Author Archives: Emergency Sewer and Drain Experts

There are many mysteries with the bathtub and all those components of the bathtub, and there are many questions too. Like if the bathtub drain can’t be unclogged, “can bathtub drain be replaced? and others that will educate and inform a homeowner that isn’t knowledgeable in plumbing matters.

How do bathtub drains work?

There are two legs to a bathtub drain, one being the main drain and one being the overflow drain.  It keeps water from draining in two ways: pop-up drains work by a linkage forcing a rocker arm to move the drain stopper down and up. Then there is the hollow plunger-type internally that slides down and up inside the assembly and seal the opening.

Do you need an overflow on a bath?

For your homeowner’s insurance, they may require you to have an overflow on your bathtub. So, do you “need” an overflow on your bathtub? Not really, but if you have children in the house, or you’re one to fall asleep while soaking in the bathtub while the water is running, then it would be a good idea.

Does a bathtub need a vent?

Every shower, sink, toilet, and especially the bathtub needs a vent. Each of these carry water out and toward the sewage treatment. Without a vent or an improperly installed vent, you could experience any of these things:

• Slow draining
• Gurgling noises
• Sewer smell
• Methane gas smell

Not only is having a vent necessary, but the size of the vent is important. For example, sinks need vent pipe size between 1-1/4″ to 1-1/2″, with most professional plumbers using the 1-1/2” size because it is less expensive. It isn’t necessary to install a vent on each fixture like the bathtub, sink, or shower. Sometimes, venting can be combined when using a wet vent installation process.

Vent location also matters in proper drainage. For example, the vent for a 1-1/2” sink drain cannot be any further than 5 feet away from the trap, nor can there be any bends in the pipe more than 135 degrees. Toilet vents can be up to 10 feet away with a 225-degree bend before the vent.

How do you fix a slow draining tub?

When the bathtub drain is slow or isn’t draining at all, there could be two reasons. A common problem is dirt and other things have accumulated in the drainpipe.  A professional plumber will open that drain, but it isn’t always necessary. Here are a few DIY things you can try before calling the plumber:

1. Pour a half a cup of baking soda, then 1 cup white vinegar into the drain, then let that sit for 5 minutes. You may see it foaming, don’t panic That’s a sign that it is cleaning and deodorizing while loosening minor blockages. After that 5 minutes, run hot water in the bathtub drain for 30 seconds and if it is still draining slow, try the next step.
2. Using a basic household plunger, place the head of over the bathtub drain and plunge 4 to 5 times, then run hot water in the drain. If the drain is still slow, repeat the plunging process 2 or 3 more times to clear the blockage. If that doesn’t work, try the next step.
3. If the above actions did not open the drain, you may have a heavier blockage that needs more help. Purchase a household plumbing snake from the local retail store. Remove the cover from the drain, some will lift out and others require you to remove 2 screws from the overflow panel.

With disposable or rubber glove on your hands, push the plumbing snake down the drain opening or through the overflow opening. Pushing until you feel it hit the blockage, then vigorously push and pull vigorously until the blockage breaks free. Then put the drain cover or the overflow panel back together.

If none of these steps work, or you aren’t comfortable doing this yourself, call an experienced local plumber. They will have the experience, expertise, and equipment to get your bathtub drain clearing again.

Your bathroom is you and your family use the one-room every day. Having all the components working properly is more than just a convenience. It is better for your home and the plumbing system. To get quality plumbing for your bathtub, call 708-934-4115 today!

How Much Does it Cost to Put New Plumbing in a House?

Rough-in plumbing is the name for plumbing where all water supply and drain pipes have been run through holes in the studs of a home. Other framing members and pipe connections have been matched and made. The cost of rough-in plumbing ranges from $8,000 to $12,000. Repiping a home is less expensive. Repiping a home can vary between $3,100 to $5,500. 

What is the Purpose of Plumbing?

