[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":38},["ShallowReactive",2],{"$ftC26WUCPft66h4SmUHkhQFjDyzyIPeadFdnFCXqt99I":3},{"post":4,"relatedPosts":14},{"category":5,"date":6,"html":7,"image":8,"readingMinutes":9,"slug":10,"sourceUrl":11,"summary":12,"title":13},"Plumbing","2020-08-05","\u003Cp>A garbage disposal is a great tool for any kitchen. It can help you cut down on your food waste and make it easier to clean up after cooking. But, like all machines, garbage disposals have their problems.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If you have a garbage disposal, you’ve probably experienced the pain of a backed-up sink. If you’re in that situation right now, don’t worry—you’re not alone. As many as 80% of all households in Santa Fe have experienced this problem at some point or another.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>But why does it happen? And what can you do about it? \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>In this article, the best \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fservices\u002Fgarbage-disposal-installation\">garbage disposal experts in Santa Fe, NM\u003C\u002Fa>, will help learn more about the causes of garbage disposal backing up into other sinks and solutions for backing up garbage disposals.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Why does your garbage disposal backing up?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Garbage disposals are one of the most useful appliances in the kitchen. They take the hassle out of food prep by grinding up food scraps into tiny pieces—no need to use a chisel and hammer!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Garbage disposals are so convenient but can also be a nightmare if they aren’t maintained properly. If your garbage disposal is backing up, it’s probably because of one of several things.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Here’s what you need to know about garbage disposal backing up into dishwasher or sink:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Clogging\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Clogs can happen anywhere in your garbage disposal system. One of the most common places to get clogged is at the bottom of your sink drain, where it meets the garbage disposal drain. Hair and debris can get stuck in this area and cause a blockage if not cleaned regularly. The second most common place for clogs is at the bottom of your garbage disposal unit behind the blades. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Grease and Fat Buildup\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Grease and fat buildup can occur when people use their garbage disposal for purposes other than disposing of food scraps. For example, if you use your garbage disposal to grind up chicken bones or egg shells, these items will not dissolve in water like other food scraps. Instead, they will accumulate on the sides of your garbage disposal’s chamber wall, where they can cause more damage over time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Foreign Objects\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Garbage disposals are meant to grind up food and other organic material, but if you dump something that’s not supposed to go into the disposal, it can get jammed. This is especially true if you put in something pointy or hard.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Faulty Garbage Disposals\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Faulty garbage disposals can happen for a variety of reasons, including an out-of-date model or insufficient maintenance. If you have an older model or if you don’t clean and maintain it regularly, it could start to malfunction or break down over time. This can lead to a backed-up drain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Plumbing Issues\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If your dishwasher backing up into garbage disposal sink and you notice that the water is not flowing freely into it, there could be a plumbing issue. Check the walls and floor around the drain to see if there’s any damage or missing parts. If you find damage, call a plumber to come look at it!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Lack of Water Flow\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If there isn’t enough water flowing through the pipes for the garbage disposal to operate properly, then it might back up on itself and cause problems with its operation. This can be caused by something as simple as a plugged sink or shower head (easily fixed) or something more serious like a cracked pipe underground (which requires professional service for \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fservices\u002Fgarbage-disposal-installation\">garbage disposal repair Santa Fe\u003C\u002Fa>).\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Improper Installation \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If your plumber has not done proper Santa Fe garbage disposal installation, this can lead to leaks and other issues. In order to ensure that your disposal is installed correctly, make sure that the drain hole is not obstructed by food or other debris.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Tools and Material You’ll Need to fix the garbage disposal not working issue\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>If you have an issue with your garbage disposal, it’s usually pretty easy to fix. You just need to know which tools and materials you’ll need. Here are the tools you will need:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Screwdriver (Phillips and Flathead).\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Allen wrench (usually provided with disposal).\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Pliers or tongs.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Plunger.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Drain snake or auger.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Baking soda.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Vinegar.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Ice cubes.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Rock salt.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Flashlight.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Safety gloves.