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Tackling a Sewer Leak in Your Yard: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Homeownership in Palo Alto comes with its unique set of challenges, and one of the less glamorous aspects is dealing with plumbing issues, particularly sewer leaks. A sewer leak in your yard is not just an eyesore; it can lead to significant health hazards, environmental damage, and costly repairs if not addressed promptly. This blog aims to guide you through the steps to identify, fix, and prevent sewer leaks in your yard, helping you maintain a safe and healthy living environment.

Signs of a Sewer Leak in Your Yard

Detecting a sewer leak early can save you from extensive damage and high repair costs. Here are some telltale signs that your yard might have a sewer leak:

  1. Unpleasant Odors: One of the most common signs is a foul smell similar to rotten eggs or sewage emanating from your yard.
  2. Lush, Green Patches: While a green lawn is desirable, unusually lush and rapidly growing patches can indicate a sewer leak. The leaking sewage acts as a fertilizer, promoting excessive plant growth.
  3. Soggy Spots or Puddles: If you notice soggy areas or puddles in your yard, especially during dry weather, it could be a sign of a leaking sewer line.
  4. Increased Pest Activity: Rodents and insects are attracted to sewage. An increase in pest activity in your yard might indicate a leak.
  5. Slow Drains: If your home’s drains are consistently slow, it could be a sign that there’s a problem with the main sewer line, which might be leaking into your yard.
  6. Foundation Cracks: Leaks can cause the soil to shift, leading to cracks in your home’s foundation.

How to Fix a Sewer Leak in Your Yard

Fixing a sewer leak is a complex task, but if you’re up for the challenge, here are the steps you need to follow:

  1. Confirm the Leak: Before you start digging, confirm that the issue is indeed a sewer leak. You can use dye testing by flushing dye down the toilet and checking the yard for the dye’s presence.
  2. Locate the Leak: Use a sewer camera or electronic locator to pinpoint the exact location of the leak. This will help you avoid unnecessary digging.
  3. Turn Off Water Supply: Before you start repairs, turn off the water supply to prevent further leakage.
  4. Dig to Expose the Pipe: Carefully dig around the suspected area to expose the damaged sewer pipe. Make sure to dig a wide enough trench to work safely.
  5. Assess the Damage: Once the pipe is exposed, assess the extent of the damage. Depending on the severity, you might need to replace a section of the pipe or apply a patch.
  6. Repair or Replace the Pipe:
    • Patching: For minor leaks, you can use a pipe repair clamp or a rubber sleeve to seal the leak temporarily.
    • Replacement: For significant damage, cut out the damaged section of the pipe using a pipe cutter. Replace it with a new section of pipe, securing it with couplings.
  7. Test the Repair: Before covering the trench, turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. Ensure that the repair is secure and that there are no more leaks.
  8. Backfill the Trench: Once you’re confident the repair is successful, backfill the trench with soil, compacting it as you go to prevent future settling.

Risks of Ignoring a Sewer Leak in Your Yard

Ignoring a sewer leak in your yard can lead to a cascade of problems that affect not only your property but also your health and the environment. Here are some of the significant risks associated with neglecting a sewer leak:

  1. Health Hazards: Sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can pose serious health risks. Exposure to contaminated water can lead to illnesses such as gastroenteritis, hepatitis, and other infections. Children and pets playing in the yard are particularly vulnerable.
  2. Structural Damage: Prolonged exposure to leaking sewage can weaken the foundation of your home. The constant moisture can cause the soil to shift and erode, leading to cracks in your foundation, walls, and floors. This structural damage can be costly to repair and may compromise the safety of your home.
  3. Environmental Impact: Sewage leaks can contaminate the soil and groundwater, posing a threat to local water supplies and ecosystems. The release of untreated sewage into the environment can harm plants, animals, and aquatic life, disrupting local biodiversity and ecosystems.
  4. Increased Pest Activity: Leaking sewage attracts pests such as rodents, insects, and other vermin. These pests can carry diseases and cause further damage to your property. Increased pest activity can lead to infestations that require professional extermination services.
  5. Unpleasant Odors: A persistent sewage leak will produce foul odors that can make spending time in your yard unpleasant. These odors can also seep into your home, affecting your indoor air quality and overall comfort.
  6. Property Devaluation: A neglected sewer leak can decrease the value of your property. Potential buyers are likely to be deterred by the presence of unresolved plumbing issues, leading to lower offers and longer times on the market. Additionally, visible damage and lingering odors can make your home less attractive to prospective buyers.
  7. Legal and Financial Consequences: In some cases, failing to address a sewer leak can result in fines and penalties from local authorities. Environmental regulations may require homeowners to maintain their sewer systems properly, and non-compliance can lead to legal and financial repercussions.
  8. Escalating Repair Costs: The longer a sewer leak is ignored, the more extensive and expensive the repairs become. What might start as a minor fix can quickly escalate into a major plumbing overhaul if not addressed promptly. Early detection and intervention are crucial to minimizing repair costs.

