Bill's Plumbing and Sewer

Blog

All Bill's Plumbing & Sewer Blog Bill's Plumbing and Sewer Service Water Systems Commercial Plumbing Toilet Repair Drain Clog Emergency Plumbing Hose Bib HVAC Service Hydro Jetting Northbrook Plumbing Service Water Heater Water Line Replacement

Different Types Of Domestic Water Pumps

Domestic water pumps are used to draw water for domestic purposes and supply water to households at a lower force. However, despite how vital domestic water pumps are, most homeowners do not know much about them. Thus, to give homeowners a better idea of the different types of domestic water pumps, we have compiled some useful facts about them. Shallow well pumps Shallow well pumps are easy to install and maintain. These pumps are used in rural areas to draw water from shallow wells. They have a suction height of up to 8 meters, which enables high suction performance. Self-priming regenerative pumps Self-filling regenerative pumps have blades rotating inside the pump, so the water recirculates back to the impeller base instead of draining. Re-priming helps the pump remove air from the pipes, which makes it ideal for use in pipelines. They do not need an additional foot valve, thanks to their recirculation mechanism. Submersible pumps Submersible pumps have a hidden motor and are submerged underwater or pumped liquid. These pumps are very efficient and are primarily used in wells. After they are immersed in water, these pumps do not need priming. Since they are quiet, these pumps do not require cavitation. Water pressure prevents the engine from overheating and reduces energy consumption. There are two types of submersible pumps - submersible pumps with tubes that are suitable for wells and submersible pumps with open wells. Centrifugal pumps Centrifugal pumps offer high efficiency. They use centrifugal force to transport water and are operated by an electric motor. These pumps use one or more rotors. They have high discharge rates and can easily handle a substantial amount of liquid flow. They can efficiently pump low viscosity liquids. The thicker the viscosity of the fluid being pumped, the lower the pump's utility and higher the energy consumption. They can be used to store clean water that is free of chemicals and solid contaminants. They are ideal for supplying water to homes and lawn sprinklers, filling swimming pools, irrigating small areas, emptying wells and tanks, etc. The pump needs to be supported by a foot valve and the correct impeller type. Borewell compressor pumps Borewell pumps are durable and consume little energy. These pumps are designed to pump water from wells that are as deep as 600 feet. Air pressure is used to pump up the water, which is supplied periodically. They do not need to be supported by a foot valve. These pumps are divided into two categories: monoblock and belt-driven. Pressure booster pumps Hydrophore pumps are primarily used in homes to increase the pressure of the water supply. Different pumps use different pressure levels, so choose the right one as too much pressure can damage the hydraulic system. Although easy to install, they are comprehensive devices made up of a pump, motor, valves, and sensor for maximum comfort. These pumps are installed in areas of very low water pressure. They should be stored in places where they are not exposed to freezing temperatures. A pressure tank equipped with this pump can maintain a constant water pressure through all the pipes. If you still do not understand where, how, or why these pumps are installed, do not fret. Let the professionals identify if you require them or not. Get your free estimate for pump installation in Winnetka, IL, or contact us for more information about the services we offer at Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc.

