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Drain Line Inspection: What Is It and Do You Need It

plumbers carrying out a drain line inspection.

Drain line inspection is the process of examining the full length of a drain pipe, or sewer line, to detect any existing or potential problems that could lead to plumbing issues in your home. It involves using various techniques to inspect the drain line from the interior and exterior of a home to look for any signs of deterioration or blockages. By carrying out a drain line inspection, homeowners can quickly identify any issues before they become more serious, and can act to prevent the problem from escalating.

Drain lines are buried underground and are susceptible to damage from high levels of moisture, pests and tree root intrusion. If left unchecked, these problems can quickly weaken the structural integrity of the drain line, potentially leading to costly repairs if not detected early on. Regular inspections help to ensure that any problems are identified quickly, preventing them from growing into much bigger issues.

How is a Drain Line Inspection Conducted?

A drain camera inspection involves the use of various methods to inspect the drain line from the interior and exterior of the home. For interior inspections, this typically involves using a specialized camera mounted onto a long, flexible line to inspect the full length of the pipe. This camera allows for a detailed view of the inside of the pipe, allowing for the detection of any issues, such as blockages and damage to the pipe itself.

Exterior inspections involve using instruments to detect any changes in the exterior of the pipe, such as changes to the ground. This can help detect problems such as collapsed sections of pipe, which may have been caused by the shifting of soil or ground around the pipe.

Do I Need a Drain Line Inspection?

While regular sewer line inspections are recommended, there are certain circumstances where a drain line inspection is especially necessary. Under the following circumstances, it is important to contact a plumber and have your drain lines inspected:

  • If you are buying a property – Drain line inspections are an important part of a home buyer’s sole due diligence.
  • If you have experienced persistent or difficult-to-solve plumbing issues – Drain line inspections can help identify the source of the problem.
  • If your home is older – Drain and sewer lines installed in older homes may be more susceptible to deterioration or damage.
  • If your home has experienced flooding – Flooding can cause considerable damage to drain lines. It is important to have the lines checked for structural integrity before they are put back to use.
drain line camera inspection.

It is best to contact a local plumber experienced in this area who has the right equipment and expertise.

Ultimately, regular drain camera inspections can help to identify any existing or potential issues that could lead to plumbing problems in your home. The quicker these issues are detected, the less damage and expense is likely to be incurred in repairing them. So, for any homeowner, having a drain camera inspection performed regularly is an important aspect of keeping their home in top working condition.

If you’re a homeowner and you would like to have a drain line inspection carried out, it is best to contact a local plumber with expertise in this area. The plumber will have the equipment and expertise to ensure that the inspection is carried out accurately, and can make recommendations on any necessary sewer line repairs.

By having regular drain camera inspections and addressing any problems quickly, you can help to ensure that your home’s plumbing remains in a safe and functioning condition.

What to Do If Your Basement Floods: A Step-by-Step Guide

What to Do If Your Basement Floods

Coming home to a flooded basement can be a terrifying experience. It can also be damaging to your home’s foundation and structure and dangerous if it’s been around for a while. Knowing what to do in case of flood quickly, will save you a lot of time and money. Here’s a step-by-step guide for a homeowner going through the difficult process of baseline flooding.

Step One: Safety First

The very first thing to do in case of a flooded basement is to assess the safety conditions in the room. If the water has reached an unsafe level, it’s best to seek professional help. Additionally, since most basements contain electrical panels and items that may become damaged by exposure to water, it’s pivotal to turn off the power to the area. To do this, locate the main breaker switch and turn it off. Then, call a professional plumber to check that everything is alright and/or advise you on how to proceed.

Step Two: Document and Report the Damage

Flooding of any degree can be extremely damaging to a home. Before attempting any restoration, it’s important to document the damage and get help. Take pictures of the area, any flooding equipment, and the affected items. It’s best to write down details about the water damage (date, cause, extent, etc.) before filing any kind of claim. For best results, hire a professional flood damage attorney as soon as possible to ensure that all the claims are in order and filed properly.

Step Three: Entry and Removal of Standing Water

Once you’ve ensured your safety, the next step is to start cleaning out the water. You’ll need to enter the room to begin the basement water extraction process. When doing so, it’s important to wear protective clothing, gloves, and any other safety equipment you deem necessary. Depending on the severity of the flood you may need to use some additional entry point – such as hiring a pump truck service to get the excess water out.

inspecting and preventing mold to grow in your home.