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Bucket or container.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Dish soap.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>An old toothbrush or scrub brush.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Clean cloth or rag.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Ch2>What to Do with Backing Up Garbage Disposals?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>The garbage disposal is an important part of your kitchen and plumbing system. When it works, you can use it to grind up food scraps and other debris so that they’re easier to flush down the drain. But when this appliance starts backing up and causing problems, you need to know how to fix the backing-up garbage disposal so you can get back to using it for its intended purpose.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Fortunately, there are some easy steps you can take to get your garbage disposal working again:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Turn off the Garbage Disposal\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Look for an on\u002Foff switch on the disposal. If there isn’t one, unplug the electrical cord from the wall socket.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Disconnect the Power\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Turn off any power switches that may be connected to your garbage disposal (for example, if it’s connected to a dishwasher), and pull out any fuses or circuit breakers that control that circuit.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Identify the Cause\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Your next step is to identify the cause of your clog. There are a few common causes, but it’s important to know which one applies to you to ensure you’re fixing it correctly!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>A foreign object (like food) might have fallen into the disposal and gotten stuck in the blades. If this is the case, turn off the power to the disposal and remove any objects from inside with tongs or pliers.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>You may have accidentally poured grease down your drain, which has congealed into a hard mass that cannot be flushed through easily. If this happens, turn off the power to your disposal and use hot water to clean out your drain before turning it back on again.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Worn-out parts can cause a clog by not allowing water or food waste through quickly enough during use; these should be replaced as soon as possible so they don’t cause further problems down the line!\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Ch3>Use a Flashlight\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>You can use a flashlight to see inside your sink drain and where the problem is located. If you’re using a flashlight, be sure that it has an LED light so as not to damage your eyesight or cause any other long-term issues!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Attempt to Clear the Blockage\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If you can reach the blockage and it is safe to do so, you can try to clear it manually. Use long-handled tongs or pliers to carefully remove any visible debris or foreign objects from the disposal. Always make sure the power is disconnected before attempting this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Use an Allen Wrench\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If you have an Allen wrench (the kind used for adjusting bicycle pedals), use it to remove the plate covering the hole in the bottom of your disposal. Many garbage disposals have a manual crank access point at the bottom. Insert an Allen wrench into this opening and manually turn the disposal back and forth a few times to see if it helps dislodge the clog. If you don’t have an Allen wrench, you can buy one at any hardware store and use it instead of a regular screwdriver.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Plunge the Drain\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>The next step is to plunge the drain, allowing you to clear any blockages in the pipe leading from your sink to the main line. To do this, turn off the power to your garbage disposal and open up your faucet. Use a plunger on top of the drain, pushing down and moving back and forth until water starts flowing freely through the pipes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Use a Drain Snake\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Another step is using a drain snake, which will help clear out any other obstructions in your plumbing system while also removing any food particles that may have gotten stuck in them. To use one, simply attach it to an extension cord and push it into the opening of your pipe until you feel resistance, then pull back slowly until all of those obstructions are gone!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Check the Dishwasher Connection\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Another thing to do when your garbage disposal backs up is to check the connection of a dishwasher. Make sure that no food has gotten stuck in the hose and clogged it. If this is the problem, you can use a pair of pliers to pull out any pieces that are stuck inside.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If you’re not sure how to check this connection, follow these steps:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Locate the drain hose coming from your dishwasher.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Look for an elbow connector where it meets up with the garbage disposal unit. This should be right beneath the sink and above the drain hole in your sink, usually on one side of your pipes.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Find where this elbow connector meets up with your garbage disposal unit, then twist it off so you can get access inside.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Ch3>Reset the garbage disposal. \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>The last and most common reason for backed-up garbage disposal is simply because some food got stuck in the blades or outlet pipe and needs to be removed before it backs up again. For the garbage disposal reset button, turn off the power at the breaker (if you’re at home) or unplug it if you’re not home (and if you’re working on an electrical appliance). Then turn on the cold water and run it for 10 seconds before turning it off again and testing to see if things are working properly now!