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Dealing With Backflow Prevention and More

Whether you own a home or commercial property, you are going to need access to a water supply. Anyone will want a safe and healthy supply, but there can be outside factors that prevent that. You can’t live off of plastic water bottles, so what do you do to ensure safe water for your space? There are a number of options, but the one that can be the most beneficial is a backflow prevention device. These need to be installed by professional plumbers, such as the KRK Enterprises, Inc. team. We can help with installation and more, including backflow certification for Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl properties. Call us at 800-330-7686 to learn more.

What is Backflow Certification?

If you have a backflow prevention device, then you know that it needs to be tested regularly. What is a backflow preventer? This is a device that is installed within your plumbing to make sure water is flowing in only one direction. It’s often used around areas where water flowing in both directions could come in contact with one another, like the plumbing lines near a toilet. Because of this, you need to have backflow tests and maintenance reports scheduled regularly. These are not install and leave alone devices. If something goes wrong, there is the possibility of your drinking water could be contaminated by harmful things. That’s why testing is so important. Having testing and backflow certification set up to happen on a regular basis will guarantee your device is always operating efficiently. 

Benefits of a Backflow Preventer

As mentioned, a backflow prevention device is designed to ensure that all water goes in one direction and only that direction. This is very beneficial for a variety of reasons and for properties in areas with high contamination risks. The best way to guarantee the best results is to invest in backflow preventer testing services. That way, you’ll get all the incredible advantages this device has to offer, including:

• Reduced Contact: One of the main benefits of a preventer is the fact that you will have reduced contact with pollutants, germs, waste, bacteria and more. These devices are designed to ensure water only goes in one direction, which is why they are often installed as a part of or near toilet systems. 
• Safe and Healthy: With a backflow preventer, you’ll have safe and healthy drinking water. If there is any chance of contaminants getting into your drinking and bathing water supply, this is a much needed device. 
• Preventing Health Issues: Because there is less chance of contamination or contact with harmful bacteria, a backflow preventer can help prevent health issues. There are many problems that can arise when you use or consume contaminated water. Reduce these chances by installing a backflow device. 
• Preventing Costly Repairs: When the wrong items flow through your plumbing, your pipes can easily become damaged. Fertilizers can cause corrosion and more. With a prevention device, you can avoid these damages and subsequently, the costly repairs that come with them.   
• Avoiding Discomfort: And of course, with a prevention device, you can completely avoid any discomfort. Rather waiting hours, or possibly days, for clean water, you’ll always have the guarantee of clean water. 

To learn more about these devices and backflow certification tests, connect with KRK Enterprises, Inc. for more information. We are licensed plumbers that can complete backflow certified testing and more. Give us a call at 800-330-7686 to get started. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is certified backflow testing?
  • Certified backflow testing refers to the process of testing the device to ensure that it is accurately and properly doing what it is designed to do. Licensed plumbers can provide the certified service so you’ll know that they are testing everything and providing accurate answers. 
• How much does backflow testing cost?
  • The final cost depends on a number of things. Overall, you can expect to pay anywhere between $20 and $100 for this service. Each plumber is different and may include additional fees or costs, but that is something you can discuss with them. 
• What is a backflow device and where is it located?
  • A backflow preventer is a device that is installed in your plumbing to force water in one direction. In certain areas of your plumbing, water may be able to flow in both directions, which means your supply can be contaminated by sewage, fertilizers, pesticides and more. These devices are placed wherever water has the potential to flow in both directions. 
• How do you test a backflow preventer?
  • While there are kits and devices you can find, your best bet is to rely on a licensed plumber. They will be able to provide certified testing services that you can save for future needs. 
• What is backflow in plumbing?
  • This is a term used to describe an unwanted flow of water in a reverse direction. Meaning, when water that should be moving away from the property is coming towards it, that would be called backflow. 

Connect With Our Team for More Information

Dial 800-330-7686 to speak with a KRK Enterprises, Inc. about backflow certification for your Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl space. We’re here to help you, so let’s get started today!

Keeping your plumbing clean

What is and when do you need hydro jetting? The hydro jet board that Frank Zapata marketed and is found at lakes and oceans for summer fun is nothing like the hydro jet for plumbing! Our article today will be based on the plumbing version of hydro jetting, which is used when the average drain cleaning tools, like a plunger, drain cleaning granules, liquid, or other forms of these products, or plumbing snake doesn’t clear a clogged drain.   

Today, a hydro-jetter is the best tool a professional plumber has in its arsenal for unclogging drains of all sizes. Hydro jet cleaning services is the process of placing a long hose down a drain that has a specialized nozzle on the end. It is connected to a device that forces high-pressured water back and forth through a clogged drain.

When performed by an experienced professional that knows how to operate a hydro jet a sewer line can also provide thorough cleaning on any of the following without damage:

• Lift Stations
• Catch Basins and Laterals
• Culvert pipes
• French Drains
• Storm Sewers
• Grease Removal

 What do plumbers use to unclog drains? 

