Plumbing News & Articles

The Importance of Regular Plumbing Maintenance in Orlando Homes

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As a homeowner, you take great pride in keeping your home in good condition. Regular maintenance and repairs are essential for ensuring that your home remains safe and comfortable. However, many homeowners often forget to pay attention to their plumbing system, which is one of the most critical components of any home. The plumbing system is responsible for carrying water and waste away from your home, and any problems with it can cause major damage, discomfort, and inconvenience. That’s why regular plumbing maintenance is essential for Orlando homeowners.

At A1 Service Plumbing, we understand the importance of regular plumbing maintenance, and we offer a range of plumbing services to help keep your plumbing system in good condition. In this blog post, we’ll explain why regular plumbing maintenance is so important and what you can expect from our plumbing services.

Why is Regular Plumbing Maintenance Important?

  1. Prevents leaks and water damage

One of the most significant benefits of regular plumbing maintenance is that it helps prevent leaks and water damage. A small leak in your plumbing system can quickly escalate into a big problem, causing significant water damage to your home and possessions. Regular plumbing maintenance ensures that any leaks or potential problems are identified and repaired before they become more serious.

  1. Increases the lifespan of your plumbing system

Another benefit of regular plumbing maintenance is that it increases the lifespan of your plumbing system. Over time, your plumbing system can become worn and damaged, which can lead to leaks and other problems. Regular maintenance helps keep your plumbing system in good condition, so it lasts longer and performs better.

  1. Improves water quality and pressure

Regular plumbing maintenance also helps improve the quality of your water and the pressure of your water supply. If your plumbing system is clogged or damaged, it can affect the quality and pressure of your water supply, which can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. Regular maintenance helps keep your plumbing system clear and working efficiently, so you always have access to clean and clear water.

  1. Saves money

Finally, regular plumbing maintenance can also help save you money in the long run. If you ignore your plumbing system, small problems can quickly escalate into larger, more expensive problems. By investing in regular plumbing maintenance, you can prevent these problems from happening, which can save you money in the long run.

What Can You Expect from Our Orlando Plumbing Services?

At A1 Service Plumbing, we offer a range of plumbing services to help keep your plumbing system in good condition. Our services include:

  1. Drain cleaning

We offer professional drain cleaning services to help keep your plumbing system clear and working efficiently. Our drain cleaning services are designed to remove clogs and debris from your pipes, so you always have access to clean and clear water.

  1. Leak detection

If you suspect that you have a leak in your plumbing system, we offer professional leak detection services to help identify and repair the problem. Our leak detection services are designed to quickly and accurately locate the source of the leak, so it can be repaired as soon as possible.

  1. Water heater repair and replacement

We also offer water heater repair and replacement services to help keep your hot water supply flowing. Whether you have a gas or electric water heater, we can help repair or replace it, so you always have access to hot water when you need it.

  1. Faucet and fixture repair and replacement

If you have a leaky faucet or a broken fixture, we can help repair or replace it. Our faucet and fixture repair and replacement services are designed to help keep your plumbing system in good condition, so you always have access to clean and clear water.

  1. General plumbing repair and maintenance

In addition to the services listed above, we also offer general plumbing repair and maintenance services to help keep your plumbing system in good condition. Whether you need a simple repair or a comprehensive maintenance check, we can help keep your plumbing system working efficiently.

In conclusion, regular plumbing maintenance is essential for Orlando homeowners. By investing in regular plumbing maintenance, you can prevent leaks and water damage, increase the lifespan of your plumbing system, improve the quality and pressure of your water supply, and save money in the long run. At A1 Service Plumbing, we understand the importance of regular plumbing maintenance, and we offer a range of plumbing services to help keep your plumbing system in good condition. Contact us today to schedule your next plumbing maintenance appointment.

