In most cases, a plunger – whether it be a regular-sized plunger (for toilets) or smaller-sized plunger (for sinks) can resolve any drain clog problem you have. There are cases, however, where the plunger just isn’t enough.

This is when a plumber’s snake becomes the tool of choice. Also known as either a toilet jack or an auger – or even an electric eel – plumber’s snakes remove clogs that are too difficult for plungers to handle. They consist of a coiled metal reel that is attached to a rotating crank, which works in a corkscrew motion to break down particles and grit that can cause a clog.

The most common plumber’s snakes are operated by hand (cranking), but some are motor-operated. The more high-tech plumber’s snakes come with a small camera to help a plumbing professional diagnose a problem. Plumber’s snakes come in all sizes (length and width) and operate with the goal of breaking down excess material that can slow down water flow in your pipes.

If a plunger isn’t doing its job, try using a plumber’s snake. Our Charlotte NC plumbing professionals are experts with plumber’s snakes and can offer quality residential and commercial service to you at an affordable rate. Call our Charlotte plumbing company today, or visit us online for more information.

With gas prices currently skyrocketing, many area residents are trying to find new ways of saving money. They’re using fans rather than turning on the air conditioner. They’re keeping lights off and vampire appliances unplugged.

In dealing with water conservation, one method that may help in saving money is using greywater in a recycling effort. Greywater is the wastewater generated from bathing, washing clothes, washing dishes, etc., that can be reused for projects such as irrigation. Greywater can compose as much as 80 percent of wastewater generated from home sanitation equipment associated with a residential property.

Greywater usage can be used for toilets as well as underground irrigation systems. Greywater usage can offer a 30-percent reduction in water usage, which can save you money on your utility bill. Greywater is an excellent option, however, only if your state allows its use. Some states have not adopted the Uniform Plumbing Code, which prohibits greywater use indoors. The code simply governs the installation and inspection of plumbing systems as a means of promoting the public’s health and safety.

Greywater is an environmentally safe answer to saving money during these times of other products increasing in price. Let our Charlotte plumbing company provide you with more details on greywater, as well as water line and pipework information. Give us a call today, or visit us online.

“Muddy water” coming from your faucet is probably the last thing you want to see when you’re thirsty. It probably isn’t something you want to see when you’re ready to take a shower, as well.

The colored water – whether it is brown, red or a combination of both – is rust, and the color actually stems from tap water mixing with various chemical oxidations of rust. Water discoloration can be a common issue in the average home, but it is not harmful to the body.

If discoloration is caused by rusty pipes, a pipe replacement may be in order. This, however, may be a last resort, as the problem may be resolved with some basic do-it-yourself tips. First, turn off the faucet distributing the muddy water. Then, go to your main faucet, and run water in a clear container to where you can examine the water.

If your water in the container is clear, you may be looking at an issue with your pipes. If your water in the container is muddy, this could be a problem for your local water department. This may be an inconvenience while they shut off the water valves in the neighborhood, but it also may be good for your finances, as you won’t have to pay for an outrageous plumbing bill.

Before jumping to conclusions about water discoloration, check with your neighbors first. If they’re having similar issues, this may be an assignment for the water department. If the problem is isolated, our Charlotte NC plumbers are available to help you with all of your plumbing needs. Call our Charlotte plumbing company today, or call us online for details.

Let’s be honest with ourselves: Plumbing appliances and fixtures will wear down around the house.

Plumbing repairs can make a homeowner moan and groan, but regular maintenance will keep your fixtures and pipes in excellent standing, which in turn can help in keeping the resale value of your home above market price. Your home is an investment and should be treated as such, and all investments deserve proper maintenance.

It’s a good idea to have a professional plumber inspect your home for potentially hazardous problems before they become major, high-dollar repairs. There are several common problems that every home, old or new, seems to have. Be on the lookout for the following mishaps:

Clogs: A clogged toilet can be fixed with a plunger or a plumber’s snake. A clogged drain can be fixed with liquid drain cleaner (Drano, for example). If these don’t work, there could be something severe that will need the service of a licensed plumber.

Gas leaks: These can be extremely dangerous. If you smell gas, leave the facility immediately, and then call an emergency plumber. Gas leaks, in addition to being harmful, also can be detrimental to your neighbors and your surroundings.

Bad pipes: If a pipe cracks or bursts, make sure you find the main water valve and shut your water off. The last thing you want is to have a broken pipe and water flooding.

Frozen pipes: This may be a two-month or three-month ordeal, depending on the climate, but winter temperatures can make life miserable if a pipe bursts because of freezing. To avoid frozen pipes, let your faucets drip a small stream of water to maintain the flow.

Make sure you and your family members are ready for these common plumbing mishaps. You never know when they can happen, but it’s always good to be prepared for them. Feel free to contact our expert Charlotte NC plumbers for additional information. Call us today, or contact us online.

When discussing piping in water systems, many do-it-yourselfers are suggested to use polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) piping. While that’s a reliable option, others much rather choose to depend on copper piping.

The best option? It’s your call. All three have their advantages and benefits. It all just depends on you.

PVC pipes are very hard to damage, fairly close to indestructible, in fact. PVC pipes are made from a plastic-vinyl conglomerate, so rusting is nonexistent. PVC pipes are used in a lot of earthquake areas, so you know they will be dependable.

A lot of professionals will say PVCs are generally used for cold-water lines. CPVC pipes can be used for both hot and cold lines, a true advantage if you choose to go that route. CPVC pipes are more environmentally friendly than PVCs and have been known to withstand pressure ratings of 180 degrees.

Copper piping may be considered old-school, but it still is a winner to many professionals. Because of its durability and resistance to weather, copper piping offers a warranty that can last a lifetime, assuming installation is done correctly. Copper piping may be a little more expensive, but in the long run, it could be the more realistic choice. Some professions feel copper piping may add to a home’s resale value, which is never a bad thing.

If you have additional questions about selecting a water system pipe, contact our professionals at our Charlotte NC plumbing company.