Common Plumbing Emergencies: Dodson Plumbing

Plumbing issues are common in many homes, with common plumbing emergencies such as broken pipes, backed-up toilets, or a sudden shortage of hot water. Unfortunately, these common issues can be challenging to diagnose and repair properly.

That's why it's essential to contact an experienced plumber or plumbing service provider at the first sign of trouble; they will be able to assess the situation quickly and enact the necessary solutions efficiently without breaking your budget. With quick action and reliable, professional help, you can get your home functioning again in no time.

Plumbing emergencies can be expected, but they don't have to be overwhelming. If you are experiencing a plumbing issue in your home, it is essential to seek help as quickly as possible to prevent potential damage and higher repair costs.

While many common plumbing issues occur regularly, such as clogged drains, broken pipes, and broken water heaters, any plumbing emergency should not be taken lightly. By finding an experienced professional to help with common plumbing emergencies, you can ensure that your home gets back up to running smoothly again soon.

Types of Plumbing Emergencies

Leaky Faucets:

Leaks are a common plumbing problem, particularly in older homes or fixtures. Certain parts of the faucet can wear out or loosen over time, resulting in leaks.

A small amount of water dripping from a faucet can quickly cause significant problems. Mold, rust, and high water bills are all common problems with leaking taps.

Water damage caused by leaks is permanent. Over time, most water pipes clog, and debris accumulates, resulting in damaged tubes. Deposits indicate a leaking faucet on the sink and a loose handle.

The operation of your faucets should be smooth and silent. If turning the handle becomes difficult, or if they make a squeaking or scraping noise, you have a problem. A quickly repaired leaky faucet can prevent permanent water damage in your home.

Burst Pipes & Worn Fixtures

While dripping or trickling water from your faucet is an obvious sign of a leak, many leaks are much more subtle and difficult to detect.

Checking your water meter is one way to look for damaged pipelines. A small triangle (red, blue, or white) on the meter face detects even minor leaks over many meters.

If this triangle moves while all water is turned off inside and outside your home, it could indicate a leak or burst pipes. A running toilet, dripping from your sink or washer connection, and an irrigation drip system are all common leaks.

If you notice damaged pipes or worn fixtures on appliances, turn off the water immediately to conserve your water supply until a plumbing professional arrives.

Backed-Up Sewer System

If any of your plumbing systems, like your sewer line, is backed up, you should call an emergency plumber.

A sewer backup is something you should avoid at all costs. Blockages happen when wastewater does not drain properly away from your home due to an obstruction or damage.

Sewer backup issues happen when the main sewer line for your house links to the municipal sanitary sewers. Water will continue to fill your sewer lines and drain pipes if not addressed immediately, resulting in a backup.

Common causes for sewer back-ups are old sewer systems, sump pump issues, or municipal sewer issues. The materials for most sewer pipes are materials like PVC, cast iron, or clay.

Although these materials are durable, they will not last forever.

Contact Plumbing Professionals at Dodson Plumbing

Your home's water lines, sewer lines, and piping all directly contribute to your home's health and comfort. If any issues go unaddressed, your home could very quickly develop serious damage.

Taking care of your home starts with making sure all pipes and mainline are in good condition. If you're looking for quality service from a certified expert, Dodson is ready to address your needs.

Dodson Plumbing offers a range of plumbing, sewer repair, and drain services to keep your plumbing system in prime condition for the long term. We use the industry’s latest and most advanced equipment to provide lasting results. To work with the best plumbers in Sherman, TX, reach out to a Dodson expert today.

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3 Common Reasons Your Toilet Won’t Flush Properly