Remember, regular plumbing maintenance is not only important for your home, but it also ensures that your family is safe and comfortable. Don’t wait until a plumbing emergency strikes, invest in regular plumbing maintenance today, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your plumbing system is in good hands. Trust the professionals at A1 Service Plumbing to keep your plumbing system working efficiently and effectively. Contact us today for more information!

plumbing Covid19 coronavirus

Your Plumbing & COVID-19

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COVID-19 is a form of the coronavirus which has spread rapidly creating a global pandemic. It’s the first time nearly in years we’ve seen cities shut down and residents informed to stay in their homes, either stuck in quarantine or only allowed out for essentials such as shopping as infrequently as possible.

Since COVID-19 is relatively new, this form of the coronavirus is still open to scientific research – we’re not quite sure of a vaccine and probably won’t be for some time – but, what about sewage systems? Can this new virus spread through the plumbing? 

This strain of the coronavirus, COVID-19 is much less likely to be spread through sewage systems, especially when compared to other strains of the coronavirus such as SARS and MERS. Current research points to a low-risk factor of this strain, COVID-19 spreading through your plumbing, at least according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

However, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be more cautious – although it is thought that nobody has caught the virus through their plumbing and or sewage system, it was possible with other strains.

So, what can we do?

How can you be careful when it comes to plumbing issues?

As a general rule of thumb, with this applying to all viruses and nasty diseases if there’s an odor coming from drains or dry pipes this is a no go. Action needs to be taken. To prevent these dry pipes we recommend pouring clean water through floor drains such as in bathrooms, in the basements, and wherever else you may have these.

Likewise, while many households would quite clearly do this anyways, it’s important to clean and eliminate standing water in the case of a toilet overflow as a result of a blocked toilet. This is to prevent fecal over-flow and infection.

Now, more than ever it’s important to protect your own hygiene for the sake of your own health and well-being and others. Wear gloves, wear a mask, and certainly don’t touch your face, especially when unblocking a toilet.

Are plumbers essential to service homes?

We would generally recommend getting a plumber to service your home, especially if you want a good job done. However, amid the current coronavirus pandemic if you can do it yourself we recommend giving it a go.

This prevents contact with others (the plumbers) and is much safer – granted you follow the safety precautions outlined above.

However, if the problem is too difficult to handle yourself you can get an on-call plumber, just be sure to keep your distance.

In the meantime, and to prevent the need for a plumber keep with regular maintenance – this will also reduce your risk of catching the coronavirus through your plumbing even further, even though the initial risk factor is very low.

The bottom line

As of now, it is thought that catching COVID-19 through your plumbing is very unlikely. However, this was possible through other forms of coronavirus such as SARS and MERS. Therefore, we recommend keeping up good hygiene practices and performing regular home maintained such was preventing dry pipes and cleaning drains with clean water a few times a week.

hot water knob

What to Do When Your Hot Water Heater Leaks

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A leaking water heater may seem like a small problem now, but can quickly turn into a big issue. Even the smallest amount of water can damage your floors and walls. In more extreme cases, a leak can cause significant flooding that leads to expensive repair bills and damaged property. At A1 Service Plumbing in the Orlando and Apopka areas, we help you repair or replace all types of water heaters. Learn what to do in the event of a water heater leak or reach out to a member of our skilled team for more information about our services. 

What causes a water heater leak?

A variety of things can cause your water heater to break down and leak. Sometimes, a leak is the result of many issues at once. Find out about some of the most common reasons in the list below. Keep in mind that the most efficient way to determine the cause is to contact a skilled technician at A1 Service Plumbing. 

  • Corrosion: when sediment builds up in the system, this can cause corrosion or holes in the bottom of the tank. 
  • Loose water line connections: wear and tear may loosen the water lines, causing leaks. This issue is normally fixed by tightening the loose water lines.
  • Broken valves: this usually causes water leaks from the bottom of the tank. A broken valve simply needs to be repaired or replaced. 

What should I do when I find a leak? 

Water heaters can last for years, but even the most high-quality brands can leak when put under enough pressure. This doesn’t necessarily mean the system needs replacing, but it is important to address the source of the leak as soon as possible. The exact point of a leak may be hard to find if the leak is slow, or if the unit is wrapped with an insulating blanket. 

