Tag Archives: bathroom plumbing

May '24

Common Kitchen and Bathroom Plumbing Problems in Chicago and the Experts Who Can Solve Them

If you’re a homeowner, renter, or landlord, it’s important to be aware of the plumbing issues that can arise in these areas and know about the expert professionals who can help you solve them. Here we’ll discuss some of the most common plumbing problems you may encounter in your kitchen and bathroom, and provide recommendations on how to prevent them or find reliable plumbing services in the Chicago area.

The Importance of a Well Maintained Plumbing System

Having a properly functioning plumbing system is crucial for your daily activities in the kitchen and bathroom. From cooking and cleaning to personal hygiene, a break or malfunction in the plumbing can disrupt your routine and cause inconvenience. It’s essential to address any plumbing issues promptly to avoid more significant problems and potential damage to your property.

Kitchen Plumbing Problems

Clogged Drains: Clogged kitchen drains are a common issue faced by many households. Food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate in the pipes over time, leading to slow drainage or complete blockage. This can result in unpleasant odors, the risk of flooding, and even damage to your kitchen fixtures. Regular drain maintenance and avoiding pouring grease down the drain can help prevent clogs.

Leaking Faucets: A dripping faucet not only wastes water but can also be a significant annoyance. The constant dripping can disturb your sleep and increase your water bill unnecessarily. Chicago has a notorious history of high water bills, so it’s crucial to fix leaking faucets as soon as possible to conserve water and save money.

Garbage Disposal Problems: Garbage disposals are a convenient appliance in the kitchen, but they can encounter issues such as jamming, humming noises, or complete failure. These problems often occur due to improper usage or disposing of items that shouldn’t go into the garbage disposal. It is vital to be mindful of what you put down the disposal and have a professional plumber address any problems promptly.

Low Water Pressure: Inadequate water pressure in the kitchen can make tasks like rinsing dishes or filling pots a frustrating experience. Low water pressure can be caused by various factors, including mineral buildup in the pipes or issues with the municipal water supply. Speaking with a professional plumber can help determine the underlying cause and find a suitable solution.

a plumber making a garbage disposal repair in chicago.

Garbage disposals are a convenient appliance in the kitchen, but they can encounter issues such as jamming, humming noises, or complete failure.

Bathroom Plumbing Problems

Clogged Toilets: A clogged toilet is probably one of the most inconvenient plumbing problems to deal with. It can lead to overflowing, unsanitary conditions, and disrupt the normal functioning of your bathroom. While minor clogs can often be resolved with a plunger, persistent or severe clogs may require sewer rodding service.

Leaking Pipes: Leaking pipes in the bathroom can cause water damage to walls, floors, and cabinets, leading to mold growth and structural problems. It’s important to address any signs of leakage promptly, such as water spots, dampness, or a musty odor. Professional plumbers can assess the extent of the leak and perform the necessary repairs or replacements.

Faulty Shower/Tub Faucets: A malfunctioning shower or bathtub faucet can be frustrating, whether it’s a continuous drip, inconsistent water temperature, or a complete failure to turn on. These issues can disrupt your daily bathing routine and compromise your comfort. Professional plumbers can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the faulty components.

Water Heater Problems: Reliability is crucial when it comes to hot water in your bathroom. If you’re experiencing lukewarm water, inconsistent temperatures, or no hot water at all, it may indicate a problem with your water heater. Professional plumbers in Chicago have the necessary expertise to diagnose and repair various water heater issues, ensuring you have a consistent and comfortable supply of hot water.

Choosing the Right Plumbing Experts in Chicago

When faced with any plumbing problem, it’s important to seek the assistance of professional plumbing experts. In Chicago, there are numerous reputable plumbers that can provide reliable solutions to your kitchen and bathroom plumbing issues. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right plumbing professionals:

– Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have had positive experiences with local plumbers.

– Research online reviews and ratings of different plumbers in Chicago to get an overview of their reputation and customer satisfaction.

– Check if the plumbing company is licensed, insured, and provides guarantees for their work.

– Inquire about their experience in handling similar plumbing problems to ensure they have the necessary expertise.

– Obtain multiple quotes from different plumbing services to compare prices and ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

By taking these steps, you can find reliable plumbing experts in Chicago who will efficiently address your kitchen and bathroom plumbing problems.

