Frequently Asked Questions

PEX offers flexibility that allows routing around obstacles without joints, resists corrosion and mineral buildup that degrades copper, and doesn't burst when frozen because it expands. It maintains consistent water pressure better than aging metal pipes and installs faster during re-piping projects, reducing labor time.

Recurring leaks in multiple locations, persistent low water pressure throughout the home, and discolored water from corroded pipes indicate system-wide deterioration rather than isolated failures. If your plumbing is over 50 years old or repairs are becoming frequent, replacement prevents ongoing damage and improves reliability.

Tree roots penetrate sewer lines seeking moisture, especially in older neighborhoods with mature landscaping. Grease buildup, flushed non-degradable items, and bellied pipes that trap debris also restrict flow. Louisville's clay soil shifts with moisture changes, which can crack older sewer lines and create entry points for roots.

Toilets manufactured before 1994 use 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush compared to modern 1.28-gallon models, making replacement cost-effective through water savings. Cracks in the tank or bowl, constant running that persists after component replacement, and repeated clog issues also justify replacement over continued repairs.

Installation includes verifying electrical connections meet disposal power requirements, sizing the unit to match drain line diameter and household usage, securing mounting hardware to prevent vibration leaks, and testing the reset switch and grinding operation. Proper alignment with the drain prevents leaks at the connection point.

Disposal repairs address mechanical failures like jammed impellers, worn mounting gaskets that leak, faulty reset buttons, and power connection issues. Drain clearing removes clogs downstream of the disposal caused by accumulated waste. A disposal that hums without grinding indicates a jam, while slow drainage points to a clog.

Worn rubber washers, deteriorated O-rings, and corroded valve seats prevent complete water shutoff regardless of handle pressure. Mineral deposits from Louisville's moderately hard water score sealing surfaces over time. Forcing handles tighter damages components further rather than stopping the leak.

Clog location determines equipment needed—accessible sink traps cost less to clear than main line blockages requiring augers. Root intrusion, grease buildup, and foreign objects take longer to remove than hair or soap clogs. Multiple affected fixtures indicate deeper blockages that extend service time.

A continuously running toilet wastes 3 to 5 gallons per minute, totaling over 4,000 gallons daily. At Louisville's average water rates, this adds $50 to $100 monthly to utility costs. The flapper valve usually causes the problem by failing to seal after each flush.

Homes built before 1970 often have galvanized steel pipes that corrode internally, reducing water pressure and discoloring water. Cast iron sewer lines deteriorate and crack, allowing root intrusion. Outdated fixture connections and lack of shut-off valves complicate repairs. Clay soil movement also stresses aging underground pipes.

Run cold water before, during, and 15 seconds after grinding to solidify grease and flush particles completely. Avoid fibrous materials like celery and corn husks that wrap around impellers, and don't overload the chamber. Grinding ice cubes monthly clears residue buildup and sharpens blades.

Sewer cleaning addresses the main line running from your house to the street, using specialized equipment for root removal and buildup at longer distances. Drain clearing handles branch lines inside the home serving individual fixtures. Sewer issues cause multiple drains to back up simultaneously, while drain problems affect single fixtures.