• Post author:admin
• Post published:May 12, 2022
• Post category:A Better Plumber Blog

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Like most people, you probably don’t know much about sump and sewage pumps. In this blog post, A Better Plumber & Sewer will discuss what they are and how you can choose the right one for your needs!

Sump Pump & Its Uses

A sump pump is a pump used to remove water accumulated in a sump basin, often found in the basement of homes.

You can prevent flood damage with a properly installed and maintained system. Flooding causes significant financial losses, and it may also put your family’s safety at risk if they are home when the waters rise. A well-installed and maintained system can assist protect personal belongings and offer homeowners peace of mind by ensuring that this type of disaster does not occur again.

A sump pump has the ability to remove standing water and boost drainage when used correctly. Even if you live in an area that floods frequently, it is critical to have adequate drainage since flooding can harm your health and safety. Remember, some sump pumps may also drain excess water from storm drains!

Sewage Pump & Its Uses

A sewage pump is a sump pump used to remove wastewater and effluent from buildings and systems. These pumps are typically used in commercial and industrial applications and homes with septic systems.

Sewage pumps are designed to handle solids and liquids, and they can be used to pump sewage from one location to another or to lift sewage into a treatment plant for proper disposal.

Sewage pumps are made with durable cast iron, stainless steel, and bronze materials. The impellers on these pumps are also designed to withstand the abrasive nature of sewage.

Sewage pumps typically have one or two impellers. The first stage of the pump lifts the sewage against the force of gravity, while the second stage discharges the sewage into the main sewer line. Sewage pumps can also be equipped with check valves to prevent backflow.

How to Choose a Pump?

When choosing a sump pump or sewage pump, it is essential to consider the application and choose a pump designed for a specific job. Sump pumps are available in various sizes and styles, and sewage pumps can be submersible or dry-mounted. It’s crucial to select a durable pump that will stand up to the corrosive nature of sewage.

A good pump will save you money on future repair expenses by protecting against flooding and related problems like mold.

Are you looking for a top-quality plumbing and sewer service in Palatine? You’ve come to the right place! A Better Plumber & Sewer has provided Palatine residents with expert installation, repair, and maintenance services for sump and sewage pumps for years. We’re experts in the field, and we’re dedicated to providing our customers with the highest level of service possible.

We have years of experience working on all types of plumbing and sewer systems, so we know exactly how to handle your needs.

You can request your free quote now!

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• Post author:admin
• Post published:May 2, 2022
• Post category:A Better Plumber Blog

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You wouldn’t believe some of the things that get caught in drains and cause clogs. Nothing is too strange or too large for a drain to catch, from coins to jewelry.

In this blog post, A Better Plumber & Sewer will look at some of the more insane items that have been pulled from clogged drains over the years. You might be surprised at what people try to flush down the toilet!

So if you’re ever faced with a clogged drain, remember that you’re not alone – and there’s probably something pretty strange stuck in there with you. Stay tuned for our list of wild items recovered from drain clogs! You’ll never look at your sink the same way again!

A Live Alligator

You might think that you’ve seen it all when it comes to clogged drains, but you probably haven’t seen anything like this! In 2016, workers in New York City were called to a home in Queens to help with a clogged drain. However, when they arrived, they found something much more terrifying than a clog: a live alligator, just chilling in the sewer line!

The alligator was about two feet long, and it is believed that it had been living in the sewers for quite some time. Thankfully, the workers could capture the reptile and remove it from the drain without incident. But this shows that you never know what you might find lurking in your drains!

Luxury Watches:

It might seem like something as small and innocent-looking as a watch could never cause your drain to clog, but it happens more than you know. One residential plumber reported finding over 100 luxury watches in a single drain in London!

It’s unclear how the watches ended up in the drain, but it’s possible that somebody accidentally flushed them down toilets or was thrown away by thieves. Either way, it’s pretty strange – and valuable! – a collection of items to find in a drain.

