Plumber in Ridgewood
Since 1927, Pratt Services has been synonymous with excellence in the Ridgewood community. As the region's most reliable and trustworthy plumbing company, our locally owned and operated business has maintained an impeccable reputation for nearly a century. Your confidence in our services is well-placed, as we are fully insured, licensed, and bonded. Our team consists of dedicated, honest, and highly experienced professionals, each committed to going the extra mile for every customer. Whether you find yourself in need of residential, commercial, or emergency plumbing, it would be our pleasure to assist you. Don't hesitate to contact Pratt Services today and give us the privilege of earning your satisfaction and loyalty!
Tips and Facts from Our Plumbing Service in Ridgewood
All About Frozen Pipes
Where and When Pipes Typically Freeze
Usually, pipes freeze first in areas like crawl spaces, attics, or exterior walls. The greatest risk of frozen pipes comes when temperatures are under 20 degrees, but they can freeze at temperatures as high as 32 degrees. The longer outdoor temps are seriously low, the higher the chance of a pipe burst. It only takes about six hours for water to freeze in a pipe.
What to Do When Your Pipes Freeze
The first step in dealing with a frozen pipe is to turn off the main water valve. You can then try to defrost the pipes on your own or enlist the help of our local plumbers. If you suspect your water meter is frozen, you should never try to thaw it yourself, as this might result in significant damage. Instead, contact your water company. Be forward-thinking and call your Pratt Services plumber as soon as you realize your pipes are frozen to prevent cracked or broken pipes and high-cost repairs
How Our Insured Plumbers Insulate Pipes
Every home is plumbed differently, so your local plumbers in Ridgewood will first determine the best approach to insulating your pipes. This usually entails selecting an effective insulation option to cover pipes in exterior walls, crawl spaces, and/or unheated attics. We may also recommend the use of heat cables or heat tape, depending on your plumbing and its condition. Your pipes will be ready to withstand low temperatures and you can prevent freezing or bursting when you opt for pipe insulation.
How to Thaw Frozen Pipes
- Speak to your neighbors. If they also have frozen pipes, you can suspect a water main break.
- Turn off the main water supply.
- Open faucets.
- Safely use a hair dryer to gently thaw pipes and avoid all flammable materials in doing so.
- Gradually turn the main back on and begin inspecting for cracks or leaks. Pooling water indicates likely pipe damage.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
You can prevent frozen pipes and related problems (such as burst or leaky pipes) by taking precautionary actions. We recommend: Drip cold water in the faucet farthest from the main valve to keep water moving Keep under-sink cabinet doors open to keep pipes warm Run your faucets regularly Ask your plumbing contractor to insulate your water tank and pipes Keeping your heater on (55 degrees or higher) Before temperatures drop, shut off outdoor spigots and drain water from lines
Five Most Common Plumbing Pipe Materials
PEX Piping is a cutting-edge plumbing solution highly esteemed for its strength, longevity, affordability, adaptability, capacity to flex (resulting in fewer necessary joints), and expandability. The majority of licensed plumbers value its wide range of practical applications and numerous advantages. White PEX serves all temperature water needs, red PEX is tailored for hot water applications, and blue PEX is exclusively designed for use with cold water.
CPVC Piping (short for chlorinated polyvinyl chloride piping) features a durable and strong polymer component that outdoes copper piping in certain ways. It is less time-consuming to install and isn’t prone to corrosion. However, it does have some disadvantages - it’s about twice the price of traditional PVC, it isn’t well-suited for areas with dramatic temperature changes, and it isn’t as well-suited for high temperatures as copper piping is.
PVC Piping is primarily chosen for waste lines. Often chosen over galvanized steel for its durability and cost-effectiveness, these pipes are still relatively popular - but they cannot be used under high water pressure.
Cast Iron Piping was a standard choice in older homes as it was extensively used for sewage drainage during the 1970s and 1980s. This material gained popularity for its practicality, resilience, and long-lasting properties. However, cast iron pipes are no longer installed by plumbers because they often lead homeowners to incur substantial repair expenses (often not covered by homeowners insurance), are heavy, are prone to corrosion, deteriorate slowly, and can result in sewer backups.
Copper Piping is a common choice for use as home water supply lines. Because this material is quite durable, easy to cut, and does not leach chemicals, it is frequently used in showers, tubs, sinks, and other household fixtures, despite its higher price point.
Got Kitchen Problems?
…water leak on the cabinet beneath your sink, a leak has probably occurred at the drain pipe joint. This problem could also arise from faulty faucet water supply connections. Modern kitchen faucets typically have flexible hoses connecting faucets to water supply pipes. Since these fittings are hand-tightened, they are subject to simple human error. Splashed water could also leak into the below cabinet if caulking or seals are defective.