The first thing you should do when you find a leak is to turn off the energy source of the tank for a safe inspection. You can turn off the water by using the valve of the system or by shutting off the main water valve of your home. If you are unable to accomplish these tasks or locate either valve, please give us a call at A1 Service Plumbing so we can help you right away. 

Draining the water tank is an option that helps prevent further damage to your property. Although your technician will drain your tank when they begin to work on your system, some of our clients have experience doing this on their own. However, if you are not confident in this final step, our staff are happy to take care of draining the tank for you. 

Fix your water heater leaks

A1 Service Plumbing offers convenient 24-hour emergency water heater service in case of a leak or other serious issue. Allow our expert technicians to diagnose and repair your water heater in a timely manner. Our friendly team is proud to offer solutions to residents in Orlando and Apopka, Florida. All you have to do is contact our staff and see the excellence for yourself!

leaking faucet

7 Common Signs Of A Plumbing Leak

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Some plumbing problems are more obvious than others. Slow drains, clogged toilets, and broken water heaters are usually pretty visible to homeowners while others, like leaks, tend to be more elusive. Water leaks can develop in walls, floors, or ceilings, causing a considerable amount of damage before they are even noticed. Although you trust your plumbing system to function properly with no issues, leaking is all too common. If you discover any of the following signs, remember to contact A1 Service Plumbing right away in Orlando and Apopka, Florida before these leaks turn into much bigger problems. 

1. Poor installation 

When your pipes don’t have a solid foundation the first time around, this could lead to cracks or breakage. Your current plumbing system may need to be repaired or replaced by a skilled plumber in Orlando to begin working efficiently. 

2. Frozen pipes 

While frozen pipes are more likely to happen to homeowners who live in cold weather conditions, don’t discount this possibility. Frozen pipes, or pipes that don’t thaw properly, may result in cracks or breaks in your system. 

3. Roots 

Root intrusion occurs when the pipes leading into your home are broken into slowly by tiny tree roots. As the roots grow, they continue to make their way into the plumbing system, causing the pipe joints to separate from each other or collapse. 

4. Too much pressure 

When excess water works its way up the pipes too quickly, the pressure can be too much for your current plumbing system to handle. Leaks can form around the joints of the pipes, leading to further cracks or damage. 

5. Pipe corrosion 

Older plumbing systems have a high risk of leaks and breakage due to normal wear and tear over the years. Pipes made from copper and steel can be prone to damage from rust, which weakens the metal and corrodes the pipes. 

6. Damaged pipe joints

Most pipes have joints with curved corners. Over time, these joints can loosen or the seals may become damaged without your knowledge. When this occurs, water can leak from the joints as it flows through the plumbing. 

7. Clogs

Though clogs may seem like a minor disturbance, they are usually an indicator that something is off with your plumbing. An untreated clog may consist of substances that wear down your pipes, possibly resulting in water leaks.

Address common leaks with A1 Service Plumbing

Learn the initial warning signs of a plumbing leak and address them in a fast, efficient manner. A1 Service Plumbing offers a wide range of expertise in dealing with plumbing issues and emergencies, such as water leaks. We can respond to your needs in Central Florida, no matter the time of day or night. Simply call our convenient 24-hour hotline in Orlando and Apopka so we can get started. With years of experience in residential and commercial plumbing, we can ensure the job is done right the first time around. Our top technicians are certified to perform top repairs and installation. 

Water Heater Replacement and Repair in Orlando

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When your household does not have hot water, it is almost impossible to get through the day. Water heaters are essential for cooking, cleaning, and bathing, so it can be inconvenient or frustrating when they are not functioning as they should. At A1 Service Plumbing of Orlando and Apopka, we can efficiently repair and can replace all types of water heaters. 

A1 Service Plumbing has been introducing professionalism and skilled workmanship to the Central Florida area since 1954. Since then, we have been serving homeowners and businesses around the clock. Our water heater repair and replacement team are licensed and insured with many years of experience and dependable service. 

