Can a Heat Pump Be Installed Indoors?

Homeowners that are looking at HVAC upgrades may find the variety of options just staggering, and when looking for the right option to keep the home’s temperature steady, many look at heat pumps. However, when it comes to optimal installations, many people end up wondering: Can a heat pump be installed indoors? 

While the conventional installation for a heat pump has the unit located outdoors, there is the possibility of installing one indoors, with the appropriate considerations and expectations. We’re going to look at how feasible indoor heat pump installations are, the benefits they may provide, and any drawbacks that you might need to think about.

Benefits of Indoor Heat Pump Installation

Despite indoor heat pump installations not being the most popular choice, they do have some significant benefits that must be considered. Here are the top 3 benefits of installing your heat pump indoors:

  1. Reduced Exposure To The Elements: By installing the heat pump indoors, you automatically protect it from potentially hard weather conditions and temperature extremes. This can help prolong the heat pump’s life.
  2. Improved Security: An indoor heat pump is far less at risk for vandalism or theft. This additional security can give you more peace of mind.
  3. Noise Reduction: Indoor installations help lower the noise produced by heat pumps. This helps you create a more peaceful living environment for yourself and your family. 

Potential Drawbacks of Indoor Heat Pump Installation

Even with these benefits, there are reasons that outdoor installations are more popular. Here are the top 3 biggest potential drawbacks to installing your heat pump in the home:

  1. Space Adjustments: Indoor heat pump installations demand more space within your home. You’ll need to designate not only a space for the heat pump itself, but also accessibility for maintenance and repairs, and allowances for proper ventilation.
  2. Ventilation Requirements: Heat pumps operate by exchanging the heat with the outside, ambient air. This means adequate ventilation is critical to the heat pump’s operation. Installing a heat pump indoors can require installing additional venting or ductwork to be routed to the interior of the home from the exterior. This increases installation complexity even more, which leads to higher costs. 
  3. Higher Installation Costs: In general, installing a heat pump indoors will be far more expensive than having the same unit installed in an outdoor location. This is because an indoor installation requires extensive spatial planning and often extensive modifications to the home’s interior and exterior. This all adds to the labor time and project complexity, which increases the overall cost of the project.

Are Heat Pumps Installed Outside More Often Than Inside?

It’s possible to install a heat pump indoors, though the most common installation location is outside. Outdoor heat pump installations allow much greater access to ambient air, which heat pumps rely on to operate efficiently. Outdoor installations also tend to be much less complicated, resulting in fewer modifications to the home. However, outdoor heat pump installations are more susceptible to wear and tear from the elements and weather. 

Work With a Professional Like Emory for Optimal Results

As you can see, while it’s possible to install a heat pump indoors, it does come with some unique considerations, as well as some potential drawbacks that can be relatively significant. To make the most informed decision possible concerning your specific home, it’s essential to consult with a trusted local HVAC installer like Emory. Our team of experts is ready to discuss the details of your project and come up with a solution that helps you reach your HVAC system goals. Reach out today for more information or to get started with your consultation.

How to Clean A/C Vents

Keeping your A/C vents clean is an important part of maintaining your HVAC system. Not only does it improve the overall air quality in your home, but it also helps your A/C run more efficiently, which can reduce system maintenance and repair costs over time. 

We’re going to show you how to clean your A/C vents using a step-by-step guide, and we’ll also share some expert tips on the best way to get the job done. In the end, if you think it might be easier to just leave it to the professionals, we’ll point you to the best.

Why Cleaning Your A/C Vents is Important

Keeping your A/C vents clean is an important aspect of the overall maintenance of your HVAC equipment. It keeps the air quality optimal by filtering the air as it’s cooled and distributed, but it also helps the A/C run more efficiently overall. By not having to fight operation against low airflow, and additional dirt and debris, the system doesn’t have to work as hard to move that air throughout your home. 

It’s not just that cleaning your A/C vents makes your system more efficient overall, it’s that it can help reduce not only higher energy bills but more frequent and costly repairs as well. When dirty, the system needs to work much harder, causing a far lower energy efficiency. Working harder also leads to increased wear and tear on various components, leading to an increased need for repairs and maintenance.

Cleaning your A/C vents helps keep your energy bills low, as well as your repair bills for your HVAC equipment. In many cases, all it takes is some time and basic tools to get your vents cleaner than they were yesterday.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Your A/C Vents

  1. First, you’ll need to turn off your HVAC system. Don’t just turn the thermostat off, either, flip the breaker for the units to ensure you’ll be safe.
  2. Now, grab your tools. To clean your A/C vents you’ll need a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment, a soft-bristled brush, and a microfiber cloth.
  3. Remove the vent covers from the duct openings in your walls and ceilings. Take them someplace you can rinse, scrub them and rinse them off. 
  4. Vacuum inside the vents as far back as you can reach. You won’t be able to get the entire vent like a professional service would, but you can improve.

