Plumbing Archives - Express Septic & Drain Cleaning

How To Stop Recurrent Clogs From Disrupting Your Home’s Plumbing

March 24, 2025

A clogged drain is a frustrating nuisance. However, when it keeps happening, it’s often a sign of a deeper issue. Whether it’s due to stubborn buildup, tree root invasion, or improperly installed pipes, understanding the source helps pinpoint the problem and stop it for good. Learn about the common causes of recurring clogs, how to prevent drain clogs for good, and when it’s time to contact the expert plumbers at Express Septic. Understanding Why Clogs Keep Coming Back The occasional drain clog isn’t uncommon, but recurring blockages often indicate a bigger issue. Understanding the warning signals and common causes of recurring plumbing clogs helps you take action and address the problem to prevent further damage to your system. What causes recurrent drain clogs? If your drains keep clogging, a few common issues could be to blame. Some of the top causes of clogged pipes include: Grease and food buildup in kitchen sinks. Hair, soap scum, and hygiene products blocking bathroom drains. Non-flushable items like wipes, paper towels, and feminine products. Tree roots infiltrating sewer lines and causing obstructions. Aging, corroding, or improperly installed pipes trapping debris. Hard water mineral buildup that gradually reduces the pipe diameter. How to identify a

The Importance of Emergency Shut-Off Valves

May 22, 2024

Emergencies can occur at any time in your home or business. Emergency shut-off valves can help prevent accidents from happening in any setting. They serve as a safeguard against potential disasters by cutting off the flow of potentially dangerous substances in emergencies. How an Emergency Shut-off Valve Works Industrial activities can involve corrosive chemicals, extreme temperatures, and high-pressure conditions that may seem more than the valve can handle. However, shut-off valves are made from materials like stainless steel, which ensure they can withstand such harsh environments. This enhanced durability reduces the risk of system failure and ensures reliable operation in the event of an emergency. When an emergency triggers the shut-off valve, it quickly closes to prevent the continued flow of the fluid it controls. For example, in an oil factory, the valve shuts down the flow of oil in case of a leak or spill. These valves are placed strategically for easy access. Types of Emergency Shut-off Valves Emergency shut-off valves come in different types, each designed for specific operating conditions. For example, manual shut-off valves are reliable but require human intervention to activate. Other types, including remote valves, can be controlled from a distance using a remote-control device.

The Role of Effluent Filters in Septic Systems

May 13, 2024

As a Nampa, ID, homeowner, you probably don’t think about your septic system often, and you’re even less likely to know the value of a reliable effluent filter. This component is crucial for ensuring safe wastewater disposal. As simple as the device is, it is paramount for keeping your septic system running as it should. It doesn’t matter if you’re installing a new system or maintaining an existing one, a reliable effluent filter is a must. With this mentioned, our team at has compiled the top 10 reasons why every septic system owner in Nampa needs a robust and well-functioning effluent filter. 1. Prevents Septic System Clogs and Backups An effluent filter’s primary purpose is to keep solids from entering your system’s outlet pipe. Without this filter, larger particles can leave the tank and block the distribution lines emptying into your drain field. Clogs will disrupt the flow within the system while bringing unpleasant backups into your property. These incidents often require emergency attention. What’s more, they can be costly to resolve. These filters capture solids before they escape your tank. They also help maintain a clear pathway for liquid waste, ensuring your system operates as intended while preventing inconvenient

The Benefits of Septic System Aeration

April 17, 2024

Are you thinking about installing an aeration system for your septic tank? These systems offer excellent wastewater management solutions for both residential and commercial properties in Nampa, ID, thanks to their ability to handle wastewater of various volumes. How Septic System Aeration Works Septic system aeration is a process that involves introducing oxygen into the wastewater to facilitate the breakdown of organic matter. In traditional septic systems, anaerobic bacteria decompose waste in the absence of oxygen, leading to the production of methane and other harmful gases. However, with aeration systems, oxygen is actively supplied to the wastewater, creating an aerobic environment where aerobic bacteria can thrive. The introduction of oxygen also promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria, which further aids in the treatment of wastewater. Benefits of Aeration in Septic Systems One of its primary benefits is the improved breakdown of organic matter and the reduction of sludge buildup. Sludge poses several threats to septic systems, including clogging drainage pipes, reducing system efficiency and increasing the need for frequent pumping. Excessive sludge buildup can lead to sewage backups and potential groundwater contamination, posing environmental and health risks. The enhanced bacterial activity gained through aeration also leads to better treatment of

