CHECK OUT OUR BLOG DETAILING LEAK DETECTION, BATHROOM RENOVATIONS, SEWER REPAIRS, AND MORE IN SANTA BARBARA, CA

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.Living in a rented property can be a mixed bag of experiences. While the convenience of having a landlord handle repairs is appealing, some tenants find themselves frustrated when faced with sluggish response times. For example, when the kitchen sink will not stop leaking, waiting for the landlord can be a test of patience. Learn why tenants should consider hiring a plumber if there is a lingering plumbing problem in their rental home. Resolving Urgent Issues with Speed One of the primary reasons tenants should contemplate hiring a plumber is the urgency often associated with plumbing problems. Leaky pipes, burst water heaters, or clogged drains cannot wait for delays. By quickly hiring a plumber, tenants can ensure prompt attention to these issues to prevent further damage, as well as potential health hazards. In emergencies, plumbers are skilled and equipped to make a fast diagnosis and the right repairs. Empowering Rights as a Tenant Understanding tenant rights is crucial in navigating the complex relationship between landlords and renters. In many jurisdictions, tenants have the right to live in habitable conditions, which includes timely repairs to essential amenities like plumbing. When landlords fail to fulfill their responsibilities, tenants can take the initiative by hiring a plumber to rectify the issues. This empowerment ensures that tenants can live comfortably and safely, knowing they have legal avenues to address unresponsive landlords. Enjoying Cost-Effective Solutions Contrary to what a tenant might believe, hiring a plumber does not necessarily mean breaking the bank. In some cases, landlords might be slow to address issues due to budget constraints or other financial considerations. Tenants can obtain quotes from plumbers and present the estimates to their landlords for potential reimbursement for what they paid out of pocket. This approach expedites the repair process with peace of mind that the money is not lost. Avoiding Unnecessary Disruptions Waiting for the landlord to schedule repairs can involve disruptions to a tenant's routine, such as potential inconveniences like the water needing to be temporarily shut off. No water can interfere with cooking, bathing, and many other daily tasks. By hiring a plumber independently, tenants can take control of the repair timeline, minimizing disruptions to ensure their living space remains functional and comfortable. Building a Strong Tenant-Landlord Relationship While it might seem counterintuitive to bypass the landlord for repairs, taking the initiative to address plumbing issues independently can help a tenant get on good terms with the landlord. A landlord may appreciate a tenant who proactively addresses problems, as it demonstrates a commitment to maintaining the property. Open communication about the repairs can create a transparent and cooperative atmosphere between both parties throughout the term of the lease. Customizing Solutions for Unique Problems Every property is unique, and plumbing issues can widely vary in complexity. Hiring a plumber allows tenants to choose professionals who can provide a more thorough diagnosis. Whether it is an old piping system or a quirky layout, a professional plumber can provide tailored solutions beyond the scope of the landlord's general maintenance team. Promoting Environmental Responsibility Tenants who hire plumbers can choose professionals who prioritize eco-friendly practices. For example, a plumber can recommend water-saving fixtures to identify and fix leaks that contribute to unnecessary water wastage. Tenants can actively contribute to sustainability efforts while ensuring their living space remains environmentally responsible. They can discuss the plumber's recommendations with the landlord to obtain permission to make environmentally friendly upgrades. With the right knowledge and approach, tenants can transform a potentially frustrating situation into an opportunity to create a comfortable living space. Hiring a plumber can prevent waste from overflowing from toilets, mold growth, and many other issues that can make a home unsafe. Contact us to ensure plumbing repairs are made as soon as possible.