Coins:

The coins are typically the first thing that will get stuck in your drain, but that doesn’t make them any less strange. Believe it or not, some people even make a hobby out of finding coins in drains!

One man in the UK has found over £100,000 worth of coins in drains. He started just looking for loose change, but he soon realized that there was a lot of money to be made from finding coins in drains.

He now uses a metal detector to find coins in drains, and he’s even been featured on TV shows about his strange hobby.

False Teeth:

False teeth are another common item that gets caught in drains. Even a company in the UK specializes in cleaning out false teeth from drains!

The company has pulled out false teeth from drains, including dentures, braces, and dental implants. They’ve even found whole mouths full of false teeth!

Conclusion:

If you have a clogged drain, it’s always best to call a professional to help. If you require a good plumbing company to help keep your drains clear and your home healthy, call A Better Plumber & Sewer.

They provide top-notch plumbing services to residents in Arlington Heights and the surrounding suburbs. Request a free quote today and see how they can help you keep your house running smoothly!

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• Post author:admin
• Post published:April 21, 2022
• Post category:A Better Plumber Blog

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Winter blues are over, the sun is brighter, temperatures are rising, and flowers are blooming; spring is here! Yes, it seems that something happens every year around springtime with water heaters, and homeowners have to scramble to fix the issue. A Better Plumber & Sewer sheds some light on springtime water heater problems in this blog post and discusses five specific water heater issues during this time!

Water Heater Issues in spring?

Yes, it may seem odd, but this is the most likely time for your water heater to break down. Water heaters work hard during the winter, and it eventually catches up with them by spring. If there were already issues with your heater, the heavy workload might exacerbate those issues. The continuous heavy workload may finally cause your water heater to break down.

Freezing and thawing cycles after winter may be another reason for problems in the pipes and lack of supply of hot water to your home.

We recommend that you schedule an annual inspection of your water heater in and around the fall season.

Five Springtime Water Heater Problems!

If there is no hot water, then the good idea is to start by checking if the heater is on and the thermostat is at your desired temperature. For other issues, read on:

1. No Hot Water: There can be a clogged burner or excessive wear and tear to the internal heating components requiring replacement due to the heavy workload during wintertime.

2. Leaking Water Heater: You may find that the temperature of the water coming in from the heater is constantly fluctuating. It could be due to a leakage causing the hot water to flow out of the water heater. Whenever you see water pooling around your heater, it’s essential to call a professional plumbing company.

3. Water Temperature: Similar to the above problem, but sometimes the fluctuation in the temperature may be extreme. There could be an issue with the heater’s heating elements if this is the case.

4. Water Pressure: Sediment, calcium deposits, or rust in the heater or the plumbing can accumulate and clog the pipes. This accumulation can result in a drop in water pressure, which will be more noticeable when you try to take a hot shower.

5. Long Time to Reheat: If your heater takes longer than usual to reheat the water, there’s a chance there is some problem with the heating elements or the thermostat. This problem can be due to sediment buildup on the heating elements.

Ideally, you should contact a professional plumber if you have any concerns about your water heater or its performance. This will allow them to diagnose the problem and offer solution options to meet your needs.

A Better Plumber & Sewer provides pocket-friendly, excellent services in Round Lake, IL. Call us for your free quote or contact us for a second opinion!

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• Post author:admin
• Post published:April 11, 2022
• Post category:A Better Plumber Blog

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Is your sink or shower draining slowly? If so, you may have a clogged drain. Clogs are a common problem in homes, and they can be caused by everything from hair to food particles. If left untreated, a drain that has been clogged can lead to water damage and even plumbing repairs.

So, when should you call a plumber for a clogged drain? Keep reading for tips on how to determine if you need professional help.

You Can Often Clear The Clog Yourself. 

You can do this by pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain or using a plunger. Sometimes you can even use baking soda and vinegar to unclog your drains. 

Pro Advice – You may want to reach for that drain opener but be careful! If your piping system is not PVC and you use a caustic drain opener, it can damage the metal in your system.