Plumbing is a process wherein pipes, valves, plumbing fixtures, and tanks are connected and adjoined to fixtures in a property. These plumbing apparatuses allow sanitation to occur. Inhabitants of a property can take showers, wash their hands, wash their laundry, and more. Untreated human waste and fecal matter can cause serious problems for human health, which is why it is critical for plumbing to exist.

How Does Home Plumbing Work?

The home has two distinct subsystems. The first is the home water supply. Freshwater must be funneled into the house from a water source. This water source could be a local well or the local water supply. The other subsystem is the drainage system. This system takes all the untreated waste from the home and directs it into septic or to the main sewage line that runs through the area. These two distinct plumbing subsystems must never meet. From these subsystems, plumbing fixtures either funnel waste in or bring fresh water out. A bathroom faucet, for instance, will distribute freshwater while a toilet will funnel waste away.

Why do Plumbers Use Copper Pipes?

Copper is an extraordinary metal. It is one of the most commonly used materials for pipelines in both North America and Europe. Copper is not only durable and recyclable, but it also will not deplete current copper supplies. This metal has a lower impact on the environment than, for instance, PVC. Homeowners should be aware that while the initial cost for copper water pipes is higher, it does make for a very high return on investment.

What Size Pipe for Residential Plumbing

In most cases, the main pipeline from the street to the home requires either a ¾ in or one inch in diameter pipe. There are two different sizes of pipe. Supply branches of pipeline use ¾ inch pipe and pipes for specific components measure ½ inch.

How to Design Residential Plumbing

The choices that a designer or plumber makes when sketching out your plumbing system can have long-term effects for your home. Streamlined plumbing designs will make efficient and effective use of water and energy sources. There should be short runs between plumbing fixtures, and good materials must be used. If your residential plumbing was improperly designed or installed, you may have serious water damage problems. Water damage can quickly lead to mold and mildew. Please consult a public adjuster for mold and water damage claims so that you can receive the best help for your plumbing system.

Residential Plumbing vs Commercial

There are many differences in commercial and residential plumbing systems. Please read over the following bullet points to learn more!

• The size of the property. Most plumbers agree that the biggest difference between commercial and residential plumbing is the sheer size of the property. A mall, for instance, requires a far larger and more sophisticated plumbing system than a three-bedroom home.
• More than two stories. Most residential homes don’t have more than two or three stories. That requires far less plumbing than, in comparison, an apartment building. 
• Complex problems require complex solutions. On a commercial property, a wide diversity of plumbing issues can be presented. With residential properties, the problems are fairly mundane and routine.

Our company can help you with your residential plumbing. Our staff at Emergency Sewer and Drain Experts are ready to take your phone call at 708-934-4115. Discover more about what our exceptional residential plumbing in Oak Park, Il can do for your home!

Gas leaks are extremely dangerous and need to be repaired as soon as possible. To tell if you have a gas leak in the house, stay alert to these signs:

• Rotten egg smell: Natural gas is odorless. Gas companies combine it with the chemical mercaptan, which gives off the rotten egg odor so the gas can be detected.
• Dead plants: If you notice dead plants inside or outside of your some, it’s possible you have a gas leak.
• Feeling unwell: Gas leaks may cause sensations of nausea or dizziness, headaches or trouble breathing, memory loss or drowsiness or irritated eyes or throat.
• Orange rather than blue flames: Flames on properly functioning appliances like gas stoves should be blue. If they are orange or yellow, it’s likely a gas leak.
• Bubbles in water near gas line: If you see bubbles in any water near gas lines, the gas could be leaking into it.
• Hissing: If you hear hissing noises it’s possible there’s a gas leak in the gas lines.

If you expect a gas leak is present, you should call a gas-line licensed master plumber for gas line repair. Call 708-934-4115 to get immediate help from the team at Emergency Sewer and Drain Experts when there is a gas leak.   

Who fixes gas leaks?

Because of the real danger of explosion, if you have a gas leak, it’s best never to attempt fixing gas lines yourself. In many cases it’s actually illegal for an unlicensed individual to fix a gas line. When you have a leak and need gas line repair, you should hire a gas-line certified master plumber. A professional gas plumber is well trained to repair, as well as install, gas lines. Gas line plumbers, like those at Emergency Sewer and Drain Experts, are also insured. 

