Your home’s sewer main plays a crucial role in maintaining the functionality of your plumbing system. But, like all plumbing components, they don’t last forever. 

Understanding the lifespan of your sewer main and the factors that can affect its longevity is essential for ensuring the reliability of your plumbing system. Keep reading to learn about the lifespan of sewer mains, including the different substrates used over the years.

In Cincinnati, sewer mains have been constructed using various materials, each with advantages, disadvantages, and lifespan expectations. 

Clay. Clay pipes were commonly used for sewer mains in the early to mid-20th century. While clay pipes are durable and resistant to chemical corrosion, they are susceptible to cracking, root intrusion, and shifting soil conditions. The lifespan of clay sewer mains typically ranges from 50 to 60 years.

Help!!! 5 things to do while waiting for an emergency plumber

Cast Iron. Cast iron became a popular choice for sewer mains in the mid-20th century due to its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. Cast iron pipes are less prone to cracking than clay pipes but can still deteriorate over time due to rust and scale buildup. The lifespan of cast iron sewer mains ranges from 75 to 100 years with proper maintenance.

PVC. PVC pipes emerged as a modern alternative to clay and castiron sewer mains in the latter half of the 20th century. PVC pipes are lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant, making them an attractive option for residential plumbing systems. The lifespan of PVC sewer mains is estimated to be 100 years or more under normal operating conditions.

Don’t be surprised on moving day. Get a sewer main inspection and cleaning before you buy. 

Several factors can influence the lifespan of your sewer main, regardless of the substrate used. These factors include:

Soil Conditions. Soil composition, moisture levels, and shifting can impact the stability and integrity of sewer mains.

Tree Roots. Tree roots seeking moisture and nutrients can infiltrate sewer mains, leading to blockages and structural damage.

Usage Patterns. Heavy usage or improper disposal of certain materials can accelerate the deterioration of sewer mains.

Maintenance. Regular inspection, cleaning, and repair of sewer mains can extend their lifespan and prevent costly failures.

Concerned about the lifespan of your sewer main or experiencing plumbing issues? The team at Allied Reddi-Rooter can help. Our video inspections for sewer mains can quickly get to the root of the problem without breaking the bank.

There’s a lot to consider before purchasing a new water heater. Maybe you’re thinking about upgrading to a tankless model. Or perhaps you’re wondering if an energy efficient water heater is best (the answer is usually “yes!”), or if there’s a certain manufacturer you should go with. 

As you mull everything over, don’t forget to consider the size of the water heater. If you don’t, there could be some cold showers in your future. 

There are two very important reasons to make sure your water heater is properly sized. First, it will ensure it meets the needs of your household. And second, it can help save energy as it takes more to operate a water heater that’s the wrong size.

Here’s how to choose the right size water heater for your home. 

For storage water heaters: 

If you’re buying a water heater with a tank (most homes in Cincinnati have this type), check the water heater’s first hour rating. This is the number of gallons of hot water the heater can generate in an hour. On water heaters with the EnergyGuide label, you’ll find this on the top left corner of the label. 

You’ll want to choose a water heater with a rating that is in line with your household’s highest hourly demand. In general, a 40 gallon water heater is ideal for a household with two people. Here are some guidelines to help: 

For tankless water heaters 

To accurately size the best tankless water heater for your home, you’ll need to do a little math. First, look at the water heater’s flow per minute rate. Next, compile a list of all the water fixtures you might use in your household at the same time. 

So, if the water heater you’re considering has a flow rate of 3.2gpm, which is 3.2 gallons of water per minute, add up how many gallons of water you’d likely use during a shower and how much water you’d use running the faucet at the same time, for example. If that number adds up to 5.75, you’d need a water heater with a 5.75 gpm. 

Here’s a great article with details about sizing water heaters 

For a solar water heating system 

Contractors usually consider a couple of things when sizing a solar heating system. First, they factor in the collector area, with a guideline of about 20 square feet for a household of two. Another 8 square feet is added for every additional household member. 

They also consider the storage volume of the tank. A 40–50 gallon take is usually enough for up to three people. If your household has more than four people, you’ll likely need an 80 gallon tank. 

