Our Blog

Our Blog

• The ABC's of Plumbing - ADA

  The blog discusses the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and its requirements for plumbing products to make bathrooms more accessible. ADA-compliant plumbing adheres to the guidelines outlined in the ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG). While remodeling, following ADA code is not mandatory, but it offers benefits like accommodating aging family members, increasing resale value, and creating a universally accessible space.
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• Conserving Water Made Easy With WaterSense

  WaterSense® is an EPA-sponsored program promoting water efficiency through certified products, akin to EnergyStar for energy efficiency. It helps consumers select water-efficient products by specifying flow rates and performance levels, with certified products bearing the WaterSense label. These products undergo third-party testing, ensuring water savings and performance. Using WaterSense products leads to savings on water bills and contributes to water conservation for future generations. Visit the WaterSense Products page for certified products like shower heads and toilets.
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• Effective Landscaping Tips to Conceal and Hide an Air Conditioner Outside

  To conceal the outside part of your central air conditioner, consider building a fence around it or planting evergreen hedge rows for year-round concealment. Make sure there is enough space around the unit for proper ventilation and trim back plants as needed to avoid obstructing the airflow.
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• The Advantages and Disadvantages of Sewer Pipe Materials

  The sewer pipe material in your home typically depends on its age, with older homes often having clay or cast iron pipes, while newer ones use plastic. However, plastic sewer lines are increasingly replacing older ones. Clay pipes are resistant to chemical degradation but vulnerable to tree roots, while cast iron offers durability but is heavy and costly. Plastic pipes, like PVC and ABS, resist root intrusion but require careful installation. Orangeburg pipes, made from wood fiber and coal tar, are no longer used due to their propensity for failure.
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• The ABC's of Plumbing : Pressure Balancing Valve

  The Pressure Balancing Valve is a safety device mandated by Chicagoland codes to prevent thermal shock and scalding during showers or baths. It maintains consistent water temperature by adjusting to changes in hot and cold water pressures. ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling, and Electric can upgrade older plumbing systems to include this safety feature and prevent potential injuries.
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• Garage Makeover Ideas

  Transform your garage into a comfortable, functional space with proper insulation, heating, and cooling solutions like ductless systems or wall-mounted heaters, and ensure it's well-lit with energy-efficient LED lighting. Consider adding a stainless steel utility sink for convenience, and upgrade your electrical setup with additional circuits and 220 outlets for heavy-duty tools. For comprehensive assistance in plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical upgrades, ABC has you covered.
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• Fixing a Wobbling Ceiling Fan

  To fix an out-of-balance ceiling fan, start by measuring and leveling the leading edge of each blade using a yardstick. If the fan still wobbles, use a blade-balancing kit to add weight to the trailing edge of the unbalanced blade. Adjust the position of the weight until the fan runs smoothly. If you need electrical assistance, contact ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric for help.
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• Choosing the Right Type of Fan For Your Home

  Different types of home fans serve various purposes in maintaining comfort and indoor air quality: 1. Whole-House Fans: Circulate air throughout a home's ductwork, potentially substituting for air conditioning when it's not too hot, especially when combined with ceiling fans. 2. Bathroom Exhaust Fans: Remove stale, humid air from enclosed spaces with high humidity, improving air quality and preventing mold and mildew growth. Proper ducting to the exterior of the house is crucial during installation. 3. Attic Fans: Also known as attic ventilators, regulate attic heat by exhausting hot air. Controlled by thermostats or manual switches, they can be gable-mounted or roof-mounted. 4. Ceiling Fans: Popular for improving room airflow, lighting, and decor, ceiling fans circulate conditioned air without actually lowering the temperature. For inquiries about fans, ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling, and Electric offers assistance.
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• Solving Outdoor Spigot Problems

  If your outside faucet is not working or has low water pressure, check the shut-off valve, worn washer, loose seal, water leaks, hard water buildup, and low water pressure as possible causes. If issues persist, consult a plumber for further inspection and solutions.
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• 4 Common Causes of Sewer Odor in House

  If you detect a sewer odor in your home, check the floor drain trap, cleanout plug, toilets, and wax rings for potential issues. If problems persist, it could indicate a broken or cracked sewer line or loose connection joint, requiring professional assistance from a plumber.
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