Whether you need an emergency repair or want to learn about the latest models of water heaters, we can make your water heater run more efficiently than ever. This helps you save time and money on your monthly energy bill. As part of our residential and commercial services, A1 Service Plumbing offers solutions for small and large properties alike. Contact us today and receive a quick response. 

Water Heater Brands in Orlando

When it comes to water heaters, you want the best. For this reason, A1 Service Plumbing is an authorized service provider of Rheem, Ruud, State, A.O. Smith, Bradford-White, and General Electric (G.E.) water heaters and water heating systems. These trusted and well-known brands offer different benefits, so we take the guesswork out of the game by giving you useful information to help you make the right decision. When it comes to replacing your water heater, our goal is to do so in a seamless and efficient manner. 

Best of all, A1 Service Plumbing is listed on each of these manufacturer websites as an official representative. This means that our team can install any of these name brands at reasonable rates. Not only that, we are confident enough to stand by our work with a guarantee. If water heater repair is necessary, we will consult with you regarding options that meet your specific budget and needs. You can trust our team with long-lasting products, reliable installation, and high-quality repair at reasonable rates. 

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair 

When it comes to your water heater, no problem will go away on its own or get better over time. Even small problems, when left untreated, can quickly ruin your system. This leads to even more complex issues that need expensive solutions. Instead, homeowners need to be proactive, so don’t dismiss any signs right away. It is best to contact a professional as soon as you notice that something seems off. A1 Service Plumbing can help you get to the bottom of the issue. 

Water heaters are often located in a remote area of the home, which means we do not necessarily notice small drips, leaks, or slight discoloration. It is essential that you examine your water heater on a regular basis. A1 Service Plumbing recommends checking the system and surrounding area at least once a month for obvious signs of damage. 

So how do you know when your existing water heater needs to be repaired? Coldwater is not the only thing to look out for when assessing your system. Some of the most common signs include: 

  • A heating system that is more than 10 years olf
  • The water heater is running much longer than usual 
  • The water heater is leaking clear or discolored water 
  • The tank is louder than normal or producing strange sounds
  • The pilot light is always going out 
  • There is a strange or bad odor coming from the system
  • A sudden or unexpected increase in energy bills 
  • Rusted or loose screws and bolts 
  • The system is not delivering enough hot water
  • Soft or spongy flooring 

Our technicians can inspect the water heater system and let you know which course of action we believe is best for you. If repairs are required, we can discuss which parts are needed and walk you through the manufacturer warranties. A1 Service Plumbing also offers our own guarantee so you can feel comfortable with our work. 

24-Hour Orlando Water Heater Repair 

Just like other appliances in the home, water heaters have a complicated system that may be difficult to handle without any previous experience. On a few occasions, you may be able to troubleshoot the issue on your own. However, we know is best to reach out to an expert to prevent unnecessary damage or a serious accident. 

If you have found yourself in an emergency situation, call A1 Service Plumbing immediately. We have emergency dispatchers on hand in case you need repair services urgently. Failing to do so can become a hazardous situation for you, your family, and your property. Foul-smelling water, loud noises, and leaks all need to be reported as soon as possible. Clients based in Orlando and Central Florida should call A1 Service Plumbing. We can visit your home within 24 hours in case you need an emergency repair. 

Contact A1 Service Plumbing 

If you live in the Orlando or Apopka area, A1 Service Plumbing is ready to meet and exceed your expectations. Our contractors are timely, professional, and will go out of our way to complete the job without leaving any mess. We provide services with minimal interruption so you can return to your day as normal. Rates are also completely reasonable and we can work within most budgets. With the way we work, A1 Service Plumbing ensures that you have plenty of hot water without any issues. 

When hot water turns cold, you can’t wait for days or even hours. Get service technicians who are trained in water heater routine maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and replacement. We are ready to accommodate your hot water needs. You can arrange estimates for water heater replacement and repair service during regular hours. For emergency service, feel free to reach out at any time 24 hours, 7 days a week to speak with our dispatchers. You are also free to contact us by email regarding your questions.