Maintaining a healthy plumbing system is crucial for a functional and comfortable household. A well-maintained system ensures the efficient distribution of clean water and proper disposal of waste, safeguarding against water-borne diseases and costly damages. Debunking common plumbing myths is vital as it prevents potential mishaps and encourages proper maintenance practices, ultimately preserving the integrity of the system and the well-being of your household. Myth: Flushable Wipes Are Flushable Many "flushable" wipes are not as safe as advertised, often leading to plumbing issues. Despite claims, these wipes can lead to blockages in sewer systems, resulting in expensive repairs. Additionally, they contribute to environmental harm because they do not disintegrate like toilet paper, which can pollute water bodies. Properly dispose of wipes by throwing them in the trash. Encouraging the use of biodegradable and non-flushable alternatives, alongside informative labeling, can help prevent further damage to plumbing systems and the environment. Myth: Minor Leaks Are Nothing To Worry About Prolonged leaks may gradually weaken a building's structure, resulting in costly and extensive repairs. Moreover, the damp environment created by leaks fosters mold growth, posing health risks and further deteriorating the infrastructure. To detect and address small leaks promptly, regularly check for water stains, drips, or unusually high water bills. Keep an eye out for musty odors, which could indicate mold formation. Myth: Running Hot Water Down Your Garbage Disposal Breaks Up Grease While hot water can assist in breaking down some grease in the garbage disposal, it is not a foolproof solution. Grease can solidify and adhere to the disposal's blades and pipes, leading to clogs and potential damage over time. Moreover, excessive use of hot water can exacerbate existing plumbing problems by contributing to the breakdown of seals and joints, potentially causing leaks and corrosion. To maintain a grease-free garbage disposal effectively, consider the following tips: Use cold water while running the disposal to solidify any grease, allowing it to be chopped into smaller pieces. Avoid pouring grease, oil, or fat down the disposal. Opt for proper disposal in a separate container. Periodically clean the disposal with a mixture of ice cubes and rock salt to help dislodge any grease or debris. Regularly use a biodegradable enzyme-based cleaner to break down any residual grease or organic build-up. Myth: Chemical Drain Cleaners Are Safe Chemical drain cleaners, typically containing harsh chemicals like lye or sulfuric acid, can pose several risks. First, their powerful nature can damage pipes, especially older or more fragile ones, potentially leading to costly repairs. Moreover, these chemicals can generate heat, potentially causing pipes to burst or crack. Additionally, their corrosive properties can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. They can also be hazardous if they come into contact with skin or eyes, leading to burns or other serious injuries. Furthermore, the fumes emitted during use can be harmful when inhaled. Overall, while chemical drain cleaners may seem like a quick fix, their potential risks and adverse effects on plumbing systems, health, and the environment underline the importance of considering alternative, safer methods for clearing clogged drains. Myth: Plunging Can Fix Any Kind of Blockage While plunging can be effective for certain types of clogs, it's not a universal solution. For instance, if a foreign object or solid obstruction causes the blockage, plunging might not be sufficient. In some cases, excessive plunging can even worsen the situation by pushing the blockage deeper into the plumbing system or causing damage to the pipes. Furthermore, certain types of blockages, such as those caused by mineral build-up or tree roots infiltrating the pipes, require specialized techniques and equipment for effective resolution. If plunging fails to resolve the issue, seeking professional assistance from a plumber is advisable to prevent further damage to the plumbing system. If you experience any plumbing problems, contact Lewis Plumbing . We are here to help!

Building a new home or renovating an existing one is an exciting venture. But beyond the aesthetics of your dream living space lies the intricate network of plumbing. One of the primary decisions homeowners face is the type of piping material to use. Dive into the world of PVC, copper, and PEX pipes to help you make an informed decision. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Pipes PVC, characterized by its white or cream color, is often seen snaking around homes due to its diverse advantages. Pros Affordability: One of PVC's primary draws is its cost-effectiveness. Not only are the materials reasonably priced, but the associated installation costs also tend to be lower. Low Maintenance: PVC's inherent non-corrosive nature ensures that it remains immune to rust, granting it a potentially extended lifespan if handled and installed correctly. Easy Installation: PVC's lightweight nature makes it user-friendly. Installers often find it easier to set up, reducing labor hours and associated costs. PVC does have some shortcomings that you need to be aware of. Cons Temperature Sensitivity: PVC pipes aren't built to handle hot water. When exposed to high temperatures, they can deform or warp, impacting their functionality. Environmental Concerns: The production and eventual disposal of PVC can introduce certain harmful chemicals into the environment, raising valid eco-concerns. PVC shines in roles where only cold water is involved. Think of exterior faucets, toilets, and garden lines. Copper Pipes The distinctive, reddish-brown copper pipes are