Grease traps are a vital part of any restaurant’s plumbing system. They prevent grease, oils, and food solids from entering the city’s wastewater system, which can lead to severe blockages. Still, grease trap maintenance is often confusing, especially for restaurant owners considering cleaning the trap themselves. 

To help take the guesswork out of grease trap cleaning, we’re answering some of the most common questions we receive from Cincinnati area restaurant owners. 

Can I clean my restaurant’s grease trap without hiring a plumber?

It’s not recommended and very difficult. Grease traps can hold a large amount of waste; without the proper tools and knowledge, you might risk creating more problems. Cleaning involves removing and disposing of thick, greasy sludge, which can be messy and potentially harmful to your health. In addition, if you don’t clean it correctly, you might miss some areas and risk causing clogs or odors. A professional plumber can ensure the job is done correctly and complies with local codes.

How often should I clean my grease trap?

The frequency of grease trap cleaning depends on the trap size and the volume of food waste your restaurant processes. Generally, grease traps should be cleaned every 1 to 3 months. High-volume kitchens may need to clean theirs more often, while smaller operations may get away with cleaning every few months. A clogged or improperly maintained grease trap can lead to backups, foul odors, and even fines from local authorities, so keeping a regular maintenance schedule is crucial.

How often should a grease trap be cleaned? 

What happens if I don’t clean my grease trap often enough?

If you don’t clean your grease trap regularly, the grease can build up and clog the system. Over time, this can lead to foul odors, slow drainage, and even complete blockages in your plumbing. Grease can also flow into the city’s sewer system, which can cause costly backups and potential fines for your business. In severe cases, neglected grease traps can result in health violations or the closure of your restaurant until the issue is resolved.

Can I use chemicals to clean my grease trap instead of pumping it?

While some DIYers may be tempted to use harsh chemicals to break down grease, this is generally not recommended. Chemicals can damage your plumbing, contaminate the local water supply, and may not effectively remove thick grease layers or solids. Mechanical pumping and manual cleaning are much more effective for maintaining a healthy grease trap. It’s also important to check with your local environmental regulations before using any chemicals, as certain substances may not be allowed.

5 signs your grease trap needs to be cleaned and pumped or repaired 

How can I prevent grease buildup in my trap?

Preventing excessive grease buildup involves training your kitchen staff to scrape plates and pots before washing them and using proper grease disposal methods. Installing grease filters on sinks and dishwashers can also help reduce the amount of grease entering the trap. As mentioned earlier, regular cleaning is the best way to keep things running smoothly.

Do I need a permit to clean my grease trap in Cincinnati?

Cincinnati requires commercial kitchens to maintain their grease traps properly, and the local wastewater authority may conduct inspections to ensure compliance. If you’re hiring a plumber for professional cleaning, they’ll be familiar with the necessary permits and regulations to ensure that the process is done legally and efficiently.

Leave the Mess to the Pros

Cleaning a grease trap is a messy, labor-intensive task that requires proper knowledge, equipment, and disposal practices. At Allied Reddi-Rooter, we’re proud to offer expert grease trap cleaning and maintenance services to restaurants throughout the Cincinnati area. Let us handle the dirty work so you can focus on keeping your business running smoothly. 

When was the last time you thought about your garbage disposal? Chances are, not for some time. It’s an appliance that we tend to take for granted. That is, until it stops working. 

If you find yourself in a situation where your garbage disposal fails to turn on or causes the sink to back up, take a deep breath and don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Here’s our straightforward, step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and tackle the two most common garage disposal issues. 

“Nothing happens when I flip the garbage disposal switch.” 

First check the power. Ensure the disposal is appropriately plugged in, and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Sometimes, a simple breaker reset is all it takes to restore power.

Next, turn off the disposal and try using the disposal key. Most garbage disposals come with a unique key, sometimes called the disposal wrench, that fits into the bottom of the unit. This key manually rotates the disposal’s grinding mechanism to free it up if it’s jammed.

