Category: Uncategorized

What Is a Sump Pump (And How Can One Help)?

Most homes with basements or crawl spaces have a sump system designed to collect water as it gathers under the foundation and pump it out somewhere safer. Sump pump systems use drain tiles in the yard and under the basement floor to collect excess moisture and keep it away from the foundation. These perforated drain pipes direct the water to a sump pump basin.

When the water level in the basin is high enough, it triggers the sump pump float switch and turns on the pump, sending the collected water safely away from the home.

Benefits of Sump Pumps

Homes in humid regions like Chicago need a sump system to withstand flooding and combat environmental issues like mold growth or pest infestation. Some major benefits of sump pumps include:

• Flooding prevention: When installed correctly, a sump pump system protects the home from routine humidity and excess water like heavy rainfall, snowmelt, or burst pipes. 
• Mold and mildew protection: Sump pump systems rid the basement of humidity, otherwise encouraging mold and mildew growth. This enhances indoor air quality and protects inhabitants from related respiratory issues.
• Increased property value: Home buyers love to see signs that a home is well-cared for. Sump pumps show there is less chance for hidden damage.
• Reduced heating costs: Decreasing humidity lessens the workload for an HVAC system, allowing it to work more efficiently for a longer period.
• Pest infestation prevention: Insects like termites prefer humid environments and are far less likely to move when a sump pump removes their beloved moisture.

Submersible and Pedestal Sump Pumps Compared

There are two main types of sump pumps to consider.

A submersible sump pump is an all-in-one unit that houses the pump and the motor together. The pump sits below the ground at the bottom of the basin, taking up less space and operating more quietly. These tend to work more powerfully and clog less often than pedestal pumps, but their location makes them more challenging to maintain and affects longevity.

Pedestal sump pumps separate the motor on a pedestal above the sump basin. This location is much easier to access for sump pump maintenance, and these pumps usually last longer. However, they need more space and cannot operate as powerfully as a submersible pump.

How Secondary or Backup Sump Pumps Increase Security

Backup sump systems offer greater peace of mind and security against flood damage, especially if the electricity goes out in a storm or the primary pump fails.

Secondary pumps refer to a second pump system wired in at a slightly higher elevation than the first, ready to kick on if the primary pump fails. 

However, backup sump pumps do not rely on the same electric system. Instead, they use batteries or water pressure to power the unit, meaning they may still operate even if the power goes down.

Battery-backed sump pumps are more versatile but require frequent checkups to ensure the battery is still charged and the unit works. Water-powered sump pumps are more hands-off and reliable, but they run up water bills and may not be allowed or usable in all areas.

About VanderBosch Plumbing

With over 30 years of service to the Chicago area, VanderBosch is the first choice of many for all plumbing, sewer, and drain needs. They offer 24/7 assistance for emergencies that strike at all times of day, same-day and after-hours services, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call today for sump pump services in Chicago, IL.

The Importance of Whole House Water Filtration Systems

Access to clean water is one of the great modern technological achievements, and water filters are a more personal way to ensure the safety of water in your home.

From choosing the right system for your home to understanding the benefits of water filtration systems, there’s plenty to review.

How Water Filtration Systems Work

Whole house water filters work to remove contaminants from water like:

• Chemicals
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Viruses
• Bacteria
• Microorganisms

Carbon filters and reverse osmosis filters are popular whole-home water filtration systems, and they can often be used together to achieve the cleanest water possible.

Activated Carbon filters are where budget-friendliness and effectiveness meet. These filters allow water to pass through. At the same time, the loose carbon particles draw and trap contaminants in a process called adsorption. However, they are unable to remove 

Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems are usually more expensive, but they go above and beyond to remove the highest percentage of contaminants from water. An RO system pushes water through a semipermeable membrane that blocks out inorganic materials like metals, bacteria, and viruses. It can also help remove minerals and dissolved solids from the water to reduce water hardness.

