Category: Plumbing Tips

You’ve been buying disposable water filters for your kitchen sink for years because, like many of us, you worry about what’s lurking in your municipal tap water and, frankly, you don’t like the taste of it. And when your disposable filter’s red light goes on, and you don’t have any replacement filters in storage, you’re stuck either using questionable tap water in your morning coffee or meal prep or spending money on expensive purified or distilled water bottled in wasteful plastic bottles. Whether this describes you or if you’re the type to invest in cumbersome filtration pitchers for the refrigerator instead, maybe it’s time to look into water filtration systems that clean the water not only in your kitchen but also in your sinks, showers and utility tubs. If you’re in Knoxville, TN, call the plumbing experts at My Professional Plumber and we can help you take steps to improve the water quality in your entire home, not just what’s running out of your kitchen sink.

Enjoy Better-Tasting and Safer Drinking Water

Many of us start our morning routine with a tall glass of water to hydrate after a good night’s sleep and get our bodies moving. We also reach for water from the tap after a long run, challenging hike or sweaty weight-lifting session. Some would ask, what is the point of doing all these things to keep ourselves healthy when the water we drink can be detrimental to our well-being? The truth is, even water that is processed through a municipal treatment facility enters our home teeming with contaminants, from dangerous lead to added minerals like chlorine and fluoride, which can be harmful to our health as well. Water filtration systems clean water as soon as it enters our home and eliminates the risk of exposure to impurities that pass through our cities’ treatment plants.

If you happen to draw water from a well or live in a region where treated water is not available, you and your family could be exposed to industrial pollution, naturally-occurring bacteria, and agricultural chemicals with every sip of water you take. Let the experts at My Professional Plumber help you explore which of the available water filtration systems we install and service fit your home’s needs. There are many options for whole-home water filtration systems. That’s why we’ll test a water sample first and analyze your home’s needs as part of the recommendation process. In the end, we’ll hook you up not only with better-tasting water that is free from disease-causing pathogens and toxic chemicals.

Feel Cleaner After Showering or Bathing

When we apply quick fixes to contaminated water sources, such as kitchen sink filters, we are ignoring how the water we use in the bathroom, when brushing our teeth, showering or washing our faces, can also expose us to chemicals and impurities that can irritate our eyes, skin and internal systems. Water filtration systems for your entire home allow you to enjoy clean and safe water everywhere, not just when drinking from the kitchen tap. In addition, when My Professional Plumber analyzes your water needs for your Knoxville, TN home, we can determine if further treatment options, like water-softening technologies, are right for you, too. Properly filtered and treated water will actually make you feel cleaner as it helps our favorite soaps, body washes and shampoos not only work better to break up dirt and oil but also rinse more efficiently from our bodies as well as our shower walls and bathtubs. If you’d love to get healthier skin or help prevent soap scum and mineral build-up in your shower or fixtures, My Professional Plumber can recommend water filtration systems and further treatment methods that specifically improve your bathroom’s water supply.

Limit Exposure to Allergens or Detergents with Clean-Rinsing Laundry and Dishes

We require clean water to stay hydrated and keep ourselves clean, but we also require water to keep our home clean and the things we use on a daily basis clean. It’s not uncommon to have allergies or sensitivities to laundry detergents, and, as such, there are many detergents on the market made especially for those with sensitivities to fragrances, colorants and other additives used in the soaps and bleaches we use to clean our clothes, towels and bedding. When you shop the countless water filtration systems available on the market, be sure to take this into consideration. Even the most gentle detergents intended for sensitive skin are going to cause irritation when they are not rinsed properly from your laundry and filtered and treated water will facilitate the rinsing process.

Furthermore, water filtration systems aid in keeping appliances running smoothly. For example, washers will be less likely to build up soap and mineral deposits when the water that they use is clean and, as a result, will clean clothes more efficiently with less wear and tear. If you’ve noticed that your dishes and glasses aren’t getting clean no matter how well you pre-rinse them before putting them in the dishwasher, it may be an issue of mineral buildup in the sprayers and hoses, which can also impact proper drainage from the unit. Don’t serve otherwise healthy food to your loved ones on plates that aren’t 100% clean. The experts at My Professional Plumber of Knoxville, TN can offer various treatment and water filtration solutions to keep your home’s appliances functioning properly.

Invest in Cleaner Water and a Healthier Environment

Curious as to whether a whole-home filtration system can help your water taste better, your skin feel cleaner and your appliances work more efficiently? At My Professional Plumber, we care not only about the purity of your home’s water but also about helping eliminate our clients’ need to buy water bottles and short-lived filters that are terrible for the environment. Cleaner, safer water means having to use less water, too, when cleaning laundry and dishes. Does this sound nice? If you’re in the Knoxville area, call My Professional Plumber today to schedule an in-person consultation or learn more about water filtration systems.

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Clogs are major plumbing issues you will face now and then as a homeowner, even with meticulous maintenance. How swiftly you address this issue could mean the difference between considerable damage and minor issues. Clogging can affect any drain in your property, whether toilet or kitchen drains, large or small. This means you must give your blocked drains proper attention and have them cleared by a reliable plumbing company in Knoxville, TN. Otherwise, that could result in damaging consequences, proving hard to repair and costly. The sewer system isn’t immune to this issue, and several factors are at play whenever you see this happen. The boundary trap is one of the plumbing components affected by clogging.

What Is a Boundary Trap?

A boundary trap refers to a pipe from your property or home to the primary sewer line. It’s the last length of the pipes that a plumbing company can handle before you call a water service provider or municipal authorities. This plumbing component plays an essential role in your sewer network. It prevents the accumulation of harmful sewer gases that might build up inside your drains. When they are clogged, sewer odors start backing up into your Knoxville, TN home or wherever openings are connected to the drainage or sewer lines. Whenever this happens, you should call an emergency plumber.

