How to Avoid Water Leaks

White water heater tank leaking with blue and red plumbing tools at the side

Water leaks don’t just damage your property. They can also cost you considerable amounts of money! Did you know that you can save up to 10% on your utility bills by preventing water leaks? With that in mind, let us show you how to avoid water leaks – and what to do if you find a leak at home.

1. Check Your Water Pressure

Monitor your water pressure for changes. You could already have a leak, or risk a leak, if:

  • Water flow is weaker than usual
  • You can’t get hot water
  • Hot water is weak or intermittent

Our team can help if you suspect there’s a pressure problem in your plumber system.

2. Perform Regular Plumbing Inspections

Regularly inspecting your pipework, appliances, and outlets can prevent water leaks. Keep a close eye on:

  • Toilets
  • Pipes
  • Hoses
  • Water heaters
  • Tanks
  • Sump pumps
  • Gaskets and other plumbing components

If you notice any signs of wear and tear, replace or repair the part. Ignoring damage can lead to bigger and more expensive problems.

3. Look for Water Damage

Already concerned you have a leak? Even if you can’t see a leak, you might spot signs of water damage. The most common signs include:

  • Damp patches on walls, floors, or ceilings
  • Peeling or flaking paintwork
  • A musty or damp smell
  • Visible mold e.g. black, brown, or grey patches

Even a small leak can cause serious property damage over time. If you identify water damage, call us for help.

4. Maintain Your Appliances

Regular maintenance is just as crucial as inspecting your plumbing.

Keep your appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers, in good working order. And replace any old appliances which you can’t repair. Although you have an initial outlay, it could be cheaper than a leak which goes undetected!

5. Keep Your Drains Clean

Blocked and clogged drains eventually damage your pipework. Damaged water lines may result in leaks over time.

  • Don’t put anything such as food or other solids down the drains.
  • Clear clogs quickly.
  • Regularly check your drains for buildup.

6. Inspect Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are sometimes inevitable. But a sudden flow of hot water through a frozen pipe can result in leaks or bursting.

You can avoid many frozen pipes by insulating your pipework. Or, slowly run a tap (no more than a drip) during a cold spell. This helps to keep water moving through the plumbing system.

Suspect a frozen pipe? Gently thaw it with, for example, a hairdryer. Turn off your water supply and inspect the supply line. Contact us if you’re concerned about the health of your pipework after a hard frost!

What if I Find a Water Leak?

First, don’t panic. Now you have identified the leak, you can take steps to resolve it. Once you detect a water leak, here’s what to do.

  • Turn off your water supply. Typically, the shut-off valve is near your water meter. Or it may be close to the leaking appliance, faucet, or toilet.
  • Inspect for signs of property damage. Look for damp or mold patches, or a musty smell. These signs, as mentioned, indicate a larger water damage problem. They may also suggest a long-standing leak.
  • Call Fox Valley Plumbing. Our team is ready 24/7 to assist with any water leak in Elgin, IL. And the quicker you contact us, the sooner we can fix the problem. And the lower the risk of significant damage to your property.

Water Leak Repair Services in Elgin, IL

Some leaks occur without warning and there’s nothing you can do to prevent them. However, regular maintenance and inspections can reduce the risk of water leaks. At Fox Valley Plumbing, we provide a range of services for homes and businesses. We can service your plumbing outlets and appliances and identify problems before they become full-blown leaks.

In some cases, leaks can mean wasting up to 90 gallons of water per day. The sooner you act, the less water you’ll waste – and the more money you can save. Whether it’s an emergency or a regular inspection, call us now to schedule a visit!

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How to Install a Gas Line for Your Dryer

Close up of yellow gas pipe and wrench for gas line installation

Got a new gas dryer? Chances are, you want to get up and running right away. But if you don’t already have a gas line in place, you’ll need to install one first. Below, we explain how to install a gas line for a dryer, and when to call us for help.

Can I Install My Own Gas Line?

Yes. If you have the right tools and know-how, you can install your own gas line at home. However, working with natural gas is no easy task.