Plumbing problems in the kitchen and bathroom can disrupt your daily routine and cause inconvenience if not addressed promptly. By being aware of the common issues and potential solutions, as well as choosing the right plumbers, you can effectively tackle any plumbing problem that arises. Remember to prioritize regular maintenance and address minor issues before they escalate into more significant problems. With the help of the right plumbers in Chicago, you can ensure the smooth functioning of your kitchen and bathroom plumbing systems for years to come.

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Do you have a kitchen or bathroom plumbing issue in Chicago that needs to be addressed? Chicago Plumbing Experts can help! Contact us below or call us at 773-599-9181.

Mar '24

Troubleshooting Guide: What to do when your toilet is leaking from the base

Is your toilet leaking from its base, and are you trying to figure out why? This short guide will show you how to troubleshoot and solve the issue.

Why is your toilet leaking from the base, and what can you do about it?

If you see a puddle of water on the floor near the toilet seat, your toilet is probably leaking. This problem may be accompanied by a bad odor. If the water is from your toilet, note that it could be contaminated, warns C&C Campbell Management.

Here are 6 possible reasons your toilet is leaking from its base:

Condensation

It is possible to find water on your toilet floor even when the toilet is not leaking. This happens when the temperature of the water entering the toilet tank is a lot lower than the surface temperature on the outside of the tank. This temperature difference can cause condensation on the outside of the tank.

Water that has collected on the tank surface can trickle down to form a puddle at the bottom of the toilet. If this is the cause of your problem, the surface of the toilet tank will feel wet. To stop condensation, install an exhaust fan in the toilet or run a heater to equalize the temperature inside the toilet. You can also add a condensation liner to the tank.

Leaky shut-off valve

The shut-off valve is a small control that lets you turn off the water supply to your toilet. You can usually find it on the bottom left side, behind the toilet. The shut-off valve is a common site for toilet leaks because the device is prone to leak from wear.

To check if the leak is from the shut-off valve, do this:

Place a small bowl or cup under the shut-off valve.
Flush the toilet and turn off the water supply to the toilet.
Wait a few minutes and check for water inside the cup or around the area.

If there is evidence of trickling water, replace the seal or the entire valve.

A leaky pipe

To check for leaks in the pipe connections in your toilet, follow these steps. A dry environment makes it easier to spot leaks;

Use a dry cloth to thoroughly wipe down the toilet and all nearby surfaces.
Use your hand to feel along the pipes (pay special attention to joints).
If you find any wet area, dry it out, wait a bit and feel it again.

Repeat this step across the length of the pipe to be sure there are no other leaks. Unlike other leaks, a leaky pipe will not stop leaking when you flush the toilet. The steps for fixing the leak depend on the location of the damage and how the pipe is installed.

After tightening the bolts, try to move the toilet seat once again. If the seat doesn’t move, replace the cap. Contact a professional plumber if it moves even after tightening the bolt.

Loose bolts

The toilet seat should be held firmly to the floor by two bolts hidden under dome-shaped caps on the toilet base. If the bolts are loose, your toilet will leak. To check if the bolts are loose, try moving the toilet seat with your hands. If it moves even slightly, the bolts are loose.

To tighten the bolts, remove the dome-shaped caps on the base of the toilet and use a pair of pliers to turn each bolt clockwise. After tightening the bolts, try to move the toilet seat once again. If the seat doesn’t move, replace the cap. Contact a professional plumber if it moves even after tightening the bolt.

A worn toilet seal

A damaged toilet seal or wax ring can cause your toilet to leak from the base. This seal can be found underneath the toilet. Its job is to provide a watertight connection between the toilet and the sewer pipe. Over time, toilet seals can harden and become brittle or they can loosen. Some toilet cleaners will also cause the seal to deteriorate.

To check for leaks around the seal, dry the area thoroughly with a cloth and leave it alone for a few minutes or hours. If the area is wet when you return, it means you have to replace your toilet seal ring. This is not a complicated or expensive repair.

Leaky toilet seat

Your toilet seat may have tiny holes in it without showing any outward signs of damage. This problem is hard to detect. But if your toilet leaks every time you flush it and the issue is not due to any of the above causes, you may consider this as a probable cause. The only solution for a bad toilet seat is to replace it.

