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This is the Chicago Plumbing Blog from Morning Noon and Night Plumbing! Here we talk about all things plumbing: repairs, leaks, water pipes, sump pumps, sewer and drain cleaning, water heaters, Hydro-rooting, and more. We are a local Chicago plumbing service, so we also discuss things we love in the area! Thanks for stopping by, and please give us a call for all your plumbing maintenance needs or your next plumbing emergency! www.morningnoonandnightplumbing.com

Showing posts with label chicago plumber. Show all posts
Showing posts with label chicago plumber. Show all posts

Monday, October 27, 2014

Water Is the New Gold.

"Want not waste not." That's what Mom used to say; and she was right.


Americans often take for granted the amount of water used versus the amount of water that is necessary. On the west coast, they are experiencing a severe drought and having to conserve water.
We regard water as such a readily available commodity, but where will we be when it becomes as precious as gold?

Maybe that's the attitude we need to adopt regarding water. It is as precious as gold. It is the source of life. Without it, we are finished.

So why waste it? Do you have a drippy faucet you've neglected to fix for so long you now regard it as an ambient noise that helps you sleep? Would you let gold drip away so you can get some shut eye? Doubtful. The same credence should be applied to water. Because in the end, a leaky faucet will yield gold alright, in the form of an outrageous water bill.


Plus, there is a moral issue here. There are many parts of the world where water is in fact regarded as gold and one may have to  travel many of miles in pursuit of it. 

There are a few ways you can conserve water. that are not only financially sound, they are morally sound. 

-Resist using unnecessary water. For instance, if it is the dead of winter and your rose bushes aren't in bloom, they probably don't need the automatic watering system pumping wasteful water into the frigid air. It's not only wasteful, it can cause a great deal of damage. Winterize your home. Remove hoses and tighten faucets. All outdoor watering should probably cease until late spring. So bring those hoses inside.
-Water runs through a multitude of channels indoor home. Your refrigerator probably has a small hose in the back to receive it's water source. Check inside and out of the fridge for any compromises to the hose. If it is old, replace it. Same goes for your washer and dryer. Your dryer may not use water, but many use gas. While your back there, check for any compromised hoses on all the above.
-Invest in a low-flow toilet. They are energy efficient and don't waste water. An investment that pays for itself.
-It sounds so simple, but so many forget... Turn the water off when you are not using it!
How many times have you been in the bathroom, brushing your teeth, with the water running. This isn't necessary. Wait until you're done to rinse the sink. It will rinse equally as well with one rinse instead of a constant stream.

For more on how we can help you conserve water and save money, give us a call!

(773) 880-0072


Thursday, September 4, 2014

Our Guarantee

Getting you back to business is our business. An unforeseen plumbing disaster can be costly to your company's bottom line. No job is too small or large for our Pumper Trucks. If you have a plumbing disaster Morning Noon and Night, we'll be there!

www.morningnoonandnightplumbing.com #CommercialPlumbing#PlumbersChicago #NoDigSewerRepair #RooterServiceCompany

Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Your Trusted neighborhood Plumber



For a neighborhood plumber that is equipped to handle any and all of your plumbing needs, you have found one!
Morning Noon And Night stands by it's name. We aren't in the plumbing industry to dictate when sisters occur. We are there to thwart, prevent, remedy, or alleviate any and all plumbing problems both commercial and residential.


For a Mom and Pop feel with a corporation sized truck, you can't go wrong with MNN!




Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Don't Use Harmful Chemicals To Unclog Your Drain.

Use common sense when deciding what to put down your sink's garbage disposal. Drains and garbage disposals are not trash cans. The day after a major holiday is typically the busiest time for plumbers. Large crowds with subsequently large meals result in everything from turkey bones to potato skins being thrown in the disposal. Even if the manual says that a disposal will effectively grind a golf ball, use caution when throwing items into the sink. Disposals were created to catch food remnants from dishes, not to dissolve full meals. When in doubt, use the trash.

Don't use harmful chemicals to unclog your drain. Those harsh chemicals can do more harm than good with repeated and frequent use.

The toilet is not a trash can either - Much like a disposal, the toilet isn't designed to dispose of anything but human waste. Don't risk a clogged toilet by putting items inside of it that could have easily gone in the trash can.

Be careful what goes in the laundry - A washing machine has a filter to catch various particles on clothing but it is not designed for major overloads of hair, dirt, or debris. Use caution when washing pet items, heavily soiled items, or rubber-backed rugs. Clean or shake off items before placing them in the washing machine to prevent clogs or more extensive damage.