  • When performed incorrectly, gas pipe installations can cause leaks. Gas leaks are dangerous because they change the amount of oxygen in the air.
  • Low oxygen causes symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness.
  • In serious cases, undetected leaks can cause death.

As a DIY job, connecting gas appliances is usually easier than installing a gas line. The Fox Valley team can handle any residential or commercial gas installation. Just give us a call to learn more.

H2: How to Perform a Dryer Gas Line Installation

Your first step is knowing your gas line layout. You need to know where your gas valves are and how to shut off the gas when required.

Once you know the layout, you can move onto the installation process.

1. Choose the Right Gas Pipe and Materials

You will need plumbing tools and materials including:

  • Pipe wrench
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Plumbing tape (Teflon tape or strong flex tape)
  • Pipe fittings (usually steel but other pipe materials are available)
  • Gas dryer connector kit

Can you use a flexible gas line for a dryer? To comply with local and state building codes, you should use rigid rather than flexible piping for the actual supply line. Flexible connection pipes may be less vulnerable to damage.

What about deciding on what size gas line for a dryer installation? It all depends on your existing setup. What’s important is that the piping and fixtures align properly to prevent leaks.

The pressure moving through the pipework matters, too. The more appliances a gas line supplies, the greater the risk of leaks if there’s a loose fitting.

Unsure how to measure, or choose the right materials? Call us for help.

2. Turn Off Gas Supply

Go to your gas shut off valve and ensure it’s turned off. Never perform gas repair or installations without turning off the gas!

3. Create the New Gas Supply Line

Next, fit the pipe lengths and valves you need to extend the gas line to the dryer. You will also need to coat the “threads” of the gas lines to completely seal the pipework and prevent leaks. If you don’t have access to strong enough tape, you can use pipe dope.

4. Use a Gas Dryer Connector Kit

Depending on your dryer model, you may be able to buy a gas dryer connector kit. These kits make extending supply lines much easier. Check with your local hardware store to see if such a kit is available.

5. Check for Leaks

Once you connect the dryer to the gas line, you need to check for leaks. It’s easy to do this – all you need is the “bubbles test”.

  • Turn your gas on.
  • Mix some water and dish soap.
  • Spread the liquid over the joints.
  • If you see bubbles, that means there’s a gas leak. Tighten the connection using a wrench.
  • No bubbles? Your gas line is secure.

Installing a gas dryer can be tricky. For example, maybe you can’t tighten the joints enough, or you don’t know how to check for leaks. Call our team if you’re unsure about installing gas appliances.

6. Move the Dryer into Position

Once you’re happy with the installation, you can move the dryer into its final position. You might want to double-check that the hoses and attachments are still secure now that you’ve moved the dryer.

When to Call a Professional for Gas Dryer Installations

If you know how to install a gas line for a dryer, it’s possible to attempt this job on your own. However, if you have any doubts, call Fox Valley Plumbing. There are simply too many risks with gas lines to take any chances!

Our Illinois residential and commercial plumbers are on hand to help with any gas installation. We are committed to providing safe gas line services for any property. Call now to schedule an appointment or get an emergency service.

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5 Signs That You Need a Sewer Video Inspection

Closeup of a plumber performing a sewer line inspection to clear a blocked drain

Sewer line camera inspections can prevent structural damage and help you keep your property safe. But what is a sewer line inspection, and when might you need one? Our friendly team answers these questions and more below.

What Is a Sewer Line Inspection?

A sewer video inspection is a plumbing technique that lets us see every part of a drain line. The plumber moves a camera along the length of your sewer pipes to detect any cracks, leaks, or defects.

Sewer camera inspections are never convenient. But they’re often the quickest way to identify and resolve sewer line problems!

It’s always worth having your sewer lines inspected every few years. That way, you can identify minor problems before they escalate. But for now, let’s consider the five major warning signs that your home or business needs a sewer line inspection.

1. Water Damage

Have you noticed damp patches around the walls of your property? Particularly around the floors? Water damage could indicate sewer line problems. Such issues should be inspected urgently before they cause further damage.

