Category: Tips

Drainage issues can create costly problems if not addressed promptly. The good news is there are red flags that indicate your property may have a drainage problem before the effects become too dire. As any business owner knows, prevention is much cheaper than fixing after the fact.

In this blog post, we look at some of the common warning signs of potential drainage issues at businesses so you can stay ahead of costly repairs down the line.

Unusual Smells Coming from Drains or Pipes

Has an unpleasant odor coming from your drain or pipes been giving you a headache? It might be time to take a closer look at your drainage system. A blockage or buildup in your pipes can cause water to stagnate, leading to an unpleasant smell that can linger throughout your business. The longer you wait to deal with the issue, the more serious it can become. That’s why calling in professionals quickly can help. Setting yourself up with regular grease, lint, or grit trap cleanings can also help prevent major issues.

Slow Drainage or Pooling Water

If you have pooling water around your drain, it can lead to some serious problems like mold growth or even water damage. The good news is that there are steps you can take to alleviate the issue. From using a plunger to pouring baking soda and vinegar down the drain, there are plenty of DIY solutions. But if you’re dealing with a persistent problem, it may be time to call in the professionals.

Standing water around the foundation of your business

There are few things more concerning than discovering standing water surrounding the foundation of your property. Not only can this be a sign of underlying drainage issues, but prolonged exposure to excess moisture can also lead to serious structural damage and pose a threat to the health and safety of your employees and customers. Whether you’re dealing with a minor inconvenience or a major cause for alarm, it’s important to address any drainage problems as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs and potential liability issues down the line.

An Increase in Pests due to Standing Water

Your business probably wants plenty of guests but standing water can attract unwanted guests in the form of pests. An increase in pests such as mosquitoes, flies, and cockroaches can be a telltale sign of a drainage problem. Not only are these pests annoying and unsanitary, but they can also carry diseases and lead to health code violations. It’s important to address any drainage issues promptly to not only eliminate the standing water but also the pests that come with it.

How Preventative Maintenance Can Help Solve Drainage Issues

If you own a business and can’t afford to have poor drainage slow you down, then it’s time to contact Drane Ranger. We offer a range of regular preventative maintenance programs that can help, including grease, lint, and grit trap cleanings. With our help, you can rest easy knowing your pipes and drainage are working at their absolute best, and many of the issues caused by poor drainage won’t affect your company. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.

Clogged drains can occur at any time and can be incredibly inconvenient. Clogs can range from slight slowdowns in water flow to a complete stoppage of drainage that may require professional intervention. Keeping up with regular preventative maintenance, including regular cleanings, is your best bet for avoiding clogs. If you do have a blockage, read on about these most common types of drain clogs and how to address the issue swiftly and effectively.

Hair Clogs

Ahh, the infamous hair clog. It’s a common problem that most of us encounter at some point, and it always seems to happen at the most inconvenient times. Fortunately, there are some easy steps you can take to prevent and remove hair clogs from your drains.

One of the best things you can do is invest in a drain cover or hair trap for your drains to trap hair before it goes further down. Another key tip is to avoid pouring hair products or oils down your drain, as they can contribute to clogs. And if you do find yourself dealing with a stubborn hair clog, try using a drain snake or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break it up and clear it out.

Grease Clogs

Grease clogs can occur for a variety of reasons, from pouring oil or grease down your drains to accumulation of oils from cooking over time. Whatever the cause, they can be a major inconvenience, causing slow draining, unpleasant odors, and even complete blockages.

Luckily, there are a variety of effective ways to remove grease clogs. Traditional methods, such as using a plunger or pouring boiling water down the drain, can work for mild clogs. For tougher blockages, specialized products designed to dissolve grease, like enzymatic drain cleaners or vinegar and baking soda, are a great solution.

If you have grease traps or deal with a lot of grease, then preventative maintenance is strongly recommended. Drane Ranger offers regular grease trap cleaning services. This will ensure your systems are working at maximum efficiency and help prevent grease trap issues that can lead to slowed business and even safety risks.

Soap Scum Clogs

One of the main causes of soap scum clogs is hard water, which leaves a residue behind after each use. Additionally, using bar soap instead of liquid soap can contribute to soap scum accumulation.