Now, locate the small hole at the bottom center of the disposal unit and insert the disposal key into this hole. Turn it back and forth a few times to dislodge any stuck objects. Then, remove the wrench and try turning on the disposal again.

You could also use the disposal’s reset button on the unit’s bottom or side. Sometimes, this resolves issues that have caused the disposal to stop working.

Hire the best: 10 questions to ask your Cincinnati plumbing company

Lastly, check for any overload. If the disposal is overloaded with food waste, it may have tripped a safety feature that shuts off power to prevent damage. Allow the unit to cool down for a few minutes, then press the reset button and try again.

“The garbage disposal caused a backup in the sink.” 

If your garbage disposal backs up water into the sink, this is often a sign of a clog or blockage within the disposal or the drainpipe. Here’s what to do:

Turn off the disposal. First and foremost, switch off the disposal to prevent further backup or damage.

Clear the blockage. Use a flashlight to look into the disposal chamber and check for any visible objects, such as large food pieces or utensils, causing the blockage. Remember: never put your hand into the disposal. Instead, use tongs or pliers to remove any debris.

Use a plunger. If the blockage is further down the drainpipe, you can try a plunger to dislodge it. Ensure there is enough water in the sink to cover the rubber part of the plunger, then plunge several times to clear the obstruction.

Do I really need a master plumber?

Run cold water. Once the blockage is cleared, run cold water for a few minutes to flush out any remaining debris and ensure smooth drainage.

By following these steps, you can usually resolve issues with your garbage disposal without needing to call a plumber. If it doesn’t fix the problem, give the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter a call. We can address the issue quickly and fix it in no time, so your garbage disposal is humming again.  

At Allied Reddi-Rooter, we specialize in keeping drains clear and flowing freely. While we don’t install gutters or gutter guards, we’re very familiar with gutter systems and their demanding job. From leaves and debris to pests and toys, gutters can quickly become a catch-all for anything that falls from above.

In Cincinnati, where every month brings rain or snow, gutter guards are essential for maintaining clean and functional gutters year-round. They act as the frontline defense, preventing debris from clogging up your drainage system and causing potential water damage to your home. 

In this article, we’ll compare a few popular methods of gutter guards to help you decide which might be best for your home.

Mesh gutter guards
Mesh gutter guards are the most common type on the market. They feature a fine mesh screen that allows water to flow through while blocking out leaves, twigs, and other debris. These guards are generally durable and effective at keeping gutters clear, making them popular for homeowners looking for low-maintenance solutions.

Reverse curve gutter guards
Reverse curve gutter guards are designed to allow water to flow into the gutters while guiding leaves and debris to fall off the edge. They work on the principle of surface tension, directing rainwater downward and preventing debris from entering the gutter. While effective, they may require occasional cleaning to ensure optimal performance.

Bottle brush gutter guards
Bottlebrush gutter guards consist of bristles that line the gutter, allowing water to flow through while trapping leaves and debris on top. These guards are easy to install and maintain, making them convenient for homeowners who want to minimize gutter cleaning efforts.

What is the lifespan of my residential sewer main?  

Choosing the Right Gutter Guard

When selecting a gutter guard system for your home, consider factors including the number of trees in your yard and around it and the slope of your roof. Also, weigh the initial cost of installation against potential savings in gutter cleaning and maintenance over time.

Maintaining Your Gutters

Remember: While gutter guards can significantly reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning, they are not maintenance-free. Inspecting and cleaning your gutter guards periodically is essential to ensure they are functioning correctly. This can help prevent water damage and extend the life of your gutters and roof.

Do I really need a master plumber?

Whether you choose mesh guards, reverse curve guards, or bottle brush guards, investing in a quality gutter guard system can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. If you have questions about gutter guards or plumbing needs, contact Allied Reddi-Rooter. Our team is here to help keep your home’s drainage system running smoothly year-round.