How to Get Rid of a Smelly Kitchen Sink

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Does your kitchen sink smell bad? Grease, fat, oil, and food particles down the drain are the most common causes of a rotting smell in the home. This leaves many individuals turning to harsh chemicals and expensive products right away. However, there are several non-toxic methods that can easily neutralize bad odors. Even better, most smells can be resolved with a few common ingredients you have in your home. Fortunately for you, the plumbing specialists at A1 Service Plumbing in Orlando and Central Florida have shared their expertise so you can eliminate sink stink for good. Here are the options we choose to solve this odor problem. 

Use Boiling Water 

Sometimes, leftover food particles can get stuck in the kitchen drain, causing a rotten smell that permeates throughout the home. Pouring a little boiling water down the kitchen sink can help wash out the food that gets caught in the drain. You can also add a little dish soap while running the garbage disposal to allow the hot water to really flush through. In fact, flushing out the drain with boiling water once a week with dish soap is an excellent preventative method that keeps your home from smelling like rotten food in the first place. 

Use Lemons and Ice 

It’s easy to gather the materials you require for this next drain cleaning method. Here’s what you need: 

  • Two peeled and halved lemons 
  • A few pinches of coarse salt 
  • 1 – 2 cups of ice 

To begin, place half of the lemons, ice, and coarse salt in the sink drain, then run the garbage disposal for a few seconds. Then run the hot water for a few minutes to clear out the disposal. Place the remainder of the ingredients down the drain, then turn on the disposal again. The ice works by clearing the food away while the salt will scrub the blades of the garbage disposal. The lemons, of course, will leave your sink smelling fresh, like citrus. 

Use Baking Soda and Vinegar 

One of the most popular tricks is to use a baking soda and vinegar mixture. These household items are commonly used to clean the dishwasher, refrigerator, toilets, and other appliances. For this method, try pouring one cup of baking soda down the drain, then two cups of vinegar on top of that. Allow it to sit for several minutes to bubble up, then run hot or boiling water. These ingredients, plus the hot water, will kill off any harmful bacteria that causes the smell. 

Trust A1 Service Plumbing 

After attempting these methods to clear out the sink stink and it is still emitting an unpleasant smell, this may be the sign of a more serious problem. Don’t hesitate to reach out to A1 Service Plumbing for plumbing repair to schedule service. We offer quality service for leaks, clogs, bursts, and other issues in the Central Florida area. Call us for large or small jobs – we stand behind our work with over 54 years of experience.

clogged dishwasher

The Early Warning Signs of a Clogged Dishwasher

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Your home dishwasher is the perfect example of an appliance you don’t realize how much you need until it’s broken. Since they are connected to your water supply line, dishwashers can get clogged just as often as toilets, drains, and other pipes, but don’t typically get the same attention. When not working properly, the dishwasher does not clean the dishes as well as it should, inconveniencing you and your family. At A1 Service Plumbing in Orlando, we don’t want you to be unprepared in case of a clogged dishwasher. Here are some early warning signs you should watch out for in your Central Florida home. 

  • Dirty dishes: This is likely the most obvious sign on the list. After running the dishwasher, you may see signs of food and other debris, which means the dishwasher didn’t fill up with water properly. 
  • Unusual sounds: All dishwashers make a little noise, but when you hear something particularly loud or abnormal, it’s time to get it checked out. In dishwashers specifically, you may hear a gurgling, thumping, or shaking. These may be signs of a clog leading to built-up pressure in the system. 
  • Water backup in the sink: The dishwasher and kitchen sink are both connected to the same drainage system. So, if the dishwasher is running and you notice water sitting in the sink, a clog is a very real possibility. Try running the garbage disposal when the dishwasher is turned off as food may be the source of the problem. If the problem persists, it may be time to call a professional. 
  • Standing water: When you open the dishwasher after the cycle has been completed and see a pool of dirty water at the bottom, this means the appliance isn’t draining properly. This can be a big problem because the leftover water can lead to mold that spreads to the dishware and other items inside. 
  • A slower-than-usual drain: The dishwasher or kitchen sink may be draining water slower than usual, which means a partial clog is likely the cause. 

