Plumber in River Vale
Pratt Services has been dedicated to serving fellow River Vale residents since 1927. For nearly 100 years, our locally owned and operated company has upheld our stellar reputation as the most dependable and trustworthy plumbing company in the region. Your confidence in our services is well-placed, as we are fully insured, licensed, and bonded. Our team comprises experienced, diligent, and principled individuals who are eager to surpass our customers' expectations. It brings us great pleasure to assist you, whether your needs are in emergency, commercial, or residential plumbing. Give Pratt Services a call today and let us add you to our long list of loyal, satisfied customers!
All About Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting entails utilizing a special hose to propel pressurized water through a plumbing system. When you choose this non-invasive procedure, our initial step involves inspecting the lines using a camera to detect any damage that could impede the use of hydro jetting for clearing the clog. Assuming there is no damage, we’ll proceed with your hydro jetting service by inserting the hose and connecting it to a dedicated water tank. It is crucial to meticulously choose the optimal location before inserting the hose and initiating the process.Employing a robust hose and gravity, the high-pressure water swiftly propels through the system at approximately 20 gallons per minute, effectively flushing out debris utilizing backward-facing jets propelling the nozzle through the pipes and a forward-facing jet that further aids in clearing the way. Along with any clogs, hydro jetting will clear your system of grease, tree roots, mineral scale, and other debris that could cause problems in the future. In the case of a deep clog, your trusted plumbing company is likely to recommend this technique
Got Toilet Problems?
If the issue is a…
…tank-to-toilet leak, you'll notice water pouring from the area where the tank links to the toilet bowl. This is a sign that your plumber will need to drain and remove the tank to replace the gasket.
...leaking water supply, you might experience signs such as reduced water flow, pooling water, noisy pipes, or an increase in your water bill. If you fail to call for plumber services soon enough, even a tiny leak can quickly worsen and become significant, so call us promptly once you turn off your main supply.
…clogged or slow-flushing toilet, attempt to remove the clog with a plunger. If plunging does not clear the clog, your River Vale plumbing contractor might need to utilize a snake to clear it. Because of the ongoing accumulation of lime, debris, rust, and/or calcium, older toilets might acquire a "lazy," weak flush. If this is at the heart of the plumbing problem, we might suggest installing a new toilet.
...toilet overflow, you should call our plumbing service. A pipe clog, a full septic tank, a blocked plumbing vent, or a sewage problem are the most likely causes of this type of problem. Turning off the valve that links to the tank on many toilet pipes will stop water from flowing. If your toilet lacks this valve, turn off the water supply. Turn the valve or supply back on only after a professional has resolved the issue.
...toilet that won't stop running, the flush valve at the bottom of your tank may have a leak. Another typical culprit is a misplaced or malfunctioning fill valve, which allows water to perpetually fill the tank.
…leak at the toilet base, the wax ring is probably worn out, improperly installed, or otherwise defective. Water might accumulate gradually, or it may appear right away when you flush the toilet. This kind of plumbing repair requires us to drain the tank, uninstall the toilet, and replace the ring. Depending on the source and severity of the leak, you may need a new tank and toilet.
Toilet Installation
When you call our River Vale plumbing service to install a new toilet, we’ll first uninstall your old toilet. We will then examine the flange, replace the old wax ring, and position the new toilet securely. We'll bolt the toilet in place before installing the tank, lid, and seat. Once we've properly examined for any potential leaks, the installation is finished. 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:
- One-Piece
- Dual-Flush
- Waterless
- Two-Piece
- Double-Cyclone
- Pressure-Assisted
- Comfort-Height
- Wall-Hanging
- Gravity-Fed And More!
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.
Got Kitchen Problems?
…dripping kitchen faucet, a straightforward cartridge replacement may be needed. Contemporary kitchen faucets typically feature a single-valve cartridge, which is responsible for controlling cold and hot water flow. When this component is replaced, the problem is usually rectified.
