Permit Inspections: The Top Red Flags Plumbers Look For

6/15/2023

Plumbing permit inspections are critical in ensuring your home’s system is safe, efficient, and up to code. When it comes to these inspections, plumbers are on the front lines, identifying any red flags that may indicate potential problems or violations. From faulty water heaters to blocked drains, there are a variety of issues that plumbers look for during these inspections. Below we’ll explore the top red flags that inspectors look for during plumbing permit inspections, so you can be prepared and ensure that your plumbing system is in top shape.

Improper Pipe Installation

During plumbing permit inspections, inspectors will look for any signs of improper pipe installation. This is because improperly installed pipes can lead to leaks, clogs, and other problems that can cause damage to your home and decrease the efficiency of your plumbing system. Here are two things’ inspectors will check for.

Pipe Slope

Pipes must be installed at the correct slope to ensure they drain properly and prevent clogs. Inspectors will check that pipes are sloped correctly and that no low spots could cause backups.

Pipe Connections

Proper pipe connections are essential to prevent leaks and ensure pipes function correctly. Inspectors will ensure all connections are secure, tight, and properly sealed in order to avoid leaks and other issues.

Corrosion or Damage to Pipes

Corrosion is a significant concern for plumbing systems and can have severe consequences if left unchecked. When metal pipes are exposed to water, oxygen, and other elements, a natural process of corrosion can occur, leading to the gradual deterioration of the pipes. Corroded pipes can become weak and brittle, leading to leaks, ruptures, or even complete pipe failure. Corrosion can also cause sediment buildup and other debris inside the pipes, leading to clogs and reduced water pressure. During plumbing permit inspections, inspectors look for signs of corrosion to ensure that pipes are in good condition and functioning correctly.

Improper Fixture Installation

During plumbing permit inspections, inspectors pay close attention to the installation of fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, and showers. Improper installation can lead to leaks, poor performance, and even safety hazards. Here are three things’ inspectors will check for.

Proper Alignment

Inspectors will ensure that fixtures are properly aligned and secured to prevent leaks and ensure optimal performance. For example, a toilet that is not properly aligned can cause leaks and damage to the surrounding area.

Adequate Drainage

Inspectors will check that fixtures are properly connected to the drainage system and have adequate drainage capacity to prevent backups and overflows.

Proper Ventilation

Inspectors will ensure that fixtures are properly vented to prevent the buildup of harmful gases, such as methane, and sewer odors from entering the home.

Faulty Water Heaters

Faulty water heaters are a major concern during plumbing permit inspections as they can pose significant safety hazards to homeowners. Water heaters that are not functioning properly can lead to leaks, fires, and even explosions. Additionally, inefficient water heaters can lead to high energy bills and wasted water. During inspections, inspectors will examine water heaters closely to identify any potential issues, such as.

Age of the water heater

Inspectors will check the age of the water heater as older models may not meet current safety standards and may be more prone to leaks and other issues.

Pressure relief valve

Inspectors will check the valve to ensure that it is working properly and will release excess pressure in an emergency.

Adequate Insulation

Inspectors will check the insulation around the water heater to ensure it meets current efficiency standards.

Lack of Shut-Off Valves

A lack of shut-off valves is often found during plumbing permit inspections. Shut-off valves are installed in a plumbing system to allow easy access to turn off the water supply in case of an emergency, such as a leak or burst pipe. If a plumbing system lacks these valves, it can be difficult or even impossible to shut off the water supply in an emergency, leading to significant damage to your property.

During inspections, inspectors will look for the presence and proper installation of shut-off valves in key areas of your plumbing system, such as under sinks and near toilets. They will also check that the shut-off valves function properly and can be turned on and off easily. In addition, inspectors will check that appropriate shut-off valves are installed for each appliance, such as washing machines and water heaters.

Incorrectly Sized Pipes

Incorrectly sized pipes can cause several issues in a plumbing system. If the pipes are too small, they may not be able to handle the volume of water flowing through them, causing low water pressure or even bursting of the pipes. On the other hand, if the pipes are too large, it can lead to higher water bills and increased energy consumption.