Regularly cleaning with vinegar or lemon juice can break down soap scum and scrubbing with baking soda can help remove buildup. Switching to liquid soap or using a squeegee to wipe down surfaces after each use can also prevent soap scum from forming.

Food Clogs

It turns out some foods are more likely to be the culprits behind your drain dilemma. Grease and fat from cooked meats, dairy products, and butter are top offenders in clogging up pipes. If a mix of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar doesn’t clear out food clogs, then a drain snake will likely be needed. For that, you’ll likely need to call a professional.

The Best Preventative Maintenance for Clogged Drains

If you’re worried about clogged drains slowing your down, then it may be time to schedule regular maintenance for your systems. Drane Ranger offers a range of professional grease, lint, and grit trap cleaning services to help your drains stay clear and working properly. Contact us today to learn more. Is your drain clogged and causing inconvenience? Don’t worry; we can fix it for you! Our team is just one click away.

Drain blockages can be a major headache for industries and commercial businesses. Not only do they disrupt the smooth operation of your business, but they can also pose potential health hazards and result in costly repairs. To help you avoid these issues, we’ve put together a guide on ways to prevent drain blockage. Should you ever need professional assistance with a drain blockage or other wastewater management needs, do not hesitate to contact Drane Ranger, a reliable company that specializes in these services.

1. Regular Maintenance and Cleaning

One of the most effective ways to prevent drain blockages is through regular maintenance and cleaning. By staying on top of this task, you can identify potential issues before they become major problems. Schedule routine inspections of your drainage system and ensure that all pipes, traps, and drains are free of debris and buildup.

2. Install Drain Screens and Grates

Installing drain screens and grates can help catch solid waste materials before they enter your drainage system. This is particularly important in commercial kitchens and manufacturing facilities where large amounts of solid waste may be generated. Make sure to clean the screens and grates regularly to ensure their effectiveness.

3. Properly Dispose of Grease and Oils

Grease and oils can solidify and create blockages in your drainage system. Instead of pouring them down the drain, collect them in a separate container and dispose of them properly. You can also install grease traps in commercial kitchens to help capture grease and oils before they cause problems.

4. Educate Your Employees

Make sure your employees are aware of the proper disposal methods for various types of waste. Provide clear instructions on how to handle grease, oils, and solid waste materials, and implement a training program to ensure that everyone is on the same page. By educating your employees, you can help prevent drain blockages and keep your drainage system running smoothly.

5. Monitor and Control Water Pressure

High water pressure can cause stress on your pipes and lead to blockages. Regularly monitor your water pressure and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that it remains within safe limits. Installing pressure-reducing valves can also help maintain consistent water pressure throughout your facility.

6. Avoid Using Chemical Drain Cleaners

While chemical drain cleaners may seem like a quick fix for minor blockages, they can cause more harm than good. The harsh chemicals in these cleaners can corrode your pipes and cause leaks or even complete failures. Instead of using chemical drain cleaners, opt for safer alternatives like enzyme-based cleaners or contact a professional drain cleaning service.

7. Seek Professional Assistance

If you’re experiencing recurring drain blockages or suspect that there’s an issue with your drainage system, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. A qualified wastewater management company can diagnose the problem, recommend appropriate solutions, and help you implement preventative measures to avoid future blockages.

Preventing drain blockages is crucial for maintaining the smooth operation of your industrial or commercial business. By following these tips and staying proactive, you can minimize the risk of blockages and avoid costly repairs. Remember that if you ever need assistance with a drain blockage or other wastewater management needs, Drane Ranger (draneranger.com) is here to help. With our professional and friendly services, you can rest assured that your drainage system will be in good hands.

As a homeowner, it’s important to keep your home’s plumbing system in good condition. One of the most common plumbing problems that homeowners face is a clogged drain. A clogged drain not only causes inconvenience but can also lead to costly repairs if not taken care of properly. In this blog post, we will be discussing the typical signs of a clogged drain and what to do when you encounter them.

Slow Draining Sinks

One of the most common signs of a clogged drain is a slow-draining sink. When water takes longer than usual to drain, it may be a sign of a clog in the drainpipe. To fix this issue, you can try using a sink plunger or a drain snake to remove the obstruction.

Bad Odors

Foul smells emanating from your sink or drain may indicate a clogged drain. This is because food particles or other debris that have been trapped in the drain can produce odors over time. To get rid of the smell, consider using a natural cleaner like baking soda and vinegar, or a chemical drain cleaner.