...water leak on the cabinet beneath your sink, a leak at the drain pipe joint is most likely. This issue could potentially be caused by malfunctioning faucet water supply connections. Flexible hoses commonly connect contemporary kitchen faucets to water supply lines. Because these fittings are hand-tightened, they are prone to human error. If caulking or seals are faulty, splashed water could also leak into the cabinet below.
...slow sink drain, food debris, soap scum or grease accumulation, or another object may be clogging a pipe. Sometimes, your plumbing pros need to open the drain trap and use a snake to clear this type of blockage.
Whole Home Water Filtration
The Filtration Process
Most homes are linked to a local water source. Water is processed at a treatment facility, which includes initial sediment pre-filtration, followed by activated carbon and copper-zinc KDF treatment, and final post-filtration for quality and safety assurance. Household water filters play a crucial role, as they effectively eliminate pesticides, herbicides, PFOS, PFOA, contaminants, heavy metals, and hard minerals. Water filtration offers health advantages and helps extend the lifespan of water-using appliances, faucets, and household plumbing.Benefits
Using a whole-house water filtration system has numerous advantages. It ensures that you have safe and delicious drinking water at your disposal, removing any concerns about pollutants. This doesn't just save you money on bottled water, but it also helps the environment by decreasing plastic waste. The filtration system eliminates limescale and mineral deposits, reducing the likelihood of plumbing problems that might result in expensive repairs. Your skin will enjoy the lack of irritants, and you'll notice a decrease in the need for soap as well as the satisfaction of softer, cleaner clothes after every wash. As a whole, whole-house water filtration is a prudent investment that improves your quality of life while keeping your budget and the environment in mind.Five Most Common Plumbing Pipe Materials
Cast Iron Piping is commonplace in older homes because it was installed throughout the 1970s and 1980s for the purpose of sewage drainage. This material was a popular option for its practicality, damage resistance, and durability. Cast iron is no longer installed by plumbers because they frequently cause homeowners to spend a lot of money on repairs (often not covered by homeowners insurance), easily corrode, are heavy, ultimately cause sewer backups, and deteriorate gradually.
CPVC Piping (an abbreviation for chlorinated polyvinyl chloride piping) is made from a strong polymer element that outperforms copper piping in some areas. It boasts resistance to corrosion and quicker installation times. 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.
Copper Piping is a popular material for household water supply pipes. Despite its higher price tag, this material is commonly used in showers, sinks, tubs, and other household fixtures since it is highly robust, doesn't leach chemicals, and is easy to cut.
PEX Piping is a state-of-the-art plumbing option that is beloved for its ability to bend (therefore requiring a lower number of joints), versatility, rigidity, cost-effectiveness, expandability, and durability. Most licensed plumbers prefer this material for its wide range of benefits and its variety of practical uses. Red PEX pipes are utilized for hot water applications, white PEX is made for water of any temperature, and blue PEX is designed for cold water uses.
PVC Piping is primarily chosen for waste lines. Due to its durability and cost-efficiency, it’s relatively popular and often preferred over galvanized steel - but it's important to note that PVC pipes are not suitable for use under high water pressure conditions.
All About Frozen Pipes
How Our Insured Plumbers Insulate Pipes
Each home has its own unique plumbing, so the first step your local plumbers in River Vale will take is to decide how best to tackle pipe insulation. Typically, this entails choosing a high-quality insulation material to shield pipes located within exterior walls, crawl spaces, and/or unheated attics. We might also suggest heat tape or heat cables, based on our findings and your plumbing design. Your pipes will be ready to withstand low temperatures and you can prevent freezing or bursting when you opt for pipe insulation.How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
When you take preventative measures, you can avoid frozen pipes and subsequent problems (like burst or leaky pipes). We recommend: Ask your plumbing contractor to insulate your water tank and pipes Run your faucets regularly Drip cold water in the faucet farthest from the main valve to keep water moving Before temperatures drop, shut off outdoor spigots and drain water from lines Keeping your heater on (55 degrees or higher) Keep under-sink cabinet doors open to keep pipes warmHow to Thaw Frozen Pipes
- Check with your neighbors to see if their pipes are also frozen. If they are, the most likely cause is a water main break - not frozen pipes in your own home.