The Most Common Places For Clogs To Form.

Plumbing is one of the essential pieces in the upkeep of your home. Clogs can form anywhere in the pipes, but there are some common areas where clogs tend to develop more than others.

The kitchen sink is one notorious place for clogs, especially if you like to cook with grease. Grease and other fats will congeal over time and can cause a big clog in your pipes. The bathroom sink can also be another zone asking for drain cleaning.

When Should I Call the Plumber?

It is ideal to call a professional as soon as possible, but the following are a few signs that require a call to the pros:

1. If, even after using the plunger or pouring boiling water, you notice that your clog is persistent.
2. Water is backing up into other drains in your house.
3. Your clogged drain is causing flooding.
4. There’s a funny smell coming from the drain.
5. The water is slow to drain or doesn’t drain in more than one drain.
6. The source of the blockage may be in a hard-to-reach area of your plumbing or may require specialized equipment to reach.

If you see any or several of these signs occurring in your home, don’t hesitate to call a plumber. They will be able to help clear the clog and get your plumbing back up and running.

How Can Professional Plumbers help?

Plumbers have several ways of clearing clogs. They may use a plumbing snake or auger to clear the clog. Sometimes, they will also use a hydro jet to clear clogs. This high-pressure water jet can clear clogs even in hard-to-reach areas.

How Can We Help?

It’s helpful to have your drains cleaned regularly to help prevent clogs from forming. Plumbers can do this for you! It is also important to call the professionals before the clog becomes a more significant issue.

A Better Plumber and Sewer Company Inc. has provided excellent plumbing services to the Mt. Prospect, IL, area residents. We are a family-owned and operated business that takes pride in our work. We offer clogged drain cleaning, plumbing repair, and more!

If you’re in need of clogged drain services, give us a call today! We would be happy to help!

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• Post author:admin
• Post published:April 1, 2022
• Post category:A Better Plumber Blog

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Your residential plumbing is crucial to your daily life, but it’s also one of the most vulnerable parts of your property. That’s why it’s vital to protect your plumbing from damage, and one way to do that is by hydro jetting.

Hydro jetting is an effective method for clearing stubborn drains, but what does it entail? This blog post by A Better Plumber & Sewer will look at hydro jetting and why it might be the best solution for your house in Mundelein, IL. We’ll also discuss some preventative measures you can take to help avoid future clogs. So, let’s learn more about Hydro Jetting! 

What is Hydro Jetting?

Hydro jetting is a process of clearing clogged drains using high-pressure water. A hydro jetting machine uses pressurized water to clean out your pipes, and it can be an effective way to remove tough clogs.

Why Do You Need Hydro Jetting?

First, let’s talk about why you might require hydro jetting. If you’ve been dealing with recurring clogs, then hydro jetting can be an effective way to clear your drains and prevent future clogs. Hydro jetting is also an excellent preventative measure if you live in an area with hard water. Hard water can build up in your lines and lead to clogs. By regularly hydro jetting your pipes, you can help prevent these clogs.

How to prep your home for Hydro Jetting?

Now that you know why you might need hydro jetting, let’s talk about how to prep your home for the procedure. First, it’s essential to clear the area around your drains. It will help the plumber access your drains more efficiently and help prevent any damage to your property. You should also turn off any water sources, such as your shower or sink, that could be in the way.

Once you’ve prepped your home, the next step is to contact a professional plumber who has experience with hydro jetting. They will be able to assess your drains and determine if hydro jetting is the best option for you. If it is, they will walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

Hydro jetting is an eminent way to clear stubborn clogs and improve the overall performance of your drains. By taking some time to prep your home and contacting a professional, you can ensure that hydro jetting is done properly and safely.

Preventative Measures to take after Hydro Jetting:

• Install drain guards or screens
• Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain
• Use a plunger to clear minor clogs
• Be mindful of what goes down your drains!

By taking some easy preventative steps, you can help keep your drains clear and reduce the need for hydro jetting in the future.

