Prepare your plumbing systems before going on a vacation.

Plumbers | Plumbers North Saint Paul Mn | Plumbers Maplewood Mn. | Hotwater Heaters | Leaky Pipes | Plumbers Stillwater Mn

Summer time and the living is easy. If you are like millions of other Americans you are probably planning some time of family adventure. Securing your plumbing system in your home or business can save you a lot of headaches down the road, literally. 

Your homes plumbing system is made up of a web of plumbing supply lines and plumbing drainage lines. These plumbing systems are normally pretty stable however certain events can arise that may upset the system at that can lead to damage to your plumbing pipes and eventually your entire home.

If a plumbing pipe bursts due to wear or corrosion and it happens to be a leak in an upstairs bathroom well you can imagine the damage that leaky pipe can do to your home if it is left unchecked for days or even weeks.

Many homeowners have come home from a vacation only to find that a water line has cracked or outright broken sending gallons of water throughout the home. These types of leaks are hard to predict as it may have been caused by a plumbing supply line hidden behind a wall and thus not easily detected.

There are a few steps you can take to reduce the prospect of a plumbing leak or burst pipe while you and yours travel to some of Americas great destinations.

Here are a few steps you can take before you pack the Ms. and kids into a minvan.

First off turn off the water main, unless you plan om having someone you trust check your home daily the safest thing you can do is turn off the main water supply it's usually easy to access and is the best way to minimize a potential water damage catastrophe.

In most homes, the main shutoff valve is located right next to the water meter. Sometimes this valve is a knob that can be turned by hand, but other valves may require a wrench to turn on and off. If you’re having trouble locating or turning your shutoff valve, you should contact a local  plumber for help; even if you’re home in the event of a plumbing emergency, knowing where the valve is and how to shut it off may help you prevent thousands of dollars in damage!

An added bonus to any summer vacation is the savings you’ll reap from leaving your home unoccupied. Not using your household lights, appliances and electronics for several days can make a big difference in your electrical bill, and you may also see a difference in your water bill while you’re showering in hotels and letting restaurants do the dishes. 

The biggest savings potential comes from your hot water heater, however. The water heater consumes more energy than most of the appliances in your home, but if there’s no one home to take hot showers, there’s no need to keep it running. What’s more, if you shut off your main water supply and water leaks or siphons out of the water heater tank by any means, the heating element could burn out if it continues heating an empty tank.

 The easiest way to shut down your water heater for vacation is to turn it off at the main breaker switch. Some modern water heaters also have a “vacation” setting on the heat control dial.

If you are planning a vacation and you have some questions or concerns about your homes plumbing systems contact a professional local plumber like Paul Vadnais Plumbing. Paul Vadnais Plumbing has been servicing the residential and commercial plumbing needs of customers in the Twin Cities for over 20 years. Call Paul Today!!

Paul Vadnais Plumbing

Plumbing Services, Well Services

651-429-8908

www.paulvadnais-plumbing.com

Plumbers, Plumbers North Saint Paul Mn | Plumbers Maplewood Mn. | Hotwater Heaters | Leaky Pipes | Plumbers Stillwater Mn

Local Plumbers and How to Find a Good One.

Plumbing companies come in all shapes and sizes. Getting the right plumber for the job you need to have completed is an important component as the faucet or toilet you choose.

It is imperative that when you hire a contractor to come into your home to complete a repair or replacement of your homes plumbing system you have trust and faith in them from the start. You can get a referral from a friend you can shop the yellow pages or you can find a flyer on a billboard in your local coffee shop.

The bottom line is you can do a little sleuthing and background checking on a plumber in your area.
Doing a search online like Plumbers in North Saint Paul, Mn. or Water Heater Replacement in Stillwater, Mn. can narrow down your search geographically.

Having a plumber come from across town is more that likely increase the cost of the job you are trying to complete. It is not uncommon for a trades professional to add on a trip charge to help offset fuel costs and employee windshield time.

Here are a few places to check out a prospective plumber for  your next repair or replacement job. Whether it is a small drain clog or a complete renovation of your homes plumbing service a few quick checks can give you piece of mind when it comes to offering access to your home or business.

Check out Google Local - When you add the area you live in when you do a Google search by town or zip code local businesses will pop up. Typically these listings will have reviews and more detailed information about the business.

Local Service Directories - Porch. com and Angie's List (to name a few) offer consumers the opportunity to review contractors they have recently had out to complete a project.  These reviews can be helpful sorting thru the many contractors in your area.

