5 DIYs to Avoid in Custom Home Renovations in 2022

With the housing market continuing to increase, Vancouver real estate saw sales up 25.3 percent in the 10-year January average last month. The increase in competition for a limited amount of homes has driven up prices to record numbers.

The short supply causes older homes to be purchased above market value, which means they may need renovations. To save money, doing custom home renovations sounds like the best option. And with the help of the internet, it is now easy to learn how to do anything.

We all know there are a lot of good tutorial videos available. However, not all home renovation should be done by you. Especially if you do not have the tools and skillsets to properly and safely execute the tasks. Instead of making your home look better, you might end up doing more damage than good. 

There are important things you need to remember with a home renovation. For example, the budget, your time, and how inconvenient it will be for you and your whole family. Especially if you are doing the renovation or updating yourself. It will take a LOT of time and effort on your part. Here are 5 things you need to avoid when doing custom home renovations.

1. Not planning enough time for your custom home renovations

Don’t believe everything you see on the internet. When a tutorial video says a certain home improvement will take only 2 – 3 days, you have to keep in mind that these people are experts or experienced enough to finish the project in that time frame. 

You need to take into account your skills and capabilities. It might take you a whole week to finish a certain while on the videos, they finish it in 3 days.

Never assume you will finish just like the people you watched on the tutorial videos. Consider your skills and if you have other people to assist you with the project. In case of any unexpected situations in your DIY custom home renovations, add a couple of days to your expected completion date in case of unexpected situations.

2. Spending against your budget for your custom home renovations 

When allocating your budget for your custom home renovations, it is best to take into consideration some expected circumstances. You should allocate a budget for going over budget. It’s always better to be prepared than surprised.

For example, when you are opening your walls. It can lead to structural, electrical, or plumbing issues. Needing structural, electrical, and plumbing repair leads to more spending. For renovating older homes, you might encounter mold, pipe leaks, and deteriorating wood. 

Always be prepared for these unexpected events. 

3. Ignoring building codes and regulations for your custom home renovations

Many Canadian homeowners think that any kind of remodeling, renovations, or construction in their home is their decision alone. However, that is not the case depending on your location and the type of home you live in. 

There are certain building codes and regulations you need to check and get approval for before you start your custom home renovations. Especially if you are digging outside of your home to make a pool, installing electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural components. 

In these cases, you might need a building inspector to check for your safety and your home. Always check your local building codes and regulations before starting your custom home renovations.

4. Not doing proper research for your custom home renovations

Before starting any kind of custom home renovation project, you need to do thorough research especially if you are doing it yourself. There are building codes, regulations, requirements, and laws you need to check before starting your project. 

Thorough research and understanding of these will help you avoid further spending, problems, and lawsuits in the future.

If you are doing home renovations yourself, you will have to do quality research yourself. There are different laws, regulations, and codes for various provinces, it will be hard to keep up. There may be permits required to finish the project for your home. 

However, if you work with MidCity Plumbers for your custom home renovation, electrical, and plumbing repair needs, we know the codes and regulations to easily guide you through the process.

5. Not leaving the custom home renovations to the professionals

You might have watched a couple of tutorial videos on the internet but it doesn’t mean you gain experience and knowledge with it. Watching videos doesn’t make you an expert in that field. Experience and doing them yourselves is very VERY different from watching them online.

Not all custom home renovations can be done in DIY style. Certain renovation projects need professionals and experts to finish them safely, quickly, and properly. Here are 5 of the custom home renovations you need to leave to professionals: 

Asbestos removal

Asbestos is a carcinogen and can cause many health problems, such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma, when inhaled. This is a highly dangerous material for you.

Removing asbestos in your home without proper knowledge, equipment, and protective gear might cause health problems. We highly recommend leaving asbestos removal to experts. 

Hire a professional before doing any renovations or remodeling in your home. They will check for any asbestos in your home. If they find any, an asbestos removal specialist will be able to safely remove the asbestos. Do not disturb the asbestos material or it will increase the health risks.

Electrical repairs

Electrical repairs can be very hazardous. Licensed and experienced electricians will know how dangerous it is and can take proper safety precautions to avoid any risks, injuries, and emergencies. 

Dangerous situations such as electrocution may occur when an electrical repair or installation is done in a DIY style without proper hands-on experience and knowledge. It also increases the chances of sparking, short circuits, and other problems which can lead to a fire.

To avoid these serious and dangerous situations, we highly recommend contacting a licensed and professional electrician instead of DIY custom home renovations.

Pipe replacement

Watching tutorial videos about pipe replacement tends to make it seem simple and easy. But in reality, they are not. Improper pipe replacement can lead to flooding and water contamination. It is best to leave this a professional plumber Burnaby to make sure no leaks, blockages, or contamination will occur. 

Window treatment replacement

When you are replacing window treatments for one to two rooms, you can DIY it. It will not consume that much time and money. However, if you are planning to replace all the window treatment or more than two rooms in your home, we highly recommend calling professionals. 

Not only will you save a lot of money, time, and effort. You have peace of mind that window treatment installations are up to standard and done right. Custom home renovations can lead to spending more money if window treatments are done incorrectly.

