For homeowners, it’s always a safe bet to expect the unexpected. Gas lines technically can’t ‘freeze’ due to their dry composition. Although, moisture can freeze.

Never say never. While the chances are slim, rain or damaged plumbing can cause your gas lines to freeze. If rainwater is to collect near the foundation of your property, there is a good chance it can hit your gas line, causing it to freeze. If you believe you are vulnerable to issues with your gas lines, contact a professional plumber to perform an inspection.

Is it Possible for the Gas in Plumbing Pipes to Freeze?

Since gas can’t turn solid, it can’t freeze. It’s the steel of your gas line that can freeze if wet.

If your gas lines were installed by a professional, you don’t need to worry about them freezing. However, lines may freeze if they are poorly installed. Water may have seeped into your gas lines if the exterior was cracked, and because of this, the pipes may freeze.

Frozen gas lines are almost always linked to an installation issue or a water leak. If you have found a frozen gas line, call a professional immediately.

Common Issues With Gas Lines During the Winter Season

While there are multiple negative consequences to gas line failure, your gas line can only freeze in one way. Inside or around your gas line, moisture can compile. This poses an immediate threat to the functionality of your home or business.

Common issues with gas lines during the winter season include moisture absorption and valve problems. Valve issues are particularly frequent in the winter because the levers tend to stiffen in freezing temperatures.

In addition to freezing, rust can also be a problem. The same valves that become stiff due to the cold can also harden when they become rusty. It's important to prevent moisture-related issues caused by winter conditions.

What Causes Water in Natural Gas Lines?

The natural gas freezing point is around -295 degrees Fahrenheit. So, it is highly unlikely that your gas lines will be exposed to this temperature and freeze. However, water can freeze. Whether from gas transfer, weather, or temperature change, moisture can be damaging to a gas line.

Changes in temperature, air pressure, and other strenuous factors can cause gas to liquefy. Gas actually undergoes several pressure changes before it enters your home. The reduction of pressure and temperature can cause water to form, turning the gas from a vapor to a liquid.

Effectively protect your natural gas lines by monitoring temperature and pressure changes. If you find that your natural gas lines have already been compromised, call a licensed plumber for immediate assistance.

Is it Dangerous to Have Moisture in Your Natural Gas Lines?

Moisture in your natural gas lines is potentially dangerous. You probably don’t have to worry about your gas lines freezing in Arizona, but the opposite could be said for those in colder states like Iowa.

Most people don’t know that natural gas is extracted with moisture. This moisture must be removed to avoid problems such as corrosion, reduced efficiency, and frozen pipes, which can block gas from flowing. Also, no gas means no heat, hot water, or even appliances. Severe freezes may even cause gas leaks. Routines will be slowed and no real power can be produced.

Professional Gas Line Installation and Repair Services

Natural gas plays a key role in your home. These lines require professional installation to function properly. Luckily, our team of skilled plumbers in Las Vegas, Nevada offer dependable gas line installation and gas leak repair services.

If you have a water leak or a moisture issue on your property, you could risk your gas lines freezing. When you need professional gas line installation and or repair, call our technicians at (833) 512-1021 to receive assistance.

Our team of plumbers makes the process simple, delivering leading gas line care without the hassle. Take back your home’s heating ability with us at Rooter Ranger.

Our team also provides other types of plumbing services including water heater repair, drain cleaning, sump pump installation, and water softener replacement. From damaged gas lines, broken water heaters, to clogged drains, our professionals have the training necessary to help you restore safety in your house.

Plumbing problems can arise at the most inconvenient times, leaving you scrambling for solutions in the midst of chaos. Before you worry about the price of an expensive emergency plumber, consider your knowledge of a plumbing system and what basic tools you might have in your toolbox.

These five tips will help you solve many common plumbing problems without having to contact a plumber right away.

1. Check Your Home’s Water Pressure

Low water pressure is a common issue for many homeowners, and various factors can cause it. In densely populated areas where multiple homes share the same water supply, the demand for the plumbing system can lead to reduced pressure. This issue can affect both hot and cold water, making your plumbing fixtures less effective.

