Plumbing Tips for Tenants

 It is always handy to get plumbing tips from experts, especially when they make your life as a tenant easier. Knowledge is power, and it is good to familiarize yourself with your rights and responsibilities. Did you know the law requires tenants to take proper care of a landlord’s property, including the plumbing? When you follow our plumbing tips for beginners, your tenancy will be smooth sailing – a win-win for you and your landlord.

So, what can you do to prevent plumbing problems, and are there any apartment plumbing problems you can try and sort out yourself before contacting your landlord?  

Preventing Plumbing Issues for Tenants 

Active prevention is the best way to avoid plumbing problems from arising. Here are some practices you can incorporate into your daily life to ensure your plumbing stays in tip top shape: 

• Learn where the main water valve and individual shut offs are

There is nothing worse than having a burst pipe or large plumbing leak in your rental property, and you don’t know where to find the individual shut offs and main water valve. Learn where they are now! 

• Don’t throw grease down the kitchen sink

When you throw grease down the kitchen sink, it solidifies over time, requiring you to clean the drain regularly. Throw it into a dedicated grease container, which you can dispose of later.  

• Think before flushing the toilet

Flush only body waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Even ‘flushable’ wet wipes and feminine hygiene products can clog the pipes.

• Clean the garbage disposal regularly

Regularly remove materials caught in the blade after unplugging the disposal – safety first!

• Use drain strainers

Install drain strainers in the kitchen, bath, shower and any other sink to prevent unwanted hair and soap build-up from clogging your drains. Plus, they are easy to clean! 

• Use expert-approved drain cleaners

Ask your local plumbing supply company which drain cleaner is best for your rental property. 

Quick Guide to Apartment Plumbing  

Apartment plumbing is easy to maintain when you have the right tools, supplies, and access to someone knowledgeable about plumbing maintenance. Here are a few DIY plumbing tips you can use as a guide.   

Was the water pressure low during your shower? There might be a sediment buildup in the nozzle, which is easy to remove. Unscrew the nozzle, remove any obvious buildup, and soak the nozzle in a vinegar-water solution to get rid of calcium deposits.  

Is a leaky faucet bothering you? The washer inside the handle has failed and should be replaced with an exact copy. 

Did someone throw wet wipes down the toilet, and it is blocked? Get a toilet plunger, ensure it completely covers the drain, and slowly plunge it up and down without moving it from the drain. The obstruction will eventually come loose.

For more information on tips that might solve the plumbing problem in your newly renovated bathroom, please contact our team at Crosstown Plumbing today. 

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/plumbing-tips-for-tenants/

How to Deal with a Burst Pipe

 Do you know how to deal with a burst pipe? Somewhere in your lifetime as a homeowner or tenant, you can experience the shock of coming home from work only to find a flooded floor. Experts say signs of a burst pipe include fluctuating water pressure, puddles under your sinks, clunking pipe noises behind walls, and a spike in your water bill. When you see these signs, act immediately to minimize future damage.

You will need professional help if the burst pipe is hidden behind a wall, but there are emergency steps you can take to address the main problem. We discuss those steps here and what to do after a pipe burst. 

The Emergency Steps to Addressing a Burst Pipe   

Staying safe and taking quick, decisive action is important when you have a burst pipe. Let ‘s take a closer look at your next steps: 

• Turn off electrical systems: Safety first means turning off the power to your home, either at your breaker box or at the main shut-off outside the house. Don’t wade through the water to get to your breaker box, as you are in danger of being electrocuted.

• Shut the water off: Turn off the main water shut-off valve, which might be near the water meter or somewhere in your home. Then, open all the faucets in your house to drain water from the pipes and flush the toilets. This will stop further leaks.  

• Remove items from the flooded area: Water damage can occur very quickly, so remove as many items as you can from the flooded floor or kitchen cabinets. 
• Find the burst pipe: Try to identify the burst pipe, if possible. Your insurance company will need to know the potential source of the damage.  