The drying and mold prevention process is an important step

Step Four: Begin Drying and Mold Prevention

The last and most important step after assessing the safety of your basement is to begin the drying and mold prevention process. This step is vital for protecting the structural integrity of your home and preventing the growth of mold. To start, open windows and doors where possible to allow air circulation, purchase some dehumidifiers to reduce humidity, and use fans to help speed the drying process. You’ll also want to use over-the-counter mold prevention products and check your basement regularly.

Summing It Up

Flooding can be a devastating experience for a homeowner. Although it can be a long and difficult process, following these four steps can help you tackle the problem quickly and efficiently. From assessing the safety of your basement to documenting and reporting the damage to entry and removal of standing water to drying and mold prevention, it’s important to take quick action in order to prevent further damage. With the right tools and precautions, you can restore your basement’s structural integrity and safety. Learn from your any mistakes and make sure you have the proper flood control system installed in your home for the next time a heavy rain hits.

How to Deal With Water Leaks Coming Through Your Ceiling

How to Deal With Water Leaks Coming Through Your Ceiling

Identifying the Cause of Your Water Leak

When trying to deal with water leaking through your ceiling, the first step should be to identify the underlying cause of the leak. It could be due to a plumbing issue such as a leaking pipe or leaking sink, or it could be due to weather-related conditions like a roof leak or window leak. Identifying the source of the leak can help you determine the best course of action for dealing with the issue.

One of the most common causes of water leaks in ceilings is a leaky roof. In this case, the water damage will generally be located near the roof area and will gradually spread throughout the ceiling as it accumulates. Other causes of ceiling water leaks can include burst pipes, overflowing sinks, and faulty fixtures.

Tapping into Your Roof Leaks

If the source of your ceiling leak is due to a leaky roof, it is important to take the necessary steps to stop it from continuing. Depending on the severity and location of the leak, you may be able to locate the leak within your home’s structure. In some cases, the leak may originate from a roofing component like the shingles, flashing, or decking. In other cases, a plumber may need to be called to pinpoint the exact location of the water leak.

If the source of the leak is identified and accessible, you may be able to fix the issue by taping any holes with a roof sealant. To do so, clean the area of the leak thoroughly, then apply the sealant and spread evenly over the area. Allow the sealant to set and then apply additional layers until the leak is sealed. You may need to repeat this process multiple times to ensure the sealant is applied properly.

a roof inspection.

It is important to take preventative steps by regularly inspecting your roof and home for any signs of damage

Preventing Future Damage

Once the source of the leak has been identified and fixed, the best way to prevent future damage is to ensure the roof is in good condition and regularly inspected. It is recommended that roofs are inspected at least twice a year, but it may be necessary to inspect more often depending on the age and condition of the roof. By regularly inspecting your roof, you can identify any issues that may cause water to leak through your ceiling.

In addition to inspecting the roof, you should also take steps to ensure the rest of your home is well maintained. This includes regularly checking plumbing fixtures, pipes, and sinks for any signs of leaking or cracks. If any issues are identified, they should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent any future water damage.

Benefiting from Professional Assistance

If you are not able to identify the source of the leak or you are unsure of how to properly repair it, it is important to contact a local plumber. Professional plumbers and roofers can assess the situation and provide you with the best advice and course of action to resolve the issue safely and efficiently. They can also provide solutions for preventing additional damage if needed.

Water leaks coming through the ceiling can lead to extensive damage and expensive repairs if not dealt with in a timely manner. If you find yourself dealing with a water leak, the first step should be to identify the source of the leak. You may be able to repair the issue yourself, but if it is too complicated or hazardous to do so, it is best to contact a local plumber for the best advice and solutions. Lastly, it is important to take proactive steps to ensure your roof is in good condition and regularly inspected to prevent any additional water damage.

Overhead Sewer Services in Chicago

an overhead sewer system installation in chicago.

As a homeowner in Chicago, you may be familiar with the traditional in-ground sewage systems. However, for many low-lying or hilly areas, the traditional approach isn’t an option. This is where overhead sewer services come in. Overhead sewer services provide a way for homes to connect to the municipal sewage system while maintaining the integrity of the soil and the slope of the land. This guide will provide an overview of overhead sewer systems and what they mean for homeowners in Chicago.

