Category: Plumbing Tips

At Eastern Plumbing we’ve seen a lot of mishaps from people flushing the wrong things down the toilet. You couldn’t imagine the things our plumbers have cleaned out of pipes. We know it’s tempting to flush it – it’s like a black hole, just dump, flush and it’s gone. But what you can’t see is the risk of damage. People often don’t think about this until they have a huge clog or costly septic tank problem.

To help you flush safely, here is a list of 8 things you should NEVER flush down the toilet.

1.  Dental Floss

Floss isn’t biodegradable and even though it may not seem like much, just think about what happens when a bunch of it starts to tangle together and flow through your sewer pipes. It isn’t pretty.

2. Band Aids

Like floss, band aids are not biodegradable so flushing them down the toilet can lead to clogs. Whether they are made of plastic or cloth, just throw it in the trash.

3. Medication

While flushing medicine isn’t a concern when it comes to causing clogs, it is for contaminating water supply. The water in your toilet ends up in lakes, river and oceans – and sewage systems do not remove medicines from the water. Please dispose of your pills and other medication through your local pharmacy.

4. Hair

Even though it comes from your body, it doesn’t mean it can be safely flushed down the toilet. Think about it, hair clogs your shower drain so why wouldn’t it clog your toilet? It’s like dental floss, it may not seem like a big deal, but when it forms into a giant ball it creates blockages in your plumbing and sewer.

5. Kitty Litter

Cats have their own toilet, so don’t flush their litter down yours. Most toilets do not use enough water to move litter properly through your pipes.

6. Oil or Grease

You already know it isn’t okay to pour grease or oil down your sink, so it makes sense that it isn’t okay to flush it down your toilet either. Cooking greases congeal when they cool, which can create build up in your plumbing system.

7. “Flushable” Wipes

This one is a little controversial. We know it says “flushable” but trust us it really isn’t. Wipes don’t disintegrate the way toilet paper does, which can eventually cause a clog. If you do use wipes, you should throw them away in the trash instead.

8. Your Unlucky Goldfish

When you say goodbye to your pet goldfish make sure it gets a proper “burial” in the backyard. Flushing a dead goldfish down the toilet can cause a clog.

Bottom Line: To put it bluntly, the only thing you should really flush down the toilet is one of the “three P’s” – pee, poop, and paper (toilet paper that is). Oh, and vomit is okay, but to stick to the “P” theme we’ll call it puke.

If you have not-so-great flushing habits that have led to a clog, call the experts at Eastern Plumbing in Greenville and New Bern today. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for any plumbing emergency!

Being a plumber is hard work. Much of a plumber’s job is repairing plumbing accidents, many of which could have been prevented or avoided if homeowners only had the right information. Don’t get us wrong were always happy to help, but to save plumbers from extra time spent crouching under sinks and drains, the experts at Eastern Plumbing have put together a list of tips just for you, we call it “5 Things Your Plumber Wishes You Knew.” Not only will these tips save plumbers some time, but can also save you from costly plumbing repairs.

1. This is a pretty big one and while many people may already know this, we feel it’s still important to have on the list: “Don’t put oil or grease down the drain.” We repeat: “Never pour cooking oil, bacon grease or anything else remotely similar down your drain.” Oils and greases being poured down drains by homeowners is the leading cause of clogs. Instead, pour used oil or grease into deposable plastic or foil containers, freeze them, then throw them out with the garbage.

2. Ah, the water heater. Many homeowners tend to forget their water heater even exists, until there’s a problem. I mean think about it, it’s tucked in a closet or basement and you don’t see it a lot. But, your plumber wishes you’d know that your water heater needs love too. It’s important to remember that your tank needs to be flushed at least once a year to avoid the buildup of rust and sediment. When it comes to plumbing, preventative maintenance can save you a lot of stress and money down the line.

3. Imagine this: your home is unrelentingly flooding and you’re not sure why. Your scrambling around the house in soaked pajama pants, doing anything you can think of to make the water stop. But, you don’t know where your water shut off valves are. As a homeowner, it is important to familiarize yourself with your home’s plumbing system before problems like this occur so you can respond quickly, if and when, they do. Once you turn off your valves at the water main, your next step should be to call Eastern Plumbing in Greenville or New Bern, with 24/7 emergency service you won’t be left to deal with the plumbing problem alone.