BBB - A business website should have a link to their BBB site whether they are accredited or not they still have reviews and relevant information on the BBB website. If they don't have a link on their site to their BBB reports they may be trying to hide something, but not always they may just have a lazy webmaster.

Social Media - Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc can be a great place to trade referrals for local contractors. We recently had a plumber visit our home in Oakdale, MN. and gave him a rave review on Instagram.

A good tradesman is worth their weight in gold, Finding a reliable plumber can save you a lot of money in case of emergencies or just day to day plumbing issues. Not having to be home when the plumber is scheduled to be there, knowing your plumbing problem will be solved quickly and for the price quoted is a calming piece of mind.

If you need a Plumber in North Saint Paul, Maplewood, White Bear, Mahtomedi or Hugo area contact a professional licensed plumber like Paul Vadnais Plumbing. Trust a family owned business with over 25 years of experience. Plumbing Systems Well Repair and more if it has something to do with water in your home or business we have had our hands in it.,

Paul Vadnais Plumbing
Plumbing, Well Systems, Sump Pumps and more...
www.paulvadnais-plumbing.com
651-429-8908

Plumbers North Saint Paul, Hot Water Heaters, Sump Pumps, Plumbers Stillwater, Leaky Pipes, Clogged Drains

Plumbing Sewer Camera Inspections

When is it time to hire a professional plumber and get a real sewer line inspection with a video camera?

A video can tell you the truth of what lies beneath your home deep in the recesses of the drainage systems for your home (or business) plumbing system. Video never lies, and in a lot of cases what you see is what you get. Roots, debris, children toys, clothing, dead animals they have all been found with the technology that allows you to go where you  never wanted to go.

Video cameras are an invaluable tool for plumbers today. A waterproof camera allows for an up close visual inspection of your sewer lines.

A skilled plumber can insert the camera attached to a flexible rod, with high resolution well lit video into a pipe as small as 2" diameter to a large 36" pipe. The flexible tubing allows the camera to snake it's way thru your sewer system and show you where trouble may already be or where trouble may be developing. Spotting an issue with this type of camera can save you time and money down the road troubleshooting issues deep within your sewer system.

Eliminate the guesswork. During the course of your sewer camera inspection depths and locations can be mapped with radio transmitted signals, eliminating guesswork when it comes time to tackle a plumbing issue. Eliminate the guesswork and resolve your plumbing issues quickly and for less cost.

Slow drainage may be roots from a nearby the blocking the sewer flow. If you have a sewer pipe that has been compromised and cracked you may have dirt or rocks that have worked their way into your sewer system.

 Additionally, a video camera line inspection before you purchase a home will help ensure that sewer lines are free of problems that can cause headaches and expensive repairs after you move in.

Video camera inspections have also been helpful in locating expensive jewelry or other valuables that have fallen into your homes plumbing system. 

Costs for sewer camera inspections can vary. From a quick look to an extensive overview. 

A residential video sewer inspection can cost $100-$800, but averages about $250-$500,depending on the length of the pipes, local rates, if the inspection is being done in conjunction with other work or as a separate job, and whether the images are just sent to a monitor or are recorded for later viewing.

It really depends on the amount of time your plumber spends going thru your home or business sewer system. 

Many plumbing companies now offer sewer camera inspections. If you live in the Mahtomedi, Maplewood, Oakdale, North Saint Paul, Stillwater area contact Paul Vadnais Plumbing. Paul Vadnais and his experienced team can help you see first hand the issues blocking your homes sewer system.

Paul Vadnais Plumbing

651-429-8908

Plumbers, Twin Cities Mn.

www.paulvadnais-plumbing.com

Plumbers, Plumbing Companies, Plumbers North Saint Paul, Plumbers Maplewood Mn, PlumbersOakdale Mn, Plumbers Stillwater Mn.

 

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Bathroom Plumbing Water conservation tips.

Arguably water is one of our most precious resources. And when it comes to conserving water very few of us think of the importance for the future generations to have reliable clean water resources. The first line of defense is in your own home. Kitchens, Bathrooms, Laundry Plumbing systems are all utilizing water every day. There are ways to reduce water usage in these areas and they are pretty simple. 

Turn off the water Are you one of those that turns on a faucet and leaves the water running while you brush your teeth. This is something we all do in the morning part of our routine. And once you add up all the family members in a home as ink that is running constantly can add up to many gallons of water simply running down the drain. After you wet your toothbrush, turn the faucet off and see what a difference it makes in your water usage

Men be smart while shaving Once again here is an area we can all conserve. While shaving isn’t a daily activity, (for some of us) it is important to keep an eye on the faucet. If you leave a faucet open and running while shaving the amount of water wasted can again add up to gallons. This will waste water and increase your water bill considerably. If you tend to let the water run while you shave in the morning, consider filling a bowl with water and using that to shave with instead.

