How To Escape A Plumbing Nightmare When Christmas Is Over

 With Christmas just around the corner, you’re undoubtedly busy making plans to celebrate. The last thing you want to think about is a plumbing emergency, but did you know that one of the most common emergencies we see year after year are clogged drains right after the holidays? We’ve put together a handy guide to help you keep your pipes clean and avoid expensive emergency calls to your local plumber. 

• Be vigilant about what everyone puts down the kitchen drain. Your drains aren’t meant to be used as a garbage can for food scraps, oils, grease, and other leftovers from your holiday meals. Be sure your family and any Christmas guests you have don’t empty their plates down the kitchen sink. We recommend getting a drain screen to keep your pipes as clear as possible. You also may want to use a liquid drain cleaner before and after the holidays.
• Keep your pipes insulated. Here in New Jersey, it can get pretty chilly. When your pipes are exposed to cold temperatures they can freeze, crack, expand, and burst, leaving you with a huge mess. To prevent frozen pipes we recommend wrapping them with insulation sleeves for protection.
• Check all the toilets in your house before the holiday season. With people home from work and school, and a house full of friends and family, your bathrooms will be used much more than normal and should be in perfect working condition. Check for any drips, any running water, or any flushing issues and call a plumber if you think something is wrong.
• Space out showers as much as possible. We know it can be difficult with a house full of people, but your shower drain needs time to drain properly after each person uses it. We recommend waiting twenty minutes between showers to avoid clogged shower drains, especially when you have more people than usual using the shower.

What causes clogged drains? 

Christmas is a wonderful time of year, but it can put a big strain on your home plumbing. We often see clogs caused by the same several things around the holidays, including food scraps, excess cooking oil and grease being poured down the kitchen sink. Always scrape your plates into the garbage can first, and never pour oil or grease down the drain!

To ensure you’re fully prepared for any potential holiday plumbing emergencies, or if you have any questions, please contact Crosstown Plumbing today. Find out why so many industry professionals in New Jersey choose us as their trusted plumbing wholesaler. 

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/how-to-escape-a-plumbing-nightmare-when-christmas-is-over/

Blocked Toilet: When to Call a Professional

 A blocked toilet can be a quick fix or it can turn into a plumbing emergency. We’ve all experienced the annoyance of a blocked toilet, and if you’re at home with a house full of people you want to fix the issue as quickly as possible. While fixing a clogged toilet might seem like a simple task, there are circumstances in which we recommend putting down the plunger and calling a professional, who can identify and fix the issue before it causes any more damage.

Call a plumber if:

• The plunger isn’t unclogging your toilet. This may seem obvious, but sometimes people start taking apart their toilets when plunging a blocked toilet doesn’t work. We never recommend DIY plumbing work unless you’re a professional, so for stubborn clogs, call a plumber you trust.
• Items that don’t belong in a toilet accidentally get flushed. People with kids have probably encountered this situation one too many times, and whether it’s a toy, a piece of clothing, or something else, foreign objects can easily cause major clogs and they can also damage your sewer septic lines if they actually get flushed. 
• You smell unpleasant odors coming from in or around your toilet. When there are small cracks or leaks within your plumbing, you’ll often smell the problem before you’re ever able to see it. Cracks and leaks cause staining, mold growth, higher water bills, and other damage to your plumbing system. So if you smell something you think is unusual, call a pro.
• Your toilet won’t stop running. While perhaps not a sign of a clog, a running toilet is a common problem, and whether it’s just a little trickle or a heavier stream of water, this wastes water and costs you money. Call a plumber who can identify and fix the problem. 

Advice from an expert plumbing wholesaler 

Keeping your toilets working properly is a vital component of an overall healthy plumbing system. Your plumbing system, just like everything else, requires regular cleaning and maintenance in order to keep it in top condition. For those of us who are industry professionals, we’ve seen the damage done by DIY plumbing projects gone wrong, which is why we recommend calling a professional when your toilet is blocked and you can’t fix the stubborn clog. 

For more information about wholesale plumbing supplies or if you have any questions, please contact Crosstown Plumbing today. We’re proud to be the preferred plumbing supply company for so many industry professionals in New Jersey, and our team is standing by and ready to help. We look forward to hearing from you.

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/blocked-toilet-when-to-call-a-professional/

The importance of cleaning your drains

 Do you only clean your drains when they get clogged? While this is a common practice for millions of people across the country, any plumbing industry professional will tell you how important it is to clean your drains on a regular basis. It’s a small bit of preventative maintenance that keeps your plumbing system healthy and functioning properly, making it less likely that larger, more disruptive problems will arise.

Here’s why it’s so important to regularly clean your drains:

• Dirty drains can make your plumbing system deteriorate faster. When your pipes become coated with layers of grime they sometimes crack, and because you can’t see your pipes you’re unlikely to notice any cracks until they become big leaks. By then, extensive damage has already been done.
• Clogs cause slow drainage and standing water. We’ve all experienced slow-draining sinks and shower drains before – this means there’s build-up clogging your pipes and if you don’t flush it out, the drain may stop working entirely. 
• Cleaning your drains regularly mitigates unpleasant smells. Think about all the things that go down your kitchen drains and bathroom drains on a regular basis. These are not odors you want to smell in your home or in your office!
• Clean drains are essential for good hygiene. Slow-drainage, standing water, unpleasant smells: all of these issues can accumulate to create unsanitary conditions, and can sometimes pose health risks.