4. Liquid drain cleaners may be helpful when it comes to clearing a clogged drain, but only use these as a last resort. Many commercial chemical cleaners eat away at more than just the gunk buildup. Dumping these cleaners down your sinks too often can cause harm to your pipes and drains. Instead, prevent clogs by investing in drain screens, and if you still notice persistent clogging, contact the professionals at Eastern Plumbing before turning to harsh chemicals.

5. This last one may be at the top of things plumbers want homeowners to know: “Don’t try to diagnose and fix a plumbing problem yourself.” It is always best to call an expert. On that same note, waiting until the last second to call for help, really doesn’t help much. The longer you let a problem linger, the worse the problem is bound to get. Catching an issue early can save you time, money and stress.

Now that you have the inside scoop on things plumbers wish you knew, you know how to prevent some plumbing problems and are prepared to react quickly if a plumbing emergency should occur. The experts at Eastern Plumbing know how to handle the messiest of situations. Do not hesitate to call us if you encounter any type of problem that is too big for you to handle – like we said, it’s always best to call an expert.

You don’t spend a lot of time thinking about your plumbing when everything is flowing right. Water comes in, and water goes out. But when you hear an ominous drip, gurgle, bang or any other mysterious sound, you start to worry. Don’t panic, these aren’t horror movie sound effects. Often times, these noises are indicators of different problems in your plumbing system. Hearing these noises may concern you, but it’s better to be aware of a problem before it causes more damage. Here is a list of the different plumbing noises and what they could mean.

1.Hissing

Nope. There isn’t a snake or scary sea creature lurking in your plumbing! A hissing sound coming from your fixtures is commonly a sign that water pressure is too high. Basically, the sound happens because excessive force is pushing water through the pipes and to the tap. It is important to have this looked at by the experts at Eastern Plumbing because unnecessarily high water pressure can lead to an increased water bill and, over times,  stress your pipes. One way to fix this noise is to have a pressure regulator installed by one of our professional plumbers.

2. Banging

A distinctive bang or thud when you turn off a faucet can be another indicator that your water pressure is too high. A banging sound could also point to loose water pipes, or pipes that are not secured well to the wall. To find out why you may be hearing this noise, contact Eastern Plumbing today!

3. Rattling

A rattling, or vibrating sound, coming from your toilet after flushing may indicate that there is an issue with the fill valve. This fitting in your toilet wears out naturally, which means at some point it is going to not work properly or even break. If you lift the arm of your toilet valve and the noise stops, then that is most likely the problem. The experts at Eastern Plumbing can replace this part.

4. Gurgling

A gurgling sound after using the sink, shower or toilet is a tell-tell sign of a blocked drain or vent pipe. Dirt, grease and other materials build up in drains and plumbing, which causes water to drain slowly. As a result, air bubbles cannot move through the pipes to be expelled at the nearest vent, resulting in a gurgling noise. Aside from the noise, clogged drains can also cause foul odors and gases to back up into your home. An experienced plumber at Eastern Plumbing can inspect your plumbing for clogs and recommend solutions to fix the problem.

5. Dripping

And last, but not least, the dreaded drip. Remember, if one of your plumbing fixtures is dripping don’t just write it off as a minor annoyance – it is a serious waste of water. In fact, just one leaky faucet can waste 3,000 gallons of water per year according to the EPA. Don’t waste another drop! Eastern Plumbing can help you solve the problem by putting in a new washer or even installing a brand new faucet.

So, if you notice any of these sounds, or even a sound not mentioned here, don’t hesitate to contact Eastern Plumbing in Greenville or New Bern. We have the knowledge and expertise to diagnose any plumbing problem you may encounter.

We understand you probably don’t spend a lot of time thinking about your renter’s bathroom experience. We know it’s strange, but on some level, you’re responsible for ensuring they have a comfortable place to do their business. The plumbing in your investment home can be a real drain (pun intended) if you do not maintain it properly. After all, what separates an okay landlord from a great landlord is the way they maintain the property and their ability to fix problems when they arise. So, here are three plumbing tips every landlord should follow.

Educate Yourself On Basic Plumbing Repairs

How many times have you, personally, had a pipe leak or toilet clog? Now multiply that by how many rental properties you have. Even if you don’t have that many plumbing issues, chances are one of you renters will. So, when that happens it would be beneficial if you could fix the problem correctly and quickly. Know how to plunge a toilet and use a snake on tough drain clogs. This can be very beneficial, and your renters will be happy that their problem was fixed so quickly.

