Plumbing Blog | Modern Plumbing Industries

How Commercial Jetting Benefits Your Business

December 3rd, 2014

Your commercial property requires proper care and maintenance in order to run smoothly and to keep clients, customers, employees, tenants, and city regulations satisfied. And one component of your property you simply cannot afford to neglect is the plumbing. Plumbing issues can mean a disaster for your business, as leaks or clogs can cause floods on your property or allow sewage to back up through the drain. And if a clog in your plumbing system results in sewage backup on public property, you can get a hefty fine from the city if you’re proven responsible.

The grease trap from your commercial kitchen helps to prevent clogs from forming. However, this doesn’t guarantee that your drains won’t back up, particularly if you don’t follow proper maintenance procedures. One of the best ways to maintain your drains is by hiring a professional for commercial jetting services, which could ensure your bathroom and kitchen plumbing runs smoothly and that you don’t end up paying a lot more later in repairs, clean-up, and fines.

What Is Commercial Jetting?

Commercial jetting involves the use of a hydro jet to clear the drains of any material stuck inside of the pipes. First, a quality plumber should inspect the pipes to find any major clogs in the pipes and make sure those are addressed first and foremost. The plumber may decide to use a tool to pull out blockage through the drains, or they may decide to go ahead with hydro jetting. The plumber will use a thin hose and move it along the pipes so that it can shoot water out at extremely high pressures and eliminate any buildup from the insides of the pipes.

With commercial jetting, a professional can also clean out your grease trap, a service which is particularly important in a commercial kitchen. Grease traps keep F.O.G. (fats, oils, and grease) from building up, since these substances solidify as they cool down. F.O.G. is responsible for many plumbing clogs, continuously collecting until debris gathers in your pipes and the pressure imbalance leads to major issues.

When you decide you need commercial jetting in Sanford, call on the professionals at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI). Our commercial jetter is capable of delivering strong enough pressure to break up the toughest of clogs and clear out grease traps as well. Call us today!

10 Facts You Should Know about Thanksgiving

November 27th, 2014

Thanksgiving has been celebrated as an official holiday in the United States for over 150 years, so you may think you understand all there is to know about this family feast. Most of us have heard the story of the pilgrims’ first Thanksgiving in 1621 after arriving in North America on the Mayflower. But did you know that only about half of the people on this ship were actually pilgrims? This fact is one of ten things that may actually surprise you about the Thanksgiving tradition!

Although we often consider Thanksgiving a holiday unique to the United States, many other countries and cultures celebrate their own set of harvest-time and thanksgiving traditions. In Korea, Chu-Sok (or “fall evening”) is put on in remembrance of forefathers on August 15^th of every year. Brazil celebrates a contemporary version of the U.S. holiday. Chinese, Roman, and Jewish cultures all have a history of harvest celebrations as well.
President Harry S. Truman began the tradition of a ceremony held before Thanksgiving during which the president receives a turkey. George H.W. Bush was the first to pardon the turkey instead of eating it.
In Minnesota alone, farmers raise over 40 million turkeys a year. In fact, U.S. farmers produce about one turkey for every one person in the country.
According to the New England Journal of Medicine, the average American will gain about one to two pounds every year during the holiday season.
On the other hand, turkey is naturally high in protein and has been known to support and boost immune systems to protect against illness and speed up healing. So feast on!
Abraham Lincoln issued a “Thanksgiving Proclamation” in 1863, but a woman named Sarah Josepha Hale can be credited with the idea. While Thanksgiving had been celebrated at different times of year in many areas of the U.S. for years, it was Hale, prominent magazine editor and author of the rhyme “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” who urged Lincoln to finally establish the national event.
President Franklin D Roosevelt once tried to change the date of Thanksgiving to the second-to-last Thursday of the month in order to extend the holiday shopping season and boost the economy.
Only about half of the people on the Mayflower were what we would consider today as “Pilgrims.” The other (approximately) 50 people were simply trying to find a way over to the New World.
Gobble, gobble! Click, click? While male turkeys make a gobbling noise, females (hens) do not; it’s often described as a clicking.
Even though we celebrate Thanksgiving on the last Thursday of November, the month of June has been declared National Turkey Lovers’ Month by the National Turkey Federation so you can continue the celebration in the summer as well!

From our family here at Modern Plumbing Industries Inc., we’d like to wish you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Can Drain Cleaning Improve Your Kitchen?

November 19th, 2014

The kitchen sink is a key component of your plumbing system, as it’s where you get some of the most important home tasks completed throughout the day. Whether it’s filling up a glass of drinking water, a pot for boiling water, or a bucket for mopping, you’d be lost without a working sink. And in order for your kitchen sink to work, you also need a functional draining system so that wastewater doesn’t pool in your sink and so that sewage backup doesn’t occur in other areas of your home. Maintain your kitchen sink by scheduling annual drain cleaning, the benefits of which are outlined below.