Water on the Floor Around the Appliances

If you spot water on the floor around your appliances, such as your washing machine or dishwasher, it could be due to a clogged drain. When water can’t flow through the drainpipes, it may overflow and spill onto the floor. Try cleaning the drain trap or using a plumbing snake to unclog the drain.

Backed Up Drains or Toilets

A blocked drain can cause water to back up, leading to an overflow. If you notice water backing up into your sink or toilet, it’s likely that you have a clogged drain. In this case, try plunging the sink or toilet to remove the blockage.

High Water Bills

A clogged drain can often cause your water bills to skyrocket. If you notice a sudden increase in your water bill but have not drastically increased your usage, it could be due to a clogged drain. A clog can slow the draining process, which means your water will be running longer than usual.

Pests and Rodents

You may see an increase in pest or rodent activity around clogged sink drains. This is because a clogged drain can attract insects and rodents looking for food or water. If you spot this issue, try sealing off any cracks in the pipes and cleaning the drain. Before calling pest control, call a professional plumber to check out the problem.

Need a Solution for Blocked Drains?

A clogged drain is an inconvenience that many homeowners must deal with. However, if you know the signs and symptoms of a clogged drain, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your plumbing system running like new. You can always try DIY options first but don’t hesitate to call Drane Ranger if the problem persists or if you’re unsure what to do. We specialize in maintaining and clearing drains. Remember, preventive maintenance is key to keeping your plumbing system in good condition, so call Drane Ranger to take care of the problem today!

Blocked drains are a common problem in many households, and they can be frustrating to deal with. Clogs caused by fat, oil, and grease can build up over time, leading to slow drainage and even complete blockages. These substances are common in many household items, such as cooking oil, butter, gravy, and meat juices. Most homeowners aren’t aware of the damage caused by these substances when they are washed down the drain.

Causes of Blocked Drains

Many people don’t realize that fat, oil, and grease can lead to blocked drains. When these liquids are poured down the drain, they can stick to the inside of the pipes and build up over time, causing blockages. This not only creates an unpleasant smell but also affects the efficiency of the entire drainage system.

To avoid experiencing blocked drains in the future, there are a few things that you can do to mitigate the problem. Firstly, always use a strainer in your sink to catch any food particles, grease, or hair that may fall into it. Secondly, avoid pouring cooking oil or grease down the sink or throwing it in the toilet. Instead, store it in a separate container until it solidifies, and then throw it away in the trash can. Lastly, consider using soap products made with minimal fat, oil, and grease components.

Solutions for Blocked Drains

Now, let’s look at the best solutions for blocked drains. There are a variety of things you can try before calling a professional, outlined below!

• Hot Water: When you first experience a blocked drain, consider pouring boiling water down the drain. This can help to break up any build-up inside the pipe, even if it has begun to solidify.
• Caustic Drain Cleaners: Caustic drain cleaners can be another solution (especially for more difficult clogs) as they are designed to dissolve fat, oil, and grease.
• 1:1 Vinegar and Hot Water: Mix equal parts of hot water and vinegar and pour it down your drain. The vinegar is an acid and can be corrosive, which helps to break down any buildup along the way.
• Compressed Air: When used inside the sink and waste pipe, compressed air can help to clear blockages. More importantly, it’s much less harmful to the environment than many other solutions.
• Chemical Cleaners: Lastly, if other solutions have failed, consider using a chemical drain cleaner. However, be cautious when using these solutions, as they can be extremely toxic and hazardous.

When all else fails, consider calling a professional to deal with your blocked drain issue. Unclogging blockages caused by fat, oil, and grease can be especially difficult for homeowners. Fortunately, a professional drain cleaning service like Drane Ranger can help you unclog the drain with powerful tools and experience while ensuring minimal or even no damage to your pipes.

Hire a Professional

Drain blockages can be a hassle for homeowners, but it’s essential to recognize the root cause. Avoid pouring fat, oil, and grease substances down drains! Use a strainer to catch debris and consider using soap products that have minimal fat, oil, or grease components to avoid future blockages. However, suppose a blockage has already occurred. In that case, try the above-mentioned tips. If nothing works, call a professional (draneranger.com/grease-grit-lint-traps) to get the job done for you. At Drane Ranger, we specialize in clearing blocked drains and getting everything running smoothly again. Call us today for more information!