If you are installing blinds and shades, you can do them yourself. They are not complicated to do even if you install them in all the windows in your home. 

However, if you are planning to install specialty products like shutters and differently shaped window treatments, it is best to leave it to professionals.

Plumbing installation and repairs

For a more reliable plumbing installation and repairs, it is best to call a professional rather than do them yourself. Improper plumbing can lead to many problems and in extreme cases, flooding. 

If you hire a professional for your plumbing Vancouver needs, they can identify problems and can efficiently and safely deal with them. There are times when a leaky pipe might not seem like a big deal. But, a simple inspection by a plumber will diagnose hidden issues immediately.

Contact a professional

It is nice to learn new things and do things yourself to save money. However, some renovations and remodeling should be left to professionals. Even if you spend hours watching tutorial videos. Some custom home renovations and remodeling may even cause your home to decrease its value or can lead to dangerous situations.

If you need heating, pipe replacement, or plumbing repair, it is best to call a professional with experience and a trustworthy reputation like MidCity Plumbers.

MidCity Plumbers offers excellent and reliable plumbing, heating, drainage, gas fitting, air conditioning repair, boiler repair, and hot water tank services for residential settings. If you encounter any problems or just want to check the safety of your home, give us a call at  📞 (778) 772-8676 or contact us.

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12 Common Causes of Drain Clogs Every Homeowner Should Know

Are you experiencing a clogged drain more frequently? Most homeowners are familiar with clogging issues and have run into them at least once or twice. And while a clogged drain may be common, it can be prevented with proper knowledge and cleaning. Here are 12 common causes of drain clogs you should know and what you can do to prevent them. Read on! 

1. Dirt and debris causing clogged drain

More often than not, we carry dirt and small debris inside the shower. When you’re out all day and coming in for a warm shower, dirt and debris will also come in and slowly make their way down the drain. Of course, there will be dirt that can’t easily be removed by simple soap and water.

Keep in mind that when you allow large amounts of dirt and debris down the drain, you’ll eventually have a clogged drain. The next time you shower or wash your hands in the sink, make sure you don’t allow large amounts of dirt or debris to accumulate down the drain. They can cause a major blockage that will eventually stop water from running through your pipes. 

Clean your showers and drains frequently and remove as much dirt and debris as you can to avoid a clogged drain. 

2. Paper towels causing clogged drain

Paper towels are a classic cause of a clogged drain. While it may seem thinner than any regular paper, paper towels are slow to dissolve. Some may even cause clogging issues that you will surely regret. 

Throw paper towels in your garbage and stop the habit of flushing them down the toilet drain. Remember that these paper towels also expand, taking up more space in the pipe than you would normally think.

3. Hair can cause a clogged drain

Ah yes, another classic, the hair. You’ll most likely end up cleaning a lot of hair in the bathroom than you would have expected. Hair, or the accumulation of hair, is a major culprit in a clogged drain.

Once you’re done showering, keep in mind that even small amounts of hair can lead to a clogged drain. Make sure to clean your shower drain catcher as soon as you finish. 

4. Food particles leading to clogged drain

Food particles are another common cause why most homeowners are experiencing a clogged drain, and having a garbage disposal doesn’t mean you can just pour anything down. We get it. 

You want to just put anything down the drain after a long busy day. But you must resist the urge to do it otherwise you’ll end up spending too much repair costs on a clogged kitchen sink drain. 

Here is a brief list of food particles that you should never put down in the sink:

• Eggshells
• Food scraps
• Fruit or vegetable peels 
• Coffee grounds  
• Used cooking oil

There are also other ways in which you can avoid throwing huge amounts of waste. Some even make a compost to put their food scraps to reduce the impact of wasted food, while others opt for a garbage disposal system. Either way, make sure that you don’t randomly throw anything down your sink to avoid a clogged kitchen sink drain 

5. Used oil and grease will cause a clogged drain

Do you always use oil for cooking meals? Take note that fats and oils are also causing a major clogged drain in most homes. While it may seem okay to dump them in their liquid form while they are hot, fats and oils harden. The solidifying process usually happens once they enter the drain when they cool down. 

As fats and oils harden into a solid mass, they clump in your drain and cause water flow to stop or at least flow slowly. Lucky enough, preventing this is easy. One of the practical ways to avoid pouring used oil down the drain is to simply pour your used cooking oil into a melt-proof container. Once they harden, you can now throw them in the garbage. Easy peasy! No clogged kitchen sink drain either. 

6. Soap residue can leave a clogged drain

So you think soap also easily dissolves? Think again! While it’s true that we don’t talk about the soap itself, instead we’re talking about the scum that builds up in your drain from soap residue. 

You might be shocked to know that soap residue can also be the cause of a clogged drain in your toilet or sink. 

If you use bar soaps, they often leave a thin film behind on pipes that can build up over time. Want to know the best remedy for this? Change your soaps. Liquid soaps, for example, flow more easily through your plumbing. They also don’t create scum on your bathroom counters or showers.

So, if you are frequently experiencing a clogged drain, there’s a high chance that soap residue is causing this. 

7. Tree roots will cause a clogged drain

Tree roots also pose a great risk. Especially when there are leaks in the pipes that attract tree roots, which can lead to a clogged drain. Tree roots love moist areas, and if your pipes are always moist, they can grow inside these pipes. This results in pipe damage that needs replacement.