In conclusion, the above are the most common reasons your toilet would leak from its base. If you have taken the recommended steps for troubleshooting the leak and it persists, you may want a professional plumber to look at your toilet.

Feb '24

Bathroom Plumbing Services: A Comprehensive Guide

Bathrooms are the number one room in your home where plumbing issues are most likely to happen because of their role in the house. That is why when plumbing your bathroom, it is vital to understand the problems you will be dealing with in that space.

To ensure you do not have future bathroom problems, Suncastle Property Management team advises you to work with a competent bathroom plumbing service. A bathroom plumbing service offers a range of bathroom plumbing services: installation of new fixtures, water pipes or drainage systems.

But that is not all they do.

A bathroom plumbing service will work with you to plan and design your bathroom plumbing system. It will help you understand the peculiarities of your home’s architecture to ensure that the plumbing can maximize efficiency and minimize problems.

Furthermore, after your bathroom has become operational, a bathroom plumbing service will also see to its maintenance.

As a Chicago homeowner looking to do a fresh bathroom plumbing installation or overhaul your existing system, why should you work with a bathroom plumbing service? What are the things to consider before hiring a bathroom plumbing service?

Benefits of hiring a professional bathroom plumbing service in Chicago

Unique and lasting solutions

A bathroom plumbing service is exceptionally suited to deal with issues in your bathroom plumbing. They apply a holistic approach to solving bathroom plumbing issues. Instead of a short-term focus on aesthetics, they work to provide solutions for bathroom problems you don’t even know you will have in the future.

Flexibility and innovation

Plumbers who are not specifically trained to deal with bathroom plumbing problems have a limited repertoire of bathroom plumbing solutions to offer. A bathroom plumbing service, on the other hand, brings a lot of innovativeness. They will adjust their solutions to the needs of your home.

Resilient bathroom plumbing

Bathroom plumbing systems should be resilient rather than fragile. They must have the ability to absorb the shock of unexpected events without caving in. A bathroom plumbing service will install your bathroom plumbing to be exceptionally able to resist abuse and wear.

A plumbing system that is up-to-code

When you hire a reliable bathroom plumbing service, you may be sure that your bathroom plumbing will be well ahead of current regulations and building codes. That’s because these plumbing experts know the pressing environmental and sanitary issues that existing and upcoming regulations seek to address.

The best bathroom technologies

An experienced restroom plumbing service provides valuable insight into the best bathroom technologies for the highest return on investment. Instead of wasting money on fanciful tech that doesn’t add real value, you can be sure that any features you include in the bathroom will be worth it.

Robust plumbing systems

Lastly, a bathroom plumbing service will build excess capacity into your bathroom plumbing systems. The plumbing will not be susceptible to collapse even in the event of overuse. It will also be easy to expand the system when making major additions to your bathroom.

Plumbing issues in the bathroom are a leading cause of water damage in homes. Most of these problems result from hiring amateurs to install or maintain the home’s bathroom plumbing system.

What to look for when hiring a bathroom plumbing service in Chicago

Check their credentials

That is not just about certification and licensing (those are important, and you should not overlook them), but about the quality of their staff and the kind of equipment they have. Are the people who work for them reputable? Do they have partnerships with relevant suppliers and organizations in the area?

Prioritize the plumber’s experience

Give preference to experienced plumbers. The bathroom plumbing service you hire must have been operating in your area for a long time. They must have a track record of providing good service. That means you should look for a combination of expertise, experience and reputation.

Ask for references

If the plumber is any good, there should be a few customers who are willing to back up their claims. Ask the company to provide references and, more importantly, make sure you contact the people on that list. Verify that they are actual customers and, if possible, visit them to get a firsthand view of the plumber’s work.

Do they have insurance and warranties?

You don’t want a plumber to install or maintain your bathroom plumbing systems unless they have proper insurance. They need to have worker’s compensation, liability and property insurance. Additionally, do they offer warranties or guarantees on their work and the parts they used in the installation?

What about after-sales service and maintenance?

What is your relationship with the plumber after the installation is completed? Do you get some months of after-sales service, and do they have a program for regular plumbing maintenance? If something goes wrong with the installation, are they going to fix it at their own cost?

