Category: Home Services

Septic Tanks and Drain Fields

Ernest Cox Home Services , , , , , , , , , ,

Septic tanks allow homeowners to dispose of wastewater from toilets and other household drains safely. The tank is a buried watertight container made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene. Solid waste settles in the bottom, forming sludge, while oil and grease float to the top, creating scum. Water exits the tank through an outlet and seeps into a drain field in unsaturated soil. Contact Septic Tank Armadale now!

A septic tank treats wastewater when a city sewer system is unavailable. The septic tank is an underground storage vessel that holds wastewater from your house drains, toilets and showers. When the waste leaves your home, it travels into the septic tank and undergoes a process called settling. Solid matter and sediment sink to the bottom of the tank, while bacteria break down organic material and scum. The resulting liquid effluent is then released into your drain field. The drain field or leach field is an area of soil where the septic system’s microorganisms further treat the effluent.

The septic tank is fitted with inlet and outlet tees that extend from the pipes entering and exiting your home. The inlet tee is positioned below the scum layer, while the outlet tee is positioned above it. This ensures that the scum layer does not enter your septic tank’s absorption field, as this could clog or reduce its efficiency. The septic tank is also equipped with an inlet baffle to force wastewater downward into the middle of the tank, which helps solids separate more effectively from the liquid effluent.

Bacteria in your septic tank generate gases as they break down wastewater contaminants. These gases are odoriferous and can be vented outside your home through a pipe in the lid of your tank. The vent can be fitted with a charcoal filter to reduce odors.

If your septic tank is not functioning properly, you may notice that your home’s drains are slow to work or that the toilets back up. These problems can be a sign of a septic system problem that requires immediate attention.

When you notice sewage back up through your drains, it is critical to turn off all water use and call for professional help right away. A professional can determine the cause of the septic system failure and fix it before the problem worsens.

Avoid putting any non-organic materials down your drains, such as plastics or rubber. Only flush septic-safe toilet paper down your drains and make sure any other appliances you use are septic safe as well. Also, be careful not to park vehicles or plant any trees near your septic tank and drainfield. Doing so can compact the soil, blocking the flow of effluent into and out of your septic tank and absorption field.

Sewage Discharge

When sewage leaves your home, it flows through sewer pipes to your septic tank. There it undergoes a settling process where solid matter and sediment sink to the bottom (forming a sludge layer) and grease and other lightweight materials float to the top of the water (forming a scum layer). Meanwhile, bacteria in the tank break down the sludge and liquid waste. After a period of time, the clear wastewater called effluent exits the septic tank through an outlet pipe into a soil absorption area, which can be a drainfield, mound, seepage pit, or cesspool.

If you use your septic system correctly, a few precautions can help ensure the longevity of the septic tank and the drain field. These include:

Keeping household chemicals out of the system is also important, as they can kill bacteria and other microorganisms that treat the sewage. Chemicals that shouldn’t enter the system include solvents, paints and coatings, disinfectants, paint thinners, pesticides, and household cleaners. These products can also contaminate underlying groundwater.

Avoiding overloading your septic tank is also critical. A septic tank must have enough time to separate solids from the liquid, and overloading can prevent this process from occurring. To help, space out showers, laundry, and dishes so that you’re not putting too much water into the tank at one time.

Finally, it’s a good idea to have a professional install an effluent filter at the outlet of the tank. This device filters the effluent as it leaves the tank, catching suspended solids that could clog the drainfield and cause sewage backups.

The most important step you can take to maintain a long life for your septic tank and drain field is to have it pumped regularly. Most professionals recommend having your septic tank pumped every 2-3 years, depending on how many people live in the home and how much water is used each day. Regular inspections and pumping can help you avoid costly problems in the future, like clogged drains or sewage backing up into your house. Taking a few simple precautions, including reducing water use, avoiding grease, using a garbage disposal sparingly or not at all, cleaning an effluent filter, and properly landscaping the yard to keep surface water away from the tank and drainfield, can save you the headache and expense of septic system repairs.