Final Verdict:

Hydro jetting is a powerful tool, but it’s essential to have your home’s plumbing ready. If you want to make sure your drain cleaning and hydro jetting experience goes as smoothly as possible, call a professional plumber near you like A Better Plumber & Sewer.

We can help get your home ready for this intense cleaning service and ensure that the job is done right – so you can enjoy the benefits of a clean and clear drain for years to come.

Ready to get started? Request a free quote today!

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• Post author:admin
• Post published:March 21, 2022
• Post category:A Better Plumber Blog

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You likely have a clogged drainage system if you’ve ever had water pooling on your property. Various factors can cause this, but landscaping is one of the most common causes. Trees and shrubs can put a lot of pressure on your drains, and if they’re not correctly disposed of, they can easily clog them up.

A Better Plumber & Sewer will discuss the concerns associated with clogged drainage systems and offer solutions to help resolve this issue.

How Your Landscape Affects Your Drainage?

The roots of the vegetation can wreak havoc on your drainage system. They can easily clog up your drains if not managed. The soil around your property can also cause problems if it’s not sloped correctly. If the gutters are clogged, the water will overflow and cause flooding. Curbside drains can also become blocked by leaves and debris. Subsequently, it can harm your property as well as your health.

Water Damage

One of the biggest concerns with clogged drainage systems is water damage. If water cannot flow off of your property, it can start to pool and can severely damage your building. This water can seep into the foundation and cause extensive damage in some cases.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are another concern; since they breed in standing water, a clogged drainage system is likely to cause an outbreak of mosquitoes. Not only are they a nuisance, but they also carry diseases like the West Nile virus and dengue fever.

How to Solve Landscape Related Drainage Issues?

In most cases, making some simple changes to your landscaping can help improve the drainage around your property. If you have water standing on your landscape, you can take the following steps:

– Make sure that your gutters are clean and clear of debris.

– Check your downspouts to ensure that they’re not clogged.

– Inspect the grading around your property to ensure that water is draining away from your home or business.

– Call a plumbing service to check your drains and clear any blockages.

If you have a clogged drain, it’s essential to take care of the problem as soon as possible. Otherwise, you could end up with severe damage to your property. A plumbing service can help get your drains back in working order to avoid future problems.

Ending Note

Clogged drainage systems are more common than you might think, and they can cause severe problems for your property. If you see water pooling up on your lawn or around your home in Crystal Lake, IL, it’s time to call in the experts. A Better Plumber & Sewer can help clear out your clogged drains and get your property back to normal. Please request a free quote today to get started.

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• Post author:admin
• Post published:March 11, 2022
• Post category:A Better Plumber Blog

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Sewer lines are an essential part of our waste management system – and when they need repair, it’s crucial to take action right away. If you encounter frequent clogging, foul smells, dirty water back-ups, then there’s a good chance you have an issue with your sewer line.

Our experts at A Better Plumber and Sewer will discuss some common ways to determine if you need to have sewer line repair done. So you can take the necessary steps to get it fixed before it causes more damage!

Signs that Your Sewer Line Needs Repair

Below are the top 5 ways to tell your sewer line needs repair:

Frequent clogging

If you experience clogged drains more than usual, it could be a sign that something is blocking the sewer line. It can be caused by everything from food waste to tree roots.

Pooling of septic waste in the yard

If you see pools of black water forming in your yard, there is likely a leak in your sewer line. It is not only unsightly, but it can also be a health hazard.

Foul smells

If you notice a foul smell coming from your drains or yard, it could be a sign of a blockage or leak in your sewer line.

Dirty water back-ups

If you notice dirty water coming back up through your drains, it’s a sure sign of a problem with your sewer line. Anything from a clog or a significant break in the pipe can cause this.

Slow drain

A slow drain is frustrating, but it’s not usually a sign of a bigger problem. However, if your drains are consistently slow, it could indicate a blockage in your sewer line.