Plumbing issues in the bathroom are a leading cause of water damage in homes. Most of these problems result from hiring amateurs to install or maintain the home’s bathroom plumbing system. You can avert these problems if you work with a professional plumber.

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Interested in bathroom plumbing services in the Chicagoland area? Contact us below.

Nov '23

8 Plumbing Upgrades for your Bathroom Remodel

Bathroom updates consistently rank as one of the top improvements desired by home buyers. Buyers will routinely overlook an otherwise attractive home if they find that its bathroom is outdated. That is why Pro X Property Management – Swain Group says it is wise not to ignore your bathroom when doing upgrades to your home.

Why do bathrooms matter so much?

There are many reasons why buyers pay attention to the bathroom. The bathroom is where most people start and end their day. The act of taking a shower is a ritual that helps to put you in the right frame of mind for work or rest. Bathrooms serve as a showcase for your style.

However, not all bathroom upgrades will improve your home’s value to the desired level. All bathroom upgrades should improve the function and aesthetics of your home. But some upgrades do this better than others. What are the top performing bathroom upgrades to consider for your home?

Given that the main function of the bathroom is to ensure personal hygiene and the home’s sanitation, it makes sense to focus on your plumbing when planning upgrades for the bathroom. Improved bathroom plumbing is the foundation of a successful bathroom upgrade.

8 essential plumbing upgrades for your bathroom

Upgrade your bathroom pipes

When doing bathroom upgrades, the focus should not only be on things like faucets, toilets, showers, and sinks. The underlying systems that support them – water pipes and drainpipes – are vital. It doesn’t make sense to add a rainfall showerhead or spa tub to the bathroom (as an example) if your existing pipes cannot perform to the level required by these new installations. Begin the bathroom renovations by updating the size and quality of your water pipes and drain pipes.

Hide or disguise your plumbing lines

Visible piping in the bathroom makes the space ugly. You don’t want the pipes attached to bathroom fittings and appliances to be easily visible. Leaving the pipes naked will only diminish the overall aesthetics of your bathroom, regardless of the quality of the installed fixtures. There are many ways to hide the pipes in your bathroom; you may paint or decorate them, and you can also hide them inside storage units or within the bathroom walls.

Rainfall showerhead

In addition to boosting the appearance of your shower, a rainfall showerhead upgrade makes shower times more enjoyable.

A rainfall showerhead is a luxurious but affordable upgrade. In addition to boosting the appearance of your shower, this upgrade makes shower times more enjoyable. But before you install this feature, ensure that your water heater can keep up with the increased demand. Another option for upgrading the shower is to install multiple showerheads. These are more versatile than rainfall showerheads; they typically include a standard showerhead, handheld wand, and body sprays.

Install a dual-flush toilet

Dual flush toilets offer more control over the home’s water usage than standard toilets. Depending on what you are trying to flush, you can use the low-flow or high-flow option. Instead of a low-flow toilet that locks you into a single flush mode, dual flush toilets give you options. Installing a dual-flow toilet gives you the best of two worlds; you can conserve water and retain access to the high-flush mode.

Replace your bathroom faucets

Faucets are one of the first things people see when they enter your bathroom. Faucets are more than mere plumbing fixtures; they play a role as decorative accessories in your bathroom. When replacing bathroom faucets, keep function and aesthetics well in mind. New bathroom faucets can help to reduce utility bills by conserving water and preventing leaks.

Add a curbless shower

Curbless showers do not have a ledge that you have to step over when entering the shower. This feature makes them a great choice for people with mobility issues. Adding this upgrade to your bathroom will make your home more attractive to a larger section of the market. Also, the seamless appearance of the shower and accompanying glass enclosure add style to your bathroom.

Include a freestanding bathtub

Standalone tubs create the illusions of space. They offer easy access from all sides and are great for romantic evenings with your partner.

You want to have at least one bathtub in the home. Bathtubs are a big selling point for families with small children; a great time saver when you want to bathe all the kids at once. You can amplify the appeal of the bathtub by making it a standalone tub. Standalone tubs create the illusions of space. They offer easy access from all sides and are great for romantic evenings with your partner.

Install a tankless water heater

Traditional water heaters use more energy than tankless water heaters because they heat water continuously. A traditional water heater often has to reheat already heated water. You can solve this problem by installing a tankless water heater. However, depending on your home’s water usage, a single tankless water heater may not be enough for the household. It is often a good idea to install a dedicated tankless water heater for the bathroom.