Expert Tips: The Best Way to Clean Your A/C Vents

Schedule Regular Cleanings

To make sure your system stays in top shape, ensure that it sees a thorough cleaning approximately every 3 to 6 months. 

Check For Mold

Cleaning your A/C system gives you a unique opportunity to inspect the system for mold. Use this opportunity to search for signs of mold, and if you find some, be sure to contact an experienced mold remediation company.

Replace Air Filters Regularly

One of the easiest things you can do as a homeowner is to change out your A/C air filters regularly. Some of the cheaper filters need to be replaced monthly, while some higher-quality filers may be good for 3 months or more.

Hire A Professional

Many people aren’t comfortable cleaning their vents, some don’t have the time or tools to do it right, and some simply don’t want to bother. Either way, you’ll always get the best results by hiring a professional to tackle the project for you.

Keep Your A/C Running Smoothly with Regular Vent Cleaning

There you have it, the best way to clean your A/C vents, as well as some other helpful tips to make the process easier and more effective. If you’ve been thinking about cleaning your vents, consider partnering with Emory Plumbing  to have them professionally cleaned quicker and more thoroughly than your home vacuum could ever accomplish. Reach out today for more information.

Do Bathroom Exhaust Fans Need to be Vented Outside?

Bathroom exhaust fans are an essential part of any home in southern California. These small but powerful fans help remove moisture in the form of humid air, and odors from your bathroom, improving air quality and preventing mold and mildew growth. But do bathroom exhaust fans need to be vented outside? 

This is a common question for homeowners that are thinking about getting into a bathroom repair or remodel. We’re going to look at the importance of venting bathroom exhaust fans outside and the risks associated with not doing so. We’ll also tell you where you can turn for professional installation help.

Does A Bathroom Fan Need To Vent Outside?

Yes, your bathroom fan will need to be vented outside, and there are several reasons why it’s important.

Primarily, it helps to protect your home from mold and mildew growth by removing moisture from the air. Stagnant moist air can contribute to the growth of mold spores, which are dangerous health hazards. Some molds can be incredibly dangerous, and venting outside can help prevent them from growing.

Venting bathroom exhaust fans outside helps to remove odors from your home. Bathrooms are hot spots for humidity, moisture, and bad odors. By ensuring your bathroom fan vents outside, you can prevent those odors from recirculating in your home. 

Venting outside can also help to cool your home. During the summer months, bathroom exhaust fans can help to remove hot air from your home and draw in cooler air from the outside. This can help to keep your home more comfortable during hot weather, particularly for those who enjoy hot showers all year.

Building Codes & Regulations That Need To Be Adhered To

In southern California bathroom exhaust fans must comply with California building codes. Under section 1203 of California’s building code, any bathroom that contains a bathtub, shower, spa, or similar feature will require ventilation by an exhaust fan. Additionally, under section 1203 of California’s building code, any property designed for occupation must be naturally ventilated by windows, doors, and other openings.

It’s important to comply with these building codes when installing a bathroom exhaust fan. Not only will this ensure that your bathroom is properly ventilated and meets safety standards but it can also help to prevent potential issues with mold growth and air quality, which we’ll discuss in a moment.

Risks Of Not Venting Bathroom Exhaust Fans Outside

If you are thinking about tackling a bathroom fan installation without venting it outside, you could be setting yourself up for serious problems later on. Here are two of the biggest risks of not venting your bathroom fan outside.

Mold

The biggest and most obvious problem is that it can lead to mold growth. As we mentioned earlier, bathroom exhaust fans help to remove moisture from the air and prevent humidity buildup, so if your bathroom exhaust fans are not vented outside, this moisture can become trapped in your home and create an environment that is conducive to mold growth. Even worse, it’ll likely lead to mold growth that you can’t see, which will cause much more damage before it’s found and remediated.

Reduced Indoor Air Quality

Not venting bathroom exhaust fans outside can also lead to unhealthy air quality levels. Bathroom exhaust fans help to remove odors and improve air quality by venting stale air outside. If bathroom exhaust fans aren’t vented outside, these odors and pollutants can become trapped in your home and negatively impact indoor air quality, potentially causing problems that need professional help to correct.

