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5 Common Causes of Dishwasher Clog & Solutions for it

8/17/2021

 
Property owners must maintain their dishwasher properly to get the full use-value out of the appliance. This includes completing necessary repairs as needed. At New West Plumbing, we offer a full array of routine maintenance and repair services. Clogs are common with dishwashers and require immediate servicing. Here are the 5 top reasons for a clog and how to fix it.
common causes of dishwasher clog
1. Gurgling Noises

When you hear gurgling noises or if the dishwasher shakes or causes thumping noises, it means the water cannot flow through a clog. The clog could be within the secondary or main sewer line.


2. Water Backing Up in the Sink

The dishwasher connects directly to the kitchen sink drainage system. If water backs up in the kitchen sink, there may be a clog in the dishwasher. However, it is urgent that you rule out garbage disposal issues or food trapped in the kitchen sink first.


3. Slow Draining in the Dishwasher

Water pooling around the bottom of the dishwasher indicates a clog in the kitchen sewage lines. It could be a full or partial clog and must be removed quickly.


4. Water Backed Up After a Cycle

Standing water inside the dishwasher after a completed wash cycle indicates improper draining. Our technicians will inspect the dishwasher and the drain basket. If the problem isn't found there, it is more likely a clog in the drain itself.


5. It Isn't Cleaning the Dishes

A clogged dishwasher prevents water from filling inside the appliance during a wash cycle. When this happens, water will not reach all the dishes, and the dishes will not get clean.



5 Reasons Your Dishwasher May Be Clogged

The following are reasons why you could experience a clog in your dishwasher:

1. Clogged Filter Basket

The purpose of the filter basket is to capture food and prevent it from clogging in the water lines. It must be cleaned regularly to prevent food from covering the dishes or becoming stuck to the dishes. Hard water issues could cause a clogged filter basket. A great way to prevent this issue is to soak it in vinegar to remove any existing food deposits.

2. Clogged Drain Hose

Dishwashers drain via a hose connected to the kitchen sink drain. Sludge can build up inside the drain and cause clogs and wastewater backups into the kitchen sink. Regular drain cleaning could decrease the risk of a clog and keep sludge away from the sink and the dishwasher drains.

3. Garbage Disposal

After a garbage disposal installation, clogs could form in the dishwasher lines. If the plumber didn't remove the knockout plug, the dishwasher will become clogged. The easiest way to eliminate the problem is to contact us at New West Plumbing, and we will remove the plug for you.

4. Clogged Drains

Multiple clogs throughout the plumbing system could present serious problems with the sewage lines. If this happens, the problem isn't the dishwasher specifically. The dishwasher could drain even if the clog is not close to its drain or the connecting sewage line. Yet, if water backs up into the kitchen sink causing gurgling sounds, it could affect how well the dishwasher drains, and you need prompt plumbing services to address the clog.

5. Broken Sewer Line

A dishwasher clog can cause a serious problem such as a broken sewage line. This could block your entire plumbing system. If this happens, you need to schedule a professional inspection. You can contact us at New West Plumbing for these needs.



How to Unclog Your Dishwasher

After confirmation of the clogged dishwasher, here are some steps to fix the problem.

1. Diagnose the Cause of the Clog

The most prevailing cause is improper usage. Homeowners that place cooking oils or excessive food into the dishwasher cause clogs. Dishwashers aren't designed to eliminate excess oil or food. We start by inspecting the dishwasher and sink drains. If the clog is within the kitchen sink, we can remove the drain and restore dishwasher services.

2. Gather the Right Tools for the Job

When correcting a clog, our technicians will use the correct tools each time. Among the tools we use are:
  • Drain snake or auger
  • Phillips head screwdrivers
  • Bucket
  • Baking soda and vinegar
  • Gloves​

3. Gain Access to Dishwasher Drains and Clear Debris

We start by shutting off the power to the dishwasher. The following are additional steps we take:
  • Remove dish racks from the unit, and locate the drain grate. The drain grate is at the bottom of the unit, and we remove it with a screwdriver.
  • Use a drain snake to remove debris in the water lines. Our Burnaby plumber pros may also use a baking soda and vinegar mixture to flush out the drain, too. It is less harmful to the water lines than many drain cleaning chemicals.
  • Restore the grate to its proper position and put the dish racks back in place.

