Tag: plumbing

The Problem With Outdoor Plumbing Blockages

Individual digging near an underground pipe, illustrating home plumbing maintenance by Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service.

Outdoor Plumbing Clogs 101

An underground plumbing clog can cause problems both inside and outside the home. Although the blockage may be inside the sewer line, outdoor plumbing clogs can cause toilets to overflow. This eventually reroutes dirty water into other parts of the home.

Homeowners May Have a Problem If…

Outdoor plumbing blockages are difficult to detect because they are near the yard. Fortunately, homeowners do not need to dig a trench just to determine if there is a problem. 

Bathroom and kitchen sinks will no longer drain properly if the sewer line is damaged. This is not an isolated issue. Backed-up sinks are likely to occur in multiple areas of the house simultaneously. Even though the clog only blocks one pipe, water that cannot flow freely will stream into different branches of the sewer system. This affects toilets, sinks, showers, and bathtubs. 

Unusual odors are another sign of clogging. Because underground plumbing includes sewage, this smell can permeate throughout the house. It is especially noticeable when faucets are first turned on and may also emanate from the floorboards. 

Nutrients from the sewer often cause sudden green patches in the yard. These nutrients create lush spots where plants grow faster and larger than in other lawn areas. If the ground is damp despite the lack of rain, this is likely due to a problem in the main line. A trained professional will have the right diagnostic tools and skillset to locate the blockage as well as eliminate it. 

How Does an Underground Plumbing Blockage Form?

clogOutdoor plumbing clogs can still occur even if a homeowner has never touched the outside drain. This is because the plumbing system is interconnected with indoor piping used daily. The same kind of clogs that end up in bathroom drains can also manifest underground.

Outdoor factors that influence the sewer system include tree roots and broken piping. Old piping that is not insulated may need to be replaced if pipes are beginning to crack. Putting this off can lead to a burst pipe which is much more expensive than maintenance. 

Tree roots are one of the most common issues with outdoor blockages. Aggressive roots will naturally gravitate toward the sewer system because of its nutrients. Roots will widen the gap if there is already a small break in the structure. Homeowners should know where their sewer line is located before planting trees so outdoor clogs can be avoided. 

To prevent outdoor plumbing issues, certain lifestyle habits can be improved. For instance, flushing feminine hygiene products or baby wipes should be avoided regardless of the brand. Pouring excessive grease down the kitchen sink is also not recommended unless the drains are cleaned regularly. It is possible to prevent underground plumbing clogs if homeowners keep their plumbing system well-maintained. 

How To Get Rid of Outdoor Clogs

clogClearing tough clogs requires a certain skill set. Because specialized tools are dangerous, homeowners should consider hiring a licensed technician. 

Drain snaking is a process designed to break down blockages. The auger is carefully lowered into the drain until the clog is located. By using a drill, electric drain snakes will destroy heavy clogs. 

Hydro jetting is often considered a more efficient way to get rid of clogs. This involves using highly pressurized water to blast away tough particles. Hydro jetting will eliminate cooking grease, unlike using a drain snake.

Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service

Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service has built an impeccable reputation since 1920. To learn more about their plumbing service, upfront pricing, and $25 off coupon, call Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service in Evansville, IN.

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Learn About Women Pioneers in the Plumbing Industry

Woman in blue overalls with a plunger and blueprint in a modern kitchen for Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service.

Women's History Month Celebrates Women in the Plumbing Industry

Women's history includes breakthrough careers that were once male-dominated. The plumbing industry is no exception. Over the past several decades, training programs have noticed an increase in women plumbers nationwide. 

Women Plumbers Today

plumbingApproximately 5% of all plumbers in America are women. While once considered a man's profession, women are interested in plumbing for several reasons. Plumbers can earn up to $103,000 per year with the right qualifications. With a specific skill set and strong motivation, women from all over the country have decided to join the trade as trained technicians.

Becoming a plumber does not mandate years of college tuition. It allows students to learn by enrolling in a vocational school or community college. Hands-on training is provided, and plumbers can rise through the ranks to earn a higher income. Many women today have chosen to start their businesses for more freedom and flexibility.

Unlike many other professions, plumbing provides job security. Women can now make the same amount of money as men while working in the industry.

What Was the Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers?

In 1858 an outbreak of hot weather caused untreated wastewater to infect a growing number of citizens. To combat disease many women chose to become plumbers as a way to combat disease and illness. The Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers championed women plumbers in addition to women's rights as a whole.

Originally the organization was formed for housewives of local plumbers. It was considered a social event where women could get to know each other. What started as a friendly social group eventually evolved into an activism group that supported women's right to vote and the Family and Medical Leave Act. 

In the 1930s, they played a hand in the importance of public sanitation. They were able to help create clean and safe bathrooms for public spaces such as gas stations, offices, and restaurants. The committee is part of a larger organization called the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors' National Auxiliary. 