Although gas companies have trained technicians to repair gas lines, they will rarely repair leaks on meters that do not belong to them.

If you suspect you have a gas leak, open the doors and windows to air the home out, and to turn off your gas appliances. Before you call one of our plumbers, you’ll want to call either the gas company or fire department to shut off the gas flow to the house. Once the gas is shut off the plumber can safely go inside the house to make the gas line repair.

How do they fix a gas leak?

Before a gas line repair is made, the gas must be shut off, and the source of the leak must be found. Once the source of the leak is found, the outer covers of the gas line are removed to expose the gas pipes and the lines are detached. Residue is cleaned from the lines and pipes and then the line is usually replaced. 

How do plumbers find gas leaks?

Once the plumber arrives to make the gas line repair, they will ask some basic questions to narrow down where the leak is coming from. The plumber will then test the gas lines to find the leak. An air pressure test could be applied. One of the most common tests is the soap solution test in which the plumber soaps down exposed fittings for a bubble test. If the soap bubbles at the fitting, the leak has been located. In some cases the lines in the walls may need to be accessed or the plumber may need to excavate underground lines. 

If repair work requires us locate a leak behind a wall, you may need to perform interior wall repair, and possibly exterior siding repair, after the line has been fixed. 

How much does it cost to repair a gas line?

Costs for gas line repair will vary, depending on the severity of the leak. The average cost ranges between $120 to $1,300. In most cases gas lines are usually replaced. Much of the cost will depend on the labor charges and the materials used. The costs to run gas lines to house averages about $500. It cost between $15 to $25 per linear foot for a gas line, depending on the materials and labor. If you need gas lines repaired in Oak Park, Il we are the affordable company you can rely on.

Plumbing Maintenance Tips

Preventative maintenance is one of the most cost-effective ways homeowners can maximize the life of their plumbing system. Here is a list of plumbing maintenance tips that can help homeowners increase efficiency for their pipelines.

• Fix leaking faucets and showerheads. If even one faucet or showerhead is dripping, water and money are going down the drain. By addressing these water fixtures, homeowners can keep money in their wallets.
• Check the water pressure. One of the most important aspects of the plumbing systems is the amount of water pressure. The difference between a strong, relaxing shower and a shower with low water pressure is immense. If the water pressure is too high, it could have a devastating impact on fragile pipelines.
• Unclog slow drains. Clogged drains present a serious problem. Using a homemade mixture of vinegar and hot water will greatly assist with deteriorating the source of the clog. This is a preventative measure that can be repeated every few months.
• Drain your water heater. Drain your water heater periodically to remove any accumulated sediment. This procedure can be done twice a year. This is a process almost universally recommended by plumbers.

Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

If a homeowner has recently hired a plumber to perform a maintenance check on their plumbing system, it stands to reason that a checklist would benefit both the homeowner and the plumber. Plumbing maintenance checklists can help ensure that the entirety of the system is inspected properly and that no fixture, pipe, or individual sink is missed. Active leaks, signs of corrosion, water pressure, and valve testing should be part of this checklist. Drains represent an important part of the inspection, and each bathtub, shower, and sink needs to be inspected. Before the plumber leaves, make sure that he or she checks out the water heater and the backflow.

What is Maintenance Plumbing?

Maintenance plumbing performs an important service in the household. Having access to clean water should not be a luxury, and can be available on hand through the application of proper plumbing maintenance. The procedure of maintenance plumbing can best be summarized as contracting a local, trusted plumbing company to survey all the applicable plumbing structures in a home. The report that the plumber comes back with should be thorough, with a list of concerns, and areas for improvement. Homeowners need to protect their biggest investment – their home. This is why plumbing maintenance is crucial.

