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Taking Care of Your Septic System: Tips for Maintenance & Longevity

jose@ruizplumbing.net (Jose Ruiz) — Wed, 17 May 2023 18:50:25 GMT

A well-designed and properly installed septic system can last for decades if properly maintained. Taking proper care of a septic system is crucial to ensuring the system runs right and does not get damaged. This is important for several reasons:

Health and safety : A poorly maintained septic system can pose health hazards to you and your family. Wastewater from a malfunctioning septic system can contain harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause serious illnesses.

Environmental protection : Septic systems that are not properly maintained can contaminate groundwater and nearby water bodies, which can harm the environment and aquatic life.

Cost savings : R egular m aintenance of your septic system can help prevent costly repairs or replacement. It is much cheaper to maintain your septic system than to replace it.

Home value : A well-maintained septic system can increase the value of your home. A properly functioning septic system is a sign of a well-maintained property and can be a selling point when you decide to sell your home.

Good maintenance starts with understanding how a septic system works and how it can fail. Let’s take a look at the design and function of your septic system.

How a Septic System Works

A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment system used in areas where there is no connection to a municipal sewage system. The septic system consists of a septic tank, a distribution box (D-box), and a drain field (also known as a leach field).

Here is how a septic system works:

Wastewater from the house flows into the septic tank, where the solids settle to the bottom and form sludge, and the lighter materials such as grease and oils float to the top and form scum.
The septic tank is designed to allow the wastewater to remain in the tank for a period of time so that the solids can settle and the scum can rise to the top. The wastewater then exits the septic tank through an outlet pipe and flows into the D-box.
The D-box distributes the wastewater evenly among a series of perforated pipes that are buried in the drain field.
The wastewater flows out of the perforated pipes into the soil, where it is filtered and treated. The soil acts as a natural filter, removing impurities and bacteria from the wastewater.
The treated wastewater percolates through the soil and eventually enters the groundwater system.

The septic system is designed to treat wastewater naturally, without the need for chemicals or mechanical processes. It is important to note that the septic system requires regular maintenance, including pumping of the septic tank and periodic inspections, to ensure that it is functioning properly and to avoid problems such as backups and groundwater contamination.

Maintaining Your Septic System

Maintaining a septic system is important to ensure its proper functioning and longevity. Here are some tips on how to maintain a septic system:

Have your septic system inspected regularly by a professional. The frequency of inspections depends on the size of the tank, the number of occupants in the home, and the age of the system. Generally, septic systems should be inspected every 3-5 years.
Pump your septic tank regularly. The frequency of pumping depends on the size of the tank and the number of occupants in the home. A general rule of thumb is to pump the tank every 3-5 years.
Be mindful of what you flush down the toilet and pour down the drain. Do not flush non-biodegradable items such as cigarette butts, diapers, and feminine hygiene products. Also, do not pour grease, oil, or hazardous chemicals down the drain.
Conserve water. Excessive water usage can overload the septic system, leading to problems such as backups and odors. Install low-flow fixtures, repair leaks, and avoid using the dishwasher and washing machine at the same time.
Use septic-safe cleaning products. Harsh chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria in the septic system, leading to a breakdown in the treatment process. Use products that are labeled as septic-safe.

By following these tips, you can help ensure the proper functioning of your septic system and avoid costly repairs and replacements.

Signs Your System Isn’t Working Properly

Concerned there may be an issue with your septic system? Here are some common signs to look out for:

Foul odors : If you notice a foul odor coming from your drains or your yard, it may be a sign that your septic system is not functioning properly.
Slow drains : If your sinks, showers, or toilets are slow to drain, it may be a sign that there is a blockage in your septic system.
Backups : If wastewater is backing up into your home through your sinks, toilets, or showers, it is a clear sign that there is a problem with your septic system.
Lush grass or standing wate r: If you notice lush, green grass in the area over your septic tank, it may be a sign that there is a leak in your system. Similarly, standing water in your yard may indicate a problem with your septic system.
Gurgling sounds : If you hear gurgling sounds coming from your drains, it may be a sign that air is trapped in your plumbing system due to a clog or blockage.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your septic system inspected and repaired by a professional as soon as possible. Delaying repairs can lead to further damage and more costly repairs in the future.

