7 Tips To Keep Your Plumbing Running Smoothly
Plumbing is an integral part of any home. It’s what ensures that you have a steady supply of water whenever you need it and carries away wastewater from sinks, toilets, and baths.
When plumbing goes wrong, it can be an absolute nightmare. Not only do plumbing issues cause severe inconveniences, but they’re also costly and time-consuming to fix. Therefore, you must have a basic understanding of how plumbing works and what to do when issues arise to avoid expensive repairs down the line.
This blog post will cover seven plumbing tips that will help you to keep your plumbing running smoothly!
1. Keep the Sink Drain Clear
A clogged sink is a massive problem in any home because it can lead to significant water damage if not taken care of quickly. Make sure that you are keeping the sink drains clear by using an auger or plunger when necessary.
2. Check for Leaks
One of the best things you can do to prevent plumbing issues is to check for leaks around faucets and sinks regularly. If any there are any water leaks from pipes or connections, they need immediate attention before they cause damage.
3. Schedule Maintenance Checks
A regular maintenance schedule will ensure that any potential problems with your plumbing system are caught early on and dealt with before they get out of hand and lead to plumbing disasters.
4. Drain Your Garbage Disposal Regularly
If you have a garbage disposal unit installed under your sink or are using it for food scraps, make sure to run water before turning on the unit so that any debris is flushed down into the pipe instead of getting caught in the blades.
Otherwise, tiny bits of food will accumulate in the bottom and cause foul odors or clog up the pipes underneath your sink.
5. Keep Plumbing Fixtures and Pipes Clear of Debris
If you have plumbing fixtures or piping in your home with any built-up sediment, rust, baking soda deposits, grease buildup, or other damaging substances – get them cleaned out. This will help prevent clogs from occurring due to the accumulation of such materials.
6. Check Water Pressure Periodically
When water is flowing normally through plumbing pipes, a specific pressure should be maintained. If there is a change in pressure, this can cause leaks or problems with other fixtures like toilets not flushing correctly. It is recommended to have an annual check-up of all plumbing systems and plumbing fixtures to maintain water pressure.
7.Clean Your Fixtures Regularly
Maintaining the cleanliness of plumbing fixtures is essential to help prevent problems like clogs, which can lead to a bigger plumbing problem or even an emergency plumbing situation.
At Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc., we are committed to providing premier plumbing services in Evanston, IL, at competitive rates. We understand you need to get your plumbing issue fixed right away and with the highest quality of service possible. That’s why our team is trained in customer care and has undergone rigorous training for all things plumbing-related.
Sometimes, fire hydrants break. And when they do, it’s not easy to fix them.
Fire hydrants are essential to your property’s safety, and you want to make sure that one isn’t in non-working condition when disaster strikes. The fire hydrants are used to supply water for fire fighting purposes, and when they fail, it can be devastating. Amateurs should not attempt fire hydrant repair – this could lead to severe injuries and consequences.
If you have fire hydrants on your property and you need them repaired, please consult with our professional team today! Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers premium fire hydrant repair & replacement services in Morton Grove. Connect with us today!
In this blog post, we’ll discuss five reasons why hiring professionals is the best decision you will ever make for your fire hydrants!
1. You Don’t Have the Time or Skill Set Required
Fire hydrant repair is not an easy job – it takes both skill and expertise in order to get it done right. If you lack either one of these things, then hiring a professional would be your best bet!
2. They Have the Equipment
When firefighters arrive at an emergency scene, they need to get water flowing as quickly as possible. Professionals know how to bring your fire hydrant back online promptly because they have all kinds of specialized equipment like impact wrenches and blowtorches.
3. They Save Time
It’s always a good idea to save time where you can because fire emergencies don’t wait. Firefighters need water quickly, and professionals know how to get the job done fast so that firefighters can get their job done as soon as possible.
4. They are Licensed
In most cases, fire hydrant repairs require a license, and professionals are licensed to work on fire hydrants. They have the appropriate insurance, training, and qualifications necessary for this type of job that amateurs might not have.
Plus, a licensed professional will ensure that the fire hydrant is compliant with the fire codes and regulations.