How Overhead Sewer Systems Work

Overhead sewer services involve the installation of a pipe and pump system that is connected to the city’s existing sewage system. The purpose of the system is to collect sewage from the house, raise it to an appropriate height, and then send it into the city’s sewage system.

The system works by using an overhead valve that is connected to a wellpoint. The wellpoint is connected to a valve that is controlled by the homeowner. The valve is opened to allow the sewage to flow from the house and to be pumped to the desired height. Once at the desired height, the sewage is released into the city’s sewage system.

Advantages of Overhead Sewer Systems

Overhead sewer systems provide many benefits for homeowners in Chicago.

First, these services allow homeowners to avoid the complicated process of having to install an entire new sewer system. Instead, homeowners can simply connect to the existing sewage system while avoiding the need for sewer line repair service.

Second, these services provide homeowners with greater flexibility when designing and constructing their landscapes. Since the lines run above ground, there is no need for them to cut through the ground or force people to plan around them.

Finally, these services provide greater peace of mind for homeowners. With the overhead system in place, homeowners can rest assured that any potential problems with their underground sewage system will remain safe and clean.

You Need a Professional Installation Service for Your Overhead Sewer System

Although overhead sewer services provide a number of benefits to homeowners in Chicago, they should not be attempted as a DIY project. These systems require professional installation in order to ensure that the system meets all of the city’s requirements and that it is properly installed and maintained.

Proper maintenance of an overhead sewer system is essential to its functioning. For instance, if the system is not properly maintained, it can become clogged with debris and lead to sewer backup emergencies. The system should be inspected regularly by a licensed plumber who can catch any small issues before they become big ones.

Conclusion

Overhead sewer services are a valuable tool for homeowners in Chicago. They provide a way to connect to the city’s existing sewage system while avoiding costly and time-consuming excavation repairs. In addition, the system provides flexibility when it comes to designing and constructing landscapes. However, the system should only be installed by a professional in order to ensure that it is properly maintained.

If you are a homeowner in Chicago and are looking for a solution to your sewage needs, consider installing an overhead sewer system. With the Chicago Plumbing Experts on your side, you can be rest assured that your system will be properly installed and maintained.

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Questions or concerns about having an overhead sewer system installed in your home? We are here to help. Call us at 773-599-9181 or fill out the form below.

 

Things You Should Know About Sewer Pipe Cleaning

Things You Should Know About Sewer Pipe Cleaning

What is Sewer Pipe Cleaning?

Sewer pipe cleaning involves the elimination of clogs, blockages, and scale that can accumulate in any drain or sewer line over time. Sewer pipe cleaning can be done regularly to keep drain lines clean, or it can be done when clogs or blockages are found. If you are a homeowner, learning how to perform basic sewer pipe cleaning can save you time and money. It is also important to know what to do when sewer pipe cleaning is necessary.

How to Clean Sewer Pipes?

When it comes to cleaning your sewer pipes, it is best to start with basic preventive maintenance and avoid clogs and blockages. Taking steps such as using a plunger, augers, or chemical cleaners can help clear minor clogs and blockages. If these basic methods do not work, then calling a professional may be necessary. Professional plumbers use services such as hydro-jet drain cleaning, to clear blockages and can also inspect more serious blockages to determine the best method of repair.

When to Clean Sewer Pipes?

Most sewer pipe cleaning should be done on a regular basis. This helps to prevent the buildup of debris, hair, oil, food, and other substances that can cause clogs and blockages. It is important to regularly check your sewer pipes for any signs of blockage or damage, such as a foul odor, slow draining, or gurgling noises. If any of these signs are present, then sewer line cleaning should be performed.

hydro jet drain cleaning service.

The best form of sewer pipe cleaning is known as hydro-jetting.

Signs of a Clogged Sewer Pipe

Knowing the signs of a clogged sewer pipe can help you determine when sewer pipe cleaning is needed. Some common signs include:

  • Sinks, tubs, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures that are slow to drain or make gurgling noises.
  • A foul odor coming from drains.
  • Hearing the sound of running water even when no one is using any of the plumbing fixtures.
  • Standing water in sinks, tubs, or toilets.

