Your drains keep clogging even after cleaning them again and again.  Snaking helps for a short time, but the water soon slows down. That’s because the real problem is not the clog itself; it’s the thick coating of rust, grease and minerals inside your old pipes. As this buildup grows, the pipe gets smaller inside and water can’t pass through easily. Simple drain cleaning only clears a small part, but descaling cleans the full pipe from inside.  In this guide, you’ll learn what descaling is, how it helps and why it’s a smart fix for homes in places like New Jersey and nearby states. What Happens Inside Old Pipes Over time, the inside of your pipes gets rough and narrow. Hard water, grease and rust stick to the walls and make it harder for water to pass through. Older homes, especially with cast iron pipes, face this problem more often. Here’s what builds up inside: Hard water leaves behind calcium and lime. Grease cools and catches food scraps. Rust flakes fall off and block the pipe. Soon, your 3-inch pipe can shrink down to only 1-inch inside. Water drains slowly, even after cleaning. What Is Descaling & How It Helps Descaling is the process of removing the mineral deposits that accumulate over a longer time inside the pipe, as water goes through it. This mineral deposit and rust in the pipe is being removed through different invasive techniques used in descaling. Our expert plumbers at American Way Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning inspect the pipe first to suggest the best descaling method that can be used. Both, hydro-jetting and chemical descaling are most commonly used methods, and the selection of each method depends on your pipe conditions and severity of the buildup. How the Descaling Process Works Our licensed plumbers follow a proven 5-step process to remove the buildup from the pipe. Each step is designed to smoothen the working process and make the pipe thoroughly clean from any minerals or rust.  Here’s our working process:  Inspect: A small camera checks for buildup and damage. Setup: Tools and access points are prepared. Clean: Chains or water jets scrub the pipe walls. Flush: Water pushes out loose rust and debris. Check: The camera confirms smooth, clear flow. Types of Descaling Methods There are a number of methods that are being employed for pipe descaling, and each method is customized for certain conditions based on pipe material and severity of minerals inside the pipe. Here are some of the main types Mechanical Cleaning Use rotating tools to clear hard rust. Hydro Jet Descaling Uses high-pressure water to remove build-up. Chemical Descaling Used for newer PVC or copper pipes. Signs It’s Time to Clean Your Pipes If your drains keep slowing down after every cleaning, there’s a higher chance that your pipes need cleaning. When buildup starts happening, it shows small signs before a full clog happens.  In case you’re facing issues related to gurgling sounds or bad smell near sinks, it is likely due to pipe scaling issues. For some homes, the water turns brown because of the rust inside the pipes. Descaling or Replacement: Which Do You Need? Not every old pipe needs to be replaced. Sometimes, cleaning the buildup in the drain is enough to make water flow smoothly again. A camera inspection helps find out if your pipes are still strong or if damage has already begun. Here’s some rough cost estimate for each of this job Option When It Helps Typical Cost Descaling For rust, buildup, and grease $300–$800 Partial Replacement For small cracked sections $1,500–$3,500 Full Replacement For collapsed or leaking pipes $6,000–$12,000 Inspection Confirms pipe condition $150–$300 Cost of Professional Descaling The cost of descaling depends on how old your pipes are and how much buildup is inside. Most homeowners pay between $300 to $800 for a full cleaning.  Smaller kitchen or bathroom lines cost less, while long or main sewer lines cost more. On average, kitchen lines range from $300 to $400, main sewer lines from $500 to $800, and larger commercial systems from $700 to $1,200. Keeping Your Pipes Clean After Descaling After your pipes are cleaned, simple habits can help keep them clear for years. Regular care stops new buildup from forming and saves you from costly plumbing visits.  Run hot water once a week to wash away small bits of grease and soap. Moreover, never pour oil or food scraps down the drain, as they stick inside the pipes. These small steps today keep your plumbing safe in the longer-run. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Is it safe to employ pipe descaling for old cast iron pipes? Well, you can use pipe descaling techniques for old pipes. Professionals use delicate techniques to clean these types of pipes without damaging the pipe. How long does descaling last? Most homes stay clear for 2 to 3 years before another cleaning is needed. Can I descale pipes myself? No, it needs special tools and training to clean safely without breaking pipes. What’s the difference between hydro-jetting and descaling? Hydro jetting washes clogs out of the pipe. Descaling removes hard buildup stuck to the pipe walls for a longer-lasting fix. Contact American Way Plumbing to Get Reliable Pipe Descaling Services in New Jersey If your drains are slow or making noise, it’s time to act before they clog again. Our licensed team offers safe and fast pipe descaling for homes across NJ areas like Paterson and nearby cities. We use camera inspections to find the real problem and clean your pipes the right way. Contact us today for a free quote and same-day service!

