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.
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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!
Water heaters are a must-have appliance for people living in colder regions and currently every household in the Northern Hemisphere as it is winter.
Most homes already have their water heaters installed or had maintenance work done in autumn. However, there are some who didn’t have time until now to look into the matter and are now running around at the last minute to get one. If you already have a hot water heater, but you don’t think it will make it through the winter and need a replacement, then you are also in the same boat.
Do you need a water heater replacement? Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers expert plumbing services in Glenview, IL. Click here to get a free estimate.
For those of you who are under the gun and need to buy a water heater now, do not panic. And absolutely do not get the first model you can get your hands on. Your water heater is an investment that will cater to your hot water needs for years if you make the right choice. “You must choose, but choose wisely.” (Sorry for the Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade reference; couldn’t resist that one.)
Coming back to the issue at hand. While selecting a water heater for your home, there are a few things that you need to take into account. Since we are sure you have no clue what we are talking about, we have already laid out all the facts. Have a look below.
Fuel Type
Does the water heater run on electricity, gas, or solar power? While choosing a water heater, it is imperative to see if you can provide an uninterrupted supply of the fuel needed to heat the water when needed. If you are buying a Solar Water Heater in a place where there are few sunny days or a gas heater in a country with a gas shortage and gas load shedding, then you are wasting your money.
Capacity/Size
Knowing what the size of your water heater is and what capacity of water it can heat at a time is highly important.
Energy Efficiency
Newer models of water heaters are more energy-efficient, and while they might cost more initially, in the long run, they help cut down on the cost by controlling your energy consumption. It is also great for the environment, so there’s that.
Storage
There are two things that you need to consider when perusing over storage:
If you want a water heater with a tank
For example, getting a Tankless Water Heater or On-Demand Water Heater for a household with a substantial demand for hot water will prove costly as the water heater will continuously be working (in other words consuming energy and raising your bills). On the other hand, it is ideal for a single person.
If you can accommodate the kind of water storage it provides
For example, if you live on the fourth floor of an apartment building, then a Combined Space and Water Heating System. However, if you live in a penthouse, have access to the roof, and do not live in an overly cold region, you can consider a Heat Pump Water Heater or Hybrid Water Heater.
Costs
There are two kinds of water heater costs that you need to consider – initial cost (cost of buying the unit and getting it installed in your home) and running cost (maintenance cost and energy consumption that impacts your utility bills).
If you have space, then you can consider getting a Combined Space and Water Heating System – it won’t reduce your energy bills by much but will cut down on the cost of maintaining two separate appliances.
Installation Area
The space you have to install the water heater in can restrict your choice a great deal because you can’t increase the space you have, so you have to choose something that meets your hot water needs and can fit in the designated space in your home.
For example, a Hybrid Water Heater needs a vertical space of around 8ft, and it can’t be placed in the basement, garage, or anywhere in the cold, as it draws heat from the surroundings.
Safety Features
Although water heaters are generally safe, there is no harm in finding out more about what safety features are integrated into your water heater’s design. For example, does it have a safety valve that can be opened to relieve pressure or let out some heat if the temperature gets too high to prevent the water heater from blowing up?
Think everything through before taking your pick because no matter what anyone says, only you know the needs and restrictions of your household and bank account.
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, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Exploring Different Types Of Water Heaters (Part-II)
Last week, we started looking into multiple hot water heater options that you can choose from to find the perfect unit that is the ideal fit for your hot water needs in terms of capacity, functionality, energy-efficiency, space, and cost.
Do you need a water heater replacement? Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers expert plumbing services in Wilmette, IL. Click here to get a free estimate.
Previously we covered Tankless Water Heater, Conventional Storage Tank Water Heater, Solar Powered Water Heater, and Condensing Water Heater, so now let us have a look at the remaining options that you are left with.
Heat Pump Water Heater (Hybrid Water Heater)
Hybrid water heaters are costly but offer a great return on investment as they consume 60% less energy than conventional water heaters, which helps lower your utility bills.
These units derive heat from the air or ground around them, making them more energy-efficient but an impractical choice for cold regions. Also, placement is another issue with them. You can’t place heat pump water heaters in the basement or garage or anywhere in the cold, and the spot you choose should have a vertical space of around 8ft.
Combined Space and Water Heating System
The combined space and water heating unit, also known as the ‘combi’ system, is perfect for homes with low requirements.
These specialized units consume the same amount of gas as a gas water heater and forced air furnace, so instead of maintaining two separate systems, you can get a combi. It combines an optimized hydronic air handler with a high-efficiency water heater to offer dual function, which will allow you to cut down on your maintenance expenses.