2. Slow Draining Water

Slow drainage from a sink is a common complaint. It’s often caused by something innocuous, such as clogged hair or debris. But if you can’t clear the blockage easily yourself, it could indicate a deeper problem. For example, tree roots may be pressing on your sewer line, or it could be cracked.

3. Stinky Drains

Stinky, foul-smelling drains indicate standing water. Standing water means there is a clog deep within your sewer line somewhere. These clogs may not clear on their own and they could eventually damage your pipes, so they must be investigated.

4. Inconsistent Water Pressure

Is your sink or shower pressure lower than normal? Or is it inconsistent? Sometimes, this indicates a leaking or malfunctioning sewer pipe. The only way to know is to hire a professional to have a sewer video inspection.

5. Mold Growth

Although mold grows in homes for many reasons, it often indicates a blocked or cracked sewer line. The damp conditions created by leaking or blocked pipes are a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mold.

Mold is not only inconvenient, it’s a health hazard. It can cause breathing difficulties, allergic reactions, and more.

How Long Does a Sewer Inspection Take?

Inspection processes vary in duration. It all depends on the length and complexity of the sewer lines. Typically, home inspections take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or two. Commercial sewer scope inspections can take considerably longer.

In all cases, the Fox Valley professional plumbers will endeavor to complete the job quickly and efficiently.

How Much Does a Video Sewer Inspection Cost?

It all depends on the scope of the work involved. Factors that could affect the cost of your video inspection include:

  • The length of the sewer line
  • Ease of access to the sewer line

For example, if we need to remove the toilet or other plumbing to access the line, this may increase the cost. Your plumber will explain exactly how much the inspection will cost after you contact us.

  • The cost quoted is usually just for the inspection and video footage
  • Repair costs will be quoted separately

While you may be reluctant to have a sewer line inspection, they’re cost-effective in the long run. The quicker you identify the source of the problem, the cheaper it may be to fix.

And speaking of cost, don’t forget to check your water bills. You could save up to 10% on water bills by fixing leaks around your home!

Book a Sewer Line Inspection Now

Are you worried about your sewer system? Trust the professional plumbers at Fox Valley Plumbing to help. Using our high-tech camera equipment, we can quickly identify sewer line problems. And once we know what the problem is, we can provide a competitive estimate to fix it.

Don’t wait for a clogged drain or sewer pipe to become an even bigger problem. Protect your home’s plumbing system – call us or reach us online to book a service. And for emergencies, call whenever you need us. Our friendly plumbing team offers a 24/7 response service.

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Is a Leaking Hot Water Heater Dangerous? Find Out Here

Close up of a leaking water heater on floor of residential property

Have you noticed a leak from your water heater? If so, it’s crucial to address the problem early. Otherwise, you risk water damage to your home – even if it’s only a small leak right now.

But in the meantime, is a leaking water heater dangerous? And can you still use your hot water? Our plumbing specialists answer these questions and more below.

Causes of Leaking Hot Water Heaters

Water heater tank and pipe leaks have many have causes. However, the most common reasons for a leaky heater are:

  • Tank corrosion
  • Old or faulty pipe connections
  • Temperature and pressure relief valve malfunction
  • Sediment buildup
  • Water pressure problems
  • Natural wear and tear

Only a plumbing expert can correctly – and quickly – identify the root cause of a leaking water heater. We don’t advise trying to fix something like this alone at home!

Is a Leaking Water Heater an Emergency?

In most cases, leaking water heaters require urgent attention. However, thankfully, they might not be an emergency.

Whether or not your leak is an emergency depends on the cause and location of the leak. It also depends on how much water is leaking and where it’s flowing to. When you call us, we can advise whether it’s an emergency and what steps to take before we arrive on site.

Can a leaking heater be dangerous? Even if it’s not technically an emergency, a leaking heater could still cause water damage, scalding, or flooding. And if it is an emergency, there’s a risk of a gas leak. That’s why it’s crucial to call us for an evaluation the moment you spot a leak.

