Bill's Plumbing and Sewer

Bathroom remodel

It can be challenging enough to design a stylish and functional bathroom for anyone, but when you add in ADA compliance, it can seem downright impossible. Luckily, there are some ways to make your bathroom ADA compliant, from updating your plumbing fixtures, drain cleaning, sewer repairs to remodeling your entire space.

Thankfully, with a few simple tips and some careful residential plumbing planning, you can have a bathroom that meets all the requirements for safety and accessibility while still looking chic and modern.

This Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer blog post will look at the five essential steps for constructing bathrooms and showers that are ADA compliant.

5 Steps for Constructing Bathrooms and Showers with ADA Guidelines in Mind

Homeowners are looking for ways that can make their homes safe and accessible for all family members. One area that often needs attention is the bathroom.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has delivered guidelines for making bathrooms and showers accessible for people with disabilities. These guidelines can make bathrooms safe and accessible for seniors.

Whether you’re remodeling an existing bathroom or planning a new one, here are five steps to take when constructing bathrooms and showers with ADA guidelines in mind:

Step One: Planning and Design

The first step in creating an ADA-compliant bathroom is careful planning and design. You’ll need to consider the needs of all who will be using the space, not just those with disabilities. This means considering everything from grab bars and wheelchair access to storage and counter space.

Step Two: Choosing the Right Fixtures and Accessories

It’s time to choose the right fixtures and accessories once your plan is ready. This includes everything from toilets and sinks to towel racks and shower seats.

Be sure to select items that are both ADA compliant and stylish. There are many great options on the market today, so you should be able to find something that meets your needs and budget.

Step Three: Getting the Right Permits

Before beginning any bathroom remodel, it’s essential to check with your local building department to see if permits are required for any work that involves electrical, plumbing, or structural changes.

Step Four: Hiring a Licensed Contractor

After getting your permits in hand, it’s time to find a qualified contractor to do the work. Be sure to check them out and ask for references before hiring anyone.

It’s vital to hire an experienced contractor in designing and constructing ADA-compliant bathrooms. They will be familiar with the guidelines and ensure that your bathroom meets all the requirements. Be sure to get separate quotes from different contractors before making your final decision.

Step Five: Completing the Project

Now it’s time to enjoy your new bathroom! Be sure to take some time to clean and declutter the space so that it is safe and comfortable for everyone to use.

Conclusion

So, whether you’re just starting on your remodeling project or are nearing the finish line, be sure to keep these five steps in mind. And if you need any help along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer serving Winnetka, IL. We’ll be happy to walk you through the process and ensure that your new ADA-compliant bathroom is safe, stylish, and perfect for your senior residents.

Get your free estimate today!

Toilets for bathroom remodel

When remodeling your loo, you want to make sure it is perfect for your needs. It includes choosing the proper toilet throne. Several types of toilets are available, and it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you. Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer will discuss seven unique toilet thrones that you may want to consider when remodeling your loo.

Types of Toilet Thrones

When remodeling a bathroom, be sure to consider all of your options for toilets. There are many different styles, designs, and features to choose from. With so many options available, you are sure to find the perfect bathroom for your needs.

1. TOTO Neorest AH

The first toilet throne on our list is the TOTO Neorest AH. This toilet is a high-tech option that features an automatic flush and a hands-free lid. The TOTO Neorest AH is an excellent option for a modern and efficient bathroom.

2. Kohler K-3887

The Kohler K-3887 is a more traditional option. It features a dual flush system that allows you to choose between 0.92 or 0.96 gallons per flush. The Kohler K-3887 is also equipped with an AquaPiston flushing system that provides powerful flushing performance.

3. American Standard Cadet Flowise

American Standard Cadet Flowise features a wide bowl to improve comfort and hygiene. The American Standard Cadet Flowise also has a powerful flushing system to handle even the heaviest loads.

4. TOTO Drake II

If you are looking for a high-end toilet, the TOTO Drake II may be the perfect option. This toilet is equipped with a GMAX dual flush system that allows you to choose between 0.92 and 0.98 gallons per flush. The TOTO Drake II also features an elongated bowl for added comfort.

5. Kohler K-3987-0 Memoirs Stately

The Kohler K-3987-0 Memoirs Stately is another high-end toilet option to consider when remodeling your loo. This toilet features a Comfort Height design that provides ease of use for mobility issues. The Kohler K-3987-0 Memoirs Stately also has a powerful flushing system to handle 1000 grams of waste.

