/ By Cynthia Lyons / Plumbing/ • • • / 0 Comments

Spotting & Preventing Drainage Clogs

Drainage issues can be a big problem in St Louis homes. If water isn’t draining properly, it can cause all sorts of problems, from mold and mildew growth to foundation damage.

How to Spot a Drainage Problem

Signs to look for that indicate bad drainage or pipe blockage include:

  • Slow draining in sinks, tubs, and showersorange p[lunger being used to unclog a kitchen sink
  • Water backup in toilets or drains
  • Gurgling sounds coming from drains
  • Overflowing water from sink, tub, or toilet

If you’re experiencing any of the problems described above – slow drains, water backup, overflow, and odor – it’s time to contact the professional plumbers at AAA. We can clean and clear your home drains and plumbing pipes, without damage to your pipes or landscaping. Professional plumbers are able to reach parts of your pipes that you cannot, and will know exactly how to clear the clog quickly and efficiently.

When it comes to drain and plumbing cleaning, professional plumbers are the best option. They have the experience and knowledge to properly clean your pipes and fix any issues that may be causing blockages. By hiring a professional, you can avoid any potential damage that could be caused by trying to fix the problem yourself.

In addition, professional plumbers can also provide advice on how to prevent future plumbing problems. They can help you install drainage systems or filters that will help keep your pipes clean and functioning properly. So if you’re experiencing any drainage or plumbing problems, it’s definitely worth calling the professional plumbers at AAA for help.

Tips for Preventing Drainage Issues

Preventing drainage problems is easier than fixing them once they’ve already happened. A few things you can do to help keep your drains clear include:

  • hands opening the p-trap underneath the kitchen sinkDon’t pour grease, oil, or fat down the drain. Instead, pour it into a can and throw it away once it’s solidified.
  • Don’t put coffee grounds, egg shells, or other food waste down the garbage disposal. Throw these items in the trash instead.
  • Clean out your sink’s P-trap regularly. This is the U-shaped pipe under your sink that catches hair and other debris.
  • Run hot water down your drains for a minute each week to help keep them clear.

By following these tips, you can help keep your drains clear and prevent major issues down the road.

AAA is Here to Help

If you’re experiencing any drainage or plumbing problems, AAA Home Services is here to help. We offer professional drain cleaning services to clear your pipes and fix any issues that may be causing blockages. Our plumbers are experienced and know how to properly clean your pipes without causing damage. In addition, we can provide advice on how to prevent future drainage problems. So if you’re experiencing any of the signs of bad drainage, call AAA Home Services for help, or use our easy online form to set up a service appointment!

/ By Cynthia Lyons / Plumbing/ • • • • • / 0 Comments

Preparing for Winter: Prevent Plumbing Problems

Many St Louis homes have plumbing water lines running through their basements. During the cold fall and winter months, when our temperatures drop below freezing point, it puts your plumbing lines at risk for possible freeze and breakage. A busted pipe can result in flooding, causing major water damage, property destruction, and costly repair. 

As we work our way through the fall season, homeowners should do everything they can to avoid freeze-related plumbing issues. We’ve got a few tips to help you get your home ready.

Tips to Prepare Your Plumbing for Winter

  • Turn the Heat On: The first easy step to prevent pipes from freezing is to keep your heat set above 50 degrees. Setting your thermostat at 50 or above should keep your pipes and the water inside warm enough to prevent it from freezing. Check out our blog post on Home Heating, and schedule a furnace check and cleaning with AAA Home Services today. 
  • Insulate Your Pipes: Make sure your pipes are well insulated, and add extra insulation in basements if needed. Exposed pipes can be fitted with rubber or fiberglass sleeves to keep the piping warm. For piping that is located inside walls, you can add extra insulation to the walls themselves. This step is the most important for exterior walls that are closest to the cold outdoor air. 
  • Seal Gaps Where Cold Air Passes: Seal up any areas around where plumbing pipes run through walls, cabinets, or floors – especially gaps that let in cold air. Fill the gaps with caulk or spray foam insulation. If both the interior and exterior sides of the gap are accessible, seal both sides. This will prevent the cabinets where your plumbing pipes run, which are already typically cold, from getting even colder.
  • Locate Your Shut-Off Valve: As a back-up, you and your family members should also know how to locate and operate the water shut-off valve in the event that a plumbing pipe does burst.

Whether you need help preparing or repairing your plumbing pipes, AAA is here to help! We’ve been a leader in home plumbing service needs since 1970, and always have professional, licensed plumbers ready to help you with anything plumbing-related. Give us a call at 636-238-1786 or 314-968-3050 for same or next day service!