Remove Clogs

Professional drain cleaning is simply the best way to ensure common kitchen clogs are eliminated from the pipes for good. A drain clog is more than an annoyance; it’s also a health hazard if wastewater pools in the sink or dishwasher or if sewage backs up through a drain. And the only safe method of clog removal at home is a plunger. If you attempt to clean your drains with a chemical drain cleaner, it could actually damage the pipes, and it’s toxic for humans as it risks injuring to the skin and eyes. You may be able to purchase a small drain snake at the local hardware store, but you risk pushing the clog further along into the drain. Professionals can inspect the pipes to ensure the blockage is entirely eliminated after cleaning.

Prevent F.O.G. from Causing Future Clogs

F.O.G. stands for fats oils, and grease, and it’s one of the biggest threats out there to your plumbing system. These substances seem relatively harmless, which is why many people end up dumping them down the drain after food is fried or when they need to dispose of leftover grease or oil after meal preparation. However, these solidify when they cool, and then they may stick to the lining of the pipes, until debris and dirt continues to latch on leading to major drain clogs in the future.

Call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today to schedule an appointment or speak with a quality plumber about our professional drain cleaning service in Orlando, FL.

What Is the Difference Between Hybrid Water Heaters and Other Water Heaters?

November 12th, 2014

You may be surprised to learn that there are several different options available to homeowners looking to find a new water heater near Apopka, FL. You’re probably most familiar with the traditional storage tank water heater, which relies on a large tank and the heat rising principle to heat water. A long tube sends cool water down to the bottom of the tank, where a burner or electric heating element then heats up the water. Hot water naturally rises to the top of the tank and is sucked through a tube and brought into the pipes when you turn on a hot water tap in the home.

For people with gas-powered storage tank water heaters, particularly with high-efficiency systems, this can be a rather efficient way to heat up water. A storage tank water heater must stay on throughout the day to keep hot water available. This means that there is a lot of standby energy loss; energy is used all day to heat water that you will only use a few times a day. However, natural gas is generally less costly than electricity. If your water heater can only run on electricity, you may end up spending a lot more, unless you choose another type of unit.

Many people who rely on electricity to heat up water choose a tankless water heater. A tankless water heater instead heats up the water on demand, sending water through a heat exchanger which begins to heat up as soon as you turn on a hot water tap and turns off immediately after you’re finished. Still, some people are dissatisfied with tankless units because they can take a long time to heat up water. Besides, you may need multiple tankless units to accommodate large households, at a much higher cost.

Enter the hybrid water heater. This is a traditional storage tank water heater with a twist: it uses a heat pump to heat up the water. A heat pump is a device that moves heat from one area from another. In this case, the water heater uses a fan to draw in air from the surrounding area. An evaporator coil contains refrigerant which absorbs heat from the air. As refrigerant moves through the compressor, it’s heated up even more. It then flows through a heat exchanger so it can heat up the water in the tank. This is a far more energy efficient way to produce heat and keep hot water available at all times.

Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) has a wide variety of water heaters available, including traditional units, tankless water heaters, hybrid systems, and even solar-powered units. Call us today to find the perfect water heater for your home in Apopka, FL.

Why You Need Professional Plumbers for Pipe Replacement

November 5th, 2014

If you have a problem with your water or sewer line, the worst case scenario is that your pipes will need replacement. However, the situation does not have to be stressful so long as you choose a qualified plumber for the job. A quality plumber will inspect the pipes to ensure that you get the right service, keep you informed of time and cost estimates, and provide the quickest and, more importantly, the most thorough service possible.

At Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI), we want to help you choose the right technician for the job, so we’ve put together a guide to some of the reasons you should always trusted skilled and experienced professionals for pipe replacement in Winter Park.

The Right Contractor Will Let You Know if Repair Is an Option

Of course, replacement is generally a last resort, chosen only when the pipes suffer from mineral buildup, are at risk for corrosion, or when improper placement or faulty installation causes frequent leaking and pipe bursts. Don’t let an inexperienced plumber charge you more for pipe replacement when a few repairs may prove just as effective. Check reviews online to find a contractor who won’t scam you and leave you with a hefty bill.

A Good Contractor Can Work with Your Schedule

A decent contractor should be able to work with your schedule in some ways, since pipe replacement is a job that often takes several days. Ask for time estimates and make sure there is some way you can still have access to water. Many plumbers will run a temporary pipe to the water main so you can get on with your daily routine.

Professionals Know How the Safest and Least Invasive Methods of Pipe Replacement

Finally, professional plumbers know the safest ways to repair your pipes, as well as which methods do the least damage to the landscaping. Pipe replacement is an invasive process, during which large portions of your yard must be excavated, but professionals can help make sure the impact of this is kept minimal.