6. Toto MS604114CEFG Ultramax II

The Toto MS604114CEFG Ultramax II may be the perfect option for an eco-friendly toilet. It is made with sustainable materials and has a dual-flush system that can save up to 68% of water per flush.

7. Kohler K-3889-0 Memoirs Classic

The Kohler K-3889-0 Memoirs Classic is a luxurious design. This toilet features a Comfort Height design that provides ease of use for mobility issues. The Kohler K-3889-0 Memoirs Classic also has an Aquapiston flushing system that provides a powerful and efficient flush.

Ending Note

If you’re looking for a new throne or want to get some ideas for your next remodeling project in Deerfield, IL, we hope this list helps. When you’re ready to take the plunge, call Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer. We offer free estimates and would love to help you choose and install the perfect toilet for your home.

HVAC maintenance tips

You’re probably eagerly awaiting summer 2022. Who doesn’t love spending their days at the beach or a pool? And don’t forget the barbecues and ice cream cones! But before you can fully enjoy all that summer has to offer, you need to make sure your home is ready for the heat. That’s where HVAC maintenance comes in.

You may need some help on how to get your air conditioning unit ready for summer. Read on as Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer gives you some vital maintenance tips for your HVAC unit.

How do I Prepare my HVAC for summer?

Being HVAC experts, we know that summer’s scorching heat isn’t the only thing that can cause HVAC failure. With all of the dust and dirt build-up in your HVAC system over the winter months, it may be necessary to do significant maintenance before these next hot months hit. Failure to do so can result in not being prepared when the mercury starts spiking. It could result in the following:

  • HVAC sounds weird
  • The HVAC constantly turns on
  • The HVAC is not blowing cold air

HVAC Requires Annual Maintenance

We know HVAC systems are essential to your family’s comfort and well-being. However, do you maintain it as regularly as you should? HVAC maintenance doesn’t have to be a daunting task since the experts can help you with the job. Hiring a professional HVAC technician can give you peace of mind because they will check for possible problems that may affect the functionality of your system.

If you don’t want all these extra expenses, preventive HVAC maintenance is the key to a properly functioning system. This way, nothing significant will happen when the summer season hits. You have to maintain it regularly to avoid being stuck in heat when you need it most – during summers.

Make Sure to Tune it up before summer.

It’s best to schedule HVAC preventive maintenance three months before summer sets in so that your HVAC system will have ample time to recover from any damage. Preventative HVAC maintenance can prolong the life of your system while ensuring that everything’s running smoothly.

Every year, this should be done if you want to save money because HVAC parts wear out fast during summers, primarily if they’re always used throughout the year.

The Takeaway

Well, there you have it! Our top tips for getting your air conditioning unit ready for summer. Of course, if you’re unsure how to properly maintain the HVAC system at your property in Glenview, IL, or if something goes wrong. Be sure to give Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer a call. We’re always here to help! And don’t forget: we offer free estimates on all our services, so feel free to get in touch today.

Bad shower smells

If you have never had to experience the foul scent of contaminated tap water, you are among the lucky few. It’s a general complaint and does not matter whether your supply is from a well or the city. And, it is alarming to step into a hot shower that smells like bacteria have invaded it! Ugh! Sulfur!

If you’ve stepped into the shower only to be greeted by a foul, sulfuric smell—much like rotten eggs—you’re not alone. Many homeowners encounter this unpleasant odor, which is often linked to the presence of sul

Whether your water supply gives off odd chemical or organic scents, you might initially feel that your supply has been contaminated, but that is not always the case. At Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer, we’ve got a few tricks up our sleeves to help you identify the nature & origin of the dreadful scent.

From Where the Stench is Emanating?

Is it from all the faucets & shower heads?

You can try leaving the taps on for a while to waft the smell away. But if the smell remains, you might need to contact your utility provider company as the source is most likely contaminated.

Is it from one particular faucet or showerhead?

It could be a buildup of organic debris in the faucet filter fixture, causing the smell to accumulate. Leave the water to flow for a while, then unscrew & clean the faucet or shower head filter.

Only the hot water smells bad?

It is possibly sediment buildup deteriorating water heating elements in your tank that are the culprit. The heat from the water heater promotes bacterial activity, which produces hydrogen sulfide gas—the main cause of the rotten egg odor. Flushing your water heater can help remove the sediment buildup that encourages bacterial growth. You might need to call us in for a water heater replacement or sediment flushing.

Is both hot & cold smell terrible?