Boundary traps also seal the lower/bottom part of your sewer line. They are normally made from metals such as steel or copper. However, nowadays, there are boundary traps made from ABS plastic and have rubber washers that allow airtight connections. The boundary trap pipe is designed such that it has a “U” shaped siphon tubing that allows the water to flow unidirectionally. Additionally, they run vertically from the ground to 1-6 meters deep. A boundary trap is a requirement of your water utility provider. However, it is the responsibility of the plumbing company to determine this boundary trap area.

Boundary Trap Clogging

With population increases, abundant subdivisions, and other forms of real estate developments, boundary trap problems have increasingly become common. It is recommended that the property developers and owners identify the inspection points and boundary traps before they build anything. Planting trees or building infrastructure without knowing the location of the boundary trap is among the main reasons affecting them, prompting you to call a plumbing company for a further inspection. Besides not knowing where the boundary traps are, below are the other main issues that cause blocked sewer systems:

Plumbing Vents

Did you know that your plumbing also has ventilation? Yes, it does and plays a significant role in draining wastewater. Whenever this important part of the plumbing is clogged or blocked, a vacuum arises in your pipes, making water trapped within rather than flowing out via the sewer line. Since the water cannot pass via the boundary trap, it starts to back up in your drains and sinks. Whenever you realize a sewer smell near the sinks, that could mean the plumbing vent is clogged and requires the attention of a plumbing company.

Foreign Objects

The foreign objects can easily cause clogging in your drains. Paper towels, coins, sanitary items, and other non-flushable materials are the main suspects of sewer blockage. Since determining the location and cause of the clog can be hard, you should call a plumbing company. The technician will come armed with an inspection camera that they use for inspecting your drains. This means they can easily identify the objects that cause the clog and where it is.

Plants

As mentioned above, planting trees, flowers, and other plants on the surface without determining where the boundary trap is can pose a problem. Tree roots are among the leading causes of sewer system blockages. If you plant a tree or shrub where the boundary trap is, that means soon, you might have to call a plumbing company for a drain cleaning.

What Should You Do Whenever a Problem Affects the Boundary Trap?

Since clogging is expected to arise in the boundary trap, what can you do when it arises? Prevention is critical in preventing clogging and other problems that affect the boundary trap. Thus, regular inspections and maintenance visits from a plumbing company can help avert these issues by catching and addressing them before they worsen. For the Knoxville, TN homeowners suspecting that clogging might happen at the boundary trap, a plumber can help remove the foreign objects and root-proof the sewer system.

Removing standing water and debris from the border trap needs compressed air, hydro jetting, or other equipment. The technician can use other tools, such as electric reels, to clean the boundary trap if other debris is left. If these options aren’t sufficient, trap disassembly or replacement may be necessary. Chronically clogged sewers benefit from boundary trap replacement. This is recommended when the trap no longer provides an air-inlet vent and sewage appears in sinks and other drains. This replacement operation installs a p-shaped sewer trap. This new pipe lets air in below the water level. Lacking outflow ventilation makes this approach optimal for eradicating unpleasant odors.

Who Can Help You Fix the Boundary Trap?

Who should you call whenever issues affecting the boundary trap start manifesting? Well, this depends on the cause. You could work with an arborist if the tree roots cause the issues. However, a plumbing company can help, regardless of the cause. Hence, plumbers are the best professionals to handle boundary trap issues. They have the knowledge and experience to identify and resolve these pipes’ needs. These professionals are experts in determining the root cause of the issues in your sewer system and boundary trap.

Do you suspect you have sewer Issues? Do you want to know where the boundary traps are as you want to erect a building or plant trees? Contact us at My Professional Plumber. After some checks, our plumbers will tell you where the trap is and resolve any present sewer issues.

See our previous post on this topic here.

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Plumbing problems can disrupt your daily life and make everyday household chores difficult or impossible, so it’s easy to believe that every plumbing issue is an emergency. Some plumbing problems don’t have to be addressed immediately, and you can wait until you can find a plumber with an available appointment. However, some plumbing issues must be addressed immediately and require a call to an emergency plumber in Lenoir City, TN.

#1 Leaking Pipe

A plumbing leak is a serious problem because significant water damage and mold growth can occur. In addition, the leak will waste water, causing a considerable increase in your water bills.

A few issues can cause a leak, including rusty or corroded pipes, loose joints, or the seal has failed. Allowing a clog to remain in the line for too long can also cause a leak because the debris clogging the drain will eat away at the pipe, causing a leak.

Standing water in the kitchen cabinet or bathroom vanity indicates a leak under the sink, and water spots on the wall indicate a leak behind it. A leaking pipe under the house will cause issues in the basement, such as a warm basement floor, dampness, mustiness, or a crack in the wall or floor. It can also leave puddles outside by the house, and grass areas will be greener and lusher than the rest of the yard. If the pipe leaks for a while, it can damage your home’s foundation.

If you detect signs of a leak, you must call an emergency plumber in Lenoir City, TN immediately. They will find the affected pipe and fix it before further damage occurs. If the plumber can’t find the pipe, they will use leak detection equipment to find it immediately.

It’s essential to make the call as soon as you suspect a leak in the plumbing system to prevent further damage that will cost more to repair.

#2 Drain Clog

A slow drain isn’t an immediate cause for concern. If the water still flows down the drain, you can wait until you have time for a service call. Just don’t wait too long because the clog will escalate to a complete clog, preventing the water from draining.

If the drain is completely clogged, you’ll need to hire an emergency plumber because you can’t use the fixture because it will fill with water that can’t drain.

A significant clog prevents the water from draining, and it’s best to leave the job to a professional. Liquid drain cleaners won’t be effective if the water won’t drain, and you could damage the pipes if you try to snake the drain yourself. An emergency plumber has the tools and expertise to eliminate the clog, allowing the water to drain, and you can use the fixture.

#3 Water Heater Issues

You need hot water to perform daily household tasks, such as bathing, cooking, and cleaning. In addition, your hot water-based appliances need hot water to function at peak performance.

