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Is a Slab Leak Dangerous?

cracks through a slab due to a leak

What is a Slab Leak?

A slab leak (or pipe leak) is a term used to describe a type of leak that occurs within or beneath the foundation of a home. Although not all slab leaks are highly dangerous, others can be extremely hazardous to your home. The precise size and duration of the leak will determine how dangerous the leak itself is, and how extensive repairs will need to be.

A slab leak in concrete can require repairing a pinhole with epoxy, busting some of the foundations apart in order to replace a broken pipe, or could mean completely re-piping a home. Finding a slab leak quickly is an important part of treating the problem, as even a pinhole-sized leak can grow and wreak havoc over time.

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.

greenish concrete slab with minor cracks and patches

Are Slab Leaks Covered by Home Insurance?

In some cases, slab leaks are covered by home insurance, while other causes of leaks will not qualify homes. First and foremost, review your own home insurance coverage; different companies offer different policies, and no two companies cover the exact same client needs.

Most home insurance companies will cover a slab leak if it is due to factors outside of the homeowner’s control, such as a fire, damage caused by weather, or structural damage to the home. If, however, a slab leak occurs as a result of negligence, faulty building habits, age, or interference incurred by a tree root or other vegetation source, insurance companies are highly unlikely to cover the cost of repairs.

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!

How Do I Know My Garbage Disposal is Bad?

garbage disposal repair clearing drain

Addressing and Dealing With Your Plumbing

Like many other homeowners, your garbage disposal is an essential feature of your kitchen. It helps you keep things cleaner. It’s a feature that you love and when something goes wrong, it can feel like a major inconvenience to live without. Well, you don’t have to anymore. When you need any kind of garbage disposal repair in West Los Angeles, CA, look no further than Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc.. Call us today at (310) 454-2010 to schedule an appointment. 

under sink garbage disposal repair

Signs of a Bad Garbage Disposal

While it can be easy to know when you need central heating repair, it can be difficult to know when it’s time for garbage disposal repairs. Homeowners either use their disposal constantly or on rare occasions, but there doesn’t really seem to be an in-between. Because of that, we’ve compiled a few signs to look for to determine if you need repairs or not. 

  • Smells and Odors: Most disposals are going to smell or at least have a distinct smell. That can easily be dealt with, but if you are starting to notice very foul odors that linger long after you’ve done using the system, something is wrong. Likely, food is lodged and stuck down in the drain, unable to be ground up by the blades. 
  • Leaks: Not all leaks are associated with a faulty disposal, but the ones that are needed to be addressed as soon as possible. A plumber may need to reseal inner parts or do other jobs such as faucet and fixture repair. Whatever needs to be done, leaking disposals can lead to other major problems which is why they need to be dealt with quickly. 
  • Jams and Clogs: When you find your disposal constantly clogging or becoming jammed, a number of things could be wrong. The motor may need to be replaced as it could be losing power too quickly. Or the blades may need to be replaced because they could be dull.
  • Noises: All disposal make noise when they are running, but there are good sounds and bad sounds. When you start to notice grinding, whining, or squealing sounds, something is wrong. These sounds could be the result of clogs, damaged blades and more. 
  • No Longer Working: Something is definitely wrong when your disposal just won’t turn on. You can check that it’s still receiving power by hitting the reset button. If nothing happens even after that, you will want to contact a plumber for assistance. 

Whether your garbage disposal is jammed or just suffering from dull blades, you need a  professional plumber to take care of things. For that, rely on Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc.. We can help with a number of plumbing services, including repairing a residential garbage disposal. Give us a call today for more information. 

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.
working on garbage disposal repair

Schedule an Appointment With Us Today

Dial (310) 454-2010 to set up an appointment for garbage disposal repair in West Los Angeles, CA. Let a Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc. start helping you today! 

How Big of a Tankless Hot Water Heater Do I Need?

A Tankless Water Heater.

How big of a tankless hot water heater do I need?

If you’ve decided to install a tankless water heater in your home, one of the most important things to consider is the unit’s size. If the water heater is too small or too large, it can affect output and efficiency. The size of your household will also affect the size needed. In general, when installing a tankless system, you’ll need more space for a gas unit than you will for an electric one. Gas units are usually larger than electric ones, and will also need more space for ventilation, but tend to produce more and are ideal for larger households of more than two people.

The primary thing you’ll need to know when determining  the size of your unit is how much hot water you use. This is measured in gallons of hot water used per minute, or GPM. For the most part, the greater the GPM the larger unit you’ll need. Professional plumbers like those at Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc. can help you determine the right size for your tankless unit. If you have a tankless system in place already that’s malfunctioning, give us a call at (310) 454-2010 for tankless water heater repair in West Los Angeles, CA.

Can tankless water heater be installed outside

When you install a tankless water heater, you’ll choose between a gas or electric unit. You’ll also choose between a unit that can be installed inside or one that needs to be installed outside. While many people choose to install their units inside, outdoor units do have their advantages, especially if you’re installing a gas system. Gas systems require ventilation and more space than electric, and are easier to install outside for this reason. 

