What toilet to buy?
I get asked this question a lot!. There are so many options in regards to purchasing a toilet. Prices can range from $100-$1000. Below is my opinion on what works in a home and the experiences I have had.
First off if you have anymore then one single flush you are asking for a headache. Many time the parts under the tank lid can be hard to find and are extremely expensive. Personally I like single flush toilets which are a simple toilet flapper and toilet fill valve. These parts can be found at any hardware store and the repairs are quick and relatively inexpensive.
Skirted Toilets. These toilets I cannot stand installing as a plumber. These toilets have little tiny windows which make it near impossible to seat the toilet on the wax seal and make it frustrating to tighten them down. Again I like the simple deisgn with toilet bolts exposed which makes for a good seal.
MAPP rating. Basically what this means is how much crap can be sent down the toilet and effecitvbely be flushed away. A good mapp rating is anything around 1000.
Lined toilet tanks are nice as they prevent condensation especially in the summer months as our water is so cold at times from the mountains.
In closing I have always been a fan of anything made by American Standard for toilets as they are simple and usually are at an excellent price point.
Happy Toilet shopping!!
A Plumber or a Handyman?
The importance of Hiring a Licensed Plumber.
When faced with plumbing issues, hiring a licensed plumber can provide assurance and peace of mind. Licensed plumbers have undergone training, passed exams, and met specific requirements to practice in their field. This credential showcases their expertise and commitment to high standards.
By hiring a licensed plumber, you can trust that the individual working on your plumbing system is equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to address the issue competently. Additionally, licensed plumbers are likely to have insurance coverage, which can be crucial in case of any unexpected mishaps during the job.
Hiring a licensed plumber for your plumbing needs ensures that the work is done professionally and up to code. This adherence to regulations can prevent future complications and maintain the integrity of your plumbing system.
When seeking plumbing services, always verify that the plumber holds a valid license. This simple step can save you from potential headaches down the line and guarantee a job well done. Remember, your local licensed plumber is your reliable partner in keeping your plumbing in top condition.
In Alberta Plumbing is what is called a designated trade. You can see a list of designated trades here. The information below has been taken directly from Trade Secrets. Personally I would not want to try and justify with an insurance company after a plumbing mishap if the individual wasn’t trained and qualified i.e. taken technical training. One great place to check if individuals are legit is here. If people are saying they have training ask them for proof.
Under the Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship Education Act (STAEA), the Minister of Skilled Trades and Professions (STP) may designate trades and prescribe restricted activities and the people authorized to perform those activities within a designated trade. Once a trade is designated, it establishes industry standards for an occupation’s skills and abilities, creating a standardized certification, which represents proof of competence within the trade. Designated Trades offer the opportunity to restrict activities within the trade to people are considered qualified.
In a nutshell if you are working in a designated trade for example plumbing it requires you to either be completed of technical training or you are a working apprentice under the supervision of a journeymen or red seal individual. I am not sure I will ever know how people work in these designated trades such as contractors and handy persons?.
Main Water What?
Main Water Valve: The Key to Plumbing Control
The main water valve is a crucial component in any plumbing system, serving as the primary control point for the flow of water into a property. Understanding the importance of the main water valve is essential for homeowners and plumbers alike, as it is integral to both routine maintenance and emergency situations.
In plumbing, the main water valve, also known as the main shut-off valve, is responsible for regulating the supply of water to the entire building. This valve is typically located where the main water line enters the property and is essential for shutting off the water supply in the event of a plumbing emergency, such as a burst pipe or a major leak.
Proper maintenance of the main water valve is vital to ensure its functionality when needed. Homeowners should regularly inspect the valve for any signs of damage or corrosion, and it is recommended to operate the valve periodically to prevent it from seizing due to prolonged inactivity.
In the case of an emergency, fast action is crucial to minimize potential water damage. Understanding the location of the main water valve and how to shut it off quickly can significantly reduce the impact of a plumbing disaster.