Signs You Need to Call a Professional

While some homeowners might feel confident tackling a sewer leak themselves, certain situations call for professional intervention:

  1. Extensive Damage: If the leak is extensive or the pipe is severely damaged, a professional plumber will have the tools and expertise to handle the repair.
  2. Recurrent Leaks: If you’ve repaired a leak before and it recurs, it might indicate a more significant issue that requires a professional assessment.
  3. Uncertainty: If you’re unsure about any step in the repair process, it’s safer to call a professional. Mistakes can lead to more damage and higher repair costs.
  4. Permits and Regulations: Sewer repairs might require permits and must comply with local regulations. A professional plumber will ensure that all legal requirements are met.

Conclusion

Dealing with a sewer leak in your yard is a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can address the issue effectively. Recognizing the signs of a sewer leak early, understanding the steps to fix it, and knowing when to call a professional are crucial to maintaining your home’s plumbing system. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can prevent minor leaks from turning into major problems.

Call us Today

If you suspect a sewer leak in your yard and feel overwhelmed by the repair process, Palo Alto Plumbing is here to help. Our team of experienced professionals is equipped to handle any plumbing issue, ensuring your home remains safe and healthy. Don’t wait until a small leak becomes a big problem—contact Palo Alto Plumbing today for a thorough inspection and reliable repair services.



Sewer Leak: 14 Signs to Watch For

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A sewer leak. Just the mention of it is enough to make anyone cringe. Whether you own a cozy home or a bustling business, the thought of sewage seeping into your property is enough to send shivers down your spine. Not only is it a serious hygiene concern, but it can also wreak havoc on your finances if left unattended. Hidden sewer leaks are like silent predators, lurking beneath the surface until they strike, often revealed only when you’re hit with an unexpectedly astronomical water bill.

But fear not. While dealing with a sewer leak may not be anyone’s idea of fun, there are ways to detect and address the issue before it escalates into a full-blown catastrophe. Learn the 14 subtle signs that might indicate you’re facing a sewer leak and take action before it’s too late.

Sewer Leak: 14 Signs to Watch For

  1. Uncommon Sounds

Do you hear the faint sound of running water even when all faucets are turned off? This persistent trickle could be a red flag signaling leaks in your sewer pipes.

  1. Moist Floors

Spongy or moist flooring underfoot might indicate water seepage from your sewer lines, potentially leading to costly damage and discoloration.

  1. Unpleasant Odors

The presence of mold and mildew behind walls can give rise to foul odors, hinting at hidden sewer leaks nurturing bacterial growth.

  1. Cracks in Your Home

Notice cracks in your home’s foundation or buckling concrete? Shifting ground due to leaking sewer lines could be the culprit.

  1. Landscape Anomalies

Keep an eye out for lush, unusually vibrant patches in your lawn, often accompanied by sunken areas, signaling possible sewer pipe failure.

  1. Unwanted Guests

The sudden appearance of rodents might be more than just a nuisance; it could be an indication of leaking sewer lines attracting them with their odors.

  1. Higher Water Bill

An unexplained spike in your water bill should prompt further investigation, as it could be a symptom of a hidden sewer leak.

  1. Continuous Water Meter Movement

Even when all taps are closed, if your water meter’s needle keeps moving, it could signify a leak in your sewer system.

