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can you put drain cleaner down a garbage disposal

Can You Put Drain Cleaner Down a Garbage Disposal?

Written by Al Coronado Plumbing on . Posted in Plumbing.

Many people wonder, “Can you put drain cleaner down a garbage disposal?”  But instead of waiting to find out the answer, they dump the cleaner down the drain and hope for the best. When dealing with a garbage disposal drain blockage, it’s not unusual to want to get back to the normal routine.

After all, food waste piles up fast. However, don’t make the mistake of thinking you can put drain cleaner down the garbage disposal. Pay attention to the following advice from Sahuarita’s plumbing contractor, who takes care of the Tucson community with five-star service.

Garbage Disposals and Drain Cleaners

There are two major reasons you shouldn’t use drain cleaners.

They Are Environmentally Unsound

Assuring safe, effective waste management means more than removing bagged garbage from city centers and dumping it out of sight. Waste removal doesn’t just deal with bags or dumpsters full of garbage that you can transport via hands or trucks, either.

Everything we use, from trash bags to cleaners, demands safe disposal, including wastewater containing drain cleaners.

Drain cleaners contain harmful ingredients that burn the skin and cause severe injuries, including death if ingested.

You don’t want to dump them down the drain and hope for the best. Drain cleaners dumped down the garbage disposal flow into wastewater management sites, where they merge with other water sources. Dumping drain cleaner down a garbage disposal qualifies as environmentally unsound.

So, while the answer to the question, “Can you put drain cleaner down a garbage disposal?” is technically yes, you shouldn’t if you want to reduce your carbon footprint.

Most Clogs Resist Them

Despite wreaking havoc on the environment, chemical cleaners don’t remove clogs that well. They work on a more superficial level, and they corrode plumbing. They can damage garbage disposal pipes, plastic parts, and other metal parts.

A professional plumber provides the most effective clog removal because they have the tools to deal with a clog, know what’s causing it, and repair or replace parts as necessary. This saves money and time because the professionals won’t have to correct drain clean problems.

Besides, a clog might not be the problem. A malfunctioning garbage disposal could also be due to:

  • Worn-out parts
  • The age of the unit
  • The kitchen sink

After clearing the clog, commit to getting disposal maintenance as recommended. Keeping the garbage clean and tuned up complies with the warranty and also prevents small clogs from becoming big problems.

Professional plumbers can help keep your house running smoothly while helping you avoid plumbing-related headaches down the road.

Contact Al Coronado Plumbing for Garbage Disposal Maintenance and Other Plumbing Needs

Now that you know the answer to, “Can you put drain cleaner down a garbage disposal?” hire Tucson’s premier plumbing team, Al Coronado Plumbing, to care for your garbage disposal. We can further explain why there are no drain cleaners safe for pipes and keep your pipes clean with our five-star work.

Call us at 520-834-8400 for garbage disposal maintenance and other plumbing maintenance, repair, or replacement needs.

How Often Should a Sump Pump Run?

Written by Al Coronado Plumbing on . Posted in Plumbing.

Although most of Tucson has a minor flood risk, estates in low-lying areas at or below sea level rely heavily on sump pumps to keep their properties dry. Especially during the wet seasons, these devices pump indoor water back outdoors. But how often should a sump pump run?

Like your heating and cooling units, your sump pumps should run for a specific time before powering off. Our team with trusted plumbing services in Sahuarita and surrounding Arizona areas further explains the latter’s functionality below.

When Does a Sump Pump Power On and Off?

Since water flows to the lowest elevation, technicians install a pump in the deepest basement area; when water invades your home, it immediately trickles into the pit. However, a few drops won’t turn the pump on since the water must reach the float switch.

This trigger controls the sump pump operation frequency, telling the pump to move water directly into the drain line or nearby well or pond. After the rain stops and the pump expels enough water, levels drop below the float switch, and the sump pump’s running duration ends.

What Sump Pump Issues Cause It To Run Too Much or Too Little?

