Category: Plumbing Tips

At Eastern Plumbing, we are experts in all things plumbing related. Over the past 25 years, we have seen it all and picked up a lot of information along the way. Here are some facts and tips to help prevent your plumbing issues from draining your banking account.

Did you know?

• A running toilet can waste up to five gallons of water per minute. Talk about an increase in your water bill!

• Installing a low-flush toilet can save up to 18,000 gallons of water per year.

• The average US household consumes 38% of their water usage just by flushing the toilet.

• A faucet that drips just one time per second wastes more than 3,000 gallons of water per year.

• In the US, an average family of four will go through approximately 400 gallons of water each day.

• You should set your water heater to no hotter than 120 degrees F to prevent scalding and save on your energy bills.

• 95% of the water that enters your home goes down the drain.

• The typical household wastes more than 9,000 gallons of water while waiting for hot water.

• And, up to 15% of your yearly water heating costs can be wasted heating those extra 9,000 gallons!

• A tankless water heater only heats water you use, which means they save you money.

• Showering uses less water than an average bath and installing low-flow showerheads can help you conserve water and save money.

• Insulating your pipes can help decrease heat loss which can also save you money.

• And, last but not least, we recommend having a plumber check your pipes at least once, if not twice per year.

At Eastern Plumbing, our plumbing knowledge goes beyond just obscure plumbing facts, we have the tools and experience you need to solve all of your plumbing problems. As a “locally owned, family-owned plumber,” Eastern Plumbing  has always been focused on taking your plumbing issues seriously. We treat your plumbing problems as if they are our own.

To schedule plumbing repairs in Pitt County and the surrounding areas, contact us online at easternplumbingonline.com or give us a call at (252) 758-7579.

You go to turn on your sink to do dishes, and the water that comes out is brown. What’s the problem? Is it contaminated? Is it safe?

There are many reasons your water may be brown – sediment, minerals, and rust can build up in the water and cause discoloration. If there’s construction nearby, the disturbance of the ground can shift deposits and cause your water to change color.

If this is the case, running the water and waiting it out should fix your problem. However, if your water doesn’t clear up, you should call a professional plumber to look at your pipes.

Often, when brown water is coming out of faucets in residential homes, it’s because of a recent pipe replacement or broken water pipes. The discoloration is caused by rust getting into the water pipes due to changes in the water pressure. These damaged pipes must be located before the leak grows, causing even more water waste. A plumber will be able to repair the pipes before there’s any further damage.

If you have well water or use a water supply that contains high amounts of minerals, this is probably what’s causing your discoloration. Brown water can also be caused by mineral build-ups in water lines. If you use a water softener, you may need to clean it out to remove the mineral deposits. If you don’t have a water softener, getting one can help prevent future discoloration.

Brown water isn’t usually dangerous, but that doesn’t mean you should drink it. Unless there are high concentration levels, iron is usually in your tap water and isn’t harmful, but rust can breed bacteria, leading to mold and mildew infestations, those you do NOT want to drink.

So how do you get rid of it? Start by running cold water from your taps for approximately 20 minutes. If that doesn’t work, you can contact your city’s water supplier and request they flush out the brown water via fire hydrant (have you ever seen them letting water out of a fire hydrant and wonder, “Huh, I wonder what they’re doing”?) If there’s still a problem, it’s time to call for professional help.

For help with discolored water or any other plumbing needs, call Eastern Plumbing at  252-758-7579.

You’ve asked, and we are answering! Here are the top 5 frequently asked questions that plumbers receive.

1. What do I do when my toilet overflows?

Don’t panic; there’s still time. Prevent the toilet from continuing to leak water by shutting off the water supply. There’s a valve located behind the toilet that will cut off access. Next, call your plumber and clean up the water.

2. Why was there a sudden spike in my water bill?

Did you have company over the weekend? Did you give the dogs a bath? Was there some other reason your water bill would have increased? If the answer is no, you may have a leak somewhere in your home.

3. What do you mean by “emergency plumbing”?

Any sort of plumbing issue that needs immediate attention is a plumbing emergency. Leaks and clogged drains aren’t normally considered emergencies, but a burst pipe is definitely one!