One of the easiest ways to help keep your drains clean is to use drain screens. They catch hair, bits of food, soap scum, and other debris that can cause clogs. Drain screens are affordable, come in a variety of sizes to fit most drains, and they’re easy to clean whenever needed.

When to call a plumbing company

It’s easy to keep the drains in your home clean with over-the-counter products. You can also pour boiling water down your drains once a week to free up any debris stuck to the sides of your pipes. Commercial drains in restaurants may require professional cleaning on a regular basis due to high amounts of food waste, grease, and oil in the environment. If you notice a strange smell coming from any of your drains, if your pipes are leaking, or if you’ve noticed standing water, we recommend calling a professional who can identify and treat the problem. 

If you’d like more information or advice on how to properly clean your drains, or if you have any questions, please contact Crosstown Plumbing today. We’re proud to be the preferred plumbing supply company for so many industry professionals, and our team is standing by and ready to help. We look forward to hearing from you.

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/the-importance-of-cleaning-your-drains/

What is the Difference Between Septic Vs Sewer?

 Septic tanks and sewer tanks both perform the same function: they carry away wastewater from sinks, showers, toilets, washing machines and other drainage systems. Whenever you do laundry, flush a toilet, wash dishes, or take a shower, do you ever wonder where the water goes? It’s transported to either a septic tank or a sewer tank. Let’s take a look at the differences between these two systems:

Septic tanks

• Wastewater is carried into a holding tank located on the property
• Once wastewater is in the holding tank, bacteria breaks down solid waste while liquid waste is released into what’s called the drain field, which is responsible for removing contaminants from liquid wastewater
• Septic tanks require some maintenance, and most need to be pumped out once a year or every few years. 
• Whoever owns the property is responsible for the costs associated with the septic tank, including maintenance and repairs 

Sewer tanks

• Wastewater is carried to a municipal treatment facility, along with wastewater from around the city
• The treatment facility removes all contaminants from the water, then directs it back into the local water supply 
• Because sewer tanks are hooked up to the city’s sewer lines, no maintenance is needed.
• If you experience issues with your sewer tank, it’s the responsibility of your city’s public works department to inspect and resolve the problem. 

Each system also has certain benefits. If septic tanks are maintained properly, they can last for a very long time and incur few ongoing costs over the years. Some people view septic tanks as a more environmentally-friendly option because, unlike sewer systems, they don’t use chemicals or energy to pump and treat the water. On the other hand, sewer tanks are convenient because the property owner has no responsibility for maintenance or repairs. Additionally, sewer tanks don’t ever need to be pumped, so they’re sometimes viewed as the more convenient option.

Deciding between septic and sewer tanks

If you’re trying to decide between a septic tank and a sewer tank, we recommend speaking with several of your local plumbing companies and getting some professional advice. Not all properties are eligible for septic tanks, and the type of business you have will also determine which system will work best for your property. Maintenance, repairs, convenience and cost are all factors to consider when making a decision. 

For more information about septic tanks and sewer tanks, or if you have any questions, please contact Cross Town Plumbing today. Discover why so many industry professionals in New Jersey trust us as their plumbing supply company. We look forward to hearing from you.

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/what-is-the-difference-between-septic-vs-sewer/

The benefits of installing a water filtration system

 Water filtration systems remove chemicals, bacteria, and other contaminants from water that comes out of the tap. Having around-the-clock access to clean, safe water for cooking, cleaning, and drinking is something that many of us expect without consideration, but tap water quality varies throughout the US. You can check the drinking water quality in your area on the Environmental Protection Agency’s website. 

Why install a water filtration system?

• They provide chemical-free, chlorine-free water for preparing food and beverages. This is essential for restaurants, coffee shops, delis, bars, and university cafeterias, to name a few. Water filters remove chemicals and chlorine, which can potentially alter the taste of the water, and other contaminants like pesticides and bacteria. 
• Water filters prevent appliances from being damaged by limescale or sediments that are in your water supply. We’ve all dealt with stubborn limescale build up – it’s difficult to remove, it can get in your food and drink, and it can damage expensive appliances. Avoid potential damage by investing in a water filter, and say goodbye to pesky limescale build up forever.
• For places like hospitals, dentist offices, and other healthcare facilities, sterile water is a necessity. Water filtration systems that are certified for medical use are essential for these industries. 
• Save money and be more environmentally friendly. We all try to do our part by making eco-friendly choices, and with a water filtration system you won’t need to purchase single-use plastic bottles anymore. You can rest assured that the tap water is fresh, clean, and safe to drink. Water filters also save you money by eliminating the need to buy bottled water.
• Filtered water, also known as “soft” water, is gentler on your skin. Unfiltered water is often referred to as “hard” water, and it can make your skin feel dry and irritated. For those who wash their hands frequently at work, soft water makes a big difference.