This does not only affect your water consumption, but you’ll also end up spending a lot of money on pipe replacement or cleaning services. In worst cases, you may even need excavation or jet cleaning. You can avoid all of these if you take proper care of your pipes. 

You can do so by being mindful of the stuff that you put down the drain. Some items may lead to cracking or scratching your pipes, leading to leaking and growth of tree roots. 

8. Feminine products will cause a clogged drain

If you’ve made it past 6th grade without someone telling you it’s a bad idea to flush used feminine products down the toilet, it’s time to learn. If paper towels and tissues are too thick for toilets, feminine products are a definite no-no. Products like tampons are made to expand when there is moisture. This is especially bad for your drains. 

Follow the usage directions on the box for disposing of feminine products. But never put them down yours or anyone else’s toilet. It will eventually lead to a clogged toilet.

Just be sure to call a plumbing specialist right away to make sure your clogged drain doesn’t cause more severe damage like leaks.

9. Flushable wipes can cause a clogged drain

Flushable wipes are not really that flushable. You might be surprised with this, but they’re not meant to be flushed. Although this bears the label of “flushable”, they can easily cause a clogged toilet or drain since they also dissolve slowly in water. 

So, it is recommended not to use flushable wipes, or at least flush them down the toilet. Not only does this give you a clogged toilet, but these wipes may also lead to problems in the septic system. Instead, throw them properly in the garbage can. 

10. Pipe disintegration can lead to a clogged drain

Pipe disintegration, no matter how simple or complex it is, can also lead to a clogged drain if left untreated. This may be in the form of severely damaged pipes or sagging sewer lines. 

For obvious reasons, pipe disintegration leads to many problems, and one of the common ones is clogs. So make sure that your pipes are working well by having them checked regularly by plumbing experts. 

11. Foreign objects will cause a clogged drain

Foreign objects also always make it to the cut when it comes to a clogged drain. Sinks, toilets, and drains are often susceptible to clogs once foreign objects come into play. From a small bouncy ball to a Lego piece, any of these could potentially clog your toilets or any other drains. 

To help you out, here are some effective ways to prevent clogging by foreign objects: 

• Teach your kids what the toilet is used for. It’s practical to let them know that flushing down their toys or any other objects could lead to clogging. Just casually have a little talk with them about that. 
• It’s also ideal to buy drain covers. When you’re not around, your kids may not mess with the toilet or sinks. With drain covers, you get to prevent foreign objects from flushing down the drain. 

12. Medication can cause a clogged drain

Did you know that medications can also cause a clogged drain? Yes, even if they’re small! There are tablets or syrups that can contribute to the clumping with other food waste that you flush down the drain.  

To avoid clogging issues from medications, you can try diluting thick syrups. On the other hand, crushed tablets can be dissolved in water for 15 minutes, at least in some cases. 

Better yet, don’t flush down medications as these do not only lead to clogging, they can also affect water quality as some dissolve slower than other medications. 

How can MidCity Plumbers help? 

MidCity Plumbers is a reliable plumbing company with an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau. We are always ready to provide plumbing services for both residential and commercial settings. With our team of certified experts, your tough plumbing issues and any clogged drain will be resolved in the shortest amount of time. 

MidCity Plumbers offers professional and reliable plumbing services. Our services are done right from the initial inspection all the way through to the final process. If you have stubborn clogs at home even in emergency situations, MidCity Plumbers will be there right away. Just give us a call today on 📞 (778) 772-8676 or contact us today!

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4 Reasons Shower Drain Cleaning is Essential

Did you consider regular cleaning when it comes to your shower drain? While most people don’t realize how important this is, we’re here to tell you why. Regular shower drain cleaning has many more benefits than you might think. 

One of the best reasons is you get to prevent drain clogging issues. In this blog, find out the reasons why shower drain cleaning is essential and why you should start adding this step to your regular cleaning routine. 

Why you should clean your shower drain regularly

Cleaning your shower drain can bring wonders, especially when it comes to your daily routine and convenience. Here are some of the best reasons why you should clean your shower drain regularly: 

1. Prevent odors in your shower drain

Any shower drain in your home can be the major culprit of bad smells especially when they are not cleaned regularly. It is tricky to deal with the awful odors that they carry, but with proper cleaning, you don’t have to worry about it anymore. Shower drain cleaning prevents odors by not having stagnant water in your P-traps. Once the P-trap collects a lot of water, it’ll start to smell, and you’d have to spend on much expensive cleaning. 

2. Keep away pests and insects in your shower drain

Most insects and pests love stagnant water. Much worse, they can even breed in these waters. If you notice an increase in pests or insects inside your home, chances are, your shower drain needs a thorough cleaning. Keep in mind that these pests and insects can also be a great inconvenience and pose health risks to you and your family. To prevent them, clean your shower drain to eliminate the potential environment that can increase their population. 

3. Avoid growth of mold and bacteria in your shower drain

Your drainage system can also be home to different types of bacteria and molds. Be mindful that some forms of bacteria can compromise your health and even trigger asthma. Surely, you can prevent this problem by regularly cleaning your shower drain. Don’t wait for the time that these bacteria and mold can cause further damage. While you’re at it, make sure you regularly clean your shower drain. 