The air handler has a large fan coil installed in the ductwork to enable quick and efficient space heating. The small pump circulates the water from the boiler and coil via the in-floor piping for radiant or floor heating. This unit also has a direct or powered combustion vent to prevent gas spillage.
Since both operations of the space and water heating system are separate, the functionality of one cannot be used to determine the other’s performance.
Also, the initial cost of this heater can be too much for some people.
Combined Space and Water Heating System with a Hydronic Boiler
Unlike the combi system, this unit comes with a hydronic boiler instead of a water heater and offers different configurations depending on the model. Some systems allow simultaneous heating of water and space, while others enable separate functions.
Also, it has a space-saving, compact design with built-in parts for outdoor reset control, auxiliary pump connections, and recirculation function, so you don’t need to buy and maintain various devices for each function.
This heating system is also known as combi-boilers or segregated heating systems; it directly draws the water from the mains to eliminate storage tanks’ need. The hydronic boiler is the heat source for this system, and a heat exchanger is used to transfer the energy to the water. Additionally, this unit features a flow control valve to maintain a constant temperature level of the water.
This user-friendly, compact, and energy-efficient system is designed to reduce the number of appliances used and the energy consumed. On top of that, you can get the latest combination boiler model with a tankless water heater design and full-energy saving power to stop unnecessary water heating when you are away, allowing you to bring down your power bills by 90%.
However, this system is not a practical option for large households with a high demand for warm water since there is no storage tank or back-up reservoir as the boiler is getting water directly from the mains, meaning it needs more time to heat the water.
Also, in some countries, some laws require you to have a double-wall heat exchanger to use such heating techniques. This ensures there is no cross-contamination between the water in the boiler heating loops and portable water.
We are at the end of the list, and by now, you probably have a good idea about the characteristics of different water heaters. Just keep in mind that now the only factors affecting your choice are the water heater cost and model.
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 Wilmette, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Exploring Different Types Of Water Heaters (Part-I)
Water heaters are a necessary appliance for homes if you want to maintain full-functionality and health during the winter cold.
If you think there might be even a slight hint of exaggeration in our statement, then try showering or doing the dishes in the cold with icy cold water. But aside from the obvious, there is another major advantage of water heaters – hot water can stop your pipes from freezing and bursting or a blockage from occurring in your plumbing due to the freezing temperatures.
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 Morton Grove, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Constant use can wear down your water heater, especially if it does not get proper maintenance, which is why you need to replace it after a few years.
When it comes down to getting a new water heater, there are so many options available in the market you can choose from. But instead of getting intimidated by the multitude of choices, it is best to first find out exactly what kind of water heater you want.
Tankless Water Heater (On-Demand Water Heater)
This type of water heater system functions without a tank. The unit has coils that heat the incoming water almost immediately, so you can access warm water on-demand without having to wait.
A tankless hot water heater is best for infrequent users or small families, as it helps them cut down on energy consumption. However, a larger water heater can raise your gas or electricity bills by a lot, although it is ideal for multiple users as hot water is available throughout the day.
Conventional Storage Tank Water Heater
Storage tank water heaters are common in homes. These reliable appliances can run on various fuel types. It has a tank to hold the water that needs to be heated. Therefore, the hot water tank’s size is critical to the functionality and overall efficiency it provides.
The unit typically has superior insulation that keeps the water warm even after the heater has been turned off. It has two valves, one to control temperature and the other to maintain pressure. The temperature valve opens when the water temperature reaches 120°F to release the heat so the temperature can be moderated. The pressure control valve opens to decrease the pressure once it reaches around 150 PSI.
Solar Powered Water Heater
Solar-powered water heaters are ideal for places with a warm and sunny climate so that the solar panels can get sufficient sunlight throughout the year. The energy stored in the solar cells will be transferred to a closed-loop system with a heat-conductive material (antifreeze fluid), which will warm up the water in the tank. However, you still need an alternative energy source, like electricity or gas, if you want your heater to work during the rainy, cloudy, or cold season.
This is an eco-friendly option that can drastically reduce your household’s carbon footprint and boost energy-efficiency by transforming around 80% of the radiation into heat energy.
Although a solar water heater is economical in the long-run, allowing you to save money on utility bills, the unit itself and its installation are costly. It may even take 20 to 30 years to yield a good return on your investment.
On the brighter side, in some countries, governments offer financial incentives to people using solar-powered water heaters, such as federal and state tax credits and utility rebates.
Condensing Water Heater
Condensing water heaters or condensing boilers are suitable for households that run on natural gas for power and require at least 55 gallons of hot water.
This unit has tank-like traditional boilers, so choose a unit with the capacity to meet your needs. There is a coil at the unit’s base, which is heated using the fumes from the condensing system that traps the hot exhaust gas expelled through the flue. Although this is a highly energy-efficient choice, its large size can pose a problem. Also, it can be utterly useless for homes that do not run on natural gas.