Commercial water filtration systems

While some industries like pharmaceuticals and healthcare require medical grade filtered water, other industries like food service can benefit from water filters by providing better tasting, higher-quality water to their customers. We recommend speaking to a trusted plumbing supply company to determine which water filter is right for your needs. Your preferred type of filter will depend on things like your daily water usage, the industry you work in, and the specific uses for your water. 

For more information about Cross Town Plumbing, or if you have any questions about water filtration, please contact us today. Discover why so many industry professionals trust us to be their plumbing wholesaler. We look forward to hearing from you.

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/the-benefits-of-installing-a-water-filtration-system/

Plumbing Tools Every Homeowner Should Have on Hand

 Plumbing supplies aren’t only for professional plumbers. For homeowners, it’s definitely worth investing in a set of plumbing tools because over the years there will inevitably be some minor, easy-to-fix issues with the plumbing systems that can easily be fixed.

Did you know that the average homeowner spends around $2,000 a year on home maintenance? Homeowners may be able to tackle the problem themselves with the help of these tools:

• A drain snake. This is a long metal rod with a hand crank at one end, and it’s used to dislodge any debris that has gathered in your pipes. After removing the drain stopper, lower the drain snake into the pipe and crank it around several times so it scrapes all sides of the pipe. When you pull it up you’ll see what’s causing the clog, and you may need to do it several times. 
• A wrench set. Plumbing often involves getting into hard-to-reach places, so you’ll need an adjustable wrench, a basin wrench, and a pipe wrench, to name a few. These wrenches
• A good plunger. This may seem obvious, but plungers aren’t only for unclogging your toilet – you can use a plunger to unclog stubborn shower drains, also.
• A caulk gun and caulk. Caulk is the waterproof sealant used around showers, bathtubs, sinks, toilets, and other locations where you need a waterproof material to prevent damage. When you notice the caulk starting to wear a little thin, or if it begins to lift, simply use your caulk gun to apply a new layer. 
• High-quality duct tape. Any DIY homeowner will have rolls of duct tape lying around, and it’s especially useful with plumbing because it’s water resistant. If you notice a tiny leak you can wrap some duct tape around it to keep it from getting worse until you’re able to fix it properly. 

Plumbing supplies from your local wholesaler

As a plumber you appreciate the convenience of finding all the supplies you need in a single location, especially tools for jobs that can be a bit difficult. Your local plumbing supply company is a one-stop-shop for all the best brands, the widest selection of tools and other supplies, and expert advice from industry professionals. Instead of driving around to several locations to get everything you need, visit your local plumbing supply wholesaler for everything you need to get the job done.

For more information about plumbing supplies, or if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us today. Discover why so many people choose us as their preferred plumbing supply company. We look forward to hearing from you.

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/plumbing-tools-every-homeowner-should-have-on-hand/

How to unclog a sink in 5 easy steps

 Homeowners can unclog sinks themselves with the right plumbing supplies. There are many things that cause clogged sinks – they’re a disruption, they’re unsightly, they can stain the sink, and they often come with unpleasant smells. 

While there are serious clogs that will need a professional, most clogs can be fixed in five easy steps:

1. Disconnect the sink stopper. The stopper is the small piece of metal you put into the drain to block it, and it’s very common for build-up to accumulate on the stopper. To disconnect the sink stopper, look under your sink and check for a metal strip with holes in it. Unscrew the nut that connects the metal strip to the drain pipe and pull out the rod, then you can disconnect the stopper.
2. Clean the sink stopper. After you’ve disconnected the stopper, pull it out of the drain – you’ll probably want to wear gloves for this part because you’ll notice a lot of gunk has built up on the stopper. Clean the gunk off with a wet paper towel.
3. Use a snake to remove any deeper clogs. A snake is a long metal rod with a hand crank at one end, and you can find one at any plumbing supply store. Lower the snake into the drain and use the hand crank to twist it around, allowing it to grab any clog-causing debris. Once you’ve twisted the snake around several times, slowly pull it out of the drain. Warning – what comes out may be very gross! Repeat this as many times as necessary to clear the pipe.
4. Reconnect the sink stopper. But before you do this, run the water to check your sink is draining properly. You can reconnect the stopper the same way you disconnected it.
5. Check the P-trap. This is the elbow-shaped piece of piping under the sink and the snake may not reach this far. Put a bucket underneath it, unscrew the connectors with a wrench, dump the water from the P-trap into the bucket, then reconnect the P-trap.

Buying supplies from a plumbing wholesaler

Plumbers and similar tradesmen can find everything they need at a reputable plumbing supply company. Plumbing wholesalers stock all the top brands, carry hard-to-find tools and other pieces of equipment for even the most difficult jobs, and have everything you need in one place, saving you from having to drive around town making multiple stops.

For more information about the best plumbing supplies to have on hand, or if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us today. Discover why so many people in New Jersey have chosen us as their trusted plumbing wholesaler. We look forward to hearing from you.

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/how-to-unclog-a-sink-in-5-easy-steps/