Drain Field

The drain field (also called the absorption field, leach field, or disposal field) is where wastewater gets further treated by filtration and absorption into soil. Like the septic tank, it is an important part of your home’s sewage system that should be properly maintained to avoid costly damage and poor performance.

When wastewater leaves your septic tank, it flows to the drain field via an outlet pipe. The tank allows for a certain amount of time for solids to settle or float before the liquid waste is discharged to the absorption area. This enables the heavier solids, such as soil, grit, and unconsumed food particles to sink to the bottom of the tank, where they are broken down by bacteria. Meanwhile, lighter solids, such as fats and grease, rise to the surface, where they partially decompose. The resulting clarified wastewater is known as septic tank effluent.

As the septic tank effluent enters the absorption field, it goes through a distribution box that evenly distributes it to pipes within the gravel-filled trenches of the drain field. The pipes are perforated and are usually buried underneath a layer of gravel that provides both support and help the filtration process.

Once the wastewater reaches your absorption field, it is absorbed and treated by the surrounding soil and grass. This natural process removes most of the harmful microorganisms and pollutants in your wastewater.

Over time, however, the drain field can become overloaded with wastewater. This may occur if you continuously use water-intensive appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers. It can also happen if the septic tank isn’t pumped on a regular basis, allowing the solids to overflow into the absorption field and clog the pipes.

Having your drain field professionally maintained will prevent this from happening and help extend its lifespan. Regular maintenance includes checking for signs of problems, such as sludge buildup or a spongy, jelly-like material that forms on the sidewalls and bottom of the drain field trenches. If you notice these symptoms, contact us immediately for professional drain field repair or rehabilitation services.

Maintenance

Many homeowners assume that as long as sewage “goes away,” their septic system is doing its job. However, septic tanks and drain fields need to be evaluated and pumped periodically to prevent failure. Septic systems that fail to function correctly can contaminate nearby water sources with pathogenic bacteria and excess nutrients. Signs of a failing septic system include sewage bubbling up from drains, sewage in the yard, sewage odors, high levels of nitrates or coliform bacteria in well water tests, and excessive algae growth in local lakes and ponds.

A septic tank that isn’t pumped regularly will become full of sludge and solids that can clog up the drainage field and leach pit. A septic tank should be inspected and pumped at least once every three years or as recommended by the septic system professional. The cost of a septic tank and absorption field cleaning can be much less expensive if you perform regular maintenance, such as:

It’s important to protect the septic system from heavy vehicles and construction, which could compact the soil around the tank and drainfield. Also, it’s a good idea to plant grass or other plants around the septic tank and drain field to prevent vehicles from driving or parking over them. It’s also a good idea to limit the number of showers, laundry loads and dishwasher loads per day to allow the tank time to treat wastewater properly.

A homeowner should never add septic system additives or biological products to their septic tank. These can interfere with the natural bacteria in septic tanks and cause them to overwork and clog pipes. Similarly, chemical solvents should not be used to clean septic tanks or toilets.

Keeping detailed maintenance records of the septic tank and system can boost home value, as potential buyers will see that the septic system has been cared for and is working properly. Some prospective buyers may be wary of a home with a septic system, but with clear maintenance records showing the septic system has been cleaned regularly, they will likely make an offer on the property.

Drywall Repair Basics

Preston Marsh Home Services , , , , , ,

Drywall is used extensively in the construction of homes. Unfortunately, it can become damaged over time due to normal wear and tear or from events like flooding.

Minor blemishes are easy to fix with spackle and a putty knife. However, if you are going to hire a contractor for drywall repair, make sure to ask for references and a portfolio of previous work. Contact Drywall Repair Las Vegas now!

Many homeowners encounter small holes in drywall from time to time. Whether you accidentally bumped into a wall hook while hanging a picture or moved a light switch and punctured the drywall, patching these types of minor holes is simple. These small holes can be easily repaired with a drywall patch kit and joint compound.

First, use a stud-finder to locate your studs. You will want half of an exposed stud to attach your new drywall patch to, so mark this area with a square using a drywall saw. Next, cut along the square using a utility knife or drywall saw to remove the damaged section of drywall. To prevent the patch from pulling away from the wall, install a piece of wood behind the drywall to act as backing for your patch.