Main Benefits of Water Filtration Systems

The most immediate benefit of filtered water is the taste. Disinfectants, heavy metals, and bacteria mar the fresh flavor of water, but a filtration system does the hard work necessary to provide safe, drinkable water. Drinking more from the tap means less money spent on bottled water and, by extension, fewer plastic bottles sent to landfills.

Cleaner water is also much better for health and safety, as contaminants that can affect the health of those who drink it are removed. So, investing in a water filtration system is beneficial for safety, taste, cost savings, and the environment.  

Signs a Home Needs a Water Filtration System

While most homes will benefit from a water filtration system, there are a few signs that one is needed. These usually include:

• Foul smelling water
• Poor water taste
• Water is cloudy or discolored
• Poor water quality test

Your city may also inform you of water quality concerns. So, whether homeowners notice signs they need one or are just concerned about water quality and want better-tasting and safer water, a water filtration system installation can help.

About VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc.

No one is more prepared to tackle Chicagoland’s plumbing issues than VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc. With over 30 years of service experience, they use knowledge and the latest technology to address concerns effectively. They prioritize customers with no service charges, same-day service, and straightforward pricing. Contact them today for water filtration system installation and services in Chicago, IL.

How to Keep Your Plumbing Safe This Fall and Winter

Freezing temperatures and winter weather can be harsh on your plumbing. As winter rolls in like an uninvited guest, anxious residents and business owners flood the phone lines of local plumbing repair companies, all scrambling to winterize their properties and dodge those pesky last-minute plumbing disasters. Sure, scheduling plumbing services is great, but there are a few extra steps homeowners can take to keep those pesky plumbing and heater problems at bay!

Wrap Up Your Pipes

The coldest months pose the greatest hazard to improperly insulated pipes. Low temperatures can cause stagnant water in pipes to freeze and expand, creating microscopic fissures that could lead to a pipe burst. Insulating pipes become essential for exposed pipes, especially in areas that experience below-freezing temperatures. The small cost of adding more insulation is insignificant compared to the possible expenditures of fixing any damages brought on by a burst pipe.

Even exposed pipes within your home can freeze if the temperature drops below a certain point. Therefore, outdoor pipes should be insulated. Ensure you inspect and insulate pipes in the laundry room, utility rooms, garages, crawl spaces, under sinks, and the basement. You might have to cope with the effects of frozen pipes if you go on vacation during a cold snap or lose electricity during a winter storm. Insulating your pipes using insulating sleeves is recommended, but if you don’t have any, you can also wrap the exposed pipes with a towel.

Open Cabinets and Turn on the Heat

Open the cabinets that conceal your pipes so hot air can circulate inside and prevent freezing pipes. This is especially handy for those cabinets and pipes that like to hang out along the chilly exterior walls.

Maintain that thermostat at a steady temperature, day and night—after all, consistency is key! Once more, during a chilly spell, it’s not the moment to play thermostat roulette at night to pocket a few extra bucks on your heating bill. If you plan a getaway during the chilly months, keep the heat in your abode, but don’t let it dip below a cozy 55° F.

Disconnect Your Outside Hoses

After using the yard hose all summer, do not forget it when it gets cooler, and leave it hooked up to an outside faucet or fixture. Winterize your outdoor plumbing to ensure the water is off for the winter. If you leave the garden hose connected, a small amount of water can get stuck in the pipe by the spigot. This water will quickly freeze, and this ice can damage your pipe and faucet, so disconnect that hose immediately to save money on a fix.

About VanderBosch Plumbing Inc.

With over 17 years of experience in the plumbing industry, VanderBosch Plumbing Inc. works hard to deliver outstanding service to the Chicago community. Delivering outstanding service isn’t just something they say they will do; it is deeply ingrained in their culture and shows in every job they do. Every technician at VanderBosch Plumbing has the knowledge and expertise to diagnose and fix your plumbing issue. For any plumbing repairs in the Chicago, IL area, give VanderBosch Plumbing Inc. a call today.

What Indicates a Gas Leak and What to Do About It

Natural gas is considered a good, clean energy source because it is highly efficient and produces little greenhouse gasses when burned. Though not a renewable resource, it is still considered a good alternative to other fuels that burn less cleanly. Unfortunately, gas lines and plumbing infrastructure can fail if they are not monitored, and disaster can occur if there is a leak. 