9 Signs You Need A New Water Heater

A water heater is a necessary addition to your home. It can save you from cold, hypothermia, and a lot worse. While you cannot stop showering, washing your hands, doing the dishes, or simply going to the bathroom in the cold months, the water heater guarantees warm water at all times. If you already have one installed in your home, make sure to get it checked before the cold season begins! Watch out for the following signs to determine if it is time to get a new water heater. 1. Service Life is Near Its End Try to recall the exact date or year that your current water heater was installed. If you do not remember, check the water heater label to see the manufacturing date printed. If your water heater is over a decade old, it is time for a replacement. 2. Presence of Rust If rusty colored water comes out of your tap every time you are using the water heater, but the water is clear when you use cold water, then your water heater has rusted. 3. Sediment Build-up in the Tank Water with a strange smell or taste, or mud or sand mixed in it, especially when water is about to run out of the tank, is a clear indicator that sediment has built up at the bottom of the tank. Drain the tank and get it cleaned to solve this issue. However, if the sediments are the flakes and grit of the inner tank, the hot water will have a metallic taste and smell. 4. Fluctuating Water Temperatures If there are constant water temperature changes despite it being on a fixed setting, then your water heater is at the end of its service life. 5. A Rise in Energy Costs An aging water heater burns through a lot of extra energy. If your energy bills are higher than usual and you cannot figure out why, your water heater may be the cause. Old burners use more gas than usual to heat water. The same thing happens with an electric water heater; a dying heating element struggles to burn more energy trying to heat water. 6. Reduced Hot Water Capacity If you are running out of water much quicker than usual, the cause is your old water heater. Reduced capacity may be due to sediment build-up, extensive wear and tear, or a dying thermostat or heating element, or both. 7. Odd Noises If your water heater is making cracks, pops, and other noises, this is an indication that there is a mineral build-up inside the heater and heating elements. 8. Frequent Need for Repairs If there is a frequent and increased need for repairs, it is probably time for a water heater replacement. While water heater repair is a cheaper alternative to replacement, if problems with your heater start piling up, then a repair might end up costing you more. 9. Emergence of Leaks Leaks are an indicator that the inner tank is at the end of its service life. Therefore, before small leaks and drips escalate to the entire tank breaking, get a new water heater! Get your free estimate for water heater replacement in Wilmette or contact us for more information about the services we offer at Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc.

Latest Trends For Modern Kitchen Plumbing

The concept and importance of kitchens in any household have come a long way since it was only considered a means of preparing food or washing dishes. Nowadays, kitchens are a means of fulfilling one's culinary dreams and a place to unwind with your beloved family members after a long and tiring day of work. Technological and design advancements have enabled us to make necessary enhancements in the kitchen plumbing to ensure that it plays its part in fulfilling aspiring home chefs' culinary dreams. Bill's Plumbing and Sewer in Glenview, IL, provides the essential plumbing services, including kitchen sink installation and kitchen sink plumbing for an uninterrupted water supply to your kitchen. Today's blog post will discuss the modern and technological advancements in kitchen plumbing that people are opting for these days. Modern plumbing fixtures are sleek and simple in design, yet they serve their purpose more than the old-fashioned faucets. The following are some of the trendy and functional plumbing fixtures found in modern kitchens. Modern Faucets Unlike traditional faucets, which had different handles for varying water temperatures, modern faucets offer ease and efficiency by providing cold and hot water temperatures under one handle. These faucets are usually available in stainless steel to prevent rusting or color fading. Pot Fillers Another plumbing advancement is pot filler fixtures that can be taken out of their wall folding when required and then put back in place to avoid cluttering the space. Such fixtures that are interoperable are very efficient in saving up space in the kitchen. Bar Sink Faucets Modern kitchens are often split into two areas, where the smaller area is used for cooking and the larger for dining. Bar sink faucets are usually installed in the larger space and come in handy when the small kitchen's faucets are being used. Bar sink faucets often supply cold water as they are not preferred for washing dishes, so people don't mind the absence of hot water. Additional Necessary Fixtures Kitchen plumbing is not just restricted to fixtures and faucets. Other necessary items include water filters and soap dispensers, which should be installed in such a way that they blend in with other decors rather than stand out, looking unappealing. An aesthetically appealing but non-functional kitchen due to lack of proper plumbing and kitchen fixtures can be a major downer for the residents. It is essential to design and install similar color tones and premium quality plumbing fixtures to serve their purpose for a long time. Bill's Plumbing and Sewer in Glenview, IL, offers modern kitchens by installing the latest plumbing fixtures that maximize output and minimize the use of space. We provide a complete kitchen remodeling service. Get a Free Estimate for your required services today.