…dripping kitchen faucet, your cartridge may just need to be replaced. Modern kitchen faucets often include a single-valve cartridge that controls the flow of cold and hot water. When this component is replaced, the problem is usually rectified.
...slow sink drain, food debris, soap scum or grease accumulation, or another object may be clogging a pipe. To clear this type of obstruction, your plumber may need to open the drain trap and use a plumbing snake.
How We Install a Garbage Disposal
- Turn off the circuit breaker and carefully complete the electrical wiring.
- Install the drain flange.
- Install the gasket and mounting ring.
- Prop and mount the disposal to install the unit.
- Use pipe connectors to connect the P-trap (discharge pipe) to the disposal outlet.
- Tighten every fastener at both mounting and plumbing connections, then test for leaks by running water and running the disposal.
Whole Home Water Filtration
The Filtration Process
The majority of homes are connected to a local water source. For optimal quality and safety, water is treated at a facility using sediment pre-filtration, activated carbon and copper-zinc KDF treatment, and post-filtration. Pesticides, PFOS, hard minerals, herbicides, PFOA, heavy metal, and contaminants are all removed by household water filters. Water filtration promotes human health while also preserving water-using appliances, faucets, and residential plumbing.Benefits
The installation of a whole-house water filtration system offers a number of advantages. It guarantees the availability of safe and delicious drinking water, alleviating concerns about contaminants. This not only cuts costs on bottled water, but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing plastic waste. The filtration system minimizes limescale and mineral buildup, reducing the likelihood of plumbing issues that could require costly repairs. Your skin will benefit from the absence of irritants, and you'll notice a decrease in the need for soap, along with the satisfaction of cleaner, softer clothes after each wash. All in all, investing in a whole-house water filtration system is a wise decision that elevates your quality of life while being considerate of your budget and the environment.Got Leaky Pipes?
The problem could be caused by…
…high water pressure. While pipes are very durable, they are not impervious to high water pressure and subsequent leaks. When water pressure is raised too high (above 60 psi), pipes might even burst. If you’re unclear about the source of a leak, your plumber will include a pressure check during their thorough inspection.
...a broken seal. Contractors add rubber sealant along connections during appliance installation for the purpose of watertightness. That sealant deteriorates with time, and you may notice indicators of a damaged seal, such as puddles of water near your appliances or condensation on the outside.
…pipe joint damage. Because pipe joints are constructed of several components and have so much water coursing through them, they are extremely vulnerable. High water pressure, harsh temperatures, and age can all cause damage. If you hear banging or ticking sounds, especially when running hot water, you most likely have a joint problem.
…intrusive tree roots. Tree roots are incredibly intricate systems that can spread throughout and deep below the earth's surface, which means they can easily grow into water lines. If you detect wet patches on your property, a significant drop in water pressure, a sinkhole in the yard, or have trees growing near the foundation of your home, your favorite plumber will need to carry out an inspection.
…corrosion. There are many components in plumbing systems, and they can each weaken or fail over time. Rust or other types of corrosion (sometimes caused by minerals or improper pH) can slowly damage your pipes and develop leaks. Brass piping normally has a 70-year lifespan, whereas galvanized steel piping has a 20-year duration. Your pipes may be rusted if your water is discolored, smells, or tastes bad.
…clogged lines. A clog could be caused by gutter debris, excessive hair, air handler drain pan blockages, chemicals, or a variety of other issues. If your drains are clogged, toilets are overflowing, or pipes burst when they aren’t frozen, you likely have a severe line clog.
…loose water connectors. Pipes and hoses between appliances and water supplies can loosen because of movement or shifting, which leads to a leak. These connectors may also become damaged. Signs of this issue include water leaking from the supply line or pooling water near an appliance.
…ground movement. Flooding, earthquakes, and other natural disasters cause the ground to shift and move, which can cause pipes to separate, fracture, twist, or bend. When a leak occurs underground, you may notice problems with water supply or slow drainage. A plumber is the only person who can thoroughly inspect your pipes to confirm or deny this type of damage.
…improperly laid pipes. If your piping job was not completed correctly or was not done by a licensed professional, severe, emergency pipe leakage can result. Water and gravity require careful and precise fitting of every single pipe and connection. A Pratt Services pro will gladly examine your pipework and let you know whether or not it was installed well.
…a fixture crack. The usual cause of this sort of issue is physical impact. If this is the leak’s cause, there will probably be visible damage to the fixtures or pipes.
Got Low Water Pressure?