4. Prevent clogs and costly repairs for your shower drain

When you take the time to clean your shower drain regularly, you can prevent blockages. Small blockages can be annoying when you shower or use the sink, but a serious clog can be concerning. Sewer drain cleaning may be necessary to keep the drains flowing freely. When the sewer system builds up, it ends up causing problems when you flush the toilet as it can start to overflow.

What causes a clogged shower drain? 

Major culprits for the clogs in a shower drain may be dirt, food waste, soap residue, and even hair binds. When you don’t regularly clean your drains, these harmful particles and debris will accumulate and end up blocking water flow through your shower drain. This will greatly affect the way you consume water and worse, compromise your water quality. 

Should you use chemicals to clean shower drain? 

The quick answer to that is no. While you might think that chemical cleaners are highly effective in cleaning stubborn clogs and dirt in your shower drain, they may also do more harm than good. 

Most chemical cleaners have harsh chemicals that can heat up and burn your pipes. And these chemical cleaners may not be as effective as you might think. Not all causes of clogs can be resolved with chemical cleaners. 

For instance, clogs in pipes are mainly due to tree roots or mineral buildup in the backup drain requires professional plumbing and clearing services beyond dangerous chemical cleaners. If you want to try a home remedy, try a homemade cleaner or explore other natural solutions. Better yet, contact a professional team to help you resolve the issue.  

What is the best way to clean a shower drain?

Typically, the ideal way to clean out a clogged shower drain is with the plunging method. However, there are times when plumbing services are much more needed than a homemade solution or any regular cleaning. When this happens, it’s time to call up a professional team of certified plumbers. 

While you are most familiar with the clogs that can easily be cleared using readily available tools, expert cleaning may be the best one yet to clean a shower drain. Let’s admit it, most DIY solutions are not just that effective especially when you are facing plumbing issues that are complex like having tree root growth or highly-corrosive pipes. 

And while drain snakes can be effective at knocking excess buildup that clings onto your pipe walls, much-needed expertise may be at times more ideal. 

When to contact a professional about your shower drain

Regular home plumbing solutions may not work to clean your pipes or shower drain,  so don’t hesitate to get professional help from a team of plumbing experts. We at MidCity Plumbers use up-to-date plumbing services and solutions to clean your drains in a thorough and effective manner.

Keep in mind that despite your preventive measures, your home may have a serious shower drain clog. Whether you need a full-blown shower drain cleaning or just an assessment, our fast and professional service can return your plumbing system back to its best.

Do you want help with your drain cleaning today? We got you covered! MidCity Plumbers is a reliable plumbing company with an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau.  We are always ready to provide plumbing services both in residential and commercial settings. Even the toughest dirt and molds will be resolved in the shortest amount of time. MidCity Plumbers offer permanent solutions by following a thorough process. Plus, our services are done right the first time, from the initial inspection all the way through the final process. If you have stubborn clogs or dirt at home even in emergency situations, give us a call today on 📞 (778) 772-8676 and we can get to you as early as possible. We also offer FREE in-house assessments or inspections should you need one. 

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Prevent Plumbing Problems During Heavy Rainfall in Vancouver

Are you looking for ways to prevent plumbing problems especially during heavy rainfalls in Vancouver? We can help you! It’s a known fact that heavy rainfall is a friend to no one, especially to your plumbing system. It’s always important to assess if your plumbing can withstand heavy elements and harsh weather conditions in order to avoid further damage and higher repair costs. 

With this in mind, we have rounded up the ways for you to prevent these plumbing issues even during the heaviest of rains in Vancouver. Intrigued? Read on! 

1. Maintain plumbing drain pipes

The key lies in maintaining your plumbing drain pipes such as cleaning gutters, downspouts, and more. First, you need to familiarize yourself with how gutters and downspouts work. Gutters and downspouts work by diverting water away from your home and most importantly, your home’s foundation or base. 

Heavy rainfall can result in excess water, and we all know that too much water in the sewer lines can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing system. Be mindful of how you can maintain your gutters and downspouts not just when you’re suspecting heavy rain, but also on a regular basis. 

Ask any professional plumber and they’ll tell you how important it is to maintain the main lines before experiencing heavy storms. For example, if the gutters are full of leaves blocking water flow, this can lead to heavy flooding and expensive pipe repairs. Obviously, both interior and exterior damage can occur if gutters are not well-maintained or clean regularly. 

Also, if the wrong material is used for gutter and downspout installation, you can run into additional problems. Blocked gutters with debris like leaves and twigs can cause leaks and water damage to the property. Always think that water can seep into the house causing different kinds of damage to your wall, flooring, and overall housing unit. 

Consequently, this can quickly become a costly repair. Some metals corrode faster than others. It is best to choose a durable, corrosion-resistant, and long-lasting material to decrease maintenance costs in the long run. 

2. Proper downspout drainage 

It also helps greatly if you have a proper downspout drainage system. With blocked downspouts, this results in leaks and severe water damage to your property. Make sure that your downspout has a proper drainage system. 