4. Are drain cleaning chemicals safe to use?

In short – no. They’re damaging to you, your pipes, and the environment. Check out our other blog post about when you shouldn’t use store-bought drain cleaners.

5. How long should I wait to call a plumber if there’s a problem?

As soon as possible. Waiting to call a plumber can only worsen the problem.

And because you read all the way through, here’s a bonus question!

6. Who should I call for plumbing needs in Eastern NC?

Eastern Plumbing of course! All of our employees are trained, certified, and act with professionalism. Our goal is to ensure your plumbing services are done promptly, and we pride ourselves on getting the job done right the first time. If you’re having plumbing issues, call Eastern Plumbing at  252-758-7579 or visit our website, easternplumbingonline.com.

Are Flushable Wipes Really Flushable?

Who doesn’t love a flushable wipe? They provide a more refreshing and cleaner sensation than toilet paper. Flushable wipes are just like regular disposable wipes, except they claim to be septic system “safe” and safe to flush.

What most people don’t realize is that flushable wipes are not made for plumbing because they don’t disintegrate. Wipes are made from a type of paper pulp that is held together with non-degradable materials, therefore they stay intact. As for toilet paper, when it gets wet it falls apart quickly. Toilet paper is made to dissolve, so it’s made so that it doesn’t clog the drain.

Are Flushable Wipes Septic Safe?

If you have a septic system instead of a city sewer system you may want to know how flushable wipes will affect your septic tank. Flushable wipes are not good for the sewer system or your septic system. Non-dissolvable wipes will build up in the part of the septic tank where solids collect, potentially clogging your pipes and leading to more frequent septic pumping. This can increase your plumbing cost as well because flushable wipes clog pipes.

Manufacturers like to tell a different story to keep selling their products, but the experts at Eastern Plumbing have the experience to know that is not the case. If you’ve been using flushable wipes, you could definitely experience a clogged toilet as a result.

Here’s a guide on how to unclog a toilet clogged with flushable wipes:

• Start with a plunger. Using a plunger can help loosen a clog and force the wipes down through the sewer pipe.
• Try a toilet snake. You can use the toilet snake to grab the wipes blocking the pipe and pull them back up through the toilet, then dispose of them in the trash can.
• Call the professionals at Eastern Plumbing. Sometimes the only way to unclog your toilet, is to call a licensed plumber.

Don’t Ever Flush Wipes Down the Toilet

Most homeowners don’t realize how bad flushable wipes are for their plumbing because they don’t break down like toilet paper. This can cause serious damage to your plumbing and/or septic system leading to expensive repairs. You should avoid flushing anything down the toilet, other than toilet paper, even if it’s marked as flushable.

If you and your family have been using flushable wipes and experience clogged pipes, drains or toilets, don’t panic, Eastern Plumbing can help! Give us a call today at 252-758-7579.

We’ll get right to the point. Yes, we install dishwashers! If you recently purchased a dishwasher and don’t know how to install it, call the professionals at Eastern Plumbing – we can help!

What are the benefits to calling a plumber for your dishwasher installation?

It’s certainly easier to ask for a plumber’s help, than trying to figure it out on your own. Although DIY projects work for some, if you are not familiar with indoor plumbing this could be a project for the professionals at Eastern Plumbing.

Here are some reasons you should call a plumber:

1. Improper installation could result in a much bigger problem. If the dishwasher isn’t installed correctly you could end up with leaks and ultimately with water damage.
2. Plumbers will know if any codes need to be followed and most homeowners are not familiar with those. Plumbers will know them and will follow them if they are required.
3. Having the installation done right the first time means you won’t have a malfunctioning dishwasher later. Getting the help of a professional from the start means you are ensured less problems down the road.
4. Avoid warranty issues and expensive repairs. Having your dishwasher installed correctly ensures your warranty will be intact and you could have fewer repairs down the road.