3 Ways You Could Be Harming Your HVAC System Unintentionally

Investing in an HVAC is a major expense for any property owner. However, all that money and effort you put in to installing the HVAC system will go down the drain if the system stops functioning due to an avoidable error on your end. HVAC systems aren’t a one-time investment. As experts of the industry, we've seen many homeowners neglect their HVAC needs, only to regret their actions when it’s time to pay for hefty repairs. The best way to get your money's worth from your HVAC investment is by taking proper care of the system. You may need to change some habits to protect your HVAC system from unintentional damage. We've made a list of some common mistakes that property owners make which damage their HVAC system. Closing Vents The belief that closing the HVAC vents helps conserve energy and maintain efficiency is an untrue urban myth that, quite surprisingly, many people lend an ear to. Closing the vents restricts the airflow, causing extensive pressure to build in the ductwork. This often leads to leaks and problems of efficiency, which need immediate professional attention. Cutting off the airflow also results in humidity issues that spread to each corner of your living space. So, don’t be afraid to leave the HVAC vents open as it won’t cause any harm. Not Changing the Filter Ideally, you should change the HVAC filter every month. The frequency should increase if you've got furry pets at home. An unchanged filter eventually becomes clogged with dust and contaminants, making it difficult for the air to pass through. This makes it difficult for the HVAC to warm or cool the space and it takes much longer for it to do so. The extra effort the HVAC requires to cool or heat your property’s interior results in increased energy costs, and you end up paying much more in energy bills without understanding why. Inadequate Maintenance Procedures Preventive maintenance is the best way to deal with the problems of your HVAC. HVAC maintenance is the first line of defense against most malfunctions that can plague the system. A minor problem can escalate into something more problematic if you don't address it immediately or schedule a maintenance session. It is considerably cheaper to resolve HVAC issues immediately; delaying the repair only increases the repair costs. If you’re looking for a reliable HVAC repair and maintenance partner, then Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. has your back! Our years of industry experience and knowledge of the latest technological trends makes us the Skokie, IL HVAC experts. Book a slot for repair and maintenance services today!

How To Prepare Your Plumbing For A Kitchen Remodeling

The kitchen may be the most popular location in the home for most Americans. It is a place where families gather not just for preparing meals but for making fond memories. When thinking about renovating or remodeling your kitchen, you would want the results to enhance the quality time you spend with your family and friends, especially if you are spending a lot of money in the process. An updated kitchen can give a homier vibe and increase the value of your property. However, your primary concern should not be the change of cabinets, countertops, or appliances; rather, you need to think about the new plumbing installation to ensure the sink and appliances have a proper water outlet. Therefore, the following plumbing preparations are essential for a kitchen remodeling process. Modify Your Plumbing Locations The first and most important thing you should do is to plan modifications to the tiniest detail. Jot down fixtures that have to be relocated. If you are making significant location changes to your sink, fridge, or dishwasher, you require professional help. It is also a good idea to figure out beforehand what changes are necessary and which aren't. Change the Route of Plumbing After you have decided on the new locations for plumbing fixtures, you would need to get the plumbing rerouted. Here, going through all your remodeling plans with your plumber might help you get a clear idea of the required plumbing modifications. Add Shutoffs You must get shutoffs for your sink and appliances if you don't already have them. A water shutoff can protect other appliances in your kitchen. Also, you get to control the supply of water to your dishwasher and fridge so that you can act instantly during an impending leak. Prioritize Sink Purchase Over Cabinets The most common mistake property owners make is to pick cabinets first. You need to choose a sink before anything else! If your sink is chosen first, the hired plumbing contractor can utilize sink dimensions to install cabinets so that the piping system has as much room as required. You can save extra time, money, and effort by following this simple tip. Upgrade to PVC Upgrading to modern plumbing in your kitchen like PVC is a smart investment. This will not only make your home look better, but will provide you the convenience of rerouting if you ever decide to change the locations of your appliances and sink in the near future. Kitchen renovation can be an expensive project. Therefore, to avoid unexpected expenses, remember to call a reliable and experienced plumber for consultation. To cover all your bases, you should start with the plumbing. Leave enough room behind your appliances and sink for the piping, and you'll be good to go. If you live in Deerfield, and are considering remodeling your kitchen and/or bathroom, get in touch with Bill's Plumbing & Sewer Inc. We’ll do a job you’ll be proud of and at a reasonable rate. Connect with us to get a free quote today!

