Orlando Plumber’s Guide: Problems Caused by Roots in Your Drain Lines

May 20th, 2013

If you ask any Orlando plumber, one of the more serious problems that can arise with your home plumbing system occurs when roots invade your drain lines. In this post, we’d like to talk a little about this problem so that you can stay informed about ways your plumbing might be affected. If you need an exceptional Orlando plumber, call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today!

  • Multiple clogs: If you find that you have not one, but two or more serious clogs in your home at one time, it may be an indication that something’s wrong with your sewer line. Your sewer line is the big drainpipe of your home that connects your wastewater disposal system to the septic tank or the municipal waste management system. Simultaneous clogs often indicate a serious problem deep within your drainpipes that requires professional attention. If it’s serious enough, your home may be at risk of backflow, which is the cross-contamination of supply and wastewater systems.
  • Wet spots in your yard: If it’s not raining and you don’t have a sprinkler on, then those puddles of water in your yard are probably coming from below the ground. Tree roots exert considerable amounts of pressure and if they’re large enough, they can actually penetrate the surface of the drainpipe itself and this can lead to sewage leaking into your yard. This is not only bad news for your plumbing, but it can also become a health hazard.
  • Foul odors: One of the side effects of wet spots in your yard caused by tree root penetration of your drainpipes will likely be foul odors. But they can also occur within your home. If the wastewater is blocked, then the odors of the drain system may waft up through the drains and directly into your living space.

If you need an Orlando plumber to come take a look at your drain lines, then don’t hesitate to call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today! We offer both drain repair and drain cleaning.

Ask an Winter Springs, FL Plumber: Why Won’t My Toilet Stop Running?

May 17th, 2013

Toilet problems can be incredibly disruptive. As one of the most used appliances in your home, you need to make sure that it operates well every day throughout the year. One of the most common problems that we come across is toilets that continue to run long after flushing. While this may seem like an inconsequential, minor issue, it can actually lead to leaks and higher utility bills. There’s no repair too minor (or too large) for a professional Orlando plumber, so call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today.

Ask an Orlando Plumber: Why Won't my Toilet Stop Running?In order to better understand what the problem is with your toilet and why it won’t stop running, it’s useful to first look at how your toilet functions. Your toilet is comprised of three major components: the flushing mechanism, bowl siphon, and the refill mechanism. Simply physical principles ensure that there is a consistent and constant level of water in your toilet at all times. Water conforms to a container or surface because of gravity and the curvature of the pipe behind the bowl allows the overflowing of the bowl by the tank to cause the toilet to flush. So long as the bowl is filled quickly with enough water to activate the siphon, your toilet will flush.

The tank behind the toilet bowl rapidly dumps several gallons of water into the siphon, which causes the bowl’s contents to overflow down the drainpipe. But in order to control the flow, your toilet tank has a flush valve that controls the flushing mechanism. The filler float, which looks like a ball connected to the end of a stick senses the level of water in the tank, and tells the filler valve to send water into the tank and the bowl after the flush is complete, so that the flush mechanism can be restored.

A sticky or damaged flush valve can cause a toilet to run constantly after flushing. It may also be a problem with the chain that connects the handle to that mechanism. Sometimes a jiggle on the handle will ensure that the tank fills back up, but you may need to replace the part to ensure that it doesn’t happen regularly.

Call MPI today if you need an excellent Orlando plumber. We’d be happy to take care of your any problems with your home plumbing.

Orlando Plumbing Question: Why Must a Professional Handle My Drain Cleaning?

May 16th, 2013

You depend a lot on the integrity and effectiveness of your plumbing systems. You rely on them to supply pressurized potable water throughout your home so that you can keep yourself, your clothes and dishes clean, and so that you can prepare food. You rely on your wastewater disposal system to remove organic waste from your home, and to ensure that you can flush the toilet and take a shower. Your drains endure a significant amount of wear and tear over the course of their service lifespan. In order to operate well, they need to be professionally inspected and cleaned. But you may be wondering why a professional should always be hired to handle your Orlando drain cleaning. We’d like to explain its importance in this post. Call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today for details about our excellent plumbing services.