5. They Can Provide Maintenance Tips
Fire hydrants require proper care to prevent rusting, corrosion, and other types of damage. A professional can provide maintenance tips on how you can care for your fire hydrant and ensure it is in working condition.
If you’re looking for a company that can repair your fire hydrant in Morton Grove, look no further than us! At Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc., we offer free estimates and quick turnaround times to get the job done right.
When it comes to repairing your fire hydrant, we know what we’re doing. Whether you need emergency repairs or routine service, our team is always here to cater to your requests. With over 30 years of working experience, you can trust our team to complete any project quickly and efficiently without cutting corners or wasting money on unnecessary extras.
Bathrooms are often the most neglected places in a home. Even when some bathroom remodeling is done, people tend to settle for outdated bathroom designs or for styles that are not functional for their needs. Yet bathroom remodeling is essential for any homeowner looking to improve the functionality and look of their bathroom space.
There are many bathroom remodeling trends that you can try in 2021 to make your bathroom more practical to your needs and aesthetically pleasing. In this blog post, we discuss 10 bathroom remodeling trends.
1. Open Showers
Open showers are becoming more popular because they offer a fun and open space where people can relax. They allow for easy cleaning without worrying about water reaching every corner of the bathroom, which is something that traditional showers don’t offer.
Open showers also make it easier for elderly or disabled individuals because they don’t have to worry about keeping their balance in a slippery shower. They are also great for kids because they allow the parents to keep an eye on them so accidents don’t happen.
2. Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops have been gaining popularity and are used in remodeling bathrooms for a sleek, modern aesthetic feel. Quartz is easy to clean and resistant to scratches and stains. These lavish surfaces are worth their weight in gold when it comes to modernizing your bathroom.
3. Jungle Bathroom
Jungle Bathroom is a new trend that has been slowly growing in popularity. Jungle-themed bathrooms are usually designed with dark colors such as black and brown or earthy tones like green and blue. The bathroom also tends to have plants placed throughout the room, giving a nature/jungle-like feel to the room.
The Jungle Bathroom trend is an excellent way for homeowners to create a serene space while still maintaining some touches of playfulness.
4. Vintage Touch
Vintage Touch is all about paying homage to the past while still maintaining your signature style. This means you will have a retro feel with modern conveniences like heated floors, double vanities for couples who share their space, waterfalls or fountains for ambiance, and dual sinks. Vintage touches include wood accents on the floors, walls, ceilings, and light fixtures that mimic vintage chandeliers.
5. The Terrazzo Trend is Making a Comeback
The Terrazzo Trend is a bathroom trend that combines the best of both worlds: modern and traditional. The mix of reliable materials (granite, marble) with an upscale design will make you feel like royalty. The earthy color gives a soothing feel, while the sleek lines are easy on the eyes.
6. Bold Tile Patterns
Bold Tile Patterns use various textures, colors, and shapes for a one-of-a-kind bathroom. They can make your small, drab bathroom feel larger than life. One way to use bold tile patterns is to mix them up with mosaics or other patterns to create a unique, eye-catching look.
7. Matte White Fittings
Matte White Fittings is a new bathroom trend that has been popularized in recent years. Matte white fittings are an easy update for bathrooms to give them the sleek, modern look of today’s homes. They can incorporate any style into your space – from classic country to contemporary chic.
8. Smart Toilets
Smart toilets are hands-free solutions that come with several other benefits. For starters, most smart toilet seats offer features like heated and self-cleaning functions. These can be useful for families who want to avoid the hassle of cleaning up after themselves or their children. The hands-free sprayer also helps make washing more manageable and keeps hands from getting dirty.
9. Large-Format Wall Tiles
Large-format wall tiles are a new bathroom trend. These large tiles can add visual flair to your space and make it easier for you to clean up after guests leave the room. The larger format of these tiles means that they will get dirty less often than smaller ones, so they’re more cost-effective to use.
Large tiles are also a great choice if you want something really unique and modern looking in your bathroom but are on a tight budget. These tiles are less expensive as compared with stone or porcelain.
