Slab Leak Repiping and Alternatives

In San Diego, most buildings use slab-on-grade construction for their first floors.  These thick concrete slabs provide a low cost, solid foundation perfectly matched to our climate. But they pose slab leak repair problems for any plumbing underneath them, whether water supply line, interior hot and cold pipes, or sewer lines.

Detection

A water leak can go undetected for quite some time, and even become fairly large, without your knowledge. But make no mistake, an un-repaired slab leak will lead to major damage sooner or later. 

If you’ve experienced an increase in water usage, sudden or gradual, that seems to have no explanation, noticed discoloration and unusual moist areas as well as hot or cold spots on floors, walls, and ceiling; or in advanced stages, mold, odors, or cracks in the walls or ceiling, it’s time to get a slab leak detection expert’s professional diagnosis.

Repair Options

Depending on the nature of the leak and the building’s plumbing, you’ll have one or more options for slab leak repair.  An ASAP professional will take the time to explain your choices and provide up-front pricing.  That way you can make an informed decision before proceeding. They may recommend spot repair, rerouting and repiping, or trenchless pipe lining.

Gas Line Repiping

If you suspect a gas leak, that’s a major emergency. Stop what you are doing and call San Diego Gas and Electric, or your local gas company immediately. Symptoms of a leak include a rotten egg smell or in extreme cases you may hear a hissing. Many leaks occur outdoors from underground lines. Here you may only notice dead vegetation, but in some instances you might see bubbling in wet areas or dirt blowing from the ground.

Listen to the podcast below and read our gas line page for things you must do right away.

Benefits of Repiping

Repiping means replacing or rerouting existing lines. Why would you need repiping? To fix chronic problems and avoid future hazards, problems, and interruptions.

Until recently, most gas lines were galvanized steel. These lines suffer from rust and other types of corrosion and generally should be replaced after 25 to 35 years. There can also be mechanical damage requiring placement sooner, from accidents, building settling, or vibration for example.

There are new techniques available that can save you money by costing less in labor and lasting longer. The latest installations may use PE pipes for underground locations and CSST or Trac-pipe for above ground locations. In some situations, trenchless installation can mean that line repiping doesn’t have to involve digging up your landscaping or breaking through floors, driveways, or patios.

• Replacing old pipes removes serious health and safety risks to you and your family
• Increases flow rates, improving the efficiency of appliances
• Improves safety measures by helping to avoid cross-contamination
• Helps eliminate waste
• When you take care of a small problem now, a bigger and more expensive problem can be avoided.

Repiping – Plumbing and Gas Lines Experts 

ASAP Drain Guys & Plumbing employs experienced plumbers who are happy to evaluate the condition of your existing piping. We are leak detection specialists, equipped with the latest equipment for detecting and localizing leaks. Our skilled plumbers can walk you through your choices and each step along the way towards solving plumbing or gas repiping issues.

What is a Sewer Cleanout

A sewer cleanout is the section of piping in your sewer system that gives it access to your home. You’ll find sewer cleanouts in homes with the sewer system underneath the home’s slab. In homes in California, all water fixtures (like toilets and sinks) are connected to the sewer cleanout through a series of pipes. The cleanout is bordered on the other side of the city’s lines. Usually it is located a little ways away from the house itself.

There are two types of sewer cleanouts that you might have in your home. A one-way cleanout gives access in only one direction. A two-way cleanout has a U-shape and allows access in two directions, toward the yard and the house lines.

Why is it Important? 

As we mentioned above, most homes have their sewer lines under the slab, making them nearly impossible to reach. So if you suspect a problem in the sewer line, you’ll need some way to check it out without destroying your foundation.

A sewer cleanout is essentially a checkpoint for regular inspections of the sewer line and pipes. By opening up this section, a professional plumber can use a few methods to test for issues. For example, sewer cameras can be snaked through to look for damage or blockages, and inflatable balls can be sent to test for leaks. It also provides an access point to get rid of blockages.

