Purchasing a home can be exciting. But it can also be stressful, especially when it’s time to get the house inspected. While you’re checking out everything from the foundation to the roof, don’t forget about the plumbing. 

While we recommend having a plumbing professional perform their own thorough inspection of the home’s plumbing system before you sign on the dotted line, here’s a list of easy things you can do to check the home’s plumbing on your own.   

Ask about the sump pump

If the home you’re planning to buy uses a sump pump, you’ll want to check it. Ask if the basement has ever flooded. If it has and they haven’t investigated to find out why, you’ll want to hire a plumber to examine the condition of the sump pump. If it isn’t working properly, it will need to be replaced or repaired as it can cause a flooded basement. This can lead to costly repairs and is liable to cause damage to the property in the basement, too. 

Inspect the water heater

Another simple thing you can do on your own is a quick inspection of the water heater. Often, it’s easy to spot areas of concern, just by looking closely. Check for any leaks around the inlet, outlet valves and the heater’s base. Listen for any noises when you turn the water heater on and check for rust on the tank. Also, turn on the faucet and check for rust colored water. 

Check the faucets

This is an easy step, but it’s an important one, too, considering how many times you’ll use the faucets in your new home each day. To get started, first turn on every faucet in the house to make sure the water runs quickly and drains quickly, too. This will give you an idea of how well the water pressure is in the home and if there are drain issues that will need to be addressed. 

Then, look around the faucets and at the base and installation points of the sink to see if there are any leaks. These can be costly in the long run, so the leaks should be repaired by a plumber before you buy the house. 

Test the shut off valve

Turn off the water meter to test the shut off valve. If you notice water coming out of the spouts, you’ll need to have the valve checked out. It may need to be repaired or replaced. 

Take a close look at the sewer main

You can avoid one of the most costly and extensive repairs by hiring a plumbing professional to check the main sewer drain to make sure there are no tree roots growing under the home’s foundation or damage due to the age of the house. A video inspection is a quick and effective way to check the condition of the sewer main. 

Don’t let plumbing concerns take the joy out of homebuying. Instead, contact the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter. We can perform a plumbing inspection to make sure you’ve found a great house to call home.  We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.

Additional Resources

https://www.columbus.gov/bzs/inspections/Plumbing/

https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/buildings/building-construction-inspections/plumbing-inspections/

Do you own a restaurant or other type of business that requires grease trap cleaning and pumping? If so, you might have some questions you’d like answered before you schedule service. 

Grease trap pumping play a key role in making sure restaurants operate smoothly. In fact, a clogged grease pump that needs cleaning or repair can shut down a restaurant entirely. Plus, there is government oversight on the process that monitors if service has been completed. Overlooking it can catch up with restauranters who put this maintenance on the back burner.

That means you need a plumbing professional with the know-how to clean and pump grease traps properly, and a reputation amongst Cincinnati restaurant owners as the best in the business. That’s Allied Reddi-Rooter. 

Below are frequently asked questions about grease trap cleaning and pumping. Don’t see your question below? Give us a call. We’ll tell you everything you need to know about grease trap servicing in Cincinnati. 

Your advertising states you perform grease trap plumbing. Is this accurate? 

While many plumbing companies say they offer grease trap pumping, it’s not necessarily true. Often, it is a service that is listed on their website or in ads to get customers to call so they can try to sell plumbing services they don’t need. Let’s just say it’s a grease trap…. trap.

Our Techs have extensive training and experience servicing grease traps. Not only do we clean and pump grease traps, we also offer grease trap repair and can install new grease trap parts. Plus, every service by Allied Reddi-Rooter is followed up with service documentation for government certification. The government is consistent in their oversight of your grease trap. Allied is too.

How many years of experience does Allied Reddi-Rooter have in grease trap cleaning?

We have more than seven decades of experience pumping and cleaning grease traps. In fact, we’ve been serving Cincinnati restaurants and other businesses for so many years that they’ve become like family. We believe experience really matters. Additionally, we believe in continuing education to stay current on all grease remediation best practices.

I’d like an accurate, firm price on the on the phone. Do you provide this for your customers? 