When your drain slows down, it’s a sign something’s hiding deep inside your pipes.  Digging up your yard could cost thousands and you’re not even sure if that’s necessary to do so. As there are alternate options and quality tools, through which you could see inside your pipes before breaking anything down, and that itself can make a huge change. That’s where a sewer camera inspection helps. It shows what’s really going on under your home, saving money and mess.  This blog will guide you what sewer cameras are, how they work and when you should call a plumbing company for inspection. What Is a Sewer Camera & Why It’s Important A sewer camera is a waterproof camera that moves inside your pipes. It shows what’s blocking water flow so plumbers can fix the right spot without guessing. Here’s how sewer camera can help you out with drain cleaning: Finds hidden clogs fast. Prevents costly digging. Shows pipe cracks and roots early. Saves time and money. Types of Sewer Camera Systems for Homeowners & Contractors Not all cameras are the same. Some fit small home drains, while others handle large city pipes. Knowing which type fits your job helps you save money and time. Homeowners in states like New Jersey usually need simple models, while contractors rely on heavy-duty options for daily use. Here are the most commonly used sewer cameras in the market: Push-rod cameras: Great for home lines 2-6 inches wide. CCTV sewer cameras: Give clear video for long or deep drains. Crawler cameras: Used for large commercial or city systems. Self-leveling cameras: Keep images upright for easier viewing. Locator cameras: Mark the exact problem spot underground. Key Features to Look for in the Best Sewer Camera Picking the right camera means fewer surprises during inspection. Whether buying or hiring a plumber, look for the key features that help with making a clear decision. Here are some of the key aspects that you consider:  High-definition video for clear pipe images. Long flexible cable to reach far in drains. Bright LED lights to see inside dark areas. Locator tool to find the exact underground spot. Waterproof build that lasts for years. How a Sewer Camera Inspection Works A sewer camera inspection is quick, clean and easy.  Here’s what happens step by step: 1. Find the access point The plumber locates the main cleanout, usually in your yard or basement. 2. Insert the camera A long flexible cable with a small waterproof camera goes inside the pipe. 3. Watch the video feed The camera shows live images of what’s inside so you can see clogs or cracks clearly. 4. Mark the problem spot If there’s damage, the plumber pinpoints the exact area above ground for repair. 5. Review results You get a clear report and video, and the process ends without any digging or mess. When to Use a Sewer Camera Inspection A sewer camera inspection is different from a normal cleaning. Cleaning removes the clog, but a camera shows why the clog keeps coming back. It helps your plumber see if the problem is grease, tree roots, or simply a broken pipe, so it can be fixed the right way. You should get a sewer camera inspection if you notice: Your drains clog again soon after cleaning. You smell bad odors near sinks or drains. You are buying an older home and want to check the pipes. You see wet spots or puddles in your yard. Big trees or old clay pipes are close to your sewer line. Limitations & What a Sewer Camera Can’t Do A sewer camera is your first step in planning to remove the clogs in your sewer system. The camera only identifies the problem, but it doesn’t fix it.  In some cases, pipes are collapsed or filled with mud, making it hard to capture the small cracks or leaks with low-quality DIY cameras. To get a reliable estimate, it’s best to consult professionals that have stronger equipment and experiences to find the exact issue.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How does a sewer camera work? A waterproof camera moves through your drain line, showing live video so plumbers can spot clogs or cracks easily. Are sewer cameras safe for old pipes? Yes, modern cameras move gently and safely, even in fragile clay or cast iron pipes. How far can a sewer camera reach? Professional cameras reach 100-400 feet, enough for most home and small business lines. Do I need a locator with my sewer camera? Yes, it helps find the exact spot underground so plumbers can fix the problem without digging everywhere. What problems can a sewer camera find? It detects clogs, grease buildup, cracks, corrosion, tree roots and broken joints quickly and clearly. Get Professional Sewer Camera Inspection in North New Jersey If you’re tired of slow drains or surprise plumbing bills, we can help. At American Way Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we use high-definition sewer cameras with locators to find problems fast. Our licensed plumbers serve homes and businesses all across North New Jersey. We offer same-day inspections, clear video reports, and honest advice with no hidden fees. Contact us today for sewer camera inspection services in NJ!

