The Answers to the Most Common Plumbing Questions in Schaumburg, IL

What Causes Clogged Drains?

Clogged drains are the result of gunk build-up or solid objects stuck in the pipe. A partial clog drains slowly and leaves water puddled in the sink or tub, and a complete blockage will stop water from draining altogether. They may also cause reduced water pressure.

Soap and hair are usually the culprits of clogs in the bathroom, while the kitchen sink could be grease, food, or utensils. Prevent anything but liquid from going down the drain as much as possible. Drain catchers are helpful, especially for people with long hair.

A proper drain cleaning will remove the clogs and get the water flowing again.

What Can Go Down the Garbage Disposal?

One of the more common plumbing questions is, “What can go down the garbage disposal?” Only put soft food down the garbage disposal and always run water when you use it to help the food waste go down the drain.

Cooked vegetables and eggs are fine, but hard foods like bones can break the blades. Small, coarse foods like eggshells or coffee grounds can clog or damage the blades.

How Do You Fix a Clogged Garbage Disposal?

Turn the power off at the circuit breaker to avoid injury. Use a flashlight to identify the clog.

Remove the obstruction if you can do so carefully. Only retrieve items like forks or large pieces of food so you don’t injure yourself. Call a plumber in Schaumburg, IL, if the lodged item is stuck too close to the blades.

Why Do Bad Smells Come Out of the Drain?

Bad smells are typically the result of a dried-out P-trap. Run water down the smelly drain to fill it up again, and the smell should go away. Lingering odors may be due to sewer issues that will require a plumber.

Why Won’t the Water Stay Hot?

The lack of hot water is due to issues with your water heater. The specific problem will depend on the type of heater you have:

• Gas: Gas tanks usually run out of water if the dip tube isn’t sending cold water to the bottom of the tank as it’s supposed to. Cold water mixes with hot water, and you end up running out of hot water halfway through your shower.
• Electric: Electric tanks have a top element and a bottom element. If the bottom one goes out, the tank won’t be able to heat water at.

Why Does the Toilet Keep Running?

Running toilets are the most common plumbing problem. Toilets run when the flapper inside the tank isn’t sealed correctly on the flush valve.

Jiggle the handle to adjust the flapper. If this doesn’t work, it may be time to replace the flapper. Schedule plumbing maintenance and your plumber can take care of this while they’re out.

Why Does the Toilet Make Weird Noises?

Toilets make a lot of noise, leading to several plumbing questions. Some noises you might hear are:

• Screeching: Toilets often screech or squeal when you flush due to pipe leaks that make the water valve turn on all the way to fill up your tank.
• Banging: A hammer-like banging sound comes from the water hammer inside newer toilet models. These have valves that close quickly and make a noise while doing so.
• Clanking: If you hear something tumbling around when you flush, it may be caused by the shut-off valve washers. They can loosen over time and eventually start moving around each time you flush.

Where Is the Main Water Shut-Off Valve?

The main valve should be inside your home, about three feet above the ground along the perimeter. Look around the basement ceiling or near the floor on the outer walls for a switch you can turn on and off.

Call Stellar Plumbing in Schaumburg, IL, When You Have a Problem

If you have plumbing questions you need answered, call Stellar Plumbing in Schaumburg, IL today. One thing to know about us: we provide out-of-this-world service and are eager to help every customer. Reach out to schedule service.

Call Now (773) 908-9375

Author Bio:
Steve Prodanov
President at Stellar Plumbing Inc. With more than 17 years of hands-on experience, Stellar Plumbing is your trusted partner in Elk Grove Village and the surrounding Northwest suburbs.