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 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/

Plumbing Issues to Look for Before Buying a House

 Your knowledge as a qualified plumber goes beyond merely resolving current plumbing issues. Your sharp eye for future problems will spare your clients from future hassles and pricey repairs when purchasing a home. Before buying a property, performing a complete plumbing assessment is crucial. That being said, this article will cover some typical plumbing problems to watch out for while inspecting a home, so that your clients can make educated decisions during the home-buying process.

Strange sounds coming from within the plumbing system are one of the telltale symptoms of underlying problems. As you explore prospective properties with clients, pay special attention to any gurgling or rattling sounds coming from running faucets or toilets. These noises may be caused by air pockets or obstructions in the pipes. By anticipating these issues, you can correctly estimate the degree of required repairs or replacements in the bathroom.

Leaks. As an experienced plumber, you know the devastation leaks may cause if ignored. Check carefully for any indications of water leaks around sinks, toilets, showers, and pipelines during your complete inspection. To identify current or previous leaks, watch for water stains, dampness, or mold growth. To avoid pricey water damage repairs and other health risks, leaks must be quickly located and fixed before your clients buy a residence.

Unpleasant odors within a home can be a significant warning that plumbing problems are underneath. During your inspection, pay attention to any offensive odors from drains, restrooms, or kitchens. Such smells might indicate drainage or sewer line concerns. You may find and fix any odor-related issues as a qualified plumber by carefully inspecting the plumbing system, including the sewer lines.

Problems With the Hot Water System Plumbing. An evaluation is essential to ensure the hot water system is operating properly. Test the water heater to ensure the temperature settings are changeable and that hot water is always available. Check for corrosion, leaks, or rust on the water heater tank and related lines. You should perform a comprehensive inspection on any anomalies you find to determine the severity of the issue and calculate the cost of any necessary repairs or replacing the hot water heater altogether.

Affordable Plumbing Supply Company in New Jersey

As a qualified plumber, your knowledge is essential for assessing plumbing concerns before clients purchase a home. During your inspection, you should pay particular attention to hot water system issues, leaks, loud noises, and strong odors. Early detection of these problems protects your clients from unforeseen costs and guarantees the long-term comfort and functionality of their new homes. 

For all your residential and commercial plumbing needs, Crosstown Plumbing is here to help.

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/plumbing-issues-buying-a-house/

Accidentally Flushing Something Down The Toilet

 We’ve all had it happen to us before. Maybe the clasp on your bracelet broke or it slipped off your wrist? Perhaps your toddler decided it was a great idea to submerge one of their toys? Or maybe you knocked something off the bathroom counter and straight  into the toilet? Whatever the case might be, if something has been accidentally flushed down the toilet in your house, here are the steps you should take next: 

Try Reaching For It With A Bent Hanger

Take a wire hanger and fashion it into a nearly-straight line, and mold one end into a small hook shape. Insert the hooked end into the toilet to try and retrieve the lost object, but be very careful that you don’t further push it down into your pipes. If the item in your toilet is metal, affix a small magnet to the end of the hangar to remove it easier. 

Try A Plunger

Never underestimate the power of a good old fashioned plunger. The gentle pressure from a plunger is often enough to dislodge objects stuck in your toilet, especially larger objects that don’t move too far down your pipes.

Remove The Toilet

Turn off your toilet’s water supply and remove the lid from the tank. Next, use a scoop or a wet vacuum to remove all remaining water from the tank and the bowl. Remove the screws or bolts from the bottom of the toilet, detach the water supply line from the tank, and then gently lay the toilet on its side. You can then look up into the toilet and retrieve your flushed item. 

Last Resort: Call A Plumber

It’s usually best to call a professional plumber, especially when you’ve tried several of the above steps and nothing is working. An expert plumber will retrieve the item without causing any unnecessary damage to your toilet or your pipes, and they have experience with even the most serious clogs. 

If you have any bathroom plumbing questions, or would like more information, please contact our team at Cross Town Plumbing today or visit us at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/accidentally-flushing-something-down/

Tips For Choosing The Right Bath

 

Are you in the market for a new bath? Nowadays there are so many choices you might feel overwhelmed and not know where to start. Especially since there are so many factors to consider like the shape, material and cost to install a new bathtub. Our team at Cross Town Plumbing has compiled tips to help you make the best choice for your new bathroom. 

The Shape Of The Bathtub

Single-ended baths: A single-ended bath has the taps and the drain at the same end, so it’s designed for one person to sit in, with their feet pointed towards the taps. 

Double-ended baths: A double-ended bath features the taps and the drain in the center, and it’s ideal for bathing two kids at once, or for people who prefer to share. It’s also a popular choice for taller people.

Consider The Material 

Acrylic is a popular and budget-friendly choice. It’s light, easy to care for and keep clean. Acrylic tubs are also versatile, and can retain heat very well – ideal for those who enjoy hot showers. However, you can’t use abrasive cleaners on an acrylic tub, or else they’ll get scratched. 

Steel is another option. Steel tubs are durable, affordable, and considered lightweight compared to alternatives like porcelain. The downsides of a steel tub are that the water cools quickly because steel conducts heat, and it has a tendency to chip easily. 

Cast iron is a classic choice for freestanding baths. It’s durable, easy to clean, and retains heat very well. Cast iron is very heavy, so ensure your floor can handle the weight of a cast iron tub. 

The Types Of Baths

You have a range of options to choose from, including:

• Freestanding baths
• Shower baths
• Corner baths
• Inset, built-in, or straight baths for smaller spaces

Bath Construction Costs

There’s no one-size-fits-all cost for installing a new bath. The cost will be determined by several factors, such as size, the material you use, the style of your bath, and the extent to which your existing space needs to be modified to be made suitable for a new tub. Call your local plumbing company to get an estimate. 

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/the-right-bath-for-your-home/