To prepare the hole for the patch, apply a layer of drywall tape around its perimeter. Make sure the drywall tape extends at least an inch past each side of the hole. Next, apply a thin coat of spackle or joint compound over the patch and use your putty knife to smooth out the surface and feather the edges into the surrounding wall.

Allow the patch to dry thoroughly before you begin sanding it. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper and then move to progressively finer grits until the patch is smooth and blends into the wall. After sanding the patch, apply one or two additional thin coats of joint compound to ensure that it is completely covered and that there are no flaws in the surface.

Large holes require a bit more work to fix than smaller ones. Silva suggests starting by cutting a piece of scrap drywall slightly larger than the existing hole. Place the scrap over the damaged area and trace its outline with a pencil. Next, use a drywall saw to cut along the lines and enlarge the hole to a clean rectangular shape. This step is important because it will prevent future cracking and help the patch stay firmly attached to the wall.

Once the patch is in place, apply a second coat of joint compound and let it dry. After the patch has dried, you can sand it and then prime the area. Once the primer has dried, you can paint your patch and wall with matching latex paint.

Replacement

Drywall is a versatile and durable construction material used in walls, ceilings and other surfaces. It is composed of gypsum, a soft sulfate mineral, which is compressed between two sheets of heavy paper to make it strong and affordable. However, drywall is not immune to damage and over time it may become necessary to repair or replace a section of the wall. The first step in a drywall repair project is to decide whether to patch or replace the damaged area.

In some cases, a large section of the wall will need to be replaced due to extensive physical damage, such as holes from a nail or screw, broken corners, or a collapsed ceiling. The most common reason, though, is moisture damage. Moisture can cause a variety of problems that include discoloration, deterioration, sagging, and mold growth. If you are experiencing any of these issues, it is likely time to consider a full drywall replacement.

Before you begin any drywall repair, you must clear the area around the damaged surface. Remove any furniture or other decorations and make sure that the space is free from dust, debris and other potential hazards. It is also a good idea to check with your local building department to ensure that you have the proper permits and licenses for your project.

The next step in repairing drywall is to determine the size of the hole or area that needs to be replaced. You can do this by using a stud finder to locate the studs around the damaged area. Then, you can measure the distance between the studs and draw a line on the current wall to help you cut out a new piece of drywall.

Once you have removed the damaged section, you can put up the new drywall and fasten it using drywall screws. Then apply a couple of coats of joint compound and sand it to a smooth finish before painting.

It is important to wait until the drywall is fully dried and sanded before you paint it. Otherwise, the paint will be uneven and can easily chip or peel.

Texture Matching

Texture matching is the specialized work that comes after patching and replacing drywall. It involves applying the right texture to the repair area to make it blend in with the existing wall surface. The steps to do this vary depending on the type of textured wall or ceiling you have in your home, but the overall process is usually similar.

First, you need to sand down the patched area to remove any oil-based texture from the surface of the drywall. This can be done using a handheld block sander and should be as smooth and even as possible. Once you have finished sanding, wipe the area clean to remove any remaining dust and dirt. Then, allow the area to dry completely before attempting to match the texture.

If you are trying to match a light, or skip trowel, textured surface that was applied by hand then this may be the easiest type of texture to match. Using the same tools and technique as the original application will help you create a seamless match. However, if you are trying to match an orange peel or splatter knockdown texture, which were typically applied using a hopper spray gun, this will be much more difficult.

Once the sanding is completed and the patched areas are free of any debris or loose drywall, apply joint compound to the repaired area. Then, once again allow the patch to dry as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Once the patch is completely dry, sand it again lightly to smooth out any high spots or imperfections. Then, once again, apply the desired texture and feather the edges to ensure a seamless blend with the existing surface.

Before applying any drywall texture, it is best to practice on a piece of scrap material or cardboard. This will give you a feel for the proper application technique and help you get a better idea of how the finished product should look. Also, be sure to shake the can of texture really well and test the spray on a small area before using it on your actual wall.