Checking the sewer cleanout regularly will help you identify potential issues and keep them from causing expensive and inconvenient damages.

How Can I Find My Sewer Cleanout? 

Most modern homes in California will undoubtedly have a sewer cleanout, but they can be tricky to locate if you aren’t sure what you’re looking for. It probably won’t be visible since most homeowners tend to cover them up with soil, plants, or mulch. Depending on how many homeowners the house has had, you may have to do a bit of digging to find the cleanout. It should be just along the perimeter of the house.

Can’t find it? That’s not a problem. Professionals will have the tools to find the cleanout without digging up all of your flowerbeds.

If you suspect a problem with your sewer cleanout or would just like to know where it is, it’s time to call in the professionals. The experts with ASAP Drain Guys & Plumbing will be able to help you locate your sewer cleanout, diagnose any issues, and get those repairs underway. Give them a call today!

Blockage in Sewer Lines

Sewer lines are frequently subject to clogs or slow draining. While build-up is not completely avoidable, there are things which contribute to it. One of the most common instances we see are problems that occur from pouring grease in the disposal at the same time as you have the hot water running.

The back up that is created from build up can lead to much bigger problems.

Alternative to Traditional Sewer Replacement

In Carlsbad during this call, ASAP installed a 2 way clean out. We discovered 2 feet of cast iron pipe that needed to be replaced.

As an experienced plumbing company be being able to offer trenchless pipe replacement, we were able to complete the job at a fraction of the time and cost, with trenchless sewer replacement.

We used trenchless lining technology to restore the pipe from the inside so that there was no damage to floors or pavement!

Another benefit of trenchless pipe replacements are that they are resistant to tree roots so you will be free form the problems of root intrusion.

Finally, ASAP tested line to confirm there were no other leaks and that the pipe was fully repaired. We buried pipe and put the bit of landscape back that had been removed

Trenchless Pipe Replacement by ASAP Drain Guys & Plumbing

As you can read about in our recent projects report, when ASAP was called for assistance in Carlsbad, an affluent north count San Diego community, we were able to utilize trenchless pipe replacement San Diego-style.

For your residential or commercial sewage or plumbing needs, ASAP is available for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We are A+ BBB rated and have been serving San Diego since 2001. Learn more or contact us any time.

Root Intrusions in Sewer Lines

Root obstructions and intrusions are one of the most common and damaging problems to sewer pipelines. Because trees are always searching for water, their roots will often be attracted to sewer lines, where they can thrive due to good ventilation and a constant source of water.

Not only does this affect the sewer system’s hydraulic capacity (ability to maintain a given flow rate), root intrusion can clog or block sewer lines. This causes slow drainage, unpleasant odors due to leakage and standing water within the drain lines, and damaging overflows. 

Alternatives to Traditional Sewer Replacement

Not very long ago, it would cost many thousands of dollars, take several days, and inflict significant property damage and landscape destruction to dig and trench a sewer line replacement. Sometimes a trench would have to be dug from the property all the way out to the street.

However, experienced plumbing companies are now able to complete these jobs at a fraction of the time and cost, with trenchless sewer replacement.

Trenchless sewer replacement makes it possible to restore a leaking pipe from the inside so that there is no damage to landscaping, floors, walls or pavement! Among other benefits, they are resistant to tree roots so you will be free form the problems of root intrusion!

Trenchless Sewer Replacement San Diego by ASAP Drain Guys & Plumbing

As you can read about in our recent projects report, when ASAP was called for assistance at the Mission Bay resort, we were able to utilize trenchless sewer replacement San Diego-style.

We cleared the main line through measures including hydro-jetting, then made the necessary repairs to the sewer line.

We were then able to avoid the pitfalls of traditional sewer line repairs by replacing the lining with a proprietary epoxy solution. Upon application of the solution, we tested the line and verified its clear and seamless flow.

