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• How Can Accessible Plumbing Make Your Home Safer and More Comfortable?

  Plumbing fixtures and accessories are now designed to cater to diverse household needs, including accessibility for the elderly and disabled. Features such as vanities with knee clearance, one-handed operable fixtures, and adjustable shower heads enhance safety and comfort.
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• 4 Emergency Plumbing Tips

  The blog offers quick fixes for plumbing emergencies, advising readers to locate the main water shut-off valve to prevent water damage during leaks and to use heavy-duty paper towels or rags for cleanup. It also suggests using two wrenches to relieve stress on the plumbing system and using duct tape or pipe sealing tape as a temporary solution for cracked pipes. Additionally, it recommends using a cup plunger for clogged drains but cautions against excessive force, advising readers to call a plumber for safer solutions.
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• When and How Should You Drain Your Plumbing System?

  To drain your home's plumbing system, you can find the main water shut-off valve near the water meter, then open sink faucets on the highest floor, followed by the laundry tub faucet on the lowest level. Turn on shower and tub drains on the top floor, and flush toilets on every floor. Leave all faucets open until the water is drained. For expert plumbing services in Chicago and neighboring areas, rely on ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling, and Electric.
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• What Are Plumbing Traps and Why Are They Important?

  This blog post explains the purpose and design of plumbing traps, also known as P-Traps. It highlights that P-Traps serve to prevent sewer gases and odors from entering the home while also trapping debris to prevent clogs. The term "P-Trap" originates from its shape, resembling the letter "P," which consists of two 90-degree joints and a horizontal overflow pipe.
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• How Does Hard Water Affect Your Plumbing System?

  Hard water poses various challenges for homeowners, impacting energy efficiency and appliance longevity. High levels of calcium and magnesium in hard water make heating less efficient, increasing energy consumption. Additionally, limescale buildup from hard water can restrict water flow in pipes, particularly affecting steel pipes and leading to decreased water pressure and potential damage to plumbing fixtures. Common areas of mineral buildup include shower heads, faucets, and valves, which can impair their functionality and lead to leaks. Water heaters are particularly susceptible to mineral deposits, which hinder heating efficiency and can shorten the lifespan of the appliance by clogging pipes, valves, and drains. Regular maintenance and measures to mitigate hard water effects are essential for preserving appliance performance and longevity.
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• What Do Plumbing Noises Mean and How Can You Fix Them?

  Reducing water usage around the home
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• What Do Plumbing Noises Mean and How Can You Fix Them?

  Your home's plumbing system can make various noises, some normal and some indicative of problems. Whistling might mean a leaking toilet fill valve and vibrations from the toilet could also be caused by a worn fill valve gasket. Banging noises can be caused by loose pipes, expanding metal pipes, or water hammers. Rumbling from your water heater suggests sediment buildup. If you're unsure about a sound, it's best to call a professional plumber.
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• When Should You Schedule a Video Sewer Line Inspection?

  Video sewer line inspections are a modern way to diagnose drain problems without digging. A camera is inserted into the sewer line to identify potential issues like tree root intrusion, cracks, or misaligned joints. Inspections are recommended for homes older than 10 years, before renovations that add drainage load, and when buying a new home.
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• What Should You Do During a Plumbing Emergency?

  Knowing the location of shutoff valves is crucial in plumbing emergencies like leaks or malfunctions. Each fixture or appliance typically has its own shutoff valve, found beneath sinks or behind appliances such as washing machines. If the issue isn't isolated or the valve isn't found, the main shutoff valve for the entire house, usually where the main water supply enters, should be turned clockwise to stop the flow. It's advisable to keep a wrench handy for difficult valves.
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• What Is PEX Piping and Why Is It Important in Plumbing?

  PEX piping, short for cross-linked polyethylene, offers cost-efficiency and easier installation compared to traditional copper piping. It's resistant to corrosion from acidic water but susceptible to degradation from UV light, making it unsuitable for outdoor use.
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