Can a Leaking Water Heater Be Repaired?

Whether you can repair the heater depends on various factors, including:

  • The scale of the water heater damage
  • Location of the leak
  • Water heater age

For example, if your heater is leaking from the top, it could be repairable. But if there’s a leak in the tank itself, a replacement may be the only option.

Can I Still Use a Leaking Water Heater?

If it’s a small or minor leak, you might still use your water heater temporarily until help arrives. But we do not recommend continuing to use a leaking water heater. The moment you identify a leak, call Fox Valley Plumbing for advice.

What to Do if Your Hot Water Heater Is Leaking

Avoiding Leaking Water Heaters

Each year in the US, nearly 1 in 60 US homeowners make property damage claims for water damage. Leaking water heaters are a common cause, so here’s how to avoid leaks occurring in the first place.

  • Monitor water pressure regularly.
  • Clunking, hissing, and other strange heater sounds should be investigated promptly.
  • Drain and flush the tank at frequent intervals to avoid sediment buildup.
  • Have your heater serviced at least annually.

Here’s another interesting fact: you could save around 10% on your water bills if you take steps to prevent home water leaks. Don’t overlook the importance of regular maintenance and inspection!

Get a Quote for Leaky Water Heater Repairs Now

Plumbing problems are never convenient. But when they occur, you should address the problem sooner rather than later. And at Fox Valley Plumbing, we know that water leaks can’t wait. We’re standing by, waiting to help when you need us.

Contact us now to schedule a visit to inspect a leaking hot water heater. You can reach us 24/7 in emergency situations.

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How Do Sump Pumps Work?

Close up of a sump pump installed in a home basement for domestic plumbing use

Are you worried about basement flooding the next time there’s a storm? Then you need to know about sump pumps.

These powerful systems can give you peace of mind the next time there’s heavy rainfall. They can make the difference between a dry or flooded home. But what, exactly, is a sump pump? And how does a sump pump work in a basement or elsewhere?

Our team answers these questions and more below.

What Is a Sump Pump?

“Sumps” are low spaces where water accumulates. In homes, we can think of a basement or crawlspace as a “sump”, because it’s the lowest spot in the property.

A sump pump, then, is a mechanism used to remove standing water from the basement or crawlspace. The goal is to prevent flooding and protect the property’s foundation from water damage.

Sump pumps are built into a hole, or space, in your basement. When water levels rise, the pump activates and drains the water away from your home. There are various types of sump pumps, but the most common include battery backup and water powered pumps.

How Do Battery Backup Sump Pumps Work?

Sometimes, storms cause power outages. However, a battery backup sump pump includes a float switch. So, even if a storm knocks out your power, the pump still works. It just switches from using electricity to the battery backup.

How Do Water Powered Sump Pumps Work?

A water powered sump pump actually uses water pressure to pump excess water away. It’s handy because there’s no battery or power supply. The downside is the risk of higher water bills due to increased water usage.

Due to IL codes and regulations, water pumps are uncommon in the state. They should not be the primary sump pump for any home.

Sump Pump Benefits

There are many benefits to installing a sump pump in your home.

  • Sump pumps help to prevent structural damage from pooling or standing water.
  • If there’s a flood, sump pump can protect your valuables from water damage.
  • A sump pump can help to reduce mold and dampness, which improves air quality.
  • Heavy rainfall is increasingly common across Illinois, so a sump pump could boost your home’s value.

Do You Need a Sump Pump?

Ultimately, it depends on your property. Here are signs you will benefit from a sump.

  • You use your basement to store valuables and other property.
  • Your basement has flooded before.
  • You live in an older property with possible mold or mildew problems.
  • Your home is in an area prone to storms and heavy rainfall.

Even if you don’t have a basement or need a sump pump, you might need flood protection. Our plumbers are happy to inspect your property and recommend what type of flood protection works best.

Sump Pump Repair and Installation in Elgin, IL

Flooding or high water levels can cause severe property damage. That’s why you probably need a sump pump – and you definitely need to service it regularly!