Let A Professional Handle Your Bathroom Vent Installation

Now that you know how important it is for your bathroom fan to vent outside, are you ready to make sure it’s done right? Don’t hesitate to leave it to the area’s leading and most experienced plumbing and bathroom professionals, Emory Plumbing. Reach out today for more information, or to get started with an estimate.

Who is Responsible for Plumbing in a Commercial Lease?

When it comes to commercial leases, understanding who is responsible for plumbing can be a complex issue. Both landlords and tenants have a vested interest in ensuring that plumbing systems are properly maintained and functioning correctly. However, the allocation of responsibilities for plumbing can vary depending on the specific terms of the lease agreement.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the typical responsibilities of landlords and tenants regarding plumbing in commercial leases and offer tips on how to negotiate favorable terms. Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, understanding your rights and obligations when it comes to plumbing can help you avoid costly disputes and ensure that your property remains in top condition.

Understanding Commercial Leases

A commercial lease is a legally binding agreement between a landlord and a tenant that outlines the terms and conditions for renting commercial property. Unlike residential leases, which are typically standardized and regulated by state laws, commercial leases can vary widely in their terms and provisions.

Some common terms found in commercial leases include the length of the lease term, the amount of rent to be paid, and any rent increases or escalations. Commercial leases may also include provisions regarding maintenance and repair responsibilities, insurance requirements, and permitted uses of the property.

Who is Responsible for Plumbing in a Commercial Lease?

In a commercial lease, the allocation of responsibilities for plumbing can vary depending on the specific terms of the agreement. In general, landlords are responsible for maintaining common areas and ensuring that essential services such as plumbing are functioning properly. This may include repairing leaks or blockages in common pipes and drains.

However, tenants may also have certain responsibilities when it comes to plumbing maintenance and repairs within their leased space. For example, a tenant may be responsible for fixing leaks or blockages in pipes and fixtures that serve only their unit. Tenants may also be required to maintain grease traps or other specialized plumbing equipment.

It’s important for both landlords and tenants to carefully review the terms of their lease agreement to understand their respective responsibilities when it comes to plumbing. If the lease is unclear or silent on this issue, it’s a good idea to discuss it with the other party and come to a mutual understanding before signing.

In some cases, landlords and tenants may choose to negotiate specific terms regarding plumbing responsibilities. For example, a tenant may agree to take on additional maintenance responsibilities in exchange for lower rent or other concessions. We’ll discuss how to negotiate these terms in more detail in the next section.

Negotiating Commercial Plumbing Responsibility

When it comes to negotiating plumbing responsibility in a commercial lease, both landlords and tenants need to communicate their needs and concerns. Landlords should be upfront about their expectations for maintenance and repairs, while tenants should be clear about their ability and willingness to take on these responsibilities.

One way to negotiate favorable terms is to offer some sort of concessions in exchange for taking on additional responsibilities. For example, a tenant may agree to perform regular maintenance on plumbing fixtures, even total commercial plumbing responsibility,  in exchange for lower rent or other benefits.

No matter what the negotiation or concessions are, it’s always a good idea to put any agreements regarding plumbing responsibilities in writing as part of the lease agreement. This can help avoid misunderstandings and disputes down the road and can be legally enforced when needed.

Partner With A Commercial Plumbing Leader

If you’ve found a plumbing issue in your commercial facility, whether you’re the tenant or the landlord, partnering with Emory Plumbing can make your experience much smoother. We offer a wide range of plumbing and HVAC services to both residential and commercial customers and are ready to provide a solution for your problem. Reach out today to get started.

How to Measure a Plumbing Pipe

How to Measure a Plumbing Pipe

There are a lot of plumbing projects that you might be thinking about starting at one point or another as a homeowner or even renter. No matter what type of project you’re getting started on, knowing how to measure the plumbing pipe is an essential first step. Knowing how to measure the pipe size is crucial because there are so many different types and sizes of pipes. Additionally, if you need to gather supplies or anything from the store, knowing what you’ll need for your project ahead of time can help you get what you need the first time, making the project smoother overall. 

We’re going to look at not only how to measure the pipe size, but what tools you may need to measure pipe size accurately. We’ll also cover common pipe materials, and what projects may call for different plumbing pipe types. In the end, we’ll point you to a trusted local resource for helping you get your plumbing projects done easily and professionally.

Before We Begin

First, it’s going to benefit us to discuss some different types of plumbing pipes and where they’re used. Plumbing can refer to either water or gas, with different materials being designed for different purposes. The most common pipe materials are PVC, copper, and galvanized steel. 

