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Warning Signs You Need Sewer Line Replacement in East Lansing, MI

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:23:45 GMT

Recognizing the warning signs you need sewer line replacement is essential for maintaining a safe and functional plumbing system. Common indicators such as recurring drain backups, persistent sewage odors, slow drainage throughout the home, and unexplained wet areas in the yard may point to serious issues within the main sewer line. These problems are often caused by aging pipes, root intrusion, or structural damage underground. Addressing these signs early can help prevent extensive property damage, protect your home’s foundation, and reduce the risk of costly repairs over time.

Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more severe complications that extend beyond the plumbing system and impact the overall integrity of your property. As damage progresses, issues such as soil instability, foundation cracks, and indoor contamination can develop, creating both safety and health concerns. In many cases, what begins as a minor inconvenience can quickly escalate into a major repair if not addressed promptly. Taking a proactive approach by monitoring these symptoms and seeking timely professional evaluation ensures long-term efficiency, protects your investment, and helps maintain a safe living environment.

Common Warning Signs of a Failing Sewer Line

A failing sewer line often presents subtle issues at first, but recognizing these early signs can help prevent more severe damage. Homeowners should pay close attention to the following warning indicators:

Frequent drain backups: Recurring clogs or wastewater backing up into sinks, tubs, or toilets may signal a deeper issue within the main sewer line rather than a simple blockage.
Sewage odors inside or outside the home: Persistent foul smells are typically a sign that sewage is not properly flowing through the system, possibly due to cracks or leaks in the underground pipes.
Slow drains throughout the house: When multiple drains are slow at the same time, it typically points to a problem in the main sewer line rather than isolated plumbing fixtures.
Wet or soggy spots in the yard: Unexplained damp areas or patches of unusually green grass can indicate a leaking sewer pipe beneath the surface.
Sudden increase in pest activity: Rodents and insects are often attracted to sewage leaks, so a spike in pest presence may suggest a compromised sewer line.

How These Issues May Indicate Serious Underground Pipe Damage

When multiple plumbing problems occur at once, they often signal deeper issues beneath the surface that require immediate attention, especially when evaluating sewer line replacement. These warning signs should not be ignored, as they may point to significant structural damage within underground pipes.

Here are some key indicators to consider:

Cracked or collapsed pipes.
Tree root intrusion.
Corrosion and aging materials.
Soil shifting or ground movement.
Severe blockages deep in the system.

How Professional Plumbers Diagnose Issues Using Camera Sewer Inspections

Professional plumbers rely on advanced tools to accurately identify hidden sewer line problems, making the process more efficient and less invasive when assessing sewer line replacement. One of the most effective methods is camera sewer inspection, which provides a clear view of the pipe’s internal condition without the need for extensive excavation. This technology allows for real-time evaluation, helping pinpoint the exact cause and location of the issue with precision. It also enables professionals to recommend targeted solutions, reducing unnecessary repairs and ensuring a more cost-effective and long-lasting outcome.

Key aspects of this diagnostic approach include:

Real-time video inspection of the sewer line.
Accurate detection of cracks, blockages, and root intrusion.
Precise location of damaged or collapsed pipe sections.
Reduced need for unnecessary digging or guesswork.
Clear assessment to determine the best repair or replacement solution.

Why Quick Action Is Essential to Prevent Structural Damage and Costly Repairs

Taking immediate action when sewer line issues arise is critical to protecting your property and avoiding more severe consequences, especially when considering sewer line replacement. Even minor warning signs can quickly escalate into major structural problems if left unaddressed, as continuous leaks and pressure buildup can compromise the integrity of both the plumbing system and the surrounding soil. Acting early not only safeguards your home but also helps maintain long-term efficiency and safety.

Key benefits of prompt response include:

Prevents foundation damage caused by soil erosion and prolonged moisture exposure.
Reduces the likelihood of pipe collapse and widespread system failure.
Helps avoid extensive excavation that can disrupt driveways, patios, and landscaping.
Limits exposure to harmful bacteria and contaminated wastewater.
Protects indoor air quality by eliminating persistent sewage odors.
Minimizes repair costs by addressing issues before they become large-scale issues.
Preserves property value by maintaining a structurally sound and functional plumbing system.

Get Expert Help Before It Gets Worse!

Don’t let minor sewer issues turn into major, costly repairs. If you’re noticing warning signs, it’s time to take action and protect your home with professional support for sewer line replacement in East Lansing, MI. Early intervention can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress down the line. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and get clear, reliable solutions tailored to your needs.

Modern Options for Professional Sewer Line Replacement

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 13:54:57 GMT

When it comes to maintaining your home’s plumbing integrity, sewer line replacement is often an unavoidable task. At Michigan Plumbing, we understand how daunting the prospect of sewer line replacement can be. This article explores both traditional and innovative solutions, helping you make an informed choice that minimizes hassle and preserves your property’s beauty while ensuring long-lasting results.

Understanding Traditional Sewer Line Replacement: The Invasive Approach

Historically, sewer line replacement required extensive digging, known as open trenching. This process involves excavating large trenches along the pipe route to remove and replace damaged sections. Although effective, traditional line replacement often comes with significant drawbacks. The invasive nature of the method results in major disruption to your yard, driveways, sidewalks, and landscaping, features that add value and curb appeal to your home. Repairing these areas after excavation can be costly and time-consuming, not to mention the inconvenience caused during the repair period.

Enter Trenchless Technologies: Minimizing Damage and Cost

Modern sewer line replacement methods, such as trenchless technologies, are revolutionizing the way repairs and replacements occur in East Lansing. Two of the most popular trenchless options are pipe bursting and pipe lining. These techniques drastically reduce the need for heavy excavation, offering a less disruptive and often more cost-effective solution to traditional digging methods.

Pipe Bursting: Replacing Pipes Without Digging Up Your Yard

Pipe bursting is an innovative method where a bursting head is pulled through the existing damaged pipe. As it moves forward, it fractures the old line while simultaneously pulling a new pipe into place behind it. This approach allows us to replace sewer lines without opening up large trenches, preserving your landscaping, driveway, and other exterior features.

This method is particularly advantageous in residential neighborhoods where homeowners want to avoid costly landscaping restoration. Sewer line replacement using pipe bursting reduces disruption and can often be completed faster, helping you get back to normal life sooner.

Pipe Lining: Repairing Pipes From the Inside Out

Another sophisticated method for sewer line replacement in East Lansing, MI, is pipe lining, sometimes called cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining. This process involves inserting a resin-coated liner into the existing pipe. The liner hardens inside the damaged pipe, creating a new, durable pipe within the old one. The results provide a seamless, corrosion-resistant, and watertight new pipe without the need for excavation.

Pipe lining is ideal when the original pipe is structurally sound but has cracks, leaks, or minor damage. This method preserves your home’s exterior environment while extending the life of your sewer system.

The Role of High-Definition Camera Inspections in Sewer Line Replacement

At Michigan Plumbing, we utilize high-definition camera inspections to assess your sewer lines accurately before recommending the most appropriate repair or replacement method. This technology allows us to pinpoint the exact location and nature of the problem inside your pipes through a small access point.

By choosing an approach based on comprehensive video inspections, we ensure that your sewer line replacement in East Lansing, MI, is as cost-effective and minimally disruptive as possible. Rather than defaulting to open trenching, we tailor our solutions to your unique situation, preserving your home’s beauty and reducing unnecessary expenses.

Why Sewer Line Replacement Should Focus on Property Preservation

East Lansing’s residential areas feature beautiful landscaping, concrete driveways, and paved sidewalks that add character and value to properties. Traditional sewer line replacement methods often necessitate extensive digging that can damage these investments, leading to additional repair costs and prolonged inconveniences.

Modern trenchless technologies help mitigate this issue completely. By limiting excavation to a few small access points rather than digging large trenches, homeowners experience less disruption in daily life and avoid the stress of restoring their outdoor living spaces.

Choosing the Right Sewer Line Replacement Partner

Selecting a trusted professional team can make all the difference in your sewer line replacement experience. Experts who invest in state-of-the-art inspection tools and specialize in trenchless technologies ensure your project is done right the first time quickly, effectively, and with minimal damage.

By partnering with a company like Michigan Plumbing, you gain access to experienced technicians committed to providing tailored sewer line replacement services that protect your home and wallet alike.

Ready to Upgrade Your Sewer Line?

Sewer line replacement no longer needs to be a stressful, disruptive ordeal. With options such as pipe bursting and pipe lining, you can preserve your yard, driveway, and sidewalks while receiving a durable, long-lasting repair. Thanks to high-definition camera inspections, you’ll know exactly what’s needed to fix your sewer line without unnecessary excavation. If you’re facing sewer line issues or want a professional assessment, contact Michigan Plumbing today . Our knowledgeable team is ready to provide expert guidance and cutting-edge solutions for line replacement in East Lansing, MI. Don’t wait until a small problem becomes an expensive headache; call us now to schedule your inspection and secure your home’s plumbing future.

Trenchless vs. Traditional Sewer Line Replacement

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 22:33:31 GMT

If you’re experiencing sewer line issues or planning home renovations involving underground plumbing, understanding your options for sewer line replacement in East Lansing, MI, is essential. Sewer repairs can be stressful and costly, especially when the process involves extensive digging that disrupts your yard and landscaping. Fortunately, advances in plumbing technology have given homeowners a more efficient, less invasive alternative: trenchless sewer line replacement.

As a leading plumbing contractor in East Lansing, MI, Michigan Plumbing offers both traditional and cutting-edge trenchless methods to suit varied needs and property conditions. This article dives into the key differences between these options and helps you decide which approach fits your situation best.

Understanding Sewer Replacement in East Lansing, MI

Traditional Sewer Replacement: The Tried and True Approach

Traditional sewer line replacement is exactly what most people envision when they think of pipe repairs—excavation. This process typically requires digging a trench or multiple holes to access the damaged pipe sections fully. Then, plumbers remove the old sewer line, install new piping, usually made of PVC or similar materials, and refill the excavated earth.

While the method is reliable and has been the industry standard for decades, traditional sewer line replacement comes with some drawbacks. The excavation can cause significant disturbance to your lawn, garden beds, driveways, and other landscaping elements, often requiring costly restoration work after the replacement. Additionally, the process tends to be labor- and time-intensive, sometimes stretching over several days.

That said, traditional replacement remains the go-to method in situations where:

The pipe is severely damaged or collapsed beyond repair.
Multiple sections need replacement.
Access to the pipe is straightforward without excessive disruption risk.

Trenchless Technology: Revolutionizing Sewer Line Replacement in East Lansing, MI

Advances in plumbing technology have made trenchless sewer line replacement a popular choice for homeowners wanting to minimize yard damage and reduce project timelines. Trenchless methods such as pipe bursting and pipe lining repair or replace sewer lines from the inside, requiring minimal excavation.

Pipe Bursting: This technique pulls a new pipe through the old, fractured one by fracturing the damaged pipe apart bit by bit while drawing the new pipe in place. Only small access pits at the start and end of the line are needed, making the process far less disruptive than open trench digging.
Pipe Lining: Also called cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining, this method involves inserting an epoxy-saturated liner inside the existing pipe. Once cured, the liner forms a new, durable pipe within the old pipe, sealing leaks and cracks without any removal required.

Trenchless technology offers many advantages:

Minimal landscape disturbance preserving lawns, trees, and hardscapes.
Faster completion—projects that might take days can often be finished in a few hours.
Reduced labor and restoration costs.
Environmentally friendly by avoiding excess soil displacement.
Less intrusive to your daily routine.

When to Choose Traditional vs. Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement in East Lansing, MI

Matching Method to Sewer Condition and Property Needs

While trenchless technology offers exciting benefits, it is not a universal solution. Each situation requires professional assessment to determine the most practical and cost-effective approach.

Trenchless methods work well if:
The existing pipe runs are intact enough to allow lining or bursting.
Access points can be created without major obstacles.
Homeowners want to avoid disrupting mature landscaping or concrete surfaces.

Traditional excavation may be necessary when:

Pipe segments are completely collapsed or crushed.
There is severe tree root intrusion.
Pipes are too misaligned or have too many bends.
Multiple, extensive repairs are needed, which can’t be addressed via lining.

At Michigan Plumbing, your trusted plumbing contractor in East Lansing, MI, we use video camera inspection technology to accurately diagnose the condition of your sewer line. This step is essential for selecting the best replacement method without guesswork.

The Michigan Plumbing Advantage: State-of-the-Art Sewer Line Replacement in East Lansing, MI

Michigan Plumbing is proud to be a forward-thinking plumbing contractor in East Lansing, MI, specializing in the latest sewer line replacement technologies. Our expert team is trained to perform both traditional and trenchless methods, giving you flexibility backed by experience.

When you choose Michigan Plumbing for sewer line replacement in East Lansing, MI, you benefit from:

Advanced video diagnostics to pinpoint sewer issues.
Custom-tailored replacement plans minimize home disruption.
Use of premium materials and equipment for lasting repairs.
Transparent pricing and timelines.
Strong focus on protecting your property’s appearance.

We understand that a sewer line replacement project can feel overwhelming. Our job is to guide you with clear information and provide the highest-quality workmanship so you can enjoy peace of mind.

Protect Your Home with Expert Sewer Line Replacement in East Lansing, MI

Choosing the right sewer line replacement method can save you time, money, and heartache down the road. Whether you opt for the traditional route or embrace trenchless innovation, partnering with a knowledgeable plumbing contractor in East Lansing, MI, like Michigan Plumbing, ensures the job is done right.

Don’t let sewer line problems disrupt your home or landscape unnecessarily. Contact Michigan Plumbing today for a thorough inspection and expert recommendation tailored to your property’s unique needs.

Contact Us Today for Your Sewer Replacement in East Lansing, MI

Ready to explore your sewer line replacement options with a trusted local expert? Michigan Plumbing is here to provide top-tier service and cutting-edge solutions that protect your home and lawn.

Bathroom Plumbing in Dewitt, MI: Expert Help

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 16:12:25 GMT

Thinking about remodeling your bathroom? Let Michigan Plumbing in Dewitt, MI, help you do it right. Our expert team specializes in bathroom plumbing in Dewitt, MI, ensuring every fixture and pipe is installed safely and up to code. Call us today at 517-940-6625 for expert service and peace of mind.

Why Bathroom Plumbing Matters in a Remodel

Bathroom remodels are exciting. New tiles, sleek fixtures, and modern designs can transform your space. But behind the beauty is something just as important: the plumbing.

When you upgrade your bathroom, you’re not just changing how it looks. You’re changing how it works. That’s why bathroom plumbing in Dewitt, MI, is more than just pipes and drains. It’s about making sure everything functions safely and smoothly.

Common Plumbing Upgrades During a Remodel

Most homeowners don’t realize how much plumbing work goes into a bathroom remodel. Here are a few common upgrades that need expert hands:

Relocating fixtures: Moving a toilet or sink means rerouting water and drain lines.
Installing modern shower valves: These control water pressure and temperature. They must be installed correctly to avoid leaks.
Upgrading to water-saving fixtures: New toilets and faucets can save water, but only if installed properly.
Replacing old pipes: Older homes may have outdated or corroded pipes that need replacing.

Each of these tasks requires skill and experience. That’s why bathroom plumbing services are essential during a remodel. They ensure your upgrades are done safely and meet all local codes.

Why You Should Hire a Professional Plumber

DIY might seem tempting, but bathroom plumbing is not the place to cut corners. Here’s why hiring a pro like Michigan Plumbing is the smart move:

Code compliance: Plumbing must meet local building codes. Mistakes can lead to failed inspections.
Avoiding leaks: Improper connections can cause water damage behind walls or under floors.
Protecting your investment: A remodel is a big investment. Don’t risk it with poor plumbing work.
Saving time and stress: Professionals get the job done faster and with fewer headaches.

With bathroom plumbing in Dewitt, MI, you get peace of mind knowing the job is done right.

What to Expect When You Work With Michigan Plumbing

At Michigan Plumbing, we make the process simple and stress-free. Here’s what you can expect when you call us for your bathroom remodel:

Step 1: Consultation and Planning

We start by listening. Our team will meet with you to understand your vision and assess your current plumbing setup.

Step 2: Detailed Estimate

You’ll get a clear, upfront estimate. No surprises, no hidden fees—just honest pricing.

Step 3: Expert Installation

Our licensed plumbers handle everything, from removing old fixtures to installing new lines and ensuring everything is up to code.

Step 4: Final Inspection and Clean-Up

We test every connection and fixture. Then we clean up, leaving your space spotless and ready to enjoy.

Real Problems We Help Prevent

Skipping professional plumbing can lead to big problems. Here are a few issues we’ve helped homeowners avoid:

Water damage from hidden leaks.
Mold growth behind walls.
Low water pressure due to poor pipe layout.
Clogged drains from improper slope or venting.
Failed inspections that delay your remodel.

Choosing bathroom Plumbing in Dewitt, MI, means avoiding these headaches.

Thinking About Moving Fixtures? Read This First

Relocating a toilet or shower might seem simple. But it often means cutting into floors, rerouting drain lines, and adjusting vent stacks.

This is not a weekend project. It requires permits, inspections, and expert knowledge.

Our team at Michigan Plumbing has handled hundreds of these projects. We know how to do it safely and efficiently.

If your remodel involves moving fixtures, professional bathroom plumbing in Dewitt, MI, is essential to avoid costly mistakes. We ensure every pipe and valve is placed correctly to protect your home’s plumbing system.

Don’t Forget About Your Sewer Line

During a remodel, it’s a good time to check your home’s main sewer line. If it’s old or damaged, it could cause backups later.

We also specialize in sewer line repair in Dewitt, MI. If we spot a problem, we’ll fix it before it becomes a costly mess.

Many homeowners don’t realize that poor bathroom plumbing in Dewitt, MI, can affect the sewer line’s performance. That’s why we inspect both systems to keep everything flowing smoothly.

How to Know It’s Time to Call a Plumber

Not sure if you need help? Here are signs you should call Michigan Plumbing:

You’re planning to move or add fixtures.
You notice low water pressure.
You hear gurgling sounds from drains.
You smell sewer gas.
You see water stains or mold.

If any of these sound familiar, call us at 517-940-6625 . We’ll take a look and give you honest advice.

Why Dewitt Homeowners Trust Michigan Plumbing

We’ve been serving Dewitt and the surrounding areas for over 30 years. Our team is local, licensed, and committed to quality.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Fast response times.
Upfront pricing.
Clean, respectful technicians.
Work guaranteed to meet code.
Friendly service from start to finish.

When it comes to bathroom plumbing in Dewitt, MI, we’re the name homeowners trust.

Ready to Start Your Remodel? Let’s Talk

Your dream bathroom starts with solid plumbing. Don’t risk leaks, delays, or costly mistakes.

Call Michigan Plumbing today at 517-940-6625 or ask us a question . Let’s make your remodel smooth, safe, and stress-free.

Sewer Line Repair vs. Replacement in Dewitt, MI

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 12:01:53 GMT

Homeownership comes with the responsibility of maintaining various systems, and one of the most critical yet often overlooked is your sewer line. For homeowners in Dewitt, MI, experiencing plumbing or sewer issues, deciding between sewer line repair and sewer line replacement can feel overwhelming. What factors should you consider? When is a repair sufficient, and when is replacement the inevitable choice? This comprehensive guide will help you understand your options and make an informed decision to protect your property and your wallet.

Understanding Sewer Line Issues: Repair or Replacement?

When it comes to sewer line repair in Dewitt, MI, understanding the difference between repair and replacement is the cornerstone of making the right choice. Sewer lines are th e underground pipes responsible for directing wastewater away from your home into the municipal sewer system or septic tank. Over time, these pipes can experience various problems due to age, ground movement, corrosion, tree root intrusion, or physical damage.

The Difference Between Sewer Line Repair and Replacement

Sewer line repair involves fixing a specific section of the pipe that is damaged or clogged. This can be done through traditional excavation or minimally invasive methods. Repairs are usually quicker and less expensive than a full replacement.

On the other hand, sewer line replacement in Dewitt, MI, involves removing and replacing the entire length of the sewer pipe. This is generally necessary when the pipes are extensively damaged, older than 50 years, or made of materials prone to failure like clay or cast iron.

Knowing whether to choose repair or replacement depends on several key factors, which we’ll explore now.

Key Factors Influencing Your Decision

Extent and Location of Damage

The extent of the damage is perhaps the most significant factor in deciding between sewer line repair in Dewitt, MI, and replacement. If the issue is localized—a single crack, hole, or blockage—repair is often adequate and more cost-effective. However, if there are widespread cracks, multiple leaks, or pipe collapses along the sewer line, replacement is usually necessary.

Age and Material of Pipes

Older homes in Dewitt may have sewer lines made of clay or cast iron, which deteriorate faster compared to modern materials like PVC. Pipes over 50 years old are more prone to breaks and corrosion. In such cases, while a repair might provide a temporary solution, sewer line replacement in Dewitt, MI, often saves money and hassle in the long term by preventing recurring issues.

Budget Considerations

The homeowner’s budget plays a crucial role. Though repairs often come with a lower upfront cost, frequent repairs can add up over time. Conversely, replacement requires a larger initial investment but delivers a durable, long-term fix. Discussing financial options and your expectations with a trusted plumber can help create a plan that fits your needs.

Innovative Trenchless Sewer Line Solutions

Traditional sewer line repairs or replacements often require extensive digging, which can disrupt your yard, driveway, or landscaping. Fortunately, trenchless technology has revolutionized how sewer problems are fixed for homeowners in Dewitt, MI.

Benefits of Trenchless Sewer Line Repair

Trenchless repair methods eliminate the need for major excavation by using techniques like pipe bursting or cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining. Here’s why trenchless repairs are increasingly popular:

Minimal disruption: Your lawn, driveway, and other outdoor features remain intact.
Faster completion: Repairs can often be completed within a day.
Cost-effective: Reduced labor and restoration costs.
Durability: Materials used in trenchless methods can last 50+ years.
Eco-friendly: Less soil is disturbed, and fewer resources are consumed.

For homeowners in Dewitt, MI, who want to resolve sewer issues efficiently without compromising their property’s aesthetics, sewer line repair in Dewitt, MI, with trenchless technology is an excellent solution.

Why Michigan Plumbing is the Trusted Choice in Dewitt, MI

Choosing the right company to handle your sewer issues is just as important as identifying the repair or replacement needs. Michigan Plumbing has earned a reputation across Dewitt, MI, for reliable, transparent, and expert service in both sewer line repair and replacement.

Experience and Expertise

Michigan Plumbing specializes in diagnosing complex sewer problems and offering tailored solutions. Their highly trained technicians leverage the latest tools, including video camera inspections, to accurately assess your sewer line’s condition. This precision ensures you only pay for the repairs you need, avoiding unnecessary replacements.

Commitment to Customer Satisfaction

At Michigan Plumbing, customer satisfaction is a top priority. Their team communicates clearly about the repair or replacement options, estimated costs, and timelines. Throughout the project, they maintain professionalism and respect for your property, ensuring minimal disruption.

Comprehensive Services with Advanced Technology

Whether it’s a small patch repair or full sewer line replacement in Dewitt, MI, Michigan Plumbing uses cutting-edge trenchless repair technologies to save time and reduce costs. Their commitment to using the best methods translates into durable solutions and peace of mind for homeowners.

When to Contact Michigan Plumbing for Sewer Line Services in Dewitt, MI

Sewer issues can manifest in various ways—slow drains, foul odors, gurgling sounds, or sewage backups. If you notice any of these signs, it’s critical to contact a professional for an evaluation.

Delaying sewer line repairs or replacement can lead to severe water damage, health hazards, and costly emergency repairs. Whether you need a diagnosis to decide between sewer line repair in Dewitt, MI, or replacement, or you’re ready to schedule the work, Michigan Plumbing is equipped to assist promptly and efficiently.

No sewer problem is too big or small for Michigan Plumbing’s experienced team. If you’re a homeowner in Dewitt, MI, facing sewer line difficulties and wondering whether you need sewer line replacement, contact Michigan Plumbing to get expert advice and reliable service.

Call Michigan Plumbing now at 517-940-6625 to schedule your sewer line evaluation. Protect your home, your family, and your investment with trusted sewer solutions from Michigan’s leading professionals.

Preventing Costly Sewer Line Repairs in Dewitt, MI

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 15:02:52 GMT

Your sewer line works 24/7 to move wastewater away from your home safely. But when problems arise, they don’t just disrupt your plumbing—they can impact your daily life, your landscaping, and your budget. At Michigan Plumbing , we help homeowners in Dewitt, MI, stay ahead of problems before they turn into emergencies. Contact us today at 517-940-6625 for expert guidance and sewer inspections you can trust.

What Causes Sewer Line Emergencies?

Sewer emergencies typically occur due to buildup, corrosion, or structural issues underground—many of which are preventable. Here are some of the most common causes we see in Dewitt homes:

Tree Root Invasion

Tree roots naturally grow toward moisture. Older sewer lines, especially those made of clay or cast iron, can develop tiny cracks that allow water vapor to escape—attracting roots. Once inside, roots expand, crack the pipe further, and cause major blockages.

Improper Drain Use

Every drain in your home is connected to the sewer line. So if you're pouring cooking grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps down the sink, or flushing wipes and paper towels, you’re setting the stage for clogs that worsen over time.

Aging or Damaged Pipes

Pipes don’t last forever. Sewer lines over 30 years old are likely past their prime, especially if made of outdated materials. Shifting soil, freeze-thaw cycles, or prior repairs can also cause deterioration or collapse.

Ground Movement and Construction

Any recent construction or heavy traffic above sewer lines can shift or damage them. Even if a pipe isn't broken, subtle movements can lead to misalignments and improper flow.

Smart Habits That Prevent Costly Repairs

With a little effort and awareness, you can protect your sewer line and avoid unexpected breakdowns. Below are some homeowner-friendly tips you can start using today.

1. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain

One of the simplest yet most powerful ways to prevent sewer line problems is by watching what enters your drains:

Kitchen:

Use a sink strainer to catch food particles.
Never pour grease, oils, or fats down the drain. Dispose of them in a container once cooled.
Avoid putting fibrous foods like celery, onion skins, or potato peels in the garbage disposal.

Bathroom:

Stick to flushing only toilet paper. Even "flushable" wipes don’t dissolve quickly and can block your pipes.
Install drain screens in showers and sinks to catch hair, dental floss, and other debris.