- Turn off the main water supply.
- Open faucets.
- Use a hair dryer to heat pipes and surrounding areas, avoiding any flammable materials.
- Slowly turn the water main back on, then check for leaks or cracks. If water pools anywhere, you probably have a burst or cracked pipe.
What to Do When Your Pipes Freeze
In the event of pipe freezing, your first step should be to turn off the main water valve. After this, get in touch with your local plumbers or start thawing the pipes cautiously. If you suspect your water meter is frozen, do not attempt to thaw it yourself, as this can lead to severe damage. Instead, inform the water company promptly. Taking a proactive approach is the wisest course of action, and contacting your Pratt Services plumber as soon as you detect a frozen pipe will enable you to prevent costly repairs and the risk of pipe cracking or bursting.Where and When Pipes Typically Freeze
Pipes typically freeze first in crawl spaces, exterior walls, or attics. The probability of frozen pipes is greatest when temperatures are below 20 degrees, although they can freeze at temperatures up to 32 degrees. The longer exterior temperatures remain dangerously low, the more likely a pipe is to burst. Water in a pipe can freeze after approximately six hours.
Got Low Water Pressure?
The problem might be the result of…
…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 the gauge reads lower than the pressure regulator, the regulator is faulty. If it isn’t reading at all, this could be another sign of a problem. With your plumber’s assistance, you can have your pressure regulator inspected and replaced in no time.
…a problem with your water supplier. If neighboring homes or businesses are having the same pressure issue, the cause of the problem could be the supply. If you find yourself in this scenario, contact the water company and express your concerns.
…leaky pipes. Leaks exist in a variety of types and sizes, they cause water redirection, and as a result, they reduce water flow. Check for pooling water or wet spots, and be sure to contact Pratt Services so we can stop the problem before it becomes a costly and complicated one.
…corroded pipes. Older pipes are most prone to corrosion, but this issue cannot be officially confirmed without the assistance of a skilled plumber. 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.
…your water meter valve or main house shutoff valve being partially shut. Your water utility company owns the water meter valve, which helps control the flow of water to your property. Your main home shutoff valve is commonly found close to the main city supply pipe in the house. If one of these valves are partially closed, water pressure will decrease. After confirming that your main shutoff is fully open, reach out to the city and request an inspection of the water meter valve.
…a faulty fixture. If every fixture in your home has low water pressure, it's doubtful that the fixtures are the source of the problem. If, on the other hand, only one faucet has low pressure, the fixture itself is most likely to blame. It is possible that the fixture needs to be replaced, or that buildup or a clog is causing low pressure.
…local regulations have changed. Water regulations might change without notice, leaving water companies with no choice but to keep up. If you learn that such a change has occurred in your city, you should talk to your plumber about installing a water pressure booster. Before installing a booster system, we’ll thoroughly inspect your plumbing to rule out other problems.
Gas Piping Services
How Gas Piping Systems Work
To bring natural gas to a property, gas piping systems rely on pressure. In these systems, gas moves from higher to lower pressure along a network of pipes, through a pressure regulator, into your distribution system, and finally into your home. Gas comes from mainlines and flows through service lines, both of which are owned by gas utility companies. Every downstream component (i.e. on your land) is your responsibility. When you turn on a gas furnace or stove, the gas pressure increases slightly beyond the air pressure, igniting the heating unit.
Six Most Common Gas Piping Materials
Copper pipes typically last roughly 20 years and are subject to a number of strict code requirements, limiting their use in many areas. In fact, a number of municipalities have banned it completely.
PVC is an excellent choice for subterranean, outdoor gas lines because it is exceptionally robust and corrosion-resistant. Plumbers appreciate this low-cost piping, but it can't be used in some areas because it frequently breaks during installation.
Galvanized Steel is a tough and energy-efficient piping material that is commonly used for water supply lines or interior or exterior gas 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.
Black Iron is the most well-liked piping material for both interior and exterior gas uses. The heat-resistant, robust, and durable material forms an airtight seal. Over time, however, black iron is susceptible to corrosion, and the sealant typically breaks down. If your property has black iron lines, it’s important to schedule routine maintenance.