Water heater issues can affect the water’s temperature, quality and cause various problems, so it’s best to hire an emergency plumber in Lenoir City, TN immediately if the unit experiences any of the following issues.

• Moisture or water pooling around the unit resulting in water damage and mold growth in the area.
• You don’t have hot water, which can be due to a broken heating element or the unit has reached the end of its lifespan.
• The water doesn’t get hot enough due to a thermostat issue or if the unit is old and can no longer function as efficiently as possible. Also, the unit may not operate efficiently due to its age.
• The unit makes a banging or popping sound due to sediment buildup in the tank.
• Poor water pressure due to a sediment clog in the water line.
• Brown or rust-colored hot water due to sediment buildup contaminating the water. If the unit is over ten years old, the inside of the tank could be breaking down, causing sediment and tiny metal shards to contaminate the water.

Because water heater issues can affect your ability to use the water and cause damage to your home, it’s best to call an emergency plumber immediately. They have the knowledge and experience to repair or replace the unit, depending on the problem.

#4 Frozen Pipes

Your pipes can freeze when the temperature outside drops below freezing, and frozen pipes are an emergency, requiring the help of an emergency plumber.

When the pipes freeze, the water also freezes and can burst if the problem isn’t addressed immediately. Burst pipes can result in water damage and mold growth, and if the pipe is hidden, it could be a while before you notice the leaking pipe. You can tell if your pipes have frozen if you turn on the water and nothing comes out.

An emergency plumber will thaw the pipes quickly and inspect the plumbing system to ensure a pipe hasn’t burst. They will also give you tips to prevent the pipes from freezing during the next cold snap, and they can wrap your pipes in heated tape to prevent them from freezing again.

Call My Professional Plumber Today

If you need to hire an emergency plumber, look no further than My Professional Plumber. We’re a full-service plumbing company providing emergency service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Our plumbers are professionally trained, and their skills and expertise have allowed them to handle some of the most complex jobs in the plumbing industry. We want you to feel safe when you let our plumbers into your house, so they must pass a drug test and background check before hiring.

We have an excellent reputation in the community with a 5-star rating on Google. We’ve also been recognized for our superior service with the industry awards we’ve won. We won Home Advisor’s Best of Award in 2017 and City View’s Best of the Best award in 2018. We were also Angie’s List Super Service Award winner in 2018 and won the same award again in 2019.

To schedule an appointment for plumbing service, give My Professional Plumber a call today.

See our previous blog post here!

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Some new homeowners get the name of a good plumber right away as they’re moving in. Many people wait until plumbing problems arise, and then hope the one they pick in the heat of the moment is the right one. When you’re looking for a plumber near me for your resource list, or after things go wrong with a drain or broken pipe, My Professional Plumber is ready to serve you. Our name says it all, from our professionalism and respect for the homes and families we serve to our experience and thoroughness. Whenever we provide routine or emergency plumbing services in Lenoir City, TN, our customers know they’ve chosen the right professional plumber.

Watching for a Great Plumber to Pass By

Keeping your eyes out for a good plumber near me can be as simple as watching your neighborhood and seeing our beautiful blue vehicles, well stocked with parts and equipment, traveling promptly to appointments. They’re kind of the color of peaceful blue water, and peace of mind is what we deliver to homeowners in Lenoir City, TN and throughout our service area. Another way to notice us is by checking Google reviews, CityView Best of the Best, and awards from HomeAdvisor and Angi. Sooner or later, you’ll notice a pattern and that’s a great time to give us a call. We do our best to be visible, and part of that is simply providing excellent plumbing service that gets recognized. Thanks to our customers for spreading the word!

Using a Plumbing Inspection as an Interview

If it’s been a while since you had your pipes and sewer line inspected, which is probably the case if you’re looking for a great plumber, why not call a plumber near me for a plumbing inspection and see if you’ve chosen well? At our company, we recognize that homeowners are looking for services, not sales pitches, and our comprehensive plumbing inspection is a good example. In most homes, we’ll find plenty of issues and help you prioritize them. Aging faucets might not be an urgent issue, but an aging water heater deserves a careful look because failures can require an extensive cleanup. Sewer line buildup might need cleaning at some point before it gets worse, but signs of tree root intrusion suggest prompt action. Clear explanations of what we’ve found, along with intelligent answers to your questions and concerns, are all part of this important inspection service. It’s a great way to get to know us as the plumber near me that you can trust. Plus, you’ll then have a plumber you know to use as your emergency plumbing contact, a critical need every homeowner should have covered.

The Barbecue Method

As we mentioned, one of the ways people learn about My Professional Plumber is by word of mouth. Attending a local barbecue, or holding your own, is a great way to meet other local homeowners and ask them, is there a plumber near me that you’d recommend? You’ll not only get some great names, hopefully mostly ours, but also hear some hair-raising stories about plumbing issues and how they were resolved. There’s nothing like a plumber chasing down an elusive leak, performing sewer repairs, or fixing a water pressure problem that makes for a riveting story. With the modern plumbing methods we use, though, things are getting less dramatic, which is a good thing. Once you’ve found that ours is the name you keep hearing, as well as the vehicles you keep seeing, and decide to work with us, we hope you’ll be sharing our name at barbecues as well. Thanks!

Meeting Our Motto

We promise to provide honest quotes, professional work, and reliable solutions. Why not put us to the test? Pick a project and give us a call, and watch us go through the process with the integrity that we’re known for. We’ll provide a clear, well-explained quote, perform the work to high professional standards of plumbing excellence, and provide a solution that lasts. Whether it’s a garbage disposal replacement or a tough drain clog clearing, we’re the plumber near me you can count on to keep our word. When you need more complex and demanding work, like repiping your older home or remodeling your kitchen, you’ll know who you’re dealing with and the excellence you can expect.