2. Schedule Regular Sewer Inspections

Preventative inspections are essential—especially in older Dewitt neighborhoods. Our team at Michigan Plumbing uses high-resolution video cameras to check your sewer line from the inside.

Benefits of routine sewer camera inspections:

Spot root growth before it becomes invasive.
Identify cracks or shifting pipes early.
Prevent backups during heavy rain or high-use times.

Even if your home is newer, annual inspections offer peace of mind and ensure your plumbing remains problem-free.

3. Prevent Tree Root Invasion

Tree root growth is one of the most common and destructive causes of sewer line failure in Dewitt. Here’s how to take action:

Know where your sewer line runs and avoid planting trees nearby.
Use slow-release chemical root treatments annually if you have large trees near your sewer line.
Replace older clay or metal pipes with root-resistant PVC piping.
Consider root barriers or professional tree trimming.

Warning Signs of Sewer Trouble

It’s important to act quickly if you notice any of these signs. They usually indicate a sewer line issue that could worsen if ignored.

Slow drainage from multiple fixtures
Water backing up into tubs or toilets
Gurgling sounds in sinks or drains
Patches of green grass or standing water in the yard
Persistent foul odors around the home

If you’re seeing one or more of these warning signs, don’t delay . Call Michigan Plumbing at 517-940-6625 to assess the situation before it becomes a full-blown emergency.

Sewer Repair vs. Replacement

Sometimes, repairs are enough to solve your problem. Other times, full replacement is necessary—especially if your system has suffered extensive root intrusion or collapse.

Repair options include:

Snaking for basic clogs
Hydro jetting to blast away buildup
Spot repairs for localized cracks

When to Consider Replacement:

Recurrent blockages despite cleaning
Visible damage in multiple areas
Sagging or "belly" in the pipe
Age of sewer line exceeds 30–40 years.

Michigan Plumbing: Your Local Sewer Experts

At Michigan Plumbing, we’re proud to serve homeowners in Dewitt and the surrounding area with honest advice, fast service, and long-lasting results. Whether you need an inspection, preventative maintenance, or emergency sewer line repair, we’ve got you covered. Our team understands Dewitt’s soil, seasons, and infrastructure, which means we solve problems efficiently and affordably.

Why Choose Us?

Decades of combined plumbing experience
Advanced diagnostic tools and techniques
Friendly, transparent customer service
Local team familiar with Dewitt homes and codes
Explore our commercial plumbing services .

Prevention is the Best Protection

Don’t wait until you’re ankle-deep in wastewater to take sewer line maintenance seriously. Small steps now can save you thousands later. From camera inspections to drain care advice, Michigan Plumbing is here to help.

Call us at 517-940-6625 <link to call> now for a free quote. Click here to ask a plumbing question today.

When to Call a Pro for Bathroom Plumbing & Sewer Line Repair

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 19:21:41 GMT

Every homeowner in Williamstown, MI, knows that plumbing issues can quickly turn from minor annoyances into major disasters. Whether it’s a dripping faucet, a clogged drain, or a failing sewer line, knowing when to call a professional can save you time, money, and stress. At Michigan Plumbing, we specialize in bathroom plumbing in Williamstown, MI , and sewer line repair in Williamstown, MI, ensuring your home stays safe and functional.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the key warning signs that indicate it’s time to call a pro, the common causes of sewer line problems , and how our advanced solutions can help. We’ll also discuss preventative measures you can take to avoid future plumbing disasters and why choosing a licensed professional matters for your home’s plumbing system.

Signs You Need Professional Bathroom Plumbing in Williamstown, MI

Your bathroom is one of the most frequently used areas in your home, and plumbing issues here can disrupt your daily routine.

Here are some red flags that mean it’s time to call a plumber:

Slow Drains: If water takes longer than usual to drain from your sink, shower, or bathtub, it could indicate a blockage deeper in your pipes. While minor clogs can sometimes be cleared with a plunger, persistent slow drainage suggests a more serious issue that requires professional bathroom plumbing in Williamstown, MI.

Frequent Clogs: Recurring clogs , despite using drain cleaners or plungers, suggest a more serious issue in your sewer line. If you find yourself dealing with the same clog every few weeks, it’s time to call in the experts.

Low Water Pressure: Weak water flow in your shower or faucet may signal pipe corrosion or hidden leaks. This can be caused by mineral buildup in your pipes or more serious issues like pipe damage.

Gurgling Noises: Strange sounds coming from your drains often mean trapped air due to a blockage. These gurgling noises are particularly concerning if they occur when you flush the toilet or run the washing machine, as they may indicate a problem with your main sewer line.

Water Stains or Mold: Leaky pipes behind walls or under floors can cause water damage and mold growth, requiring immediate attention. Mold not only damages your home but can also pose health risks for your family.

Ignoring these issues can lead to costly repairs. If you notice any of these problems, it’s best to schedule professional bathroom plumbing in Williamstown, MI, before the situation worsens.

When to Call a Pro: Sewer Line Repair Services in Williamstown, MI

Sewer line problems are more severe and can affect your entire home’s plumbing system. Here’s when you should consider sewer line repair in Williamstown, MI:

Persistent Bad Odors: A foul smell coming from your drains or yard often indicates a broken or blocked sewer line. Sewage gases escaping from cracks in the pipes create an unpleasant and potentially hazardous environment. If you notice a persistent sewage smell, don’t ignore it—call a professional immediately.

Multiple Slow or Clogged Drains: If several drains in your home are slow or clogged at the same time, the issue likely lies in your main sewer line rather than individual pipes. This is a clear sign that you need professional sewer line repair in Williamstown, MI.

Sewage Backup: The most alarming sign of a sewer line problem is sewage backing up into your sinks, toilets, or showers. This is a serious health hazard and requires immediate professional intervention. If you experience sewage backup, turn off your water supply and call a plumber right away.

Lush Patches in Your Yard: A leaking sewer line releases wastewater into your lawn, acting as fertilizer. If you notice unusually green or soggy patches in your yard, your sewer line may be damaged. This is especially common in older homes with aging pipes.

Foundation Cracks or Sinkholes: In severe cases, a broken sewer line can cause soil erosion, leading to foundation cracks or even sinkholes in your yard. If you notice any unusual dips or cracks in your property, it’s crucial to have your sewer line inspected.

Common Causes of Sewer Line Problems

Understanding what causes sewer line issues can help you prevent them:

Tree Roots: Roots seek moisture and can invade pipes, causing cracks or blockages. Even small cracks in your pipes can attract roots, which grow and expand over time, leading to major clogs.

Pipe Corrosion: Older pipes made of cast iron or clay can deteriorate over time. Corrosion weakens the pipes, making them more susceptible to cracks and leaks.

Blockages: Grease, hair, and foreign objects can accumulate, restricting water flow. Flushing non-degradable items like wipes or feminine hygiene products can also cause severe blockages.

Ground Shifts: Soil movement due to freezing temperatures or heavy rains can misalign pipes. This is particularly common in Michigan, where freeze-thaw cycles can affect underground plumbing.

Early detection and s ewer line repair in Williamstown, MI, can prevent extensive damage and costly replacements.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Plumbing Disasters

While some plumbing issues are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk:

Avoid Flushing Non-Flushable Items: Only toilet paper should go down your toilet.
Dispose of Grease Properly: Never pour grease down the drain—it solidifies and causes blockages.
Schedule Regular Inspections: Annual plumbing inspections can catch small issues before they become big problems.
Install Drain Screens: These prevent hair and debris from clogging your drains.

Taking these precautions can help extend the life of your plumbing system and save you money in the long run.

Don’t Wait—Contact Michigan Plumbing Today!

Ignoring plumbing problems only leads to bigger, more expensive repairs. If you’re experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, it’s time to call the experts. Contact us today for professional bathroom plumbing in Williamstown, MI, or sewer line repair!

5 Warning Signs You Need Sewer Line Replacement

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 19:09:13 GMT

A failing sewer line can wreak havoc on your Grand Ledge home, leading to messy backups, property damage, and expensive repairs if left unaddressed. While sewer lines are built to last decades, factors like tree root intrusion, ground shifting, and normal wear can compromise their integrity. Recognizing the early warning signs of sewer line failure can help you address problems before they escalate into emergencies requiring full sewer line replacement . Here are five telltale signs your underground plumbing system needs professional attention.

How to Know If You Need Sewer Line Replacement

1. Multiple Drains Backing Up Simultaneously

When several fixtures in your home drain slowly or back up at the same time - like your basement drain gurgling when you flush the toilet - this strongly indicates a main sewer line blockage. Unlike isolated clogs that affect just one fixture, whole-house drainage problems typically mean your main sewer pipe is compromised. Tree roots seeking moisture often invade small cracks in pipes, growing larger until they completely block wastewater flow. Our experienced team at Michigan Plumbing specializes in sewer and drain diagnostics using camera inspections to pinpoint exactly where and why your line is failing.

2. Persistent Sewage Odors Inside or Outside Your Home

That unmistakable rotten egg smell isn't just unpleasant - it's a health hazard. Sewer gases contain methane and other dangerous compounds that should remain contained within your plumbing system. If you notice persistent sewage smells in your home, yard, or near floor drains, this indicates cracks or breaks in your sewer line are allowing gases to escape. These odors often worsen after heavy water use or rainfall when increased wastewater flow puts more pressure on compromised pipes.

3. Unexplained Wet Spots or Lush Grass Patches

Your lawn can reveal hidden sewer line problems before they become catastrophic. Leaking wastewater acts as fertilizer, causing certain grass areas to grow unusually green and lush. You might also notice soggy patches, sunken areas, or even small sinkholes forming where leaking sewage has eroded underground soil. During dry spells, these problem areas often remain noticeably damp while the rest of your yard dries out.

4. Increased Pest Activity Around Your Property

Rodents and insects are attracted to the moisture and organic matter in leaking sewer lines. If you've noticed more cockroaches, drain flies, or even rodents around your home, they may be accessing your property through cracks in underground pipes. These pests not only create nuisance but can carry dangerous pathogens into your living spaces.

5. Mysterious Increases in Water Bills

A sudden spike in your water bill without changes in usage often signals an underground leak. While some leaks are obvious (like a dripping faucet), sewer line leaks can go undetected for months as wastewater silently seeps into surrounding soil. Modern leak detection equipment can help determine if an unexplained water bill increase stems from sewer line problems.

Protect Your Grand Ledge Home From Sewer Disasters

Ignoring sewer line warning signs often leads to much costlier repairs down the road, including full s ewer line replacement. If you've noticed any of these red flags, don't wait until you're dealing with raw sewage backups in your basement. The team at Michigan Plumbing offers comprehensive sewer line inspections using state-of-the-art camera technology to accurately diagnose problems. Ask our plumbing experts about your concerns or call us anytime at (517) 940-6625 for prompt, professional sewer and drain services throughout Grand Ledge, MI and surrounding areas.

Does Your Water Heater Need Repair or Replacement?

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 23:48:36 GMT

Your water heater plays a vital role in your home's daily comfort, providing hot water for showers, cooking, and cleaning. When problems arise, it can be challenging to determine whether your water heater needs repair or if it's time for a replacement. Understanding the signs of wear and tear can save you time, money, and stress while helping you make an informed decision.

Signs Your Water Heater May Need Repairs

Minor issues can often be resolved through professional water heater repair. Common signs that your system may need repairs include inconsistent water temperature, unusual noises, or small leaks. If your water temperature fluctuates or turns cold unexpectedly, there could be a problem with the thermostat or heating element. Similarly, banging or rumbling noises might indicate sediment buildup in the tank, which can often be resolved through a maintenance service provided by plumbing experts.

Even small leaks could mean loose connections or faulty valves — issues that a qualified plumbing professional can address. Repairing a water heater in these cases is often more cost-effective than replacing the entire unit.

When to Consider a Replacement

There comes a point when water heater replacement becomes a better solution than repeated repairs. If your unit is over ten years old, replacement is often the more practical route. Older models tend to be less energy-efficient, and frequent breakdowns can signal the end of the system's lifespan. Additionally, significant or recurring leaks are usually unrepairable and indicate that the tank has deteriorated beyond repair.

Consistently high energy bills might also point to an aging, inefficient water heater. Upgrading to a newer model can improve energy efficiency while providing more reliable service in the long term.

Assessing Costs of Repairs vs. Replacement

Cost is a significant factor when deciding between repairs and replacement. While water heater repair may seem less expensive initially, continuous issues could lead to higher cumulative costs over time. On the other hand, replacing your unit involves a larger upfront investment but typically comes with long-term savings in energy bills and maintenance. Evaluating the frequency and cost of past repairs can give you insight into whether a replacement might be more economical.

Trusting Professional Plumbing Services

Dealing with water heater problems often requires professional expertise. Skilled plumbing services can inspect your unit, diagnose the issue, and make recommendations tailored to your specific needs. Professionals have the tools and experience to provide efficient repairs and proper installations, ensuring that your system operates safely and effectively.

Many HVAC services also offer water heater consultations, which can help you decide between repairs and replacement. Consulting with trusted professionals enables you to make an informed decision that suits your budget and your home's needs.

Newer Models Deliver Energy Efficiency

If you decide on water heater replacement, you'll benefit from the advancements in technology found in newer models. Many of today's water heaters are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Options like tankless water heaters or energy-efficient traditional tanks can cut down on utility costs while still delivering consistent performance. Additionally, modern systems are designed to last longer, reducing the likelihood of future concerns.

Regular Maintenance Prevents Issues

Whether you repair or replace your water heater, ongoing maintenance is essential for long-term functionality. Regular inspections, flushing the tank to prevent sediment buildup, and testing the anode rods can help extend the life of your unit. Professional plumbing services often offer maintenance packages to make this process seamless, ensuring that your water heater stays in excellent condition year-round.

Plan Ahead and Act Quickly

When you notice signs of water heater trouble, don’t delay action. Ignoring small issues can lead to larger, more expensive repairs or even complete system failure. Acting early ensures you maintain access to hot water while avoiding unnecessary inconvenience. Scheduling a consultation with a plumbing professional allows you to take the next steps quickly and efficiently.

Your water heater is essential for your home, and knowing when to repair or replace it is crucial for maintaining comfort and efficiency. By identifying the signs of problems early, trusting expert plumbing services, and considering the long-term costs, you can make an informed decision. Keep your household running smoothly by addressing water heater issues promptly, and enjoy the benefits of reliable hot water in your daily life.

Contact us at Michigan Plumbing Sewer & Drain Cleaning Inc to learn more about whether your water heater needs repair or replacement.

What to Do When You Have a Burst Pipe at Home

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 23:13:03 GMT

Dealing with a burst pipe is every homeowner’s nightmare. The rush of water can cause significant damage to your home and belongings if not addressed quickly. Understanding what to do in the event of a burst pipe is crucial for minimizing the damage and getting your plumbing system back to normal. This guide walks you through the immediate steps you should take when faced with this plumbing emergency.

Locate and Turn Off the Main Water Supply

The first and most critical step when addressing a burst pipe is to shut off the main water supply to your home. You should be familiar with where the water shut-off valve is located—typically in a basement, crawl space, or garage. Turning off the water immediately stops the flow and helps limit damage to your property. This is essential even if water continues to leak slightly, as it significantly reduces the volume.

Drain the Faucets

After shutting off the main water supply, drain the plumbing system by opening all cold water faucets in your home. Begin with the lowest faucet, such as a basement or ground-floor sink, and work your way up. This process will relieve pressure in the pipes and help empty any remaining water. Don't forget to flush every toilet in the home. Once you've drained the cold taps, do the same with the hot water supply through your water heater.

Identify the Burst Pipe

The next step is to locate where the pipe has burst. Check visible pipes, including those underneath sinks and in crawl spaces. You may hear rushing water or notice dampness and puddles as indicators of the burst’s location. Identifying the source helps you communicate the specifics to your plumbing professionals and speeds up the repair process.

Call an Emergency Plumber

Once you’ve controlled the water and identified the affected area, contact an emergency plumbing service. Mentioning "emergency plumbing" during the call ensures your situation receives the urgency it deserves. Experienced residential plumbing professionals can promptly address the problem. Provide them with as much detail as possible about the pipe burst and its location to help them prepare for the repair.

Clean Up the Water

While waiting for the plumber, start cleaning up as much water as you can. Use mops, towels, or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up water and prevent further damage. Focus on the areas most affected and ensure valuables and furniture are moved to dry places. Removing water quickly can prevent mold growth and reduce repair costs later. Make sure the area is well-ventilated to expedite drying.

Evaluate and Record the Damage

Take the time to document the damage caused by the burst pipe with photos and detailed notes. This information is valuable for insurance purposes and any potential claims you might need to make. Record the condition of floors, walls, and any damaged belongings to provide a comprehensive overview to your insurance provider. The more thorough your documentation, the smoother the claims process is likely to be.

Preventative Measures

Once everything is under control, consider how you can prevent future pipe bursts. Insulating exposed pipes, maintaining a steady home temperature during cold spells, and conducting regular plumbing inspections can significantly reduce the risk. Understanding the current state of your plumbing system with the help of professional plumbers will offer peace of mind and safeguard your home against future plumbing emergencies.

Schedule Regular Plumbing Maintenance

To avoid future emergencies, consider scheduling regular maintenance with a reputable residential plumbing service. Routine checks will help identify potential issues before they become serious problems. Professionals can offer insights into your plumbing system's health and recommend any necessary upgrades or repairs.

Dealing with a burst pipe efficiently can mitigate damage and guide you toward a rapid recovery. By following these steps, you prepare your home to withstand such emergencies better. Don't wait until an incident occurs—take proactive measures by contacting plumbing services for advice and potential enhancements. Protecting your home can ensure fewer disruptions to your daily life.

Why You Need a Plumber to Install New Water Lines

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 00:36:10 GMT

When it comes to installing new water lines in your home or business, hiring a professional plumber is crucial. While it may seem tempting to take on the task yourself to save money, installing water lines is a complex and technical job that requires expertise. A professional plumber can ensure the job is done correctly, efficiently, and safely. In this blog, we’ll explore the key reasons why you need a plumber to install new water lines and the benefits of entrusting this important job to a qualified professional.

Ensuring Proper Installation and Functionality

The most important reason to hire a plumber for water line installation is to guarantee that everything is installed properly. Water lines need to be correctly sized, fitted, and connected to provide efficient water flow throughout your home or business. A plumber knows how to assess the specific needs of your plumbing system and install water lines that meet the demands of your household or commercial property.

Professional plumbers have the expertise to determine the correct pipe materials, proper placement, and ideal configuration for your water lines. Incorrect installation can lead to low water pressure, leaks, or water contamination issues down the line. An experienced plumber ensures that everything works efficiently from the start, avoiding common pitfalls that can occur in DIY installations.

Knowledge of Building Codes and Regulations

Water line installation is subject to local building codes and regulations, and it’s essential to follow these guidelines to avoid fines and other penalties. Professional plumbers are familiar with the local plumbing codes and will ensure that the installation complies with all legal requirements. Whether you’re installing new water lines for a renovation or a new construction project, adhering to the proper standards is crucial for safety and legal purposes.

If you attempt to install water lines yourself and fail to meet the required codes, you may be forced to redo the installation, which can add time and expenses to your project. A licensed plumber will make sure the job is done correctly the first time, giving you peace of mind and avoiding potential legal issues down the road.

Preventing Health Hazards

One of the most significant risks of improper water line installation is the potential for contamination. Water lines are responsible for delivering clean, potable water to your home or business, and if the installation is not done properly, contaminants such as dirt, rust, or even bacteria can infiltrate your water supply. Cross-contamination between water lines and waste lines can also occur if proper precautions are not taken, leading to serious health hazards.

Professional plumbers understand the importance of maintaining the integrity of your water lines and can ensure that there is no contamination or backflow into your drinking water. They follow industry standards to protect your water supply from pollutants, ensuring that the water you use is safe for your household or business.

Access to Specialized Tools and Equipment

Installing water lines requires specific tools and equipment that most homeowners or business owners don’t have on hand. Professional plumbers come equipped with the necessary tools to perform the job efficiently, including pipe cutters, wrenches, soldering tools, and more. They also have access to advanced technology for detecting leaks and ensuring the water lines are properly pressurized.

Attempting to install water lines without the proper tools can result in subpar work or even damage to the pipes. By hiring a plumber, you’ll benefit from their specialized equipment, which helps get the job done quickly and correctly.

Installing new water lines is not a project that should be taken lightly, as it requires specialized knowledge, skills, and equipment to do it properly. A professional plumber can ensure that your water lines are installed according to code, function efficiently, and remain free of leaks or contamination. By hiring a plumber, you’ll avoid costly mistakes, protect your property from water damage, and guarantee a safe and clean water supply for your home or business. Contact our team today to learn more.

Why You Should Invest in a Video Inspection for Sewer Lines

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 13:50:35 GMT

Maintaining a healthy sewer system is essential for any residential or commercial property. Sewer line issues can lead to significant problems, including unpleasant backups, extensive property damage, and costly repairs. Video inspection is one of the most effective tools for diagnosing sewer line issues. This advanced technology provides a detailed view of the inside of your sewer lines, offering valuable insights that can prevent major headaches. Investing in a video inspection for your sewer lines is a proactive approach that can save you time, money, and stress.

Early Detection of Problems

Sewer line problems often develop gradually and may not be immediately visible. Issues such as blockages, cracks, or tree root infiltration can start small and escalate over time. Video inspection allows for early detection of these problems by providing a comprehensive view of the interior of your sewer lines. By identifying potential issues before they become severe, you can address them early, preventing more significant damage and costly repairs in the future. Early detection through video inspection is an invaluable tool for maintaining the health and functionality of your sewer system.

Accurate Diagnosis

Traditional methods of diagnosing sewer line issues often involve guesswork and invasive procedures. Plumbers may need to dig up sections of your yard or property to locate the problem, which can be disruptive and costly. Video inspection eliminates much of this guesswork by allowing professionals to view real-time footage of the inside of your sewer lines. This accurate and detailed diagnostic approach helps identify the exact nature and location of the problem, enabling plumbers to provide more precise and effective solutions. Accurate diagnosis also helps determine the appropriate repair or replacement methods, reducing unnecessary work and minimizing disruption to your property.

Cost-Effective Solution

A video inspection can save you money by preventing more extensive repairs and replacements. Identifying and addressing issues promptly can prevent them from worsening and causing significant damage. For example, a small blockage or minor crack can be repaired relatively inexpensively compared to the cost of dealing with a major sewer backup or a complete sewer line replacement. Additionally, video inspection helps avoid unnecessary excavation and disruption, which can also contribute to cost savings. By investing in video inspection, you gain a cost-effective solution for maintaining the integrity of your sewer system.

Minimizing Property Damage

If left untreated, sewer line issues can lead to serious property damage. Blockages or leaks can cause wastewater to back up into your home or business, leading to water damage, mold growth, and unsanitary conditions. Video inspection helps prevent such scenarios by providing a clear view of the problem areas, allowing for targeted repairs rather than extensive excavation. This approach minimizes the risk of property damage and helps ensure that any necessary repairs are made with minimal disruption to your property.

Enhancing Maintenance Planning

Regular video inspections can be crucial to your sewer line maintenance strategy. By conducting periodic inspections, you can monitor the condition of your sewer lines over time and track any changes or developing issues. This proactive approach helps in planning maintenance and repair activities more effectively. It also provides a valuable record of the condition of your sewer lines, which can be useful for future reference or when dealing with insurance claims.

Improving Peace of Mind

Knowing that your sewer lines are in good condition provides peace of mind. Video inspections ensure that potential problems are monitored and addressed before they escalate into major issues. For property owners, this peace of mind is invaluable, as it reduces stress and uncertainty about the health of their sewer system. By investing in video inspection, you proactively approach sewer line maintenance, contributing to overall property safety and functionality.

Investing in a video inspection for your sewer lines is a smart and proactive decision that offers numerous benefits. It allows for early detection of potential problems, provides accurate diagnosis, and offers a cost-effective solution for maintaining your sewer system. Additionally, it helps minimize property damage, enhances maintenance planning, and improves peace of mind. By utilizing advanced video inspection technology, you ensure your sewer system's long-term health and reliability, protecting your property and avoiding costly repairs.

For more information about this, contact us at Michigan Plumbing Sewer & Drain Cleaning Inc.

A Guide to Commercial Plumbing Services for Retail Stores

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 18:48:00 GMT

Running a retail store involves several vital aspects, among which maintaining a robust plumbing system stands out. Retail stores often face distinct plumbing challenges and hence require specialized commercial plumbing services to ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction. This comprehensive guide delves into the various types of commercial plumbing services tailored specifically for retail stores, shedding light on their importance and benefits.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Maintenance and routine inspections are the bedrock of a functional plumbing system. Retail stores need periodic checks to identify potential issues before they escalate into major problems. Regular maintenance involves checking for leaks, assessing water pressure, inspecting fixtures, and ensuring drainage systems are working efficiently. A proactive approach not only prolongs the life of the plumbing infrastructure but also reduces the likelihood of unexpected disruptions that could impact business operations.

Emergency Plumbing Repairs

Emergencies such as burst pipes, severe leaks, and clogged drains can occur at any time, often causing significant disruption. Commercial plumbers offer emergency repair services that are available 24/7 to address these urgent issues promptly. Quick response times from professional plumbers help minimize water damage, restore normal operations, and prevent losses related to downtime. An emergency plumbing service ensures that your retail store remains operational, even in the face of unforeseen plumbing crises.

Fixture Installation and Upgrades

The installation of new plumbing fixtures and the upgrading of existing ones are crucial for maintaining a modern and efficient retail environment. Plumbers can install a range of fixtures, including sinks, faucets, toilets, and water heaters, tailored to the specific needs of retail stores. Upgrades can lead to improved water efficiency, which translates to cost savings and a reduced environmental impact. Additionally, modern fixtures can enhance the aesthetic appeal of washrooms and customer areas, contributing positively to the overall shopping experience.

Drain Cleaning and Maintenance

Effective drainage is essential for the hygiene and smooth operation of any retail store. Over time, debris and waste can accumulate in drains, causing blockages that hinder water flow and produce unpleasant odors. Commercial plumbing services offer thorough drain cleaning solutions that utilize advanced techniques and equipment to clear blockages and prevent future clogs. Regular drain maintenance is vital for preventing potential health hazards and ensuring that wastewater is disposed of properly.

