Category Archives for "Plumbing Tips"

How to Choose the Right Plumbing Fixtures for Your Bathroom

Whether developing a brand-new home or renovation, you'll find there are numerous plumbing fixtures and devices readily available at Fred Glinke. The choices can seem frustrating, and you'll want to make certain the products you pick are both long lasting and decorative. Utilizing the guide listed below, select restroom plumbing fixtures that will fit well with your decor strategies while offering sufficient use for the long term. Fixtures for the bathroom should be useful and long lasting. They should be tough enough to hold up against years of use without wearing quickly, rusting, or molding.

Consider your whole style including the colors of your floorings and walls and the furnishings used on other items in the space. There are lots of things to consider when including plumbing fixtures to your home. This brief article will provide you important ideas to think about when upgrading your pipes devices in your home or office. Choosing a bathtub when choosing a tub, there are 4 fundamental bath tub styles.

The old-type enamel cast-iron bath tub with the China-glazing surface is popular with new building and constructions. It is incredibly heavy and provides quietness while being filled with water. This tub usually comes as a basic five-foot tub with couple of styles to choose from. The typical price starts at around $250.

Next, there's the molded plastic bath tub, which looks like the cast-iron tubs but is normally thicker . This tub is more lightweight and terrific for renovating -particularly when tile is currently on the floor. This type of bathtub can can be found in numerous designs and colors, including a complete shower/tub mix with built-in walls. Rates levels for standard systems start from$250 and move up when you include functions. The enameled steel tub can be found in white or a range of colors and is completed with a ceramic-glazed material. A few of these tubs start as low as $250.

Next is the fiberglass tub, which can be installed on a platform or in the flooring. It can be found in various shapes and sizes. Some have health club functions too. This type of tub is costly, some even costing in the thousands of dollars. Shower stalls been available in several designs such as a pre-built shower base, produced shower stall, the fiberglass enclosed shower stall and even showers for senior citizens or those with impairments so they can get in and out easier. Rates differs according to size, style, and trademark name.

Choosing a Toilet The toilet must be comfy and useful. It doesn't have to be expensive, but often paying more methods getting better quality. There are now toilets with higher gallons/flush capabilities -as much as the federal government's requirement of 1.6 gallons per flush. If you want to save on your water costs, opt for an effectiveness toilet that flushes 1.3gallons per flush.

There are also dual-flush toilets that use 2 flush buttons-one for liquid waste elimination and one for solid waste elimination. The liquid waste button, of course, uses less water per flush. Restroom sinks  have numerous usages-from brushing your teeth, to washing your hands and facial cleansings each night. 

A popular bathroom sink currently in the Oak Brook area is the V-shaped vessel sink bowl, which is made from glass, copper or stainless-steel . There are also restroom vanities with the sink already built-in for simple setup. Kinds of sinks include pedestal sinks, which provide no storage beneath, under-counter sinks, and above-counter sinks. Faucets and other bathroom Items

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Need Help With Remodeling Your Bathroom?

Call Fred Glinke Today at: (630) 323-7230

Fred Glinke Provides Quality Plumbing Services 24 Hours Daily

Choose resilient faucets made from materials that are rust-free and supply an even circulation of water. With small children, you'll want to make sure the faucets have actually temperature settings integrated in to avoid scalding. For decoration functions, select matching faucets for the bath tub and sink.

Likewise , make certain the faucet will last for lots of years without leaking. Faucets are available in many shapes and styles-some appear and some are elegant. They are priced from $50 and up. Some popular surfaces for faucets consist of brass, brushed nickel, oiled bronze, and the popular chrome plate. Equip your restroom with other fixtures and devices to finish your style.

You can browse the web to discover excellent products in practically any design you need. Likewise, you can discover other home devices online such as ironing centers, door hardware, cabinet hardware, towel warmers, and more. You can always count on one of our plumbers to help you make the best decision for your restroom appliances to help you get what is most important to you. 

People's taste preferences vary. Some people may select the most affordable, some may want the very best, others might desire one of the most performance or life-span, either way our group will assist you select the appropriate fixtures for your needs.

Maintenance on Your Washing Machine

A smoothly running washing machine is everyone's cup of tea. Not worrying about dripping water, staining clothes, weird smells, or anything out of the ordinary is what we all want. Laundry day can get boring, messy, tedious, but not any more fun if your machine is not cooperating. Follow our tips from, Fred Glinke Plumbing & Sewer to ensure that your washing machine is well kept

Take Your Loads Out

As simple as it is, when your load is done, take it out! Leaving your clothes wet and to soak in your washing machine can cause mildew and mold to form. On top of that your clothes may start to hold a musty smell. Being mindful of your loads and making sure not to under or over load conserves water and energy in your home. Easy reminders like setting a timer or watching one episode of your favorite show when your load goes on, can help your clothes smell better and your washing machine will thank you. 

Detergent Must Be Right

It is easy to just grab the detergent that smells the best for its price. But have you ever thought to figure out what exact detergent your machine takes? Modern and highly efficient washing machines are often designed to only use certain types of detergent. Avoid damaging your machine and take a peek at your user manual to see what you should be buying. 