So, how often should sump pumps activate? While the ideal sump pump running time depends on pump size and present water accumulation, your pump shouldn’t run frequently or non-stop. If it does, your pump can deteriorate prematurely, especially with no water.

One of the most common factors affecting the answer to “How often should a sump pump run?” includes a broken float switch or clogged one where debris keeps it in the on or off position. That leaves the pump running too long or not at all. But even with a working trigger that sends water to the discharge line without issue, a clogged or frozen line keeps the water from draining.

Another common cause of the pump continuously running is a broken check valve that allows water to backflow through the pipe and reenter the pit. The pit then goes through a continuous cycle of pumping out the same water.

What Exterior Factors Affect Your Tucson Sump Pump Cycling Frequency?

However, sump pump malfunctions aren’t the only cause of unusual sump pump usage frequency since external factors also prove harmful. For instance, a broken main causes excessive water to flow around your foundation just as a negative ground grade places your home at the bottom of a slope, allowing rainwater to run directly to your home.

These issues ensure water is always present in your sump pit. So, even though the pump isn’t overworking due to a malfunction, these circumstances overwork it to the point of breakdown.

Trust the Team with Over 1,500 Five-Star Reviews!

Your sump pump protects your property and loved ones just as our five-star team, qualified in handling professional plumbing problems, protects your pump. So, do you want to uncover, “How often should a sump pump run?” or find help caring for your septic system? Call Tucson’s #1 Al Coronado Plumbing at 520-834-8400 to schedule a free visit!

Is My Kitchen Sink Connected to My Bathroom Sewage Pipe?

Written by Al Coronado Plumbing on . Posted in Blog Post.

When you notice a clog in your pipes and call Al Coronado Plumbing for professional plumbing services in Sahuarita, AZ, one of your first questions might be, “Is my kitchen sink connected to my bathroom sewage pipe?” It’s easy to see why you might suspect this, especially if you notice a foul odor coming from drains or, even worse, a sewage backup. 

Your home’s plumbing is a complex network of pipes and drains. Modern building codes stipulate how plumbers should install these pipes to ensure you have clean water and that all the wastewater safely drains into the sewer. If you have a problem preventing either of those things from happening, call us at (520) 834-8400 and have one of our experienced team members find a solution. 

An Overview of Household Plumbing 

To return to the question, “Is my kitchen sink connected to my bathroom sewage pipe?” the answer is, most likely, no. Most homes built within the last 100 years have separate drain lines in the kitchen and bathroom, as the standard plumbing code prohibits combining them. 

Although the kitchen and the bathroom have separate pipes to carry waste to the sewer, both connect to the sewer line. All wastewater converges in this pipe, which takes it to the local treatment facility via municipal lines. 

The Difference Between Kitchen and Bathroom Drains

The kitchen sink drainage system has a horizontal waste pipe that connects to a waste stack. Water flows into the pipe, which connects to a vertical waste stack. The waste gasses vent through the roof, and wastewater flows into the main sewer line. 

The bathroom drains work similarly, but the vent stack is about twice the size of the kitchen pipe; the typical bathroom drainage pipe is four inches in diameter compared to two inches for the kitchen. That’s because the kitchen drain only needs to be big enough for food scraps, while the bathroom drainpipe must accommodate toilet waste. Like the kitchen drain, the sewer gasses vent through the roof, and the solid waste and water travel down to the sewer. 

Only in very old homes is the kitchen sink connected to the same vent stack as the bathroom. This arrangement is outdated and not compliant with modern codes, so plumbers will recommend rerouting the pipes to separate them.

Why the Kitchen and Bathroom Cannot Share Drain Lines 

A plumbing design that uses a shared drain for the kitchen and bathroom is a recipe for trouble. There’s a greater chance of clogs in these lines since the vent cannot handle all the waste. If a clog does form, it can cause a backup into every drain in the house, which is both messy and dangerous. 

Get Help with Plumbing Problems 

Even if the answer to “Is my kitchen sink connected to my bathroom sewage pipe?” is no, you can still have connection problems to the main sewer line due to clogs or incorrect installation. If you notice foul odors, slow drainage, backups, or strange noises, call Al Coronado Plumbing at (520) 834-8400 for help. Our team of Sahuarita plumbers is ready to solve any issue. 

