Unclog A Kitchen Sink

VIDEO TRANSCRIPT

Maybe your kitchen sink is blocked & backed up and it’s driving you nuts.

So today I’m going to show you how to do that in five minutes or less and have an awesome tool that you should be aware of, especially if you’re a new homeowner and you’ve never done this before. Oh, and like a lot of my videos, you got to watch it till the end because guess what, we’ve got an awesome surprise for you and I don’t you to miss out on that. So let’s get to it. Here’s the dual kitchen sink right here. We’ve got a left side and a right side; they’re both clogged. So both sides are clogged. What does that mean? Well, you have to take a look underneath the sink to find out.

Well, as you can see here we’ve got our two drains underneath the sink- the left side and the right side- then you have your p-trap. And most likely, the clog is right here in the p-trap. And there are only two nuts holding the p-trap in place. So here’s nut number one and nut number two. What you want to do is to unscrew these counterclockwise and what that will do is lower the p-trap.

Now when you do that, all the water that is up in the sinks is going to drain down. So you need a five-gallon bucket or a two-gallon bucket- however much water is up there- because you don’t want to mess underneath the sink here, so that’s what we’re going to do. We’re going to slowly turn this nut because chances are water may come out of it, I don’t really know. We’re going to turn this nut here as well. So there, as you can see, water is coming out. Now here’s the deal, because water isn’t rushing out, that means that the clog is probably right here. So we’re going to take apart this pipe. As you can see, water is slowly dripping out.

Guys, you want to take your time because a lot of water is going to come rushing out of these pipes. So let this drip. Look at this, there’s a clog right here. This is our culprit. I don’t even know what that is. It looks like a marshmallow or something. It’s probably grease, right? There you go. Probably should have got the five-gallon bucket. It’s a good idea to put some towels or some rags underneath the p-trap so that when you open up the drain, the water- if any of it misses the bucket- will go down in those towels or rags.

What do you do if the clog isn’t in the p-trap? Where is the clog? I mean, if all the water is draining but it gets to the wall and it’s stopping there; that means that your clog is on the wall. How do you reach that? Well, you need to get a hand auger and the one brand that I totally recommend for you is the rigid.

Anything rigid brand is awesome because they warranty their products, they work and a lot of plumbers ten to us them- tend to use the rigid products. So I like the rigid power spin, so this is it right here. And it basically is an auger- a hand auger- that you spin. So when you spin it when you hold the trigger here, so what you’ll do is you’ll hold the trigger, you’ll pull in and when you spin it by hand, this little tip comes out.

And on the end of this is a very sharp piece of metal and that will catch any kind of clog that is on the wall. So whether it’s hair, grease, grime; whatever the clog is, this will catch it. So you can press the trigger, like so; spin the drum, and it will go down into your drain. Once you hit the clog, you can spin it without pressing the trigger and that will additionally try to clear out the clog.

So when you’re done, you think you’ve got most of the clog. If it’s likely hair or some sort of grease buildup, press the trigger again and turn the drum counterclockwise. That will pull this out of the drain along with the clog. Now, if you want to, you can attach a drill to the end of this. Simply press the tabs in and pull this off and it reveals a little stud that comes out of it- that’s what I call it anyway- and then you can attach this to your drill and you can power the drill along with this hand auger down into the drain. But oftentimes, you may not need to do that, you don’t need that much power. Think about it, you only really need to get the clog on the end of the auger itself to pull it out of the drain. But it’s a really nice option to have.

So let me show you quickly how you would use this in the wall pipe that’s going into your wall and down into your basement or into the main sewage stack. It’s really easy to use. You don’t even necessarily have to take the gooseneck out of the wall. You can if you want but you don’t have to. So what we’re going to do is press down on the trigger, so press down on the trigger and feed this into the wall plate and spin the drum clockwise. Once you hit the drum, you can simply turn this counterclockwise and pull, we’re out. So again, what you can do, you can use a drill to actually power this. Slide the auger onto the drill and tighten it down.

