Sewage Backup: What Causes It To Happen And How To Fix It?

Sewage Backup Service Solution By Leone Plumbing and Heating

One of the major plumbing issues that cause extensive damage to your home is sewage backup. This happens when wastewater backs up through your drains, sinks, and toilets. Plumbing issues like sewage backup not only wreak havoc on your home but it can also pose a health risk to your family. Let us find out what causes this plumbing concern and what we can do to fix it.

What Causes A Sewer Backup?

Knowing the root cause of the problem can help you avoid the cost and inconvenience of sewage backup. Here are the usual causes.
Municipal Street Sewer Issues
What Causes Sewage Backup And How To Fix ItWe recently had a client who experienced sewage backing up from the municipal street sewer being overwhelmed during rainstorms. It caused massive sewage backups in their nicely finished basement. This often occurs when the municipal sewage system is overloaded with water and the sewage eventually backs up through the basement floor. Although a municipal sewer line can handle loads of water, excessive rain can still overload the system. So as soon as you see dripping water on your basement floor, contact a professional plumber to check and fix the issue before it gets worse! It’s also important to contact the local public work office in the municipality if the issue persists.
Outdated and Old Sewer System
An outdated and old sewer system is common in old houses (usually built before the 1950s). Their sewage system is usually made of cast-iron pipes, clay pipes, or Orangeburg (fiber conduit pipe). These type of pipes may be durable, but it also deteriorates over time. It’s a good idea to schedule a regular sewer line inspection to check if the old pipes are still intact and ensure that they are not leaking. Otherwise, replace your old sewer system with PVC or ABS plastic sewer pipe to avoid the stress of sewage backup.
Tree Roots Obstruction
Tree roots always find ways to look for good water sources. They can even sip through tiny cracks in pipes until they can invade and damage the sewage system. One way to get rid of these unwanted tree roots is by cutting them using a snake machine with several tips for cutting and retrieval. Depending on the condition of the pipes, they may also need to be replaced if there are damages caused by root invasion.

How To Prevent Sewage Backup From Happening?

Leone Plumbing Licensed Master Plumber Proper plumbing maintenance is still a good method of prevention. We suggest that you schedule a sewer line inspection with a trusted plumbing professional to check the condition of your sewer lines. We also advise that you do a regular pipe cleaning to prevent any clogs that can cause serious backups. Avoid fat, oils, and other solid materials from flowing down the drain as it can also cause blockages that trigger sewage backup.

You Can Trust Us For Your Sewer Maintenance Needs!

Trust Rochester New York’s best plumbers for your home’s sewer maintenance. Contact us to schedule an appointment and we are here to help you!
Read More

Dealing With Sewage Water Backing Up Into The Bathtub

Experiencing sewage water backing up through your bathtub is a terrible issue to deal with! It is one of the dreaded plumbing concerns for any homeowners. Sewage coming up through the bathtub not only brings unpleasant odors but also health hazards due to harmful organisms and contaminants present in the dirty water. It is important not to touch or directly have contact with the sewage water as it may cause serious illness. How do you deal with this trouble and why is it happening?

Reasons for Sewage Water To Backup

A clogged sewer line is the main culprit for sewage backing up through your tub. Your bathtub, sinks, and toilets are all connected to a single sewer line. This line carries the wastewater from your residence down to the main sewage system of the city. If this sewer line is clogged, the wastewater would back up through your drains, shower, and bathtub. There are no other passages where the wastewater would flow but back to your home! Many items can block your sewer line like: What causes sewage water backing up into the bathtub by Leone Plumbing
  • Cooking oil, grease, and fats
  • Small items, kid’s toys, and jewelry
  • Refuse or litter
  • Food waste
  • Tree roots invasion
  • Rodents
  • Hair

How to Prevent Sewage Water From Backing Up?

Early detection and treatment of clogs on the sewer line is one way to avoid sewage water backup. By taking heed of the following common signs, you can intercept the problem.
Recurring Clogs
If things get out of hand despite home remedies, it is better to leave it to the professionals than take a chance that it gets worse. Frequent clogging of drains calls for a professional plumber to work on the issue. Keep small items (kid’s toys, jewelry, and the like) away from your sink or shower drains so they won’t shoot accidentally into the drains causing clog. Simple home garbage management can also help. 
Slow Draining of Water
If the water is draining slower than expected, it’s a sign that something is clogging your sewer line. You can unclog the pipe by snaking it to break whatever is causing the blockage. If the wastewater drains smoothly, then you have successfully gotten rid of the clog. If not, then it’s time to contact a professional plumber to handle the problem.
Gurgling Noise While Draining Water
If you hear an unusual gurgling noise from your sink or shower drain when you shower, it can tell you that the sewer line is clogged. You can try using simple home remedies like pouring baking soda and vinegar or hot water to unclog the pipe. If the DIY remedies won’t work, a plumber knows what to do.