We all need help from time to time. Luckily, when it comes to your water bill, Greater Cincinnati Water Works (GCWW) may be able to help. Thanks to their Payment Assistance Program, which is designed to assist eligible customers who are struggling to pay their water bills. 

Whether due to unforeseen financial challenges, temporary hardships, or low-income circumstances, the program offers much-needed relief. It’s here to ensure that essential water services remain accessible to all residents.

Who qualifies for assistance? 

To qualify for assistance through the program, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria.  Eligibility criteria typically includes household income, family size, and demonstrated financial need. Specific eligibility requirements vary, but the program aims to support those who can afford their water bills without assistance.

How old is our toilet? Know the lifespan of your plumbing fixtures. 

Benefits of the GCWW Payment Assistance Program 

Not only does the program offer direct financial assistance to help offset the cost of water bills, but it also guarantees that water services will not be disconnected while someone participates in the program. And all this adds to peace of mind, knowing that services will not be interrupted.  

How to apply for the GCWW Payment Assistance Program

Applying for assistance is straightforward. Customers can use it through the GCWW website or call GCWW customer service directly. Note: The application process may require providing documentation to verify income, household size, and other relevant information.

More ways to save on your water bill 

If you’re trying to make ends meet and are looking for more ways to save, consider recycling water to conserve and reduce your water bill. You could also make an appointment with an Allied Reddi-Rooter plumber to make sure your plumbing is in top shape so you can avoid potentially costly emergency repairs. We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service. 

Your home’s sewer main plays a crucial role in maintaining the functionality of your plumbing system. But, like all plumbing components, they don’t last forever. 

Understanding the lifespan of your sewer main and the factors that can affect its longevity is essential for ensuring the reliability of your plumbing system. Keep reading to learn about the lifespan of sewer mains, including the different substrates used over the years.

In Cincinnati, sewer mains have been constructed using various materials, each with advantages, disadvantages, and lifespan expectations. 

Clay: Clay pipes were commonly used for sewer mains in the early to mid-20th century. While clay pipes are durable and resistant to chemical corrosion, they are susceptible to cracking, root intrusion, and shifting soil conditions. The lifespan of clay sewer mains typically ranges from 50 to 60 years.

Help!!! 5 things to do while waiting for an emergency plumber

Cast Iron: Cast iron became a popular choice for sewer mains in the mid-20th century due to its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. Cast iron pipes are less prone to cracking than clay pipes but can still deteriorate over time due to rust and scale buildup. The lifespan of cast iron sewer mains ranges from 75 to 100 years with proper maintenance.

PVC: PVC pipes emerged as a modern alternative to clay and cast-iron sewer mains in the latter half of the 20th century. PVC pipes are lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant, making them an attractive option for residential plumbing systems. The lifespan of PVC sewer mains is estimated to be 100 years or more under normal operating conditions.

Don’t be surprised on moving day. Get a sewer main inspection and cleaning before you buy. 

Several factors can influence the lifespan of your sewer main, regardless of the substrate used. These factors include:

Soil Conditions: Soil composition, moisture levels, and shifting can impact the stability and integrity of sewer mains.

Tree Roots: Tree roots seeking moisture and nutrients can infiltrate sewer mains, leading to blockages and structural damage.

Usage Patterns: Heavy usage or improper disposal of certain materials can accelerate the deterioration of sewer mains.

Maintenance: Regular inspection, cleaning, and repair of sewer mains can extend their lifespan and prevent costly failures.

Concerned about the lifespan of your sewer main or experiencing plumbing issues? The team at Allied Reddi-Rooter can help. Our video inspections for sewer mains can quickly get to the root of the problem without breaking the bank. We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.

 

There’s a lot to consider before purchasing a new water heater. Maybe you’re thinking about upgrading to a tankless model. Or perhaps you’re wondering if an energy efficient water heater is best (the answer is usually “yes!”), or if there’s a certain manufacturer you should go with. 

As you mull everything over, don’t forget to consider the size of the water heater. If you don’t, there could be some cold showers in your future. 