Call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) to schedule an appointment and speak with experts you can trust for quality pipe replacement service in Winter Park.

Make Sure to Schedule Backflow Preventer Maintenance

October 29th, 2014

Imagine that you’re outside washing your car with a hose that is submerged in a bucket of soapy water. Now imagine that your plumbing system has suddenly become compromised. Perhaps the main water line has burst and there is a sudden drop in your water pressure. You water supply is kept pressurized, but a sudden drop in pressure could cause the flow to reverse, siphoning up any nearby source of water through the pipes. This reverse flow may suck up the soapy water inside of the bucket and bring it into your home, causing it to flow through your plumbing system and into your home’s drinking water.

This is called backflow and, while the given scenario is unlikely, many areas of your plumbing system run the risk of cross-connecting in the event of a sudden change in pressure. Backflow occurs when the flow of water reverses and any contaminant—liquid, gas, or solid—runs the risk of entering your water supply. However, this risk is prevented with a backflow prevention device.

A backflow preventer is a device that provides an air gap so that back siphonage cannot occur. Many plumbing systems already have a backflow device installed, and state and local codes mandate the use of backflow preventers in many cases. This is because a backflow prevention device is a safety measure, keeping harmful contaminants from reaching the potable drinking supply and causing unsafe conditions in your home from the addition of sewage, wastewater, or untreated groundwater in your home.

If you already own a backflow prevention device for your plumbing system, you may believe that you are protected. However, many municipalities require that your backflow device is inspected and tested on a regular basis by a trained technician. A plumber can make sure that your backflow prevention device continues to work as it should. Your backflow preventer contains test cocks and shut-off valves designed specifically for the purpose of maintenance.

Keep your home and family safe by calling a plumber to test your backflow preventer every year, perhaps alongside your annual plumbing maintenance visit. Call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) to schedule backflow prevention maintenance in Longwood today!

Warning Signs That It’s Time for Drain Cleaning

October 22nd, 2014

Drains are the unsung heroes of your water system. They provide a clear route of egress for sink, shower, and dishwasher water, allowing the appliances that you use every day to keep running smoothly. Like all things, however, your drainage system needs regular care to stave off eventual decline and breakdown. How can you tell that it’s time to have your drainage system cleaned? Read on to find out.

Slow Drainage

Because of the nature of drain blockages, chances are there will be a slow buildup before the drain is completely plugged. If you notice that one of your drains is draining more and more slowly, it is a good sign that the drain is becoming clogged. If this happens, don’t wait for it to become completely clogged! Call a plumber before the problem gets worse.

Bad Smells

One of the most common signs of drainage problems is the presence of horrible smells coming from your drain. In some cases, like the garbage disposal, this may be a temporary result of food or other waste being flushed down. If the smell is persistent, however, you likely have a part of your drainage system backing up. This will need to be addressed by a professional.

Backflow

One of the worst results of a clogged drain system is backflow of dirty water. This most commonly happens when you do something like turn on the dishwasher, causing water from the sewage line to bubble up in your sink. This kind of backflow is an indication of a serious clog in your drainage system, and should be addressed as soon as possible. If you see this happening, call a plumber immediately. If left unchecked, this issue can cause serious damage not only to your drainage system, but to other areas of your house as well.

A lot of drain issues start small and get progressively worse. Even if it seems trivial, don’t take a chance by ignoring your drain when it is acting strange. If you are experiencing any sort of problem with the drains in your house, call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) to schedule an appointment. We provide quality drain cleaning services throughout Casselberry, FL.

Different Materials Used for Pipe Replacement

October 8th, 2014

For many decades, the two most common materials for indoor plumbing were iron and galvanized steel. The latter continued to be used until the early 1970s. Although both metals are sturdy, they are also inclined toward corrosion over time, which eventually leads to water contamination, leaks, and busted pipes. For homes built before 1970, it is often necessary to schedule pipe replacement to swap out these outdated materials for modern ones.

There are a number of different materials that plumbers use when repiping parts of a home. Which ones depend on the situation. If you hire the professionals at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) to handle your pipe replacement in Apopka, FL or the surrounding areas, you’ll receive the skilled work necessary to select the right new pipes and install them so you will have many decades of trouble-free plumbing.