What You Need to Do After a Burst Pipe

Now that the emergency is taken care of, you might wonder how to repair a burst pipe if you intend to do it yourself, or how much the burst pipe repairs will cost if you use a professional. Before you act, there are a few things you need to do first. 

• Call your insurance company. Let your insurer know what happened and find out if a claims adjuster needs to visit your house to document the damage or if your photos are sufficient. File the claim as soon as possible. 

• Document all the damage. You can never take enough photos of the damage caused by a burst pipe, so document everything the water touched. Videos are also very effective. 

• Start the burst pipe cleanup. Mold and mildew start growing within 24 to 48 hours, making it vital to dry up the water as soon as possible. You can do it yourself or get an approved contractor.  

If you’d like more information on dealing with a burst pipe or need affordable plumbing supplies because you are fixing a burst pipe, please contact our team at Crosstown Plumbing today. 

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/how-to-deal-with-a-burst-pipe/

The Importance of Regular Plumbing Maintenance

 There are tons of things to keep track of and keep up with as a homeowner, and your plumbing system is one of them. Regular plumbing maintenance is a must because it keeps your plumbing in its best possible working condition, helps prevent costly repairs and breakdowns in the future and helps extend the life of your appliances. 

Think about it, your home’s water supply and drainage systems are used every single day – multiple times a day – by everyone in your household. Keeping them clean and healthy is crucial, and you can ensure their functionality by investing in regular plumbing maintenance. If you haven’t already, we recommend contacting your local plumber and setting up regular maintenance checks. 

What Is the Purpose of Plumbing Maintenance? 

• Early detection of issues: Unless you’re a professional, you may not be aware of the early warning signs that something is wrong. That means you might not notice it until it becomes a larger, more expensive problem that can disrupt your home for days on end. 
• Prevents water damage: Even a tiny leak can cause extensive water damage in your home if left unrepaired. That’s why you need a professional who can check for signs of leaks under your sinks, around your water heater, and throughout your pipes. 
• Reduces water waste: Leaks and running toilets waste water, and as a result you are left with more expensive monthly bills.
• Extends the lifespan of your plumbing: When you keep your pipes, faucets, and appliances in top working condition, you’re reducing the frequency with which you’ll need to replace them. 

Crosstown’s Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

• • Clear all of your drains and p-traps
  • Inspect your pipes for any visible corrosion
  • Check under the sink for leaks 
  • Inspect your toilet tanks
  • Test your water pressure
  • Inspect your hot water heater
  • Maintain your sewer line and inspect it for clogs

While most of us will be able to handle something basic like a clogged toilet, most of the things on the essential plumbing maintenance checklist should be addressed by a professional. Even the most seasoned handymen require help from an experienced plumber from time to time, and enlisting the help of a pro ensures your plumbing system stays as healthy and efficient as possible. 

Regular plumbing inspections will help detect a minor issue before it turns major. Investing in this type of maintenance can easily extend the life of your appliances, and it can actually help you save more money in the long run. Remember, expensive repairs become even more expensive in an emergency situation because it requires a plumbing professional to drop everything and race over to your home. So don’t wait until it’s too late. If you’d like more information about plumbing maintenance, or if you would like to stock up on essential plumbing supplies all homeowners should have on hand, please contact our team at Crosstown Plumbing today. 

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/importance-of-regular-plumbing-maintenance/

Most Common Plumbing Problems and How to Fix Them

 As a homeowner, you’ll undoubtedly run into plumbing problems from time to time. Even if your bathrooms or kitchen is relatively new, clogged drains can happen to the best of us. Thankfully, our NJ plumbing wholesalers are here to discuss some of the most common plumbing problems we see, as well as how to fix them. While sometimes it can be a simple matter of unclogging a toilet with a plunger, more often plumbing problems are more complicated and extensive, requiring the help of a professional to remedy. When in doubt, it’s always best to consult with a professional before taking any action. 