  • Thoroughness: Our professional drain cleaning service offers an incredibly thorough clearing of your drainpipes. Only with the right equipment and skills can you expect your drains to perform well. We use the latest technologies and techniques to ensure that your drains perform like new. Hydro-jetting uses a highly pressurized water stream to dislodge hair, grease, and even mineral deposits from your drain piping.
  • Quality: Another factor to consider is the quality of the drain cleaning service. You need drain cleaning that is highly efficient so that it doesn’t take too long to be finished, but you want the service to be as long lasting as possible. Don’t settle for harsh chemicals being poured down your drains. Professional drain cleaning is safe and won’t deteriorate your piping. Considering the cost of drainpipe replacement, you should make sure you receive quality drain cleaning.

Professional drain cleaning involves a video camera inspection of your piping so that we can pinpoint areas that are particularly problematic. This first-person view of the interior of your piping gives us unprecedented information about the condition of your pipes, and makes the entire process operate smoothly. If you want to improve your plumbing, consider a professional Orlando drain cleaning from MPI. Call us today!

 

Corroded Pipes and Plumbing Repair in Orlando, FL

May 9th, 2013

We often think of our home plumbing system as indestructible. After all, metal is known for its strength as well as its durability. But corroded pipes can sneak up on homeowners. They can lead to serious systemic damage and you may need whole house repiping. In this post, we’d like to share with you two major issues that can lead to severe corroded pipes within your home. If you’re concerned with your pipes, then don’t hesitate to call for plumbing repair in Orlando, FL. Call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today!

Orlando Plumbing - Pipe Replacement

Photo from: http://www.flickr.com/photos/vax-o-matic/3828158533/

Your home plumbing materials are made out of plastic, concrete, or metal. While both plastic and concrete pipes tend to resist corrosion, metals are susceptible. But what is corrosion? Metal corrosion involves the constant release of ions of the metal into the water. Rust is probably the most well-known form of corrosion, and it involves the electrochemical oxidation of the metal in reaction to the oxygen in the air. When there is a substantial difference in the mineral composition of the metal piping and the water that runs through it, corrosion can result. Let’s take a look at common reasons for corroded pipes.

  • Flux problem: The term “flux” names a kind of paste cleaning agent used in the copper pipe soldering process. Plumbers use flux to facilitate soldering because dirt, oil, and oxidation at the site of the soldering can present obstacles to a successful joint. Muriatic acid cleans the joint and thus prepares it for bonding. But the downside of flux is that it may actually begin to react with the copper pipe itself if the pipe installation is delayed. If cold or hot water does not run through those pipes relatively soon after installation, then the acidity may pose problems to the integrity of the joint.
  • Water acidity: The alkalinity, hardness, and pH of the water running through the pipes all contribute to corrosive or scale-forming results. If the pH of your water is low, then your water is acidic and this often leads to enhanced levels of pipe corrosion.

We hope this helps you to better understand why pipes corrode. When you need comprehensive plumbing repair in Orlando, FL, call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI)

Common Causes of Leaky Plumbing in Orlando, FL

May 6th, 2013

We depend upon our plumbing systems to deliver fresh water to our kitchen and bathroom fixtures, as well as to remove wastewater efficiently and effectively from our homes. Leaky plumbing can occur for numerous reasons, and in this post, we’d like to explore just a handful of them. For superior Orlando, FL plumbing services, call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today!

  • Water corrosion: The corrosion caused by the water that runs throughout your piping is probably the most common cause of leaky plumbing. There are various factors involved, but water chemistry, pH level, temperature, as well as pressure can all contribute to the decay of your plumbing. Although the water may lead to premature corrosion of your plumbing, that does not necessarily indicate poor quality in terms of its drinkability.
  • Harsh drain cleaning: For the most part, partial and total blockages should be avoided by changing your habits of what you put down the drain. Grease, hair, and other food scraps can all contribute to clogs, but following them up with harsh chemicals may not be in your best long-term interest. Such chemicals can begin to take their toll on your plumbing and cause leaky plumbing in the future, if not more serious problems.
  • Old age: Professionally installed plumbing lasts for a long time. And it’s possible that with regular maintenance, and occasional repairs, your pipes will be okay for however long you own your home, but often leaky plumbing occurs as a result of pipe decay, especially of joints and connecting parts.
  • Poor installation: Plumbing is not an art, but a science. There are certain techniques, equipment, and materials that have been developed and tested for use in specific applications, and these should be followed. Trained professional plumbers know to work on your piping, but allowing an amateur to install the piping in your home can lead to significant problems.