This article will cover the dangers of gas leaks and what a person should do if they think they have detected a gas leak, including who to call about gas line repair. 

The Severe Health Risks Associated With Gas Leaks

Gas leak symptoms can be mild to moderate to severe, depending on the length and intensity of the exposure. It can cause the following physical difficulties:

• Confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Disorientation
• Dizziness
• Headaches or lightheadedness
• Fainting
• Nausea
• Vomiting

In extreme cases, a person can die of asphyxiation if they are exposed for too long. Natural gas is also flammable, so if there is a leak and the gas comes in contact with a spark, house fires and explosions can occur, leaving devastation in their wake. 

Evidence of a Gas Leak

Signs of a gas leak can be more subtle than physical symptoms, especially if the leak is small or on a home’s exterior. Some things that indicate a gas leak are listed and described below.

• Foul Smells: If someone detects a smell similar to rotten eggs or methane, this is a clear indicator of a gas leak. Methane was added to natural gas as a warning because it has no smell.
• Dead Grass: Spots of dead grass near gas lines can indicate a leak.
• Dying Houseplants: If houseplants that are well taken care of are dying, this may show a gas leak nearby. 
• Hissing Sounds: The sound of gas escaping or a hissing sound near pipes can indicate a gas leak.

If a homeowner detects these things, they should take the steps in the next section.

Responding to a Gas Line Leak

If a household notices any gas leak signs, they should immediately leave and find a safe location. All lights should be off, and no flame or electronic device should be turned on. Once the family is evacuated, make a phone call to the gas company; there is typically an emergency line for gas leaks. If this is not available, a call to 911 may be necessary. Once the gas has been turned off, the homeowner can call a licensed plumber to repair gas leaks. The gas must be turned off before approaching the house again.

About VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc.

VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc. provides same-day service in Chicago, IL, and the surrounding areas. Their experienced and trustworthy plumbing technicians can handle issues big and small and offer straightforward pricing before starting any repair service. Call today for gas leak detection in Chicago, IL!

Tips for Maintaining Sewer Lines

Proper home maintenance involves a long list of tasks. The tasks for caring for the home include caring for the plumbing. The sewer line is an important part of the plumbing system that homeowners should try to prevent problems with because sewer line problems like clogs and leaks can have messy and costly consequences. So, it’s important to help avoid them and catch them as soon as possible. Here is a quick guide to help prevent and catch sewer line problems. 

Catch and Avoid Clogs

Sewer line clogs are a fairly common problem, and most of the time, the problem can be avoided by simply learning how to care for the sewer lines. Too often, sewer lines are expected to handle types of waste they weren’t designed to sweep away reliably. Things like food scraps and non-flushable items can form a sewer line clog. So, being mindful of what goes down the drains and toilets will help prevent clogs. 

To identify a clogged sewer line so a plumber can be called for drain cleaning, look for signs like: 

• Slow draining
• Noisy draining
• Backed-up drains and toilets
• Bad odors from drains 

Watch for Sewer Line Leaks

People can help avoid a sewer line leak by preventing clogs and having clogs cleared as soon as possible since a clogged sewer line can damage the pipe and cause a leak. When a sewer line leak does occur, it should also be caught and fixed as soon as possible to avoid messy and costly consequences.

To spot a leaking sewer line before more damage can occur, watch for signs like: 

• Foundation cracks or damage
• Foul odors 
• More lush, green patches of grass 
• Soggy spots or puddles on the lawn
• A rodent or insect infestation 

Get Professional Plumbing Maintenance

Professional plumbing maintenance is prized for its ability to prevent and catch plumbing problems around the home. So, by scheduling routine plumbing maintenance and inspections with a plumber, homeowners can expect fewer future problems and for existing problems to be caught, including problems with the sewer lines.  