Why It Is Necessary To Replace Lead Water Lines!

Nowadays, there is a significant decline in the use of lead due to health reasons. The most significant exposure most people have to lead is in drinking water. Water contaminated by lead can result in health hazards that many people are completely unaware of. The primary channel where the lead enters waterlines is through plumbing repairs or fixtures that have a relatively high concentration of lead corrosion. Homes in America that were built before 1986 are susceptible to developing lead corrosion in their water lines. However, even more recently developed homes can have a toxic concentration of lead in their water lines. Lead can never naturally occur in water; however, through contaminants such as line plumbing, lead particles can enter the water. Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers lead water line replacement in Winnetka. We ensure effective replacement of corroded waterlines to allow a safe, lead-free supply of water! Get a free quote today! Health Impacts of Lead in Water Lines Human exposure to lead usually occurs via inhalation or dermal contact. People usually ingest lead through exposure to lead paint. Paint on surfaces ages with time and starts to wear off. Particles of paint can enter the body through water consumption. Apart from domestic examples, lead exposure can also occur in the industrial sector. Waterlines can get contaminated by lead due to various industries including recycling, construction, plumbing, manufacturing, chemicals, etc. Why replace water lines? Waterlines affected by lead corrosion need to be replaced immediately because they pose a severe health risk. Children below the age of six are most susceptible to lead poisoning. Lead exposure can result in the following health hazards: 1. Severe brain damage, poisoning of the blood, and kidney damage. 2. A healthy adult may become infertile or sustain damage to their reproductive system due to long-term lead exposure. 3. Pregnant women are also in danger from lead because it can be harmful to the fetus and hinder natural growth. Premature births and miscarriages can also result from lead exposure during pregnancy. 4. Hyperactivity and cognitive impairments in children may also occur due to lead exposure. Unfortunately, in the USA, replacing corroded lines is a long-term prospect as it is estimated that there are currently more than six million corroded service lines (LSLs) - making up around 30% of water systems in the country. However, water supply companies across the country have taken measures towards removing LSLs, and the efforts have accounted for 40% success. Homeowners in Winnetka can gain access to lead-free water by availing water line replacement services of Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. Connect with us to get a free quote today!

Plumbing Considerations Before Renovating Your Bathroom

Often, we tend to think that renovating a bathroom has to be an effort, involving lots of plumbing problems or expensive bathtub designs, but it is the opposite. Redesigning the bathroom doesn't require much cash, nor does it require a decade of experience in remodeling work; what is needed is the right inspiration. How you design the bathroom will have an incredible effect on how you perceive and use this facility. However, before starting the design, you must properly plan and a budget to satisfy all your renovating and plumbing needs. Plumbing tasks can entail complicated steps, and a labor-intensive process, which is why to ensure maximum efficiency and reliability, Bill's Plumbing & Sewer Inc. recruits the right experts in Glenview, IL. Reach out to us to get an estimate for plumbing services today! Following are the top five plumbing considerations you must adapt before renovating your bathroom. 1. Replacing Accessories Because bathrooms tend to be tight spots, making small changes can make a big difference. For instance, replacing the bathtub or sink is expensive, but changing necessary hardware or accessories such as handles and doorknobs on cabinets and repainting can give it a new look. Another idea is the installation of a new low-flow bathroom faucet that not only reduces water consumption but also reduces utility bills. 2. Painting Plumbing Pipes It is essential to consider the plumbing pipes’ paint that will accompany the walls where tiles, mosaics, or ceramics are used. It's no secret that painting is one of the cheapest ways to change the bathroom's look entirely. However, you must consider the color of your tiles, ceramics, or mosaics before you start painting the pipes. Otherwise, the walls and the pipes will be of a different color. 3. Designing the Style and Functionality If the shower curtain covers a relatively large area of ​​your bathroom space, replace it with a well-priced shower screen. Moreover, you can try mixing different textures in the space to give it depth and versatility. However, this doesn't mean that you need to buy matching rugs, toilet seat covers, and towels. The critical point is to find fabrics and materials that are diverse but work well together. 4. Evaluating the Lighting Even if the bathroom doesn’t have any windows or outlets, it should be well-lit. You can install high-quality lights to highlight the components of the bathroom while focusing on the corners of the space. 5. Considering Minor Plumbing Issues When budgeting for a bathroom renovation, ensure including the damages caused by water and its repair cost. Besides, major plumbing problems include inadequate pipe ventilation, old corroded pipes, broken showers, non-waterproof tile tubs in the vicinity, etc. Bottom line: these steps must be taken out under the supervision of professionals to prevent any mishap. Bill's Plumbing & Sewer Inc. in Glenview, IL, make sure you avail the best in class plumbing maintenance and installation service. For free consultation and advice on plumbing services in Northbrook, IL, call us today.