  1. Excess Water Pooling Outside

Puddles forming outside your property when it hasn’t rained could point to hidden sewer leaks or drainage issues.

  1. Wall Discoloration

Damp spots, dark rings, or peeling paint on walls might indicate concealed leaks from your sewer pipes.

  1. Water Pressure Issues

A significant drop in water pressure across multiple taps could be a sign of a hidden leak affecting your mainline.

  1. Aging Pipes

Inspecting your home’s pipes for signs of wear and tear can help catch potential leaks before they escalate.

  1. Slow Drainage

Persistent slow drainage from every drain could indicate a larger issue within your plumbing system.

  1. Water Color Changes

Discoloration in your water, such as brown, yellow, or green hues, might suggest hidden leaks or rust within your plumbing.

How to Detect Plumbing Leaks Like a Pro

Detecting plumbing leaks early can save you from costly repairs and water damage down the line. Whether you suspect a sewer leak or simply want to stay proactive, here are some expert tips to help you pinpoint and address plumbing issues efficiently:

  1. Monitor the Water Bill

Your monthly water bill can be a telltale indicator of a plumbing leak. Keep an eye out for unexpected spikes in your water usage, as even small leaks can add up to significant wastage over time. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that a family of four typically uses around 12,000 gallons of water per month, so any deviation from this norm should raise suspicion.

  1. Watch the Water Meter

If you suspect a leak but aren’t sure where it’s coming from, your water meter can provide valuable insight. Follow these steps to conduct a simple meter test:

  • Turn off all water faucets and ensure no appliances are running.
  • Locate your water meter, typically found near the street or where the water supply line enters your home.
  • Take note of the meter reading and wait for an hour.
  • Check the meter again; if the reading has changed despite no water usage, you likely have a leak.
  • To determine if the leak is indoors or outdoors, shut off the main water supply valve to your home and repeat the meter test.
  1. Check for Patches of Greener Grass

Excessively lush patches of grass in your yard, especially if accompanied by faster growth, could indicate an underground water line leak. Keep an eye out for puddles on the surface, particularly after rainfall, as they may signal a more severe leak.

  1. Investigate Appliances and Fixtures

Inspect the areas around sinks, toilets, showers, and appliances for any signs of moisture or puddles. Cabinets under sinks should be dry, and there should be no water accumulation around the bases of fixtures. If you discover any leaks, promptly turn off the water supply valve to the affected appliance or fixture and seek professional assistance.

  1. Conduct a Dye Test on Toilets

To check for toilet leaks, perform a simple dye test using food coloring:

  • Place a few drops of food coloring into the tank of each toilet.
  • Wait for five minutes; if the color appears in the bowl without flushing, you likely have a leaky flapper.
  • Consider calling a plumber to address the issue promptly.
  1. Stay Alert to Leaking Clues

Keep an eye (and ear) out for subtle signs of leaks, such as:

  • Wall discoloration or stains, indicating water penetration.
  • Bubbling paint or bulging wallpaper, suggesting moisture behind walls.
  • Dripping sounds or musty odors, indicative of hidden leaks and mold growth.
  1. Consider Leak Detectors

Install leak detectors, especially in vulnerable areas like water heaters and exterior water pipes, to receive immediate alerts in case of leaks. These detectors can help you intervene quickly and prevent extensive water damage.

Don’t Wait, Act Now!

If you suspect a sewer leak, don’t hesitate to reach out to Palo Alto Plumbing. Our team of experts specializes in identifying and resolving sewer-related issues promptly and efficiently. Whether it’s residential or commercial, our services encompass everything from drain cleaning to trenchless sewer repairs, ensuring your peace of mind and the integrity of your property.

Don’t let a sewer leak turn into a nightmare scenario. Contact Palo Alto Plumbing today for a thorough inspection and a solution tailored to your needs. Don’t wait until it’s too late—protect your property and your wallet with our professional assistance.

3 Effective Ways How To Clean Dishwasher Drain Line | Palo Alto Plumbing

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The reasons why homeowners install dishwashers in their home are obvious. They provide you with freedom from the monotonous and arduous job of washing dishes many times a day. People, however, forget the importance of how to clean dishwasher drain properly and maintain it in the process. Of all the conveniences in the modern home today, the one that makes life the easiest and saves a great deal of time is the kitchen dishwasher.