For your residential or commercial sewage or plumbing needs, ASAP is available for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We are A+ BBB rated and have been serving San Diego since 2001. Learn more or contact us any time.

Additional Questions?

For answers to common questions such as how much of the line will have to be replaced and how long does it last, see our article about Trenchless Pipe Lining.

One of the first things to consider is the age of your plumbing. If your house is older, you may have outdated plumbing that needs to be replaced. This can be a major undertaking, but it’s worth it in the long run – newer plumbing is more efficient and less prone to problems.

Water Supply and Drainage

Make sure you have enough water supply for all your fixtures, and consider upgrading your pipes if they’re old or undersized. You’ll also want to ensure that your drainage system is sufficient for your needs – otherwise, you could end up with clogs or backups.

Home Renovations Plumbing – Water-Saving Features

With rising water costs, it’s more important than ever to save water wherever you can. Consider installing low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads to reduce your water consumption. You might also want to look into greywater systems or rainwater catchment systems, which can help you save even more water.

Gas Lines and Ventilation

If you’re adding appliances that run on gas (like a stove or a water heater), you’ll need to make sure you have gas lines installed. This can be a complex process, so make sure you work with a professional plumber who has experience with gas line installation.

Proper ventilation is essential for a healthy home – it helps to prevent mold and mildew, and it also helps to control humidity levels. Make sure you have a plan in place for venting your appliances and fixtures, and consider installing a whole-house ventilation system if you don’t already have one.

ASAP Drain Guys & Plumbing – Home Renovations Plumbing Experts

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to plumbing during a major house remodel. Don’t let these issues slip through the cracks – make sure you plan ahead and work with a professional plumber with an A+ BBB rating like ASAP to ensure that your plumbing is up to snuff. By taking care of these issues now, you can save yourself a lot of headaches down the road.

Pictured is the commercial water heater of one of our clients, a McDonald’s restaurant in Escondido, CA. They called our office to ask for service because they had no hot water.

A technician arrived promptly, drained down the existing 125 BTU, 70-gallon commercial water heater, and hauled it away. But when he called the local supply house, he was told that the only water heater that could replace the existing tank was in another county.

ASAP Drain Guys & Plumbing to the rescue! A second technician drove out of San Diego county to pick up a new 80-gallon natural gas 135 BTU commercial water heater. The gas assembly was replumbed and a new sediment trap was installed.

The Technical Details

For those that like details, here they are! A new full port ball valve and gas flex was installed. The copper discharge line was reconnected. Water lines were replumbed and the expansion tank was reworked from the hot water line to the cold water line with an isolation valve.

The existing 6″ single wall vent was replaced with a 5″ vent and fittings. The drain on the water heater was replaced with a tee for the use of a recirculating pump in the future if the customer chooses to install it. A 1″ ball valve on the hot outlet line of a water heater was replaced. The new tank was filled, and once full the new tank was plugged in and tested for proper function.

Plumbing Maintenance for Restaurants

All commercial businesses need plumbing maintenance for restrooms. A restaurant’s plumbing system also includes bar and maintenance sinks. Any facility where food is served is recommended by most experts to have quarterly hydro jetting to thoroughly remove buildup.

Routine commercial drain cleaning also helps to determine if there are any breaks or cracks in the line.

Restaurants and commercial kitchens use grease traps to prevent sewage blockages. A busy kitchen or restaurant should have the trap cleaned whenever grease and sludge fill more than 1/4 of the tank. Grease trap clogs are not handled the same way as drain and sewer clogs.  It is important to call a professional for a blockage.

An annual grease trap pump is also recommended.  

ASAP Drain Guys & Plumbing – Custom Plumbing for Restaurants

Prompt 24/7 emergency services and efficient repairs are vital aspects of all professional maintenance services. Our experts are always ready for emergencies such as no hot water and leaks, as well as maintenance to plumbing, sewer, gas, and septic lines.  We have an A+ rating at the BBB, and we’ll be happy to meet with you at your facility, where we can view your facility and maintenance records, and then together create a custom maintenance schedule.

