Category: Plumbing Tips

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.

Are you looking for fun and interactive outdoor projects to work on with your kids? Then start by gathering some everyday items from around your home so you and your kids can perform these simple water science projects. Teach your kids the science of water with these fun projects!

1. Basic Water Science Experiments

• • Floating vs. sinking: Gather some of your child’s favorite toys along with other household items — measuring cups, plastic toy animals, small plastic cars, blocks, an egg, and coffee filters. Fill a bowl with water and drop the items into the bowl to see which sink and which  float. Older children can make predictions about which they think will sink or float.

For an advanced water science trick, show how the egg sinks when placed into the water alone but floats when sitting on the coffee filter.

• • Air bubbles: Show the magic of water by experimenting with air bubbles submerged in water. Stuff a piece of a paper towel into the bottom of a small cup. Then, with the top down, submerge the cup in the water inside a bowl. When you take it out of the water, have your child try to explain how the paper towel stays dry.

• • Colored bubbles: Drop food coloring down the side of a clear cup. Submerge the cup, top down, into the bowl or tub of water. Watch as the colored dye dissolves into the water, but above, the air bubble stays in place.

2. An Anti-Gravity Water Trick

You will only need a glass, a t-shirt and water for this science trick. To begin, place the cloth over the mouth of the glass, then use your finger to press a slight indent into the fabric. This will help the glass fill with water and dampen the material. Then, fill the glass about three-quarters full of water, and pull the fabric tight over the cup.

At this point, you have two options — either flip the glass quickly, using one hand to hold the fabric tightly, or place one hand over the top and use the other to hold the material and slowly turn the glass upside down. Either way, you will notice the water will not pour out. This trick uses gravity and the high surface tension in water to keep everything in place using the cloth. Now, see what happens to the water if you dab detergent or other liquids on the cloth.

3. The Pepper and Water Experiment

The pepper and water science experiment explores the surface tension of water. For this project, you will need a shallow dish, pepper, dishwashing liquid, and water.

Fill the dish with water and sprinkle pepper over the top, then dip your finger in the water — nothing will happen. Then, do the same with a bit of detergent on the tip of your finger, and watch as the pepper retreats to the edges of the plate. With the detergent addition, the surface tension of the water is lowered.

We hope you enjoyed these experiments with your children, for common or emergency plumbing services and installation, call Eastern Plumbing! Our experienced technicians are available 24/7 at 252-758-7579.

Teaching kids about plumbing is a great way for them to learn helpful skills like conserving water and other responsible behaviors.

At an early age kids are fascinated with water, toilets, and everything else they can get their hands on. Teach them what is and is not okay to do in the bathroom to help prevent plumbing issues in the future.

Kids should be taught not to flush:

• Toys – it’s okay to play with toys in the bathtub, it’s not okay to give the toys a bath in the toilet
• Wipes – baby wipes, cleaning wipes, “flushable” wipes
• Q-Tips – they are small, but they can still cause an obstruction in the pipes
• Dental Floss – it can snag into something and cause blockage.
• Hair – hair from the shower drain or the hair brush should go in the trash.
• Diapers – Kids who are learning to potty train should be taught not to take off their diaper and put it in the toilet.

Extra tip: As kids brush their teeth, make sure they keep the water off until they are ready to rinse, this helps the family conserve water and helps lower the utility bill.

Kids who are old enough to do dishes

Helping out can be fun and instills good habits early on. Make sure they know:

• What NOT to put down the garbage disposal (bones and grease.) You can put food such as  pasta and pieces of veggies in the disposal, but in moderation. This means not a whole pot of pasta or whole carrots😊
• How to properly clean the dishes before loading them into the dish washer.
• To only run the dishwasher when full which helps save water.

Old enough to be home alone

Giving your kids independence also means giving them responsibility. When they are home alone, make sure they know how to:

• Shut the water off  in case there is an emergency leak.
• Plunge the Toilet if it becomes clogged.
• Plunge the sink if it backs up.

Teaching kids to be independent and teaching them how to handle simple plumbing issues will be helpful for you  now and in the future. We hope that you will never need us, but if you do, Eastern Plumbing is available 24/7 for all your emergency needs.