Backflow Prevention Services

Backflow, the undesirable reversal of water flow, can contaminate a retail store's water supply with harmful substances. To safeguard against this, commercial plumbers provide backflow prevention services that include installing, testing, and maintaining backflow prevention devices. These devices are designed to protect potable water supplies from contamination, ensuring safe and clean water for both staff and customers. Compliance with local health regulations and codes is also achieved through professional backflow prevention services.

Water Heater Services

Retail stores rely on water heaters for various needs, including restrooms, cleaning, and food service areas. Commercial plumbing services encompass the installation, repair, and maintenance of water heaters to ensure they operate at optimal efficiency. From conventional storage water heaters to modern tankless models, professional plumbers are equipped to handle all types. Regular maintenance and timely repairs help extend the lifespan of the water heater, maximizing performance and energy efficiency.

Eco-Friendly Plumbing Solutions

In today's environmentally conscious world, many retail stores are seeking to adopt eco-friendly practices, and plumbing is no exception. Commercial plumbers offer green plumbing solutions, such as installing low-flow fixtures, water-saving toilets, and efficient irrigation systems. These initiatives help conserve water, reduce utility bills, and promote a sustainable business model. Implementing eco-friendly plumbing solutions is beneficial for the environment and enhances the store's reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking business.

Understanding and investing in these various commercial plumbing services ensures that retail stores operate smoothly, maintain a welcoming environment, and adhere to health and safety standards. By partnering with experienced commercial plumbers, retail store owners can address plumbing challenges effectively, minimize disruptions, and foster a positive shopping experience for their customers. If you need a plumbing service for your retail store, contact our team at Michigan Plumbing Sewer & Drain Cleaning Inc for more information.

Essential Plumbing Services for Your Outdoor Kitchen

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 17:13:56 GMT

Creating an outdoor kitchen is an exciting project that promises countless opportunities for memorable gatherings and cooking under an open sky. However, like your indoor kitchen, your outdoor kitchen requires a range of plumbing services to operate efficiently and safely. This blog post will delve into the various types of plumbing services you might need when planning and maintaining an outdoor kitchen.

1. Water Supply Lines

The backbone of any kitchen, the water supply lines provide the necessary flow of water to your sink, ice maker, and other appliances. Professional plumbers ensure these lines are installed correctly to avoid potential leaks and damage. They also make sure that the materials used are suitable for outdoor conditions, minimizing the risk of freezing and bursting during colder months.

2. Drainage Solutions

Effectively managing wastewater is crucial for any kitchen. Outdoor kitchens typically require specialized drainage solutions due to exposure to elements like rain, wind, and debris, as well as differing surface levels. Proper drainage ensures that water doesn't accumulate, preventing potential damage and maintaining a clean and functional cooking area. Installations can include French drains, dry wells, or dedicated sewer connections that channel waste efficiently away from your cooking and dining area, preventing unpleasant odors and standing water.

3. Gas Line Installation

For those who plan to use gas-powered appliances like grills or outdoor stoves, installing gas lines is a key service. Licensed plumbers ensure that gas lines are laid safely and comply with local regulations. They will also check that gas connections are secure and perform pressure tests to prevent the dangerous risk of leaks.

4. Outdoor Sink Installation

An outdoor sink is an indispensable feature for any home or garden, allowing for easy cleanup after gardening or barbecuing and providing convenient water access for a variety of tasks. Whether you're washing fresh produce, rinsing off muddy hands, or filling up a watering can, an outdoor sink adds significant functionality to your outdoor space. Plumbers install these sinks, connecting them to both the water supply and drainage systems. They also make sure to insulate pipes where necessary to fend off weather-related issues and ensure proper faucet installation for reliable performance.

5. Beverage Stations and Ice Makers

If your outdoor kitchen includes a beverage station or an ice maker, additional plumbing services are required. These units need a reliable water source and drainage solutions to function correctly. Ensuring proper installation is crucial to prevent leaks and ensure optimal performance. It's also important to consider the maintenance needs of these appliances, such as regular cleaning and filter replacements, to keep them running smoothly and efficiently. Plumbers will ensure that water lines are appropriately installed and integrated into your overall plumbing system, providing convenience and efficiency. They meticulously plan and execute the layout of pipes to ensure optimal water flow and pressure. Additionally, they conduct thorough inspections and maintenance to prevent leaks and other potential issues, ensuring the longevity and reliability of your plumbing infrastructure.

6. Seasonal Maintenance and Winterization

Given that outdoor kitchens are exposed to the elements, seasonal maintenance is essential to ensure their longevity and functionality. This includes regular cleaning, checking for wear and tear, and protecting surfaces and appliances from weather damage. Proper maintenance not only preserves the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor kitchen but also ensures that it remains a safe and enjoyable space for cooking and entertaining. Professional plumbers can provide these essential services to extend the life of your outdoor kitchen's plumbing system, ensuring that it operates efficiently and remains in excellent condition for years to come.

Investing in quality plumbing services for your outdoor kitchen is crucial for ensuring its functionality and longevity. From installing water supply lines and drainage solutions to setting up gas lines and performing seasonal maintenance, skilled plumbers play a vital role in transforming your outdoor space into a reliable and enjoyable cooking oasis. By addressing all your plumbing needs, they help you create a seamless and efficient outdoor kitchen experience.

If you need outdoor kitchen plumbing services for your home, contact our team at Michigan Plumbing to see a list of our services and schedule an appointment.

Benefits Of High Pressure Sewer Jetting For Your Plumbing

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 23:02:54 GMT

Have you ever experienced slow drains, foul odors, or frequent clogging in your kitchen or bathroom drains? Do all of your drains have these issues, or only one or two of them in the home? Regardless, it may be time to consider high pressure sewer jetting. This powerful method of cleaning can help remove stubborn blockages and buildup in your pipes, keeping your plumbing system running smoothly and helping it last longer for years to come. As you read on, you can explore what high pressure sewer jetting is, the areas of your plumbing it can be used on, signs that indicate you need this service, how often it should be performed, why it's important to have it done professionally, and how it can help extend the life of your plumbing system.

What Is High Pressure Sewer Jetting?

High pressure sewer jetting uses high streams of water to clean out drains and pipes efficiently. This pressurized water can reach a very high psi, allowing it to blast away even the toughest blockages and buildup in your plumbing system. Unlike traditional methods like snaking or chemical cleaners, high pressure sewer jetting is environmentally friendly for your pipes since it doesn't use any cleaners. It's also very effective in removing stubborn, hard, or long-lasting debris so your pipes that haven't been cleaned in some time can get the cleaning they deserve in one treatment.

Where Can You Have High Pressure Sewer Jetting Done?

High pressure sewer jetting is a versatile cleaning technique that can benefit several areas of your plumbing system. It can be performed on various areas of your plumbing system, including kitchen sinks, bathroom drains, sewer lines, and storm drains. High pressure sewer jetting can be done on interior and exterior plumbing areas. This versatile method can effectively clear out debris, grease, tree roots, mineral deposits, and other obstructions that may be causing issues with your plumbing.

What Are Signs You Need High Pressure Sewer Jetting Done?

Several signs indicate you may need to have high pressure sewer jetting done on your plumbing system, with some indications more noticeable than others. These include slow-moving drains or drains that don't completely drain, gurgling noises coming from your pipes, foul odors (like rotten eggs, vegetation, dirt, or sulfur) emanating from one or more of your drains, or even recurring clogs despite attempts to clear them with a plunger or drain cleaner. Never put cleaning solutions and other agents down your drains without speaking to your plumber first, especially if you have a private septic system.

How Often Should You Have High Pressure Sewer Jetting Done?

Having high pressure sewer jetting performed at least annually is recommended as part of routine maintenance for your plumbing system. However, your plumbing specialist may recommend you have this service done more often based on the age of your septic system, existing sewer issues you have, and other factors. Regular cleanings can help prevent major blockages from forming and keep your pipes flowing freely. Additionally, if you live in an area with hard water or have older pipes that are prone to buildup issues, you may want to have high pressure sewer jetting done fairly often.

Having high pressure sewer jetting done on your plumbing system has numerous benefits including preventing clogs, reducing foul odors, extending the life of your pipes, and protecting your system against costly repairs. By investing in this professional service you can ensure that your plumbing system stays in top condition for years to come. Don't wait until you're dealing with a major blockage or backup schedule a high pressure sewer jetting appointment; call our team of specialists at Michigan Plumbing Sewer & Drain Cleaning Inc today.

The Benefits Of Upgrading To A Tankless Water Heater

Fri, 03 May 2024 18:47:30 GMT

When it comes to heating water for your home, traditional water heaters have been the go-to option for many years. However, as technology continues to advance, more and more homeowners are making the switch to tankless water heaters. In this blog post, we will explore what a tankless water heater is, the benefits of upgrading to one, signs that indicate you should make the switch, and why it's important to have your tankless water heater installed professionally.

What Is A Traditional Water Heater?

Traditional water heaters store and heat a large amount of water in a tank, which is then dispensed throughout your home when needed. While these types of water heaters are reliable, they do come with their drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages of traditional water heaters is that they can run out of hot water if you use too much at once. Additionally, they take up a significant amount of space in your home and can be less energy-efficient than other options.

What Is A Tankless Water Heater?

On the other hand, tankless water heaters heat water on demand as it passes through the unit. With this type of water heater, your home won't run out of hot water no matter how much you use at once. Tankless water heaters are also much smaller in size compared to traditional models, saving valuable space in your home. Additionally, because they only heat water when needed, they are generally much more energy-efficient and can lead to lower utility bills over time.

What Are The Benefits Of A Tankless Water Heater?

There are many benefits to upgrading to a tankless water heater. Not only will you have access to an endless supply of hot water whenever you need it, but you can also save money on your monthly energy bills. Tankless water heaters also tend to last longer than traditional models and require less maintenance overall. In addition, because they are smaller in size, they can be installed in areas where traditional models would not fit.

What Are Signs You Need A Tankless Water Heater?

Several signs indicate it may be time to upgrade to a tankless water heater. If you frequently run out of hot water or have inconsistent temperatures throughout your home, it may be time for a change. Other signs include noticing leaks or corrosion on your current water heater or hearing strange noises coming from the unit. If any of these issues sound familiar to you, it may be worth considering making the switch to a tankless model.

Should You Hire A Professional To Do Your Install?

When it comes time to have your tankless water heater installed, it's important to hire a professional plumber or HVAC technician for the job because they can install your new unit and remove and dispose of your old water heater. Installing a tankless unit requires expertise and knowledge of plumbing systems that most homeowners do not possess. A professional installer will ensure that your new unit is set up correctly and safely so that you can enjoy all the benefits of your new system without any issues.

Upgrading to a tankless water heater can provide numerous benefits for homeowners looking for an efficient and reliable way to heat their homes' hot water supply. With endless hot water on demand and potential savings on energy bills over time, making the switch is definitely worth considering. Keep an eye out for signs that indicate it may be time for an upgrade and always hire a professional installer for best results. Your future self will thank you for making the switch! For all your water heater and other plumbing needs, call our team of specialists at Michigan Plumbing Sewer & Drain today.

The Advantages of a Plumbing Service for Restaurant Owners

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 19:28:06 GMT

For restaurant owners and managers, addressing plumbing issues promptly can be the difference between a thriving business and a PR disaster. This detailed post will unpack why proactively engaging with a professional plumbing service is not just a safety measure but a strategic move to elevate your restaurant's reputation and streamline operations.

Plumbing Issues: More than a Drip in the Bucket

Imagine a busy Saturday evening — the aroma of delicious dishes tantalizing the senses, the clinks of cutlery symphonizing with the bustling kitchen, and the general hum of a restaurant on the cusp of success. Now, picture a sudden pipe burst or a clogged drain in the midst of this hustle. The harmony breaks, and chaos sets in.

Immediate Impact on Business Operations

The effects of such incidents are not confined to the immediate disruption in service. There's the potential for lost revenue, additional costs for emergency repair, and, most critically, a decline in customer satisfaction.

Long-Term Repercussions

Further analysis of plumbing issues reveals a more insidious problem — the long-term impact on infrastructure and the ripple effect they create. Specks of dust and particles that flow into the plumbing can, over time, wear down the system, leading to periodic issues that are both costly and increasingly common.

Prevention Is Better than Damage Control

A strategic, scheduled maintenance plan, overseen by a professional plumbing service, can identify potential problems before they manifest, thus averting crises and maintaining the seamless operation that your establishment demands.

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

By having a professional plumber conduct routine checks, you ensure that your plumbing system remains in top condition. These specialists can spot wear and tear, replace aging parts, and provide insights into any potential upgrades that could save water and reduce bills.

Educational Partners in Your Business

Plumbers are not just troubleshooters; they can be valuable consultants for your business. They can educate you and your staff about best practices, such as what should and shouldn't be put down the disposal or how to detect the early signs of a plumbing problem.

The Quality of Service Impression

A plumbing issue, when handled promptly and efficiently by a professional service, showcases the integrity and quality standards upheld by a restaurant. It's an opportunity to reinforce the message that your establishment is committed to maintaining a space that is both inviting and safe.

Maintaining Hygienic Standards

A stellar health inspection score is not just a regulatory win; it's a sign to customers that their well-being is your priority. A plumbing service that specializes in restaurant standards can ensure your establishment meets and exceeds hygiene criteria.

Swift Response and Reputation Management

In the age of instant sharing and social media, a positive response to a negative event can transform a dissatisfied customer into a loyal advocate. Communicate the steps taken to rectify any plumbing issues — this transparency can enhance your restaurant's image as a place that takes customer feedback seriously.

Cost-Effective Solutions for Sustainability

Sustainability in the restaurant industry extends beyond food sourcing and waste management to encompass water conservation and efficient plumbing. A trusted plumber can assist in installing systems that not only support eco-friendly practices but also reduce operational costs in the long run.

Economic Benefits of Water Efficiency

Modern plumbing fixtures and systems are designed to be more water-efficient, which not only aligns with the ethical and environmental values of your restaurant but also significantly cuts down on utility bills.

Invest in Quality for Lasting Returns

It's tempting to opt for quick, cheap fixes, but in the grand scheme of a restaurant's life cycle, investing in high-quality plumbing services ensures a solid infrastructure that can withstand the rigors of daily operation.

In an industry that cherishes the art of creating memorable experiences, the role of plumbing is more than just a matter of functionality — it is integral to crafting the narrative of your establishment. A reliable plumbing service like Michigan Plumbing is a strategic ally for your restaurant, offering more than just a solution to a dysfunctional system. Reach out to our team today and get your plumbing system taken care of.

Signs That You Need To Replace Your Kitchen's Garbage Disposal

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 22:09:47 GMT

Your kitchen's garbage disposal is an invaluable appliance that helps keep your kitchen clean and functional. However, like any other appliance, garbage disposals only last a limited amount of time and will eventually require replacement. In this blog post, we will discuss some common signs that indicate it may be time to replace your kitchen's garbage disposal. By recognizing these signs early on, you can avoid potential issues and keep your kitchen running smoothly.

Persistent Clogs

One of the most common signs that it may be time to replace your garbage disposal is persistent clogs. If you find that your garbage disposal is constantly getting clogged, even after cleaning it out, this could indicate that it is no longer functioning properly. Over time, debris can build up in the disposal and cause it to work less efficiently. If you are constantly having to call a plumber to unclog your garbage disposal, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace it altogether.

Strange Noises

Another sign that your garbage disposal may need to be replaced is if you notice strange noises coming from it while it is in use. Grinding, banging, or squeaking noises could indicate that there is something wrong with the blades or motor of the disposal. These noises can be a warning sign that the disposal is on its last legs and may need to be replaced soon. Ignoring these noises could lead to more serious damage and potentially a complete breakdown of the disposal.

Persistent Odors

If you notice persistent odors coming from your garbage disposal, even after it has been thoroughly cleaned, this could be a sign that it is time to replace it. Over time, food particles can become stuck in the disposal and begin to rot, causing foul odors to emanate from your sink. These odors can be difficult to get rid of and may indicate that your disposal is no longer effectively grinding up food waste. Replacing your garbage disposal can help eliminate these odors and improve the overall cleanliness of your kitchen.

Leaking

Leaking is another common sign that your garbage disposal may need to be replaced. If you notice water pooling around the base of the disposal or dripping from the unit itself, this could indicate a severe problem with the seals or pipes connected to the disposal. Leaks can not only lead to water damage in your kitchen but can also indicate a more serious issue with the disposal itself. It is important to address any leaks promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the efficient operation of your kitchen's garbage disposal.

Age of the Disposal

Finally, the age of your garbage disposal can also be a significant factor in determining whether it needs to be replaced. Most garbage disposals have a lifespan of around a decade, depending on the model and usage. If your disposal is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may be more cost-effective to replace it before it breaks down completely. By keeping track of the age of your disposal and considering the signs mentioned above, you can determine when it is time to invest in a new garbage disposal for your kitchen.

In conclusion, recognizing the signs that indicate you need to replace your kitchen's garbage disposal is essential for maintaining the efficiency and cleanliness of your kitchen. Persistent clogs, strange noises, persistent odors, leaking, and the age of the disposal are all factors to consider when determining whether it is time to invest in a new disposal.

By being proactive and replacing your garbage disposal when necessary, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure that your kitchen remains functional and free of unpleasant odors. Keep an eye out for these signs and address them promptly to keep your kitchen running smoothly. If your garbage disposal is experiencing issues, contact Michigan Plumbing today.

How To Tell When Your Sewer Line Needs Replacing

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 21:33:46 GMT

Dealing with plumbing issues is never fun, and it's especially frustrating when the problem is your sewer line. When your sewer line has issues, it can cause extensive and expensive damage that can affect your entire home. It's crucial to know the warning signs, so you can catch them early on to prevent further damage or to prepare for replacing your sewer line. In this guide, we will go over the signs of a deteriorating sewer line so that you know when to call a professional.

Slow Drains

If your drains are struggling to move water, this could be a sign of a clogged sewer pipe. When the sewer line isn't functioning as it should, wastewater has a harder time leaving your home. This makes it harder for the water to move through the pipes, and it can cause your drains to back up or run slowly. If you notice this is happening with your home's drains, it could be time to replace your sewer line.

Unpleasant Smells

One of the easiest signs of a failing sewer line is a foul odor. If you notice this smell coming from your drains or outside your home, it's important not to ignore it. This smell occurs when the sewer line is backed up and the stagnant water has nowhere else to go. If this problem goes untreated, not only will the smell persist, but the backed-up sewage can cause permanent damage to your home.

Multiple Drains Are Clogged

If you have multiple drains in your home that are clogged at once, it could be a sign that your sewer line is failing. When a sewer line is in good condition, it should efficiently transfer water and waste to your main sewer pipe.

However, when the line is clogged, wastewater has nowhere else to go, and it can cause clogs in several places throughout your home. When you notice that more than one drain is clogged at the same time, that's a surefire sign that something is going on with your sewer line.

Greener Grass

This one might seem surprising, but if you notice that your lawn is greener than ever before, you might have sewer line problems. When your sewer line cracks or bursts, it can cause wastewater to seep into your lawn, fertilizing it like no other. If you notice that your lawn is suddenly looking vibrant, give us a call. It could be a sign that you need your sewer pipe replaced.

Cracks in Your Home's Foundation

If you see cracks forming in your home's foundation, it's time to investigate. Cracks can occur for several reasons, and one of them is sewer line damage. When your sewer line is backed up or leaking, the water can seep into your foundation, eroding it over time. This can cause major damage to the structural integrity of your home. If you notice any cracks forming, bring in a plumbing professional to investigate.

Mold Growth

Another symptom of a damaged sewer line is mold growth on walls or floors near your plumbing fixtures. This occurs because of the high moisture content that results from a leaking or clogged sewer line. If the issue is not addressed, the mold can spread to other parts of the house, causing severe respiratory problems and other health issues.

Dealing with sewer line damage is never a fun experience, but knowing the signs of a deteriorating sewer line can go a long way in preventing extensive damage to your home. Keep an eye out for slow drains, unpleasant smells, multiple clogs, greener grass, cracks in your foundation, and mold growth.

Should you notice any of these signs, call in a professional plumber from our team right away to assess the situation and replace your sewer line if necessary. Don't overlook any of these signs, as they can evolve into major problems if left untreated.

Debunking Common Plumbing Myths

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 23:38:20 GMT

Plumbing is essential to our daily lives, providing comfort and convenience we often take for granted. However, with this convenience comes a slew of myths and misconceptions that, if believed, can lead to costly repairs and potential damage. This blog post will unravel some of the most common plumbing myths, illuminating the truth behind these widely held misconceptions.

Ice Cubes Will Sharpen Garbage Disposal Blades

Some believe tossing ice cubes down the drain will magically sharpen the blades. In reality, garbage disposals don't have blades in the traditional sense; instead, they have impellers that crush and grind food particles.

While ice cubes can help clean the disposal and remove debris, they won't sharpen anything. The best way to maintain your garbage disposal is to use cold water and citrus peels regularly. The cold water helps keep oils and fats in a more solid state, preventing them from accumulating in the pipes.

Hot Water Melts the Grease to Prevent Clogs

While it's true that hot water can temporarily break down grease, the reality is that the grease can solidify further down the drainpipes, contributing to blockages. Instead of relying on hot water, it's best to dispose of grease by allowing it to cool and throwing it in the trash. This way, you can prevent grease-related clogs and ensure the smooth flow of water through your pipes.

Drain Cleaners Are Safe and Effective

Commercial drain cleaners are often marketed as miracle solutions for clogged pipes. However, these harsh chemicals can corrode pipes over time, leading to more significant issues. Moreover, they pose health risks and can harm the environment.

Mechanical methods like plungers or augers are safer and more effective for clearing clogs without causing long-term damage. Regular maintenance and preventative measures are the key to a healthy plumbing system, rather than relying on chemical solutions.

Flushable Wipes Are Flushable

Wipes, including baby wipes and cleaning wipes, don't disintegrate as quickly as toilet paper, even if they are labeled "flushable". They can accumulate in the plumbing system, causing blockages and sewer backups.

To avoid costly plumbing issues, it's crucial to dispose of wipes in the trash rather than flushing them down the toilet. Being mindful of what goes down your drains is essential for maintaining a smooth-running plumbing system.

A Plunger Can Fix Any Clog

While a plunger is a handy tool for minor clogs, it's not a universal solution. Some blockages may be more severe and require professional attention. Using excessive force with a plunger can also damage pipes, leading to leaks. If plunging doesn't resolve the issue, it's wise to consult a plumber for a thorough inspection and proper solution.

A Dripping Faucet Isn't a Big Deal

A dripping faucet may seem minor, but it can waste significant water over time. Beyond the environmental impact, it can also lead to higher water bills. A persistent drip can also indicate underlying issues with the faucet or plumbing system that may worsen if neglected.

A Brick in the Toilet Tank Can Save Water

The idea of placing a brick in the toilet tank to reduce water usage is outdated and can cause more harm than good. Modern toilets are designed to use a specific amount of water for optimal flushing. Altering this balance can result in inefficient flushing and potential clogs. Consider using a water-saving toilet or installing a dual-flush system to save water. Upgrading to water-efficient fixtures is a more effective and environmentally friendly approach to reducing water consumption.

Plumbers Are for Problems After They Happen

Many homeowners believe that plumbers are only necessary for emergencies or after a problem occurs. In reality, scheduling regular plumbing maintenance can prevent issues from arising in the first place.

Michigan Plumbing can identify potential problems, perform necessary repairs, and offer valuable advice on maintaining a healthy plumbing system. Contact us today to book an appointment.

A Guide to Different Parts of Your Toilet and Knowing When To Repair or Replace

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 21:43:15 GMT

As a homeowner, be familiar with the different parts of your toilet so that you can easily identify when repairs or replacements are needed. Understanding the components of your toilet can help you save time and money by knowing when a simple fix is required or when you should call a plumber. In this blog post, explore the different parts of a toilet.

Fill Valve

The fill valve is crucial in replenishing the toilet tank with water after every flush. If you observe any issues like improper filling or continuous water flow, this could indicate a need for repair or replacement of the fill valve. A toilet tank that overflows not only wastes a substantial amount of water but also results in inflated utility bills. Therefore, promptly address this concern to avoid such consequences.

Flush Valve

The flush valve is the mechanism that allows water to flow from the toilet tank into the bowl when you flush. If you flush the toilet and the water doesn't drain or you notice a weak flush, this could be a sign that the flush valve needs attention. A faulty flush valve can result in inconsistent flushing, which can be frustrating and inconvenient for you and your household.

Flapper

The flapper, a rubber seal, sits at the bottom of the toilet tank and acts as a barrier between the tank and the bowl. It is lifted when you flush to allow water to flow into the bowl. If you hear a constant trickling sound in your toilet, it may indicate a problem with the flapper. The flapper can wear out or become misaligned, causing water and wastewater to leak into the bowl.

Handle and Trip Lever

The handle and trip lever are essential components responsible for initiating the flushing process. If you encounter a loose handle or one that fails to return to its original position after flushing, this indicates that adjustment or replacement might be necessary.

A malfunctioning handle not only makes it challenging to flush the toilet effectively but also leads to repeated attempts to achieve the desired flushing outcome, which can be frustrating and time-consuming. Taking prompt action to address this issue will ensure smooth and hassle-free toilet usage.

Wax Ring

The wax ring, a small yet crucial component, acts as a secure seal between the base of the toilet and the sewer pipe. Its primary function is to establish a watertight connection, effectively preventing potential leaks.

If you observe water pooling around the base of your toilet or detect an unpleasant odor emanating from the area, the wax ring may likely be faulty and require prompt replacement. Don't ignore this issue, as failure to address it can result in more significant water damage and even pose potential health hazards to you and your surroundings. Taking immediate action to rectify the problem will ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your toilet system.

Professional Help

Knowing the different parts of your toilet and being aware of their functions can help you identify when repairs or replacements are necessary. However, remember that many toilet repairs can be complex and require the expertise of a professional plumber. If you're experiencing recurring issues with your toilet, contact a qualified plumber who can assess the situation and provide the right solution.

Regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential for ensuring the proper functioning of your toilet and preventing costly water damage. By staying informed and addressing toilet issues promptly, you can maintain a properly functioning and efficient plumbing system in your home.

Learn more about how your toilet works and how to maintain it by contacting us at Michigan Plumbing.

4 Common Plumbing Materials in Your Home

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 20:38:05 GMT

Plumbing is the unsung hero of our homes, reliably delivering clean water when we turn on the tap and whisking away waste whenever we flush. And yet, many homeowners give little thought to what their plumbing systems are made of until a problem occurs.

Delve into home plumbing, tackling four common types of material used to construct these vital systems. Understanding the pros, cons, and durability can help you make informed decisions when facing plumbing repairs or renovations.

1. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

As the name suggests, PVC pipes are made of polyvinyl chloride, a type of plastic. A smooth inner lining keeps dirt from building up and makes them less likely to get clogged.

Because of this, they are also suitable for drain lines and pipes that operate in full sunlight. Furthermore, PVC pipes are light and straightforward to work with. All you need is a hacksaw, a miter box, and glue to join them.

Households often use these plastic lines in plumbing systems because they last a long time. They are also inexpensive and simple to put in place and will not rust or corrode. But before you buy PVC pipes for your home, know that they are not suitable for situations with a lot of pressure.

As a result, they are best suited for drain lines inside the house and not the main water lines. Also, you should not use PVC lines to carry hot water because they can melt or warp when they get too hot.

2. Copper

Pipes constructed of copper are typically 100% copper and have a reddish-brown sheen. Additionally, they are very durable and can withstand both high water pressure and high and low water temperatures without deteriorating.

Copper pipes, while attractive, have a few drawbacks that make them less than ideal for usage in some situations. They are more expensive than other plumbing materials like PVC pipes.

Due to the potential for corrosion and mineral buildup, they are also unsuitable for regions with acidic or hard water. In addition, connecting copper pipes is difficult for do-it-yourselfers because it requires specialized equipment and training.

3. Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX)

PEX pipes are usually composed of high-density polyethylene (HDP) plastic, which is tolerant against rust and corrosion and costs less than other types of plumbing.

This piping can handle the water pressures in your home while being easy to work with through walls and ceilings. Plus, it is inexpensive and simple to set up, making it a go-to for low-stakes plumbing jobs. They are also color-coded to tell the difference between hot and cold water at a glance.

However, if you are considering installing PEX pipes, first verify their legality with your local government. Furthermore, PEX is not biodegradable or recyclable and can have adverse effects on the environment. Also, rodents and other pests may cause significant damage to the material.

4. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)

In residential plumbing, ABS pipes are frequently used for drain water transport. ABS pipes look like PVC pipes, but they are dark and stiff instead of flexible. The thermoplastic resin used to make this plumbing pipe keeps costs down while making it simple to set up.

ABS pipes can resist more significant stresses and lower temperatures than PVC pipes. This makes them more frost-resistant. However, they can distort and break when exposed to UV light, making them unsuitable for usage outside.

Another problem with ABS pipes is that they include bisphenol A, a chemical potentially dangerous to human health. This eliminates one of their primary uses, making them less flexible than PVC pipes in water supply lines. Some homeowners may also be bothered by the fact that ABS pipes tend to be louder than other plumbing pipes.

Contact us at Michigan Plumbing for plumbing repair and maintenance in the Lansing area, Michigan.

Why Hiring a Plumber Is Wise for Toilet Flapper Replacement

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 20:39:14 GMT

Toilets are one of the most useful fixtures in your home, and the flapper is a crucial component that ensures proper flushing. When the toilet flapper begins to wear out due to normal wear and tear, it leads to a variety of problems.

If you are experiencing issues with your toilet flapper, you might need help from a professional plumber. Attempting to replace the flapper on your own is not a wise idea, as you will learn in this article.

An Introduction to Toilet Flappers

A toilet flapper is a valve that limits the levels of water that flows out of the tank and into the bowl. For example, the flapper lifts up when the toilet is flushed, which allows water to flow into the bowl and flush away waste. Once the tank is empty, the flapper closes again to allow the tank to refill with water.

The Common Issues With Toilet Flappers

Over time, the toilet flapper can become worn or damaged, leading to a variety of problems. Common issues include:

Phantom Flushes

If your toilet is constantly running or making flushing sounds, it could be due to a faulty flapper that is allowing water to leak from the tank into the bowl.

Weak Flushes

If your toilet is not flushing properly, the flapper is not likely lifting enough to allow enough water to flow into the bowl.

Constant Running

If your toilet is running all the time, the flapper might not be sealing properly, allowing water to leak from the tank into the bowl.

Why You Need a Professional Plumber

While there are some DIY solutions for toilet flapper problems, hiring a professional plumber is the wisest solution for a successful replacement. Here's why:

Experience and Expertise

Professional plumbers have the experience and expertise needed to diagnose and repair a wide range of plumbing issues, including problems with toilet flappers.

Proper Tools and Equipment

Plumbers have the proper tools and equipment needed to repair or replace toilet flappers quickly and efficiently.

Results and Satisfaction

When you hire a professional plumber, you can rest assured that the job will be done right the first time. Plus, most plumbers offer a guarantee on their work, so if there are any issues, they will come back and fix them at no additional cost.

The Process of Toilet Flapper Replacement

The process of toilet flapper replacement by a professional plumber is quick and easy. For instance, first, the plumber will shut off the water supply to your toilet to prevent any leaks.

He or she will then proceed to remove the old flapper and inspect the flush valve for any damage. During the next step, the plumber will install a new flapper and adjust the chain. The toilet will then be tested to ensure it is flushing properly and there are no leaks present.

Cost Considerations for Hiring a Plumber

The cost of hiring a plumber for toilet flapper replacement will depend on several factors, including the plumber's experience, your location, and the type of toilet flapper you need. If you are concerned about the price, you can contact us to request a quote. Hiring a professional plumber can help you avoid wasting time, as well as save money in the long run.

If you are experiencing issues with your toilet flapper, do not try to fix it yourself. Not only do plumbers have the experience needed to repair your toilet flapper, but they can also diagnose and repair a wide range of plumbing issues.

If you are having trouble with your toilet flapper, call Michigan Plumbing today to schedule an appointment with one of our professional plumbers to resolve the problem as soon as possible.

Call a Plumber When Your Home's Water Main is Leaking

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 18:00:53 GMT

You probably know to turn off your home's water main valve when you have a plumbing leak so you can stop the flow of water. However, that doesn't do much good when you have a leak in the water main that goes from your home to your water meter.

Your water main is buried under the ground and easy to forget about, but it can burst or crack and leak like any other pipe in your home. The only way to shut off the water is to turn the water off at your meter. You may not have the tools needed to do that, and the water company may not allow you to turn off their meter.

If you suspect the water main is leaking, call an emergency plumber for help. If the leak is large, your water bill may be a lot higher if you don't get the water turned off and repairs made. Here are signs of a water main leak, how to test for a leak, and repairs that may be necessary.

Signs of a Leaking Water Main

You're responsible for repairing a leak in the water main when the pipe is on your side of the water meter. If the leak is in a pipe on the street side of the meter, or in the meter itself, the city is responsible for repairs. It's important to recognize the signs of a water main leak so you can take quick action before your water bill escalates.

When water is leaking under the ground, a depression or small sinkhole could develop. The grass above the area may be bright green and growing more quickly than grass elsewhere in your yard. You may notice water coming out of the faucet has bits of sediment in it from dirt that's getting inside the cracked pipe.

Tests To Verify a Water Leak

A plumber has leak detection tools that can verify water is leaking under the ground, but you probably won't have those at home. Instead, you can do a simple test with the water meter to determine if there is a leak in the water main outside of your house.

Turn off the main water valve that supplies water to your house. The main water valve may be in your basement or outside of your house. With that valve shut off, no water is flowing inside of your house. Then read the water meter. If the meter is still moving, that means water is still going through your water main pipe and leaking out.

Repairs For a Leaking Water Main

Water main leaks happen for a number of reasons. Tree roots might break the pipe or the pipe might be corroded due to old age. When an underground pipe is damaged, the plumber may decide to replace the entire pipe to reduce the risk of a future leak. Replacing an underground pipe involves digging a trench in your yard to pull out the old pipe and put a new one in.

Your water needs to be turned off the entire time, so you may want to fill up a bathtub for water to flush toilets and fill jugs for drinking water to use during that time. The plumber may finish the work in a single day since they have the experience and tools needed to do the work as quickly as possible.

Another option the plumber may consider is to repair the leaking area. The plumber can pinpoint the spot that's leaking using a sound device that helps the plumber pinpoint the source of the leak. Once found, they need only to dig up the small area to see if the pipe can be patched or if it needs to be dug out and replaced.

If you suspect your water main is leaking, or if you’re certain it is and you need fast help, call Michigan Plumbing Sewer & Drain Cleaning Inc. We can provide 24-hour emergency service when needed.

Water Jetting: An Option for Drain Clearing and Maintenance

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 20:32:14 GMT

Drain clogs can lead to backups of sewage and wastewater in the home, so they aren't a problem you want to ignore. There are a variety of options that can effectively clean out your drain pipes. Water jetting is one drain cleaning option that uses high-pressure water to effectively clean drains and prevent clogs. Below is a guide to water jetting and everything you should know about this drain cleaning method.

Jetting Basics

A qualified plumber will first inspect your drain prior to performing a water jetting job. This is because issues can crop up that can lead to further damage to the drain lines.

Method Explanation

Water jetting, whether used alone or in conjunction with using a drain auger, is performed using a simple method. The water jet line shoots high pressurized water from its tip and from around the sides so that it can punch through blockages and scour the sides of the drain line clean.

Preparatory Inspection

The best way to inspect a drain line is to use a pipe camera. The camera is fed down the pipe until it hits the obstruction. In some cases, cameras are able to send back geolocator information so that your plumber can determine the exact location of the blockage as well as the reason for the clog. By knowing the cause, your plumber will be able to determine whether jetting is the best solution.

Drain Problems

Although it's best to clean drains proactively, sometimes clogs will happen anyway. Water jetting isn't suitable for all types of drain clogs, so your plumber may recommend a different tactic for certain causes. The below causes, however, are good candidates to be eliminated through water jetting.

Tree Roots

Tree roots that obstruct a water line can be resolved with water jetting if the root incursion is still minor and limited to a few tendrils snaking into the drain. A mass of roots in the drain, on the other hand, isn't well suited to water jetting—large root masses are better removed with an auger.

Water jetting does work well on properties with trees to prevent severe root invasion if it is done regularly. Having the pipes cleaned out every two years, even if they are working well, is one way to prevent problems effectively.

Internal Blockage

Items like diapers, hygiene products, hair, and grease can all collect and block up a drain. Hard water deposits that coat the inside of drain pipes can also contribute to blockage issues. Generally, these types of blockages can be removed fairly well with a water jet. If the blockage is severe, though, your plumber may need to first auger and then finish the job with water jetting.

Cleaning Process

Every clog is somewhat unique when it comes to the best method to use and how to implement it. Your plumber may use water jetting alone, or it may be only one tool used to fully clear the drain line.

Initial Clearing

In the case of a severe clog, particularly a major tree root incursion, it may be necessary to first clear the clog partially with an auger. This is a long snake-like cable that is fed down the pipe. As the cable twists, it cuts through and breaks up the tree roots. An auger does not necessarily remove all of the small roots and gunk that collect on the pipe walls, though, which is why it is often followed with water jetting.

Jetting Method

The line must be kept moving at all times or it becomes stuck. If a blockage won't clear, then the line is backed out and the auger may be used instead. Your plumber feeds the hose in slowly, moving it back and forth as necessary to keep it from binding up in the drain. The high-pressure water scours all debris off the sides of the pipe and forces the clog out. Cleaner pipe walls are less likely to catch more debris, which means fewer clogging chances in the future.

Contact Michigan Plumbing to schedule a water jet drain cleaning as part of your regular home maintenance or to clear a clog. We’re ready and equipped to assist you, 24/7.

FAQs About Repiping and Home Improvement | Michigan Plumbing

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 16:20:25 GMT

Should you repipe your home when you renovate? If you're ready to start a major home improvement project, you may not be sure if you should or could replace the pipes. Before construction gets under way, take a look at what you need to know about home renovation, plumbing systems, and pipe replacement.

Why Should You Repipe Your Home?

Your home's plumbing system isn't something you normally think about—until there's a problem. But if you're ready to renovate and you haven’t noticed serious plumbing issues, you may wonder if a repiping service is necessary right now.

There is more than one reason to repipe a home. Obvious issues such as cracked, corroded, or damaged pipes are prime culprits behind the need for this service. Along with significant wear and damage, you may also want to repipe your home if the plumbing system is past, at, or nearing the end of its expected lifespan.

Older copper water lines can last for 70 years, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors ( InterNACHI ). Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (or ABS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) waste pipes have a 50- to 80-year lifespan. Cross-linked polyethylene (or PEX) piping has a slightly shorter lifespan of 40 years.

If your pipes are more than half-a-century old, you may want to replace them during your renovation project. You may also want to replace younger pipes that leak, clog quickly, or require constant repairs.

Why Is This a Good Time to Repipe Your Home?

You can replace the plumbing system any time that you want. But a major home renovation is an ideal time to repipe. If your home has slow drains, leaks, and older pipes, you don't want to wait to replace the plumbing. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that the plumbing system could damage other areas of your home.

Not only can leaky pipes and backups cause water damage, these plumbing-related issues can also increase the risk of mold growth and attract pests to your home. If you will need to tear out walls, floors, and ceilings, for your home improvement project, you are already partially prepped for home repiping.

A pipe replacement isn't a surface-level home improvement job. The plumbing contractor will need to reach the components of this system. Unlike the fixtures and appliances—such as toilets, sinks, tubs, and showers—the pipes are hidden behind walls, in ceilings, and under floors. To reach these plumbing parts, the contractor will need to tear through drywall, plaster, tile, wood, and other similar materials.

Instead of demolishing parts of your home, rebuilding, and later tearing out the newly placed walls, ceilings, and floors to reach the plumbing system, coordinate a repiping service with the rest of your home remodeling work.

Can a General Contractor Repipe During Home Renovations?

Some general contractors may offer this service. But this doesn't mean you should ask the professional who hangs drywall or installs your wooden floors to also repipe your home.

A full pipe replacement is a complex service that requires the experience and expertise of a licensed master plumber. Instead of asking your general contractor to add this project to your list of other home renovations, hire a plumber to repipe.

When Should You Schedule a Repiping Service?

Because the plumber will need to tear through walls, ceilings, and floors to reach the pipes, schedule the plumber's services in between demolition and the completion of your home renovation project. If you also want to replace plumbing fixtures—such as a kitchen sink or bathtub—make sure the new fixtures are ready for installation before you set up a repiping service. This allows the plumber the place the pipes correctly and install the new fixtures.

Do you need to schedule a repiping service for your next renovation project? Contact Michigan Plumbing for more information.

8 Benefits of Professional Sewer Line Camera Inspections

Tue, 09 May 2023 19:29:12 GMT

Sewer inspections can help you detect problems and gauge the health of your sewer lines. Plumbers don't need to dig your yard to inspect the sewer lines; they can get a real-time view of your sewer lines with the help of high-tech video cameras. So, here is why you need to schedule a professional video inspection of your sewer lines:

1. Protects Your Yard

Traditional sewer line inspections require plumbers to excavate your yard. These plumbers must dig trenches to reach the sewer lines. Sadly, the digging can ruin your beautiful lawn or backyard.

On the other hand, video sewer line inspections are non-invasive. The plumber can feed the video cameras into the sewer line, thus eliminating the need for digging. This procedure will leave your lawn unscathed.

2. Safeguards the Inspection

Video sewer line inspections are very safe due to their non-invasive nature. Plumbers don't need to cut into your walls or dig up your yard. Therefore, you don't need to fret about your sewer pipes sustaining damage. Camera inspections can help you avoid most hazards.

3. Requires No Permits

Most local governments require homeowners to get a permit before digging up their properties. So, if you plan to dig trenches along the sewer line, you must check with the local authorities or utility provider.

But why go through such hassles when you can schedule a sewer camera inspection? Sewer camera inspections don't require permits because you won't need to disturb the soil.

4. Detects Root Intrusion

Root intrusion is a plumbing issue that can go undetected for months. You can't tell if you have a root intrusion problem unless you schedule regular sewer inspections. Unfortunately, root intrusion can cause severe clogs and leaks in your sewer lines.

With sewer camera inspections, plumbers can detect root intrusion. Plumbers can pinpoint where the roots have infiltrated or damaged your sewer pipe, and then get to work at repairing it.

5. Identifies the Cause of Blockages

Tree roots, broken pipes, grease, sagging lines, and debris buildup are the leading causes of sewer line clogs. However, plumbers need a video camera inspection to pinpoint the exact cause of the blockage.

Clogs caused by debris buildup, grease, fats, and hair are easy to deal with. On the other hand, blockages caused by root intrusion and broken or sagging lines require professional intervention. Therefore, knowing the cause of a blockage helps the plumbers identify the best solution.

6. Tracks the Health of Your Pipes

Homeowners must monitor the health of their sewer lines to ensure they are in excellent condition forever. Remember that gunk and grime will accumulate on the walls of your pipes. Besides, aging can also affect the health of your pipes.

With a video inspection, your local plumber can track the condition of your sewer lines and assess whether they need hydro jetting, repairs, or replacements.

7. Assists in Home Inspections

Potential home buyers should invest in home inspections before making any commitments. These inspections help home buyers to know the condition of a residence. So, instead of relying on the seller's word or playing the guessing game, a home buyer can invest in a sewer camera inspection. The inspection will reveal the condition of the drains and sewer system.

8. Helps Save Money

Sewer line camera inspections can help you save a lot of money. The inspection provides accurate diagnostics, meaning you can identify and fix problems early. The video footage can inform a plumber if the lines need maintenance or repairs. This information helps prevent costly sewage backups and water damage.

With all the benefits we've discussed above, you shouldn't hesitate to invest in sewer camera inspections. The inspection can help you identify or prevent sewer line problems. Luckily, our team at Michigan Plumbing offers professional sewer camera inspection services. Get in touch today for all your plumbing needs.

Signs That Your Sump Pump Needs Repairs

Mon, 08 May 2023 22:08:49 GMT

The sump pump protects your home from flooding and water damage by keeping the basement dry. As such, an unexpected system breakdown can cause serious water damage problems.

The secret to preventing such inconveniences is understanding how to spot signs that your sump pump needs repairs. So, if you want to keep your home safe from water damage, discover some telltale signs that your sump pump is failing and needs immediate repairs.

The Sump Pump Is Noisy

Sump pumps are designed to operate at a low noise level. And while humming sounds are normal, sudden loud sounds may indicate an underlying problem.

A loud sump pump mostly indicates a faulty motor, stuck fan, or malfunctioning impeller. In such cases, you may notice high banging or rattling sounds, or if the impeller is stuck, it may manifest as a loud noise, like an airplane taking off.

The Sump Pump Fails To Turn On

This sign is probably the most noticeable. A faulty float switch is a primary cause of a sump pump that won't turn on. Confirm that the switch is not tangled in the sump basin. Also, confirm that the brackets confining the float switch are not broken. And if none of these issues seems like the culprit, call a professional.

The Sump Pump Has Frequent Cycling

Normally, the sump pump turns on when the water level rises and turns off when it reaches a certain point. But if your sump pump cycles on and off more often than normal, that indicates an underlying issue.

Frequent cycling could signify a malfunctioning float switch. The switch is responsible for detecting the presence of water in the sump basin. If it's faulty, the component gives false signals, forcing the sump pump to cycle more than normal.

The Sump Pump Has Corroded Components

Considering the dump environment surrounding the sump pump, its components are susceptible to rusting and corrosion. So, if you notice any corroded components like wires or connectors, this could be a sign of a faulty sump pump.

Corrosion may also indicate dead batteries or inadequate pump maintenance. And if you don't rectify this issue sooner, the rust may spread to other parts of the sump pump, leading to more severe problems.

The Sump Pump Has Strange Smells

An awful smell in your basement can signify an inefficient sump pump. If the sump fails, it cannot effectively pump water out of the basement. This problem creates a thriving environment for mold and mildew, which produces a bad smell.

Besides the bad smell and being unsightly, mold and mildew are health hazards. If you notice a strange smell in your basement, let an expert inspect, diagnose, and rectify the problem immediately.

The Sump Pump Is Running When Dry

A sump pump should only turn on when water levels increase. But if you notice that the system runs even when no water is in the basin, that often signifies a failing system.

For example, this problem could mean a clog in the system. You can clean the dirt and debris by yourself. But if the problem persists, have a certified plumber inspect the system for any underlying faults.

Now that you understand the signs that signify a failing sump pump, you can be more proactive in protecting your home from water damage. Make sure to have a professional inspect the system regularly to prevent any underlying problems. And if you notice any of the issues above, let a reliable plumber help you restore your sump pump.

Michigan Plumbing is your go-to plumber for all sump pump repair needs. Our experienced technicians will provide the best quality service to ensure your home has protection from water damage. Contact us for a consultation.

Helpful Things To Do as You Wait for an Emergency Plumber

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 03:01:13 GMT

5 Reasons Your Toilet Keeps Clogging

ThryvDudaAccess@boostability.com (Boostability Team) — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 17:59:16 GMT

5 Common Causes of Blockages in Plumbing Systems

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 17:50:59 GMT

Blockages in plumbing systems cause a lot of trouble, like less water flow and expensive repairs. Whether you are dealing with a clogged sink, a sluggish shower drain, or a toilet that won't flush, a blocked plumbing system can cause major disruptions in your daily routine.

Therefore, understanding the common causes of blockages in plumbing systems can help prevent them from occurring and keep your plumbing running smoothly.

Discover the common causes of blockages in plumbing systems below.

1. Foreign Objects

One common cause of blockages in plumbing systems is the presence of foreign objects, such as toys, jewelry, and small household items that get flushed down the toilet or washed down the sink. These objects can get stuck in pipes, creating a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely.

You should avoid flushing or washing away large or foreign objects, and prevent children from flushing toys or other inappropriate items down the toilet.

2. Grease and Oil

Grease and oil can also cause blockages in plumbing systems. When grease and oil pour down drains or toilets, they can harden and create a clog. This blockage is particularly common in kitchen sinks, where grease and oil are often washed down the drain after cooking.

Homeowners should properly dispose of grease and oil to prevent this blockage. One option is to pour grease or oil into a disposable container, such as a coffee can or empty milk jug, and dispose of it in the trash once it solidifies. They can also scrape solidified grease and oil from pots, pans, and dishes into a separate container before washing them, and then dispose of the container in the trash.

3. Hair

Hair is another common cause of blockages in plumbing systems. Hair can get stuck in pipes, especially in showers and bathroom sinks, causing a blockage in the plumbing system. To prevent this type of blockage, it is a good idea to invest in a quality drain strainer to catch hair and other debris before they enter the pipes. You can also use hair traps or drain protectors to keep hair from clogging drains.

4. Scale and Mineral Deposits

Over time, scale and mineral deposits can build up in pipes and create a blockage. This blockage is particularly common in areas with hard water, as the high levels of minerals in the water can leave behind deposits as the water flows through pipes.

You can prevent the blockage by regularly cleaning and maintaining your plumbing system. One option is using a descaler or a pipe cleaner to remove scale and mineral deposits from pipes. You can also use a water softener to reduce the levels of minerals in your water, preventing scale and mineral deposits from building up in your pipes.

5. Tree Roots

In some cases, blockages in plumbing systems can be caused by overgrown tree roots that damage the pipes. This blockage is common in older homes with older clay pipes that are more prone to cracking and breaking. You can prevent the blockage by regularly inspecting your house's surroundings for tree roots growing near or into your pipes.

If tree roots are growing near your pipes, you may need to have them removed by a professional to prevent them from causing further damage. You can also avoid this problem by replacing old clay pipes with modern PVC or copper pipes, which are more durable and less likely to crack or break.

If you want to avoid costly blockages in your plumbing system, trust the professionals at Michigan Plumbing. Whether you are dealing with a clogged sink, a sluggish shower drain, or a toilet that won't flush, we have the tools and expertise to quickly and effectively resolve the issue. Contact us for top-quality service and protection from inconvenient and costly blockages.

Trees and Drainpipes: What to Know

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 17:38:54 GMT

Trees are a great aesthetic addition to a property and provide numerous benefits, like improved air quality and shade. However, if you are not careful, trees can threaten your home's drainpipes. Understand the effects of trees on drainpipes.

Which Trees Cause Damage to Drainpipes?

Any tree can damage your drainpipes, but certain types are more prone than others. Tree roots tend to seek out water, so they will often grow toward underground drainpipes. Some tree species that can damage your drainpipes include:

Maple
Aspen
Elm
Birch
Sycamore
Willow

On the other hand, some tree types feature non-invasive roots and are less likely to cause problems. Trees with non-invasive root systems include the following:

Magnolias
Wafer ash
Mediterranean fan palm

Therefore, if you want to plant trees, ensure that you choose non-invasive root species to prevent issues with your sewer and drainpipes.

How Do Trees Damage Drainpipes?

Tree roots always search for water and nutrients. Eventually, the roots may intrude into the drainpipes, creating cracks and holes. These cracked or damaged pipes can lead to leaks, clogs, blockages, and other problems. If left unattended, root intrusion can create costly damages that require repair, not to mention expensive cleanup bills. Discover some signs that your drainpipes have root intrusion.

The Drains Are Slow

Tree roots block the pipes, which means water will not have an adequate passage for proper draining. Consequently, you may notice that your sinks, toilets, and showers take longer to drain.

However, slow drains may result from other causes, such as grease and hair buildup. Therefore, do not automatically assume that this is due to tree roots. Instead, let a plumber conduct video inspections and other tests to assess the situation.

The Pipes Are Noisy

Gurgling may signify that the pipes have debris or tree roots blocking them. Air cannot pass through the clogged pipe. Have a professional examine the gurgling for proper diagnosis and repairs.

The Plumbing System Has a Foul Odor

A foul smell from the drains can indicate a serious blockage. In this case, call a plumber to assess the situation before it worsens and causes further damage.

The Yard Has Green Patches

Green patches are mostly a result of leaky pipes that allow water to seep out. The water from the leaks may contain nutrients that facilitate the growth of grass and other vegetation.