You want to feed the auger up into the pipe just like we did by hand, press down on this and turn it so that it’s spinning to the right. See how much more we get out by using the drill? It’s a lot more efficient. So you want to reverse your drill and reverse the auger until it comes out. There you go. So we’re going to tighten down all these pipes by hand, we’re going to put it back together. Just hand tighten them, they don’t need to be super, ultra-tight or anything. I did want to show you one thing, guys. These washers- these concave washers- there’s a certain way that they go down into the p-trap to create a watertight seal.

The concave side goes down into the pipe. So make sure it looks that way. Not like this because it will not create a seal; you’ll know right away. So the first thing that you do is put the slip nut up onto the pipe and then slide your washer onto the pipe as well. You want the drain to go down into the p-trap as much as possible, so slide that p-trap up. Then you want this section to be nice and flush right here. If it’s not, it will definitely leak. So again, hand tighten, make sure that that washer is down in the p-trap. Hand tighten the nut again- that’s why this tab is on here to help you hand tighten it.

And wipe everything off, make it look nice and clean. The last step is to test and make sure you don’t have any drips or leaks underneath the sink and the way that you do that is run the water on both sides of your sink for probably about a minute or two on both sides. I’m hoping there are no leaks. If you do have a leak, it’s probably one of those washers that’s misaligned. So you have to fix- I should shut off the water. You have to fix that washer and the slip nut. So that’s probably the culprit for any leak that’s underneath the kitchen sink. And I almost forgot.

One additional tip is this: make sure there isn’t any kind of dirt or buildup of hair that’s on the washer or slip nut because that will prevent a watertight seal. So, it’s a good idea to clean those slip nuts and washers. Well, that’s it. That’s how you unclog your kitchen sink in five minutes flat and I do think pairing the rigid power spin with a drill or a power tool is an awesome combination. It will make this job go by super quickly. Again, here are the tips: tackle the clog first at the p-trap. If that isn’t helping out with the problem, then you want to go and try to clear out the clog in the drain that’s on your wall using the rigid power spin and a drill.

Alright. So, here’s the surprise. I’m going to be given away one of these power spins back on over at Home Repair Tutor. So go to homerepairtutor.com. Just click on one of the links here and it will take you to Home Repair Tutor where you can randomly enter the giveaway. Alright. So, that’s it for today. Thanks, guys for joining me in this video. Hope that it helped you out. And while you’re over at homerepairtutor.com, sign up for the email newsletter because we talk about giveaways, I give you advice and all sorts of great stuff every single week. You don’t want to miss out on it, especially if you’re a new homeowner. Have a great day and I’ll talk to you soon.

Water Heater Leaking from the Top

Leakage from the top of a water heater is not as significant as a leak on the lower side.

This kind of leak can easily be repaired and you may not incur a lot of costs.

Top leaks are not most experienced by users and in case you experience this, there are two major likely causes.

Possible causes of a water heater leaking

A loose pipe installation

Sometimes you may find a pool of water next to your heater that might have been caused by either the inlet pipe or the outlet pipe. Most people on seeing this get worried a lot not knowing what to do next.

What you are supposed to do is to have a close look on the pipes and other fittings leading to the hot water heater. You may find that the problem is just a minor one and you may just need to tighten the loose pipes with a pipe wretch. Sometimes the pipes may have busted or it may have some rust. This can be a serious problem and what you need to do is contact an expert who will help you fix the problem.

Your T & P vales may not be leak proof In case you see any leakages from the side of your water heater, it is necessary that you examine the pressure and temperature valves that are on the sides of your heater.

You should take a close look on these two valves for you to know if they are leak proof or not. You may also need to empty your tank so that you can have a thorough examination. You can use the necessary tools to unscrew the valves and check if there is any rust that might have corroded the valves. In case you find any of them corroded, it will be good that you replace them. If you find all these valves in good condition or the leaking parts cannot be seen, then you will need to cover the treads of each valve with a Teflon tape and screw them back to the container.