Whether you are concerned that your septic system isn’t working properly or if it is due for a routine inspection and maintenance, our plumbing experts can help! Call us today at 352-667-1515.

What To Do While You Wait For an Emergency Plumber

jose@ruizplumbing.net (Jose Ruiz) — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 18:33:18 GMT

From burst pipes to clogged drains, even the best-kept homes have unexpected plumbing problems. The first thing you need to do? Call an emergency plumber ASAP. At Ruiz Plumbing Industries, Inc. we are on call 24/7 for your plumbing emergencies. For a plumbing emergency, please call us at 352-667-1515 . And while you wait, here’s what you can do to prevent damage and lower your repair costs.

Is it an emergency? Uncommon signs of a plumbing emergency

Most people think plumbing emergencies are easy to spot. A burst pipe, for example, will instantly flood the room. If you hear a loud crack and then have water everywhere, you need to call an emergency plumber as soon as possible!

But there are many serious plumbing issues with almost imperceptible signs. Here are the signs of a plumbing emergency, in case you’re wondering whether you should call the experts:

Water stains on the ceiling or walls

Water stains should never be ignored, but on the ceiling and walls they are especially telling. Any discolored spots likely come from dripping water somewhere in your system. Unfortunately, most people think it’s a minor repair they can put off for a later time, but this is not the case. It means water damage has already happened, and it will continue to wreak havoc on your home’s structure until fixed. The faster you get a plumber to come, the less expensive it will be for you.

Multiple slow drains

A poorly draining bathtub or sink is just annoying. However, if there are several slow drains in your home, there’s something going on deep in the drainage system of your home. We’ve seen several times how multiple slow drains are the only sign of a problem with the main sewer line, and sewer line repairs are always an emergency . If your sinks are “clogged” all at once, call a plumber ASAP.

Your hot water comes out red

Also called red discoloration, this is a sign of rust in your water system. If the red tint only appears after not using a faucet for weeks, then disappears a few seconds after being in use, it’s not an emergency. But if the reddish-pink water stays and doesn’t clear up with use, your system is one breath away from complete failure. Rusty hot water means your water heater is corroded and on the verge of giving out. Avoid running out of hot water by calling the plumber as soon as you notice the tint.

Sudden drop in water pressure

Another sign of a water heater in need of urgent repair, drops in water pressure can also signal issues with your home water supply. Unless it was announced by your local authorities, it’s best to get a plumber to look at the whole system.

W hat to do in case of a plumbing emergency?

Whether you spot any of the signs above, or have a real-life flood in your living room, the first thing to do when you realize there’s something going on is call an emergency plumber.

The longer you wait to get an expert, the more damage you’ll deal with and the more expensive it will be for you.

In this case, prevention is key: keep on hand the number of a local plumber with good reviews. This will save you headaches and time when emergencies do happen. It’s important to get a local plumber: they won’t get lost while getting to your home and they’ll be able to arrive faster. When it comes to plumbing emergencies, every minute counts.

What to do while waiting for an emergency plumber?

Now that you know there’s a plumbing emergency going on, what to do? While you wait for the emergency plumber to arrive, here are a few best practices to keep in mind:

1. Don’t panic

It’s easy to let emotion run over, but losing control won’t help the issue. As soon as you realize something is going on, take a deep breath and try to remain calm. If there’s kids, pets or elderly people in the house, the first thing is making sure they are safe, dry and out of the way.

Let the rest of the household know what is going on and, if possible, remove them from the affected areas in a calm way. This makes sure your emergency plumber has space to work as soon as they arrive.

2. Shut off the water supply

Even though you can’t fix a plumbing emergency by yourself, you can help prevent further damage. Since water damage is the main consequence of plumbing emergencies, it’s key to shut off the water supply to prevent even more water from getting out.

To do this, you need to locate the main water shutoff valve. Its location depends on your home’s layout, as well as whether your home is hooked to the city or the county water system, versus a private well or pump.

For those hooked to a private well or pump, the most common locations of the main valve are:

Outside or near the pump itself, in a box on the ground. If left unattended, these can fill with dirt so you might have to dig (carefully) until you find the valve.