These are just a few probable causes of leaky plumbing. When you need fast and high quality Orlando, FL plumbing services, call MPI today! 

Altamonte Springs, FL Commercial Plumbing Project: Florida Hospital Altamonte Surgery Expansion

May 3rd, 2013

Modern Plumbing Project - Florida Hospital Altamonte Surgery ExpansionOne of the most rewarding benefits about working in the plumbing industry is working on a project that will ultimately help people. We worked on a major expansion of a surgery center in Altamonte Springs, FL in 2009. This expansion allowed the surgery to fulfill the medical needs of a much wider range of patients, and the experience for us was both challenging and rewarding. Working on a new large commercial building is relatively simple in comparison. When you have to move materials and equipment and make noise in a hospital environment, you really have to take into consideration where you are, and the patients nearby who are both preparing for and recovering from surgery.

That means paying attention to the risk of contamination, limiting noise, and disruption of ongoing services, and fast-tracking the project by working double-shifts. The project involved a wide range of gas equipment installation, including five major medical gas systems. Additionally, the expansion required extensive medical alarm panel wiring, along with various plumbed sinks and specialty fixtures for surgical and clinical purposes. Such equipment requires very precise installation because there is no room for error when it comes to taking care of patients. We also installed a domestic water system and sanitary and storm systems.

All in all, the project was a success, completed within budget and on time. Although we excel in such situations, every job is a learning experience and we continue to grow as a company so that we can meet the demands of any job.

Call us today to learn more about the residential and commercial plumbing services we offer to Altamonte Springs, FL and the surrounding area.

Orlando Plumbing Repair Tip: Common Sewer Line Problems

April 29th, 2013

You rely heavily on your sewer line every day to support the disposal of wastewater out of your home and into your septic tank or municipal waste management system. While they are built to endure lots of use and abuse, there may come a time when you encounter a problem with your sewer line. If this occurs, there’s no need to panic. Simply get in touch with your local plumbing professional so that you can understand what your options are. For superior Orlando plumbing repair, including sewer line problems, call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today!

While all homes are different, there are some common problems worth noting.

  • Tree root penetration: Tree roots exert incredibly amounts of force as they move through the soil beneath your yard. If you have many trees in the vicinity of your home, then your sewer line may be at risk of damage by their roots. As they slowly press against the exterior of the pipe, they may eventually crack, dislodge, or even penetrate the sewer line, which can cause leaking into the yard. A major crack may lead to foul odors and wet spots in your yard.
  • Collapsed pipe: Over time, soil density may shift in response to ground-moving activities in the area, or due to erosion. Occasionally, this will lead to shifts in the distribution of weight over your sewer line. There may be circumstances under which your sewer line collapses due to increased weight. In other cases, collapsed pipe is a combination of wear and tear and old age. Whatever the cause, a collapsed pipe not only leads to sewage leaks into the ground beneath your yard, it also blocks the passage of wastewater, which can lead to serious problems inside you home.
  • Clogs: Over time, your sewer line may eventually fill up with enough organic waste, gunk, grease, mineral deposits, and other waste to create a resilient clog. If you have never had your drains inspected or cleaned, then it’s a great idea to do so before a clog prevents your plumbing from operating correctly.

For more information about sewer line problems, or to schedule superior Orlando plumbing repair services, call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today! 

Factors That May Damage Your Sewer in Orlando

April 26th, 2013

We rely on our sewer systems every day to provide safe, effective wastewater disposal. However, considering all the use that it gets, it will probably need professional repair at some point. Because of what it does and where it is, your sewer is subject to various potential factors that may affect its integrity and performance over the years. In this post, we’d like to look at a few that seem pressing. For more information about your sewer in Orlando, and whether it may need professional attention, call the experts at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI).