The Basics: Licensing, Certification, and Watches that Work

When you’re looking for a plumber near me, signs of professional character that you can check are their licensing, whether they employ certified plumbers, and critically, whether they arrive timely at appointments. It’s a basic sign of respect that says a lot about their way of doing business, and it’s of course something that we consider essential in our plumbing service. We also add honesty and trust, along with affordable pricing, ensuring that those we serve are likely to become long-term members of our valued customer base. Once you find us to be the expert plumber that you decide to use, we want to earn your ongoing business as well!

It’s About the Long Term

Building a relationship with My Professional Plumber ensures that you’ve done the work to find a plumber near me that you trust and can rely on over time. Keep our name on your fridge or in your phone, and you won’t have to do the search every time a plumbing emergency or project arises. We welcome your call!

It takes a lot of your time to find a trusted plumber near me that you can rely on, especially in emergencies. At My Professional Plumber, we’d like to earn that trust and build a long-term relationship with you to take care of items on your “to do” list and major plumbing repairs as well for your Lenoir City, TN home. Next time you see one of our attractive vehicles pass by, or perhaps right now, just give us a call and get to know our friendly team!

See our previous blog post here!

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Did you think that toilet tablets sounded too good to be true? You are right. Although they could help clean the toilet, you could find yourself having to call a plumbing company in Lenoir City, TN to address the damage these cleaning products could have caused. The toilet tablets come in various types, including bleach, chlorine, and blue cleaning cocktails. However, since the corrosive products are designed to settle in your toilet tank for an extended period, you should not use them for several reasons. Below are the main dangers of toilet cleaning tablets and why you must avoid them.

The Tablets Could Damage the Toilet

To begin with, most toilet tablets have caustic chemicals. Unfortunately, extensive exposure to the chemicals will damage the plumbing and toilet. For instance, they can result in toilet leaks. As the chemicals sit in the toilet bowl or tank, they eat away at some important components, prompting you to call a plumbing company for repair. Unfortunately, this may quickly damage your plumbing, requiring major repairs. Among the parts of the toilet that could be damaged by your use of toilet tablets include:

Flush Valves

Chlorine and bleach may wear away your toilet’s rubber and plastic parts. One of these parts is the flush valve. In most instances, tablets corrode the flush valves, which could result in various toilet plumbing issues. A damaged flush valve could make the water continuously run in your toilet, causing an increase in water utility bills and placing your pipes under extra stress. Additionally, your toilet tank may take a long time to refill after flushing, and in rare situations, you may find your toilet flushing on its own. All these are signs that your toilet’s flush valve could be corroded by using toilet cleaning tablets. These could signify corroded or worn rubber in your flush valve. Hence, if you notice either sign above, you should have a plumbing company check and fix them.

Bolts

As if damaged flush valves aren’t bad enough, the tablets can also, over time, result in rusting. This weakens the bolts and gaskets which hold your toilet bowl and tank together. This results in toilet leaks which may result in extensive water damage at your Lenoir City, TN home. Have you noticed leaks between the bowl and the toilet? That is a surefire sign that the bolts of the toilet tank could have been compromised. In such instances, the plumbing company might recommend replacing the rubber gaskets. However, the professional might have to replace the bolts and toilet gasket to repair the toilet effectively.

Pipes

Additionally, you might have to enlist your plumbing company for pipe repair or replacement after using toilet tablets for a long time. This is because the tablets can corrode the rusting-prone or older pipes. When you flush your toilet, you send a concentrated level of harsh chemicals making the tablets into your drains. You might end up with burst pipes or leaks. To avert these problems it is better that you have a drain cleaning service rather than use tablets to clean your toilet.

Can Prevent a Proper Flush

Have you noticed that your toilet is not flushing properly? Your continued use of toilet cleaning tablets could be the reason behind the improper flush. Unfortunately, this is not the only problem that using a tank cleaning tablet can cause. The improper flushing also can create a perfect cleaning ground for bacteria. Hence, although they are marketed to ensure your toilet is cleaner, they may result in a buildup of germs in your toilet.

Due to its dissolving and shrinking nature, the tablet is easily lodged within the flush valve as it dissolves. Toilet tablets sometimes flake away instead of dissolving. These small pieces often get stuck in your toilet’s plumbing, causing flushing issues. As a result, you may notice that your toilet doesn’t flush properly, that the bowl doesn’t empty, or even that it won’t flush. Whenever this happens, you should have a plumbing company inspect the toilet and fix the underlying problem.

Voids Toilet Warranty

Some toilets, some with some manufacturer’s warranty. In some instances, this covers those parts of your toilet that have been ceramic-made for many years. However, toilet manufacturers know the issues that come with using tank tablets. As explained above, using toilet tablets to clean your toilet could result in various damages. They have an impact on more than only your pipes, flush valves, bolts, and gaskets. Toilet pills occasionally even cause the ceramic bowl and tank to deteriorate. Because it is viewed as misuse, many manufacturers don’t offer warranties for toilets when toilet tablets are used. Your warranty may have a specific condition about this, or a warning sticker may even be present while the toilet is brand-new. Using toilet tablets may immediately invalidate your warranty, leaving you responsible for the full cost of a replacement toilet should your present one malfunction. You’ll also have to pay the plumbing company from your pocket.

Harmful Airborne Chemicals

The other problem with toilet cleaning products is that they emit harmful daily chemicals. Imagine opening that bottle of toilet bowl cleaning agent and taking a deep breath. The tablets constantly release toxic chemicals into the air, affecting your Lenoir City, TN home’s IAQ. This might cause respiratory issues both for you and your family. Besides, smelling chlorine and bleach daily might not be one of those most pleasant experiences. Hence, it would be best if you stuck to the traditional toilet cleaning methods recommended by a plumbing company rather than using tablets. They can contaminate the indoor air. Otherwise, you’ll be calling a plumbing company now and then because you have issues like leaks and clogs.