Many people think that you just put the dishwasher in place and you’re done – but that’s not the case. When you use a plumber, they will first disconnect the electric and water from the old dishwasher. They will check the water supply line for kinks and determine if it needs to be replaced. Next, the old dishwasher will be removed while taking measures to ensure there are no water spills or leaks. Now comes the installation of the new dishwasher. The plumber loops the new drain hose to the drain source, connects the water line and secures it so it doesn’t leak. Once the supply line, electrical cable and drain are all properly connected, the plumber will run the dishwasher to make sure it works without any problems!

Again, DIY projects aren’t for everyone or for every home project. If your DIY project involves plumbing or electrical, it may be better to rely on the experts. Using a professional is a sure way to prevent headaches and expenses in the future.

For your plumbing installation needs, call Eastern Plumbing. Our team of professionals will be happy to help you with your dishwasher installation. Call us today at 252-758-7579.

Are you annoyed by the sound of running water coming from your toilet? A continuously running toilet is enough to drive anyone crazy, especially after a long day at work. A running toilet is usually a sign of a problem inside the tank and, most of the time, you can fix it yourself.

Here are some things you can check on your running toilet before calling in the professional at Eastern Plumbing.

• Check the Fill Valve – toilets work by measuring how much water is in the tank by using a float. After a flush, which causes the water to drop below a certain level, the fill valve allows the water to fill back up in the tank before the next flush. A faulty fill valve will allow too little or too much water into the tank, which will cause the toilet to not function properly.

• Check the Float – the float is the plastic part shaped a little like a cup on the fill valve, this is what lets the valve know when the water level is correct. If it is set too high, the water will go into the overflow tube and the water will keep running. If it is too low, the flapper will stay open.

• Check the Handle – the exterior handle of the toilet is attached to the flush rod, the piece connected to the chain that leads to the flapper. Make sure the chain has just enough slack to open the flapper.

• Check the Flapper – many times the flapper can be the cause of running toilets. The flapper must create a proper seal, or water will leak from the tank into the bowl, which will cause the water to continuously run to make up for the water line dropping inside the tank. In order to examine the flapper, you must drain the tank first and then shut off the water coming into the toilet using the shut-off valve.

• Check the Flapper Chain – if the chain is too long it may get caught under the flapper preventing a seal. If the chain is too short, then there is too much tension on the flapper and will prevent it from sealing completely. This is an easy fix….adjust the chain length,

In most situations, a running toilet can be an easy fix, however if you have done the troubleshooting and none of these steps are working, give us a call. The professionals at Eastern Plumbing are happy to come out, take a look, diagnose and fix your running toilet issues – the first time. Give us a call at 252-758-7579 for all your plumbing needs.

Garbage disposals sure are convenient when you are cleaning up your kitchen, however, there’s the possibility it could develop leaks over time. This can lead to water damage under the kitchen sink if it is not fixed right away.

Here are some common reasons why your garbage disposal may be leaking:

• Leaky Sink Flange – Your sink flange is the piece that connects the garbage disposal to the sink drain and they are typically connected to your sink via the flange and plumber’s putty. Leaks could occur because the connection isn’t tight any longer or it has corroded over time.

• Worn Out Gaskets – When your garbage disposal leaks you should check the gasket between the flange and rubber seal. If you discover any water drips, then your gasket is probably defective, and it needs to be replaced.

• Loose Drain Lines – Garbage disposals can leak from the drain lines, so check the spot where the appliance meets the lines. If you find a leak, then check the clamp that holds the garbage disposal to the dishwasher and tighten. Side not, the screws on the dishwasher disposal line may need to be tightened too.

• Loose Seals or Pipes – Since the space under the kitchen sink is typically used to store items such as cleaning supplies, it could be that someone or something hit the pipes causing a leaking garbage disposal.

• Split or Cracked Body – Check for large cracks on the surface of the garbage disposal – these could cause the garbage disposal to begin leaking and happens if the disposal is really old.

• Dishwasher Connection – A garbage disposal leak could be from the dishwasher connection to the drainpipe. The dishwasher is connected to the garbage disposal because the dishwasher dumps food waste into the unit and leaks can occur from cracked or loose hoses.

Fixing a garbage disposal leak isn’t always a difficult task requiring a professional plumber, but if you are not up for the task, then call in the experts at Eastern Plumbing today, 252-758-7579!