If you are unfamiliar with this information, call up the nearest plumbing company near you and ask for guidance. They can greatly help you with how you can maintain proper drainage and even assess your plumbing system should you need one. 

3. Check outdoor drainage 

Most plumbing issues are avoided by simply just checking our outdoor drainage. This is an important aspect since the outdoor drainage system is the most susceptible to heavy rainfall. You can check outdoor drainage by assessing whether there are gurgling sounds or unpleasant odors. 

With these simple signs, you’ll know that something is wrong with your outdoor drainage and you might have to clean the drainage up. However, checking outdoor drainage might need professional services especially when you expect something beyond your control. Professional plumbing experts offer water drainage system services to ensure that you and the community won’t have to deal with heavy flooding during the rainfall season. 

4. Potential sewage backup 

With heavy rainfall, there’s also a high chance of having sewer lines become obstructed. If you’re suspecting that there’s something wrong with your sewage, there’s a high possibility that you are experiencing sewer backups. What are sewer backups? These are usually the thick and often murky water that forms in your sewage. Not only does it look unpleasant, but it can also be problematic for your health. And yes, severe illness is possible with these backups. 

The most common sewage backup causes are clogs, damaged sewer lines, and tree roots. When it comes to preventing plumbing issues during heavy rains, it’s important to go back to the basics. Don’t pour grease down the drain and avoid disposing of materials or products that don’t easily dissolve in water. These simple habits can make big changes to your plumbing system, especially when storms come in. 

Remember that clogs result in sewage backups. When you prevent these clogs from happening in the first place, you also get to enjoy a much safer plumbing system even if the rainy season comes along. 

When to contact a plumbing expert

If you are dealing with these issues and still do not know what to do, it’s best to contact a plumbing professional near you. Chances are, you might not be fully prepared with what heavy rainfall may cause your plumbing systems. Plus, most homeowners don’t have the necessary equipment and expertise to deal with this problem. 

For example, if you want to be technical when it comes to preventing any damages during heavy rainfall, you might want to install a backwater prevention valve or at least have sewage pump maintenance. These things can be achieved with a team of certified experts with the right tools and experience in dealing with drainage and plumbing issues during heavy rainfall. 

Do you plan on getting ready for a heavy rainfall? Our team at MidCity Plumbers is the right one you can rely on! MidCity Plumbers has gutter downspout drainage solutions to help you avoid water damage during the heaviest of rainy seasons. With quality service, you get to increase the expectancy of your drains, too. MidCity Plumbers offer permanent solutions in the Vancouver, Burnaby surrounding area, and more. Plus, our services are complete right from the initial inspection all the way through the final unclogging process. If you want us to help you, give us a call today on 📞 (778) 772-8676 and we can get to you as early as possible. We also offer FREE in-house assessments or inspections. 

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How to Fix a Clogged Toilet and Prevent Future Clogs

For sure, all of us experience clogged toilets. This is not only annoying, but it can also greatly affect the way we prepare our routines every day. While these issues are usually resolved with just a plunger, most problems just can’t be fixed. Fortunately, you can prevent these issues and save yourself from spending a lot on repair or cleaning costs. Here are some of the best way to unclog toilet and prevent future clogs. 

Tools and products you will need for a clogged toilet

Whichever way you want to fix your clogged toilet, here are the tools and products you will need to help you unclog:

• Toilet plunger 
• Hot water 
• Baking soda mixture 
• Vinegar
• Dish soap 
• Plumbing snake 
• Bleach (optional) 
• Bucket
• Gloves

Steps to fix a clogged toilet 

Follow these steps if you have a toilet plunger at home to fix a clogged toilet: 

1. Using the toilet plunger, insert the tool into the toilet bowl and make sure that the plunger covers the entire area. Begging submerging the plunger in the water to allow the push and pull of the water through the opening, and not the air. 
2. Make sure you properly pump the plunger over the hole. This way, the water will begin to drain. 
3. Flush the toilet to check if the water flow is back to its original function. If the water in the toilet has been drained but the blockage is still there, try filling up the toilet with water again. 

Steps to fix a clogged toilet without a plunger 

Some may not have a toilet plunger, so we have also provided a brief explanation of the best way to deal with a clogged toilet no plunger:

1. Get some dish soap and pour about a half-cup into the toilet. This makes the drain slippery, allowing for any lodged debris to slide down the drain more easily. 
2. If dish soap does not help your clogged toilet, you can try adding hot water to move things even faster. First, fill a bucket with hot water then pour the water into the toilet. The hot water can soften hard debris in your toilet. 
3. Another method that you can try is to have an all-natural solution. Pour one cup of baking soda and two cups of white vinegar down your toilet. Let the mixture sit and fizz for about half an hour. If the clog is still there, try the hot water method again. 
4. As another option, household bleach can also break down any debris stuck in your toilet drain. Simply put 2-3 cups of bleach and let it sit. Don’t forget to finish the process by flushing the toilet. 
5. After doing the method that works best for you, make sure you check to see if your toilet is back to normal. When stubborn clogs are still there, don’t shy away from contacting a professional plumbing team to help you out. They offer safer and more efficient solutions to solve your clogged toilet in no time.