There is something odd with your water supply or the building’s plumbing. We’ll check out your home’s plumbing for issues. There could be old lead pipes or sulfur contaminants, but if it is a problem with the supply, that is a more severe problem.

Types of Smelly Contaminants & Causes

The rotten egg smell in your shower often points to the presence of sulfur-reducing bacteria, which thrive in warm, damp environments like drains and water heaters. These bacteria break down organic matter, producing hydrogen sulfide gas in the process—which is responsible for the foul smell. This problem is typically more noticeable in hot water, as the heat promotes the bacteria’s activity. If the odor is confined to one particular faucet or showerhead, it may also indicate a buildup of organic matter or debris within the fixture.

Chlorine

It is commonly used for bacteria control & shock chlorination of water sources to deter the production of algae & biofilms in water storage facilities. It can give off an odd bleach scent. Let the taps run until the smell is gone.

Sewage & Sulfur

Too much chlorine sometimes combines with organic materials in the water and produces sulfur. The scent is disgusting and can infest drains or the water supply. You can use vinegar & baking soda for drain cleaning, but there may be a health risk if the water supply scent does not clear out.

Fishy Smell

There is possibly decaying organic matter in your drains, or some dead organic form has contaminated the water supply or your storage tank. Please clean & maintain your storage tanks from an entry of external contaminants. If the supply smells like dead animals, do not hesitate to call the water utility!

Gasoline Scent

This is a severe matter indicating chemical & inflammable groundwater contaminants from factories, industries, and buried fuel storage. Water runoff from agricultural land can also be a cause. One thing is for sure, no cigarette breaks in the bathroom!

Removing Waste Material for Cleaning

When waste material builds up in your shower or plumbing, it creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria that produce foul smells. Fortunately, there are several ways to remove these materials and reduce the sulfuric odor. The first step is cleaning the showerhead or faucet. Mineral deposits, organic matter, and bacteria can accumulate over time, causing unpleasant smells. Detach the showerhead or faucet filter, soak it in vinegar for a few hours, and then scrub it clean with a brush to remove any buildup.

Next, if the issue seems to be originating from your water heater, a sediment buildup in the tank could be the culprit. Flushing the water heater can help remove the buildup and alleviate the odor. To do this, you’ll need to turn off the power or gas to the heater, drain the tank, and then refill it with fresh water. You might need to repeat this process a couple of times to ensure that all the sediment is removed.

Avoiding Waste Material Buildup Next Time

Preventing future buildup of organic material is crucial to avoiding recurring smells in your shower. Regular maintenance is key. For your plumbing fixtures, it’s important to clean the showerhead and faucet filters every few months. This simple task will help reduce the accumulation of debris, preventing the conditions in which sulfur-reducing bacteria thrive. You can also use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to clean the drains and eliminate any trapped organic material that might be contributing to the odor.

In addition, maintaining your water heater is essential. Flushing the tank once a year helps remove sediment and minerals, keeping your system clean and running efficiently. If your water heater is over a decade old or consistently causing problems, it might be worth considering a replacement to avoid further issues.

Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer, serving Glenview, IL, value your hot morning showers as much we value ours after a good night’s sleep, so the stench is not to be compromised with. However, we are just around the corner for your home plumbing issues & stinky showerheads if the need be.

Water pump

This blog post will unearth some much-needed tips on finding the right water pump for your needs.

Fear not! The plumbing experts at Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer can help you get the job done right.

Types of Water Pump

You might wonder, is there more than one type of water pump? The answer is yes! There are two main types of water pumps: centrifugal and positive displacement.

  1. Centrifugal pumps move water by using the centrifugal force of a rotating impeller. This type of pump is ideal for large volumes of water at high pressure.
  2. Positive displacement pumps work by trapping a certain amount of water and pushing it out, making them perfect for high-viscosity fluids.

How to Choose

Now that you know about the types of water pumps, how do you choose the right one for your needs?

When choosing a pump, you’ll need to consider three factors: the fluid type, the pressure requirement, and the flow rate.

  1. The fluid type is pretty self-explanatory; you’ll need to pick the right pump for the type of liquid you’re pumping.
  2. The pressure requirement is how much pressure the pump needs to generate to function correctly. This number will vary depending on the application.
  3. The flow rate is how much water the pump can move per minute. Again, this number depends on the application.

Anything Else?

It’s not just enough to install a water pump; you also need to ensure it is properly maintained. To achieve this, you might want to consider investing in some other components.