4. Know When It Is Time to Hire a Professional

While some homeowners complete DIY plumbing projects, it is best to hire a professional to assess and repair the system. Our professional plumbers in Burnaby, Coquitlam and New Westminster have the correct tools for every plumbing project, and we will complete the task correctly in the first place. We know how to manage complex clogs, and we will find the source of the problem quickly and recommend the necessary repairs. We provide a complete estimate for all services we provide.



Hire An Expert Plumbing Specialist

Clogged plumbing drains present not only a nuisance but also present health risks for you and your family. If you are a business owner, a severe clog could shut down your business completely because of flooding in your workspace that presents an immediate health risk to workers. Contact New West Plumbing today and set up an inspection for your residential or commercial plumbing lines today!

Buying an Older Home? Common Plumbing Problems & Solutions

8/17/2021

 
Some homeowners seek older properties for their architectural charm and character rather than the modern look of newer homes. More dated properties that remain structurally sound were constructed with unique floor plans and materials that would be more expensive to replace than more modern homes and buildings.

First-time home buyers sometimes prefer older properties because other than being more affordable, the property tends to require upgrades and this gives the buyers a chance to renovate and realize their goal of obtaining their dream home. For this reason, older homes are attractive to buyers who don’t mind doing some renovations.

Beneath the fancy facade, the unique architecture, and antique fixtures, there could potentially be a multitude of plumbing problems. While some of these problems are minor, more complex issues could lead to significant property damage and require immediate attention from plumbing professionals.

A wise home buyer will consider that the plumbing system in older homes is often several decades old and may create unexpected problems without notice. This often leads to extensive repairs and replacement services. Here are the some common plumbing issues discovered in older properties and how to handle them.
old sink in an old house in Burnaby
Old Homes and Plumbing Problems

Older properties give some new homeowners more appeal than more modern designs, but they also have their fair share of plumbing issues. Renovations could improve the way the property looks and increase both its curb appeal and aesthetic value. Keep in mind that the skeleton of the property is where the most severe problems are located.

The most effective way to discover potential catastrophes is to have the property inspected, and the buyer must get an estimate for all plumbing repairs and replacements before buying the home. The plumbing system should be high on the buyer's checklist for their next home purchase.


Common Plumbing Problems In Old Homes And Their Solutions

Plumbing issues in older homes don't indicate that there aren't any solutions to correcting them and giving the buyer a high-quality and beautiful home. Here are some of the plumbing issues in older homes and how to deal with them.

Old Pipe Materials

Materials for plumbing pipes have gone changes over time. Buyers should inquire about any recent renovations completed by the seller, especially for older homes. Recent plumbing renovations may indicate that the outdated plumbing lines were replaced with materials that are better.

Before buying, it is wise to have the plumbing system inspected to find out how much of the existing system was replaced, and how much it will cost to upgrade the existing plumbing system. The older properties may have plumbing lines manufactured from three outdated materials including:

  • Lead
    Lead is considered the oldest material used for plumbing lines, and it was often used for primary water and sewage lines. It was considered more durable and sustainable for plumbing systems before manufacturers could use blast furnaces to produce iron plumbing lines. The metal was also used when soldering connecting copper pipes to the plumbing system. Studies have proven that lead is toxic and produces a multitude of serious medical conditions and symptoms. Among them are gastrointestinal diseases, memory loss, fatigue, and irritability. Lead has also been proven to present an increased risk to children hindering their physical and mental development.
​
  • Galvanized 
    Properties constructed prior to the 1960s and thereafter featured galvanized plumbing lines that were constructed of iron with a zinc coating. Unfortunately, as the material deteriorated, the water lines become susceptible to corrosion and breaking. Construction companies of those days claimed that the plumbing lines could last as long as 60 years, but because of the unprotected metal, clogs would form quickly due to rust and cause problems with the plumbing system. The plumbing lines would become brittle and wouldn't last, leaving homeowners with high replacement costs and the need to replace their entire plumbing system. The only way to correct galvanized plumbing lines is to replace them with better materials.
​
  • Polybutylene
    Polybutylene plumbing pipes were promoted as the "pipe of the future" and were installed in properties in the 1980s and into the 1990s. The use of the pipes was widespread for replacing existing pipes.  Oxidants were discovered in public water systems, causing a chemical reaction with the plumbing pipes and resulting in significant and fast deterioration. Some traditional homes may have existing plastic water lines. A property with these plumbing lines isn’t recommended, and the plumbing lines must be replaced.