If any of these signs are present, then it is important to schedule a sewer line cleaning service as soon as possible. If the clog is severe, then it may be necessary to call a local plumber.

What Can Cause a Clogged Sewer Pipe?

There are several things that can cause a clogged sewer pipe. These include:

  • Hair and soap residue buildup in drains.
  • Improper disposal of oil, fat, and grease in sinks and toilets.
  • Tree roots that have grown into sewer lines.
  • Foreign objects that have been flushed down a toilet.

It is important to be mindful of the potential causes of clogged sewer pipes and take preventive measures to avoid them.

tree root intrusion taking over a sewer pipe.

How to Prevent a Clogged Sewer Pipeline?

There are several steps that you can take to help prevent clogged sewer pipes. These include:

  • Installing mesh strainers in all drains in order to catch hair before it can enter the sewer lines.
  • Avoiding the disposal of grease, fat, and oil into sinks and toilets.
  • Performing regular sewer pipe cleaning to remove debris and other materials that can build up in the line.

Taking these steps can help you avoid a costly sewer clog.

In Summary

Sewer and drain cleaning is an important part of home maintenance. Learning how to perform basic sewer line cleaning can help you stay ahead of blockages and clogs, and can help you save time and money. Knowing when to schedule sewer pipe cleaning, what causes a clogged sewer pipe, and how to prevent them is essential for any homeowner. Taking the steps necessary to prevent clogs and blockages keeps your sewer lines clean and functioning properly.

When a Sewer Camera Inspection Is Helpful in Chicago

When a Sewer Camera Inspection Is Helpful in Chicago

Most of the time, if you have a plumbing issue in your home, you can be pretty certain that it’s a problem with the main sewer line. Knowing exactly where the issue lies requires an expert eye, and that’s where a sewer camera inspection can come in handy. It can help you determine where the problem is, identify what’s causing it, and then come up with a plan to fix it.

The first sign that you need a sewer camera inspection is if you’re dealing with slow drains. If water isn’t draining at its usual rate, it’s usually a sign that something isn’t right with your sewer pipes. Whether it’s a blockage or a crack, a sewer line camera inspection in Chicago can help you figure out what’s causing the problem so you can take steps to fix it.

Another common sign that you need a sewer camera inspection is if you detect a foul smell in your home or around your property. If there’s a blockage in your main sewer line, it can cause a buildup of nasty debris and organic matter. A sewer camera inspection can help you locate the blockage, allowing you to take the necessary steps to clear it.

What to Expect From a Sewer Camera Inspection

A sewer camera inspection is fairly straightforward. All it requires is a small camera attached to a flexible wire that is inserted through the most direct access point of the main sewer line. This camera is able to send live video feed straight back to the technician, allowing them to figure out what’s going on in your pipes and identify the source of the problem.

Once the inspection is complete, the plumber can provide a detailed report on what’s causing the issue. This report will include a map of the location of your main sewer line, details on any blockages or damage to your pipes, and an outline of the recommended solution.

a sewer line camera inspection being provided for a customer in chicago.

Having your sewer line inspected by a video camera will lead to a detailed understanding of the condition of your underground plumbing system.

The Benefits of a Sewer Camera Inspection in Chicago

A sewer camera inspection has a number of benefits. It’s much faster and cheaper than traditional excavation and repair methods, making it a great option for homeowners looking to save money. It’s also a non-destructive process, meaning that your garden or driveway won’t need to be dug up in order to repair the problem.

Another great benefit of a sewer camera inspection is that it can prevent further damage to your plumbing system. By identifying the source of the issue in the sewer line, it can stop it from getting worse and save you from more costly repairs down the line.

What to Do After a Sewer Camera Inspection

After your sewer camera inspection, it’s important to follow the suggestions made by the inspector. Depending on the severity of the problem and where it’s located, this could involve calling a professional plumber for sewer line repair work or simply making small changes to the way you use your plumbing fixtures.

It’s also important to remember that prevention is key when it comes to your plumbing and sewer system. Follow good plumbing practices such as regularly flushing out your drains with hot water and avoiding the disposal of objects like food waste and cooking oil down your sink. You should also check for tree roots around your sewer lines, as these can often cause blockages.

A sewer camera inspection can be a great tool for Chicago homeowners looking to troubleshoot their plumbing issues. It’s a quick and cost-effective way to figure out what’s going on in your pipes so you can take the necessary steps to repair them. Whether you’re dealing with slow drains or a nasty smell, a sewer camera inspection can help you get back on the right track.