  1. Filter and Y Strainer: filtration is a must if you’re installing a pump for tank water. A filter will prevent unwanted particles from passing through the unit and damaging it.
  2. Pressure Control Unit: these are highly recommended for use with automatic water pumps. They’ll help you determine whether or not your pump’s performance has declined, which means it may need to be replaced sooner than later.
  3. Ball Valves: for avoiding very wet situations, ball valves can be a lifesaver. You can install it after the pump to stop the water flow and prevent it from coming back up.
  4. Suction Hose: this handy part will let you install the pump further away from the water source. It can be made of various materials but should be chosen according to the pump.
  5. Barrel Unions: when installing your first water pump, it’s best to use a barrel union. It will make the installation process much more manageable.

Conclusion

If you’re ready to handle your first plumbing project in Glenview, IL, be sure to equip yourself with the right tools and call Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer for additional help. We’re here to help you get the job done right!

Get your free estimate today!

Drain clogs

The daily shower is about getting clean and relaxing and time for you to take care of your body. Now imagine this: You’re mid-shower, and the bathroom drain starts clogging up with hairballs or other dirt residues that have been accumulating over long periods, dirty water begins pooling while you make futile attempts to avoid stepping anywhere near its shores.

Suddenly, an activity meant to serve as some lovely “me” time turns into “ew” time as you’re now busy trying to figure out how to unclog the drain… while also trying not to throw up at the disgusting sight. At this point, you should call Bill’s Plumbing and Sewer serving Evanston, IL, to come and rescue you from this disaster and let them inspect your plumbing to prevent any other issues from surfacing.

Here are five things notorious for drain clogs. By making sure you do not mindlessly flush them into the sink, you will be able to prevent your bathroom sink or vanity from becoming blocked again.

1. Hair

Shaving is an everyday bathroom activity, and you are quick to flush all the hair down the drain mindlessly. The tiny hair may appear harmless, but it will accumulate and form a horrible and filthy drain clog with time.

2. Grease

Grease, like hair, does not clog the system immediately and does not appear to be as awful at the moment. It takes a long time for the oil to build up and become an obstruction in the system, but once it does, it can cause a tough and disgusting clog.

3. Plants 

Tree, leaf, and shrub debris can clog drains, and if they come into contact with the pipes, they can quickly produce a blockage.

4. A Burst Pipe

Foreign materials will be able to leak into your drainage system once a pipe has broken. This could be anything, from soil to stones to any other stuff. Excess materials accumulate, making it difficult for liquid to flow through the pipes.

5. Personal hygiene products

Toiletry and sanitary goods (such as diapers, baby wipes, napkins, feminine products, and sanitary items) are another common cause of clogged drains these days. The number of objects blindly dropped down the drain has increased substantially in recent years, increasing the likelihood of a clogged pipe or sewer.

Conclusion

What good is a wonderful, soothing shower if it barely lasts? When a drain is clogged, it can seem like the end of the world. Well, despite how repulsive it is, it is a widespread problem. Regardless of how much you despise it, you can’t seem to steer clear from it unless you’re smart enough to practice “prevention is better than cure” by calling Bill’s Plumbing and Sewer serving Evanston, IL, for a timely inspection. Get your free estimate.

The heart of your house lies in the kitchen. It’s where we prepare our food, gather to enjoy a meal, laugh our hearts out, and it’s where homeowners spend most of their day. There is potential for excellent storage, display, and use in every kitchen. The bad news is that all kitchens don’t have enough of any of them. A kitchen island resolves these issues while looking incredible. If you’re lucky enough to create or choose a home in Morton Grove with a grand kitchen island, you’ve got yourself a treat.

If you’re not sure whether to have one or not, look at these six advantages of having a fantastic kitchen island shared by the professionals at Bill’s Plumbing and Sewer.

More Counter Space

This is especially helpful if you like to cook or bake. The extra counter space can come in handy when you need to prepare multiple dishes at once.

Added Storage

Sometimes cabinets can’t provide all the storage space you require to organize your kitchen. A kitchen island can provide additional storage for your pots, pans, utensils, plates, and glasses. This can help keep your kitchen counters clutter-free and make them appear more organized.

A Place to Eat

If you don’t have a breakfast bar or dining area in your kitchen, a kitchen island can serve as a makeshift eating area. It’s perfect for enjoying a quick snack or meal. Get hold of some lovely bar stools, and you’re good to go.