Plumbing Maintenance Cost

Some plumbing inspections include actual plumbing repairs, as there may be a continual plumbing issue that has not yet been addressed. Averages vary. The cost of a plumber ranges from $175 to $450 for a typical plumbing job. The average cost per hour ranges from $45 to $200. This fee can include repairing faucets, toilets, sinks, or bathtubs. Depending on the job, some plumbers charge a flat rate or service fee of $300 on average.

How Do You Know if Something is Wrong with Plumbing?

There are a number of different ways for property owners to evaluate whether something is wrong with their pipe system. For one, odd sounds coming from the faucets are certainly cause for concern. Low water pressure and unpleasant sounds coming from the drains can also result from a clog or pipe corrosion. Sluggish drains and stains or damaged walls from a plumbing leak are inevitable signs of a rather severe plumbing problem. Water damage can be detrimental to the state of a home, which is why it’s important for all plumbing systems to operate effectively and smoothly.

Roofs are just as important as plumbing systems. When storms arrive at a homeowner’s doorstep, it’s important to select a professional roofing company for your storm damage roof repair.

Maintenance Plumbing Needed

Plumbing services serve an important function in the home. While it is true that the pipes and drains of a plumbing system are designed to be highly durable, it is also true that they must receive regular care in order to function properly. Contacting an excellent local plumbing company is a great first step for homeowners. Plumbing maintenance involves more than just checking to see if pipes are struggling. On the contrary, maintenance checks also include checking large appliances such as dishwashers and laundry machines. If a plumber happens to spot a leak during the process, it’s an excellent sign that a small investment in plumbing maintenance indeed pays off.

Why Do You Need a Plumber?

To begin with, not all plumbers are created equal. It requires a great deal of experience, knowledge, and craftsmanship to become a master plumber. A master plumber may be designated as such after apprenticeship and years of experience, including varying certifications (dependent upon the state). Even after a master plumber has been secured, it’s always nice for homeowners to know that they have one who is willing to go beyond the call of duty to establish an important plumbing repair.

Do you have plumbing maintenance on your agenda? Our staff at Emergency Sewer and Drain Experts are ready to take your phone call at 708-934-4115. Receive plumbing services that specialize in plumbing maintenance in Oak Park, Il!

You will also need to consider whether or not your supposedly simple pipe repair is actually a symptom of a larger problem. Discovery of a larger plumbing issue will inevitably drive up your bill. That’s why it’s important to have plumbing leak repair.

How Do I Stop My Plumbing from Leaking?

There are different types of leaks, and there are repairs for different problems. The best way to tackle any plumbing issue is to stop it from happening in the first place. There are a few basic things that you can do to ensure you’re on top of your plumbing before your plumbing gets on top of you.

• Wrap your pipes in heat. Focus on your exterior piping – if, for instance, your cold-water pipes touch the exterior portion of your building, the pipes will likely freeze. Insulate these pipes to ensure fewer water problems during the winter months.
• Look at your pipes. Look at the visible pipes in your house. If you see any rust, buckling, or droplets of water, it’s time to get involved.
• Set back the spigot valve. In some cases, it’s a good idea to install a frost-free hose bib, especially if the pipe is going through a cement foundation. This installation will allow you to shut off the water closer to the inside of the home and prevent freezing.

Can a Plumber Find a Water Leak?

While a homeowner may have a difficult time tracking down the source of a water leak, a master plumber will have a much easier time, and with a higher efficiency rate. A master plumber will ask you a series of relevant questions, which will allow him to deduce a theory. A master plumber must acquire the ability to call himself such a name through a series of tests, certification standards, and a lengthy apprenticeship. This enables a master plumber to get the job done correctly, and well, the first time.

Can Clogged Pipes Cause Leaks?

There is no question that a clogged pipe can cause a leak. With no other way for the water to become distributed, the water will eventually find crevices and other places where it can pass through. If you have a clog, don’t be surprised to find leaks in extremely odd places. After all, water doesn’t discriminate – it will find a way due to the pressure.