Don’t put your home’s foundation at risk. Call Fox Valley Plumbing for a sump pump installation or repair today.

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How Long Does a Water Heater Last?

Graphic of a new hot water heater tank fitted and installed against gray background

Your water heater should be durable enough to last many years. However, even high-quality water heaters break down eventually. But how long does a hot water heater last, and how can you maximize its lifespan? Let’s take a look.

How Long Should a Water Heater Last?

How long does a gas water heater last? According to Keep Warm Illinois, the average hot water tank lasts around 12 years. While this is impressive, it does mean you’ll probably need to replace your water heater every decade or so.

Why do water heaters fail? It’s typically due to rust and corrosion. Even if you replace the components regularly, the tank will eventually rust through.

How Long Does a Tankless Water Heater Last?

A tankless water heater can last slightly longer – anywhere from 10 to 20 years. With good maintenance, you can extend this as long as possible. We’ll cover maintenance tips below.

Signs of a Failing Water Heater

How do you know if your heater needs replacing? Look out for these tell-tale signs of a failing water heater or component parts.

  • Low water pressure
  • Discolored water
  • Insufficient hot water
  • Frequent strange noises e.g. hissing, banging
  • Leaks around the tank

The good news is that these signs don’t always mean the whole heater needs replacing! Often, we can replace or repair a component without changing the whole tank.

The sooner you identify water heater failure, the easier it is to fix the problem. So, if you spot any of these signs, contact Fox Valley Backflow & Plumbing for water heater repair.

Tips to Prolong Your Water Heater’s Lifespan

Although your tank will need replacing eventually, there are various ways you can extend its lifespan. Here’s how to improve your tank’s life expectancy.

  • Flush and drain the tank at least once a year. This removes sediment buildup and helps to protect the components.
  • Replace your anode rod every few years. This rod helps to prevent corrosion within the tank.
  • Inspect the tank regularly. If you have any concerns, schedule a visit from our plumbing team.
  • Consider an expansion tank. Expansion tanks help to ease some of the pressure on the main tank. This could prolong the life of your water heater.
  • Buy water softener. Using a water softener can help reduce mineral deposit buildup within the tank.

It’s crucial that you perform routine maintenance on your water heater. And if you spot any signs of leaking or corrosion, call our team so we can remedy the problem before they become urgent.

Remember, malfunctioning water heaters can lead to property damage and flooding – and expensive emergency repairs!

Replace or Repair Your Water Heater in Elgin, IL

Do you need a water heater repair or replacement? Fox Valley Backflow & Plumbing can assist. Our experienced plumbers can service, repair, or replace your water heater with minimal fuss. And we’ll work around your schedule – after all, we’re here to help!

Contact us now to discuss a water heater repair or replacement in Illinois.

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Say Goodbye to Sediment: How to Drain a Water Heater

Plumber crouching to drain a hot water heater in property

Let’s be honest: do you take your hot water supply for granted? Don’t worry if the answer’s yes – we all do!

To keep your home water supply running smoothly, though, you’ll need to drain the water heater tank regularly. And if you’re feeling confident, it’s something you can attempt to do yourself. So, here’s how to go about draining the tank, and when to call a plumber.

Do You Need to Drain a Water Heater?

Yes. Over time, sediment builds in the water tank. This build-up causes corrosion, and it could shorten your tank’s lifespan. It could also cause leaks, clogs, and eventually lead to no hot water.

How Often Should You Drain a Water Heater?

The general consensus is that water heaters should be drained at least once a year. However, if you’re in an area with “hard” water, consider draining the tank every six months.

How Long Does it Take to Drain a Water Heater?

Want to know how to drain a hot water heater quickly? The good news is that the process is quick! The whole job can be completed in under 60 minutes.

How to Drain Your Water Heater

Are you ready to drain your water heater? Here’s what to do.

