Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
MY SUMP PUMP KEEPS CYCLING AND WON’T TURN OFF. WHAT SHOULD I DO?
When your sump pump won't shut off, it's likely an issue with the float switch, which controls its power. Check if the switch moves freely with the water; if not, consider replacing it. Other potential causes include a defective or missing check valve, sewer leak, or clog in the discharge pipe. For repairs or replacement, it's best to consult a professional plumber to avoid costly damage.
HOW DO YOU REMOVE A STUCK CLEAN-OUT PLUG?
Plumbers typically use two methods to remove clean-out plugs. The first involves using a steel chisel and ball peen hammer to create a divot in the clean-out's face at a 45-degree angle. If unsuccessful, they may chisel through the surface of the plug and cut it out with a sawzall. Once the center is removed, a heavy screwdriver is used to pry out the threads.
HOW DO ROOTS GROW?
Tree and shrub roots need oxygen, water, and nutrients to grow. Their growth depends on soil depth, water supply, aeration, and temperature.
Root systems have large, permanent roots for support and small, temporary feeder roots for absorption. Most roots are in the top 6 to 18 inches of soil.
Roots extend two to three times the tree's height and can be thousands of feet long. They're less extensive in clay soils than in sandy or well-drained soils.
MY SUMP PUMP KEEPS CYCLING AND WON’T TURN OFF. WHAT SHOULD I DO?
When your sump pump won't shut off, it's likely an issue with the float switch, which controls its power. Check if the switch moves freely with the water; if not, consider replacing it. Other potential causes include a defective or missing check valve, sewer leak, or clog in the discharge pipe. For repairs or replacement, it's best to consult a professional plumber to avoid costly damage.
HOW DO I PREVENT A WELL FROM FREEZING?
A well is typically deep enough to avoid freezing, as it's below the frost line. Deep well pumps push water from the bottom, while jet pumps pull it from the surface. Jet pumps need insulation to prevent freezing.
To winterize your well, insulate pipes and ensure the pump is in an insulated enclosure. If the well is frozen, locate the freeze point, thaw it with heat, and allow running water to melt the remaining ice.
For professional assistance, call a plumber like Roto-Rooter. They can handle plumbing issues and water cleanup professionally.
HOW DO I DETECT THE LEAK BEFORE DIGGING?
Yes! Many City Plumbing pro locations have specialized underground leak detection equipment that helps determine the area of the leak. Modern underground water leak detectors allow our plumbers to repair your pipe quickly and efficiently.
HOW DOES WEATHER IMPACT ROOT GROWTH?
During drought conditions and in the winter, roots will travel long distances in search of moisture. The reason you find tree roots in sewer lines and drains is because when trees and shrubs get thirsty, they follow the trail of moisture vapors escaping from small cracks, holes, or poorly sealed joints in pipes, where they fine nutrients and moisture.
HOW DOES TRENCHLESS PIPE RELINING WORK?
Trenchless pipe relining is a preferred option for sewer line repairs, avoiding the need for extensive digging. A flexible tube coated with resin is inserted into the old pipe, creating a new pipe within it. This method works well for clay, concrete, iron, or Orangeburg pipes. It's less disruptive and won't harm trees or landscaping.
Rather than digging a long trench, only small access pits are required at each end of the pipe. The resin-coated tube is then expanded against the old pipe's walls, creating a new, smooth pipe within. This technique is cost-effective and avoids the need to cut down trees or disrupt landscaping.