Outdoor tankless heaters are often easier to install because they can be placed just about anywhere, as long connections are available for plumbing, electricity and gas. Of course, one disadvantage of outdoor installation is that the system will have to be weatherproofed so it can handle extreme hot and cold temperatures. Additionally, you may have to follow outdoor building codes to install the heater. Check local ordinances to see what’s required to install an outdoor unit.

Is a tankless water heater worth it?

For the most part tankless water heaters are considered a good long-term investment. While they do cost more initially to install, they will save you space and money in the long run. A gas-fired unit, for instance, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, will save you as much as $108 a year in energy costs, while an electric unit will save you about $44 per year.

These units also take up less space than traditional tank systems. You’ll also discover the tankless system will have a longer warranty than traditional systems. It’s standard to get a 15-year warranty on your tankless system.

What is the downside of a tankless water heater?

While tankless water heaters have many advantages such as producing hot water on demand and taking up minimal space, they do have some disadvantages. One of the primary disadvantages is high upfront costs for the unit itself and for installation. Tankless systems can cost three times more than tank units. You may also notice it can take longer for the system to deliver hot water, though much of that will depend on where the system installed. The closer to appliances, the better. Additionally, you may notice inconsistent temperatures when multiple taps or appliances are in use.

Which is better hot water heater or tankless?

Making the choice between a tankless water heater and a standard storage tank water heater will primarily depend on your needs. If you regularly use several appliances or taps at the same time, a standard storage tank water heater may be the best choice for you. A standard water heater is also generally better if you have a larger household, although you could supplement it with a tankless system. The big advantages of tankless systems are the long-term savings you’ll experience, and the space you’ll save. Tankless systems are also generally more durable than standard systems, and, as noted, often get longer warranties. Also, while the hot water delivery may take a little more time, running out of hot water is rare.

Do tankless water heaters run out of hot water?

Technically, no, tankless water heaters never run out of hot water, because the water isn’t stored in a tank. Instead, the water gets heated by a heating element, either gas- or electric-fired, when the hot water taps are turned on. However, running several taps or appliances at the same time can overwhelm the tankless system, and cause it to drain more power than normal. This problem can be alleviated by installing more than one tankless system.

Running out of hot water is usually a temporary problem with water heaters, but on a cold day, if your central heating system isn’t working, you can’t just wait a few minutes or hours for it to heat up. Normally, you’ll need some kind of central heating repair to get it started again.

Tankless water heater and hard water

While tankless water heaters can’t technically run out of hot water, the system’s ability to produce hot water can be affected by the level of minerals in the water. Depending on where you live, you may have a problem with high concentrations of minerals in your water supply. Water with heavy minerals in it is known as hard water and can affect all of your plumbing system, including your water heater. 

Over time the mineral build-up or limescale will affect components in your tankless system. Usually this occurs in the heat exchanger, wherein the scaling causes the heat exchanger to work harder to heat the water. In time this will cause the heat exchanger to overheat, and this often causes the system to shut down and need repairs. Water softeners and filters can prevent this build-up from affecting your system.

Which tankless water heater is the best

There are several tankless water heater systems on the market today. Several consistently get good reviews. Some of the best are noted below.

  • Rheem RTEX 13 Electric Tankless Water Heater
  • Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 kW
  • Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra Series
  • Atmor AT-d18TP-AZ
  • Ecosmart ECO 27
  • Rheem RTGH-95 DVLN Direct Vent Tankless Water Heater
  • Eccotemp FVI-12-LP Propane Tankless Water Heater
A Shower Spraying Hot Water

Tankless water heater repair near me

Whether you need repair, replacement or installation services, count on Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc. for all your tankless water heater needs in West Los Angeles, CA. You can find out more by giving us a call at (310) 454-2010.

Bathroom Remodel: What to do First

bathroom remodeling

Your Dream Bathroom Awaits!

A bathroom remodel and style update will do wonders for your home! Other than the kitchen, this room is one of the most used rooms in your house. It is used every day, all day, and to have the style updated so that it is adapted to fit the needs of your household today can increase the value as well as make it flow better for your needs and use.

With a bathroom remodel on a budget, you need to get the most you can. So, you don’t need to waste money, space, or time on any bathroom remodel ideas that won’t fit your household. Before you begin, the first step is to look at the different bathroom remodel and design ideas and the make it so that it is the best fit for your budget, needs, and most of all, space.

How can I remodel my bathroom for cheap?

When you have a budget that must be maintained for a bathroom model project, the first thing you should do is create a bathroom remodel to-do list. Break it down by the things you need, the things you want, and the extras you’d like to have if budget, space, and time allow. Here we offer some suggestions on getting the most from the tightest bathroom remodel budget:

Limit the Tile

Tile gets expensive, especially if you’re going to hire a contractor to install it. If you want tile for the artistic beauty it adds, use it on areas that will make a high impact, like only on the floor or have one strip going across the wall horizontally with matching paint(s) above and below.  Or purchase a few tiles that have an artistic touch and scatter them throughout the bathroom.