Here are some DIY troubleshooting tips for low water pressure:

Check your faucet and make sure it is not leaking.
Check the water source (i.e., main valve) and ensure that it is fully open.
Run your cold and hot water taps for at least one minute each, but choose one temperature at a time. This will help clear sediment from your house's lines and fixtures.

2. Know Where to Find the Water Shut-Off Valve

If you have an issue with your water, you’ll first want to find the shut-off valve. This will stop the flow of water and help prevent more damage from being done.

Locate the Shut-Off Valve: Look under sinks or around your home for a knob that controls the water flow. Once you find it, turn it clockwise until all the water has been turned off.
To Shut Off the Main Water Supply: You can also shut off your main water supply by turning the knob clockwise until it stops completely, or use pliers or an adjustable wrench if necessary.

3. Clear Away Clogs

There are many ways to clear clogs in your plumbing lines. Before clearing a plumbing clog yourself, the first step is to turn off the water supply to the designated plumbing fixture by turning the shut-off valve clockwise.

For toilets, flushing can also help create suction and draw water out of the clog. Baking soda and vinegar can also be used. Pour 1/8th cup of baking soda down the overflow tube in the back of the tank if there is one; this will create an effervescent reaction that should help break up any clogs in pipes leading from your toilet.

A plunger can also be used for both toilets and sinks. Ensure a tight seal and apply firm pressure.

4. Replace Any Damaged Fixtures

If a faucet in your home is malfunctioning, it could be due to a loose or damaged handle. Start by tightening the handle with pliers. If tightening doesn’t resolve the issue, the faucet itself might be faulty or worn out. In this case, you may need to replace the faucet entirely.

Inspect for Leaks: Before replacing the faucet, check for any leaks around it. If you notice any, address these first, as they can contribute to the problem.
Replacement Process: When replacing a faucet, ensure you select one that matches the existing fittings. Turn off the water supply before removing the old faucet. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the new one, and make sure all connections are secure to prevent future leaks.

Addressing these common issues with your fixtures can restore proper function without the need for professional help. However, if problems persist or if you’re uncomfortable performing these repairs, seeking assistance from a plumber can ensure a thorough and safe resolution.

5. Inspect and Fix Leaky Pipes

Leaky pipes can lead to water damage if not addressed promptly. Here are some tips to stay proactive about the health of your plumbing pipes:

Identify Leaks: Look for water stains on walls or ceilings, damp spots, or puddles around your plumbing.
Temporary Fixes: Use pipe repair clamps or epoxy putty as a temporary fix until you can replace the damaged section.
Preventative Maintenance: Regularly inspect your pipes for signs of wear and tear to catch potential issues early.

If you encounter a plumbing issue, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and consider calling a plumber right away. However, taking a moment to assess and understand the problem can be both empowering and cost-effective. By diagnosing the issue yourself and following these practical tips, you can often address many common plumbing problems on your own. This approach not only saves you money but also helps you pinpoint the exact issue, making it easier for a professional to provide targeted assistance if needed.

If you find that the issue is beyond your DIY skills or need expert help, don’t hesitate to contact Rooter Ranger. Our plumbers are ready to handle any challenge and ensure your home’s plumbing system is in top shape. Contact Rooter Ranger today for professional and reliable plumbing services!

It happens all the time—you’re doing dishes and the glass you’re holding slips, hitting the sink and shattering into a million pieces in your garbage disposal.

While it may feel like a shock when it happens, the good news is that glass can be removed from your garbage disposal with just a few household tools.

Here’s everything you need to know about safely and effectively cleaning glass out of your garbage disposal system.

Safely Dealing with Broken Glass in the Garbage Disposal

A garbage disposal can be dangerous if handled improperly. Here are a few things to keep in mind before working with a disposal system.