There are a few more types of water heaters that you can consider, which we will cover next week. So do not take any decision just yet. Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers expert plumbing services in Morton Grove, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Common HVAC Problems During The Winter
As the chilly winds start rolling in, marking the start of the winter, along with them come forth unique challenges that we must face to keep our homes warm and cozy. There are some problems with HVAC systems that arise exclusively due to the cold.
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Are you curious about what issues you are likely to encounter in the winter months? Do you want to know how exactly your HVAC system will start acting up? Have a look for yourself. Below we have listed a few common HVAC problems that arise during the winter season.
Frozen Pipes
Extreme cold and freezing temperatures can cause pipes and coils to freeze, which stops them from function properly. Your hydronic systems like steam radiators and hot water can fail as frozen water impedes the pipes’ flow. The heating can break down due to frozen pipes.
Frozen pipes can also burst due to pressure buildup, which will cause property damage and require plumbing repairs.
Uneven Heat Distribution
During winters, you may come to realize that some rooms of your home are colder than others due to uneven temperature and airflow.
If this happens, the first thing you need to do is to check for cracks, gaps, and opening in your floor, walls, doorways, and window sills to identify where the cold air is entering the room from and fill them up. If the problem is still there, check your ducts and vents for debris and blockages that might hinder the airflow, and clear them out.
Dirty Heater Filters
Overuse can cause your heaters’ filters to get clogged with dust, debris, and dirt, which hinders airflow, subsequently reducing the warmth inside your house unless the issue is with the motor or fan.
Clear any obstructions or blockages in or around the filter. And if your filter is permanently bent or discolored, then replace it with a new one for better functionality and performance.
Carbon Monoxide Leaks
Homes that have a gas heater are at constant risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that is impossible to detect as it is odorless and tasteless. Carbon monoxide leaks can occur due to cracked or rusted heaters, particularly a cracked heat exchanger present inside the heater.
Check the heat exchanger for defects, as well as your home’s ventilation. Inspect your top-range vent or chimney for obstructions that might not be letting this gas escape your home.
Faulty Pilot Light
Some heaters have a pilot light, which needs to be on for them to work. The pilot light is a small blue flame that needs to stay lit at all times for easier access to heat. But if it doesn’t burn brightly or fails to burn at all, then your home will be cold.
The most common reason for a faulty pilot light is a damaged or dirty flame sensor, so clean the sensor and ensure that the pilot light has a steady flame.
Broken Thermostat
The issue doesn’t always lie in an appliance’s hardware. There could be an issue with the thermostat, like faulty wiring that needs repair. If your thermostat cannot be repaired, then consider replacing it with a new one and calibrating it with the heater. A new or fixed thermostat will be able to control the air temperature better and boost energy efficiency.
Malfunctioning Heat Pump
If you rely on exterior heat pumps, you are in for a lot of problems. Other than common issues like a broken fan, icy winds and snowfall can also damage them, resulting in a poor performance in winters. Many heat pumps fail to defrost in the cold months, and for this appliance to work efficiently, its fan and coils need to be clear of frost.
Therefore, it is wiser to get a fixture with automatic defrost settings so the ice on your heat pump can melt away before a thick layer can form, which will be harder to melt. If your heat pump’s defrost settings do not work, you need to remove the frost buildup manually.
Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers expert plumbing services in Northbrook, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Winter season creates innumerable challenges for property managers and owners who have to protect their property against weather damage of all kinds.
One common example of property damage during the cold months is ruptured pipes coupled with the resulting water damage. Frozen and bursting pipes is an expensive cause of frustration for people who have to pay thousands of dollars for repair.
Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers expert plumbing services in Northbrook, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Costly repairs can be avoided by merely undertaking a few steps to ensure that your pipes do not freeze even in the harshest of winters. If you want to find out what they are, just keep reading.
Keep The Heating Constant
If you are leaving for a long time, then do not switch off the heating. Freezing and bursting pipes can cause a lot more damage to your property and possessions as compared to what you will have to pay for heating in your utility bills.
You do not have to keep the heat on high; just maintain the temperature to keep the pipes warms, so the water inside them does not freeze. 50°F is fine.
Open The Interior Doors
Pipes are often kept inside cabinets, so when the temperatures drop, it is good to keep the cabinet doors open so the heat from inside the house can warm up the plumbing pipes and prevent them from freezing.
In fact, keep all doors inside the house open so the heat can warm up all corners of the house.
Also, if you have your plumbing pipes in the attached garage, then consider doing the same. Keep the connecting door between the garage and the house open to allow the heat to pass through and heat the garage. This will also be good for your vehicle. Just be sure that no heat escapes outside from the garage.