Give Your Renters Plumbing Tips

As a landlord, it is important for you to stay aware of any potential problems with your property. But, let’s face it, you can’t be everywhere at once. Along with your responsibility, your renters also have an obligation to take care of the space they are staying in. Don’t just assume your renters know how to care for a home or what NOT to do to their plumbing system. It is a good idea to give them some brief, friendly tips when they move in. For example, tell them to use strainers to protect the drains in the sink and showers, NEVER pour fats, oils or grease down the drain and educate them on how to avoid frozen pipes in the winter.

Know What To Do In A Plumbing Emergency

No, it’s not fun to think about. But, it is important to know what to do in the event of plumbing emergency at one of your rental properties. First of all, you should know exactly where the shutoff valve is. Then you should have a reliable plumber on hand. The professionals at Eastern Plumbing are available 24-hours to assist with any plumbing emergency. We offer fast and reliable assistance, and have been setting the standard in quality service of over 15 years. With locations in Greenville and New Bern, and servicing eastern North Carolina, contact Eastern Plumbing today for all of your plumbing needs – including repairs, remodels and installations.

Tiny houses are trending these days. People love the idea of downsizing, having more money to travel and just simplifying life. Many people opt to build their own tiny house and it is often a fun project. But, one part of building a tiny house that many people worry about is the plumbing. This is one big area where a tiny home is very different from a standard home. Normal houses have permanent access to water, whereas a tiny home is often built to be mobile – and there is no guarantee that you’ll always be near a water source that you can hook up to.

Getting Water To Your Tiny Home

One option for your tiny home is to have a tank and pump system. This is a practical option that will allow you the functionality of a normal home, but will also give you the freedom to live off-grid. This system involves putting a tank in your tiny home and using a pump to pressurize and circulate the water.

Tanks can take up a fair amount of space in your tiny home, so it is important to really think about what size of tank you may need. A bigger tank means you can go longer between fill ups, but it will take up more room and add weight to your home.

If you don’t plan to ever live off-grid, a hookup system may be another option. With this system, you can simply hook your tiny house up to a regular water supply, like the ones commonly found at campsites.

Hookup water source systems involve installing plumbing that can accept water through an RV hose. If you decide to use this system, your tiny home plumbing will function like any other RV.

Getting Water Out of Your Tiny Home

So now that we’ve covered options for getting water to your tiny home, what about getting water, or waste water, out of your home?

If you plan to live on the grid, the simplest solution is to hook up to an existing system. This can be a septic tank (more often in rural areas) or the public sewer system. With this option, you will need install a drainage system like the ones in normal homes.

Another option for getting waste water out of your tiny home is to collect it and dispose of it at dump stations. You could use a waste water holding tank – similar to the system a lot of RVs use. This isn’t the most pleasant or convenient option, but if you are planning to live off-grid you don’t have much of a choice.

To learn more about plumbing for your tiny home, or your normal-size home, contact the experts at Eastern Plumbing in Greenville and New Bern. We have knowledge of all plumbing systems and can help you with all of your plumbing needs.

Shiny new appliances, beautiful countertops and an elegant backsplash – that sounds amazing, right? If you are dreaming of a kitchen remodel Eastern Plumbing is here to help! Remember, plumbing is an important part of the kitchen and is vital when remodeling. At Eastern Plumbing, it is our goal to help you remodel your kitchen quickly and on-budget. We make the process as simple as possible. With design experts and experienced plumbing technicians, we have the tools and know-how to make all of your kitchen dreams come true!

As you begin planning your kitchen remodel, here are a two things you should you keep in mind regarding your plumbing.

Choose your sink before installing new cabinets.

Deep, under-counter mounted and farmhouse sinks are trending these days. They are beautiful and can give your kitchen an updated look. Make sure you choose your new sink before you install your new cabinets though. Knowing what sink you want can prevent plumbers from having to cut the back of your newly installed cabinets to get to piping in the wall. Make sure that your new sink is going to work with your existing plumbing. If it isn’t, make sure you correct the issue before installing cabinets.

Be aware of possible constraints and work with what you have.