Having done all the necessary repairs in your water heater, you will need to observe it again very closely to see if the problem is solved.

If the leaking still persists, then you may need to contact an expert plumber who will repair it for you.

Corrosion or Rust

Corrosion or rust on the upper side of your water heater can provoke some leakage on the heater. This mostly occurs on old heaters or may also be caused by poor electric connections on the heater.

The corrosive effect can be a minor one and you may just have to fix it by yourself. If this is so serious then it is necessary that an expert plumber fixes it.

If rust attacks one part of your heater, it spreads to the rest parts and so it is good that you just replace the corroded part immediately.

Conclusion

A water heater leaking probelm could be due to several reasons. Therefore, before you seek for any kind of help from an expert, it is advisable that you take a close look on the problem first. It can be a small problem that you can fix it alone. This will save you some costs and also you will get to learn and have some experience on how to repair your water heater.

Checklist For Hiring A Plumber

Until you have seen the mess that a broken plumbing system or sewage can bring, you will never know the full worth of a plumber.

Regardless of whether the job is big or small, any plumbing issue requires that you call a professional a professional plumber.

Here are some of the factors to consider while at it:

Do not just settle for the plumber that comes to you first.

Instead, get several quotes then compare to get the best for your job.

In addition to that, the cost of hiring a plumber varies from one plumber to other. Comparing different quotes will allow you to get the best deal.

Depending on your plumbing issues, you can hire a plumber from any of the following fields:

• Solar hot water
• Repairing of toilets
• Installation of hot water units
• Grease traps
• Grey water systems

To be on the safe side of the law, always acquire a plumber who has the license to conduct plumbing activities in Australia.

Make sure you get the plumber’s license number from the quote that one provides

With the arrival of the plumber to the site, make sure you inspect the license number before allowing the plumber to proceed with the work.

The license should be current and one that allows the plumber to undertake the given task. Ask and check for the plumber’s insurance details

Make sure you have a written agreement and contract before the work commences.

Some of the details that must be included in the contract include: The date when the job started The contactor’s business and ABN numbers All the details regarding the contract An explanation of what the job entails.

Choosing A Local Plumber Near Me….

We all know that hiring a local plumber is the best idea when you have a plumbing issue.

However, the problem arises when it comes to choosing the right local plumber one for the job.

While it is true comparing prices can be one way of achieving this, it is more important to consider factors such as the plumber’s abilities and his confidence before acquiring his services.

Some of the other qualities to consider when looking for a local plumber include:

• The plumber must have a license
• Have insurance
• Has a registered business
• Has all qualifications. An example of this is gas-fitting qualifications. Even though the plumber has to have a license, the license one acquires will defer depending on the following factors: If you hire a plumber firm New South Wales, the plumber can work as a supervisor or a contractor In Victoria, a plumber can be a holder if any legal registered business concerning plumbing. In Queensland, a plumber can serve as a contractor or in some instances, a nominee supervisor. A tradesman or a journeyman can be a plumber in Northern Territory For one to be a plumber in Tasmania, one must be a holder of contracting, practitioner and provisional licenses.

When choosing a plumber, it is important to consider factors such as the plumber’s area of specialisation and the amount of time one has been in the field.

Hiring any licensed and experienced plumber without considering ones area of specialisation can be a huge mistake.

Ensure that you get the estimated costs and time needed to complete the job before hiring the plumber too.

This will enable you to get the job done within the shortest time possible. While it is true that it might take you some time before finding the right plumber, the hassle is worth it.

After you find the right one, you will have an idea of whom to call the next time you have a plumbing issue.

How Much Does It Cost To Clear A Blocked Drain?

Just like having a blocked toilet, you will get a real life’s test if by any chance your drain blocks.