Make sure the power is off (and the circuit breaker is flipped).
Never stick your hands down the disposal.
Don’t put your face or hands directly above the disposal when testing it.

Supplies You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to start safely removing glass from your disposal. While a flashlight isn’t necessary for the removal process, it can make it significantly easier to see what you’re doing.

Rubber gloves
Flashlight or headlamp
Needle nose pliers
Hex key
Shop vac

How to Get Glass Out of Your Garbage Disposal

Once you have all the tools you need, you’re ready to remove the glass from your garbage disposal. Follow these steps for safe glass removal.

Turn Off the Garbage Disposal

Before you begin any work on your disposal system, you must turn off the power at its source. This means that in addition to turning off the garbage disposal itself, you should flip the circuit breaker on your electrical panel to cut power.

Use Pliers to Remove Big Shards of Glass

Once the power’s completely shut off, it’s time to put on your gloves and grab the needle nose pliers. Aim the pliers into the garbage disposal and carefully grab as many large pieces of glass as you can. Normally, these larger pieces will be concentrated near the top of the garbage disposal, making for easier removal.

Clear the Remainder with a Shop Vac

After removing the larger pieces of glass with pliers, go back in with your shop vacuum to remove any smaller pieces of glass. It’s best to use the long-head attachment on your vacuum for this process.

Turn the Blades with a Hex Key

Even after vacuuming, you may still see some bits of glass left behind in your garbage disposal. To get rid of these, take a hex key to the underside of your garbage disposal, and use the tool to manually turn the blades.

After turning the blades an inch or two, use the shop vac to clear out any remaining debris. Repeat this process as many times as you need to remove all of the glass from the disposal.

Turn on the Power

Once you’ve removed all of the glass, you can restore power and test out your garbage disposal. Make sure you’re standing a few feet away from the garbage disposal when you first turn it on. Any glass left in the system could fly out and injure you if you’re standing too close.

Do I Need to Call a Plumber?

In some cases, you may need to call a professional plumber to remove the glass from your sink. This is especially true if you don’t have all of the tools you need or you’re not able to remove all the glass on your own.

You should also call a plumber if your garbage disposal won’t turn on or you’re hearing strange noises, even after the glass has been removed. This is usually a telltale sign that your disposal system needs repair.

Get Your Disposal System Up and Running Again

If you have broken glass stuck inside your garbage disposal, Rooter Ranger Plumbing is here to help. Our experienced plumbers are fast and reliable. We solve your plumbing issues so you don’t have to!

Let us help you get your day back on track. Call 480-597-4227 for Phoenix drain cleaning service.

Without a reliable plumbing system, you cannot effectively or healthily drink, cook, or clean. While you may think some plumbing issues are harmless or will eventually be sorted out on their own, this is unlikely. When left unattended, these problems can grow and become expensive to handle.

That’s why when you notice issues in your home or commercial building’s plumbing system, reach out to a professional plumber for immediate help. Our job as plumbing experts is to make sure that your plumbing system runs safely and efficiently. We understand that it’s not always ideal to hire a plumber, but you’ll benefit in the long run.

In this blog, we’ll show you what dangers can happen when you don’t address certain plumbing issues and what to do when looking to hire plumbers. At the end of the day, it’s our duty to enhance your plumbing system, no matter how difficult it may be.

Risks of Unaddressed Plumbing Problems

You shouldn’t leave any plumbing issues to chance. The longer you leave the problems alone, the worse they will get. This can lead to a number of plumbing emergencies that can be expensive to fix and dangerous to handle.

If you notice these signs of plumbing problems, call our team immediately:

Water Damage: Unresolved plumbing issues can lead to water leaks and potential flooding, causing extensive damage to walls, floors, and belongings.
Mold and Mildew: Damp conditions resulting from plumbing problems create an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth, posing health risks and structural damage.
Structural Damage: Water leakage can compromise the structural integrity of your home, leading to costly repairs and decreased property value.
Health Hazards: Mold growth and exposure to contaminated water can contribute to respiratory problems and other health issues, affecting occupants.
Increased Utility Bills: Leaks and inefficiencies in the plumbing system can lead to higher water bills, contributing to increased utility expenses.
Inconvenience and Disruption: Plumbing issues can result in disruptions to daily activities, causing inconvenience and the need for emergency repairs.