We want to save you the time and stress of having a broken washer at all, by just following simple upkeep and maintenance. Small things like installing your machine on a good angle and frequent wipe downs can maximize good use and condition on your machine. If anything is to go sideways, no worry Fred Glinke Plumbing & Sewer is here right in Hinsdale IL to assist your problems as soon as they appear.


Need Help With Your Plumbing?

Call Fred Glinke Today at:

(630) 323-7230

Fred Glinke Provides Quality Plumbing Service 24 Hours Daily

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Clean Your Machine

Your washing machine cleans just about everything for you, do it a favor and give it a nice cleaning. Simple upkeep like wiping your washer door gasket dry can save mold from growing in the small crevices of your machine. Most don’t think twice but pay attention to your filters. Most washers have multiple filters and upkeep is vital on them. The user manual of your machine has the instructions on where and how to maintain filters. Thoroughly wash your washing machine! Go through the drums and fabric softener dispenser and wipe it clean. Gunk can easily be built up in these wet places and it's important you get it out before it makes your life harder. 

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Level Your Machine

We hope that your washer is level to the ground. When a machine is placed on uneven ground it can cause the machine to get agitated and have unnecessary movements. Leveling which is a small difference can mean all that much. Loose, leaking and a possible burst is possibly pending if your machine is not level. Go the extra step in making the correct adjustments to make your washing machine have the perfect standing ground. 


Reasons to Add a Laundry Tub

Plumbing in your laundry room is just as important to the plumbing in your kitchen, bathroom, and basement. Neglecting the plumbing in these areas can only make your experience washing things much harder. Apart from the typical washing machine, faucets, pipes, and any other additional appliances, a utility sink is versatile but looked over.

It can get overwhelming trying to do any type of activity where a large sink is required, in your kitchen sink or bath. A utility sink is larger in size and will be propped up on the floor or wall of your laundry room- which then is much more accessible for you.

Washing Your Pets

Pet washing can get very messy, smelly, and overall just chaotic. Instead of giving yourself more work by cleaning the bathroom, cleaning them in the utility sink makes for an easier experience. In the cold winter months having a designated space for your pets hygiene will allow you to not worry about muddy, snow filled paws around the house. Having a utility sink can make it much easier for you and your little pal to stay tidy. 

Hand Washing Laundry

Seeing that your new favorite clothing piece or blanket is ‘Hand Wash Only’ makes everyone roll their eyes. Figuring out when to designate your kitchen or bathroom to become a temporary laundromat is a headache. Delicate materials should be handled with care and still be washed just as regularly. A utility sink makes this possible! The clothes will fit easily in the sink and could even be soaked for later washing or deep cleaning. 

Thinking of Getting a New Laundry Tub For Your Bathroom?

Call Fred Glinke Today at: (630) 323-7230

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Make Messy Cleanups Easier

Utility sinks can keep the outdoors outside. During any season, the mud room can get muddy, full of salt stains, and other grime. Especially if you are a household with kids things can get messy within a blink of an eye. Having someone in the house dye their hair in the bathroom is very nerve racking. Having to clean all these things in your home, you risk staining something, clogging a drain, or even just a build up of dirty things in your house. Don’t run the risk of ruining your stainless steel sink because of a messy clean up. A utility sink gives you an easy place to rinse everything down before it even has the chance to find its way into your nicely cleaned home. 

Easier to Water Plants

Having greens in a home is a very nice touch. But keeping them healthy is very crucial. If you have greens, chances are you use a small watering can or even just a pitcher to keep them in good shape. Grooming flowers can even get a little messy, cutting the stems, and shaking out dry petals. Using the utility sink can give you a nice space to bring your plants for watering or upkeep and you will be glad you added a new laundry tub.

Helps Clean Your Grill Parts

Don’t let the clean up after a barbeque ruin the night. Soaking and cleaning racks of your grill or oven is very important for their longevity and condition. Throwing them in the kitchen sink can be a hassle as then you are taking up space for regular dishes. Having the utility sink ready to take on the grease and charcoal residue makes your life easier. 

As you can see, there are many reasons to invest in a laundry tub for your home. Save yourself the cleanup and hassle of making your kitchen sink and bathtub go through more than they need to. From your pets to grilling, the utility sink is ready to take it on. Fred Glinke Plumbing & Sewer in Hinsdale IL can help you with this with just a few calls. Call Fred Glinke now to hear how we can take the next steps for your laundry room. 

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Tips to Maintain Your Drain System

Tips to Maintain Your Drain System & Sewer System in Hinsdale, IL

Having a proper drain system in an integral part of owning a home or office. While Hinsdale residents may not experience many problems with their drains, we wanted to provide some useful information to help maintain your sewer and drainage systems.  Following proper maintenance protocols can e prevent costly or messy issues from occurring in your household.  