Flexible Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing is ideal for places prone to natural disasters or for confined spaces. These flexible, easy-to-install pipes may reduce damage, but they are vulnerable to cracking, making them only suitable for indoor gas lines.
HDPE, like PVC, lends itself well to use as an underground external line. These plastic lines are inexpensive and flexible. They are, however, vulnerable to harm from subsurface sources, such as tree roots and rocks.
Got Leaky Pipes?
The problem could be caused by… …
improperly laid pipes. Severe, emergency pipe leaking can occur if your plumbing job was not finished correctly or by a licensed professional. Water and gravity necessitate the cautious and accurate fitting of all pipes and connections. A Pratt Services technician will gladly inspect your piping and give you our professional opinion on how well it was installed.
...a broken seal. Contractors add rubber sealant along connections during appliance installation for the purpose of watertightness. Over time, that sealant deteriorates, and you may start to notice signs of a broken seal - such as puddles of water near your appliance or condensation on them.
…high water pressure. Pipes may be strong, but if they are regularly subjected to high water pressure, they will probably leak. Pipes might even burst if water pressure rises above 60 psi. If you're not sure what's causing a leak, your plumber will check your pressure as part of their comprehensive inspection.
…pipe joint damage. Since pipe joints frequently have water flowing through them and consist of many pieces, they are prone to damage. Age, high water pressure, or extreme temperatures can lead to joint damage. If there is a ticking or banging noise - particularly when you use hot water - the source of the sound (and problem) is probably a damaged joint.
…corrosion. Plumbing systems contain numerous components, each of which might deteriorate or fail over time. Rust and other types of corrosion (usually induced by poor pH or minerals) can cause pipe damage and eventual leaks. Brass piping normally has a 70-year lifespan, whereas galvanized steel piping has a 20-year duration. If you detect an unpleasant taste, discoloration, or odor in your water, corrosion may be damaging your pipes.
…ground movement. Earthquakes, flooding, and other natural disasters can cause the earth to move and shift, which then causes pipes cracking, twisting, bending, or separating. When a leak occurs underground, you may notice problems with water supply or slow drainage. Only a plumber can properly inspect your pipes to confirm or rule out this type of damage.
…loose water connectors. Water supplies and appliances are connected by hoses and pipes, any of which can loosen and cause a leak due to shifting or movement. These connectors might also get damaged. Signs of this issue include water leaking from the supply line or pooling water near an appliance.
…clogged lines. Clogs can arise due to a variety of factors, including air handler drain pan obstructions, gutter debris, chemicals, excessive hair, and a plethora of others. If your pipes burst (but are not frozen), toilets are overflowing, or drains are clogged, there is probably a significant clog in a line.
…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.
…intrusive tree roots. Tree roots are very intricate systems that can grow throughout and far below the surface of the ground, and that means they can grow into water lines with ease. If you have trees growing near your house, observe a substantial loss in water pressure, see wet patches anywhere on your land, or develop a sinkhole in your yard, call your local plumber.
Got Bathroom Sink Problems?
If the issue is a…
...clogged or slow drain, soap scum or hair buildup might be the culprit. 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 this is not the case, please contact us for more troubleshooting and repair.
...dripping faucet, corrosion, wear and tear, or a damaged o-ring, valve seat, or washer are all possible causes. Our plumbers near you will determine the cause of the issue and quickly get your sink back in proper working order.
…deteriorated sink caulking, water has likely damaged it. Water can cause caulking to mildew, mold, crack, or peel. Replace your caulking every five years.
...malfunctioning drain stopper, damage could be the reason. The stopper is intended to allow your drain to open or close when the faucet knob is pulled, but this sort of hardware frequently experiences the loosening of the retaining nut on the horizontal pivot rod.
…rotten egg-like odor coming from your sink, you likely have a microbial infection in the drain or sink overflow passage. These problems can typically be treated easily using 3% hydrogen peroxide. If the problem continues, reach out to Pratt Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning and ask about our plumbing services.
