One of the surest ways to prevent a plumbing nightmare in the home is to check for leaks

Plumbing systems are prone to issues that arise at the most inconvenient times, whether a minor issue, like a running toilet, or something extreme, like a pipe burst. Luckily, emergency plumbing services can quickly resolve the issue, but this usually comes at a steep price. To avoid these issues, homeowners must perform regular maintenance to keep their plumbing systems in top shape. Consider the following maintenance steps to avoid expensive, catastrophic problems.

Check for leaks

One of the surest ways to prevent a plumbing nightmare in the home is to check for leaks. Remember that it’s not only the faucet that could leak—the toilet, showers, and pipes could all present the same problem. Checking for leaks takes just a few minutes and a careful eye—some of the most severe leaks start as just a few small drops. Leaks only become more severe and expensive to repair with time, so call for professional assistance as soon as one is detected.

Be mindful with flushing

One of the many misconceptions about toilets is that anything can be flushed down them, but this mindset asks for problems. To keep a toilet from breaking down, ensure that only toilet paper is flushed. Paper towels, tissues, feminine hygiene products, and baby wipes are all commonly flushed down toilets and end up causing major blockages.

Dispose of grease and oils

Never pour anything but wastewater down the drain, as other items can clog the drains. Grease, for example, is one of the common causes of clogs. Oils and grease could stick to the inside walls of the drain pipes, forming a lining that grows thicker and eventually blocks the pipes. Grease can be challenging to remove and requires the help of a plumbing contractor. Instead, grease should be left cool and thrown away in the garbage.

Avoid harsh chemicals

Some chemicals are advertised to dissolve pipe clogs instantly. However, in reality, these chemicals are often more complex. Harsh chemicals can damage pipes and cause even more problems. Instead, call a professional plumbing service to attend to stubborn clogs. There’s no instant fix for these clogs; the most effective solution is expert care.

Drain the water heater tank annually

The water tank may already have some sediments inside from the minerals carried in by the water. Draining the water heater tank at least once a year prevents problems that would otherwise be costly. Call a professional plumbing service with any doubts, as they can quickly and efficiently perform this task.

The surest way to avoid sudden, expensive plumbing issues is through prevention. Regular maintenance may pose an upfront cost, but this cost is much cheaper than repairing damage from a sudden plumbing emergency. If issues arise, contact a local plumbing expert at the first sign, as most emergencies start as minor problems.

Royalty Plumbing offers high-quality residential plumbing services in the areas of Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Summerlin.

Routine plumbing maintenance is often less expensive than a plumbing failure that requires emergency repairs. Plumbing maintenance is one of those things that homeowners overlook. The plumbing system in most homes lasts for decades without experiencing problems except for the most commonly used items like showers and faucets. However, in general, a homeowner will encounter plumbing problems. It’s good to always call a plumber for routine plumbing maintenance. Preventive measures will go a long way to prevent emergency plumbing repairs.

Preventive plumbing maintenance by Royalty Plumbing can save homeowners money

Maintenance is less expensive: Routine plumbing maintenance is often less expensive than a plumbing failure that requires emergency repairs. In addition to the hassle of contacting the plumber and the needed clean-up, emergency plumbing is more expensive. Hiring Royalty Plumbing to inspect the drains, faucets, and toilets regularly takes little time and can identify minor problems before they become a significant inconvenience.

Little need for repairs: Homeowners will experience plumbing problems regardless of their home’s age, although newer homes may be less prone to plumbing failures than older homes. Preventative plumbing maintenance will minimize the risk of plumbing failures and emergencies.

Peace of mind: Plumbing failures can ruin a homeowner’s day, be costly to resolve, and require extensive clean-up. The residents may find themselves displaced for several days or months. Preventative maintenance like drain and sewer line cleaning, water heater cleaning, and water pressure testing can put the homeowner at ease, knowing they have done what they can to prevent a plumbing emergency.

Why hire a professional plumber like Royalty Plumbing?

While a handyman can do some plumbing work, it’s not always guaranteed that they can identify or fix the problem. On the other hand, hiring a plumber ensures that the plumbing problem is fully covered. Professional plumbers like Royalty Plumbing have the training, experience, equipment, and licenses to back it up. When hiring a plumber, they quickly contain the problem. And in a plumbing emergency, homeowners need someone well-versed in household plumbing who can make repairs as quickly as possible.