How to Identify Septic System Scams

March 1, 2024

When a septic system crisis strikes, you must act quickly to limit the damage and restore your home’s security. Unfortunately, struggling with an emergency makes it easy to miss the warning signs of bad service. You may want to go with the company that offers the least expensive quote or can solve the problem immediately. However, choosing an inexperienced or unlicensed septic contractor could leave you with a system in worse shape than before. Here are a few tips to help you choose the best septic system team for the job. Check for Proof of License and Insurance You should never trust your home’s septic system to a professional who isn’t licensed and insured. State septic licensing requirements guarantee that local licensed contractors have the skills and experience to complete all forms of septic work. Without this license, your plumber is likely underqualified or inexperienced. You should also confirm that they’re fully insured to make sure you’re not saddled with extra costs. Without this insurance, you could be liable for any injuries that occur on your property. It’s safer to work with licensed and insured professionals who have the skills to repair your septic system correctly. Hiring under-the-table plumbers comes

Landscaping and Drain Field Maintenance: A Guide to Preventing Issues

August 31, 2023

If you have a problem with your drain field, it could be time to explore the outside factors contributing to it. Landscaping around a septic tank can be important in maintaining efficiency and avoiding issues like clogging or back-flushing sewage. While using soil and plants judiciously can make some great improvements to your property, too much vegetation or placing plants in certain areas can lead to big problems for your landscape design and drainage system. Below is a discussion of how landscaping can cause drain field problems, how to prevent them from happening, and when it might be time to call a professional. Planting Too Close to the Drain Field Planting too close to the drain field can cause roots to grow into the septic system, leading to clogged pipes and damaged components. Roots from large trees can easily puncture and clog drainage pipes, leading to sewage backing up into your yard. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent these issues. Be sure to carefully plan your landscaping, and avoid planting trees or shrubs within 10 feet of the drain field area. Additionally, consider using shallow-rooted plants and ground covers or building raised beds to create a barrier

Understanding the Operation of Septic Lift Stations

August 31, 2023

Septic lift stations play a crucial role in managing wastewater in areas where the terrain poses challenges for natural gravity-based sewage flow. These systems are essential for maintaining public health and preventing environmental contamination in regions with elevation variations, flat landscapes, or low-lying topographies. Keep reading to learn more about septic lift stations, exploring their components, functioning, maintenance, benefits, and environmental considerations. Septic Lift Stations Septic lift stations are specialized systems designed to overcome the limitations of gravity-based wastewater collection systems. These systems are particularly relevant in areas where the terrain makes creating a consistent downward flow of wastewater toward treatment facilities challenging. The primary purpose of a septic lift station is to collect wastewater from lower elevations, pump it uphill to a higher point, and then discharge it into a main sewer line or a treatment facility. This technology finds applications in both urban and rural settings, addressing the needs of various industries and communities. Components of a Septic Lift Station Collection Tank At the core of a septic lift station lies the collection tank strategically positioned in areas with lower elevations. This tank serves as a reservoir for incoming wastewater, allowing it to accumulate before being pumped to

Testing Your Well Water

June 1, 2023

Most homeowners receive water directly from a central water supply that the local water department manages. The quality of this water is protected by strict guidelines that are maintained by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, these guidelines don’t apply to privately owned wells and other individual water systems. If you obtain your water from a well, you’ll need to have the water tested to determine if it’s safe to drink. When to Test Well Water Based on recommendations by the National Ground Water Association (NGWA), you should test your well water at least once every year to determine the concentration of nitrates, bacteria, and similar contaminants. There are also certain situations that call for you to perform testing more frequently. For instance, if you notice a change in the appearance, taste, or smell of the water, you should have it tested. The same is true if your area has recently obtained a large amount of floodwaters or you notice a broken well cap. If your existing well has a lengthy history of being contaminated by bacteria, having the well tested once every six months or so may be preferable. In the event that your septic system has malfunctioned recently,

What Are Plumbing Risers and Why Are They Important?