There are several types of drains in a building or house. Some of which include bathtub and shower drains, as well as toilet, sink drains, appliance and floor drains. Neglecting the drains in your home will contribute to plumbing issues down the road.  Many of which include:

·       Bad odors

·       Frequent clogs

·       Backed up drains

·       Damaged drains


For Immediate Plumbing Help, Call Fred Glinke at: 630-323-7320

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drainage system hinsdale IL

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Avoid Poor Flushing Habits

Believe it or not, a clogged toilet is one of the biggest contributors of drainage problems in Hinsdale, IL. Toilets typically clog from excessive toiletries or foreign objects being flushed down the drain.  Many times people may believe something is safe to flush down the toilet, when in reality, they may cause a problem down the road. Something's to avoid flushing are things like, tissue, baby wipes, toys, dental floss or feminine products. Other items to avoid flushing down the toilet are medicines or other chemicals because they can be toxic to the environment.

Toilets are designed specifically for disposing of human waste and toilet paper. By simply sticking to this motto, you can save yourself from futures clogs or other drainage issues. It is important for Hinsdale residents to never flush anything else down their toilets. Doing so may cause later disruptions.

Use a Hair Strainer for Bathroom Drains

Another common cause of clogged drains in bathrooms is excessive hair buildup. It is only human to lose hair strands while bathing. The problem is these hairs build up over time causing stress on your drainage system. Many people also bath their pets in their bath tubs.  Their hair may be thicker and longer and may contribute to back up. As backups build, they tend to grow over time and may lead to a more serious clog. Therefore, we here at  Fred Glinke Plumbing and Sewer, encourage Hinsdale residents to use mesh strainers to trap debris from entering your drainage system and protect your sewers.

Only Put the Right Items In Your Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals are a widely used plumbing appliance in Hinsdale, IL. Because it is so easy to hit a switch and watch the water and waste go right down the drain, many people tend to abuse their garbage disposals. To prevent improper waste from entering your garbage disposal, we here at Fred Glinke Plumbing & Sewer want to provide you with some useful tips to help you avoid problems with your garbage disposal.

Garbage disposals were designed to shred many kinds of smaller foods. Things like, tiny pasta waste, smaller veggies or smaller leftover table scraps.  They are not meant to dissolve leftover plates, bones, greases, fatty meats, or oils. Simply by avoiding these items listed above, you can prolong the life of your garbage disposal and prevent future drain clogs from occurring. Other items should be placed in the garbage or in a bag for the freezer until garbage pickup day. If you are experiencing problems with your garbage disposal or have a stubborn clog, be sure to call your trusted plumbers at Fred Glinke.

Being Prudent with What Goes Down Your Drains Can Prevent Clogs 

A large percentage of our calls coming in are due to drain clogs.  Drain clogs may occur in any part of your drainage system including drains, drainage pipes, sewer lines or even septic tanks. There's an old adage, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."  By being prudent with what you allow down your drains, you can save yourself a headache down the road.

In summary, to prevent future clogs that may ultimately lead to problems with your sewer lines requiring sewer repair, it is best to limit what goes down your drains. Do not flush solids like tissues or feminine products down your toilet. Be sure to use mesh filters to prevent excessive hair from going down your drains. Limit garbage disposal usage to smaller food particles and be sure to place larger items in your trash.

Frequent Clogs May Indicate a Bigger Problem

While having drain clogs may be a common event in many households, they should not be frequent.  If you notice a drain continuously clogging in an area, it may be a sign of a more serious problem and may require professional attention. A plumber from Fred Glinke can come out with a special camera and detect exactly where the blockage is coming from and locate specifically where the corruption is. Frequent clogs may indicate a more serious problem such as:

·       A clogged or broken sewer line

·       A leak in your sewer line

·       Tree root infiltration in your sewer system

Neglecting these issues may lead to serious sewage backup entering your home. If you are experiencing challenges with your drainage system, be sure to call your local plumbers at 630-323-7320 to check your sewer system before things get worse.

For Immediate Plumbing Service, Call Fred Glinke Plumbing & Sewer at (630) 323-7320

What to Do if You Have an Overflowing Toilet

If you have had a toilet overflow, it can leave your bathroom feeling wet and smelling bad. There are many causes of an overflowing toilet: The most common cause is that the tank is too full. You may need to call a plumber or drain cleaner for help with this type of problem. Other potential causes include clogs in pipes, human error, or even animals such as rats who chew through pipes.

We will go over what to do if your toilet overflows on its own and how to prevent it from happening again. 

It's not uncommon  to have  an occasionally overflowing toilet run over onto bathroom floors when they become too full; however, there are several ways you can avoid this issue before it occurs. First off, you should never flush paper towels, sanitary napkins, tissues or any other non-flushable items. Doing this can cause a blockage within the toilet and lead to an overflow.

If you've already had an overflow occur, there are a few steps you can take to solve the problem. You may want to unclog your toilet before other problems arise. This will help prevent future issues with clogs and overflows. To do so, simply remove the tank top lid and use a toilet plunger or plumber's snake to unclog the toilet. 

Another thing you can do is pour a bucket of warm water into the clogged toilet bowl to help dissolve any blockages. Don't worry if this overflows out onto your bathroom floor, because everything will be okay. If it becomes too full again, repeat these steps. 

If an overflow occurs, it is very important to clean and sanitize your bathroom area immediately. You should start by mopping up as much of the water as you can with old rags or towels, but don't use anything that is new or has been bleached, because they will not get rid of the odor.

Stopping an overflowing toilet is

The first thing you need to do when your toilet starts to overflow is cautiously lift the toilet cover off the toilet and put it down slowly to make sure it doesn't break.