The case is worse if you have your whole house flooded with water and the case can be worst if its sewage spewing out of the drainage system.

Many factors can cause drain blockage and these may include toilet papers and sometimes the roots from the trees on your property. In case there is a blocked drain on your property, you need to act fast and call a specialist blocked drain plumbing service.

Do not attempt a DIY even if you think you have the right equipment for the job.

Who can you hire to unblock your drain?

At any day, a plumber is the right person to call to fix your drainage issues. In some cases, you might need someone who is more specialized in the field with specific training to handle the condition of your drain.

To begin with, according to NSW Fair Trading, draining work is anything that entails removal, disconnection, extension, construction and cleaning of any sanitary drain that in one way or another connects or has to connect with a sewer whether directly or indirectly.

In that case, acquiring a licenced drain plumber is a good idea because they have the qualifications to conduct all the above activities.

It is important to note that in Australia; only licensed plumbers can carry out any plumbing duties legally.

Factors to consider when hiring a blocked drain plumber

Now that you have the knowledge of whom to call when you have a blocked drain, finding the one professional that can handle the job is another task.

First, you need to ensure that you have at least three quotes at your disposal.

From the quotes, ask the plumbers the following questions to figure out who the right one may be:

• Is he insured?
• Does he have a license?
• How fast can he provide a quote for the job you are about to offer?
• Is there any person that you can use as a source of reference?

From the first meeting, you can figure out many things about a plumber that are enough to know if he can do the job right. Judge a plumber basing on how effective his communication is, how he attends to his first appointment, how he converses and whether you are comfortable having him around.

How do plumbers get the job done?

Today, plumbers have their work made easier by the ever-growing number of sophisticated devices available for them to use when unblocking drains. However, the plumbers have to locate where the problem is in order to know what devices to use. It is going to be more costly for you if the plumber sees no sign of leakage.

In this current generation, plumbers can use what they sometimes call drainage cameras to figure out where the blockage might be located in your drainage system.

According to plumbers, the major causes of drain blocks include:

• Children’s toys
• The contents you flush down the toilet
• Buildup of solid grass
• Roots from nearby trees

Upon identifying the cause of blockage, the plumber will go ahead and fix it.

In cases where the drainage system has suffered damages, you might have to replace them.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO HIRE A PLUMBER?

The cost of hiring a plumber depends on several factors such as where you live, the plumber’s call-out fees, and the additional charges that hiring the plumber.

For weekends and after hours calls, expect the rates might be higher .

The skill level of the plumber you hire is also a factor. Expect to pay more for a more skilled plumber.

High Water Pressure

Modern plumbing and improved technology have benefited the pipes in use today, as they are no longer subject to the wear and corrosion the pipes of a few years ago were exposed to.

Even so, high water pressure in your pipes is still a common problem that does need to be addressed.

Typically, higher water pressure for a short period of time will not harm your pipes, however, if your pipes are constantly faced with consistent high water pressure, it could amount to a serious problem.

Luckily, you can find yourself a pressure gauge for cheap at any hardware store to check on your water pressure yourself.

Hence, read on to see three of the most common plumbing problems caused by high water pressure.

Increased likelihood of a pipe bursting

Burst pipes can significantly damage you home, whilst also making a great deal of mess in hard to reach areas such as your crawlspace.

High water pressure usually strikes at the weaker and more corroded parts of the pipe, which makes something that was already a problem into a gigantic headache for the whole family.

Outlet damage

High water pressure not only damages your pipes, it can also affect any fixtures, such as shower heads and faucets. Over time, high water pressure increases the chances of any plumbing fixtures to break down and shorten their lifespan.

Wasted water, wasted money

Even if there isn’t any obvious damage, high water pressure equates to wasted water. Every drop more of water coming out of your taps adds up, resulting in higher water bills. To resolve high water pressure issues, call us today.

A Simple Method In Replacing Water Heater

From removing your old heater to installing a new one, this guide offers step-by-step instructions for water heater replacement of your gas or electric-storage type water heater.