5 Reasons to Hire a Plumber

When plumbing issues arise, it’s perfectly natural to want a quick and cost-effective solution. Sometimes, homeowners try to cut corners by attempting to repair problems themselves. If you don’t have the right knowledge or proper tools, you may end up doing more harm than good.

You may think you are saving money, but if you don’t repair the problem correctly, further issues could arise, necessitating costly replacements. It’s always best to at least consult with a professional plumber so you can fully understand what you’re dealing with and how to navigate the situation.

Here are some of the top benefits of hiring a plumber:

1. Save Time & Money

You may think doing the repairs yourself will save you time and money. However, if you don’t have the proper experience and tools, you may spend more money gathering these essential resources, taking up more time and money. And, if you don’t get the job right the first time, this cycle will repeat itself.

A professional plumber is ready to handle any situation you throw at them. They have the tools and knowledge to find a solution to your problem and will likely fix the issue at the first attempt, saving you time and money.

2. Enhanced Safety

If your plumbing system isn’t handled properly, the water can get contaminated. This can lead to an unsafe living environment. A professional plumber will ensure that every aspect of your system is supplied with clean water.

Along with that, leaks or pipe bursts can cause water damage to your home. Not only is this expensive to fix, but it could pose a threat for various reasons. A skilled plumber will be able to assess any and all risks and ensure your safety.

3. Guaranteed to Finish the Job Right

Professional plumbers have endless resources and tools at their disposal. Whether you’re faced with a running toilet or a clogged sewer line, they can accurately determine the cause of the problem and use the best solution.

Some problems require industry-grade tools to solve. These can be extremely hard to come by and expensive for the average homeowner. Hiring a plumber means you can rest assured that they’ll do and use everything in their power to fix your problem.

4. Avoid Other Damages

While fixing your plumbing system, a professional will ensure that no other damage is done to your home. Along with conducting the needed repairs, they will inspect your system and point out any other problems that may arise.

Having professionals look for other weaknesses in your system will help prevent future problems from happening. This, too, will save you money and headaches in the future.

5. Peace of Mind

Most plumbing companies provide their customers with warranties and guarantees for 100 percent satisfaction. If you still see plumbing problems after your scheduled appointment, a professional plumber will return to your home and redress these grievances.

Additionally, most home insurance agreements require you to seek professional help when problems arise. If you don’t, you may be liable to pay for any damage that you do to your property.

When you need reliable plumbing services in Arizona and Nevada, reach out to our professional plumbers at Rooter Ranger. We’re here to help with any and all of your plumbing problems.

Plumbers can save the day, especially when you discover an unexpected leak. But more than anything, they can keep your home in good working order and ensure that it stays in good shape as long as possible.

By hiring these trusted professionals to handle everything from routine maintenance to emergency repairs, you’ll be sure to get the most out of your plumbing system. Here are some reasons why you may need a plumber:

Reason #1: They can fix different plumbing problems

Every plumbing problem needs a different solution. No matter what the issue is, a plumber is always the best person to approach. They can fix common plumbing problems like dripping faucets, clogged drains, leaking toilet bases, and frozen pipes.

Here are other things plumbers do:

They can ensure no water leaks into your house when the pipes start making strange noises.
They can fix frozen pipes that have burst in your basement or crawlspace.
They can fix clogged drains and toilets, so water doesn't go back into your home.
They can identify leaks so that you don't end up with an expensive disaster on your hands.

Reason #2: They can fix problems quickly

No one wants to deal with plumbing problems, but they happen. When an issue does arise, you'll be glad to know professional plumbers can help you fix the problem quickly and take care of the stressful situation so you don’t have to worry about it.