Ready for a water heater? The team at Allied Reddi-Rooter is here to help. We’ll make sure yours is the right size, installed safely and ready to go the distance.  Call or contact  us.  We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.

Here’s a word of plumbing advice: there are some things you should know about plumbing – whether you’re a home or business owner. Just a little knowledge of pipes, drain and everything in between can go a long way. Not only can it keep your plumbing in top shape, but it can help you know when it’s time to call a plumber. 

Below are five simple things plumbers want you to know in order to be prepared, preserve your plumbing, and even save a little money. 

Know what (and what not) to flush down the drain

Almost every day, we receive calls from customers who have flushed things they shouldn’t have down the kitchen sink or toilet. Sometimes, it can be difficult to unclog drains when there is a blockage, which is why you should know what needs to go in the trash, and not down the sink. 

Face wipes, feminine hygiene products, cotton balls and grease are just a handful of things that should never go down a drain. We recommend having this list handy and checking it when in doubt about where to toss specific items. 

Know the location of your shut off valve

This is one of the simplest, yet most important ways to protect your home from water damage if a pipe bursts. The shut off valve is typically located in the basement, or an outside wall, and is easy to turn off. So, when a pipe bursts or you need to turn off your water supply for any other reason, you’ll be able to do so quickly. 

Stop using chemical cleaners

It can be easy to grab a bottle of Drano or other type of commercial drain cleaner filled with harsh chemicals that are bad for you and the planet. After all, we’re led to believe they work better than any other kind of drain cleaner. 

But here’s the thing: they can corrode pipes, damage plumbing fixtures and are extremely dangerous if they come in contact with skin or are ingested. That’s why we recommend using safer cleaners, made with environmentally friendly, organic ingredients. Have a particularly stubborn clog? If so, it’s time to call the plumber. 

Know how to use a plunger

Many people don’t use plungers properly. If you find yourself pushing and pulling when using your plunger, you might be using it wrong. To use a plunger, first cover all drains that are near the one that’s backed up. Then, place a small amount of petroleum jelly around the ring of the plunger. This will help create even more suction. 

Next, scoop out any excess water and fit the plunger over the drain and push gently on the handle. Make sure you’re able to get a good grip on the handle and guide it easily. Now, pull the plunger away after about 30 seconds. If the clog remains, either repeat, use a drain opener, or call a plumber. 

Invest in plumbing tools

You don’t have to purchase expensive plumbing tools and equipment, but it’s a good idea to have a toolbox with at least a few items that can go the distance for your plumbing. In addition to a good plunger, we recommend having a set of pliers, plumber’s putty, duct tape and caulk. 

Remember, a little plumbing knowledge goes a long way, but the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter is always here to help you, too. From free, over the phone estimates to emergency plumbing repair, we’ve got you covered.   Call the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter a call at 513-396-5300, or contact  us via our website.  We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.

Clogs in drains can be stubborn and extremely difficult to remove. Even a small clog in a toilet or the kitchen sink can cause big problems and disrupt your life. Imagine getting dinner ready without a sink to use, for example. 

It’s tempting to try to clear a clog on your own. In fact, you may even be tempted to purchase a snake at your local hardware store to clear the clog yourself. And while that might work in a pinch, the solution might be temporary. 

When it comes to clogged drains, you’re better off contacting a professional plumber who can use a mechanical auger or perform water jet cleaning to clear the drain properly – and for good. 

What are drain snakes? 

Snakes are often the first go-to after an over-the-counter drain cleaning solution doesn’t do the job. Snakes look a lot like their name, they are a long device that runs down the drain to dislodge the clog and help flush the blockage. Snakes can be readily purchased at your local home improvement store and are easy to use. 

They are ideal to use for minor clogs in the bathroom, and for your garbage disposals and kitchen drains as well. However, it’s important to note that often, you’ll need a tougher device to unclog your pipes. 

What are mechanical drain augers?

If the drain snake did not work, it’s time to call a plumber, who can use a mechanical auger to get rid of the clog. Like a snake, these also are a long device but they’re able to cover wider pipes and drains than snakes can. 