Next, reach inside the toilet tank 

Look for the flapper which is a rubber drain piece located at the bottom of the tank and close the drain to prevent more water from entering the toilet bowl. This will help stop the water from overflowing.

Once the flapper valve is secured, you may stop the tank from filling further by lifting the float tank fill valve. This should stop the water flow from an overflowing toilet allowing the water level to drop slowly. Once this happens, you can release the float and allow the toilet bowl to refill. It's important to make sure the toilet does not overflow. If it starts to overflow, just lift the tank valve again.

overflowing toilet

What to do if the water level doesn’t drop? 

If the water continues to pour in the bowl, the next step would be to shut off the water from the toilet main. You can do this by turning the valve clockwise until you hear the water shut off.

Next it's time to unclog the drain pipe

There are a few different ways to clear the drain of a clogged toilet. The first and most common is with a plunger and begin plunging the toilet. Some people prefer to use a chemical such as Draino. This usually does the trick. If you are still witnessing clogging issues with this toilet or other plumbing appliances in your home, it could be a more serious issue and you may need to call a plumber near you.

Blocked toilets are the most common problem you might face in your home. With one toilet blocked, chances are high that it's just a clog or something stuck inside of it. However if many of them become backed up, then there could be an issue with either your system drain or septic field and they need to fixed ASAP.

Neglecting an overflowing toilet can cause severe damage to your home including mold or other damage. Call Fred Glinke Plumbing for help with your overflowing toilet today at 630-323-7320 and be sure to see our plumbing coupons to help you save money. We carry multiple high efficiency toilets and can help with your toilet challenges. 

How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

Many times, your home requires a a little home improvement. Many like to do things themselves but not sure where to turn. If you have a leaky faucet, this blog post is for you. Leaky faucets are one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face, and also one of the easiest to fix. In just a few minutes, with only an Allen wrench or two and some plumbers tape, you’ll be able to make your kitchen sink spout like new again.

We outline 6 simple steps to help guide you through fixing your leaky faucet once and for all.

leaky faucet

6 Steps to Repairing a Leaky Faucet

Step One: Locate the leak. The first thing you want to do is locate where your faucet is leaking from, and fix it as quickly as possible. This can be done by turning off water supply at the main valve under or behind your sink (usually located in a closet), then opening up all of the faucets to see which one is spouting water.

Step Two: Remove the faucet handle and escutcheon (the metal plate that covers the area where you turn on your faucet). Once you’ve found out where your leak is coming from, it’s time to fix it! First remove any screws along the handle, escutcheon and spout.

Step Three: Clean out any debris from around the stem of the cartridge. Underneath your faucet is a part called a “cartridge”. This piece controls when water comes out of your sink for both hot and cold water. Over time, mineral deposits can build up on this piece and cause it to leak.

Step Four: Replace a worn-out or broken washer with a new one. A worn out washer, like the one pictured above, will allow water to escape around its edges when turned on even if there is no visible sign of leakage. If you find that your old washer is worn out, simply replace it with a new one.

Step Five: Reattach everything in reverse order, including tightening all screws and bolts to ensure that it is secure. Make sure you fix the leak before putting back on your faucet handle and escutcheon plate!

Step Six: Turn on water supply to test if there are any leaks before replacing escutcheon and handle. Once you fix the leak, turn your main valve back on and open up all of your faucets again- make sure there is no more leakage!

What to Do if You are Unable to Repair the Leak Yourself

Overall this is a fairly common plumbing repair, while it may seem a little tedious to some, it is something you may be able to do yourself. If you have all the tools and parts for the faucet, it shouldn't take more than an hour to do yourself. The hardest part is getting the right components for your particular faucet and putting the tape on correctly.

No one really knows how valuable your time is, but you. These repairs could take a while if inexperienced or not really a technical person. Some like to tinker and get it done on their own. If you are having a hard time doing this or simply don’t want to waste your valuable time doing the repair yourself,  and you would like little help from a professional plumbing service, give us a call at 630-323-7320.

Fred Ginke Plumbing is open 24 hours a day and here to serve you with all of your plumbing needs.

We provide quality24 hour plumbing services in Addison, Bedford Park, Bellwood, Berkley, Berwyn, Bridgeview, Broadview, Brookfield, Burbank, Burr Ridge, Cicero, CountrysideDarienDowners GroveElmhurst, Forest Park, Forest View, Glen Ellyn, Hickory Hills, Hinsdale, Hillside, Itasca, Justice, La Grange, Lisle, Lombard, Lyons, Maywood, McCook,  Oak Brook, Oak Park, Oaklawn, North Riverside, River Forest, Riverside, Stickney, Summit, Villa Park, Westchester, Western Springs, Westmont, Wheaton, Willow Springs, Willowbrook, and Wood Ridge.

Call us now for your plumbing needs at 630-323-7320

What Is Trenchless Sewer Repair?

Perhaps your home may be suffering from a compromised sewer line. There are several indicators of sewer damage in your home or office. The most common signs of sewer damage are sewage backups and blockages, unusual odors coming from your sewer system, slow drainage, and waste pooling in your yard. Other signs can include foundation cracks, mold and can even lead to mice or insect infestation.