  • Orlando Drain ServicesRoot penetration: The roots of trees are incredibly powerful. While they do not move fast, they carry a lot of force behind their extensions into the earth. If you have trees in the vicinity of your sewer line, then you may have to deal with the possibility that a root may penetrate your sewer line, causing it to crack and leak.
  • Soil erosion: While we feel only solid ground underneath our feet, the soil is constantly shifting. When parts of the underground soil composition erode, it can lead to shifts in soil density that can collapse your sewer line.
  • Nearby construction: When large machines move over the earth, the soil may expand or settle in adjacent areas. If you or your neighbor has a construction project, make sure the contractor knows about any sewer lines in the area.
  • Age of pipes: Over time, even the most durable sewer pipes corrode, crack, and collapse. Even when professionally installed, your sewer line is at risk when it hits a certain age. If you have an older home plumbing, you may wish to consult with a professional about pre-emptively replacing your sewer line before it causes a major disruption.

For more information about factors that can damage your sewer line, make sure you contact your local plumber. Sewer repairs should be taken care of immediately. If your sewer in Orlando needs professional attention, call the experts at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today! 

Orlando, FL Plumber FAQ: How Does Video Pipe Inspection Work?

April 22nd, 2013

Ensuring that your drain pipes and sewer lines are in good working condition is important, because accumulations and blockages can cause big problems over time. The technological developments of the last 20 years have allowed plumbers to take advantage of video pipe inspection methods that have offered unprecedented vision into the interior condition of our wastewater disposal systems. This service is available to customers who want to know whether they might benefit from drain cleaning or whether they’re in need of drain cleaning repair. In this post, we’d like to explain how video pipe inspect works so that you can stay informed. For more information, or to schedule an Orlando, FL plumber, call the video pipe inspection experts at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today!

There are several things the video pipe inspection technician looks for: damage pipes or joints, blockages, cracks and holes, and sections that need replacement. Video pipe inspection relies on a small camera and light installed at the end-tip of a video cable. The models range in length and diameter, but they are small enough to enter even small drainpipes. The cable is typically inserted at what’s known as a “clean out,” an access point used for drain service. As this camera travels through your drainpipe, it illuminates the entire surface and uses a camera with a swivel head to allow for comprehensive scanning. The color image is communicated to the inspector through the video cable and hooked up to a monitor. The apparatus is also equipped with a recorder so that the entire inspection can be shown to the homeowner. This allows you to see exactly what the technician sees.

We hope this gives you some idea about how video pipe inspection works. The next step is what you decide to do with your this data. Talk to your local plumber about drain cleaning and repair, and about whether your drainpipes are at risk of damage. For more information, call an Orlando, FL plumber at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today!

Orlando Plumbing Repair Tip: Why Call a Professional Plumber?

April 19th, 2013

Your home plumbing runs through the walls and floors of your home, often unnoticed. Hot water emerges from your showerhead, your toilet flushes, the laundry machine gives you clean clothes; but we don’t often think of what materials or mechanisms make these modern necessities possible. That is, of course, until a leak appears or a drainpipe becomes clogged. For Orlando plumbing repair services, call the certified professionals at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today!

Here are some reasons to call a professional plumber:

Shower

  • Safety: If you are a not qualified plumber, then you simply don’t know how to handle the piping in your home safely. Even small repairs can be fairly messy, if you don’t know exactly what you’re doing.
  • Reliability: When you hire a pro, you know that your home plumbing system is in good hands. Any necessary repairs are not going to be quick fixes, or temporary bandages, but solutions to the root of the problem.
  • Knowledge: Your professional plumber has years of experience in this industry, and has seen a variety of problems, both small and large. But in addition to this practical hands-on experience of handling plumbing issues on a daily basis, he also has studied the mechanics of plumbing, and knows what materials are best suited for your particular project, how to detect leaks, and how to recommend lasting solutions.
  • Cost: While you may have originally begun your DIY project in order to save money, you may have only exacerbated the problem. When it’s finally time to call in the plumber to make sure the repair or maintenance work is done properly, you may have actually increased the cost of the service.

Make sure you get the exceptional plumbing service you need. When you have a water leak or need a new water heater, be sure to hire a pro. When you need Orlando plumbing repair, call the experts at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI).