Month: June 2024

Air conditioners are complex and fascinating machines. When we use them in our homes, we simply turn them on and enjoy the cool air. The part we’re probably most aware of is the fan, which pushes that cool air through our ductwork to come out our vents. But there’s a lot more going on in the system.

Knowing more about your air conditioner can help you understand how to take better care of it. We’d like to explain some of the lesser-known workings of the AC system. In particular, we’ll tell you all about a component called the expansion valve.

Indoor and Outdoor Units

The way your air conditioner works involves using two units, indoors and out, to do two halves of the critical job of cooling your home. The indoor unit is where heat is drawn out from the air in your home. The outdoor unit is where that heat ends up. From there, it has to be released into the air outside your home. 

Connecting the two units is a system of coils, tubes that contain a chemical called refrigerant. This chemical is spectacular at thermal transfer, the process of absorbing and releasing heat. As it flows through the coils, pressurized by the compressor in the outdoor unit, it moves heat from inside your home to outside. Before it flows back into your home, it must be cold enough to absorb more heat.

Releasing Heat

This is where the expansion valve comes in. You see, in the indoor unit, the refrigerant evaporates into a gas as it gets hotter. In the outdoor unit, it condenses back into a liquid. Some heat is released in this process. But the refrigerant is still not cold enough to soak up much more heat. How does the outdoor unit chill the refrigerant sufficiently?

Contents Under Pressure

There is an interesting relationship between pressure and temperature in physics. When something is under high pressure, it will be hotter. Simply imagine molecules being squeezed and pushed together like overheated music fans at a crowded concert. What this means for the AC system is that lowering the pressure of the refrigerant will, in turn, cause the temperature to drop.

The expansion valve lets that highly-pressurized refrigerant expand. The pressure drops. The temperature is lowered. And now the refrigerant is cold enough to flow back into your home and absorb some more heat. The cycle continues, and your home stays cool and comfortable.

As you can see, your air conditioner is a lot more than a fancy fan. This is why it’s so important for routine maintenance and repairs of any AC troubles to be done only by trained, qualified technicians with the expertise to diagnose problems quickly and get them fixed. If you have any concerns about your AC outdoor unit in Livingston, NJ, or any other part of your air conditioner, don’t hesitate to get qualified help

Contact MarGo Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc. today with AC concerns or any questions about your HVAC system!

The post The Expansion Valve: A Critical AC Component first appeared on MarGo Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc..

This post first appeared on https://margoplumbing.com

Orangeburg pipe systems, primarily developed in Orangeburg, New York until the 1970s, were the most common sewer pipelines until their replacement by PVC and ABS pipelines in recent decades. These pipes, made of wood pulp and pitch, easily absorbed moisture and deteriorated over time, losing their structural integrity and growing brittle.

As the primary pipeline option until the 1970s, Orangeburg sewer systems are still featured in many older homes. Orangeburg pipelines begin to deteriorate after 30 years, and have an estimated 50-year lifespan in ideal conditions; for pipe systems built in the 1960s, their time is almost up.

Can today’s trenchless technology solutions resolve degrading and cracking in Orangeburg pipe linings, or must you endure expensive, yard-damaging pipeline replacement on your property? 

How to Know if You Have Orangeburg Pipes

To effectively determine whether Orangeburg pipes are part of your home’s infrastructure, homeowners should start by considering the age of their property and the estimated installation period of the pipes. 

Typically, homes constructed between 1945 and 1972 are likely to have utilized Orangeburg pipeline systems for their sewage needs, given the material’s popularity during this era due to its affordability and the scarcity of metal post-World War II. To gather more precise information, property owners can consult various resources. Landlords, for those renting their residences, often have access to historical maintenance records that can shed light on the plumbing history of the property. 

Additionally, real estate transaction records, often held by local government offices or accessible through public records, might include details about the home’s construction and any major renovations, including updates to the plumbing system. City or municipal documents, such as permits and building codes, can also provide insights into the materials used in the property’s construction. 

Consulting these sources can offer a comprehensive view of whether Orangeburg pipes are present and inform decisions about potential inspections or replacements to ensure the longevity and safety of the home’s sewage system.

Can Orangeburg Pipes be Repaired With Trenchless Solutions?

Trenchless technology offers a cutting-edge solution for repairing deteriorating or damaged Orangeburg pipes with minimal disruption to your property. This innovative method is most effective when the damage to the pipes is manageable and hasn’t progressed to a point beyond repair. 