Use Recommended Cleaning Methods

The recommended toilet cleaning methods won’t have the above devastating impacts. Do you need a toilet or drain cleaning service? Contact us at My Professional Plumber for a thorough cleaning using methods that don’t have the above impacts.

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A “‘plumber near me” in Knoxville, TN can help resolve water-related problems in your home. But how do you know it’s time to get a hold of one? Read this article to know the signs it’s time to get professional help. If you have questions or need plumbing service, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with My Professional Plumber.

Call a professional when you notice these signs:

1. High Water Pressure and Low Water Pressure

If you have a water pressure gauge, we suggest you use it to get your home’s water pressure. Take note of the result; it shouldn’t be less than 40 PSI and not more than 60 PSI. Low water pressure usually indicates a leak in your plumbing, so we recommend calling a “plumber near me” for professional leak detection. You might want to also do a water meter test to check for leaks in your plumbing. Just do two separate readings and compare each result. When the results are different, that indicates a leak in your plumbing.

You need to watch out for high water pressure for it can eventually lead to a costly plumbing emergency. A water pressure that’s too high can severely strain the pipes, causing them to suddenly break. You can avoid this by calling a “plumber near me” to correct your home’s water pressure.

Don’t worry, we have plumbing experts who can help. We’ll further investigate the cause of the problem and recommend cost-effective plumbing solutions.

2. Stained Walls or Ceilings

Do you notice water spots in your ceilings or walls? This can indicate a leak in your plumbing. If your water bill has suddenly skyrocketed and water pressure is low, there is a possible leak. Our recommendation is to contact a “plumber near me” at the soonest possible time to prevent a major plumbing emergency.

Plumbing emergencies don’t usually occur overnight; they happen when a homeowner fails to address issues with their plumbing. You can avoid a costly repair if you’re proactive and don’t neglect your plumbing. If you suspect a problem, get a hold of a professional ASAP. It’s better to pay for minor repairs than pay a fortune for a major plumbing problem. And remember, when there’s flooding in your home, you’ll be spending more money on water damage. Call us to prevent more issues.

3. Clogged Drains or Smelly Drains

Smelly drains or slow drains are usually the first symptoms of a major drain clog. You wouldn’t want a complete blockage or you can’t use the drains. If you have a drain snake, use it to remove what’s restricting water flow. You might want to also pour boiling hot water into the drain to see if it’ll fix the problem.

When the problem persists, we recommend you call a “plumber near me” for professional drain cleaning. Our plumbers are equipped with drain cameras to let us see the interior of the pipes and assess the damage. Knowing what’s really blocking the drains can help us recommend the best solution.

Try not to use chemical-based drain cleaners when unclogging the drains for they can damage your pipes and cause problems. Use natural cleaners such as vinegar and baking soda instead. You can also talk to a “plumber near me” for some suggestions on what to use when cleaning the drains.

4. Basement Flooding

If you haven’t installed a sump pump in your basement yet, we suggest you contact a “plumber near me” today to install one for you. A sump pump is a safety device that prevents flooding in the basement. It’s useful for safeguarding your appliances and protecting your basement from water damage.

You do need to make sure the device works by testing it. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and make sure the float switch turns on and the pump drains the water from the pit. It’s also better to get backup batteries to ensure the device will still work in case there is a power interruption in your area.

5. No Water in the Winter

When you lose water in the winter, the culprit could be frozen pipes. Are your pipes well insulated? If not, chances are the water inside them might be frozen. You need to contact a “plumber near me” in Knoxville, TN immediately to thaw the pipes. If you wait long enough, the pipes can expand, burst and cause major damage that will cost you a fortune. Call My Professional Plumber today so we can help you resolve the problem.

6. No Hot Water

If the water heater can’t provide you with hot water, this could be because of the sediment building up in the tank. Try to drain the water heater first to see if that will correct the problem. You need to do this at least once a year or the sediment can build up and cause other problems. In some cases, it might even damage the tank and you will have no choice but to completely replace it. For further assistance with your water heater, please contact My Professional Plumber.

7. Rusty Water

How old are your pipes? If you live in an older home, chances are your pipes may still be made with galvanized pipes. We suggest calling a plumber to replace old pipes with modern piping such as PVC or copper pipes. Talk to us about this so we can help you make an informed decision.

Contact My Professional Plumber ASAP

Do you need a “plumber near me” in Knoxville, TN today? You’ve come to the right place. We are a dependable plumbing company fully committed to ensuring you’re happy with our services. We serve all homeowners and businesses in the area.

If you’re looking for a skilled and certified plumber, call My Professional Plumber today for an appointment.

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Cast iron has been there for ages and is still being manufactured today. It’s the old gold benchmark for drain pipes. These pipes are found in old homes’ plumbing systems. Newer homes usually have ABS and PVC piping because they are lightweight, cheaper, and less prone to corroding. Additionally, repairing them is easier. Hence, they are considered the gold standard of plumbing pipes today. Does your home plumbing have cast iron pipes? That is neither a bad nor a good thing. Depending on factors like age, you should know several things. However, please call a plumbing company in Knoxville, TN and have a repipe. This article will highlight the issues with cast iron plumbing pipes and what signs show you should replace them.

What’s Cast Iron Plumbing

Sewer drainage, especially the Drain Waste and Vent (DWV) systems, use cast iron pipes in most instances. As explained above, you’re likely to find cast iron pipes on those older homes built in the early 80s and before the 70s. Back then, plumbing company technicians liked using cast iron pipes because of the durability of the material and its ability to resist damage and smooth water flow through them. However, these pipes are no longer being used in plumbing systems today. But why aren’t they used anymore?

Problems with Cast Iron Pipes

As mentioned above, cast iron pipes were mostly used for laying sewer systems in older homes. So, why aren’t they used today despite their durability? The advancements in research and plumbing technologies have seen the development of better pipes such as PEX, PVC, CPVC, and ABS. Below are some plumbing issues associated with cast iron pipes that eventually lead to you contacting a plumber to replace them.