When to call a professional plumber for a clogged toilet

If it’s your first time fixing a clogged toilet and you don’t have enough tools and products to successfully do it, it’s more practical to call the nearest professional plumber near you. More often than not, clogging issues are not easily resolved without the right expertise and equipment. If you suspect that the problem is beyond your control, just contact a reliable company to do the job for you. 

Are you experiencing stubborn clogging issues? MidCity Plumbers is a leading plumbing company that specializes in clogged drains and toilets. We know exactly what it takes to solve these problems with the best way to unclog toilet, especially during emergencies. Just give us a call today on 📞 (778) 772-8676 and we can get to you as early as possible and solve your clogging issues in the least amount of time. 

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Gas Furnace Maintenance: 6 Tips to Save Money

Don’t be surprised with a broken gas furnace, because emergency gas furnace repairs are not only costly but inconvenient to your normal routine.

The best way to avoid this from happening is to properly maintain your gas furnace and anticipate the potential problems before they happen. 

To help you prevent your gas furnace from breaking, check out these 6 tips. You will not only save money and be more energy-efficient but also save yourself from stress.

1. Test the thermostat on your gas furnace

The most common problem gas furnace users encounter starts with the thermostat. Set up your thermostat in your room. Does it feel uncomfortable even if you continue to control the temperature? If the answer is yes, you have a problem with your thermostat because it isn’t sending the right signals to your furnace. This usually happens when you have been using it for many years.

In the worst-case scenario, it totally stops working and needs a full replacement. But if you are lucky, you might just need to check the wirings and make sure they are tight and fit properly.

There are also instances when the temperature in the room suddenly drops or increases. It can also be a sign that your thermostat needs to be replaced.

If you are unsure of what to do with your thermostat or you keep on having problems with it, it is best to contact a professional that offers gas furnace service.

2. Inspect burner flames on your gas furnace

Believe it or not, the color of the burner flames on your gas furnace can tell you a lot. A healthy and working gas furnace should produce blue to almost completely blue flames. It is commonly distinguished by a lively and roaring blue flame with a lighter blue triangle in its center. You might also see some tiny yellow parts, which is totally normal.

A blue flame shows safe and highly efficient combustion. The gas is being burnt and used efficiently without any wastage. In addition, blue flames are way hotter so they can heat your room or home more efficiently and you are not wasting money.

If the flame in your burner is orange or yellow or if orange or yellow is popping up, that is a clear sign that you have combustion problems. In addition, if you see long streaks of any color in your flames, your gas furnace needs cleaning or adjustments. In both these 2 cases, you will need to hire professional HVAC technicians that offer heating service Burnaby. If you are not an experienced technician, please do not do this yourself.

3. Change gas furnace filter

The filter in your gas furnace does a very important job. It is the one responsible for filtering the air, making sure there are no particles, then delivering warm air through the rooms in your home. The filter removes all kinds of particles in the air, such as dust, mites, pollen, bacteria, spores, and more.

If your filter is dirty, it will cause blockages and hinder the airflow inside the furnace. It won’t work efficiently and will need to burn more gas. Hence, it costs you more money. It is best to replace your gas furnace filter. If you are using inexpensive air filters, you need to change them after using them for 30 to 90 days. More expensive disposable pleated ones may last at least 3 months or more depending on the quality of your furnace.

You can look at the manufacturer’s recommendation or call your plumbing and heating professional for more information.

4. Clean the blower cavity on your gas furnace

This should be your next step after changing the filters. Because it is right next to the air filter. Whenever some dust, debris, dirt, pollen, and spores pass through the air filter, they will go to the blower.

Clean the blower cavity and all the pulleys and belts using a damp cloth. Remove all the panels which cover the filter in order to easily access the blower and its parts. You need to remove all the accumulated dirt which can hinder the airflow in your furnace.

5. Inspect the fan on your gas furnace

Aside from the general inspection of your gas furnace, you need to check the components of the fan. If you are not familiar with this, you should call a trusted professional HVAC technician and have them inspect the fan components. A thorough inspection will reveal all the things you need to clean and/or replace.

An advantage of calling a professional compared to doing it yourself is that they are experienced in this line of work. They will be able to identify the problem (if there are any) and are the things you need to look out for.

Do this routine inspection once a year. Preferable before the winter season. Call your expert heating and plumbing services provider and schedule an inspection.

6. Seal and clean leaky air ducts on your gas furnace

Gas furnace air ducts are prone to damage especially if you are using a forced-air furnace. You will have to clean the ducts more frequently to prevent any blockages or permanent damage. You can use a high-powered vacuum cleaner to do this. When you are done cleaning the air ducts, cover all ducts to prevent air from leaking. This will help make sure your gas furnace is working efficiently.

Proper maintenance of your gas furnace is really important. It burns gas in order to heat the air passing through the machine, through the filter to the blower, then your room. If you do not clean all the components of your gas furnace, the air inside your home might get contaminated causing health problems like allergies, asthma, etc.

In addition, you are dealing with a gas-powered furnace. If a gas leak happens, it will cause many health problems, like carbon monoxide poisoning, or property damage. You need to remember, a simple spark can ignite natural gas, leading to a fire.

When to call a professional for your gas furnace

If you do not know how to properly maintain or clean your gas furnace, do not hesitate to call a professional HVAC technician. They will surely be willing to help you out! 