During plumbing permit inspections, inspectors will check the pipe size in relation to the water supply and the fixtures in the plumbing system. If the inspector finds that the pipes are incorrectly sized, they may require changes to be made to the plumbing system before the permit is approved.

Inadequate Water Pressure

Inadequate water pressure can indicate several plumbing issues, including clogs, leaks, or improperly sized pipes. During plumbing permit inspections, plumbers check the water pressure in the plumbing system to ensure that it meets the minimum standards set by local codes and regulations. They may use pressure gauges to measure the water pressure at different points in the system and look for any signs of leaks or damage that could be causing the low pressure. If inadequate water pressure is detected, the inspector may require repairs or upgrades before the permit is approved to ensure that the plumbing system functions properly.

It’s important to pay attention to the top red flags that plumbers look for during plumbing permit inspections to avoid disqualification. Don’t take any chances with your plumbing system; contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of West Houston for expert plumbing services that can help you pass inspection with flying colors.

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Reasons Why Plumbers Recommend Using Hose Guards on Your Garden Hose

A well-maintained garden is a source of pride for homeowners. It takes considerable effort to keep the flowers blooming and vegetables thriving. A garden hose is crucial in gardening but also requires proper maintenance. Hose guards are a smart investment that can help extend your garden hose’s lifespan. Plumbers often recommend using hose guards, and in this blog post, we will explore why.

What Are Hose Guards?

Hose guards, also known as hose protectors or hose armor, are protective sleeves that wrap around your garden hose to provide an extra layer of durability and protection against wear and tear. They are typically made from a sturdy material such as rubber, plastic, or metal and come in different lengths and sizes to fit your garden hose. One of the key benefits of hose guards is that they prevent kinks, punctures, and abrasions that can lead to leaks and other damage to your garden hose.

How do Hose Guards Work?

Hose guards provide a physical barrier between your garden hose and any potentially damaging objects, including sharp edges, rough surfaces, and abrasive materials. They also eliminate the need for your garden hose to drag across the ground or other surfaces, which can cause it to wear out faster. Another way hose guards work is by reducing tension and stress on the hose itself, which can cause cracks and leaks over time.

Benefits of Hose Guards

Hose Guards Protect Against Wear and Tear

Plumbers know better than anyone the consequences of a leaky garden hose. They deal with broken or clogged pipes, water damage, and drainage issues caused by worn-out hoses. That’s why they recommend hose guards to their clients to protect their hoses from all potential hazards. Plumbers also know that a tiny investment in hose guards can save you hundreds of dollars in repairs and replacements in the long run. With hose guards, you don’t have to worry about replacing your garden hose every season, making it an excellent investment.

Hose Guards Prevent Kinking

Kinks in garden hoses are a common problem that can disrupt water flow and make it challenging to use the hose efficiently. Hose guards feature a coil design that prevents kinking, allowing your garden hose to maintain its shape and function without interruptions. Not only does this improve the efficiency of the hose, but it also makes your gardening chores more comfortable and hassle-free.

Hose Guards Prevent Tangling

Tangling garden hoses can be frustrating, especially when you need to move around with the hose. One of the primary causes of tangling is when they come into contact with other objects in the garden. Hose guards are built with a protective layer that covers your garden hose, significantly reducing the chances of tangling. This feature saves you time and frustration when working on your garden.

Hose Guards Enhance Safety

Garden hoses left lying around are a tripping hazard, which can cause accidents in the garden. Hose guards provide a safe way of keeping your garden hose organized, reducing the chances of tripping and falling. They also prevent pets and other animals from chewing or biting on the hose, which can cause water to leak out and create a safety hazard.

Provides Pipes With High UV Protection and Overheating

Hose guards are made from UV-resistant materials like polyester, nylon, or even polypropylene. This material can withstand sunlight exposure without breaking down or degrading. They withstand UV radiation effects like fading, discoloring, and cracking.

Some hoses come with reflecting colors that can help reflect sunlight and heat, minimizing overheating, sometimes making hoses become brittle and crack. It, in turn, helps to extend your hose’s lifespan giving you a reliable performance that will last you over time.

