Secure Your Water Heater in Case of an Earthquake

Water heater

How to Install Hot Water Heater Earthquake Straps Water heater earthquake straps are specially designed restraint systems that secure your tank to the wall, preventing it from toppling during a seismic event, which is common in the San Jose, CA area. A single tremor can send an unstrapped water heater crashing to the ground, rupturing…

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8 Summer Plumbing Problems & How to Avoid Them

Water leak through hose pipe

Many homeowners mistakenly believe that plumbing issues are limited to the colder months. But as the temperature rises outside, so does the likelihood of certain unexpected plumbing problems. Here’s a look at eight of the most common plumbing problems you may encounter this summer and tips to avoid each one. Overloaded washing machines: With family…

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Can You Dump Grease Down the Drain?

Mike Council Plumbing and Rooter Trucks in front of a house in the San Jose, CA Area

During drain cleaning visits in the San Jose, CA area, our plumbers at Mike Counsil Plumbing and Rooter are often asked, “Can you dump grease down the drain?” The firm answer is, “No,” it’s never ok to pour cooking oil or grease into the sink drain. To persuade homeowners to adopt this perspective, it’s essential…

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How to Stop an Overflowing Toilet?

A toilet that has been stopped from overflowing

If your toilet is overflowing, and you want to know how to stop it quickly, then this article is for you! DIY Steps for Controlling an Overflowing Toilet You may want to try and control an overflowing toilet problem on your own while you wait for professional backup. Here are some steps you can try…

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How to Turn off the Water for a Plumbing Repair

Water shutoff valve

Learn More About Your Water Shut-Off Valve Emergencies, such as a burst pipe or an overflowing toilet, can leave you scrambling to protect your home from water damage. Knowing how to shut off your water supply quickly could save you time, money, and headaches. As you read below, we will walk you through everything you…

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What to Do When Your Toilet Gurgles

Reasons for Bubbles in the Toilet After Flushing Hearing strange noises, such as bubbling, gurgling, or hissing, from your toilet can be unnerving. Additionally, noticing bubbles in the bathroom after flushing may prompt you to wonder if a more significant issue is at play. These sounds can be annoying and may indicate a problem with…

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How Do Earthquakes Affect Water and Gas Lines?

The earthquake damage.

Activating the Gas Shut-Off valve for an Earthquake Earthquakes are a natural force that can cause severe damage to homes and infrastructure. Among the most vulnerable are your home’s water and gas lines, which are essential for daily living. Whether it’s damaging plumbing, rupturing gas lines, or upheaving water heaters, understanding how earthquakes impact these…

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What Is Hydro-Jetting?

plumbing contractor in van

In the past, clearing out a clog or an obstruction in a sewer line was a costly and time-consuming ordeal. Thanks to modern plumbing technology, that’s no longer the case. Hydro-jetting is a state-of-the-art technique that your plumber can use to eliminate sewer line clogs. Keep reading for an introduction to hydro-jetting and how it…

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Pipe Corrosion: Causes and Solutions

A corroded pipe that has burst in the San Jose and South Bay, California, area

Corroded pipes are an unseen challenge lurking in many homes and buildings. Corrosion is a hidden menace that can lead to significant plumbing issues if not addressed promptly. Use this guide to help you understand the signs of corroded pipes, what causes corrosion, and what you can do about it, including seeking help from a…

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10 Easy Ways to Use Less Water at Home

Water dripping from leaky faucet

10 Easy Ways to Use Less Water at Home While some conservation efforts are expensive or inconvenient, using less water is easy to do! Plus, your efforts can reduce your water bill and help safeguard this important natural resource. Here are 10 no- and low-cost ways to save water at home. Check for toilet leaks:…

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