The problem of oil and grease in wastewater is a growing concern for many industries. If left unchecked, oil and grease can have detrimental impacts on water quality, water bodies, and the environment itself. In this blog post, we will look at common sources of oil and grease pollution, as well as regulations that industries should follow to help prevent its spread into waterways. We’ll also explore some potential solutions for reducing the impact of oil and grease in wastewater, including contracting a professional wastewater services company like Drane Ranger.

Common Sources of Oil and Grease Pollution

Oil and grease pollution in wastewater typically comes from industrial processes. Some of the most common sources include:

1. Leaking equipment, such as oil tanks and pipes.
2. Improperly disposed of materials containing oil or grease, such as food scraps, fats, and oils.
3. Runoff from paved surfaces, such as roads and parking lots.
4. Boiler blowdown water from steam generation plants.
5. Industrial process lines that use oil-based products or lubricants.

Regulations

In Texas, industries must follow certain regulations when it comes to oil and grease in wastewater. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) requires that all industrial facilities monitor their wastewater to ensure the amount of oil and grease does not exceed permitted levels. Additionally, industrial facilities are required to dispose of materials containing oil or grease in specified ways so as to not cause environmental damage. On a federal level, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets effluent limitations guidelines for industries that discharge wastewater into navigable waters.

Challenges of Reducing Oil and Grease Pollution in Wastewater

Reducing oil and grease pollution in wastewater is a difficult undertaking because it often requires costly changes to equipment or processes. In some cases, facilities have to invest in new technologies, such as oil/grease separators or biofilters, in order to reduce their pollution levels.

Proper disposal of materials containing oil or grease can also be challenging because many waste management services do not accept these types of materials. Wastewater must be regularly monitored for any increases in oil and grease levels so that problems can be caught and addressed quickly.

Solutions for Reducing Pollution in Wastewater

Industries can take a number of steps to reduce their impact on wastewater. For example, many facilities have adopted best management practices (BMPs) such as source control and process optimization to reduce pollutants in their wastewater. Additionally, more advanced technologies such as oil/grease separators and biofilters can be used to effectively minimize oil and grease levels.

It is also important for industries to properly dispose of materials containing oil or grease. This may involve finding alternative waste disposal methods or contracting with a service that specializes in disposing of these types of materials. Regular monitoring of wastewater is also essential in order to detect any problems that may arise.

General Wastewater Services

Reducing oil and grease pollution in wastewater is a significant challenge for many industries, but it is possible to achieve safe and acceptable levels with the help of best management practices, advanced technologies, proper disposal methods, and regular monitoring. If you are based in Texas and are looking for specialized wastewater services (https://draneranger.com/services), consider Drane Ranger – a specialist firm offering many services to meet your needs. By taking measures such as these, you can help ensure that your operations have minimal impact on local water supplies.

Have you ever encountered a smelly, clogged drain in your utility sink? Although it can be intimidating to clean and unclog the drain traps of a utility sink, the process is not as difficult as it may seem. This blog post will take you through step-by-step instructions on how to go about removing and inspecting the drain traps, cleaning and replacing them, and restoring order in your utility sink. If you find it beyond your skill level, consider calling in a professional drain cleaning service such as Drane Ranger. Let’s begin!

What is a Utility Sink?

A utility sink is a deep basin with an overflow drain, usually located in the laundry room or garage. It’s also sometimes referred to as a slop sink, laundry tub, or mop sink. It’s typically made of cast iron, metal-reinforced porcelain fixtures, or stainless steel and is designed for general-purpose cleaning tasks.

Benefits of Unclogging Drain Traps

• Keeps odors at bay: Clogged drain traps can cause unpleasant odors in your utility sink due to food particles and other debris trapped within the traps and eventually seeping through into the pipes.
• Prevents water from backing up into your home: If the trap becomes completely blocked with debris, it will prevent water from draining properly and can result in backed-up water throughout your building.
• Keeps pests away: Unwanted pests like roaches, rats, and flies are drawn to standing water and the leftover food residue is left behind in drain traps.

Unclogging a Utility Sink’s Drain Traps

It’s important to note that when it comes to unclogging utility sink drain traps, it helps to have some basic plumbing knowledge. If you don’t have the time or expertise to tackle the job yourself, calling in a professional drain cleaning service is always recommended.