The Most Common Types of Pipe Replacement Material

Copper: This is the metal that superseded iron and galvanized steel as the new standard for plumbing. Copper is durable, corrosion-resistant, and extremely light, making it easy to work with. Copper also has greater flexibility than steel and iron, making it less likely to break when encountering extra force or strung between two distant supports. In general, copper will outlast most other piping material.
PEX: One of the most popular of the different types of plastic pipes used in plumbing, PEX stands for cross-linked polyethylene. It is especially common for freshwater pipes that carry drinking water to taps. PEX is less expensive than copper, does not suffer from corrosion or pinhole leaking (which is sometimes an issue with copper), and can often last for 50 years.
CPVC: An advance over standard PVC pipes, some plumbers prefer CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) over PEX piping. These pipes are most commonly used for hot water lines because they have a high resistance to heat.

When handling pipe replacement for a home, a plumber will probably use a combination of these materials to complete the job. Normally, copper pipes are used for main lines, and various color-coded plastic pipes (red for hot, blue for cold) branching off to fixtures. Using these flexible materials, plumbers have greater freedom for designing plumbing than they once did, which is a reason that it’s always a good idea to have pipe replacement done during a remodeling, since it permits more options.

If you have a home with aging pipes, or if you have started to notice signs of declining pipes, call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) for professional pipe replacement in Apopka, FL. We will bring the best technology and skills to any job we do.

Why You Need Professionals to Install Backflow Preventers

October 1st, 2014

To protect your home’s supply of fresh water, you need to make certain that contamination from the wastewater system doesn’t flow back up the pipes (backflow) and into the freshwater pipes. The device that prevents this from occurring when there is a change of pressure that lowers the water pressure on the freshwater side is called a backflow preventer. Many Central Florida municipalities legally require homes to have backflow preventers for sanitation and health reasons—so the chances are high that your plumbing system already has one installed.

Backflow preventers can fail, however, and they need to have annual inspections from licensed plumbers to see that they are still working properly. If you find out that your backflow preventer is no longer adequately shielding your fresh water supply, you must contact professional certified plumbers to install a new one as soon as possible.

To reach expert plumbers with the experience necessary for installing and inspecting backflow prevention in Winter Park, FL, call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI). We also have 24-hour service in case of emergencies.

Licensed Plumbers Are Necessary for This Installation

Backflow prevention isn’t a matter of convenience: it’s one of safety. For this reason, you must only entrust the work to licensed professionals. A certified plumber will make certain that the right size of backflow preventer is installed into your plumbing and that it seals correctly so there is no danger of allowing sewage into your freshwater lines. You do not want to risk the safety of your family by attempting to install it on your own, or by hiring a non-certified amateur.

Also keep in mind that in the majority of Central Florida municipalities, non-licensed work on a backflow preventer is illegal. Any backflow preventer that receives low-quality installation from a non-professional will likely fail its next annual inspection. When a backflow preventer fails this test, it must receive immediate replacement. You will save time and money by making certain that you have the work done by licensed plumbers the first time.

Call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) for Backflow Preventer Installation

Our licensed plumbing team is experienced with numerous types of repairs and installations. We specialize in professional backflow prevention services in Winter Park, FL and the rest of Central Florida. We can handle the inspections, repairs, maintenance, and installations you need. Call us any time and we can answer all your questions regarding backflow prevention.

Here Are Ways to Reduce the Need for Drain Cleaning

September 24th, 2014

When buildup in your drain pipes causes one or more drains in your home to move too slowly, many common household tasks become far more difficult than they should be. The most effective way to remove clogs entirely is by scheduling professional drain cleaning services. Professionals are equipped with the right tools to remove clogs completely and can even inspect for damages using video pipe inspection. But if your pipes tend to need frequent cleaning, you may wonder what you can do to slow down repair calls and keep drain cleaning as part of your annual maintenance visit instead. Here are a few quick tips to reduce the need for drain cleaning.

Maintain Your Garbage Disposal: The garbage disposal breaks down food into small pieces so that it can easily move into the drain pipes, preventing clogging. Keep your garbage disposal working as it should by dumping hard foods such as meat bones in separate trash containers, as well as fibrous foods that can wrap around blades and stop the motor, such as corn husks. Be sure to call for repairs at the first sign of trouble.
Avoid F.O.G. (Fat, Oils, and Grease): Fats, oils, and grease actually solidify as they cool, which may cause them to become stuck inside of your pipes. You should always pour these items into a trash receptacle instead.
Get Rid of Smells: You may not need to call for plumbing repair if you have smelly drains. In the event of a dry p-trap, the curved section under the pipe, you may only need to run the water to get rid of sewage smells. Otherwise, try a solution of baking soda and vinegar.

One of the most important things to remember is that the toxic liquid drain cleaners found in many grocery stores and hardware shops just don’t do the trick. While they may be effective at removing one or two problems, these cleaners cannot dissolve most solid clogs and may damage your pipes. For tough clogs, you need professional drain cleaning from a plumber with the right tools to get the job done. Besides, professional drain cleaning is the best way to prevent major problems from damaging your pipes in the future. For drain cleaning in Oviedo, call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today!