The Yard Has Visible Sinkholes

Tree roots can create sinkholes that intrude on the pipes and damage them. Cracks in the pipe may also cause a leak of wastewater that washes away the soil, resulting in sinkholes.

What Should You Do When You Notice Tree Root Intrusion?

The best thing to do when you notice any signs of root intrusion is to call a qualified plumbing professional immediately. They will be able to assess the situation and identify if trees or other debris have caused blockages in your drainpipes.

Professional plumbers may restore your pipes through trenchless pipe lining or bursting, depending on the severity of the damage. These advanced methods are less intrusive and cost-effective and will help restore your drainpipes quickly.

You can trust us at Michigan Plumbing for reliable, quality, and cost-effective plumbing services. Our certified plumbers are experienced in dealing with tree root intrusion and other drain issues to get your drainage system up and running again. We will also advise you on how you can best maintain your drainpipes and prevent similar problems from occurring in the future.

Contact us today for a consultation. We will be happy to answer any questions you have. Let us know of your plumbing needs so we know how to best help you.

How Often Should You Clean Your Drains?

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 19:19:58 GMT

Most people know they should clean their drains regularly, but many don't know how often they should schedule this maintenance. Once per year is typically sufficient for most homes. However, there is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on various factors. Discover general guidelines to help you decide how often you need to clean your drains.

The Frequency of Use

The more you use your drains, the more often you'll need to clean them.

If you have a family of five who take showers daily, you'll need to clean your drains more often than someone who lives alone and only uses their sink a few times a week.

Each time water goes down the drain; it leaves a little residue. This residue can build up over time and eventually lead to clogs. The more often you use your drains, the more residue will build up, and you will likely experience a clog.

The Type of Drains

Kitchen sinks, for example, tend to get dirtier than bathroom sinks because they're used for activities like washing dishes and preparing food. As a result, you'll need to clean the kitchen drains often.

On the other hand, bathroom showers and tubs don't usually get as dirty as kitchen sinks because people don't typically use them for tasks that generate a lot of residue. However, hair can still build up in these drains and cause clogs. So while you may not need to clean your bathroom drains as often as your kitchen drains, you should still schedule regular maintenance.

The Age of Your Drains

Older homes often have galvanized steel pipes, which succumb to rust and corrosion over time. As the pipes age, they become increasingly brittle and more prone to breaking. This can cause serious problems, including leaks, clogs, and complete blockages.

Newer homes tend to have PVC or other plastic pipes, which are not as susceptible to corrosion. However, these pipes can still become clogged with debris over time. You'll need to schedule regular drain cleanings to ensure your pipes remain clear and functional.

The Environment

Any particularly harsh environment on your drains will require more frequent maintenance.

If you live in an area with a lot of trees, you may find that leaves and other debris fall into your gutters and clog your drains. If you use a hard water supply, the minerals in hard water can build up over time and cause clogs.

Winters can also be tough on drains. The cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and break, leading to clogs.

Your Drainage System

Two main types of drainage systems exist: storm drains and sanitary sewers.

Storm drains handle runoff from rain and melting snow and typically empty into a nearby body of water. On the other hand, sanitary sewers carry waste and sewage from homes and businesses to treatment plants.

Storm drains generally require less frequent cleaning. However, leaves and other debris can build up in storm drains and cause problems. As a result, periodically check storm drains and remove any blockages.

On the other hand, sanitary sewers require regular cleaning to prevent backups and overflows.

If you're unsure how often you should clean your drains, the best thing to do is talk to a professional. They can assess your situation and give specific recommendations based on the factors mentioned above. Don't wait until you have a problem, as regular drain cleaning can help prevent costly repairs down the road.

Are you in need of drain cleaning services? Michigan Plumbing can help! We offer a wide range of plumbing services, including drain cleaning, to meet your needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Buying a House? Reasons to Invest in Sewer Line Inspections

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 19:11:55 GMT

A home purchase is likely the most significant investment you'll make in your lifetime. But as excited as you may be, don't let the excitement blind you to overlook an essential step in the home-buying process: a sewer line inspection. Otherwise, you could be in for some nasty and expensive surprises.

Sewer lines are typically out of sight and out of mind. But a sewer line inspection is critical to ensure that you don’t buy a home with a faulty or damaged sewer line.

A reliable plumber will use a state-of-the-art sewer line video camera to inspect the sewer line thoroughly. This step will allow them to identify potential problems, such as cracks, leaks, blockages, or tree root intrusion. Discover other benefits of a sewer inspection before you buy a house.

Allows You to Detect Problems Early

You cannot quickly tell that a sewer line is problematic with a glance. Sewer line inspection with a video camera can help you detect problems early on and request the property seller to cater to the repair cost before you close the deal, so you won't spend money you hadn't planned for.

Additionally, while a sewer line inspection may cost a few hundred dollars, the cost of an inspection is likely to pale compared to the cost to repair a damaged sewer line. Sewer line problems can be costly to fix, and the costs will only continue to increase the longer you wait to address the issue.

As such, a sewer line inspection helps you to be proactive and solve problems in their initial stage, which will help you save more than you will spend on the inspection.

Gives You Peace of Mind

The last thing you want is to move into a house with so much excitement, only for the plumbing system to fail a few days, weeks, or months later.

A sewer line issue makes your house unwelcoming and uninhabitable. The worst part is that the problems happen when you least expect them. A sewer inspection is one way to help ensure that the home you're buying is in good condition and won't give you any headaches down the road.

Furthermore, a sewer line inspection gives insights into the system's life expectancy. Sewer lines typically have a lifespan of 50 to 100 years . However, if the sewer line is in poor condition, you may need to replace the sewer line sooner. Therefore, the sewer inspection report helps you to start to plan and budget for this expense now.

Helps You With Negotiations

In some cases, you may leverage the results of a sewer line inspection in negotiations with the home seller. For example, suppose the video inspection reveals that the sewer line needs significant repairs or a replacement. In that case, you can use this information to negotiate a lower purchase price for the home.

You can also use the report to request the seller to pay for all or part of the repair cost. Sewer line inspection can give you the information you need to make informed decisions and negotiate the best possible deal on your new home.

A sewer line inspection is a critical part of due diligence when you buy a house. Sewer line problems can be expensive to fix and often go undetected until they cause significant damage to your home. Therefore, sewer line inspection is an integral part of protecting your investment and can save you a lot of money.

Michigan Plumbing offers video inspection of sewer lines. If you wish to have a sewer line inspection on the home you're buying, contact us to schedule an appointment.

Signs Your Home Needs Re-Piping

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 15:52:31 GMT

Frequently Asked Questions About Sewer Line Inspections

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 16:46:48 GMT

Homeownership may offer many joys, but it also presents its share of challenges, from electrical concerns and shifting foundations to a variety of plumbing issues. One such issue, a clogged or damaged sewer line, can limit your plumbing system's ability to dispose of smelly, potentially destructive wastewater.

Sewer line inspections can identify a potential or acute plumbing problem that calls for attention from a skilled plumber. If you've never had to schedule a sewer line inspection or simply don't know much about them, give yourself a quick education on the subject by studying the following answers to these frequently asked questions.

Why Do Sewer Lines Need Inspecting?

The main pipeline that directs wastewater from your toilets, sinks, and tub to the city's sewer system can encounter many problems. One common example involves internal clogs. The disposal of items such as feminine hygiene products, diapers, toys, and paper towels can clog a sewer line, which blocks wastewater flow.

Both internal and external stresses on the pipe can lead to sewer line damage. For instance, rodents that nest inside the sewer line can cause the joints between pipe segments to loosen. Tree roots growing into the pipes can eventually cause the pipes to crack or break under the strain, which allows wastewater to leak out.

How Do Plumbers Perform Sewer Line Inspections?

Today's plumbers can apply modern video technology in their sewer line inspections. Typically, plumbing inspection technicians snake a fiber-optic tube into one end of the pipe. The tube contains a light and a miniature camera that sends video images of the pipe's interior details to a video recording device.

After the plumbing technicians have recorded a thorough look inside the length of the pipe, they retrieve the fiber-optic tube and look at the video data they've captured on a monitor. If they see signs of cracks, clogs, leaks, or loosened joints, they will discuss their findings with you and recommend steps to correct the problems.

What Signs of Trouble Merit a Sewer Line Inspection?

The more easily you can recognize the telltale signs of a potential sewer line problem, the sooner you can contact your plumber and schedule an immediate inspection. A clogged sewer line will often create obvious plumbing problems such as slow drains, blocked drains, and toilets that gurgle after you flush them.

A clogged sewer line can cause more than just water to back up in your plumbing system. Toxic sewer gas can also travel backward into your home and produce a strong odor of rotten eggs in the process. A leaky sewer line can also create unusually green, lush patches on your lawn, another sign that you need an inspection.

Why Should You Schedule Routine Sewer Line Inspections?

By the time you see signs of a sewer line failure, you may need to replace one or more sections of pipe, a potentially expensive proposition. You can often avoid this scenario by scheduling routine sewer line inspections at whatever intervals your plumber recommends, based on your home's age and the kind of pipe it uses.

If you've just bought a vintage home, you should schedule a sewer line inspection right away. Older homes may use sewer pipes made of clay, a material vulnerable to cracks and breakage over time. Better yet, request such an inspection and any necessary pipe replacement before you make an offer on an older home.

Whether you suspect a current sewer line failure or you simply want to follow smart preventative maintenance recommendations, Michigan Plumbing can provide you with a state-of-the-art sewer line inspection and any sewer line repair or replacement you might need. Contact us today to request our services.

Common Causes of Toilet Problems

Mon, 02 May 2022 18:55:49 GMT

Why Should You Choose A Conventional Water Heater?

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 21:00:29 GMT

9 Reasons Why You Should Install a Tankless Water Heater

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 16:22:26 GMT

The Do's and Don'ts of Dealing With a Bathroom Sink or Shower Leak

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 20:36:52 GMT

Are your bathroom fixtures leaking? From drips in the shower to a puddle under the sink, take a look at what you need to know about this common plumbing issue and the do's and don'ts of fixing a bathroom fixture leak.

Do Find the Source of the Leak

Where is the water coming from? While this might seem like an easy-to-answer question, some bathroom fixture leaks are tricky to find. What may seem like a simple showerhead leak could actually come from the cartridge insert of the faucet valve. Likewise, water that dribbles down the bathroom sink could come from the aerator or a gasket in the faucet — or a drainpipe issue could cause the dampness under this fixture.

If you can't find the precise source of the leak or don't know enough about plumbing to accurately diagnose the point of the problem, take the next step and call a plumber. A professional has the knowledge and experience to assess the leak and stop it.

Don't Call Just Any Plumber

Leaks waste water. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), leaks can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water annually in one household. One drop per second in your bathroom's sink could waste 3,000 gallons of water each year — and 10 drips per minute can send 500 gallons of water down your shower's drain.

Beyond wasting water, an untreated leak could eventually corrode your home's plumbing, ruin the fixture, damage the surrounding area of the bathroom, or cause mold to grow on hard surfaces. Given these risks, you will want to treat a bathroom fixture leak as soon as possible. But this doesn't mean you should call the first plumber you google.

You need an experienced contractor who has knowledge in leak detection and repair. Ask your would-be future plumber for references and read reviews. Avoid contractors who only have generic anonymous reviews, such as Great job or Good plumber . Look for detailed reviews from real people who live in your area.

Along with references and reviews, talk to the plumber about their experience. The contractor can help you to understand the problem with your fixtures and explain what they can do to help.

Do Stop the Water

Again, leaks waste a significant amount of water over time and can damage your bathroom or other areas of the house. A leaking second floor bathroom can send water through the walls or floors and into the ceiling of the room below it. This can result in plaster, paint, wallpaper, or furniture damage.

If the plumber can't come to your home immediately, take steps to stop the leak. This doesn't mean you should attempt a do-it-yourself fix. A DIY method could cost you money in a failed repair or additional damage. Instead, turn the water off and wait for the plumber. The sink's shut-off valve is typically underneath the basin. You usually have two (one hot and one cold) attached to the water inlet pipes.

A shower's shut-off valve is often tricky to find. You may need to remove a panel behind the shower or in an adjacent room to locate this knob. If you can't find these valves, turn the water off for your whole home. The main shut-off is often near where the water line enters your home. This is usually on a street-facing wall or near your water meter. While shutting off the main water valve will stop the leak, your home will have no usable water until you turn it back on.

Do you need a professional leak detection or repair service? Contact Michigan Plumbing for more information.

4 Types of Plastic Plumbing Pipes and How They Differ

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 22:41:07 GMT

While metal pipes were once popular in plumbing, most new plumbing pipes today are plastic due to this material's corrosion resistance. However, not all plastic plumbing pipes are alike, and plumbers now have at least four types of plastic pipes they can use to make plumbing repairs. Each type of plastic pipe has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

Learn about the four most popular plastic plumbing pipes in use today, along with the unique advantages and disadvantages of each pipe type.

1. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Polyvinyl chloride pipes are among the most common plastic plumbing pipes today. PVC pipes are affordable and durable and can stay in good condition as long as 70 years without developing rust or corrosion. This pipe type is recyclable when it reaches the end of its lifespan, which makes it an environmentally friendly material.

In addition, unlike some plastic pipe types, PVC pipes contain no bisphenol A (BPA), so they can create home water lines with little worry that the water that flows through them will become contaminated with this.

These pipes are also versatile and easy to work with. PVC pipe sections can join together with a variety of pipe fittings, glues, and cements.

However, PVC pipes can become brittle over time when exposed to sunlight or installed in areas of the home that are often extremely hot. This pipe material's lack of heat resistance makes it a poor choice for use when constructing or replacing hot water lines. In addition, when PVC pipes need removing, they typically must be cut with a saw, because unjoining them manually can be very difficult over time.

2. Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC)

Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipes are PVC pipes with a special chlorinated coating. This chlorinated coating increases the durability of the pipes by increasing their heat resistance. For this reason, CPVC pipes can repair and create drinking water lines, including hot water lines, without the worry that the pipes will become brittle over time with exposure to high heat.

However, CPVC pipes are slightly more costly than their PVC alternatives, and the lifespan of this pipe type is about 20 to 25 years.

3. Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX)

Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes are one of the newest types of plastic plumbing pipes available today.

This pipe material is much more flexible than PVC and other plastics that create pipes, so PEX piping installation is often quicker and easier than installation of other pipe types. The extreme flexibility of PEX allows plumbers to run long lines of PEX pipe throughout a home with the need for very few pipe connection sites.

PEX pipes can bend up to 90-degree angles when necessary, while more rigid pipes typically need to be joined together with fittings to create curves and bends in plumbing lines.

PEX pipes are naturally heat-resistant, and this pipe type is less likely to burst during the winter when water freezes inside of it than many other pipe types.

However, since this plastic pipe type is a relatively new addition to the plumbing industry, its potential lifespan has not yet been determined. In addition, cross-liked polyethylene pipes aren’t as recyclable, which makes this pipe type a less environmentally friendly option than PVC.

4. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) pipes are another modern, plastic plumbing pipe option. While slightly less rigid than PVC pipes, ABS pipes are extremely strong. In addition, water that flows through ABS pipes makes little noise due to the noise-dampening effect of these pipes.

ABS pipes are also often quicker to install than PVC pipes, because ABS pipe sections do not need priming as PVC pipe sections do before they are joined together.

ABS pipes are resistant to extreme weather conditions, including UV light exposure and cold temperatures. For this reason, ABS pipes are often used in outdoor plumbing applications.

While metal plumbing pipes used to be popular, they are prone to corrosion over time that plastic pipes, including these four types, are not. Contact the plumbing experts at Michigan Plumbing for all of your plumbing re-piping and repair needs today.

3 Possible Reasons Why Your Pipes May Leak

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 15:00:10 GMT

Leaky pipes in your home can quickly become a nightmare if you have no idea where the leak is. The water damage alone can be enough to worry you. Leaking water can cause your home's structural wood to rot and degrade in quality. In addition, if the leaking pipe runs through a wall, you can expect the paint to warp and peel off with time.

Besides the imminent water damage, a leaky pipe can open you up to electrical risks as well. If water gets into contact with live wires, a short circuit can trigger a house fire. Learn more about why pipes leak and what you can do to remedy the problem.

1. Broken Pipe Seals

Pipe seals close the gaps left when two pipes connect. These seals can also connect pipes to appliances and other fixtures in your house. Normally, a pipe seal needs to be strong enough to prevent water from dripping out.

But like with any other component in your plumbing system, a pipe seal can eventually wear out or malfunction. The seal could also get loose or break after a long period of use. Because the seal will no longer be watertight, water may start to leak out from the joint. You're likely to notice puddles near your sink, dishwasher, or toilets — basically anywhere near a worn-out or damaged seal.

Pipe seal replacement is a delicate procedure that requires expertise. As such, you should only let an experienced plumber replace a broken seal for better long-term assurance.

2. Failing Pipe Joints

Pipe joints are the curved sections in your pipe system that allow water to move through to other fixtures in your home.

Unfortunately, pipe joints are also the weakest points of your home's plumbing system. High water pressure and other conditions can place great strain on these parts of your plumbing and cause them to wear out much quicker. Additionally, pipe joints can wear out and weaken with time. As a result, water can easily leak out from the gaps and cracks that come with aging.

You can identify a faulty joint if you listen for any unusual sounds from your plumbing system. A banging or clanking noise (especially when hot water runs through) could be a sign of a failing joint. A combination of noise and noticeable water leaks should further cement your suspicion. Even so, you may still have to call in your plumber for a more accurate diagnosis.

3. Excessive Water Pressure

Many homeowners may not know about the damage that high water pressure can cause. Besides increasing your monthly water bill, excess water pressure can make your pipes burst and start to leak.

Typically, the pipes in your home have a rated pressure limit that, if exceeded, can damage the pipes' structural material. That's why the standard home water pressure should range between 30 to 80 PSI .

Oftentimes, high water pressure could be from your local municipal water supply. You could also live near tall buildings or a fire hydrant, all of which are likely reasons for the excessive pressure.

While you may not control these factors, your plumber may suggest that you install a pressure regulator as a countermeasure. With this device, you can control the incoming water pressure to protect your pipes and other plumbing fixtures from malfunction.

Leaky pipes are often a ticking time bomb. Although you might not see the effects at first, gradual water damage can have devastating results if you don't act fast — not to mention the higher monthly bills. Reach out to Michigan Plumbing immediately you suspect a pipe leak anywhere in your home.

4 Common Signs You Need a New Water Heater

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 14:50:40 GMT

A water heater is an essential home appliance people use for bathing, laundry, dish cleaning, and cooking. While a water heater is a daily necessity in most homes, people often do not think about it until it starts malfunctioning. Whether the tank has seen better days or the heater succumbs to usage strain, a water heater only usually lasts for about a decade.

However good you maintain the heater, you will often need to replace it after running it for more than 10 years. As a homeowner, know the warning signs indicating you should replace the water heater to keep your hot water supply going.

1. Inconsistent Water Temperatures

Does the water sometimes come out as hot, warm, or cold? Inconsistent water temperature is a sign of underlying water heater issues. Have an expert check the water heater right away before it completely goes off.

If the water heater is relatively new, repairing it will usually restore normal functioning. However, if the heater is too old, replace it to save yourself the agony of repairing the water heater every time it breaks down.

What causes the loss of heat? The heat loss is often due to a buildup of mineral deposits that hinder the heating elements from working effectively. If the water does not get hot, have a professional repair or replace the elements.

2. Dirty Water

The water coming out of the taps should be colorless. If, however, the water comes out rusty or brownish, most likely the heater has a problem. Rust usually indicates corrosion on the pipes or tank, which can cause cracks and leaks. Ask a professional to clean the system for you. If cleaning the water heater tanks does not rectify the situation, consider replacing the entire system.

Also, the water sometimes will come out with a sewage-like scent due to bacteria inside the tank. A thorough water tank flushing will often eliminate the smell. Also, check if the anode rod is corroded and replace it.

3. Weird Noises

Weird noises are almost always a sign of an ailing water tank. Although some noise is normal, loud banging deserves your attention. Have a repairman assess the water tank to establish the cause of the noises.

Mostly, strange noises happen when the heating element burns the excess sediment and mineral buildup in the water tank or the hot and cold water mix due to a defective dip tube. If the noise persists, the water heater's system might weaken and start to leak. At this point, you may need to install a new water heater.

However, if no leak exists, a professional can flush the water and wash the water heater. This step often stops the funny noises.

4. Leaking Water

A leak might be the cause of a decline in water temperature. First, establish the cause of the leak. Most causes of the water heater leakage include poor maintenance of the water heater, age, poor plumbing, or a loose drain valve. If a loose valve causes the leak, you can tighten or replace it altogether.

Leaking water is usually hazardous around children and electrical appliances. Water leakage can also corrode the water heater's exterior and extend to the inner components. Repair a leak right away to prevent bigger problems later on. If, however, the damage due to leaking water is extensive, replacing the water heater is a viable option.

When you see any of these signs, call a professional for an assessment right away. Whether you want a water heater replacement or a repair, contact Michigan Plumbing to request a free quote. We look forward to helping you.

Copper Vs. Plastic Pipes: Find What Works for You

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 18:56:21 GMT

When choosing plumbing pipes, you should understand the different materials and their application. The choice of pipe material depends on how you intend to use the pipe. On the same note, the type of installation necessary will also affect your choice of material.

Use this comparison of plastic and copper pipes to help you overcome your plumbing dilemma.

Installation
Plastic is flexible; this property makes plastic pipes flexible due to the quick assembly of its accessories. Connecting plastic pipes is hence a speedy process for plumbers during installation.

Copper pipes, on the contrary, take a longer time to assemble and are challenging to move because they are heavier than plastic. Copper is rigid, and the professionals need to cut it to the correct size when fitting. Moreover, copper requires elbow fittings every time it hits a corner.

More connections mean more installation work. On this account, if installation time is a constraint, plastic pipe fittings are the way to go.

Cost
Copper plumbing pipes tend to be more expensive than plastic pipes. The initial cost of installing copper pipes is relatively higher than that of its counterpart. However, copper is often less expensive in the long run. Copper pipes require fewer repairs and are low maintenance.

Plastic pipes' cost of installation is lower. Plastic is the preferred material, especially when constructing large-scale projects. In addition, plastic pipes are more affordable to handle and transport because they are very lightweight.

Overall, plastic has a low startup cost than a similar copper plumbing project. For this reason, homeowners who want to save may also opt for plastic pipes.

Durability
In terms of durability, copper has a clear advantage over plastic. Copper pipes can withstand a higher pressure at room temperature. The average life span of copper pipes is 50 to 70 years , depending on climate, water quality, or surroundings.

Unlike plastic, copper is fire-resistant because of its high melting point and is not flammable. Copper pipes can also withstand high and low temperatures. Copper’s thermal resistance property allows plumbers to embed copper pipes in concrete during installation.

The life expectancy of plastic pipes is relatively similar at 50 years or more. However, depending on exposure to UV light and other elements, plastic may not achieve its full life expectancy.

Visual Appeal
Copper and plastic have different appearances. A plastic plumbing pipe has many practical designs and aesthetic advantages. For instance, plastic pipes are usually gray. In some cases, the plastic pipe is either red or blue, depending on whether you use them as a hot or cold water supply.

Plastic is the perfect choice if you run water pipes under the sink or behind the wall. However, if you want to create a more industrial style in your home or commercial property, then copper is the one for you.

Temperature
Plastic pipes are not always suitable for boiling water. Plastic releases dangerous chemicals when it overheats. Hot water causes plastic pipes to warp, meaning they cannot always deliver the hot water to domestic appliances.

In addition, long-term exposure to ultraviolet light degrades plastic. Therefore, plastic material is more suited for indoor or underground piping. Copper tolerates extreme temperatures well without losing its strength. Therefore, copper pipes can supply cold and hot water wherever you need it on your property.

Before starting any plumbing work, do your research to ensure that the plumbing material you choose is suitable for you. A professional plumber will often help in finding the most suitable materials for your property. Whether installing a new plumbing system or needing some repairs, rely on us to provide you with the best plumbing services. Contact us for all your plumbing needs.

Tips to Keep Your Plumbing and Related Aspects Safe

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 03:14:09 GMT

A malfunctioning plumbing system can endanger your household in multiple ways. You can avoid such dangers with relevant preemptive measures. Below are some of the measures that can help.

Prevent Mold Growth

Mold, a type of fungus, thrives in warm and moist places. Mold can trigger various health issues in some people. Examples of such health effects include:

Itchy eyes or skin
Stuffy nose
Fever
Shortness of breath

Your overall health may determine how you react to mold exposure. For example, people who are asthmatic and those who are allergic to mold will suffer the worst reactions.

Your plumbing system might encourage mold growth in your house if the following is true:

The plumbing system leaks (hidden leaks are the worst since you won't dry them in time)
The plumbing pipes burst while you are away
Debris clogs your floor drains and encourages water stagnation

Anything that increases humidity or moisture in your house encourages mold. Thus, you can discourage mold growth by doing the following:

Keep your water pipes from bursting by replacing worn or corroded plumbing pipes before they can burst
Fix plumbing leaks as soon as they occur
Conduct regular plumbing inspections to detect hidden leaks
Dry up spills as soon as they occur
Maintain correct water pressure in all plumbing systems

A dehumidifier can also help by reducing moisture levels in your house.

Prevent Water Spills

Water spills are dangerous even if they don't cause mold growth. Spilled water can cause slip-and-fall accidents by making the floor slippery. Secondly, serious water spills can cause electrical malfunctions that can trigger electrical fires. Many of the measures that discourage mold growth will also prevent slip-and-fall accidents caused by wet surfaces.

Prevent Sewer Backups

Sewer backups can also contribute to mold growth. Arguably, however, one main danger of sewer backup relates to effluent. Drainage systems typically have numerous disease-causing microorganisms. The microorganisms can affect you either via ingestion (from contaminated water or food) or via cuts on your skin.

Prevent sewer backups by performing the following maintenance tasks:

Deal with tree roots that might intrude into and damage your drainpipes
Use the toilet strictly for human waste
Install a backwater prevention valve
Clean slow drains before they can back up

If a backup does occur, stay away from the contaminated area, especially if you don't have protective gear. Contact a plumber to diagnose and fix the problem as soon as possible.