By the pressure tank: To locate it, find the spot where the water pipes go into your home and follow them. Usual spots for the pressure tanks are the garage or a closet.

If you’re connected to the city or the county water supply, here are the usual locations of the main valve:

In the front yard, where your property and the street meet : This is the most common location, since it makes it easier for firefighters in case of need. Look for a plate at ground level: sometimes it’s even labeled as “water”.

Attached to your exterior wall : This is only possible in warm weather, so some Florida homes have the valve closed to the house instead of on the front yard.

Inside your home (garage, laundry room, or basement) : Often done in colder climates, it ensures the main water line doesn’t freeze in winter.

3 . Ensure electrical safety

A s a general rule, you should shut off the power, gas and electricity as soon as you realize there’s an emergency. With plumbing problems, shutting off the power is especially important to prevent accidents.

To start, go to your circuit breaker box and shut everything off. This box is usually located near the door of your home or in the garage.

PRO TIP : Never touch the breaker box if you have to stand in water to do so. The risk of electrocution is very high. If you can’t safely reach the box, call an emergency electrician so they can shut the power off from the meter.

Then, go back to the affected area and unplug all appliances and electronic devices. If possible, move them to a dry area where they’ll be safe.

Finally, after the emergency has been solved, examine every item to assess the damage. Have a licensed electrician examine water-damaged items they’ll be able to know if it is safe to continue using them. Never plug in an appliance that is still wet or is in standing water.

4. R emove excess water

If you have standing water, you can start the cleanup process even if your plumber hasn’t arrived. Once the water is shut off, clear the affected area of furniture and other items. Then, use towels and old rags to soak up as much liquid as possible. If there really is a lot of water on the floor, you can also scoop it into a bucket using smaller containers. Mops are also helpful to dry everything off.

5. Take pictures

A lthough pictures won’t solve the problem, an accurate report can help make the insurance claim a smoother process. Home insurance generally covers plumbing issues such as leaks, pipe bursts and malfunctioning heaters, but check your policy to be sure.

If you can, get your phone or camera to record the date and time, and try to get both general pictures and close-ups of the origin of the damage. At this point, keep any receipts so you can file those for reimbursement.

If you have a plumbing emergency, call Ruiz Plumbing Industries, Inc. at 352-667-1515 right away. We offer a full range of emergency plumbing services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week : just let our team know and we’ll be there in no time.

Is It Time to Replace Your Water Heater? Signs and Lifespan

jose@ruizplumbing.net (Jose Ruiz) — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 19:28:09 GMT

How long does a water heater last: water heater life expectancy

From hot showers to running the dishwasher, every household needs hot water. Unfortunately, it is very common to completely forget about water heater until they fully give out. The best scenario is managing to replace your water heater before it dies on you.

When it comes to home maintenance, it’s better to be prepared. There’s only so much one can fix and repair before the whole appliance needs to be replaced. Every water heater has an expiration date, so it’s useful knowing how many years yours has left. This will allow you to budget for plumbing repairs and replacement when the time comes.

Typically, water heaters last between 6 and 13 years. Of course, this also depends on the type of water heater you have:

- Traditional water heaters (with a tank): These last between 6 and 12 years. The main cause for replacement is corrosion inside the tank.

- Tankless water heaters: Without a tank, heaters last much longer. Around 20 years is a typical lifespan, and with proper maintenance we’ve seen several heaters last way beyond that. Corrosion is also the culprit of replacement, but since there is no water tank the wear and tear happens much slower.

What factors affect a water heater’s lifespan?

On top of the type of water heater you have, other outside factors will determine the final lifespan of your heater. In our experience, here are the most common issues:

Water volume: This is an easy one. The more frequently and intensively water goes through your heater, the faster it will corrode. Of course, water heaters are made to sustain continuous use. However, expect a water heater in a 6-people household to last less than one used by one or two people.
Hard water: Water with a higher mineral content (AKA hard water) speeds up corrosion in all plumbing, including your heater. The increased sediments also cause frequent malfunctions. In these cases, maintenance needs to be done more often.
High water pressure: Water pressure that is too strong will slowly chip away at your pipes and your water heater. Ask your plumber to check, and if you have more than 80 ppi installing a pressure regulator is a must.
Regular maintenance: Even if you have the best water quality, use your heater less often and have the right pressure, it will be all for nothing without regular maintenance. A plumber will be able to get rid of sediment buildup, spot rusting spots and make sure everything is working right. Without any maintenance, expect to replace your heater very often.