Foundation Cracks

One problem with cast iron pipes is that they are prone to damage, which can form cracks in your home. This problem could result in significant damage if it is overlooked. Immediately you discover any signs of damage on your cast iron pipes, call a plumbing company to replace them. So, what are the signs of damage include:

Leaks from the Cast Iron Pipes

Although leaks are frequent in American households, you shouldn’t be concerned if they only occur once or twice after a very long time. In contrast, it’s never a positive indication if you need to call a plumbing company in Knoxville, TN more than once a month. The plumbers say these pipes can occasionally become damaged when they touch sulfuric acid. Therefore, do-it-yourself solutions will be ineffective. So, spare yourself some effort and replace your pipes with a plumber.

A Strange Water Color

Ensure that your tap water is tested after a while. Do you live in a rural area? It’s common to find yellow- or brown-colored water. However, this is common. Sometimes, that water discoloration could signal that something is happening in your pipes. Corrosion and rust will result in the discoloration of water in these pipes.

Foul Odor

To successfully manage the sewer odors, make sure it is airtight. Cast iron pipes start to show cracks as the material ages. Whatever happens next is undesirable and unhealthy, exposing your home to sewer gases. Imagine that pungent smell emanating from your sewer system into your home, and you have guests. It would not be very pleasant. Hence, if your plumbing still uses cast iron pipes, have a plumbing company replace them.

Sudden Green Patches

The sewer might come out from the drains and into your home. As a result, this effluent can be used as fertilizer for your lawn and to encourage the growth of trees and plants. Therefore, talk to your family if you notice any unexpected green areas. Ask if anyone has become interested in gardening.

Sewage Backups

The other serious problem with cast iron pipes is that they slow the draining, especially in toilets, accumulating sewer backups. This might tempt you to use chemical drain cleaning products, but these solutions don’t always work and will corrode your cast iron pipes. Rather than use such products, have a plumbing company clean the drains or, better yet, replace those cast-iron pipes.

Rodent Infestation

The other problem with your cast iron pipes is that rodents and pets will enter the pipes through the damaged or corroded parts. The older pipes create an ideal environment for the roaches and rats to breed, feed, and thrive. These pests and rodents might find their way into your home, bringing some infectious diseases. Hence, you should have a plumbing company in Knoxville, TN replace the cast iron pipes with modern ABS and PVC piping. Alternatively, you can have a plumber conduct a CIPP pipe lining.

Thawing and Freezing Cycles

Improper installation is among the leading causes of frozen drainage and sewer pipes. Although your cast iron pipes might not be affected by these winter freeze and thaw cycles, the temperature variations will make them crack after several seasons. If the pipes are cracked, and you want to make them have a longer service life, you should have a plumbing company come over for a pipe relining service.

Corrosion

The cast iron pipes may corrode and eventually fail. Using a chemical drain cleaning product on them will damage their interiors, shortening their service life. Was your home built before the 1970s or 80s, and you have yet to have a repipe? Have a plumbing company come over for a whole house repipe. They also can carry out CIPP pipe relining, giving your corrosion-prone cast iron pipes a new lease of life.

Contact Us for a CIPP Service

Cast iron pipes have many issues, as explained above, which is why they are no longer used as a standard. Do you need a whole home to repipe? Look no further. Contact our technicians at My Professional Plumber. We can also offer pipe relining services to ensure you never have to worry about those iron pipes again.

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Imagine if the sewer line that passes underneath your lawn starts leaking; you might be forced to damage the lawn to reach it. Its repair would involve digging the lawn, performing the repairs, burying it back, and repaving your lawn. This is a particularly time-consuming, labor-intensive, and expensive exercise. But what if you didn’t have to do all that? What if you could repair the sewer system without damaging your lawn? Repairing or replacing underground plumbing systems can seem like, at times, a hassle. But with technological advancements, you no longer have to dig up your pipes to repair or replace them. Plumbers can offer the following underground plumbing services:

Descaling Metal and Cast-Iron Pipes

Chemicals and minerals dissolved in hard water could accumulate on the eternal pipe walls. The minerals can also interact with the copper and cast-iron metals resulting in cracking, corrosion, and weakened pipe structure. Fortunately, you can restore your underground buried metal and cast-iron pipes to full capacity through descaling. To protect the pipes from corrosion, plumbing experts use hydro jetting to blast any scales that might have formed over the piping. This will ensure that the pipes can serve you longer.

Sewer System Maintenance and Repair

The other underground plumbing service that your reliable plumbers offer is cleaning, patching, repairing, and relining any size or kind of sewer pipe. Some plumbing service providers also can install pumping stations and backflow preventers at your Knoxville, TN home or place of business to protect your water supply sources. The two prevent the sewer from flowing back into your business, rental apartments, or home. Others also offer a full sewer system replacement for businesses and homeowners. Hence, if your septic or sewer system is exhibiting signs of damage, you should contact your nearby plumbing company for a sewer system relocation or replacement.

Interior Pipelining and Rehabilitation

Because of the various elements underground, buried metallic pipes are exposed to cracking, corrosion, rust, and abrasions. Relining them ensures their strength returns to normal and restores their structural integrity. During the interior pipe relining, the plumber impregnates a thin liner with epoxy and installs it into the existing line. They will then use heated water, UV lights, and steam to cure the resin. The resultant pipe is as good as new and has a long service life of 50+ years. It also has a smooth inner surface, ensuring the water flows seamlessly. Additionally, the lined pipe is resistant to corrosion elements, further enhancing its durability.

Exterior Pipelining

The exterior parts of the pipes experience much pressure from the shifting soils, freeze and thaw cycles, and high water tables. The intrusion by tree roots and corrosion by minerals in the groundwater also impact the performance and strength of your underground buried pipes. Is there a way of protecting the exterior part of your pipes? Yes, you can enlist the help of a plumber for an exterior pipe lining service. Here, the professional places a new pipe into the existing one. No digging is required in this case. The technician only needs a single access point to the exterior pipe lining.