Life can be really great when your dishwasher is operating as it should. However, when it malfunctions or loses efficiency in cleaning, this can really have an impact on your personal efficiency.

There is a filtration system to dishwashers that do require frequent cleaning, specifically if you do not pre-rinse or scrape your dishes. Your dishwasher maintenance will depend on how you use it and treat it. If you do not scrape or pre-rinse your dishes, you should clean the filter once monthly. A clean dishwasher drain is achievable if you put a bit of effort into maintaining it.

If you look at the floor of your appliance, you will locate the filter and can remove it to clear away any debris or food particles with a soft brush. Then simply rinse and reinstall it. For the dishwashers that have bigger clogs that are stubborn and require more than just an easy filter clean, you need to take other steps. Your sink drain, garbage disposal and dishwasher do the majority of your dirty kitchen work and to keep them running efficiently and smelling fresh you can take a few simple steps. Take time to learn how to clean dishwasher drain below.

3 Ways How to Clean Dishwasher Drain Line

  1. Clear Garbage Disposal

Many times, your dishwasher’s water drains from the garbage disposal. In this case, you will need to clear your disposal often to allow the water to pass through it freely. If you have a full disposal, it can make the water backup and results in standing water inside the dishwasher. Be sure to loosen all clogs and completely run the garbage disposal.

  1. Clean Air Gap

Many people have air gaps installed on their kitchen counters next to the sink faucets which will prevent sink water from backing up into the dishwasher. If there is buildup in this air gap, it may cause improper draining from your dishwasher. One way to spot an air gap that is clogged is if water floods on your countertop. You can simply take the cap off of your air gap and remove all debris.

  1. Use Homemade Solution to Break Up Clogs

If you see a clog in your dishwasher drain and it causes the water to back up, try some baking soda, vinegar and hot water to loosen up and break the clog. First, add the vinegar and baking soda solution to the dishwasher basket at the bottom. Let it sit for around 15 minutes and then pour in some hot water (boiling) to the basket to clear away the clog. This is an important step in how to clean dishwasher drain.

Regular dishwasher maintenance is important to get good operation from your dishwasher and extend its lifespan. You should set up a weekly and monthly maintenance schedule to unclog dishwasher drain line or to prevent it from happening. Preventative care, even in small amounts, will help save on expensive repairs or even a dishwasher replacement later on.

If you have a clog in your dishwasher drain, it is important to clean it out as soon as possible. A clogged dishwasher drain can cause water to back up into the dishwasher, leading to water damage and mold growth. Dishwasher repairs can be expensive, so it is always cheaper to prevent problems by keeping your dishwasher drains clean.

If you need help cleaning your dishwasher drain, or if you have any other dishwasher problems, please contact us today. Our team of experts would be happy to help you get your dishwasher working properly again.

For more details call (650) 374-0868 or click here.

When You Need Emergency Plumbing Services: A Guide

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When you are faced with a plumbing emergency, it can be a stressful time. Depending on the severity of the situation, an emergency plumbing situation can quickly become dangerous if not resolved quickly. If your house is flooding or the water pressure in your home is too low to operate faucets and showers safely, these are signs that there is a plumbing problem that needs to be addressed immediately. Whether you have a burst pipe, clogged toilet or leaky faucet, there are different plumbing services that should be contacted in case of an emergency. In this article we will go over some general guidelines on when you need emergency plumbing services, as well as common issues and their solutions.

When Should You Call Emergency Plumbing Services

Water Pressure Issues

If there is a noticeable drop in water pressure or the water flow has stopped, there may be a leak in your water pipes. A leak can be caused by a number of different factors, including a break in the pipes or the formation of a clog further down the line. If the leak is small, you may be able to fix it yourself by tightening a connection or removing debris from the pipe. However, if the leak is significant or you don’t know how to fix it, you will need to call emergency plumbing services as soon as possible.

Sewer Drainage Issues

When not properly installed or maintained, a sewer line can become clogged or damaged, causing sewage to back up into your home. A clogged or damaged sewer line can cause health and safety risks, including the risk of sewage spilling out of the drain and into your home.