The holidays are approaching quickly, which means many of us will be spending more time in the kitchen preparing meals and treats for family and friends. It is very easy to let food scraps go down the kitchen sink drain, but there are many foods that should NEVER go down your drain, even if you have a garbage disposal.

To help keep your holiday celebrations from being interrupted due to plumbing issues, do not put the following items down your drain:

1. Grease, fat and oils

These three things seem to be the trifecta of most kitchen plumbing issues. They act as a binder for all sorts of materials and can coat your pipes until nothing can pass through them. We encourage clients to put bacon grease, meat fat and other substances similar to then into a can or jar to allow them to cool and then put in your trash.

2. Coffee Grounds

Over time coffee grounds can get stuck in your garbage disposal and build up in your pipes, which can lead to a serious clog over time – which is fairly common!

3. Eggshells

Eggshells may seem harmless, but when the garbage disposal grinds them up, they can get stuck to fat, grease and oils to create a thick mess that can easily clog your pipes.

4. Rice & Pasta

Starchy foods like rice and pasta will expand when wet and clump together. Even after cooking these two products expand and get sticky. Pasta can easily get caught in your disposal trap causing a clog. A few strands of spaghetti probably won’t hurt anything – just large amount could cause plumbing issues.

5. Oatmeal

Oatmeal may not directly cause a clog, but it clumps and sticks to anything it comes into contact with, acting like cement to bind scraps together forming clog.

6. Stringy vegetables

Stringy vegetables such as celery and asparagus are difficult for your garbage disposal to grind up and therefore the strings can get wrapped around the blades.

7. Bones

Bones from chicken, beef or lamb are too hard and dense for your garbage disposal to properly grind – they can get stuck in the flywheel and can cause the blades to break. It is best to throw bones in the trash. Fish bones are the only exception because they are usually very tiny bones.

8. Produce Stickers

These little stickers may fall off easily in the sink while washing your produce, however, they can cause big problems inside your pipes if they go down the drain. If they make it past your pipes, they can then get caught in wastewater treatment pipes and filters, which causes problems with the equipment designed to treat your water.

This holiday season, remember to think twice about what you are putting down your drain. If you are unsure and in doubt, dispose those items in the trash to help avoid a plumbing nightmare. But should you forget and end up with a holiday crisis, call the specialists at Eastern Plumbing at 252-758-7579.

When it comes to your plumbing, you should be on the lookout for signs of wear and tear or possible damage to your faucets. Your kitchen and bathroom faucets play such an important part in your everyday life that they’re easy to overlook — that is, until they start leaking!

Water leaks can lead to serious damage in your home and can turn into expensive home repairs if you don’t fix them when they first start. But if you do a minor repair and still have drips and leaks, it’s time to replace your faucet.

When to Replace Your Faucet

Faucets aren’t made to last forever, and over time they start to break down from use. The older the faucet, the less likely it will run efficiently which means your water bills could become more expensive. Here are a few signs to look for in determining when to replace your faucet:

• Does your faucet have mineral deposits? Mineral deposits can build-up inside your faucet, causing them to perform less than optimally. It can affect appearance as well as the inner workings of the faucet.
• Does your faucet handle stick or crack when you try to move it? Does it take a few seconds for water to come out when you turn it on? These are signs of internal rusting and corrosion. Once this happens, its time to replace it.
• Does your faucet constantly need repairs? When your faucet needs constant repairs to function, it’s time to replace it. A few repairs here and there are normally cheaper than a full replacement, but if the repairs begin to add up, you might as well save your money and replace it.
• What is the age of your faucet? A good rule of thumb for replacing any appliance is by its age. Most will last for about 8-10 years. If yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, it might be time to consider a replacement.
• You may want a more efficient faucet. Older faucets can waste a lot of water, so if you’re trying to cut down on utility costs, consider getting a new modern faucet.

Damaged faucets are much more than a plumbing nuisance; they can cause serious damage in your home if not taken care of right away. So, if it’s time to replace your kitchen or bathroom faucet, call the professionals at Eastern Plumbing. We’ll help you get new faucets installed quickly and efficiently – give us a call at 252-758-7589 today!

