Monday, October 30, 2023

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/

Monday, October 16, 2023

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/