There are two very important reasons to make sure your water heater is properly sized. First, it will ensure it meets the needs of your household. And second, it can help save energy as it takes more to operate a water heater that’s the wrong size.

Here’s how to choose the right size water heater for your home. 

For storage water heaters: 

If you’re buying a water heater with a tank (most homes in Cincinnati have this type), check the water heater’s first hour rating. This is the number of gallons of hot water the heater can generate in an hour. On water heaters with the EnergyGuide label, you’ll find this on the top left corner of the label. 

You’ll want to choose a water heater with a rating that is in line with your household’s highest hourly demand. In general, a 40 gallon water heater is ideal for a household with two people. Here are some guidelines to help: 

For tankless water heaters 

To accurately size the best tankless water heater for your home, you’ll need to do a little math. First, look at the water heater’s flow per minute rate. Next, compile a list of all the water fixtures you might use in your household at the same time. 

So, if the water heater you’re considering has a flow rate of 3.2gpm, which is 3.2 gallons of water per minute, add up how many gallons of water you’d likely use during a shower and how much water you’d use running the faucet at the same time, for example. If that number adds up to 5.75, you’d need a water heater with a 5.75 gpm. 

Here’s a great article with details about sizing water heaters 

For a solar water heating system 

Contractors usually consider a couple of things when sizing a solar heating system. First, they factor in the collector area, with a guideline of about 20 square feet for a household of two. Another 8 square feet is added for every additional household member. 

They also consider the storage volume of the tank. A 40–50 gallon take is usually enough for up to three people. If your household has more than four people, you’ll likely need an 80 gallon tank. 

Ready for a water heater? The team at Allied Reddi-Rooter is here to help. We’ll make sure yours is the right size, installed safely and ready to go the distance.  Call or contact  us.  We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.

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/

It can be difficult to know when it’s time to invest in a new toilet or repair the one you’ve got. While fixing your toilet seems like the easiest and quickest solution, it’s not always the case. Sometimes, simply replacing your toilet is the best choice for saving money – and time. 

On the other hand, there are times when the problem isn’t the toilet at all. If you replace yours without knowing this, you’ve just flushed money down the, well, toilet.  

Below is a guide to help you determine the best next steps to take if you’ve got a toilet plumbing issue and whether you should replace yours or have it repaired. 

When to repair your toilet 

There’s water at the base of the toilet

If you’ve noticed water collecting at the base of the toilet, the culprit is likely a leaking seal. Yours might be older and brittle or otherwise damaged. Replacing the seal could be all you’ll need to do to fix the problem. Remember: you’ll want to do this as soon as you can. Otherwise, your water bill might be higher than usual. 

The toilet won’t flush properly

If you’re pushing the toilet handle down, only for there to be a delay in the flush, or if the toilet doesn’t flush at all, it could be for a variety of reasons. Often, the cause is a bad flapper, or a clog in the vent pipes, trap, or even the sewer. 

Repairing your toilet won’t fix this problem. Instead, it’s best to call an experienced plumber who can identify the issue and perform the needed repairs. 

The toilet bowl isn’t filling with water

Take it from us, this is an extremely common plumbing problem. Usually, the issue stems from a faulty fill valve. You can find fill valves at your local home improvement store, and the repair can be relatively easy to do. Just make sure you purchase the proper fill valve for the make and model of your toilet. 

Reasons to replace your toilet 

The toilet always needs to be repaired

If you’re constantly running to the hardware store, buying new parts to fix your toilet, or always unclogging it with the plunger, it may be time to simply get a new one. We recommend talking this over with a plumber, who can not only help you make the right decision, but help you choose – and of course install – a new toilet, too. 

It’s always clogging

It’s not just a nuisance to have to unclog your toilet every day (or even every week), it can also lead to a sanitary issue and even raise your water bill. 