Mold Remediation

When water seeps into drywall, it can create a moist environment that encourages mold growth. Identifying and addressing mold in your home is important to avoid extensive damage and deterioration. If you suspect a mold problem, check your walls for paint that is cracking or bubbling, wallpaper that is peeling, and/or a musty odor. Moldy drywall is often easy to spot, but it’s also common for it to grow behind your walls where you can’t see it. If you suspect a hidden issue, you can use a mold testing kit to confirm the presence of spores.

When repairing mold in a wall, you’ll need to take the following steps:

Start by shutting off the power to the affected area at your electrical service panel. Then, remove the drywall and inspect its back for any signs of mold. If you can’t find any, you may be able to skip this step and move on to patching.

If you’re unable to locate the source of the mold, have your professional perform a mold remediation. They’ll spray an EPA-approved biocide on the affected areas to kill mold spores and prevent them from spreading. This step will also involve sanitizing the surrounding area and sealing any leaky areas to prevent future mold growth.

Depending on the extent of the mold, you might need to replace your drywall. This process is similar to patching, but you’ll have to add a new piece of drywall and attach it with drywall screws. It’s a good idea to use a stud finder to locate wooden supports behind the drywall before you cut, and then cover them with plastic to protect them from dust.

Once the drywall is replaced, you can use a drywall primer to seal the surface before painting it with a color that matches your existing wall. Make sure to choose a mold-preventing paint for the new coat, and be sure to dry it completely.

While some blemishes on your drywall can be covered with touch-up paint, larger repairs require a full repaint. It’s best to hire a drywall specialist to do the job to ensure that the new paint blends with your current wall’s sheen and color.

Water Heater Repair and Replacement

Preston Marsh Home Services , , , , , ,

If water pools around your tank, it may indicate a leak. Check the cold water inlet and the hot water outlet for loose connections.

It’s recommended that the water heater be cleaned twice a year to remove sediment buildup and that the sacrifice code rod be replaced every three years. Contact Water Heater Repair Aurora CO now!

A water heater is vital to any home, but it is often overlooked until something goes wrong. DIY repairs can address some issues, but more extensive problems need professional attention to prevent a dangerous situation. A qualified plumber specializing in water heater repair can perform a variety of fixes, such as repairing or replacing heating elements, gas burners, and dip tubes. They can also handle more complex tasks, such as assessing the proper size for a new tank and installing a replacement.

A common issue with a water heater is insufficient hot water. Depending on the unit’s thermostat settings, this may be eaunit’sixed by adjusting it to a higher temperature. If this doesn’t fix the problem, it may be a sign doesn’te tank is leaking or has rust or corrosion.

If the tank is leaking, you will need to hire a plumber to drain and flush the unit. This is an annual process that should be performed to remove sediment from the bottom of the tank, reducing the risk of rust and corrosion and increasing efficiency. The anode rod is another important part of your water heater that should be checked annually. This sacrificial rod attracts corrosive oxygen to itself, protecting the rest of the tank from rusting.

Other signs that your water heater is in need of repair include a rumbling or banging sound, or high-pitched whining. These sounds indicate that the tank is overheating and boiling due to excessive sediment buildup, which can cause the tank to crack. A faulty temperature or pressure relief valve (PRV) is another common problem that can cause the water heater to leak or overheat.

If you have no hot water, there could be a problem with your main water line or the breaker box that controls the unit. In most cases, the breaker will trip when there is too much demand for water. Try spreading out your showers and dishwashing throughout the day to prevent this from happening. If you still have no hot water, it may be a sign that your water heater isn’t sized correctly for your household aisn’teds to be replaced with a larger one.

Water Heater Installation

Your water heater may not be at the forefront of your mind each day, but it’s still an important and valuable appliit’s that you rely on to provide your household with a steady flow of hot water for showering, washing, cooking, cleaning, and other uses. Whether you’re dealing with a minor or major issueyou’reofessional plumber can help you determine the best repair or replacement option to get your system running again.

A lack of hot water could be caused by a simple problem like a tripped circuit breaker or a pilot light that needs to be re-lit. It may also be due to a low water heater capacity that isn’t enough to meet your household’s hot isn’t demand. If this is thousehold’splumber can help you install a new tank that will meet your household’s needs.

