Author: Kevin

Plumbing emergencies are annoying and stressful, especially when the repairs cost more than anticipated. Plumbing systems are bound to break eventually, but you can put off many issues by taking great care of your pipes to prevent big problems.

Elite Plumbing is here for you when you have an emergency plumbing problem that can’t wait. Keep reading to learn how you can stave off those emergency calls with proper plumbing system care!

Top Plumbing Emergencies To Watch For

Boiler Corrosion

Regular boiler maintenance is your best option for boiler and pipe corrosion prevention, as it’s almost inevitable for most boilers. Corrosion is due to the buildup of rust or other sediment.

Periodically drain the water tank completely to wash out sediment. It will essentially set the buildup back to zero and will take longer for it to happen.

Burst Pipes

Freezing temperatures will lead to burst pipes if they aren’t properly insulated. Prevent burst pipes by properly insulating them with foam sleeves or insulating tape. Keep the temperature at 55 degrees Fahrenheit or higher to prevent freezing.

Burst pipes may also be due to major clogs. Avoid flushing anything but toilet paper, and don’t allow large chunks of food or grease to go down sink drains. Regular pipe inspections will allow plumbers to detect forming clogs and will prevent plumbing emergencies.

Water Damage From Unknown Source

If you see water damage or puddles in your home but you don’t know the cause, it’s likely due to a leaking or burst pipe in the walls. Try to find the source of the leak by checking all the fixtures and exposed pipes in the area and turn off the water if you find the source. If you can’t find the source, call Elite Plumbing and we’ll use water leak detection to locate the problem in the walls.

Since you can’t access these pipes easily, regular pipe inspections are necessary to ensure they aren’t corroded or broken. Our plumbers will use small cameras to look at what’s going on.

Slow-Draining Sinks

Slow draining is the first symptom of clogged drains. Prevention is pretty simple: don’t allow hair, debris, or foreign objects to go down the drain, and avoid drain cleaning tips that suggest using harsh chemicals.

Try unclogging it yourself with a small drain snake you can get from the hardware store. If this doesn’t solve the problem and other sinks or tubs are also draining slowly, you may have a clogged main sewer line, which likely took years for the clog to form. You’ll need to call our professional plumbers so they can inspect the line with a camera and determine if a drain snake or hydro jetting will be suitable.

Call Elite Plumbing for Every Problem

Even if you’re extremely careful about how you treat your plumbing, emergencies are bound to happen at some point. When they do, contact Elite Plumbing at (443) 343-2284 – our professional plumbers are prepared for any issue you throw at us.

You can trust that you’re in good hands when you work with us. Just reach out to learn more!

Plumbing issues happen all the time – and if you’re like most people, then you’ll likely have at least an episode of plumbing problems once a year.

While many homeowners try to handle the problems on their own when they arise, DIY can only go so far.

Some plumbing issues require professional plumbing repair, and below are the top five signs you should get on the phone with a professional plumber.

1. Unexplained Increase in Water Bills

If your water bill has become more expensive and you can’t find an explanation (like maybe having more people in your home), there’s a high chance you have leaks. Some common causes include dripping faucets, running toilets, and hidden pipe leaks underground or in walls.

You can attempt a fix by tightening or replacing leaky faucets and adjusting the toilet valve. Where that doesn’t work, it’s time to schedule professional plumbing repair.

Experienced plumbers have advanced tools that allow them to find leaks behind walls or underneath concrete slabs, and can help with new fixture installation where necessary.

2. Persistent Low Water Pressure

Few things are more frustrating than standing under the shower with soap-covered hair while water slowly trickles down from the shower head…

But that’s what happens when you have low water pressure!

Leaks and buildup in pipes are some of the most common causes of low water pressure. Professional plumbers can fix hidden leaks and use hydro jetting equipment to get rid of buildup, and install pipe insulation to keep your pipes from cracking in winter.

3. Slow or Clogged Drains

Pouring inorganic materials down your drains is almost a guarantee for clogs.

While you can try handling minor blockages with a drain snake or chemical cleaners, tougher clogs—like tree roots or collapsed pipes—are beyond DIY fixes. These more serious issues require the expertise of professional plumbers, who have specialized tools and the skills needed to repair or replace damaged pipes effectively.

4. Water Stains or Damp Spots

Water stains on your walls, ceilings, and floors often point to a significant plumbing problem.

After ruling out a roof leak, the next step is to consider hidden plumbing leaks as the likely culprit. Simply painting over the stains only covers up the issue – it won’t solve it.

You’ll need to call a plumber to locate the source of the leak and fix it to prevent mold growth and potential structural damage.