Signs of Water Line Issues

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Although water lines consist of durable material and are buried underground to keep them safe, they occasionally develop issues. This is understandable because they handle stressors such as pressure, root infiltration, ground shifting, and temperature swings. As such, homeowners should regularly inspect water lines to identify issues that could cut off the water supply in the house should they escalate.

Here are some potential signs that a water line has issues:

Unusual noise from the plumbing system

A plumbing system should operate silently. When it starts producing unusual sounds, it’s a sign of an underlying issue. If there are loose or improperly installed pipes, the system makes humming or buzzing sounds. When there are cracks that are letting air in, the system will make bubbling or gurgling noises. Also, dripping sounds in areas without drains indicate that the water line needs a plumber’s attention.

Wet spots along the water line

When cracks and holes develop on pipes outside and the leakage goes unnoticed for some time, the water leaking will impact the vegetation growing around the area. Homeowners will notice portions that are greener than others. If the leakage is significant, puddles will appear around the affected area even if there’s no rain.

When the leakage occurs in pipes within the house, one might see water marks on otherwise dry walls. Without ventilation, mold and bacteria will grow and produce a foul odor.

Clouded or dirty water

It’s normal for water systems to flush some dirty water, especially when the water utilities have done routine maintenance to remove built-up sediments. However, when the taps consistently produce dirty water, it’s a sign there’s an issue in the water line.

One possible cause of dirty water is corroded pipes. The rust particles get into the water, giving it a brownish color and a metallic odor. Also, dirty water from the taps can arise from a rupture in the water line, causing soil and debris to enter the pipes.

Unexplained spikes in water bills

Most household water bills are predictable because they fall within a specific range depending on usage. Major fluctuations from the typical range can signal the water line is malfunctioning. The main issue that can cause water bills to spike is leakages. Even small, continuous leakages accumulate into significant volumes of water over time. It’s important to note that an increase in water bills can also originate from a faulty meter.

Extended low pressure

During peak water usage time, it’s normal for pressure to decrease due to increased demand. However, the water line could be problematic if the pressure remains consistently low. Low pressure can indicate a malfunctioning valve that regulates water flow and distribution. Also, clogs resulting from debris and sediment accumulation can cause low pressure throughout the system.

Repair the water line

When any of the above issues are noticeable in a water line, a homeowner should contact a professional plumber for repair. Trying to repair using a DIY approach can escalate the issue as homeowners might not have the necessary tools and skills.

Royalty Plumbing offers high-quality residential plumbing services in the areas of Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Summerlin.

It’s never a good sign when a toilet wobbles around when someone sits on it. Not only is this uncomfortable, but it can also be a sign of a serious problem. Wobbly toilets could cause leaks, water damage, and more if not repaired quickly.

Here are some of the common causes behind wobbly toilets:

A loose seat

Sometimes, it’s only the toilet seat that’s loose rather than the bowl itself. This is a common issue, and it’s relatively easy to identify. The seat may swivel around or won’t look completely straight, possibly jutting out over one side of the bowl.

Loose toilet seats commonly arise from simple wear and tear. Over time, the hinges loosen, and the fasteners don’t hold the seat as tightly as before. The seat may need adjusting or could require total replacement. An expert plumber will diagnose the issue and make the right call.

Broken toilet bolts

Unfortunately, in some cases, the entire body of the toilet feels loose, rather than just the seat. This is a more severe issue requiring professional attention. It often arises from damage to the bolts holding the toilet base.

The bolts are strong and long-lasting by design, but they won’t last forever. They can rust, corrode, or loosen as the years pass. They will usually need to be replaced entirely or require a little tightening to secure the toilet bowl back in position.

Damage to the floor

In some cases, a wobbly toilet may not indicate a problem with the toilet itself but the flooring underneath. Toilets need strong and stable foundations to hold them in place, but the structure may wobble if the flooring is weakened.

This is most common for toilets on a property’s second or third floors. There might be some damage beneath the bowl that needs fixing. This could arise from simple wear and tear or a leak in the pipes below the floor.

Flange and ring problems

Issues with key components like the toilet flange or wax ring can also cause unsteady toilets. The flange is the pipe fitting below the bowl, linking the toilet with the drainage pipe. Meanwhile, the wax ring is a waxy seal surrounding the flange to prevent leaks.