The Countertop and Vanity

Granite is still a popular trend today, and because it never looks old and is a durable material, we understand that popularity. But when you’re doing a bathroom remodel on a budget, a granite countertop will be a huge splurge. In the world of bathroom remodeling though, it is a small investment that will give you beauty, longevity, and value-add.

So, how and where can you get the most from this splurge for your bathroom remodel project? The color of the granite you choose should be neutral, but consider steering away from the browns, light beige, and tan. Those are the most popular, hence, the most expensive. There is a wide swath of colors within those groups that will give you that same look for less money.

Granite is a natural material and slabs will always have imperfections. Choose a countertop that has visible the imperfections you can work with and it will be the cheaper of all the others. Remember the faucet and sink will be taking up much of the counter space, so those imperfections may not be as visible.

Another budget saver for a bathroom remodel is using old dressers for the vanity. Just cut the appropriate size hole in the top for the sink and faucet, remove any drawers and cut to fit around the plumbing and you have a vanity for cheap that would cost you hundreds, even thousands of dollars to buy.

The Paint

The cheapest bathroom remodel thing you can do is repaint. It is an inexpensive and effective way to get that fresh, new look for your bathroom. It also can take some time, so plan accordingly. In addition to choosing good, high-quality paint and buying plenty of is, make sure you stock up on painter’s tape too!

Keep in mind that the bathroom has a high moisture content where mildew and mold develop and grow. Choose a satin finish paint and don’t forget to paint the ceiling! There are paints made for bathrooms that are resistant to mildew and mold. They are more expensive but well worth it.

And don’t forget to freshen up the caulk and gout. Too many people overlook this detail and it makes a world of difference in how clean, fresh and new your bathroom will look when freshened up. This is an inexpensive part of to a bathroom remodel job too!  

Fixture Updates

Cabinet and drawer handle, light fixtures, sink, and tub faucets, towel racks, and even toilet paper holder are the little details that can cost big. But the big difference that will make for your bathroom remodel is so important. Find what you like at the local big box store then surf the internet for them, or something close, and you may find them for a lot cheaper.

Redo or Buy Used

Replacing the shower or tub is not going to be cheap, so get quotes on having them professionally relined. From the shower to the sink, even the toilet or tub, consider buying used to save money on your bathroom remodel. Even the doors and mirrors can be bought used from online sites, Goodwill, or Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Upcycling is a major trend today and can be a money saver.

Upgrade with Green

No, we don’t mean go green with your color scheme, unless that’s your decision, but we’re talking about environmentally. If you’re going to buy a new toilet, get the low-flow style and choose faucets and showerheads that are designed to conserve water. They may be more expensive to buy, but the saving you’ll make over the lifetime of your bathroom remodel will pay off.

And when you buy used materials and repurpose them as we’ve mentioned here, you’re keeping stuff out of the landfills which is better for the environment. Look online how to turn an empty mason jar into a liquid hand soap dispenser! And using old, vintage cans for your brushes, combs, toothbrushes, and toothpaste will give your bathroom remodel that finishing touch.

How do you redo a small bathroom?

In every home, the bathroom is valuable space, and when it is a small bathroom, it is even more valuable. Many homeowners that want to redo a small bathroom remodel job quickly find out that it isn’t necessarily cheaper than a larger bathroom model job. Why? Because you need the same elements and functions – you just have less space to get it all in.

Here we offer 10 tips for designing the best bathroom remodel ever for a small space:

  • A corner sink is a space saver for small bathroom remodels.
  • Shower curtain or sliding shower door instead of hinge pivoting door.
  • A rounded corner vanity is safer, less bruised hips or banged heads if there are kids in the house. And a trough-style sink is low profile and wall-mounted faucet will give you more floor space. 
  • Counter extended over the toilet will give you more counter space.
  • Go with large patterns and wide stripes to make your small bathroom remodel look bigger.
  • A mirrored wall will provide the much-needed mirror and make the bathroom look larger too.
  • Use the door for mounting a towel bar saves space and is easy to reach from the sink or shower/tub.
  • An open shelf vanity will give you more space whereas doors that swing open take up space.

Can you put hardwood in a bathroom?

You can, but with caution, and if your considering carpeting or hardwood flooring for your bathroom remodel, hardwood is the better choice for sure! There are problems in choosing hardwood for a bathroom though, such as moisture kills. Because the bathroom is a humid room, moisture will keep the hardwood. So, choose an engineered hardwood if your bathroom is spacious and well-ventilated and has light traffic.

The faux hardwood is an excellent choice for bathroom remodels. They are almost indistinguishable from actual wood, will match the rest of your home and choosing a wood-like ceramic or tile is an excellent alternative.

Another great choice for a bathroom and is thinking outside the box of bathroom remodel jobs is using treated decking wood. This is material that is treated to survive moisture and outside elements – what could be any better for a bathroom?!

Do plumbers install bathtubs?

If your bathroom remodel job will include either replacing the existing tub or installing a new tub, it is going to be a labor of intensity, patience, and time. So, if none of those things are in your DIY wheelhouse, then, spend the money on hiring a professional.