Types of Hose Guards

Hose guards come in different styles allowing users to choose the best option for their hose protection. The following are the different types of hose guards.

Spiral Protective Wrapping

This type of hose guard is manufactured with high-density polyethylene. It is easy to install and is designed to give heavy-duty protection, which increases your hose’s service life. They protect against UV light since they are UV resistant.

Fire-Resistant Anti-static Wrap

This type of guard is a conductive thermoplastic compound on a polyethylene base. It is fire-resistant and anti-static, which helps minimize sparks and accidental flames. It can also be used in underground applications.

Anti-abrasion Sleeve

An anti-abrasion sleeve is a tough textile sheath that protects from abrasion and extreme temperatures. It is highly durable and resistant to most solvents. It is most suitable for protecting against bursting hoses.

Nightglow Spiral Wrap

This type of hose guard is made from photoluminescence and HDPE. It not only protects your hoses but emits light too. It helps you quickly identify the hose in low light or at night.

Your garden hose is a valuable tool that requires proper care to last long. It faces many risks whenever used, making it vulnerable to wear and tear. Using hose guards protects it against abrasion, punctures, kinks, and other hazards, ensuring efficient and hassle-free watering every time. The benefits of using hose guards are numerous and certainly outweigh the minimal cost of investing in one. Plumbers highly recommend hose guards for a reason, and it’s high time you start using them too.

Want Services For Your Garden Plumbing? Contact Us Today!

Plumbing issues can be complicated and time-consuming, especially when it comes to garden plumbing. Luckily, you don’t have to worry about that anymore. bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of West Houston is here to take the hassle away from you. Whether you need to install, repair, or replace garden hose guards and other components, we’re here for you. We also offer 24/7 emergency services to ensure all your needs are handled. Besides, we use state-of-the-art tools and equipment to ensure that the job is done right. So don’t wait any longer – get in touch with us today!

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Tips for Getting the Right Toilet Flush System and How a Plumber Can Help

A toilet flush system is a crucial component that enhances waste removal from the toilet bowl and moves it to the septic system. The system consists of a flush valve which releases water into the toilet bowl, and a toilet tank, which accommodates water for flushing. Without a well-working toilet flush system, it would be impossible for the toilet to remove waste in the bowl. Also, you will have to deal with severe toilet issues that will force you to call a plumber. Therefore, the right toilet flush system is essential for a smooth water-flushing experience. Here are some tips that will help you choose the right toilet flush system:

Maintenance Needs

Before you buy a toilet flush system, it is good to consider its maintenance requirements. This will help you choose a system that meets your maintenance capabilities. The market has many toilets flush systems; some need more maintenance. For instance, most gravity-fed flush systems require less maintenance than pressure-assisted systems. The latter needs more maintenance because many components need regular servicing.

Regular maintenance ensures that the flush system and the toilet are in good condition. Also, regular maintenance can help you avoid issues that can be costly in the future. Some regular maintenance tasks include inspecting for leaks, cleaning the bowl, and checking the tank’s components. If you don’t have the skills to perform maintenance tasks, invest in a professional plumber, and they will make everything simple for you.

Performance

Like other toilet components, the flush system must be efficient and effective. A good flush system ensures that all the waste the toilet receives is flushed away to help keep your bathroom clean. When considering performance, consider factors such as the bowl design and flush power of the flush system. The bowl design impacts how well the water moves through the toilet, while flush power determines how efficiently the toilet can eliminate waste with only a single flush.

Before you make a decision, understand the different types of flush systems and their effectiveness. If you need a flush system that offers a powerful flush, go for a pressure-assisted system. However, despite their effectiveness, they require more maintenance than other systems. Choose a gravity-fed flush system if you need something that requires less maintenance but remains effective. A gravity flush system might not be effective as a pressure-assisted model, but it does a good job of eliminating waste.

Water Efficiency

Buying a water-efficient toilet flush system will help you save water and reduce your water bills. Among the biggest water consumers in your home, a toilet is one of them. If the toilet has a flush system that is not water-efficient, a lot of water will be wasted, increasing your water bill. When choosing a flush system, ensure it meets water efficiency standards. A water-efficient toilet should consume less than 20% per flush without sacrificing performance.