Flanges can break or suffer damage that might make the toilet wobble. Wax rings may also wear down over time, leaving little gaps between the toilet base and the flange. In either case, these issues need professional attention and repair.

Call in the pros to tackle wobbling toilets

Wobbly toilets are uncomfortable and have many possible causes. Fortunately, plumbing professionals can inspect the toilet, figure out what’s wrong, and take the necessary steps to make it stable again.

Royalty Plumbing offers high-quality residential plumbing services in the areas of Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Summerlin.

High water pressure has its benefits. However, when it’s too high, it can damage appliances, fixtures, and plumbing systems. The home structure can also be affected should pipes start leaking.

Here are some reasons for a home to have high water pressure:

High supply pressure

Municipal water systems supply water under high pressure in areas with many hills, fire hydrants, and tall buildings. This is intentional to ensure that all areas receive water.

Low location

Those who live on low-lying ground may have high water pressure too. This can be associated with the gravity increase as the water gets close to the home.

Temperature changes

When temperatures in the plumbing system increase, the water expands. This leads to an increase in the pressure. The same expansion happens when water heaters are used, especially if the pressure relief valve or expansion tanks are defective.

Faulty regulators

Water pressure regulators can be installed in high-pressure areas. If the regulators are defective, the problem will remain unresolved. Water pressure regulators can last 7 to 10 years before needing replacement. It’s important to have them maintained from time to time.

How to tell whether the water pressure is too high

There are scientific methods to ascertain whether the pressure is too high. However, some typical signs can tell homeowners they are dealing with a high water pressure issue:

High water bills

If the water bills increase significantly, it could mean high water pressure.

Clanging pipes

When water is under high pressure and moving through the plumbing, it can’t move evenly due to limited space. It tends to bounce off in the sides of the pipes and back, causing shuddering, banging, or rattling of the pipes.

Loud appliances

If dishwashers and washing machines create a lot of noise, it indicates the water pressure is too high. It’s noisy as the appliances regulate the water flowing through the hoses.

Inadequate hot water

If the hot water in the home runs out quickly, it means the water is moving through the showerheads or faucets faster than it should.

Dealing with high water pressure

High water pressure in a home can be detrimental if left unchecked. The first step is to identify that there is indeed a high water pressure issue in the home. Remedying this issue involves installing water pressure regulators.

Call in the experts

The professionals can diagnose a water pressure issue and correctly install a regulator. Professional plumbers can also offer regular maintenance services to avoid a repeat of the problem. They can also check and replace defective water heaters and pressure regulators.

Royalty Plumbing offers high-quality residential plumbing services in the areas of Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Summerlin.

Homeowners often wait until an emergency occurs before looking for a plumber. However, preventative maintenance can help avoid plumbing emergencies. Just like preferring to drive a regularly serviced vehicle, it’s important to give a plumbing system routine maintenance to avoid malfunctions. Neglecting plumbing leads to most emergency calls, but regular care and maintenance can significantly reduce the risk of facing plumbing emergencies

Burst pipes

Burst pipes are among the most common causes of emergency calls to plumbers. When water freezes within a pipe, it begins to expand and in some cases the pipe will burst. If a homeowner notices a frozen pipe that has not yet burst, it may be possible to avoid an issue by gently thawing the pipe with a low heat source to allow a gradual thaw. A low heat source is important as using too much heat may cause thermal expansion, which can split the pipe.

If the pipe has already burst, the water supply to the home must be shut off, and the system must be drained by turning on all the cold water faucets. To minimize the damage caused by the water, act quickly in shutting off the water supply. A homeowner will need a plumber to repair the burst pipe.

The risk of burst pipes can be minimized by ensuring that all pipes are insulated and protected from extreme cold. Any external pipes should be lagged properly to prevent problems.

Blocked or clogged drains

Clogs are common in drains, especially in the kitchen. Using a plunger or drain snake may dislodge the obstruction and restore water flow. However, some basic precautions can reduce the risk of clogs developing. To prevent clogs, install hair traps in bathroom drains and make sure kitchen drains are clear by avoiding food debris and grease going down.

Food and grease can form a solid obstruction blocking the drain. Remove all food from dishes into the trash before placing them in the sink, and never pour oil or grease down a sink drain. If the drain clog cannot be removed and water flow cannot be restored, a homeowner must call a professional for assistance.

