Get matched with top plumbers in Harlem, GA

No, the pink ring in your toilet bowl isn’t a hard water stain but a type of bacteria called Serratia marcescens. This bacteria can also cause pinkish stains in other areas of your bathroom, like around your tub, shower curtains, and faucets. Thankfully, it’s considered to be harmless. However, if you or anyone in your household is immunocompromised, it can cause issues like urinary tract infections. You can clean the pink ring with bleach and a plastic brush. Wear gloves and goggles when using bleach, and always work in a well-ventilated room.

Bleach—even diluted bleach—is not always the safest option for cleaning your drains. With a high pH, bleach can be highly corrosive to many types of pipes, especially when used regularly. When mixed with household cleaners and organic waste, it can also create dangerous chemicals. Remember to use proper protective equipment and ventilation when dealing with bleach.

Hiring an emergency plumber is expensive because of the urgency and inconvenience, but there are a few things you can do to help keep costs down:

• Minimize water damage by shutting off your water main 

• Clean up pooling water immediately to reduce damage and mold growth

• Avoid using fixtures if you have a clog or septic system backup

• Verify that your plumber is licensed before hiring

• Call a few plumbers for estimates if you can afford a short delay in getting service

Yes, shower water goes into the septic tank. Shower water is a type of greywater, and in fact, all water used in a home with a septic system—including water from sinks, toilets, the dishwasher, and the washing machine—drains into the tank. When shower water enters the tank, debris like soap and hair travels with it. The solid debris sinks to the bottom to become sludge, while soap residue joins the scum layer at the top. The remaining water is treated in the tank before moving to the drain field for further treatment and dispersal. It is important to avoid putting oil or harsh chemicals down any drain, as they can cause clogs or disrupt the beneficial bacteria required for proper wastewater management in the septic system.