FAQ

Rumbling sounds in your water heater may be an indication of sediment build-up at the bottom. When that happens, your water heater can’t operate efficiently because the sediment doesn’t allow the heat to transfer properly to the water in the tank. There are methods of troubleshooting this yourself that you can find online, but if you aren’t comfortable doing, contact River City Plumbing for help.

It could be. Noisy pipes may be a signal that the pressure tank has lost the “air cushion.” Try turning off the water supply at the main valve, then turn on all the faucets around your home. Next, turn on the main valve again and shut off each faucet. If that doesn’t solve your issue, River City Plumbing is happy to take a closer look.

Is there anything more frustrating than a slow-draining kitchen sink? Standing there, watching the water take its sweet time to disappear, can be a real headache. But fear not! There are several simple and effective solutions to get your sink back to its smooth-flowing self in no time.

1. Boiling Water: Sometimes, the culprit behind a slow-draining sink is a buildup of grease or food particles. A quick and easy first step is to pour boiling water down the drain. This can help dissolve and flush away minor blockages.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar: This classic household remedy is a powerhouse when it comes to clearing drains. Start by pouring a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture fizz for about 15 minutes, then flush it away with hot water. Repeat if necessary.

3. Plunging: Yes, plungers aren’t just for toilets! A sink plunger can create a strong seal over the drain and, with a few plunges, help dislodge the blockage causing the slow drainage. Remember to cover the overflow opening in the sink or adjacent basin to ensure proper pressure.

4. Remove and Clean the P-Trap: The P-trap is that curved pipe under your sink. Place a bucket or bowl underneath it to catch any water, then unscrew the connections and remove the trap. Clean it thoroughly, removing any gunk or debris. Reattach it and run water to check if the flow has improved.

5. Plumbing Snake or Wire Hanger: For more stubborn clogs, a plumbing snake or a straightened wire hanger can be used to reach deeper into the drain and break up blockages. Insert it and twist, pulling out any debris that might be causing the slow drainage.

6. Commercial Drain Cleaners: If the above methods don’t work, consider using a commercial drain cleaner. Be cautious and follow the instructions carefully, as these products contain strong chemicals that can be harmful if not used properly.

Remember, prevention is key to avoiding future slow drains. Use drain guards to catch food particles and hair, and periodically flush drains with boiling water to prevent buildup.

If after trying these methods your sink still drains slowly, it might be time to call a professional plumber. They have the expertise and tools to tackle more complex issues and ensure your kitchen sink flows freely once again.

By following these steps, you can bid farewell to the frustration of a slow-draining kitchen sink and get back to your daily routine without the hassle of standing water.

Here’s to a smoothly flowing sink and stress-free dishwashing!

This is a common question with a simple solution. Bad smells in the garbage disposal are the result of build-up from leftover foods. To resolve the issue, put ice cubes and lemon or orange peels in the disposal and turn it on for 30 seconds. Then add a bit of liquid dish detergent into the disposer while it’s still running. Follow up with un cold water for about 30 seconds to rinse everything away.