synonymous with traditional plumbing, having served homes reliably for generations. Pros Longevity: One of copper's selling points is its life expectancy. With proper care, copper installations can have an incredibly long lifespan in a home. Heat Tolerance: Copper isn't picky about temperatures. Whether you're dealing with hot or cold water, copper pipes are up to the task. Natural Material: Copper's recyclability sets it apart. Being a natural element, it poses fewer environmental hazards both in production and recycling. Copper does present some challenges that may influence if you want to use the material. Cons Cost: Copper demands a heftier budget compared to PVC and PEX in terms of material cost and the intricacy of installation. Corrosion Risk: While generally durable, certain environmental factors, especially acidic water, can cause copper to corrode over time. Given its heat-friendly nature, copper is ideal for hot water applications—think water heaters, showers, and kitchen sinks. PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene) Pipes Modern plumbing has a new ally in PEX, renowned for its flexibility and adaptability. PEX is made of cross-linked polyethylene, a durable plastic material. Pros Versatility: PEX doesn't discriminate between hot and cold water, making it a favorite for comprehensive plumbing applications. Easy Installation: PEX's pliable nature minimizes the need for joints, which, in the long run, translates to fewer leakage points. Cost-Effective: PEX strikes a middle ground in terms of cost. It's pricier than PVC but generally offers savings compared to copper. PEX isn't without potential pitfalls. Cons UV Sensitivity: Direct sunlight isn't a friend to PEX. Continuous exposure can weaken the material, limiting its outdoor applications. Recyclability Issues: Current recycling infrastructures aren't optimized for PEX, which can pose disposal challenges. PEX's flexibility makes it a prime choice for intricate plumbing networks. It's apt for areas requiring pipe bends or running through tight spaces, covering both hot and cold water needs. Selecting the right plumbing material involves balancing immediate costs with long-term value, utility, and sustainability. As you consider these options, remember to consult with Lewis Plumbing to tailor the best solution for your home's unique needs.

Gas lines are essential for powering many appliances in your home, such as stoves, water heaters, and furnaces. However, if they are damaged or leaking, they can also pose a serious risk to your family's health. Gas leaks can cause fires, explosions, carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, and even death. Therefore, it is important to know the signs that your gas lines need to be repaired and to act fast if you suspect a problem. Here are some of the common signs that your gas lines need to be repaired. Sulfur Smell Natural gas does not have an odor. However, gas companies add mercaptan, a smelly chemical, to ensure that natural gas has a distinctive, recognizable smell. If you notice a rotten egg smell in your home, it could mean that there is a gas leak somewhere. You should immediately turn off the gas supply, open the windows, and call a professional plumber to inspect and repair the leak. Hissing or Whistling Sounds If you hear a hissing or whistling sound near your gas appliances or pipes, it could indicate that there is a crack or hole in the gas line. This sound is caused by the high-pressure gas escaping through the opening. You should turn off the gas supply immediately and contact a professional plumber. Changes in Appliance Performance Another sign that your gas lines need to be repaired is if you notice any changes in the performance of your gas appliances. The changes could include low or uneven flames, yellow or orange flames instead of blue, or soot or carbon deposits on or around the appliance. These signs indicate that your gas system is not working properly and could be leaking gas or carbon monoxide into your home. Dead or Dying Plants Gas leaks can affect the health of your plants, especially if they are near a gas line. The gas can deprive the plants of fresh air and nutrients, causing them to wilt, yellow, or die. If you notice that your plants are dying or showing signs of distress, you should check for other signs of a gas leak. Higher Gas Bills If your gas bills are suddenly higher than usual, it may mean that there is a breach in your gas line, wasting gas and money. A small leak may not be noticeable at first, but over time, it can add up to a significant amount of gas loss. You should compare your current gas bills with those from previous months and seasons. Be sure to look for any unexplained spikes. Physical Symptoms Gas leaks can affect your physical health and well-being. Exposure to natural gas can cause CO poisoning, resulting in headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, breathing difficulties, and even loss of consciousness. If you or anyone in your household experiences these symptoms, you should seek medical attention and check for gas leaks in your home. Visible Pipe Damage If you notice any physical damage to your gas pipes or appliances, such as cracks, corrosion, rust, dents, or bends in the metal, your gas lines should be repaired. Many of these issues occur as your gas plumbing ages but could also indicate that the lines were poorly installed. Damaged gas pipes or appliances could leak gas or CO into your home and pose a fire, explosion, and health hazard. Gas lines are essential to your home's comfort and safety. However, they can also pose serious risks if they are damaged or malfunctioning. If you suspect a gas line issue in your home, contact Lewis Plumbing . We can inspect your lines and make any necessary repairs.