Why You Can’t Ignore Drainage Issues in Your Restaurant Kitchen

Why You Can't Ignore Drainage Issues in Your Restaurant Kitchen

As a restaurant owner or manager, there are many things you need to consider to ensure the success of your business. One crucial aspect that is often overlooked is kitchen drainage. However, you can’t ignore drainage issues in your restaurant kitchen since they can cause significant expenses due to the associated legal and health regulations. This article will discuss the risks of ignoring drainage issues, common drainage issues in restaurant kitchens, and how to prevent them.

The Risks of Ignoring Drainage Issues

Ignoring drainage issues in your restaurant kitchen can lead to several health, legal, and financial risks. The exact health codes and regulations may vary from state to state. However, you should be mindful of the following risks.

Health Risks

If your restaurant kitchen has drainage issues, it can lead to significant health code violations. Here are a few examples of the associated health risks:

  • Bacteria and mold growth – Standing water and moisture caused by drainage issues can create an ideal environment for bacteria and mold growth. These microorganisms can contaminate food, leading to food poisoning and other illnesses.
  • Food contamination – If water from a clogged or slow drain backs up into the kitchen sink, it can contaminate the sink and surrounding areas. The contaminated areas can then contaminate food, utensils, and dishes, posing a significant health risk to customers.
  • Slip and fall accidents – Water on the kitchen floor due to drainage issues can create a slip and fall hazard for your employees, which can cause injuries and lawsuits.
Wet floor in need of cleaning due to draining issues in your restaurant kitchen.

Drainage issues in your restaurant kitchen can lead to slips and falls.

Legal Risks

The health dangers posed by drainage issues can lead to legal complications. Ignoring these issues can also lead to the following legal risks:

  • Fines and penalties – Local health and safety codes require restaurants to maintain proper drainage. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and penalties.
  • Lawsuits – If a customer or employee gets sick or injured due to drainage issues in your restaurant, they may file a lawsuit against you.

Financial Risks

When caught on time, most drainage issues can be solved without too much hassle or expense. However, ignoring drainage issues in your restaurant kitchen can also lead to financial risks, such as:

  • Cost of repairs – If drainage issues are not addressed promptly, they can cause significant damage to your kitchen’s plumbing system. The cost of repairs can be substantial, which can hurt your bottom line.
  • Loss of revenue – If your restaurant is shut down due to health or safety violations caused by drainage issues, it can result in a loss of revenue and damage to your restaurant’s reputation.
Chef in restaurant making burgers.

Grease buildup is one of the most common causes of clogged drains in restaurant kitchens.

Common Drainage Issues in Restaurant Kitchens

Now that we’ve discussed the risks of ignoring drainage issues, let’s explore some of the most common drainage issues in restaurant kitchens and their solutions.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are one of the most common issues restaurant kitchens face. They can be caused by food debris, grease, and other materials that accumulate in the drainpipe. Signs of a clogged drain include slow-draining sinks, foul odors, and gurgling sounds. To address clogged drains, you can use a plunger or a drain snake. You can also use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break up the clog. For severe clogs, you may need to call a professional plumber to clean the blockage in the drains.

Slow Drains

Slow drains are another common drainage issue. They are often caused by a buildup of grease and food particles in the drainpipe. Signs of slow drains include standing water in the sink and foul odors. The experts from Spyder Moving, who have experience with commercial moves, say that most of their clients opted to install grease traps to prevent these issues. If you are dealing with slow drains, use a drain cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break up the buildup. You can also hire a professional plumber to clean your drain pipes.

Foul Odors

Foul odors are a common drainage issue in restaurant kitchens. Due to the volume of food restaurants make and serve, foul odors are commonly caused by food debris, grease, and other materials accumulating in the drainpipe. Signs of foul odors include unpleasant smells coming from the sink or drain. To eliminate the odors, pour a baking soda and vinegar mixture down the drain. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the grease trap can also help prevent foul odors.

Clean kitchen in a commercial restaurant.

Clean your kitchen regularly to prevent drainage issues.