If you notice sewage bubbling up out of a drain or a strong smell coming from a toilet, there is a problem with the sewer line. It is best to call emergency plumbing services immediately, as sewage can quickly spread throughout the house. The longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

Water Heater Issues

If the water heater is leaking, hissing or making odd noises, it is time to call emergency plumbing services. Even if the water heater doesn’t look visibly damaged, it is a good idea to have it checked out by a professional. High-pressure water leaks can often go unnoticed, and a small leak can quickly turn into a major problem if not addressed quickly. If the water heater is leaking, it is probably due to one of two things. Either the element is broken or the tank is too full of sediment. The best way to avoid water heater issues is to clean the tank and flush the elements every year.

Toilet Issues

If the toilet is clogged, you may be able to clear the clog by plunging it. However, if the clog is stuck further down the pipeline, plunging may push it further into the pipes, which could result in a backup and cause sewage to spill out of the toilet bowl. If the toilet is overflowing, you will want to shut off the water supply. From there, you can use a plunger to try and suck the water back down into the toilet bowl. If the water doesn’t go down, you may need to have emergency plumbing services resolve the issue.

Burst Pipes

If you notice a pipe has burst, it is important to turn off the water supply to the entire house to prevent further damage. If a pipe burst inside the wall, emergency plumbing services will need to come out to cut a hole in the wall to access it. A burst pipe outside the house can be fixed by the plumber in less time.

Pipes can burst for a variety of reasons. The most common culprit is the freeze/thaw cycle experienced by many areas during the winter. Other causes can be age of the pipes, corrosion and poor installation.

What To Look for In Emergency Plumbing Services

In a perfect world, our plumbing would never break. Unfortunately, it’s not a perfect world. Even if you take every precaution to prevent catastrophe from striking, your plumbing can and will inevitably fail at some point. The important thing is being prepared for when that time comes. That’s why it’s important to have emergency plumbing services on hand in case something goes wrong. Here are some things you should look for in any potential service provider before signing on with them:

Reputation

The first thing you should do when looking for emergency plumbing services is researching the company’s reputation. You can do this by reading customer reviews on their website, or by searching for reviews on third-party review sites like Yelp. There are also several industry-specific review sites like Angie’s List for plumbers, so be sure to check those out as well. A company with a great reputation is one that has an excellent track record of providing quality services to its customers. A good reputation indicates that a company has been in business for a while, is well-established, and has a loyal customer base. A reputable company is also likely to be more trustworthy and reliable.

Licensing and Certification

While certifications don’t necessarily guarantee the quality of service, they do at least show that the company has at least met some minimum standard of competence. It’s a good idea to only hire plumbing services that are licensed by the state and/or certified by an industry-specific organization. The latter will typically be a third-party certification company. In general, certifications are a good indicator that a company is trustworthy and professional enough to merit your business. The most common certifications for plumbers are:

– Licensed master plumber – this is the highest level of certification for plumbers. It means that the plumber has passed an exam, conducted a certain number of hours of field experience, and has a certain amount of practical experience.

– Journeyman plumber – This is the second-highest level of certification for plumbers. To get this certification, a person has to have work experience as an apprentice, pass an exam, and have a certain amount of practical experience.

– Apprentice plumber – This is the lowest level of certification for plumbers. To get this certification, a person has to have a certain amount of on-the-job training followed by an exam.

Responsiveness

During an emergency, you want an emergency plumbing services company that’s responsive, reliable, and timely. This will make the process easier on both you and the plumber. If possible, try to contact the company during regular business hours to see how long they take to respond. If you call after hours and get a voicemail, make sure that the company leaves an appropriate message about when someone will get back to you. This will give you an idea of how long you can expect to wait for help during an emergency.

Pricing

The cost of emergency plumbing services can vary wildly depending on the type of service and the company you use. While you should definitely shop around, don’t base your decision solely on price. Instead, you should consider the following things:

– Does the emergency plumbing services company charge by the hour or by the job? Hourly rates are often a sign of a disorganized or inefficient company. On the other hand, fixed rates are a sign that the company is confident in its ability to finish the job quickly.

