A backflow preventer is one of the unsung heroes of our residential plumbing systems. These devices are crucial in preventing issues such as water contamination, sewage backups, or basement flooding. But what are they, and why are they so important? In this blog, we will get to the bottom of it! What Causes Backflow? [...]
Lift stations can be found in many residential homes, and play an integral part in managing wastewater flow. They are typically located on the lowest level of the building, such as a basement. We will often have clients wondering what they are, sometimes confusing them with sump pumps. While a lift station does function [...]
It has happened to the best of us. The fateful day where you finally have to change out that old dinosaur of a water heater living in your basement. This is hopefully because you knew it was nearing its end, rather than waking up to a basement full of water! Whatever the cause, water [...]
When it comes to heating homes, there is a multitude of ways to get the job done. Whether you are using a furnace, a boiler, a heat pump or any other mechanism, there will always be pros and cons. But what happens when you combine two different systems and pair their redeeming qualities together? [...]
We can all relate to those hot summer days when the sun is beating down on your car. You buckle up into the driver's seat and the interior is red hot! This is all because the sun's heat has travelled as radiant energy to the surfaces in your car. This simple concept has been [...]
When we inspect homes, plumbing is one of the major systems we observe. And having conducted thousands of inspections over 18 years, it follows that we have seen a lot of different plumbing configurations. Some plumbing materials and components have stood the test of time and proven to be reliable. However, there are quite a [...]
When it comes to residential construction, we are always trying to push forward as a society. We are searching for the most cost effective, efficient, and long-lasting building techniques. This has certainly yielded many successful methods and materials throughout history...but not always. In this blog, we will discuss a particular plumbing pipe that caused [...]
Plumbing material is one of the most important components of a residence. Even though most of it is hidden underneath floors, and behind walls and ceilings, it is constantly "working" hard for us, supplying fresh water, draining waste water, and contributing to the functionality of our heating systems. It follows then that having good [...]
Having a consistent and reliable water supply is an essential component in modern day homes. In the ideal scenario, water enters your home, and travels evenly to all faucets, spigots, sprinklers, etc. But how do we achieve such an optimal distribution of H2O? The answer, of course, is through water pressure. We've all enjoyed [...]
A TPR Valve, or Temperature & Pressure Release Valve, is a safety device located on a water heater or boiler. As indicated in its name, this apparatus is designed to release water if the temperature or pressure in a water tank exceeds safe levels. They are critical components of hot water systems and play [...]
