What You’ll Need
Equipment / Tools
- Channel-lock pliers
- Bucket
- Tape measure
- PVC pipe cutter or hacksaw
Materials
- Air admittance valve
- Sanitary tee fitting
- PVC pipe
- PVC primer
- PVC solvent glue
- Pipe-seal tape
- Additional PVC fittings
Year: 2021
Year: 2021
How to Install an AAV (Air Admittance Valve) for a Sink
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A vent is a necessary part of the drain system for any plumbing fixture. Its purpose is to equalize pressure in the pipes and prevent a vacuum from forming as the fixture drains. Without venting, the negative pressure caused by the flow of draining water can potentially suck water out of the drain trap and allow sewer gases to enter the home. The vents allow air into the drain pipes to help keep the drain flowing properly. In some instances, though, properly venting a drain can be difficult to do.
How a Traditional Vent Line Works
In most houses, the drain line for each sink extends horizontally back into a wall, where it fits into a sanitary tee. One outlet on the tee extends downward into a vertical drain line, and the other extends upward into a vent system that is open to outside air. This exposure to fresh air releases sewer gases and allows fresh air into the system to help water drain quickly.
Sometimes, though, it is difficult to connect fixture drains to an external vent pipe. In mobile homes, for example, there may be no external vents at all. And in homes with island sinks with no cabinetry above the island, it can be difficult to find a route for linking the sink drain to an external vent. In these instances, an alternative method of equalizing air pressure is required. This is where the AAV comes in.
How an Air Admittance Valve (AAV) Works
An air admittance valve (AAV), sometimes called an auto vent, is a device attached to the fixture drain line. It has a mechanism that opens up to admit room air into the drain under the force of the negative pressure caused by water flowing through the drain. With this negative pressure dissipated, the water in the drain trap cannot be siphoned off. Once the water stops flowing and the negative pressure ends, the AAV device automatically closes to prevent sewer gases from entering the room.
Are AAVs Allowed by Code?
Rules on the use of AAVs vary widely from state to state. While the trend seems to be toward gradual acceptance of these devices, some state building codes still do not allow air admittance valves as a replacement for traditional vents. Other states limit the number of AAVs that a single home can use. Always check with your local building inspections office for advice on what venting strategies are allowed.
Signs That You May Need an AAV
Where allowed by code, AAVs can be used with any type of sink or fixture. Some sinks will give hints that an AAV is necessary. A sink that gurgles loudly, for example, or one that drains very slowly even though there are no clog issues, might be doing so because of negative air pressure in the lines. Adding an AAV often resolves these issues. Especially where there is no direct connection to the vent system, as is often the case in sink island situations, installing an AAV may improve the function of the drain. If the drain already has an AAV, such symptoms might indicate that the valve needs to be replaced.
Installing an Air Admittance Valve
Installing an AAV to vent a sink is fairly easy, whether you are replacing an old existing vent or putting one in for the first time. It basically involves tapping into the existing drain trap configuration to install an AAV via a new sanitary tee fitting and a short upward extension pipe. While it is possible to install an AAV hidden inside walls during remodeling work, it is more common to install them right under the sink cabinet as an adaptation of the pipe joining the drain trap to the branch drain.
With each sink and each drain configuration slightly different, you should be ready to adapt while installing an AAV. As every home plumber knows, it’s not uncommon for additional adapter fittings and other parts to be necessary to fit unique circumstances.
The Increasing Importance of the Plumbing Profession
The World Health Organization has declared plumbers the most important front-line health workers around the globe. Most people know from seeing the basins, taps and toilets that of what they are seeing, much of the work is behind the scenes. This “hidden” work meets the essential requirements of our daily lives especially when living in close communities.
Among the objectives upon which the World Plumbing Council was founded is promoting awareness of the plumbing industry’s role in protecting the environment by providing safe, fresh water and sanitation through proper management, care, reuse and conservation of natural resources. The industry also plays a major role in the installation of technologies that address concerns about the depletion of fossil fuels and work toward reducing harmful emissions.