10. Nude Colors
Nude Colors are a new bathroom trend. It’s not just the walls but also tiles and fixtures that are going nude to create a softer feel for the bathrooms. Nude colors can be soft neutrals like cream or bone, or they can take on more of an orange hue such as sherbet, tangerine, or peach. Nude colors are muted and easy on the eyes with minimal contrast, making them calming to look at.
Don’t be afraid to try something new in your bathroom. These trends are sure to give you a fresh, modern look that will last for years. The best part is – you can contact our experts at Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer in Glenview, IL and get started with any of these bathroom remodeling ideas today! We will set up an appointment and send you a free quote as soon as possible.
4 Things To Consider Before Bathroom Remodeling
Bathroom remodeling is a daunting task. It can be difficult to know where to start and even more difficult to decide what bathroom elements are essential for you. That’s why we’ve created this blog post as your guide!
We’ll go over four things that you should consider before bathroom remodeling, so you know exactly what will work best in your bathroom – and how much it will cost!
1. Decide if You Will Do-It-Yourself or Hire Professionals
If you’re planning on remodeling your bathroom yourself, you’ll need to get some bathroom remodeling supplies and figure out how you want to remodel the bathroom. This can be time-consuming and may be costly in the long run.
On the other hand, if you hire professional bathroom remodelers, they are already skilled in this area and can provide you with modern ideas and tips. You can also expect them to provide you with tailored solutions within the promised deadlines.
2. Set The Budget
Another critical factor to consider before bathroom remodeling is the budget. You should decide how much you are willing to spend on your bathroom ahead of time to ensure there will be enough cash for this project and that you don’t end up overspending later down the road. You’ll need to factor in both hard costs (like supplies) and soft costs (like labor) to complete the bathroom remodeling project.
3. Design the Bathroom Layout
The bathroom layout is often the most overlooked aspect of bathroom remodeling. It’s essential to consider how you use your bathroom, where fixtures will be located, and at what height they should be for them to be accessible to anyone who will use it.
Pro Tip: Try to avoid having a sink and toilet side-by-side because it will make each area feel cramped and uninviting. A good bathroom layout will place the bathroom fixtures in a triangle shape, so there is plenty of floor space.
4. Consider the Lighting Fixtures
The general bathroom design will dictate the type of fixture you can use, but you must consider a few things when selecting a light for your bathroom:
- Bathroom remodeling lighting fixtures are usually located in the center of the room. This emphasizes the bathroom as a communal space yet still offers individual privacy with separate functions for sitting and standing.
- Bathroom lighting should be bright enough so it can illuminate all surfaces from where you’re standing or seated, but not too intense if you’re in the bathroom at night.
- Chains or cords typically suspend bathroom lighting fixtures from a canopy, so you need to consider this when deciding where to put your bathroom remodeling light fixture.
Our staff at Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. are experts in bathroom remodeling. We can help you bring your old, tired bathroom into the modern era with a unique design that meets all of your needs and budget requirements. Our professionals have been providing homeowners in Evanston, IL, quality bathroom remodeling services for over 30 years.
Connect with us to learn more about our services or to get a free quote today!
Do You Love Your Kitchen? Here Are The Top 4 Kitchen Maintenance Tips From A Professional Plumber
If you’re like most people, your kitchen is the heart of your home. It’s where you do everything from cooking to eating meals with family and friends. It’s also one of the essential rooms in a house to maintain because it is very prone to plumbing problems.
So, make sure that your kitchen not only looks good but also functions well – otherwise, you’ll be spending lots of time on things like fixing leaky faucets or clogged drains.
In this blog post, the professional plumbers at Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. share four tips for maintaining a healthy-looking, well-functioning kitchen!
1. Remember to Clean Out the Sink
One of the most important things is knowing when your sink needs a good scrub down. Cleaning out sinks can be difficult, but you should do this at least once or twice per month (or more if required). You need to remove any food and grease that has been collecting in the sink. If you don’t, this builds up over time and can potentially lead to clogs and other plumbing problems.
It’s easy enough to clean out a sink with just soap and water (and your hands). Or you can call an expert to do it for you.