A Place to Entertain

If you like to host parties or gatherings in your home, a kitchen island can be the perfect spot for your guests to gather. It provides them with additional seating and gives them a convenient place to set down their drinks and snacks.

Kids-Friendly

A kitchen island is a fantastic location for kids to feel involved and close watch. Another alternative for kitchen islands is to put kid-friendly features such as a microwave and a refrigerator drawer within easy reach. Adding amenities that the children can utilize independently after school snacks and Saturday morning breakfast is a good idea for some families.

Extra Floor Space

Do you need extra counter space but also require more floor space? A movable kitchen island provides an additional area when you and your friends want to cook a huge meal together. When your dinner is ready, roll your kitchen island out of the way for more room. Movable kitchens are fantastic for couples who desire the benefits of both a standard kitchen and an eat-in kitchen.

DIY Tips

Make sure you choose a kitchen island that is big enough for all the things you’ll need it to do but not so big as to take up too much room. If you’re short on counter space, opt for one with wheels instead – then it’s easy to move around when needed and tuck away into a corner when it isn’t being used.

If you want to make a stunning focal point in your kitchen, pick a countertop material and style that reflects your taste. There’s a countertop for you, whether you are using it for practical purposes or making it the star of the show. From plastic laminates to bespoke exotic wood finish, the options are unlimited.

Get in touch with Bill’s Plumbing and Sewer for details regarding kitchen remodeling services in Morton Grove. Get your free estimate.

Like most homeowners, you probably also have a hot water tank in your home. These tanks are essential for the household, as they provide hot water for showers and other needs. Unfortunately, these tanks can become clogged with sediment if not flushed out regularly. To help you avoid this scenario at your home in Glenview, IL, we at Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer have created this guide to show you how to flush your tank!

No. 1: What is Sediment?

Sediment is a term used to describe minerals, sand, and dirt that can collect in your water heating tank over time. This sediment often builds up slowly, so homeowners may not even realize it’s there until their tanks are clogged or begin malfunctioning!

However, some red flags may indicate you have a sediment problem in your tank. These include:

  • Rusty water;
  • Low water pressure;
  • Noise from the tank, such as gurgling or hissing sounds.

If you notice any such problems, it’s best to address them sooner rather than later by flushing out your tank.

No. 2: Just Keep it Running

The first thing you can do to clean your tank is to run the water for about an hour or two. This will help flush out any sediment clogging up the system. Be sure to keep running the water until it’s hot, as this will ensure that all of the sediment is flushed out.

No. 3: Greener is Cleaner

You can also use a natural cleaner to help the process when cleaning your tank. Distilled white vinegar and baking soda (not detergent) is one such cleaner that is often recommended for this purpose.

Chemicals like chlorine bleach or ammonia can damage the tank and even seep back into your water supply. They can also harm other areas in your home, like toilets, bathtubs, and sinks.

No. 4: Keep to Schedule

Hot water tanks are prone to sediment buildup, as mentioned earlier. This means that it’s crucial to stay on schedule with water heater maintenance and cleaning.

The longer you wait before dealing with the problem of a dirty hot water tank, the worse things will get for your appliance! It can result in expensive repairs or replacement costs down the road.

We recommend you flush the sediments out every few years as part of a regular maintenance routine. This will help keep your water heater running smoothly and reduce the risk of any long-term damage.

No. 5: Involve the Professionals

Flushing sediments out of a water heating tank is a relatively simple do-it-yourself project. Still, it does require care and attention. You’ll need to shut off the main water line before beginning this process.

To avoid any hiccups during the process, it’s a good idea to consult a professional plumbing company.

Conclusion

By following all the tips we’ve mentioned above, you should be able to flush out sediments from your hot water tank.

Don’t hesitate to contact Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer if you have any questions or concerns about this process! We’re dedicated to providing quality plumbing services to homeowners in Glenview, IL.

Get your free estimate today!

‘Tis the season of long waits before the morning shower heats up. Imagine stepping reflexively into it and experiencing a cold blast.

Water lines are underground utilities, and plummeting ground temperatures in winters can drastically affect the efficacy of your residential water heater as the cold-water rushes through. The irony is not lost on our need for more hot water in winters, which outs the heaters into overdrive.

Morton Grove, IL is experiencing negative digits by now, so it’s best to call Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer, your local plumbing & heater maintenance experts, for a checkup. Meanwhile, we have a few things to share that you can expect from a faulty water heater.