Are you facing constant issues related to drain clogging and looking for a permanent solution?  There are some solutions that can help you for a longer term and some for short-term relief. Snaking helps for a short term, but then water starts backing up again.  However, hydrojet cleaning can be a lasting fix to your problem. This blog will show you how it works, when it truly helps, and when a simple fix is enough. What Is Hydro Jet Sewer Line Cleaning? Hydro jet cleaning is a high-pressure method that uses strong water flow to remove the grease, and other materials from your pipes. The pressure of around 2,500 – 4,000 PSI is being used to clear them. Here’s how hydro jet cleaning helps you keep your pipes flowing: Uses high-pressure water to clean drain lines. Removes grease, soap, food waste and small roots. Cleans the full pipe, not just a hole through the clog. Works for both residential and commercial systems. How Does Hydro Jetting Work? A plumber inspects your sewer line before starting the work to know the location of clog in the pipe, and whether the pipe can handle much pressure.  Afterward, a hose with a nose is being placed inside the pipe. A high pressure between 2,500 – 4,000 PSI is being used inside the pipe to clear away the debris and make the pipe clean. The whole process is quick, only 1-2 hours. Hydro Jetting vs Traditional Snaking: What’s the Difference? Snaking only punches a small hole through a clog, leaving buildup on pipe walls. Hydro-jetting washes the entire line clean, so blockages don’t come back soon. Here are some main differences between them: Snaking clears short-term clogs only. Hydro-jetting removes all grease and buildup. Lasts 3 to 5 times longer than snaking. Safer and more effective for long-term use. When Hydro Jet Sewer Line Cleaning Really Works Hydro-jetting is a better option for your home or business, if snaking has not solved your drain cleaning issues. It works best if homeowners are struggling with slow drains or repeated blockages caused by grease or similar buildup. This is also best for busy restaurants, where grease builds fast. Most businesses in states like New Jersey use hydro jetting every few months to keep water flowing smoothly. When Hydro Jetting May Not Be Right Hydro jetting works well for most homes, but not all pipes are strong enough for it. Old or damaged pipes might crack if water pressure is too high, that’s why inspections always come first. Here are some instances, where it may not be the right choice for your home or business: Old clay or fragile pipes may need gentle cleaning. Cracked or broken lines can get worse with pressure. Always inspect pipes before using hydro jetting. Replacement is better for pipes with serious damage. Cost & Value: Is Hydro-Jetting Worth It? Hydro-jetting usually costs between $350 and $600. Snaking is cheaper, but it often needs repeating. One hydro-jet service can keep your pipes clean for 1 to 3 years, saving money long-term. For businesses, it prevents shutdowns that cost far more than a single service. For homeowners, it avoids emergency repairs that can reach thousands of dollars. If you’ve needed drain cleaning more than twice this year, then hydro jetting is likely the smarter choice. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How often should hydro jetting be done? Most homes need it every 18 to 36 months. Restaurants or busy kitchens may need it more often. Is hydro jetting safe for old pipes? Yes, if inspected first. Professionals adjust water pressure to match your pipe’s age and condition. Will hydro jetting damage pipes? Not when done by experts. Licensed plumbers inspect and adjust pressure to clean safely. Does hydro jetting remove tree roots? It clears small roots and debris. Larger roots need cutting first, then hydro jetting to finish. How long does the cleaning take? Most jobs take 1-2 hours, depending on how deep the blockage is. Get Reliable Hydro Jet Sewer Line Cleaning Service in North New Jersey Don’t wait for another clog or backup. A simple cleaning today can save you from big repair bills later. Our team at American Way Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning provides sewer line video inspections and same-day 24/7 services anywhere across North New Jersey Contact us today to schedule your hydro jet sewer line cleaning. We’ll keep your drains clear and your plumbing systems worry-free all-year long.