Failing Sewer Lines

Sewage lines are buried underground and don't present obvious issues until it is often too late to make easy repairs. The property's exterior becomes flooded with wastewater and waste products. This causes a lingering foul odor throughout the property. Outdated sewage lines were not constructed to stand up to the wear and tear of modern-day appliances such as dishwashers and garbage disposals.

Even toilets can present a major problem with outdated sewage lines and cause failures. Tree roots could also present a major problem for outdated sewage lines, and if the roots grow into the lines, the pipes can fail and require extensive repairs. For most property owners, the repairs take no more than one day to complete to eliminate further sewage issues.


Outdated Fixtures and Connections

As homeowners know all too well, no system in their property will last forever. Residential properties have fixtures, faucets, and connecting water lines that may have exceeded their anticipated lifespan. As the plumbing system ages, it’s possible to find damage due to wear and tear and corrosion that prevent proper water flow that results in clogged lines. It is never a great idea to just ignore the issues and refuse to get a plumbing assessment.

This could lead to additional damage and more costly repairs. Plumbing damage is often sudden and unexpected because property owners do not get inspections as frequently as they should, and no homeowner wants to return from vacation to find a plumbing disaster.

The best solution is to schedule preventative plumbing maintenance regularly to monitor the condition of the plumbing system and to service it as needed. This could decrease the expense of repairs required because of wear and tear. It can also help the property owner find problems when they are minor. At New West Plumbing in Burnaby, Coquitlam and New Westminster, we offer plumbing inspections and routine plumbing maintenance. We recommend at least one inspection per year to maintain your plumbing systems.


Bad Repairs

All older properties present a risk of sudden and unexpected plumbing problems. It is never a matter of if but when the problem will arise. It is not a great idea for homeowners to see these repairs as a grand DIY project, and they should contact a professional to complete all plumbing repairs and replacement services.

By taking on the project themselves, the homeowner could increase their costs and waste their time. If the repairs are not completed properly, they could lead to more serious plumbing issues, and the property owner will spend more getting a professional to repair their mistakes. They could also face more extensive periods where they do not have access to water, and this is incredibly inconvenient for property owners.

In addition, some plumbing repairs could present a serious risk of personal injuries for the property owner if they try to complete the work themselves. If you find plumbing issues, avoid the possibility of a bad repair and contact our plumbing experts for assistance now!


When to Call Professional Help For Your Plumbing Problems

Prospective home owners who are attracted to the charming architecture of older homes sometimes fail to consider the multitude of plumbing problems these homes may have. Any property that is at least 30 years old should require a comprehensive plumbing inspection.
It is recommended that home buyers hire a plumbing professional to complete the inspection for them. As your local plumber in Burnaby, Coquitlam and of course New Westminster, New West Plumbing offers comprehensive plumbing services you can trust to make sure you don't face hundreds of dollars in unnecessary plumbing repairs when buying a home. To set up inspections for older homes or to get plumbing services for your existing property, contact New West Plumbing now for an appointment!

How To Find a Silent Toilet Leak

8/17/2021

 
Leaking toilets are the most common plumbing problems that homeowners face. The leaks can cause house-wide havoc and lead to multiple issues at once. Not only are leaks inconvenient, but a water leak increases your water costs. A common problem is that most people don't know they have a toilet leak until it is too late. Fortunately, there are signs of a toilet leak that tip off homeowners. Here are a few tell-tale signs to look out for.
silent toilet leak in the washroom
Why Silent Toilet Leaks Are So Damaging

Toilet leaks tax the environment and your budget. A silent leak could cost hundreds of dollars to repair when you could avoid these costs by inspecting the toilet more frequently. For example, listen for the toilet to shut down after you flush it.

