Plumber Woodland Hills install and repair plumbing systems in homes, offices, factories, and other buildings. They interpret blueprints and building codes to plan pipe layouts and connect fixtures, such as sinks, toilets, and water heaters. They also troubleshoot problems with leaks, clogs, and other malfunctioning components.
A career in plumbing can be both rewarding and lucrative. It requires physical stamina and strength, but it also involves creative thinking.
If your home or business’s drains become clogged, you need to call for a professional plumber as soon as possible. A clogged drain is a serious problem that can lead to flooding, water overflows, and other dangerous issues. It is also a sign of bigger problems with your plumbing system. A professional plumber will use a variety of tools to clean your clogged pipes and restore their function.
The first step in drain cleaning is determining the type of clog. A clog that has built up over time may be caused by hair, grease, soap scum, and food particles. In this case, the plumber will use a snake or wire cable to break up and remove these materials. However, this method is only a temporary solution, and residue will often stick to the walls of the pipe and block water flow again.
A more long-term solution is to use a chemical drain cleaner. These products are available in liquid and solid form and are poured directly into the drain pipe. The chemicals react with the clog and dissolve it. However, these chemicals can be hazardous to the environment and humans if not properly handled. A licensed plumber will know how to use these chemicals safely.
If a more substantial clog is present, the plumber may use a power drain auger or sewer jetter to clear the obstruction. These devices use high-powered water pressure to clear the pipe, which is particularly useful in removing debris from older pipelines made of galvanized iron.
Clogged drains are a common plumbing problem, but they can be prevented with regular maintenance services. It is a good idea to schedule these services once a year, even if your plumbing is working fine. This will ensure that waste is not allowed to build up and cause a clog.
Plumbing systems are complex, and a plumber needs to have a wide range of skills to keep them in good condition. These skills include critical thinking, mechanical aptitude, and strong verbal communication. They must also be able to interpret blueprints and other technical documents. In addition, they must be comfortable working with large equipment and machinery.
Plumbing snake
A plumbing snake is a flexible auger (similar to a drill bit) that plumbers use to dislodge drain system clogs. There are manual snakes that can be cranking by hand and also electric snakes that can be attached to a power drill for more effective use.
Before using a plumbing snake, it’s important to read the instructions carefully. Depending on the type of snake you choose and the condition of your pipes, you may need to use a bit with a smaller diameter to deal with more delicate clogs or a larger one with a broader head to handle more solid obstructions. If you aren’t comfortable using the tool or if the clog is particularly stubborn, it may be best to call in a professional.
Once you’ve fed the snake into the pipe, slowly rotate it as you apply pressure to it. This helps the head navigate any bends or obstructions without breaking or tangling with them. If the snake seems to be stuck in a clog, remove it and try another spot.
If the clog isn’t cleared after several attempts, it may be time to call a plumber. It’s also a good idea to thoroughly clean the snake after each use to avoid bacteria buildup.
If you’re looking for a plumber to help clear a drain blockage, it’s important to choose one with a great track record and excellent customer service. Look for a company that is fully licensed and insured, and always check their references. You should also make sure they have the right tools for the job and are comfortable handling them. A quality plumber will be able to answer your questions and explain the process clearly, so you can feel confident in their abilities. They should also be able to give you an estimate before beginning work. Finally, be sure to find out if the plumber has experience working with your type of pipe. Different types of pipes require a different approach and some can be damaged by too much force. A knowledgeable and experienced plumber will know how to tackle any problem.
Oxidizing drain cleaners
Oxidizing drain cleaners contain peroxides, household bleach and nitrates that trigger chemical reactions inside the organic material of a clog to lose electrons and become oxidized. This releases gas and heat to dissolve soap scum, loosen hair clogs and clear food-based blockages. These chemical products are safe for pipes when used as directed.
Caustic drain cleaners have a much higher pH than acidic ones, and are typically made of sodium hydroxide (lye) or caustic potash. They generate heat to break down and liquefy materials like grease. These products are effective against stubborn blockages, but can be dangerous if not handled properly. They may burn the skin and eyes, cause chemical burns and are corrosive to metal pipes.
Acidic drain cleaners, on the other hand, are typically only sold to professional plumbers. They’re formulated with sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid or citric acid to remove mineral deposits from pipe walls. These products can burn the skin and irritate the eyes, but are very effective at dissolving greasy substances. They also kill bacteria, which can help prevent foul odors from building up in your pipes.
All chemical drain cleaners work through a series of chemical reactions where they give or take electrons to or from the clog, which generates heat in the process. This allows them to melt or liquefy solids, such as grease or hair buildup, and eliminates foul odors while protecting your pipes.
However, harsh chemicals can damage your pipes if not applied correctly or if the pipe is made of plastic, which can warp or melt under high temperatures. They can also erode the zinc coating on galvanized pipes, leading to corrosion and leaks.
Regular maintenance can reduce the need for chemical drain cleaners, including using a plunger and strainer in your kitchen sink to keep large particles of food out of the drain, and keeping a garbage disposal on hand to grind up any larger food scraps. Regularly cleaning your drains with these simple steps can ensure that they stay free of clogs for as long as possible. If you do need to use chemical drain cleaners, follow the directions carefully and be prepared for a vigorous cleaning and repair job.
Hydrojetting
When serious blockages clog your pipes and sewer lines, you’ll need a heavy-duty solution. Unlike drain snakes and chemical drain cleaners, hydro jetting uses powerful water streams to break apart and flush out obstructions. It can also reach snarls of tree roots and other tough debris.
This method is more effective than liquid drain cleaners, which may dissolve the elements of a clog but leave a residue that leads to another blockage in the future. When used by a trained plumber, hydro jetting can remove stubborn clogs and even clean the insides of your pipes.
The plumber will start by snaking a small camera into your pipes to locate the obstruction and determine whether your pipes can tolerate the intense water pressure of hydro jetting. The plumber will then select a nozzle that is designed to deliver a concentrated stream of water. There are nozzles that direct the water flow forward and ones that rotate for more thorough coverage of your pipes.
The nozzle is attached to the high-pressure water supply hose that connects to the plumbing fixture where the water is being directed. The plumber will turn on the water and aim the nozzle at the blocked pipe or fixtures. The pulsing water quickly breaks up and washes away the blockage, leaving behind a clean pipe.
After the clog is removed, the plumber will check the condition of your pipes and may recommend that you invest in newer, more efficient piping if your current pipes are outdated or damaged. Depending on the condition of your pipes, you may need to have hydro jetting performed every 6 months to a year.
Hydro jetting can be expensive, but it’s a safe and effective way to clear difficult clogs and keep your pipes in good condition. You can help reduce the need for this service by avoiding pouring grease down your drains and using a drain strainer to keep larger objects from entering your plumbing system.
If you suspect that you have a severe clog, contact your local plumber immediately. A plumber will be able to diagnose and fix the problem before it causes extensive damage.
