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Commercial ADA Water Cooler Installation in Elgin, Illinois

Fox_Valley_Plumbing_Elkay_Two_Level_ADA_Barrier_Free_Drinking_Fountain

Our team specializes in commercial plumbing services across the Elgin, Illinois region, including backflow prevention, water line work, and ADA-compliant installations — and the Adesa project is a great example of what a by-the-book commercial job looks like.

We completed an ADA-compliant water cooler installation at the Adesa Auto Auction facility, bringing their interior drinking fountain station up to full accessibility standards. Here’s a look at the project and what goes into getting it done right.

What Is an ADA-Compliant Water Cooler?

An ADA water cooler — also called an ADA drinking fountain or hydration station — is designed to meet the accessibility requirements set by the Americans with Disabilities Act. These units must meet specific height, reach range, spout position, and operational force standards so that people using wheelchairs or with limited mobility can use them independently.

In a commercial setting like an auto auction facility, ADA compliance isn’t optional. The ADA Standards for Accessible Design require that at least one accessible drinking fountain be provided per floor, and in many cases, a hi-lo unit (which serves both standing users and wheelchair users) is required.

Key ADA requirements for drinking fountains include:

  • Spout height no higher than 36 inches from the floor
  • Clear floor space of at least 30″ x 48″ in front of the unit
  • Operable with one hand, without tight grasping or twisting
  • Water flow at least 4 inches high for easy cup use
  • Knee clearance for forward approach, where applicable

The Adesa Auto Auction Installation — What the Job Involved

The Adesa Auto Auction facility is a high-traffic commercial environment. Employees, customers, and auction participants move through the building throughout the day, making accessible, functioning hydration stations a practical necessity — not just a legal one.

Site Assessment and Code Review

Before any work began, we assessed the existing plumbing rough-in, confirmed drain and supply line placement, and reviewed the applicable local and ADA code requirements. Getting this right upfront prevents costly surprises during the installation.

Water Cooler Unit Selection and Positioning

We worked with the facility to select a unit that met ADA standards while fitting the specific wall space and traffic flow of the building. Proper positioning ensures the required clear floor space is maintained, and the unit is fully accessible as code requires.

Plumbing Connection and Testing

Our licensed plumbers made all necessary supply and drain connections, secured the unit to the wall, and ran full operational and leak tests before sign-off. We also verified that the water pressure and flow rate met manufacturer and ADA specifications.

Final Inspection Readiness

Every commercial installation we complete is done with inspection readiness in mind. The Adesa installation was no exception — clean connections, proper mounting height, and documented compliance with ADA Standards for Accessible Design.

Why ADA Compliance Matters for Your Business

ADA violations aren’t just a code issue — they’re a liability. Businesses that fail to provide accessible drinking fountains can face formal complaints filed with the U.S. Department of Justice, private lawsuits, and civil penalties. For a commercial facility like an auto auction that serves the general public, accessibility isn’t a box to check — it’s an ongoing responsibility.

Beyond legal compliance, ADA-accessible water coolers simply make your facility more welcoming to every employee and visitor who walks through your doors.

If you’re unsure whether your current drinking fountain setup meets ADA requirements, a licensed plumber familiar with commercial accessibility standards can assess your facility and recommend the right solution.

Frequently Asked Questions About ADA Water Cooler Installation

What’s the difference between a standard water cooler and an ADA water cooler?

A standard water cooler is designed primarily for standing users. An ADA water cooler — or hi-lo drinking fountain — includes a lower spout height, knee clearance for wheelchair access, and controls that can be operated without tight grasping or twisting. Many commercial codes require both heights to be available in one unit.

Do all commercial buildings in Illinois need ADA drinking fountains?

Most commercial facilities that are open to the public or employ more than a minimum number of workers are required to comply with ADA accessibility standards, including drinking fountain requirements. Requirements can vary based on building age, occupancy type, and whether renovations have been made. A licensed plumber can help you determine what applies to your facility.

How long does a commercial water cooler installation take?

Most standard ADA water cooler installations can be completed in a single visit, typically within a few hours, assuming the plumbing rough-in is already in place. More complex installations involving new supply or drain line runs may take longer.