Which of these eight bathroom upgrades makes the most sense for your home?

The answer depends on the needs of your home and what buyers in your area want the most. Before you begin your bathroom upgrade it is a good idea to sit down and speak with a professional plumber to assess the projected benefits of each of these eight options.

Oct '23

When Should I Repair or Replace My Faucet?

When it comes to faucets in our homes, we often take them for granted until they start malfunctioning. Whether it’s a leaky faucet or a problem with the water flow, these issues can be quite bothersome. In such cases, homeowners are often faced with the dilemma of whether to repair the faucet or replace it altogether. This article aims to provide guidance on when it is appropriate to repair or replace a faucet based on various factors, ensuring that homeowners make an informed decision.

Signs of Faucet Problems

Before delving into the decision of repair or replacement, it is important to identify signs that indicate faucet problems. Recognizing these signs early on can save homeowners from more extensive damage and costly repairs.

Some common signs of faucet problems include:

Leakage from the spout or base

Inconsistent water pressure

Stiff or difficult-to-turn handles

Sudden decrease in water flow

Noisy faucet operation

Rust or corrosion

Factors to Consider

When determining whether to repair or replace your faucet, there are several factors you should take into consideration.

Age of the Faucet

The age of the faucet plays a crucial role in deciding whether to repair or replace it. Most faucets have a lifespan of around 15-20 years, depending on the quality and maintenance. If your faucet is nearing the end of its lifespan and experiencing frequent problems, it may be more cost-effective to replace it rather than continually repairing it.

Cost of Repairs

Assessing the cost of repairs is another vital factor to consider. If the cost of repairing the faucet is significantly lower than the cost of a new faucet, it might be worth opting for a repair. However, if the repair cost is close to or exceeds the cost of a new faucet, a replacement would be a wiser investment in the long run.

a dripping faucet that could use fixing.

The age of the faucet plays a crucial role in deciding whether to repair or replace it.

Availability of Replacement Parts

Availability of replacement parts for your specific faucet model is an important consideration. Some older or unique faucet models may have discontinued parts, making repairs difficult or expensive. Before deciding on repair or replacement, check with a professional plumber or visit a specialized store to ensure the necessary replacement parts are accessible for your faucet.

Energy Efficiency

With the growing focus on energy conservation, upgrading to a more energy-efficient faucet can be a significant consideration. Older faucets may lack the latest water-saving features, resulting in higher utility bills and unnecessary water wastage. In such cases, replacing the faucet with a newer, eco-friendly model can have long-term financial and environmental benefits.

Aesthetic Appeal

The overall aesthetic appeal of your faucet and its compatibility with the surrounding decor should also be taken into account. If your faucet no longer complements the style of your bathroom or kitchen, replacing it presents an opportunity to upgrade to a more visually appealing option that enhances the overall ambiance of the space.

When to Repair

Deciding to repair your faucet instead of replacing it is often a suitable option in certain scenarios.

Minor Leaks

If your faucet is experiencing minor leaks from the spout or base, these issues can typically be resolved with a repair. Often, a faulty washer or O-ring is responsible for the leakage, and replacing these small components can make the faucet as good as new.

Simple Mechanical Issues

Problems like stiff handles or loose connections can often be fixed with simple repairs. Tightening loose parts or applying lubrication to stiff handles can restore the smooth functioning of your faucet without the need for a full replacement.

Low Repair Costs

If the repair costs are minimal and significantly lower than the cost of a new faucet, opting for a repair can be a cost-effective choice. In these situations, professional plumbers can assess the problem and provide an estimated cost for the repair.

When to Replace

Although repair is a viable option in some cases, there are instances where replacing the faucet is the more prudent choice.

Extensive Damage or Corrosion

If your faucet is extensively damaged or shows signs of corrosion, repairing it may only offer a temporary solution. In such cases, replacing the faucet entirely ensures a reliable and long-term fix, preventing further damage and potential water leakage.

Frequent Repairs

If your faucet requires frequent repairs and continues to experience problems, it may be indicative of larger underlying issues. Constantly investing in repairs can be a financial burden, especially when the cumulative cost exceeds the price of a new faucet. Replacing your faucet in these circumstances saves you from the hassle and expense of regular repairs.

a touchless faucet is nice when replacing.