These are a few tips to avoid costly repairs. Call us today for all of your plumbing needs, Morning Noon And Night!

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

The Dangers Of Pouring Drano Down The Toilet Bowl

Drano down the toilet bowl??? No!!!!!!!

Most Plumbers preach against the use of Drano and other harmful chemicals that claim to unclog anything. In some cases, it can be very effective. But to what extent?

In the case of toilets, any chemical you put in the toilet is going to stay there for some time, since the bowl fills with water and is slow to drain without flushing, the chemicals can settle onto the porcelain. Plumbers will tell you this is a bad thing because the chemicals in Liquid Plumr and Drano can heat up while standing in the bowl. This can result in a few expensive scenarios. The harsh chemicals could possibly crack the bowl, meaning you will have to replace the entire commode. It is even possible for the concoction to explode, leading to replacement of fixtures, furniture, and perhaps walls in your bathroom. Both are much more expensive than calling a us to manually repair the clog.

If you have non-galvanized pipes from yesteryear, Drano will eat through them like a hungry shark. Your best bet when facing a clog is a plunger. Yep. Simple, but effective. If that doesn't work? Call Us! We will quickly identify the culprit and remove it while preserving your pipes and porcelain.

Contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 or online at morningnoonandnightplumbing.com for assistance with any of your plumbing needs.


Thursday, February 27, 2014

How Do I Keep My Appliances In Good Condition For Years To Come?

It's pretty safe to say that most people aren't complaining that the water pressure in their home is too high. Typically, people can't get enough! So why would anyone want to install a pressure reducing valve in their home? Well, there are several pretty good reasons...

We all know appliances aren't cheap to replace. When spending that kind of money on an appliance you'll want to protect your investment and ensure it lasts for years to come. When the water pressure is too high it places stress on your appliances, dramatically reducing its lifespan. This applies to any appliance connected to a water line.

The same also applies to your home's fixtures. Finding a comfortable balance between what your fixtures can handle and how much water pressure it takes to get all of the conditioner out of your hair is important. Installing a pressure reducing valve could also save you money in the long run since you won't be using as much water.

The water pressure in most Chicagoland homes is around 40-45 psi and should not exceed 60 psi. If you find that your home does exceed that number you could risk a plumbing catastrophe. One of the most devastating things that can happen to your home is a flood, and a common catalyst is a burst washing machine hose. Think of how flimsy that rubber washing machine hose is, pair that with high pressured water gushing through your washing machine and you have a disaster waiting to happen.

Have your water pressure checked to preserve the life of your home and the appliances in it. Contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 or online at www.morningnoonandnightplumbing.com for assistance with any of your plumbing needs.

Friday, January 31, 2014

Tips For Checking Any And All Hoses Connected To Your Appliances

It's the simple things that save a lot of time and money when it comes to plumbing. Have you done a hose check in your house? Are you wondering, "What is a hose-check?"

Several appliances in our home often receive water through hoses in lieu of pipes. Pipes, especially modern galvanized ones, can withstand decades of use, but hoses on the other hand are just that. Hoses. Not galvanized, not strengthened, barely improved on technology. As a result, doing a "hose-check" will prevent damage to your home and expensive appliances.

Hoses generally last about five years. They are susceptible to harsh conditions, they can clog, dry, crack, etc. Good news is they're cheap. Bad news is if you don't do a hose check you may find yourself with a flooded basement, kitchen, or laundry room that can cost thousands to repair when all you had to do was a "hose-check".

Do yourself a favor and walk around your home checking hoses. Check the washer, refrigerator, dishwasher et al. Anything that receives its water source by way of a rubber or plastic conduit. If any of them look less than tip top, replace them. You'll save a fortune!

Contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 or online atwww.morningnoonandnightplumbing.com for assistance with any of your plumbing needs.

Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Have A List Of Plumbing That Needs To Be Fixed Before The Plumber Arrives

If you are expecting a visit from one or more of our friendly professionals, a great way to save time and money is to inventory the state of your plumbing and think ahead about work that will need to be done. Our plumbers will be able to work more effectively with you. Check faucets, drains, and fixtures throughout the house and compile a list. Present this list to our professional upon arrival so they can prioritize the various tasks and work simultaneously, if possible. This way, you won't have to call us again for another minor repair in a few weeks.

Our home's plumbing is a lot like our body's vascular system. Maintenance and vigilance along with love and care keep them both running problem-free. Contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 or online at www.morningnoonandnightplumbing.com for assistance with any of your plumbing needs in 2014. Happy New Year!