Hire A Professional Plumber To Deal With Sewage Water Backup

Free yourself from the stress of sewage water backing up into your bathtub. If simple home DIY remedies or solutions do not go well, then contact a professional plumber! At the early signs of sewer line clogs, contact Rochester, New York’s best plumbers to schedule an appointment. We are here at your service!
Read More

Fixing Low Water Pressure In Your Home

Fixing Low Water Pressure In Your Home By Leone PlumbingEnding the day with a refreshing shower is satisfying and it relieves all the day’s stress. But this moment can be spoiled with a trickle of water coming out from your shower due to low pressure. This issue does not only affect your shower but also the kitchen and the toilet. If you are getting a few drips of drinking water from your kitchen faucet or your toilet tank is slowly filling up after you flush, then it’s telling you that the water pressure has dropped.

Why Are We Having Low Water Pressure?

The most common reasons for your water pressure to drop are:
  • Clogged pipes (due to mineral deposits).
  • Corroded pipes.
  • Blocked water meter valve or damaged main city water supply pipe.
  • High water demand.
  • Malfunctioning pressure regulator.
  • Tree roots invasion on pipes.
There are practical solutions to address the issue. Let’s look at some of the ways to remedy the problem. Leone plumbing low water pressure service solution

How to Increase Your Home’s Water Pressure

Test the city water pressure. 
First, perform a test by using a water pressure gauge connected to the hose. What you will do is screw the gauge to the hose faucet. For an accurate reading, make sure that your home’s water supply and (water-using) appliances are all turned off. Normal results should be between 40 and 80 psi for residential use. If you are getting below the normal psi reading, then it’s relatively low. If you find similar results with your neighbors, then it’s a citywide issue. Contact your city’s municipal water supply to inspect and fix the problem.
Installing a pressure booster pump.
You can boost the pressure by installing a booster pump. This is ideal if you are on a public water supply and frequently experiencing low pressure.
Adjusting the pressure-reducing valve.
If your home’s main water supply has a pressure-reducing valve, then it may need a bit of adjustment. Simply loosen the locknut on the valve so it can increase the pressure.
Check your faucet and shower head for clogs.
Mineral deposits may build up over time that clog your faucet and shower head. These clogs can decrease the pressure. You can fix the issue by using simple home remedies. You can detach the shower head and faucet then soak them in a container of white vinegar for a few hours and rinse them with water. This process will naturally dissolve the mineral deposits.
Replace corroded pipes. 
The inside of the pipes becomes narrow due to pipe corrosion which prevents normal pressure. You can tell if your pipes are extremely corroded if the water coming out from the faucet is red and rusty. The best way to deal with this issue is pipe replacement.

Leave Your Low Water Pressure Concern To Us!

We understand how frustrating it can be. But we got you! Contact us right away to make an appointment.
Read More

Bubbles In The Toilet: Is There Something Wrong?

Fixing Bubbles In The Toilet by Leone PlumbingYour toilet can show unusual signs if there is something wrong with it. One sign that you should be concerned about is when you see bubbles in the toilet. If the toilet is bubbling with an unusual gurgling sound after you flush, it could indicate that there is a problem. You should not ignore these signs! Today, let’s discuss why this could be happening and potential solutions.

Why Do I See Bubbles In The Toilet?

There are reasons why you see bubbles in the toilet. If you see this initial sign with unusual rumbling and gurgling noise, then it can be for the following reasons.
Clogged Drains
If the toilet drains or the overflow openings of the toilet are clogged, air won’t flow properly. This occurs because there is no other outlet in addition to the toilet bowl, pressurized gas created by the trapped air comes out as bubbles every time you flush. This issue calls for a service of a professional plumber. A professional plumber can find and remove any objects (large or small) that are clogging the main drain pipe and the overflow openings of your toilet.
Obstruction On The Vent Stack
The vent stack is designed to be open at all times. It regulates air pressure in the plumbing system and releases exhaust gas. If the vent stack is blocked, it will release negative pressure that slows down the draining system. The common obstructions are leaves, twigs, and birds’ nests. You need to contact a professional plumber to inspect and fix the issue.
Clogged Mainline
A clogged mainline can also cause negative air pressure in the pipes which causes the odd toilet bubbling and gurgling. If the clog is in the municipal sewer line, then it is your town’s responsibility and you should not do the repair yourself.
Too Much Air In The Water Tank
If you hear your toilet gurgling every time you fill up your water tank, then it means there is excess air. You will also see bubbles in the toilet because of it. To fix this, you need to open your toilet’s filler valve and let the water drain, then refill it again. In this way, you can get rid of any excess gas inside. If the issue still persists, contact a professional plumber to avoid further complications.

Get Rid Of That Toilet Bubbling And Gurgling!