Having sewer damage in your home or office could be dangerous and can even cause serious illness over time, so it’s very important to detect it early. If you have a sewer problem, Fred Glinke provides complimentary sewer inspections and can repair your sewer properly so you can avoid headaches down the road. 

Typically when a home suffers from sewer damage, one of the first signs people notice is backup in the lowest parts of their home’s plumbing. Another common sign could be flushing your toilet and having your bathtub fill with water from the drain pipe.  If you are looking for sewer repair, contact Fred Glinke.

What Causes Sewer Damage?

Sewer damage can stem from a variety of reasons.  The most common form of sewer damage in the Midwest is actually caused by older tree roots. When trees are thirsty, their roots begin reaching out for water. As they move through the ground, they can latch on to  any pipes in the area. In their search for water, they often wind up destroying pipes in the process. Another common cause of sewer damage could come from heavy vehicles driving over your lawn, your sewer pipes in particular. The weight of a vehicle presses down on the pipes causing the soil to press down on the pipes and breaking the pipes in the process.

How to Fix Broken Sewage Lines

There are two ways to repair broken sewer lines. The first way is to dig up the soil surrounding the corrupted area and replace the broken section. This could be a catastrophe for many homeowners as much of their costly landscaping may have to be torn apart to find or reach the area. Pools can also pose a real problem for many homeowners to dig around the pool. 

Fortunately there is a second option to repair the sewer lines in your home. Trenchless sewer repair allows you to repair your sewer without having the burden and inconvenience of having to dig up your entire lawn. Trenchless sewer repair has been around for over 20 years and yet many people in the Chicago area are unfamiliar with it.

Fred Glinke Plumbing can put a camera down your drain to locate what is causing the problem and then know exactly where the problem is located to help prevent unnecessary digging in your yard.

Benefits of Trenchless Sewer Repair

  • Trenchless Sewer Repair can last up to 50 years without requiring additional service.
  • Repairs can often be completed in as little as one day or less.
  • Can literally save you thousands of dollars in restorative landscape work.
  • Trenchless repairs give you complete peace of mind because they meet and in some cases exceed industry standards.

Types of Trenchless Sewer Repair

There are two types of trenchless sewer repair. The first is pipe relining and the second is pipe bursting. Both of these may be suitable for your needs and require minimal digging.

Pipe Bursting

Pipe Bursting is typically appropriate when a sewer line was damaged due to excessive weight compromising the integrity of the pipes. When you have a burst pipe from excess weight, it requires the plumber to dig two access holes on either end of the damaged pipe. Then a cable is inserted through one access hole and pulled through the sewer line using a special tool at the other access hole.

This process bursts the head and fractures the old pipe pushing it out of the way, while a new polyethylene pipe is inserted in its place with a seamless, corrosion-resistant replacement pipe that will last for decades.

Pipe Relining

With pipe relining, we use what's known as cured-in-place piping. This technique is a good fit for pipes that are in fairly good shape. If you are wondering which type of service you will need or would like a free sewer inspection and you live in or near the Hinsdale Illinois suburbs, contract Fred Glinke Plumbing.  We will inspect the sewer line inside out with a tiny video camera to not only determine what is causing the stoppage and how to treat it but also to see exactly where the damage is.

Every sewer line is unique, and the issues your system has right now may or may not be eligible for trenchless sewer repair. However, you should always consider this your first option to save money and help preserve your yard. Trenchless techniques are usually appropriate for fixing the following:

  • Pipes damaged by tree roots or household debris
  • Improperly installed pipes prone to leaks and backups
  • Pipes damaged by settling soil
  • Pipes damaged by the freeze/thaw cycle
  • Difficult-to-access pipes buried beneath buildings and hardscapes

If you are in need of Sewer Repair or would like a free estimate or analysis and are located in or near Hinsdale, IL, be sure to call your friendly plumbing professionals at Fred Glinke Plumbing.

Fred Glinke Plumbing has been serving our community for over 60 years and are here to help with all of your plumbing and sewer needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Dial (630) 323-7320 

When Do You Need Emergency Plumbing

When Emergency Plumbing Near Me

When searching for emergency plumbing near you, it is important to take a few points into consideration. You can almost always expect emergency plumbing to costs more money because it is outside of normal business hours and most businesses have to pay their plumbers Wtime and a half per union guidelines. If your situation is controllable and no threat to health, safety or damage , you might be able to get away with waiting for the next morning.

Here are some tips to consider when calling a plumber after hours. Is the problem really an emergency? In other words, could this wait till the next business day or is it an emergency?  Here are some issues that require urgent attention:

  • Gas Leaks
  • Burst Pipe or frozen pipes
  • Heater not working in the midst of winter
  • Sewer Repair

If your home or office has any of these symptoms, call Fred Glinke Plumbing or an emergency plumbing repair service near you right away. If there is a gas leak, grab all family members and pets and evacuate the building and call 911 immediately. Neglecting burst pipes or a malfunctioning heater can lead to serious damage to your home or office. It is best to get to the source and stop the damage from spreading right away.