Why Does My Bathroom Smell Like Sulfur?

Written by Al Coronado Plumbing on . Posted in Blog Post.

When kitchen sinks develop a foul, rotten egg odor, the problem is usually old food stuck in the drain. However, bathrooms can also take on the same scent, and there’s no food going down the drains in those rooms. So if a bathroom smells like sulfur, what’s the cause?

Al Coronado Plumbing is one of the top providers of Sahuarita’s expert plumbing services. In the post below, our team outlines the top reasons a bathroom can have a sulfuric smell and what you could do to address it. Give us a call at (520) 834-8400 if you need more help with drains.

Is the Smell From the Water or a Drain?

If your bathroom smells bad without an obvious cause, you might assume it’s mold growth, mildew, or water contamination. A sulfur smell won’t signify mold or mildew. Those growths produce a musty scent, not a sulfuric one. 

Water contamination is a possibility, though. If you think the water is the problem, you can perform a quick test.

Fill a glass with cold tap water, take it outside, and give it a sniff. Do the same with the hot water. Rotten egg smells in the hot water glass usually mean water heater contamination, and foul odors from both glasses indicate water supply contamination.

If neither glass smells, the problem is likely one or more of the bathroom’s drains.

Are Your Bathroom Drains the Culprit?

If your bathroom smells like sulfur due to a drain, it could be due to one of these reasons:

  • Plumbing Ventilation Problems: Your plumbing system has a vent pipe that helps water flow down drains. A clog in that pipe from dirt, leaves, or other debris can reduce water flow, causing gases from organic waste to seep from drains.
  • Toilet Problems: You could deposit a septic-safe bleach tab in your toilet’s tank if it smells even after a thorough cleaning. However, you might need help from a qualified plumber if the bleach deodorizer doesn’t work; your toilet may be leaking sewer gas. 
  • Dry Drain Trap: The U-shaped pipes beneath drains should have some water on their lowest part. That water forms a seal to block sewer line gases from exiting the drain. Your drains will start to smell if the U-pipe dries completely.

How to Get Rid of Sulfur Smells in Your Bathroom

Air fresheners can help hide some odors. Effective odor elimination for bathroom drains starts with plumbing maintenance and routine cleaning. Here are several plumbing and cleaning tips to consider:

  • Use drain traps to prevent clogs from hair, dirt, and other particles
  • Flush your pipes often with enzyme cleaners
  • Call a plumber to clear clogs

Learn More About Plumbing Maintenance From Al Coronado Plumbing

If you can’t figure out why your bathroom smells like sulfur, our Al Coronado Plumbing professionals can help. With over 40 years of experience providing top-tier plumbing services throughout Sahuarita, Arizona, our local technicians can quickly find, diagnose, and fix any plumbing problem. 

We’re the team to call whether you have a toilet gurgling problem or a clogged drain—call (520) 834-8400 today to schedule services with Al Coronado Plumbing.

Why Does My Toilet Bubble When I Take a Shower?

Written by Al Coronado Plumbing on . Posted in Plumbing.

If you experience toilet gurgling or bubbling, you might wonder what’s causing this issue and if it’s something to worry about. The answer to, “Why does my toilet bubble when I take a shower?” ranges from something completely normal to more serious concerns. 

To get to the bottom of your toilet bubbling while showering, you’ll want to deploy help from a skilled plumbing contractor in Sahuarita. 

Understanding Toilet Gurgling in the Shower

Have you been wondering, “Why does my toilet bubble when I take a shower?” If you hear gurgling coming from your toilet while you shower, it’s because they both share a drain line. If there’s something clogging, restricting, or blocking the line, air can become trapped inside the pipes, which can lead to bubbling noises.

