SERVICE | INSTALLATION | MAINTENANCE
We're your "one-stop" solution for residential & commercial plumbing services.
Our top-quality work & years of experience are the key reasons families rely on our valuable services.
At J Hood Services, we provide emergency service calls around the clock.
PLUMBING SERVICES
For all your plumbing needs in Northern Virginia, call 571-719-6140 today to request a visit or fill out our form.
​Plumbing is an important system in your home. It provides fresh water to each of your fixtures, removes wastewater after it's used, and ensures your family is both healthy and clean daily. So, if a component in your plumbing system breaks, you want to know you have an experienced Northern Virginia plumber on the job to fix it quickly.
Our plumbers have provided expert service to homeowners throughout the Northern Virginia region for more than 20 years and can do the same for you, whether it is a broken pipe or a clogged sewer line.
PLUMBING REPLACEMENT & REPAIR
The most common plumbing problem we face in Northern VA is pipe or water line issues.
When your pipes start to age, either because of years of continuous use or because they were improperly cared for by a previous owner, they corrode. Hard water can leave deposits in pipes and age can take its toll, especially on older metal pipes.
Whether it is a major leak that floods your basement or a small leak that only registers on the water meter, you need an experienced professional you can trust to fix the problem quickly and get your plumbing system back to normal operation fast.
LIST OF PLUMBING SERVICES
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Sewer Line Replacement
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Sewer Main Camera
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Water Line Replacement
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Water Heaters
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Toilet Replacement
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Service Repairs
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And More!
WATER SOFTENERS
Eliminate your hard water problems with a new home water softener. Call 571-719-6140 today to request a visit or fill out our form.
Are you still dealing with hard water? Hard water can cause stains in your sinks, tubs, toilet bowls, etc., and clog your plumbing lines and faucets. Hard water can even make your skin feel dry and itchy. If you suspect that your water system has hard water, it may be time to install a water softener.
A water softener is a filtration system that removes high concentrations of minerals that cause hard water. A water softener will filter out hard water and leave soft water to flow through your plumbing system. We offer installation, maintenance & repair that your home water softener & filtration system may require.
WATER SOFTENER INSTALLATION
We provide professional water softener installations throughout Northern, VA. Our experts will help you determine the right equipment for your home.
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Benefits of installing a whole-home water softener:
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Better water flow
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Hair and skin appear healthier
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Cleaner, more comfortable & brighter clothing
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Easy to rinse dishes
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Fresher tasting water
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And more!
WATER SOFTENER REPLACEMENT & REPAIR
If you already have a water softener, we can help troubleshoot and repair your system.
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Do you feel like your water softener is not doing its job? You are likely looking at worn-out parts or electrical issues. Like all appliances in Northern, VA, parts endure wear & tear and break over time. Keep your water quality soft & in check by giving J Hood Services a call today to repair your water softener system. You deserve to live in comfort.
How to Unclog a Shower Drain: A Complete Guide for Homeowners in Lorton, VA
A functional shower drain is necessary for a clean and efficient bathroom. This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with practical and efficient methods to unclog your shower drain.
Understanding the Cause of Plumbing Issues in Lorton VA
Before you begin the process of unclogging your shower drain, it's essential to understand what's causing the blockage.
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Hair: A common culprit that often gets tangled with other substances causing a blockage.
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Hard Water build-up: Mineral deposits from hard water can accumulate over time and create blockages.
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Foreign Objects: Small items such as bottle caps or children’s toys can accidentally fall into drains leading to clogs.
Tools You Will Need from Plumbers in Lorton VA
The process of unclogging a shower drain involves using certain tools for effective results.
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Plunger
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Hand Auger or Plumber’s Snake
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Wire Coat Hanger
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Screwdriver
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Gloves
Some simple household items like vinegar and baking soda may also be effective in dealing with minor clogs.
The Unclogging Process with Plumbing Companies in Lorton VA
Once you've identified potential causes and gathered necessary tools, follow these steps:
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Manual Removal: If the cause of clog is visible and within reach, consider manually removing it wearing gloves.
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Use of Plunger: A plunger can be used by placing it over the drain opening and pumping rigorously to create suction that dislodges the clog.
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Vinegar and Baking Soda: For minor clogs or regular maintenance cleaning, pour half cup of baking soda into the drain followed by half cup of vinegar. Wait for about 15-20 minutes and then rinse with hot water.