Also, consider buying other water-efficient models, including low-flow and dual-flush systems that minimize water usage. A dual-flush system, for instance, allows you to choose between a lower-flow or a higher-flow flush. A lower-flow flush is designed for liquid waste, while a higher-flow flush is designed for solid waste. Contact a plumber if you need assistance choosing a water-efficient toilet flush system.

Noise Level

The noise level of a toilet flush system is a good consideration to keep in mind, as some toilet flush systems can be noisy. A noisy flush system can be a nuisance for homeowners with the bathroom close to the bedroom or living space. Choosing a gravity flush or a dual flush system might be good if noise concerns you. Before you buy a toilet flush system, take your time and compare different systems to find a model that is not noisy.

Price

Toilet flush systems are available at different prices, from the less expensive single-flush systems to the more expensive dual-flush models. When considering the cost, you also need to consider the long-term ownership cost. While a costly flush system may have a more powerful flush and advanced features, it may have higher installation and maintenance costs.

On the other hand, a cheaper system may be cost-effective upfront, but it might cost you more due to higher water bills or frequent repairs. Furthermore, think about the value the flush system can offer you. Higher-priced options provide water-saving benefits that can save you money down the line.

Design and Style

The design of a toilet flush system may not be a consideration for everyone. However, the toilet flush system’s design can impact your bathroom’s appearance. It is good to choose a system that meets your aesthetic preference. You will find toilet flush systems in different styles and designs, from traditional to modern designs. Some models also provide extra features like color or touchless flushing options. While having a flush system that meets your aesthetic preference is good, consider its performance and water efficiency. There is no need to purchase a system that looks well but doesn’t work well or wastes too much water.

Getting the right toilet flush system can significantly impact the functionality of your bathroom. With the right flush system, you can save water, reduce water bills, and prevent unpleasant odors. It is essential to consider professional assistance when selecting and installing a flush toilet system to ensure its compatibility with your plumbing system and the longevity of your toilet. With the help of a professional plumber, you can guarantee a successful installation and optimal functionality of your toilet flush system.

Contact Us for Professional Advice

Are you considering installing a new toilet flush system? Contact us at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of West Houston for professional advice on the best options to meet your needs. We have the expertise to help you choose the right toilet flush system that will save you money in the long run while providing optimal performance. Call us now to get started.

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Plumbing Problem? Forget DIY And Hire A Licensed Plumber

Your plumbing system makes it possible to flush the toilet, shower, wash your clothes, cook, and clean, so your ability to perform these everyday tasks will be affected if something goes wrong. Plumbing problems can be stressful because they can affect your daily life, and you may not know what’s causing the problem or how much it will cost to repair.
A DIY repair isn’t recommended because mistakes can be made if you don’t have plumbing training, and you can cause further damage.
You should hire a licensed plumber if your plumbing develops any of the following problems.

Drain Problems

The water should flow down the drain quickly when it runs if the drains are functioning correctly. If the water doesn’t drain properly and exhibits any of the following signs, you should call a plumbing company.

• The water drains slowly: A slow drain may not seem like a cause for concern because the water will drain, but it can be more serious than you think. You can’t let the water run too long in the sink because it won’t drain fast enough and could cause an overflow. Also, the longer the clog remains in the drain, the larger it will become, and eventually, the water won’t drain. Fortunately, a plumbing tech can eliminate the clog to prevent further issues.
• The water doesn’t drain: If you run the water and it fails to drain, there’s likely a significant clog that will result in standing water. Stagnant water is a breeding ground for bacteria, and you can’t use the fixture until the clog is removed, so you should hire a plumbing tech immediately.
• A plumbing tech has the tools and the skill to remove the entire clog so the water flows quickly down the drain.
• More than one drain is slow or clogged: If multiple drains are slow or clogged, it isn’t a strange coincidence, and multiple clogs indicate a clog in the sewer line. This problem requires a call to an emergency plumber because the clog will get larger over time until the water and waste have nowhere to go and back up into your home. The last thing anyone wants to deal with is a sewage backup, so it’s best to address the problem immediately.
• Noisy drains: Does a drain in your home make a gurgling sound when you run the water? It may sound crazy because the water still drains, but the gurgling indicates a significant drain clog. When the water runs, it will change directions to pass the clog, creating air pockets that make a gurgling sound. It won’t be long before the drain clogs completely if the problem isn’t addressed immediately.