For household remedies of unclogging a drain, pouring baking soda & vinegar in the drain, then let the mixture sit, follow up by using hot water to flush it will clear most common clogs. If the clog is due to grease buildup, a common problem in kitchens, baking soda, salt, and boiling water will usually work. Some clogs can be cleared with a household plunger. 

When none of these works, though, it is time to call the professionals. They will often repeat the plunger method just to be sure that it doesn’t clear the problem. Sometimes, though, a clogged drain is caused by tree roots.  This is when a plumber will use a camera to inspect the pipes. This video snake-like inspection system allows the plumber to see images of what is inside the pipes and determine what is causing the clog.

At that point, they will decide the best method and process to take. There are several tools that plumbers can use from the basic hand snake to a powerful drain machine. They will typically insert a flexible cable into the pipe with an attachment that will either bore, cut, scrape, or pull the blockage. 

A newer type of process is hydro jetting, which while effective, is more time consuming and expensive, so this is their last resort if all other measures have failed.  Hydro jetting is the use of water and a high-pressure pump that will blast the stubborn blockage and heavy clogs without damaging the pipes or the homeowner’s property.

Is Hydro Jetting safe for pipes? 

Yes, hydro jetting is safe for pipes when done correctly by an experienced and licensed plumber. When hydro jetting was first introduced, only plumbers had access to the equipment, and it would take a crew to operate it. 

Today, it is smaller and less cumbersome, but we still recommend it that only a professional plumber with experience in hydro jetting operates the unit. If you aren’t familiar with the equipment and the process, the high-water pressure is dangerous as it blasts the water through the hose and out the nozzle. Plumbers are equipped with special equipment and gear, much like a baseball catcher wears and eye protection.

Besides being prepared to handle the high level of water pressure, which can range from 7,000 psi to 60,000 psi, there are different nozzles that are used based on the job at hand.  Plumbers are trained to know which nozzle to use when and how. Unlike the drain cleaning chemicals that every homeowner has used at some point, hydro-jetting is an environmentally safe process.

How effective is hydro jetting? 

The practice of using hydro jetting is so effective, it has become the norm for debris-clearing across the country. It is power washing the inside of clogged pipes with up to60,000 PSI. Anything that is clogging a drain, hydro-jetting will dislodge it and get the drain flowing again.

Does Hydro jetting work on roots?

Yes!  Hydro jetting process of using high pressured water is very effective in clearing clogged sewers and is great in maintaining clean sewer lines, including removing tree roots! 

Does jetting a drainfield work? 

Because a drain field has perforated pipes, it is too delicate for hydro jetting. The 7,000 to 60,000 psi of water blasting through those perforations will force any clog out, but it will also blast through any gravel and earth around the perforated pipes.  It also will force that solid waste into your yard and soak into the groundwater, making it unsafe.

Hydro jetting may be the best thing for your household plumbing as a whole house air filtration system is to the air quality in your home.  Just as you rely on an experienced HVAC technician to handle your air quality in your home, always rely on an experienced plumber for hydro jetting your clogs. Want to get started on hydro jetting for your commercial or residential plumbing in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl? Call KRK Enterprises, Inc. today at 800-330-7686!

How to get rid of oil and grease?

With Thanksgiving in the very near future, our minds are thinking about turkey and dressing, and all the fixings, including pies, puddings, and turkey. Roasted turkey has been the standby for decades upon decades for most American households. In recent years, deep-fried turkey has entered the playing field, making its own traditions, and who could complain?! Oh, but then there is all that left-over oil/grease. Recycling comes to mind.

We will talk about grease recycling a bit more, but do you know the difference between cooking oil and grease? If you’re not an experienced cook, you may think they are the same, but there is a difference. 

Is vegetable oil a grease?

Yes, but not right away. Vegetable oil is a room-temperature liquid and grease is that oil in a used format and contains the high free fatty acids and other solids from the food cooked in that oil.

Vegetable cooking oil is used for preparing food, but not necessarily for cooking in it. We use it for flavoring in making bread dips, salad dressings, and more. It is a fat that comes from animals, plants, or synthetic fat commonly used for frying foods – like that deep-fried turkey on Thanksgiving – and baking, and more. 

Can you recycle grease?  

Car grease – yes. Cooking grease – yes and no. If you’re planning on doing that deep-fry turkey dinner this year or use bacon grease to brown the Brussels sprouts so the kids will eat them, you want to make sure you get rid of that grease the right way. So that is grease recycling, right?

For generations, women have cooked many foods in leftover used cooking oil and cooking grease. It adds flavor to many dishes, and we have eaten it for generations. They stored that used grease or oil in containers, some had strainers, and refrigerate it until they needed it. A form of grease recycling?  This was before society and medical journals found it was slowly killing us. Besides, times were hard, they reused anything they could. They couldn’t pour down the kitchen disposal or drain, mainly because many years ago, garbage disposals didn’t exist yet.