5. Unusual Sounds or Smells

Unusual noises like gurgling drains or hammering pipes are clear signs something is off with your plumbing system.

Likewise, if you notice foul odors in your kitchen or bathroom, a sewer backup or broken pipe could be to blame.

These aren’t issues you can typically fix on your own, so it’s best to call in the professionals to handle them properly and prevent further damage.

Get Fast and Efficient Service From Your Local Experts

If you’re experiencing any of these warning signs or have other plumbing concerns on your property, don’t wait until the problem worsens.

Contact the Elite Plumbing team in Pasadena, MD at (443) 343-2284 for fast, reliable plumbing repair you can TRUST.

Professional plumbing repairs can be necessary, but expensive. You deserve quality repairs and expert plumbing solutions that won’t break the bank. That’s why our experts have put together some tips for homeowners; reach out to learn more.

Invest in Preventative Maintenance

Make sure you don’t ignore basic plumbing maintenance. This ultimately keeps your system in good condition and allows you to detect minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs. 

Keep an eye out on how your plumbing fixtures work and have an expert perform basic maintenance like:

• Routine drain cleaning
• Water heater flushing
• Pipe maintenance

You’ll have peace of mind when you have a professional inspect your plumbing system and take care of unexpected issues that arise.

Learn Basic DIY Repairs

You don’t always have to call a professional for plumbing repairs. Many common plumbing problems require simple fixes that you can handle on your own. 

Below are some simple straightforward repairs you may perform:

• Unclogging toilets or drains
• Fixing leaky faucets
• Patching small pipe leaks
• Replacing shower heads

Certain problems may need professional intervention. Call a plumber if you notice wet spots on your walls, detect a rotten egg smell, or struggle to clear a clog.

Install a Water Softener

The excess minerals in hard water can damage pipes and plumbing fixtures over time. If you’re looking for long-term solutions that prevent the need for plumbing repairs, consider adding a water softener to your home. These systems remove unwanted minerals from your water supply. 

When water flows through your pipes after going through a softener, it becomes less likely to leave behind deposits that can clog the system and require repairs. 

You’ll also enjoy other benefits by investing in a water softener, including:

• Better tasting water
• Healthier hair and skin
• Cleaner glassware with no residue after washing

Experts recommend this service to any homeowner who has hard water flowing through their pipes. It safeguards your plumbing fixtures and benefits you and your family.

Let Our Plumbers Restore Your System

Are you looking for a reliable plumber offering quality service at an affordable price? Turn to Elite Plumbing for top-notch plumbing repairs, installation services, maintenance, and more. We promise to deliver superior customer service and address plumbing problems both big and small. 

Call (443) 343-2284. We offer cost-effective solutions that fit your repair budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Repair Any Plumbing Project by Yourself?

No, projects like gas line or underground pipe damage require a professional but you can perform DIY repairs on minor issues. 

Is It Better To Repair or Replace Plumbing Equipment?

You should opt for plumbing repairs unless the equipment is near the end of its lifespan or the cost of repairs becomes nearly as high as replacing your fixture. 

How Can You Prevent and Clear Clogged Drains?

Use a drain stopper to block hair, food, and foreign objects from entering your drains. You can clear minor blockages by pouring baking soda and vinegar into your drain, waiting 30 minutes, and flushing with hot water.

Your water lines play a crucial role in your home’s comfort. When you schedule regular maintenance on your water lines, you can:

• Save water in an eco-friendly way
• Ensure efficient water flow for your house
• Prevent problems before they become catastrophes

With over 20 years of water line maintenance experience, our team has compiled the following information to help better understand how regular water line maintenance can slash your water bills.

Water Conservation Saves the Planet and Your Money

You might not think you are using too much water, maybe limiting time in the shower or washing dishes, but a LOT of water waste is unseen.

Leaks often remain out of sight and waste a significant amount of water, which is why water line maintenance matters. It lets a professional plumber perform pipe inspections and leak detection in the places you can’t see.

Efficient Water Flow Reduces Water Bills

Clear pipes without clogs ensure efficient plumbing, meaning you get the water you want for showers and other personal needs.

But clogs are like leaks in reverse – they stop the water flow which strains the system, and often remain hidden, too.

When/if everything flows like it should, then it saves money every month.

Plumbing Maintenance Lowers Your Chance of a Plumbing Disaster

It is important to find plumbing problems early because it prevents:

• Pipe corrosion
• Ruined toilets
• Sink repairs
• Massive leaks that back up into the house
• Non-plumbing property replacements and repairs
• Mold infestation
• Mold clean-up

If you don’t get maintenance, the problem continues. The water is still being wasted, and your water bill increases as a result.

