from natural gas can potentially harm and cause fatalities. There is also a potential for fires or an explosion depending on the issue.  

Is it safe to stay in a house with a gas leak?

It’s best to evacuate the premises of the property where a gas leak is taking place. It’s also essential that there aren’t any electronics in use when vacating or electrical connections turned off or on. Even a light switch or operating a cell phone can be enough to set off a spark in heavily gas leaked areas. In order to project yourself and others once you are safely away from the property contact 911 and then your gas company or plumber for gas line repair when you suspect a leak is present.

Is there a gas leak detector?

There are gas leak detectors that can determine natural gas and other types of gas levels that are abnormal in a given space. Natural gas detectors may be the better choice in comparison to carbon monoxide detectors as they will be able to trace varying types of gases instead of just one such as with propane and carbon monoxide.

Get into Contact With Your Local Plumbers & Gas Company

If you suspect there is an issue with your gas line make sure to contact your local plumber for gas line repair and your gas company to shut off any lines. You may be able to be guided upon an issue with either when you are unsure of what to do. Remember to be safely away from the property when there are high amounts of gas in the air. Your safety is important to maintain so only rely on certified and trained professionals to handle any alternations or repairs with your gas line. Get gas line repair handled as soon as possible.

For assistance with gas line repair in West Los Angeles, CA call (310) 454-2010 with Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc.!

Will a chipped bathtub leak?

It can depend on two factors:

1. Where is the chip located
2. How big and deep the chip is

A chip along the top edge of the bathtub won’t leak because it is not where water is held. A simple bathtub repair job for cosmetic purposes is all that is needed. You can purchase a kit at any local home improvement store and fix that yourself. However, along the sides and then in the bottom, yes, if deep enough, it can leak. While you can purchase a kit and supplies to do your own bathtub repair, you may need to consult with an expert, especially if a bathtub is a porcelain or enameled steel.

How do you reseal a bathtub?

This isn’t a difficult task, but resealing a bathtub is time-consuming. You want to do this when the bathtub won’t be needed for a day.  Following these steps will get your bathtub repair and resealed and looking good again: 

• Remove old silicone: Using a utility knife, create two cuts, one at the top and one at the bottom edge. Using a screwdriver, wedge it up the silicone and gently pull, then using a scraper, remove the bits and strips that are stuck to the bath and/or tiles.
• Use a mold remover or white spirit to clean the area, then allow it to dry for two to three hours. 
• Fill the bath to give it the heaviest weight or bathtub repair and reseal will pull loose again. Using masking tape along the wall, create a straight edge to place the seal along. Then using a caulking gun, spread the sealant along, following the straight edge you created and work around the gap slowly. 
• Next, with a wet finger, smear the sealant along the gap to smooth it out. Using a damp rag or paper towel remove any excess off your finger. Allow the sealant to partially dry then remove the masking tape when the sealant is slightly hardened, yet still pliable. Your bathtub repair and reseal is now complete!

How long after a sealing bath can I use it?

The curing times for sealant varies between brands and manufacturers. We always recommend it is always to read and follow the instructions. Sealants will often seem to be dry in just an hour or two, but the minimum recommended curing time is twenty-four hours.

When you need bathtub repair in West Los Angeles, CA, dial (310) 454-2010 to get started with our experts!

How does a plumbing system work?

A plumbing system involves freshwater supplies that come into the home on the main water line and the main sewer line takes waste out of the home. This can also involve a drain wast vent system that takes used water and waste to either septic tanks or sewers. The freshwater line will supplies water to sinks, bathtubs, washing machines, toilets, and other related water fixtures.

What do maintenance plumbers do?

Plumbing maintenance will generally involve performing plumbing work that involves installation, repair or related work concerning water, gas, and sewer lift stations, irrigation, water wells and more.

How often should you clean your plumbing pipes?

Plumbing pipes and plumbing maintenance can be just as essential as other types of preventative maintenance needed for a home. Every 18-22 months depending on circumstances is a good way to avoid any issues or undetected problems that can emerge as a major repair.

How do plumbers clean pipes?

Plumbers clean pipes by having hoses inserted deep within the drains with high-pressure water that blasts outs to clean the drain. This pressure hose is enough to wash away the contaminants along drainpipe walls and can help in that it’ll make it hard for debris to build up once more.

How do I descale my house pipes?

Your house pipes can be cleaned with several steps, first, fill a few pots of hot water for each drain that you need to clean. Then shot of the water to your home, then shut off the water heater. Next, you’ll empty the pipes by turning on the faucets and let the water run out. FLush your toilets and shut the faucet taps. You will then fill pipes with a drain cleaner but beware that certain ones hold chemicals that can corrode inner pipes. Natural cleansers make need several hours to sit. Bring the pots of water to a boil and pour them down the drains. Once this is down you may turn your water heater and water lines back on. Turn on your faucets full blast as the last step so the calcium deposits that were broken up can flow out.

How often should you check your plumbing?

Most professionals plumbers recommend that a plumbing system is checked every two years. This, of course, differs from plumbing maintenance which may or may not require more frequent checks depending on the area of the property.

How often should you clean out your sewer line?

A sewer line is just as important as other areas of the home and should also be cleaned every 18-22 months or as needed on circumstances.

How do you maintain a sewer system?

A sewer system can be maintained by limiting the amount of food that goes down the kitchen drain line. It’s important to not dispose of non-food items down kitchen drains. With toilets, one-ply works best to not clog them. Essentially toilets with high volume flush better yet flushing the whole plumbing system every now and then helps as well. Finally, make sure that any outside roots are growing and expanding away from pipelines.