If the toilet continues to run, or if there is a leak, you could potentially waste 25 times as much water as if you had a shower or sink leak. Since the leak continues to flow, costs will accumulate because of the water loss.

Extremely large amounts of water could be wasted with just one toilet leak. You could see your monthly water expenses rise, substantially if you don’t get it fixed.

In addition, you could incur hundreds of dollars in property damage and may develop mold throughout your home. Unfortunately, silent leaks may not lead to water on the floor, and the leak could be concealed by bathroom tiles as the water flows underneath them.

Ways to Detect Silent Toilet Leaks

Easy-to-follow tests help you determine if you have a silent leak, and you can complete them without a plumber.

Dye Test

You can get a dye test from your preferred plumbing supply store inexpensively. The tablets are either red or blue and are easy to use when trying to detect a toilet leak. You drop one of the tablets into your toilet tank and waits 10 minutes. If there isn't any color in the toilet bowl, there isn't a leak, but if red or blue appears in the toilet bowl, there is a leak. If you find a toilet leak after the dye test, contact our professional Burnaby plumbers if you reside in Burnaby, BC as soon as possible.

Pencil Test

You draw a line with the pencil on the back wall of the toilet tank, and then you draw one at the waterline inside the toilet tank. Next, shut off the water and wait 30 minutes. If the water remains at the pencil mark, the toilet leak is around the refill valve at the left of the tank. If the pencil mark is above the water level, the flush valve is causing the toilet leak at the center of the tank.

Water Leak Sensor


A water leak sensor is a great gadget for all homeowners and it helps you find a toilet leak faster. If a leak is detected, the sensor beeps and flashes a red light. If there aren't any issues with the toilet, the sensor flashes a green light when it is engaged. You could get a leak sensor for as little as $20.


How to Determine a Fill Valve Leak

You may face a more difficult challenge in trying to find a fill valve leak. To assess the toilet, allow the tank to fill completely and remove the tank lid. Review the overflow tube and ensure that water is flowing into it properly. If the water continues to flow, there is a leak, and you must schedule a toilet leak repair.

When to Call a Plumber in Burnaby For Your Toilet Leak

Luckily, you can perform these simple tests to detect a silent leak and act quickly to get the leak fixed. This can save you time and money, and it could decrease your water costs significantly. However, more serious issues require a professional plumber to correct. If you have performed the tests and still cannot find the toilet leak, contact us at New West Plumbing to schedule an inspection.

When you call us, we can help you save money and get help from affordable and cost-effective plumbing professionals in the Burnaby area. We offer a multitude of superior plumber services, including toilet leak detection, and offer flat-rate pricing for our services. If you have a toilet leak, contact us at New West Plumbing right now and schedule an appointment!

Smell Foul Odor? Tips to get rid of it

8/17/2021

 
Are there foul odors in your home? As a homeowner, are you trying to find solutions to eliminate sudden sewer odors? If so, at New West Plumbing, we can help you! We know that sewage odors are extremely unpleasant, and they can take over your entire property. To get rid of the sewage odors, we must first find the source of the problem, let's jump in and discuss the most common reasons for these odors and then how we can eliminate them.
smell of foul odor in the kitchen
Bacteria-Laden Drain Clogs: How to Eliminate Sewage Odors

Bacteria-laden drain clogs are caused by food, hair, grease, and other substances that won't flush through the sewage lines. Once the substances form a clog in the drain, the odor is overwhelming. The first sign is slow draining after you shut off the water to the sink or tub. If you encounter slow drains, there is a clog that needs a solution now.

Solutions for Bacteria-Laden Drain Clogs:

Plunger

For some drains, a plunger is all that is needed to unclog the drain and get the wastewater to flow into the sewage lines. It's important to use the appropriate plunger for each drain. Never plunge your sink with your toilet plunger. If the clog is in the sink, you need a plunger designed specifically for a sink. Hardware stores have the right products and they offer assistance.

Snake Your Drain

A plumbing snake or auger could unclog the drain. If you are unfamiliar with how to use the equipment, it is best to contact our team at New West Plumbing, and we will use or professional equipment to snake the drain and remove the substances that are clogging the drain.