If you want to stay within a limited budget, it is generally good to use the plumbing that is already there. Take note where the gas and water supplies enter your kitchen to determine where you put your new appliances. This usually means you won’t be able to move your oven, sink or dishwasher by more than a few inches. If you do want to relocate appliances, remember that moving plumbing will add extra expenses.

For more kitchen remodeling tips, contact Eastern Plumbing today. We specialize in redesign and remodeling – with our expertise and experience, we can help you get your kitchen project done the right way, on time and on budget!

Plumbing Questions to Ask Before Buying a House

You make an offer on the home of your dreams and it’s accepted. Per your realtor’s advice, you order an inspection and everything looks good. Or does it? These days, having an inspection done before closing is an expected part of the home buying process. Unfortunately, sometimes these inspections aren’t all that thorough when it comes to plumbing.

More often than not we find that the homeowner didn’t know the existing condition of their plumbing system and within just a few months of moving in they are having to give us a call. Each home’s plumbing system can be different and can have its own problems. So, before you buy the home of your dreams, be sure to have these questions answered.

How Old Is The Plumbing?

If you’re buying a house from the earlier half of the 1900’s or before, you have a good chance of finding the original plumbing and it’s more than likely in need of replacement. Even the best plumbing can’t last much longer than 80-100 years before needing to be replaced. Thankfully, re-piping a house is a fairly straight forward job for any plumber. The price can vary widely depending on the size of the house, which is why it is so important to have a professional take a look so that you can factor the cost of replacement into your home buying budget.

Has The Home Experienced Any Water Damage In The Past?

A good inspector can usually tell if water damage has occurred, and any damage should be disclosed by the previous owner at the time of sale. Nevertheless, you should:

Check that exposed pipes in unheated areas are insulated.

Make sure washing machine hoses are in good condition.

Look for signs of pervious toilet leaks, such as discoloration and/or warping around the base of the toilet.

Often, water damage leads to moisture problems and moisture problems lead to mold. So, if you know there’s been major water damage in the home you have your eye on, you should have a professional check for any signs of mold before signing on the dotted line.

How Old Is The Water Heater?

Having to replace a hot water heater right after purchasing a new house is not ideal for any new home owner. Knowing the age of the home’s water heater before you buy will help you better prepare for when/if it needs to be replaced. Keep in mind, most water heaters have a life expectancy of about 13 years and a new high-efficiency water heater can cost anywhere between $900 and $2,000, depending on the size and model you choose.

How Big Is The Water Heater?

This is a question most home owners don’t think about until they are already living in their new home and have experienced a few too many unwarranted cold showers. To avoid fighting for the first shower every day, make sure the water heater in your future home is big enough to cover the needs of your household. Here’s a helpful guide:

What Are The Monthly Utility Costs?

Knowing the average cost of the utilities bills for your dream home will help you better prepare your monthly budget. It can also help you decide where you might upgrade to more energy-efficient appliances to save on energy costs.

Bonus: Test the Water Pressure

Not everyone likes the same water pressure, so be sure to check it throughout your potential new home to make sure it is just right for you. If it’s not up to par, contact the professionals at Eastern Plumbing to help!

Knowing everything you can about your potential new home’s plumbing gives you a leg up on surprises and helps you budget. The little bit extra you’ll spend on minor maintenance and inspection can go a long way towards knowing what you’re about to purchase, or whether it’s worth buying at all.

With over 15 years of service experience, we have helped thousands of homeowners in Eastern, NC with their plumbing needs. Our top-notch plumbing technicians are here to help – give Eastern Plumbing a call today!

From bad water pressure to annoying dripping faucets, homeowners endure their fair share of plumbing troubles. Check out these common plumbing problems to learn how to fix them and when it’s time to call in the professionals.

Poor Water Pressure

Low water pressure can affect your shower, sink, and/or toilet. If it only affects one faucet or shower head, it should be an easy fix. The first thing you will need to check is if the low water pressure is affecting both the hot and cold water. If both the hot and cold water have low pressure the most likely cause is the aerator. To clean out a faucet aerator, carefully remove the aerator, wash any debris and put it back on.

However, if the low water pressure seems to be impacting your entire home, it’s time to call in the pros. Low water pressure throughout your home could be a sign of a hidden leak or blockage in your plumbing system, which isn’t something you should tackle on your own.

