Here’s a word of plumbing advice: there are some things you should know about plumbing – whether you’re a home or business owner. Just a little knowledge of pipes, drain and everything in between can go a long way. Not only can it keep your plumbing in top shape, but it can help you know when it’s time to call a plumber.
Below are five simple things plumbers want you to know in order to be prepared, preserve your plumbing, and even save a little money.
Know what (and what not) to flush down the drain
Almost every day, we receive calls from customers who have flushed things they shouldn’t have down the kitchen sink or toilet. Sometimes, it can be difficult to unclog drains when there is a blockage, which is why you should know what needs to go in the trash, and not down the sink.
Face wipes, feminine hygiene products, cotton balls and grease are just a handful of things that should never go down a drain. We recommend having this list handy and checking it when in doubt about where to toss specific items.
Know the location of your shut off valve
This is one of the simplest, yet most important ways to protect your home from water damage if a pipe bursts. The shut off valve is typically located in the basement, or an outside wall, and is easy to turn off. So, when a pipe bursts or you need to turn off your water supply for any other reason, you’ll be able to do so quickly.
Stop using chemical cleaners
It can be easy to grab a bottle of Drano or other type of commercial drain cleaner filled with harsh chemicals that are bad for you and the planet. After all, we’re led to believe they work better than any other kind of drain cleaner.
But here’s the thing: they can corrode pipes, damage plumbing fixtures and are extremely dangerous if they come in contact with skin or are ingested. That’s why we recommend using safer cleaners, made with environmentally friendly, organic ingredients. Have a particularly stubborn clog? If so, it’s time to call the plumber.
Know how to use a plunger
Many people don’t use plungers properly. If you find yourself pushing and pulling when using your plunger, you might be using it wrong. To use a plunger, first cover all drains that are near the one that’s backed up. Then, place a small amount of petroleum jelly around the ring of the plunger. This will help create even more suction.
Next, scoop out any excess water and fit the plunger over the drain and push gently on the handle. Make sure you’re able to get a good grip on the handle and guide it easily. Now, pull the plunger away after about 30 seconds. If the clog remains, either repeat, use a drain opener, or call a plumber.
Invest in plumbing tools
You don’t have to purchase expensive plumbing tools and equipment, but it’s a good idea to have a toolbox with at least a few items that can go the distance for your plumbing. In addition to a good plunger, we recommend having a set of pliers, plumber’s putty, duct tape and caulk.
Remember, a little plumbing knowledge goes a long way, but the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter is always here to help you, too. From free, over the phone estimates to emergency plumbing repair, we’ve got you covered. Call the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter a call at 513-396-5300, or contact us via our website. We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.
Restaurant owners are used to working from the early morning until long after the sun goes down. Every day is full of surprises, but a blocked grease trap doesn’t have to be one of them. And with Allied Reddi-Rooter in your corner, it won’t be.
For more than seven decades, Allied Reddi-Rooter has been the top plumbing company in Cincinnati for restaurant owners who want to keep their kitchen running smoothly without missing a beat. So, when it’s time for routine grease trap cleaning and pumping, call us.
Why is regular grease trap cleaning and pumping important?
Proper interior and exterior grease tank servicing, which includes both cleaning and pumping the tank, are essential for restaurants so that grease, oils, fats and solids can be removed quickly so they don’t build up.
Once grease and oils solidify, it can block pipes and lead to damage that can pause business until extensive repairs are made. It’s also important to note that most municipal governments require regular grease trap servicing. Simply put, ignoring your grease trap is too big of a risk to take.
Six reasons to choose Allied Reddi-Rooter for grease trap pumping
Seven decades of experience
Actually, make that 72, but who’s counting? The fact is, we have been cleaning and servicing grease traps longer than most other plumbing companies in Cincinnati.
Seamless pumping on a schedule
Our highly trained plumbers will show up on time to clean and pump grease traps, so you can relax and focus on the myriad of other tasks you have to do to keep your restaurant running smoothly.
We pride ourselves on seamless delivery and a job well done. That means that we’ll arrive on time when scheduled and clean and pump traps efficiently. You won’t even know we’re there.
One price only
Worried you’ll be upsold if you schedule a plumbing service to clean and pump traps? You can be confident we won’t try to add any additional plumbing services or repairs. We charge a single, flat price to clean and pump grease traps. No surprises. Ever.
Service 24/7, 365 days a year
If you need your grease traps cleaned and pumped immediately, give us a call. Our plumbers are available for emergency service and repair for restaurants day and night. So, if your grease traps clog hours before you open for breakfast service, we can be there before the first pot of coffee is brewed.
Expert, thorough service
Our experienced technicians will not only clean out your interior grease traps, but they will properly scrape down the walls of the trap, and inspect the condition of the trap, baffles, and cover.
They’ll also recommend the appropriate service frequency based on the condition of those traps. And they will make sure your grease trap cleaning log is updated and provide the proper documentation to the city health inspectors.
A price that can’t be beat
And our grease trap approach is designed to meet both your business and budget needs. We always charge a fair price and guarantee our work.
Don’t put off cleaning and pumping your restaurant grease trap. Instead, schedule a routine visit from the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter by giving us a call or contact us. Your business depends on it. 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 questions. https://www.alliedreddirooter.com/grease-trap-cleaning/