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>DIY Vs. Professional Garbage Disposal Fix\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>It’s no secret that garbage disposals are common household appliances. They help us get rid of food scraps and make our lives easier, but what if something goes wrong? You might be tempted to call in a professional \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fservices\u002Fgarbage-disposal-installation\">garbage disposal expert in Santa Fe\u003C\u002Fa>, NM. But is it really worth the extra money? Or can you do it yourself?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>DIY or professional?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Which one is better?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Here’s a comparison table to help you make a decision:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cfigure>\u003Ctable>\u003Ctbody>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Aspect\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>DIY Garbage Disposal Fix\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Professional Garbage Disposal Fix\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Cost\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Generally less expensive as you only pay for tools and materials.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>It can be more expensive due to labor and service charges.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Skill Required\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Requires moderate to advanced DIY skills.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Requires expertise and experience in plumbing and appliance repair.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Time Needed\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>It can take longer as you may need to troubleshoot and research.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Typically faster as professionals are experienced in the process.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Safety Risk\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>It can be risky, especially if you’re not familiar with electrical components.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Safer as professionals are trained to handle potential hazards.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Success Guarantee\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Success depends on your DIY skills and ability to identify the problem.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Higher success rate due to professional knowledge and equipment.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>The complexity of Issues Addressed\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Suitable for simple clogs or minor issues.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Can handle complex problems and diagnose underlying causes.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Warranty or Guarantee\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>No warranty unless covered by the product’s warranty.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Often comes with a service warranty or guarantee for their work.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Convenience\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>It may require multiple attempts or trips to purchase tools.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>They are convenient as they come with the necessary tools and equipment.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Common Scenarios\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Clogs, minor jams, or simple mechanical issues.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Persistent clogs, electrical problems, or major mechanical issues.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003C\u002Ftbody>\u003C\u002Ftable>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\u003Ch2>How To Prevent Garbage Disposal Backing Up Into Sink?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Preventing garbage disposal from backing up into the sink involves adopting good practices and being mindful of what goes into the disposal. Here are some tips to help you prevent this issue:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Don’t put too much in at once. If you overload your disposal with scraps and scraps, the motor may burn out or break down.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Always run water while using your disposal. This will help prevent clogs from forming in the drain line.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Use cold water when running your dishwasher or washing dishes—this will help keep grease from sticking to your pipes and causing blockages.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Don’t put citrus fruits or other acidic foods at your disposal—these can cause corrosion inside pipes, leading to leaks and backups!\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>If you have a pipe coming from the sink into the wall behind it, ensure that it is at least 1 inch below where the sink drain meets the floor (or below where other pipes meet that one). This will allow any liquid backup into the sink to flow down into those pipes instead of back up into it again!\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>If there’s any buildup of gunk around your garbage disposal’s opening or bottom plate (where it attaches to the sink), use an old toothbrush or similar tool to clean out all of those nooks and crannies before putting anything else down there again!\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Use a disposal cleaner regularly.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Avoid putting non-food items down the sink drain.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Avoid grinding large amounts of food at once.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Make sure you have a regular maintenance routine for keeping everything working properly when it comes to your pipes under the sink as well as any other parts of your home’s plumbing system too!