Slow Draining Sink/Tub

From the kitchen to the bathroom, all drains are susceptible to clogs if they are not maintained properly. If you start to notice slow drainage in your kitchen or bathroom, try cleaning in and around the drain. In the shower, be sure to remove accumulated soap scum and other debris (like hair) from around the drain. In the kitchen, running the garbage disposal to remove food scraps can help your slow draining problem.

If slow drainage persists, you may need professional clog removal and drain cleaning. Don’t hesitate to call Eastern Plumbing; we have been setting the standard in quality service for over 15 years.

Dripping Faucets

Whether they’re producing just an occasional drip or a constant stream of excess water, leaky faucets will drive you crazy. The constant noise of water dripping can be irritating, plus the water you are wasting can drive up your bill. To combat the drip, first try to turn the faucet as far toward the off position as possible. If that doesn’t stop the dripping, the faucet more than likely needs a new washer.

Replacing the washer may be an easy fix for you if you are comfortable taking your faucet apart. If plumbing isn’t your forte though, don’t hesitate to call Eastern Plumbing for help. We’re no strangers to leaky faucets, and our professional technicians can stop those annoying drips in no time.

Malfunctioning Toilet

From overflowing to clogging to continuously running, toilets can have all sorts of problems. If your toilet hasn’t experienced any problems with clogging or overflowing before, you should be able to remove the clog by using a plunger or a plumbers snake. On the other hand, if clogs and overflowing have become a regular occurrence you will want to call a professional so that they can locate the root of the problem. Extreme clogs and excessive overflows typically require professional assistance, since the problem could be a sewer line blockage or a septic tank issue.

Most running toilet problems can be resolved by adjusting or replacing the flapper valve inside the tank. However, sometimes the problem goes deeper, if your toilet is continuously running after every flush, even after a flapper valve replacement; don’t hesitate to call us at Eastern Plumbing.

If you need to consult a plumber, give the experienced professionals at Eastern Plumbing a call. With over 15 years of service experience, we have helped thousands of homeowners in Eastern, NC with their plumbing needs. Call us today! Greenville 252-758-7579 • New Bern 252-514-0002

Do you consider yourself a savvy DIY-er or handyman? That’s great! If you can fix something yourself, you’re going to because it saves you money and you won’t have to worry about finding someone else to do it. Just remember though, not every problem has an easy fix – especially when it comes to plumbing issues. While it is true that minor clogs can be cleared simply by using a plunger or chemical drain cleaner, remember that often times home drainage issues indicate a larger, long-term problem that requires the attention of a professional plumber. If you notice any of these 5 warning signs of drainage issues in your home, contact a professional plumber at Eastern Plumbing right away!

1. Overflowing Toilet

If your toilet overflows it can cause serious damage to your home. Items that don’t belong in the toilet and get flushed can become logged in the pipes. If your toilet overflows multiple times, you should call a plumber. Often times a clog in your toilet is part of bigger drainage issue that will get worse over time.

2. Slow Drainage

As a homeowner, you should never take drainage problems lightly. While it may be easy to just go to your local hardware store for chemical drain cleaner to solve the problem, it can escalate into a much bigger issue. Slow drains can be caused by the early stages of a clog, pipes that have been narrowed by mineral or grease buildup, or even improper grading of your drainage system. Call a professional at Eastern Plumbing to pinpoint the source of the problem – before it damages or breaks your pipes.

3. Foul Odor

Odors emanating from your drains or sinks can be a sign of a major issue. When a blockage begins to form, it can send foul odors into your home. Call a plumber immediately to determine the origin of the smell. The professional plumbers at Eastern Plumbing can use sewer cameras to inspect your lines. This will give them an accurate location to work in and the issue can be eliminated.

4. Major Leaks

If you notice water in your basement and/or near a floor drain, or if you see water bubbling up from the ground, then you may have a major leak in your sewer drain. Leaking drains can require major cleanup and cause environmental damage. It is important to call a professional the moment you notice standing water. Preventing the situation from progressing and correcting it quickly is Eastern Plumbing’s top priority.

5. Unusual Sounds

If you hear gurgling or other strange noises coming from your toilet, drains or pipes, call an expert immediately. This could be an indication that your wastewater isn’t draining properly and an overflow may be on its way.

As you can see not all plumbing issues can be tackled alone. Luckily, the experts at Eastern Plumbing are here to help! Give us a call today.