Out With the Old

1. You first need to turn off your gas or electricity that routes through the heating system:

• If removing a gas heater, verify if its pilot light is out before disconnecting and capping off the lines.
• Continuing for gas heaters, separate the vent pipe from draft hood. You may need to extract a sheet metal screw, should the hood be screwed into place.
• For an electric heater, take off the plate covering the wires entry. It is recommended to use a tester or voltmeter to confirm there are no live circuits. Remember to first test a known-good outlet to ensure an accurate read.
• Continuing for electric heaters, once you have confirmed all connected wires are dead, remove electrical panel’s plate covering, unscrew wire nuts, and disconnect all wires, pulling them out of the heater. If there is a conduit attached, remove that at this time as well.

2. Then drain the storage tank completely:

• Attach a garden hose to the drain valve, placing its other end in a designated discharge area. Keep in mind its discharge will be hot, so keep clear of pets and children.
• Turn off cold water inlet feeding in and open a hot water tap, allowing air to enter and water to drain out.
• Open the drain valve and allow all hot water to discharge through the attached garden hose. Ensure discharging spout of the hose is lower than the tank base for proper drainage.
• Once the tank is completely drained, detach the garden hose.

3. Almost there! Now disconnect piping from heater:

• If threaded fittings known as unions are the connectors, use a pair of pipe wrenches to remove them.
• If piping is soldered into place, they will require to be cut away by use of a pipe or tubing cutter or hacksaw. Be sure to make the cut as close as possible or, if using copper flex connectors for your new heater, at most appropriate placing for such.

4. Finally, extract the old water heater to be disposed of properly:

• Research local services that may be available to assist with proper disposal or recycling of old heaters.

And in With The New!

1. Position your new heater so that It will easily hook up to water piping and/or gas vent piping.

2. If installing a new gas heater, affix the draft hood, as needed.

• It is common for many draft hoods to insert by pegs into openings on top of the heater.

3. Continuing for gas heaters, connect the vent piping with short sheet metal screws.

4. Now to connect the hot and cold water lines:

• If your new heater used unions like your old one, feel free to reconnect the new as needed using a pair of pipe wrenches once more.
• The easiest method, however, is to use copper flex-connectors, which are easily bent to reach where needed.
• If you had to cut The surrounding piping, the copper flex-connectors may be soldered to the severed pipes to complete the inlet and outlet connections. The inlet should be attached to the cold water shut off valve.

5. Configure the new heater’s temperature and pressure relief valve and line:

• This relief system automatically regulates temperature and pressure so the water does not get too hot and the gas does not become too pressurised.
• Run a pipe from the relief valve to a safe discharge location, typically within 6-inches of the floor. Again, the discharge may be hot, so keep clear of others.

6. With the plumbing connected, now close the heater’s drain valve and open the cold water inlet, filling the storage tank.

• Opening a hot water tap releases any air trapped in the top of the tank, ensuring the tank fills as it needs.

7. After you have verified there are no leaks, reconnect your gas or electric lines.

• Consult the manufacturer’s documentation that came with your new heater and carefully follow the provided instructions for your first-time use.

Experts Available 24/7

Call your 24/7 professionals now! Inline Plumbing & Electrical with over 30 years experience 1300 465 463.

Dux Hot Water System Maintenance

Let us not forget how much we rely daily on our hot water systems. Water heater maintenance is very important. We only feel the heating system’s significance when the unit broke down and the hot water is needed. This happens usually at the earliest hour of a very cold morning, on a holiday, etc. The hot water system may seem complicated. However, regular maintenance helps the system out prolong its lifespan. This is specifically in the case with continuous flow hot water systems. The unit does not store hot water and is unlikely to build up any pressure.

Regular service maintenance of the hot water system will ensure efficient operation. Every six months routine service can be performed by the owner.