Do not let yourself be bothered by the gurgling sound and bubbles in the toilet. If your toilet is starting to bubble with a gurgling noise, call us and allow our licensed plumber to help you. Leone Plumbing Professional Fixing Bubbles In The Toilet Conern  
Read More

Different Types Of Slab Leak Repair And What Causes Slab Leaks

Slab Leak Repair Service By Leone PlumbingA slab is a layer of plain concrete that is used to create flat surfaces like roof decks, ceilings, and floors. It is a thick structure that is supported by beams, columns, walls, or the ground. Sturdy as it may seem, a slab is still vulnerable to leaks. Slab leaks may lead to costly repairs due to water damage and the leaking wastewater can be a health hazard. There is no better solution than slab leak repair. But how is it done? Let’s talk about the different types of slab leak repair and what causes slab leaks.

How Can You Tell That A Home Or Building Needs A Slab Leak Repair?

Slab leaks are very common in older homes or buildings since they use galvanized steel pipes or copper which are prone to corrosion. When the pipes deteriorate, it releases water and even sewage under the structure. Faulty installation of pipes is also one of the culprits. Another contributing factor to slab leaks is the natural shifting of soil, underground stream, and even earthquake. The pressure brought by these natural ground movements may cause the lines to break which leads to slab leaks. Since all of these happen underneath, it is very hard to identify a slab leak. However, there are signs to watch out for. The following signs can tell you that you need a slab leak repair. Leone Plumbing Slab Leak Repair Solution
  • Warm spots or water stains on the floor.
  • Foul odor from floors and walls.
  • Cracks on floors, walls, and ceilings.
  • Unusual water puddles around the house or building.
  • Visible soil shifts around the structure.
  • Uneven growth in lawn or foundation plants.

Different Types Of Slab Leak Repair

There are different types of approaches when it comes to slab leak repair. Depending on the impact of the damages, here are some of the different types of slab leak repair.
Slab Replacement
In worst-case scenarios, the entire slab may need to be replaced if the leak caused large damages and if the pipes are in bad condition. This is a very disruptive method and expect that it can affect your regular household or business activities.
Pipe Repair
Pipe repair requires fixing the damaged area of the pipe. This may involve replacing a section of the pipe, patching, or sealing the leak.
Trenchless Repair
A trenchless repair is the least disruptive solution since there is no need to demolish the structure.
Pipe Rerouting
This repair option is ideal if there is difficulty to access the leak and if the pipes are in poor condition. Rerouting bypasses the old pipes by running new pipes alongside them.

Don’t Take Slab Leaks Lightly!

Slab leaks can create serious damage to your property. It can damage the walls, floors, and foundation of your home or building. The longer that it’s left untreated, the more damage it can do! Let our expert plumbers help you with your urgent slab leak repair. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
Read More

How To Deal With Plumbing Issues In An Old House

Leone plumbing old house maintenance service. The good old days always bring nostalgic memories. Memories that are worth remembering especially if they happened in an old house. Older homes usually treasure cherished moments with family and friends. That is why for someone who owns an old house, it is very important to maintain each aspect of its structure including the plumbing system.

Plumbing Problems In Old Homes

Old homes are charming with their classic and rustic appeal. Attractive as it seems, the plumbing inside an old home can be as old as the structure itself which can lead to plumbing issues. But do not let these plumbing issues diminish the charm of your old house! Here are the common plumbing issues you may experience in an old house and how you can resolve them.
Obsolete Pipelines
Vintage houses constructed over 3 decades ago may contain piping materials that are considered outdated today.  The common piping material used back then was lead which was initially restricted during the 1920s and was totally banned by 1986. It was then replaced by galvanized steel pipes that became a popular option until the 60s. However, galvanized steel is prone to extensive corrosion that causes rust contamination in the water supply. Thus, polybutylene pipes became a popular choice during the 70s to the 90s. Later, it was found that polybutylene pipes have a high risk of bursting and leaking. For obsolete pipes, we recommend upgrading old plumbing to PEX piping which is more durable and can last longer. Leone Plumbing Water Piping Solution
Bellied Pipes
Over time, encased or underground pipes can be affected by the gradual movement of the house. The pipes underneath may begin to slope or “belly” which restricts water flow and creates puddles that accumulate waste. This can result in toxic wastewater seeping into your home. If left unresolved, pipe bellies may cause blockages or leaks over the course of time. Depending on the circumstance, trenchless pipe repair can be the best solution.
Old Plumbing Fixtures
Accumulation of limescale on old plumbing fixtures is common in an old house. Also, old fixtures and connections tend to fall apart causing leaks and flooding. To minimize the amount of limescale, we recommend installing a water softener system. Toilet repair and replacement are also recommended.
Root Invasion
Old sewer lines are prone to root invasion that causes severe clogs and sediment build-up. In this case, snaking the line using several snake machine tips is recommended. Trenchless pipe repair can be done if the situation calls for it.
Improper Repairs
For old homes that are standing for many decades, it’s possible that plumbing repairs weren’t done right. DIY is an affordable solution but at the same time risky. It would be best that you contact a professional plumber to assess your plumbing system for proper treatment.

Your Old Home Needs A Professional Touch!

Give yourself peace of mind while reminiscing the good old days. We are here to provide the professional touch that your old house needs! Contact us now.
Read More