Can Fox Valley Backflow & Plumbing handle ADA plumbing compliance for multi-floor facilities?

Yes. We work with commercial facilities of all sizes and can assess and address ADA plumbing compliance across single or multiple floors.

Schedule Your Commercial Water Cooler Installation

Fox Valley Backflow & Plumbing offers a comprehensive range of commercial plumbing services throughout Elgin, Illinois, including backflow testing, fixture installation, and ADA compliance work.

Call us today or use our online contact form to request a commercial service appointment.

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5 Common Apartment Plumbing Problems and How to Prevent Them

Woman attempting to unclog the basin and clutching a plunger

TL;DR: Shared plumbing in apartments means one small issue can affect the whole building. Stay ahead with regular checks and simple habits to avoid common problems. Know when to DIY and when to call in help.

Main Points:

  • Leaky faucets waste water and raise bills
  • Clogged drains are common and smelly
  • Low water pressure can signal bigger issues
  • Drain smells often come from dry traps or buildup
  • Monthly checks help catch problems early
  • Know when to contact your landlord or a plumber

Apartment living has plenty of perks, but shared plumbing isn’t one of them. One small issue in your unit can lead to bigger problems throughout the building.

So how does plumbing work in an apartment building? In most cases, pipes and vents are shared between units, which means a problem in one apartment can quickly affect others. The good news? Most plumbing issues are easy to spot and prevent with simple upkeep.

Leaky Faucets and Fixtures

A dripping tap might seem harmless, but it wastes gallons of water and can cause damage if left too long. Over time, wasted water can raise your bills, especially in metered units. In an apartment, even a small leak can affect more than just your unit.

Watch for:

  • Drips you hear but don’t see
  • Water pooling at the base of the faucet
  • Stains or soft spots under sinks

Why it happens: Old washers and seals wear out. High water pressure can damage fixtures. Shared pipes may shift or create pressure surges, which loosen parts over time.

Prevent it: Check your faucets regularly. Don’t ignore a slow drip—report it quickly. And avoid over-tightening the handles. If you can, ask your landlord about regular apartment plumbing inspection.

Clogged Drains and Slow Sinks

An apartment sink failing to drain is one of the most common complaints in plumbing. Food, grease, and hair clog pipes fast—and smells can travel between units.

Common culprits: Cooking grease hardens in pipes. Hair clumps up in drains. Paper towels or coffee grounds get tossed in by mistake. And since pipes are shared, one clog can affect several apartments.

Prevent it: Throw waste in the bin, not the sink. Use drain covers in the kitchen and bathroom. Keep a small drain snake or hair tool handy. It’s cheap and clears small clogs early.

Pour hot water down drains each week to keep them clear. Skip harsh chemicals—they damage pipes. If clogs keep coming back, it’s time for a professional inspection.

Low Water Pressure

Weak water pressure makes showers and daily tasks frustrating. In an apartment, it can be hard to tell if the issue is in your unit or building-wide.

What causes it: Old pipes corrode and narrow. Shared water lines mean peak-time pressure drops. Maintenance or repair work may limit flow temporarily.

Fixes and prevention: Clean faucet aerators to remove buildup. You can also install a shower filter with a built-in screen to catch sediment and improve flow. If low pressure continues, ask your neighbors if they notice it too—then report it to management.

Male Plumber's Hand Repairing Sink Pipe Leakage

Dealing with Apartment Drain Smells

Bad smells from your drain can make the whole apartment feel unclean. And with shared vents and pipes, odors can move between units easily.

What’s behind it: Dry traps are a big one—unused drains let sewer gas in. Rotting food or grease buildup causes bad odors. Sometimes, the problem lies in shared venting or pipes between units.

How to stop it: Run water in every drain weekly to keep traps full. Clean drains with baking soda and hot water. If smells linger, report it—it could point to a larger issue in the building’s plumbing.

Staying Ahead with Routine Maintenance

You don’t need to be a plumber to keep your pipes in good shape. A few simple habits can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your apartment comfortable.