Drain Cleaning for your Kitchen or Bathroom

Kitchen drains often get clogged by substances like grease, food and soap scum fusing, especially at bends and turns in the plumbing. ASAP uses state-of-the-art equipment to clear your plumbing completely, effectively restoring it to its original state. On the other hand, other plumbers use antiquated methods to puncture a hole in the blockage. They leave residue that you don’t know about because your water is flowing again. Now the drain will continue to clog and become blocked faster than normal.

For bathroom drains, we carefully identify the problem and use the correct tool for your specific plumbing issue. Whether its plumbing video cameras, water jetters, sink machines, locating equipment, and drum/sectional machines, our technicians arrive ASAP to unclog bathtub drains of all types.

Drain Maintenance and Repair

Sometimes, drain blockages result from more than just clogged residue, such as from damaged pipes. Our technicians can arrive promptly and inspect any damage we find. We’ll walk you through why the drain was damaged and recommend our suggested repairs. Whether for your home or business, we’ll work quickly to ensure your prompt return to normal life or work.

BioDrain Enzyme Drain Cleaner from San Diego Drain Experts

If you’d like to have your own recommended product onhand for clogged or slow-running drains, we’re pleased to offer you the opportunity to purchase own enzyme drain cleaner directly from our Amazon store. 

It’s safe for all types of pipes and is for both home and commercial use. Not only does it work on drains and sewer lines, you can use it for garbage disposals, septic tanks, sumps and sump pumps, RV and boat holding tanks… even trash dumpsters.

Experiencing clogged or slow-running drains more often than you’d like?  Our Bio-Drain Cleaner may well be your answer.

ASAP Drain Guys & Plumbing are the San Diego Drain Experts

We are A+ BBB rated and have been serving San Diego since 2001. Learn more or contact us any time.

One of the biggest mistakes that new restaurant owners make is overlooking the importance of proper maintenance of their plumbing system. Although plumbing is not usually on top of one’s the mind, effective management of a plumbing system plays a vital role in commercial restaurant ongoing success.

Commercial Grease Trap Cleaning and Maintenance

Grease traps prevent sewage blockages by intercepting fats, oils, and greases (FOG) that are produced during cooking, baking, frying, and dish washing. Nearly every commercial kitchen is required to operate and maintain a grease trap. A busy kitchen or restaurant should have the trap cleaned whenever grease and sludge occupy more than 25% of the tank volume.

Grease trap clogs are not handled the same way as drain and sewer clogs.  It is important that no one uses hoses, wires, or a drain snake in an attempt to clear a blockage. Call a professional for a blockage, or whenever foul odors develop.

An annual grease trap pump is also recommended.   This completely removes all FOG, water, and settled debris and allows a thorough inspection of the trap. 

Commercial Drain Cleaning and Maintenance

Besides the kitchen grease traps and drains, a restaurant’s plumbing system also includes restrooms, bar sinks and maintenance sinks. Drain maintenance means cleaning out accumulated grease and grime before they lead to slow drainage or back ups. Typically, this involves regular drain and sewer line cabling.

Most experts recommend quarterly hydro jetting to thoroughly remove buildup for food prep and dish sinks as well as floor drains and dish-washing equipment.  That applies not only to restaurants but to any facility where food is served.

Routine commercial drain cleaning also helps to determine if there are any breaks or cracks in the line.

Commercial Plumbing Maintenance for Restaurants – Beyond the Kitchen

A qualified company for plumbing maintenance for restaurants should have experience repairing the facilities in your building beyond the kitchen. They should be experts in commercial water heaters, familiar with the complexities of any boiler system you might have, and be experts in leak detection and repair including slab leaks. They should have experience with each type of fixture in your building, including automatic faucets and any special equipment. 