If these signs are present, it’s essential to call a professional plumbing contractor near you right away. A block or leak in your sewer line can cause severe damage to your home and property – not to mention; it can be a health hazard. Don’t wait until the problem gets worse – call a plumber today.

While we are at it, let’s also talk a little about commercial sewer line repairs.

If you have a business or industrial property, you know that commercial plumbing requirements differ from residential. The same goes for repairs – if you think there might be an issue with your sewer line, it’s essential to call a professional who has experience with industrial and commercial plumbing. A Better Plumber and Sewer has over 25 years of experience in industrial and commercial plumbing– so we can help you get your property back up and running quickly!

Conclusion

If you reside in Schaumburg, IL, and require residential or commercial plumbing services, be sure to call A Better Plumber and Sewer. Our company offers a comprehensive range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including hydro scrub jetting, water heater, sewer repair, and drain cleaning. So Request a Free Quote today!

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• Post author:admin
• Post published:March 2, 2022
• Post category:A Better Plumber Blog

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You probably have dropped something valuable down the drain at some point in your life. What do you do in this situation? You may be tempted to grab a plunger and try to dislodge the item by force. However, this is not always the best option. If you try to force the item out and it doesn’t come loose, you may damage your plumbing or break the object.

 So, if you’ve ever misplaced a valuable item down the sink drain, don’t worry – there is hope! A Better Plumber & Sewer guide will provide you with all the information you need to safely and effectively retrieve your belongings.

Method#1: Suction

The first method is called suction. This technique involves using a plunger to create a vacuum seal over the drain opening. Once the seal is in place, you can begin to pump the plunger up and down. Doing this will create a suction force that will help pull the item out of the drain.

Method#2: Water Displacement

The second method is called water displacement. This technique involves filling a bowl with enough water to cover the top of the sink drain. Next, place the bowl over the sink drain and quickly remove it. This will cause the water to be displaced and create a vacuum that will suck the item out of the drain.

Method#3: Wire Hanger

This technique involves threading a wire hanger through the drain opening and snagging the item. Once you have grabbed hold of the article, you can pull it out of the drain.

Method#4: Plumbing Snake

This technique involves using a plumbing snake to pull the item out of the drain.

Method#5: Bottle Brush

The fifth method is called a bottle brush. This technique involves using a bottle brush to remove the item from the sink drain.

Method#6: Dish Soap

This technique involves adding dish soap to the sink drain and letting it sit for a few minutes. Next, flush out the dish soap by pouring hot water down the drain.

In most cases, one of these methods will be successful.

Quick Tips

• First, you need to ensure that you have enough room to work. When trying to retrieve something from a deep sink drain, move any furniture or appliances in your way to have plenty of space.
• Second, try to avoid using harsh chemicals if possible. Chemicals are hazardous if they come into contact with your skin or eyes, and they can also damage the object you are trying to retrieve.
• Finally, be patient. It may take a few attempts to get the object out of the drain, but eventually, you will succeed.

Arlington Heights residents know that they can count on A Better Plumber & Sewer when they need plumbing services to get the job done right. We provide top-notch plumbing services at a fair price, and we always take care of our customers. Request a quote and see how we can help you with your plumbing needs!

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• Post author:admin
• Post published:February 22, 2022
• Post category:A Better Plumber Blog

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Have you ever driven past a dead animal on the side of the road and felt like you needed to take a shower?

You may not know that your drains are like the roads in this scenario. When they get backed up with gunk, it’s not pretty. It can lead to some seriously nasty (and stinky) smells coming from your drains. So, before things get too bad, take care of your drains.

If you don’t want to deal with roadkill in your shower, you need to clean your drains regularly. Here are some tips from the professional plumbers at A Better Plumber & Sewer.

Do the Smell Test

If you notice a terrible smell coming from your drain, you can always do the good old smell test to check if it’s the drain or something else. Of course, timing is critical to do this test properly. You can’t just run your hand under the faucet and ask, “Where’s that smell coming from?” Then walk away haphazardly without actually knowing where the scent is entering your home.