Any other potential issues with your dishwasher are not limited to this list. If you notice any uncommon sign that something isn’t working, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Sometimes, you can try running the appliance again with a little detergent to see if the problem is repeated. In any case, you will want a trusted professional to take a look at the pipes. A1 Service Plumbing is your local Orlando expert in dishwashers and more. 

About A1 Service Plumbing 

Leaks, clogs, and standing water may be a small inconvenience now but could lead to greater issues in the future. Burst pipes, for example, are an extensive and costly plumbing emergency. If you and your family are seeking professional help for your dishwasher or other appliance, A1 Service Plumbing in Orlando, FL is here to help. Our team is made up of experts in all matters of plumbing. For more information about our services, reach out to A1 Service Plumbing today. We offer 24-hour emergency service around the clock. 

sewage backup

What are the Most Common Causes of Sewage Backup

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Like other systems in your home, you don’t really think about sewer pipes unless they are not working. However, sewage backups don’t just cause unsanitary conditions inside and outside the home, they are also expensive and difficult to repair. Backups occur when obstruction prevents wastewater from properly flowing through your sewer line. The water will continue to fill the drain pipes until, unfortunately, it overflows. 

When objects such as clumps of hair, grease, and detergent combine, these items can fill and damage your pipes, causing obstruction. A-1 Service Plumbing in the Apopka and Orlando area offers top-quality plumbing services and information if you are experiencing any issues with your pipes. Our team has provided you with information about the most common causes of sewage backup and how to prevent it in the future. 

Tree Roots 

Unseen to the eye, some trees and shrubs can work their way into sewer lines, especially if there are cracks in the pipes. These blockages start small, but as the tree grows, so will the roots. Given enough nutrients, the roots can travel a long distance and eventually prevent water from flowing where it should. This is especially the case in older areas where pipes have a tendency to crack and wear down. If you believe your blockage is the result of tree roots, A-1 Service Plumbing can help you identify the source and help you work towards a solution. 

Clogs 

One of the easiest ways to cause a sewer backup is through clogs. Clogs are simply a blockage in one of your drain pipes. They tend to develop slowly over time with many different materials involved. This can include one or more of the following: 

  • Hair
  • Dental floss
  • Non-flushable baby wipes
  • Cotton swabs 
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Hardened grease 
  • Small toys and other hard plastics 

Clogs can even come from an accumulation of solid materials that pipes are simply not meant to handle. There are steps you can take to prevent clogs from forming in the future, including throwing away the items from this list properly instead of down the drain. 

Broken Sewer Lines

As stated before, broken or collapsed sewer lines are more prone to blockage since tree roots can easily grow into the cracks. Broken pipes also give way for other materials to enter your system, affecting how water moves through the pipes. Pipes made from lower-quality materials may show signs of aging or leaking, which also makes them prone to backups. If just one pipe has become damaged over time, the others are also in danger of breakage. 

It’s unpleasant for homeowners to deal with sewage backup, but this is an issue that can’t be ignored. A-1 Service Plumbing is experienced, licensed, and insured professionals who provide our services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the Apopka and Orlando areas. We can come to your residence and offer you a complete written analysis of your piping system. Contact our team to learn more about taking action against sewage backup in your city. 

What to Expect in a Drain Cleaning Service

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Clogged drains can lead to some embarrassing backups in your home, especially when dirty water begins to flood into your sink or tub. When it comes to your plumbing system, the source of the problem is not always clear, which is why it’s important to choose a trusted Orlando plumber to take care of the issue if you live in the Central Florida area. 

A drain cleaning service in Orlando works to cut through the clog and debris to bring your residential pipes back to full functionality so you don’t have to deal with backups. So if you have tried traditional DIY solutions and they just aren’t cutting it, it’s time to make the call to a plumbing professional. Here’s what you should expect during a drain cleaning service in Central Florida and how you can prepare for it. 