2. Keep Dishwasher Shut Off Valves Closed When Not in Use
At times, homeowners complain that their dishwasher is not draining correctly. This is usually because they forget to turn it off when it is not in use.
The dishwasher has an internal shutoff valve under the sink that you can turn off when you aren’t using it. Leaving this valve closed will conserve water and prevent any odors from coming up through the pipes. This is an excellent way to keep your kitchen smelling fresh all year long!
3. Check For Leaks in Pipes Regularly
When a pipe leaks, it can cause significant damage to your property. Therefore, checking for leaks in pipes is a good idea.
Checking for leaks in pipes is relatively simple; listen to check if you can hear a hissing sound or feel cool air blowing out of the pipe from around any joints. If so, this might indicate that there’s a leak, and professional plumbing should be called to inspect it before things get worse.
4. Don’t Let the Garbage Disposal Run Too Long at a Time
The garbage disposal is one of the household items that we don’t always think about, but it should be running smoothly and efficiently to prevent any plumbing problems.
Therefore, our experts advise avoiding running the garbage disposal for too long at a time with food. This could cause the motor to burn out prematurely, and you’ll be faced with even more expensive repair bills.
In conclusion, if you want to maintain the look and functionality of your kitchen, don’t forget about the plumbing. All it takes is one broken pipe or clogged drain line to turn your dream kitchen into an expensive disaster. Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. can help ensure that doesn’t happen by providing expert service on all aspects of home plumbing repair and maintenance in Morton Grove, IL – from sewer repair services to water heater replacement. Schedule an appointment today!
6 Smart Tips For Maintaining Your HVAC System
Is your HVAC system running efficiently? Maintaining your HVAC system is critical for keeping it running at peak performance to prevent rising utility bills and for avoiding costly repairs. Also, the HVAC system is an integral part of the overall comfort of your home. If you want to keep your HVAC system in top-notch condition, then here are some helpful tips!
Clean Your Condensing Unit
Your air conditioner is a significant investment. It’s essential to protect it from dirt, pollen, and grime that can clog up the fins on your condensing unit/heat pump.
Every season, give the outside of your heat pump system some love by cleaning the outside of your unit with a water hose. However, avoid using pressure washers because they’ll damage the unit for good!
Check Your Evaporator Coil’s Drainpipe and Drain Pan
A clogged drain line is a common problem during the spring and summer. Clear the HVAC system’s drainpipe to avoid any buildup of algae and mold. A wet-dry vacuum or bleach can help clean it out. Also, if you don’t install float switches or ‘ceiling savers’ to switch off the air conditioner, water will come pouring through your ceiling due to leaks.
Change Your Filters
Keeping your indoor air clean is vital for your health and your family’s health. You can do this by using disposable filters to remove all those pesky particles from indoor air, like pet dander or pollen. Change the filters every 1 to 3 months, however, if you have pets or it’s allergy season, replace them more often to keep allergens at bay!
We recommend picking a filter rated MERV 7 to 11. If you don’t, your system will be under too much strain, and efficiency may reduce due to this!
Did you know that your air purification system requires its own cleaning routine? Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions and be sure to service those filters, too! Also, you should regularly clean the filters in ductless systems.
Inspect and Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit
You want your air conditioner to work perfectly, so take care of any overgrown plants and leaves that might cause problems. Trim any bushes or trees near the unit if they are too close for comfort; make sure to leave around 2 feet of space on all sides of your unit. If you have pollen-producing shrubs like cottonwoods nearby, wash them down regularly with water from a hose — they’re notorious for clogging up condenser units in particular!
Get a Smart AC or AC Controller
An efficient home is one where you can enjoy the best in comfort and convenience. What’s more, thanks to smart HVAC systems, it will be easier than ever for you to keep an eye on its condition at all times, so no high-maintenance surprises come up when they are least welcome!
For example, smart air conditioners or smart AC controllers can help you monitor your usage history and receive alerts when your AC might require a filter cleaning.
Modern thermostats are pretty amazing! They can detect when your AC is not performing optimally or if there’s an issue with indoor air quality, which points towards a defective HVAC system.