Freshwater is infinite supply on Earth and as the key to life is, without question, our planet’s most precious natural resource. The plumbing industry recognizes the tenuous balance mankind must maintain to guarantee its very existence and embraces efforts to ensure we are preserving every drop possible.
Many of these efforts are well-publicized and countless others go largely unnoticed. Part of the reason for establishing 11 March as World Plumbing Day is to educate the general public about the work the plumbing industry performs every day to conserve the world’s increasingly overstretched sources of drinking water and promote energy efficiency and the increased use of renewable sources of energy.
The professional plumbing industry is poised to make significant contributions to all aspects of water conservation and water reuse. This skill set already exists and can be enhanced through additional training of the young professionals. But a different paradigm must be enacted to include these valuable resources in the solution.
Alter historical approaches to water expansion with new strategy comprised of an integration of conservation and reuse.
If we do not alter our historical approaches to water supply expansion, we will only be able to provide a fraction of the world’s water demand in the next few decades. By 2050, the world population is estimated to increase by 3 billion people, with 100 percent of this growth expected to be concentrated in urban areas. Within 20 years, the projected demand for water will increase between 40 and 50 percent. Although it was universally agreed that the water challenges ahead of us are daunting, the good news is it is not insurmountable.
Conservation and reuse must be done thru a combination of centralized and decentralized approaches.
The strategy must integrate water/wastewater conveyance, water and wastewater treatment, river and surface water cleanup, wastewater and gray water reuse, rainwater harvesting, desalination, and climate change adaptation. With 100 percent of the world population growth occurring in urban areas in the next 30 years, most of the focus was on needed changes to urban water management. The key component of this strategy is to minimize consumption while maximizing recovery through a move toward a hybrid approach of conservation and a combination of centralized and decentralized water reclamation and reuse. The concept applies to all urban areas whether they are rapidly developing cities in Asia or fully developed urban systems in North America.
Plumbing industry largely responsible for the advancing de-centralized conservation and water reuse.
Governing bodies around the world need to make the tough decisions, recognize change is needed, adjust water rates to match real overall costs, implement policies, and inspire the populace to work cooperatively toward solutions. There is enough water to go around and the water technology needed to accomplish our demand goals is already available, proven and widely accessible. The biggest obstacle we have in front of us is the lack of recognition that change is needed. A sustainable water supply is only achievable if all stakeholders in the water loop, including the plumbing industry, are working together.
The plumbing industry will play an essential role in helping stakeholders understand the importance of implementing a key component of the integrated strategy. There will be a need to accelerate the development and installation of high efficiency plumbing systems and components, and standardize the use of decentralized (onsite) alternate water sources, such as rainwater and gray water, in order to offset the need to expand water generation and …
Signs Your Toilet Needs Repaired
Having to repair a toilet is a situation that every homeowner will face at one time or another. As one of the most necessary parts of a home’s plumbing, a broken toilet will need to be resolved quickly. It is always helpful to know the signs that a toilet may be in need of repair so that a small problem does not turn into a bigger and more expensive one down the road. Here are the most important signs to look out for.
Strange Noises After Flushing
Clogs and blocks in any part of the plumbing including drains and vents can cause new sounds. Gurgling, bubbling or sucking sounds usually indicate a problem. If you notice any of these sounds suddenly occurring, it usually means a call to your plumber is in your future.
Frequent Clogs
There is nothing more frustrating than a toilet that is constantly clogging, overflowing, or running slowly. Improper use of the toilet including flushing items such as paper towels, baby wipes, feminine products, or anything except for septic friendly toilet paper and waste, can cause clogging. However, if you are using the appliance correctly and still experiencing frequent clogs, it may be time for service.
Constantly Running Toilet
Occasionally the flapper on the inside of the toilet will become jammed, causing the toilet to continually run until the toilet is fixed. Many times this is a quick one time fix that can be done without help, but if the toilet has a habit of running for long periods of time after flushing, it may need a more extensive repair. A constantly running toilet can waste water and cause utility bills to increase, so it is important to fix the problem.