Modern faucets often come with touchless operation, adjustable water flow options, and water-saving aerators, resulting in improved functionality and reduced water consumption.

Upgrade to Modern Features

If your current faucet lacks the latest technological advancements and water-saving features, replacing it with a newer model can provide added convenience and efficiency. Modern faucets often come with touchless operation, adjustable water flow options, and water-saving aerators, resulting in improved functionality and reduced water consumption.

Renovation or Remodeling

If you are planning a renovation or remodeling project that involves updating your bathroom or kitchen, replacing the faucet is a logical step. Choosing a faucet that complements the upgraded design and aligns with your overall vision allows for a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing outcome.

Conclusion

Deciding whether to repair or replace your faucet requires careful consideration of various factors, including the age of the faucet, repair costs, availability of replacement parts, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Evaluating these aspects enables homeowners to make an informed decision that best suits their needs and budget. While repairs can suffice for minor issues and low-cost fixes, replacement is often the wiser choice for extensively damaged faucets, frequent repairs, technological upgrades, and renovation projects. Seeking professional advice from a plumber can further assist in determining the most suitable course of action for your specific faucet dilemma.

Jun '23

How Often Should a Wax Ring Be Replaced on Your Toilet?

Hello there homeowners of the world, today we are going to tackle an important and perhaps less-glamorous topic when it comes to maintaining our home – how often should a wax ring be replaced on your toilet?

Yes, we know the thought of replacing a wax ring can be daunting, but we promise to keep it light and informative. So, buckle up and let’s get started.

What is a Wax Ring?

Before we dive into the timeline of when to replace a wax ring, let’s first understand what a wax ring is. A wax ring is a round piece of wax or a wax-like material that is installed between the base of your toilet and the flange on your bathroom floor.

Wax rings help create an airtight and watertight seal, preventing any unpleasant odors and potential water damage from seeping through and ruining your floor. So you see, a wax ring is like the superhero for your bathroom.

How Often Should a Wax Ring Be Replaced?

Now, the million-dollar question, how often should a wax ring be replaced? Well, there are a few things to consider when answering this question.

First, you should consider the age of your current wax ring. If you just moved into a new home, it’s always a good idea to check the age of the wax ring to see if it’s due for a replacement.

Second, you should consider the frequency of use of the toilet. If you have a large family with frequent guests, your toilet may be getting more use than the average household. In that case, you may need to replace the wax ring more frequently than others.

Lastly, you should consider any signs of wear and tear on the current wax ring. If you notice any water damage, odors, or simply a loose toilet, it may be time to replace the wax ring.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended to replace the wax ring every 3-5 years. This ensures that the seal remains tight and helps prevent any unexpected leaks or water damage.

Replacing a wax ring may sound daunting, but it’s actually a simple process that can be done with a few basic tools.

How to Replace a Wax Ring?

Replacing a wax ring may sound daunting, but it’s actually a simple process that can be done with a few basic tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you out:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush the toilet to empty out any remaining water in the bowl and tank.

2. Remove the nuts and bolts that secure the toilet to the floor.

3. Gently rock the toilet to break the seal of the old wax ring.

4. Lift the toilet and set it down on its side on a towel or paper.

5. Use a scraper to remove any remaining wax from the flange and the base of the toilet.

6. Place the new wax ring onto the flange, making sure it is centered.

7. Carefully lower the toilet onto the wax ring, lining up the bolts with the holes in the flange.

8. Tighten the nuts and bolts, making sure not to over-tighten and crack the base of the toilet.

9. Reconnect the water supply and turn on the water.

10. Flush the toilet to ensure there are no leaks.

Voila! You have successfully changed the wax ring on your toilet.

In Conclusion

Well, there you have it, folks. A comprehensive guide to understanding how often a wax ring should be replaced on your toilet. Remember, a small amount of prevention is always better than repairing or resolving the issue later on.

If you’re feeling a bit hesitant about replacing the wax ring yourself, don’t be afraid to call in a local plumber. Trust us, your bathroom will thank you in the long run.

In any case, we hope you found this article informative and perhaps even entertaining. Until next time, happy flushing!