\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Ch2>FAQs\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Can I sharpen the blades of my garbage disposal to prevent backups?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>No. The bluntness of the blades is not the problem, and sharpening them will not solve your backup issues.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Why does my dishwasher back up into the sink when I use the garbage disposal?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Is it safe to put eggshells in the garbage disposal?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Can I use chemical drain cleaners to unclog my garbage disposal?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>How often should I clean the garbage disposal?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>What is the average cost to repair garbage disposal?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>It May be Time to Replace Garbage Disposal in Santa FE, NM!\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>When your garbage disposal isn’t working properly, it can be a real pain. You may have to deal with the smell, or you might have to keep putting off doing dishes because it’s so much work. If your garbage disposal is giving you trouble, then it’s time to call a professional plumber in Santa Fe, NM.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"\u002Fservices\u002Fgarbage-disposal-installation\">James Plumbing & Heating\u003C\u002Fa> is here to help with all of your plumbing needs! With over 30 years of experience in Proper Maintenance and Installation of Garbage Disposal, we are experts at getting your drains flowing smoothly again so you can get back to living your best life.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>We are the plumbing team you want on your side when it comes to garbage disposal installation and replacement services. Our technicians are factory trained and certified by InSinkErator, so you know that they will be able to handle any problem that might arise with your garbage disposal. We offer emergency service, so if something happens when you aren’t home or at work, we can still get there quickly to fix it for you.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>You can trust James Plumbing & Heating with all your plumbing needs—whether it’s something small like fixing a leaky faucet or something big like installing new pipes under your sink. We will always treat our customers’ homes as if they were our own by providing top-quality service at an affordable price.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If you need help \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fservices\u002Fgarbage-disposal-installation\">installing a new garbage disposal\u003C\u002Fa> or fixing an existing one in Santa Fe or anywhere else in New Mexico, give us a call today at 505-473-7148!\u003C\u002Fp>","\u002Fimg\u002Fblog\u002Fwhat-makes-your-garbage-disposal-back-up.webp",12,"what-makes-your-garbage-disposal-back-up","","A garbage disposal is a great tool for any kitchen. It can help you cut down on your food waste and make it easier to clean up after cooking. But, like all machines, garbage disposals have their problems.","What Makes Your Garbage Disposal Back Up",[15,23,31],{"category":5,"date":16,"html":17,"image":18,"readingMinutes":19,"slug":20,"sourceUrl":11,"summary":21,"title":22},"2025-04-01","\u003Cp>When faced with a clogged drain, many homeowners in Santa Fe reach for a bottle of chemical drain cleaner. But is that actually a good idea? At James' Plumbing & Heating, we get this question a lot—and the answer isn’t always straightforward. Here's what you need to know.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>What Are Chemical Drain Cleaners?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>These over-the-counter products are designed to dissolve hair, grease, and other blockages in your pipes. They usually come in liquid or gel form and rely on powerful chemicals like lye or sulfuric acid to break down clogs.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Pros\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Convenient:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Available at most stores and easy to use\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Fast-acting:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Can clear minor clogs in a matter of minutes\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Ch3>Cons (and Why We Don’t Recommend Them)\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Pipe Damage:\u003C\u002Fstrong> The harsh chemicals can corrode pipes—especially older or plastic plumbing.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Health Risks:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Fumes from these cleaners can irritate eyes, skin, and lungs.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Environmental Impact:\u003C\u002Fstrong> The chemicals are toxic and can harm local water systems.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Short-Term Fix:\u003C\u002Fstrong> They often don’t fully remove the blockage, leading to repeat clogs.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Ch3>Safer Alternatives\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Plunger:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Great for toilets and sinks\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Drain Snake (Auger):\u003C\u002Fstrong> Effective for hair and small debris\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Baking Soda + Vinegar:\u003C\u002Fstrong> A non-toxic method that works for some slow drains\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Ch3>When to Call a Pro\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If your drain is still clogged after a DIY attempt—or if it keeps happening—it’s time to bring in a licensed plumber. Professional drain cleaning is safe, effective, and won’t damage your pipes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Need Drain Help in Santa Fe?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>At James' Plumbing & Heating, we specialize in safe and reliable drain clearing solutions. Skip the chemicals and let us take care of your plumbing the right way.