Noticeable Damage
Homeowners should be in the habit of regularly inspecting their toilets for any noticeable damage on and around the toilet. If there is any rust or corrosion, or if there are any cracks, a repair will be needed. Cracks in the bowl of the toilet need attention as these can cause leakage and risk damage to flooring and other parts of the home.
Pools of Water
Any pools of water around the toilet should be immediately investigated. Pooling water can cause structural damage as well as become a health hazard to your family. Leaking water can be a drain on your budget, and lead to mold and foul odors, so you should call your plumber at the first sign of a leak.
Multiple Flushes Needed
If your toilet needs more than one flush to eliminate the contents, or if you need to hold the handle down until the flush is complete, this may be a sign of an imminent toilet repair. The problem may be traced back to one of many different root causes so the plumber will need to diagnose the source of the issue before making the repair. Often the handle may just need to be fixed, but it may be a more complex problem such as overall low water pressure.
Investing in a New Toilet
In many cases, a quick repair can get your toilet back to perfect working condition. However, there may be a time when a toilet replacement may make more sense both financially and practically. Investing in a new toilet can be a wise decision that can improve your quality of life and help you save money on water bills.
Many new toilets are designed with water conservation in mind. Homeowners with toilets older than the 1990s should consider replacing their toilets with appliances that use less water. Many people also choose to replace toilets to increase the aesthetic appeal of their bathroom. There are many sleek and attractive models that can add to the beauty of the room.
Toilets will also need to be replaced when the damage or cost of repair is too high. Leaks or rust that has spread too far will likely necessitate a replacement. After inspecting your toilet, the technician will be able to provide helpful advice to enable you to decide whether to go ahead with a repair or to purchase a new toilet.
Your toilet is an important part of home comfort. One of the best ways to …
How to Remove Rust Stains From Toilets, Tubs, and Sinks
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Rust stains on porcelain or enameled cast-iron sink, toilet, bathtub, or shower pan are common occurrences. They can be caused when a metal object such as shaving cream can is left to sit wet on the surface, but can also be caused by galvanized steel plumbing pipes bleeding rust onto the surfaces or because iron-rich hard water dries onto surfaces.
The good news is that it’s possible to remove bathroom rust stains without a significant amount of time and effort. For the best results, ditch the bleach-based bathroom cleansers—these may actually worsen stubborn stains—and give one of these tried-and-true methods a go.
Bar Keepers Friend
Bar Keepers Friend, in both powder and liquid forms, is an extraordinarily effective method for removing rust stains from bathroom fixtures. Bar Keepers Friend will safely remove rust stains and mineral deposits from all toilet bowls and metallic faucet finishes. And, according to the manufacturer, it may also be used to remove stains from sinks, bathtubs, and shower basins made of stainless steel, porcelain, Corian, fireclay, ceramic, acrylic, copper, glass, enameled cast iron, fiberglass, and solid-surface materials.
According to the product’s material safety data sheet, the ingredients in Bar Keepers Friend include mineral feldspar, sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (a common detergent), and oxalic acid. Because it is much less abrasive than cleaners such as Ajax or Comet, Bar Keepers Friend is less likely to scratch surfaces. However, the main active ingredient, oxalic acid, can cause skin or eye irritation, so you should wear gloves and use this product carefully.
Shaw’s Pads
Shaw’s Pads offer a chemical-free, septic tank-friendly approach to rust removal. Equipped with a simple handle and scouring cloth, Shaw’s Pads work on the “elbow grease” principle: simply wet the pad and scrub stains away. Use Shaw’s Pads to remove toilet rings; rust, calcium, and lime buildup; grey, green, and brown water residue; algae and chemical stains on pool tiles; and hard water and well-water residues.
Unlike pumice stone or abrasive cleaners, Shaw’s Pads will not scratch any surface. They do, however, require a bit more effort to remove stubborn stains.
Pumice Stick
Pumice scouring sticks work particularly well for removing rust stains from porcelain. Use pumice sticks to gently scour away mineral deposits, rust, and other stains and scale from sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers. They can be used to remove rust and unwanted paint from metalwork, piping, tile, masonry, and concrete, too. Made from 100 percent natural pumice, a soft volcanic stone, these sticks are safe for dermal contact and use and storage around children and pets.