Do a quick check once a month:

  • Look for leaks under sinks
  • Check for slow drains or bad smells
  • Clean faucet screens and shower heads

If you notice recurring problems, let your property manager know. It’s better to fix small issues early than face a bigger (and more expensive) repair later.

And if you’re unsure whether something’s just happening in your apartment, check in with a neighbor.

When to Call in the Pros

Some problems are best left to the experts. That’s especially true in apartments, where one fix can affect the whole building.

Call your landlord or a plumber if you notice:

  • Leaks that don’t stop
  • Frequent clogs or sewer smells
  • Low water pressure in several rooms

Trying to fix these yourself can make things worse. If it’s more than a quick clean or check, don’t risk it. Call your property manager or a trusted plumber like Fox Valley Plumbing.

Stay Ahead of Apartment Plumbing Problems

Good plumbing habits don’t take much, but they really do help. Keep an eye on your taps, clear your drains, and speak up if something feels off. A quick check each month can save you a lot of hassle later.

Learn more about our commercial plumbing services here.

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Leaking Pipe Repair: Get Rid of the Damage

Woman checking leaking kitchen sink pipe.

A leaking pipe can be a homeowner’s nightmare, causing extensive damage if not promptly addressed. Whether it’s a minor drip or a major burst, taking immediate action is crucial to minimize the potential for further harm. We aim to guide you through the process of repairing a leaking pipe, helping you mitigate the damage and restore your plumbing system to its optimal condition.

Identify the Leak:

The first step in fixing a leaking pipe is to identify the source of the leak. Look for visible signs of water, such as damp spots, puddles, or water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors. Additionally, pay attention to any unusual sounds, such as hissing or dripping, as they can indicate an underground or concealed leak.

 Turn Off the Water Supply:

Before attempting any repairs, it’s essential to shut off the water supply to prevent additional water damage. Locate the main water valve and turn it off. This valve is typically located near the water meter or where the main water line enters your home. Once the water is turned off, open faucets in your home to relieve any remaining pressure in the pipes.

Assess the Damage:

Evaluate the extent of the damage caused by the leak. Minor leaks may only require a simple repair, while major leaks or burst pipes might necessitate more extensive repairs or professional assistance. If the damage is significant or beyond your capabilities, it’s advisable to contact a licensed plumber to handle the repair.

Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials:

For simple repairs, you’ll need a few basic tools and materials. These may include a pipe cutter or hacksaw, pipe wrench, pipe joint compound or plumber’s tape, replacement pipe or fittings, and a bucket or towels to catch any residual water.

Repair the Leaking Pipe

 The repair method will depend on the type and location of the leak. Here are a few common repair techniques:

Pipe Joint Compound or Plumber’s Tape: If the leak is coming from a threaded connection, applying pipe joint compound or wrapping plumber’s tape around the threads can often provide an effective seal.

Pipe Clamp or Repair Sleeve: For small leaks or cracks in the pipe, a pipe clamp or repair sleeve can be used. These devices fit around the damaged area, creating a tight seal to prevent further leakage.

Pipe Replacement: In cases of severe damage or burst pipes, replacing the affected section of the pipe may be necessary. Measure the damaged section accurately, cut out the damaged pipe using a pipe cutter or hacksaw, and install a new pipe or fittings using appropriate connectors.

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Temporary Fixes: In emergency situations where you need a temporary fix until a professional can assess the damage, products like epoxy putty or pipe repair tape can provide temporary relief. However, keep in mind that these solutions are not meant to be permanent and should be replaced with proper repairs as soon as possible.

 Prepare the Work Area: Before starting the repair, clear the surrounding area and protect any nearby furniture or flooring with towels or plastic sheets. This will help prevent additional damage and make the repair process more manageable.

 Use Safety Precautions: When dealing with a leaking pipe, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Wear protective gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from potential hazards, especially if you’re working with sharp tools or handling chemicals.

 Drain the Pipes: If possible, drain the water from the affected pipe before beginning the repair. Open faucets and drain valves to remove as much water as possible. This will minimize the risk of water spraying or leaking during the repair process. 

Cut Out the Damaged Section: For pipes with severe damage or leaks, you may need to cut out the affected section. Use a pipe cutter or hacksaw to carefully remove the damaged portion. Ensure that the cut is clean and smooth, without any burrs or rough edges.