Sump pumps can prevent water damage in homes by keeping harmful water levels at bay. The pumps are important for home safety, but even well-maintained ones can have issues. Explore some common problems that occur with sump pumps. 1. Improper Pump Installation Improper installation of sump pumps can lead to various problems, such as loud noises, wear and tear, and inefficient water flow. For example, improper wiring during pump installation can cause the motor to rotate in reverse and damage the pump in the long term. Fortunately, manufacturers provide installation schematics to guide contractors. Similarly, improper installation of a sump pump can lead to clogs due to debris entering the pump, which can quickly malfunction. Manufacturers recommend drilling a relief hole in the discharge line to prevent the pump from handling too much air pressure. 2. Overwhelmed Sump Pump A single sump pump may not be enough to handle heavy rain, and an inexpensive model is more likely to fail. During heavy rains, the sump pump can malfunction due to overwhelming water flow. Upgrading a pump or using multiple pumps may be the best solution. An overwhelmed sump pump can lead to motor burnout and a stuck switch due to debris accumulation or a broken check valve. To choose the best sump pump for your property: Determine the required horsepower. Consider factors such as basement depth, temperature, sump pit size, and flood likelihood. Consult with a professional if unsure. 3. Clogged Pumps If a sump pump doesn't have a lid, it can get clogged and dirty over time, leading to reduced efficiency or complete failure. Over time, the float switch can clog or jam, leading to malfunctioning, especially in less expensive models. Both regular maintenance and a lid on the sump pump can prevent clogs due to dirt and debris build-up. 4. Frozen or Blocked Drainage Pipes Clear and covered sump pumps transport water out of the basement and away from the foundation during winter. Sump pumps fail when discharge lines freeze or clog. For example, a clogged discharge line can cause a sump pump to constantly turn on and off. Check for any clogging or blockages in the discharge lines that direct water away from the property. Regular cleaning and covering of the sump pump discharge line with a screened vent cap or grate can prevent clogging due to foreign objects. Insulation or heat tape can also prevent clogging due to freezing temperatures. 5. Wrong Size Pump An incorrectly sized sump pump is a common problem that can lead to failure and reduced lifespan. If the sump pump is too large, it will have to work harder than necessary to pump out water, which can cause wear and tear on the pump. This problem can lead to a shorter pump lifespan. On the other hand, a pump that is too small may not be able to pump out enough water. 6. Power Failure During a storm, power outages can cause a sump pump to fail, leaving the basement vulnerable to flooding. Power surges can damage sump pump components. The best approach is to invest in a service entrance surge protection device to protect the entire electrical system in the home. Investing in a backup sump pump with high-capacity battery backups can also help battle floodwaters during storms. 7. Stuck Switch The float switch in a sump pump can cause problems if it is faulty, restricted, or stuck. Lack of maintenance and debris accumulation in the basin are the main causes of sump pump switch problems. Cleaning the basin and repositioning the pump can solve the problem. Lewis Plumbing offers emergency services and can handle any plumbing problem in a single visit. Our plumbing experts use video pipeline inspection to restore clogged drains and sewer systems. Contact us now for more information.