The problem might be the result of…
…a problem with your water supplier. If other neighboring companies or houses are experiencing the same pressure problem, the source could be the culprit. In this case, contact the company and let them know that you and your neighbors share this common concern.
…a failing pressure regulator. Pressure regulators are not found on all properties. If you have one, you can use a gauge to receive an accurate reading of the pressure you're experiencing. If your pressure gauge shows that the number should be higher, the regulator is most likely defective. If it isn't reading at all, this could also indicate a problem. The pressure regulator will be simple to troubleshoot and replace, if necessary, with the assistance of a plumber.
…leaky pipes. Leaks exist in a variety of sizes and types, and since they divert water, they reduce water flow. Look for wet spots or pooled water, then reach out to Pratt Services and we’ll put an end to the issue before it worsens.
…a faulty fixture. If every fixture in your household has low water pressure, it’s unlikely that the fixtures are the cause. However, if only a single faucet has low pressure, for example, the fixture itself is the most likely cause. You may need to replace the fixture, or buildup or a clog might be leading to low pressure.
…corroded pipes. The older the pipe, the more susceptible it is to corrosion - but only your trusted plumber can diagnose this issue. If you have brass pipes that are over 40 years old, galvanized steel pipes over 20 years old, or copper pipes over 50 years old, the problem is most likely corrosion.
…local regulations have changed. Water regulations might change without notice, leaving water companies with no choice but to keep up. Determine whether or not this type of change has taken place in your area, and if so, have your plumber install a water pressure booster. We will thoroughly inspect your plumbing to rule out any other issues before installing a booster system.
…your water meter valve or main house shutoff valve being partially shut. The water meter valve, which helps manage the flow of water to your home, is owned by your water utility provider. The primary home shutoff valve is usually located near the main municipal supply pipe in the residence. Water pressure will drop if one of these valves is partially closed. After checking that your main shutoff is fully open, contact the city and request that the water meter valve be inspected.
Got Toilet Problems?
If the issue is a…
...toilet overflow, you should call our plumbing service. The most likely causes of this type of issue include a pipe clog, a sewage problem, a blockage in a plumbing vent, or a full septic tank. In most cases, toilet pipes are equipped with a valve connecting to the tank. We advise shutting off this valve to halt the overflow. If you don’t see a valve in this location, turn off your water supply. Do not reopen the valve or switch on the water supply until we have remedied the problem.
...leaking water supply, indicators such as pooling water, loud pipes, a growing water bill, or decreased water flow may become apparent. Even a minor leak can quickly worsen and become significant if you don’t call for plumber services, so give us a call right after you shut off your main supply.
...leak at the toilet base, the wax ring is most likely worn out, incorrectly placed, or otherwise faulty. Water may collect gradually or come suddenly when you flush the toilet. This type of plumbing repair necessitates the removal of the tank, the uninstallation of the toilet, and the replacement of the ring. You may require a new tank and toilet as well, depending on the extent and source of the leak.
...tank-to-toilet leak, water will most likely start leaking in the area where the toilet bowl and tank meet. This is an indicator that your plumbing expert will have to drain the tank, remove it, and replace the gasket.
….toilet that keeps running, there may be a leak at the flush valve, which is located at the tank base. Another frequent source of this problem is a faulty or misaligned fill valve, which might let water continuously fill the tank.
...clogged or slow-flushing toilet, use a plunger to clear the obstruction. If plunging fails, you may need to hire a Ridgewood plumbing contractor to clear the clog with a snake. Because of the ongoing accumulation of lime, debris, rust, and/or calcium, older toilets might acquire a "lazy," weak flush. If we discover that this is the root of your plumbing problem, we may propose that you get a new toilet installed.
Toilet Installation
When you get in touch with our Ridgewood plumbing service to schedule a toilet installation, our process begins with the removal of your existing unit. Next, we'll examine the flange, replace the wax ring, and ensure the correct positioning of the new toilet. After securely bolting the toilet into place, we proceed to install the tank, lid, and seat. The installation is considered finished once we've thoroughly ruled out any potential leaks. It's important to note that certain unique models, such as those featuring bidets, electrical functions like heated seats, or wall-mounted designs, may require additional installation steps.
Our plumbers can install all toilets, including:
- Pressure-Assisted
- Waterless
- Double-Cyclone
- Dual-Flush
- Wall-Hanging
- Gravity-Fed
- Comfort-Height
- One-Piece
- Two-Piece And More!