It’s evening night.. Your restaurant is full at its peak, orders are coming in, and suddenly the sink stops draining. Greasy water rises fast and the kitchen smells bad. You have to close early which results in angry customers and loss of potential money. This kind of mess happens when grease traps and drain lines are not cleaned on time.  In states like New Jersey, where restaurants work all day and night, regular grease trap pumping and hydro-jetting stop these problems early. They keep your kitchen clean, your drains open and your business running without stress. This blog will guide you on how these services work, why they matter, how they help keep your business safe and running smoothly. What Is Grease Trap Pumping and Why It Matters A grease trap catches oils and grease before it reaches the main drain. In case the trap gets full, water can’t pass through and starts to back up into your sinks. This creates bad smells and even health risks. Regular grease trap pumping solves this issue by clearing the buildup. This pumping also helps you avoid costly repairs or sudden shutdowns. How Hydro Jetting Works for Commercial Drains Hydro-jetting helps with cleaning pipes and removing buildup through powerful water pressure. These strong streams of water clear grease and food waste from the inside walls of your drain lines. This service is perfect for restaurants, hotels and large buildings where drains get heavy use every day. Here are the benefits associated related to hydro-jetting: Clears deep blockages fast. Reduces future clogs and slow drains. Keeps pipes clean for longer. Works safely on all pipe materials. B2B Use Cases: Who Needs These Services Most There is a strict requirement for food businesses to keep the drains clear. Regular grease trap pumping and hydro jetting keep these facilities clean, compliant and open for business all year. Here are some of the industrial settings that need this service badly Restaurants and fast-food chains Hotels and catering kitchens  Schools and hospitals Food factories and bakeries  Commercial property managers  Signs You Need Professional Cleaning or Pumping When drains slow down or start to smell, it’s a sign your drain lines are filling up. Acting early prevents surprise shutdowns. If you see more than one of these signs, it’s time to call a professional: Slow draining sinks or floors. Bad odors near dish areas or restrooms. Gurgling sounds in drains. Grease or sludge overflow in traps. Backups during busy kitchen hours. How Often Should Grease Traps Be Pumped Most food chains need to clean their grease traps every 1-3 months. And if you ignore that cleaning, it will result in blocking your drains. Cleaning time also varies based on whether you are managing a small space, or a large/busy kitchen.  Regular pumping keeps your kitchen safe, prevents bad smells and helps you pass health inspections without stress. Benefits of Combining Hydro Jetting & Grease Trap Pumping Using a combo of both services gives long-lasting results, but you have to consider your needs, whether you need a combination service or just a single service can help you achieve satisfactory results. Pumping removes grease and sludge from the trap, while hydro jetting washes out the pipes leading to and from it. This combination service reduces emergency repairs, cuts maintenance costs and helps your plumbing system handle heavy use. Why Choose American Way Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning for Commercial Drain Cleaning Service Hiring certified & experienced professionals provide cleanliness to your space, while meeting New Jersey plumbing and health codes. Certified waste haulers handle grease disposal safely and provide the paperwork required during health inspections. Our licensed team at American Way Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning has served North NJ for over 15 years. We’ve completed hundreds of grease trap and hydro jetting jobs for restaurants, hotels, schools and local facilities. We also offer after-hours services to avoid disrupting your operations, and we provide compliance reports after every job. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How often should I pump my grease trap? Most kitchens need service every 1 to 3 months. High-volume places should pump every 4 to 6 weeks. What’s the difference between hydro jetting and snaking? Snaking breaks small clogs, but hydro jetting fully cleans the pipe walls using water pressure. Is hydro jetting safe for old pipes? Yes, licensed plumbers adjust water pressure to match your pipe type and condition. Do I need both services? Pumping cleans the trap and hydro jetting clears the drain lines. Together, they stop backups. But it usually depends on your needs. Are there local rules for grease trap cleaning? Yes, New Jersey requires regular service, proper waste disposal and record keeping for inspections. Get Reliable Commercial Grease Trap Pumping Services Today! If your kitchen drains are slow or starting to smell, don’t wait for a full clog. Our licensed team at American Way Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning offers fast and safe services across Kearny, Harrison, Jersey City and nearby areas. We provide free inspections, same-day cleaning, and 24/7  help for emergencies. Contact us today to keep your kitchen clean and running without trouble.