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Zud Scouring Cleanser
Zud cleanser is another product that employs oxalic acid and a potent combination of abrasives made up of finely ground quartz and pumice to zap rust stains on contact. Available in both liquid and powder form, Zud dissolves rust, mineral stains, hard water deposits, and soap scum. And, according to the manufacturer, it may be used to clean copper, brass, bronze, chromium, iron, pewter, and stainless steel.
Simply squirt or sprinkle Zud directly onto rust stains and brush using a toilet cleaning brush or plastic scouring pad. Then, add water to ensure that the Zud solution covers the entire area. Add more Zud where the solution is missing. After the solution has been set for about 60 to 90 minutes, clean the area with the brush and rinse away the solution.
Zud is a slightly more abrasive cleaner than Bar Keepers Friend but is considerably gentler than Ajax or Comet.
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The Works Limassol
The chief active ingredient in The Works Limeosol is hydrochloric acid, which instantly removes rust, hard water stains, and mineral deposits from appliances, bathroom fixtures, cement, brick, vinyl, siding, fiberglass, PVC, and other materials on contact—no scrubbing required. The Works is tried and true: it’s been around for more than 50 years. And, even though it contains a dangerous chemical, it’s long been a celebrated favorite among homeowners and home service professionals alike. The Works Limeosol is not recommended for use with septic systems, as the chemical will interfere with the biological breakdown of wastes.
Take precautions if you use LImeosol, as this is a caustic chemical that will sting …
Hotel Plumbing Management: How to Optimise It
Managing a hotel has always been a challenging job. With hundreds of guests using the facilities every day, not nearly half of them consider saving water as they would at their homes. On the other hand, plumbing malfunctions and associated interventions and repair cost you additional money, as the room needs to remain vacant until the work is done. So in order to keep your water bill low and plumbing costs minimal, nothing much remains but to adopt these commercial plumbing management tips.
Install low-flow devices
From inexpensive showerheads and factures to toilets, today many products meet the low flow criteria. Despite the increasing water expenses, hotels are hesitant to make a switch to low-flow fixtures as they fear it will damage their customers’ experience. However, low-flow doesn’t have to mean low-performance. Low-flow devices and appliances don’t affect the water pressure, but simply regulate the amount of water released per unit of time, yet those two sometimes get confused. Low-flow heads and faucets use aerators that disperse the water jet into many tiny streams, so the same ‘volume’ can be achieved with less water.
Use hair catchers
It’s only natural that your guests would appreciate long, relaxing, spa-like showers and baths after a long journey, but nothing can spoil their enjoyment like the discovery that the shower or bathtub is clogged. Bathroom drain clogs can be caused by soap, toothpaste, even calcium, and another mineral build-up, however, the most notorious contributor is the hair. People naturally lose hair while in the shower, and over time, it builds up in the drains where it combines nicely with soap scum and other sticky matter. Having hair catchers installed on each drain not only prevents loose hair from entering the system but saves the hotel thousands of dollars on drain cleaning services.
Schedule regular drain cleaning
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Instead of waiting for the clog to take place, why don’t include drain cleaning into a regular maintenance routine? Emergency drain cleaning services often include clean-ups that follow overflows and backups. preventive maintenance, on the other hand, includes scheduled hydro-jetting cleaning once every few months, ensuring the drains in your hotel plumbing system are clear and free from clogs. How often you might need this service depends on the size of your hotel, an estimate which an experienced commercial plumber will easily tell.
Consider tempering valves
Managing one of the hotel’s systems always includes taking responsibility for the safety of people who use associated amenities, and plumbing is not an exception. Among hot tap water scalds that require admission to the hospital, over 90% are sustained in the bathroom, resulting primarily from immersion in baths with water heated to unsafe temperatures. Certain pros, as guys behind Hot Water Nurse, for instance, combine the skills of both electrician and plumber and are experts for installing and repairing a range of hot water devices, such as the hot water tempering valve, which acts like a safety device that shields your guests from overheated water that comes directly from your storage tank.