An experienced professional carpenter, contractor, or plumber will have the experience and knowledge on how to fit the tub through the door, level it, and install the plumbing, including your heartfelt, well-chosen faucet and/or showerhead.

New Vanity

Should I remodel before selling?

There is no doubt that bathrooms and kitchens are what make a house a home. But if you’re planning on selling your home in the near future, you want to get the most ROI out of it, and spending a lot of money and time focused on the bathroom remodel may not get you what you expect, need, and want when it sells.

A bathroom remodel will increase the value but stay with a minor renovation like a new countertop and new faucets. A fresh coat of paint applied correctly and neatly, aka, use painter’s tape, will give that overall fresh look that buyers want.

Budget the patience and stress along with the finances for your bathroom remodel job! If this is the only bathroom, plan for alternate ways to use the toilet and bathing. Consider it outdoor camping! Maybe consider making room in the budget for one night in a hotel during the process where you live in a civilized manner with creature comforts. And make sure you start with an abundance of patience – you’re going to need them! Call (310) 454-2010 today for bathroom remodeling services in West Los Angeles, CA.

What Does a Plumbing Inspection Involve?

Sewer Drain Opening Used for Plumbing Inspection Camera

Reliable Plumbing Services You Need

There is never a time when a homeowner wants to be without flowing water. More than that, no one wants to suddenly find water or waste where it does not belong. While there are several signs to look for ahead of time, most homeowners may not pay attention to their plumbing until it’s too late. One service that can help before or after a major plumbing issue is actually a camera inspection. For that, you can rely on Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc.. Contact us today at (310) 454-2010 to help with a plumbing inspection camera in West Los Angeles, CA.

Plumber Putting Together Plumbing Inspection Camera Rod

Plumbing Inspection Camera Services

The plumbing in your home is often complex. There can be several lines running through your home and yard that bring and remove water or waste. If there are problems occurring with the plumbing, it will rarely be local to one area. In fact, several areas of your home may start to show signs of plumbing damage which can make it difficult to know where the problem actually originated. For that, it is best to contact expert plumbers for inspection, just like you would contact expert technicians for an AC installation

Those expert plumbers can actually utilize a camera inspection of plumbing in your home to determine where and what the problem actually is. This method is becoming more and more popular because it does allow for more accuracy and precision. Before plumbers had to guess, still with quite a bit of accuracy mind you, and start digging to see if their solution would work or not. Now with camera technology, there is very little room or reason for guesswork. Plumbers can see the problem and offer an accurate and precise solution.

Benefits of a Camera Inspection

When it comes to your residential plumbing, the last thing you want is to play a guessing game. Up until a few years ago, though, that’s pretty much how things were done. Plumbers would listen to the problems, do as thorough of a surface inspection as they could, and then guess what the problem is and try to see if they could fix it with that solution. This resulted in torn-up yards and more. Today, we have technology like plumbing cameras that can allow plumbers to accurately find problems and provide accurate solutions.

  1. Speed: One of the best advantages of a plumbing camera inspection is the instant gratification. Rather than the old wait-and-see method of diagnosing a plumbing problem, cameras allow plumbers to efficiently find the problem and recommend an accurate solution that same day.
  2. Accuracy: As mentioned, this method lends itself to accuracy. Instead of digging up your lawn or tearing up your walls, a camera inspection can find leaks and breaks quickly. More than that, it means that plumbers can provide much more accurate solutions without causing further damage.
  3. Reference: A great benefit that is often undersold is the fact that you will now have a reference video on hand. This is very good if you are filing an insurance claim and want evidence of the damage. 
  4. Preventative: Even if things seem okay if one area of your plumbing seems off, an inspection can help you find the problem. preventative plumbing maintenance can actually avoid major or catastrophic issues from occurring. 
  5. Money-Saving: Believe it or not, investing in inspections and maintenance can actually save you money in the long run. You already pay a lot in water and energy bills. When there is a leak, those costs can go way up. Rather than wait for that to happen, paying a few hundred dollars for an inspection can ultimately save you a lot in the long run. 

There are many options for camera inspections that also include a plumbing camera with locator. That locator allows plumbers to determine exactly where problems are, especially if they are far away from the drain.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much is a plumbing camera inspection?
    • The cost will depend on how long the pipes are that are needed to be inspected. For residential pipes, it could cost between $100 and $800, but the general average is actually around $250 and $500.
  • How do I know if my plumbing is bad?
    • There are several signs to look for, such as bad smells, low water pressure, slow-moving drains, and more. Really just pay attention to areas that maybe don’t seem to operate as efficiently as they once did. That could be an indication of something wrong.
  • What is a sewer camera inspection?
    • This is a process where a plumber feeds a line with an HD camera on one end through your residential plumbing. On the other end of the line is an HD receiver which can show, in detail, any clogs, damages, and more.
  • How do sewer cameras work?
    • Sewer cameras are just high definition cameras on long, extended cables. Plumbers use them to get clear and reliable images of the interior of pipes without having to excavate. 
  • How much does it cost for a plumber to use a camera?
    • The overall cost will be dependent on how much of your plumbing needs to be inspected. Larger areas are going to cost more, possibly between $100 and $800 in total. However, the typical average most homeowners are known to pay is between $250 and $500.
Plumbing Inspection Camera Rolled Up

Contact Us Today for More Information or to Make An Appointment

When something goes wrong with your plumbing, you need to know there is a reliable team of professionals you can call on. For that, look no further than Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc.. We provide all kinds of plumbing services, including a plumbing inspection camera in West Los Angeles, CA. Call (310) 454-2010 to get started today.