How do snakes and augers differ? 

The biggest difference between a snake and an auger is that snakes can help with smaller clogs, while a mechanical auger that plumbing companies including Allied Reddi-Rooter use can reach the blockage, break it up, and effectively clear residue along the pipes. 

This means that mechanical augers are capable of working on the toughest clogs, and even on roots that grow into outdoor sewage pipes. Snakes might work fine for smaller pipes with minor clogs, but for most major clogs that require help from a plumber, an auger or water jet can better clear out the obstructions. 

What is water jet cleaning? 

Water jet cleaning is often the next step after a video inspection of your home’s pipes indicates a serious clog. The process works via an extremely high pressured hose with a nozzle on the end – much like a typical hose you use outdoors. 

However, this hose connects with a machine that pressurizes the water that is pushed out to create a powerful stream that can break up the most stubborn clogs. In addition to clearing out the pipes, it can also clean them so they function at their best and are less likely to clog in the future. 

When should have water jet cleaning?

Anyone with a serious clog should consider water jet cleaning. It’s also an excellent solution for getting rid of grease build up that is stubbornly clinging to the walls of the pipes. And since it can cut through tree roots, dried concrete and even wood (much like a laser beam), water jet cleaning is ideal for sewer pipe cleaning as well. 

What should I do if I have a stubborn clog in my drain? 

Call the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter a call at 513-396-5300, or contact  us via our website. We can use a mechanical auger or schedule water jet cleaning to take care of the clog in your drain for good. We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.

Choosing among Cincinnati plumbers is a big decision. After all, you’re trusting a technician with one of the most important systems in your home. If you hire a plumber who doesn’t know what they’re doing, or a plumbing company that doesn’t care about their customers, you could end up needing even more plumbing services than you did before. 

The team at Allied Reddi-Rooter cares deeply about our customers and is committed to offering every home and business owner exceptional service. There’s a reason we’ve been in business for so long. Simply put, your confidence is our number one priority. 

Here are more reasons you can be confident when choosing Allied Reddi-Rooter for your plumbing needs. 

We have more 70 years of experience

Allied Reddi-Rooter has been serving Cincinnati area homes and businesses for 72 years. With more than seven decades in the industry, it stands to reason that we’re one of the top plumbers in Cincinnati. 

Our technicians are plumbing experts

Our technicians are always learning the latest in plumbing trends, techniques and tools. For example, we were one of the first Greater Cincinnati plumbing companies to offer residential main sewer videos so homeowners can have visual confidence when they need a sewer main repair.

We give instant and firm estimates

We offer our customers immediate estimates on all residential plumbing services and repairs. In fact, 95% of the time, we can give estimates over the phone with no unexpected add-ons after our technician performs services. For those repairs that have us scratching our heads over the phone, we will come to your home, inspect the repair, and then provide a free, firm price. You’ll never be surprised by Allied pricing. 

We offer overnight, emergency services

We know some plumbing repairs simply cannot wait. That’s why our technicians are on-call 24/7, ready to repair serious plumbing issues immediately. And we never charge additional fees for overnight repairs. 

And we prioritize next day repairs

Need a plumbing repair or service that isn’t an emergency but still is important to address quickly? If so, we offer priority service scheduling for the next business day for non-emergency plumbing repairs.

Free second opinions

We provide peace of mind through our no-obligation free second opinions that might include a phone conversation, our interpretation of your plumbing repair project, a timeline, and a written estimate if desired.

Need a plumbing repair or is it time to schedule maintenance? Give the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter a call: 513-396-5300, or contact  us via our website.  We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.  You can follow us on Facebook, @Allied Reddi-Rooter for the latest tips or to ask questions.  https://www.alliedreddirooter.com/grease-trap-cleaning/  We’re here, ready to earn your confidence.

Have you ever gone to empty the dishwasher only to find it hasn’t drained? If you have, you’re not alone. It’s a common, albeit frustrating, plumbing problem, but it’s often an easy fix.  

Next time you find standing water in your dishwasher, don’t get too flustered. Instead, take a look at our tips below on how to get to the source of the problem and fix the issue. 