Nothing feels worse than waking up on a freezing morning and finding only cold water in your shower. Your family needs to get ready for work or school, but you are facing a serious problem with a broken water heater. The question is, will you spend money to fix it or buy a new one? Most homeowners in states like New Jersey face this same question every winter. In this guide, we’ll help you understand when either repair makes sense or when replacement is a much smarter move. How Long Do Water Heaters Last in Homes The general working limit of a water heater is around 8-12 years, but it can also lengthen with proper care. Most water heaters give warning signs also before they stop working completely.  Here’s a general guide of how long water heaters last: Gas water heaters last 8 to 12 years before efficiency drops. Electric water heaters can work up to 15 years with care. Hard water shortens the lifespan by about 20-30%. Signs You Need Water Heater Repair vs Replacement Simpler problems can result in severe issues and heavier costs. So, catching the problems early saves you from these issues. Here are the most common signs of failure you should look out for: Rusty or discolored water that shows the tank is corroding inside. Small puddles near the base that may turn into leaks. Water that turns hot and cold during one shower. Popping or banging noises from the tank caused by sediment. Rising energy bills that show the system is losing efficiency. When Water Heater Repairs Make Sense If your water heater is still new and not too old, a small repair can fix the problem. Many times, you don’t need a full replacement. A simple part change like a valve or thermostat, can bring the hot water back and save you money. Follow the “50 percent rule”. If the repair costs less than half the price of a new heater, fixing it is the smarter choice.  This is helpful for families who want to avoid big bills or are not ready to buy a new system yet. When Replacement is the Smarter Choice Sometimes repairs are just not worth it. When key parts wear out or safety risks appear, replacement is safer and saves money long-term. Here’s when replacement makes sense: The unit is over 8-10 years old and leaking. Repairs are becoming frequent or costly. Gas or electric bills have gone up a lot. The tank has a visible crack that cannot be fixed. You want a more efficient model that lowers monthly costs. Cost of Water Heater Replacement in NJ Most homeowners need to know about the cost of replacing your water heater. Well, the cost to replace varies between $1000-$5000, and it varies based on the size of your heater, and the type you choose. Gas and tankless heaters generally cost more to replace, but they save energy long-term. The time to replace the heater is around 2-6 hours, so you get hot water back the same day. If you are looking to replace your heater, contact our licensed HVAC & plumbing experts to get quality services in North New Jersey. How Preventive Maintenance Extends Your Water Heater Life Maintaining your water heater can increase its working life dramatically. So, it’s important to follow a maintenance routine. Here are some of the steps you can take to increase its life: Flush the tank once a year. Keep the temperature around 120°F. Schedule regular inspections. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How often should I replace my water heater? Well, the ideal age of a water heater is 10-12 years. So, if the water heater starts creating issues and it has been used for more than 8 years, you should replace the heater. What are the warning signs before a water heater fails? If there are issues related to strange noises or sudden higher energy bills, it is a clear warning sign that things are unusual. How long does it take to replace a water heater? Most replacements take about 4 to 6 hours. Tankless models may take longer, but you usually get hot water again the same day. Do I need a permit for water heater replacement in New Jersey? Yes, New Jersey requires a permit for every water heater replacement to make sure it’s safe. A licensed plumber company will handle all permits for you. Get Reliable Water Heater Replacement Services Today! If your water heater is not working well, don’t wait until it stops. Cold showers and high bills can make life hard, especially in winter. You need hot water that works whenever you need it. We offer same-day and 24/7 emergency services. Contact us today to set up a free inspection anywhere in North New Jersey. We’ll help you choose the best water heater for your home and install it right the first time, so it will last years to come.