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Call \u003Ca href=\"tel:5054737148\">505-473-7148\u003C\u002Fa> or schedule your service online today!\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>","\u002Fimg\u002Fblog\u002Fcan-i-use-chemical-drain-cleaners.jpeg",2,"can-i-use-chemical-drain-cleaners","When faced with a clogged drain, many homeowners in Santa Fe reach for a bottle of chemical drain cleaner. But is that actually a good idea? At James' Plumbing & Heating, we get this question a lot—and the…","Can I Use Chemical Drain Cleaners?",{"category":5,"date":24,"html":25,"image":26,"readingMinutes":27,"slug":28,"sourceUrl":11,"summary":29,"title":30},"2023-03-02","\u003Cp>A clogged sewer line is a red flag for bigger problems. If left alone, a small clog grows into a big clog, and the bigger the clog, the bigger the maintenance bill.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Blocked sewer lines are inconvenient for many reasons. They can impede water flow, and drainage and cause nasty backups in your plumbing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>At James Plumbing & Heating, we deal with sewer line clogs regularly. One thing we like to share with customers is the warning signs. If you know what the symptoms of a blocked sewer line are, you can quickly diagnose the problem and call for help. Here’s what you need to know.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Drains Stop Draining\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>One of the biggest indicators the sewer line is clogged is water that won’t drain. All the drains in your home eventually connect to the main sewage line. Some are connected to one another; others bypass each other to reduce contamination.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If you only have problems draining one drain, it might not be sewer line related. Instead, you could have a single blocked pipe. Like a shower drain clogged with hair. This is a fairly quick fix and one you may even be able to accomplish yourself.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If all or many drains are having issues, it’s likely the sewage line. This includes flushing the toilet and draining the laundry basin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Drains Drain Slowly\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>It’s not just a complete pause in pipe drainage that points to a sewer line problem. Slow-draining pipes are just as problematic. One bright silver lining here is that slow draining means there’s still some room for water to drain. Just not as quickly as we’d like.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>You may also notice your toilet needs to be unclogged frequently. Clear pipes shouldn’t require ongoing plunger use. If you find yourself with a plunger in hand more often than not, there’s likely a sewer line blockage in the building.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Smells and Sounds\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Along with the obvious unmoving water, you can detect a blocked sewage line by:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Strange sounds: Gurgling is the most common sound heard from pipes with blockages. This is the sound of water trying to go down and air bubbles rising. Gurgling usually means the pipe is still draining, just slowly.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Bad smells: The sewage line is named for a reason. If the line is blocked or backing up into your home, you may detect some foul smells coming up the drains.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Cp>If you notice these things, call a professional. The sooner your pipes get the attention they need, the less damage they incur.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>The Floor Drain is Leaking Sewage\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Most homes keep the floor drain in the basement. This is a drain above the sump pump. If you notice bad smells or literal sewage rising from the floor, there’s definitely a blockage in the main sewer line. This is because the wastewater from your home has nowhere to go and is beginning to back up into the house.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Don’t tackle this issue on your own. There’s no quick fix for the floor drain. A plunger or auger won’t do the trick. A professional is needed to survey the pipe and see how deep the clog goes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Flushing Toilets Causes Bathtub Trouble\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Flushing the toilet should send wastewater away from the bathroom, not send it flowing into the bathtub. If you notice wastewater rising into your tub or shower, the sewer line is likely the culprit.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>You may notice other areas of your home with similar problems. For example, flushing the toilet causes the basement wash basin to fill with water, or the washing machine, itself, to fill with waste.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Again, like the basement floor drain, the problem is that there’s nowhere for wastewater to flow. It’s forcing its way back up into your home by emptying into other drains and pipes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Even if the problem comes and goes, the blockage doesn’t. If water begins draining more freely, it’s simply flowing around the blockage. Eventually, the problem will pick up where it left off.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Call a Professional\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>To fix a clogged sewer line, a professional will run a camera down the line to find the blockage. Once they know where and what the blockage is, they can begin removing it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>In extreme cases, some pipes may need to be replaced altogether. This is sometimes the case when corrosion has caused the pipes to cave in on themselves. This kind of blockage isn’t fixable by removing clogs.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If you live in Santa Fe and are concerned about your sewer line, James Plumbing & Heating can help. \u003Ca href=\"tel:+15054737148\">Call us today\u003C\u002Fa> to learn more about our services and get rid of those nasty sewer line blockage symptoms.