Maintaining your plumbing in Lake Zurich can be hard work, especially when it comes to stubborn clogs. While some clogs are an easy fix thanks to a plunger or drain cleaner, other clogs are hidden deep in your home’s plumbing or main sewer line. Unfortunately, not every clog can be fixed on your own. For the more intense clogs, you’ll need professional help. While a plumber may suggest a few different tricks, water jetting by Lake Cook is your best bet for a quick and painless solution to your drainage clog. 

Why Water Jetting Benefits Your Plumbing

Clogs are a common plumbing problem and, if left untreated, they can cause severe damage to your system. Debris can still accumulate inside your pipes, no matter how well-maintained and accidents will happen from time to time. That’s why you want to use the best method when it comes to cleaning and clearing your drains and plumbing. While it may be tempting to use other methods such as a snake or drain cleaner, they’re not as safe or effective as water jetting. Clean plumbing that’s clear of clogs is a priority all homeowners should strive for. Here’s how water jetting can help:

• It’s effective at cleaning and clearing pipes. Water jetting uses a high-pressure hose to blast water through your plumbing lines. The combination of high-pressure and water makes for a very effective method at cleaning and clearing any obstructions inside your pipes without causing damages. While other methods such as snaking, may remove the obstruction, water jetting fully removes everything out of the line.

• It saves you money. While it may cost more money to water jet your plumbing versus other methods, it saves you costs further down the road. Clean and clear plumbing can help prevent other plumbing issues as well such as a cracked pipe or leak, which can be costly to repair.

• It’s a clean plumbing method. Your plumbing and sewer line are full of toxic contaminants and the more time your plumber spends on your plumbing, the more there’s a chance of coming into contact with them. Water jetting is fast and effective, which means less time the plumber has contact with the sewage inside your plumbing. Water jetting also spares you and your plumber the trouble of digging underground or cutting your walls to access your home’s plumbing.

• It’s good for the environment. Unlike chemical drain cleaners, which can be an easy fix but are very toxic, water jetting is just highly pressurized water. When using a water jet to remove any clogs, the only things that gets flushed down the pipes are water and whatever is clogging the pipe.

• It can prevent future problems. Since water jetting thoroughly cleans and clears your plumbing, it can prevent future clogs and other plumbing problems for a longer period of time than other methods. Since plumbers usually do a camera inspection before they water jet your plumbing, they can detect and treat other potential problems before they get worse.

Call Lake Cook Plumbing today & start learning more about your plumbing system!

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By zachadmachinescom

When buying any product, you want to stop and consider brands. While products are generally all the same in their major functions, different brands prioritize different design philosophies and usually end up offering different benefits based on the brand you choose. Water heater brands are no different. Different products have different pros and cons that you, the consumer, need to weigh before deciding which heater you want to have in your home. 

Navien

A long time player in the water heater space, Navien offers some of the most popular tankless water heaters on the market today. Navien prioritizes efficiency in their tankless products, and because tankless models are generally more efficient than their tanked counterparts, they put all of their energy into making sure their offerings are the absolute cream of the crop. Navien offers both condensing and non-condensing tankless models. Condensing heaters use exhaust gasses to contribute to heating. These are more efficient than non-condensing models for this reason. Non-condensing water heaters vent the exhaust gasses outside, which reduces corrosion. Many homeowners are concerned about the switch over to tankless, but a Navien heater will be sure to put their fears to ease. 

Bradford White 

Founded all the way back in 1881, Bradford White is the oldest water heater provider in America. And when you look at their offerings, it’s not hard to see why. They offer a wide variety of tankless and tank units all outfitted with excellent warranties including five and 15 year offers for various parts and components. BEcause of their experience in the industry, they’ve also perfected their tank units to be just as efficient as a tankless product.