Copper is commonly used for potable water supply, with PVC being used for some drain applications, like under the sink and in some laundry applications. Galvanized steel is commonly used for larger drain lines or vent lines in the home. Some applications will require certain diameter piping, which will also determine what type of material can be used in a particular situation.

How To Measure Pipe Size – What You’ll Need

To know how to measure pipe size correctly, you’re going to need a few tools on hand. In most situations, you’ll only need one or the other, but for some projects that involve extensive pipe configurations, you may need both to get accurate measurements. 

To get accurate measurements of both the diameter and length of a pipe, you should have the following tools available:

  • Measuring tape
  • Ruler or calipers

How To Measure Pipe Size – The Process

Having the tools to measure a pipe and knowing how to measure pipe size are two different things, so now that you have the appropriate equipment ready, let’s go over the process of actually measuring a pipe. 

  1. First, you’ll need to identify the type of pipe that you’re dealing with. Sizing and measurement methods change considerably from one type to another, so making sure you know what you need to measure can save you time having to remeasure it later.
  2. Now, you’ll need to measure the diameter of the pipe, which is the distance across the pipe’s opening. This can also be thought of as the pipe’s width. To get the most accurate measurement, use your tape or ruler to measure from the outside of one edge to the outside of the opposite.
  3. To measure the length, measure from one end of the pipe to the other. For more complicated pipe runs, simply measure the distance between each change in direction, and add them all together for total linear footage.

Emory Can Take The Hassle Out Of Your Next Plumbing Project

If it sounds like a bit more than you might have planned on, to simply get the right pipe size, then trust the professionals to take care of it for you. Emory Plumbing has been servicing homes and businesses in the San Diego area for years and would be happy to work with you on your next project. Reach out today for more information.

How to Connect Pipes Under the Sink

How to Connect Pipes Under the Sink

Repairing the pipes or drain under the sink can seem simple enough, to some people, but it can be incredibly intimidating for others. No matter what your skill and confidence level, it’s important to be sure that when you tackle this common household repair, you do it properly. Otherwise, you could risk a leak of anywhere from a drip to a full rush of soapy water after doing the dishes. 

We’re going to talk about how to connect pipes under the sink. We’ll cover what tools and supplies you’ll need to do it right, and how to get it done. We’ll also cover where you can turn if you need some local help with making sure it’s done right. 

Before You Begin – Tools You’ll Need

Before you start this project, there are some tools you’ll need. The plumbing under your sink should be plastic piping, so you’ll need the following tools and supplies:

  • Slip-joint pliers
  • Pipe wrench
  • P-trap
  • Drainpipe
  • Washers, nuts, and additional straight piping, if needed

Steps To Connect Pipes Under The Sink

It’s important to remember that all of the plumbing under your sink will be relatively unique to your home. Components may be the same from one home to another, but the positioning and measurements of the exact setup will vary. Here are the basic steps that you’ll need to follow to connect pipes under the sink:

  1. Install The Drain Assembly: This is where the sink connects to the drain. First, put the included gasket over the drain hole. Then slide a nut onto the drain assembly and slide it into the drain hole then tighten the nut down to secure it.
  2. Install The P-Trap: This is the curved portion of the under-sink drain that not only keeps items from going down the drain but keeps sewer gasses out of the home as well. The p-trap attaches to the drain assembly of the sink, then to the drain line itself.
  3. Connect The Water Supply: The water supply can be reconnected or turned back on if turned off at the shutoff valve. Use the slip-joint pliers to make sure the connection is secure.
  4. Check For Leaks: Now you’ll need to turn on the water while monitoring underneath the sink for leaks. You should watch for at least a minute or two so that you can see the formation of any slow leaks that may only result in a periodic drip. Use a dry finger to feel around the joints for moisture.

Plumbing A Sink Drain Pipe

The drain pipe is an important component of keeping your drain operating smoothly. Here’s how to make sure yours fits well:

  • Measure the drainpipe from the p-trap to the main drain line, and then add a few inches for potential slack.
  • Cut the pipe with a hacksaw or sharp utility knife.
  • Attach the drainpipe to the p-trap, using the pipe wrench to attach the drainpipe to the p-trap.
  • Attach the drainpipe to the main drain line access, and use a pipe wrench to ensure the connection is tight and free of leaks.
  • Check for leaks after turning on the water supply, if you notice any leaking water, turn the supply off and tighten all connections.