Preventing Drainage Issues in Restaurant Kitchens

Preventing drainage issues is key to avoiding the risks we discussed earlier. Here are some tips to help you prevent drainage issues in your restaurant kitchen:

  • Train your staff – get your staff up to speed on the proper disposal of food waste and grease. Encourage them to scrape plates and pans before washing them.
  • Install a grease trap – to prevent grease from entering the drainpipe. A grease trap should be installed and the grease trap cleaned regularly to prevent clogs and foul odors.
  • Use drain covers –covers can catch food debris and prevent them from entering the drainpipe.
  • Regular cleaning and maintenance – keeping your kitchen’s plumbing system in top shape can help prevent clogs, slow drains, and foul odors.
  • Schedule regular plumbing inspections – these inspections can detect any potential drainage issues before they become major problems.

Remodeling Your Restaurant’s Kitchen

Remodeling a restaurant’s kitchen is a significant investment that can increase efficiency, productivity, and profitability. However, planning your kitchen remodel carefully is crucial to ensure that it meets your needs and budget. Remodeling your kitchen is an excellent opportunity to upgrade your plumbing and drainage systems and prevent future drainage problems. Consider hiring a professional plumber to inspect your drainage system and identify potential issues. By addressing drainage issues during your kitchen remodel, you can create a safe and hygienic environment for your staff and customers while improving the overall functionality of your kitchen.

Organizing a Commercial Move

Renovating your restaurant’s kitchen can be a stressful and overwhelming process. Perhaps you decided to renovate before moving in, or you might want to move your appliances and kitchen furniture out while the current renovations are ongoing. Either way, it’s essential to have a well-planned moving strategy to minimize downtime and avoid any potential damage to your equipment. When planning a commercial move for your restaurant, it’s crucial to explore budget-friendly options if you want to reduce commercial moving expenses. Consider hiring a professional moving company specializing in commercial moves and offering cost-effective moving solutions. By doing so, you can ensure a seamless move while keeping your costs under control.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, drainage issues in your restaurant kitchen cannot be ignored. They can lead to health, legal, and financial risks and can harm your restaurant’s reputation. Common drainage issues in restaurant kitchens include clogged drains, slow drains, and foul odors. To prevent drainage issues, train your staff, have a grease trap installed if there isn’t one already, use drain covers, regularly clean and maintain your plumbing system, and schedule regular plumbing inspections. By following these tips, you can ensure the proper functioning of your restaurant’s plumbing system and the safety of your customers and employees.

Residential vs. Commercial Plumbing: What’s The Difference?

Residential vs. Commercial Plumbing

The plumbing systems in residential and commercial buildings do the same things; they supply fresh water to the building and remove wastewater from the premises. Visitors who use the plumbing fixtures in a commercial building may not see any differences between them and the plumbing fixtures in their homes.

Yet there are lots of differences between these two types of plumbing systems. Although they look the same on the surface, their underlying structures are very different. For one thing, commercial plumbing systems serve several people. As a result, they are larger and more complex than the plumbing systems in homes.

But the difference between the two systems is not limited to size; they also influence how these different plumbing systems should be managed. For property managers and real estate investors who own or operate commercial and residential buildings, understanding the differences between residential and commercial plumbing systems is crucial.  

Important differences between residential and commercial plumbing

Firstly, residential plumbing refers to the plumbing systems found in homes, along with their related sub-systems, such as drain and sewer lines. These systems have relatively simple construction because they only serve the needs of a limited number of people.

Commercial plumbing, on the other hand, is a plumbing system for a wide range of business facilities. These have to be more robust than residential plumbing systems because of the number of people who use them and the different ways those people use them.

What are the major differences between residential plumbing systems and commercial plumbing systems?

a business restroom.

Commercial plumbing systems are used by more people.

Amount and type of usage

Commercial plumbing systems are used by more people. Unlike residential plumbing, which is used mostly at specific times during the day, commercial plumbing is used heavily throughout the day. The types of materials people flush into the drains of commercial plumbing systems also vary a lot.

Durability of the plumbing

As a result of the amount of use they see, the fixtures in commercial systems are more robust; they use higher-grade materials. Residential plumbing is subject to less wear. Lower-grade pipes may be acceptable in residential plumbing because they don’t experience heavy usage.

Differences in complexity

Compared to commercial systems, residential plumbing systems are straightforward; comprising a few sinks, toilets and showers. Commercial plumbing often has multiple sinks, toilets and urinals on each floor of a multi-story building. A good number of these fixtures may be under use at the same time.

