
Plumbing Tips for First-Time Homeowners
Buying your first home is exciting—but it also comes with a lot of new responsibilities. One of the most important (but often overlooked) systems in your house is your plumbing. As first-time homeowners in Seattle quickly discover, small plumbing issues can turn into costly repairs if ignored.
At Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing, we’ve helped thousands of Seattle homeowners keep their plumbing in top shape. Here are some essential tips to help you protect your home, save money, and avoid unexpected plumbing headaches.

Common Plumbing Problems in Older Seattle Homes
Seattle’s historic homes—whether they’re charming Craftsman bungalows in Wallingford or stately Tudors in Capitol Hill—have plenty of character. But beneath those vintage features can hide an aging plumbing system that’s often due for a closer look.
At Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing, we’ve spent decades working on Seattle’s oldest homes. We’ve seen firsthand how outdated materials, shifting foundations, and decades of wear and tear can cause plumbing headaches.

How Tree Roots Can Damage Your Sewer System
Seattle is full of charm—lush green neighborhoods, tree-lined streets, and beautiful, mature landscaping. But beneath that natural beauty, your home’s sewer line could be under attack.
Tree roots are one of the most common (and most destructive) causes of sewer line damage in the Seattle metro area. At Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homeowners deal with the mess and expense that root intrusion can cause—and we’re here to help you understand what to watch for and how to prevent it.

How to Prevent Sewer Backups in Seattle’s Rainy Weather
Seattle’s known for its coffee, skyline, and—you guessed it—rain. While the wet weather makes our city lush and green, it also creates ideal conditions for sewer backups, especially during heavy downpours.
At Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing, we get a spike in emergency calls every rainy season from homeowners dealing with messy, expensive backups. The good news? With a little preparation and proactive maintenance, you can significantly reduce your risk.

DIY or Call a Pro? When to Tackle Plumbing Repairs Yourself
In the age of YouTube tutorials and weekend warrior projects, it's tempting to grab a wrench and fix your plumbing issues on your own. And hey—we get it! Some plumbing tasks are simple enough for a confident homeowner to handle.
But not all plumbing problems are created equal. In fact, some DIY repairs can end up costing you more in damage, time, and stress if things go sideways.
At Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing, we’ve seen both the success stories and the “I wish I hadn’t touched it” disasters. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide when to tackle a plumbing issue yourself—and when to pick up the phone and call a pro.

Drain Cleaning Myths: What Actually Works?
We get it—no one wants to deal with a slow or clogged drain. When your sink or shower backs up, it’s tempting to reach for a quick fix. But not all drain cleaning solutions are created equal. In fact, some of the most common methods can actually do more harm than good.
At Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing, we’ve seen every kind of clog you can imagine—from grease buildup in Ballard kitchens to tree root invasions in West Seattle sewers. And we’ve heard just about every myth out there, too.

Top Plumbing Trends in 2025: Smart Fixtures, Water Recycling, and More
The world of plumbing is evolving fast—and 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years yet. From smart home integration to sustainable water solutions, homeowners across Seattle and beyond are embracing the latest innovations to make their plumbing systems more efficient, eco-friendly, and even tech-savvy.
At Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing, we’re always keeping an eye on what’s new so we can bring the best solutions to our customers. Whether you’re planning a remodel, upgrading your fixtures, or just want to stay informed, here are the top plumbing trends we’re seeing in 2025.

Warning Signs You Need Sewer Line Repair or Replacement
Your sewer line is one of the most important—and least visible—parts of your home’s plumbing system. It quietly carries wastewater away from your house and into the city’s sewer system. But when something goes wrong, the effects can be loud, messy, and expensive.
At Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing, we’ve helped thousands of Seattle homeowners deal with sewer line issues, and we know the early warning signs to watch for. Catching problems early can make the difference between a quick repair and a major replacement.

Regular Sewer Line Inspections: Are They Worth It?
When was the last time you thought about your sewer line? If you’re like most Seattle homeowners, the answer is probably never—until there’s a problem. Sewer lines often go unnoticed because they’re hidden underground. However, ignoring them can lead to costly repairs, messy backups, and major headaches. That’s why regular sewer line inspections are one of the smartest investments you can make in protecting your home’s plumbing system.
At Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing, we’ve seen firsthand how routine inspections can save our customers time, money, and stress. In this article, we’ll explain why regular sewer line inspections are worth it, how they work, and when you should schedule one.