Don’t Forget About Water Contamination

Plumbing maintenance can also spot contamination. For instance, if your system has a leak pushing water out, what’s leaking into it? What if your family is repeatedly ingesting a harmful substance every day?

Contact Elite Plumbing & Home Services To Attain Water Bill Cost-Savings

These outcomes show how regular water line maintenance can slash your water bills and keep you safe in other ways. If you’re experiencing high water bills or just want to make the most of your plumbing, Elite Plumbing & Home Services can help.

Contact us at (443) 343-2284 to book services today!

FAQs

How easy is it to spot a pipe leak?

Spotting a pipe leak on your own can be challenging. Leaks often occur in hidden areas like behind walls or under floors, making them difficult to detect without professional equipment.

Some signs that can indicate a possible leak include an unexplainable increase in your water bill, damp spots on walls/ceilings, mold growth, or a decrease in water pressure. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact a professional.

Does regular water line maintenance lower water bills?

Yes! Regular water line maintenance can significantly lower your water bills. Over time, small leaks in your water lines can lead to wasted water and higher costs. By scheduling routing maintenance with Elite Plumbing & Home Services, you can ensure that your water lines are in top condition.

About Winter Plumbing Issues

Winter is a beautiful time of year, with the snow-covered landscape and holiday cheer. However, extreme cold weather can cause various issues, from frozen pipes to malfunctioning water heaters. These plumbing problems can be frustrating and costly to fix. This blog post will discuss some of the most common winter plumbing problems and how to fix them.

Frozen Pipes

One of the most frustrating winter plumbing problems is when your pipes freeze. Various factors, including poor insulation and frigid temperatures, can cause it.

How To Unfreeze Your Pipes

If you suspect that your pipes are frozen, you should first shut off the water supply to your home. It will prevent the pipes from bursting when they thaw. You can then try softening the lines using a hair dryer or heating pad. If you cannot thaw the pipes yourself, it is best to call a a professional for plumbing services.

Additional Reading: 5 Home Winter Plumbing Maintenance Tasks to Get Ready for Season

Leaky Faucets

Another common winter plumbing problem is leaky faucets. Cold temperatures can cause seals and gaskets to shrink, leading to leaks.

How To Stop Faucet Leaks

To fix a leaky faucet, you will need to identify the cause of the leak and replace the damaged parts. It may involve replacing the washer, O-ring, or valve seat. Call a plumber if you are not well-versed in the various aspects of a faucet.

Additional Reading: A Guide to Fixing the Most Common Plumbing Problems

Malfunctioning Water Heater

Imagine stepping into the shower only to realize that the water is not hot at all. A malfunctioning water heater in winter is not new. Various factors, including sediment build-up, a faulty thermostat, or a broken heating element, can cause it.

How To Troubleshoot A Broken Water Heater

If your water heater is not working correctly, you should check the pilot light and ensure it is on. If the pilot light is not the issue, you may need to replace the thermostat or heating element. Electrical equipment like water heaters should be fixed only by professional plumbers trained and certified to carry out the work. Learn more about our water heater repair services. 

Additional Reading: What Are the Most Common Problems With Water Heaters?

Clogged Drains

Cold temperatures can cause grease and oil to solidify, leading to blocked drains. Clogged drains are especially common in kitchens, due to their heavy use and likeliness of food getting stuck. 

How To Fix Clogged Drains

You can use a plunger or a chemical drain cleaner to fix a clogged drain. If these methods do not work, you may need to use a plumbing snake to remove the blockage. In case the clog is severe, seek professional plumbing help for drain cleaning.

Additional Reading: How Do You Unclog A Drain?

Running Toilet

A running toilet can be a major inconvenience, especially during the winter when you are trying to conserve energy. It can be caused by various factors, including a faulty flapper, a damaged flush valve, or a clogged toilet.

How To Fix A Running Toilet

To fix a running toilet, you will need to identify the cause of the problem and replace the damaged parts. Expert plumbers can come to your rescue and resolve the issue.

Additional Reading: What Causes Your Toilet to Clog?

Prevent Winter Plumbing Problems Before They Happen

You can prevent most winter plumbing issues by taking a few simple precautions.

However, if you end up with a clogged drain or any other plumbing problem in Maryland that you can’t fix, call the professional plumbers at Elite Plumbing. Our team has over 20 years of experience to diagnose and fix any plumbing issue quickly, ensuring that your home stays warm and comfortable all winter. Schedule your plumbing service with Elite today.