Today, with all the modern conveniences in kitchens, like the garbage disposal and the plumbing system, we shouldn’t be pouring grease out in the sink now. For grease recycling containers, we must improvise.  If the old way of grease recycling and using it bothers you, the steps to follow to dispose of that leftover cooking grease or deep-fried turkey oil is:

• Let it cool completely
• Pour it into a durable container with a lid
• Place that container in a zip-lock plastic bag
• Place in the household trash

What you shouldn’t do with your leftover grease or oil is pour it down the sink, toilet, or loose in the trashcan, whether it is still hot or after it has cooled.

What happens recycled grease?

Americans produce almost 3 billion gallons of used cooking oil annually. This has created a major issue for disposing of it. There is a proper way for homes, hotels, hospitals, and restaurants are, and hotels to get rid of their used cooking oil by using various grease recycling centers. This keeps that used grease or oil from entering the environment through landfills, sewer systems, and trashcans.

Grease recycling is a renewable energy source, so the cook of the house can contribute to making a sustainable contribution to the Earth. Did you know that cooking oil used as fuel now? Yes, that used grease from your Thanksgiving turkey or that last fish fry of the summer can be turned into both biodiesel and diesel fuel as renewable energy. It is then used to power the diesel engines in farm equipment, public transportation, and trucks. In some areas of the country, they use that used cooking oil as an energy source for heating homes.

Grease recycling is one way to protect our environment from climate change by using it for biodiesel, which reduces emissions from greenhouse gases drastically. Because biodiesel isn’t environmentally harmful and is a cost-effective way to produce, it gives us more supply and burns cleaner.

Because there isn’t any widely known used cooking oil/grease recycling for residents, you can contact your local city and ask if they have a collection point where you can take yours.

How do I dispose of oil?

As we discussed earlier in this article, and it is worth repeating, the following steps are recommended for disposing of your used cooking oil: 

• Let it cool completely
• Pour it into a durable container with a lid
• Place that container in a zip-lock plastic bag
• Place in the household trash

If you decide to save your used cooking oil and do the old fashion grease recycling, filter it using a coffee filter, pouring into your designated cooking oil recycling container and then store it in the refrigerator. Do not use more than twice, and then use the steps above to dispose of it. When cooking oil is reused more than twice, it reduces the smoke point and will burn easier and faster.

Where can I recycle cooking oil?

If the old school way of cooking oil and grease recycling isn’t your thing, but you don’t want to put it in the trash can as the steps we listed instruct, then contact the city office and ask them about their grease recycling program. If they have nothing in place, contact local trash companies and ask if they have public bins for your used cooking oil, even the local fire station may have answers. Want to learn more about cooking oil and grease recycling in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl? Call KRK Enterprises, Inc. today at 800-330-7686!

How Often Do You Need to Empty a Septic Tank?

In many neighborhoods, both rural and urban, septic tanks are a part of life. Septic tanks are usually constructed out of concrete or plastic. They collect sewage and wastewater from the house. With regard to how often your septic tank needs to be emptied, the timing varies. As a general rule, homeowners should strongly adhere to the understanding that their septic tank should be emptied every three to five years. However, if many people live in your household, you will need to empty your septic tank sooner rather than later. In order to understand more about the condition of your septic tank, consult your local, trusted septic tank expert at a reputable plumbing company. In addition to the routine maintenance that septic tanks need, air conditioners require an inspection from time to time. Please consult your local HVAC technician for air conditioner maintenance at least once a year.

What are the Symptoms of a Full Septic Tank?

If your septic tank is full, you will be able to diagnose a range of problems in a fairly straightforward manner. Please browse through the following list of symptoms of a full septic tank. Also, please make sure to contact a professional to dispose of your waste properly if you recognize more than one symptom.

• Pooling water. If there is more than one area of your lawn that has pooling water, despite a lack of rainfall, it could mean that your septic tank is overflowing.
• Slow drains. Slow-moving drains in your home could mean that you have a clog. They could also mean that you are experiencing sewage back-up from your septic tank. For a more specific analysis, make sure to contact a professional.
• Odors. If you smell sewage as you walk around your lawn, but are unable to locate a separate source for the smell, you could have a full septic tank.

How Much Does it Cost to Install a 1000 Gallon Septic Tank?

According to a leading website, the average cost for a septic tank installation is approximately $5,866. The range for such an installation vacillates between $3,104 and $9,255. Specifically pertaining to the 1,000-gallon tank, which is used for a three-bedroom home, the cost can range from $2,100 to $5,000. That estimate usually includes the price of the tank itself.

How Do Septic Tanks Work?

Septic tanks work by allowing waste to separate into three layers. These three layers are known to be solid, effluent and scum. Watery waste, known as effluent, fills most of the tank. Anaerobic bacteria break down organic material contained in the effluent. Sludge falls to the bottom of the tank. Sludge is made up of inorganic solids and the byproducts of bacterial digestion. Scum floats to the top. Scum is made up of fats, greases, and oils. The drain field provides a large area where bacteria can thrive and treated water can then seep into the ground.