A professional plumbing inspection and maintenance should be done regularly anyway, typically around once a year. It allows plumbers to perform tasks to help avoid problems and inspect the plumbing system. If they find any problems, they can repair them to avoid any resulting damages and consequences. Finding and fixing problems early can help save homeowners money, including preventing further costly damage and preventing the problem from worsening and leading to additional problems that require more expensive repairs.  

About VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc.

VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc. is a trusted plumbing company serving the Chicago area. They offer straightforward pricing and same-day service. Call them for plumbing services in Chicago, IL. 

Growing Tree Roots Can Damage the Plumbing 

Some plumbing problems can be seasonal. Just like frozen pipes and their effects, which are more common during the winter, springtime can be a time of growth for trees, and tree roots can grow into and damage the underground plumbing. Dealing with the complications from tree roots getting into the plumbing can be frustrating, but there are ways to help prevent this problem or deal with it when it occurs. 

Intrusive Tree Roots

In the springtime, trees experience a period of growth, during which their roots actively seek out water and nutrients in the soil to support this growth. As the tree roots spread and explore the surrounding area, they can come across underground plumbing, which can be a source of essential nutrients. 

This is particularly true for underground sewer lines containing water and nutrients. The tree roots are naturally drawn towards these nutrient-rich areas, and they can penetrate the pipes, made easier if there are existing cracks or weak parts of the line. When tree roots invade the pipe, it can lead to leaks, blockages, and other pipe damage.  

Problems Caused by Invasive Tree Roots 

When tree roots cause problems for the sewer line, such as clogs, leaks, or damage, it can cause many consequences for a household. When water and sewage leak from the sewer line through cracks or damage, it can cause problems like puddles or wet spots in the yard, bad smells, pest infestations, and more. 

Clogged sewer lines can also have many consequences that can be signs to call a plumber, such as backups, slow draining, bad smells, gurgling sounds, and more. If homeowners notice any of these issues that point to a clogged or leaking sewer line, it’s crucial to have a plumber fix it. 

Prevention and Solutions for Invasive Tree Roots

When plumbers are called to solve the issues and damage from tree roots growing into a sewer line, they will first start with an inspection. They can do this with a sewer video inspection, allowing them to see inside the sewer line to get a better idea of the damage and its location. 

Before sewer line repair can be done, the tree roots will need to be removed from the pipe, typically with drain cleaning methods like hydro jetting or using a plumber’s snake. After the roots are removed, plumbers will perform the necessary sewer line repair to fix the damage to the pipe, whether using traditional or trenchless sewer repair methods. 

Additionally, homeowners can do some things to help prevent plumbing problems from tree roots in the future. These tasks can include avoiding planting trees near underground plumbing, replanting trees that are too close if possible, installing root barriers, which can help keep invasive tree roots away from the piping, and more. 

About VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc.

VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc. has over 30 years of experience serving the Chicago area. They provide straightforward pricing, after-hours service, and the latest technology. Call them for plumbing services in Chicago, IL.

Signs to Repipe the Water Lines and the Benefits of Repiping

Homeowners can face many challenges with their property. Hidden issues can lurk everywhere, including in the plumbing system. Frequent issues with leaks in the water lines and corroded lines can wreak havoc on the home but are also reasons to get repiping done. Repiping involves replacing old or faulty pipes with new ones, which can have many benefits. This post will share signs that indicate repiping is needed and the advantages of repiping the water lines.  

Leaks Are a Problem

One of the key reasons for repiping is multiple leaks throughout the water pipes or frequent leaks and cracks developing in the pipes. Water leaks are more than an annoyance. They can cause high water costs for homeowners and costly water damage. These leaks can also be symptoms of deeper issues within the piping, such as old age. 

Signs that can alert homeowners to these water leaks include a drop in water pressure from the fixtures, unusual noises from the pipes, higher water bills, mold growth, water stains or damage to the walls, flooring, or ceilings, and wet spots. When water line leaks are getting out of hand and posing a major risk to the home, repiping work may be the best solution.

