Our Plumbing Blog

Drains

Tiling projects often result in grout dust being washed down the drain. The problem? That dust hardens like concrete, causing clogged drain tile that can affect your entire interior drainage system.

Drains

Drain clearing is a fast fix that removes a single clog or blockage. Drain cleaning is a more thorough service—often using hydrojetting—to clean the full length of your pipes and prevent future plumbing problems. Knowing the difference helps you avoid repeat clogs and costly repairs.

Drains

Mr. Rooter Plumbing^® shares helpful information on how to ensure your trap primer is working as it should to prevent dry drains and associated bad smells!

• Trap Primer Purpose and Location: A trap primer keeps drain traps filled with water to prevent sewer gases from entering buildings through dry drains. They’re common in rarely used drains (e.g., garages, basements, vacation homes), and are often required by code for commercial or industrial floor drains.
• Signs of a Failing Primer: Several signs indicate a failing primer, with sewer smells being the most common, followed by a dry trap, a leaking primer, gurgling drains, and inconsistent, limited, or no water flow.
• DIY Maintenance Tips: Check for proper installation, test by activating connected fixtures, inspect for leaks, and clean debris from the outlet every 3–6 months.
• Primer Types: Options include continuous flow, pressure-activated, flush valve-operated, electronic, and manual trap primers.
• Why Drains Smell: Dry P-traps allow sewer gases (like hydrogen sulfide) to escape. Flush them with hot water or clean them with baking soda and vinegar to eliminate odors.