– How many technicians will be working on your job? A larger team of plumbers can finish tasks quicker and more efficiently than one person.

– Do they offer any coupons or discounts? While coupons don’t necessarily indicate a low price, they can still help you save money

Repairs and Maintenance Options

Finally, you should make sure that the emergency plumbing services company offers repair and maintenance solutions. This will save you time and money in the long run. If you can’t find a company that offers both repair and maintenance services, make sure that the company has a good track record of solving plumbing issues.

How Do I Avoid Emergency Plumbing Issues?

The best way to avoid plumbing issues is by having them taken care of as soon as they arise. For example, if you have a slow leak, it is best to call a plumber as soon as possible so the leak can be fixed before it becomes a problem. It’s also a good idea to keep all your fixtures and pipes well maintained. This means periodically cleaning your faucets, toilets and sinks and replacing any worn out pipes. If you are experiencing problems with your plumbing, it may be due to a buildup of sediment in your pipes and fixtures. To prevent major plumbing issues, you can use a plumbing snake to unclog your pipes or a water softener to flush out the pipes.

How To Protect Your Sewer Line

A clogged or damaged sewer line from tree roots especially can cause significant damage to your home, as well as a health and safety risk. To protect yourself from costly repairs, you can follow a few simple guidelines.

What you can do to solve the problem of damaging tree roots:

  • Know the warning signs: frequent clogged drains, slow-flowing drains and overflowing drains
  • Schedule annual drain and sewer line inspections
  • Schedule regular sewer line cleanings to prevent root growth

If your drains clog frequently, we recommend calling emergency plumbing services to have your drain and sewer lines inspected. One of our plumbers at Palo Alto Plumbing can run a camera probe through your pipes to find any damaged areas. Once we complete the inspection, we’ll offer the necessary recommendations. If you have major tree root damage, we may recommend that the lines be replaced.

Conclusion

Plumbing issues can be a pain, but they’re inevitable. There’s nothing you can do to prevent them, so it’s best to be prepared. That way, when a plumbing emergency comes up, you’ll know what to do. When these types of issues arise, you don’t have time to waste. You need someone to respond quickly so the issue can be fixed before it becomes a bigger problem. Emergency plumbing services like Palo Alto Plumbing are here for exactly that reason, and we can take the stress out of an already stressful situation by responding quickly and repairing your plumbing so you can get back to your life.

Need Emergency Plumbing Services? Palo Alto Plumbing Can Help

Call Palo Alto Plumbing at (650) 374-0868 for a free service estimate on emergency plumbing services. Our friendly staff is here to help answer any additional questions you might have.

7 Plumbing Mistakes Homeowners Make

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As a homeowner, there are many things you can do to maintain your plumbing system and prevent issues like a sewer leak, but it’s easy for homeowners to make mistakes that cause problems with their plumbing systems later on. This blog post will go over some of the most common plumbing mistakes homeowners make and how they can avoid them.

Quick Tips

When you’re dealing with plumbing problems in your home, it’s usually important to act quickly. The longer the problem goes unfixed, the more damage it can cause, and the harder it can become to repair. If you have a burst pipe or a sewer leak, for example, shut off the water immediately before further damage occurs. Then call a plumber as soon as possible. But how do you avoid these types of situations in the first place?

These are a few of the most common plumbing mistakes that homeowners tend to make:

1) Trying to DIY Projects

The reality is that most homeowners don’t understand how their plumbing works beyond turning on a faucet or flushing the toilet. There’s simply no reason for most of us to have a broader understanding of how many things work in our homes, like how electricity functions, or all the intricacies of a gas furnace. That’s what experts are for. After all, who has time to get into the wide ranging technical aspects of total home maintenance? So let yourself off the hook for once, and instead of trying to DIY your plumbing to save a few bucks, go ahead and call a local plumber. Honestly, it will save you time and money in the long run. Not to mention, if you have a messy sewer leak on your hands, trying to DIY a plumbing fix can even be a health hazard.

2) Failing to Fix Leaks Right Away

One of the most common things homeowners tend to put off for later is taking care of things like leaky faucets. Whether you’re wasting water by leaving the faucet dripping around the clock, or have hidden leaks in your pipes, not addressing these issues can result in higher water bills, or even worrisome damage to your property.