Some of the most common plumbing issues include:

• • Dripping faucets: Not only can the noise drive you crazy, but it also wastes water and indicates a larger problem at play. 
  • Leaking pipes: If you notice small puddles of water starting to gather under your sink or near your water heater, you probably have a leak.
  • No hot water: We’ve all been there. You’re in a rush and you jump in the shower only to discover your hot water isn’t working.
  • Weak water pressure: This makes showering and washing dishes take twice as long, and can also indicate that you have a leak in your pipes somewhere.
  • A toilet that constantly runs: Your toilet should only run for as long as it takes to fill up with water again after you flush it, but sometimes, it runs continually and the water level remains low. 

How Do You Diagnose Plumbing Problems?

If you have experience fixing minor issues like a clogged drain or a running toilet, you can try to diagnose and fix these issues yourself as long as you turn off your water supply before starting, use the proper tools and wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Most people are not able to properly diagnose their plumbing issues, so it’s always best to consult a professional before the problem gets worse. 

Finding Solutions to Your Plumbing Problems

We recommend keeping several tools on hand in case you need them at short notice. Things like a plunger, an adjustable wrench, pliers, and a sink auger will come in handy when you encounter plumbing problems you know how to fix. However, when the problem appears to be more serious, the best solution is to call an industry professional who can conduct an inspection then perform the necessary repairs. 

For more information about how to fix some of the most common plumbing issues you’ll incur as a homeowner, or if you have any questions about affordable plumbing supplies to keep on hand, please contact our team at Crosstown Plumbing today. 

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/common-plumbing-problems-how-to-fix-them/

How to Inspect Plumbing for Damage

 You use your home’s plumbing system every day. Which means keeping it in top working condition is in your best interest. Inspecting your plumbing system regularly is a great way to ensure everything is working as it should. Plus, you may be able to identify potential issues before they turn into larger, more disruptive problems. Whether you want to inspect your plumbing system yourself or you’ve scheduled routine maintenance with a professional, it’s important to know how to properly inspect your plumbing. 

What is a Plumbing Inspection? 

A plumbing inspection is a comprehensive look at all the elements that make up your plumbing system. This includes:

• Indoor and outdoor pipes, including sewage lines and supply lines
• Hose bibs in the laundry room, and any that are outdoors
• Bathtubs and sinks
• Showers and faucets
• Water heaters
• Toilets

Unless you have experience in the plumbing industry, we strongly recommend hiring a professional to conduct a plumbing inspection. They know what to look for and how to spot any potential red flags with your plumbing system. You should always get a professional plumbing inspection when you’re buying a home, if you’re selling your home, and if you want to prevent expensive plumbing emergencies. 

The Plumbing Inspection Checklist

Your certified plumber will perform an inspection, and here is what is included in a typical plumbing inspection checklist:

• Inspect valves, water heater, pipes, and drains for any leaks or damage.
• Take photos of everything and accompany the photos with detailed notes.
• Identify any areas of concern that need repairing, and work with the client to schedule the repairs. 
• Provide the client with any professional recommendations that could improve the lifespan of their plumbing system. 
• Conclude the inspection with a signed inspection certification for the client. 

During the inspection your plumber will address the following: 

• Thoroughly check for any water damage around your fixtures
• Examine underneath sinks for any signs of damage
• Unclog any slow drains
• Drain your water heater to remove the sediment that has formed in the tank
• Clean your gutters to avoid clogs
• Check your toilet for any loose parts
• Examine your ceilings and walls for any signs of water leaks

If you haven’t already, we recommend scheduling an initial plumbing inspection to get a sense of the overall health and performance of your plumbing. For more information about keeping your plumbing system healthy and working efficiently, or if you have any questions about purchasing new plumbing supplies, please contact our team at Crosstown Plumbing today. 