Maintain Good Water Quality

Water contamination can occur due to various reasons. Some common causes of contamination include:

Naturally occurring minerals that are poisonous, such as arsenic
Manufacturing waste from nearby factories
Agricultural waste, such as fertilizers
Malfunctioning septic systems

In this case, the health effect will depend on the contamination. However, the general health effects include gastrointestinal problems, neurological disorders, and weakened immune systems. Preventive measures include the following actions:

Use tap water that the relevant authorities treat and regularly test
Maintain your plumbing systems (such as pipes) to avoid corrosion or leakages that can introduce contaminants into the system
Conduct regular water tests if you use an independent water source, such as a well
Install a water purification system for your independent water sources

The more contaminated water you ingest, the more severe your health effects might be. Stop using your water if you suspect contamination. Contact a plumber to test the water and diagnose the cause of the contamination if necessary.

You will enjoy many of these preventive measures if you have a professional plumber regularly inspect your plumbing. You should also call a plumber every time you suspect something is amiss with your system — don't rely on DIY measures. Contact Michigan Plumbing for all your plumbing needs, and benefit from our experience and professionalism.

4 Ways Professional Plumbing Inspections Benefit You

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 16:16:26 GMT

Like most people, you probably treat your car to regular oil changes and update your electronics when they become outdated. However, have you ever considered giving the same amount of thought to your home's plumbing? Annual plumbing inspections are an important part of household maintenance, and they provide several tangible benefits for your home.

1. Avoid Expensive Repairs

The hardest problems to handle are always the ones we don't expect. If you are keeping tabs on your plumbing system with regular inspections, you can reduce the chances that a plumbing emergency will catch you off-guard. The value of professional inspections is that they can catch problems that would otherwise go unnoticed by the homeowner.

Slab leaks are an example of a plumbing problem that can get out of hand fast. Slab leaks occur under a home's foundation and quickly saturate the surrounding soil with water. This increases pressure on the foundation and underground plumbing pipes and may cause other pipes to burst or threaten the structural integrity of your home. You will save a lot of money and time on repairs by catching problems like these before they occur.

2. Maintain Comfort and Convenience

Residential plumbing creates so many conveniences that we take for granted every day. With annual plumbing inspections, you can ensure that these conveniences are always available for yourself and your family.

Comfortable water pressure is one of the most important features of an enjoyable shower. When the water pressure in your home is too low, bathing and hand washing become much more tedious than they should be.

Similarly, you never want to stand around waiting for your drains to empty before you can finish washing dishes or brushing your teeth. Plumbing inspections keep everything flowing smoothly so you can avoid these frustrations.

3. Improve Your Home's Safety

Some plumbing problems are more than an inconvenience if they are left unaddressed. While your home's plumbing is very safe, there are rare issues that can pose health risks if the right conditions are present.

Mold growth is the most obvious example in the realm of plumbing. Mold colonies that get their start from leaky plumbing will release spores into your home's air that can cause respiratory illness in high enough concentrations.

A water heater that functions properly is paramount to regulate your home's hot water and prevent scalding temperatures. Water heater malfunctions like a faulty thermostat or release valve can allow the temperature of your hot water to reach unsafe levels.

Water heaters also collect sediment over time from mineral impurities in the water. This sediment can eventually coat the heating element and cause your water heater to overheat.

4. Reduce Water Waste

Reducing water waste is a common interest for homeowners who want to preserve the environment and those who want to preserve money. It's hard to overstate the water waste that can come from an undetected leak in your home. Burst pipes are the most extreme example, but even a single toilet that won't stop running can waste hundreds of gallons of water per day.

If you suspect that a hidden leak in your home is wasting water but can't locate it, you will have to look for more subtle signs. Take note of dripping faucets in your home; several small leaks may be adding up to cause a big problem. You should also check for high water levels in your toilet tanks, and keep track of your bill to spot unexplained increases.

Plumbing inspections are like getting a glimpse into the future of your plumbing so you can take action today. If you're ready to take advantage of the benefits of a plumbing inspection, call Michigan Plumbing today!

5 Frequently Asked Questions About House Re-Piping

Mon, 10 May 2021 08:28:18 GMT

Re-piping is sometimes the only way for homeowners and building owners to avoid plumbing problems. The construction activities during re-piping can be disruptive, so preparing in advance helps. This article explores common re-piping questions.

1. When Is the Right Time to Re-Pipe?

In many cases, homeowners replace their pipes after many months of plumbing leaks. However, waiting too long can result in wood rot, structural damage, and mold. If you keep calling a plumber to fix leaks, consider re-piping. Other telltale signs include the following.

Water Discoloration

Yellow, red, or brown water usually indicates built-up rust or sediment in your pipes. If the rust is only present in hot water, the problem is likely your water heater.

Low Water Pressure

When corrosion or sediment accumulate in the pipes' interior, they reduce the water output. As a result, you'll notice lower pressure in your sinks or faucets. However, low water pressure signals various problems, so you should have an experienced plumber check for corrosion.

Age of Your Pipes

Homes over 50 years old often feature pipes of galvanized steel, cast iron, or brass. Inspect these older pipes for signs of corrosion. You should also watch out for leaks in homes constructed between the 1970s to 1990s . If your home is 20 years old, your pipes are probably in good condition, but they still need regular inspection and maintenance.

2. What Options Do I Have on Re-Piping Materials?

Traditionally, galvanized steel and iron dominated the plumbing market. While these materials were strong and durable, they were prone to corrosion after years of use. Plumbers have now turned to more efficient and durable options like copper and chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC).

A re-piping specialist will help you choose a plumbing material that suits your needs. For example, copper pipes are ideal if corrosion is your primary concern. If you want flexible pipes to maneuver through tight spaces, you can use PEX pipes. CPVC pipes suit hot water lines because they can handle high temperatures.

3. Will Re-Piping Create a Mess?

The re-piping process can turn your home into a construction site, complete with several workers, ladders, and equipment. However, experienced plumbers will protect your furniture, floor, and other items from damage and debris.

The process involves cutting out large sections of your wall, so ask your plumber whether they'll replace them after re-piping. You should also check if the project's initial estimate includes replacing the drywall.

Additionally, expect water supply interruptions for a few days. Make preparations beforehand for alternate water sources to minimize the disruption in your day-to-day life.

4. How Long Does Re-Piping Take?

Re-piping can take a few days or up to a week, depending on the size of your house. You can expect the re-piping process to take longer if you have a large home with several bathrooms. For minimum disruption, your plumber can do the work in parts, in which case you don't have to

leave your residence. What's more, experienced plumbers are quite efficient, and they re-pipe your house in the shortest time possible.

5. Why Should I Re-Pipe My House Instead of Fixing Leaks?

Welding or patching leaks are standard solutions to plumbing problems. If you want to save money, you'll probably replace a small section of the system. However, these are short-term solutions as larger leaks are probably brewing somewhere in your home's plumbing. Re-piping deals with leaks once and for all by replacing your damaged pipes with more durable ones.

Frequent clogs, leaks, and rust-colored water often indicate the need for new pipes. Contact us at Michigan Plumbing today for a modern, durable, and cost-efficient pipe system.

4 Tips to Help Your Sump Pump Keep Your Basement Flood-Free

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 19:28:09 GMT

If you just moved into a home equipped with a sump pump, then you should learn what to do to ensure your pump continues to work effectively when you need it. Proper maintenance of this pump can help prevent problems that could lead to basement flooding and potentially extend the pump's lifespan. In addition, the right sump pump accessories can make keeping your basement flood-free easier.

Read on to learn four tips to help your sump pump keep your basement flood-free.

1. Test and Clean Your Pump Periodically

You should test your sump pump to ensure it is functioning properly and clean your pump every three to four months. To test your pump, first ensure it is connected to its power supply, then pour water into your sump pit up to the level of the pump float. Once the pump float has risen enough, the pump should automatically activate and remove the water from the pit.

If your sump pump does not automatically turn on and remove the water, then contact a licensed plumber who can inspect the pump to determine why it is not working properly and recommend needed repairs or replacement.

To clean your pump to remove debris that could interfere with its efficiency, first unplug it from its electricity source or shut off the circuit breaker that supplies its power. Then, disconnect the pump, take it outdoors, and rinse all debris off it with a garden hose, paying careful attention to the pump screen. If necessary, use a plastic scraper to remove stubborn dirt and debris from the pump and screen.

Finally, allow your pump to dry, reattach it to the discharge valve, and then plug it back in.

2. Opt for an Annual Pump and Pit Inspection

Have a licensed plumber inspect your pump and pit once a year. Your plumber will look for any problems interfering with optimal pump performance and recommend pump and pit repairs if needed.

To start this inspection, your plumber will examine your sump pit to ensure it is correctly sized and in good condition. Then, they will examine the check valve connected to the drain discharge pipe to ensure it is working properly to block the flow of water back into the sump pit after it exits.

Next, they will examine your sump pump, your sump pit lid, your pump accessories, and your pit discharge pipe for problems that need repair. Finally, they will locate your pump discharge site to determine if it is still suitable or needs to be changed.

After you obtain this annual inspection, you can feel more secure that your pump will function properly when needed to prevent basement flooding.

3. Install a Battery Backup Pump

If you do not currently have a battery backup pump, then you should have one installed alongside your existing sump pump as soon as possible. Battery backup pumps do not require electricity to run but are instead equipped with batteries that they use as their sole power sources.

Battery back-up pumps offer homeowners many benefits. First, if your house loses power during a bad storm due to a local power outage, this pump can continue to direct water out of the sump pit when your main pump can no longer operate due to this power loss. In addition, if your primary sump pump stops working due to mechanical failure, this pump can temporarily serve as your main pump until the primary pump is repaired or replaced.

Finally, if an extremely bad rainstorm occurs and your primary pump unexpectedly cannot handle the large amount of water entering your sump pit, a back-up battery pump can work alongside your primary pump to move water out of the sump pit and help prevent basement flooding.

4. Select the Right Sump Pump Alarm

Every homeowner should equip their sump pump with an alarm. This alarm produces a loud, audible noise when the level of water in the sump pit rises to an undesirable level, so the homeowner can take steps to avoid basement flooding.

Sometimes, the water level rises too high and triggers the alarm due to a problem the homeowner can fix immediately, such as a sump pump that is unplugged or connected to a tripped circuit breaker. Other times, this alarm sounds when the sump pump is failing to keep up with water-removal demands, is clogged, or is experiencing another problem. In all situations, quick action is necessary to prevent basement flooding.

While a traditional sump pump alarm can alert you to a pump problem when you are home, a smart sump pump alarm can send a notification to your smartphone via email or text to notify you of a high pit water level when you are away from home. This sump pump alarm type is a better option for most homeowners, especially if the home is often unoccupied for hours at a time during rainstorms and other severe weather events.

If you just moved into a home with a sump pump, then follow these tips to help keep your pump working properly, potentially extend its lifespan and, most importantly, help prevent basement flooding. Contact the licensed plumbers at Michigan Plumbing for expert sump pump installation , maintenance services, and repairs today.

4 Plumbing Clogs That Can Happen Unexpectedly

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 18:37:25 GMT

There are some plumbing problems that are a homeowner's fault like putting too much grease or food debris down the drain. Other times, our sinks may become clogged out of nowhere. The unexpected clogs can come as a surprise and cause major problems within a sink.

Learn about some of the more unexpected clogs you may come across, how a plumber can clear out the clog, and the steps to take to prevent the clog from getting worse.

1. Plant Growth
It may seem far-fetched, but you could have started your own plumbing garden and been completely unaware of it. When you eat organic vegetables like tomatoes or use a lot of sunflower seeds, there are rare occasions, where the seeds stick to the sides of your pipe and will sprout a plant.

In several weeks, you could see a small plant sprout up out of the drain pipe and cause a clog. Some plant roots grow extremely fast and the roots can exert a lot of extra pressure on pipes, causing possible cracks or leaks.

If you notice any sort of plant growth in your plumbing, you will need a plumber to complete an inspection. If the roots have connected to specific pipes, you do not want to yank the plant out and create a major leak or drainage issue.

A plumber can properly remove the plant and find the cause of the plant's growth. Often, pipe slime or grease gives an easy way for plants to grow. Once you identify the plant, you can determine the source it came from and try to prevent the plant's growth in the future.

2. Rodents
Mice and rats can squeeze through anything in a hunt for food, including drain pipes. Small debris you wash down the drain could be considered a big feast for a rodent and they will have no problems getting into your plumbing for a snack. Unfortunately, not every rodent can navigate its way out of a drainpipe.

The area may become too slick and a rodent gets trapped inside and eventually dies. A dead rodent will soak up water and can cause a major blockage in the drain pipes if the creature does not get washed away.

When a rodent is found clogged in the drain, a plumber has multiple removal options. First, a camera inspection can find the exact spot of the location. In some cases, the pipes could have multiple rodents depending on how big a home infestation is.

Next, a plumber can snake the rodent out with a professional plumber's snake or push the rodent through the drain pipes using a professional water jet. Once the rodent reaches the septic tank it will naturally deteriorate and the clog will be gone.

While modern pipes can handle the travels of a rodent, older and worn pipes could have damage from rodent scratching or chewing. A full inspection will determine if any other pipe damage has occurred.

3. Old Pipe Materials
If your home has gone through any major plumbing remodels, then the transition process could create possible clogs in your plumbing. For example, many older pipes are blocked off with cement if the pipe cannot be easily removed.

Over time, the cement pieces may break apart and go into your new drain system. The large stones can easily mix with other materials like toilet paper to create a big clog. If the piping issues persist, a plumber can recipe areas so the older pipes are no longer a part of the system.

A new system will have an easy and clear drainage path to help prevent any problems in the future.

4. Former Homeowner Items
If someone else lived in your home before you, you could suffer from a blast from the past when some of the items they previously flushed come back to haunt you. Not all clogs can occur instantly when items are flushed or forced down the drain.

For example, if the former homeowners had children, toys or stuffed animals could have been flushed down the drains. The items may move slowly through the pipes over time and eventually create an angle that causes a big clog. Other examples include cat litter, food debris, and random objects.

A plumber can remove pipes and help get rid of major clogs in the home. A septic tank may have items that cause clogs as well. When items do not break up in a septic tank, the tank could leak or create major problems. A plumber can drain the septic tank to eliminate the items and start fresh. You do not want old issues causing major problems or costs in the future.

Get all the plumbing help you need with our services at Michigan Plumbing . We will help solve all of your plumbing needs with our care and expertise. Contact us if you suspect any plumbing problems before the problems get worse.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ejector Pumps

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 15:39:12 GMT

Throughout history, plumbing and water management systems have relied largely on gravity to do their work, with sewage running down trenches and into larger bodies of water. However, this method has its limitations, especially for homes that must drain wastewater from a position below ground level.

Thankfully, modern pump technology has solved that challenge. If your plumbing pipes must send wastewater upward instead of downward, then you need (or already have) an ejector pump system on the premises. To pump up your understanding of this system, take a look at the answers to these frequently asked questions.

What Does an Ejector Pump Do?

A standard ejector pump system pushes water upward and out of the home, not unlike a sump pump. However, unlike a sump pump dedicated to the removal of rainwater, the ejector pump focuses on the removal of sewage water from areas built below the elevation of an attached sewage system or septic drain field.

In addition to the pump itself, an ejector pump system also includes an air vent (to equalize pressure) a float, an inlet, an outlet, and a holding tank to receive the waste. If the waste must travel a long distance to the sewer main or drain field, you'll also want an ejector pump equipped with a grinder.

The electrically-powered system may operate either manually or automatically. In an automatic system, the rising water triggers a float switch, which signals the grinder to chop up any solid waste for easier movement through the system. The pumped waste then moves through the outlet pipe to the tank.

What Kinds of Problems Can Affect Ejector Pump Performance?

Like any mechanical system, an ejector pump can develop problems that affect its performance. Pump components can get clogged or contaminated, the motor or bearings can fail, surface runoff can fill the system with debris, or the pump may stop receiving electrical power for some reason.

Float switches sometimes fail over time. When a float switch can no longer react to rising water levels, it cannot tell the pump to push the water through the system. As a result, the water keeps rising until the pump overflows, potentially sending sewage in the wrong direction.

When Should You Suspect an Ejector Pump Problem?

You'll know right away whether you have an ejector pump problem if your system comes with an attached alarm. When this alarm sounds, it means that something has disrupted the system's normal function. Turn off the alarm and make sure everyone in the home knows not to use any water until your plumber has made repairs.

Otherwise, you may notice that the water in your ejector pump system either runs constantly or doesn't run at all. Both of these quirks indicate that you need to get your system checked. A high water level in the tank may mean a blockage, or it may just signal a temporary issue due to unusually heavy wastewater influx.

Ejector pump systems typically provide less than 20 years of optimal service before they simply wear out. If your system has neared the end of its natural lifespan, you may want to preemptively replace it before it has a chance to fail on you.

How Do Plumbing Experts Deal With Ejector Pump Issues?

Plumbing experts can check every element of an ejector pump based on its particular trouble symptoms, including the sounding of its alarm. Your technician may try toggling a float switch that seems to have failed, check to make sure that the pump receives power, and look for clogs or mechanical damage.

The ejector pump itself should function for many years without any special need for service. However, if internal components have sustained corrosion, premature wear, or outright failure, your technician may need to replace the damaged components, add fresh oil to the motor, or replace the entire pump.

What Can You Do to Keep Your Ejector Pump in Good Shape?

If you want to avoid future ejector pump problems, place strict limits on what you and your loved ones dump into this system. Don't force an ejector pump system with a grinder to process condoms, dental floss, metal plastic, gravel, baby wipes, cotton, sanitary napkins, or rubber gloves, among other foreign objects.

Try to keep grease, lard, cooking oil, and other oily substances out of your ejector pump system. These substances can accumulate inside the tank and reduce its waste-handling capacity. Additionally, cleaning products or other corrosive chemicals can damage the working parts of the grinder, so dispose of these substances elsewhere.

Schedule periodic inspections and maintenance service for your ejector pump, no matter how smoothly it currently functions. Your plumbing technician can identify any parts that might need replacement, repair, or upgrades. Have accumulated grease or other waste cleaned out of the tank every few years.

Michigan Plumbing can address all your ejector pump issues, from common problems to installation and service. Contact us today with any additional questions you may have.

4 Shower Repairs and Upgrades to Improve Your Bathroom

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 23:12:25 GMT

A shower is often a part of your everyday life, so when a problem occurs in a shower, you must deal with the problem every day. Plumbing services will provide all the repairs and upgrades to eliminate everyday shower annoyances.

Even if the repairs are not an emergency procedure, hiring a plumber for the tasks will make your shower run smoothly and prevent any major problems in the future. Learn about four repairs and ways to improve your shower experience.

1. Leaky Faucet

A constant drip from your showerhead or tub faucet can lead to multiple issues. For one, you waste water, especially if drips occur all day long. A constant presence of moisture could lead to rust and build-up more quickly around faucets and showerheads. Sounds of drips can be an annoyance and echo through the bathroom.

As you transition from a tub faucet to the showerhead, you may notice water still leaks out from the faucet. Leaking water can take away from the shower's water pressure and eventually lead to bigger leaks.

Plumbing services will help you repair the leaking faucets and find the cause of the problem. In some cases, you may need a whole new faucet or showerhead. In other situations, sealant will help prevent the leaks. A full inspection will help plumbers find the root cause of the problem and begin the repair process.

Fixing leaks will only add advantages to your bathroom and a plumber may offer tips to help prevent leaks in the future.

2. Drain Cleaning

If you shower in puddles or hear a lot of gurgling when your shower drains, then you may need a professional drain cleaning. When you shower, soap scum, hair, and debris all build-up together to create clogs. Cleaning out the drains will prevent pipes from backing up and making bigger problems for the bathroom.

A plumber can provide a deep cleaning service with multiple tools and methods. A water jetter draining process uses a high-powered water jet to push everything through the pipes until it reaches the septic tank. For bigger clogs, a plumber may rely on a motorized drain auger to remove debris that should not go through the whole drain.

For example, if you have large clumps of hair, a plumber is better off pulling out clumps than allowing the hair to build up in a septic tank filter. Along with the drain cleaning, you can have upgrades installed including an in-hair drain catcher. The filters piece goes into the drain and catches hair to prevent plumbing issues.

3. Screaming Showers

If you ever feel like your shower is yelling at you when you turn the water on, you are dealing with a screeching pipe problem. The shower sounds similar to tea steaming on a kettle and can create a lot of unwanted noise. The sound is not from hot water or the force of water but often occurs when sediment builds up in the pipes.

A plumber can reduce and eliminate screaming noises with deep cleaning and pipe replacements. When pipes are replaced for the inlet of the shower, you will remove the sediment issue. The minerals found in water will often separate and stick onto pipes after years of use. The blockage of water flow creates air bubbles and movements to create the screaming sound.

The removal of the piping will also help improve the water pressure in the shower as the water has a much clearer path to travel through. Plumbers may discover sediment build-up in small parts too including the water coupler. A full inspection will ensure all the parts are examined and replaced as needed.

4. Water Hammers

Screaming showers may not be the only sound you hear when you bathe. As you turn the water on and off, you may hear loud bangs or slams known as water hammers. When you shut off a shower quickly, the force of water can slam directly into the valve, creating the loud noise. The impact of the water could also shake the pipes and create additional noises.

To help reduce the noise, a plumber may secure all of the water inlet pipes in your house. A pipe may hang too loose and vibrate a lot when water turns on and off. Securing the pipe with brackets will prevent major vibrations or an eventual breakage of the pipe.

A plumber may also adjust the water pressure in the home. If the water pressure from the tank is too high, loud bangs will occur every time you turn a shower on and off. A plumber will reduce the water pressure to prevent bangs while still providing optimal water pressure.

A may advanced upgrade is the water arrestor. The device is installed on the inlet pipes of the shower and uses spring-loaded pieces and air pockets to reduce the water flow bang noises when the shower shuts off.

Complete all of your shower repairs with our professionals at Michigan Plumbing . We will help you completely transform your shower and improve the way you use your bathroom on a daily basis.

Kitchen Remodel? The Do's and Don'ts of Using Other Drains in Your Home

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 13:29:39 GMT

Are you ready to remodel your kitchen? Without a faucet, garbage disposal, or drain to use during the renovation, you may need to turn the bathroom or laundry room into a makeshift kitchen. Before you start to chop, peel, or prep, take a look at the top plumbing tips to follow.

Don't Flush Food

Without a garbage disposal at your disposal, you need to find a new way to discard leftover food scraps. If you're tempted to flush your food, consider:

The toilet's pipes . The drainpipe from your bathroom's toilet isn't wide enough to accommodate large clumps of sticky foods. The pieces, chunks, and scraps can easily clog the pipe and cause a major backup.
The intended use . A toilet wasn't made to flush your food. Toilet paper separates and breaks down quickly — but food doesn't. Again, this can cause a clog in the bathroom's plumbing.
Clog causers . Fatty foods and oils can coat the pipes and grains or starchy foods can expand. Over time, this narrows the inside of the toilet's drain and can cause a clog.

Even though the toilet has a drain, this part of your plumbing system can't handle kitchen or food items. Whether you have lemon peels, leftover chicken fat, vegetable oil, rice, cereal, or any other similar item, you need to find an appropriate alternative for disposal.

Do Remove Leftover Food Items in Creative Ways

If you can't flush your food, how should dispose of it during the renovation process? While you can use your bathroom or laundry room to pour water into pots and pans and for some other kitchen-related tasks, you can't use these rooms to wash away your leftovers.

Instead of the toilet, consider these easy alternative ideas:

Refrigerate or freeze items . If you have a fridge or freezer in your home (even if the appliance isn't in the kitchen), bag and refrigerate or freeze edible leftovers.
Bring everything outside . Bag unusable leftovers or scraps and bring them outside to your trash can immediately.
Use glass jars . What should you do with leftover oil or the fat from chicken or red meat? Use glass jars to contain the hot liquids. When the liquids turn into solids, throw what's left into the trash.
Compost some items . Do you have a garden in your yard? Find a safe spot to compost the leftovers outdoors. If you don't have a yard, look for a municipal or city compost program to participate in.

These strategies can save your plumbing system and stop clogs before they start. Along with the fridge and freezer, your home's trash can, jars, and compost bins, you can also find creative ways to use edible leftovers as ingredients in your next meal. This eliminates the need to flush your food down the drain.

Don't Wash Dishes in the Bathroom Sink

Now that you have a strategy in place to remove or dispose of leftover food, turn your attention to the dishes, pots, pans, utensils, and other dirty items. Without a kitchen to cook in, you won't have a sink to scrub pots and pans or a dishwasher to remove debris from plates, bowls, and cups.

Should you turn the bathroom or laundry room sink into a makeshift dishwasher? Simply stated — no. Even though the bathroom or laundry room sink has running water, it isn't the ideal place to clear your dishware. A bathroom sink–turned washing space can result in serious clogs. The top kitchen-related offenders to avoid include:

Bones . Leftover chicken bones should never go into any sink's drain. These can get stuck in a drainpipe and cause clogs. Always throw bones away in the trash.
Coffee grounds . Never toss leftover grounds or what's left in your morning cup of coffee down the bathroom sink's drain. Even though grounds may seem small, they can stick together in the sink's drainpipe.
Oil and grease . Again, these should go into a glass jar. While liquid grease may not instantly cause a clog, it can back up your plumbing system as it dries and solidifies in your bathroom's or laundry room's sink drain.
Pasta . The extra strands of spaghetti should never go down a bathroom or other drain. These can expand when wet, causing a clog.
Rice . Like pasta, rice can also expand when you add water. Every time you brush your teeth or wash your hands, the water you use will moisten the rice and cause it to swell in the drain.
Peels and rinds . While these are more of a danger to a garbage disposal, peels and rings can also clog slim bathroom drains. Instead of the sink, place these items into the outdoor garbage can or compost them.

What should you do if you accidentally drop one of these items into the bathroom or laundry room sink? Some foods may wash away without incident. But if you notice a backup, call a professional plumber for help clearing the clog.

Do you need to hire a plumber for your kitchen or bathroom home improvement project? Contact Michigan Plumbing for more information.