While we listed some of the most common plumbing emergencies above, here are some plumbing issues that may be delayed if money is an issue. If one of your 3 toilets is clogged, it could probably wait a day to be repaired. We suggest trying to plunge the toilet or avoid use until a plumber can come and fix it.  

Emergency Plumbing and Heating

If your heat goes out in the middle of winter, not only will be uncomfortable or life threatening, but it can also lead to serious damage due to frozen pipes or burst pipes. The winters in Chicago can be unforgiving. Neglecting your heat can be deadly and the risk of water damage can be substantial. It is best not to take any chances with your heat and having regular heating maintenance can really protect you from unwanted heating emergencies.

Emergency Plumbing Reviews

When picking a plumber, it is best to read some of their reviews first to make sure you know who you are getting. While not everyone always leaves reviews, we work hard for your positive reviews and wouldn’t be in business this long if we didn’t take good care of our customers. You can always count on Fred Glinke Plumbing for all of your plumbing needs. The professionals at Fred Glinke have been serving Hinsdale and surrounding areas  with reliable and quality plumbing service for over 50 years.

How much does emergency plumbing cost

Emergency plumbing almost always costs more money because plumbing unions require plumbers to be paid time and a half or double time depending on the day and time, so it is natural to expect that cost to be passed down to the consumer. While it is hard to predict what is wrong with your plumbing and how long it will take to repair, here are some guidelines to help you select the right plumber for your needs.

Residential and commercial plumbing rates vary from company to company and due to the experience of the plumber, some jobs may take some plumbers longer to finish than those with less experience. The plumbers at Fred Glinke are all licensed, trained and well experienced so you can rest assured you are always getting the best service for the most affordable plumbing rates. If you have a plumbing emergency, count on Fred Glinke Plumbing by dialing 630-323-7320.

When Should I Replace My Water Heater?

Many people ask, 'How long will my water heaters last?' While your water heater may go at any time there are some general rules when regards to your knowing when it will go or how long it will last. In this post, we will discuss some of the ways to tell when you should change your water heater or maybe just need a repair.

How Long Does a Water Heater Last?

As a general rule of thumb, most water heaters typically last between 10 to 15 years.  Just how long yours lasts, depends on a few different factors.  First and foremost is what kind of water heater is it?  While getting a cheaper water heater is tempting when looking to replace yours, but it may not always be the best decision. Many cheaper water heaters are made with inferior parts and simply not made to last as long.

Flushing your water heater once per year is something you can do to help the water heater last longer. Many people neglect flushing their water heaters which causes them to work less efficiently and reduces the lifespan.  So depending on how the water heater was maintained could actually have a lot to do with how long yours lasts.

Depending on the material your water heater is made from can also play a variable as to how long your water heater will last. Those made with a fiberglass tank typically last longer and some high end models may actually come with a lifetime warranty.  Most water heaters typically come with a 5 to 6 year warranty, while some of the higher quality ones come with warranties from 10 to 12 years.

If your tank is damaged, they typically can not be repaired regardless of the materials they're made from. 

Why Tanks Fail

There are primarily two reasons that cause a water heater to fail. First is over pressurization. Over pressurization is when the pounds per square inch exceed the specifications of the unit.  This can be caused by either one of two causes, excessive heating or having too much pressure at the inlet. To avoid either of these, it's best to keep the water temperature at or below 140 degrees Fahrenheit.  

The second cause of water tank failure is sediment buildup in the tank. This could be from chemicals or other contaminants in the water that eventually cause corrosion or rust inside the tank, which ultimately may lead to rust. Once a leak occurs it tends to be a self feeding problem that grows over time.

Another factor in determining water heater lifespan is whether it is gas or electric.  Electric heaters typically last slightly longer, but not always. 

Replacing Your Water Heater

When replacing your water heater, it is common for people to stick with the same type of water heater (gas or electric) because the replacement labor and parts costs are cheaper. When shopping for a new water heater, It is best to compare all expenses to determine whether you are getting the best deal or not.

So How Do You Know When To Replace a Water Heater?

Like most other appliances, there are typically two choices, either repair or replace. If your water heater is broken, replacement is often necessary. If it is not working, it may not work any longer. If it is leaking, it may be fixable depending on where the leak is coming from.  Leaks coming from the tank of bottom, are not fixable and will need to be replaced.  Leaks coming from above can typically be repaired by fixing the pipes. It is always best to troubleshoot when dealing with yours.

A water heater that does not generate enough hot water may be fixable by replacing the thermostat or other parts. Replacing some of the components may actually be cheaper then replacing the whole unit.  If your tank is less than five years old it may be cheaper to replace the components, rather than getting the whole thing fixed.

How Much Does it Cost to Install a Water Heater?

The cost to install water heater depend on whether the type is gas or electric. There are typically two costs to be considered when comparing water heater cost, the unit itself and labor. The labor costs are fairly standard and you may end up paying more in an emergency situation due to having to pay the plumber overtime for off hours.

According to HomeAdvisor.com, most homeowners spend anywhere between $767 – $1,446 for a water heater installation with the average being $1,104. These figures are based on over 21,000 respondents with a national average. 

Click here for more information on replacing your water heater.

Where is My Water Shut Off Valve Located?