6 signs your water heater needs to be replaced

Water heaters can last as long as they're supposed to if with proper maintenance, but even so, they won't last forever. If you don’t know how old your heater is, or you’re wondering if it’s about to give out, here are some signs to look out for:

Rusty Water Is Coming Out

Rust is an indication of steel tank or pipe corrosion. If the water flowing from your faucets is tinted red, black or brown, it’s likely caused by corrosion inside the water heater or the pipes. It's best to get a plumber you trust to diagnose where the rust is coming from.

Unexpectedly high energy bill

A hike in your energy bills could be caused by a malfunctioning water heater. Think about how many hours a day the tank sits there and heats water. A problem in one of the heating elements, a failing thermostat, and other problems can significantly raise the cost to keep running the unit 24/7/365. Tankless water heaters don’t have this issue, since they only heat water “on-demand”.

Constant repairs needed

If you keep having to repair the water heater , it may be time to save your sanity by moving ahead with replacing the equipment. At this point, weigh the cost of replacing the unit versus the continuous investment in maintenance and partial replacement. Ask your plumber for their input if you fear their visits are becoming too frequent.

Not Enough Hot Water

Whether your family’s size changed, or the heater doesn’t heat up enough, this points out two issues. The first cause might be that the water heater is two small for the use you expect from it. So, for example, a small heater is often enough unless several people will be using hot water at the same time. Another cause for lack of hot water is buildup within the heater, which reduces the water output through the pipes.

Loud banging noises while in use

This is caused by excess sediments within the water tank. Because of the heat, sediments in the water tend to settle and harden at the bottom of the tank. When this layer is too thick, it cracks and moves, causing loud noises while the heater is on.

Weird-tasting hot water

Mainly due to rusting or bacteria overgrowth inside the tank, hot water that doesn’t taste right is a common thing. Your plumber will be able to look inside the tank and assess the situation. In mild cases a deep cleaning will suffice.

Is your water heater showing these signs? If so, it might be time for an upgrade. Of course, keep in mind that not all signs mean you need a new water heater. Depending on the issue your plumber might be able to repair the unit instead.

Having a trusted plumber to call is your best bet in these cases: they’ll be able to do an in-depth inspection and let you know your options.

7 Essential Steps to Finding a Good Plumber

jose@ruizplumbing.net (Jose Ruiz) — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 19:01:52 GMT

7 STEPS TO FINDING A RELIABLE PLUMBER

Your home’s water lines are a delicate system. From sewer line clogs to small leaks, tree roots and old appliances that break, having a good plumber on call is your best option. But what if you haven’t found a trusty contractor? Here’s what you need to do.

1. Find a local plumber

Most places have a few quirks that an experienced plumber will know about. For example, if someone has dealt with several units within the same building, they’ll know about recurring issues and pipe placement.

By being familiar with the area, a local plumber will also know if a specific part is easy to find and be able to recommend good hardware stores if necessary.

2. Make sure they are insured and licensed

The next step to finding and hiring a reliable plumber is to be sure they're fully licensed, certified, and insured. Ask them for this information before you let them do any work in your home.

As a basic, any service company who works in your home should be formally qualified.

If something should happen when they're fixing a leak or handling another issue, their insurance coverage will protect you.

3. Check their references

Now you should check out the plumber's reviews and ratings. Since almost every business is online, it’s very easy to do a quick google search and look at reviews. Social media is also a good resource.

If a contractor has been recommended by someone you actually know, take the opportunity to ask about their work. Past clients you know are a great source of unbiased references.

4. Call and Compare

Once you have a few options lined up, make some call appointments to discuss your needs with the few plumbers you’ve selected. Compare their rates and collect quotes over the phone, and it will be easier to figure out which provider is the best fit.

When looking for a reliable plumber, be wary of suspiciously low rates. A good contractor will know their job’s worth, and a very low price usually indicates a lack of licenses or specialized knowledge.

5. Ask about their service guarantee

You'll want to know if their work is backed by any type of service guarantee. Be sure you get it in writing on the contract before you sign it. We recommend reading any contract or quote thoroughly to be aware of possible limitations.