Troubleshooting Toilet Issues During Shower

If you hear any sort of gurgling from your toilet during showers, there are many things you’ll want to inspect and troubleshoot before moving forward. Here is a brief list of common toilet issues that can cause bubbling:

  • Clogged toilet drain, which can be minor, like a clogged toilet, or significant, like a deep clog in the plumbing that requires an auger
  • Air bubble due to a dry P-trap, which is the pipe running below the toilet 
  • Vent stack blockage from debris like sticks or nests

Cause of Toilet Bubbling During Shower

There are a few main reasons why a toilet or shower may be gurgling during or after showering. The most common reasons and their fixes are detailed below.

Main Sewer Line Clog

This type of clog requires help from professional plumbers because it can be due to numerous factors like tree roots, grease, damage, or debris. A main sewer line clog may require hydro-jetting and drum augers to reach the affected area and break through the clog. 

Poorly Installed Plumbing

Improper plumbing can cause poor pressurization in the plumbing, which allows for air pockets and dangerous backflow. To best treat your issue, hire professional plumbers who can take all diagnostic measures to inspect your plumbing and provide the correct long-term solution.

Drain Pipe Clogs in Shower

Now and then, the shower drain clogs with hair, debris, and other materials. If the shower has a clog, it also affects the toilet since they’re connected. If you suspect the tub has a clog, you’ll want to remove the drain catcher and use a plunger to push down suspected debris. 

Plumbers use augers that rod through debris in the drain pipes to remove stubborn clogs and eliminate any overflow. Furthermore, if you use a well and septic, you should know that non-septic safe toilet paper may clog pipes, too, leading to a main line blockage.

Instead of questioning, “Why does my toilet bubble when I take a shower?” get your answers today. Contact Al Coronado Plumbing at (530) 834-8400 in Tucson, AZ, for all your plumbing services! Worry less about how a shower drain impacts toilet bubbling and get the help you deserve.

Why Are Water Filtration Systems Worth It?

Written by Al Coronado Plumbing on . Posted in Plumbing.

Are water filtration systems worth it? When you turn on your tap, it’s easy to assume that the stream gushing out is pristine and untainted, but how can you be sure? 

Even a crystal-clear appearance is no guarantee of safety, as many harmful contaminants are invisible to the naked eye.

As a skilled plumbing contractor in Southern AZ, we at Al Coronado Plumbing have received many queries concerning this topic. Keep reading as we discuss the cold, hard facts and help you make informed decisions. If you need reliable plumbing service, give us a call at 520-834-8400.

Doesn’t the Municipal System Filter Our Water?

You can think of treatment plants as our first line of defense against the undesirable elements present in our water. Even with the impressive machinery and stringent protocols, though, they cannot guarantee absolute purity. 

Your water supply can still contain chloramines, magnesium, fluoride, calcium, byproducts from insecticides and pesticides, and even suspicious solids in rare cases.

Reap the Worthwhile Rewards of Installing a Whole-House Water Filter System

Are water filtration systems worth it? If you have reservations about making this upgrade, consider the following benefits these systems provide.

Better-Tasting Water

With a water filtration system, every gulp you take is free from the off-putting metallic taste of unfiltered water. You can also bid adieu to that unpleasant chlorinated swimming pool smell that sometimes wafts up when you’re trying to enjoy a refreshing drink. Quench your thirst, and savor the difference!

Fewer Health Risks

The beauty of a personal system is that it handles any pesky pollutants that might have slipped through the municipal nets. As such, you can avoid issues like:

  • Skin irritation
  • Gastrointestinal diseases
  • Neurological complications
  • Certain types of cancers

Remember, this isn’t just about drinking water; it’s about the water you bathe in, cook with, and use for cleaning too.

It’s Cost-Efficient

Think about the money you’ve forked out for bottled water or those individual filters for your faucets and showers. 

Now, imagine redirecting all that money into a one-time purchase. The maintenance also becomes easier, cheaper, and far less frequent, making water filtration systems surprisingly cost-efficient.

Protected Plumbing

Does your area suffer from hard water? The mineral deposits that form inside your plumbing can lead to clogging, impacting the water pressure and reducing the lifespan of your system. Most larger systems have water-softening capabilities to combat this headache.