However, when Orangeburg pipes become a fully collapsed and unsalvageable wreck, due to their inherent brittleness and degradation over time, more extreme and invasive solutions must be explored. At this juncture, it becomes imperative to consider comprehensive replacement strategies to ensure the integrity of your plumbing system and avoid potential property damage.

When You Need Orangeburg Trenchless Pipe Repair

Despite a reported life expectancy of 50 years, some Orangeburg sewer pipe systems can begin to fail within ten years due to environmental stresses and pressure. After around 30-40 years, when the deterioration of Orangeburg pipelines begins, property owners may notice the service and efficiency of their home’s sewer system and other piping change; this is the sewage system starting to fail. If this problem is left uncorrected, it can threaten the safety and health of home inhabitants.

Common indicators of failing Orangeburg pipe systems include:

• Progressing or sudden pipe collapse
• Tree root/biological penetration into pipelines
• Frequently clogging pipelines
• Indentations on your yard/property

A proper plumbing inspection will inform you if your home’s pipelines are Orangeburg pipes. If an Orangeburg pipe system is too far deteriorated or unsalvageable, a full replacement with PVS piping may be necessary. To avoid such a costly and property-damaging scenario, it is very beneficial for homeowners to get a professional inspection of their pipe system and repair deterioration while still possible.

It is not uncommon for homeowners to have a specialist perform a video inspection of their Orangeburg pipelines to assess the status and extent of deterioration in the lines. While leaks, small breaks, and deteriorated surface areas can be reinforced with trenchless technologies, a full pipe replacement may be necessary to remedy full collapses of pipe.

Solutions and Maintenance for Orangeburg Pipes

Fortunately, for owners of older homes and properties, there is a solution to the problems deteriorating Orangeburg pipelines create: trenchless technology. Trenchless technology, also known as lateral pipe lining, is a method of cured-in-place pipe lining (CIPP), that does not require any significant digging, floor removal, or property damage.

CIPP pipe linings are especially effective in restoring Orangeburg pipelines, where they can:

• Seal holes and cracks in pipelining
• Seal joint connections
• Smooth significant offsets
• Seal bottomless cast iron
• Fill missing pipes

Trenchless technologies are integrated with older pipelines, such as the Orangeburg pipe, through the use of small dug holes, or even existing openings, in drains, pipes, and sewer systems. CIPP installers use an industry-standard, fiberglass, and resin Perma-liner to fill a pipe and inflate its inner walls, similar to how a pipe-cleaning agent flushes dirty drains. This epoxy-coated application fills all cracks, breakages, and fissures in a pipeline, and with today’s trenchless repair technology, can be fully cured and ready in a matter of hours.

Following application, structural integrity is then dependent on the stronger, reinforced liner that trenchless technology introduces, as opposed to the Orangeburg pipeline itself. In addition to safely and effectively performing Orangeburg pipe repairs, trenchless restoration technologies can also renew your pipeline’s life expectancy (contributing an additional 50 years of use), and save significant financial resources on short- and long-term future repairs.

By using trenchless technology to reinforce, reline, and restore your Orangeburg sewer pipeline, homeowners can also benefit from:

• Using ‘green’ technology, which reduces risks from underground toxins and substances that can arise during conventional pipe restoration and digging
• Assets and property remain largely untouched
• Significantly less laborious application, which saves fees on installation

It is no wonder why this highly efficient and effective method of pipeline repair has become so prevalent today. Integration of trenchless technologies with deteriorating or damaged Orangeburg pipelines is now one of the simplest and most beneficial methods of Orangeburg restoration. 

Orangeburg pipelines, commonly present in homes built before the popular rise of PVC piping in the 1970s, are naturally prone to deterioration after 30-40 years; however, damage and degradation can begin as soon as one decade in certain cases. Each case of Orangeburg pipe systems is different; many can benefit from the reinforcement and stability trenchless technologies can provide, while some more extreme circumstances may require full pipe replacement.

Contact Express Sewer for Orangeburg Trenchless Pipe Repair

To learn more about trenchless technology’s wide applications, often in the repair and strengthening of Orangeburg pipelines, and what we can do for your home or business, contact Express today for a free Orangeburg pipeline consultation.

This post first appeared on https://www.expresssewer.com

Installing new plumbing in a commercial building is a major project, but it’s essential for ensuring the space’s functionality and efficiency. Whether you’re developing a new property or upgrading an existing one, understanding the ins and outs of commercial plumbing installation is critical. We provide an expert guide to navigating this complex task, focusing on the practical aspects that will help you make informed decisions.