  • Shut off the power and water supply. Otherwise, you risk flooding and damaging heating elements. Check your owner’s manual(s) for instructions for how to do this.
  • Attach a garden hose to the drain valve: Any sturdy garden hose will do. Run the other end to a floor drain or outside. Make sure the hose stays lower than the drain valve so water runs in the right direction.
  • Run a hot water tap: To ensure your system flushes completely (and quickly), it’s good to release some pressure first. Run a hot water tap near your heater, or a tap on the upper floor of your home.
  • Open the drain valve: With the hose attached, open the drain valve to start draining.
  • Flush out remaining sediment: Once the tank is empty, flush out remaining sediment by turning the cold water on. Once the water runs clear, turn the cold water off for now.
  • Close your drain valve: Remove the hose and close the drain valve again.
  • Turn the water back on and fill the tank. Wait until the tank is full before turning the power back on. You will soon have hot water again!

How to Drain a Water Heater: Safety Tips

Keep you and your family safe when there’s water flowing, follow these four safety tips.

  1. The tank water could be very hot. Let the water cool down before you drain it! You can run your hot water taps to speed up this process.
  2. Consider wearing goggles and gloves for extra heat protection.
  3. Make sure you use either a floor drain or bucket when draining the water. Or, let the water flow outside from the hose. Insufficient space for draining can cause flooding.
  4. Always check for leaks after completing the water heater drainage. Make sure everything is securely turned back off. Even a small leak can cause flooding eventually!

When to Call a Plumber

Just because you can drain a gas water heater by yourself doesn’t mean you should! If you’re not comfortable draining your own water heater tank, don’t attempt it. Instead, simply call Fox Valley Backflow & Plumbing.

We’ll drain your water heater quickly and perform any other residential plumbing services you require. No job is too small for our team!

Call now at (847) 624-3872 to schedule a home visit for water heater drainage.

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Palatine, Illinois – Tankless Water Heater Maintenance

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Why Should You Choose a Professional Drain Cleaning Service?

The drain is one area of the house that is not thought about often. Only when there’s a maintenance issue this area is given any consideration. Once in a while, things need taking care of to avoid long-term maintenance problems.

 

 

A few handy tips and information can help homes maintain their drains sufficiently enough to ask for professional help only when required.

How Can Professional Drain Cleaning Services Help?

1. They can help eliminate a slow drain – Drains become slow when they face issues. Before becoming dysfunctional, drains begin to show slow performance. The professional drain cleaning service will identify if the slow drain is due to a blockage in the homeowner’s system or if it is caused by the mainline serving the home. They can diagnose the problem and ensure proper treatment so that the blockage doesn’t turn into something serious. If you can identify the source of the problem, well. If not, call the professionals.

Call Us At (847) 624-3872

 

2. Drain cleaning services offer services to reduce home odors – Every home faces this issue. Even when the drainage may be working fine, there could be food items rotting further down the line or something more serious that causes a foul odor. Professional service providers will detect the source of the odor and take steps to get rid of it. They have the equipment and experience to deal with such problems.

3. Drain cleaners can help identify other serious issues – They are professionals who have the knowledge to recognize other serious issues. The problem may have something to do with the bathroom or the kitchen. If not fixed, the problem might lead to a blockage or a leak within the home. There could also be a potential problem with the vent in the drain that may threaten the safety of the people on the property. Timely involvement and detection of problems can help avoid major expenses later.

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Sooner or later, every home will face the drain clogging problem eventually. Whenever you are faced with the prospect of a blocked drain, engage a professional from the Schaumburg, Illinois drain cleaning service.

When choosing a professional drain cleaning service, ask for a free estimate. Most companies provide a quote. The rate may vary from one to another. But knowing the upfront costs will help you decide which service to go for the cleaning and also give you an idea of how much it is going to cost you.

Though the drain clog might bother you most during the daytime and that is when it is best to get it fixed. But emergencies may happen any time during the day. Select a service that will do the plumbing even during nighttime if required.

Is there a money-back guarantee? In the event that the cleaning was ineffective or the level of service wasn’t as expected, ask for money back. A company that provides money back is sure of its service levels. That helps you be assured you will get quality service.

Call Us At (847) 624-3872

 

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Commercial Plumbing Installation & Repairs – Barrington, Illinois

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