We know, we know, that title may sound a little funny. You may have never thought about using a plunger on your sink. The plunger is just for the toilet, right? But when you have a clogged sink, what do you do about it? We’ve heard of pouring hot water down the drain, using chemicals, and even trying to fish out the clog with a hanger. While some of these may work, more often than not a plunger is actually the best option for your sink. A plunger is a great option for unclogging drains all around your home, provided you know what you are doing.

Remember, plungers are not a one-size-fits-all tool. You need to use the right one for the job. When using a plunger on the sink, we recommend using one that is flat on the bottom, as opposed to a protruding flange plunger. Because sinks are flat on the bottom, using a flat plunger as well will help create a tight seal.

Once you feel you have a tight seal, gently compress the plunger, and use force to pull it back up. Continue this even up-and-down motion. The suction from the plunger will pull the clog up and out of the sink, as opposed to becoming further stuck in the drain. Once the clog is freed, run hot water for several minutes to flush any debris down the drain. This can dissolve soap scum and help prevent new clogs from forming.

Even if you correctly use a plunger on your sink, you may still find that the drain is clogged. This is common! Don’t start taking the whole sink apart to remove the clog though. Instead, call the experts at Eastern Plumbing in Greenville and New Bern, NC. Our professionally trained plumbers have the knowledge to handle this job. Remember, when plungers are not getting the job done, a local professional is just a phone call away!

Starting or ending the day with a weak shower isn’t satisfying for anyone. When you start to notice that your water pressure is low, it usually doesn’t rank high on your priorities. If you are a homeowner, you probably have other around-the-house fixes that seem more important, and you just learn to live with low water pressure. But you shouldn’t have to tolerate the trickle. Here are a few things to try to see if it is an easy fix or if it’s time to call a plumber.

Ask Your Neighbors

If you live in a neighborhood, ask around to see if others are having the same problem. If so, the issue could be the city’s water system. Just like the pipes in your home, these systems are also subject to leaks, clogs, buildup, and corrosion.

Clear the Clogs

Overtime, fixtures, valves, and pipes can develop a buildup of mineral deposits. In extreme cases, this buildup can prevent water from freely flowing through. This will leave you with a pitiful drip when you turn on the shower or sink. While some extreme cases can require a professional’s help; you can take care of clogs at your system’s exit points by dissolving any minerals that are gumming up the works inside your faucet fixtures and shower heads.

Place an open zip-lock bag filled with vinegar over your shower head or faucet, tie it in place with some string, and leave it overnight to soak. Rinse off your cleaned fittings the next morning. If this trick doesn’t work and you believe you have a more severe mineral clog inside the pipes, call Eastern Plumbing and we’ll take a look.

Piping

Corroded pipes are a common cause of low water pressure. If you live in an older house with galvanized iron pipes, they could have accumulated corrosion inside over the years. The accumulated corrosion eventually restricts the water flow. Other common piping issues that cause water pressure issues are debris and kinks in piping as well as improperly sized piping.

Check the Valve

Your home has a main water valve, usually located near the meter, which controls the flow of water into your home’s pipes. Locate the valve and check to see if it is completely open. Sometimes the valve gets accidentally turned during routine repairs and maintenance. If, for example, your drop in pressure coincides with recent work you have had done on your home, your contractor may have turned off the main water supply and at the end of the job only partially reopened the valve. This resulted in restricted flow and reduced pressure. Fortunately, the valve is easy for you to adjust yourself!

Look Out for Leaks

Damaged pipes may result in leaking water as it travels through your pipes, leaving you with just a trickle at the tap. To determine if your main pipe has any damage, make sure all faucets indoors and outdoors are turned off, then turn off the water valve in your home and write down the number that appears on your water meter. Return in two hours and take the meter reading again. An increased reading is a sign of a leak—and a sign that it is time to give us a call.

If you discover any concerns or want a professional to take a look at why your home’s water pressure is not up to par, contact Eastern Plumbing today!

Your water heater probably isn’t something that you think about often. That is, until it stops working! You probably don’t even realize how many times a day you and your family rely on the hot water heater. Your hot water heater works hard to provide you with warm showers, clean clothes and sparkling pots and pans. Did you know, the average life span of a water heater is 11 years? But, without proper maintenance, it may not make it that long! To keep your water heater in top shape, and avoid breakdowns, here are a few ways to show some love to this often-neglected appliance. Note: These tips are specifically for traditional (tank) water heaters.