Our team at MidCity Plumbers is the one you can rely on for plumbing and heating! MidCity Plumbers has solutions to help you save time and money with your gas furnace. Call today at 📞 (778) 772-8676 and we can schedule a consultation for a gas furnace service. We also offer FREE in-house assessments and inspections. 

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7 Things to Never Pour Down the Kitchen Drain to Avoid Clogs

Most homes with busy kitchens don’t often consider the things poured down the sink. Oftentimes, homeowners wait for clogs to happen to reconsider everything that they pour down the kitchen sink drain pipe. In order to avoid damage costs, it’s time to think things through about kitchen drains. At MidCity Plumbers, we know exactly what to do when clogged drains happen. Here are 7 things to never pour down the kitchen drain to avoid clogs in your kitchen sink drain: 

1. Used cooking oil or grease in the kitchen drain

We’ve talked about how cooking oil and grease can be a major hassle when poured down the drain. Cooking oil and grease can block the pipes when they solidify. These liquids can mix with other particles down the drain and accumulate into solid masses of fats that can cling onto the walls of your pipes at home. When this happens, clogs will surely happen and some may even lead to damages beyond repair. 

2. Washing flour or starch down the kitchen drain

If you love baking at home, flour or scratch excess can be a mess. After baking, remember to scrape the excess flour or starch before you wash the bowls and measuring cups. Otherwise, you’ll run the risk of clogging the drain with a goop of water and starch. Much like grease and cooking oil mixing with other materials in the drain, the goop can cling onto the walls of the pipes and narrow the pipe’s diameter, causing blocked drains in the process. 

3. Coffee grinds in the kitchen drain

While some of us don’t know it yet, coffee grinds can be the biggest culprit when it comes to clogged kitchen drains. Though it may look harmless to dispose of your coffee grounds down the drain, you can easily wash away the coffee grinds, coffee grinds have the potential to cause stubborn clogs. Over time, these coffee grinds will fill up the trap in your kitchen drain, leaving you with a slow draining sink. So, before you pour the leftover coffee from your morning routine, think of ways to dispose of it properly first. Yes, coffee grounds are compostable, but remember that these can build up over time and compromise the way your water flows through the pipes. 

4. Eggshells in the kitchen drain

It is common knowledge that eggshells are a headache when it comes to kitchen drain use. Even if you have a proper garbage disposal, eggshells will always clog the drains due to their shell membranes. Reconsider how to throw them out, like disposing them in the trash or composting them. You can even incorporate these shells in your art if you have the time. 

5. Uncooked or raw rice down kitchen drain

If you’re fond of having rice with your meals, then cut the habit of pouring the excess rice down the drain after washing it. Keep in mind that rice expands in water. Imagine what happens when you pour rice down the drain. This rice mixes with water, and voila! You find yourself having clogged drain issues. If you can, always filter your rice when washing and avoid pouring huge amounts of rice down the drain. 

6. Any type of pasta in the kitchen drain

So, you love pasta? While cooking pasta is all fun and games, it can also lead to clogging issues. If you somehow forgot about straining the noodles from the water, they will end up clogging the kitchen sink drain pipe. Pasta can easily tangle up the blades of disposal if you have a garburator in the kitchen drain. This may also harden in the pipes, consequently causing a clog.

Much like rice, water can cause the pasta to expand, which further blocks the pipe system you have at home. There are effective methods you can use to dissolve pasta in your sink drain. You can also contact a professional team of plumbers to help you out when the problem is beyond your control. 

7. Stickers on fruits or vegetables in the kitchen drain

Most stickers on our produce such as fruits and vegetables may look not harmful, they can actually contribute to clogging our drains and can even cause huge blockages over time. To avoid such an issue, make sure to peel the stickers off the produce before washing your fruits or veggies. This way, you get to avoid having these stickers down the kitchen drain. Keep in mind that the stickers don’t dissolve in water easily, resulting in clogging your pipes and causing even more damage to the water supply in your local community. Small amounts matter greatly as they can build up over time, too. 

When to call a plumbing service for your kitchen drain

Next time you’re cooking or preparing meals, think about the particles you pour down the drain before disposal – you could be saving yourself an expensive repair cost and clean up! MidCity Plumbers is a trustworthy team of expert plumbers with the necessary tools and expertise for the job. Our efficient service includes plumbing and drainage services completely right from the assessment through the final unclogging stages. 

When the clogs begin to get stubborn, our expert plumbers can efficiently get rid of them and other issues in a safer way. Our plumbing services are available in residential and commercial areas. We cover all your plumbing needs from leaks, clogs, to water heaters or drainage problems. Just contact us today at 📞 (778) 772-8676 and our team will be right on your doorstep to resolve your clogging issues in no time!

The post 7 Things to Never Pour Down the Kitchen Drain to Avoid Clogs appeared first on MidCityPlumbers.

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What to Do About Kitchen Drain Smells

Do you have kitchen drain smells coming from your sink? Chances are, you are dealing with stubborn clogs or leaking. Whatever the cause is, MidCity Plumbers can help! This blog will show you professional plumbing tips from our team that can help you out when your kitchen begins to smell. From causes, prevention, to proper disposal of food, we got you covered! Intrigued? Read on! 