Measure and Purchase Replacement Materials: Take precise measurements of the cut-out section to determine the length and diameter of the replacement pipe or fittings. Visit a hardware store or plumbing supply shop to purchase the appropriate materials. It’s a good idea to bring the damaged section or a picture of it to ensure you get the correct replacement.

Clean and Deburr: Before installing the replacement pipe or fittings, clean the edges of the existing pipe to remove any debris, corrosion, or old adhesive. Use sandpaper or a pipe cleaning brush to smooth any rough edges or burrs. This will ensure a proper fit and a secure connection.

Plumber’s Tape: If the leak is at a threaded connection, apply a thin layer of pipe joint compound or wrap plumber’s tape around the threads. This will create a tight seal and prevent leakage. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.

Install Repair Clamps or Sleeves: For small leaks or cracks, consider using repair clamps or sleeves. These devices wrap around the damaged section and provide a secure seal. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install them correctly. Tighten the clamps or sleeves evenly to ensure a proper fit.

Soldering or Welding: In cases where copper or metal pipes are involved, soldering or welding may be required. This technique requires specialized skills and equipment, so it’s best to consult a professional plumber for assistance. Improper soldering or welding can lead to further damage or leaks.

Pressure Test and Inspect: Once the repair is complete, it’s crucial to test the integrity of the repaired section before turning the water supply back on fully. Use a pressure testing kit or gauge to check for any leaks or weak spots. Inspect the repaired area visually and listen for any unusual sounds or signs of water leakage.

Turn on the Water Supply: If the repair passes the pressure test and inspection, gradually turn on the water supply. Monitor the repaired section closely for any signs of leakage. Keep an eye out for several days to ensure the repair holds and there are no further issues.

Seek Professional Help: If you encounter challenges during the repair process or if the leak persists despite your efforts, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance. Licensed plumbers have the expertise and specialized tools to handle complex leaks and ensure a long-lasting, reliable repair.

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Once you have completed the repair, turn the water supply back on and carefully inspect the repaired area for any signs of continued leakage. Monitor the repaired section over the next few days to ensure that the repair holds and no further leaks occur. To minimize the risk of future leaks, consider implementing preventive measures such as regular plumbing inspections, insulating exposed pipes in cold weather, and addressing any signs of corrosion or wear in a timely manner. Additionally, be mindful of water pressure, as excessive pressure can strain pipes and lead to leaks.

Repairing a leaking pipe promptly is vital to prevent further damage to your home. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully fix many types of leaks and minimize the associated damage. However, remember that more complex issues or major leaks should be addressed by a professional plumber to ensure a safe

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Faucet Damage- When is it time for a full replacement?

Faucet Damage

 All plumbing equipment ultimately ages or breaks down. Even that gorgeous, shiny kitchen or bathroom faucet that you adore may eventually start to leak or make loud squeaking noises. But how can you know whether to repair it or replace it when it breaks?

Understanding the basics of how a faucet functions is necessary to decide whether to repair or replace your faucet. This will help you decide whether to fix or replace your broken faucet. For instance, repair may be necessary if your faucet is dripping, creaking, or showing an inconsistent water flow. Yet, a replacement can be your best alternative if you’re observing a never-ending string of issues, excessive water bills, or if there is physical damage.

While there are situations when repairing your faucet is the best course of action, there are other situations when it simply isn’t possible to save it. These are several situations where a fix should be sufficient:

  • Dripping: A frequently dripping or leaky faucet may typically be fixed with a straightforward fix. The dripping should stop if the loose parts are tightened or the worn-out parts are replaced. If an internal component is the source of the issue, it might be necessary to replace it.
  • Defective Components: Possibly the handle is no longer functional. This can indicate that you need to completely replace your faucet.
  • Unstable Faucet: A blocked aerator, the screen that covers the faucet’s tip, is most likely the cause of your faucet’s inability to create a pleasant stream of water.
  • The Squeaky Handle: Frequently, greasing the squeaky faucet parts will solve loud handle problems. But, if greasing doesn’t work, it may indicate more serious problems, such as worn threads or a damaged valve stem, which would both necessitate replacement.
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  • Noises From Your Faucet: Depending on the issue at hand, faucets can make a range of different sounds. Whenever you hear any kind of sound, it means you either need to perform some little maintenance or there is a more serious issue. Screeching noises indicate that a worn rubber washer that has become harder with time needs to be replaced. This is a more challenging issue to resolve if you hear additional noises, such as a clanking or clicking, especially if the sound is coming from the faucet and not the pipes. It will be necessary to disassemble the faucet and look for any potential cracks in the component parts.
  • Mineral and Rust Deposits: Two of the most frequent causes of faucet deterioration are rust and mineral deposits. It’s time to fix or replace your faucets if you spot one of these on their surface. Depending on the type of water entering your property, mineral deposits in particular can result in severe harm. Lemon juice and vinegar can be used to remove rust and hard water.
  • Irregular Water Flow :If the pressure at your faucet varies between high and low, your aerator filter may be clogged or air may be developing in your water pipes. A plumber can typically resolve this issue without replacing your faucet.

Even if the repair is more difficult, it might be wise to get it done if your home is filled with expensive faucets. If you need assistance determining if salvaging the faucet is worthwhile given the cost-benefit ratio, consult a licensed plumber.

It would be wiser to replace the faucet if you realize that you are always spending money on repairs. On the other hand, if your faucet uses an excessive quantity of water and your water bills go up, it may be old and in need of replacement.

Occasionally the entire counter or sink needs to be replaced rather than just the faucet. When this occurs, you’ll frequently need to get a new faucet in order for it to look good with your new sink or countertop. Similar to this, if you’re remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, you could need to change your faucet.

Many people might not be aware that maintaining their faucet is an option rather than replacing it. Whenever any of the small components inside a faucet become worn out, they can all be replaced.

The pieces within will eventually wear out from being turned continually, so replace them as necessary. Also, maintain your faucet clean by regularly cleaning it with nonabrasive agents. Additionally, you ought to remove any hard water deposits.

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Bathtub Leakage – Causes, Findings and Fixing

Plumber fixing leak under a bathtub.

What would cause a bathtub to leak?

The plumbing fixtures in a bathroom are many, and they frequently leak. The bathtub has been the source of some of the grubbiest leaks. Bathtub leaks can go undiscovered for quite a while, which can cause severe water damage to a property or apartment and other complications including infestation, chemical hazards, and even electrocution. It’s easy to mistakenly determine the source of a leak because the bathroom has so much plumbing. Usually, water will flow down a pipe’s surface for a considerable distance before beginning to drip and become apparent. This can make a leak in your shower’s plumbing system appear to emanate from the bathtub. Examine the leak while several fixtures are functioning to accurately pinpoint the leak’s source before you conduct any repair work. REPAIR A BATHTUB

Which types of leaks are most common and how do you can repair them?

Faucet Leaks

The most frequent and simplest to fix type of tub leak is faucet leak. Many faucet leaks are caused by dried-out, aged rubber washers inside the faucet assembly.

Repair: Turning off your water supply completely will allow you to begin the faucet repair process. Remove the plastic caps from the faucet’s centre after that. The faucet handle should then be disconnected using a screwdriver. Remove the packing nut holding the faucet in place with a wrench. Secure your new fixtures after replacing the stem washers. Once you’re through, remember to switch your water supply back on.

Drain Leaks

The plumbing behind the drain itself may have an issue that’s causing the leak; in order to remedy it, a plumber will probably be needed. However, it’s likely that the drain assembly’s seal surrounding the leak is insufficient.

Repair: It’s possible that the plumber’s putty on the inside of the stopper is beginning to rub off if the water in your tub is draining swiftly. Put some putty back on after removing the drain plug with a pair of screwdrivers. This is available from the neighborhood hardware store.

Grouting Problems

Often, bathtub leaks are caused by compression of the grout around the tiles in the area where water from the shower hits them rather than from the plumbing or drainage system. When shower spray strikes bathroom tiles, it sometimes gets behind them and flows down the back of the tiles onto the floor.