Summer is an exciting and fun time for all. Kids are out of school which means lots of outdoor activities such as taking vacations, going swimming, bike riding, playing ball, summer barbecues and gatherings with friends.

All of these activities mean increased traffic in your home, including many more flushes of the toilet, loads of clothes to wash and dishes to clean. You will probably use the water hose more in the summer to fill pools, water flowers and the law. And many people take more showers during the summer months.

With all of this going on, we sometimes forget to question whether the home’s utilities are ready for all the extra summer traffic. Plumbing remains as one of the most important of those utilities because the pipes and pumps that brings water to us and sends it away are essential to basic sanitation and nutrition.

Trouble with the pipes can range from common and simple, to unusual and complex:

• Running toilet
• Clogged toilet, garbage disposal or drain
• Leaky faucets or spigots (often need an O-ring)
• Low/declined water pressure
• Loose toilet or sink
• Incorrect grade of drain pipes
• Improper support of pipes, which sometimes makes a hammering noise
• Pipes to outside not sealed sufficiently
• Water heater fails, leaks or does not heat
• Pipes burst or crack
• Pipes will not flow due to obstruction

There are many proactive and preventative plumbing measures you can take to prepare for summertime so you can enjoy the warm weather instead of worrying about leaks, clogs, low pressure and other plumbing problems.  No matter the concern, it is best to figure it out early before it becomes a big, expensive problem.

Start your summer by going through this check list:

1. Get to Know the Main Water Valve.

It is always good to know where the main water shutoff to your home is located and how to use it. Some homes have a shutoff valve within the structure, such as the basement, garage or utility closet. Others have one outside in the yard or near the water main in the street, curb or sidewalk. You can also consult a plumber during your next call and ask them to show you where it is.

2. Pinpoint the Pressure.

With all the activity that your shower, washer and other utilities will see in a summer season, it is even more important to maintain good water pressure. You can check and measure the household water pressure with a store-bought gauge that you attach to an outside spigot. Generally, the household standard is 40-45 pounds per square inch.

3. Watch the Washer.

Start your summer with a springtime inspection of the washer and all its parts. Pull it away from the wall and check the connections and appearance of the hoses and replace those that are cracked or look distressed.

4. Check Sprinkler Systems. 

Check sprinkler systems thoroughly for leaks — plus, inspect and clean the sprinkler heads at the beginning of the season. If you find any that are broken, not working, rusted or damaged, you can remove the head and replace it.

5. Save Water, Save Money. 

Dripping water at a rate of 1 drip per second can waste up to 1,661 gallons of water in one year. Some ways to conserve water are  lather hands with the water off, turn water off when you brush your teeth, soak dishes rather than scrubbing dishes with water running, wash the car at a car wash and when buying new appliances, choose Energy Star that signifies efficiency.

6. Consider the Code.

Each project, repair, remodel, etc. that involves plumbing must be done to a certain code of standards, whether you live in a city or rural township. States usually set the code and licensed plumbers know and adhere to it.

Call Eastern Plumbing to help you get ready for summertime and remember, good plumbing makes for a happy summer!

You use your garbage disposal every day.  It will shred food waste and other waste and help keep your kitchen drain pipes clear of debris.  Your garbage disposal may last up to 15 years, however that may not always be the case.  Here are a few ways to tell when you need a new garbage disposal:

1. You hear unusual noises.

Look in your drain to see if something’s blocking it, such as a piece of silverware. If you do find something, remove it carefully and try the disposal again.  If it still makes an unusual noise, give us a call.

2. An odor that will not leave.

Rinse and run your garbage disposal several times to see if the odor goes away. Dropping ice chips into the disposal and turning it on for a minute or so can help clean the blades as well.  If not, there may be particles stuck in the disposal that is causing the smell.  You may need a professional to help remove the trapped particles or replace it altogether.

3. Water is leaking from the disposal.

If this is happening, then it may mean you have a crack in the unit and will likely need a replacement.

4. Your disposal will not turn on.

If you have to press the reset button often, and one day it just will not turn on, it is time for a new one.

Even the best garbage disposal does not last forever. Give us a call if you need a repair or replacement.  We are ready to help!