Can I Install My Own Septic System?

Rules for septic tank installation vary from state to state. In Florida, all the oversight for installation, repair, operation, or alterations of onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems are handled by the Florida Department of Health. For large properties, when then disposal of quantities exceeds 5000 gallons per day, the oversight is handed to the Florida Department of Environment Protection, also known as DEP. Anyone who wants to become a septic tank contractor must be registered and approved by the state of Florida. 

Will Septic Tanks Freeze?

If your septic tank has frozen, you will need septic tank services. This is because freezing temperatures can cause various components of your septic system to stiffen with frost. The most vulnerable portions of your system are the pipes that lead from the home to the septic tank. It is also important to note that septic systems that are infrequently used will also be more susceptible to freezing.

What are Septic Tank Lateral Lines?

Septic tank lateral lines are also known by another name: percolation pipes. These are perforated pipes that extend from the outlet of the septic tank, below ground, into the soil. Lateral lines create a network of pipes that allow the effluent from the tank to run through.

What are Septic Tank Worms?

If you have ever heard of worm farm waste systems, these systems use septic tank worms. Worms are very good for the environment, enjoying a privileged status in the garden. They break down organic rubbish, releasing nutrients back into the soil. Worm farm septic tank systems effectively process sewage. This sewage includes all household wastewater and organic waste, ranging from food and vegetation to weeds. When combined with natural organisms, worms open up and improve the quality of your soil.

Can Septic Tanks Cause Sinkholes?

When septic tanks are improperly abandoned, they have been known to cause dangerous sinkholes around them. These sinkholes can cause injury and even death. That is why it is important for all septic tanks to receive proper maintenance and to be taken care of, even when a property is no longer in operation.

If you think repairs are required for your septic tank in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl, call KRK Enterprises, Inc. at 800-330-7686 to speak with our staff about making an appointment today!

Water Heater Repair Parts

If you are having issues with your water heater, you might be wondering, “Can a water heater be repaired?” and the answer is yes, as long as the damages aren’t too severe. There are several reasons why your water heater stopped working, all of the issues stemming from defective or malfunctioning water heater parts. Here are a couple of reasons why your water heater might have stopped working.

• Circuit breaker: A lot of people ask, “Why do I have no hot water?” and one of the reasons you may not have hot water is because of the circuit breaker. The circuit breaker might have been tripped, which would cause it not to have the power it needs.
• Thermostat: For those who are not having trouble with hot water but getting more than enough, the problem might have to do with the thermostat. If the thermostat is set too high, then you will be getting too much hot water.
• Heating Elements: If there are issues with water leaks, then there could be an issue with the heating element. More often than not, if the heating element is loose in the tank, it can cause the water heater to leak.
• Anode Rods: The purpose of the anode rods is to prevent any rust from occurring in the water heater tank. If you have rusty water coming from your taps, the anode rods might need to be replaced.
• Water Heater Tank: In order for your water heater to provide you with adequate hot water, as well as provide water to all of your plumbing appliances, you need a water heater that is the correct size. If your water heater breaks down unexpectedly, it could be because the water heater tank was too small for the usage of appliances and people.

How Do You Know a Water Heater Is Going Bad?

When it comes to your water heater, a question that you might ask concerning the health of your water heater is, “What is the most common problem with water heaters?” There isn’t just one common problem that plagues water heaters–there are a couple of problems that are pretty prevalent in regards to water heaters. One of the most common problems you will deal with is having to do with water temperature. Either the water is too cold or it’s too hot, which can cause serious problems. Another problem that has to do with temperature is when there isn’t enough hot water or no hot water at all, which is needed when you want to bathe, wash clothes, or clean. Other things that can happen that indicate something is wrong with your water heater is if its leaking or the water is rust-colored or tastes metallic-y. If you have any of these issues happening to your water heater, you will need water heater repair or replacement service.

Water Heater Repair Vs Replace

Water heaters that are experiencing issues can either be repaired or replaced. Most of the time water heater repair will be able to resolve the problem you are having with your water heater, but there are other times when water heater replacement service might be needed. If your water heater has reached its lifespan, then its better to get a water replacement than water repairs. How often do you need to replace a hot water heater? A traditional tank water heater can last upwards of 12 years, whereas a tankless water heater can last 20 years. Another sign that you need to replace your water heater versus repair is when you keep having to repair the water heater. If you are constantly repairing the water heater, then it’s better to replace it. Look at the cost of repairs–if the repairs cost 50% of what a replacement would be, then it’s better to just replace the water heater. Lastly, if your water heater bills are higher than usual, it is probably because your water heater is working harder than it should, which in return causes your water heater bills to rise. Investing in a new water heater will mean you have a more energy-efficient water heater.

Who to Call for Water Heater Repair

Water Heater Repair Cost

If you are looking for water heater repair, then you will need to call a professional plumber in your area. Just like if you wanted to learn more about a green roof, you would call a reputable roofer who has worked on green roofs in the past. For people who are needing water heater repair in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl, you can rely on KRK Enterprises, Inc.. We offer residential plumbing services that will get your plumbing back in great shape. All you have to do is call us at 800-330-7686 to schedule an appointment with one of our plumbing contractors. We look forward to working with you and getting your water heater back in great shape.