Plan for sewer pipe inspection
Away from home and daily tribulations, many guests forget the bathroom etiquette, flushing down things they’d never flush at home. And when things go south, pardon the pun, what seems like a local problem might easily affect the drain system of an entire floor. Scheduling a video camera pipe inspection each year not only helps identify potential problems but buys you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that the “outgoing” end of your plumbing system works flawlessly.
Hotel plumbing specifics
Plumbing utility demands and hot water use in hotels follow a pattern that is in many ways different from other commercial venues. A conventional hotel can experience a spread out, or a very short peak demand period for hot water. If the majority of guests in a 4,000-room hotel are there for the same convention as regular 8 a.m. meetings, it can create a high utility demand over a short period when those guests are in their bathrooms
Don’t Neglect Tool Maintenance
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Does this sound familiar? It’s the beginning of the workday, and you already feel behind schedule. Or maybe it’s the end of a long shift, and you just want to get home. But it is also what typically leads to tool maintenance getting overlooked.
Tool maintenance is critical to the safe use and longevity of your equipment. Along with minimizing tool wear and tear, proper maintenance can enhance efficiency and make tools easier to control and use. For example, with proper maintenance, sharp cutting tools take less effort to cut, are less likely to bind and will cut more quickly.
To help you keep your tools in prime shape, here are answers to some frequently asked tool maintenance questions:
What are some general tips for keeping tools working longer?
Before using a tool for the first time, read the manual. Then, periodically during the life of the tool, reference the manual for best use practices. Understanding how a tool is supposed to work and what to look for when it isn’t functioning properly can go a long way in enhancing its longevity. You’ll also want to wipe down tools after each use and regularly lubricate any moving parts indicated by the manual.
How often should tools be checked for needed maintenance?
You should always follow the instructions in each tool’s manual for maintenance. However, a good rule of thumb is to inspect and maintain your tool before each use. Additionally, look for chips or dings and other wear and tear that could interfere with operation during use. Pay attention to any changes in operation that could be fixed with some routine maintenance.
What maintenance is overlooked within some specific categories of plumbing tools?
Jetters: Take time to clean the letter tips. Remove the tips and flush the letter hose of any debris or particles. At RIDGID, we find that many repair returns can be attributed to this issue alone. Also, when storing machines for the winter, ensure water is removed from the entire system. RV anti-freeze can be used to protect the system.
Drum Machines: Ensure that the auto-feed is functioning properly. The feed handle and feed rollers should move freely and not bind.
Sectional Machines: The clutch handle should move freely and should stop cable rotation when released.
Cables: Maintain lubrication on cable couplings so that drain cleaning tools are not lost down the pipe.
Hand Tools: Keep tools clean and free of any grit and keep cutter wheels, pins and rolls lubricated.
How do you decide if maintenance can be handled on your own or if a tool should be sent in for repairs?
Cleaning and lubricating tools can always be done by the user and often replacing worn parts like cutters, dies, etc. can be handled by users as well. The product manual should provide instructions for basic types of tool services. Depending on how comfortable the user is with the necessary steps, they can decide whether to handle the repair themselves or take it to an authorized repair center.
For machines, any electrical issues (ground fault interrupter failure, for example) should be sent to an authorized repair center. Anything else not addressed by the product manual should also be done by an authorized independent service center for the tool. This maintains the integrity of the product.
The secret to long tool life, in short, is: Keep your tools clean, lubed, and drain cleaning machines free of standing water. Follow the manual and keep an eye out for any irregularities. When in doubt, visit an authorized service center.
About the Author
Doug Corlett is the manager of the RIDGID Factory Service Center. RIDGID is a global manufacturer of more than 300 dependable and innovative tools, trusted by professional trades.…
Hudson Plumber Offers Tips When Hiring A Plumbing Company In Florida
A plumber in Hudson Florida is offering Floridians tips on what to look when hiring a plumbing company for their residential plumbing needs so they can get back to living a great life in the Florida sun.