Add Extra Insulation
Pipes present in the basement or attic do not have proper insulation, which may lead to freezing. So add extra insulation to avoid ice blockages and bursting pipes, as insulation keeps a pipe at a temperature closer to that of water inside it.
However, it does not have any heating properties, so it cannot prevent freezing if the pipe is exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Fiberglass or foam rubber sleeves can be fitted on the pipes to decrease the chances of freezing. Insulation sleeves are an easy solution for exposed pipes, but they can be costly if the pipes you want to insulate are located inside the walls, floor, or ceiling.
Additional insulation can be added to the ceiling and walls to keep the pipes warm during winters.
Apply Heating Tape
Heating tape is like an electric blanket for pipes. It supplies heat directly to the pipes to keep them warm. A heating tape can be a good solution if there are short sections of pipe (easily accessible) that are at high risk for freezing. You can install the heating tape and monitor for issues as it can be as dangerous as a space heater.
Two types of heating tapes are available in the market – automatic and manual. The automatic one turns on and off by itself after sensing the temperature to determine if the pipes need heat. The manual heating tape needs to be plugged in and out depending on when you think the pipes need heating as there is no on/off switch on it.
Let The Faucet Drip
If you think your pipe will freeze, just slightly open the faucet fed attached to that pipe so it can drip. If the faucet is linked to both hot and cold water pipes, then slightly open both faucet taps, or set a single-handle faucet to warm.
Leaving the faucet to be open so it can drip relieves the pressure in the plumbing system. So if a pipe freezes, it does not burst due to the pressure created between the blockage and the faucet.
Seal Cracks And Holes
Seal gaps and cracks around holes where the pipes run through the floor or walls to avoid freezing cold air from entering.
You can use spray foam or caulk insulation to seal the gaps, if possible, on both the interior and exterior side of the floor or wall, as the cold outdoor air that gets inside can make a cabinet compartment much colder than it already is.
Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company that provides expert services to residential and commercial projects in Northbrook, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Unless there’s indoor flooding, property owners tend to put off plumbing maintenance.
They forget repairing a plumbing issue like a clogged drain pipe to save money or simply because they deem it unnecessary.
But you need to hire licensed plumbing professionals at least twice a year for drain and sewer cleaning and maintenance. This is necessary to fix plumbing issues before they escalate and become dangerous and costly.
Homes and businesses in Northbrook, IL, and the surrounding areas can partner with Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. to keep their indoor plumbing in excellent condition. Click here to get a free estimate.
Here we list the top 6 reasons you should give your property a professional plumbing service twice a year.
1. Save Money
Sounds counter-intuitive, but hiring professional plumbers will help you mitigate maintenance and repair costs in the long run.
You may save a few hundred dollars by skipping your quarterly or annual plumbing maintenance. But eventually, you will have to pay thousands of dollars in costly repairs and replacements.
Moreover, the cost of poorly maintained drainage also extends to property damage and higher monthly utility bills. But you can save these hefty expenses by investing in professional plumbing services.
2. Save Time
This follows from what we discussed above. By handling small repairs proactively, you can avoid time-consuming replacements.
Let’s say that pipes in your basement crack and cause flooding. At this point, you will not only have to get new pipes installed but also clear out the flooded water.
As you can see, replacing pipes is a tedious process. For commercial property owners, this also amounts to lost business hours.
3. Maintain Water Quality
You simply can’t compromise on water quality. Even if the water isn’t potable, it should still be safe for washing clothes and bathroom use.
And this is another reason why you need drain and sewer cleaning a couple of times a year.
Otherwise, you’ll have to shower and brush your teeth with rusty and lead-based water!
4. Maintain Hygiene
Besides providing clean water, well-maintained indoor plumbing also keeps your home or business hygienic and improves air quality inside the building. Properly maintained drains and pipes prevent water leaks, which in turn avoid the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria.
5. Enhance Safety
The quality of plumbing also has a safety aspect. As already mentioned, it is possible to experience minor flooding due to faulty plumbing. Other potential hazards include:
- Backed-up sewage disposal
- Overflowing toilets
- Dirty or contaminated water
- Malfunctioned appliances
In some cases, you may also face a water shortage in your home because of rusty, clogged, or broken plumbing.
6. Benefit From Experience & Expertise
Finally, while property owners would like to handle plumbing jobs on their own, it’s always best to leave it to professionals. Drainage plumbers bring years of experience and the right expertise to handle each project.
That’s about it!
Homeowners and commercial property managers in Northbrook, IL, and the surrounding areas can always reach out to Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. for licensed and insured professional services. Click here for free estimates.