Another common reason fhousehold’sf hot water is sediment buildup in the tank. This can lead to a clogged water line and low water pressure. If you notice that your water is rusty, it could be a sign of mineral sediment in the tank. If this is the case, a professional plumber can flush and drain your water heater to remove the sediment and restore proper function.

If you notice puddles around your water heater, this is a clear indication that it’s leaking. This can lead to significantit’ser damage if not repaired quickly. Turn off the power and water supply to your heater before calling a plumber, as this will allow them to inspect the unit for leaks or damage.

Sometimes, a minor water heater repair is all that you need to keep your system in good working order. A professional plumber can flush your hot water heater and relight the pilot light, as well as re-insulate and re-plumb your system as needed. There are also various maintenance tasks that you can do on your own, such as checking the circuit breaker and adjusting or testing thermostats and other components. However, certain elements of your system like gas lines and exhaust vents should be more carefully repaired by a licensed professional to prevent further damage or injury.

Water Heater Maintenance

Water heaters need regular maintenance to prevent a wide range of issues that can dramatically impact facility productivity. For example, mineral and sediment buildup causes inefficiency in the tank that leads to problems like clogs, corrosion, and leaks. Regular tank flushing helps reduce this problem and extends the life of your water heater. Other signs that your water heater needs repair include low hot water production, strange noises from the unit, or a foul odor coming from the unit.

A professional water heater inspection and service helps identify issues that you might not notice while conducting your own regular maintenance. For instance, a leaky pressure relief valve could spray scalding water from the top of the unit, or a cracked tank might need to be replaced. It’s also important to have a professionalIt’spect your electric or gas water heater for safety issues. These can include scalding hot water from the pressure relief valve or flammable natural gas leaking from pipes and components.

Most of the water heater maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner, though you should consult an expert if there are any issues that require professional assistance. A professional will conduct an inspection and determine a maintenance schedule that maximizes the lifespan of your unit.

The most basic water heater maintenance task involves draining the tank to remove sediment, which reduces efficiency. The process involves shutting off the water supply to the unit, opening the drain valve on the bottom of the tank, and connecting a garden hose to the spigot. This drains about 10 percent of the water in the tank, which can help remove any sediment that has built up over time. You should also check the anode rod periodically and replace it if it looks heavily damaged.

Finally, it’s a good idea to add insulation around it’swater heater and any hot water pipes that leave the unit to reduce energy loss. This can be done at a relatively inexpensive cost, and it goes a long way toward improving the energy efficiency of your home or business.

Water Heater Replacement

A hot water heater is a big investment, and as it ages it can require more repair and maintenance. If you’re not getting as much hot water as yoyou’re to or you’ve noticed rusting on the unit, it migyou’vetime for a replacement. A professional plumber can help you choose a new model that meets your needs and fits into your home or commercial space.

A few common signs that it’s time for a new hot water heater incluit’soticing a decrease in the temperature of your hot water, seeing puddles of water around the tank, or hearing rumbling noises from the unit. These are signs of sediment hardening at the bottom of the tank and can cause leaks as well as loud banging noises when the sediment disperses.

If you’re having trouble with hot water in yoyou’resehold, check your breaker. A blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker can prevent the water heater from working properly. If this is the case, make sure to reset the breaker or replace the fuse.

Another sign that you may need a new water heater is if it’s taking longer than usual for the unitit’sheat up. This could mean the unit is nearing the end of its lifespan or that you have a malfunctioning thermostat. If you have a lot of people using hot water at the same time, it can also take longer for your water heater to replenish its supply.

Professional plumbers can install a new water heater that is more energy efficient than your old one and can lower your utility bills. They can also advise you on different models like traditional gas, electric, or tankless so that you have the right unit for your home or business.

When you hire a professional to install your new water heater, they can ensure the installation follows all local plumbing codes and regulations. This can prevent legal issues down the road. They can also teach you how to use and care for your new water heater for maximum efficiency and longevity.