Harsh winters can be strenuous on the plumbing system of a house. It is essential to carry out certain drain maintenance tasks to prepare for winter. It helps to keep the plumbing system from getting overburdened. Here are the five drain maintenance tasks you should carry out if you want to smooth sailing winter.

Here are five drain maintenance tasks that you can do to get ready for winter:

Clean your gutters

Remove any leaves or debris that may have accumulated in your gutters—cleaning your gutters before winter is essential because clogged drains can cause water to overflow and damage your roof or foundation. When leaves and other debris accumulate in your gutters, they can block the flow of water, causing it to overflow and potentially cause damage to your roof or foundation. In addition, when water overflows from clogged gutters, it can seep into your walls and cause damage to the interior of your home. Cleaning your gutters and unclogging the drain before winter can help prevent these issues and keep your home safe and dry.

Check your downspouts

Checking your downspouts before winter is essential because they help to direct water away from your foundation. If your downspouts are not in good condition or are not leading water away from your foundation, they can cause water to pool near your foundation and potentially cause damage. It is vital in areas that experience heavy snowfall, as the melting snow can add to the water near your foundation. By ensuring that your downspouts are in good condition and directing water away from your foundation, you can help prevent water damage to your home.

Insulate your pipes

Exposed pipes are more likely to freeze in cold weather, so insulating pipes in unheated areas of your home is a good idea. When water freezes inside a pipe, it can cause the pipe to burst, leading to costly repairs. Pipes in unheated areas of your home, such as attics or crawl spaces, are particularly at risk of freezing. By insulating these pipes, you can help to keep them at a consistent temperature and prevent them from freezing. It is crucial in frigid winters, as the risk of frozen pipes is higher.

Fix any leaks

Now is an excellent time to repair any leaks in your plumbing before they have a chance to cause more damage. Water leaking from a pipe or appliance can seep into your walls, floors, or ceiling, causing damage to your home’s structure and potentially leading to mold growth. In addition, leaks can waste a lot of water, leading to higher water bills. By fixing leaks before winter, you can help prevent water damage to your home and save money on your water bills.

Install a sump pump

If your home is prone to flooding, consider installing a sump pump to help protect against water damage. A sump pump is a device installed in a pit in your basement or crawl space, and it helps pump water out of your home and away from the foundation.

Drain maintenance tasks are best left to experts. If you are looking for emergency plumbing services for drain cleaning, call the professionals at Elite Plumbing. They offer 24×7 emergency services and have the tools, experience, and expertise to deal with all plumbing issues. Contact today !

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my gutters?

In Maryland, gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall. Given our area’s mix of trees and heavy rainfall, more frequent cleanings may be necessary, especially in late fall when leaves can quickly clog gutters. Keeping them clean ensures water flows properly and prevents damage to your home.

What happens if I don’t clean my gutters?

If gutters aren’t cleaned regularly, debris like leaves and dirt will build up, leading to clogs. This can cause water to overflow and damage your roof, siding, and even the foundation of your home. Over time, clogged gutters can also become a breeding ground for pests, mold, and mildew.

How do I unclog my gutters and downspouts?

To unclog gutters, you’ll need to remove large debris by hand or with a scoop. Then, flush the gutters with a garden hose to clear out smaller particles. For downspouts, use a hose or a plumbing snake to push out blockages. If you’re dealing with stubborn clogs, professional gutter cleaning services may be necessary to prevent further damage.

Does pipe insulation really work?

Yes, pipe insulation is highly effective in Maryland’s winters. It helps prevent pipes from freezing during cold weather, which can save you from expensive repairs. Insulation also reduces heat loss in hot water pipes, improving energy efficiency and lowering your utility bills.

What material should I use for pipe insulation?

For Maryland homes, foam or rubber insulation is ideal for most residential plumbing. Foam is affordable and easy to install, providing good protection against both freezing and heat loss. Rubber insulation is flexible and works well for pipes exposed to both hot and cold conditions, which is useful for Maryland’s temperatures. Choose the material based on the pipes’ location and exposure to cold temperatures.

Drain maintenance tasks are best left to experts. If you are looking for emergency plumbing services for drain cleaning, call the professionals at Elite Plumbing. They offer 24×7 emergency services and have the tools, experience, and expertise to deal with all plumbing issues. Contact today !

A clogged toilet is a constant source of stress and hassle. No one wants to end up with a bathroom they can’t use. If you have been facing issues with a clogged toilet, it is important to figure out the root cause of it and get it sorted out as soon as possible.

There are many reasons why clogs develop in a toilet leading to a partial or complete obstruction to the drainage pipe. There could be an issue in the main sewer line, the toilet trap, the vent pipe, or the branch drain line.