Risk of damage

Because of the sheer number of people using them, commercial plumbing has a higher risk of being damaged. This is partly because the people who use commercial plumbing are not likely to treat them with as much care as they show the plumbing system in their homes.

System efficiency 

If there are problems in a home’s plumbing, the impact is limited to the people living in the home. Problems in a commercial plumbing system not only affect more people but can also hurt the operation of the businesses in that building. That is why these systems have to be very efficient.

Water heaters

The water heaters used in residential plumbing will not work in a commercial building because more people require hot water at the same time. To meet this huge demand, commercial buildings use water heaters with large tanks that can take up to 250 gallons of water.

Sanitation and health

Due to the number of people who use plumbing fixtures in commercial buildings, there are bigger health challenges with these systems. To keep them from becoming a health hazard to those who use them, there are stricter health and sanitary standards for commercial plumbing systems.

Frequency of leaks

Keeping tabs on all potential leak locations in a commercial plumbing system is hard. Due to the scale and complexity of the system, it is easier for leaks and other kinds of problems to be missed or overlooked. Managing commercial plumbing systems is more difficult.

fixing a leak with a wrench.

Due to the number of people who use plumbing fixtures in commercial buildings, there are bigger health challenges with these systems.

Drainage services

The issue of solving drainage problems in a business is hard. Issues with the drainage system on one of the floors can easily affect the drains on other floors. Sometimes, the drain issues can show up on a floor that is many levels away from the floor where the problem originated.

Plumbing maintenance in residential and commercial buildings

Given this information, how should you maintain the plumbing system in a commercial building? When hiring a plumber for your commercial building, keep in mind the vastly-different training commercial plumbers receive in comparison to how residential plumbers are trained.

The differences in their training can be seen in:

  • The scope of work they are trained to handle.
  • The stricter job requirements for commercial plumbers.
  • The time-sensitive nature of commercial plumbing issues.

Taking these differences into consideration is essential when hiring a commercial plumber. Never hire a commercial plumber until you are sure they have adequate training and experience to handle the plumbing repairs in your business.

What Are the Signs That You May Need a Drain Cleaning Service?

drain cleaning service signs

Clogs are the number one drain problem experienced in homes. You do not have to misuse your home’s plumbing for the home’s drains to become clogged. Drain clogs can happen as the natural consequence of your home’s drain doing what they are designed to do and in turn you may need drain cleaning service.

Clogs happen because the water that travels through your home’s drains contains debris. These can be tiny food particles from the kitchen sink or solid waste from the toilet. Some of these materials get stuck inside the drain pipes as wastewater passes through them.

Over time these small deposits can grow to become large buildups that obstruct the pipe and slow the water flow. When this happens, you may see the effects in a shower or toilet that drains slowly. It can also manifest as bad odors emanating from your drains.

Property Specialists warns that if these clogs are not dealt with promptly, they can result in even bigger issues. A sewer backup is one of the most common outcomes of neglected drain problems. Clogged drains also increase the stress on your home’s drain. They make the pipes more prone to premature failure.

But these issues can only happen if the early warning signs of the drain problem are not heeded. Most times, a clogged drain will leave signs that alert the homeowner of the problem. If these signs are missed, minor drain issues can quickly deteriorate into plumbing emergencies.

a running faucet

The best way to handle drain clogs is to prevent them.

How do you keep your drain pipes free of clogs?

The best way to handle drain clogs is to prevent them. That means taking steps to ensure that the debris inside wastewater never builds up to a point where it clogs your home’s drains. The way to do this is to clean the drain pipes on an annual or biannual schedule.

The second best way to keep your home’s drains free of clogs is to detect when there is a buildup in the drains and remove that debris before it becomes a problem. To do this, you must know the signs that your home’s drains are clogged and need cleaning.

What are the signs that debris is building up inside your drains, and it is time to hire a professional drain cleaning service to get rid of the materials inside your drain pipes?

Bad odors

If you have recently been dealing with bad odors from your drains, it is probably because your drain pipes are clogged. Bad odors happen when sewer gasses cannot escape from the drains (due to a clog), so they find their way back into your home.