Repair: Find the leak and clean the area around it to restore the grout. If you notice a crack, caulk the crevices to stop the leak. Wait about three hours to let the sealant completely cure before turning on the water.

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How do you check bathtub for leaks?

Before you can fix the leak, you must find it. Checking to see if water is dripping from either spot can tell you whether or not your faucet or grout is leaking. Wipe the surface of the tub until it is fully dry, then line the area with newspaper to check for leaks. You should keep an eye out for any portions of the newspaper that start to become wet as you fill the tub.

Fill the tub to the brim with water to test the drain. Carefully listen for the sound of water leaking out after it has been filled. It’s possible that the drain assembly isn’t properly fitted if you hear those noises and notice the water beginning to escape.

What is the first step if there is a bathtub Leakage?

It is important that you take action as soon as you identify any leak in your bathroom, no matter how big or tiny. One of the major dangers of ignoring a leak is that dangerous mould may start to spread. Mould not only looks bad, but it might also be harmful to your health. Mould can lead to or exacerbate respiratory infections, as well as headaches, fatigue, flu-like symptoms and allergy symptoms. It can result in quite significant health conditions if you are exposed for a long time. On a more light-hearted note, catching the leak soon helps guarantee that it doesn’t cause too much structural damage to your house.

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Every Home Needs A Shower Water Filter – Wheaton, IL

Shower water filters are the types of equipment installed to cleanse the water for the shower. They provide great safety against harmful chemicals and sediments. These harmful chemicals go through the plumbing lines in a shower faucet. Water pouring in from the showerhead is contaminated with high chlorine content that can prove to be harmful to skin, lungs, and hair. Never forget that municipal water is already treated with chlorine and has been subjected to processes that supposedly make it safe.

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Shower water filters not only eradicate chlorine but also remove dirt and bad odor. In hard water areas, it has been evident that small pieces of sand, or rock, dissolve in water through the water lines. That is why anyone who has fitted water filter faucets or traps on their faucets is bound to clean out the tiny particles once a week. If not, then this will lead to blockage of the filters. Shower water filter cartridges generally work for 6 to 9 months providing clean shower water.

Generally, shampoo removes the oil from your hair, but when it is dissolved with water containing chlorine and sediments, its purpose is comprehensively lost. Most people have become vulnerable to chemicals and various other foreign matters on their skin. Shower water filters ensure that your fitted shower never gets clogged with foreign materials, and also protect your hair, skin, and body by cleaning the water through water decontamination filters.

The prime aim of the shower filters is to lower down the toxic and chlorine content in the water. It is advisable to install a shower water filter that can eliminate the contaminants by 90% making water fit for showering. The majority of the shower water filters are easy to use, install, and also to maintain.

Shower water filters are environmentally friendly and also perform well at any water temperature providing a positive response to your skin and hair. Thus, keeping all the mentioned points in mind it is wise to buy a shower water filter. Instead of spending dollars on cosmetics to hide skin stains as they are the result of various harmful chemicals present in the water, that’s why shower water filters radically minimize the risk of skin stains.

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Invisible Causes of Water Damage – Schaumburg, IL

What causes water damage? Learn how to inspect air conditions, plumbing, appliances, and more. Learn how to detect the hazards in your home or business.

If you want to prevent water damage in your home or office, you must first learn where to look for and what are the different causes of this kind of damage. This article covers the invisible causes of water damage, those that are a little harder to detect by simple do-it-yourself inspections.

There is additional material about the visible causes of water damage that you need to read in order to fully understand the subject. A good understanding of the subject will not only provide you with great techniques to prevent water damage but also will help you save money and will keep your house in good shape, preserving its value for many years. While you can control some of the causes for damage, others cannot be predicted and therefore cannot be prevented.

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Plumbing:

Plumbing equipment usually develops leaks due to failures in joints or hose attachment.
Internal wall leaks are even harder to discover and can cause major damage.

Pipes:

The common problems in pipes are blocked toilets and drains (especially kitchen drains), failure of garbage disposals, and roots in sewer lines.

Weather:

Unpredictable summer storms, floods, and other water accompanied disasters such as hurricanes, blizzards, and tornados are some more reasons for water damage.