1. Check and Adjust the Temperature

It is important to keep an eye on the temperature that your water heater thermostat is set too. By default, most manufactures set the temperature to 120 degrees. This is temperature is adequate for most households need. At Eastern Plumbing, we recommend setting the water heater thermostat no higher than 130 degrees. With higher temperatures, you increase the chances of scalding and severe burns. Lower temperatures can extend the life expectancy of your water heater and will also save you money on your electricity bill.

If you have a gas water heater, it is very easy to adjust the temperature. Just locate the thermostat on the tank. For an electric hot water heater, first you need to shut off power to the appliance by flipping the breaker in your service panel. Next, remove the covers and pull back any insulation to reveal the thermostat. You will need to use a screwdriver to change the temperature. Make sure to set both thermostats to the same temperature.

2. Drain the Tank

It is a good idea to flush out your hot water heater tank once per year. Draining the tank gets rid of any sediment that has built up and can clog water lines. A buildup of sediment also reduces your water heater’s energy efficiency.

Draining the tank is a very simple process. Simply, hook a standard garden hose to the drain valve located near the base of the tank. Place the other end of the hose in an area where the hot water and sediment will not cause any damge. Then open the drain spigot to flush sediment from the bottom of the heater. Allow the water to flow until it runs clear.

3. Test the Pressure Relief Valve

The pressure relief valve is a safety mechanism that prevents your water heater from exploding if too much pressure builds up. If the pressure inside the tank gets too high, the valve will open automatically to release it. Obviously, this is a pretty important part of your hot water heater!

To test the pressure relief valve, place a bucket under the discharge pipe. The discharge pipe is a long, copper or plastic pipe leading down from the tank. Once your bucket is under the pipe, lift the lever. If water comes out of the pipe, you are good to go. If lifting the lever doesn’t open the valve or the valve leaks after you test it, it needs to be replaced.

If you have any questions about water heater maintenance or need any kind of water heater repair, contact the experts at Eastern Plumbing. We have pros experienced in installation and repair of both traditional and tankless water heaters. And, because we know water heater problems can be a real mess and inconvenient for you and your family, Eastern Plumbing offers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week emergency service. Give us a call today!

Smart technology is starting to become a norm in households today. Homeowners are implementing all kinds of smart technology to help save money on heating and cooling. However, many are overlooking the smart technology that is available for lowering water usage. Thankfully, there are several in-home technology products that will save you money on your water bills and help the environment at the same time!

The average U.S. household uses about 90 gallons of water every day and a lot of this water is wasted. Showers and toilet flushing are the two biggest culprits when it comes to wasting water with dishwashers, washing machines and outdoor watering right behind them.

Here are some everyday activities and their water usage:

• Taking a shower for 10 minutes with a regular shower head uses 50 gallons of water.
• Taking a shower for 10 minutes with a water saving shower head uses 20 gallons of water.

• Flushing an old toilet will use up to 3  gallons of water.
• Flushing the toilet with a low flow, flushing toilet uses 1.6 gallons of water.

• Using a regular dishwasher uses 16 gallons of water.
• Using an EnergyStar rated dishwasher uses 6 gallons of water.

• Taking a standard bath uses 36 gallons of water.

• Outdoor watering for 30 minutes uses 60 gallons.

Other than cutting down on water consumption by taking shorter showers and doing fewer loads of laundry, here are a couple of things you can add to your home to help reduce your water usage:

• Energy-efficient washers: Typically, an ENERGY STAR washing machine uses 25 percent less electricity than its non-eco-friendly counterparts do, and close to 50 percent less water! You’ll save even more money by washing your clothes in cold water.
• High-efficiency faucet aerator: Cut your water consumption in half by installing a high-efficiency aerators on your faucets.
• Smart toilets: Can help you save water, as well as eliminate toilet paper waste. The EPA states that toilets labeled with WaterSense labels can reduce water usage by 20-60% and save around 13,000 gallons of water per year.

When it comes to the latest plumbing trends and the up-and-coming use of smart technology, more and more plumbers are being asked to install more efficient and advanced systems.  Whether you’re looking to upgrade your systems with new technologies or simply looking for a better, more eco-friendly way to use resources, Eastern Plumbing can help you make the transition. Our team is experienced and ready to help so, give us a call today! 

