Our Blog

Our Blog

• How Does a Garbage Disposal Work and How Can You Maintain It?

  Contrary to popular belief, garbage disposals don't have blades. Instead, they use spinning impellers to force food waste against a grind ring, grinding it into small particles that can be flushed away with running water. To maintain smooth operation and prevent odors, run plenty of water while using the disposal and for a short while after.
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• What Are the Four Types of Faucets and How Do They Work?

  The blog outlines four basic types of faucets, aiding in the identification and replacement of worn-out parts. These include ball faucets, characterized by a single handle controlling water flow; cartridge faucets with movable stem cartridges controlled by knobs; disc faucets with ceramic disks adjusting water flow and temperature via a single lever; and compression washer faucets, recognizable by two handles and a rotating motion to control water flow.
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• How Can Accessible Plumbing Make Your Home Safer and More Comfortable?

  The Blog post discusses bathroom accessibility features, including vanities with knee clearance, one-hand operable fixtures, and strategically placed grab bars to prevent falls. Comfort height toilets offer a more ergonomic design, reducing strain for individuals with mobility issues. Slip-resistant surfaces, adjustable shower heads, and good lighting further enhance safety and usability for all users, particularly those with visual impairments.
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• How Can Green Plumbing Save Water and Energy in Your Home?

  The blog discusses the importance of green plumbing in conserving energy and saving money by reducing water usage. It suggests installing low-flow toilets, energy-efficient water heaters, and using cold water for washing laundry to achieve significant savings. Additionally, it recommends using low-flow plumbing fixtures like showerheads to reduce water consumption and heating costs further.
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• What Is an Overflow Tube and How Does It Work?

  The blog is about the function of an overflow tube in a toilet tank. It prevents overflow by directing excess water into the bowl if the ballcock malfunctions.
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• What Is a Backflow Preventer and Why Do You Need One?

  Backflow is the reversal of water flow in a plumbing system, which can contaminate the clean water supply. Backflow preventers, such as pressure vacuum breakers, reduced pressure zone valves, and double check assemblies, are crucial devices designed to stop this backward flow and protect the fresh water supply.
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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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