New Years Plumbing Resolutions

Tis the season when many of us are reflecting on how the last year has been and what we hope for the future.  Of course, you don't need the turn of a year to decide to lose a little weight or to redecorate a bedroom - but if it's what gets you moving, then there's nothing wrong with that either!  Plumbing resolutions might not be the funnest thing to put on the list, but it might save you a little money in the long run.

1) Everything does NOT go down the drain.

As an adult, you surely know that you can't flush everything (that includes cotton balls!!) - but make sure any children in your household know the same!  The same of course goes for the garbage disposal - and believe us - not all adults know what NOT to put down the garbage disposal. 

2) Use Eco-Friendly Drain Cleaners.

We have enough chemicals in our day to day life, and the harsh chemicals in most drain cleaners can not only harm you but also hurt your pipes.  Mr. Rooter offers a green drain cleaner called BioChoiceES, read more about it here.

3) Look For The Energy Star

If you're on the market to buy a new appliance or water heater this year, make sure to look for an Energy Star.  While it might seem a little pricier than the other options at the check out line, it will save you money in the long run.

4) Save Some Water

If you're planning a bathroom remodel or just need a new toilet, install a low-flush toilet.  These help control water usage and can help you save a little money throughout the year by using less water.  If you are doing a bathroom remodel, consider changing your faucets and shower heads as well. New faucets can brighten up your room and by choosing faucets that use less water you will help save a little more on that water bill.

5) Have Your Water Heater and Furnace Checked

Most people forget that water heaters actually need regular maintenance.  Contact your local plumber to check out your heater this year.  Better to have it checked in advance then be surprised by a cold shower before you head into work.

Furnaces should be inspected, cleaned, and tuned up on an annual basis.  If you haven't had your heater inspected, call and schedule it.

6) Have A Plumbing Inspection

Can you remember the last time you had a plumbing inspection?  We wouldn't be surprised if the answer is "no".  Having a plumber inspect your home is running correctly can save you from possible big repairs in the future.  If you already have a plumber coming for another issue, ask if he or she has the time to do a walk through your home.  It's much easier to fix a small leak than a busted pipe.

7) Insulate Your Pipes In The Winter

If you haven't done this already, it's time to do it now!  Winter conditions can wreak havoc on your pipes if they are not properly shielded.  Having frozen pipes can cause a lot of expensive damage, so a little preventive measure is worth the effort.  If you're not sure if your pipes need insulation, or how to do it, give your plumber a call.

8) Listen!

Little noises that might sound like spooks in the attic might be a plumbing problem.  Pay attention to any hammering noises or drips.  Also watch for slow drains, slower water flow, and water that isn't as hot as it use to be.  These problems can end up being expensive emergency calls.

This year, make sure that somewhere on your list is a bit of home care and you call your local Mr. Rooter plumber to make sure that 2014 isn't flooded with regret.

Image by magannie

Which Plumbing Jobs Should You Do vs. Which Should You Leave To A Plumber

Let a Professional Do the Job

When you are a home owner you gain more responsibilities than you were expecting. Some of us, are excited to take them on. Others, would rather have someone else do it. It is perfectly fine to leave certain home repairs to the professionals.

Don't over stress yourself, or take on a job that you can't do. It is better to leave it to a professional that knows what they are doing. Another plus, they have tools that you don't have. It is fine, don't spend money on costly tools that are just going to sit there. At the end, it might end up costing you more. Sit back and let someone else do it.

Things That You Could Do Your Self

Taking apart your shower head and cleaning it in vinegar, remember how to put it back together

Checking and fixing your toilet flapper and float

Checking that your water heater isn't leaking

Inspecting your water heater burner, flame should always appear blue

Checking that your toilet is not running water continuously

Checking that your sinks and toilets are not leaking

Caulking your tub

Things You Should Let Your Plumber Do

Rodding

Jetting

When you need to repair or replace any drains

Fixing or Replacing pipes

Sewer work

Water Heaters

Gas Lines

Main Water Lines

Fixing or Replacing pumps

Fixing and installing faucets, toilets, and appliances

If you have any questions or need assistance trying to figure out your plumbing give me a call or email. 

Remember, I'm here to help. 

Kevin Szabo Jr

(708)845-7922

kevinszabojrplumbing@yahoo.com

Hard Working Service Men

Staying Warm During Chicago Winters 

In this country we have hard working men and women working hard every day.
Plumbers, Contractors, Electricians, Laborers, Carpenters and any other job that entails working outside with your hands.
Living in Chicago, we experience beautiful weather and some rough Winters. Some of us love what we do, others do it because it is a job to provide for our families.
No matter what the reason, we have to get up and go work outside on those chilly mornings.



Keeping warm in this frigid Winter is significant to our survival

1. Have your coffee set for when you wake up.
2. Heat up your towel before you jump in the shower.
3. Throw your clothes in the drier before putting them on in the morning.
4. Thermals are crucial, wear them under your clothes.
    a. Carhartt is durable and will keep you warm.
5. Gloves, wear them. As tough as you are, your hands need to keep warm.
6. Hat, Headwear, Beanies, Thermo Band. You lose most of your body heat through your head.    
   *COVER IT when you are working outside.
7. When you stop to get lunch, add a soup, or chili, or something warm.
8. Stay hydrated, you need water all year round.
9. If your significant other has been outside working all day, have hot coco waiting for them when they get home.
10. Make your spouse a hearty meal. Men and most women love something meaty and pasta along with it. After working outside all day, you need a meal to warm your body right away.
11. Set your clothes before you go to bed this way, everything is ready in the morning.

Ladies and Gentlemen this is basic stuff that we all know, but it helps to be reminded that small things make a huge difference on a freezing Chicago Winter day.

Stay warm and safe,

Kevin Szabo Jr
Plumbing and Sewer

Emergency 24 Hour Service

Holiday Plumbing Emergencies

During the holidays plumbing emergencies still happen. More than you think. We tend to do more than usual during the holidays. I love having my family and friends over, having a wonderful time together. We just forget to be as cautious as we usually are when we are enjoying our selves.
We have to remember to let loose a little but continue being conscious over our home appliances, plumbing and electrical.





When we tend to forget to take care of our home, use up more electric than usual or just abuse our plumbing:

-Family and friends gather at your home.


-Guests spending nights

-More children than you are usually use to(and we all know kids love flushing things down the toilet)

-Dishwasher being used more often

-Water constantly running

-Garbage Disposal overexposed

-Too many lights on

Solution

-When having guests spend the night, let them know nicely that there should be at least a ten minute wait in between showers.

-Clean your dishes well before placing them in the dishwasher.

-Take turns doing the dishes, this way you wont always have to load the dishwasher.

-Run water while you are using your garbage disposal
    *You need to remember that garbage disposals aren't meant to take everything. Stringy or fibrous    vegetables will clog the drain. Starchy foods will swell and also clog the drain. Never drain grease, oils, or fats(use an old coffee can to dispose).

-Put a little dish soap with cold water down the garbage disposal to keep it clean.

-If nobody is in the room, turn off all the lights.

-Put your Christmas lights on a timer, it will save you lots of money.

-Lock the bathroom doors, so small children don't abuse the toilet.

 -If you are lucky enough to have a fire place, use it so you could turn down the heat.


Be Safe, Be Healthy, and Enjoy Your Holidays

Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing and Sewer