What is a plumbing maintenance contract?

A plumbing contract involves a maintenance agreement with a plumbing service so you have a connection for plumbing emergencies or timely plumbing maintenance. These service contracts can involve annual fees, regular inspections and maintenance at least once a year with many other benefits depending on the company that you go with.

Contact A Professional Plumber

When you’re seeking services with plumbing maintenance get in touch with your local plumbing company. They will be able to set out a plan for your property that will best have plumbing operations working smoothly. It’s important to have plumbing maintenance every year at least so smaller issues can be dealt with seasonal changes before they expand to larger problems. Get in touch with your plumber today for more information about setting up a routine for plumbing maintenance today.

If you require assistance with plumbing maintenance in West Los Angeles, CA call (310) 454-2010 with Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc.!

Are Slab Leaks Common?

While slab leaks are not necessarily likely to occur, they are not uncommon enough to be written off should symptoms of a leak arise. Slab leaks are far more likely to appear in older homes; homes begin to settle as they age, leading to crimped piping, pipe shifts, and corrosion, all of which may contribute to the onset of an unexpected slab leak in the house.

Symptoms of a Slab Leak

Slab leaks are usually found following the onset of symptoms. These symptoms include:

• A drop in water pressure
• The sound of water running beneath the home’s floor
• The loss of water altogether
• Water on or around the perimeter of the home
• An increased water bill
• Damp spots inside of the home

Some slab leaks will exhibit all of the symptoms listed above, while others will be largely asymptomatic. Consequently, it is important to contact a plumber as soon as possible following any significant change in your home’s water pressure, your water bill, or your water quality, as all could signal the presence of a slab leak and the need for slab leak repair.

How Do You Find a Leak Under a Slab?

Once a symptom has arisen, a plumbing company can evaluate the home using a type of slab leak detector. Detection tools may include pipe scoping (if the leak is caused by internal corrosion), thermal imaging, or audio tools to find the source of the leak, which will dictate whether the leak can be repaired with epoxy, a single repair, or a complete re-piping of the home.

Other Leak Sources

There are some other leaks that may initially appear to be slab leaks but are actually derived from other sources. Some homes appear to have a slab leak when it rains if a home is not properly sealed and constructed. While it might initially appear to be a slab leak, this type of leak is not derived from a pipe, but is instead symptomatic of rain coming into the home. Rain could also pool around the foundation of the roof is faulty; water can run from a faulty roof down through the home’s walls, and begin puddling around the edges of your foundation. In this case, roof restoration may be necessary.

Leaks could also come from pipes within the home, such as those found in the kitchen, bathroom, and utility rooms. These leaks may mimic slab leaks but are usually faster and easier to repair, as they are more readily accessible.

Can a Slab Leak Cause Foundation Problems?

Slab leaks are problematic because they can cause foundation problems. Some of these problems may be minor if the leak itself is minor, but more severe consequences of slab leaks include a crumbling or cracking foundation, and the development of a wash-out or sinkhole beneath a home. When a leak occurs beneath the slab of the home, the home’s overall integrity and safety are compromised.

Although your insurance company might not cover the cost of repairing piping or your home’s foundation after a slab leak, damage to your property—including the items in your home, or your flooring—may still be covered. Speaking with your insurance company, and carefully poring over your insurance policy is the best course of action to determine whether or not you are able to make an insurance claim on the heels of a slab leak. Think you have a slab leak in West Los Angeles, CA? Call (310) 454-2010 today!

Garbage Disposal Repair or Replace

Should you repair or replace your disposal when it starts acting up? That’s a great question! The course of action you take will depend on whatever is going on with the disposal itself. If it seems to be clogging constantly or smells bad long after you’re done using it, you may just need a few repairs. However, if the disposal is failing to effectively grind up food, repairs may not cut it. Yes, you can easily Google how to do your own garbage disposal repairs, but without a licensed plumber, you may not get it right the first time around. So how much is garbage disposal repair? It will ultimately depend on who you go with, but most plumbers have base rates that can range between $100 and $300. Added on are usually labor costs, repair parts purchases, and more. While it can feel overwhelming having to pay so much for something, it can be a necessary purchase. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why is my disposal humming and not running?
  • More than likely, there is something jammed or lodged in the disposal. It will need to be removed to prevent further damage to the blades and components. If it’s still humming after removal, then it could be an electrical or motor issue that will need to be addressed by a plumber. 
• How much does it cost to repair a garbage disposal?
  • It will depend on who you rely on for repairs. Most plumbers usually charge a base fee of about $250 with additional labor and parts purchased fees. That will change the total amount, but homeowners on average pay between $250 and $300 for repairs. 
• Why would a garbage disposal not turn on?
  • Your disposal may not be turning on for a number of reasons. You can troubleshoot this by attempting a hard reset of the system. There is a reset button on every disposal that you can press when the system is turned off. It should correct any connection issues and help your disposal turn on. 
• How long should a garbage disposal last?
  • Most residential garbage disposals have a lifespan of about 15 years. That being said, if you are using yours pretty consistently and regularly, that life expectancy may drop a few years. On average, homeowners can get about 8-10 good years out of their disposal motors. 
• How do I know the garbage disposal is bad?
  • One of the more obvious signs of a failing garbage disposal is slower grind times. If you notice it’s taking longer for your disposal to grind up and remove foods from the drain, it may be failing. There are also signs of foul odors, regular clogs and more that could indicate a bad garbage disposal.