Heating Systems and Air Conditions:

Neglecting air conditioners leads to poor performance, expensive operating costs, and moisture issues. Moist cooling ducts promote mold and other water-borne bacteria.

Appliances:

Water heaters, washers, and dryers tend to crack over time, allowing water to trickle. Although these appliances will start leaking slowly, this leak can grow and cause a flood when completely failed. Hoses tend to deteriorate inside out, resulting in leaks as well.

Basements:

A wet basement is caused by moisture accumulations that drip through the foundations. When moisture evaporates, it increases humidity even if there are no leaks or standing water. Another common cause is condensation on the cold concrete walls and floors during more humid time periods.

It is recommended to inspect your home periodically to ensure that it stays in good condition and keeps its real market value. A periodic inspection will also help prevent high-costs restoration projects after water-related disasters.

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Repair and Maintenance of Kitchen Faucets – Schaumburg, IL

The kitchen is the heart of many homes. This is the room where the family prepares and shares meals together. Because so much time is spent here, the fixtures and accessories need to be functional and fit with the style of the room. The kitchen faucets in the sink and kitchen islands are made with style in mind. With so many choices, you are sure to find the right fit for your home. Most people match the fixtures to the style of kitchen cabinets.

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Styles of Kitchen Faucets

The sink faucet use to be merely functional; the purpose was to deliver water to sinks for cooking or cleaning. Nobody really thought about what it looked like or if it matched the dÈcor in the room. Those days are over. Kitchen fixtures are now available in a range of finishes and styles to match every home.

Some of the available finishes include:

+ Brass (natural is more popular than polished)
+ Weathered brass
+ Nickel
+ Bronze
+ Antique copper
+ Brushed nickel
+ Stainless steel
+ Porcelain
+ Chrome
+ Black

The brushed and weathered look is more popular than the shiny, polished finishes. The polished chrome faucet is most often used in contemporary style kitchens now. Elaborate Victorian designs are available for more formal-looking kitchens. Their use as a design feature has resulted in fixtures being one of the most popular upgrades for people purchasing a new home.

If your home has boring fixtures that seem out of date or don’t match your home, replacing them is easy and inexpensive. Just make it part of a small home improvement and decoration project. The price for replacements varies and the finish plays a role in the price. Chrome is the least expensive and most durable material used. Other materials can be quite a bit more expensive and require extra care.

Visit your local plumbing or home improvement store in Schaumburg and surrounding areas to see the various styles available. Fox Valley Plumbing can replace or fix your faucet.

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Installation Procedures

The new faucets are easier to install than older models. Most manufacturers include all connections and fittings needed to install the unit yourself. Complete installation instructions are included with the faucet. Look for complete kits that come with the flexible hoses needed to attach to your water supply.

If these aren’t included, you will need to purchase them separately. Don’t be alarmed if you notice particles in the water when you finish the installation. These are just particles trapped in the fixture from manufacturing and installation. They will rinse clear if you let the water run for a few minutes.

Kitchen Faucets: Repair and Maintenance

Repairing and maintenance are easier than ever before and can be done by a handy homeowner. Rubber rings can be easily replaced at home when needed. Before working on the sink, turn off the water and cover the drains. Properly cleaning and maintaining your faucet will extend the life and keep it in good working order.

Check the manufacturer’s directions for cleaning the finish. Most can be cleaned with mild soap and water or window cleaner. Don’t use harsh cleaning products, which can damage the finish. Polish matte finishes with furniture polish. Check the label to be sure the product you use is safe for the material of your fixtures.

Shower and Bathroom Fixtures

The combination of style and function found in kitchen fixtures has extended into the bathroom as well. There is a wide variety of choices available in shower faucets. You can choose the standard wall mount faucet or go for a removable head. Many can be adjusted to regulate the water flow according to your preference.

There are two basic choices in handles: pull-out and individual knobs. Some people find one handle to be more convenient and easy to use. Two handles are more stylish and a variety of styles are available in the handles. You should choose according to the style of your sink or bathtub. Faucets can be matched for the tub and sink if you choose.

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