What To Do If Your Pipes Freeze

If you find that you've turned on the water and no water is coming out, it's possible that your pipes are frozen. What you may be thinking next is, "If my pipes are frozen then I will just thaw them..." Stop right there. If thawed incorrectly you run the risk of your pipes bursting, along with damage to your home and injury to yourself.

Here are a few things that you should NOT do if your pipes are frozen:

DO NOT use a blowtorch. When the water heats up too quickly the expansion can break the pipe. There is also danger of burns and not to mention the fire hazard associated when working with an open flame.

DO NOT use a hair dryer or a space heater. There is risk of electrocution and a chance your pipes could burst.

DO NOT simply ignore the issue. The lines will continue to freeze and possibly burst, or stay frozen until the temperature outside is above freezing.

There are lots of Internet sites that will tell you to use some crazy techniques to thaw your pipes. Don't do it! However, you should shut off your home's water at the main valve immediately, remove all of the items from the area surrounding the frozen pipe, then call us. We will safely thaw your pipes in a controlled setting. The faster the issue is rectified, the better -- this avoids further complications down the road.

Be sure to contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 or online at www.morningnoonandnightplumbing.com for assistance with any of your plumbing needs.

Friday, November 15, 2013

Fix Your Plumbing Issues Before The Holidays

If you're hosting Thanksgiving this year, here are some tips to avoid a visit from one of our friendly plumbers by following some of these clog prevention tips:
  • Never, ever pour fats and cooking oils down the drain. These items eventually solidify in your pipes. Once fats and oils are cool, wipe it away with a paper towel and throw it in the trash.
  • Steer clear of putting fibrous, starchy, or stringy food waste down the garbage disposal. Your garbage disposal is no match for foods like potato peels, asparagus, fruit rinds, and poultry skins and may result in a clog. 
  • Be sure to run the disposal while you're putting food into it. Never wait until it's bubbling over with water to turn it on.
  • If you're hosting overnight guests this holiday season, it's a good rule of thumb to wait at least 15 minutes between showers so slow drains have time to do their job.
  • At no time should cotton balls, swabs, or hair be flushed down the toilet. They don't dissolve and will cause eventually lead to a clog.
  • If you know your kitchen sink is acting up, or if you have a tub that takes forever to drain, try to address any plumbing problems before the holiday and before guests arrive. This can prevent a plumbing catastrophe. 
Have a Happy Thanksgiving and be sure to contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 or online at www.morningnoonandnightplumbing.com for assistance with any of your plumbing needs.

Thursday, October 31, 2013

How Often Should Catch Basins Be Pumped Out?

A catch basin is a drain located on your property, either in the front yard, backyard, or the gangway. Its sole purpose is to trap grease and debris before it enters the sewer pipe. Periodically, the catch basin will need to be pumped before debris and pollutants can clog the catch basin completely.

With the help of the state of the art features on our high powered pumper truck we're able to remove the grease and debris before or after you experience a clog. Eliminating grease and debris can prevent costly flood damage to properties. It also prevents pollution. As a rule of thumb, catch basins should be pumped once a year to keep everything flowing properly.

Prevent an emergency and call for catch basin pumping before it's a problem. Contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 or online at www.morningnoonandnightplumbing.com.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

When Should I Replace My Plumbing?

As the saying goes, "nothing lasts forever." This includes the pipes inside your house. Over the decades, the tubing gradually corrodes, rusts, and decays. Unless you replace plumbing, you're eventually going to get leaks and possibly a flood of water or sewage into your home. This can cause thousands of dollars in damage to your property and belongings. To help prevent that type of plumbing disaster, below are a few tips on when to replace your home's plumbing and fittings.

Watch For Signs Of Trouble

If your house is more than 60 years old, make it an annual ritual to look at any exposed pipes in basements, crawlspaces, and utility rooms for telltale signs of trouble. Check the tubing for discoloration, stains, dimpling, bumps, or flaking, which are all indications of corrosion. If you find irregularities, call us to do an inspection.
You'll want to keep a watch for leaks too, of course. Even small ones that are easily repaired may be indicators that the time for whole-house replacement is approaching. After all, the rest of the pipes in your home are the same vintage, they're made of the same material, and they've been subjected to the same water supply and usage patterns.

Fixture Updates
It is recommended that faucets should be replaced at least every 30 years, as a majority of the time, the finish will have worn off and the interior ring that allows the water to be forced up will have worn. Replacing the faucet handles is an easy and relatively inexpensive project that can completely change the look of the entire room. Consider switching from brass to pewter or brushed nickel, or changing from clear, round handles to sleek, modern styles. Our plumbers can recommend brands that will save you money while still achieving the style you want.

Contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 for assistance in deciding when to update your home's pipes and fixtures.

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Plumbing Tips For Fall

Chilly fall temperatures serve as a polite reminder that winter is on its way. There are steps homeowners can take to prepare for the plumbing troubles associated with Illinois' coldest months.
  • Make sure outside faucets aren't dripping or leaking. If you do have a leak, call us before temperatures teeter around freezing. Be aware that when pipes freeze, water pressure builds, resulting in cracks - no matter if the pipe is made of plastic, copper or steel. Even a tiny crack can unleash more than 250 gallons of water in a single day.
  • Disconnect outside water hoses. If left connected, water in the hoses can freeze and expand causing faucets and connecting pipes inside your home to freeze and break.
  • If your home is equipped with an interior shut-off valve leading to outside faucets, close them and drain water from lines.
  • Cover outside faucets using a faucet insulation kit.
  • Insulate pipes in unheated areas, such as garages or crawl spaces. Apply heat tape or thermostat controlled heat cables around pipes that are exposed and prone to freezing.
  • Your water heater works harder during winter months. Flush it out and remove sediment buildup which causes corrosion, shortens its life span, and reduces heating efficiency. Drain several gallons from the faucet near the bottom of the tank. Connect a hose to the faucet and direct water into a nearby drain.
  • Carefully test the water heater's pressure relief valve (Danger: water is very hot) by lifting up on the lever and letting it snap back. The valve should allow a burst of hot water into the drainpipe. If not, call us to have a new valve installed.
If you need any assistance winterizing your pipes, contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 today.

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Are Wet Wipes Safe For My Plumbing?

There is a common misunderstanding today surrounding "flushable" wipes. The fact that these wipes are even called "flushable" is misleading. More than ever, these products have become a major headache for wastewater collection systems, home owners, plumbers, and entire cities.

You may be thinking, "If the product is labeled "flushable" that means it's safe for my plumbing, right?" Not so. The word "flushable" is only in regards to its ability to travel through pipes, not what happens after it's in your plumbing system.

When toilet paper enters our plumbing system, it's designed to dissolve when mixed with water. "Flushable" wipes happen to stay in one piece, getting lodged in pipes and sticking to equipment.

Wipes can eventually cause obstructions which results in them having to be cut away BY HAND to prevent further damage. These blockages can also result in backups that flood buildings and sends sewage into the environment.

There are two ways to extend the life of your wastewater collection system: stop using wipes or if you must use them, throw them in the trash.

Contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 for assistance with your plumbing needs.


Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Replacing Galvanized Piping With Copper Piping

Most older homes were built with galvanized piping, which rusts and deteriorates over time. As this problem gets worse, it builds up inside the pipes. It is this accumulation of corroded material throughout the water lines that restricts the flow of water.

The main lines from the street may be unimpeded, but as water moves through lines in the house, the clogged pipes reduce the volume of water that can get through to the fixtures. It's this blockage that causes the low water pressure in the shower, the washer, and sinks. This also is the reason that you're being scalded or frozen in the shower when someone flushes the toilet or uses the water in another part of the house.

As the situation worsens, the water can become dirty and unfit to drink. Rust spots may even turn up on freshly washed clothes and linens. There is also the risk of leaks developing inside the walls, in the attic, and under the house, which can cause major damage to the home.

COPPER REPIPING:

Your old, galvanized pipes need to be replaced with copper piping, installed by one of our specialists who regularly does this type of work. Unlike galvanized piping, copper piping will not rust. It will be the end of this type of problem and the value of your home will be greatly enhanced.

Don't wait until you're stuck suffering from any of these problems. Contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 for more information on upgrading your home's piping.

Sunday, July 28, 2013

Toddlers And Toilets Don't Mix

Plumbers have an endless array of war stories concerning foreign objects they've retrieved from pipes. Here are a few tips to help ensure that your children don't cause a plumbing disaster...

Toilet Seat Lock

There are child safety locks available which can be purchased and installed on any toilet seat. This prevents small children from lifting the lid and falling in. It also prevents kids from throwing items into the toilet that don't belong there.
The child can still flush the toilet, which will waste water, but they won't be able to throw anything in the bowl. Without the excitement of watching the toilet flush, they are much less likely to pull the lever. Another option instead of installing a safety lock on the toilet lid, you could choose to install one on the bathroom door, but you will need to make sure you keep the bathroom door closed at all times.

