Does Making Sure Storm Drains Are Clean Stop Sewer Backup? Storm drains may not be the first thing you think about when a sewer backup happens, but they should be. One question many homeowners ask is, does making sure storm drains are clean stop sewer backup? The short answer is yes, it can make a big difference. But there’s a bit more to the story. Let’s dig into how storm drains work, their connection to the sewer system, and what steps you can take to keep everything flowing smoothly—especially during heavy rains. What Are Storm Drains and How Do They Work? Storm drains are those metal grates you see along roads, sidewalks, and parking lots. They’re designed to catch rainwater and channel it away from streets and properties to prevent flooding. Do Storm Drains Connect to the Sewer System? In some areas, stormwater and sewage use the same pipes. This is called a combined sewer system. In newer neighborhoods, stormwater usually flows separately from sanitary sewage. However, both systems can be overwhelmed during intense storms. Where Does Storm Drain Water Go? Where does storm drain water go after entering those grates? It typically flows into nearby streams, rivers, or retention ponds—often untreated. Keeping storm drains clear of pollutants is crucial for local water quality. Can Stormwater Go to the Sewer? In combined systems, yes—stormwater and sewage travel together. During storms, the volume of water increases quickly, pushing both into the same network of pipes. If the system can’t handle the load, backups and overflows happen. Does Making Sure Storm Drains Are Clean Stop Sewer Backup? Let’s get to the heart of it—does making sure storm drains are clean stop sewer backup? Keeping them clear helps reduce pressure on the drainage system, preventing sewer issues. The Connection Between Blocked Storm Drains and Sewer Backups When storm drains are blocked with leaves, trash, or dirt, rainwater has nowhere to go. Water backs up into the street, and in combined sewer systems, it can reverse into basements and bathrooms. That’s when things get messy—literally. What Happens When Storm Drains Are Clogged? Flooding. Road damage. Basement leaks. And yes—sewer backups. Blockages slow down water flow and force it into unwanted places. Cleaning them out allows the system to do its job correctly. Can Storms Cause Sewer Backup? Absolutely. Heavy rain can overwhelm even the best-maintained systems. If storm drains are blocked, the sewer backup odds increase. It’s not just a rainy-day inconvenience—it’s a risk to your home’s safety. Why Do I Have Sewer Gas After Heavy Rain? That foul odor after a storm? It could mean your traps dried out or your sewer system got overloaded. Cracks or weak seals can also let gas sneak into your home. How Do You Prevent Sewer Backup in Heavy Rain? You can’t control the weather, but you can prepare your property. Here’s how: Keep Storm Drains Clean and Free of Debris This is step one. Cleaning storm drains may seem minor, but it plays a significant role in preventing backups. How Often Should Storm Drains Be Cleaned? Check and clear them monthly, especially before and after storms. Fall is an especially critical time with all the leaves falling. Install a Backwater Valve to Prevent Sewage from Flowing Backward This one-way valve stops sewage from backing into your home. It’s a wise investment for older homes and flood-prone areas. Maintain and Inspect Your Sewer Line Regularly Tree roots, grease, and sediment can build up over time. A camera inspection once a year can catch issues early. Avoid Pouring Grease and Non-Flushable Down the Drain Even if it looks like it goes down, it can harden and block your pipes later. Grade Your Lawn Away from the Foundation If your yard slopes toward your house, rainwater will follow it. Reshaping your lawn can direct water away instead. Seal Foundation Cracks and Basement Openings Water will find any tiny gap. Sealing cracks protects your basement from sewer and stormwater leaks. Use a Sump Pump with a Battery Backup System Sump pumps push water out of your basement. During storms, a battery backup keeps it running even if the power goes out. Disconnect Downspouts from the Sewer Line Make sure your roof runoff isn’t dumping directly into your sewer pipes. Redirect them into the yard or a rain barrel instead. Reduce Water Use During Heavy Rainstorms Flush less, delay laundry, skip the dishwasher. The less water you send into the system, the lower the chance of a backup. How to Clear a Storm Drain Here’s how to clear a storm drain safely and effectively without damaging the system: 1. Remove Surface Debris Using a Rake or Broom Sweep away leaves, trash, and sticks covering the grate. Clear a wide area around the drain. 