Other Ways to Unclog a Drain:

Pour Hot Water Down the Drain

Yes, plain hot water could remove a grease clog and dissolve the grease quickly. It is also a non-toxic way to force the debris into the sewage system.

Pour Baking Soda and Vinegar into the Drain

Heat about a gallon of water on the stove until boiling, and once it boils, set it aside for later. Start by pouring 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drain. Next, pour one cup of vinegar directly into the drain on top of the baking soda. Allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes. Then, pour the boiling hot water into the drain.

Dry Drain Traps

Underneath the kitchen sink, you'll see a U-shaped pipe. Its purpose is to prevent sewer gas from flowing back into the water lines or into your property. The same type of water pipe is found underneath the bathtub or shower drain for the same reason. If the drain isn't used often, it can dry out, and sewer gas enters the drain flowing back into your property. It happens frequently with basement drains or guest bathrooms that aren't used regularly.

Solution: Keep the Drain Wet and Preventing It From Drying

All you have to do is pour about a gallon of water into the drain. This fills up the drain trap. If a dry drain trap is the only issue, the smell will dissipate and solve the problem. It is necessary to complete this step at least twice a month if you are not using the drains on a daily basis.

Wax Toilet Rings That Are Faulty and Require Replacement

Wax toilet rings are installed between the toilet and flange to create a tight seal underneath the toilet. Their purpose is to prevent toilet leaks and sewer gas from entering the home.

Solution: Replace the Ring

The average lifespan for a wax ring is between 20 and 30 years. Yet, wear and tear could decrease the life span. If you notice leaks around the bottom of the toilet or unwanted smells, contact us at New West Plumbing and we will replace the wax ring for you.

Cracked or Broken Drain Pipes

Cracked and broken drain lines cause unpleasant sewer odors in your home.

Solution: Trenchless pipe lining or drain pipe replacement

Contact our local plumbers at New West Plumbing, and we will complete the repairs and replacement services for you. We use one of the following methods for repairing the issue.
  • Trenchless Pipe Lining. Our team uses a minimally invasive method of replacing a plumbing line without extensive digging, and we won't destroy your landscaping. We use an epoxy-soaked liner that creates a new water pipe within the existing drain pipe. The project takes a few hours to complete, and it can get rid of unwanted odors and restore your plumbing lines quickly.
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  • If the sewage line doesn't have structural integrity. Under these conditions, we cannot use the trenchless pipe lining method and will need to dig up the drainpipe to replace it.

Clogged Vent Pipes

Vent pipes extend through the roof and regulate the air pressure within the property's drainage system. Without a proper drainage system, the air won't reach the water lines and the wastewater won't flow out properly. Unfortunately, debris such as leaves and snow lead to clogs in the vent pipes and could restrict airflow throughout the sewage lines. That causes the odor to flow back into the property.

Solution: Clear obstructions from the vent pipe

Our Burnaby plumbers for example start by checking the pipes for common buildups, such as leaves and snow. Once we discover the source of the problem, we will remove it promptly and restore proper ventilation. We will evaluate the vent pipe to ensure it has the correct angle and is covered properly to prevent new clogs from happening. If the clog is further into the sewer system, we can use a drain camera to find it and then complete the necessary steps to remove the clog for you.
​
While sewage odors are unpleasant, they don't always mean you have a serious plumbing issue. The odor could be attributed to something minor, and our technician can find it in minutes.



At New West Plumbing, we offer licensed and insured plumbing technicians with a wide variety of plumbing skills, including sewage repairs and replacements. We have been serving Burnaby, Coquitlam, and New Westminster for many years and are dedicated to providing superior plumbing services. If you have plumbing issues, contact us today for an appointment!

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  • HOME
  • PLUMBING
    • TOILET
    • SINK
    • DRAIN
    • SHOWER / BATHTUB
    • EMERGENCY PLUMBING
    • WATER PIPE
    • SUMP PUMP
    • SEWER LINE
    • CAMERA INSPECTION
    • BACKWATER VALVE
    • HYDRO JETTING
    • COMMERCIAL
  • HEATING
    • WATER HEATER
    • FURNACE
    • BOILER
  • Locations
    • COQUITLAM
    • BURNABY
  • Blog
  • CONTACT