If you are sitting in a location different from where the bad smell comes from, you will need to sniff out exactly what area of your house has an odor. Once you identify the entry point of the dirty drain scent, you will want to do some Drain cleaning immediately!

Clean the Area around Your Drain

Cleaning drains is not an easy task; you’re going to need some special equipment if you want to get rid of that dirty drain smell for good! Drain cleaning gel usually comes with a flexible plastic “snake” that attaches itself on top of the clog in your sink or shower drain.

This can then be used like an auger to break up the clog and clear out the pipes. Most households find this helpful when they have dirty drain problems, but calling professionals will always produce more effective results.

Clean Your Pipes

If you are experiencing a sewage smell or any other type of funky smell in your shower drain, you can try to clean your pipes. People take many steps to ensure that they have sparkling clean dishes sparkling clean floors, yet many people neglect their drains which are just as important! Dirty drains are the source of much unpleasantness, including odor and waste particles left behind – these can leave your drain pipes all clogged up.

The Ending Note

We hope you can appreciate the importance of keeping your drains clean. And remember, at A Better Plumber & Sewer, we are always ready to help with all your plumbing needs in Round Lake, IL. So don’t hesitate to contact us to request a free estimate.

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• Post author:admin
• Post published:February 14, 2022
• Post category:A Better Plumber Blog

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Trying to fix a plumbing problem without experience can quickly turn disastrous if you lack experience. However, many homeowners feel like they have no choice but to try and fix things themselves, especially when it comes to issues like clogged drains. For some reason, many homeowners believe they can take on hydro jetting all by themselves. However, as explained in this blog post by A Better Plumber & Sewer, this process can be hazardous if you’re untrained.

1) What is Hydro Jetting Drain Cleaning?

This method involves a machine that cleans clogged pipes with high-pressure water. This powerful flow can easily remove debris from your drain line. The process of hydro jetting is a great way to clean and unclog your pipes without using harmful chemicals. However, if you don’t know what you’re doing, it can be dangerous for both you and your home.

2) Is Hydro Jetting DIY Friendly?

Hydro jetting is an effective method of clearing clogged pipes, but it’s not a DIY-friendly job. For starters, the high-pressure water used in this process can easily cause injury or property damage. Hydro jetting equipment is expensive and training to use. So unless you’re a trained professional with the required tools on hand, we advise against trying any drain cleaning at home by yourself – especially when dealing with something as powerful as hydro jetting.

Not carrying out the process correctly can result in severe consequences such as pipeline rupture, causing significant flooding inside your home.

3) What Makes DIY Hydro Jetting Dangerous

Pipes can burst in the worst possible way due to DIY hydro jetting. The pressure is so intense that it will break apart the pipes without prior warning, causing much damage and costing you more money for repairs. Any debris or sludge built up within your drains could also cause an obstruction when trying to use high-pressure water on them! It’s not worth the risk- no one likes having their home flooded with sewage (or worse).

4) Hydro Jet Cleaning by Professionals – What Makes a Professional’s Job so Different?

The main reason for hiring a professional plumbing company is because they have the experience and knowledge to complete the job. Not only do they know everything about hydro jetting, but they also have the proper equipment to avoid any damage to your property. Plus, if something does go wrong, these companies have insurance that will cover any damages. All in all, it’s just not worth risking trying DIY hydro jetting when you can call a professional to take care of everything for you.

Hydro jetting is a great way to clear stubborn clogs and get your drains flowing again. However, it’s important to remember that this is an effective service and should only be attempted by professionals. If you try DIY hydro jetting, you may end up with a plumbing emergency on your hands. So before you attempt to unclog your drains yourself, give A Better Plumber & Sewer a call. We offer hydro jetting services in Arlington Heights and the surrounding areas, and we’d be happy to help you get your drains cleared quickly and efficiently. Get a free estimate from our team now.

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