Low water pressure is a problem that many homeowners have dealt with. Unfortunately, low water pressure makes showers unenjoyable due to the weak spray. Besides, cleaning dishes and doing other chores can take longer if the water flows at minimum pressure. But what are the leading causes of low water pressure? Keep reading to find out. 1. Corroded Pipes Corrosion is a problem that affects metallic plumbing pipes. With time, your steel pipes may accumulate rust and mineral deposits. Rust and mineral build-up in the plumbing pipes cause clogs. Besides, the corrosion narrows the inside of the plumbing pipes, reducing water pressure significantly. Corroded pipes can give water a red color and a rusty smell. So, check if the water from your faucet has a red tinge, especially in the morning. Corrosion mainly affects old plumbing pipes, making it hard to fix the problem. Therefore, you must replace the corroded pipes to solve low water pressure issues. 2. Leaking Pipes A major leak in your pipes can affect water pressure. Leaks divert water away from the fixtures. As a result, less water will reach your taps and showerhead. A pipe inspection can help locate leaks. Alternatively, you can identify leaks by looking for wet spots on your wall, floor, or ceiling. You must fix the leak to restore normal water pressure. 3. Problems With Your Water Supplier Water pressure problems do not necessarily mean your plumbing has problems. Sometimes, your water supplier could be the problem. The water supplier might be the problem if neighbors complain about water pressure. Instead of calling a plumber, you should report the problem to the water supplier. The supplier can fix the problem and restore normal water flow at no cost. 4. Fixture Problems Problems with your plumbing fixtures can restrict water flow. Rust, sediment, and mineral deposits can collect inside your showerheads and sink aerators and restrict the normal flow of water. Fixture problems could be the culprit if you only experience low water pressure in one or two areas. You can troubleshoot the issue by cleaning the sink aerators and showerheads. If you spot mineral deposits on the showerhead, soak it in white vinegar overnight. If the showerhead has a filter, you should clean or replace the filter. 5. Well Pump Problems Homes that depend on well water can also grapple with low water pressure problems. Low water pressure in well water systems can be attributed to an aging well pump. Old well pumps have worn-out parts and can no longer pump water efficiently. Other good pump problems that cause low water pressure include a stuck check valve, faulty pressure switch, corroded pipe, clogged well screens, or a broken line. 6. Faulty Pressure Regulator A water pressure regulator ensures your house has consistent water pressure. However, a faulty pressure regulator can reduce the water pressure in your home. Maybe the regulator has mineral build-up that prevents enough water from passing through your water line. Your plumber can clean the mineral build-up to restore regular water flow. An aging water pressure regulator can also impact your water pressure. 7. A Partially Open Shutoff Valve The shutoff valve must be fully open to allow enough water in your home. A partially open valve restricts the amount of water passing through your plumbing lines. So, check whether the main shutoff valve is partially open before calling your plumber. Are you experiencing low water pressure but have not figured out how to fix the problem? At Lewis Plumbing, we have the best plumbers to tackle your water pressure problem. Contact us today to book a service for your water pressure.

No one wants to wake up to a clogged drain or a leaky faucet. So what if you could avoid these issues altogether? The secret to a healthy plumbing system is regular maintenance. Read on to learn about the benefits of routine plumbing maintenance. Whether you are a tenant or a homeowner, you will learn the value of maintaining a healthy plumbing system. Improved Water Quality Minerals and other contaminants accumulate in your pipes over time and result in poor water quality. Regular maintenance helps to detect and resolve potential issues that can lead to poor water quality. Leaks, corrosion, and pipe damage, if detected early, help to prevent further contamination. Remove build-up and sediment from your pipes to ensure water flows smoothly. Improved Plumbing System Lifespan Wear and tear causes your plumbing system to deteriorate over time. It results in blockages and other issues that jeopardize its performance and lifespan. Another way that regular plumbing maintenance can extend the life of your plumbing system is to keep it clean and free of debris. Minerals and other debris accumulate in your pipes over time, causing blockages and corrosion. Professional plumbers inspect your plumbing system for signs of damage or wear and address any issues that may arise. This helps your plumbing system last longer and saves you replacements in the end. Reduced Water Bills When you identify and repair inefficiencies in your plumbing system, you save money on your water bill. Leaks can occur anywhere in your plumbing system, from faucets and fixtures to pipes and appliances. Even minor leaks waste water over time, which results in higher water bills. Regular maintenance will improve the water pressure in your pipes and ensure that your fixtures and appliances are working. You should prevent clogs and other problems that lead to higher water bills. Mineral build-up in your pipes reduces water flow and makes your appliances work harder. This results in higher water usage and bills. Increased Water Pressure Low water pressure makes basic household tasks like showering and washing dishes difficult. Mineral build-up in your pipes is a common cause of low water pressure. Minerals such as calcium and magnesium build up in your pipes over time, restricting water flow and lowering water pressure. A plumber will remove any mineral build-up that may be present to ensure that your water pressure is intense and reliable. Plumbing leaks are another common cause of low water pressure. Water leaks lower water pressure by diverting water away from fixtures. Always ensure your plumbing system is operating efficiently for increased water pressure. Improved Health for Your Family Plumbing maintenance prevents the growth and spread of contaminants in your plumbing system. Bacteria and other microorganisms that cause illness breed in your plumbing system over time. A build-up of organic material, such as hair, grease, and food particles, is a common source of bacteria in plumbing systems. This build-up becomes a food source for harmful bacteria and other microorganisms in your drains and pipes. Mold growth is another common issue that leads to poor indoor air quality and health problems. Mold thrives in moist environments. Practice regular maintenance to ensure that your family breathes clean, healthy air. We recognize the importance of maintaining a healthy plumbing system. At Lewis Plumbing, we provide a variety of plumbing services. Our team of skilled professionals has the expertise to keep your plumbing system in top shape, from routine maintenance to emergency repairs. Don't wait until you have a plumbing problem to schedule a maintenance appointment. Contact us today at Lewis Plumbing to learn more about our services and how we can help keep your plumbing system healthy and efficient.