Understanding Plumbing Codes: What Homeowners Should Know
When it comes to home plumbing, plumbing codes play a crucial role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and functionality of your plumbing system. While these codes may seem complex at first, they are in place to protect both homeowners and the environment. Whether you're planning renovations, repairs, or new construction, understanding plumbing codes is essential.

Spring Plumbing Checklist: Essential Tasks for Your Home's Pipes
As the weather warms up and you begin your spring cleaning, don’t forget about your plumbing system! The change of seasons is the perfect time to give your pipes, drains, and fixtures the attention they deserve. Proper spring plumbing maintenance can help prevent costly repairs, improve your system’s efficiency, and ensure that your home stays comfortable all season long. Here’s a spring plumbing checklist to keep your pipes in top shape.

Understanding Graywater Systems: What They Are, How They Function, and Their Benefits and Drawbacks
As sustainability becomes an increasing priority in modern homes, many homeowners are turning to graywater systems as a way to conserve water and reduce their environmental footprint. But what exactly is a graywater system, and how can it benefit your home? In this blog post, we’ll explore what graywater is, how graywater systems function, and the benefits and drawbacks of installing one in your home.

Is a Water Softener Right for Your Home?
If you’ve ever noticed cloudy spots on your dishes, dry skin after a shower, or a buildup of scale in your pipes and appliances, you may have hard water. Hard water occurs when minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium, dissolve into the water supply. While not harmful to your health, hard water can lead to problems like soap scum buildup, reduced appliance efficiency, and even skin irritation. This is where a water softener can help.

Why Your Water Bill Is Higher Than Usual (and What to Do About It)
A sudden spike in your water bill can be frustrating, especially if your household’s water usage hasn’t changed. While rate increases from your water provider are possible, unexpected high bills are often caused by leaks, inefficiencies, or hidden plumbing issues. Here’s what might be driving up your water costs and how to fix it.

Why Electric Water Heaters are the Future of Water Heating
As homeowners increasingly seek eco-friendly options, electric water heaters are emerging as the top choice for efficient and environmentally conscious heating. If you're considering upgrading or replacing your current water heater, here’s why electric models are the future of home heating

How to Prepare Your Sewer System for Heavy Rainfall in Seattle
Seattle’s rainy season can put a significant strain on residential and commercial sewer systems. Without proper preparation, heavy rainfall can lead to backups, flooding, and costly repairs. Here’s what you need to know to keep your sewer system functioning efficiently during the wettest months.

How to Identify a Hidden Water Leak
Water leaks are sneaky little problems that can cause extensive damage to your home if left unnoticed. Whether it's behind a wall, under the floor, or in your ceiling, a hidden water leak can go undetected for weeks or even months, leading to mold growth, structural damage, and high water bills. The earlier you can identify a water leak, the better equipped you'll be to fix it and avoid further issues.

Top Reasons for Leaky Faucets and How to Fix Them
A leaky faucet is more than just an annoyance—it can waste gallons of water and increase your utility bills. Understanding the common causes behind a dripping faucet can help you fix the issue quickly and save both water and money. In this guide, we’ll explore the top reasons for leaky faucets and provide practical solutions to address them.

Childproofing Your Plumbing: Safety Tips for Families with Young Kids
Having young children in the house brings joy and excitement, but it also comes with unique safety challenges. Curious little hands can easily get into trouble with your plumbing system. To keep your kids safe and your plumbing intact, it’s important to take proactive measures. Here are some essential tips for childproofing your plumbing.

Understanding the Different Types of Sump Pumps
Sump pumps play a vital role in protecting homes from flooding and water damage. These essential devices are typically installed in basements or crawl spaces to pump water out and away from the foundation. Choosing the right sump pump can make a significant difference in the effectiveness and longevity of your system. Here, we explore the various types of sump pumps to help you make an informed decision.