Gas Piping Services
How Gas Piping Systems Work
Gas piping systems function by utilizing pressure to deliver natural gas to a property. Within these systems, gas travels from areas of higher pressure to lower pressure via a network of pipes, passing through a pressure regulator, entering your distribution system, and ultimately reaching your home. The source of the gas is the mainlines, which then flows through service lines, both of which are the property of gas utility companies. It’s important to note that every component downstream (located on your property) is your responsibility. When you activate a gas furnace or stove, the gas pressure is slightly raised above the air pressure, which triggers the ignition of the heating unit.
Six Most Common Gas Piping Materials
Flexible Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing is well-suited for areas at a high risk of natural disasters or for tight spaces. These easy-to-install, flexible pipes might minimize damage, but they are prone to cracking, making them best suited for indoor gas pipes only.
Copper pipe has a number of tough code requirements that limit its use in many regions, and it typically has a lifespan of 20 years. Many municipalities have actually prohibited its use altogether.
PVC is an excellent choice for outdoor, underground gas lines because it is corrosion-resistant and extremely robust. Many plumbers favor these low-cost pipes, but they are not permitted in some areas since they are known to break during installation.
Black Iron is the most popular piping material for both indoor and outdoor gas applications. The heat-resistant, strong, and long-lasting material provides an airtight seal. Black iron, on the other hand, corrodes over time, and the sealant usually fails. It is critical to plan routine maintenance if your property has black iron lines.
HDPE shares a common trait with PVC - it’s an excellent choice for underground exterior lines. Constructed of plastic, these lines are flexible and affordable. However, they are easily damaged by underground rocks and tree roots.
Galvanized Steel is an energy-efficient and durable piping material, frequently used for interior and exterior gas lines or water supply lines. Because it requires more labor than its contemporaries, it has been phased out of new construction projects and is therefore mostly found in older structures.
Got Shower Problems?
If the issue is a…
...smelly shower drain, there could be sewage gas, bacterial contamination, or mold. If the odor is coming from a rarely used guest bathroom, a dry P-trap in your shower drain may be allowing gas to escape. Your reliable plumber can quickly troubleshoot and eliminate this bothersome problem.
…dripping shower head, there is likely mineral buildup on the head or a worn-out gasket. Mineral buildup is made up of calcium, lime, silica, and magnesium that comes from hard water. If there are white lines around the shower head, you can easily identify that as mineral buildup. Soaking the head in vinegar will probably take care of this problem, but if this doesn’t help or you need assistance with replacing the gasket, we can help with either issue.
...clogged shower drain, the most likely cause is a lodged foreign object, broken pipe, soap scum, a mineral deposit, or hair buildup. Avoid using drain cleaner to clear clogs since these products can cause a wide range of issues that go far beyond a simple clog. If a plastic drain cleaning tool does not work, you may need our Ridgewood plumbing company to clear the clog using our professional equipment.
All About Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting entails utilizing a special hose to propel pressurized water through a plumbing system. The first step of this non-invasive process is using a camera to examine the line and identify damage, which would preclude us from using hydro-jetting to clear the clog. As long as there’s no damage, we’ll get to work with your hydro jetting by inserting the hose and attaching it to a specialized water tank. Before we begin this process, we must carefully locate the best area to insert the hose.With the aid of our exceptionally durable hose, harnessing gravity and high-pressure water, we initiate the process by flushing debris from the system, which involves propelling water at a rate of 20 gallons per minute, utilizing a forward-facing jet and multiple backward-positioned jets to propel the nozzle and effectively clear obstructions. Hydro jetting isn't limited to clog removal - it also eliminates tree roots, grease, mineral scale and a range of other debris types that could potentially cause future issues. In the case of a deep clog, your trusted plumbing company is likely to recommend this technique.
Got Bathroom Sink Problems?
If the issue is a…
…rotten egg-like odor coming from your sink, you most likely have a microbial infection in the drain or overflow passage. These issues are often easily remedied with 3% hydrogen peroxide. If the issue persists, contact Pratt Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning and inquire about our plumbing services.
...malfunctioning drain stopper, damage could be the reason. The stopper is designed to let your drain open or close when the knob on the faucet is pulled, but this type of hardware often experiences loosening of the retaining nut on the horizontal pivot rod.
…clogged or slow drain, you may have soap scum or hair buildup. Check your mechanical drain stopper to determine whether or not the clog is caused by buildup on the horizontal pivot rod (found right beneath the drain opening). If the problem lies elsewhere, it’s time to reach out to us for more extensive troubleshooting and repairs.
…dripping faucet, you are probably dealing with general wear and tear, a damaged valve seat, washer, or o-ring, or corrosion. After our plumbers near you troubleshoot the problem, we will promptly return the sink to optimal working order.
...deteriorated sink caulking, water has most likely caused harm. Caulking can mildew, peel, crack, or mold when exposed to water. Caulking should be replaced at five-year intervals.