The First Female Master Plumber

lillianLillian Ann Baumbach became the first master plumber in America. In 1950 she began her career unclogging new pipe systems, but soon she would find herself interviewed by Walter Cronkite. She discussed what the general career was like, as well as her experiences as a woman in the field. 

Known by some as the "Pretty Plumber," Lillian Baumbach was a pin-up model during the Korean War. She received dozens of fan letters after becoming a plumber at age 21 and had over 200 pen pals. 

Lillian Baumbach always knew she wanted to become a plumber. In part, this was due to her childhood. In the 1930's Mrs. Baumbach went on service calls with her father, who worked with piping systems at the time. She would later become her father's business's service manager and treasurer.  

The number of female plumbers has dramatically increased since the 1950s. According to the Institute of Women's Policy Research, there has been a 70% increase in women plumbers from 2018 to 2019. The numbers continue to rise. 

About Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service

Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service has provided 24/7 plumbing services in Evansville, IN since 1920. Their friendly and reliable staff will always take the time to explain the issue, offer personalized service, and only start a project after providing upfront pricing and estimates. From emergency plumbing service to routine care, homeowners can rely on Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service today.

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Three Plumbing Mistakes Homeowners Can Avoid This Year

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Avoid These Plumbing Mishaps in 2023 

YouTube. Social media. Google. What do all of these services have in common? They claim to offer fast and easy DIY plumbing fixes. However, there’s a reason why plumbers go through years of training. There’s no such thing as an “easy” plumbing fix. What’s more, issues that may initially seem small could quickly turn into significant problems. 

2022 is over. To start the new year right, homeowners should avoid these plumbing mistakes: 

Using Liquid Drain Cleaners to Remove Clogs 

clogsThe New York Times emphasizes the importance of abstaining from over-the-counter drain cleaners. Here’s what homeowners need to know: 

  • Drain cleaners contain corrosive chemicals that can break down pipes over time. Even drain cleaners that claim to be safe on the label can’t be trusted. 
  • Drain cleaners threaten human health. Drain cleaners can cause respiratory ailments if inhaled, especially when mixed with other chemicals. Drain cleaners can also cause nasty burns if they contact with the skin. 
  • Some drain cleaners don’t remove clogs. Instead, they congeal around the obstruction and make the problem even worse. At that point, only a professional can address the problem. 

Plumbers don’t rely on drain cleaners when it comes to serious clogs. Instead, they rely on drain snakes and other tools to get the job done. They can also rely on their years of experience to quickly identify and address problems. 

Forgetting to Schedule a Water Heater Maintenance Visit 

maintenanceThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stresses the importance of yearly plumbing maintenance visits. A professional examining the plumbing system once a year offers an extra layer of protection against certain problems. When a plumber comes to examine the plumbing system, they can: 

  • Evaluate the water heater for any problems 
  • Remove any clogs or obstructions 
  • Clean the drain 
  • Address any mold or mildew 
  • Remove any corrosion 

A plumber can also explain what measures can prevent certain problems. For instance, they may advise getting a drain mesh screen. This small purchase can prevent food residue and debris from going down the drain and causing problems. They may also suggest replacing outdated appliances. 

Attempting Do-It-Yourself Repairs 

As noted, there’s no such thing as an easy plumbing fix. No matter how small, every issue could benefit from a professional’s opinion. By attempting DIY repairs, a homeowner risks: 

  • Causing further damage. Without proper training, a homeowner may not know how to operate certain tools or recognize certain hazards. They risk damaging their home’s foundation or causing serious complications. 
  • Spending more money than expected. When a plumber comes to a job site, they have all the tools necessary to render certain repairs. When homeowners attempt to fix a problem, they might have to spend hundreds of dollars on one tool. 
  • Wasting time. An experienced plumber can “get in and get out” when they have a task. A homeowner who watched a two-minute clip online could spend hours on an issue, only to learn they don’t have the right skill set. 

About Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service 

Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service is a proud Better Business Bureau (BBB) member. They offer discounted rates and same-day plumbing service. They stand by their motto: “You approve the job before we do the work!” Call today for more information on teaming up with a plumber.

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Everything You Need To Know About Detecting Hidden Water Leaks

Individual in blue work attire using an adjustable wrench from a toolbox for plumbing repair near water on the floor.

Watch Out for These Three Signs of a Hidden Water Leak!

Leaks are one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face - and they can also be one of the most damaging to the home. But they aren't always as easy to spot as a dripping faucet or a geyser coming out of the front lawn. In some cases, a leaking water pipe can go weeks, months, or even years without being detected. And in the meantime, all that leaking water could be costing the homeowners a fortune and causing all sorts of problems, from mold growth to wood rot to foundation damage. So in this article, homeowners will find all they need to know to spot signs of a hidden leak!

water

The Sound of Running Water

The first to keep an eye out for - or rather, an ear - is the sound of running water coming from the walls, floors, or ceiling. This is normal when a fixture is used somewhere in the house, be it a shower, sink, washing machine, or anything else. But if no person or appliance is using water, that hissing or rushing sound may be water escaping through a broken water line, loose pipe fitting, or even a pinhole leak.