Use the correct detergent
Let’s clear this up first: only use dishwashing detergent in your dishwasher. It can be tempting to use something like laundry detergent or dish soap like Joy or Palmolive if you run out of dishwashing detergent, but please don’t as it can cause problems. 

Another common issue arises when you simply pour dishwashing detergent in the wrong unit or directly onto the dishes. This will create plenty of suds (and quite possibly a mess) without getting your dishes clean. 

Run the garbage disposal
Once you’ve made sure that you haven’t used the wrong type of soap, you’re going to want to run the garbage disposal. Here’s why: your dishwasher’s drain hose connects and empties into the disposal drain. Often times, a poorly draining dishwasher is the result of a clogged garbage disposal. 

Once a disposal gets filled with food particles or other types of residue, it can all collect in the disposal pipe. Then, when the dishwasher needs to drain it can’t because of the clog. 

Conserve water at home Cincinnati, save $$$ 

Check the air gap
If your dishwasher connects directly to your sink (which is typical in homes without a garbage disposal), you likely have a small, stainless-steel part called an air gap that sits right at the top of the sink near the faucet. If the hose that connects to the dishwasher gets filled with food remnants it can lead to a clog and your dishwasher won’t drain properly.

To check the air gap simply unscrew it and make sure it isn’t clogged. If it is, give it a good cleaning, reattach it and see if that did the trick. 

Take a closer look at the drain hose
You’ll find the drain hose underneath your sink. Check it out and make sure there aren’t any kinks – just as you would a garden hose. If you do spot a kink, you’ll need to remove the clamps that hold the hose in place and run water through the hose until the kinks work themselves out. 

Take the motor for a test drive
To check the motor, just turn the dishwasher on and listen for any strange noises. If you hear a hum or a loud sound that doesn’t stop, you may have an issue with the motor turning on but not powering up. If this is the case, you’ll need a new motor. 

Drain standing water
If none of these tips seemed to work, it’s time to drain the water yourself. Make sure to place towels under your dishwasher to avoid a mess and remove the bottom tray carefully so you don’t spill the water. You could also scoop out the water with an old cup. Once all the water is out of the tray, we recommend running the dishwasher. If water collects again, it’s time to call a professional plumber. 

Why is my water bill so high? 

Still having dishwasher drainage issues? Call or Contact  the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter. We can take a closer look at your dishwasher and fix the problem quickly, so your dishes sparkle once again.

We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service. You can follow us on Facebook, @Allied Reddi-Rooter for the latest tips or to ask us a question.

When you’re in need of a plumber for your home or business, make sure you choose one with extensive experience and knowledge about all types of plumbing and issues. The best plumbing companies have the capability to perform any and all plumbing services. Basically, they know plumbing inside and out, which makes it easier for them to deliver quality work no matter how big or small the job at hand is.  

Here’s our list of the top ten qualities to look for when choosing a plumber in Cincinnati. 

Decades of experience. At Allied Reddi-Rooter, our plumbers have more than fifteen years of experience helping home and business owners with their plumbing needs. In fact, Allied Reddi-Rooter has been operating here in the tri-state for more than 70 years. We’ve watched plumbing trends come and go and have literally decades experience troubleshooting and fixing a wide array of plumbing issues.   

An emphasis on education. Your plumbing technician should be highly trained, able to pinpoint your plumbing problem quickly and fix it right the first time. Because the field of plumbing is constantly evolving, plumbers should always be honing their skills. The best plumbing companies give their employees the tools they need to keep learning.  

Truly “full service.” It’s one thing to say you’re a full-service company, and it’s another to really be one. Look at plumbing company websites to learn what services they offer. As we mentioned above, if they service all industries and homes, and offer a wide variety of services, they are likely to be an established plumbing company you can trust. 

Emergency service. We offer emergency service within two hours from the time we first talk to you. Be very wary of plumbers who make you wait when you think you have an emergency. The very worst plumbers wait because, if the problem persists and does further damage, the more work they’ll have to do and the higher the bill. 