How Much Does it Cost to Video a Sewer Line?

It is integral to note that a residential video sewer inspection can cost between $100-$800. Video camera inspections can deviate widely but generally, average out to about $250-$500. Plumbers will not recommend a video camera inspection unless serious enough circumstances merit it. If the inspection is being done in association with other work or separately, the images may be either sent to a monitor or videotaped for posterity. Running a camera through household sewer pipes are typically used to evaluate the type and condition of underground pipes and to identify problems like leaking or broken joints. Root protrusions, blockages or corrosion are usually prime culprits for serious pipe blockages.

Do Plumbers Use Cameras?

Video camera inspections can provide a proper analysis of pipelines. While not every plumber approaches a drain clog or pipe trouble in the same way, advances in technology have allowed plumbers to detect plumbing problems underground, saving time and construction costs in the process. Cameras can be used before and after drain cleaning and other services and may reveal problems that will assist homeowners in the future with making good plumbing decisions in the future. When clogs occur, the problem could be as simple as an accumulation of un-flushable materials, such as make-up or baby wipes. Video camera inspections can assist by providing an accurate picture of what exactly is occurring underground in hidden pipelines.

How Do You Inspect Plumbing?

When plumbers perform plumbing inspections, they usually undertake a procedure to diagnose possible plumbing problems while checking over all the applicable water fixtures. A quality plumbing inspection will include sinks, toilets, lines, tubs, and pipes. Underneath and outside of the house, a good plumber will check both the pipes and hydrants for leaks. Furthermore, the water heater will receive special attention. It’s important for the water heater to be properly installed and functional, which are two aspects many plumbers specialize in. When water heaters experience disrepair, it can present a major inconvenience for homeowners. Toilets will also need to be inspected for their water levels, flappers, and filler mechanisms.

How Long Does A Sewer Inspection Take?

When homeowners notice that their sewage system is emitting a nasty sewer gas odor, or that their water isn’t draining as fast as it used to, it’s important to contact a local, trusted plumber to administer a sewer inspection. To inspect the pipes and find possible problems, a specially designed sewer video camera head is connected to a flexible cable. This flexible cable is inserted into the main sewer line cleanout, which is snaked through the pipes. At ground level, a plumber will watch on a monitor to diagnose whatever prevailing issues are occurring. In truth, the time taken to conduct the process will vary depending on the extent of the problem and the depth of the pipelines.

Should I Get Sewer Inspection?

For those who are interested in purchasing a new home, it’s important to conscript the services of a trusted local plumbing company to administer a sewer inspection, particularly in the case of older homes. It is important to recognize whether or not the sewer system is in need of repair, particularly because it can be an extremely expensive plumbing problem. Tree roots growing into sewer lines are a common problem. Roots crawl into tiny openings in pipelines and expand into the sewer line, latching onto other debris that usually causes backups. This debris includes grease and eggshell waste. When rodents nest in the home, it’s important to get the damage surveyed and corrected as soon as possible. For squirrel damage, consult your local, trusted roofing company to ascertain your options.

Video Plumbing Inspection Cost

Estimates for video plumbing costs vary depending on the city/state and the company. Although a plumber on a forum may stipulate that a video camera inspection costs $125, across the country, the cost may be a minimum of $275. Each hour of labor may cost $175 per hour. In addition, there may be different associated costs. In order for homeowners to estimate the overall total cost, ask about the fees for standard repair before hiring a plumbing company to do a video inspection.

How to Book a Plumbing Inspection

It is important for homeowners to know that they have options when it comes to plumbing emergencies. In order to find the appropriate support for your plumbing system, defer to your neighbors, and ask for plumbing recommendations. Look up your local plumbing contractors and find their reviews. Once you have decided on the appropriate company, secure a plumbing inspection by calling their number and agreeing on a specified appointment time. Make sure to allocate enough time for the plumber to appropriately assess the situation.

Plumbing Inspection Camera Systems

Plumbing camera inspection systems are non-invasive and can minimize construction costs in the long term. Customers may request a plumbing video inspection for retrieving lost items, for inspecting a currently existing sewer system for a prospective home purchase, and for inspecting the health of the septic system. Video camera inspection systems may also be initiated for a bathroom remodeling inspection. In the end, video inspection services contribute to more efficiency in plumbing inspection tools and enable a higher degree of home knowledge.

Advantages of Plumbing Camera Inspection

There are many benefits to camera inspections for homeowners. Consult the list below to understand more about the potential advantages.