A softer water source also:

  • Makes your laundry brighter and softer
  • Leaves your hair and skin feeling silky smooth
  • Speeds up the dishwashing process
  • Eliminates unsightly residue in your kitchen and bathroom fixtures

Upgrade Your Water Quality Today

Are water filtration systems worth it? If you recently got a water test and were left aghast at the results, even whole-house water filters worth a few hundred dollars can make a world of difference.

Call 520-834-8400 and let our crew at Al Coronado Plumbing recommend a tailor-fit solution for your property. Explore more of our blog and learn how to avoid plumbing emergencies this winter.    

How Much Does a Water Filtration System Cost in Tucson?

Written by Al Coronado Plumbing on . Posted in Blog Post.

Accessing clean water directly from your tap is a major convenience that saves you money and effort and keeps your family healthy. Plus, thanks to home water filtration, you can get this water in its purest form for clear drinking water in no time at all. 

How much does a water filtration system cost? At Al Coronado Plumbing, we believe in being upfront with all of our clients, including offering detailed information on pricing. Below, our skilled plumbing contractor in Southern AZ breaks down water filtration systems to help you make an informed decision about what your home needs.

What Is a Water Filtration System?

A water filtration system removes particulates and harmful contaminants from your home’s water supply. There are two main types of home filtration systems: whole-house and under-sink units.

Whole-House Filtration Systems

Also known as point-of-entry systems, whole-house water filtration systems will address the water throughout your entire home. Plumbers install these units at the main water line, which is the point where water enters your home. The filter will remove chlorine, sulfur, and iron before the water ever reaches your faucets.

Whole-house filtration systems costs can be up to nine times more than under-sink systems, depending on the type of system and your home’s unique needs.

Under-Sink Filtration Systems

Under-sink water filtration is the more cost-friendly counterpart to whole-house systems. As the name suggests, plumbers install under-sink systems directly under your sink. These units only filter the water supplied to that particular sink, not your entire water supply.

Since under-sink systems only serve one faucet system in the home, they’re a more affordable option if you want them only in the kitchen or bathrooms. The average cost depends on the unit and any complexities involved with the installation process.

Factors Impacting Water Filtration System Cost

How much does a water filtration system cost in Tucson, AZ? When it comes to the final cost of your water filtration system, several factors are at play, such as:

Type

There are many types of water filtration units. UV light water treatment systems are on the more budget-friendly side. Reverse osmosis units cost around four times as much as the UV light option.

Complexity

Installation complexity is another factor adding to the cost of your water purification system. A complicated installation process means the total cost goes up due to the labor hours it will take to install the system correctly.

Brand

Some water filtration brands are “high-end,” with more features and superior quality, and all those details will reflect in the overall cost. How much does a water filtration system cost in Tucson? Even the most advanced basic units will cost four times less than the most simplistic high-end brands.

Water Filtration Installation in Tucson, AZ

Before heading off to the home improvement store, consider a professional water filtration installation. Al Coronado Plumbing installs filtration systems of all kinds and price points, and our plumbing service can make your home more eco-friendly! Help your family stay healthy with clean drinking water and more—call 520-834-8400 today!

Can Toilet Paper Clog Pipes?

Written by Al Coronado Plumbing on . Posted in Clogged Pipes.

A clogged toilet quickly causes a nasty disaster on your bathroom floor. Understandably, you’ll want to avoid commode catastrophes at all costs. 

Can toilet paper clog pipes? Al Coronado Plumbing, a skilled plumbing contractor in Southern AZ, unpacks that question below.

Let’s Talk About Toilet Paper

Which works best for your septic and plumbing system?

  • Bamboo toilet paper
  • Single-ply 
  • Recycled rolls
  • Unbleached varieties 

With endless toilet paper products from which you can choose, many people make the choice on price alone. However, manufacturers design toilet paper differently. For example, some brands may degrade almost instantly when wet, and you won’t be able to use that type of paper to clean up spilled sodas or other messes.