Reason #3: They can prevent future mishaps

A plumber can help prevent future problems by fixing the current ones appropriately. A plumber’s job is to fix any plumbing issues you may have. They should be able to quickly pinpoint the problem and figure out what’s wrong with your system. They can even provide you with suggestions to prevent future repairs.

Reason #4: They can install new plumbing fixtures

New fixtures can improve your life. For instance, when the time comes that your water heater no longer serves its purpose efficiently due to wear and tear, get a new one and have it installed by a pro. A professionally installed water heater will assure you that the device delivers heat faster without any problems!

Reason #5: They can help you save water

A leaky faucet wastes around 5 gallons of water per day. But if you don't know how to fix it yourself, you can call in an expert plumber to help. A plumber can also find leaks before they become major problems.

Let the Pros Handle Your Plumbing Woes!

Even if your pipes are in good shape, they might still be vulnerable to leaks and other problems. Either way, it’s always good to have an experienced plumber on hand in case of an emergency or to do routine maintenance. This way, you know your pipes will work properly without having to worry about them failing on you when you need them the most.

If you need the help of a professional plumber, turn to Rooter Ranger!

When looking to hire a professional plumber, you may have a number of questions. Are they reliable? Are they affordable? How efficient are they?

Before you hire a professional plumber, you need to do your due diligence. Look at the company’s Google Reviews, read about their services, and ask necessary questions.

Here are some of the five most important questions to ask a plumber before hiring them:

1. How Long Have You Been a Plumber?

The first question you should ask a plumber before hiring is how long they’ve been working in the field. As it is with any service you receive, you want the person handling the job to have years of experience. An experienced plumber will have the knowledge necessary to understand the complexities of the job.

An expert local plumber has encountered every type of plumbing issue and knows how to handle every circumstance—including how to identify problems and solve them promptly. Hiring a reputable plumbing company with more than 25 years of expertise is better than hiring a plumber with only one or two years of experience.

2. How Much Will Your Service Cost?

This question can’t always be answered during the initial call since the plumber may need to evaluate the full scope of the work required. However, it is a good question to ask a plumber because if the price is too high for you, it could disqualify them from your search.

Ensure that everything is itemized for you. Inquire about any additional costs you might incur that aren’t mentioned in the quote. Get the plumber’s price quote in writing each time you receive one. It will enable you to know what price range to anticipate. Remember that the lowest price isn’t necessarily the best option and can indicate cutting corners to save on costs.

3. Are You Insured?

There is always risk associated with plumbing work, regardless of how many years of expertise or positive ratings your plumber has. A good question to ask a plumbing company is if they’re insured. While anyone can make a mistake, if your contractor is covered by insurance, you can rest assured you’re in safe hands.

The plumber’s insurance should cover any damage sustained during or as a result of the repair. It should cover water damage, mold, and other issues. It will safeguard both you and their business.

4. Do You Have Proper Credentials?

One of the most essential questions to ask when hiring a plumber is if they have the proper credentials to work on your plumbing system. Most states require plumbers to hold separate licenses for working on residential and commercial plumbing systems. If your plumber doesn’t have either of these certifications, it’s best not to hire them.

Additionally, some states differentiate plumbers’ skill levels. Generally, there are two types of plumbers:

Journeyman Plumber: A certified worker who has completed an apprenticeship and possesses moderate experience performing plumbing tasks under the guidance of a Master Plumber.
Master Plumber: An experienced and licensed professional with extensive expertise, capable of managing complex projects, designing plumbing systems, and overseeing the work of Journeyman Plumbers.

5. Do You Offer a Warranty?

Simply put, you should never choose a plumbing company that doesn’t provide its customers with a warranty. Be sure to find out what services the company offers and which ones are covered by the warranty.

Those who provide guarantees are confident in the quality of their work. This is how reliable plumbers ensure that their clients are taken care of and not abandoned if specific problems persist or worsen.