5 Sink Features Ideal for Hobby Use

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 20:39:33 GMT

Sinks serve specific purposes in your home, but certain hobbies may require additional sink use. In general, regular kitchen and bathroom sinks are not equipped to handle anything more than your traditional dishes and running water. The installation of extra sink features will give you more flexible options with hobbies such as gardening and crafts.

A plumber can install kitchen sink upgrades and extras for various locations of your house. Follow our guide to learn about hobbies and how the new sink features will help protect your plumbing and allow you to fully enjoy your activities.

1. Double Sinks
Adding a sink to a craft room or laundry room can really change the way you make and create crafts. For example, if you make tie-dye products, like t-shirts, you do not want to worry about staining a kitchen sink or tub while you rinse out the dye. A dedicated double sink provides you with the option to easily rinse out the dye. 

If you don't have the space for a new sink, consider a double sink installation for your kitchen. You can dedicate a bay to rinsing out your craft supplies, including tie-dye kits and paint brushes. For some crafts, you may need to soak items for extended periods of time or let an item dry out in an empty sink.

With a double sink installation, you can still use one side of the sink for washing your hands and doing dishes. Along with the sink, you may consider a drain installation on the floor, just in case some of the projects get a little messy. You do not need to worry about floor damage or mold growth when the liquids can just drain straight through.

2. Outdoor Sink With a Garbage Disposal
If you enjoy cooking outdoors, then an outdoor sink installation can go a long way in providing you with easy cooking options. A sink installation next to your grilling area will save a lot of time from going back and forth between the kitchen and the patio. Along with the sink installation, consider adding a garbage disposal to the outdoor space.

The outdoor garbage disposal allows you to rinse off vegetables or meat and allows you to process the waste directly. When the cooking has completed, the sink can be used to clean up the grill and any supplies you have. You do not need to lug the items all the way back into the home. Pieces of charcoal or bits of food items will feed directly into the garbage disposal.

3. Drain Filters
Hobbies like fishing and gardening create a lot of messes and debris. If you allow the debris to go into the drain, you can easily create clogs through the plumbing.  A secure drain filter allows you to block out items and protect your drains from extra debris. 

If you caught a fish you plan to keep and eat, then the sink filter will block excess items like scales, bones, and fins. Once you're done cleaning the fish, you can empty out the filter directly into a garbage.

The filter also helps with gardening hobbies. For example, you may water new plants or prepare a pot for seeds. A filter with small holes only allows the water to go through while dirt, leaves, and debris remain out of the drain.

Once you're done gardening or fishing, you can wash your hands over the filtered sink so extra dirt and debris don't go down the drain.

4. Grease Trap
If you love to work on cars, you may find your hands are constantly filled with dirt, grease, and oil. You probably spend a good amount of time cleaning off the grit and grime in the sink. Unfortunately, grease and oil buildup in a home's plumbing or septic tank can create problems down the line.

A plumber can install a grease trap underneath the sink to automatically filter excess products out. When the grease trap fills, you can properly dispose of the extra liquid at your local waste management company. Grease traps come in many sizes, and the size you pick depends on how often you work on cars and need to clean off grease.

5. Sink Hoses and Sprayers
All the hobbies mentioned would benefit from the installation of a sink hose or sprayer. The extended part of the sink extends outward and is connected to the main water line. For crafts and hobbies, the jet from a sprayer will help clean off brushes and cups easier. For outdoor cooking, the sprayer will help clean off pans and rinse foods.

When you are watering plants, a wider sprayer will cover more of a plant instead of the direct stream of water that comes from the traditional faucet. The same spray will help you clean off your hands or a pair of work boots you wear when you work on cars.

A longer hose allows you to reach more areas and have more options when you grip and hold the sprayer. A plumber will help you select the best sprayer option for your home.

For more information on sink feature installations, contact our plumbers at  Michigan Plumbing Sewer & Drain Cleaning Inc. We will help with all the upgrades and provide professional service to expand the sink options in your home.

Plumbing Components to Add When Designing Your Dream Home

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 22:21:35 GMT

Different homeowners have different priorities for a dream home. When you start planning your own dream home, you will need to consider your priorities and desired lifestyle as well as your budget, climate, and other factors. You will need to think about how your desired lifestyle will affect how you design things like the floor plan, electrical system, and plumbing.

Learn about several different categories of plumbing components to consider as you design your dream home.

Plumbing Components for Sustainability and Self-Sufficiency
Sustainable living and self-sufficient lifestyles often go hand in hand. So whether you hope to go totally off-grid or whether you are mostly interested in saving the planet, building sustainability into your plumbing system from the start can help you achieve your goals.

Some ideas for self-sufficiency in your plumbing include a solar hot water heater, a gray water system to let you reuse water, and a private well. A private wastewater system can also help you become more self-reliant since you will not depend on the city sewer.

Any plumbing component that reduces water use, energy use, or other forms of waste can also help you become more self-sustaining and eco-friendly. For example, a hot water recirculation pump and low-flow aerators on your faucets can both help reduce water waste.

Plumbing Components for Comfort and Luxury
Some homeowners may have comfort, convenience, and luxury features, such as a hot tub, on their list with dream home design. If you are interested in comfort and luxury, your plumbing system design will have to take that into account. You may need to add a spa-like bathroom or an indoor pool to your home design, for instance.

Other worthwhile luxury plumbing items to consider include:

Smart plumbing components (such as a water heater controlled via your smart home system)
Top-of-the-line kitchen faucet, sinks, and dishwasher
Whole-house water filtration system to get your water just how you like it

Plumbing Components for Security and Protection
You have probably heard the saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, but you may not have applied it to the plumbing designs for your new home yet. Be sure to add any plumbing components you need to protect against common plumbing issues.

Some plumbing components you can add for peace of mind include a grease trap, a backflow prevention device, and freeze prevention for your pipes (such as heat tape and pipe insulation). Backflow prevention devices come in several varieties, and not all are created equal. Talk to your plumbing contractor about which one will give you the most security.

Plumbing Components for Added Home Value
When building your dream home, the salability of the house is not immediately relevant since you likely do not plan to sell it in the foreseeable future. However, you can still benefit financially from increasing the value of the property you own. Increased property value can increase your total asset value and net worth and give you extra security if you ever do need to sell.

You can help maximize your home's value with useful, desirable plumbing components such as an energy-efficient tankless water heater.

Another strategy to maximize home value is to choose components that have a super-long lifespan, such as copper plumbing rather than plastic pipes (which do not last as long).

Plumbing Components for Aging in Place
Whether you are a caregiver for an older relative or whether you want to ensure you will be able to stay in your dream home several decades from now, accessibility and safety features should be a priority. Fortunately, you can easily design your plumbing with a few characteristics that will improve accessibility for seniors.

For instance, you may want to choose a larger, more accessible shower with no ledge to step over, and a walk-in tub, both of which can improve access and reduce chances of falls. You can also choose a high-end showerhead that offers accessibility features such as a handheld functionality. All of these options can go nicely with a luxury bathroom design as well.

These are just some of the options you will want to consider as you design the plumbing system for your dream home. Do not forget to consider how your plumbing system will interact with other home systems (such as your wastewater system and your electrical system) as well.

For help with plumbing design and installation or advice on which design characteristics are best for your desired lifestyle, contact a local plumbing company such as Michigan Plumbing . We offer a variety of services including plumbing installation and also provide the best plumbing maintenance once your home is complete.

A Brief Guide to High and Low Water Pressure

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 13:42:28 GMT

The amount of force that comes from the main water pipe inside your home is called water pressure. Measured in pounds per square inch (PSI), the water pressure inside a house is usually anywhere from 30 to 80 PSI.

If you're wondering if your water pressure is on the high or low side, you can measure it with a water pressure gauge. Optimum water pressure is between 60 to 70 PSI.

To better understand water pressure, here is some helpful information on high and low water pressure, the signs and causes, and what to do about it.

High Water Pressure

Homeowners that prefer high water pressure might not think anything is wrong with water that comes out of the shower or faucet with a stronger force. What these homeowners may not realize is that water pressure that is too high can cause a myriad of problems. High water pressure is difficult to contain. Plus it can lead to worn seals and plumbing leaks.

High water pressure can also shorten the lifespan of household appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and boiler systems.

One way to tell whether your water pressure is too high is that your hot water runs out more quickly than it should. You might also experience banging or clanging sounds in the pipes when you shut off a running faucet. Noise in the pipes might also occur after you flush the toilet.

Another indication of high water pressure is loud appliances. If the dishwasher is louder than usual or the washing machine is noisy while filling with water, it could mean high water pressure is adding extra strain on the seals and mechanical pieces, which leads to more strain and noise.

A big utility bill is another sign that your water pressure is too high, as you use more gallons of water than you need to.

If you notice any of these signs, the first thing you should do is check whether you have a water pressure regulator. This is located past the main shutoff valve, which is where the main water line enters the house.

If you don't have a water pressure regulator, contact a plumber to install one. If you already have a water pressure regulator, you may need to either repair or replace it. If your water pressure regulator works as it should, contact a plumber to determine the cause of your high water pressure.

Low Water Pressure

Water pressure that is too low won't cause any damage like high water pressure can. Low water pressure is more of an annoyance than anything. It takes more time to clean your dishes or wash your hair. Plus, you might not feel like your dishes or clothes get clean enough. It also takes much longer to fill the bathtub or home appliances.

If you want to increase your water pressure, you must first figure out why it is low. Some of the most common causes of low water pressure include:

You have too many plumbing fixtures running at the same time.
Your faucets, shower heads, or other fixtures don’t work properly.
Your water pressure regulator has gone bad.
Your water shutoff valves are closed instead of fully open.
Your pipes are clogged with hair, food, or other debris.
Your plumbing pipes have become corroded.

If water pressure is too low in all your plumbing fixtures, it may be due to any of the above reasons.

Sometimes low water pressure only affects one plumbing fixture in your home. To determine this, go around and test the water pressure in your sink faucets, toilet, shower, bathtub, washing machine, and outdoor faucet. Turn on the hot and cold water for each fixture. If water pressure is low when you turn on the hot water, you may only have a problem with your water heater.

When you look for the cause of low water pressure, one more thing you may want to consider is that it is a problem with the city's municipal water system. To determine if this is the case, ask your neighbors if they have low water pressure. If they also have low water pressure, the city's plumbing system is likely clogged or corroded.

Low water pressure might also be due to the fact that your home is far away from the city's municipal water system or the water travels uphill before it reaches your home. In either of these cases, installing a water pressure booster pump can increase your water pressure.

Is your water pressure too high or too low? If you need to find a solution to your water pressure problems, contact Michigan Plumbing. We have been providing plumbing services to our customers in Ingham, Clinton, Eaton, and Shiawassee Counties since 1992, and are happy to help you solve your plumbing problems. We look forward to working with you.

6 Repercussions of a Clogged Drain

Thu, 28 May 2020 17:22:00 GMT

If you notice that water drains too slowly from your sinks or your toilet overflows, you might have a clogged drain. Another good indicator of a clogged drain is that your tub fills with water as you take a shower. You might think that a clogged drain is a mere annoyance. This is not always the case, however, as a clogged drain can pose serious consequences.

Discover six repercussions of a clogged drain.

1. Plumbing Leaks

Clogged drains typically cause plumbing leaks in pipes connected to sinks, tubs, and garbage disposals. Clogs cause water to back up in the drainpipe of these plumbing fixtures. The standing water in the pipe causes leaks through the caulking and seals.

In some instances, homeowners may not notice these leaks right away. When a clogged drain causes a leak that goes undetected for a long period of time, mold growth and damage to the surrounding structure commonly occurs.

2. Unpleasant Odors

Many things go down the drain. These include food, hair, waste, or gunk. When a drain clogs, all of these substances accumulate in the pipes and causes bacteria to form. This bacteria is what causes the smelly odor.

Not only will your sink stink, the odor could travel to other parts of your home. Unpleasant odors will not cause any damage to your pipes or your home, but the smell is irritating. If you invite guests over, unpleasant odors also cause an embarrassing situation. For some, odors have physiological effects.

3. Water Contamination

Clogged drains from waste buildup in the pipes will increase your chances of water contamination. The water becomes contaminated because it must pass through the waste, and also bacteria, as it goes through the pipes. When waste is stuck in the pipes, it can also cause the water to flow backwards, which leads to dirty water.

4. Pests

Clogged drains and blocked pipes oftentimes produce stagnant water. This stagnant water attracts insects, such as mosquitoes. Besides mosquitoes, other insects live and even lay eggs in a clogged drain. This is especially true of drains clogged with food, as this waste provides a steady diet for insects.

Insects that commonly live in clogged drains include:

Cockroaches . These bugs usually make their home in bathroom and kitchen drains.
Drain flies . These insects are often called moth flies and are known to breed in drains.
Fruit flies . These tiny nuisances like to lay their eggs in kitchen drains.
Phorid flies . These unsanitary flies use clogged drains as their breeding grounds.

Unclogging and thoroughly cleaning your drain will get rid of any pests living inside it.

5. Health Risks

Clogged drains that contain bacteria, contaminated water, mold, and disease-carrying insects pose a serious health risk for you and your family. Some health issues associated with these water issues include bacterial infections such as campylobacteriosis and typhoid. Both of these bacterial infections have similar symptoms, which include diarrhea and fever.

Another illness from bacteria in the water is a respiratory condition called Legionnaires’ disease. Also, water that contains bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) causes peptic ulcers to form in the lining of the stomach of the small intestine.

Some instances have happened when clogged drains cause mold and mildew growth. Airborne mold spores cause respiratory problems and also issues with the nervous system. For those with asthma or allergies, a clogged or dirty drain can exacerbate their symptoms.

Clogged drains that produce unpleasant odors also pose a health risk as strong odors are known to cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Odors can also cause the eyes, nose, and throat to have irritation. For some, unpleasant odors can increase their anxiety and stress levels and also have a negative effect on their mood.

6. Structural Damage

When the drains clog, this causes the water to flow backward. This back flow of water can soak into the foundation of your home. When you have water near the foundation of your home, you have the potential for the structure to become damaged or weak.

In worst-case scenarios, a clogged drain can cause flooding inside your home. Even localized flooding around your toilet or sink can cause a lot of damage to your floor. When a clogged drain causes any kind of damage inside your home, you have the potential for costly repairs.

If you have a clogged drain and can't fix it yourself, call a plumber. By doing so, you can prevent any of the above repercussions from taking place inside your home.

If you live in the Lansing, Michigan area, contact Michigan Plumbing. We offer a quick diagnosis of why your drain is blocked and provide convenient drain cleaning services . Our highly qualified plumbers have provided affordable plumbing services since 1992. We look forward to speaking with you soon and answering all your questions and concerns.

7 Common Plumbing Mistakes to Avoid

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 18:33:02 GMT

Plumbing mistakes are easy to make, but once they're made, they can cause many problems. Homeowners who don't know better can inadvertently cause clogs, leaks, and a variety of other plumbing issues. Knowing how to avoid these common plumbing mistakes can help you take care of your home while saving money on plumbing repair.

1. Wrapping Plumbing Thread Backwards

Many homeowners know they're supposed to wrap plumbing tape around threaded pipes to fill gaps and prevent leaks, but they don't know that they're supposed to wrap plumbing tape around the thread in a clockwise direction. Tape wrapped around pipe threads going the wrong direction will come off when the pipe is screwed together with a fitting or fixture.

At best, tape wrapped the wrong direction does no good for the pipe. At worst, the tape could cause a clog.

2. Failing to Use a Drain Strainer

Drain strainers stop hair and food from clogging drains, which, in turn, can keep clogs out of your pipes. Sometimes, homeowners neglect to use drain strainers or use drain strainers only in one sink but not another. Use drain strainers over every drain, including the drain for your shower or bathtub. Clean drain strainers regularly to remove food and debris.

3. Using the Wrong Tools

Plumbers use special tools to do most of their plumbing work. They use a basin wrench to install sink faucets and a plumber's wrench to grip large, stuck pipes. Using the wrong tools for any plumbing job can make working with plumbing more difficult. A poorly chosen tool could even cause pipes to break or could lead to pipes to be installed incorrectly.

To find out which tools you'll need to use before starting a plumbing project, watch a tutorial or read a how-to online. If you don't have the tools or don't want to purchase them, contact a plumber to get the work done for you.

4. Starting a Job Without Knowing How to Finish

Most DIY plumbing projects involve turning off the water and tearing apart an important part of the house, whether that's a toilet, a sink, or even a bathtub. Starting a project without knowing how to finish may slow the project down significantly.

While you go to the hardware store for more parts, watch tutorials for guidance, or call in family members for help, parts of your bathroom or kitchen may be useless. The worst-case scenario is that you might even start a plumbing job and then need to call a plumber to finish it, and, in the meantime, no one can use your bathroom or kitchen.

Learn about the full extent of the plumbing job before beginning work. Know what's coming to help you decide whether the project is right for you, and, if it is, what you'll need to buy in order to get the full job done.

5. Connecting Copper Pipes to Galvanized Plumbing

Water flowing between copper pipe and galvanized pipes will cause corrosion, leading to leaks or clogs. The only way to connect a copper pipe to a galvanized pipe is to use a dielectric fitting. These fittings separate the copper and galvanized piping to prevent corrosion. Any time you connect a piece of copper piping to galvanized piping, use a dielectric fitting.

6. Failing to Manage a Hard Water Problem

Hard water contains deposits of calcium and magnesium, which can attach to pipes, clog waterways, stain fixtures and dishes, and cause discoloration of window glass. Hard water can even reduce your home's water pressure by narrowing the interior of your pipes and by filling the holes in your shower head. Hard water can be softened with a water softener. Installing a water softener is better for your pipes, fixtures, windows, and dishes.

If your home has a hard water problem, you'll be able to tell by the stains on your shower glass, coffee maker, bathtub faucet, and other parts of your house that come into direct contact with the water from your plumbing. Contact a plumber as soon as possible to order a water softener, and have them professionally install it.

7. Doing DIY When You Should Hire a Plumber

Many homeowners try to repair their own plumbing problems to save money. They often do this even when the plumbing task is well outside their skills and abilities. While some plumbing tasks, like fixing a running toilet or unclogging a drain, can sometimes be done by a typical homeowner, many plumbing jobs should be done by plumbers.

Plumbers are less likely to make a mistake that could cause a leak or damage to the house. Plumbers are also required to have a license and insurance, so if something goes wrong, damage is covered and homeowners have recourse. If you want to take on complex home improvement projects, like sewer cleaning or water heater installation, contact a plumber in your area.

Contact Michigan Plumbing

If you're a homeowner who would like to repair your plumbing or replace a plumbing fixture, contact Michigan Plumbing . We'll be happy to help you make an appointment or answer your plumbing questions.

6 Causes of Low Water Pressure and What to Do

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 07:40:27 GMT

Do you have low water pressure somewhere in your home, either in one fixture or many? This problem could happen for many reasons. When you know the various reasons that you have low water pressure, and knowing what to do about it, you can solve your problem. The following six problems are some of the most common causes of low water pressure. Here's what you can do to solve your issue.

1. Corroded Galvanized Pipes

Galvanized pipes are steel pipes covered in a protective coating of zinc. Galvanized pipes were installed in most homes before 1960 and today are full of rusty corrosion. This corrosion is a natural response to years of exposure to water. Pipe corrosion narrows the inside of the pipe, reducing water pressure a little at a time. The only way to fix this problem is to have your pipes replaced.

You can tell if your pipes are beginning to fill with corrosion because you'll notice that faucet water comes out red and rusty in the mornings. After running the water for a minute or two, the water should turn clear.

Even if your home's pipes have some rust in them, this may or may not be the cause of your low water pressure. Before you have your home repiped, get an evaluation from a plumber to find out if this is your problem.

2. Main Water Shutoff Slightly Closed

Every home has a main water shut off valve that turns off all water to the house, and each plumbing fixture in the home has a shutoff valve that stops all water from flowing to that fixture.

If water pressure is low all over your house, this could be because your home's main water shutoff valve is slightly closed. If the water pressure is low in one fixture, this could be because the water shutoff valve to that fixture is slightly closed.

To fix your problem, check the valve for the house or the fixture (depending on the location of the low water pressure). If the valve won't open any farther, then there is likely another cause for your issue.

3. Hard Water Buildup

Hard water leaves minerals in pipes and on fixtures, causing a white crusty buildup (called scale) to form. If hard water is allowed to run through pipes for years and years, this buildup of scale could cause the inside of the pipes to narrow, just like the corrosion buildup that forms on the inside of galvanized pipes.

Just like galvanized pipe corrosion, you won't be able to tell if your home has low water pressure because of hard water buildup unless you consult with a plumber. Talk to an expert before repiping your home.

If you do choose to repipe your home because of calcium buildup, have your plumber install a water softener at the same time. Softening your water will prevent calcium buildup from forming in your pipes a second time.

4. Fixture Debris

If water pressure is low in just one fixture of your house, like the showerhead or in the sink faucet, this could be because of debris caught in the filter where the water exits the fixture. Remove the showerhead or the faucet aerator and check for small pieces of debris.

Use a toothpick or something else small and pointy to remove any pieces of debris that may be caught in the fixture, then soak the piece in vinegar for an hour. Finally, rinse the piece in water and put it back in its place.

5. Leaks

A leak can cause low water pressure if the leak is big enough to divert enough water away from the fixtures. One of the ways you can tell if you have a leak is to turn off all fixtures in your home, check the water meter, then don’t use any water and check the water meter again about an hour later.

If the reading on the water meter has changed but you didn’t run any water, this is a sign that there is a leak. Work with a plumber to find the source of the leak.

6. Low Water Pressure Coming Into the House

Sometimes, low water pressure occurs when the water coming into the house has a problem. A water main leak or break can lead to low water pressure in your house and in homes near your home. Consult with someone at your city hall or local water utility company to find out if this is the problem.

Have Low Water Pressure? Contact a Plumber for Help

If you are experiencing low water pressure and believe that the problem is occurring somewhere in your home, but you're unable to pinpoint the problem, contact a local plumber for an assessment. At Michigan Plumbing, we're happy to help you determine the source of your low water pressure. Call today to make an appointment.

Save Water and Money With These 4 Plumbing Upgrades

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 03:29:10 GMT

Reducing your household's water usage is good for both the environment and your bank account, and you can easily reduce how much water people in your family use. Simply install one or more of these four plumbing upgrades, and your household will immediately begin using less water.

1. New Water Pipes

You don't have to upgrade your home's water pipes if they're old but still in good condition. If any parts of your pipes are leaking, however, those sections should be replaced with brand-new pipes. You should make the replacement so that you don't spend money on unused water. But you should also consider replacement so that leaked water doesn't cause damage to nearby structures.

Any water that leaks out of a pipe is wasted, and the amount of water that's lost is often substantial. Even a slow drip from a pipe will add up to a lot of water over time if you don't address the issue.

Of course, leaks in pipes aren't always noticeable since pipes are frequently concealed behind walls or under floors. To find out if any pipes in your home have leaks, follow these steps:

Turn off all faucets in your home so that no water is being used.
Locate your water meter and take a reading.
Don't use any water for 1 to 2 hours.
Take another reading from the water meter.

If the two readings are identical, no water has passed through the meter and there aren't any leaks in your home's plumbing. If the second reading is higher, water has passed through the meter during this time — and there's a leak somewhere in your system. Double-check faucets for leaks. If you don't find any leaky faucets, the leak is probably in a pipe somewhere.

While this method will tell you if any pipes have leaks, it won't tell you which pipes are leaking. You'll need a plumber to locate the leaky pipes and help you determine which portion of the piping system should be upgraded with new pipes that won't leak.

2. Low-Flow Showerhead

If your home's bathrooms currently have standard showerheads, changing these over to low-flow showerheads (or even ultra-low-flow showerheads) will help save water every time someone washes up.

A standard showerhead has a maximum flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute, which means a 10-minute shower will consume 25 gallons of water (assuming the water is turned fully on). Compared to this flow rate, low-flow showerheads offer a water savings of 40 to 60 percent, and ultra-low-flow showerheads provide even more conservation.

Low-flow models have flow rates of 1.5 or 1.0 gallons per minute, so the same 10-minute shower would use only 15 or 10 gallons. An ultra-low-flow model has a rate of 0.5 gallons per minute, thus reducing water usage for a 10-minute shower to just 5 gallons.

When all these calculations are taken into account, a basic low-flow showerhead could save you 10 to 15 gallons of water per day if you shower once daily. Of course, that number can be multiplied by however many people in your household take daily showers.

Moreover, a low-flow showerhead is a feasible plumbing upgrade even if you don't want to invest a lot in your home's plumbing. You don't necessarily need to change every showerhead over at once. If you'd prefer, you can change out only the most-used showerhead. You'll still see noticeable water savings and you won't have to purchase multiple showerheads at once.

3. Low-Flow Sink Faucets

Low-flow faucets also reduce water usage by limiting the amount of water that passes through them.

While a standard faucet consumes 2.2 gallons per minute, a low-flow one uses only 1.5 gallons per minute. That's around a 30 percent savings in water usage, and the cumulative effect over the course of a year can amount to hundreds of gallons of water saved.

You don't have to replace all of your faucets at once. The more you upgrade to a low-flow model, though, the more water your household will save. Whereas only one shower might be used in your home, most families use at least a few faucets.

4. Dual-Flush Toilets

Dual-flush toilets have a two-pronged flushing mechanism. There's one button (or lever) for flushing liquid waste, and another for flushing solid waste. Since liquids flow more easily than solids, the first button uses less water than the second — and you can save water on many trips to the bathroom.

Dual-flush toilets aren't too common in residential homes yet, but they can be found in commercial settings. As more people become environmentally conscious, these will likely be installed in more and more buildings and people will get used to them.

Installing a dual-flush toilet now might put you at the forefront of home water conservation, but soon people might not even notice the special upgrade.

If you want any of these plumbing features installed in your home's piping, kitchen, or bathroom, contact Michigan Plumbing.

Drain Cleaning Services in East Lansing

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 15:03:46 GMT

A clogged drain can cause a lot of problems for your East Lansing, MI, home. Whether it’s in the bathtub, the sink, or the washer, a clog should be removed quickly. At Michigan Plumbing Sewer & Drain Cleaning Inc, our drain cleaning services make sure your drain functions perfectly at all times.

We Take Care of Your Drains

Our drain services are comprehensive to make sure you get the service you need. We use the latest techniques to clear out your drain and make sure your plumbing works great, from high pressure jetting to bio-clean organic drain cleaner. We want to keep your drains and pipes free of buildup and clogs.