What’s Good for Cleaning Drains?

Several Liquid Drain Cleaners Are Available But Lye is the Most Effective.

What is the best chemical to unclog drains?

While you want to take care when using chemicals to unclog drains, there are some good drain cleaners on the market today. One of the best chemical cleaners to use will have lye, or sodium hydroxide, in it. Many cleaners have lye in them or you can get pure lye that will effectively wash away built up residue and other material clogging the pipes.

When you are clearing clogs with chemical cleaners use them as directed. Also note, some of the harsh chemicals can over time corrode your pipes and cause leaks. For the toughest clogs, make sure to call a drain cleaning service. Plumbers that offer a drain cleaning service like hydro-jetting or augering will effectively clear your drains without damaging your pipes.

When you need a professional drain cleaning service in West Los Angeles, CA, you can always trust our team for effective service. So, when you need help with your drains give us a call at (310) 454-2010.   

How do I stop my drains from clogging?

Soap scum, hair, grease and coffee grounds are the four main things that cause clogs. There are several ways in which you can prevent clogging the drains in your kitchen and bathroom.

Instead of dumping coffee grounds down your kitchen sink, you should dump them in the trash or save them and add them to your garden mulch. Grease easily and clogs sinks, so pour your grease in a coffee can or milk carton and then throw it in the trash. In your bathroom, you can minimize the amount of hair and soap scum going down the drain by adding a screen or drain-grate that you can buy at a plumbing supply store.

Each time you use the kitchen sink, run hot water through it to rinse away oils in food that over time begin to build up inside the pipes, eventually making the drains sluggish or leading to clogs. You can also rinse the drain with a combination of hot water and baking soda, which serves as a great cleaner.

You can also use vinegar as a cleaner by pouring 1 cup down the drain and letting it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing it with hot water. The vinegar clears away organic matter. A concoction of vinegar, baking soda and salt can also be poured down the drain and chased with boiling water.

If all else fails, you can enlist the help of a drain cleaning service like Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc..

In the same way you want to keep your drains cleaned, you want to keep the air clean in your home. You can do this with an air filtration system. There are Orange, CA air filtration services you will find reliable.

Why does my main drain keep clogging?

Soap scum and hair, along with dirt and skin flakes will often clog drains. A drain screen will help prevent clogs. To prevent toilet clogs make sure not to flush feminine hygiene products, cotton swabs, dental floss and wet wipes.

How can I naturally clear my drains?

Several natural remedies exist for unclogging drains that you can use without having to call a drain cleaning service. Combinations of about ½ cup each of baking soda, vinegar and salt often work really well. Usually all you need to do is to pour the mixture down the drain, let it sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing the sink with hot water. You may have to rinse several times with the hot water to clear the clog. You can also use a mixture of about 2 liters of boiling water and 2 tablespoons of liquid to clear a drain. While it may take several tries, this mixture is very effective against grease clogs.

It’s not necessary to have special tools to clear clogs. Some clogs you may be able to reach with a wire hanger. Use the hooked end to fish out food particles or hair in the drain. A basic rubber plunger is also effective. All you need to do is fill the sink about halfway warm water and then begin to plunge until the drain is clear.

Can Drano make a clog worse?

Yes, Drano and similar commercial clog removers can make the clog worse. It can actually cause the material, especially hair, to congeal and solidify. Or the cleanser may loosen the material enough that it gets sent further down the pipes until it causes another clog, which will require a drain cleaning service to remove. Here are some other reasons not choose Drano:

Reasons not to choose Drano:

  • Chemicals Harmful to Toilets: While it will clear a clog, the Drano or other chemical will remain in the toilet for some time and get absorbed into the porcelain, which can lead to cracks.
  • Corrodes Pipes: With extended use Drano or other cleaners can cause pipes to corrode. Plastic pipes are especially susceptible to corrosion.
  • Quick Fix: Drano can be used as a quick fix for a single clog, but if you are seeing clogs in the same place, that’s probably a sign of a bigger problem.

Drain cleaning at home

As mentioned, there are several ways you can clear a clog at home, including using mixtures of salt, vinegar and baking soda rinsed with hot water. Tools like wire hangers and plungers also work really well. While home remedies may work on small clogs, if the clog is severe, a drain cleaning service like Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc. can effectively clear even the most stubborn of drains. Give us a call at (310) 454-2010 if you have a serious clog that needs to be cleared.