Here are a few steps on how to unclog the drain traps of your utility sink:

1. Locate the trap. The trap is usually located near the back of the sink where the pipe connects it to the wall. If you can’t find it right away, look carefully behind and underneath any other fixtures in the room.
2. Wear protective gloves while unscrewing and removing the trap from its housing by unscrewing clamps and other attachments with a wrench or screwdriver (depending on what type of clamp).
3. Empty any solids or sludge from inside of the trap and dispose of it responsibly, as per local regulations.
4. Rinse any residue off of the walls of both ends of the trap using hot running water. Use a small wire brush if necessary for tougher stains or debris buildup around hard-to-reach areas within the pipes or fittings of your utility sink drain traps.
5. Reinstall your cleaned and cleared traps back into their original mounting locations, making sure they are tightly sealed with all clamps properly fastened down before running water through them again for testing purposes.
6. For more challenging blockage cases, use products like drain cleaners and plungers as directed to make sure everything loosens up enough to restore a normal flow in your utility sink’s pipes!

Unclogging With the Help of a Professional

It is important to remember that when unclogging utility sinks drain traps, it helps to have some basic plumbing knowledge and experience. Professional plumbers are always available for tackling the job if you don’t feel confident doing it yourself. For commercial businesses, Drane Ranger is a reliable source for expert cleaning services including drain traps and other similar plumbing issues. To know why grease traps are essential for kitchens, click here.

Article-At-A-Glance

• Septic odors indicate potential system issues requiring immediate professional attention
• Expert septic tank cleaning can quickly eliminate unwanted smells
• Professional inspection identifies underlying problems causing odors
• Regular maintenance prevents future septic issues and odors
• Scheduled cleaning services extend septic system longevity

Understanding Septic Odors in Your Home

That unmistakable septic smell in your house isn’t just unpleasant – it’s your home’s way of alerting you to potential problems. The mix of sewage odors and chemical smells can quickly become overwhelming, putting your family’s health and property at risk. When these odors appear, you need swift, professional intervention.

Professional Solutions for Septic Odors

Expert Septic Tank Cleaning

A thorough cleaning by professionals tackles the root cause of septic odors head-on. Professional cleaning services remove built-up waste and identify potential issues causing the smell. With proper equipment and expertise, the offensive odors can disappear faster than you’d expect, often at a surprisingly reasonable cost.

Comprehensive Inspections and Maintenance

After cleaning, a thorough inspection reveals why those odors developed in the first place. Septic smells usually signal that your system needs professional attention – whether it’s repairs or routine maintenance. Addressing these underlying issues prevents odors from returning.

Preventive Maintenance Programs

The best strategy? Regular maintenance prevents problems before they start. Setting up scheduled maintenance visits means:

• Consistent system performance
• Early problem detection
• Reduced risk of emergency issues
• Extended system lifespan
• Prevention of unwanted odors

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How quickly can a professional eliminate septic odors?

A: With proper equipment and expertise, most septic odors can be eliminated within a single service visit, though underlying issues may require additional attention.

Q: How often should I schedule professional septic maintenance?

A: Most residential septic systems benefit from professional maintenance every 2-3 years, though specific timing depends on household size and system usage.

Q: Can I mask septic odors with air fresheners?

A: Air fresheners only mask symptoms without addressing the underlying problem. Professional inspection and cleaning are necessary for proper odor elimination.

Frequently Unasked Questions (FUQs)

Q: Could septic odors indicate problems beyond my septic tank?

A: Yes, odors might signal issues with drain fields, vent stacks, or plumbing connections that require professional evaluation.

Q: How does regular maintenance affect my property value?

A: Well-maintained septic systems can positively impact property values and prevent costly repairs that could affect future home sales.

Connect With Septic Experts Today

Don’t let septic odors compromise your home’s comfort and safety. Drane Ranger offers comprehensive septic solutions with proven results. As noted by our client Harold R.: “My experience with Drane Ranger was very organized, professional and on time. I was kept informed of what was happening and a suggested time of cleaning again.”

Browse our website to learn more about our professional septic services, or call us at 281-489-1765 to schedule an inspection. Our team serves Houston, Pearland, Alvin, and surrounding areas with expert septic solutions.