• Accuracy. Particularly for homeowners who are in the process of purchasing a new home, video camera inspections can provide a level of surety with regard to understanding what they are getting into. Nothing could be worse for a new homeowner than discovering underlying issues that negatively impact the value of the original purchase price.
• Fewer construction costs. Before video cameras were introduced as a plumbing tool, plumbers would have to cut into walls and take apart fixtures in order to assess the state of indoor plumbing. This is no longer an inevitability for homeowners experiencing pipeline distress.
• Increased efficiency. With regard to time costs, enabling a video camera inspection allows for increased time efficiency. Now, if a plumbing inspection needs to take place, a video camera inspection can assess the entirety of the plumbing problem in a matter of minutes.

With many years of experience, KRK Enterprises, Inc.  is uniquely qualified to provide accurate and effective plumbing camera inspections. Call us today at 800-330-7686 for Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl’s plumbing inspection camera experts.

Drain Field Services in Your Area

The older a septic system gets, the more likely it is to fail. Meaning, the more likely your residential or commercial property is going to develop signs of septic tank drain field failure like slow drainage and even backups. If this is something you are experiencing, the drain field associated with your septic tank may be struggling to perform properly. When you start to notice the signs of drain field failure, call a reliable plumbing company, like KRK Enterprises, Inc., immediately. Failure to do so can lead to damaging problems that will only cost more to repair in the future. For septic tank drainfield services in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl as well as the surrounding areas, contact KRK Enterprises, Inc. at 800-330-7686.

Leach Field vs. Drainfield

There is actually no difference between a leach field and a drainfield. The terms are interchangeable and are used to mean the same thing. A leach field or drain field is a subsurface disposal system that is part of the septic system for a residential or commercial property. These fields can last upwards of 20 years, but that is with regular maintenance. That being said, things can still happen that cause issues with a septic system or a drainfield. To understand what is going on, it is recommended to schedule a septic drainfield inspection. In doing so, a plumber can get an understanding of the condition of the septic tank and drain field. It’s recommended to have regular inspections scheduled for a septic tank and drain field, similar to how you would have regular inspections scheduled for your premium roofing.

Once an inspection has been scheduled and completed, your plumber can explain what is going on with your septic tank drain field.

Signs of Drainfield Problems

Signs of Drain Field Problems

There are many reasons a septic tank drain field may be having problems. The most common reason is age. The older any unit gets, the less it is going to work properly and efficiently. Outside of that, there are several things to look for that are tell-tale signs of septic tank drain field failure, such as:

• Smells near septic tank: Any bad smells emanating from the septic tank can mean that the tank is not draining properly.
• Standing water near septic tank: Standing water means that the tank is not draining and is actually seeping into your yard. If your yard is flooding from the septic tank, it is time to contact a reputable plumbing company.
• Slow drainage in tubs and sinks: When your sinks are slow to drain, it can be an indication that the sewer line is not draining properly.
• Sluggish or slow flushing toilets: Just like a sink drain, when a toilet is slowly flushing, it can also be a sign that the sewer line to a septic tank is clogged.
• Toilet backups: The most surefire way to know there is any issue with a drainfield is if a toilet is backing up.

For service with drainfields, contact KRK Enterprises, Inc.. We are experts with septic tank drainfield services in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl. Call us today, 800-330-7686, to schedule an appointment.

Drainfield Repair Services

At the end of the day, a reputable plumbing company can perform a drainfield restoration or repairs. To repair a drain field, the overall condition of the plumbing structure needs to still be in good condition. If there are breaks or busted piping, those sections will need to be repaired before any restoration can take place. The things that cause drain field failure are:

• Failure to clean or maintain septic tank
• A lack of oxygen in the tank caused by capping due to excessive grease
• Broken, busted, or collapsed piping
• Soil compaction from cars or heavy traffic
• Tree root infiltration
• Ground or soil shifting

Obviously there are many things that are out of a home or business owners control. Not everything is a direct correlation to something an owner did or didn’t do. Regardless of that, any issues need to be addressed as quickly as possible. If needed, filing a claim through insurance can be one direction a client takes. KRK Enterprises, Inc. also works with all major insurance companies. So if you are filing a claim in regards to the septic tank drain field, we are more than willing to work with your insurance provider every step of the way to make sure any and all repair needs are met.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to replace a drain field?

Depending on the condition of the drain field, it can cost anywhere between $2,000 and $10,000 to replace a drainfield.

How long does a septic drain field last?

With regular maintenance, a drainfield can last around 10 and 20 years.

Can a septic drain field be repaired?

If the overall condition of the drainfield is still in good condition, then yes, it can be repaired.

How big of a leach field do I need?

A typical septic drainfield trench should be about 30” wide by 36” deep.

How do you unclog a leach field?

An effective means of unclogging a leach field is by utilizing a process known as hydro jetting. This process will thoroughly unclog a leach field.

How do you clean a leach field?

With a sewer jetter, also known as hydro jetting. This can effectively and thoroughly clean a leach field.

Contact KRK Enterprises, Inc. for Quality Services

When you need expert septic tank drain field services in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl, contact KRK Enterprises, Inc.. We are the leading plumbing company in your area, with years of experience and competitive pricing. Call KRK Enterprises, Inc. today, 800-330-7686, for septic tank drain field services in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl, as well as the surrounding areas.