6. Get an accurate quote

Ask your plumber to give you a written quote before signing a contract. You don't want to be surprised later with hidden fees or a higher price than what you were prepared for.

This is especially important if it’s a big job. Your best option is asking your plumber if they provide upfront quotes or if the price could change later.

7. Ask if they offer financing

Experienced plumbers sometimes can give great input on financing big jobs. They might offer financing options themselves or with a credit union to tackle large projects. Even if your current project doesn’t need it, it’s always useful to know your options.

Additional questions you will want to ask before hiring

Do they have experience with your specific problem? Dealing with a leaky bathroom, repiping old sewer lines and repairing a well are all things a plumber can do, but they are very different.
What does the price/consultation include? It’s best to know whether they have a fixed consultation fee, if they can get any spare parts, or if they’ll have the time to do the repair on the day of the first consultation.
Will they provide a written quote? This ensures everyone knows what services are included and the final cost.
Do they have insurance? A good plumber should always have insurance in case things go wrong.
Can they provide references? Unless they have been recommended, always ask for references. An experienced plumber will happily give a couple of references before starting work.
Do you charge for travel time? Some plumbers charge for travel time if you are located outside their regular service area. It’s another reason to hire a local plumber near you, but always ask just in case.

These are the signs you've found a good plumber

They know their limits: A good professional will let you know if their specific problem is out of their expertise, instead of trying to wing it.

Respectful of your time: Someone that will be on time shows they respect you and their business.

Has repeat business: What’s a better sign than keeping your trusted plumber for years?

Recommended by other tradespeople: Tradespeople like manual workers and contractors are one of your best resource when looking for a good plumber. People in the trade industry usually know each other and will know reliable professionals in your area.

They’ve been in business for a long time: More time generally means more experience, so they’ll be able to deliver higher-quality work at a faster pace.

They offer advice: If you’ve been dealing with a chronic plumbing issue, a good plumber will give you enough information to prevent or anticipate further problems. This means you won’t need to call them as often, but it shows they actually care about your home working properly.

Five Common Plumbing Problems

jose@ruizplumbing.net (Jose Ruiz) — Sat, 27 Aug 2022 12:28:16 GMT

Five Common Plumbing Problems

It happens to the best of us: it’s your busiest week in months and now your faucet is leaking! Before giving up on everything or spending three hours at the hardware store wondering what to get, give your plumber a call. Some plumbing issues can be fixed in less than 30 minutes when a plumbing expert is on the job. Here are 5 common problems your plumber can help you with.

1. A leaky faucet and pipes

A drippy faucet isn’t only annoying, it can quickly make your water bill skyrocket. If your pipes are leaking , it can cause water damage that will end up being very costly (or need a full renovation to fix).

The causes of a leaky faucet depend on your specific situation. It might be because of a worn-out gasket, a corroded valve, or even a loose O ring. Pipes pose other issues, and will generally leak at the connection with other pipes. While fixing a leak is pretty straightforward, choosing the right parts at the hardware store can be difficult if you’ve never done it. You might end up having to go several times just to find the right replacement.

Save yourself the headache and call your plumber as soon as you see the first signs. It’s an easy fix when you have the right tools, and your plumber will be done with it in less than an hour.

2. Low water pressure in the shower

If your shower head lacks pressure, your plumber can help with it. An expert will have the tools to determine the exact cause but low water pressure can happen for several reasons.

- A clogged shower head. This happens if your water is too hard. The minerals in your water will build sediment over time and end up blocking the water flow. You can either replace the part altogether or soak it in acid to dissolve the buildup.

- An old fixture: Old water-saving heads can go too far and leave you with a poor shower experience. We recommend swapping for a new eco-friendly option that gives you more pressure without a higher water bill.

- Faulty valve: This part controls the amount of hot or cold water sent to the shower head. If it’s stuck or broken, your water flow will probably suffer.

- Broken pressure regulator: Most homes have a water pressure regulator that keeps your pipes safe. If this fails, you might see extremely low or high pressure. An experienced plumber will be able to fix this by replacing the regulator.

An old water heater can be one of the biggest culprits of an abnormally high energy bill.