May 15, 2023

Gravity works on everything around you, including the water in a plumbing system. Have you ever considered how water is able to travel upstream? Some of the water in our homes and in the buildings in our community can defy gravity, but of course, the water would need some help along the way. A plumbing system can be very complex, and a plumbing riser plays a big role in it. The Definition of a Plumbing Riser Risers are the vertical pipes that move water to higher floors. They’re sometimes called riser mains, and they deal with water supply lines. Any time you’ve used water in a hotel room, bedroom, or bathroom on a floor that’s not on the same level as the main water supply source, you’ve benefitted from a plumbing riser. People have to be very strategic when coming up with a riser diagram for a structure, as the pipes will all have to be properly connected to one another, to fixtures, and to the water source. Further, pipes need to be supported in some way, and it’s best if they don’t act as obstructions. As you’d imagine, there can be quite a complex network of risers in a

Breaking Down the Solids Inside Your Septic Tank

November 10, 2022

Septic systems rely on bacteria inside the tank that works to break down toilet paper and solid waste. As the solids get broken down, they are transformed into sludge that settles at the very bottom of the tank. If the bacteria don’t fully break down the solids or can’t break them down quickly enough, it will result in the tank filling up far sooner and needing to be pumped more frequently. If the tank isn’t pumped, the amount of solid waste will continue to grow until the point where it can start to flow out of the tank. This is a major issue that can result in the leach field becoming clogged and not working. The solids may also clog the outlet in the tank and prevent any wastewater from draining out, which will eventually result in sewage backing up inside the building. These issues show the importance of ensuring that the solids inside your septic tank are fully broken down, and here is everything you need to know to make sure this happens. Avoiding Bleach and Harsh Chemicals Bleach, drain cleaner and other harsh chemicals are extremely harmful and can result in your septic system not working properly. When

These Habits Can Take a Toll on Your Drains

February 17, 2022

Your drain does a thorough job of removing wastewater to minimize the possibility of respiratory toxins and odors. Drains can’t handle everything you throw inside them, however, especially items that can’t be broken down. If you keep letting stuff that risks the health and life of your drain flow through it, you run the risk of ruining your drains. This may lead to slow drainage, low water pressure, and even flooding. Drain problems can emanate from different parts of your plumbing system, and you should learn what’s causing these problems in the first place. If your drain frequently acts up, find out if you’re practicing any of the following detrimental habits. Letting Human and Pet Hair Flow Down the Drain Long human and pet hair is susceptible to falling off and accumulating around your indoor spaces. When you power on the air conditioner, pet hair stuck in the sitting room may be blown to other areas like the bathroom. As for your long hair, it could fall off while brushing or cleaning it in the bathroom. The single hair strands that may look harmless could create a big mess if they collect inside your drain. As you frequently brush and

Plumbing Code Violations You Need to Watch Out For

February 3, 2022

Trying DIY tips to fix your plumbing can be an idyllic method of cutting back expenses. But it is not recommended because it violates certain plumbing codes, endangering the integrity and safety of your home. It is even worse if you opt to work with an unlicensed plumber because they commonly fail to acknowledge the plumbing codes of conduct. Plumbing code violations might not seem serious at first, but they affect the quality of your piping in the long term. They end up costing you more money sometime later and might even make it harder for you to remodel or flip your house. Some common plumbing code violations that you need to look out for include: Using Illegal and Improper Plumbing Material The use of illegal or improper piping material violates plumbing codes. It could be products such as rubber fittings and corrugated pipes recommended by DIY “pros” on the internet. Such repair materials do not meet the specified standards and might do you more harm than good. It is advisable to seek professional insights or conduct prior research before choosing any plumbing material to ensure it adheres to the plumbing codes. That way, any repairs won’t violate the code

Category: Plumbing