If your basic DIY techniques to unclog the drain don’t work, don’t waste too much time wrecking your brain over it and seek professional plumbing help. You can search for local plumbers near me online, to find a plumbing service provider. If you are in Maryland, call Elite Plumbers straight away for fast and reliable service.

Possible Reasons Why Your Toilet is Clogged

The Drain Line Is Clogged

Aging drain pipe is one of the biggest factors for clogs to develop. Over time toilet paper waste, soap scum, and hair, accumulate and hinder the path of waste removal. It is best to call a plumber to have a look at the drain lines and get them cleared. If the drain lines are too old to handle the waste, then you should consider getting them replaced.

Hard Water Build Up

Hard water is a common problem for homeowners in Maryland. The water calcifies and forms a hard white deposit on the inside of the toilets and pipes reducing the gap for the waste to pass. The more the hardness of water, the more deposit it forms on the plumbing system and the higher the chances for the toilet to form clogs.

The best solution for this is to have your plumber install a water softener for the water supply in your house. The water entering your house will be treated and softened and it will reduce the mineral build-up problem.

Clogged S-Trap

The S-shaped pipe behind the toilet is knowns as the S trap and is designed to prevent sewer gas from coming into the house from the toilet bowl. It is quite susceptible to clogs. If you have been flushing too much toilet paper, flushable wipes, and other waste items, it is likely to get stuck here and cause clogs. Often a plunger helps to clear minor clogs in the S trap, but if it is recurring problem, then probably calling a professional plumber is best.

Blockages on the Plumbing Vent

Plumbing events often get obstructed with debris, sticks, bird nests, etc., and it causes the drain to have reduced flow. Get a plumber clear up the plumbing vents to sort the issue.

To have your toilet clogged is a nuisance and can easily become a nightmare if not addressed on time. The plumbers at Elite Plumbing are trained, experienced, and certified to take care of all types of plumbing issues. They offer emergency 24×7 plumbing services in Pasadena, Glen Burnie, Severn, Annapolis, Severna Park, Cape St. Claire, Millersville, Arnold, Gambrills, and Crownsville. If you run into any plumbing situation, just call Elite Plumbers and they will sort it out for you.

Some plumbing problems can be solved the DIY way – a little tightening of a loose connection to stop that leak or pouring a soda-vinegar solution down a clogged drain to clear the pipe. But, if you are facing recurring plumbing issues in your house, the underlying problem might be larger than it seems. In such cases trying to fix the issue will only exacerbate it further and you might end up spending more on costly repairs.

Top Signs That You Should Call a Plumber

Low Water Pressure

Have you ever stepped into a shower only to see a trickle of water falling? Frustrating right? You might be tempted to poke into the shower aerator to remove any barrier that is stopping the water from flowing out. Please stop yourself from trying it – you are facing problems with the water pressure- the reasons for which can be many. So, it is best to call a professional plumber who can check on all the possible causes and address them appropriately.

Foul Smell in the House

Do you find a strange foul smell pervading your home? Does it smell like sewer? Well, it is most likely a case of sewer line leakage. It should be addressed on priority else it can pose a serious problem for the integrity of the plumbing system. The dirty water can seep into the wall and can also lead to nasty back-ups in the drain.

Back Flow of Wastewater

This is among the nastiest plumbing issues one can face. No one wants the wastewater coming back up into the house and ruining things around. If you face a backflow of wastewater, do not waste any time, and call for professional plumber help right away.

No Water in the House

Imagine turning on the taps and finding that there is no water. Where has all the water vanished? Well, only a professional plumber service can tell. Since most of the plumbing system is concealed, it is not right to go by guesswork. Professional plumbers have diagnostic tools to find the root cause of the problem and address it correctly.

No Hot Water

No hot water means there is a fault in the water heater and that must be checked by a professional plumber who is trained and certified to work with water heating systems. Never attempt to fix these issues unless you are trained and have the necessary experience in dealing with appliances.

You can go online and search for an emergency plumber near me, or plumbing services near me in a bid to find a professional plumber. But that would take a lot of time and effort. Elite Plumbing offers 24×7 emergency plumbing services in most areas of Maryland including Pasadena, Glen Burnie, Severn, Annapolis, Severna Park, Cape St. Claire, Millersville, Arnold, Gambrills, and Crownsville.

Our plumbers are experienced, trained, and certified to tackle all kinds of plumbing issues. With our impeccable services and fair pricing, we have earned the trust of our clients. Call us whenever you run into a plumbing emergency and we will sort it out at the earliest.