Showers vs. Baths.  Soaking in the bathtub after a long day is a great way to reduce stress and relax. But baths use considerably more water than a shower. You can test this by closing the drain the next time you shower. You may be surprised how little water a shower can consume.

Plumbing and Water Conservation

Replace your toilet As part of a good and healthy water conservation routine replacing old appliances like toilets and making sure you have up to date plumbing systems like repairing leaks under sinks and making sure your tub and showers have water efficient heads on them. These can be simple ways to reduce water usage in your home.

Call a plumber Having a local plumber you can trust to assess any situations that may be contributing to an increase in your family’s water bills will give you a piece of mind that you’re doing everything possible to make certain our future generations have the reliable and plentiful water source for years to come.

For professional plumbing services in the Maplewood MN.North Saint Paul MN. Stillwater MN. area contact Paul Vadnais Plumbing. 4thgeneration plumbers that get the job done right the first time.

Paul Vadnais Plumbing

Saint Paul and Surrounding Suburbs

651-429-8908

www.paulvadnais-plumbing.com

Plumbers, Plumbing Companies, Plumbers Maplewood MN, Plumbers Oakdale MN, Plumbers Stillwater MN.

Plumbing in homes and businesses involve more than just sinks toilets and leaky pipes

There are many water supply and drain systems in your home that you may not even consider and a Professional Plumber can help repair or install all of them. 

When you have a leaky pipe you call a plumber if your bathtub doesn’t drain you call a plumber but what if you have a dishwasher issue or a hot tub issue? Sure you can call an appliance repair man (or woman) but even they are going to have to have a basic working knowledge of plumbing systems.

Paul Vadnais Plumbing-Dishwasher Installation

\Water supply and drainage is critical to the proper continuous operation of many appliances in your home. From your ice maker to you dishwasher, these appliances depend on the ability to draw and drain properly. This ebb and flow guarantee you enjoy a long life from your appliances as well as some health and safety features.

From a health standpoint appliances that don’t drain properly can create mold and mildew buildup. Mold is a hazard that can affect your family’s health.  Mold can build up quickly near clogged or leaky drainage systems. Anytime water can be left to stand still for a period of time there is a risk of buildup of this dangerous fungus.

Indoor Jacuzzi tubs, Dishwashers Refrigerator Freezers, most homes or businesses have some type of these appliances. Some minor maintenance and visual inspections can reduce the chances of more major issues down the road.

If you are installing a new dishwasher it is best to consult a professional. Making a secure connection on the supply side is important to reduce the risk of leakage. When it comes to the drain side, in a dishwasher there is typically a drain tray located near the back. A visual inspection can easily determine if there is debri blocking the drainage. Clear this debri regularly for proper drainage.

Jacuzzi tubs rely on pressure jets to blast that powerful water. Sometimes these jets can get a little clogged and are easily cleaned with a recommended cleaning solution and a little elbow grease. If you have a hard water issue it may leave calcified deposits in the jets over time and reduce the pressure of water released.

Paul Vadnais Plumbing Jacuzzi Tub Installation

A Professional plumber can be contacted if some of these problems arise and create a concern. If it looks like just clearing some debris is not doing the trick there may be a bigger problem somewhere along the plumbing system that may need to be addressed. These are some basic situations that arise daily with home and business owners.

Having a reliable plumbing company in your area that will respond to your calls in a timely manner and offer their best and honest advice will give you piece of mind and help you sleep better at night. A professional plumber can be there for the smallest of issues or the largest of tragedies.

If you need a plumber in the Maplewood, Oakdale, Stillwater, Hugo North Saint Paul area contact Paul Vadnais Plumbing 4^th generation Plumbers tat get the job done right.

Paul Vadnais Plumbing

St Paul and Surrounding Suburbs

651-429-8908

www.paulvadnais-plumbing.com

  

Plumbers, Plumbers Maplewood Mn, Plumbers North Saint Paul Mn, Plumbers Stillwater Mn. Plumbing Companies

Copper VS PVC Plumbing Systems

Have you recently consulted a professional plumber about a plumbing leak in your home or business? Most likely that plumber has assessed the issue and offered up a solution. That solution can include a couple different choices in material that may affect the overall cost of completing the job.