Hence, asphalt, concrete, landscaping, and trees are preserved. Since the liner is also corrosion resistant, the resultant liner has a longer service life of up to 50 years. Hence, if you are wondering how to replace those pipes buried in your beautiful yard, you should talk to your plumbing service provider about using this service.

Water Line Repair, Inspection, and Maintenance

Your plumbing system comprises three main parts; the drainage system that carries waste off from your home, the appliances and fixtures, and the water line that supplies your Knoxville, TN home with clean water. However, the water line is prone to an accumulation of minerals that affect water pressure and reduce water flow. If they are made from metals or other corrosive substances, they also might rust. As a result, the incoming water starts to become discolored. It also gets a bad smell, reducing its quality. Fortunately, a plumber can inspect the water line, repair it, or even service it without digging, thanks to technological advancements. The technician will also repair any offsets, leaks, cracks, and other water line problems.

Two-Part Epoxy Coating of Your Pipes

A plumber might offer another underground plumbing service: a two-part epoxy piping coating. Here, the professional renovates the sewer and drain pipes with sizes ranging from 1.25-12 in diameter. The resultant epoxy coating is resistant to abrasions, cracks, leaks, and corrosion. Plumbing service providers use this process for restoring commercial and residential plumbing. It can also be used for restoring an entire plumbing drainage system. Hence, if you still use iron or other metallic pipes prone to corrosion, have a plumbing expert line your pipes with a two-part epoxy coating.

Vactor Truck Services

Debris and dirt accumulation around and in the basement window drains, wells, and gutters will undoubtedly interfere with the drainage system at your home. To ensure that you are quickly back on track, you can, as your plumber, remove the debris and dust from the drains using their Vacuum trucks (vactors). Since these trucks are super powerful, they will remove the debris from any crevice in your drains.

Storm and Drainage Pipe Services

The drainage and storm pipes collect all the runoff from the melting ice/snow or heavy rains. The pipes and drains protect your Knoxville, TN home and property from structural damage caused by flooding. Unfortunately, these plumbing system elements may become clogged because the surface runoffs carry all waste and soil. However, there is a reprieve. A plumber can clean the debris and soil from the pipes and drains to ensure that they are clear and that any runoff will flow smoothly. The professionals also offer drain realignment and storm pipe replacement services.

Do you need help deciding which underground plumbing service option to use? Call us at My Professional Plumber for more advice.

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Have you ever entered your Knoxville, TN home only to find wastewater flowing from your sink or toilet, spilling all over your expensive tiles? That is called backflow. Not only can backflow contaminate the water supply, but it could also inflict sanitation-related diseases such as cholera on you or your family. Additionally, your tenants might file a class action suit to seek reparations for the water damage and any health problems that the backflow could have caused. This could see you pay a lot in court fines and reparations, not to mention that you will still have to pay a cleaner to clear the waste. However, backflow also could arise in clean water pipes. Hence, it is recommended that homeowners and property owners regularly have a plumbing company test their plumbing systems for backflow. There are many benefits to this, including the following:

Prevents Water Contamination

One of the biggest benefits of having a plumbing company perform backflow testing on your plumbing is that it could help prevent water contamination. If there is backflow, dangerous contaminants and pollutants could flow back into your water supply sources, placing you and your family or tenants at grave risk of drinking contaminated water. Water contamination could result in various health issues like cholera. By testing the backflow preventer regularly, you will be ensuring that it is properly working, preventing the contaminants from ever entering your water supply system.

Helps You Avoid Penalties and Fines

If the municipal inspectors come for backflow testing and your device doesn’t pass, you could face heavy penalties and fines. In many municipalities, it is a requirement for commercial establishments to conduct regular backflow testing. Do you own an establishment, even if it’s a rental apartment? A plumbing company should test your backflow preventer to ensure it is operational. The other way you could get fined is when you haven’t installed a backflow preventer and wastewater starts flowing back from the drains, sinks, and toilets to your tenant’s houses. They could come together and file a class action suit against you, demanding reparations for the damages incurred. You could have to part ways with much money if you are guilty. Hence, failure to install and regularly test the backflow preventer means only one thing, a fine or a penalty will be coming soon.

Gives You a Peace of Mind

If you regularly test your backflow preventer and know it is efficiently functioning, you can rest assured knowing that the water will never go past the device in case of a backflow. You will have peace of mind knowing that you aren’t exposed to fines and penalties from your local authority. With annual backflow testing, you won’t have to keep thinking about water quality or reduced pressure zones (RPZ). You will also rest assured that by having a plumbing company regularly test and service the backflow preventer, you are doing your part to ensure that your tenants, loved ones, and family are safe.

Protect Public Health

One of the main reasons to have an efficiently functioning backflow preventer is to protect public health. Since contaminated water could result in many health issues, you must take all the precautions possible to ensure that your family, tenants, or community can easily access clean, safe water. As explained above, backflow is a solid threat to public health. For instance, wastewater from your drainage might mix with the water supply into your Knoxville, TN home because of backflow. This will result in many health implications. By having a plumbing company test and service it, you will protect the health of your family, tenants, and other community members.

Maintain Property Values

Are you planning to sell your home or property later? Then you should ensure that a plumbing company tests the backflow preventer and ensures it is operational. A property or home with a faulty backflow preventer could see a considerable decline in property values. By testing the backflow preventer regularly, you will be indirectly protecting the value of your home while maintaining its attractiveness. This means that future potential tenants or buyers will be willing to pay your asking price.

It is Cost-Effective

Backflow testing is an economical method to protect your home or property, the environment, your family, and other community members. You must have a backflow prevention plan if you manage or own a commercial property containing cross-connections and require a backflow preventer. This should include regular testing and maintenance. Creating a backflow preventer testing plan with your plumbing company ensures that you can rest assured that your home, property, tenants, and nearby community will be free from harmful contaminants.