Plumbing Leak in the Wall

When you notice condensation on the wall, or a puddle on the floor, it’s time to start searching for the source of the leak now. While you are going to want to secure a plumber for the ultimate task of fixing the leak, you can save yourself time, money, and damage, by locating the leak yourself. In a systematic fashion, look for a leak above the area where you noticed the water. The water you’ve found may have traveled far from the leak. Identify the walls that contain water pipes by looking where the pipes go up from the lower areas of the house (such as the basement). Check where pipes enter the walls in bathrooms and in the kitchen. Plumbing Maintenance in Oak Park, IL is available for residents of Chicago, Illinois.

If you notice a hissing sound, or a dripping sound, you have narrowed down your search dramatically. You can now call your plumber, or start opening walls yourself.

Plumbing Leak in Basement

A flooded basement is a tragic state of affairs. When you have a basement leak, you need fast action, and reliable service. Even one inch of water can lead to serious problems in a basement. If you notice that there is moisture in your basement, consult your trusted plumbing professional immediately. Alternatively, if you notice moisture appears after a large storm, you might be in need of storm damage repair.

Plumbing Leak and Mold

Signs of mold from a water leak include the visible presence of mold, which is typically black or grey in color. Whether the mold is patchy or streaky, you’ll want to address the problem and see how far gone the mold is. If the problem is diagnosed to be a leaky pipe, start with fixing the source of the water first. Then you can take steps to alleviate the mold.

Plumbing and Leak Detection

Whether the leak in your home originates under a concrete slab, in an attic, inside a wall, or underneath a toilet, a fixed pipe is a dry pipe. Consult your local, licensed plumber to fix your plumbing today! Call Emergency Sewer and Drain Experts in the Oak Park, Il area for all your plumbing leak needs: 708-934-4115.

If you’ve been browsing the pages of architectural magazines, interior design columns or even Pinterest on your down time over the weekend, chances are you’re got home improvements on your mind! When it comes to design and style, the options are limitless and creativity is a virtue! There are numerously colorful and unique options out there, some home improvements can involve technologically advanced appliances to eco-friendly home installations. Some focus more on value whereas others on design elements and look! We’ll give you some home improvement tips that can help you out logistically as well as suggestions that can add value, spruce up the look or add streamlined functionality to your home!

What home improvements require a permit?

While we all love a good DIY to feel accomplished and to save on expenses, certain fixes pose risks or require expert execution due to their level of difficulty. For these cases, permits are required.

Here are some examples of home improvements that require a permit:

• Changing your roofline
• Re-roofing structural elements like sheathing, skylights or roofing materials
• Expanding your house in any way or changing the envelope
• Installing electrical wires or adding circuits
• Inserts such as chimneys or fire places
• Windows, skylights or doors that require new openings
• Demolishing a load bearing wall
• Building an addition to your home
• Building a garage or carport
• Installing a new HVAC (furnace, A/C or Whole House Humidifier Installation)
• Installing a new water heater (Tankless Water Heater Installation)

Are home improvements tax deductible?

If you undergo home improvements on your personal residence then your costs are nondeductible personal expenses. However, home improvements provide a tax benefit of reducing tax costs when you sell your home. Home improvements are technically added as a tax basis (the amount of investment into your home.)

How can I increase my home value?

You can increase your home’s value with new or partial installations, improved landscaping, interior design elements, remodeling, renovating and more!

What’s the difference between a renovation and remodel?

Renovation involves restoring a state of disrepair to a state of good repair. It involves restoring, repairing or updating existing structures.

Remodeling works to transform the appearance, structure, function or form of something. It involves transforming or improving the existing design and layout of a room.

What adds the most value to your home?

If you want to add upscale value to you home, prepare for the higher prices. Ultimately these fixtures are long lasting and most can be technologically or environmentally beneficial improvements!

Here are some of the best home improvements to increase your home’s value.

• Minor or Major Bathroom Remodels
• Landscaping
• Minor Kitchen Remodel (countertops, cabinets, etc.)
• Exterior Improvements (Front Entry, Vinyl Sliding)
• Open Floor Plans (attic to bedroom conversion is most popular)
• Solar panels on your roof
• Metal Roofing

Budget Home Improvements

If you want to spruce up your place but don’t want to shell out the big bucks, there are lots of quick fixes that will add a splash of color and freshness to your home!