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Wire Coat Hanger: Straighten a wire coat hanger and insert it into the drain to hook and pull up the clog.
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Hand Auger or Plumber’s Snake: For more stubborn clogs, you may need to use a hand auger or plumber’s snake which is a flexible rod that can reach deep into a drain pipe to break up or retrieve a clog.
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Remember, patience and persistence are key when attempting to unclog a shower drain. If these methods do not yield results or if the problem persists, it might indicate a more serious issue requiring professional attention.
A clogged shower drain can be a real nuisance, leading to slow drainage, standing water, and unpleasant odors. Fortunately, you can often unclog your shower drain using simple methods and without the need for professional help. Here, we present a step-by-step guide on how to unclog your shower drain the easy way.
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Step 1: Gather Tools and Materials used by Plumbing Contractors in Lorton VA
Before you begin, assemble all the necessary tools and materials.
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A plunger
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A wire coat hanger
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A pair of rubber gloves
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Baking soda and vinegar
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A bucket
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Step 2: Remove the Drain Cover
Start by removing the drain cover. This may require a screwdriver if it is screwed in place. Be sure to put on your rubber gloves before proceeding with this step.
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Step 3: Clear Visible Blockages
Next, check for any visible blockages within your reach and remove them. This could be hair or soap scum build-up. You can use a bent wire coat hanger or a similar tool for this job.
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Step 4: Use a Plunger
If the clog persists after removing visible blockages, use a plunger next. Position the plunger over the drain hole and give it several firm plunges. This will often dislodge minor clogs.
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Step 5: Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
If plunging doesn't work, another great DIY method is using baking soda and vinegar - both safe for pipes yet effective against clogs. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain followed by half a cup of vinegar. Allow this mixture to work its magic for about 20 minutes then rinse with hot water.
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Step 6: Check If Water Drains Properly
Now check if water drains properly. If it does, congratulations, you’ve successfully unclogged your shower drain! If not, the clog may be more stubborn and require further attention.
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Step 7: Repeat Steps if Necessary
If the above steps don’t work the first time, don’t be discouraged. Sometimes it takes a few attempts to fully clear a clog. Repeat the steps as necessary.
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In many cases, these simple steps will successfully clear a shower drain. However, if you've tried these methods without success, it may be time to try more advanced techniques or even call in a plumbing professional. Remember that persistent clogs can sometimes be a sign of deeper plumbing issues that need professional attention.
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Maintaining a clean shower drain is crucial for preventing clogs, which can cause serious plumbing issues if left ignored. However, before you get started on the task of cleaning your shower drain, there are several precautions and preparation steps that you should consider.
Safety First: Plumbing Services in Lorton VA
The first thing to remember is safety. Plumbing work can often involve exposure to harmful bacteria and hazardous chemicals, as well as potential injury risks from tools or equipment.
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Protective gloves: These are essential for protecting your hands from harmful bacteria or sharp objects in the drain.
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Safety goggles: Splashes from dirty water or chemicals can be dangerous for your eyes.
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A mask or respirator: This is especially important if you're using chemical cleaners, which can emit noxious fumes.
Tools and Materials
Next, make sure you have the necessary tools and materials on hand.
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A plunger
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A plumber's snake (also known as a drain snake)
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Drain cleaner solution (either chemical-based or a natural alternative like vinegar and baking soda)
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A bucket
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Clean rags or towels
Your Plumbing System Explained - Working with a Lorton, VA Plumbing Contractor
Before attempting any plumbing work, it would be wise to understand your home's plumbing system. Each home has different pipe materials and layouts. Knowing what type of pipes you have will help you avoid causing any unintended damage during your cleaning process.
Picking the Right Time to Hire a Plumbing Company in Lorton VA
Planning your cleaning mission at the right time is another important consideration. Choose a time when other household members won't need to use the shower for a while after you've finished cleaning. This allows any used chemicals time to thoroughly rinse away.
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Beware of Chemicals: Advice from a Plumber Near Me
Lastly, when using store-bought chemical cleaners, always read and follow the instructions carefully. These products can be extremely harsh and can cause damage to certain types of pipes if misused. Additionally, remember to never mix different chemical cleaners as this can lead to dangerous chemical reactions.