In the Plumbing Business there are two main types of material in use today to supply and drain water from your home or business. Copper Piping and PVC Piping, these two are both well accepted and often used in these circumstances. There are some differences in these types of material, and although cost may be a factor depending on your budget there may be some other considerations as well.

Let’s have a quick look at these two types of materials and what makes the so different.

First off is Copper.  Copper is a metallic element making it commonly used for water piping among other things. It is light and strong and often used for corrosion-resistant parts. There are several

reasons to prefer copper for plumbing piping. Copper pipes are durable for the long-term with non-acidic systems. Copper is bacteria resistant, very fire resistant, and earthquake tolerant. It can be incredibly flexible and bent around joints. Copper piping also has a small internal diameter, much smaller than CPVC, which lets it fit in smaller, tighter places.

Copper Downsides.  There are downsides to copper piping. Some people report metallic tasting water with their copper pipes. If the water is acidic, pinholes can form, causing plumbing leaks. Copper piping installation isn’t something to undertake casually however; it is labor intensive to install and requires a skilled plumber. It also is more expensive than CPVC.

PVC Piping. The main positive about PVC piping is it’s resistance to corrosion. It is easy to install, and is viable for do-it-yourself enthusiasts. It is also less expensive.

PVC Downsides. Some people may complain of a plastic taste to their water. The piping is also brittle during installation and if you are not a professional plumber you may break or bend the piping causing water restriction and reducing water pressure delivered to your home.

In the end it is up to you and your experience or the experience and recommendations of your plumbing contractor to decide which route will be best for your situation. As a side note if there are issues with tasting metallic or plastic yin your water adding a quality filtration system while performing the replacement of your current plumbing system is a wise option. But filtration systems can be covered in more detail at a later date.

Contacting a professional licensed plumber in your area is the safest way to determine which system plastic or copper will be the right for your needs. 

If you live in the Maplewood, MN. Oakdale, MN. Stillwater, MN. NorthSaint Paul, MN. Area contact Paul Vadnais Plumbing a 4th generationplumbing company with the experience to get the job done.

 

Paul Vadnais Plumbing

Saint Paul and Surrounding Suburbs

Professional Licensed Bonded Plumbing and Well Services

651-429-8908

www.paulvadnais-plumbing.com

The Potential of Lead in your Plumbing System

Homeowners in Maplewood, North Saint Paul Stillwater and Oakdale  MN. Should be aware of their homes plumbing systems and their potential for lead exposure.

Lead pipes and lead solder were the standard back in the day. But we all know that exposure to excessive lead particles can lead to many debilitating diseases. According to information supplied by the Mayo Clinic Lead poisoning can severely affect mental and physical development in children. 

Adults that work with or have exposure risks to lead also have health issues they should be concerned about. These may include but not be limited to, Anemia, Fatigue / Irritability, Peripheral neuropathy, Seizures, Hypertension and many more potential issues.

Lead may have it’s place in industrial productions batteries etc. but when it comes to your drinking and bathing water it may be soon realized that no amount of lead exposure is safe.

Some sources of lead that we have researched may surprise you. We have all heard that lead paint as it chipped and fell on the floor may have been a source of poisoning. But in further looking into the subject we found that Lead in older bathtubs is a big issue—and yet usually overlooked as a potential source of toxicity for children. 

Both porcelain and enamel coatings can have extremely high levels of lead. 75% of pre-1978 bathtubs have lead in their glaze and that about 40% of these tubs will have measurable levels of lead dust when dust samples are collected from the surface of the glaze. 

Now imagine your toddler in a tub with a lead base. They splash and play and put toys in their mouths and washrags in their mouths. Those items are basically soaking in a lead broth. There are many studies on this topic that can be researched. 

There are a few more places lead can leach into a home or business water supply; pipes, solders fittings etc.

Fortunately this issue has been known for years and these hazardous materials have been phased out of the building process. Lead plumbing pipes solder and fittings have been replaced with low voc (volatile organic compound) pvc, copper and other materials to keep your water supply safe. 

If you have an older home built before the mid 1960’s and you are concerned about potential lead issues you can contact a professional licensed plumber like Paul Vadnais Plumbing. They can determine the materials that are responsible for delivering fresh water into your home or business. Once this is determined they can give you an idea of what it may cost to replace or repair any plumbing issues you may have.

Paul Vadnais Plumbing                                                                                                                          St. Paul, Mn. and Surrounding areas

Plumbing Contractors                                                                                                         651-429-8908                                                                                          www.paulvadnaisplumbing.com

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