Turning Off the Valve

There is a valve behind the toilet, which can be closed to prevent water from running to the toilet. You may choose to keep this valve off except when you actually need to use the toilet. This way, as many times as the child may flush the toilet, the water will only exit the bowl once, and the tank won't refill until the valve is switched back on.

Teaching Rules

Once the child is getting old enough to be potty trained, you should be able to teach them to operate the toilet correctly. Teach them when it is appropriate to flush the toilet, and when it is not. Walk the child through the entire process of a regular bathroom visit. Once the child understands the purpose of the toilet and begins to use it as intended, their interest in it will decrease. Eventually, a child will naturally exit this phase of mischief, but by using one or more of these prevention tips, you can make sure you can get safely through the phase without having to call a plumber once a week for costly repairs.

However, if you are in need of G.I. Joe, Barbie, cellphone, remote, or car key retrieval, contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072.

Thursday, June 27, 2013

Never Treat Your Pipes With Harmful Chemicals

Our sewer system is connected to our intricately woven plumbing system below and throughout our home. The pipes in our home are not unlike the circulatory system in our bodies. In order for blood and water to flow properly it needs to be unimpeded by any foreign objects that don't belong in the system.

Unlike our bodies, the quick fix for clogs in most households is Drano, Liquid Fire, or some similar product. While it may clear the blockage in your pipe, it can also eat right through your pipes, walls, ceilings, and a plumber's protective gear, in addition to contaminating ground water. Never treat your pipes with harmful chemicals.

If you have low blood pressure you might be inclined to visit a doctor. You should do the same for your pipes. Don't live with low water pressure. Let our competent professionals come out and evaluate your home's plumbing system. DIY fixes that you see online may seem quick and easy, but you really could be doing more harm than good to the lifeblood of your home. 

Treat your home to a check up today with one of our knowledgeable and affordable plumbers. We will evaluate the quality of your current system and do everything to make it as efficient as possible. Contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 for assistance.


Clogged and Broken Main Line
Main Line After Repair

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Commonly Made Plumbing Mistakes

  • Misuse of vent pipes. Vent pipes are for venting. They are not for running cables, or any other purpose. These pipes are intended to give air to drains in your house, so that the plumbing can flow and the sewer gases do not enter your home. If you cut into these vents to run cables, you will notice a definite sewage smell in your home.
  • Removing the drain from a sink. In an effort to make their homes more green, some homeowners are taking out parts of their sink drains so they can collect waste water to water their plants. This creates a similar problem as cutting into vents. Again, it allows sewer gas into your home.
  • Hitting plumbing pipes with a nail. When you are going to nail something into the wall, make sure you know what is behind it. Trying to do a job too hastily can result in a surprise in the form of a pipe.
  • The use of drain cleaner. Drain cleaners are highly corrosive chemicals. They have been known to eat through plumbing tools, gloves, and pipes! When they start to corrode the drain itself, they can make the clog worse while compromising the walls of your pipes. 
  • Flushing away your garbage. Toilet paper is the only thing that should be flushed. That magical black hole actually leads to a three-inch drain pipe, and it can only handle so much. Flushing everything will back up the plumbing, causing costly repairs.
  • Adding chemicals to the septic system. If you have a septic system, you should take the time to learn what you should not send down the drain. Chemicals, like drain cleaner, chlorine bleach can mess up the bacteria in the system. 
  • Sending grease down the kitchen drain. Grease will clog your kitchen drain. Let your grease cool and then throw it in the garbage. Your pipes will thank you for it. 
If you need help undoing any of these commonly made plumbing mistakes, contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 for assistance.

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Why Is There A Water Stain On My Ceiling?

There are several reasons for water to come through a ceiling and not all of them are connected with your plumbing system:
  • If water is pouring through your ceiling during a heavy rain storm the problem is generally with either your roof or a blocked gutter.
  • Ice dams (water freezing and getting under the roof) during winter can cause water spotting and leaks once the ice starts to melt.
  • Snow can blow in through a ridge vent during a heavy blowing snow storm. Once the snow melts it will cause water spots and leaks.
  • Water coming through the ceiling after a shower can be the result of a plumbing leak, or the result of missing caulking - either in the tile or in the area where the tile meets the shower. However, the majority of service calls we receive about water stains on the ceiling are a result of a leaking toilet.
It's always a good idea to have a professional explore a ceiling water stain in order to prevent other costly repairs in the future. Contact Chicago area Morning Noon and Night Plumbing at 773-880-0072 to investigate the culprit of your water stain and for all of your plumbing needs.