1. Experienced Plumbers on Staff and a Dedication to Quality Customer Service
Today, having access to a trusted and dependable plumber is essential to keeping your home in the best condition possible. As a matter of fact, knowing where to turn when a plumbing problem arrises is important to saving money and preventing water damage. History has shown that the faster a leak is corrected, the better it is in terms of stopping water damage.
Having a Florida plumber that homeowners can depend upon should always be just a call away. This is especially true if there is an after hours emergency. Being able to call in a technician in the middle of the night can save your home from costly damage. While there are a number of plumbing companies that offer this type of service, only a handful deliver when it comes to timely service and fair pricing. One company in particular that has consistently outshined the competition in this regard is KBR Plumbing in Hudson FL. With experienced plumbers on staff and a dedication to quality customer service, this is the the company to call day or night.
2. A Simply Precautionary Pipe Inspection at Least Every Two Years
From a leaky faucet to a broken main, no job is too big or too small. One important aspect of home plumbing is that of having routine water line inspections. This is a smart way for homeowners to catch problems long before they become much more serious. Expert plumbers are able to find and isolate pipe related issues long before they become a serious leak or line break.
Many professionals in the home maintenance business recommend having a simply precautionary pipe inspection at least every two years or perhaps even annually as a way to protect your home over the short and long term. This inexpensive and simple step is a great way to enjoy peace of mind and to prevent potential serious water damage. Best, of all when you work with a local plumbing pro in this way, you know that you have someone to call if there is ever a major pipe problem.
3. Inspect the Water Meter to See if the Meter is Running
A Hudson, Florida plumbing contractor with experienced and reliable technicians should always be just a call away. That said, as a homeowner there are some things that you can do to keep your home safe also. For example, every few months it is good practice to good through your entire home and inspect water lines and connections. Look at all appliances and each water connection to find any drips or leaks. Also check the water main and the water meter.
Look for soggy sections of your yard, which may indicate that a water main is leaking or broken. Inspect the water meter to see if the meter is running excessively even with all water outlets turned off inside and outside the house. This is perhaps one the simplest ways to detect an otherwise undiscovered leak. Look under all cabinets in the bathroom and kitchen to spot any drips or leaks that may have developed since your last visual inspection.
4. Having Work Completed by a Licensed Technician
Homeowners sometimes choose to attempt a plumbing repair on their own, however this may not always be the best option. As a matter of fact, it could end up costing the homeowner more money if the job is not done correctly. When you hire a plumber Hudson Florida homeowners trust and respect, you know that the work will be done professionally and correctly the first time around. In short, nothing compares to having a pro do the work.
Even a simple leaky faucet, if improperly repaired could spell disaster. When an expert does the work, you have peace of mind and work that comes with a full warranty. That means that if there are any issues with the repair, that someone will be out to check …
How to Detect Plumbing Problems That Commonly Cause Water Damage
How to Detect Plumbing Problems That Commonly Cause Water Damage
Water damage in your home is caused by one of two sources – water coming in from the exterior or issues with the plumbing system causing water leakage from the interior. Statistics state that the average water damage claim is around $8,000. Homeowners can avoid these expensive problems by keeping a close eye on certain areas and keeping up with regular maintenance.
Under the Kitchen Sink
You will find supply lines and drain pipes under the kitchen sink. Both of these elements can cause damage when worn out, cracked, or broken, but it is the supply lines that present the greatest danger. Filled with pressurized water, a crack in these pipes can produce a continual stream of water that will soak everything in the area very quickly.
Checking for potential problems is simple. Touch the pipes for moisture, especially around any elbows and seals. This is often where the plumbing can grow weak or spring a leak. It’s also worthwhile to have a look at the bottom of the cabinetry, watching for discoloration and spongy spots on the laminate. If you can see any of that your plumbing may have already leaked and there is a risk of mold and mildew spreading.
Behind the Toilet
A toilet overflow is one common cause of water damage. When something is blocking the drain and the toilet is flushed or running a backup can easily spill onto the floor damaging walls, framing, and cabinetry. But there is another area of potential danger in your bathroom.