One sign of a sewer leak is an unusual green patch in your yard. Such waste water can fertilize the surrounding area, so unusual plant growth is a clue that there may be an underlying issue to blame. It’s essential to note that leaks can disturb your home’s foundation over time, and also lead to mold growth, which poses health hazards as well.

3) Flushing The Wrong Things Down the Toilet

Plumbing systems are more delicate than many homeowners realize, so there are certain things that should never be flushed down your toilets. Be sure that things like trash, paper towels, baby wipes, and sanitary products are always thrown in the trash instead. If you have children in your household, it’s also important to teach them what can and can’t be flushed down the toilets. Otherwise, pipes can become clogged, leading to expensive plumbing repairs, or even emergency plumbing services.

4) Using Chemical Cleaners to Clear Clogs

While this seems like a cheap and simple solution, it’s not. Unfortunately, using chemical cleaners can eat away at your pipes. They also emit toxic fumes that can be dangerous to your eyes as well as your respiratory system. Some chemical cleaners are advertised to be able to clear a drain blockage with just one application, but, in actuality, this is seldom effective. Unfortunately, you’re actually more likely to damage your plumbing with these “quick-fix” products.

5) Placing Grease or Food Down the Sink

One of the most common plumbing mistakes that people make is putting grease or food waste down the sink. This is generally disastrous because it ends up clogging the pipes, even if you have a garbage disposal. It’s important to remember to always dump food waste in the trash or in a special container used for grease, etc. Certain types of food can’t go down your garbage disposal. For example, it’s just not designed to take on heavy-duty substances, like fruit rinds, despite the fact that we’ve all been told to freshen things up with a lemon.

Tip: It’s also very important not to put food waste in your dishwasher because it can get stuck and cause clogs. There isn’t really anywhere for it to go.

6) Not Scheduling Plumbing Maintenance

One of the best ways to save money on plumbing repairs or to prevent major issues, like a sewer leak, is to schedule regular plumbing maintenance for your home. Rather than waiting for there to be an emergency plumbing problem, it pays to take a more proactive approach. Our advice is to have your system looked over at least once a year by a trusted plumbing company.

7) Not Hiring an Experienced Plumbing Company

Before hiring a plumber to come to your home, you really need to do a little research. You don’t want to put yourself in a frustrating position by relying on someone who doesn’t have enough experience to take care of the problem. It’s better to spend some time learning more about a plumbing company before you make up your mind. A reputable plumbing service should have reviews or testimonials on their website or social media pages. It’s also important to ensure that they’re licensed and insured so you aren’t putting yourself at financial risk if they’re somehow injured on the job.

Need Help?

Like any other system in your house, you have to take care of your plumbing to make sure it lasts a long time. If not, you risk dealing with expensive plumbing repairs or even water damage and mold. These mistakes can wreak havoc on your home, and take money and energy to fix! We hope this blog post helps you better understand your home’s plumbing. If you have any questions for us at Palo Alto Plumbing, or would like a free estimate, please give us a call at (650) 856-3400. Our friendly staff is here to help.

The Dangers of a Sewer Leak

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A sewer leak is one of the most dreaded household plumbing malfunctions. Though most modern homes have preventative measures already in place, pipes can degrade or get damaged over time, creating prime conditions for a leak. If you regularly experience household mold, strange odors, slow draining, extra foliage growth with no alternative explanation, or cracks in the foundation of your home, it’s time to call a plumber. You may be dealing with a sewer leak.

The unpleasant eau de excrement odor aside, a sewer leak can be quite dangerous to your health and your home alike. The consequences of neglecting a leak, aside from being unsanitary, can lead to some serious issues for your home and well-being. Read on below to learn more about some of the most common dangers of a sewer leak.

Most Common Dangers of a Sewer Leak

Poisonous Sewer Gas

When human waste breaks down, it forms a byproduct known as sewer gas. Sewer gas is composed of several chemicals, including ammonia, methane, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen sulfide. This smelly gas is often identified as smelling like rotten eggs – but is it toxic?