Gas leaks

Gas leaks can be extremely hazardous. Repairing gas leaks should not be attempted by a homeowner. If a gas smell is detected in a home, a professional should be called immediately. Leaving the home and waiting for the utility company or plumber outside is advisable. Do not switch any appliances on or off or attempt to use a flame, as that can cause a risk for a potential explosion.

However, many gas leaks can be avoided with routine maintenance. All gas appliances should be serviced at least once a year. A technician or plumber will check the seals and valves to ensure there are no leaks in the system. Any worn components can be replaced before they compromise the system and allow a leak.

Emergencies can occur at any time. However, taking care of essential maintenance and care can reduce these risks. Contact a local plumber for repairs and preventative maintenance.

Royalty Plumbing offers high-quality residential plumbing services in the areas of Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Summerlin.

Water heaters are a common source of plumbing issues because, whether traditional gas or electric, they are just giant tanks filled with water! One of the first signs of trouble with a water heater can be a noise, specifically popping, banging, and creaking noises. What do they mean, and should a homeowner worry?

Here’s what to know about the noises a hot water tank is making.

Popping Noises

Plumbers report that the most frequent hot water tank noise can be described as a “popping” or “rumbling.” It’s noticeable because it’s often loud and definitely registers with most people as unusual.

What it means: These noises mean the water heater is succumbing to sediment build-up at the bottom of the tank. Sediment—or scale—build-up can wreak havoc on the tank over time, dropping its efficiency and even causing it to spring a leak which probably necessitates a replacement.

What to do: Contact a professional plumber for help draining and flushing the hot water tank. It’s a relatively straightforward process and doesn’t usually require many special tools, but it can be tricky, mainly if the water heater is hard to reach.

Humming Noises

Some noise from a hot water tank is normal, like humming. As long as it’s not very loud or sudden, a humming noise isn’t usually anything to worry about long-term.

What it means: Water flowing around the heating element inside the tank is causing vibrations, releasing a humming sound from the tank.

What to do: Tighten the heating element slightly (don’t overtighten!) to prevent vibrations, or have a plumbing professional do it.

Knocking Noises

Are knocking noises coming from the water heater or the walls in and around the heater? If the sound is in the walls, it’s likely the sound of pipes banging against each other inside the walls as water moves through them.

What it means: Water has been abruptly arrested from coming or going to the tank, causing a jerking motion in the plumbing pipes situated within the walls. Over time, the motion can cause damage to the studs or even sheetrock, as well as the plumbing elements.

What to do: Have a plumber perform some tests to determine which pipes are creating the knocking. From there, a licensed plumber can install a water hammer arrestor to better regulate the flow of water in and out of the heater.

When in doubt, homeowners should contact a professional plumber to inspect their water heater. Should there be a problem, the plumber can suggest appropriate repairs or advise on the best replacement option.

Royalty Plumbing offers high-quality residential plumbing services in the areas of Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Summerlin.

A typical plumbing issue that people often ignore is a leaking faucet. A leaky faucet can be a constant source of annoyance and frustration. Instead of tolerating this inconvenience, hiring a professionally licensed plumber for assistance is the best course of action.

Leaky faucet facts

According to the EPA, plumbing leaks in the average home can cause a property to waste up to 10,000 gallons of water annually. Most leaks are easily fixable with professional help. A single leaky faucet that drips once per second can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water in a year. That’s about the amount of water used for 81 loads of laundry, 180 showers, or 360 dishwasher cycles. Leaky faucets waste more water than one might think. It’s essential to have them fixed to avoid unnecessary water wastage.

Why is a faucet leaking

Over time, all plumbing fixtures experience wear and tear. This is especially true of faucets due to their frequent daily usage. Loose parts, worn-out seals, or leaking pipes often cause leaky faucets. Plumbers can diagnose a faucet to identify the issue causing the leak.

Repairing leaky faucets saves money

Plumbers can quickly and easily repair leaky faucets. Their faucet repair services are highly cost-effective, especially considering the potential long-term savings from reduced monthly water bills. This reason alone ensures complete satisfaction from their services.

Dealing with a leaking faucet and its repetitive drip can be very frustrating. The constant dripping serves as a reminder to keep a plumbing system in good shape. But don’t worry; a simple phone call can quickly fix this annoyance. Hiring a professional plumber to repair a faucet will let a homeowner enjoy their home more without the pesky leak.

Royalty Plumbing offers high-quality residential plumbing services in the areas of Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Summerlin.