Condensing Vs. Non-Condensing Tankless Water Heaters

Water heaters may seem like a straightforward choice on the outside. A little research, however, of the market may reveal otherwise. There are many things you need to consider before making a decision. Modern homeowners prefer using tankless water heaters, thanks to their durability and efficiency. As the name suggests, tankless water heaters don't come with a tank; in these machines, cold water is heated as soon as it flows through the heat exchanger. The water heater uses the combustion process to convert the cold water into warm water. Tankless water heaters have become extremely popular in Niles, IL. At Bill's Plumbing and Sewer Inc., we provide our customers with all kinds of plumbing solutions. If you seek water heater replacement in Niles, IL, click here to get an estimate today! Tankless water heaters are further divided into two categories: condensing and non-condensing tankless water heaters. Don't know the difference between the two? Read on to find out more. Condensing Water Heaters Condensing water heaters are equipped with an electric fan, a burner, and a heat exchanger. Moreover, the presence of a small chamber allows water vapor to pass and steam to release. Condensing tankless water heaters don't release gases at a high temperature. This means you are exempted from spending on expensive piping. It also helps you in saving costs as you can use standard PVC pipes in the air exhaust. The use of condensing water heaters is much more efficient than their counterparts. You can also externally seal a condensing water heater as it is straightforward to do so. Mount it in any room such as the basement, kitchen, or laundry room and seal it with caulk and foam’s help. Non-Condensing Water Heaters Although the design of a non-condensing and condensing water heater is very similar, they are not equipped with a chamber through which steam and water vapor pass. On the contrary, non-condensing water heaters come with a pipe built at the combustion chamber's top. All gases are released through the chamber. Non-condensing water heaters work on a tried and tested technology pattern. They come with limited attachments, allowing them to be reliable and efficient. Additionally, they are not expensive either. The pipes located externally remove all the fear of condensation from the mind of the owner. The one disadvantage of using these water heaters is that you require a stainless steel piping method for them as the gases have a temperature of around 300 degrees Fahrenheit. All in all, while condensing and non-condensing water heaters both come with their own set of properties, their unique characteristics are what separate them from each other. If you are looking to learn more about the difference between the two and need an expert's advice regarding which one is suitable, then get in touch with the professionals at Bill's Plumbing and Sewer Inc. in Niles, IL. Click here to get an estimate for your plumbing needs today!

Plumbing Breakage: Our Tips To Prevent Them!