Also, with the scheduling and geofencing modes, you can activate your HVAC system at any time, regardless of where you might be. This ensures that your system performs efficiently and doesn’t run unnecessarily to avoid wasting energy.
Get Professional Regular Maintenance
Have a licensed professional come in to perform preventative maintenance on your heating equipment during the fall season and your air conditioning in spring. This will keep the system running at peak efficiency and spot potential problems, so you do not face any significant inconveniences.
Maintenance includes checking the drain pan and drainage system, flushing the coils, checking refrigerant levels in the air conditioning unit, vacuuming the blower compartments, checking the voltage, evaluating furnace operation, checking the voltage on motors and loose wires, etc.
If you’ve noticed that your HVAC system is running longer than usual or if it feels like the air isn’t as cool, then you need to take a closer look at what may be going on. There are many reasons why this might happen, and with some simple maintenance tips, you can avoid costly repairs. We recommend scheduling an appointment with our experts to come out and inspect your unit in Glenview, IL, so we can detect any problems before they become a major issue. Fill out the form and get your free estimate from Bill’s Plumbing and Sewer Inc.!
7 Signs Your HVAC System Needs Repair
A home is a place where people should feel comfortable and relaxed. When you are at home, your HVAC system can provide the perfect temperature for comfort and relaxation. However, if your HVAC system starts to break down or shows signs of needing repair, then it will not do its job efficiently anymore.
If you’re a homeowner, then you know how important it is to have a working HVAC system. Wouldn’t you be frustrated if your home had no air conditioning during the summer? Or if your heating system broke down and there was no heat in the winter? Many homeowners experience problems with their HVAC systems at some point in time. This blog post will outline signs that indicate that your HVAC needs repair so that you can get it fixed before it breaks down completely!
Change in Airflow
Have you been experiencing uncomfortable drafts, hot and cold spots around the house, doors slamming by themselves, and unexplained whistling noises? All of these could be symptoms of air pressure problems caused by poor airflow from your HVAC system.
Ignoring airflow problems for too long can put a strain on your system, which can lead to compressor failure.
Increased Energy Bill
If you’ve noticed that your electric bills are higher than usual, it may indicate dirty air filters and failing parts. For example, a duct leak reduces the efficiency of the system to distribute air throughout your home, which will drive up costs if not fixed quickly. If there is a malfunction with any equipment in the AC unit like the motors, capacitors, and compressor, then they could lead to high energy usage.
Strange Sounds and Odors
Hearing funny noises like clunking, squeaking, grinding, rattling, or scratching, burning, or musty odor from your vents when you switch on your system can be an indicator that your unit needs cleaning, maintenance, replacement of parts, or a complete overhaul.
Excess Humidity and Dust
Have you noticed a buildup of moisture or dust in your house? If so, it might be time to call in the HVAC experts because excess humidity and dust can create the ideal environment for mold and mildew growth and can cause several health concerns.
Unit Constantly Goes On and Off
Your HVAC system operates in cycles to maintain a specific temperature in your home. When the AC is cycling, it’s working towards reaching that desired level, and when this point is reached, it will shut off until its next cycle begins. However, if you notice an on-off pattern of short intervals from your air conditioner, then there may be some issues developing with the machine or thermostat settings such as low refrigerant levels, iced evaporator coils, dirty filters, or clogged vents.
Water Leaks Around the Unit
If you notice any spilling, freezing, or puddling in or close to your unit, it can be a sign of more than one issue. It may be the result of a blockage in your buildup line. Buildup that may freeze on the unit’s coils that could spill out and form puddles on the ground.
Another reason could be a problem with the drain tube or condenser unit.
A more severe issue could be if your HVAC unit is leaking refrigerant, which can cause health problems, so get it checked right away.
The System is Getting Old
If you have had your HVAC system for a while, it is just a matter of time before it starts throwing out hot air in summers and cold air in winter – i.e., it stops working properly. Basically, the older your system gets, the more issues it will develop.
If you have been experiencing any of the above problems, we recommend scheduling an appointment with a professional HVAC technician to have your HVAC unit checked out. If you reside in Evanston, IL, give Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. a call or fill out our contact form today, and we’ll be happy to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about what you need to do next!