2. Clear Leaves, Trash, and Sediment by Hand or With Tools Wear gloves. Use a small shovel or trowel to scoop out any gunk blocking water flow. 3. Avoid Using Chemicals or High-Pressure Hoses Harsh chemicals can harm local waterways. High-pressure water may push debris further into the system. 4. Check for Signs of Deeper Blockages The clog may be deeper if water still pools after clearing the surface. That’s a job for a professional. 5. Perform Routine Inspections to Prevent Future Clogs Make it part of your home maintenance checklist. Especially before the rainy season rolls in. What to Do When the Sewer Backs Up If the worst happens, don’t panic—but don’t wait. Stop Using Water in the Home Immediately Every flush, wash, or run of the faucet adds more pressure to an already stressed system. Protect Your Property from Further Damage Move valuables and furniture to higher ground. Place barriers in doorways if flooding begins. Ventilate the Area and Avoid Contact with Wastewater Open windows. Wear gloves and boots. Sewer water contains bacteria that can make you sick. Check If the Backup Is Local or Widespread Ask your neighbors or check online reports. If others are affected, the city may need to respond. Contact a
Can a Furnace Leak Water? What It Means, Why It Happens, and How to Stop It
Can a Furnace Leak Water? What It Means, Why It Happens, and How to Stop It When your furnace starts dripping, it’s easy to panic. Can a furnace leak water? The short answer is yes, and it’s not always a minor issue. Whether you’re seeing a steady puddle or a slow drip, understanding what’s behind the leak can save your home and wallet from further damage. Let’s break it all down. Can a Furnace Leak Water? Yes, it absolutely can. But not every furnace is supposed to. Understanding Whether It’s Normal or Not Not all water coming from a furnace signals a problem. Some systems are designed to drain a bit of water during regular operation. But when the water is pooling or leaking unexpectedly, it’s time to take a closer look. Is It Normal for a Furnace to Drain Water? If you have a high-efficiency furnace, yes. These systems create condensation as they extract extra heat from exhaust gases. The moisture is supposed to drain safely away. If you see more water than usual, something may be clogged or broken. Time to call for furnace installation and repair services How Much Water Should Come Out of a Furnace? A high-efficiency furnace may typically release one to two gallons of water daily. Any more than that, or if it leaks onto the floor instead of the drain, something’s wrong. Ask yourself: Why is my furnace leaking water like this? How Furnace Type Affects Water Leaks and Condensation High-Efficiency vs. Standard-Efficiency Furnaces High-efficiency furnaces (AFUE 90% or higher) are more likely to produce condensation. Standard-efficiency units (AFUE below 90%) typically vent gases as vapor, so no condensation forms. If a standard-efficiency unit leaks, water shouldn’t be involved—it could be another type of issue altogether. Why Only Certain Furnaces Produce Condensation High-efficiency units cool exhaust gases to reclaim more heat, which creates water. This condensation should be drained out through the tubing. When parts of this drainage system clog, crack, or disconnect, it leads to a visible leak, raising the red flag: can a furnace leak water? Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water? This is one of the most common wintertime complaints from homeowners. Common Causes of Furnace Leaks Knowing the reason can help you act fast before it causes lasting damage. Condensation Issues in High-Efficiency Furnaces Condensation is normal. What’s not normal is a blocked condensate pipe,a cracked collector box, or a failed gasket that lets water escape instead of draining. Clogged Condensate Drain Lines Over time, dust, dirt, or algae can clog the drain line. When this happens, water backs up and spills out of the furnace. Malfunctioning Humidifier If your HVAC system has a built-in humidifier, it may leak into the furnace housing. That’s a recipe for corrosion and a service call. Broken Condensate Pump Homes with basements often rely on a pump to carry condensation upward to a drain. When that pump fails, the water stays put—or worse, spills out. Internal Drain System Failure Internal tubes or connectors can degrade or loosen. A faulty trap or cracked reservoir may not be evident unless you open the unit. Clogged Air Filter or Ventilation Issues Restricted airflow from a dirty filter can cause the coil to freeze and eventually leak when it thaws. This is one cause behind why is my furnace leaking water out of nowhere. Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water from the Bottom? Seeing a puddle below your unit? It’s more than just an inconvenience. How to Trace the Source of the Leak Start by checking the visible drain lines. Look for cracks, clogs, or disconnected hoses. Inspect the humidifier and pump. Sometimes, water runs along internal components before dripping at the base. Signs of a Serious Internal Leak Discoloration, rust, or water damage near the bottom of the unit can mean something inside has failed. Don’t wait—call a professional if you suspect internal damage. Can a Furnace Leak Water in the Summer? It might surprise you, but the answer is yes. Summer Leaks and HVAC Confusion You might think your furnace is acting up in the summer, but it’s likely part of your air conditioning system causing the issue. When AC Is Involved in the Leak Your air conditioner’s evaporator coil sits above the furnace. If it’s a drain pan or line clog, water may drip onto or into your furnace unit, making it seem like your furnace is leaking water from the bottom. Condensation from Ducts or Coils Near the Furnace Warm air meeting cold ductwork causes condensation. If insulation is poor or ducts pass near the furnace, that water may drip into the same area. What Happens When Your Furnace Leaks Water? A small drip today can become tomorrow’s big problem. Water Damage to Your Home or Furnace Standing water can damage flooring, drywall, and insulation. Long-term exposure can destroy the furnace cabinet or heat exchanger. Mold Growth and Indoor Air Quality Issues Where there’s water, mold can follow. That means potential breathing problems, especially for those with allergies or asthma. Increased Energy Bills and Reduced Efficiency Leaks often come with restricted airflow or malfunctioning parts, causing your furnace to work harder—and your bills to climb. Is the Furnace Leaking Water an Emergency? It can be, especially when tied to electrical or structural risk. Signs That Require Urgent Professional Help Large Puddles of Water Around the Furnace This means something significant has failed. Please don’t ignore it. Persistent Leaks After Turning Off the System Water should stop once the system shuts down. If it doesn’t, call someone ASAP. Water Near Electrical Components Water and electricity never mix. This is a serious safety hazard. Strange Noises or Smells Coming from the Furnace Hissing, bubbling, or musty odors suggest deeper issues like leaks in hidden compartments or mold. System Shuts Down Unexpectedly Moisture may trigger safety sensors or short out the control board. Visible Rust or Corrosion Inside the Unit Once rust sets in, components weaken. Replacement may be the only solution. Furnace Fails to
How to Make Hard Water Soft at Home | Easy Solutions
How to Make Hard Water Soft at Home Hard water can be a daily nuisance—from crusty faucets and dry skin to soap that won’t lather. If you’re dealing with stubborn stains or mineral buildup, you might be wondering how to make hard water soft. This guide breaks it down in simple terms so you can take control of your water quality and enjoy cleaner, softer water at home. What Is Hard Water? Hard water contains high levels of minerals—mainly calcium and magnesium. While it’s not harmful to your health in most cases, it can be harsh on your skin, appliances, and plumbing. Causes of Hard Water Hard water occurs naturally when groundwater passes through limestone, chalk, or gypsum, rich in calcium and magnesium. These minerals dissolve in the water, increasing its hardness. How to Test Your Water Hardness To know how to fix hard water, you must first test it. You can buy home water hardness test strips or request a water quality test from a professional. Hardness is usually measured in grains per gallon (gpg) or parts per million (ppm). Where Hard Water Is Most Common Hard water is more common in areas with limestone or mineral-rich ground. The Midwest, Southwest, and some Southern states in the U.S. are known for especially hard water. What Are the Signs of Hard Water? Not sure if you’re dealing with hard water? Here are a few common signs: White Spots on Dishes and Glassware If your glasses and dishes come out of the dishwasher with cloudy