As we mentioned, toilet clogs happen for a variety of reasons. Most occur when something is stuck somewhere in the toilet or pipes, however, sometimes clogs occur after mineral deposits have developed at the top of the drain. The deposits accumulate overtime, and once there’s a buildup, it can lead to clogging. 

To know for sure if deposits are the culprit of the clogs, have a plumber inspect the drains. If they clean out mineral deposits and your toilet continues to clog, it might be time to replace it. 

The toilet bowl or tank is cracked

While porcelain is extremely durable, your porcelain toilet can still crack. Even a small hairline crack can cause a serious leak or even worse, the toilet could break completely and cause flooding on your floor. We recommend inspecting your toilet regularly for any cracks. If you see one, it’s time to replace your toilet. 

Don’t wait if you’ve got a problem with your toilet. Instead, call the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter a call at 513-396-5300, or contact  us via our website.   We’ll eliminate the guess work by determining whether your toilet needs to be replaced or can be repaired to save you time and money.  We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.

Sometimes it can be tough to know whether you should invest in a plumbing repair or replace the appliance or part instead. If you’re on the fence about making plumbing updates, or trying to budget for home renovation and updates in the new year, our list below can help. 

Take a look at our breakdown of the top plumbing parts in your home and their average lifespan. Then, use it to help you answer the big question: to repair, or not repair? 

Water heaters. Traditional water heaters should be replaced 10-15 years. Tankless water heaters should be replaced every 20 years. Regular maintenance and cleaning can extend the life of your water heater to the end of its warranty, but we recommend replacing it within 20 years at the very latest.  

Signs to look for that indicate the possible need for a new water heater include rust around the heater base, a pilot light that won’t stay lit, the inability to stay heated, and when the valve continues to slip.

Supply pipes. We’ve got good news for you here. Pipes last a long time and can usually be replaced one-by-one if they break. Most often pipes can be repaired and if you have an older home, it’s important that you have a plumbing professional inspect your home’s supply pipe system to make sure it does not need to be replaced. 

Ideally, brass pipes last between 80-100 years, as do steel pipes, while copper pipes last between 75-100 years. 

Faucets. There’s no time limit on faucets, but ones that are used repeatedly on a daily basis usually succumb to normal wear-and-tear at some point. Luckily, you can easily repair faucets unless they crack and break. 

Another reason to replace faucets is if they are leaking water on a constant basis. Of course, if you remodel your kitchen or bathroom, new faucets are a quick and simple way to make it more modern. 

Washing machine supply hoses.  Your washing machine supply hoses should be replaced every 2-3 years. Waiting too long can lead to major leaking and even cause your hose to burst. If you notice any bubbling in the hose, cracks, discoloration or rusting, you’ll need to replace the hose. Supply hoses can be purchased at home improvement stores and are often easy to replace without the help of a professional plumber.  

Toilets. The main part of the toilet, basically the bowl itself, doesn’t need to be replaced unless it’s cracked or otherwise broken, however, parts of the toilet will need to be replaced at some point. Flappers and valves should be replaced every 4-5 years and wax seals should be replaced every 25-30 years. 

Of course, if you see any leaking at the base of the toilet or if the toilet won’t flush, it may be time for a new toilet. And if you have to jiggle the handle constantly, you’ll want to invest in a new toilet handle. 

Garbage disposals. Most garbage disposals last about 10 years but we advise checking the warranty to make sure. If you’re resetting it often, or if food is getting stuck, it may need to be replaced. Additionally, if there are bad odors coming from the drain or if it simply isn’t doing its job, it may be time for a new garbage disposal. 

Drain lines. Drain lines can last from 80-100 years if cast iron, and 25-40 years if they are made with PVC. Most of the time, drain lines only need to be replaced because of tree root growth or a natural disaster. If you own an older home, it’s important to check your drain lines to make sure they are not old enough to need to be replaced. 

Don’t wait for a costly repair to update your home’s plumbing if it’s outdated. Remember: it’s always better to safe, rather than sorry, when it comes to home improvement. Call or Contact  the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter now.  We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.