Aug '22

How to Replace a Shower Head

The shower head is one of those things that we often forget about when it comes to potential damages and repairs. Unfortunately, they are very prone to damage and wear, and it’s good to replace them from time to time. If the time has come to install a new shower head, you’re in the right place. Going on a hunch is not recommended for bathroom repair, and replacing a shower head is no exception. That’s why our team at Chicago Plumbing Experts has decided to share some valuable tips on how to replace a shower head. And, of course, if you don’t feel like doing it yourself, know that there are always experts available out there who will do an excellent job whenever called upon.

When is the right time to replace a shower head?

Even if your shower head seems to be in excellent condition, many processes can be ongoing under the surface. The area inside a shower head is rich soil for bacteria to form. Showerheads are a prime location for bacteria because of their ever-present moisture. Eventually, it can even become a health hazard. So, even if you don’t see any problems, replacing a shower head once every 6 to 8 months is advisable. And, it goes without saying that if the shower head is broken or any other type of problem is visible, you should replace it right away. Continuing to use a broken showerhead could cause damage to your bathroom or even lead to injury.

A man sitting in front of a laptop and thinking.

If you’re wondering how often you should replace the shower head, the answer is every 6 to 8 months.

For example, if your shower head smells bad, this is a signal to replace it as soon as possible. Sometimes you might not even be able to locate the source of the foul smell, and it turns out it is your shower head. The bacteria we mentioned can cause this. However, various gasses from pipes that the functional shower head was supposed to deal with can also cause the smell. Therefore, replacing a shower head might remove the bathroom odors you were facing. As you can see, it’s clear why you should address all shower head issues quickly. After all, a shower head is something you and your family use daily, so it’s not a good idea to procrastinate with the replacement.

Choosing a new shower head

Before you learn how to replace a shower head, you’ll need to buy a new one first. Nowadays, there are so many different types of shower heads to choose from, and it will all depend on your preferences. Here are some of the most common types:

Fixed shower head
Handheld shower head
Filtered shower head
Rain shower head
Massage shower head
High-pressure shower head

It’s worth noting that there are some more expensive types out there with tons of additional features. But the basic types are perfectly fine as well; after all, they are the cheaper options. Plus, when it comes to bathroom upgrades, getting a new and slightly different shower head than you used to have, is an excellent place to start. There are plenty of cheap bathroom upgrades and easy ways to spruce it up, and you’ll enjoy the showers even more. Therefore, consider doing a few simple DIY upgrades, starting with the shower head.

There are many types of shower heads out there, so before you learn how to replace a shower head, find a model that suits you the most.

Removing the old shower head

In most cases, you can easily remove the old shower head by hand. A few simple counterclockwise movements should be enough to do work. If your shower head is fixed, you’ll need a screwdriver. But, once again, it is pretty easy to remove it. Ensure the water is off so the whole process doesn’t become a mess. After removing the shower head, clean the area where you will put your new shower head. This is the beginning of the pipe called the shower arm. Unfortunately, as with any other pipe in your home, the shower arm could be damaged in many ways. If the pipe is damaged and you don’t know how to fix it, perhaps you should contact a plumber for some help. On the other hand, the damage might not be visible. If you suspect the pipes are malfunctioning, maybe you should call a local plumber to inspect the plumbing in your home.

It might be useful to put Teflon tape on the shower arm before putting a new shower head

Putting Teflon tape on the beginning of the shower arm pipe is highly recommended. It prevents leaks that would almost certainly occur over time if there weren’t any tape. You’ll probably find a piece of old Teflon tape after removing your old shower head. It would be best if you didn’t leave the old tape because that wouldn’t provide any benefits. So, carefully remove the old Teflon tape and add a new one. When applying the new tape, 2 or 3 turns should be enough for the necessary protection. As for the way of putting this tape, we have another suggestion. Apply the tape in a clockwise motion because you will use the same motion to set a new shower head later. Therefore, you’ll avoid inflicting any damage to the tape. Save any excess tape for the next time you replace the shower head.

A yellow roll tape and a cutting tool on a blue surface.

Don’t forget to get some Teflon tape before replacing a shower head.