How To Avoid Huge Sewer Repair Costs
Sewer repair is expensive! A single service call that lasts an hour can easily cost you $250 or more, and a complete sewer replacement could cost tens of thousands of dollars. The good news is that you don’t have to spend this kind of cash if you take the time to perform preventive maintenance of your plumbing system. This blog post talks about how you can avoid massive repairs by following a few simple guidelines for proper sewer care.
While you read the suggested guidelines, it would be helpful to consult a professional company like Bill’s Plumbing and Sewer in Morton Grove, IL, for practical advice.
Get to Know Your Sewer System
Discuss the functionalities of your sewer system with a sewer installation company and make a list of the appliances dependent on the sewer; it will help you identify the load on the sewer. For example, if you have a septic system, avoid overloading the leach field and ensure there are no blockages in the field lines or tank.
Slow and Clogged Drains
If you notice water draining slowly, it means you may have a clogged line. You can clear the accumulated debris by pouring a homemade natural remedy of hot water and vinegar down the drain. This is a preventive measure that many homeowners use to avoid hefty repair costs. The solution helps clear the drain and gives you enough cushion time to call for help in severe cases. In addition, you can contact a local plumber to ask for professional tools to clean the gutters. However, this method of DIY cleaning is generally not suitable for commercial establishments and large properties.
Watch What Goes Down the Drain
Unwanted objects can flush down drains or toilets, potentially clogging the lines. If you want to keep your drains clear, it’s essential to be mindful of what you put down them. For example, keep hairbrushes and oils away from your drains by disposing them in the trash or putting them in compost bins instead. These items can cause expensive clogs because they break pipes or seep through cracks that force water into the surrounding walls, causing mold growth.
Avoid pouring grease, oil, or fat down your drain, as this will eventually harden up and form a thick layer at the bottom of your sink – even if it seems like it has disappeared! These layers are called “fatbergs”. You’ll need professional sewer cleaners for this one!
Investigate Water Leaks
Signs of water leak inside the walls, including wet spots on ceilings, and sagging paint near windows or doors, indicate issues with plumbing vents leaving moisture behind as they exit the building. You should address this problem immediately by contacting the professionals because the high humidity environment facilitates mold and bacteria growth.
At Bill’s Plumbing and Sewer, we offer 24-hour emergency plumbing services and are available any time you need us in Morton Grove, IL. In addition, we offer complete commercial plumbing and sewer repair services that help you engage in preventative maintenance routines allowing your plumbing to last longer. Get a free estimate for our sewer repair services.
Fire hydrants are used to control and extinguish fires and also allow water from the public water systems to flow into your pipeline at high pressure. Fire hydrants also play a crucial role in maintaining the proper function of water systems so that water is supplied to the entire city at a steady flow.
Generally, public and private fire hydrants run through a connection to the main water utility pipeline underground, but this isn’t always the case. Sometimes, privately-owned fire hydrants also deliver different types of water supply.
In today’s blog post, we will discuss everything you should know about fire hydrants; what they are, how to test fire hydrants, and types of fire hydrant repairs.
On the hunt for a 24-hour emergency plumbing service in Glenview, IL? Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers high-quality plumbing repair, pump installation, drain cleaning, and fire hydrant repair and replacement services, all while saving you time and money!
So now that we know what fire hydrants are let’s look into how they are tested to see if they are working optimally.
Types of Fire Hydrant Tests
Static Pressure Test
This test is performed by attaching the static pressure assembly to the standpipe, ensuring the vent cock is open. Then, while the vent cock is closed and the standpipe is free of air, the hydrant is opened.
A pressure reading is taken while the hydrant remains closed. However, the vent cock is then left open to release the pressure before the standpipe assembly is removed.
Flow Test
When taking a flow test, the main is flushed for approximately a minute to clear any debris blocking the flow sensor. Then, the flow tube is attached to the hydrant standpipe while the hydrant valve is kept fully open. The main is flushed, which then displays a digital reading to be taken.