Moving into a new home is exciting, it also brings a lot of work. One of the most important things you can do when moving into a new home is to locate the water main in your property.  Knowing where this is in the event of an emergency or disaster will come in handy, if you ever need it. Knowing where the shut off valve is will allow you to turn off the water should you ever need to stop new water from coming into your home. If you have a burst pipe, you will want to shut off the water promptly!

What is a water shut off valve?

A water shut off valves is the primary connection between the pipes where water enters your home from your village pipes.  In many cases, your home’s water goes through three different valves before entering your home’s main shutoff valve. Knowing where this is can be a real lifesaver when a plumbing disaster strikes and will allow you to stop the water from gushing in to your home which will help alleviate any unwanted damage.

water-shut-off-valve

How To Find The Main Water Shut Off In Your House

 Finding your homes water shut off valve can be a little tricky because not all homes are the same.  Depending on the evaluation of your home, when your property was built and the city codes, the location of your shut off valve will be different. This article will help you find your water shut off valve.

Before we dig in, it is important to know that in homes with extreme cold winters (such as the Chicago area) will generally have the water shut off valve inside the home. This is done to prevent pipes from freezing which can lead to damaging and unwanted pipe bursts.

Start with the Ground-Level 

 It is important to understand that the water lines entering your home typically come from the street, therefore your shut off valve will be in the front of the home or part closest to the street, often found at ground level. Begin looking towards the bottom of the wall closest to the street on the ground level. Just knowing this will usually enable you to find the shut off valve quickly.

What if My Shut Off Valve is Not Located in the Front of My Home?

If you were unable to find the shut off valve in the front of your home, chances are it could be in the back of your home. If you have a blueprint of your home, it will help you find it promptly by  looking in the plumbing section where you will find the location of the shut off valve clearly spelled out.

Two Types of Water Shut Off Valves

Depending on the type of shut off valve the builder used, you will have a different handle used to cut off circulation. There are primarily two types of valves, a ball valve and a gate valve.

Ball Valve

If the plumbing pipes coming into your home are plastic, you most likely have a ball valve as your shut off point. Ball valves have a handle that opens and closes the gate allowing water to flow into your home. When the handle is lined up with the water pipe, water will be allowed to flow  freely into your home. By simply turning the wheel a quarter of the way so it is at a right angle, you will shut off the water and prevent water from further entering your home. When turning this 90 degrees, it shifts to block the water flow. Over time, these valves can lose their stickiness so it is a good idea to test them every season or daylight savings time. By testing them periodically, it will help prevent any unwanted surprises from happening. Remember an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Gate Valve

A gate valve is the second type of shut off valve and most often associated with copper or other metal pipes leading into you home.  Gate valves use a ball which acts as a wall to cut off water flow. A common problem with gate valves is that if they are not used often they are known to freeze up or get stuck when you need them most. As with the ball valve, it’s best to test them out periodically to make sure they are properly functioning.

Call Fred Glinke Plumbing Now To Prevent Further Damage 

Coming home to the sound of water gushing into your home and finding a burst pipe is extremely disappointing. Not knowing where to find your water main or shut off is even worse and can be extremely damaging. That is why it is important to take the time now to find your water  water shut off valve and can save you a major headache down the road.
If you have a plumbing emergency, or a valve that is ceased, count on the experts at Fred Glinke Plumbing. At Fred Glinke Plumbing we have been serving the Hinsdale Illinois and Chicago suburbs for over 50 years and can help you with all of your plumbing needs. If you need a plumber, give us a call

How to Choose the Right Plumber

Choosing a plumber for your home or office, can be a little daunting without knowing what to look for. In this blog post, we will go over some of the top things to look for when choosing a plumber. There are many plumbers out there. Some are amazing and some are, well let’s just say not so amazing. 

Hiring a Plumber

When hiring a plumber for a big job, it is a good idea to find a plumber with a solid reputation. Knowing what to look for can make a world of difference in your experience.  Some people shop for the lowest price. Shopping for the lowest price doesn’t always give you the best outcome. Hiring just on price is a big mistake many rookies make. 

What Determines a Plumbing Repair Price?

There are many factors that determine the cost of a plumbing repair. There are generally three components to plumbing prices. First is parts and supplies. Second is labor costs. Third are profit margins.  

plumbing-materials

Plumbing Supply Prices

First and foremost is the cost of supplies and materials. There are many retailers that sell plumbing supplies to the public. These retailers usually sell at premium or retail prices, so consumers end up paying more. Most plumbers get their supplies and materials from different warehouses where they get trade discounts. This means they are able to buy materials for less than what they cost in stores.  Generally the more frequent they purchase, the better the prices they get. If you are working with a one man shop, they will usually pay more for materials and supplies because they don’t purchase in large volumes. Larger plumbing contractors purchase goods more frequently and therefore have access to better discounts.

Plumbing Labor Prices

Labor prices for plumbers depends on numerous factors. As mentioned earlier, basing decisions on price isn’t always the best decision. Generally the more reputable plumbing shops have union guys working for them. Unions offer plumbers a number of benefits for being in their union. As a result, they get health insurance, fixed wages, access to training along with many other benefits. Unions also require plumbers to earn more money for their experience. This means non experienced or less experienced plumbers usually cost less than an experienced plumber.