3. Adding a water softening system

Got terrible white spots all over your bathroom and kitchen? Hard water is likely to blame. If left untreated, water that is too hard can end up clogging your pipes and damaging your appliances. Hard water can also dry out your skin, worsen conditions like eczema and leave that slimy “soap scum” all over your bathroom and the inside of your washer.

A plumber can help by installing a water softener system for your entire home. This is a system that “catches” the calcium and magnesium in your native water, while simultaneously releasing sodium. This installation needs a mineral tank, a control valve and a brine tank to be installed, but other than that it’s pretty straightforward.

If you don’t have hard water but would like your tap water to taste better, then a water filter is your best option. These filters pass your water through multiple layers that get rid of the smell, taste, and chemicals that many water sources come with. You’ll be enjoying fresh, tasty water in no time.

4. Cutting High Energy Bills

Yes, your plumber can help you lower your energy consumption! An old water heater can be one of the biggest culprits of an abnormally high energy bill. If that sounds like you, an update is probably in order. Newer heaters only heat water when needed instead of all the time. This means your heater will be smaller and can save you some money on your water bill as well.

On the other hand, if your heater hasn’t been checked in the last year give your plumber a call. A yearly checkup is a must if you want to keep your hot water running. Your plumber will be able to quickly detect and fix corroded parts, clean any buildup or the disfunction of the heating element.

5. Upgrading Your Bathroom

This one isn’t exactly a quick fix, but it’s so easy it’s worth a place on the list.

If your bathroom feels outdated, switching your old fixtures might be enough to give you that spa feel. The best thing is that you’ll be saving a lot when compared to a full makeover. A plumber can help you switch out your bathtub, toilet and even your sink, without getting into costly renovations or tearing down any walls.

The possibilities are endless. If you have a small bathroom, consider getting compact versions of your traditional fixtures. Nowadays, compact sinks and toilets are easy to find and are comfortable to use. You’ll get much-needed inches that can completely overhaul how your bathroom feels! Or get a deeper free-standing bathtub to replace your old one. It’s an easy swap that makes bath time feel luxurious.

Should you call your plumber for small projects?

We’re all for DIY, especially if you have some knowledge about plumbing yourself. But if you don’t have the time to do your research and make unlimited trips to the hardware store, calling an expert plumber is your best option. A plumber can get your problem fixed fairly quickly, and you’ll be sure the end result won’t leak and cause more issues down the road.

rchomepros-new

Taking Care of Your Septic System: Tips for Maintenance & Longevity

How a Septic System Works

Maintaining Your Septic System

Signs Your System Isn’t Working Properly

What To Do While You Wait For an Emergency Plumber

Is it an emergency? Uncommon signs of a plumbing emergency

Water stains on the ceiling or walls

Multiple slow drains

Your hot water comes out red

Sudden drop in water pressure

W hat ﻿ to do in case of a plumbing emergency?

What to do while waiting for an emergency plumber?

1. Don’t panic

2. Shut off the water supply

3 . Ensure electrical safety ﻿

4. R emove excess water

5. Take pictures

Is It Time to Replace Your Water Heater? Signs and Lifespan

How long does a water heater last: water heater life expectancy

What factors affect a water heater’s lifespan?

6 signs your water heater needs to be replaced

Rusty Water Is Coming Out

Unexpectedly high energy bill

Constant repairs needed

Not Enough Hot Water

Weird-tasting hot water

7 Essential Steps to Finding a Good Plumber

7 STEPS TO FINDING A RELIABLE PLUMBER

1. Find a local plumber

2. Make sure they are insured and licensed

3. Check their references

4. Call and Compare

5. Ask about their service guarantee

6. Get an accurate quote

7. Ask if they offer financing

Additional questions you will want to ask before hiring

These are the signs you've found a good plumber

Five Common Plumbing Problems

Five Common Plumbing Problems

1. A leaky faucet and pipes

2. Low water pressure in the shower

An old water heater can be one of the biggest culprits of an abnormally high energy bill.

3. Adding a water softening system

4. Cutting High Energy Bills

5. Upgrading Your Bathroom

Should you call your plumber for small projects?

W hat to do in case of a plumbing emergency?

3 . Ensure electrical safety