Toilet Pull & Reset, Drain Inspection, and Clean-Out Repair – Plumbing Vlog
In this plumbing vlog, we follow a day in the life of a plumber tackling various tasks, including pulling a toilet, inspecting a drain line, and repairing clean-outs. The video highlights the importance of proper plumbing practices and the need for reliable service.
Key Takeaways
Always keep your workspace clean.
Inspect drain lines thoroughly to avoid future issues.
Ensure clean-outs are accessible for maintenance.
Use quality materials for repairs to prevent future problems.
The Mess Left Behind
When I arrived at the client's house in Tampa, I was shocked by the state of the bathroom. A local plumbing company had left it in disarray. The toilet wasn’t properly secured, and the wax seal was never replaced. It’s frustrating to see such a lack of professionalism, especially when the client was charged over $1,000 for the service.
Cleaning Up Before Getting to Work
Before I could start any repairs, I needed to clean up the area. I moved everything aside to make space. Keeping a clean workspace is crucial in plumbing. If you’re charging premium prices, you better treat your clients with respect and keep things tidy.
Pulling the Toilet
Once the area was clean, I began the process of pulling the toilet. I disconnected the supply line and removed the bolts. It’s always a bad sign when you see makeshift anchors used to secure a toilet. This usually means the flange is damaged.
After setting the toilet aside in the tub, I prepared to inspect the drain line with my camera. The drain line was PVC, which is good, but I needed to see what was going on inside.
Inspecting the Drain Line
Using the camera, I discovered several soft spots and some debris in the line. It looked like the previous plumber didn’t know what he was doing. There was water holding in the line, indicating a soft clog. I ran water down the sink to see if it would clear up the line.
After several minutes, I confirmed there was no blockage, just a soft clog. I also found a clean-out at the end of the line, which was buried. I marked its location to dig it up later.
Finding Clean-Outs
I located a test tee in the front yard, which would allow for better access to the sewer line. I planned to dig it up and camera the rest of the line to ensure there were no other issues. It’s essential to have accessible clean-outs for future maintenance.
Raising Buried Clean-Outs
After confirming the location of the clean-out, I recommended raising it so it would be easier to access in the future. This way, if there’s ever a backup, the homeowner won’t have to pull a toilet or climb onto the roof to clear the line.
Repairing the Toilet Flange
Next, I turned my attention to the toilet flange. It was warped and needed replacing. I cut out the old flange and prepared to install a new PVC one. It’s important to use quality materials to ensure a long-lasting repair.
Installing the New Flange
I cleaned the area thoroughly before gluing in the new flange. I always use clear primer and cement indoors to avoid any mess. After applying a generous amount of glue, I secured the flange to the floor with tapcons.
Setting the Toilet Back in Place
With the new flange installed, I put a new wax ring on the toilet and set it back in place. I made sure to use new bolts and a supply line to ensure everything was in top shape.
Final Adjustments
After securing the toilet, I checked for any wobble. A little shim under one side fixed that right up. I also adjusted the fill valve since it was set too high.
Raising the Clean-Out
Finally, I raised the clean-out in the front yard. We hit a Verizon line while digging, but thankfully, the customer was understanding. I assured them that if there were any charges, I would cover them.
Wrapping Up
With everything cleaned up and the repairs complete, I felt good about the work done. The client now has accessible clean-outs and a properly functioning toilet. It’s always satisfying to leave a job knowing you’ve done it right.
If you’re in need of plumbing services, remember to choose a company that values quality and customer care. Thanks for following along on this plumbing adventure!