No Paperwork Needed

The process of backflow prevention testing is nowadays totally automated. It only takes several steps for the plumber to finish. There are no forms for you to complete or any paperwork that needs signing. Hence, you can relax while the plumbing company takes care of everything. The professionals will arrive at your Knoxville, TN home on time scheduled, test your backflow preventer on site, upload the data to a database, and send you a report.

Safety

It is normal to feel frightened when contemplating the devastating effects a backflow issue could have on you, your loved ones, your business, and your neighborhood. There is an extremely high probability that harm might arise. But if you keep your backflow preventer in good shape, you won’t have to worry about any of that ever happening. The primary advantage of having a plumbing company conduct backflow testing is the prevention of a potentially major issue that might profoundly impact the lives of many. The water at your home or property will remain pure if you have an annual backflow test performed, but it will also contribute to the safety & health of the community.

Do you need a backflow testing service? Contact our experienced, well-equipped technicians at My Professional Plumber.

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Think of all the time and effort you save each day by having your dishwasher on hand. It’s easy to assume you’ve got it all down – load up, press a button, and voilà! But there are plenty of common mistakes people make with their dishwashers that significantly reduce their cleaning power or even get in the way of proper cleaning every time. Sometimes, these mistakes cause damage that requires repairs, and you may find yourself calling a plumber in Knoxville, TN more often than necessary. This article will discuss some of the most common dishwasher mistakes and how to avoid them.

Not Pre-Rinsing Your Dishes

Preparing dishes for the dishwasher may seem like a straightforward chore, but there are many traps you can fall into, which could result in dishes not being cleaned properly. One of the most common mistakes is failing to pre-rinse your dishes before placing them in the dishwasher. While it may seem as if pre-rinsing is performed to save time, it can make a big difference in how effective your dishwasher is at cleaning. Pre-rinsing ensures that caked-on food and grease won’t remain on plates and bowls before they start the washing process. The few minutes you will take to pre-rinsing will save you time and money you could use to hire a plumber when something malfunctions.

Overloading the Dishwasher

Overloading the dishwasher is another mistake plumbers diagnose when called to repair dishwashers. Not only can stacking dishes too high cause water not to reach the top shelves, but it can also result in dishes that are not properly cleaned after the cycle has finished. To avoid overloading and have your dishes come out sparkling clean and germ-free, ensure you don’t put too many dishes in and leave enough room for items to move around as they are being rinsed with hot water.

Loading the right combinations of items, such as glassware and silverware on one side and pots and pans on an inner basket on another side, can help optimize space efficiently while ensuring all dishes are getting their rightful share of water coverage. Don’t fall into the category of people calling plumbing experts unnecessarily. Read the capacity guidelines of your dishwasher and even consult a professional if you aren’t sure of the best ways to organize your dishwasher.

Using Too Much Detergent

It’s easy to assume that using too much detergent will get your dishes cleaner and faster, but this isn’t the case. Excess detergent can cause suds to overflow, damaging your dishwasher and leaving residue on dishes. To avoid this mistake, check the instructions of your detergent for details about the amount needed for each load. Additionally, depending on the soiled or hard water in your area, you might need to add more or less detergent. Plus, using the right detergent is also important. Using soap not formulated for dishwashers could block filters or hoses, eventually requiring plumber repair.

Failure to Clean the Filter

Cleaning the dishwasher filter is crucial to prevent grease and food particles from building up over time. It’s important to clean your filter every few months and check it for debris regularly. If left uncleaned, food particles could get stuck in the dishwasher’s drainage system and lead to bigger problems if not removed. Clogging may require more intensive cleaning, including dismantling the dishwasher and even manually scraping the filter. If you have not cleaned your filter in a while and notice that dishes are not coming out clean or the dishwasher is emitting an odor, it’s time to call a plumber in Knoxville, TN.

Not Calling for Help Early Enough

Dishwasher damage can be avoided with simple maintenance and repairs. If you start to notice issues such as water pooling in the bottom of your kitchen cabinet, dishes not coming out as clean as usual, food particles left on the plates, or an unpleasant smell after a cleaning cycle, it may be time to call in a plumber for professional help. They can diagnose and repair dishwasher problems before they become major issues that lead to costly repairs.

Unfortunately, some people try fixing their dishwashers by tinkering around with the settings or running multiple cycles. This only increases the chances of further damage, so make sure to call a professional plumber as soon as you notice signs that your dishwasher isn’t working properly.

Not Cleaning the Dishwasher

Cleaning the inside of your dishwasher is just as important as cleaning dishes. Cleaning the dishwasher ensures that food particles don’t get stuck in hard-to-reach areas and lead to damage or bacteria buildup. The easiest way to keep the interior clean is by running an empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner once a month. Don’t forget to clean the outside, too. Grease and grime can accumulate outside your machine over time, leading to a less-than-appealing look and odors in your kitchen.

Cleaning the exterior with warm water and detergent regularly will keep your dishwasher looking and smelling its best. However, remember that cleaning doesn’t replace the routine maintenance that should be done by a plumbing professional. Routine cleaning is a cosmetic solution and doesn’t help with plumbing problems such as blocked filters or hoses.

These are just a few of the common mistakes made with dishwasher maintenance. Avoiding these mistakes will help keep your dishwasher in good condition and save you from expensive plumbing repairs. When in doubt, call a professional plumber in Knoxville, TN for repair or advice to ensure that your dishwasher is working properly.

We are the Plumbing Professionals for All Your Dishwasher Needs

At My Professional Plumber, we are your go-to dishwasher maintenance and repair experts. Our plumbing professionals can help you with all your plumbing needs, from fixing broken hoses to cleaning out filters. We also offer regular tune-ups to keep your dishwasher running smoothly and efficiently. Contact us today for all your dishwasher needs. We can help!

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