\u003C\u002Fp>","\u002Fimg\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-do-i-know-if-my-sewer-line-is-clogged.webp",4,"how-do-i-know-if-my-sewer-line-is-clogged","A clogged sewer line is a red flag for bigger problems. If left alone, a small clog grows into a big clog, and the bigger the clog, the bigger the maintenance bill.","How Do I Know if My Sewer Line is Clogged?",{"category":5,"date":32,"html":33,"image":34,"readingMinutes":27,"slug":35,"sourceUrl":11,"summary":36,"title":37},"2023-01-02","\u003Cp>Toilets go through a lot. It’s no surprise that eventually our toilets need to be replaced. In fact, most professionals recommend swapping out your toilet once every 10 to 15 years. It may last longer if properly maintained, but generally, you’ll need a new one eventually.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>The question then stands, how do we know when it’s time for a new toilet? The answer isn’t so simple. Apart from the age of bathroom fixtures, there are other variables at work.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>At James Plumbing & Heating, we work with homeowners across Santa Fe. We have years of experience diagnosing toilets. Here, we’ll talk a bit about the signs of wear and tear on bathroom fixtures and when it’s time to upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Puddles on the Floor\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Puddles around the toilet can mean a few things. It could be that the seal at the base of the toilet needs replacing. It could also mean there’s a crack somewhere in the porcelain. If the latter, it’s a small problem that will get much bigger.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Cracks are repairable sometimes, but if they are too far gone, it’s best to swap out the old one for a new toilet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Constantly Clogging\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>If you’re using your plunger on a regular basis, there’s something wrong. Either you’re putting way too much toilet tissue down the drain, or your toilet just isn’t flushing like it used to. A weak flush can be a sign of water pressure troubles, it can also be a sign of a malfunctioning toilet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Over time the mechanical components weaken. Toilets take longer to flush, leaving things behind to block the drain. Sure, we can call a professional to clear the blockage, but if it’s becoming an ongoing issue, you’ll save time and money getting a new toilet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>It’s Always Running\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>If that annoying sound of running water in the toilet tank is ongoing, it could be time for an upgrade. Toilets run to refill the tank for the next flush. When the tank is full, the toilet should automatically reset, and the tank stops filling until the next flush.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Over time, flushing takes longer, and so does the tank refill. We’ve all been there, jiggling the toilet handle to get the water to stop. In worst-case scenarios, remove the lid of the tank to flip the overflow tube and flapper back into place. Either way, this is an annoyance you shouldn’t be dealing with regularly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>It Won’t Flush\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>This is a bigger problem than the slow flush or the running toilet tank. If you go to flush and nothing happens, it’s either a super simple or super complex fix.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>On the simple side, the chain connecting the overflow tube to the handle could be snapped. This requires a cheap chain replacement. No problem. On the heavier end of things, if the chain is fine and everything looks to be in working order, a non-flushing toilet means trouble.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Flushing Multiple Times\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Ever flush your toilet, and it flushes itself a second time without your help? No, it’s not haunted, but it could be broken. If a toilet flushes on its own, the flapper may need to be replaced. It’s no longer sealing at the base of the overflow tube, which makes your toilet think you’ve hit the flush handle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>It could also be a crack inside the toilet tank. A small crack near the flapper is a sign of age and wear. There’s not much you can do apart from seal it up or get a new unit. A professional can look and tell you which is the best option for you.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Calcium in the Bowl\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Calcium buildup happens in homes with hard water. While the hard water can be fixed, there may be more to the issue than calcium in the water alone. A water softener will treat the water but not fix the toilet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>A good toilet flush requires water flow. Hard water could be building up under the rim because of buildup further down in the toilet. Over time, this buildup closes openings, restricting water flow. It’s tough to reach those areas, even with professional tools. If the problem has been ongoing, it might be too late to save the toilet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Contact Us for More Toilet Trade Out Info\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>At James Plumbing & Heating, we know a thing or two about toilets in Santa Fe. It’s our job to keep your toilet running smoothly, so you can focus on other things in life. Forget playing DIY plumber for a malfunctioning bathroom fixture. \u003Ca href=\"tel:5054737148\">Call us today for an upgrade.\u003C\u002Fa>\u003C\u002Fp>","\u002Fimg\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-to-know-when-its-time-for-a-new-toilet.webp","how-to-know-when-its-time-for-a-new-toilet","Toilets go through a lot. It’s no surprise that eventually our toilets need to be replaced. In fact, most professionals recommend swapping out your toilet once every 10 to 15 years. It may last longer if…","How to Know When It’s Time for a New Toilet",1787213982029]