Musty drains

A musty odor from your sink or bathtub is a sign of impending drain blockage. Moldy odors mean that mold is growing somewhere in the vicinity. If that odor is from your drains, the pipes are clogged with debris that allows mold to grow.

Gurgling sounds and air bubbles

If you see air bubbles rising out of the water or hear gurgling sounds when you flush your toilets, it is because there is a blockage inside your home’s drains. That also applies if the water in a toilet bowl moves whenever you use one of the other drains in your home.

Problems with fruit flies

Fruit flies in your kitchen – especially when you don’t have leftover food in the sink and your trash can is not overflowing – could mean there is a clog in your drain pipes. The fruit flies could be feeding on the food particles stuck inside the clogged pipe.

a clean drain after a drain cleaning.

Clogs deep inside your drain pipes can manifest as frequently-clogged drains inside the home.

Frequent clogs

If your home has been seeing a lot of drain clogs lately or your toilet seems to overflow easily, the root of the issues might not be in those drains. Clogs deep inside your drain pipes can manifest as frequently-clogged drains inside the home.

Multiple drain clogs

If shower, sink, and toilet drains are showing signs of slowness at the same time, the problem is often not with any of the affected drains. More often than not, this problem is from a clog inside your home’s main sewer line. A professional hydro jetting service is often recommended.

Standing water

You may find standing water around your laundry machine or dishwasher. When that happens, it is normal to assume the appliance is leaking. But standing water at the base of an appliance or toilet could be due to a clog in your drain pipes.

Sewer backup 

A sewer backup is the worst drain problem in a home. But sewer backups only happen when the other warning signs discussed above are ignored. A sewer backup is often an extreme outcome that happens as the final stage of a drain clog.

All the problems listed above can be solved or avoided easily. How?

By giving your home’s drains a thorough wash. You should not wait until you start seeing signs of a clogged drain before you do this. Cleaning your drains on a schedule, at least once a year, will help you avoid these problems and preserve your drains.

Signs There May Be Trouble With Your Main Water Line

Signs There May Be Trouble With Your Main Water Line

Cold Water, High Bills and Unfamiliar Odors

For every homeowner, it can be concerning to think about potential issues with the main water line. Unfortunately, as with all household infrastructure, your water line isn’t immune to developing problems over time due to normal wear and tear. Knowing the signs that there may be trouble with your main water line can help you catch minor and major issues before it escalates into needing a full replacement of your main water line.

Cold Water and Low Pressure

If you experience consistently cold water or less water pressure than you’re used to, this can be indicative of blockages or a break that has caused supply disruption. Such blockages may be caused by contamination or corrosion over time, which means that no water or only small drips may be coming through.

Generally, this will cause discolored water or a pungent smell. If you hear loud noises coming from your tap or pipes, this could mean that the main water line is under too much pressure, meaning that there is likely a break or overflow somewhere in your plumbing system.

a high water bill.

If you’re noticing unexpected spikes in your water bills, this could mean that a leak has developed somewhere in your main water line.

Higher Than Usual Bills

If you’re noticing unexpected spikes in your water bills, this could mean that a leak has developed somewhere in your main water line. This could be any unseen hole, crack or joint break in the pipes, allowing water to flow unnoticed from the line.

Ideally, this should be investigated immediately and fixed as soon as possible to minimize further water wastage and resulting bills. If you are unable to locate the source of any potential leak, it’s wise to contact a local plumber to assist you in detecting the source of the leak.

a women smelling sewer odor.

If you smell a familiar scent such as sewage or gas emanating from your tap, this is an unmistakable sign that you may have a problem with the main water line.

Familiar Smells

If you smell a familiar scent such as sewage or gas emanating from your tap, this is an unmistakable sign that you may have a problem with the main water line. This could be a sign of either a leak or a buildup of contaminated water within the line, meaning that if you experience this issue you should not use the water or flush the toilet until the issue is resolved.

It’s important to contact a plumber nearby as soon as possible to rectify the problem and to ensure that your water, and the rest of your plumbing system, is safe for usage and the environment.

Conclusion

It’s essential for homeowners to be aware of the potential signs of trouble with their main water line so that they can take proactive steps to avoid bigger problems later on. Cold water, high bills, and unfamiliar odors can all be causes for concern and should be investigated further to ensure that your plumbing is in check. By contacting a professional plumber, it can be the best way to safeguard your home from leaks and contamination.