Emergency Plumbing Services

Prompt 24/7 emergency services and efficient repairs are a vital aspect of professional maintenance services. Your restaurant plumbing maintenance contractor should be available around-the-clock every day of the year. Repair crews should include expert and experienced trouble shooters to quickly diagnose the problem and identify the best repair approach in order to keep your restaurant open and prevent unwanted closures.

ASAP Drain Guys & Plumbing – Custom Plumbing Maintenance for Restaurants

Our experts are ready 24/7 for emergencies as well as maintenance to plumbing, sewer, septic, and gas lines.  We’ll be happy to meet with you, review your facility and maintenance records, and create a custom maintenance schedule.

Trenchless vs Traditional Sewer Replacement

If you have ever been through the process of traditional digging and trenching, you know that the cost of restoring pavement, repairing landscaping and relocating utilities can be many thousands of dollars.

Trenchless sewer replacement makes it possible to restore a leaking pipe from the inside. A new cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) is created inside the existing damaged line. The CIPP is essentially a new pipe which is seamless and waterproof, and there is no damage to landscaping, floors, walls or pavement!

Additional benefits of CIPPs over most original sewer line materials are that they do not corrode, are resistant to tree roots and there are no joints that can separate or leak. They resist minor seismic events and minor soil setting, and there is no buildup of calcium deposits.

Trenchless Sewer Replacement by ASAP Drain Guys & Plumbing

Our trenchless sewer replacement services can take one day or less, and can start almost immediately. Because we can avoid the massive digging, you don’t have to spend time arranging concrete demolition, trenching, etc.

We start with a video inspection to assess the condition of the line. You’ll be able to see before and after pictures of the inside of the line.

After hydro-jetting the line to remove all build up and roots, the CIPP pipe will adhere well to the existing line. We use a special 2 part epoxy pipe lining that works for HVAC plumbing, hot and cold water supply lines and sprinkler systems.

The newly created inner pipe is a long-term solution, increasing the life span of plumbing by a decade or more.

We finish with another camera inspection and final quality check for leaks.

ASAP is A+ BBB rated and have been serving San Diego since 2001. Learn more or contact us any time.

Additional Questions?

For answers to common questions such as how much of the line will have to be replaced and how long does it last, see our article about Trenchless Pipe Lining.

When Is It Time to Replace Your Faucet

When you determine the reason(s) behind the dysfunction and defect of your kitchen or bathroom faucet, fixing the problems becomes relatively easy. However, if you don’t find any visible, small-scale, or minor issues when inspecting the faucets, it may be a hint towards bigger plumbing problems.

For this reason, we are here to help you determine the best time to replace your faucet through some of the most common and noticeable signs.

Consistent Leaks

Often, it may be easy to fix a minor leak, whereas a major leak will require plumbing services by professionals. However, if you notice consistent leaks from faucets or around it even after several fixes and adjustments, then it might be time for you to let a professional deal with it. They will suggest replacing the entire faucet instead of bearing the annoying leakages over and over again through minor repairs.

Mineral Deposits (Visible)

Mineral deposits are a common nuisance; especially once the water gets affected, mineral deposits can greatly hinder the water supply of the faucets. Hence, the faucets no longer function optimally, and the mineral deposits keep on building up.

Generally, the mineral deposits are due to the impure water supply that carries excessive minerals like calcium, sodium, etc. Moreover, they appear similar to toothpaste linings on a curve.

Rust and Corrosion

Is your faucet made of rusty and corrosive elements that can also affect other household appliances near it? Well, it may occur due to abrasive minerals in the water or corrosive water supply elements.

They are a sign that faucets need replacement to ensure unhindered water supply, especially during other household chores like dishwashing or laundry.

Replace Your Faucet With ASAP Drain Guys & Plumbing

Do you want to have one or multiple faucets in your house replaced? If so, we at ASAP Drain Guys & Plumbing can provide you with the reliable plumbing services that your household needs. We excel in other plumbing services as well and are always committed to delivering customer satisfaction. We have an A+ BBB rating. Call today for your emergency plumbing needs.