Author Archives: Sunset West Plumbing & Rooter

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.