• Paint: whether it’s adding an accent wall in your kitchen or setting up a color scheme for each room, you can greatly add to the aesthetic and feel of your home!
• New Handles or Pulls: from glass, marble to polished nickel these embellishments are great accents to your cabinets and doors and instantly modernize or provide elegance to a room’s theme.
• Light Upgrades: light provides ambiance and mood to the barest rooms! No matter your lighting personality, options range from color lights, Victorian gas lamps, hanging incandescent bulbs, chandeliers and more!
• Smart Technology: a variety of technological advancements can improve the functionality of your home and all of them can even be connected and programmed to follow a schedule on your phone or tablet! Smarts speakers, doorbell and thermostats are popular choices!

Home Improvements for Seniors

If you’re in your golden years and want improvements that will directly benefit your comfort and accessibility to features of your home or you want easy mobility, here are some home improvements for you to consider!

Keep in mind, seniors 62 years and older living in eligible areas and who meet low-income standards are able to receive federal loans and grants for home repairs!

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  Home improvements with senior living in mind can greatly assist in safety, mobility & comfort!

  Walk-In Shower: curbless showers make accessibility easier as it eliminates the threshold that you must step over and also provides wheelchair friendly use. Aside from these logistical benefits, these types of showers have actually become very popular due to their sleek and streamlined look.

• Master Bedroom on First Floor: doesn’t require the use of stairs which decreases risks of falls and assists you when you are too tired to climb.
• Comfort-Height Toilets: toilets that are a few inches higher make getting on and off easier.
• Grab Bar Installations: adding these in bathrooms can prevent falls from slippery floors and tubs.
• Ramps: this is perhaps the most popular improvement as well as the most beneficial for movement in, out and around the home!
• Adjusting Countertops: adjusting the height of countertops can improve food preparation for those in wheelchairs and scooters.
• Slip Resistant Flooring: more traction can be added with linoleum or vinyl floors and also adds a softer surface for a fall. Bamboo and cork are popular choices though they are more expensive options.

If you can’t provide for full fixtures, consider partial ones on areas where you know the extra help is essential and necessary for your comfort! Home improvements are great to implement as they assist in the longevity of your home while keeping fresh with the latest trends on the market!

If you would like to advance the fixtures of your home with home improvements in the Oak Park, Il area contact Emergency Sewer and Drain Experts at 708-934-4115!

When the time comes to replace the water heater, more and more homeowners make the switch to a tankless unit. A tankless water heater can provide for several benefits over standard tank models. The most prominent of these, the provision of a nearly endless supply of hot water, is dependent on the size or number of units you install in your home. Of course, tankless water heaters also have their drawbacks. At Emergency Sewer and Drain Experts, we serve as the premier installer and repair team for any tankless water heater in Oak Park, Il. If this article fails to answer any question, or if you’ve decided to make the switch and want to schedule installation, give us a call at 708-934-4115.

Tankless Water Heater Installation

Before you commit to tankless water heater installation, you should consider all of the relative benefits and drawbacks. Many people simply hear “endless supply of hot water”, and are immediately sold. Tankless water heaters are not magic, however, nor are they without flaws. At the same time, they can certainly represent an excellent choice for many homes. A tankless water heater performs its duty as water passes through it on the way to your shower or sink. This “as-needed” production can save a homeowner money, as a tankless device does not have to keep an entire storage tank of water at a constantly high temperature.

As for tankless water heater installation, you can put them in a great variety of places. Utility rooms, attics, basements, garages, bedrooms, bathrooms, or even an outside wall can host a tankless unit. This presents a clear advantage over traditional water heaters, which require not only enough room to accommodate their size, but more than a foot of clearance on all sides. As for the digital controller that regulates the temperature of your water, you can place it anywhere, even right in the bathroom for those times when you want to soak in an extra-hot bath.