1. Disintegrating Insulation

Insulating your pipes from the cold is one thing, but taking care of your heaters is an equally important step to ensuring an endless supply of hot water. As per heater types, neoprene is suited to electric water heaters, while fiberglass & aluminum wraps are best for gas. If it’s been a long stretch since your last water heater checkup, and this coincides with poor water heating, chances are your insulation is disintegrating. That lowers the water heating temperature and racks up energy costs for the season.

2. Faulty Heater Components

Gas heaters are notorious in this category. One needs to monitor the pilot light, the thermocouple, and the control valves. If the pilot blows out, you are guaranteed to get a cold splash. The thermostat and the heating coils are of significant concern in electric heaters. A faulty thermostat will not regulate water heating uniformly, and a heating coil can become encrusted with deposits that could create a hazard.

3. Mineral Deposits

Natural, treated, & filtered water all have minerals in them with some sediment. These substances form deposits in pipes and water heater tanks. They are a pest because not only do they become a contamination hazard in high quantities, but they also compromise the heating capacity of water heaters. And if you have foregone your water heater maintenance too long, the sediment alone can clog your pipes this winter.

4. Rouge Temperature

When we said faulty components, in the case of electric heaters, the thermostat can create a potential chemical hazard that will undoubtedly degrade your heating tank faster. On average, the thermostat regulates water at 120F in water heaters. Any higher and heat will cause the electrodes to flake and dissolve in the water, making it acidic. The acidic water will eat away your tank from the inside. In simple terms, your water tank will fall apart like wet papier- mâché.

If reading this evokes an odd feeling of guilt regarding the state of your water heaters, it’s best to let Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer in on the secret. We will discretely come and remediate that hot mess of a water heater to get you that clear and hot flow every morning as desired.

Check our impressive services in all things plumbing for your home to the hydrant on your pavement, and avail of our free quotations in Winnetka, IL.

Don’t let your water heaters down this merry season!

There are almost 8.9 million fire hydrants dispersed across the United States, and the number continues to grow. So many of these hydrants are on active duty that some of them are bound to fault at some point, which calls for some good ol’ repair time.

Fire hydrants are essential underground utility outlets that are remarkable for firefighting efforts across American neighborhoods. But you might be wondering how something as sturdy as a fire hydrant might get damaged? Well, Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer in Evanston, IL, will tell you how!

What Damages Fire Hydrants?

Just as fender benders occur to cars, they are heavily dispensed upon poor fire hydrants. Car collisions are among the leading causes of damage to hydrants and can crack the utility or bend the feed shaft.

The climate isn’t that fair to hydrants either; the supply lines can freeze in winter. Depending on the type of hydrant installed in your neighborhoods, a wet-barrel hydrant will freeze, while a dry-barrel hydrant will manifest failed valves.

And then dogs – dogs relieving themselves copiously over hydrants. The acid content in their urine is another weathering agent and can rust valves over time without maintenance.

What is Entailed in a Fire Hydrant Repair?

  1. The first step is to determine the nature of the damage.
  2. The hydrant’s O-rings are inspected and replaced with new OEM parts if found damaged.
  3. The opening nut & stem attachments have to be degreased, cleaned, the lubricated on annual checks to ensure firefighters can easily use the hydrant in an emergency.
  4. Any surrounding construction work might shift the ground level around the hydrant. The utility has to be aligned to the altered ground level for safety issues when that happens. An extension kit is designed for this purpose.
  5. In the event of complete removal of the hydrant during a surface accident, the entire exposed unit is retrofitted with an OEM replacement.

    How Can We Protect Fire Hydrants?
  1. Ensure the hydrant is painted the usual bright red for maximum visibility to motorists. For a more profound effect, use reflective paints for nighttime visibility.
  2. Conduct flow testing regularly to ensure any debris is cleared out. Open valves to the full range to release water in frigid temperatures to excise flow. The test also helps determine any leaks or damaged valves inside the hydrant.
  3. Ensure you have a fire hydrant repair kit on hand if you happen to be responsible for maintenance duty because hydrants suffer automobile damage most often in icy weather when traction on roads is the greatest issue.

Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer are your local plumbing experts in Evanston, IL, for fire hydrant repairs & maintenance. We also dabble in residential & commercial plumbing installation, repair, and maintenance across locations in Illinois.

Winters are a trying time for your plumbing and the municipal water lines, so never let your guard down to frozen or bursting pipes. If you need any pipes replaced in your residence or commercial establishment, we are the plumbers to call.

Get your free estimate for our plumbing services.