The answer is yes and no. In low concentrations, sewer gas is foul but not necessarily harmful. At higher concentrations, or if you are exposed for a long period of time, you may experience symptoms of sewer gas poisoning. Left unchecked, these symptoms can lead to serious health issues for household residents, including pets. This is why, if you suspect a leak, it’s crucial to call a plumber immediately.

Ammonia is a toxic chemical at high levels. Low to moderate exposure can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation. High levels of ammonia can cause death in humans.

Hydrogen sulfide is one of the main components of sewer gas. Research shows that hydrogen sulfide is toxic to the organ systems of the body – meaning that exposure can lead to organ damage and death.

While carbon dioxide and methane are not inherently harmful to humans, you do not want these gases hanging around in the air that you breathe. Methane alone is highly flammable. In combination with ammonia (which is also flammable), these gases are a serious fire hazard.

If you suspect sewer gas exposure, contact a medical professional and an emergency plumber immediately.

Contaminated Water

Old or damaged pipes can crack, rust, degrade, and eventually seep into nearby groundwater. This worst-case scenario can contaminate your water supply. What’s worse, if your neighborhood uses aquifers for groundwater, contamination can occur on a much larger scale. An entire neighborhood could suffer poisoning from one cracked line.

The health consequences of drinking water contaminated with sewage cannot be understated. Even healthy individuals may experience disabling gastrointestinal problems, stomach cramping, dehydration, developmental problems, reproductive problems, or death. Such consequences can be avoided by having your plumbing checked approximately every two years. It’s just not worth the risk of skipping essential maintenance.

Home Damage

Sewer leaks can cause the foundation of your home to crack as well. As water or sewage leaks pool in various areas of your home, it can cause the ground to shift. All of this erodes at your home’s foundation from the bottom up, which can cause cracks in the foundation and even buckle your patios or driveways.

Water damage is also a common side effect of a sewer leak. If your septic tank is located close to your home, or if the leak is severe enough, you may experience flooding and water damage to your house. Water alone can cause serious structural damage to a home, but the chemicals and hazardous byproducts from natural waste can make that damage much more severe. Drywall can give out, mold can form, and, ultimately, supports can even become unstable. A bad leak can leave a house almost uninhabitable if left alone for long enough.

Unwanted Critters

If you choose to neglect your leaking sewer, you may as well tape a sign to your window that declares “PESTS WELCOME.” Sewer leaks can attract a host of unwanted vermin. Rats, mice, squirrels, raccoons, possums, and chipmunks naturally search for hidden sources of water away from prying eyes. Drippy pipes are naturally enticing. If you provide a convenient water source in the form of a leak, expect to see (or hear) some crawly new friends.

That includes insects! Cockroaches, mosquitoes, ants, spiders, and termites are just a few of the insects that are commonly attracted to standing water and sewer leaks. These sneaky insects often build whole colonies before they’re ever noticed. Maintaining your pipes is an easy way to prevent such animals and insects from invading your home.

Increasing Water Bill

If your water bill has been steadily increasing and your house smells funny, you may be paying for a sewer leak. All of that water not only damages your home, but it can put a serious dent in your wallet too. A moderate water leak can cause you to waste 6,000 gallons of water per month. That’s an incredible waste of water and money.

And remember – all of that leaking water is seeping into the foundation of your home, creating the prime conditions for mold and mildew.

These serious dangers are not something to put off. Neglecting your leaking sewer can cause damage to your home and your health. The best way to avoid these problems is to solve them before they arrive by way of prevention. You should never attempt to fix a serious plumbing problem on your own. It could be a real safety hazard and you may accidentally cause more damage. A licensed plumber will have the proper equipment and expertise to repair your sewer. Additionally, a licensed plumber should regularly inspect your home’s plumbing system at least every two years, and more often if problems arise.

When You Need a Plumber

Here at Palo Alto Plumbing, our licensed plumbers can solve anything between a drippy faucet and a cracked sewer pipe. Our detail-oriented and knowledgeable plumbers can ensure your household’s health and safety by providing quality services. Don’t let a fixable leak destroy your home. Contact us at 650-405-3052 or fill out a contact form on our website to chat with one of our representatives about all of your plumbing needs!