Setting Up For Drain Cleaning Service 

If you have had backups in the past, or a history of clogged pipes for any reason, it’s best to call in an experienced plumber in Orlando so they can fully diagnose the issue and understand why it keeps happening. Try to talk to a plumbing service that offers a wide range of services, especially emergency care, will help put your mind at ease if the situation gets more serious during inconvenient hours, over the weekend, or at night. 

A qualified professional should be transparent about the cost of their drain cleaning services as well as any tools or extra parts they may need to complete the job. After the treatment plan has been established, you should be able to provide them with clear access to the area where they can get started on their work. 

After the Drain Cleaning Service 

Once the treatment has been completed, you should be able to see the difference right away as any flooded water would have disappeared. Remember to test your residential fixtures to make sure the “flow” has returned and the clog has been completely cleared. If there are any other steps to take, your plumber should guide you through the process with additional information. For example, if your sewer line needs to be repaired or replaced for a more permanent fix to your plumbing issues, they should inform you right away. 

It is always best to do your research before calling in a drain cleaning service in the Orlando area. We highly recommend contacting a local, friendly team who can get the job right the first time. 

Call the Drain Cleaning Experts

The experts at A-1 Service Plumbing are available during business hours and provide an emergency service line in case your drains clog or flood at the wrong time. Our drain cleaning services include residential homes and commercial spaces for your convenience. A-1 Service Plumbing is proud to be a premier drain cleaning company in the Orlando area, addressing clogging kitchen and bathroom drains as well as outdoor drains and sewer lines. Contact us about our comprehensive services today. 

Items You Should Never Flush Down the Toilet

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When you use home appliances such as the toilet, dishwasher, or washing machine in Orlando, the water travels from your pipes into the sewer system. This also means that any other items you flush are also headed there. 

A1 Service Plumbing is one of the most trusted names in Orlando plumbing and emergency plumbing repairs. When you flush or pour out materials that aren’t meant for the drain, it is a potential danger to your home and the environment. It could cause a clog or backup in your drainage system, which could end up costing you in the long run. 

At first glance, some items seem okay to flush. For example, baby wipes are very frequently flushed down the toilet. Even if the brand says “flushable” on the label, in reality, they don’t break down the same way toilet paper does. Instead, you should throw baby wipes away in a trash bin after use. 

Below you will find a list of other top items you should never flush down the toilet. 

Non-Flushable Materials 

  • Paper Products: As we mentioned, toilet paper breaks down easily in water. But this is not true of all paper products. Napkins, paper towels, or even tissues were not designed for flushing. Once wet, they easily accumulate and create a blockage.
  • Cotton, or Feminine Hygiene Products: It might be convenient to flush these items, but cotton and cotton-based items like sanitary pads and tampons are very problematic for your pipes. This is because cotton is a material that does not break down in water. 
  • Prescription Pills or Medication: Flushing pills down the drain may seem like a great idea since they do dissolve in water. However, it is not recommended to pills or any type of medication down the toilet. They could potentially be toxic to the environment. 
  • Dental Floss: Floss can be made with nylon, Teflon, and wax, all of which are not biodegradable. These can easily get stuck to the inside of your pipes, causing buildup and debris. Floss can also cause serious damage to the environment as well. 
  • Miscellaneous Items: You’d be surprised to learn what people try to flush down the toilet. This includes food waste such as coffee grounds or egg shells, or other items like Q-tips, cigarette butts, and gum. It’s best to leave these for the trash bin. 

Keeping Your Orlando Plumbing Clear 

The toilet was designed only for human waste and toilet paper. When you use it for any other purpose, you risk damaging your plumbing beyond repair. While your toilet may not get clogged right away, blockages build up over time. This causes other problems such as leaks and backups. Instead, avoid expensive plumbing issues and increase the longevity of your pipes. You can do this by simply by keeping waste out of your toilet. 

A1 Service Plumbing services the Orlando and Apopka area. With our A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, you are guaranteed fast and friendly service. Contact our team about your plumbing needs today.