Absolutely. You should never be surprised at the cost of any plumbing service when you’re handed the bill. For about 95% of first time grease trap cleaning and other related plumbing services, we can give you a firm price during the initial phone call. For more complex issues, we’ll do an in-person evaluation and give a firm quote at no cost.

Do you offer emergency service and repair for grease traps? What about service on an as-needed basis? 

We know that when there’s a problem with the grease trap at a restaurant, a repair simply can’t wait. That’s why we offer grease trap service 24/7. And while many restaurant owners prefer to schedule regular cleanings, we are happy to provide service and cleaning on an as-needed basis as well. 

Will grease trap pumping interrupt my restaurant’s busy schedule?

No. This service should be seamless to your workflow. We’ll schedule grease trap cleaning at a time that is best for your restaurant. Simply put: we work on your schedule, not ours. That’s a big reason why Allied Reddi-Rooter is the plumber-of-choice in Greater Cincinnati for restaurant owners.

Do you subcontract your work? 

No. We have a strong, dedicated team of plumbing technicians who are employed with Allied Reddi-Rooter. Since we don’t subcontract work, you can be confident knowing that you will have one, long term team member at your service.

Are you licensed? Do you work with a recognized disposal site?

Great questions! Yes to both. Allied Reddi-Rooter carries all required licenses, and we work exclusively with surrounding county government disposal services.

Do you also provide installation service for failed traps or parts?

Yes. In addition to pumping and cleaning grease traps, we can also install new parts and replace parts when needed. 

Are you a full-service restaurant plumber?

Yes. Allied Reddi-Rooter specializes in every aspect of restaurant plumbing service, from bathroom and kitchen plumbing to grease removal. We work with hundreds of regional restaurants and arrive prepared for any service needed. 

How can I schedule grease trap cleaning with Allied Reddi-Rooter?  

When you’re ready to schedule grease trap cleaning and pumping at your restaurant or business, give us a call, or contact  us here.  The team at Allied Reddi-Rooter is here to help you with all your grease trap needs.  We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.  You can follow us on Facebook, @Allied Reddi-Rooter for the latest tips or to ask questions.  https://www.alliedreddirooter.com/grease-trap-cleaning/

A wet basement floor is concerning, whether you’ve been living in your home for a longtime or just moved in. If you’ve started to notice puddles of water on your basement floor or in your crawlspace, it’s important to act fast. If you don’t, it could lead to mold issues or costly foundation problems. 

One of the first things you’ll need to know is whether or not your basement has a sump pump, which is essential for removing water from the basement floor and funneling it through your drainage system. And while many basements in Cincinnati have a sump pump, some do not. 

The American Society of Home Inspectors reports that nearly 60% of homes in the U.S. have some moisture in their basement or crawl space. That’s why it’s important to understand what a sump pump does, what to look for when it’s time to purchase one, and how to maintain your sump pump so it keeps your basement from flooding. 

Here at Allied Reddi-Rooter, we often get asked about sump pumps, so we decided to answer some of the most common questions about this important plumbing device below.   

What is a sump pump? Where is it located?

The sump pump is located in the basement floor or crawl space, and its job is to make sure that the space doesn’t flood as water creeps in – usually after a heavy snowfall, a big rainstorm, or after a pipe bursts. Water will always pool in the lowest part of the house, so that’s where the sump pump needs to be. 

How does a sump pump work?

As water begins creep into the basement and onto the floor, it will activate the sump pump to start working by drawing the water into it. Then, the pump will push the water into the dry well or the drainage system under the home. Once the water in the basement is cleared, the sump pump will turn off. If it did its job, you’ll no longer have pooled water on the basement floor. 

Do I need a sump pump?

Yes. Many homes already have a sump pump, which serves as an integral part of the basement’s drainage system. If yours does not, we encourage you to invest in one. Without one, water can (and often will) accumulate in the lowest part of your home, whether it’s a crawlspace, a basement or the foundation. Without a sump pump, that water can settle. This leads to wood rot, mold, and even foundation problems. 

What do I look for when buying a sump pump?