When working on any plumbing project, whether it involves repairs, installations, or upgrades, it is essential to know the location and condition of the main water valve.
In conclusion, the main water valve is a critical element of any plumbing infrastructure. Proper care, maintenance, and understanding of its functionality are imperative for homeowners. By recognizing the significance of the main water valve and optimizing its performance, individuals can effectively safeguard their properties from potential water-related issues.
For a quick Video Check out my YouTube link showing how to operate the main valve for my home.
Find that Leaking Toilet
I wanted to share how to quickly test for a water leak on a toilet. First thing is find some food dye or colouring. Now remove the tank lid and then drop it into the tank and let it sit for about five to ten minutes. Return to the toilet and see if the dye is now in the toilet bowl. If you see the water in the bowl change colour this means it is leaking by. If this is the case try replacing your toilet flapper first and then try the test again to ensure you have found the leaking toilet!. As always if you need help feel free to give me a call at 403-797-4664.
Youtube Video Showing More!
Polybutylene - The Great Debate
As I am writing this all around me customers are asking questions about poly b waterlines. Some customers want to redo the waterlines in their entire house , some want to mitigate any future damages and many customers are struggling with insurance companies over premiums and even getting coverage when poly b pipe is involved.
Most people know what poly b is by now. This pipewas installed in homes in Calgary around the era of mid 1980’s to mid 1990’s. Many neighborhoods such as Scenic Acres, Hawkwood, Edgemont and many more are full of homes which still have this pipe. Poly B pipe we no longer use in plumbing in Calgary and in considered unacceptable. As plumbers we install pex piping or copper waterlines.
There is basically three options in regards to handling poly b pipe. The first is remove all poly b from your home, the second is to mitigate and install a smart valve above your water meter, the last is to just do the repairs as they come up. No one can answer for you what is the remedy for your specific home and family. Check out my poly b link above and if you need service feel free to contact me.
Thank you,
Geordie Gallant
As I am writing this all around me customers are asking questions about Polybutylene waterlines. Some customers want to redo the waterlines in their entire house , some want to mitigate any future damages and many customers are struggling with insurance companies over premiums and even getting coverage when poly b pipe is involved.
Most people know what Polybutylene is by now. This pipe was installed in homes in Calgary around the era of mid 1980’s to mid 1990’s. Many neighborhoods such as Scenic Acres, Hawkwood, Edgemont and many more are full of homes which still have this pipe. Poly B pipe we no longer use in plumbing in Calgary and in considered unacceptable. As plumbers we install pex piping or copper waterlines.
There is basically three options in regards to handling Polybutylene pipe. The first is remove all of it from your home, the second is to mitigate and install a smart valve above your water meter, the last is to just do the repairs as they come up. No one can answer for you what is the remedy for your specific home and family. Check out my Polybutylene link above and if you need service feel free to contact me.
Thank you,
Geordie Gallant
Get a Water Alarm
Water alarms save money & headaches
I am writing this after attending another call for a homeowner who has yet again had a main sewer back up. What does this mean? Usually, the water will overflow from the floor drain in the mechanical room. This also means a call to a plumber. The unfortunate result is typically that the homeowner doesn’t know, and sewage is being spread to baseboards, drywall, carpets and more. You can only imagine the mess this can leave.
There is a simple yet effective way to minimize the damage! A water leak detector can provide piece of mind regarding your floor drain backing up or even your water heater leaking. In addition to the mechanical room, they are great for behind dishwashers and fridge water lines. Basically, anywhere water can leak. There are a couple different brands however in my opinion the best and easiest one to use is made by Resideo and can be purchased at Home Depot.
This device you simply set on the floor and loop the wire where any potential water can cause damage. Afterwards, you connect it to your home Wi-Fi, and you’re done. If the cord gets wet, it will send you an email as well as an audible alarm will sound. For the price of these devices, many times less than $100, it is much more cost effective then an insurance deductible or even worse, cleaning up the damage left behind. If you have any questions, please Call My Plumber and I will be happy to explain more.