First, it’s crucial to assess your specific plumbing needs based on the type of commercial space you have. This involves considering the daily water usage, the number of occupants, and the overall layout of the building. Once you’ve established these needs, the next important step is choosing the right materials. These decisions will impact the installation process and the plumbing system’s long-term reliability and maintenance.

Following the right steps and regularly maintaining your plumbing system ensures efficiency and prevents future problems, which is why we’re here to provide you with foundational knowledge and practical strategies to tackle your plumbing project head-on. With the right preparation and understanding, you can ensure your commercial building’s plumbing meets all necessary standards and operates flawlessly.

Assessing Your Plumbing Needs for Commercial Spaces

When considering plumbing for a commercial space, it’s crucial to assess your specific needs accurately. This includes understanding daily usage, potential loads, and the types of facilities your building will require. 

For instance, a restaurant will have vastly different plumbing needs compared to a standard office space. We start by evaluating the number of fixtures needed, such as sinks, toilets, and showers, based on both employee and customer usage. Next, we consider the requirements for specialised equipment like grease traps in kitchens or industrial-grade boilers in manufacturing plants.

Additionally, water pressure and volume demands must be assessed to ensure consistent, reliable delivery and functioning. This stage often involves consulting with local authorities on compliance and regulations to guarantee that your setup meets all standards for safety and efficiency. By thoroughly assessing these elements, we create a framework that supports your business’s operational needs while planning for possible future expansions or changes.

Choosing the Right Materials for Your Plumbing Installation

Selecting the most suitable materials for your plumbing installation is another vital step. The right choices can drastically influence the longevity, efficiency, and ease of maintenance of your plumbing systems. 

For example, copper pipes are highly durable and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for long-term applications in areas that require stable and reliable plumbing. On the other hand, PEX tubing offers flexibility and is easier to install, which might be more suitable for areas that require frequent layout changes or expansions.

In addition to pipes, considering the quality and compatibility of fixtures like faucets, toilets, and valves is essential. High-efficiency fixtures not only reduce overall water usage but also help in lowering operating costs in commercial environments. 

We also ensure that all materials meet or exceed the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) guidelines for safety and performance. By choosing the right materials, we ensure the functionality of your plumbing and contribute to the sustainable operation of your commercial space.

The Step-by-Step Process of Commercial Plumbing Installation

Embarking on a commercial plumbing installation involves more than just fitting pipes and fixtures. It starts with a detailed design that considers all your facility’s specific requirements. We work closely with architects and builders to draft a plan that optimises the plumbing layout for efficiency and accessibility. Once the blueprint is ready, our skilled team begins the groundwork, including installing the mainlines connecting to city water sources and sewage systems.

Each phase of the installation is thoroughly inspected to ensure alignment with building codes and safety regulations. As pipes and fixtures are put into place, care is taken to ensure seals are tight and connections are secure to prevent leaks and water damage. This intricate process requires precision and expertise, which our certified plumbers bring to every project. By carefully executing each step, we guarantee a plumbing system that meets your current needs and accommodates future expansions.

Maintaining New Plumbing Systems: Tips and Best Practices

After a new installation, maintaining your commercial plumbing system is crucial to ensure it continues to perform efficiently and without interruptions. Regular maintenance checks are essential. We recommend a monthly inspection of visible pipes for signs of wear or leaks, along with a routine clean-up to avoid blockages and backups. It’s also wise to have a professional check high-usage areas like kitchens and bathrooms more frequently to forestall any potential issues.

Seasonally, it’s important to assess your system against extreme weather conditions, especially in cold Canadian weather, to prevent freezing pipes. Implementing these practices helps in the early detection of minor problems before they escalate into major ones, sparing costly repairs down the line. Keeping a record of all inspections and maintenance activities also helps maintain a reliable plumbing system that smoothly supports your business operations.

From Pipes to Perfection: Installing New Plumbing in Your Commercial Space

Adopting efficient plumbing practices and implementing robust maintenance strategies are key to ensuring the longevity and reliability of your commercial plumbing systems. At The Irish Plumber, we are dedicated to providing expert plumbing solutions that help businesses operate smoothly without the headache of unexpected plumbing failures. Whether you’re setting up new installations or maintaining an existing system, remember that a small effort in keeping things flowing can prevent major disruptions.

If you’re looking to install a new system or need professional assistance in maintaining your current setup, reach out to our commercial plumbers in Ottawa. Let us help you keep your plumbing optimal with our expertise and dedicated service. Keep your business flowing smoothly, and trust us to handle the drips so you don’t have to.