Drain cleaning with water pressure

At  Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc., we clear drains with jets of high pressure water. The technique is known as hydro-jetting. These high pressure water systems generally require professional training of a drain cleaning service to use. Hydro-jetting is one of the most thorough ways you can clean your pipes and keep them clear of clogs.

A Plunger is an Effective Tool For Unclogging Drains, Especially in the Kitchen.

Drain cleaning and kitchen

Your kitchen sink can get clogged with a variety of materials from food particles to grease. In many cases a mixture of hot water, vinegar and baking soda can clear a clog. A plunger is also an effective tool for a kitchen sink clog.

Drain cleaning brush

There are several drain cleaning brushes on the market that you can use to keep your drains clean. These brushes are usually made of a flexible wire material with bristles that can be used to pull hair out and scrape away residue that causes clogs.

When you have serious clogs and need a drain cleaning service in West Los Angeles, CA, we have the right tools like hydro-jetting to help you. Give us a call today at (310) 454-2010 to schedule a service.

How Can You Tell if Your Water is Safe to Drink?

Water quality affects our health and well-being.

Water quality is important

Whether we’re drinking it, cooking with it, bathing in it or washing our clothes or dishes in it, clean water is essential for our health and well-being.  This is why water quality is essential to our lives.

How water quality affects health

Poor water quality can be detrimental to your health. Various bacteria and other organisms such as algae can cause stomach and intestinal illnesses, rashes, liver illnesses or even cause neurological issues. Chemicals like nitrates found in pesticides can cause serious illness or even death in children. Heavy metals like lead and mercury can be toxic in high concentrations and other chemical can affect development or even cause cancer. At the same time, good water quality will affect health positively. Besides being used for drinking, cooking and cleaning, high quality water may contain higher concentrations of minerals like calcium and magnesium that we need for optimum health and nutrition.

While there are national standards that regulate water quality, you can also improve water quality in your home with a water purification system. Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc. provides high-quality water filtration systems in West Los Angeles, CA.

Water quality can also be improved when you improve the air quality in your home. To improve air quality in your home, you can have it tested.

Why do people test the quality of water?

Health and safety are the primary reasons people test water quality. Even if it appears clear, your water could have contaminants in it like coliform bacteria in it that can make you sick. Water can also have unsafe levels of chemicals like nitrates found in pesticides or metals like lead which can lead to illness.

Water quality criteria

The areas below have specific criteria that have to be met for water quality:

  • Drinking water
  • Recreational water
  • Farming and irrigation
  • Fish production and aquatic life
  • Agricultural and industrial processes

How do you test the quality of your water?

You can test your water quality with a home water quality test kit. Make sure the test kit has test strips for bacteria, lead, pesticides, nitrites and nitrates, chlorine and pH. Each strip will have directions on how to use it and read the results. With most kits, you dip the individual strips in a glass of room-temperature water and hold it in for a set amount of time. The strips will change color depending upon what’s in the water and at what levels an element is present. Hazardous results should be retested to confirm and the follow-up results should be reported to the agency that handles water quality in your city.

Some tests can be done by smell, taste and sight. Particular odors like a rotten-egg, musty or bleach smell may indicate contaminants and poor water quality. Similarly, foul-tasting water may have contaminants. If it tastes really terrible, spit it out. Water with low pH or high concentrations of minerals may have a metallic taste to it, whereas a salty taste may indicate chlorides or sulfates possibly caused by industrial wastes or irrigation drainage. Report foul tasting water to your city or to the Environmental Protection Agency.

If your water appears cloudy or has visible particles in it, you may have poor water quality. Brown or red particles could be rust from pipes, while black particles may come from hoses. White or tan particles usually indicates high amounts of calcium carbonate or magnesium carbonate. Brown, murky discolored water could indicate pollution, rusty pipes or a new water source. Any problems should be reported to proper authorities.

You can also check with your city, which must provide an annual water quality report. The report should be online and available from the city. Water companies can also provide you with the information. You can also get reports from the National Drinking Water Database.

County health departments or state-certified labs can test water quality.

Where can I get my water tested for free?

County health departments or a state certified laboratory may be able to help you test your water. Most tests will be for bacteria like coliform and for nitrates. To find an agency that tests water call the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791 or visit www.epa.gov/safewater/labs.

What are the factors to check the quality of water?

Water quality is determined by the presence or absence of a variety of factors. Among the factors that affect water quality are sedimentation and runoff, dissolved oxygen and pH, as well as temperature. Your water can also be affected by decayed organic material, pesticides, toxic or hazardous substances, oil, grease and other chemicals, as well as detergents and litter.

What is a good water quality?

Good water quality will mean the water you drink, bathe and wash your clothes and dishes in will be free of contaminants such as chlorine, fluoride and metals like mercury and lead, as well as free of harmful bacteria. Good water will have essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium needed for health, and have balanced pH so it won’t be too acidic or have too many alkalines.