A functional plumbing system is vital for a comfortable and healthy home. As such, any slight sign that something is wrong, including strange odors, can be cause for concern. Although some awful plumbing smells may simply mean that you must clean your garbage disposal, some odors signify a significant underlying issue. The first step to rectifying these problems is to understand the roots. Discover some causes of plumbing odors and their solutions. Clogged Drains The drains carry away water and waste from your home. However, over time, debris such as hair, food particles, and grease accumulate in the pipe and cause a clog. If you don't unclog the drains promptly, the trapped debris will decompose. Eventually, the decomposed waste will emit an unpleasant smell that rises up the drain and comes through your sink or shower. The secret to preventing drain blockage is to install a sink strainer, which collects food particles and other debris before they go down the drain. Also, be mindful of what you pour down the sink and avoid pouring cooking oil, coffee grounds, and other solid wastes down the drain. If the damage is already done, you may use vinegar and baking soda to unclog the drains. If this tip does not solve your problem, don't attempt to disassemble the pipes if you lack the skillset. Instead, consult a professional for help. Clogged Vent Pipes Vent pipes allow fresh air into the plumbing and provide a place for wastewater gases to exit the system. If the vent pipes are blocked, perhaps due to leaves and debris, wastewater gases will have nowhere to escape and may instead end up in your home. Note that not all homes have vent pipes. So, if you suspect sewage gases are backing up into your space, let a specialist inspect your plumbing system. The specialists will unclog the vent pipes or install them if you don't already have them. Broken Sewer Line The sewer line transports wastewater from your home to the underground piping system. If this system is damaged by tree roots or high pressure, sewage leakage may occur. The leakage manifests in many forms, the most obvious being bad odors. If you detect strange smells, particularly from your outdoor space, that may indicate a sewer line issue. An experienced plumber will inspect your drains and sewer lines using sophisticated tools, such as cameras, to determine whether there is damage. Dry P-Trap This component is found in most drainpipes and is designed to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. A p-trap captures some standing water that seals off the drainage system. However, if you don't use some drains for an extended period, the water in the p-trap evaporates, exposing the pipes and allowing odors to enter your space. If this happens, pour some water into the sink or shower, and then wait until it runs out through the drainpipe. Contact a professional if the awful smells don't go away after that. Dirty Garbage Disposal If you have a modern plumbing system, the chances are you have a garbage disposal that carries waste out of the home. If you don't clean the garbage disposal regularly, food scraps and other debris may start to decompose inside. The waste, in turn, produces bad odors. To keep the garbage disposal working correctly, run cold water or ice cubes to eliminate the decomposed foods. You may also use citrus peels to get rid of the odors. Now that you understand the potential culprits of plumbing odors, you can take steps to ensure your home remains odor-free. The most critical step is to invest in regular professional plumbing inspection. With this, the specialist can identify and rectify potential issues that could cause foul smells. You can trust us at Lewis Plumbing for all your plumbing needs, from inspection to drain cleaning. We deliver top-notch services with a satisfaction guarantee to ensure your space is free from odors. Contact us for a consultation.