Bathroom & Kitchen Plumbing Services

The Journey of Wastewater:

• Entry Point: Your journey begins at the sink, shower, or tub, where wastewater, a mixture of water and various substances, enters the drain.
• P-Trap: This U-shaped pipe acts as the first line of defense, trapping grease, hair, and other debris while allowing water to flow freely.
• Drain Line: From the P-trap, the wastewater travels through a network of drain lines, typically made of PVC or metal, hidden beneath your floors and walls.
• Vent Stack: These vertical pipes allow air to enter the system, preventing pressure buildup and ensuring smooth drainage.
• Wastewater Exit: Depending on your home’s setup, the drain lines either connect to a public sewer system or a septic tank. In a public sewer system, wastewater joins the flow from other homes and businesses, eventually reaching a wastewater treatment plant. In a septic system, wastewater flows into a large underground tank where solids settle and liquids are slowly filtered through the soil.

By understanding your drain system and adopting preventative measures, you can avoid the inconvenience and potential damage caused by clogged drains. Remember, you can book an appointment with Tap Tech to tackle stubborn clogs and blockages to ensure your wastewater journey continues smoothly!

Clogged Drains: The Unwanted Guests

Common Signs: Slow draining water, gurgling sounds, unpleasant odors.

Culprits: Food scraps, grease, hair, soap scum, mineral buildup.

DIY Tips: Try a plunger or a drain snake for minor clogs. For stubborn clogs, baking soda and vinegar can sometimes work wonders. Boiling water can also help melt grease clogs.  However, for persistent issues, seek professional help to avoid damaging pipes.

KITCHEN 

Major Issues: Leaky faucet, broken garbage disposal, malfunctioning spray hose.

DIY Tips: Tighten a leaky faucet handle first. For complex repairs or replacements, consult a plumber. Most garbage disposals have reset buttons; try that before calling a professional. Leaky spray hoses often require replacement.

Kitchen Faucet:

Major Issues: Low water pressure, dripping, faulty cartridge, loose connections.

DIY Tips: Clean the aerator for low pressure. Tighten loose connections. For major repairs or replacements, call a plumber.

BATHROOM:

Clogged Toilet:

Major Issues: Overflowing bowl, running water, difficulty flushing.

DIY Tips: Use a plunger, but avoid harsh chemicals that can damage pipes. If the clog persists, call a plumber immediately to prevent overflowing and potential water damage.

Shower Fixture:

Major Issues: Leaky showerhead, clogged diverter, malfunctioning temperature control.

DIY Tips: Tighten a leaky showerhead. Clean the diverter valve for better water flow. Temperature control issues usually require professional repair.

Sink Repair and Replacement:

Major Issues: Cracked sink, loose fixtures, leaking drain lines.

DIY Tips: For minor cracks, consider DIY sealant kits. However, major cracks or loose fixtures usually warrant professional replacement. Never attempt to fix leaking drain lines yourself; call a plumber to avoid further damage.

Call Tap Tech : 343-305-1172

Preventative Maintenance: Your Plumbing’s Best Friend:

Regular maintenance can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. Here are some key steps:

• Clean drains regularly: Use a drain snake or baking soda and vinegar solution to prevent buildup.
• Install drain screens: Catch food scraps and hair before they enter the drain.
• Don’t flush anything except toilet paper: Keep wipes, feminine hygiene products, and other items out of the toilet.
• Avoid pouring grease down the drain because it solidifies and clogs pipes.
• Invest in a garbage disposal with good grinding capabilities.
• Inspect for leaks regularly: Check under sinks, around faucets, and behind appliances.
• Schedule annual plumbing inspections: A professional can identify potential issues before they become major problems.