Water quality and treatment

For good quality water, the water must be treated and tested for safety. With public systems within cities the water must be made potable or safe to drink, as well as palatable or pleasant to taste. Treatment facilities are tasked with the responsibility of making the water safe for consumption.

Those using private sources like wells are responsible for making sure their water is clean for their consumption.

Both public and private water supplies should be tested regularly to make sure the water quality is at an optimum.

Call today for water purification

Want to improve water quality in your home? Try a water filtration system installation in West Los Angeles, CA from Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc.. Call us today at (310) 454-2010.

What Do You Do When Your Toilet Won’t Stop Running?

Tools on Top of a Running Toilet

Running Toilet Repair is Much Easier Than You’d Think! Find Out How it’s Done.

What’s more irritating than a leak in your home? Whether faulty attic insulation allows extra heat into your home, or a busted dishwasher drips water onto the kitchen floor, the frustration feels the same. So is the need for a reliable, immediate fix.

Today, we’ll be talking about one of the most common frustrations in residential plumbing: a leaking toilet. Perhaps you’ve heard your toilet running randomly in the night. You may have even felt the effects on your water bill. Before you call the toilet repair plumber, let’s figure out what you can do to stop the running water!

Why Do I Hear Water Running in My Toilet?

When a toilet runs amuck, nine times out of ten the problem lies within the tank. There are two primary portions of your toilet tank that you’ll need to investigate: the fill valve and the flapper. The good news is any problems here can be fixed easily, without breaking the bank.

First Steps

How to Repair a Toilet That Keeps Running

If you need to shutoff the water immediately (to prevent the bowl from overflowing), you can always turn off the valve located beneath the toilet tank. However, you’ll need to understand the cause of the running water to understand how to fix it. To fix the problem in the back of the tank, you’ll either have to replace the flapper, adjust the fill valve, or replace the fill valve.

We’ll get into the details in just a little while.

Potential Options

Choosing Your Best Option

Many homeowners experience a running toilet at some point in their lifetime. While the porcelain around your toilet is made to last, the parts inside won’t always do the same. However, replacing the toilet altogether is rarely the practical (or cost-effective answer).

Toilet Repair vs Replacement

  • Repairs – you can fix the problem within a couple hours.
  • Repairs – costs are typically kept under $100, unless you hire a professional.
  • Repairs – you don’t have to go through removing and disposing the toilet.
  • Replacement – the toilet must be disconnected, disposed.
  • Replacement – piping may need to be adjusted to fit your new toilet.
  • Replacement – you have to purchase a new toilet and have it installed.
  • Replacement – you won’t have to deal with fixing a running toilet, for awhile.

Considering the ease of repairs and the amount of money you could save, fixing the toilet is typically the best option. However, if you are already looking to remodel, you could save a little money by skipping repairs and shutting off supply valve.

Troubleshooting the Water Problem

Bursts

Why Does My Toilet Randomly Run for a Few Seconds?

There is likely a problem with the flapper, which allows water into the toilet bowl. A damaged or debris-blocked flapper slowly allows water to seep into the bowl, until the water level reaches a threshold. The float arm or buoy drops in response to the lower water level and briefly activates the fill valve. Thus water rushes in to refill the loss for just a few seconds.

How do you fix a toilet that runs randomly?

First, confirm that the flapper is truly the problem. Examine the chain that lifts the flapper and make sure the tension isn’t too strong. This can cause the flapper to pull up when nobody’s using the toilet. There should be a little (and just a little) slack on the chain. You can make adjustments if necessary.

If pressing down on the flapper itself with a gloved hand or a tool stops the drip, you’v confirmed a deformity the problem is indeed the flapper. Shut off the water supply, drain the tank and replace the damaged part. You can bring it with you to the local store to ensure you get a matching replacement.

Constant Running

Why is My Toilet Running All the Time?

This is a costly problem that’s actually very easy to fix! If the water in the tank continues to climb until it spills into the overflow pipe, that means there is probably an issue with the water height setting. In rare cases however, the fill valve becomes too damaged to function properly and needs to be replaced.

How do I get my toilet to stop running?

To adjust the water level, you need to fix the settings on the float arm or buoy. On modern valves with the float buoy, you’ll typically find a screw on top of the arm connecting the buoy to the valve cap. On systems with a float arm, you’ll find the adjustment screw near the cap.

Should the whole fill valve require replacement, turn off the supply valve and empty out the tank. Family Handyman has a helpful video that shows you exactly how to do this! Be sure to take precautions to avoid spills when you remove the fill valve.

Schedule Your Toilet Repair!

That’s basic toilet repair for a running toilet! If you run into more complicated problems, or you have difficulties with completing the repairs yourself, our residential plumbing team at Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc. would love to help. Simply give us a call at (310) 454-2010 and schedule your appointment!

How Do I Winterize My Water Heater?

A Picture of a Man Doing Water Heater Maintenance

Winterizing Water Heaters Keeps Them in Good Condition for the Winter Months.