Plumbing failures often result in leaks that damage properties. However, did you know that it is possible to prevent many of them and avoid the trouble and costs that result from them? According to the specialists, the number one cause of water damage is negligence! This takes different forms inside, but also outside houses. That's why Bill's Plumbing & Sewer Inc. is offering expert residential and commercial plumbing services at budget-friendly rates for all in Morton Grove, IL. Click here to book your slot today! In today's blog, we'll discuss the top six sources of potential plumbing problems that deserve attention to avoid property damage. 1. A Known Leak, Not Repaired The problem begins with weeping or drip. The origin? An old iron pipe, a kitchen or bathtub faucet, the toilet tank, the connecting pipeline of a sanitary or an accessory (such as a sink), etc. At times, we postpone the repair to the point of forgetting it, which allows water to infiltrate under the kitchen counter, in the low cabinets, in the floor, or inside a wall. Remember, rot and mold will set in if the situation is not corrected on time. In the worst case, it's a disaster: a ceiling sags, a section of floor collapses. While plumbing can be expensive sometimes, there's really nothing to be gained by putting it off! 2. Pipe Bursting Caused By Freezing This situation occurs in unoccupied properties left without heating or in poorly insulated areas. During the cold weather, the pipes can freeze and later burst, causing extensive property damage. So, if you want to deal with this specific type of problem, don’t forget to consult our talented plumbing masters on the subject. 3. An Obsolete Water Heater Why wait to see it sink to replace it? Experts remind that the date of manufacture of the water heater is written on the device. So, after a while, the problems become very predictable. Still, people stretch it until 19, 20 years old to make the most out of their water heaters. However, the average lifespan of a water heater is 12 years maximum. You should think about a new water heater installation after 10 to 11 years, especially if you live in a condo or above another apartment! 4. The Washer Hose In Poor Condition Please take a look at the hose from the washer to check their condition regularly. Replace it as soon as a crack appears or after ten years without further investigation. A word of caution regarding braided stainless steel hoses: avoid inexpensive models! 5. Outdoor Taps Not Emptied Never forget to purge the outdoor faucets (unless they are frost proof) before winter. Because if the temperature goes below freezing 2-3 days in a row, it can freeze the water inside, causing a blockage, which adds pressure to the pipes and can cause them to crack. 6. The Blocked Drain Of A Flat Roof Ensure that no debris is blocking the strainer (the basket that protects the drain), preventing water from flowing into it. If so, seek our help immediately for drainage cleaning and maintenance to avoid costly repairs in the future. Despite your precautions, has there been a breakage, and water is gushing out on all sides? Click here to hire Bill's Plumbing & Sewer Inc. for expert plumbing services anywhere in Morton Grove, IL today! Our team can fix leaky faucets and clogged drains in no time!