We Take Care of You

We make sure that you get high-quality and affordable drain cleaning by providing prices by job rather than hour and warranty-covered services. So you get a fair price and long-lasting work. We will also provide a free estimate before we start our work so you can feel confident with the work you’ll get.

We have provided clogged drain cleaning in East Lansing since 1992, so we feel confident in saying that we are experts in our field. You can benefit from our services 7 days a week and 24 hours a day in case of emergency.

So when your drain needs a good cleaning, call Michigan Plumbing Sewer & Drain Cleaning Inc in East Lansing, MI, today at 517-322-2993.

3 Relatively Quick Plumbing Upgrades for Your Laundry Room

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 21:18:35 GMT

Whether you're looking for safety and convenience upgrades or green living upgrades, your laundry room is a great place to start. Your laundry washing machine likely sees regular use, perhaps even daily use. A more efficient laundry setup can provide savings that build up every week.

Your plumber can help you update your laundry room, whether you're ready to switch to a more efficient washer and dryer or whether you just want to make the best use of the ones you have. Here are three relatively quick plumbing upgrades for your laundry room.

1. Drain Filter for the Washing Machine

Your washing machine may have some form of lint trap to catch some of the lint that the wash cycle produces. However, this isn't enough to remove all the lint from your laundry's wastewater. In fact, many particles from clothes washing are far too tiny for a typical filter to catch.

A specialized drain filter that installs easily onto your washing machine's drain can help collect many more of the particles that would otherwise end up in your wastewater. These plastics work their way into the water and may end up in the fish that humans eat, so filtering them out of your water before they escape your home is ideal.

Fortunately, your plumber can install a microplastics filter for you relatively quickly. These filters typically have simple drain connections that will likely present no challenge to your plumbing professional.

2. Diverter for Graywater Reuse

Diverting your washing machine's wastewater (also known as graywater) away from your main sewer line can not only allow you to reuse the water, but also reduce the volume of wastewater you send down the main drain. Reducing the volume of wastewater can be particularly helpful if you have a septic system that you don't want to overwhelm.

Graywater reuse systems can be relatively simple or more complex. One simple form you can employ is a diverter leading from your washing machine drain to a large barrel, which you can then use to water your lawn and ornamental landscape plants. Or you can divert the water directly into irrigation hoses.

Installing the diverter can be a relatively quick job for a plumber. Some homeowners set up a graywater system without a diverter. But the diverter makes switching back to the septic system easier, which is important if you ever need to wash heavily soiled or hazardous laundry (such as cloth diapers, for example).

3. Extra Water Heater Insulation

Whether your water heater is technically in the laundry room or not, that's where the hot water for your laundry washing comes from. The more efficient your water heater is, the less energy your laundry will end up using. Washing in cold water can help too, but for those times when you need a warm or hot water wash, you need an efficient way to get hot water.

One option is to swap out your water heater for a more efficient one, which a plumber can likely do in just a few hours. But a much easier and quicker option is to simply add insulation around the water heater's tank so it can keep the water hot with less energy use. The energy savings can help you green your lifestyle and save you money on your electric bill.

These are just some relatively simple, quick options your plumber can help you with if you're looking to upgrade your laundry room with a minimum of investment and effort. They can help you live a more efficient life, saving money on your laundry as well as helping the environment.

For more information on the plumbing services we can provide, get in touch with us at Michigan Plumbing Sewer & Drain Cleaning Inc today.

Perform a Fall Plumbing Check Before Winter Sets In

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 00:00:00 GMT

As the kids go back to school and days get shorter, homeowners' thoughts begin to turn toward the start of winter again. Michigan winters can be hard on your home — particularly its plumbing and external utilities. So a little preparation while the weather is still good can save you money and frustration when the first snow hits.

How can you prep your house's vital plumbing system for the season? Here are five things to do.

1. Inspect Connections

As a homeowner, you can see many of the connections of the property's plumbing system with just a little investigation. Start with all the interior appliances — refrigerator, dishwasher, washing machines, etc. Pull them out when possible, and visually inspect them. Look for evidence of water leaks, seepage, loose connections, and worn hoses.

After you check the appliances, look at all the sinks, showers, and bathtubs in the home to check for water leakage, slow drains, rust, or buildup of minerals due to hard water. Then, check visible external piping as well. If you fix small problems before they become big ones, you save money and avoid surprises.

2. Clean the Leaves

Fall means loose leaves that can make a real mess out of your yard as well as its drainage systems, gutters, downspouts, and irrigation controls. Once leaves cover up natural drainage areas and cause pooling or debris backups, winter snow and ice will turn those beautiful fall leaves into a thick, frozen, dirty mess.

Poor drainage outside could prevent a sump pump from doing its job properly and add to water problems in lower parts of the home. It may also damage the walls, foundation, and roof of the house. You may end up with rotting in exterior fixtures or irrigation controls. So, be sure to clear fallen leaves as soon as the majority are down and while weather is still decent.

3. Wrap Pipes

When you wrap pipes and cover outside faucets you help prevent them from freezing when temperatures turn sub-zero. But if you wrap your external piping, it isn't a 'one and done' job. You should inspect the pipes annually to determine if prior years' insulation is still sufficient or if anything needs some new wrapping or taping. Failure to inspect pipe insulation could result in unexpected frozen pipes and even breakage during harsh freezes.

4. Clear Drains

Along with freezing temperatures and short days, winter also brings a variety of holidays involving friends and lots of food. If you love to host gatherings during the fall and winter, you need drains that are unclogged and ready for use.

In addition to guests who need reliable, sanitary plumbing conditions, holiday cooking often brings out high fat and thick foods. Clear out any slow drains before you start to cook and party to prevent nasty surprises while your home is full.

5. Check the Water Heater

Your water heater is vital during the winter cold. It keeps your showers warm and comfortable during the coldest time of the year.

So take the time to inspect it thoroughly. How old is the unit? Is it reaching the end of its useful life? Would it better to replace it now or wait until it breaks unexpectedly? Does it have sufficient insulated wrapping? Are all the wires, hoses, and connections in good working order? Do you need to turn up the temperature to provide warmth for holiday guests?

Once you answer these questions, you can evaluate if you need a new water heater or if you simply should keep your current one insulated with a blanket throughout the winter.

6. Inspect the Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump in the basement, make sure to evaluate it twice per year — usually after the spring rains and before the winter snows. For the best results, use a professional plumbing service to inspect and maintain the unit properly.

Do you need help assessing and preparing your plumbing before winter comes? Call the pros at Michigan Plumbing today to learn how we can help. And then you'll be able to stay comfortable and enjoy the coming seasons.

Why Is Water Leaking Out of Your Toilet?

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 02:43:23 GMT

You find water on the bathroom floor near the toilet, but the fixture has no noticeable leaks. Where is the water coming from? Take a look at some questions that can help you to solve this plumbing problem.

Where Do You See the Water?

In order to find the source of the problem you have to start with where you see the water. Water that's only on the floor may come from a different place than water dripping from the top of the tank. If the toilet is still actively leaking water this is an easy find. If not, you may need to flush the toilet to find the source.

After you find the source, you need to look at some of the possible problems. Read on for more information on common issues homeowners have with toilets and the specific questions you need to ask depending on the leak's location.

Is the Leak at the Toilet's Base?

Water that's only on the floor probably isn't coming from the tank. Unless someone else in your family already dried the tank and bowl off, you need to turn your attention to the bottom of the fixture. Possible causes of this problem include:

Improper installation . A new toilet that's not installed correctly may not have an adequate seal or may have an alignment issue. You'll need a professional plumber to evaluate and repair this problem.

Damaged ring . The wax ring at the base of your toilet can leak is it's damaged or worn. If you don't have expert knowledge, let the pros handle this job. Improper replacement can result in another leak or more damage to the area.

Loose bolts . The bolts under the caps on the sides of your toilet's base can loosen. This can damage the toilet's seal and cause leakage from the bottom. Tighten the bolts or, if that doesn't work, contact a plumber for a replacement.

If the toilet's base isn't at fault, you need to keep looking for other causes of the leak.

Is the Tank Leaking?

Why would a toilet's tank leak? Visible water under the lid or dripping from the top of the fixture may come from:

An out of place or damaged fill tube . The small, thin tube that goes into the larger overflow tube is necessary to fill your toilet with water. If the fill tube breaks or comes out of the overflow tube it can spray water into the tank. This can leak from under the lid.

A leak from the tank to the bowl . A worn or damaged bowl gasket can cause water to leak from the tank down the bowl and onto the floor.

An overflow . Did the float arm fail or ballcock assembly fail? This can cause the water level to rise and leak from under the tank's lid.

The tank isn't the only part of your toilet that can overflow and leak. A clog in the bowl can also result in water on your bathroom floor.

Is the Toilet Clogged?

An undetected clog that forms after you close the lid can quickly leak onto the floor and damage anything under it. What should you do if your toilet bowl won't flush and overflows? The first steps to take include:

Don't flush. Avoid over-flushing . If you continue to flush, the water isn't likely to go down. Instead you'll probably only make matters worse.

Plunge the toilet . Use a toilet plunger (also known as a flange plunger) and not your sink's plunger to unclog the toilet. Make a seal around the bottom of the bowl and plunge until the clog loosens.

Call a professional . What should you do if the plunger doesn't work? Call a plumber for a professional fix.

Mop up the water on the floor as soon as possible. Standing, potentially sewage-filled water can damage the floor or anything under it.

Do you need a plumber's help? Contact Michigan Plumbing for more information.

3 Things to Consider When Installing a New Bathroom Sink

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 03:43:06 GMT

The bathroom is one of the most functional rooms in any home. It is a room that sees daily use, and can often be neglected when it comes to interior decor. Updating your bath can help to improve the aesthetic of your living space while simultaneously increasing your property value.

The replacement of the bathroom sink can be a simple and effective way to change the look of the room. Many factors go into a successful bathroom remodel, but there are three primary considerations you need to make when selecting a new sink to ensure it will meet your current and future needs.

1. Room Size

Proper planning is at the heart of any successful bathroom remodel. This means that you need to factor in the size of the room before making any additional decisions. Room size can have a significant impact on the type of sink that you choose to install.

A professional plumber can add new pipes that will service a pedestal or wall-mount sink if your bathroom is on the smaller side. You can even invest in a customized corner sink that can be tucked out of the way. Sinks without a large base take up less floor space, allowing you to maximize the functionality of your bathroom living space.

2. Storage Needs

Another important factor that should influence your purchasing decisions when investing in a new bathroom sink is your family's storage needs. Some bathrooms do not require much storage space.

Bathrooms that are used exclusively by guests or half-baths that are located in a main living area can remain useful without the addition of significant storage. Any type of sink can be installed in these types of bathrooms.

The bathrooms that are located on an upper floor often see significant more use. A hallway bath or master bath are the areas where your family members get ready for the day. The sink you choose can affect the amount of storage space available for toiletries. Opt for a vanity-mounted sink in bathrooms where storage is a top priority.

3. Maintenance Requirements

You probably plan to clean your bathroom on a regular basis after it has been remodeled to prevent the spread of germs. The type of sink that you select for your new bathroom can have a direct impact on the amount of maintenance you must perform regularly to keep the sink in good condition.

Many materials can be used to construct bathroom sinks. Solid surface and ceramic sinks are easy to clean and require very little maintenance to retain their integrity. Some homeowners feel that although these materials are durable, they don't add to the aesthetic value of the space.

If you want to add some designer flair to your new bathroom, choose a sink made from tempered glass or natural stone. A glass sink bowl will need to be cleaned regularly to avoid the development of water spots. Natural stone basins will need to be sealed periodically to ensure they remain watertight.

Discuss the amount of maintenance that you are comfortable performing on a regular basis with your plumber to narrow your sink options during an upcoming bathroom remodel. Your plumber will be able to educate you on the different mounting styles available for each sink material so that you can determine if a flush-mount, under-mount, or countertop sink model will best meet your needs.

A plumber can be a valuable ally when you are remodeling your bathroom space. Your plumber will be able to help you evaluate the configuration of your bathroom, existing plumbing connections, and storage needs to identify the sink that is best suited for your family's lifestyle.

Contact Michigan Plumbing for help with your bathroom sink selection and installation.

Burst Pipes in Summer: Frequently Asked Questions

Sat, 15 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The weather is finally getting warmer and you don't have to worry about several of the woes associated with winter, including frozen pipes. Protecting your pipes from freezing during the winter is critical to prevent them from bursting, which occurs when the water inside the pipes freezes and expands. Luckily, it’s summer, so you don't have to worry about burst pipes anymore, right?

However, pipes can burst in the summer as well, and when this occurs, the water damage caused can be severe. Here are a few frequently asked questions you might have about burst pipes in the summer.

Why Do Pipes Burst in Summer?

Unfortunately, all the winterizing you did to your plumbing won't always protect the pipes in the summer. Here are a few of the most common reasons why your pipes could burst in the summer months:

Invasive tree roots. Your trees will flourish in the summer, which means their root systems will grow larger. If there is any damage to the pipes running near the tree, the roots will grow toward the leaking water. This can cause major damage and burst pipes.
Long periods of hot temperatures. The combination of hot temperatures and little rainfall causes the soil to shift and move. If the pipes are older or corroded, they can become damaged by the soil's movement.
Construction. Whether you are remodeling your home, or you are living near a construction site, the major disturbances can cause the pipes to rattle and suffer damage.

If your pipes are older and corroded, were recently improperly repaired, or they weren't installed correctly in the first place, they are at greater risk of breaking during the summer months.

How Can I Prevent My Pipes From Bursting?

You can take the proper precautions now to help ensure your pipes remain strong all summer long. For example, if you have older metal pipes, consider upgrading your plumbing system. Your plumber can recommend which types of pipes are best for your property.

For example, PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is an inexpensive option that is typically used for drain lines, such as your sink or bathtub drains. Copper pipes are more expensive than PVC, but they last for decades and are ideal for supply lines to the home.

Contact a plumber, even if your pipes are newer and high quality. Your plumber can detect any damage or leaks and repair or replace any pipes before more damage — and a burst pipe — occurs.

In addition, you may want to cut any trees that are close to your home to prevent the roots from damaging your plumbing; and remember to water your lawn periodically during hot, dry spells to keep the ground moist. This will prevent the soil from dry out, shifting, and damaging your plumbing.

What Should I Do If My Pipes Burst?

Act quickly if a pipe burst to minimize any damage to your home and property. To start, shut off the water to your home. Depending on your home's construction, the main shutoff valve could be located in the basement, near your home's water heater, in the crawlspace, or under a small metal lid near your property. To be proactive, learn where the location of the main water shutoff is before the pipe bursts.

If the water is leaking near your fuse box, the basement has some standing water, exit the house immediately to avoid electrocution, and contact your plumber right away to replace the damaged pipe. If the situation creates any danger of electrocution, also contact your utility provider to cut power to your home.

Burst pipes can happen any time of the year, including the summer. If you have any further questions, contact Michigan Plumbing .

Does Your Home Have High Water Pressure?

Tue, 14 May 2019 00:00:00 GMT

If you have ever noticed that the water coming out of your pipes suddenly felt as if somebody had turned on the pressure, you might suspect that something is wrong. For example, something is definitely wrong if suddenly the pressure hurts to touch. Likely, nobody wants to shower or wash their hands when the pressure is that high.

This guide will help you determine why your water pressure is so high and what you can do to remedy the situation.

Why Is High Water Pressure Bad for Your Home?

Likely, nobody wants low water pressure. In fact, low water pressure is one of the biggest complaints associated with living in apartments and older homes. People want adequate water pressure, but they do not want to shower in water so hard it hurts them.

In addition to being uncomfortable, high water pressure is also damaging. The high pressure can actually damage your boiler or other tanks. You might also see damage to your appliances and fixtures. You can discover damage from high water pressure through leaky faucets or frequent replacement of appliances and fixtures — including your water heater.

High water pressure can also contribute to flooding in your home. Flooding occurs when the high water pressure leads to leaks in your pipes. The pipes could shoot water out near the floor or into the walls.

Lastly, high water pressure often causes you to pay more on your water bill each month. One reason for this is leaking and flooding, but more water shooting out of your faucets also uses up more water. The cost of heating this extra water also plays a role in your expenses.

What Are Signs of High Water Pressure?

Sometimes, people do not feel the increase in water pressure when they turn on the faucet. In cases like those, you can use other signs to determine the water pressure may be too high.

A water hammer is another sign you have a water pressure problem on your hands. Look for loud signs, like banging, that appear to come out of your pipes.

When you turn on the faucet, you might hear sputtering and then see some sputtering in the way the water comes out of the faucet. You might also notice that the toilet constantly runs. These odd occurrences are also signs of other problems, but when combined with these other signs, this may be a symptom of high water pressure.

Finally, monitor your water pressure and see what happens. Generally, water pressure is not supposed to be over 80 psi but is more commonly around 45 psi .

What Can You Do About High Water Pressure?

The first thing you should do if you have high water pressure you cannot fix yourself is to contact a plumber right away. Water pressure issues could indicate a problem that requires extensive work by a professional.

A professional may recommend installing a water pressure regulator. This device ensures your water does not exceed a specific pressure, saving your appliances and your wallet.

Additionally, the plumber may need to fix issues the high water pressure has already caused. For example, if you have leaks in your pipes, the plumber will repair them. You may also require some repairs for your appliances and fixtures to ensure no further damage occurs.

Michigan Plumbing provides expert plumbing services throughout the state of Michigan. If you experience issues with water pressure, call us right away. We can assess your situation and recommend remedies to help you treat the issue. We are also happy to answer any of your questions and concerns about water pressure and related issues.

The Real Dangers of DIY Plumbing

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 01:26:13 GMT

Today's homeowners are living in an age of DIY tips and tricks. A quick Internet search can reveal the instruction for just about anything — including plumbing repairs.

Before you reach for your toolbox in an attempt to save some money on plumbing maintenance and repairs, you need to know the risks that can accompany DIY plumbing. You might end up doing more harm than good if you start tampering with plumbing fixtures and components.

All homeowners should know how to do basic plumbing tasks like turning off the main water supply and clearing clogs from a toilet or sink drain. But in regard to major plumbing repairs, you should leave your home in the hands of a professional.

Corrosion

Homeowners who opt to DIY major plumbing repairs usually don't have the knowledge required to identify the pipes that are installed within their residences. You need to know which pipes are inlet pipes and which provide drainage.

You also need to know exactly what each of these pipes is made of so that you can avoid a serious plumbing disaster down the road. Whenever two different types of metal come into contact with each other or an electrolyte (like tap water), one of the metals may begin to corrode.

Since plumbing pipes can be made from cast iron, stainless steel, copper, or a variety of other metal materials, the threat of pipe corrosion is very real. Fittings that are designed to insulate the dissimilar metals from one another must always be used.

A licensed plumber can identify which metals your pipes are made from and find the right fittings to prevent corrosion in the future.

Valve Failure

Valves play an important role in regulating the flow of water through your home's plumbing system. It's not uncommon for valves to need replacing at regular intervals due to normal wear. Swapping out the old valve for a new one might seem like a simple task, but improper valve installation could have dire consequences.

Achieving the correct level of tightness in plumbing fixtures is a skill that takes time and practice to develop. If your valve is too tight, you run the risk of stripping the threads from the fitting and damaging the internal valve mechanism.

Fastening a valve too tightly can also lead to an increased probability that the valve will seize up. Valve failures can compromise the efficiency of your plumbing system and result in costly damage.

Water Damage

Water is one of the most destructive forces on Earth. Since the primary responsibility of your plumbing system is to transport water, the risk of leaks that lead to water damage after completing DIY repairs is always present.

Water can damage flooring, walls, and other materials, and replacing these damaged materials can be costly. Homeowners can contribute to water damage if they fail to turn off the main water supply — before attempting repairs — or fail to flush out the pipes before they replace damaged sections.

Experienced plumbers know exactly how to control the amount of water that is fed into a section of pipe or a plumbing fixture to complete repairs with no damage to the structure of your home.

You may be tempted to try your hand at DIY plumbing repairs after reading a few tutorials online. Some plumbing tasks are easy enough to complete on your own, like tightening a loose faucet or changing out the shower head in your bathroom.

Any serious plumbing should be left to the professionals so that you aren't left with corrosion, valve damage, or flooding that can cost you thousands to repair. Contact Michigan Plumbing to schedule an appointment with a licensed and experienced plumbing contractor.

3 Ways to Prevent Clogs in Your Shower Drain

Tue, 19 Mar 2019 02:06:27 GMT

When you take a shower, you are not only washing away dirt and soap, you are also washing and rinsing hair, dead skin cells, and sediments from your water down into the drain. Because of this flow of water and waste, clogs in your shower drains are common.

Although clogs may seem like small nuisances, these constant clogs can lead to messy, costly water damage and even backed up septic systems if the problem is not repaired. This guide can help you prevent clogs in your shower drain.

1. Catch the Hair and Debris

Hair is one of the most common items that quickly clog your shower, but hair is also one of the easiest items to prevent from going down the drain.

Many manufacturers offer covers for your shower drain. These covers are available in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can find one that fits your specific drain while complementing the look of your shower and bathroom.

The covers not only stop the hair from moving down the drain, but they also collect the hair so you can clean it up quickly.

In addition, many of these covers are built out of a fine mesh, which is capable of trapping other debris, such as soap scum, dirt, and sediments.

For an investment of just a few dollars, these covers can be added to each of your shower drains to prevent clogs.

2. Rinse the Drain

Simply rinsing your drains regularly can prevent heavy buildup, protecting your shower and other drains from clogs. However, what you use to rinse your drains does matter.

Many people prefer the convenience of liquid drain cleaners that are sold in most stores. In some cases, these drain cleaners are capable of rinsing the drains and pipes, which removes stubborn buildup that may be clogging your drains. In reality, many of these drain cleaners contain chemicals that eat through more than dirt, hair, and soap scum.

Drain cleaning chemicals may actually erode your drains and pipes. This leads to rust, corrosion, and potential leaks that are costly and expensive to repair.

Thankfully, there are other natural solutions for rinsing your drains to prevent clogs.

After showering, allow the water to run for a few minutes once you step out. Run hot water only, which can remove dirt, hair, and soapy residue from inside the drain.

Vinegar is another option for rinsing your shower drain. Pour some white vinegar into the shower drain periodically. Vinegar contains acidic properties that are gentle enough to use on your drains and plumbing but strong enough to eat through heavy dirt and debris.

Finally, talk to your plumber about a hydro jetting treatment. Hydro jetting involves forcing a high-pressured spray of water directly through your home's drains. Not only will hydro jetting remove any existing clogs, but the high-pressured spray of water will also wash away debris to prevent clogs in the future.

3. Use Water Treatments

If you have hard water, you are more likely to develop clogs in your shower and other drains.

To get into your home, water must move through soil and rock. During this process, water will dissolve small amounts of sediment and minerals. Calcium and magnesium are two of these minerals.

Over time, these particles in your water will create a stubborn film in appliances, fixtures, drains, and pipes. When combined with soap while showering, hard water can become even more troublesome, increasing the risk of clogs in your shower drain.

If you have hard water, consider having a water softener installed. This system basically cleans the water by removing the minerals that make the water hard.

These tips will help you keep your plumbing safer from clogs. For more information on how to avoid or fix clogs, contact Michigan Plumbing .

Tankless Water Heaters: Save Money and Increase Home Efficiency

Wed, 20 Feb 2019 03:54:22 GMT

Updating your home to improve efficiency can reduce the day-to-day costs you have to worry about. A lot of areas of most homes can use improvement, but one area that can make a big difference is the water heater. Whether you use gas or electric to heat your water, the cost of keeping it warm has the most significant impact on your monthly bill.

You should consider the benefits of updating to a tankless water heater. This upgrade could save you money as well as increase home efficiency.

Hot Water and Cost

Heating water for your home with a highly efficient water heater will help lower your utility costs, but once that water is hot, you need to keep it that way so when you turn on the tap, you get hot water. Most water heaters will store hot water in the tank and use a thermostat to monitor the temperature. The water heater then must turn the heating elements on and off to keep the water at the set temperature. This constant on and off cycle of the heating elements or the burner in a gas system is what increases the cost of hot water. A tankless water heater eliminates the need to keep hot water hot, which can decrease your utility costs.

Although, the biggest deterrent to switching to a tankless system for many people is the initial cost. Tankless water heaters can run for several thousand dollars, depending on the type, model, and size. But the cost saving is long-term, and the month-to-month energy bill can reflect small savings right away.

Tankless Water Heaters

A tankless water heater has the advantage of not needing to keep the water hot all day when no one is home. The system works on demand. In other words, you turn the hot water tap on and the water heater heats the water as you need it. It is never on unless you need hot water, so it saves electricity or gas, which saves money in the long run.

The tankless systems come in many different types and styles. If you are considering one, a professional can suggest what type of system will do what you need. Talk to your plumber about the options for your home.

Space Saving Heaters

Beyond the energy savings of the tankless water heater, installing a tankless system can save you space in your home. The tankless heaters are much smaller and open up the space formerly occupied with the hot water tank. A tankless water heater may be the best option for a small home that does not have a lot of room; whereas, in the past, a small space meant using a smaller tank, which is far less efficient.

Life Expectancy of Tankless Water Heaters

The typical life expectancy of a tankless water heater is around 20 years , far longer than the standard tank water heaters. The tankless heaters have less to go wrong and no tank to rust and leak. Combine that with the limited running time of the tankless heater, and you have a system that is far less likely to wear out or break down in a few years.

Flow Rates for Larger Homes

The flow rate on most tankless heaters is between 2.5 and 5 gallons of water per minute. In some cases, that is not enough to keep up with more than one fixture in the home ,so showering and washing dishes at the same time might not be possible. If you have a large house, you may benefit from having several smaller heaters installed in each bathroom and one in the kitchen. The smaller units are a little cheaper and would feed only the fixtures in the area.

Several smaller heaters can offer you more flexibility and still offer a lower operating cost. Because the unit is smaller and used less, it may save you more money.

At Rooter Express , we offer installation and service of tankless water heaters and can help you decide if these systems are right for you. Give us a call today, and we will come to look at your current plumbing to determine if your home will support a new system and give you an estimate for installation.

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