Installing the new shower head

Finally, it’s time to put on a new shower head and finish things up. The new shower head will be easy to put by doing it in a clockwise motion. However, it would help if you protected the shower arm from twisting and turning. So, our suggestion would be, and experts at zippyshellcolumbus.com agree with us on this, to put a towel on the shower arm and use pliers to grasp it up to secure it. Make sure to fasten the new shower head firmly. Slowly turn on the water and check for any leaks.

Enjoy your new shower head!

Well, there you go. Now you know how to replace a shower head. It isn’t too complicated, but learning a thing or two about the process was certainly worth it. Now, all that’s left for you to do is enjoy your new shower head.

Sep '21

Why You Should Hire a Plumber for Your Bathroom Remodel

Owning an ideal living space entails several things. Most homeowners pay too much attention to other parts of their home during remodeling that it may get to the extent that they forget a crucial aspect of the property.

The bathroom is one of the most essential places in your home. Remodeling this area offers many benefits. Some of these benefits include:

Improves energy efficiency

During your bathroom renovation, you have the opportunity to boost your home’s energy efficiency. When you do this, you can lower your energy bills. For instance, older models of toilets use several gallons of water before you can flush the toilet. This translates to thousands of gallons every year down the drain.

Newer models are energy-efficient and you can use less than a gallon of water to flush the toilet. Installing such toilets will help you cut down the volume of water you use each month. The same principle applies to low-flow faucets.

Adds value to the property

Bathrooms that have modern appliances, decorations, and upgraded components will surely add more value to the property. If you intend to sell the home, says Alltrade Properties, you can sell it at a higher price because of the bathroom.

For homeowners who intend to use the property, they will enjoy the comfort that the updated components offer. For instance, you can afford to relax in your new hot tub after a long day.

Improve safety conditions

Older homes did not consider the bathroom’s safety. That is why cases of trips and falls that led to severe injuries were on the rise. Some even had electric sockets in the bathroom that made homeowners and visitors prone to electrocutions.

Newer models of bathrooms now use anti-stick floors and safer sockets to prevent slips or electrocution respectively. There are several other benefits of having a bathroom remodel.

Now, you may want to cut the cost by engaging in this project on a do-it-yourself basis. Doing so will prevent you from obtaining optimal benefits from your bathroom remodel. You need the help of a professional plumber for various reasons. Here we will explain why you should hire a plumber for your bathroom remodel.

Setting up the drainage requires expertise

Unless you want to perform minor or superficial upgrades that do not involve the drainage, you can try it yourself. Otherwise, we recommend that you hire a professional plumber. That’s because setting up the drainage system is complex.

You may need to add modern features and relocate the plumbing lines. Here, expertise is a necessity. Determining the layouts of a new drainage system requires precision. Failure to get it right may result in leaks or sluggish drains. But if you have an experienced plumber, you should have no fear.

They will help you to move plumbing pipes around, move the drain lines, and install new plumbing lines in your bathroom(s). Even with the latest or most expensive upgrade, an improperly designed bathroom drainage will not add value to a home.

You may need a professional opinion

When you are remodeling your bathroom, you have several options of material to choose from. Unless you are a professional plumber, you may not be knowledgeable about the different pipes and assess if they are in good condition.

If you choose unsuitable items for your bathroom remodeling, you may end up wasting your money. However, plumbers will prevent you from making expensive mistakes. They will show you the appropriate type and quality of material to use for your renovation project.

Things can go wrong during the upgrade during

During your bathroom remodeling, several things can go wrong. You may damage a new sink, break the pipes, or destroy the toilet. Several other unforeseen accidents can occur in the process of bathroom remodeling. However, a professional plumber has your back.

Professional plumbers are insured and bonded. Their insurance covers every incident that may occur during and after the project. However, it should still be within the warranty period. For that reason, you will not be wasting hundreds of dollars trying to remedy unforeseen circumstances.

Professional plumbers have experience in bathroom upgrades

You do not engage in bathroom renovation every time, but plumbers do so. As a result, they know the fine details that you can never imagine. Professional plumbers can make a rigorous renovation project appear so easy. They will make you finish the project earlier than doing it yourself. Depending on the extent of the bathroom renovation, you may need to file a permit. Your plumber will help you handle this.

The bottom line

Bathroom renovations have several benefits for homeowners. However, many things can go wrong during the project. Hiring a good residential plumber will make you spend less on your bathroom renovation. They can also help you with the budgets and also prevent avoidable risks.