Types Of Plumbing Pipes You Will Find In Homes

Plumbing pipes have evolved a lot over the years. Galvanized steel and cast iron pipes that were a staple in homes in the 1900s are now only found in a few old houses. Most commercial and residential structures today are equipped with PVC or PEX plumbing. Bill's Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers premium and cost-effective plumbing solutions in Glenview and other Illinois cities. Click here to get a free estimate. Are you looking into properties to buy and want to know what kind of water and drainage system is currently installed in it? Do you want to get your home’s existing sewage system replaced? Are you simply curious about plumbing? Whatever your interest may be, we can accommodate you. Below are the five main types of plumbing pipe that are installed in homes across the country. PEX PEX or cross-linked polyethylene pipes are a popular and contemporary choice that is used solely to supply water. They are rigid enough to withstand water pressure and flexible enough to weave through ceilings, walls, ceilings, crawlspaces, and basements. Pros Inexpensive Easy to cut Highly flexible (can even be curved at a 90-degree angle) Color-coded – blue for cold water and red for hot water Attachable to push-fit fittings and other types of plumbing Can be joined with copper pipes Cons Long-term capabilities unknown Unrecyclable May leak when attached to push-fit plumbing fittings PVC Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes are used for drain or vent lines. They initially became popular as they are light and easy to work with as compared to galvanized pipes. Installing PVC pipes is moderately easy and requires few tools other than a miter box and handsaw for cutting. They can be glued together using solvents. Pros Inexpensive Easier to work with than traditional plumbing pipes Diameters are clearly marked on the pipe Can be used for long runs like in irrigation Cons Glued pipes can leak Degrade in sunlight Pipes cannot be disjoined or disintegrated, so they need to be cut ABS Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) pipes are mainly used as drain and vent lines. They resemble PVC pipes, but are black instead of white, and are slightly softer. Pros Stronger than PVC pipes Work well in cold temperatures Suitable for exterior or underground plumbing Cons Deform and warp at certain temperatures Mostly not permitted by building code Copper There are two types of copper pipes – rigid copper pipes and flexible copper pipes. Let’s have a look at both. Rigid Copper Rigid copper pipes are often used as water lines within the home as they do not pose any health risks. They can easily be cut with a special copper tube cutter or a hacksaw. However, connecting them is more challenging as they need to be soldered together. Pros Handle heat well Withstand intense pressure Can be bent slightly Easy to recycle and waste copper pipes hold monetary value Cons Expensive Develop pinhole leaks Inside of the pipes may corrode over time and impede water flow Can only be installed by professionals ( soldering copper pipes) Flexible Copper Flexible copper tubing or pipes are only used for final runs to refrigerators, water heaters, and some sinks. They are mostly used for short runs. Flexible copper pipes can be easily cut using a hacksaw and bent to fit around corners. Pros High heat tolerance Fit in tight, unusually shaped areas Cons Expensive Thin Prone to breaking Galvanized Steel and Cast Iron Steel and cast iron pipes are only found in older homes and are rarely installed nowadays. For decades, galvanized steel pipes have been used for water supply, drainage, gas supply, and other purposes. They are still being used, though much less now, for gas supply and are not being used at all for water supply in new construction or remodeling projects. Both ends of the pipes are threaded, and individual pipes are screwed together using connecting joints. Cast iron pipes were mostly used for sewers and other drainage purposes. They are still found in many homes as they are viable until they completely rust. Cast iron pipes are difficult to cut and extremely heavy. Nowadays, cast iron pipes are being replaced with rigid plastic pipe like ABS. Pros Galvanized steel pipes are very strong Cast iron pipes can last decades Cons Galvanized steel pipes can pass lead into the water supply Galvanized steel pipes eventually corrode and block water flow Cast iron pipes are difficult to cut Bill's Plumbing & Sewer Inc. is a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company that offers a range of services for residential and commercial projects in Glenview and otherplaces in Illinois. Click here to get your free estimate.

Tips for Water Pump Safety

Water pumps are powerful pieces of equipment that can cause extensive water damage, personal injury, and even death if they are not correctly operated. Therefore, it is imperative to take necessary safety precautions while operating a pump and look out for safety signs. Do you need a water heater replacement? Bill's Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers expert plumbing services in Glenview and other Illinois cities. Click here to get a free estimate. Here are a few safety tips that you need to employ when it comes to using water pumps. Always read the owner’s manual for instructions on how to operate the water pump with the highest level of safety. While operating your water pump, make sure that all safety guards and shields are in place, so there are no chances of an accident happening. Keep the water pump at least three feet away from the walls and any other equipment while it is operating so the pump's engine or motor can ventilate properly. Ventilation will allow it to stay cool so it does not overheat and turn into a fire hazard. Do not run an overheated water pump. If the pump overheats, immediately turn it off, and let it cool down so it can return to the surrounding temperature. Next, vent the pump at the drain plug, if it is applicable, and restart your water pump. Never ever use the pump for fluids that it was not designed to handle, or it could lead to accidents. A dangerous and deadly example is of using the water pump for flammable or corrosive fluids like gasoline or acid, or using it for fluids that are too viscous for the pump to transport. For engine driven pumps, make sure that you do not overfill the fuel tank; and once you have filled the fuel tank to the desired level, tightly close the cap. Also, avoid spilling fuel while filling or refueling the tank. Do not use the water pump in an explosive or flammable environment because the heat from the pump can cause an explosion or fire to break out. When it comes to gas pumps, never run the engine indoors because the pump will emit carbon monoxide as it runs. And if you have no other option but to place the engine indoors, then be sure to keep the area well ventilated and seal it, so the gas does not get trapped in other areas of the building. Keep the pump out of the reach of children, and keep them away from the pump. Installing pumps can also be a challenge, so never DIY in that situation because one mistake can prove very costly. Call in an expert who is well-trained and experienced in doing this job to minimize the risk of accidents and health and safety hazards. Bill's Plumbing & Sewer Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company that provides water heater installation, maintenance, and replacement to residential and commercial projects in Glenview and otherplaces in Illinois. Click here to get your free estimate.