A liquid drain cleaner isn’t the solution to the problem because they contain harsh chemicals that can damage the pipes. Also, you shouldn’t try to snake the drain yourself because, without the necessary training, you could put the snake through the pipe, causing an even bigger problem with more serious consequences. It’s best to forget DIY and call a plumber.

Water Heater Issues

Your water heater heats and stores the water that enters the home, so you always have hot water. If the unit malfunctions, it can cause various issues affecting your daily life; therefore, if your water heater develops any of the following problems, you should hire a licensed plumbing tech.

• The water from the hot water tap comes out cold.
• The water doesn’t get hot enough.
• The unit sounds like it’s possessed.
• The water pressure is suddenly restricted.
• Brown or rust-colored water, indicating contamination.
• Moisture on or around the water heater
• Water pooling around the unit
• You run out of hot water frequently.

A plumbing tech can diagnose the problem to determine if the unit can be repaired or if it’s best to replace it. Water heater issues should be addressed immediately because if you wait too long, the problem could worsen and be more expensive to repair.

Plumbing Leak

Plumbing leaks occur in a few ways, and the first is age. When your pipes get old, they often rust and corrode and eventually will cause a leak. Leaks also occur when a joint becomes loose or disconnected or if the seal fails.

Leaking pipes cause considerable water damage and mold growth, so if you see water pooling under a sink or water spots on the walls, you should call a plumbing company. Leaks under the house can cause dampness in the basement and other issues, including:

• A musty smell in the basement
• Cracks on the basement wall or floor
• Warm spots on the basement floor
• Puddles outside by the house, and it hasn’t rained
• Areas of the lawn are greener and lusher than the rest.

A plumbing tech will inspect the plumbing system to find the leaking pipe so it can be replaced, the joint can be tightened, or the seal can be replaced to stop the leak. If they can’t find the affected pipe, leak detection equipment will help them find the leak’s location.

Call bluefrog Plumbing & Drain of West Houston.

If something goes wrong with your plumbing system and you need to hire a licensed plumber, look no further than bluefrog Plumbing & Drain of West Houston. We’re a full-service plumbing residential and commercial plumbing company providing excellent service to customers in the area.

Our techs are professionally trained and have undergone apprenticeships to learn to diagnose and repair plumbing problems. You can be sure they can handle any job you have, regardless of the complexity.

We know your time is valuable, so when you have an appointment to meet one of our techs at your home or business, they will arrive on time. Our techs drive fully stocked trucks to allow them to make most repairs on the same day, eliminating the need for a second service call.

We provide emergency service 24/7, so if you have a problem that must be addressed immediately, we’ll get a tech to your home quickly to fix the problem.

If you need an appointment, call us today.

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Shaping The Future Of The Hospitality Industry: A Professional Plumber Gives Tips On How To Attain Sustainable Bathrooms In Hotels

If there’s one thing hotel guests are more conscious of than ever before is the water and energy consumed during their stays. Efficient bathroom installations are the solution to conserving resources without compromising your consumer experience.

Hotels are one of the most energy-intense facilities compared to residential homes and offices. As per the 2015 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) agreement, the hotel industry is expected to lower its carbon emissions by 66 percent by 2030 and 90 percent by 2050 to remain sustainable within the agreed threshold. And this goes to all hotel operations globally.

Designing for sustainability in buildings helps achieve low greenhouse gas emissions and improves a business’s overall success. But for the hotel industry, the incentive to adopt sustainability is more than just about reducing energy costs. Being sustainable is critical to providing an exceptional guest experience and attracting new customer segments, the key performing indices for any successful hotel.