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In sum, preparing before cleaning your shower drain is an essential step. Always prioritize safety, make sure you have the right tools and materials, understand your plumbing system, time your work appropriately and handle chemicals with caution. By following these steps, you're setting yourself up for a successful and safe cleaning of your shower drain.
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When it comes to efficiently unclogging a shower drain, sometimes the usual methods of using a plunger or a drain cleaner may not be sufficient. This is when you might need to resort to more advanced techniques, such as using a plumber’s snake. Also known as a drain auger, this tool is one of the most effective methods for dealing with stubborn blockages in your shower drain.
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Understanding What a Plumber's Snake Is
A plumber's snake is essentially a flexible coil of wire that can reach deep into your plumbing system to dislodge blockages. It is operated manually and can penetrate and break down tough clogs that are out of reach for regular cleaning tools.
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Steps on Using the Plumber’s Snake
Here are the step-by-step directions on how to use this tool:
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Prepare Your Work Area: First and foremost, make sure your work area is well-lit and clean. Put on some rubber gloves and have some towels ready in case things get messy.
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Remove the Shower Drain Cover: The first step is to remove the cover from the shower drain. You might need to unscrew it, or you may be able to simply lift it off.
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Insert the Snake: Once you have removed the cover, insert the end of the plumber's snake into the drain opening.
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Navigate Through the Drainpipe: Begin feeding more wire into your shower drain until you feel resistance — this signals that you've made contact with the clog.
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Break Down The Clog: Crank or twist 360 degrees in both directions slowly while applying gentle pressure forward. This motion will help break up whatever material has caused your clog.
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Retract The Snake: Once you’ve cleared away as much of it as possible, slowly pull out your plumber's snake from the drain. The end of the snake should bring up debris with it.
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Clean Up: Finally, remember to clean your tool immediately after use, as well as your shower drain area.
Safety Precautions
When using a plumber’s snake for unclogging a shower drain, there are several safety measures that need to be kept in mind:
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Always wear protective gloves and goggles to shield yourself from direct contact with debris or harsh cleaning chemicals.
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Be gentle when using the snake. Excess force could damage your pipes.
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If you are having trouble navigating the pipes or breaking down the clog, do not force it. Instead, call a professional plumber to avoid causing further damage.
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The plumber's snake is an often-overlooked tool in clearing stubborn blockages from drains. However, it can be an efficient and cost-effective solution when faced with severe clogs. By following these steps and taking adequate safety precautions, you should have no problem dislodging even the most persistent blockages in your shower drain.
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the regular methods of drain unclogging may not be effective. In such instances, it becomes imperative to seek professional help and get a detailed inspection of your shower drain.
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When to Call a Plumber
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Persistent Clogs:If your shower drain keeps getting clogged even after multiple cleaning attempts, it's time to get a professional inspection. The persistent clog could indicate a deeper issue within your plumbing system that needs expert attention.
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Slow Drainage:A slow-draining shower can be quite frustrating. If your efforts to improve the water flow have been unsuccessful, calling a plumber can help address the underlying issue causing the slow drainage.
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Unpleasant Odors:An unpleasant odor emanating from your shower drain can be indicative of sewage backup or other serious issues. It’s recommended to call in experts as soon as possible if you notice this symptom.
Why You Should Seek Professional Help
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Professional Expertise:Plumbers are trained professionals with extensive knowledge about plumbing systems. They have the necessary skills, tools, and experience to handle any kind of plumbing issue.
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Appropriate Tools:Experts have access to advanced tools that allow them deal with stubborn clogs more effectively than common household items.
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Time & Effort Saving:Hiring professionals save you time and effort spent on trying different methods until you find one that works. They also offer guaranteed result which gives peace of mind.
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Prevent Further Damage:Amateur attempts at unclogging drains might lead to inadvertently causing further damage which might lead to more costly repairs later on.
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Comprehensive Solutions:A professional plumber can diagnose and fix any underlying problems that might be causing the clog, offering a comprehensive solution rather than just a quick fix.
Cost of Hiring a Plumber
The cost of hiring a plumber can vary based on the severity of the clog, the complexity of the job, and your geographical location. Typically, it can range anywhere from $50 to $200 per hour. It's always advisable to get an estimate before the work begins to avoid any surprises later.
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While there are many drain unclogging methods you can try at home, remember that professional help is available when needed. The knowledge and expertise of a professional plumber can be invaluable in dealing with persistent or severe shower drain clogs.