Different Types Of Plumbing Pipes

In every household, pipes play an essential role. They supply sanitary water and excavate wastewater out of the home through the appropriate channel. That's why experts advise paying extra attention to the plumbing pipe installation as a small mistake/error in the process could have unfortunate consequences on your pipes. However, it is not always easy to distinguish between different types of plumbing pipes and their usage. While most people might see pipe as a pipe and nothing more, the expert plumbers at Bill's Plumbing & Sewer Inc. can help you learn all the strengths, weaknesses, and usage of each plumbing pipe. Not only this, but we also offer professional commercial and residential plumbing services for all residing in Wilmette, IL at affordable rates. Click here to know more about our quality services today! Here’s a brief overview of the top five different plumbing pipes that exist on the market. 1. The Copper Pipe Copper pipes are a great classic in plumbing. They are recognized for their resistance over time, as it can carry cold water and hot water, whatever the temperature, and can be used for heating. Recyclable material, copper is also appreciated for its antibacterial properties and aesthetics: some people play it as a full part of the decoration, leaving the copper pipes visible. However, despite these advantages, it should be noted that this material and its installation process is expensive. 2. PVC Pipe PVC pipes are frequently used for sewage disposal. They are lightweight and easy to install and has the advantage of requiring no welding and being very economical to purchase. This material is available on the market in two categories: classic PVC and super chlorinated PVC ( CPVC pipe). Know that the latter is more insulating and can be embedded without a protective sheath. Besides this, PVC also benefits from better sound insulation than copper when water passes. In terms of drawbacks, be aware that PVC does not withstand UV rays: PVC pipes should therefore not be visible. It is also sensitive to heat and will tend to expand and deform on contact with high temperatures. Lastly, it cannot stand strong pressures. 3. The PER Pipe Made of cross-linked polyethylene, PER piping is semi-rigid and approaches the characteristics of copper piping. These pipes are robust, similar to copper, but less expensive. They are used for the distribution of sanitary water and evacuation of wastewater. PER piping is capable of circulating cold water and hot water (not above 60 ° however, because it would risk degrading). This type of pipe is also not afraid of corrosion, and, unlike copper, this material does not scale and has excellent sound insulation. However, PER is sensitive during bending and requires installation carried out by expert hands. 4. The Multilayer Pipe Combining the advantages of PER and copper pipes, multilayer pipes are distinguished by their triple layer of material: one layer of aluminum and two more of PER. As robust as the classic model, it is perfectly resistant to corrosion and does not fear UV rays. Its aluminum layer located inside the tube allows it to have a better seal and gives it excellent acoustic performance. Besides, this type of pipe is resistant to high temperatures, making it an ideal candidate for domestic hot water pipes. Despite its many advantages, the greater weight of this multilayer pipe is nevertheless emphasized. This shortcoming makes the plumbing work required for its installation more complicated. 5. Flexible Hose Thanks to its great flexibility, the flexible pipe or tube is endowed with great versatility. These are used mainly to distribute sanitary water (supplying a water heater, a dishwasher, or a washing machine) since it is easy to handle and does not require any welding. Also, it is very robust and resists pressure well. In some cases, it can even serve as a siphon for your faucet. The only shortcoming: its high purchase price. Now that you know the best plumbing pipes click here to hire Bill's Plumbing & Sewer Inc. to fix leaky faucets and drainage problems for you. We ensure providing high-quality affordable plumbing services in Wilmette, IL for both commercial and residential clients alike!

Contact Us

Fill out this form below and we'll contact you shortly
*Required Fields