In New Jersey, where winter can hit 20°F, losing hot water is more than a small problem. It can lead to frozen pipes and big repair bills. At American Way Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we help homes with same-day water heater repair services. Our licensed team knows how winters and hard water affect your unit.  This blog will guide you how each type works and what causes common breakdowns. Common Types of Water Heaters in NJ Homes Knowing your system helps you explain problems and choose the right fix. Many homes in areas like Kearny in Hudson County use older units that face issues from hard water and long winters. Here are the most common types of water heaters being used in New Jersey: Gas water heaters heat water fast for large families. Electric water heaters are safe, simple and low-cost to maintain. Tankless systems save energy, but need professional descaling. Combination systems heat your home and water together. Older pre-2010 models need more care to avoid leaks and rust. Gas Water Heater Repair: Efficiency & Safety First Gas heaters warm water quickly and cost less to run, but safety is key. Small issues like weak flames or odd sounds can become dangerous fast. Only licensed plumbers should repair gas parts because of carbon-monoxide and leak risks. Here are some of the signs that you should watch out for: Pilot light will not stay on, caused by valve or sensor failure. Yellow flame shows poor burning and unsafe gas mix. Gas smell near the unit means shut the valve and call a pro. Slow heating may come from a blocked vent or burner. Frequent restarts show sensor or regulator damage. Electric Water Heater Repair: Restoring Hot Water Quickly Electric units are common in apartments and small homes, as they are reliable and easy to fix. When repaired early, most electric issues are solved the same day. Here are the common problems associated with electric water heater: No hot water when the heating element burns out or breaker trips. Uneven heat from a broken thermostat or sediment buildup. Brown or rusty water from tank corrosion or rod failure. Popping noise caused by hard-water scale on elements. Circuit breaker trips from bad wiring or short circuits. When to Repair or Replace Your Water Heater Most water heaters last 8 to 15 years, after that, repairs add up quickly. The “50 percent rule” helps; if repair cost is half of a new unit, replacement is smarter. In North New Jersey, a new water heater costs about $1,200 to $3,500 installed. Newer models use up to 30% less power, saving money in the longer run. Replacements also come with better safety features and long warranties. New Jersey heating systems law requires permits and venting approval for new installs.  A licensed plumbing company handles the process, including tank disposal and code inspection. Preventive care keeps your system strong and delays replacement. Preventive Maintenance Tips for Homeowners Simple habits protect your heater and lower repair bills. Hard water creates mineral buildup faster, so maintenance matters a lot.  Here are the maintenance tips that you can employ: Flush your tank once a year to clear sediment. Replace the anode rod every 2 to 3 years. Test the pressure valve twice a year. Set the thermostat at 120°F to stay safe and save energy. Why Choose a Licensed HVAC & Plumbing Company? Hiring licensed experts protects your home and family. Trained plumbers follow safety codes, protect your warranty and ensure work passes inspection. Our experts at American Way Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning have experience of over 15 years fixing thousands of water heaters. You will get clear pricing and licensed professionals, when working with us. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is the average cost of water heater repair in NJ? Most repairs cost between $150 to $550. Prices depend on the problem, heater type and parts needed. How long does a water heater last generally? Most last 8 to 15 years. Regular cleaning and water-softening can extend life closer to 15 years. Can I switch from electric to gas water heater? You can switch from electric to gas water heater, but it requires the setup of a new system with new gas lines and local permits. Do I need a permit to replace a water heater in NJ? Yes, you require a permit for every replacement in New Jersey, but we can handle it all for you. Get Expert Water Heater Repair Services Today! At American Way Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we help families stay warm across North NJ. We offer same-day services whenever you call us. Whether your gas or electric system stopped working overnight, we find the cause fast and fix it right. Contact us to get a reliable water heater repair service.