Causes of kitchen drain smells 

Here are some of the most common causes of kitchen drain smells:

Blockage 

Blockages are composed of food build-up or debris in your drainpipe. There is a small part at the lowest point of the curve in your sink that allows you to check for blockages and clear them up if indeed there are any. Since blockages are usually made of food waste, they can ooze a bad odor. Make sure to clear the blockage immediately by running water for a few seconds to remove any debris. Then check if your water is now at the optimal level. 

Clog 

A clog causes many problems, one of which is unpleasant kitchen drain smells. Clogged drains are usually composed of food particles and other organic matter. As we all know, food particles, organic matter, and other substances can create bad odors in your sewer system if left unattended. And while most homes have a garbage disposal or proper plumbing ventilation to combat bad kitchen smells, a clogged drain will still cause terrible smells. Keep in mind that methane is a byproduct of organic waste deterioration in residential areas. 

All organic material will decompose, and when it does, it begins to produce methane. If you have clogged drains, the production of methane in the food waste clinging onto the drains may be the reason for the awful smell. Methane produces sewer gas that comes from decomposing organic or other wastes down your drains.

Leak 

Leaking can also be the culprit when the kitchen drain smells bad. Note that the connections in your sink are prone to leaking.  When there is leaking, you can unscrew the connections. Then remove the P-trap that may have most of the food waste build-up. Make it a habit to inspect the pipe for any leaks, and clean it frequently if you can. 

Keep in mind that leaking can also result in a bad odor and may even compromise the well-being of your home. If you find a leak, take proper measurements. If it’s your first time dealing with a leak, make sure to contact a professional plumber to help you out and avoid unnecessary damage costs. 

P-trap 

Issues in your sink’s P-trap may also cause the bad odor you are experiencing. The P-trap is the curvy part of the drain pipe under the sink that resembles a “P” or a “U.” It is the component that isolates the drain line from the main fixture, which blocks any harmful and awful smells. The trap works by holding water at the bottom of the curve to block any potential smell from the particles you pour down the drain. 

If the P-trap is dry or is having issues, it would cause a sewage smell to emanate from the kitchen sink. Oftentimes, problems in the P-trap are not determinable with just a glance. You need the right tools and equipment to resolve the problem. Call the nearest plumbing company near you to help with kitchen drain smells. 

What to do if your kitchen drain smells

Fortunately, kitchen drain smells are often easy to resolve on your own before needing any professional help. If you’re suspecting any bad smells from your kitchen, here are some ways that you can do to resolve the problem. 

1. Wash your sink with hot water and dish soap – If you’re lucky, then your sink just probably needs a wash. Start by filling your sink with at least a few amounts of boiling water, and then add some dish soap to agitate the mixture until it looks bubbly. Don’t forget to run down some clean water afterward to remove any remaining debris.
2. Baking soda and white vinegar – this classic duo can be very effective in eliminating odors. Tested and proven! 
3. Try lemon peels, salt, and some ice – the salt and ice will work to get rid of any physical residue in your sink, while the lemon peels help eliminate odor.

How to prevent kitchen drain smells

To avoid kitchen drain smells, here are some plumbing tips on how to prevent drain odors and avoid expensive clean-ups! 

1. Deodorize your drains frequently by dropping just a few pieces of orange, lemon, or other citrus fruit into the disposal. 
2. Use a strainer or stopper when washing your dishes. This way, you get to prevent food particles from clogging your drains. 
3. Use baking soda, pour it down the drain and let it sit for around 20 minutes. Baking soda cleans your drains and even removes bad odors.

How to properly dispose of food to prevent kitchen drain smells

Oftentimes, the key to eliminating kitchen drain smells lies in the proper garbage disposal. But, some homeowners don’t own sink garbage disposal. Don’t worry! We have also listed here the thing you can do to properly dispose of food even without garbage disposal. 

1. Composting – this is perhaps the greenest way to dispose of food waste. Just prepare a small compost bin where you can put eggshells, coffee grounds, tea bags, and more. With composting, you can turn these food scraps into a healthy nutrient for your plants. 
2. Recycling – You can recycle food waste by first having the right containers to determine which food waste is great for compost and which ones can be recycled.
3. Donate waste for animal feed – If you know livestock owners in your local community, you can donate food scraps to them. This is also one way of effectively recycling food waste. 

When to call a professional plumber

When you can’t find out where the odor is coming from even after a personal assessment, it’s the right time to call a professional plumber. MidCity Plumbers is a trustworthy team of expert plumbers with the necessary tools and expertise for eliminating kitchen drain smells from your sink. Our efficient service includes plumbing and drainage services completely right from the assessment through the final unclogging stages. 

When the clogs begin to get stubborn, our expert plumbers can efficiently get rid of them and other issues in a safer way. Our plumbing service is available for residential and commercial areas. We cover all your plumbing needs from leaks, clogs, to water heaters or drainage problems. Just contact us today or call us at 📞 (778) 772-8676 and our team will be right on your doorstep to resolve your clogging issues in no time!

The post What to Do About Kitchen Drain Smells appeared first on MidCityPlumbers.

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