With the winter months approaching, it is always a good idea to winterize the various systems and components in your home. Furnace maintenance is a great way to ensure your heating system is ready for the winter months, and the same can be said for water heaters. While the weather doesn’t get particularly cold in West Los Angeles, CA, it’s still a good practice to winterize water heaters. Performing this type of task can actually save you a lot of stress down the road, as water heaters that haven’t been winterized can have a lot of problems. This is because when it gets cold out, water heaters will expand and contract, which can lead to these type of damages

  • The system could leak.
  • The leaks from the water heater can cause water damage to other parts of your home.
  • The water heater could crack.

The reason that water heaters expand and contracts are because the metal is getting cold, not because the water heater itself has frozen. A lot of people do ask, “Can hot water heater freeze?” and the answer is no. If you were to turn on the faucet and no water comes out, the water heater isn’t the issue, it’s the pipes that the water runs through. The reason water heaters don’t freeze is that the burner or elements are constantly heating the water, so there is no risk in water heaters ever freezing. But because water heaters can crack and leak, it is still a good idea to winterize it. There are a couple of steps you can take in order to do this.

  • Turn Off Water Supply: Before you do anything, you will want to turn off the water supply leading to the water heater.
  • Turn Off Gas or Electrical Power Off: Unplug the water heater if its electric and then turn off the gas by turning off the gas supply line using the valve.
  • Drain the Water: Once the water supply and power is off, you will need to drain all of the water out of the water heater.
  • Remove Connections: The next thing you will want to do is remove the connections or pipes from the water heater.
  • Reverse Order: When all of the water has been drained from the water heater, you will need to attach the connections or pipes back to the water heater, turn the gas or electrical power back on, and then turn the water supply on.

Doing these things is going to decrease the chance of waking up during the holiday season to cold water. No one wants to only have cold water to bathe or wash clothes, especially when a lot of places are closed on weekends and during the holidays. Winterizing water heaters is a sure way to protect homeowners who want their water heaters to be in the very best condition during the winter months.

How Do You Maintain a Hot Water Heater?

A Picture of a Man Performing Maintenance On a Water Heater

Good Maintenance for Water Heaters is a Good Practice to Implement.

Winterizing water heaters might not be something you think needs to be done, but it is important to keep water heaters in good condition in order to extend its life. Because of this, many people ask, “How do I make my water heater last longer?” There are a couple of things that can be done in order to extend the lifespan of water heaters. The first thing that should be done is flushing water heaters. How often should you flush a hot water heater? It is recommended that water heaters are flushed every single year. A lot of people ask, “Is it good to drain your hot water heater?” and it is definitely good because it will increase the life of water heaters.

The second thing that can be done for water heaters is to see if the anode rod is corroded. The purpose of the anode rod is to make sure that the inside of the tank doesn’t rust. Checking this every year will ensure that water heaters don’t have to be replaced entirely. The third thing you can do is insulate water heaters. This question is always asked: Do new hot water heaters need blankets? and it is good because well-insulated water heaters can increase your energy efficiency. Lastly, you can make sure that water heaters have a good temperature. Setting the temperature on both gas and electric water heaters can ensure that the hot water that is being produced will actually stay hot for longer periods of time. While these are great ways to keep water heaters lasting a lot longer, is also good for another few reasons. Below are things that can happen when water heaters have a lack of maintenance.

  • When water heater not heating
  • When water heaters have inconsistent heat
  • When water heater makes noise
  • When water heater leaks
  • When the water heater is producing smelly water
  • When the water heater is producing water that tastes metallic like
  • When the water heater is producing brownish, reddish water

Making sure your water is maintained can prevent these things from happening, when can lead to repair service. If are good on maintenance but you are looking tankless water heater installation in West Los Angeles, CA, please call Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc. at (310) 454-2010!

When is The Best Time For a Remodel?

New Remodeled Kitchen

Let Us Help You Plump Your New Kitchen.

There really isn’t ever a bad time for a remodel to be done on your home. If you want to make a change in your home, we say go for it! However, if you are ready to make some changes, big or small, there are a few good reasons to do so. One of them is if you are wanting to sell your home at top dollar price, you may want to make appropriate changes to reflect whatever price point you are having. Another good reason is if you’ve lived in your home for a while and no amount of decor is making you happy. This is usually a good sign that you need a major change. Think about changing your sink out to a farmhouse style or gutting your bathroom to add a bigger shower or bathtub. We offer remodel service that will help you along the way. Before you start busting down walls and ripping out toilets, you may want to take a peek at your roof to make sure you don’t need a residential roof repair before you get started.

What Can You Remodel?

Bathroom – Bathrooms are a great place to start. Though a bathroom remodel can be a major undertaking, it can really change the look of a room and clean up and old space.

Living Room – This is usually when a wall separates the living room from another room. Consider taking a wall down or adding a bar.

Kitchen – This is where most people choose to spend their money and for good reason. Even small changes like adding a new stove or plumbing for a dishwasher if you don’t have one, can make a space more functional.

Backyard – Consider adding a wet bar or extending the patio out here.

If you need help with a remodel service in West Los Angeles, CA, call Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter Inc. at 310-477-0772 and we will be happy to help you with your plumbing needs.