Corrosion 

Pipe corrosion is another reason to repipe the water lines. When pipes are corroded, they can weaken and flake, making them more susceptible to problems like leaks and clogs. Some common signs of pipe corrosion besides seeing visible rust and corrosion include: 

• The water has an odd, metallic taste or smell
• Water comes out of the pipes discolored
• Water leaks occur
• More frequent clogs
• Lower water pressure from fixtures

Benefits of Repiping

Repiping a home’s old or faulty water lines can offer several significant benefits, including:

• Prevents problems and damage: Repiping the water lines can help prevent future problems like leaks and clogs, avoid damages caused by these issues, and save homeowners money on repairs.
• Lower water bills: Repiping leaking water lines will reduce a household’s water costs by eliminating the leaks. 
• Better water pressure: After repiping, water pressure can be improved by eliminating leaks and corrosion. 
• Higher home value: A newly repiped home can increase the property value of a home. 

About VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc.

VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc. has over 30 years of experience serving the Chicago area. They offer same-day service, honest pricing, and the latest technology. Call them for repiping services in Chicago, IL. 

Don’t Get Pinched by High Water Bills

Conserving water can be beneficial, not just for the environment but also for saving homeowners money on their water bills. Conserving water is easy with the right habits and plumbing changes. Here are three tips to help homeowners save money on their water bills. 

Keep the Tap off and Learn How to Water the Landscape

The first step to saving money on water bills is to change water use habits. With the plumbing and water, this is as easy as finding opportunities to turn off the tap. In most people’s day-to-day habits, there are several opportunities to save water, including: 

• Turn off the water while doing tasks like brushing teeth and shaving
• Scrape food scraps from plates into the garbage instead of letting the faucet run
• Run the dishwasher with full loads of dirty dishes
• Provide wastebaskets near toilets to prevent people from flushing garbage

These small changes can add up to significant water savings, but another opportunity to save water is by irrigating more effectively. Most yards use irrigation systems to help them thrive, but these sprinkler systems can be costly water users. To water the lawn while saving water, people can set their systems to water in the early morning to prevent having to use more water to compensate for evaporation. Additionally, adding rain sensors to the sprinkler system can help save water by avoiding using water in the yard during periods of rain.    

Choose Water-Saving Plumbing Fixtures 

Changing habits takes a bit of effort, but changing plumbing fixtures is a simple way to save water without any effort on the part of household residents. To get serious about saving money on water bills, homeowners should upgrade their water-using appliances and plumbing fixtures to more water-efficient models.

There are many water-saving fixtures, such as water-saving toilets, low-flow faucets, and low-flow showerheads. These water-saving faucets and showerheads come in many styles and use less water without having to sacrifice comfort and water pressure. Water-saving toilets also come in many types, including dual-flush toilets and gravity-assist toilets that use less water for flushing.  

Repair Leaks Quickly  

The final piece of advice to lower water bills is to pay attention to plumbing problems and respond quickly. Water leaks can cause high water bills, as they allow water to be wasted until they are fixed. So, homeowners should keep an eye out for the signs of a leak and call a plumber for leak detection and repair to fix it and lower water bills.

Some common signs of a leak include lower water pressure from fixtures, high water costs, wet spots or water stains, and mold growth. Another way to identify leaks in the home is with the water meter. A water leak will continue wasting money until a plumber intervenes. So people should get leaks fixed as soon as they are noticed.   

About VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc.

VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc. provides homeowners with fast leak repair and fixture installation. Their pricing is straightforward, and a real person always answers the phone. Call them for plumbing services in Chicago, IL. 

Indications That a Sewer Line Needs Professional Attention

Issues with a home sewer line can be messy and may indicate underlying problems that require repair or a complete sewer line replacement. Ignoring the signs of sewer line damage can lead to much bigger and costlier problems down the road, so sewer line issues should be taken seriously and handled by professionals immediately. This post will share some warning signs that sewer line repair or replacement may be needed.

The Sewer Line Clogs and Drains Slow Often

It is not normal for homeowners to experience frequent drain and sewer line clogs. Repeated clogs and slow draining could point to a larger issue with the sewer line that requires repair or replacement. Tree roots, bad habits from household residents, and damaged or collapsed pipes can all cause frequent and recurring clogs and slow draining.