Behind the toilet, there are supply lines very similar to those found under the kitchen sink. They may be chrome, PVC, stainless steel, or copper. Many are braided for flexibility and the pipe is actually quite short in length. Feel around the connections for any moisture or sweating, as this can be your first clue that a problem exists. Even braided plumbing can burst, crack or split and cause serious damage in the bathroom.
In the Laundry Room
Many newer homes place the laundry appliances in an area that is finished (second-floor laundry rooms, for example). Although this is much more desirable for the appearance and comfort of the room, it spells serious trouble if there is a leak. Large pans that are plumbed in with drainpipes can be placed underneath your washer to avoid problems. Those pans will not be of any help if the plumbing behind your washer breaks, leaking water into the room and potentially through the walls to damage the framing, drywall, and even the electrical.
Water and leak detection devices are wise things to include in laundry rooms, especially those that are located on the second floor or main floor above a finished basement. Often connected to the main water valve, these detectors will automatically turn off the main valve and stop the flow of water, reducing the total amount of damage incurred. Look for products with a simple design and dependable history to properly protect your laundry room from potential leaks.
Problems in your plumbing system could be the source of major damage to your home and possessions. Look under the kitchen sink, behind the toilet and in the laundry room to discover the common problems. Keep a close eye on these areas in order to catch problems early and consider simple, reliable leak detectors for even better protection. Your home is worth the effort it takes to properly monitor the plumbing for any sign of an issue.
Posted by: Diana…
5 BENEFITS OF HIRING A PROFESSIONAL PLUMBING SERVICE
A bluefrog Plumbing + Drain, we understand how tempting it can be to “fix” your own plumbing. However, hiring a professional plumbing service can save you money in the long run and ensure the problem is taken care of once and for all.
If you’re like most people, you probably take your plumbing for granted — until it doesn’t work anymore. Then, getting it fixed becomes an emergency. Without proper plumbing, it’s impossible to clean, cook and bathe. That’s why it’s important to partner with a plumbing company you can trust.
Here are five advantages of hiring our professional plumbers for all your plumbing needs.
- Trained and Licensed Plumbers
If you hire an inexperienced plumber to install your new water heater or shower, you could end up with water pressure and temperature problems. Unlicensed plumbers might be cheaper, but you take a big risk in hiring them.
An untrained plumber can actually do a lot more harm than good, leaving you with a headache and, possibly, higher future plumbing bills. Instead, you can rely on our well-trained technicians, who know how to handle a broad spectrum of plumbing issues.
Some of our services include:
Our plumbing service comes with guaranteed quality control. We want you to be happy when we leave. After all, our future business depends on satisfied customers.
- The Right Equipment
Few things are more annoying than waiting around for a plumber to show up only to learn they didn’t bring the right tools for the job. So, you have to wait for them to go get the appropriate equipment and return to finally start the job. That rarely happens with a bluefrog Plumbing + Drain technician. We emphasize the need to stock the van with all the equipment needed for the job at hand, and we vet our plumbers to ensure they have the high standards for customer service we expect.
Whether the job requires tube cutters, wrenches, and screwdrivers, or augers and video cameras, we have state-of-the-art equipment or traditional tools that help us get the job done efficiently.
- Provides Multiple Services
Bluefrog Plumbing + Drain provides a variety of plumbing services. Each plumber receives comprehensive training. That means you can ask for multiple services to get your plumbing system in order with a single phone call.
Some plumbing companies specialize in one type of service, such as unclogging drains. Our plumbers can install water heaters, showers, faucets, and other hardware, as well as unclog, repair or replace your pipes.
So, if you need a dishwasher or garbage disposal installed, let us know the next time you call us for a plumbing problem. We’ll be happy to help.
- Get a Better Outcome
When you hire an experienced plumbing service, you gain access to a team of highly skilled professionals. Our experts have been in the business for many years, if not decades. They know how to deal with plumbing systems in brand new homes but are just as adept in figuring out how to tweak the plumbing in your decades-old home.
If you are renovating your home and need advice on how to marry new plumbing systems to your original piping, we can help. Inexperienced plumbers and motivated DIY homeowners could end up doing more damage than good. Without the proper equipment and protective gear, you could end up with injuries and unhealthy living conditions due to the nature of toxic waste in your pipes.