Rinnai 

Starting in Japan back in the 20’s Rinnai provided excellent service internationally for 50 years before finally opening an office right here in california back in the 70’s. Like other companies, Rinnai values efficiency in their products, but unlike the competition, they have a specialization in hybrid model heaters. Hybrid models offer a traditional storage tank but use a heat pump to warm the water as it flows through the system. They also have a focus on affordability, so they are especially enticing for homeowners looking for high quality products on a budget. 

Rheem

Rheem is a local company. Started in 1925 by two brothers, Rheem is based out of Emeryville, California. Diversity is the name of the game with this provider: heating, cooling, water heating, pool and spa heating, and commercial refrigeration, Rheem just about does it all. If you have some sort of temperature control needed in your home, Rheem probably has you covered. They also offer the most extensive warranties, making them the go-to choice for homeowners looking to ensure their water heater works in tip-top shape for years to come. 

Kenmore

“But they just make appliances!” No! They do more than just blenders and fridges. In recent years, they broke into the water heater game offering affordable, varied products in addition to their more traditional, home appliance products. 

There are a lot of options out there for water heater brands, and picking the best one is important to ensure the optimal outcomes for your water heating endeavors. If you’re not sure which to pick, it’s always best to call your trusted local plumber and ask some questions. We’re always here and happy to help!

Call Lake Cook Plumbing today & start learning more about your plumbing system!

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By zachadmachinescom

A dreaded question that few consider the answer to until they find themselves high and dry; literally. There are a few common reasons why people find themselves without hot water, and if you are sure you’re up to date on your bills, most of them have to do with your water heater. Here are some common reasons your water heater isn’t working and some quick ways to help resolve your issue. 

No Hot Water 

If you have no hot water whatsoever, that’s cause for some alarm. After all, your water heater’s one and only function is to provide you with hot water. Before you call up a professional, the first thing you’ll want to do is check the pilot light. You can typically locate the light at the base of the water heater. If the light is out, your next move should be to call up a professional plumber to get you back on track. 

You Don’t Have Enough Hot Water

Maybe you have some hot water but not enough to suit your needs. We’ve all taken those nice warm showers that turn into frigid nightmares because the hot water fails on you. In cases like these, there are one of two culprits, the first of which is a broken thermometer. This is a very easy fix for any water heater professional can patch up. The other possibility is that your current heater is unable to match your hot water needs. This can be because your household has grown in size, your hot water usage has increased, or the equipment’s effectiveness has been curbed in old age. In this instance, increasing your tank size may be the optimal solution to getting hotter water.

Your Heater is Leaking 

Of all the issues you could have with your heater, this is probably the worst. A leak is a sure fire sign that your water heater is on its way out and you’re due for a replacement, and heaters can be some expensive pieces of equipment. Sadly there’s not much to be done about a heater that’s so far gone that it sprung a serious leak, and you need to act quickly before the leak turns into a burst that floods your home with gallons of water. The team at Lake Cook can walk you through the process of finding a new heater to last you for years to come. 

Call Lake Cook Plumbing today & start learning more about your plumbing system!

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By zachadmachinescom

Your plumbing is something you tend to take for granted – until something goes wrong. When that happens, you realize just how dependent you are upon properly performing plumbing. It is more than a little inconvenient when your toilet won’t flush or you turn on your faucet and only a trickle comes out, but your basement is flooded because a pipe rusted through. Emergencies such as these can be avoided for the most part if you spend time conducting regular plumbing inspections. Just as a car only performs well with regular maintenance, so it is with your plumbing. Neglecting your plumbing can lead to some serious complications over time, complications that can cost you a great deal of money.