How Does a Tankless Water Heater Work?

These units heat water directly and on-demand, and so have no need of a storage tank. When you turn on your hot water tap, cold water begins to pass through the heater. This signals the ignition of the electric element or gas burner, which can heat between two to five gallons of water in a minute. Gas heaters create more hot water than electric, but heavy usage can stretch the capabilities of any device. If you want to wash a load of clothes and take a shower simultaneously, for example, you may need more than one tankless heater.

Why Tankless Water Heater vs Tank?

There exists no such thing as a perfect water heater, and even the most expensive models have drawbacks. To know whether a tankless device can ideally serve your needs, consider the various pros and cons.

Tankless Water Heater

Advantages

• Save Money on Energy Bills
• Longer Lifespan – Up to 30 years
• Takes Up Less Space
• Constant Supply of Hot Water
• Virtually No Wait for Hot Water

Drawbacks

• Much More Expensive to Purchase
• More Expensive to Install
• Demand from Multiple Sources Can Overcome Output
• Necessitates Multiple Units in High Demand or Large Households

Which Tankless Water Heater Is Better?

Your choice of tankless water heater involves a number of factors. Things to consider include:

• Your Budget
• Your Home’s Size
• Number of People in Your Household
• Whether You Prefer Gas or Electric

Tankless water heaters come in a great variety of price points, from economical models intended for small homes or apartments, to very costly units such as the Rheem RTGH-95DVLN Direct Vent Tankless Water Heater. The size of your home plays a major role, since a small residence can take full advantage of cheaper tankless water heater options. Tankless units come in a great variety of sizes and capacities, and some homes will require more than one unit. Your preference between gas and electric devices also matters a great deal. Though most people spring for gas, electric units have their benefits. While a gas heater is more cost-efficient and heats water faster than an electric model, electric heaters are cheaper to purchase and do not require a rooftop vent. Aside from the additional labor involved with vent installation, it also creates one more point of concern for your next roof inspection.

Common Questions About Tankless Water Heaters

Are Tankless Water Heaters Better?

This depends entirely on situational factors. If you have a small house, or can afford multiple units, a tankless water heater may represent a perfect solution for continuous hot water. If you have a limited budget, standard water heaters are cheaper to purchase, cheaper to install, and require less costly repairs.

Is Tankless Water Heater Gas or Electric?

Tankless water heaters are available in both gas and electric models. The kind you choose should depend both on preference, and the cost of utilities in your area.

How Big of a Tankless Hot Water Heater Do I Need?

This choice will depend on your expected flow rate — i.e. how many gallons of water per minute you expect to need heated — and the desired temperature of the water. A handy online guide can help you determine this for your own household.

Do Tankless Water Heaters Need Maintenance?

Yes. Just as with a standard water heater, you should schedule annual maintenance to ensure the optimal operation and continued health of your device. Unless you have a whole house water softener, the water that passes through your heaters, both standard and tankless, will contain some amount of calcium and magnesium. These minerals will gradually coat your heating element or plug water passageways to limit your heater’s ability to function. The primary purpose of maintenance is to “descale” your heater, and remove the accumulated sediment.

How Long Does a Tankless Water Heater Last?

If properly maintained with annual maintenance, a tankless water heater can last for 20 to 30 years.

At Emergency Sewer and Drain Experts, we are the local experts for the installation, repair, and maintenance of any tankless water heater in Oak Park, Il. For additional questions, service requests, or installation appointments, give us a call today at 708-934-4115.

 

One of the things we use every single day in our homes is water. We use it to wash dishes, take a shower, cook, and clean our clothes. Because water is such an integral part of our day, it’s important to have a water heater that is able to deliver the very best water for our homes. There are tons of water heaters on the market, so choosing one can be kind of difficult. Everyone always wants to know the best water heater, but each water heater has their own characteristics that make them unique. Depending on what you are looking for in a water heater will depend on what you consider the best water heater. Below is a list of some of the best types of water heaters to make it easier for homeowners to choose from.

What Type of Water Heater Is Best?