A plumber can inspect the sewer line with a camera to identify any underlying issues and the best solution to solve them, whether that be drain cleaning, repair, or sewer line replacement. Ignoring these issues can lead to additional risks, such as sewage backups, so it’s imperative to address these matters urgently.

Foul Stenches

An overpowering sewage smell in or around a home or yard is another significant red flag that points to sewer line problems. Foul sewage odors can indicate that waste and sewage are escaping the sewer line from a crack, break, or damage somewhere in the line.

Sewage smells outside could mean that the line that runs under the yard is leaking, possibly due to damage from age and wear and tear, tree root intrusion, corrosion, or shifting soil. Raw sewage is a health hazard, so prompt sewer line repair or replacement by a plumber is essential for safety.

Lush, Fast Growing Patch of Lawn

If a patch of grass in the yard seems to grow much faster and looks more lush than the surrounding areas, it could also indicate a sewer line leak or damage. When sewage leaks out, the high nutrient content acts as a fertilizer for the grass around it, creating this difference in appearance from the rest of the yard.

Besides oddly vibrant patches of grass, homeowners may also notice an area of their lawn that looks wet or soggy. This can also be due to a leak or break in the underground piping. These wet or lush spots often correlate with where the underground sewer pipe is broken since the seeping sewage can cause them. Homeowners should take note of any suspicious fast-growing or greener areas in their lawns and call a plumber to investigate.

About VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc.

VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc. has been serving Chicago, IL, and the surrounding areas for over 30 years. They provide same-day service, 24/7 live answers, and the latest technology. Call them today for sewer line repair or replacement services in Chicago, IL.

What Homeowners Need to Know About Sewer Inspection with Cameras

There was a time when a home would have a clogged sewer line or a sewage leak, and a plumbing technician might have to dig up a yard to find the exact spot of the problem. Technological advances have made discovering the locations of such problems much less destructive.

Sewer camera inspection is one of the most used tools for sewer line repair. So, what is sewer camera inspection, and what are the benefits? Keep reading to find out.

Sewer Camera Inspection: What Is It?

A sewer camera is a video camera attached to the end of a long flexible tube, with a screen on the other end that allows plumbers to get an inside look at a home’s plumbing system. This makes it similar to cameras often used in the medical field for surgical and diagnostic purposes.

It can go deep into the sewer line and find the source of the problem with pinpoint accuracy. It also allows the plumber or plumbing tech to see what the sewer line clog consists of and the best way to deal with it.

Are There Indicators That Show When Inspection Is Needed?

A sewer line clog may only be a symptom of a more significant issue within the plumbing of a home. A sewer video inspection can help a plumber decide whether sewer line replacement is the best choice.

Some of the problems that can indicate a need for inspection are included in the list below.

• Constant Clogging: If the drain in the home seems to be clogged regularly, then there may be a problem that needs video inspection
• Slow Drains: Similarly, drains running slowly may indicate either a clog or a pipe collapse
• Standing Water: If water is pooling in areas of the yard or home that do not have a clear source, then camera inspection may prove necessary
• Water Damage: Mold, mildew, and water damage can indicate a leak that may need to be investigated with a camera

Why Do Houses Need Sewer Camera Inspection?

Sewer camera inspection is more than just an advance in technology. Before this technology was introduced, plumbers often used destructive tactics such as digging up lawns, breaking through walls, and jackhammering concrete floors.

It functions to provide better service for plumbing customers and streamline the plumbing professional’s work. Some of its most significant advantages are as follows:

• It is less expensive than previous methods
• It is more efficient
• It causes no collateral damage
• It can find minor issues like invading tree roots before they truly become a problem
• It can be the difference between a simple repair and a full sewer line replacement
• It can function not only as a diagnostic tool but can be attached to tools that are part of the solution
• It allows for precision repairs, saving time and money

About VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc.

With more than 30 years of experience in Chicago, IL, and the surrounding communities, VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc. offers straightforward pricing and after-hours service. Call today for a plumbing company that never asks for a service charge and offers expert service!