• Stand clear of the temperature pressure and relief valve drain pipe outlet.
• Open the TPR for 10 seconds by lifting the easing level located on the valve.
• Make sure the water discharges out of the drain pipe.
• Lower the easing level – Make sure that the easing level closes properly.
• Repeat the process for the expansion control valve.
• Check the grill located on top of the water heater.
• Make sure it is clear and free of debris.

Temperature, as well as pressure relief valves, are also called TPR or T&P valves. These are fitted to the hot water tank and act as a secondary safety measure. The TPR valve automatically vents the hot water if the temperature or the pressure becomes too great. This will prevent an explosion or spilling. If for some reason the TPR valves do not function properly the hot water heater is at serious risk. Hot water heaters with malfunctioning TPR valves may explode.

Inspecting the water heater or servicing any other part of it should be left to the professionals. Inline Plumbing & Electrical can help you!

How To Test The TPR And Replacement

Follow the manufacturer’s direction on the proper way to test the TPR valve. It should be done at least once every six months. The TPR valve needs to be replaced periodically depending upon the directions from the manufacturer. Many valves on the unit will have to be replaced once every two years.

How To Replace The TPR Valve

Again, any work that should be carried out on the hot water system needs to be done by a qualified technician or a plumber with license and qualifications. If your TPR valve needs substitution, call Inline Plumbing & Electrical to have it replaced.

Five Year Service

This service should also be conducted by a licensed professional. The team at Dux Service or its licensed agents are a great choice. If the total dissolved solids exceed 600 mg/L the recommended service is once every three years.

The following services should be performed:

• Replacement of the TPR valve;
• Replacement of both of the anodes;
• Inspection and flushing out of the control valve if there is one;
• Remove of debris and residue from the condensate gutter;
• Cleaning of the gutter;
• Cleaning of debris from the louvres and the evaporator;
• Cleaning of the grill and the fan blades;
• Complete drain and flush of the water heater.

For your inquiries about our hot water heating systems service and maintenance, call the professionals, Inline Plumbing & Electrical, with over 30 years experience 1300 465 463!

All Australian homes have a hot water heater unit providing a continual flow of hot water. The hot water tank is generally very durable and has an extended lifespan of around 10-15 years.

Regular hot water tank servicing is always recommended in an effort to get the full lifespan of a hot water unit but is often overlooked by most homeowners.

When the inevitable happens and your hot water cylinder needs a repair it is best to call in an experienced plumber and not try and undertake the repair yourself, especially if you lack any plumbing knowledge and experience.

 

Types of Hot Water Cylinders

There are a wide variety of hot water cylinders in homes across Sydney & Australia.

Each type of hot water system has its advantages and disadvantages.

Due to the different types, the cost of hot water cylinder repair fluctuates, as there are different hot water system designs. Because of this, the team at Inline Plumbing are always forthcoming with a firm estimate of costs which they will share with you either over the phone or in-person when fixing a hot water cylinder.

They never leave you in the dark about the fees and costs associated with fixing your particular hot water tank.

Common problems associated with a hot water unit include:-

• A drop in hot water pressure
• Lukewarm water
• Connection default where the heater is on but the water in the heated tank is not hot
• The tank can only hold hot water for a short period
• Water can get a chance by escaping through the opening holes at the bottom of the container
• Water leaking from the tank
• Complication where electric components are on, but the water in the tank is not heating up

It is advisable to have a professional and licensed Sydney hot water plumber carry out any hot water cylinder repairs.

 

Contact Inline Plumbing & Electrical now for an up-front price and have your specific problem resolved fast. Call 1300 465 463 today for your inquiries about hot water heating system units.

They possess the extensive knowledge and experience to properly provide a comprehensive plumbing service, consistently maintaining an exceptional standard of customer satisfaction, instantly giving you complete peace of mind at all times.

Whatever your specific requirements may be, they will be more than happy to carefully discuss your possible needs and offer a solution.