July 25, 2024

When your toilet fails to flush properly, it can quickly turn from an inconvenience into a major frustration. At Dodson Plumbing, we understand how crucial a fully functioning toilet is to your daily routine. If you're experiencing issues with your toilet, here are three common reasons why it might not be flushing properly and how you can address them. 1. Clogged Drain Line One of the most common reasons for a toilet not flushing correctly is a clogged drain line. Over time, toilets can become obstructed by various items that should not be flushed, such as wipes, feminine hygiene products, or excessive amounts of toilet paper. When the drain line becomes clogged, water flow is restricted, leading to incomplete flushing or backups. Solution: To address a clogged drain line, you can try using a plunger to dislodge the blockage. If this does not resolve the issue, you may need to use a toilet auger or call a professional plumber for more advanced techniques. Regular maintenance and avoiding flushing non-flushable items can help prevent future clogs. 2. Faulty Flapper Valve The flapper valve is a crucial component of your toilet's flushing mechanism. It controls the release of water from the tank into the bowl during a flush. If the flapper valve is damaged or worn out, it can cause weak flushing or incomplete flushing. Solution: Inspect the flapper valve for signs of wear or damage. If it appears to be faulty, replacing it is usually a straightforward task. You can find replacement flappers at most hardware stores, and installing a new one can restore your toilet's flushing power. Make sure to choose a flapper that is compatible with your toilet model. 3. Low Water Level in the Tank The water level in the toilet tank is essential for a proper flush. If the water level is too low, there won’t be enough force to push waste through the pipes, leading to weak or ineffective flushing. This issue can be caused by a faulty fill valve or issues with the float mechanism. Solution: Check the water level in the tank by lifting the lid and observing the water line. The water should be approximately 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube. If it is lower than this, adjust the float mechanism or check the fill valve for issues. If you’re unsure how to make these adjustments, consult the user manual for your toilet or seek assistance from a professional plumber. Conclusion A properly flushing toilet is essential for maintaining a comfortable and functional home. By understanding these common issues and their solutions, you can address flushing problems more effectively. If you encounter persistent issues or need professional assistance, Dodson Plumbing is here to help. Our experienced team can diagnose and fix any toilet-related problems quickly and efficiently. For reliable plumbing services and expert advice, contact Dodson Plumbing today. We’re committed to ensuring your plumbing system operates smoothly, so you can enjoy peace of mind in your home.

Understanding Backflow Testing Services with Experts

September 22, 2023

Backflow is a critical concern for the safety and purity of our water supply. When water flows in the wrong direction, it can introduce contaminants into the clean water system, posing serious health risks. To prevent this from happening, backflow prevention devices are installed in plumbing systems. However, these devices must be regularly tested and maintained to ensure their effectiveness. In this blog, we will delve into the world of backflow testing services and why consulting experts is crucial in safeguarding our water quality. What Is Backflow Testing? Backflow occurs when water flows backward into the public water supply or a consumer's plumbing system. This reversal can happen due to changes in pressure or the introduction of contaminants. When backflow happens, it can potentially contaminate the clean water supply with chemicals, bacteria, or other pollutants. Contaminated water can lead to serious health issues when consumed or used for daily activities like bathing or cleaning. That's why it's essential to have backflow prevention devices in place and ensure they are working correctly through regular testing. The Role of Backflow Testing Services Backflow testing services are responsible for verifying the functionality of backflow prevention devices. These services are essential for various reasons: Legal Compliance: Many local regulations and building codes require regular backflow testing to ensure public health and safety. Health Protection: Testing helps prevent contaminated water from entering the public water supply, protecting consumers from potential health hazards. Maintaining Water Quality: Regular testing ensures that the water supply remains free from harmful contaminants, maintaining its quality and safety. Why Consult Experts for Backflow Testing? Knowledge and Certification: Backflow testing is a specialized field that requires expert knowledge and certification. Certified technicians have the training to understand different types of backflow prevention devices and conduct accurate tests. Proper Equipment: Experts have access to the necessary equipment to perform precise tests, ensuring the backflow prevention devices are working as intended. Code Compliance: Professionals are well-versed in local regulations and codes related to backflow prevention. They can ensure that your system meets all requirements. Preventative Maintenance: Experts can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems, saving you time and money in the long run. The Testing Process During a backflow test, a certified technician will: Inspect the Device: The technician will visually inspect the backflow prevention device for any signs of damage or wear. Check for Proper Installation: They will verify that the device is correctly installed and in compliance with local regulations. Conduct a Test: Using specialized equipment, the technician will test the device by simulating backflow conditions to ensure it prevents the reverse flow of water. Record Results: The technician will document the test results and provide you with a report detailing the device's performance. Conclusion Backflow testing services play a crucial role in safeguarding our water supply and protecting public health. It's essential to consult experts who have the knowledge, certification, and equipment to perform accurate tests and ensure that backflow prevention devices are functioning correctly. By staying proactive with regular backflow testing, we can maintain the purity and safety of our water resources for generations to come.