spots, that’s likely caused by mineral deposits from hard water. Soap Not Lathering Properly When water is too hard, soap has a hard time producing suds. You’ll need to use more soap or detergent than usual. Dry Skin and Hair Even after bathing, one of the most frustrating signs is dry, itchy skin and brittle hair. Scale Buildup on Faucets, Showers, and Appliances Mineral buildup—also known as scale—can clog showerheads, reduce water flow, and damage appliances over time. Faded Laundry and Fabric Stiffness Clothes may look dull or stiff due to mineral deposits left behind after washing. How Hard Water Affects Your Health Though not dangerous for most, hard water can still have some uncomfortable side effects. Skin Irritation and Dryness Hard water strips away natural oils from your skin, leaving it dry and irritated. This can worsen conditions like eczema. Impact on Hair Hair may feel rough, look dull, and be harder to manage due to residue left by hard water. Potential Digestive Discomfort Some people may experience mild digestive discomfort, though this is uncommon. Hard Water and Eczema or Sensitive Skin For people with sensitive skin or eczema, hard water can be especially aggravating, worsening symptoms. Can You Drink Hard Water? Is It Safe to Consume Hard Water? Yes, in most cases, it’s safe. However, excessive minerals can be a concern for some individuals. Taste and Odor Concerns Many people find that hard water tastes “off” or smells metallic. That can make drinking it unpleasant. Considerations for Children or People With Kidney Issues If someone in your home has kidney problems, it’s best to consult a doctor before drinking hard water regularly. How to Fix Hard Water If you’re wondering how to make hard water soft, here are the most effective solutions: Whole-House Water Softener A water softener is the most comprehensive solution. It treats all the water entering your home, making it ideal for long-term use. Using a Reverse Osmosis System This system uses a semipermeable membrane to filter out minerals and impurities. It’s great for drinking water and cooking. Point-of-Use Softening Options These include showerhead filters or under-sink units that soften water in specific locations. Water Conditioning Systems These systems alter the structure of minerals to reduce buildup without removing them. They’re a low-maintenance option. How Do Water Softeners Work? When a Softener Is Needed You need a softener when your water tests above 7 grains per gallon. Signs like scale and soap scum also indicate a need. What Is a Good Hardness Level for Water Softener? What is a good hardness level for water softener systems? Ideally, you want water to fall between 3-5 grains per gallon after softening for optimal balance. How to Set the Right Level on Your Softener Consult your water test results and the manual. Most units let you adjust the settings based on your home’s hardness level. Will a Water Filter Help With Hard Water? When a Filter Is Enough Many people ask, will a water filter help with hard water? The answer depends. Filters can reduce taste and smell issues, but most won’t remove calcium or magnesium. Types of Water Filters and Their Capabilities Activated Carbon Great for removing odors and improving taste but doesn’t soften water. Reverse Osmosis It effectively removes minerals, making it a good choice for drinking water. Ion Exchange Systems These are true softeners that replace calcium and magnesium with sodium or potassium, perfect for properly filtering hard water. FAQs Do Magnetic Water Softeners Work? There’s little scientific evidence proving their effectiveness. Does Heating Hard Water Make It Soft? No. Heating can cause minerals to solidify faster, leading to more buildup. Does Vinegar Soften Hard Water? It can temporarily help remove mineral deposits but doesn’t soften the water. Does Baking Soda Reduce Water Hardness? Baking soda can change water pH but does not soften it. Does Lemon Make Hard Water Soft? Like vinegar, lemon can remove deposits but doesn’t soften the water. Anton Plumbing Can Help You Control Your Water Hardness If you’re struggling with mineral deposits, dry skin, or constant appliance issues, we can help. At Anton Plumbing, we specialize in water quality solutions that work for your home and your budget. Whether you need a water softener, reverse osmosis system, or professional advice on how to fix hard water, we have the experience and tools to get the job done right. Reach out to us today and let our team help you enjoy soft, clean water throughout your