• Storage Tank Water Heater: A storage tank water heater, or a conventional water heater, is a water heater that stores and heats water when it is needed. Homeowners are able to get gas and electric storage tank water heaters for their homes.
• Tankless Water Heater: Unlike a storage tank water heater, a tankless water heater only heats up water when you need it. So instead of holding all the water in a tank, it uses coils to heat up water when you turn on your water. While it can be used as an electric water heater, it is preferable to use gas.
• Heat Pump Water Heater: While this isn’t the most common type of water heater, it is certainly the best in terms of energy efficiency. Instead of using electricity or gas to heat up water, a heat pump water heater uses the heat from the air to heat up your water.

For water heater repair in Oak Park, Il, call Emergency Sewer and Drain Experts at 708-934-4115.  If you live in Illinois, it’s important that whether you want water heater repair or electric furnace repair, you get professional service from a licensed technician.

There are many situations where replacing a pipe or a section of your plumbing may become necessary, from a burst water pipe to whole home re-piping. When you find yourself in this situation, you may start to research into different, strong piping solutions for your home. Among these, PVC and PEX piping are currently popular choices for those looking to restore their plumbing. PEX piping is a very flexible piping material used within a home plumbing, made of cross-linked polyethelyne. While PEX is flexible, PVC comes in a variety of durability levels. This is done by the adjustment of the polyvinyl chloride formula when first made. As both of these pipes are flexible, which is best for your home plumbing project?

Which Plumbing Pipe is Best?

PEX and PVC are made of durable plastics and give quality protection. However, because of their construction, they have different benefits to offer your home. It is important to consider the benefits as well as the purpose of the piping when making a final decision on your re-piping project:

• Water Temperature: Your pipes carry hot and cold water to you for your needs. While both of these pipes can deliver the water, PVC has a greater chance of wearing quickly due to the heat. PEX, on the other hand, is designed to deal with hot water.
• Durability: PVC and PEX can handle damage, chemicals, and potential daily wear due to their plastic nature, ensuring you do not have to worry about damage from surrounding issues.
• Versatility: PEX can be formed to fit the space where you require the pipe and need fewer joints in order to get started. They can also connect with various other pipes. PVC on the other hand quires being set into place upon installation, inevitably creating a great seal.
• Cost: Both are relatively low priced for the home, giving you the best bang for your buck. This means you can get your plumbing flowing again at a low cost.

While PVC may not be great for handling your home hot water needs, it is an ideal pipe for outdoor plumbing necessities. need to get started on a repipe or burst pipe repair service today in Oak Park, Il? Emergency Sewer and Drain Experts is always available to assist you! Give us a call today at 708-934-4115 for your plumbing needs.

Your sewer line represents one of the most important pieces of your home’s plumbing system. Problems with the sewer line can quickly become messy catastrophes, so always call for service at the first sign of trouble. If you notice any of the following, you likely have a need for sewer line repairs. 

Bad Smells

A sewer line is sealed and buried several feet below the ground. Because of this, you should never notice the smell of sewage around your property. If you do, then you likely have either a sewer line leak or more serious issue. If you ever notice the telltale stink of a sewer, call a trusted plumber for immediate service.

Yard Issues

Issues in your yard can also serve to signal the need for sewer line repairs. Unusually green patches mean that a leaking sewer line has begun to act as fertilizer for a localized area. You may also notice areas actually soggy from a leaking or burst sewer line. Along with these, the sudden appearance of rodents and insects can result from their attraction to your leaking sewage.

Clogged Drains

A clog in your sewer line will eventually lead to slow drains around the house. If you notice a drain that seems obstructed or clogged, check others in your home. Multiple clogged drains almost always have a shared source down in the sewer line. This represents a serious issue that deserves immediate attention. If you ignore it, you could quickly find yourself with backed up drains filled with sewage.

At Emergency Sewer and Drain Experts, we’re the local experts for sewer line repairs in Oak Park, Il. To  learn more or schedule service, give us a call today at 708-934-4115.