The Effects of Neglect

Other than a non-working toilet and flooded basement, neglecting to have regular plumbing check-ups can see you:

• Frequent drain clogs
• Reduced lifespan of plumbing fixtures
• No hot water
• Frequent pipe leaks
• Higher costs on utility bills
• Higher risk of frozen or burst pipes
• Greater in-home discomfort

Benefits of Regular Maintenance

On the other hand, if you take a few minutes on a regular basis to go through and check on the health of your plumbing, you will realize a great many benefits, including:

• Improved plumbing fixture lifespan
• Lower costs on utility bills
• Reduced risk of water damage
• Greater convenience around the house
• Hot water 24/7 for showering, laundry, dishwashing, etc.
• Improved water quality
• Better peace of mind

What to Look For

Now that you know the importance of regular plumbing inspections, you probably want to know exactly what you need to check, and if you will know when something needs to be fixed. A general inspection is easy to do and we will tell you what needs checking and what you are looking for. As for repairs, it is best to leave most plumbing repairs to professionals as one wrong move can end up creating a lot of damage. Taking the time to perform an inspection, however, is something that you will become proficient at over a short period of time.  Include the following in your inspection:

1. Check water heaters for any leaks – Look for signs of damp concrete or puddles beneath the tank.
2. Testing shut-off and pressure relief valve on water heaters – Turn this off and then on and make sure it is operating as it should. Operation should be smooth and without sound and reaction should be immediate.
3. Check electrical or gas valve connections on water heaters – A short in the electrical unit or a leak in the gas valve connections can not only cost money but also create a fire risk.
4. Inspect plumbing fixtures leaks or damages – check for drips on the floor, signs of leaking in walls and any moisture on pipes. All of these can indicate there is a leak somewhere. Small drips become major leaks if not repaired.
5. Be alert of any slow drainage from fixtures – This indicates there is a clog somewhere in the system. Water should flow freely and quickly.
6. Check faucets for leaks. – Washers wear out and seals get broken. The little drip that may appear barely noticeable can add up to hundreds of dollars in wasted water over time. 
7. Test flushing on toilets for leaks. – Your toilet should only run long enough for the tank to refill when you flush the toilet. If your toilet runs continuously or seems to run at odd times between use, it can mean the seal inside needs replaced.
8. Check or install water softening systems – Hard water not only leaves stains but it also causes build-up within your pipes that will slowly rust them from the inside out. Installing a water softening system takes care of both problems.
9. Check or install water filtration  – Chemicals added to water to clean it can cause problems with build-up within pipes. A water filtration system will help eliminate the worst of the damage in the areas around the spigot and in such appliances as dishwashers and washing machines.
10. Ensure piping is insulated and leak free – A frozen pipe can burst as it warms back up. The constant expanding/contracting of repeated freezing/thawing weakens the pipe, and all the pipes connected to it. Install special pipe insulation around all pipes and check regularly to make sure it remains free of tears and holes.

Run through this general inspection twice a year and you should be able to catch any minor problems before they become major ones. It is also recommended that once a year you have a professional come in and inspect the parts of your system you can’t. With regular maintenance, you won’t have to worry about being left high and dry at the worst possible moment.

Call Lake Cook Plumbing today & schedule a home plumbing inspection!

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By zachadmachinescom

10 Types of Piping Found in a Home’s Plumbing System

As a homeowner, you need to know what’s going on inside your walls and under your floorboards. Knowing is half the battle, as once you know, you can act, making the important repairs and installations that you need to make in order to bring your home up to your standards. Here’s what you need to know about the different types of plumbing pipes you’re likely to find in your home

1. PB (Plastic Polybutylene)

Polybutylene, or PB piping, was commonly used from the late 1970’s into the mid 1990’s. These pipes were low cost and easy to install, making them very popular, especially throughout the 1980’s. 

Underground main lines are usually blue, but the pipes can also be black or gray. It’s usually about a half inch or an inch in diameter. The problem with PB is that, after so many years of use, the chlorine in tap water may cause the piping to flake and scale. PB is best replaced before it falls apart, but it does not pose an immediate danger like some other outdated plumbing materials might

2. Plastic Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC)

CPVC is difficult to tell apart from PVC, and in many respects, it is functionally the same material. They are not identical, however. PVC piping will usually start to soften and weaken at the joints above 140 degrees Fahrenheit, whereas CPVC can handle temperatures exceeding 200 degrees with ease. CPVC tends to be more common in commercial building projects. CPVC is a great choice for your home, but note that you generally will not want to connect PVC to CPVC, rather, you will want to choose one or the other.

3. Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS)

Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene, or ABS pipes, can be identified by a dark, almost metallic appearance. They are very similar to PVC in most respects, but they tend to weather the sun poorly, so they are not recommended for outdoor application. They are known to be easier to install than PVC, and are often used as an alternative where metal piping might be considered.

4. High density polyethylene (HDPE)

Also known as alkathene or polythene, HDPE or High Density Polyethylene pipes are popular for their high strength-to-density ratio. This black, plastic piping can be used for potable water, but is more often used to distribute gas, oil, wastewater, and chemicals in industrial settings than it is used in residential housing.

5. Cross linked polyethylene (PEX)

Often used as an alternative to copper, PEX, or cross-linked Polyethylene typing, costs about a third of copper, won’t corrode, and is fast and easy to install. PEX can be identified by its bright blue or red color, and is frequently used to insulate electric wiring.

6. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Polyvinyl Chloride, or PVC, is perhaps the most popular form of piping used for plumbing in residential buildings. It is easily recognized by its white plastic appearance. If your home was built in the last ten, twenty years, then chances are that you’re looking at PVC pipes. A common replacement for metal piping, PVC is incredibly strong for its low cost, durable, and easy to install, with no real downsides to speak of

7. Copper

Copper pipes are still used in some homes. They’re fairly easy to identify: If you’ve seen copper before, imagine pipes made out of it. They do not pose any serious health risks, they tend to be durable and safe, but their inflexibility makes them difficult to install, and they are quite expensive in comparison to plastic, so they tend to be less common in new homes

8. Cast Iron

Cast iron pipes have been popular in the past as an option for distributing wastewater, pressurized gasses, oil and so on. They look just like a cast iron skillet you would use for cooking: Black, heavy, and metallic. If you have any cast iron pipes in your home, you would be advised to replace them as soon as possible. They are prone to corrosion, and, in many instances, impossible to repair and replace.

9. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel tends to have a clean, shiny metallic appearance. It may be your best bet if you insist on metallic pipes, being much more durable, but stainless steel is prone to corrosion, it’s expensive, and it’s difficult to install.

10. Galvanized steel

If you have galvanized steel pipes, have them replaced as soon as possible. Galvanized pipes are steel covered in a layer of zinc. The zinc erodes over the years, causing buildup which can completely clog your pipes. Not to mention, you’re drinking and showering in zinc, and you may wind up drinking lead, as well. Galvanized steel pipes look like normal steel, except with a chalky layer of zinc on the surface. You can identify an eroded galvanized pipe by the rusty color of the water coming out of your tap

Outdated pipes aren’t always dangerous, but they can be. PB, for instance, may fail at any given moment, but it probably won’t put you in the hospital. If you have galvanized steel pipes, replace them as soon as possible. Beyond safety concerns, the “best pipe” may simply be a matter of personal preference.

Call Lake Cook Plumbing today & start learning more about your plumbing system!

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By zachadmachinescom

It’s tempting to dump household wastes down the drain. Sure, it would be so easy to just pour that used motor oil down the sink. But, in the end, the convenience will cost you. Discarding some types of waste in your toilets, garbage disposal and sinks can damage your plumbing system. And fixing that damage gets expensive very quickly. Don’t believe us? Flush things that aren’t meant to be flushed and you could have a backup or overflow on your hands. Washing items or liquids down a sink can have similar consequences in the form of slow, clogged drains.

Even your garbage disposal is not immune. Just because the disposal is capable of chewing up food waste doesn’t mean it can handle anything. There are limits to your garbage disposal’s capabilities, and trying to dispose of items improperly can damage your disposal but cause costly backups and clogs.