We all love our four-legged family members, and according to the American Pet Product Association, approximately sixty-eight percent of US households have a pet. But not every owner knows that with your pets comes the potential for plumbing problems.

Since most pets have access to all areas of your home, be sure to keep them safe by pet proofing. Here are some tips to follow to pet-proof your home’s plumbing. With these, you shouldn’t have to worry about plumbing problems, or your pets, again.

Keep plenty of water out

Keep your pets water bowl clean and full, otherwise they will look for other water sources, like the toilet bowl.  This sounds disgusting and it is, but it’s also hazardous to your pet’s health, especially if you use some type of daily toilet bowl cleaner or freshener. So, make sure to keep the lid closed!  And, as a general rule, check on your pet’s water bowl and refill at least twice a day.

Conceal exposed pipes

Pets are curious by nature, and they love to chew on things, so avoid unnecessary trips to the vet, or calls to your local plumber, by covering up exposed pipes and wires.  If a pet bites through a pipe, this could result in a pricey plumbing problem and may also cause damage to your home , or even worse, hurt your pet!

Keep cleaning chemicals out of reach

While it’s not recommended to use harsh chemicals in your plumbing system since most of these store-bought chemical cleaners can cause serious damage to drain lines, you may still have them in your home. To prevent your pets from accidentally getting into these chemicals and getting very sick, keep them locked up in an area your pet can’t get to.

Wash dirty pets outside

Dogs love to roll around in the mud and muck, which means clean up time can be a plumbing nightmare. When you wash a muddy dog off in the tub or shower, all that mud and matted fur comes off and goer down your drain and unfortunately has the potential to cause a serious clog.

Rather than having to pay a lot of money for a plumber to come remove the clog every time you need to give your dog a bath, try rinsing them off outside first before taking them inside to finish the job.

If your family pet has caused a plumbing problem, don’t worry. Just call the professionals at Eastern Plumbing.  No matter how stubborn the clog or bad the burst, we have just what you need to fix it.  Our licensed plumbers are available 24/7, and we service Pitt and surrounding counties including Beaufort and Craven.

Are you boiling over high water bills? Here are some simple steps you could take to simmer down.

In the US, the average person uses about 80 gallons of water a day. If your daily consumption seems out of the norm, you could have an undetected leak in your house.

You can determine if you have a leak by checking your water meter.

• First make sure no one is using the water.
• Next, look at the meter. If the red dial is moving, that means that water is running somewhere in your home.
• If the dial is moving, turn off the water to all your toilets one at a time. Check the meter again after each one is turned off. If a toilet is leaking, you should be able to tell which one it is.
• After that, if the dial is still moving and all the toilets are off, check the faucets and hose bibs the very same way.
• At night, after you’ve finished using your water for the evening, take a reading.
• Then, read the meter in the morning. If the reading is higher, you still have a leak and at this point and you should contact a professional, like the Eastern Plumbing team, to determine where the leak is coming from.

Here are some other things you could check that could be leading to a high water bill. By checking and fixing these types of leaks, you could save money on your next water bill.

The toilet flapper

The flapper is the large rubber plug, behind the bowl, at the bottom of your toilet’s tank. If you hear any dripping from your toilet, it’s likely the flapper. You can put a small amount of food coloring or a toilet dye pill into the tank. Wait 30 minutes, no flushing, then check in the toilet bowl for the colored water. If you have colored water in the bowl, you’ve got a leaking flapper.

Your toilet overflow

In the tank, if water is leaking into the overflow pipe, the fill valve could need to be adjusted.

Outside bibs and faucets

Outside temperatures could cause your bibs and faucets to fail. Check for leaks around them. You may also want to check the settings on automatic sprinklers, as they could be running too often or for too long a period of time.

Dripping faucets

If your faucet is dripping, more times than not, the problem is from a worn fitting.

Water heater

Check to see if the tank is leaking. Is there any water dripping down the side? If so, that could indicate that the pressure valve isn’t working properly and needs to be replaced.

Dishwasher and/or washing machine

Water on the floor around either of these appliances is a bad sign. Check your connections for leaks.

If your water bill is high, and you can’t find the source of your leak or if you need help fixing the leak, call the professionals at Eastern Plumbing. We can help you find and repair your leaks so you can save money and prevent damage to your home. Our licensed plumbers are available 24/7, and we service Pitt and surrounding counties including Beaufort and Craven.