Eastern Plumbing’s services can benefit both residential and commercial buildings. Every homeowner or business owner will eventually encounter an issue with either clean or septic water. That is why eastern plumbing provides services that keep water channeled where it needs to go. With services spanning from installation to repair, maintenance to piping systems, we can fix almost any issue you may encounter.

Our services

Replacements for Old Parts

Even when installed by a professional, toilets, faucets and pipes can suffer wear and tear from daily use. This damage, if ignored, can cause other issues with your property. For example, old pipes are prone to leaks, these leaks can easily go unnoticed and cause damage to your floors, walls and even your foundation! To avoid costly damage, call Eastern Plumbing for all of your part replacements and home water system checkup needs.

Drain Cleaning

Homeowners should always be cautious of what they are putting in their drains to avoid clogging. However, no matter how closely you monitor your drains, dirt and debris can build up in your pipes and begin to clog. These clogs can result in foul odors or even leaks. It is essential to get your drains analyzed and cleaned regularly by a trained professional, like the team at Eastern Plumbing, to avoid further damage.

Inspecting Pipes

When experiencing plumbing issues, you may struggle to determine which pipe is causing your problems. In these situations, it may be necessary to hire a trained professional to inspect your pipes. Inspecting pipes can help determine which pipes are leaking, broken, old or may have a higher chance of bursting. After inspecting, the professional may find that some pipe connections need to be tightened while others need to be repaired. Inspecting your pipes save you from the headache of leaks, or pooling, while keeping your family comfortable and safe.

Modern technology and cameras have given plumbers the ability to see beyond walls, under floors and into plumbing systems. Eastern Plumbing utilizes the latest technology to provide quality service to all of its customers. Our plumbers use cameras to examine drain lines and sewers. This allows them to find blockages and leaks and make necessary repairs before issues escalate.

Installation, Repair and Replacement of Water Heaters

Water heaters are significant plumbing mechanisms that require a trained professional to perform repairs. Plumbing services on water heaters are especially crucial for those residing in multi-story buildings due to the number of pipes and heaters running to each living space. Water heater systems contain water pipes and electrical connections that can be very dangerous when handled by someone untrained.

Sink, Toilet and Faucet Installation

Installation of new or replacement of old toilets, faucets and sinks are crucial to a healthy and happy home. All home plumbing units should remain clean and contain properly functioning equipment.

• Regular cleaning and repairs to kitchen faucets and drains can keep germs and harmful bacteria from backing up into your sink.
• Toilet replacement and maintenance can keep septic water from coming back up your pipes.
• Replacing leaky faucets can save money by reducing your water bill.

All of these can be made possible with the help of a professionally trained plumbing company.

Emergency Plumbing Services

Even with proper maintenance, plumbing emergencies can still happen. That is why Eastern plumbing is here for you through pipe bursts, clogging and leakages. Our speedy repairs can help you avoid further damages and save you money. We are available 24/7 and can help you keep your plumbing in top shape.

Routine Plumbing Maintenance

You do not have to have a problem to give your pipes a checkup. During routine maintenance, your plumber will check to ensure all of your plumbing is operating properly. After your plumber’s analysis they will highlight their results in a checklist. Some of the items on the list may include leaks, testing fixture valves, corrosion, water pressure, inspection of joint and pipes, corrosion and more. A regular inspection can help you understand the state of your home plumbing.

Sewer Lines and Water System Management

When you purchase a home, hire a professional to check and ensure that your sewer system and water lines are working properly. A water efficient system can help save you money and proper sewage drainage can help keep your home healthy and safe.

At Eastern Plumbing, we pride ourselves on providing professional maintenance, installation and upkeep. Our background checked; trained plumbers use advanced technologies to help you with all of your plumbing needs. Call us today at 252-758-7579.

No one wants to deal with a clogged kitchen sink, whether it’s a slow drain issue or fully clogged. At some point you will probably find yourself in a situation where the clog is tougher than drain cleaner (which we do not recommend you using!) And what could make it more complicated is if the item causing the clog is something important that was accidentally dropped in the drain and you are hoping to get back.

Here are a couple quick things you can try, but to prevent damage we always suggest calling in the professionals.