Instant phone estimates. The best plumbing companies are fair, honest, and ready to help. They should offer free estimates over the phone and deliver free on-site estimates as well.  

They’re friendly. Never estimate the power of kindness and courtesy. Our plumbing technicians make friendly service a top priority. The best plumbers care about their customers and are committed to complete professionalism on the job. We work with our customers, listen to their needs, and communicate every step of the way.   

They have excellent reviews. Before you select a plumbing company, make sure you read online reviews carefully. Choose a plumber with a great reputation and many positive reviews on websites including Yelp, Facebook, and Google. 

Personalized service. Have you ever worked with a company that makes you talk to a different employee every time you reach out to them? That shouldn’t happen with your plumbing company. At Allied Reddi-Rooter, we assign one technician to a job. That way, they can build a relationship with you for better personalized service. 

Responsive, 24/7 availability. Whatever your plumbing needs are, no matter what time of the day or night it is, you should be able to reach your plumbing company. Plumbing problems don’t follow a 9-5 schedule. If your toilet clogs at 7 p.m. on a Saturday night before a big dinner party, for example, you’re going to want to call a plumber who’s quick to respond – whether it’s by walking you through fixing it on your own, or by hopping in the truck for emergency service (just save us a slice of cake). 

Customized plans. Every plumbing problem is unique, which is why the best plumbers have flexible, customizable plans for every issue and every budget. While some plumbing jobs require only one visit, others – like grease trap pumping for restaurants – can be scheduled for ongoing routine maintenance. 

Great deals. Look for plumbing companies that not only stand by their work but offer discounts and other specials to make their services even more affordable.   

Need a plumber? If you’re looking for friendly, knowledgeable plumbers with decades of experience contact Allied Reddi-Rooter. We know what it takes to deliver exceptional service and we’ve been doing it for 70 years. We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.  You can follow us on Facebook, @Allied Reddi-Rooter for the latest tips or to ask us a question.

Would you schedule an appointment with a spine surgeon if your back was sore? Probably not. Instead, you’d likely visit your primary care physician, a chiropractor, or a good massage therapist because spine surgeons are expensive, and their advanced qualifications aren’t necessary for the issue at hand.

These are the same reasons why a Cincinnati licensed master plumber is usually not the best person to hire for your general plumbing repairs. It’s easy to think otherwise, given their education and impressive title, but the fact is that licensed master plumbers usually bill at higher rates, even when performing routine plumbing tasks. 

The plumbers at Allied Reddi-Rooter have years of experience and training. In fact, we’ve been helping home and business owners with all their plumbing needs for 70 years. From major jobs like water main installation and sewer repair to sump pump installation, we can do it all – and we do not carry a licensed master plumber certificate. 

What is a licensed master plumber anyway? 

Licensed master plumbers have advanced accreditation that can take up to a decade to earn. They can oversee large teams of plumbers and they’re often employed to take the lead on major construction jobs like new office buildings and housing communities. 

While they can certainly clear drains, address and fix water heater issues and pinpoint the source of leaks, licensed master plumbers will often assign smaller jobs to other plumbers on their team. If they do the job themselves, you can expect to pay their rates, which are usually higher than the rates of a plumber without a master certification. 

Why should I not use a licensed master plumber? 

The biggest reason to not use a licensed master plumber is cost, of course. But the fact is, you probably don’t need one. Additional accreditation is not needed for everyday plumbing repairs, no matter how extensive they are. 

Another concern is that, should you choose a plumbing company with a master licensed plumbing certification that doesn’t mean that the plumber who comes out to help you will be the one with advanced qualifications. Still, you could end up paying more just because one is on the payroll. And you may just end up paying for something that isn’t needed. 

What should I look for when choosing a plumber? 

The plumbing company you choose should have decades of experience. They should have a stellar reputation in the Cincinnati tri-state area, and many positive reviews from happy customers. They should also offer instant phone estimates, on premise estimates and emergency 24/7 services. 

Allied Reddi-Rooter offers all of the above and more. We won’t overcharge you for over-and-above quality work. Need a plumbing repair done by experts? Contact us or give us a call today.  We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.