Categories Superior Plumbing & Drain

Running Toilets Waste Water

Running toilets waste water

Running toilets waste water. The fact is, running toilets are a common issue for our residential customers. However, with Southern Nevada in unprecedented drought conditions, the wasted water needs to be reduced. It’s crucial now, more than ever that we come together as a community and conserve as much water as possible.

Toilet Is Running Only at Night

It’s possible your toilet only leaks at night; that’s because we use much less water during these hours and in many municipal water systems, the water pressure rises considerably during this time. It is not uncommon for system water pressure to rise by 15 to 20 pounds per square inch (psi), and by as much as 30 psi in some situations.

Parts of a Toilet

Above the ground, our toilets only have a few parts that residents interact with. These are: the bowl, tank, float, flapper and supply line. When dealing with leaking toilets, we often see the float and flapper as the culprit. We’re going to focus on the flapper for the rest of this article.

The Flapper

This is the flush valve seal and serves to control the volume of water passing from the tank to the bowl during the flush cycle. It mates with the seat on the flush valve to complete the seal and prevent water leaking from the tank into the bowl. Almost all flappers are shaped, in part, like a “flying saucer,” that is, slight “dome” on top, flat like a “pancake” in the center and then (not like a flying saucer) a “funnel” or “bulb” shape on the bottom.

To stop a leaking toilet, start with the flapper as it usually solves the problem. While you have to get -your hands a little dirty, replacing the flap will help conserve water and save money in the long run.

If you need any additional help, please call Superior Plumbing & Drain at (702) 478-9643.

Categories Superior Plumbing & Drain

Garbage Disposal Lifespan

Garbage Disposal Lifespan

The garbage disposal lifespan might not be what think. As a small but powerful piece of your home plumbing system, the garbage disposal is popular. It shreds food and waste that goes down your drain to make it small enough to pass through the pipes without causing clogs. In addition, they help prevent expensive and messy plumbing repairs.

How Long Does a Garbage Disposal Last?

Depending on the brand, installation, and use, the lifespan of a garbage disposal varies. Usually, they last between five and seven years with usual wear and tear. When used properly, we’ve seen some garbage disposals last up to 20 years! However, when neglected or overused, your garbage disposal may need to be replaced much earlier.

Professional Maintenance

To prolong the life of your garbage disposal the most important thing you can do is conduct regular preventative maintenance. The best way to ensure that your disposal is working well and has a long life is to have a professional inspect it yearly. It’s also important to have a professional plumber inspect related pipes and drains every 3 or 4 years. They check for clogs or minor problems that, if gone unchecked, could turn into expensive repairs.

Homeowner Maintenance

Refer to the owner’s manual to learn how to properly clean and care for your system. If you choose not to consult a professional plumber, you can at least try to keep the pipes clear of major debris that would cause an expensive plumbing issue down the line.

Signs You May Need A New Garbage Disposal

When a garbage disposal isn’t working properly, you should check the reset button. If depressing the button doesn’t work, call a licensed plumber right away.

If the garbage disposal doesn’t run, makes a grinding louder than usual sound or leaks below the sink, a professional evaluation will confirm the need.

If you notice any of these signs that your garbage disposal is not working properly, call Superior Plumbing & Drain today.

Categories Superior Plumbing & Drain

Cleaning A Shower Head

Cleaning A Shower Head

Cleaning a shower head doesn’t take much time if you have the proper items. If you are seeing your shower head getting discolored or having water flow issues, it’s be time for a good cleaning. Using harsh chemicals damages fixtures and harmful to humans and pets. When deciding on a substitute, think about vinegar.

As an effective cleaner, vinegar is safe for you and your family. When used properly it’s a powerful tool in your cleaning arsenal. An additional benefit, vinegar is very inexpensive when compared to those harsh household cleaners. You can buy vinegar by the gallon at the local store for a fraction of the price of chemical cleaners.

NOTE: The type of finish on your shower head and connections will determine if vinegar can be used. Please know the materials before using vinegar to clean. Test a small, inconspicuous area with a cotton swab and let sit for 30 minutes before using on larger areas. You can find out more info on vinegar cleaning products here: Vinegar Cleaning Products

Cleaning a Shower Head

After confirming your shower fixtures and shower head can withstand the vinegar cleaning, it’s time to get started. Here are a few things you may want to use:

  • Distilled white vinegar
  • Bucket or solid base container
  • Cleaning rags
  • Old toothbrush
  • Paperclip
  • Pliers or wrench

When removing the shower head, place a protective cover, like a rag, over the connected showers surface. Then use the wrench to turn the fixture and remove the shower head.

Once removed, place the shower head into the bucket to catch any debris that falls off during the process. Use the vinegar and the toothbrush to remove mineral deposits. Rinse the fixture under running water until clean.

When clean, replace the shower head and test to ensure the connection is tight and there are no water leaks. Pro Tip: use plumber’s tape when replacing the fixture to get a tight connection.

When undertaking any DIY project, conduct proper research prior to starting. If you have any questions, call Superior Plumbing & Drain at (702) 478-9643.

Categories Superior Plumbing & Drain

Drain Maintenance In Las Vegas

Drain Maintenance in Las Vegas

Drain maintenance in Las Vegas can be tricky because of the hard water. Mineral build up can cause drain clogs as easily as putting unwanted items in the drain. When on a job, we always provide the benefit of the doubt before inspecting a drain. Below are a few tips on what not to put down the drain.

Please Don’t Put These In The Drain

A few items we should never put down the drain are eggshells, coffee grounds, fruit rinds, vegetable stalks and medications. While it may seem like the place to put them, the drain doesn’t always take kindly to these items. When placed in there repeatedly, not only does a drain clog occur, sometimes there is a gas build up leading to odor coming from the drain.

Medications should never be flushed down the toilet or placed in the drain. Once flushed, they go directly into the water supply. The EPA (environmental protection agency) has a way to dispose of unwanted or expired medications, Click here for details

Keeping A Drain Clean

When a drain does have an odor or you have cleared a clogged drain, it’s a good idea to clean the drain thoroughly. This can be done by using the hottest water possible to loosen up debris and build up. We also recommend a little bit of baking soda followed by a bit of vinegar. Cleaning the drain regularly with these simple tips will help keep the water flowing all year long.

Superior Plumbing & Drain

We are a family owned and operated company serving Las Vegas homes and businesses. As a licensed and bonded plumber, you can be assured we’ll get your water systems working properly. As your neighbor we treat everyone like family. Call about drain maintenance in Las Vegas where our trained team provides free plumbing estimates at (702) 478-9643.

1 2
Copyright © 2025 Superior Plumbing & Drain Las Vegas. All rights reserved. Contractor License #0079995. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. Terms & Conditions