Visual Inspection
A simple visual inspection includes the following:
- Identifying the hydrant frame
- The cover
- The surface around the hydrant
- Checking the indicator plate
- Age of the hydrant
- Where its located
- The material the hydrant is made of
The Various Types of Fire Hydrant Repairs
There are three main ways to repair a fire hydrant, depending on your fire hydrant’s level of damage.
1. Carefully examine your fire hydrant’s O-rings to make sure they are working properly. If they appear to be damaged and show signs of deterioration, it’s time to replace them with new parts.
2. To ensure your fire hydrant runs smoothly, it is recommended to check the operating nut and stem annually and lubricate them whenever necessary.
3. Lastly, your fire hydrant’s height can be affected by construction or landscaping work taking place nearby. These movements affect the fire hydrant’s ground levels, causing changes to its height and affecting its function. When this happens, you need to adjust the fire hydrant’s height and add a fire hydrant extension kit for this purpose.
Are you looking for reliable and professional plumbers in your area in Glenview, IL? Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. is at your service! We offer all-inclusive residential and commercial plumbing services around the clock and get your pipes working like new again in no time! Click here to get an estimate.
How To Find A Reputable Plumber
Finding a reputable plumber in a sea of contractors can be an irksome and tedious task. It can also become intimidating because the wrong choice can cost you a substantial sum of money and cause you needless inconvenience. Also, you will then be back to square one in your search for a good residential or commercial plumbing service.
While it would be great if you could take your time finding the right contractor by spending days on research to minimize the risks, plumbing issues often require immediate action. After all, you cannot just let a clogged drain or burst pipe be. So, while not much can be done now, it is best to find a reputable plumbing company that you can call every time you need some work done.
Here is how you can find a reputable plumber.
1. Take recommendations
Perhaps the quickest way to find a good contractor is to ask around for recommendations. Someone in your friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, or acquaintances has bound to have gotten some work done on their plumbing. Although this may seem like a reliable way to find a plumber, do not just follow their recommendation blindly. You still need to do your own screening as their experience and task may be different from yours. Also, do not hire a friend or relation because money is bound to sour things up between you.
2. Search online directories
The internet has a wealth of information, including the numbers of over a dozen plumbers in your area. You can jot down the list and move on to the next step – screening.
3. Ask for references
It does not matter how you got to this step, but the important thing is that you got here. Whether you are running a check on a recommended or random plumber, one of the first things you need to do when initiating contact is to ask for references. A reputable plumber who carries out all projects with diligence will be confident about giving you valid and up-to-date references. They will not give you the names and contact details of random family members or friends, but that of clients they recently did work for. Also, they will not make excuses or try to get out of giving you the references because they will be sure you will get positive feedback. However, asking for references is not the only thing you need to do. You actually need to get in touch with those people and verify.
4. Find out about their experience and qualifications
Do not blindly trust everything that comes out of the horse’s mouth, or in this case, the plumber’s mouth. Check their website, company details, and company profile on social media to find out if they can handle your project. Many even have their diplomas or degrees hanging on their office walls, if you visit them perchance.
5. Verify if they are licensed
Every professional plumbing contractor has a valid contractor’s license. However, just asking your contractor if they are licensed is not enough because, like Dr. House says in the TV series House MD, “everyone lies.” The authority issuing contractor’s licenses in your state can easily verify if the person you are planning to hire has a license or not. Most allow you to check the license status online, but you can call too.
6. Check online reviews
While there is no guarantee that all the reviews online are genuine, you can probably identify the fakes (try to avoid both blatant slanders and embellished posts), especially when you check the reviews given on multiple social media platforms and are able to find a pattern or similarity in opinions by different users. Also, do not believe the testimonials on company websites.
7. Take feedback from previous clients
Another surefire way of finding out exactly the kind of service and results you should expect from a plumbing firm is by asking former clients. You can ask around if anyone has employed the services of that particular contractor. Whether you put your question on an online forum or ask in your church group, you are bound to get an idea about the reputation the plumber has in your community.
Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers a wide range of premium plumbing solutions at affordable rates in Evanston, IL. Get your free estimate for your project, or contact us to put forward your queries.