- Emergency Services
When a pipe breaks in the middle of the night or the hot water heater bursts, who are you going to call? We invite you to take advantage of our emergency plumbing services at any time of the day or night.
If you can’t get other plumbers to pick up the phone on the weekend or during holidays, call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain. We’ll be there quickly to stabilize your plumbing and clean up unexpected flooding before it damages your flooring, walls, and furnishings.
Our professional plumbers run on a customer-focused model. That means you can rely on our trained, licensed technicians, even if another plumbing company has let you down.
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Four Plumbing Projects to Improve Water Quality in Your Home
Water quality remains a vital issue around the world. Canadians have access to clean, safe water, but there are several plumbing upgrades and home improvement projects that provide your family with good tasting, safe and clean water in a convenient way. Check these out and consider how to enhance your home.
Install a Drinking Water Filter
No matter where your water comes from, municipal supply, or a well, adding a filter helps to improve quality and taste. Modern innovations have made residential water filtration systems even better, moving from simple pitcher filters to in-faucet filters and those incorporated directly into your plumbing. Choose the best type for your family, depending on budget and supply needs.
- Faucet Filters – these products screw into your existing faucet and act much like the pitcher systems made widely popular by companies like Brita. With a more convenient design, faucet filters allow you to fill your drinking water glass directly from this faucet, with several key contaminants eliminated from the water. Maintenance includes filter changes and typical costs are affordable.
- Single Stage Filters – a larger, more advanced version of the faucet filter, single-stage water filters are installed at your kitchen sink by a licensed plumber and often come with a drinking water tap for easy visual reference. The filter removes dirt, sediment, and contaminants such as copper, lead, and chlorine. Maintenance includes filter changes and typical costs range from $100 to $300, depending on the brand and installation costs.
- Reverse Osmosis Filters – the ideal home water filtration system, this design uses carbon filters and various membranes to eliminate nearly all of the contaminants present in our drinking water. The unit is mounted within your plumbing system and may have a separate tap, depending on the brand. Several manufacturers offer reverse osmosis systems, including General Electric, Kohler, and Culligan. Maintenance includes filter changes and typical costs range from $500 and up, based on the brand and installation fees.
Water filters allow for tastier, healthier drinking water but do not have the capability to purify water, in case of contamination after a storm. Always stay on top of your regular maintenance and keep track of filter performance to ensure your family receives the cleanest water possible.
Replace Rusted Plumbing
Old galvanized plumbing rusts, creating a mess in your appliances and resulting in premature wear and damage. Rust in the dishwasher or washing machine is a common sign of this problem. Although rusting pipes may not affect drinking water, this condition often shows up in your hot water, affecting bathing and showering, as well as the washing machine and dishwasher.
Some plumbers recommend installing a filter on the hot water pipe. This could be a temporary solution, but eventually, decay will eat away at your plumbing and a full replacement becomes necessary.
Replace the pipes with copper or high-quality PVC. Your plumber can provide a cost estimate for both options. Any connections made with the aged galvanized plumbing require copper piping and dialectic unions to prevent further corrosion.
Are you planning any other home improvement projects in the near future? Bathroom renovations, kitchen remodels, finishing the basement, replacing trim, or patching up old drywall provide an opportunity to upgrade the existing plumbing before rust becomes a problem. Avoid rust stains on your clothing and dishes by planning to replace older pipes before corrosion sets in.
Install a Water Softener
Water softeners deal with hard water issues naturally present in many areas of Canada. Supplying hot and cold softened water to your plumbing system and appliances, this equipment allows for a more comfortable lifestyle. Hard water creates staining and often makes it difficult to get completely clean during a bath or shower. Your family will appreciate the function and results of a quality water softener.
Water softeners improve efficiency in your home. Soft water heats faster, cutting down on the energy needs of your water heater, and soft water creates less strain on your appliances. Experts state that using soft water in your hot water system cuts down energy usage by at least 20 percent for both electric and gas-powered hot water heaters.
Minerals and metals found in hard water are deposited in pipes, …