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What is a Drain Snake?

Marcin from ExpressRooter, the official contractor for Mike Holmes, is here to address some of the common questions that many homeowners ask. What is a Drain Snake? A drain snake is equipment that plumbers use to provide maintenance and to clear debris of any…

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5 DIY Plumbing Projects Best Left to the Professionals

29532799_sPlumbing projects can be very simple fixes in some instances. For example, a dripping faucet or a clogged drain pipe are less delicate projects and are ideal for the homeowner to handle on their own. These types of plumbing problems are relatively easy to fix and are within the scope of the abilities of the average homeowner with modest mechanical abilities. However, there are more serious problems that require the skills and expertise of a professional plumber to make proper repairs that will not lead to further complications or damage. Some plumbing projects that require the intervention of a professional include:

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4 Plumbing Basics Homeowners Should Know

12769895_sEvery homeowner should know plumbing basics so that there’s less mystery when water problems do occur. Gravity and pressure are two of the most fundamental concepts of plumbing, which is comprised of two separate subsystems.  The supply system allows fresh water in, while the drainage system forces waste water out. Knowing that water seeks its own level helps demystify plumbing systems. Below are some of the most important plumbing basics for homeowners to know.

1. Main Shut-off Valve

It’s a good idea to know where the main shutoff valve is in case of an emergency. Water coming into your home is under pressure, measured by a meter, which is usually in close proximity with the main shutoff valve. Knowing how to shut off this valve quickly can save your property from a flood caused by a broken pipe. 

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How to Snake a Drain: Tips from a Master Plumber

How to Snake a DrainIf you’ve got a plugged drain, then one of the first things you’re likely looking for is how to snake a drain. While this can be a somewhat complicated process for someone who has never known how to snake a drain, once you get the hang of it you’ll find that it’s easier than you thought. Let’s take a look at the simple steps and then cover a few essential tips.

Step 1:

First, put the end of the snake into the opening of the drain. Then turn the handle on the drum that houses the coiled-up drain snake. This gets the auger working so it can work itself down the drain.

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At-Home Methods for Clearing a Clogged Shower Drain

Clogged Shower DrainA clogged shower drain is the bane of every homeowner’s existence. Shower bases that are stubbornly slow to drain can leave you paddling around in a couple of inches of water every time you take a shower. Drains can also become completely blocked, rendering the shower unusable.

There are several techniques that you can use to clear a clogged shower drain. Next time you experience this annoying problem, why not give one of the following a try?

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Troubleshooting Your Kitchen Sink Plumbing Issues

Kitchen Sink Plumbing IssuesA blocked kitchen sink is a problem everyone faces at one time or another. For those who do dishes in the sink, it can be highly frustrating when the water refuses to drain away, or takes much longer than usual. It is often the result of large amounts of food scraps and other waste matters accumulating and getting stuck in the drainpipe. Clogged drainpipes are not the only kitchen sink plumbing issue you have to deal with from time to time. Other problems include leaking faucets, leaking drain baskets and broken garbage disposal units.

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Why Your Basement Drainage System is So Important

basement_drainage_systemWhen facing moisture problems, the best approach is to control the source of the moisture rather than try to stop it as a last line of defense. A modern basement drainage system is designed to capture water before it causes tremendous damage to your basement, and ultimately your home. It is unlikely to keep water issues under control in your basement without a proper drainage system, which becomes your only protection against basement flooding.

A wet basement is one of a homeowner’s worst nightmares. From a soaking basement to persistent leaks, water is no friend to your home. The consequences of a wet basement goes beyond the inconvenient mess and disruption of a household routine. Below are 4 major impacts of an improper drainage system.

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