First, you’ll need to choose between a submersible pump and a pedestal pump. While pedestal pumps can be less expensive, they tend to have a higher failure rate than submersible pumps. With pedestal models, the float switch can get so inundated with water that it can become too heavy to lift. 

You’ll also need to choose between a cast iron and a plastic sump pump. Obviously, a cast iron pump will last longer than one made from plastic, although plastic is more affordable. And mechanical switches tend to last longer than sump pumps with pressurized switches. Have a large basement that serves as a living space, too? If so, you may want to consider a back-up, second sump pump as well. 

Allied Reddi-Rooter carries sump pumps by Zoeller, known for their efficiency, durability and quality.   

How do I clean and maintain my sump pump? 

First, clean the screen gently with soap and water. Then, check to make sure that the power cord is connected and that the sump pump is receiving power. From there, test the float. If you pour water on it and works, you’re good to go. If it doesn’t turn on, give us a call. 

Once a year, do a deep cleaning by pulling the sump pump out of the ground and cleaning it entirely. You’ll also want to clean the pit. Make sure to remove all dirt and debris that has accumulated over the year. 

How often should I clean my sump pump? 

Great question! We recommend cleaning your sump pump at least every four months. This will help prevent any buildup of debris to keep your sump pump working at its best for years – if not decades – to come. Worried you’ll forget? Fair enough. At the very least, you’ll need to clean your sump pump at the beginning of spring before snow melts, and after a significant rainfall or storm. This will give you the chance to inspect the pump to make sure it is working properly. 

Need to have your sump pump inspected or repaired? Ready to install a sump pump in your basement? Whatever your sump pump needs are, we’re here to help. We’ve been fitting Cincinnati homes with high-quality sump pumps by Zoeller for decades. We can also repair and replace your existing sump pump systems. Learn more on our Sump Pump website page.  If you’ve got a wet basement, don’t delay. Call or contact  the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter to learn more. We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service. We’re here to help Cincinnati homeowners with all their plumbing needs. You can follow us on Facebook, @Allied Reddi-Rooter for the latest tips or to ask us a question.

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It pays to get a second opinion before committing to a plumbing repair

You may be wondering how important it is to get a second opinion before you hire a plumber for a repair or any major plumbing work. Suffice it to say, it’s always a good idea. Here’s why: First, plumbing repairs can be expensive, especially if the work needed is extensive. Getting a second opinion could help save you money and avoid unnecessary repairs. 

Another reason to get a second opinion is to help you make sense of a plumbing estimate. Let’s face it, most of us don’t know the ins and outs of plumbing, so it would stand to reason that we’d need help understanding an estimate in order to make sure the costs add up. 

Additionally (and unfortunately) there are unreputable plumbing companies out there. And worse, bogus plumbing companies are out there, too. A second opinion from an established plumbing company can ensure that you only work one that has your best interests in mind and won’t leave you with a big bill for a shoddy job. 

Beware of bogus plumbing companies

Often, a bogus plumbing will take out ads online with a name similar to a reputable plumbing company, like Allied Reddi-Rooter for example. The sketchy company might call themselves Allied Plumbing for example. 

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They’ll usually show up in an unmarked van or vehicle, do a poor job, and charge you way above its normal cost. These “plumbers” may also tell you that you need an expensive repair that you really don’t and use scare tactics to convince you to let them do the job. They often ask for a deposit. 

Then, when you realize they’ve done a terrible job, they’ll be nowhere to be found. You can avoid this scenario by getting a second opinion before you hire a plumber. 

Here’s how to find a reputable plumbing company 

Read reviews

Visit review websites like Yelp, Facebook and Google and read what other customers have said about the plumbing company you are looking to hire. Notice any common complaints. Are the plumbers consistently late? Do they overcharge or do poor quality work? If enough customer reviews say they do, consider another plumbing company. 

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Check references

This is critical for major plumbing jobs like repiping a home. Any reputable plumber would be happy to send you the names and contact info of previous customers – and will likely have a few in mind for you to talk to. You should also make sure the plumber you choose is insured and licensed. 

Choose a plumber with experience

Always go with a reputable plumbing company with strong roots in the community. Take Allied Reddi-Rooter, for example. We have been serving Cincinnati homes and businesses for 71 years. 