Common Plumbing Scams to Be Aware Of

When looking for a plumbing company to take care of your plumbing repairs and installations, it’s best to be aware of certain scams some companies use. If you’re not an expert yourself, it can be hard to determine what advice and quotes are reliable or not.

Be aware of these plumber scams:

Bait and Switch: Some plumbers engage in a deceptive practice by attracting customers with an appealing offer, only to switch to higher prices or subpar services once hired.
Changing Estimates: Sometimes, plumbers will continuously alter their initially provided cost estimates, leading to unexpected and inflated charges for customers.
Multiple People Show Up: This is a tactic where more workers than necessary arrive, creating confusion and potentially justifying higher charges for the excessive workforce.
Withholding Information: Plumbers may fail to provide essential information, leaving customers uninformed and vulnerable to hidden fees or unnecessary services.
Increasing Prices: Sometimes plumbers will increase prices for wealthier areas or neighbors, purposefully taking advantage of customers.

If you’re looking for a plumbing company that you can rely on, turn to our experts at Rooter Ranger. We employ experienced, licensed plumbers who are all covered by insurance. Contact us when you need plumbing services in Arizona and Nevada.

Toilets are one of the most commonly used fixtures in your home. Once they start to leak, they can become a serious problem.

A leaky toilet should not be ignored. The leaking water comes from the toilet bowl, which can spread germs and disease. Additionally, a leak that goes unfixed can cause water damage to your bathroom floor or the ceiling of the room below.

Here are six of the most common reasons a toilet is leaking at the base, along with tips on how to fix the issue and return your bathroom to working order!

Reasons Toilets Leak From the Bottom & How to Prevent a Toilet Base From Leaking

There are many reasons why your toilet base might be leaking. Here are the most common causes and how to fix them.

1. A faulty wax seal

A faulty wax seal is the most common cause of a base leak. The wax seal is a circular piece of rubber that sits between the toilet and the floor to create a seal. Over time, this ring can wear down and water will seep underneath it onto your floor.

The best way to ensure your toilet is leak-free is by replacing your worn-out wax ring. Keep in mind that this job is best done by a professional plumber.

2. A broken flange

A toilet flange, also known as a closet flange, is the pipe that connects your toilet to the drain pipe. It’s important because it prevents sewer gasses from entering your home and protects against water spillage. If you notice black, brown, white, or green mold around it, it’s possible your flange has been compromised and needs to be replaced.

3. A loose toilet bowl

A loose toilet bowl can cause a leak on occasion. You can usually tell if your toilet bowl is loose if it rocks slightly when you sit down on it. To fix this, gently tighten the nuts underneath the toilet, or replace them altogether. Just be sure not to overtighten, as doing so can crack the flange.

4. A cracked porcelain toilet bowl

Sometimes, a crack in your porcelain toilet bowl can cause water to leak out of the base. With a crack, you’ll typically notice that the bowl doesn’t stay full. Unfortunately, the only way to fix bowl cracks is to remove the toilet and replace it entirely.

5. A loose fill valve

The fill valve is a part of your toilet tank and is responsible for letting water in to refill the tank after you flush. If the fill valve is loose, leaking, or broken, your toilet will constantly leak from the base. If this is the case, you can typically replace the fill valve to fix the problem.

To replace a loose fill valve, turn off your water supply and remove any excess water from your toilet tank. Next, unscrew the old fill valve by turning it counterclockwise to loosen it, then pull it straight up to remove it completely. Replace with a new valve.

6. A corroded flush valve

A corroded flush valve is one of the most common reasons that toilets leak at their base. This can happen when minerals and other substances in hard water build up over time, preventing your toilet from sealing properly.

Stop Toilet Leaks In Their Tracks

If your toilet is leaking from its base, turn to the experts at Rooter Ranger Plumbing. Our team treats every call like an emergency, meaning we’ll get our technicians to your door as quickly as possible to fix your leak.

We provide honest, transparent pricing so you can feel confident you’re getting the best deal. Call 480-597-4227 to schedule plumbing service in Phoenix!