Listen up ladies! Here is a public service announcement for you: do not flush feminine products down the toilet. We know, we know, it says “flushable” right on the box. But this really isn’t the case. Tampons, pads, wipes, and other “flushable-friendly” products take a toll on your plumbing system and septic tank. Really! At Eastern Plumbing, over 25% of our calls about stoppage problems are caused by flushing tampons. Don’t wait until you have a costly plumbing problem before you start thinking twice about flushing them.

If you’re still skeptical that flushing feminine products could actually cause plumbing issues, here are a few more facts. Tampons grow up to 10 times their size once they absorb fluid, making them prime for clogging sewer drains – especially in older plumbing systems where roots may have started to grow through pipes.

Also, tampons NEVER break down. Unlike toilet paper (which, of course, is made to be flushed), if one gets caught on its way down, it isn’t going to dissolve. It will linger in your plumbing system allowing other debris to build up around it until you will ultimately be forced to call a plumber to clear the clog.

Even if your flushed feminine products make it out of your plumbing system, they are damaging to your septic system. Since they never break down, they will take up space in your tank, raising liquid levels and causing solids to build up blocking distribution tubes. Eventually, water may collect around the tank or back up into your home!

If you have been flushing these products down the toilet, make sure to stop immediately. Keep an eye out for any signs of a clog such as slow drains, sluggish flushing or gurgling pipes. If you notice any of these things, contact Eastern Plumbing!

Oh! And be sure to check out our blog “8 Things You Should Never Flush” to learn what other commonly flushed items shouldn’t be going down the toilet.

Finding the RIGHT plumber is important! While a simple Google search can lead you to numerous options, don’t just hire the first plumbing company that shows up without doing a little research for yourself. To get the best plumbing services, you need to know what to look for and the right questions to ask.

Questions to ask BEFORE your plumbing service:

1. Are you licensed?

All plumbers in North Carolina must obtain a license. Make sure that the person (or company) you hire has met all of these state requirements for education and training. 

Eastern Plumbing is a fully licensed plumber, AND all of our technicians are drug tested and background checked, so you know the person you let into your home is someone we’d let in our home.

2. How long have you been in business?

You will want to choose a reliable plumbing business that has been around for a while. Not only will this speak to the quality of work they do, but you can be certain that they will still be around if you need further repairs or need to have warranties honored.

At Eastern Plumbing, we have been setting the standard in quality service for OVER 15 years and have established ourselves as one of the strongest plumbing companies in eastern NC!

3. Is your company insured?

Every plumbing company should be insured to cover any property damages or on-the-job injuries that occur as a result of the job. You do not want to be on the hook for any repairs or medical bills that were beyond your control.

Eastern Plumbing is fully insured, and we offer service agreements with upfront pricing and NO hidden costs.

Once you’ve picked the right plumber and the repairs have been completed, it can be helpful to ask some follow up questions. Here are questions to ask AFTER your plumbing service:

1.  What caused this problem?

If you have an issue with your plumbing, there’s a reason. If your plumber is able to repair the problem, they should be able to explain why it happened.

Eastern Plumbing has been in business for over 15 years, which means we’ve pretty much seen it all. We have the experience to diagnose and fix any of your residential, commercial or industrial plumbing problems.

2. How can I prevent it from happening again?

Once your plumber tells you what caused your plumbing problem, your next question should be “How do I prevent it from happening again?”. Naturally, if your toilet was clogged by something that never should have been flushed, you have a pretty easy solution. For other problems though, regular plumbing maintenance may be what you need to prevent future problems.

Our technicians will let you know what kind of regular maintenance you can do to keep your plumbing system in top shape.

3. Do you offer 24/7 emergency service?

If you’re satisfied with the work your plumber has done, you’re going to want to know if you can rely on them if a plumbing emergency arises.

Eastern Plumbing is available 24/7 for any plumbing emergency. Be sure to keep our number handy to have peace of mind that if something happens, you’ll have someone to call – Greenville: 252-758-7579, New Bern: 252-514-0002.

If you are in need of plumbing services in eastern North Carolina, Eastern Plumbing is more than happy to personally answer all your questions and more! Contact us today.