However, while most toilet paper lacks the absorbency and durability necessary for effectively cleaning surfaces, there are still levels of functionality to consider. A one-ply product will break down faster than a three or four-ply product. Certain materials like bamboo also degrade faster.

Can Toilet Paper Clog Pipes?

So, can toilet paper clog pipes, and if so, which product would plumbers recommend? Yes, toilet paper can clog pipes, particularly if too much enters the plumbing system at once. You can mitigate the issue by exploring how different products work to satisfy your needs and protect your drainage system from invading tree roots and sediment buildup.

Better Toilet Paper Could Help

When choosing the best toilet paper for your household, consider the following factors:

  • Multiple plies: Single-ply toilet paper will cause fewer blockages but doesn’t always fulfill your personal needs. 
  • Material: Materials like bamboo and other biodegradable substances break down faster than traditional products. 
  • Your needs: If you struggle with stomach issues, you might need better toilet paper to ensure hygiene. Why not look into multi-ply options made from biodegradable materials to protect your septic system?

How To Prevent Toilet Paper Blockages

Under some circumstances, you need to use more than your drain pipes can handle. What can you do to ensure your toilet paper goes down the drain smoothly? You’ll find a few helpful recommendations below:

  • Keep a selection of products: Who said you can only use one type of toilet paper at home? Stock up on one-ply products for regular use and multi-ply products for heavier use. This ensures your cleanliness and comfort without stressing your drainage system.
  • Install a bidet: Consider a complete bidet installation or removable attachments. Bidets can eliminate your need for toilet paper at home. 
  • Don’t rinse toilet paper down the sink or tub drains: Sometimes, kids or pets make messes with paper products in other plumbing fixtures. Prevent a blocked drain by removing as much toilet paper from the fixture as possible.
  • Proactively maintain your plumbing system: Prevention is the best solution. Regular maintenance services from an experienced plumber will ensure your plumbing and septic system work flawlessly, especially when you’re in no mood to mop or plunge.

Al Coronado Plumbing Solves All Kinds of Drain Clogs

Can toilet paper clog pipes? Yes, it can, but Al Coronado Plumbing offers services to prevent and fix all types of clogged drains! Call 520-834-8400 for professional plumbing assistance today.

Three Essential Drain Cleaning Tools Used By Pros

Written by Al Coronado Plumbing on . Posted in Plumbing.

Professional plumbers utilize several drain-cleaning tools to eradicate troublesome pipe clogs in record time. Although most Tucson residents know the basic plumbing tools, many don’t know the more obscure plumbing equipment. That’s why our team at Al Coronado Plumbing put together this guide on essential drain-cleaning tools plumbers use to eliminate pipe blockages. 

Al Coronado Plumbing is one of Tucson’s most trusted professional plumbing companies. If you need professional drain cleaning in Tucson, AZ, call our experts at (520) 834-8400.

Three Professional Drain-Cleaning Tools Every Professional Uses

Clogged pipes can hinder your plumbing system’s operations and make it difficult to use your fixtures without adversely affecting your drain lines. However, professional drain-cleaning tools can make vexing pipe blockages a thing of the past while preserving your piping’s structural integrity. Below are some efficient tools and drain cleaners most plumbers use on a near-weekly basis:

1. Plumbing Snake

A plumbing snake is a long, flexible, corkscrew-like wire that penetrates clogs and dislodges them from pipes. They break apart drain obstructions and allow them to flow through the drain without obstructing operations or damaging the pipe’s interior. Plumbing snakes, also called augers, come in motorized and manual model variations and are one of the most useful tools to eliminate drain blockages. 

2. Video Inspection Devices

Before a plumber eliminates a drain blockage, they must find it and determine the best unclogging method. However, uncovering clogs deep within pipes isn’t always easy. Video inspection devices allow plumbers to find and assess hard-to-reach drain blockages and plan their approach beforehand.