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/how-to-inspect-plumbing-for-damage/

The Future of Plumbing Technology

 Plumbing technology is advancing every day, and as the industry moves towards systems that are more sustainable, more accessible, and more technologically advanced, there are many things consumers can look forward to when it comes to the future of plumbing technology. In this article, we’ll look at some of the most exciting trends in plumbing technology, and if you have any questions after reading – please don’t hesitate to contact our team. 

How Is Plumbing Changing? 

Better filtration systems: One of the most important elements in any plumbing system, the filtration system catches minerals like magnesium and chlorine, to make your water supply safe to drink. Many current filtration systems are made of a membrane-like filter that catches particles and minerals and keeps them from entering your water supply. But moving into the future, filtration systems will consist of activated carbon and UV light, which filter even the smallest particles while killing bacteria and viruses. 

Tankless water heaters: You probably have a large water tank somewhere on your property, but tankless water heaters are becoming more popular due to their energy efficiency. These water heaters only heat water when it’s needed. Instead of heating up an entire tank, they only heat the specific amount of water you use at that point in time. 

Low-flow bathroom fixtures: Low-flow toilets, showerheads, and faucets are becoming more popular as people look for new ways to conserve water. These fixtures reduce the amount of water you use but more importantly, they don’t perform any different. 

What Technology Is Used in Plumbing?

Smart technology: Smart technology is now used in many systems, including HVAC and plumbing systems. It allows you to monitor various things from an app on your phone or your computer, such as water usage. You can also receive alerts if there’s a problem that needs your immediate attention. 

Smart toilets: These devices include things like a seat heater, automatic flushing sensors, automatic tank cleaners and deodorizers, and some models even have a bidet feature. 

Touchless plumbing: You’ve probably seen touchless features in public restrooms, like automatic faucets, automatic soap dispensers, and automatic flushing. Industry experts predict that over the coming years we’ll see more touchless features integrated into home plumbing systems, so homeowners can enjoy the same convenience and comfort. 

If you’d like to know more about the future of plumbing technology, or if you want to speak with our team about upgrading your plumbing equipment, please contact us today. As you probably know, New Jersey sales tax is 7%, however purchases made at Crosstown Plumbing are only taxed at 3.5%, making us the preferred plumbing supplier for many people in the area. Please visit our website for more information on our affordable plumbing supplies, you won’t regret it! 

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/the-future-of-plumbing-technology/

Important Considerations to Keep in Mind Before Designing Your Bathroom

 Designing a bathroom can be a much-needed refresh for your home. It’s great to remodel a space in your house that you use every single day! When you renovate your bathroom you can tailor it to your exact wants and needs without disrupting the day-to-day life of your family too much, making it one of the most common rooms that people choose to remodel in their homes. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind when redesigning your bathroom.

Ensure You Have Sufficient Space for Bathroom Cabinets

Whether you mount the cabinets on the wall or under the sink, ensure you have enough space for them to open fully. Many bathrooms have limited space and while you may not be able to fit as many cabinets as you want, fitting at least a few is important because you’ll need the storage. Be sure you position your cabinets in a place where the cabinet doors can open unobstructed. 

Pick Your Color Scheme Before Designing

Your color scheme will dictate the fixtures and fittings you use in your bathroom, as well as what tile color you choose. Whether you want a light and airy color scheme or something darker and more bold, always pick your color scheme first. It will actually make the design process easier since you can narrow your search to items that already match your preferred colors. 

Ensure Your Budget is Met

It’s important to set your budget before you start your redesign. Not having a plan and simply going with the flow can easily result in you overspending and not being able to afford everything you actually want. Understand what your budget is before you start making your plans, and if you’re working with a designer or an architect, they can help you create a budget that won’t break the bank. 

Let Crosstown Plumbing Conceptualize Your Bathroom Design

At Crosstown Plumbing, we can help you create the bathroom of your dreams with our computerized design. It can be difficult to envision the final product, but with the help of technology we can help you see it. 

If you’d like help with designing a bathroom, or if you have any questions about bathroom fixtures and plumbing supplies, please give our team a call. 

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/bathroom-design-considerations/