For the longest time, the bathroom design in sustainably operated hotels has been considered an alternative to saving water and reducing housekeeping costs. However, with more conscious consumers and the rise of sustainability certifications, it has become crucial for hotel owners and developers to lower their business’s resource footprint for smart project planning. To get the right bathroom fixture for your hotel, consider the following: –

Choose The Perfect Sustainable Faucet For Every Room

Generally, bathrooms account for a large percentage of water consumption in hotels, even though all hotel washrooms aren’t the same. For instance, a faucet’s style, frequency of use, and functionality may vary depending on whether installed in public lobby bathrooms or private guestrooms. So what does this mean? Continue reading to understand.

• Lobby Bathrooms

In a high-use setup, like a bigger lobby bathroom, installing smart faucets is an excellent way to manage water use more efficiently.

Going for WI-Fi or Bluetooth-operated innovative faucets also has an additional benefit for the facility operators, as they can easily adjust the optimal water flow and after-flow time for all single or multiple faucets in the hotel. This allows the operators to follow up on water consumption and the faucet’s use, enabling them to customize flow and after-flow time to their maximum rate.

• Private Guestrooms

Unlike the public lobby restrooms, guests will most often expect extra finesse and comfort in private hotel bathrooms. From magnificent faucets to showerheads offering multiple uses and elegant spray settings, luxurious bathroom designs and advanced functionalities are bound to create memorable moments for your guests. Working with a professional plumber can help you achieve that extravagant design and perfect water flow without sacrificing sustainability.

Smart project planning should be about integrating elegant design and intelligent, eco-friendly options. One way to achieve that sustainable luxury feel is by picking faucets with low flow rates.

Install Water-Saving Showers For Optimal Comfort With Minimal Resources

Besides providing a unique elegance and luxurious experience, modern bathroom plumbing installations conserve resources through economical smart faucets and water-saving showers.

Efficient shower solutions, such as low-flow showerheads, can help control the water consumption rate as they restrict water flow. Using shower thermostats with Eco Flow control technologies is a great way to minimize the water used per wash.

Consider Innovations That Change How Your Guests Experience Water

Modern bathroom fixtures can further promote more responsible water usage habits by shaping awareness about consumption and offering more transparency. Innovative shower heads, for instance, enable clients to track their water consumption in real-time.

A qualified plumber in the area can advise you on how to get a suitable faucet when shopping for smart faucets for your hotel bathroom.

Plan For Sustainable Maintenance And Management

Often, hotel operators have to manage the long intervals between peak and off-peak seasons. In managing resources, they must plan ahead to make the most of the downtime.

Bathroom fixtures with smart technologies regulate water and energy use without compromising hygiene and water safety. This is because flushing intervals can be remotely scheduled via an integrated app on the computer, and hotel managers can flush pipes and other fixtures more conveniently.

Plan For Sustainability That Pays For In The Long Term

Do you want to avoid unnecessary resource wastage? Choose faucets designed to last and have reusable components that can be utilized in making new products once the faucet’s life expectancy is over.

Fixtures offering spare parts availability for a long time can considerably extend the faucet’s lifespan, reducing material consumption and lowering operational costs.

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of West Houston Can Help You Stay On Top Of The Market

Are you seeking the best plumbing company to help fulfill your hotel bathroom design goals? bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of West Houston is the contractor to hire. We are a fully licensed company changing the face of the hotel industry and the entire commercial sector through our top-tier services. You can rely on us for advanced plumbing installations to help you stay more efficient and sustainable in your business.

Our team of plumbers is bonded and insured with expansive years of experience in handling even the most challenging plumbing tasks. We’re a customer-centered company whose reputation is known far and wide, the reason our customer base is growing every day.

When you contact us, expect to receive courteous services from our cordial and kind staff. To schedule bathroom plumbing service for your hotel, call us or request online now to reserve your slot.

Conclusion

Energy-efficient, sustainable design has become the top agenda of building projects and sustainability certifications. Having plumbers install bathroom fixtures manufactured to achieve this transformation can see more hotels across the globe become more successful while keeping the environment safe.

So, if you’re a hotel owner or manager, ensure you select the faucet that guarantees a reduction in resource consumption, complies with local regulations, and meets consumers’ growing expectations.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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