For small or large amounts of grease, we’ve got your business covered.

Anyone can use cooking oil to create their culinary masterpiece. Whether it’s a parent cooking chicken strips for their child, a fast food employee deep frying someone’s lunch, or a professional chef frying up the daily special, each has their use for cooking oil. But these oils only last for so long before they need to be replaced. Vegetable oils and animal fats all need to be discarded or disposed of eventually. Cities in Florida employ health inspectors that require businesses to have safe grease and oil disposal program. But how can a person get rid of oil and grease for their business? Does it all go in the trash, or is there a process for oil and grease recycling?

How Do You Recycle Grease?

If someone cooks a burger, there is usually a lot of grease left over in the pan. The person who cooked it will eventually need to get rid of it. Some people throw old grease down the sink. This isn’t a good idea. The grease will solidify and eventually create a clog, and then you’ll need a plumbing service to come take care of your drain issues. So what is the alternative? Recycling grease and oil is a relatively simple process that helps the environment by creating new uses for the waste materials. You may find yourself wondering how used oil is recycled. Both oil and grease require time to cool off before they’ll be ready for transport. Oil can be poured into a container for transport. After grease has solidified, it can be scooped or placed in to a container and moved safely. Oil still in a liquid state requires a seal-able container. Grease recycling bins are a thing if you want to go the extra mile, but the general rule of thumb for transporting it is to use an unbreakable container with a lid that creates a seal. There are recycling centers that accept cooking oil and grease for disposal, or export for re-use. The way they do this is environmentally friendly, or “eco-green recycling” through various methods.

What Do They Do With Old Grease?

Some people may wonder what the benefits are of recycling grease and cooking oil, instead of just throwing it away. What is recycled grease used for?

• Weed Killer Cooking oil can be used to kill weeds that sprout up in your garden. It must be done from a spray bottle and not used for a direct pour.
• Bio-diesel Oils and fats can be broken down to create bio-fuels. The oils have all of the water and impurities burned out, and can be used as a clean burning alternative fuel for most diesel engines.
• Animal Feed Recycling facilities can export used oils and grease to countries that still use them for raising livestock. They get mixed in with other ingredients and are used to raise animals, from chickens to cows.

We can get your oil and grease to a proper recycling facility

Seeing as how cooking oil can be used to kill plants, keeping it from getting in to normal trash is the best idea. Recycling keeps used cooking oil and grease from contaminating and killing normal plants and vegetation. Supposedly small amounts of grease and oil are safe for composting, but other sources say they can create smells and attract animals if added to your home composter.

What Happens to Grease from Restaurants?

Fryer oil is usually changed every week, sometimes twice a week. Grease traps get filled and need to be emptied. These businesses are usually very busy, and many of the workers are not specialized in the safe handling of used oil or grease. That’s why businesses often turn to a grease recycling business to handle cleanup and disposal. Commercial amounts of grease require professionals to get that much grease to recycle locations.

We have the people and the equipment to remove your grease and oil waste.

This usually means a business with employees who are trained, insured, and certified, as well as tanker trucks so all of the excess waste can be hauled to processing centers. From here they can be collected and exported to Europe to be turned in to bio-diesel, or to countries that still use oil and grease in their animal feed. Essentially, oil and grease removal for businesses is the same as it is for an individual, just on a much larger scale. Fast food chains and restaurants that do large amounts of business probably require waste oil and grease removal much more frequently than their smaller counterparts. They stay on top of their oil and grease recycling just as much as they stay on their commercial heating in the colder months of the year, since failing to take care of these issues can cause a serious loss of revenue.

Overall, oil and grease recycling is much better for the environment than just throwing it away. If the waste products are just thrown in the trash, there is no telling where these chemicals could wind up, or what elements of nature could be contaminated. If a person wants to make the environmentally conscious decision to recycle, but is too busy to handle the oil and grease recycling themselves, a professional collection service is the answer. Anyone looking for a grease or oil collection services in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl should call KRK Enterprises, Inc. at 800-330-7686.

Frozen Pipes Can Turn Into Burst Pipes.

Winter plumbing issues are important to pay attention to. When the cold starts to take over, the problems with your plumbing can go up. Things like frozen pipes and failed water heaters are all issues that can happen before you know it. There are ways to prepare and make sure that you aren’t stuck in the middle of having to call a plumber in the dead of winter to come thaw your pipes out. First things first, your winter plumbing and heating will need to be checked out before winter even starts. If you haven’t had an inspection done, you should do so as soon as possible to make sure that your system is good to go. Residential plumbing is so important to pay attention to in the winter time. When temperature drop into the freezing zone, your pipes can start to freeze and actually burst. To avoid that, you can do a few things. You can keep the temperature of your home, warm and open up your cabinets to keep your pipes warmed. You can also let your hot warmer drip from your sink at a constant level. If your heating system is having trouble keeping your house warm in the winter, you can call about having a heating system service to get it ready and properly prepare for the issues that the cold can bring. You will want to know the different ways to winterize plumbing around your home.