1. DIY Drain Cleaner: How to Clear a Slow Draining Kitchen Sink Clog

Chemical drain cleaners are not good for your pipes or the environment, and they can be expensive! You can use vinegar and baking soda for an environmentally friendly solution. Follow these steps:

• Remove kitchen sink drain cover or sink stopper
• Pour ½ cup baking soda in drain
• Pour 1 cup white vinegar in drain
• Wait 10 minutes & then pour boiling water down drain

Often times the chemical reaction from this solution is enough to dissolve the slow drain and repair the clogged drain.

2. Directions for Plunging a Clogged Kitchen Sink

This method is best to use for standing water clogs. Remember, use a kitchen plunger rather than a bathroom plunger to avoid spreading germs. Follow these steps:

• If you have a double sink, then make sure to plug up the sink drain on the opposite side with a wet rag to help deliver pressure directly to the clog.
• Fill the clogged side of sink with a small amount of water for the plunger.
• Start plunging (remember it is all about the up motion, not pushing down). Hopefully, any food or paper products locked in the pipes will budge when you do this.
• If plunging won’t fix the problem, you do have a few other options for resolving a clogged kitchen sink.

3. Use a Drain Snake to Clear Out the Clog

If the above methods did not work, then the clog may be farther down the drain so you will need to follow these steps:

• Run a drain snake down the kitchen drain. These can be purchased at your local hardware store.
• If this still doesn’t work, try taking the trap beneath the sink apart and snake the drain more directly. Be sure to put a bucket beneath the trap to catch any dirty water. Then begin snaking the drain.

4. Use a Wet Vacuum or “Shop Vac”

Wet and dry vacuums have a lot of suction.

• Set a wet vacuum to “liquids” and cover the vent
• Create a tight seal around the drain and cover the overflow tube with your finger or a rag.

       The power of a wet vacuum can often be enough to draw the clogged material up and unclog the drain. Check the bag to identify the source of the clog.  A wet vacuum can also work when you need to recover jewelry from a drain.

5. Last Step:  Call in a Professional Plumber

When you have tried everything and nothing has worked, it is time to call a licensed plumber like Eastern Plumbing at 252-758-7579.

It is just a fact of life that kids are curious. But when it comes to their favorite toy swimming in the toilet, it is probably time to teach them some plumbing safety. You should show your kids what to do, and not do, but also show them safety measures they can use in case of an emergency.

Safety:  Water Valve

As kids get older, they could find themselves at home alone. Go ahead and show them where the water valve cut off is located. So, in case of an emergency, like a flooded basement or overflowing toilet, they can shut it off.

Safety:  Tools for the Job

We think kids should know the basic difference in what tools are used for different things such as plumbing, carpentry and mechanics. Some common tools used for plumbing include a plunger, basin wrench, plumber or drain snake and a pipe wrench. Just like being able to change a car’s tire can come in handy, knowing how to use these tools could prevent, or stop, any future accidents.

Safety:  Toilet & Sink are Backed Up

Kids can be taught at an early age how to identify and remedy a backed-up sink and toilet. First of all, teach them what can and cannot go in the toilet before they start wanting to watch their toys swim. 

Parents, no matter what the packaging says, DO NOT flush baby wipes! They don’t break down like toilet paper, so you will end up with a backed-up sewage tank. And teach your children not to flush Q-tips, cotton swabs or feminine hygiene products down the toilet. This can lead to septic tank issues which could end up costing you thousands of dollars.

The same approach can be applied to the garbage disposal. Much like the toilet, there are things that do not belong in your garbage disposal. Some kids may like to hear the sound of the grinder tearing up food, but everything isn’t meant for the disposal or your pipes. Some of these include celery, coffee grounds, eggshells, grease, bones, and pasta – just to name a few!

Safety:  Water Heater

Your teens should know how to turn off the water heater, especially if your home has a gas water heater. For electric water heaters, there should be a breaker in the panel box that can shut it off with the flick of a switch.

Another safety issue to teach kids with regards to water heaters is storage, what can and cannot be stored by the water heater.  Toys, paints and solvents and combustible items can start a fire if they are stored too close to the water heater.