Video inspection equipment typically features a small waterproof camera attached to a long, narrow cable. The camera sends images and videos of the blockage to the plumber’s monitor to help them determine the best approach to the clog. Once the plumbers examine the clog, they can efficiently remove it and restore your plumbing system’s operations.

3. Hydro Jets

Plumbers use hydro jets to eliminate stubborn clogs and clean a pipe’s interior. These jets shoot highly pressurized water into the drains to eliminate clogs that other tools can’t remove. They can remove various substances, including:

  • Oil 
  • Grease
  • Waste 
  • Non-degradable materials
  • Tree roots

Although hydro jets make eradicating vexing clogs swift and easy, the high water pressure can damage the pipes if someone uses them incorrectly. Always leave hydro-jetting to the professionals to ensure a safe and effective process.

Our Al Coronado Plumbing team has vast experience with these drain-cleaning tools and will have your piping system operating better than ever at a price that fits your budget.

Contact Al Coronado Plumbing for Top-Quality Drain Cleaning in Tucson, Arizona

If you want to revamp your home or business’s piping system and ensure optimal operations, contact Al Coronado Plumbing. Our plumbers will have your pipes clean and pristine using the best drain-cleaning tools in the industry today. Whether you need to fix a clogged drain or want to install a new toilet, our experts have you covered.

Call our Al Coronado Plumbing team at (520) 834-8400 and schedule your appointment today!

What Causes Black Mold in Sink Drains?

Written by Al Coronado Plumbing on . Posted in Blog Post, General plumbing blog, Plumbing.

If you see a black discoloration ringing your sink’s drain, you likely have black mold growth. So, what causes black mold in sink drains? Keep reading to discover everything you should know about black mold in your sink. 

As the top-related drain cleaning company in Tucson, AZ, our team at Al Coronado Plumbing can help you remove black mold and prevent future growth. Book an appointment by calling 520-834-8400.

What Is Black Mold?

Black mold might look like slime or gunk, but it’s actually two layers of growing organisms. On the top level, bacteria grow on your discarded hair, soap scum, skin cells, and more. Beneath the bacteria, penetrating into the pipes under your drain is black mold.

Black mold endangers your health and property and can grow from your sink into the rest of your home. If you see black gunk, mold has already penetrated deeper into your sink. Address the mold immediately to avoid more severe problems.

Causes of Black Mold

Black mold grows from two causes.

Drain Clogs

A drain clog provides the perfect breeding ground for mold. Not only does it cause moisture to build up, but it provides plenty of nutrients from hair and other substances. The dangerous thing about a sink clog is that the mold can go undetected while it spreads to the rest of your home.

Moisture Buildup

Mold only needs moisture and nutrients to take root, and that can occur in places other than a clog. Even when it doesn’t cause a blockage, whenever you rinse anything down the drain, it can lodge in the sides or joints of your pipe, eventually attracting water and then mold.

Signs You Have Black Mold

Now that you know what causes black mold in sink drains, look for these signs you have a problem:

  • Discoloration around the affected area is the most visible sign. The mold will present as a dark ring around the drain or just inside it. If you notice a pinkish discoloration, that’s a bacteria and an early sign mold is soon to come.
  • If your bathroom smells like an attic or humid basement, it’s an invisible indication mold is growing just beneath your drain.
  • If you notice your allergies increase whenever you use the bathroom, especially if you don’t experience them in bathrooms outside your home, it’s a clear sign something is growing in your sink.

How To Clean the Black Mold

Follow these steps to address black mold:

  1. Remove the drain stopper and scrub it down. For extra certainty, soak it in vinegar.
  2. Plunge the drain to remove any clogs.
  3. Use a homemade cleaning solution consisting of two cups of boiling water and one-half cup of baking soda to pour down the pipes.
  4. Call a plumber to inspect your pipes and address any further issues.

Contact Al Coronado Plumbing for All Your Plumbing Needs

Now that you know what causes black mold in sink drains, our Al Coronado Plumbing team can help you use drain cleaners and other cleaning methods to clear it. With knowledgeable and professional service, we make the process hassle-free. Book an appointment by calling us at 520-834-8400.

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