Common Questions

How do you insulate water pipes outside?

Water pipes that are outside should be insulated before they are installed underground. The ones that are above ground can be done in a few simple steps. The insulation goes around the pipes and is then sealed so that the air cannot get out. This will help keep the pipes from freezing and can lower your energy bill as well.

Can pipes freeze if water is turned off?

If the water to your home is turned off, the inside of your pipes don’t freeze. If there is water inside your pipes that is just sitting in there, it may freeze, but nothing will come of it. A pipe burst or frozen pipes, happen when, there is water pressure that has built up from the water being on. The best thing you can do if you leave your home in the winter, is to turn your water off.

How do you drain plumbing for winter?

When you need to drain your plumbing for winter, to avoid getting stuck with a frozen pipe or a pipe burst, you will first need to turn off the main water valve. Then you can turn on all of the water fixture in the house until water stops coming out of them, this means flushing the toilet too. Once the water is all gone, you can use an air compressor to shoot air into the main line drains. The water will be forced right out of the lines. You can put non-toxic antifreeze into your sink drains and bathroom toilets to keep your pipes even more safe from freezing.

How do you winterize water lines?

We mentioned the steps above, but if you want to make sure that you have extra protection, you can also put covers on all of your outside faucets. This will help to keep them insulated enough to not freeze during low temperatures. It is important to know how to winterize plumbing in case you have to do it yourself.

How do I prepare my plumbing for winter?

To winterize plumbing beforehand, you will want to make sure that all leaks and repairs are taken care of ahead of time. You can also make sure your water heater is working correctly but scheduling a tune-up. Cover all of the outdoor faucets with special insulated covers to help keep them from freezing. If you haven’t already you can have your pipes wrapped to help keep the warmth inside.

How do you keep your pipes from freezing without heat?

We like to say prepare, prepare, prepare. You will want to follow all of the advice above. When it is freezing outside, it is important to not open doors to the outside and try to stay inside as much as possible. When you let the cold air in, in an already cold condition, you are opening yourself up to a higher possibility of having your pipes freeze.

Winter Plumbing Tips

• Keep Your Heat On
• Wrap Your Pipes
• Run Hot Water
• Get An Inspection Done
• Cover Your Outdoor Faucets
• Open Your Cabinets
• Keep Home Temperature Consistent, Day And Night
• Keep Garage Door Closed

Know What To Do In The Event Of Burst Pipe To Avoid Further Damage.

You will want to make sure that you winterize plumbing around your home to avoid a frozen or burst pipe from happening. It can be a huge problem if your pipes end up bursting and can end up costing you a lot of money in damages. If your pipes freeze and you don’t know what to do, make sure that you call KRK Enterprises, Inc. at 800-330-7686 and we will come out to you as fast as we can. If you need help to winterize plumbing around your home in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl, we are here to help.

Any Water Leak Should Prompt an Immediate Call for Professional Repair.

Water leaks represent one of the chief dangers for a home. Whether it originates in your plumbing or on your roof, most water leaks remain hidden long enough to accomplish significant damage. As a homeowner, you must remain aware of the signs of a water leak, and call for immediate service when they appear. You can accomplish this more easily if you understand the common sources of a residential water leak.

Areas Where a Water Leak May Originate

A leaking roof and plumbing leak represent the two main ways that water enters a home. Classification between these two does not cover all the different types of leaks, however. There actually exist 12 common areas where leaks originate. If you keep all of these in mind, you can save a great deal of money through the early detection and repair of leaks.

• Washing Machine: Leaks may develop from your connecting hoses.
• Downspouts: If not angled properly, a downspout can dump water into your foundation to create slab leaks.
• Gutters: Gutters filled with debris will overflow and send water cascading down your exterior walls, to the foundation.
• Air Conditioner: An overflowing condensation pan will create a leak in your ceiling.
• Showers and Sinks: Faucet can drip water unnecessarily, while missing caulking or grout in your shower can cause leaks.
• Appliance Supply Lines: Many homeowners forget about these water connections, which can become susceptible to leaks over time.
• Sewer Line: A cracked sewer line an leak in your yard, while a clogged one will push waste back into your home.
• Toilets: Toilets can leak water around the base.
• Water Heaters: Cracks in your tank can leak, and also may rupture to flood your home.
• Water Line: The line that delivers water to your home can crack or rupture for a serious leak.
• Damaged Roofing Materials: Water will find its way into your roof if you have damaged roofing materials.
• Flashing: Damaged flashing will lead to leaks in the most vulnerable areas of your roof.

Every rainstorm presents an opportunity for leaks to appear in your roof. In the absence of damage to your roofing material, your flashing represents the most likely source for a water leak. For roof flashing repair, contact a trusted local roofer. As for any plumbing leaks in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, Fl, reach out to KRK Enterprises, Inc. for both location and repair services. For any questions or service requests, give us a call at 800-330-7686.