Here’s a look at 10 common household products that should never be flushed or washed down a drain.

1. Disposable Diapers and Sanitary Napkins.

Never flush a disposable diaper or sanitary napkin down the toilet. These items are simply too big for your plumbing system’s pipes to move. They frequently become stuck and can’t be dislodged with a plunger. In many cases, you’ll need a professional to fully disassemble your pipes and remove the item. This sometimes entails digging up buried pipes in your yard which not only destroys your lawn, but also costs a pretty penny.

2. Hair and Dental Floss

Some hair will go down the drain. It’s inevitable. And our plumbing systems can handle small amounts of hair here and there. But don’t clean out your hairbrush and dispose of the wad of hair in the drain. And never put dental floss in the toilet or sink. These stringy items will eventually get tangled together and create a clog that no amount of chemical drain opener will clear.

3. Cooking Fats, Oils and Grease (FOGs)

After cooking a delicious pound of bacon, you’ve got a lot of grease left over. Just dump it down the sink, right?  Wrong. Dumping grease and/or cooking oil is a surefire way to damage your drains. When you pour any sort of grease down the drain, it congeals as it cools. That means you’ll have a greasy lining on your pipes which slows the rate of water and potentially causes clogged drains. Plus, when FOGs are introduced to public sewer systems, they mix with solid particulates. This damages public infrastructure and makes it more expensive to treat wastewater.

4. Paper Towels, Cotton Balls and Swabs

Unlike toilet paper, paper towels, cotton balls, and cotton swabs are not designed to disintegrate in water. Plus, they’re absorbent which means they actually get heavier and harder to move once they’re wet. Flushing them down the toilet will block up plumbing lines and/or lead to problems with septic systems. Not only is it an expensive problem to fix, but it’s also pretty disgusting.

5. Automotive Fluids like Motor Oil, Transmission Fluid and Antifreeze

Automotive fluids, including windshield cleaner, can easily enter streams, lakes, and rivers when dumped down a drain. Once these chemicals enter these waterways,  they’re incredibly harmful to the wildlife in those ecosystems. Instead of pouring these chemicals out, transfer these fluids to an old bottle or jar and dispose of them properly.

6. Medication

Whether an over-the-counter or a prescription, never flush medications down the toilet or pour them down a sink drain. Public water filtration systems cannot remove medications from the water. This means that those chemicals can be transferred to your community’s tap water.

7. Coffee Grounds

Don’t ever put coffee grounds down the sink or garbage disposal unless you want clogged plumbing. Any plumber will tell you coffee grounds are one of the most common culprits for clogged pipes.

8. Egg Shells, Bones, or Foods with Hard Edges

Even though your garbage disposal is capable of chewing up egg shells and small bones from poultry or fish, you still should refrain from testing it for yourself. They are known to damage the disposal and clog up your drains. Always throw them in the trash.

9. Stickers and Band-Aids

Anything with adhesive can cause problems or your plumbing system. Even those little stickers that come on produce can collect in your plumbing system’s pipes and create clogs and blockages.  Therefore, never flush a Band-Aid and keep stickers from going down the drain as well.

10. Tampons and Flushable Wipes

The package says they’re flushable, but tampons and personal wipes shouldn’t be flushed under any circumstance. They can clog your plumbing lines and they cause problems for public sewer systems. When mixed with FOGs, these items can create giant masses that block public sewer lines causing backups.

While these things may seem like mild inconveniences for the homeowner, the expenses can certainly add up. Whether you pay a plumber to fix the problem or have the costs passed on to you through your utility bill, you will end up paying for putting the wrong types of items down the drains. The easiest fix is to not let these problems take root in the first place. Call the professionals today before the problem gets out of hand. Your bank account will appreciate it. 

Call Lake Cook Plumbing to keep your drains in tip-top shape!

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By zachadmachinescom