In addition to Unions, there are also license and insurance requirements. Unfortunately, there are many people who are not licensed or even carry insurance but still doing plumbing work. Hiring a non insured or licensed contractor to do work in your home or office may be cheaper from the surface but when a problem arises, they always end up costing you more money.

Plumbing Profit Margins

Every plumber has two sets of costs, fixed and variable. Fixed costs are generally costs for building, staff, utilities, bookkeeping, insurance and gas. Variable costs, include salaries, advertising, supplies and so on.  Generally the more expenses a business has, the more it has to charge to sustain. Smaller shops or work from home guys generally have the lowest costs but they are limited on how many jobs they can service. Larger shops are usually bogged down with layers of management and other costs. Then there are those who are right in the middle and are more agile and able to provide better service for less cost.

As each company is different in size, there are tradeoffs to the business owner and there are also costs that must be absorbed by consumers in order for the business to remain profitable.  Generally you may always find someone who is cheaper, but making sure the job is done right is important and making sure they are insured in case something goes wrong will always outweigh the sliver of savings when a mistake happens as they inevitably  will. Therefore it is important to find a reputable and experienced plumber with proper licensing and insurance to make sure your home doesn’t get ruined by some incompetent or unlicensed tradesman.

Licensed Plumber and Insurance

Most businesses are usually pretty good about carrying proper insurance, but far too many often chince out when it comes to insurance. Don’t leave your home to chance, insist on a licensed and insured plumber. If there is ever damage done, you will be glad you paid the extra $25.00 or whatever the difference was then get stuck paying out of your own pocket. Another risk of an uninsured plumber is that if they get injured while in your home and don’t have insurance, your insurance is liable, which again costs you more money.

Reputation

Insist on a licensed plumber in your area with a good reputation. Generally good to read some of the reviews on Google to see what other customers said.  It is important to know not everyone always leaves reviews. Usually reviews come from the most satisfied or upset customers. So it is a good idea to read many of the reviews.  If you see a company has mostly bad reviews, it might be a good sign to stay away. Ideally you want to see numerous reviews spread out over time.  

Be sure to look up the company on the Better Business Bureau and make sure they are in good standing.  Lastly, when choosing a plumber, ask to see their current insurance and don’t be afraid to call their insurance company to make sure it is valid.  At Fred Glinke Plumbing we have been serving the Hinsdale Illinois and Chicago suburbs for over 50 years and can help you with all of your plumbing needs. If you need a plumber, give us a call.

What is Emergency Plumbing and Do I Need it?

Emergency Plumbing Near Me

When searching for emergency plumbing near you, it is important to take a few points into consideration. You can almost always expect emergency plumbing to costs more money because it is outside of normal business hours and most businesses have to pay their plumbers time and a half per union guidelines. If your situation is controllable and no threat to health, safety or damage , you might be able to get away with waiting for the next morning.

Here are some tips to consider when calling a plumber after hours. Is the problem really an emergency? In other words, could this wait till the next business day or is it an emergency?  Here are some issues that require urgent attention:

If your home or office has any of these symptoms, call Fred Glinke Plumbing or an emergency plumbing repair service near you right away. If there is a gas leak, grab all family members and pets and evacuate the building and call 911 immediately. Neglecting burst pipes or a malfunctioning heater can lead to serious damage to your home or office. It is best to get to the source and stop the damage from spreading right away.

While we listed some of the most common plumbing emergencies above, here are some plumbing issues that may be delayed if money is an issue. If one of your 3 toilets is clogged, it could probably wait a day to be repaired. We suggest trying to plunge the toilet or avoid use until a plumber can come and fix it.  

Emergency Plumbing and Heating

If your heat goes out in the middle of winter, not only will be uncomfortable or life threatening, but it can also lead to serious damage due to frozen pipes or burst pipes. The winters in Chicago can be unforgiving. Neglecting your heat can be deadly and the risk of water damage can be substantial. It is best not to take any chances with your heat and having regular heating maintenance can really protect you from unwanted heating emergencies.

Emergency Plumbing Reviews

When picking a plumber, it is best to read some of their reviews first to make sure you know who you are getting. While not everyone always leaves reviews, we work hard for your positive reviews and wouldn’t be in business this long if we didn’t take good care of our customers. You can always count on Fred Glinke Plumbing for all of your plumbing needs. The professionals at Fred Glinke have been serving Hinsdale and surrounding areas  with reliable and quality plumbing service for over 50 years.

How much does emergency plumbing cost

Emergency plumbing almost always costs more money because plumbing unions require plumbers to be paid time and a half or double time depending on the day and time, so it is natural to expect that cost to be passed down to the consumer. While it is hard to predict what is wrong with your plumbing and how long it will take to repair, here are some guidelines to help you select the right plumber for your needs.

Residential and commercial plumbing rates vary from company to company and due to the experience of the plumber, some jobs may take some plumbers longer to finish than those with less experience. The plumbers at Fred Glinke are all licensed, trained and well experienced so you can rest assured you are always getting the best service for the most affordable plumbing rates. If you have a plumbing emergency, count on Fred Glinke Plumbing by dialing 630-323-7320.