Your plumbing questions answered...

What is the main cause of a sewer line stoppage?
A: Roots are the main cause of sewer line stoppage. There are some products to treat or retard root & vegetation growth, although these aren't permanent solutions. The sewer line will probably need to be repaired or replaced. Call Bristol Plumbing today for a free estimate: +44 (0)771 7377652.

What is the main cause of a kitchen sink & washing machine drain stoppages?
A: Lint, grease and improperly installed drains are the primary offenders for this problem. In most homes, the kitchen and laundry drains are connected. When the lint from the laundry drains meets the coagulated grease build-up (from dish soaps, food products and other natural compositions such as pipe material and bacteria), a paper-mache like substance forms, causing blockage. Rootering and/or hydrojetting of the drain is recommended with follow-up treatment to help maintain free-flowing drains.

Why does my toilet sound as though it flushed itself?
A: Typically the toilet valve seal has become warped and is letting water leak out of the tank. The fill valve has sensed that the toilet has been flushed and is trying to refill the tank to its proper water level. No worries, it's not a ghost, but it can waste thousands of gallons of water each year and is the number one source of water consumption in a home.

Why does my water look rust-coloured?
A: Often, this is due to lack of movement or water flow in your drinkable water system. Once the water hits the air, it oxidizes and turns orange/red in colour. This is not harmful, but is a telltale sign of old, galvanized piping.

Why do I get scalded in the shower when someone flushes the toilet?
A: Typically, this is caused by one of two things: old pipes or pipe design. When there is more demand to the cold water system, you lose regulation of the temperature and pressure. Today's codes require a pressure differential type valve for the shower.

Why are there gravel or sand particles in my water?
A: Commonly, it is the lining of the old galvanized pipe that is breaking loose or rotting from the inside out. Chunks of rust, iron & other minerals found in the pipe material and water then flow out of your faucet. This is a serious problem that can lead to pinhole leaks. The only remedy is a re-pipe of your drinkable water system.

Why do we have such low water pressure?
A: There can be a few reasons for this. The amount of water the system is pumping out is one factor. Another reason is the age of your pipes and the amount of rust in them. This is the most common reason for the complaint of low water pressure. However, this is actually a water flow problem, and not a water pressure problem. There is commonly a restriction somewhere and troubleshooting is necessary to determine the cause. Elevation change, partially closed valve, failed pressure regulator (or lack thereof), plugged filter, water softeners and many other considerations, can all affect your water pressure. Again, troubleshooting is necessary to determine the cause of YOUR problem.

How long should my potable water system last?
A: Typically, a galvanized piping system can last 30-50 years before you will begin to notice poor water quality. The quality of the material the pipe is made of, as well as where you live (due to the water quality and soil composition) can also greatly affect the lifespan. We have seen galvanized systems deteriorate in as little as three years and seen pipes that are 75 years old look almost new. One common misconception is that copper piping will last forever. Although copper will typically last longer than galvanised, the lifespan will also be affected by the issues mentioned above, (ie. material, water and soil quality).