During a quiet part of the day, homeowners can make sure no appliances or fixtures use water, including outdoor hose bibs and irrigation systems, then listen carefully for that telltale sound. If a running water sound only appears periodically, it could also be a leaky toilet whose tank keeps refilling as water slowly drains out. However, if the sound is continuous, it may be time to call a plumber for water line leak repair.

Soggy Spots In the Yardyard

Another possible sign of a leaking water line is if a certain spot in the yard is perpetually soggy, muddy, or swampy. This is often due to an underground pipe leak releasing a constant water flow, saturating the surrounding area. This can be caused by several things, including tree roots, shifting soil, corrosion, or aging pipes.

This could also manifest as a patch of grass that tends to grow thicker, greener, or more rapidly than the grass in other parts of the yard. A particularly swampy or flooded patch likely indicates a serious leak that could be wasting hundreds of gallons per week, so it's best to address this as quickly as possible.

High Water Bills and Low Water Pressure

Other markers of a hidden leak are if the home's water pressure seems lower than before and if the monthly water bill is higher than usual. These symptoms often go hand in hand. Since a home's water lines are pressurized to deliver water quickly, even a slow leak can detract from the normal pressure as water escapes. And as all that water spills out, the water meter will continue to turn, driving up utility costs. 

Depending on the leak's location, a reduction in water pressure could affect the entire home or only certain rooms and fixtures. Several other factors could also cause this, but if a suspiciously high water bill accompanies it, a hidden leak is the likely culprit. A simple way to test this is to take note of the number on the home's water meter dial, wait an hour or two (making sure no water is used for any reason), and check the number again. If it has changed, it's a sure bet there's a leak!

About Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service

The award-winning Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service has been proudly serving the Evansville community since 1920. They offer up-front pricing, budget-friendly solutions, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every call. Their clean, courteous, licensed, and insured experts are available 24/7 for emergency service, so don't hesitate to call Bud's for water leak repair in Evansville, IN!

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3 Plumbing Mistakes for Homeowners to Avoid

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Make a Resolution to Avoid These Common Plumbing Mistakes

Maintaining household plumbing shouldn’t have to be mysterious or something left to chance because owning a home makes a huge investment in the family’s future. Plumbing that is well maintained will be durable and provide years of lasting impact, whereas plumbing that isn’t maintained well can become a horrible nightmare.

Mistake #1: Using Liquid Drain Cleanersliquid drain

Liquid drain cleaners contain caustic chemicals that can eat through plumbing without getting rid of the clog. Hydrochloric acid is one of the main ingredients in most household drain cleaners and can eat through the finish on the interior of the pipes, which can lead to leaks or even bursts later on. 

Clogs are caused by hair, grease, debris, and soap scum building up on the inside of the pipe and reducing water flow until water no longer can drain beyond that obstruction. Drain cleaning by a professional is both cost-effective and time-efficient because the job generally doesn’t take long and provides peace of mind knowing it was done right the first time. 

Mistake #2: Not Keeping Up With Maintenance

Water heaters are often the most neglected aspect of a home besides maybe the kitchen drain. As long as hot water runs freely, no one looks at the water heater. This is a huge mistake because rust can eat away at the tank or the valves, resulting in tank leaks, pipe leaks, or high-pressure issues that may force the unit to dislodge from its housing. 

Water heater maintenance includes annual drains of the tank to remove any sediment that has built up over the previous year and inspecting the tank and piping for leaks or rust. If pipes aren’t insulated properly, a professional will take the time to insulate properly during annual maintenance and check the temperature settings on the unit to ensure it is the correct temperature to meet the family’s needs. 

plumberMistake #3: Not Hiring a Professional Plumber

Hiring a professional in an area that they excel at is always a great idea because they intimately know the system they are working on and have years of experience behind their prowess. This allows the job to be completed the first time properly in less time than if inexperienced hands take on the project and with a lot less frustration than trying to DIY a major plumbing job. Drain maintenance or repair and plumbing installations are projects that plumbing companies specialize in and complete daily. 

Plumbing trucks are outfitted with every tool needed and every part necessary. Plumbers can get special pricing on bulk orders of plumbing supplies which they can then pass the savings on to customers. When a plumbing company completes a job, parts are warrantied, and the labor is guaranteed, or the company will come out again and fix it. Hiring a professional gives less stress to the family, and who couldn’t use less stress?

About Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service

Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service, located in Evansville, IN, offers customers upfront pricing and gets approval for the job upfront before starting any job after providing accurate diagnosis to all plumbing problems. After receiving quotes from other area plumbing companies, customers who need honest second opinions are welcome to call for free estimates!  Call now for plumbing service.

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