Don’t pay for a second opinion

Some plumbing companies will charge you for a second opinion, but not Allied Reddi-Rooter. We are always ready to share our knowledge with Cincinnati home and business owners and are happy to give you our own assessment of your plumbing problem. We can also give you a timeline to complete the job and even a written estimate.

We love talking plumbing, so give us a call or contact  the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter, and bend our ear when you need a second opinion. We’ll help give you peace of mind knowing that you’re being charged a fair price and getting the help you need to keep your plumbing in top shape. We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service. We’re here to help Cincinnati homeowners with all their plumbing needs. You can follow us on Facebook, @Allied Reddi-Rooter for the latest tips or to ask us a question.

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When you’re in need of a plumber for your home or business, make sure you choose one with extensive experience and knowledge about all types of plumbing and issues. The best plumbing companies have the capability to perform any and all plumbing services. Basically, they know plumbing inside and out, which makes it easier for them to deliver quality work no matter how big or small the job at hand is.  

Here’s our list of the top ten qualities to look for when choosing a plumber in Cincinnati. 

Decades of experience. At Allied Reddi-Rooter, our plumbers have more than fifteen years of experience helping home and business owners with their plumbing needs. In fact, Allied Reddi-Rooter has been operating here in the tri-state for more than 70 years. We’ve watched plumbing trends come and go and have literally decades experience troubleshooting and fixing a wide array of plumbing issues.   

An emphasis on education. Your plumbing technician should be highly trained, able to pinpoint your plumbing problem quickly and fix it right the first time. Because the field of plumbing is constantly evolving, plumbers should always be honing their skills. The best plumbing companies give their employees the tools they need to keep learning.  

Truly “full service.” It’s one thing to say you’re a full-service company, and it’s another to really be one. Look at plumbing company websites to learn what services they offer. As we mentioned above, if they service all industries and homes, and offer a wide variety of services, they are likely to be an established plumbing company you can trust. 

Emergency service. We offer emergency service within two hours from the time we first talk to you. Be very wary of plumbers who make you wait when you think you have an emergency. The very worst plumbers wait because, if the problem persists and does further damage, the more work they’ll have to do and the higher the bill. 

Instant phone estimates. The best plumbing companies are fair, honest, and ready to help. They should offer free estimates over the phone and deliver free on-site estimates as well.  

They’re friendly. Never estimate the power of kindness and courtesy. Our plumbing technicians make friendly service a top priority. The best plumbers care about their customers and are committed to complete professionalism on the job. We work with our customers, listen to their needs, and communicate every step of the way.   

They have excellent reviews. Before you select a plumbing company, make sure you read online reviews carefully. Choose a plumber with a great reputation and many positive reviews on websites including Yelp, Facebook, and Google. 

Personalized service. Have you ever worked with a company that makes you talk to a different employee every time you reach out to them? That shouldn’t happen with your plumbing company. At Allied Reddi-Rooter, we assign one technician to a job. That way, they can build a relationship with you for better personalized service. 

Responsive, 24/7 availability. Whatever your plumbing needs are, no matter what time of the day or night it is, you should be able to reach your plumbing company. Plumbing problems don’t follow a 9-5 schedule. If your toilet clogs at 7 p.m. on a Saturday night before a big dinner party, for example, you’re going to want to call a plumber who’s quick to respond – whether it’s by walking you through fixing it on your own, or by hopping in the truck for emergency service (just save us a slice of cake). 

Customized plans. Every plumbing problem is unique, which is why the best plumbers have flexible, customizable plans for every issue and every budget. While some plumbing jobs require only one visit, others – like grease trap pumping for restaurants – can be scheduled for ongoing routine maintenance. 

Great deals. Look for plumbing companies that not only stand by their work but offer discounts and other specials to make their services even more affordable.   

Need a plumber? If you’re looking for friendly, knowledgeable plumbers with decades of experience contact Allied Reddi-Rooter. We know what it takes to deliver exceptional service and we’ve been doing it for 70 years. We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.  You can follow us on Facebook, @Allied Reddi-Rooter for the latest tips or to ask us a question.