Emory Can Take The Hassle Out Of Plumbing Repairs

If this sounds like more than you want to handle right now, or if you’d simply rather delegate this project to a professional to ensure it’s done quickly and properly, Emory is here to help. We’ve been providing leading plumbing solutions for San Diego area families for years. Reach out today to speak with an expert member of our team about getting started.

How to Put a Bathroom in a Basement Without Plumbing

Adding a bathroom to an existing basement is something a lot of homeowners would love to do, but there’s always the problem of the foundation and having to deal with the plumbing. Putting new plumbing into a basement is likely to seem like a daunting task for many homeowners, but with the right planning, approach, tools, and skills, it can be done. 

We’re going to take a look at how to put a bathroom in a basement without plumbing construction. We’ll talk about what you should consider first, how to install a toilet in a basement without plumbing, and what to think about regarding other bathroom fixtures. In the end, we’ll point you toward a trusted local resource that is available to handle your plumbing projects.

Planning Your Basement Bathroom

Before you worry about how to put a bathroom in a basement without plumbing, you’ll need to think about your bathroom and what you want from it. Think about where you want to put the bathroom, and start thinking about the major fixtures you want as the impetus for putting in a bathroom. This is where you’ll start figuring out your potential costs as well. 

Some primary factors to consider when thinking about how to put a bathroom in a basement without plumbing include:

  • The location of the bathroom, and of the fixtures within the bathroom. You should plan to have it somewhere near your main sewage line as well as your water supply.
  • Think about your toilet style, size, and position within the bathroom, as well as if you’re going to put in anything larger, like a shower.
  • The overall cost of your project will be a limiting factor, so if cost is an issue be sure to err on the side of caution. Creating a bathroom from scratch like this can become costly.

How To Install A Toilet In A Basement Without Plumbing

Without a doubt, installing a toilet in a basement without plumbing is one of the more challenging aspects of the project, but there is a type of toilet called a macerating toilet that is the key to avoiding certain plumbing issues. Here’s how the general process would work:

  1. Brose macerating toilets. These are special types of toilets that are designed to grind up solid waste and physically pump it into the sewage line. They are the ideal solutions for situations like this. 
  2. Install the toilet. This will be an abbreviated version of a standard toilet installation, since there’s no ring or drain line to position the toilet over. Be sure you have accounted for running a water supply.
  3. Install the macerating unit, which is often an innocuous-looking box. They are generally installed behind the toilet and are then connected to the toilet outlet and the discharge pipe.
  4. Connect the discharge pipe to the macerator and the main sewer line.
  5. Connect the toilet to the water supply with the usual flexible supply line running from a dedicated shutoff to the toilet itself.

Emory Plumbing Is Ready To Solve Your Next Plumbing Problem

If you’ve always wanted a bathroom in your basement, but never really wanted to tackle the problem, or just had enough time for it, the best thing to do is delegate that project to a trusted, local plumbing authority like Emory. No matter what the scope or size is of your next plumbing project, we’re ready to help you see it through to completion, to ensure you get exactly what you want. Reach out today to speak with a professional about your plumbing installation needs.

How to Increase Sink Water Pressure

How to Increase Sink Water Pressure

Anyone who’s had to deal with low water pressure can tell you how frustrating it can be. In the bathroom, it can mean an eternity between flushes, and an unsatisfying shower. In the kitchen, it can mean having incredible trouble with washing the dishes, or even your hands. The good news is, there are several ways that the average homeowner with a few DIY skills can potentially increase their water pressure at the sink. 

We’re going to talk about water pressure, and how to increase sink water pressure safely. We’ll talk about what causes low water pressure, and if you just don’t want to deal with it, we’ll talk about where you can turn for trustworthy plumbing services in the San Diego area.

Tips To Increase Sink Water Pressure

Here are a few common reasons why you aren’t getting the pressure you need, and what you might be able to do about it. 

Check The Valve

A very common reason that people experience reduced water pressure is that they have, often unknowingly, bumped or otherwise partially closed the shutoff valve under the sink. If the knob on your valve is pointing anywhere but open, you may be getting reduced flow. Luckily the fix is easy.

Turn the knob counterclockwise to ensure it’s completely parallel with the supply line. Now check the water pressure at the sink. If the pressure has returned, you’ve found the issue, if not, then it’s time to try some other potential causes. 

Build-Up In the Aerator

One of the most common reasons for reduced water pressure, particularly in areas where the municipal water supply has elevated mineral content, is hard-water build-up. In these cases, the faucet aerator will slowly become clogged with accumulated deposits. Again, if this is the cause, it’s an easy fix.

Unscrew the faucet aerator, and turn it over. Inside there should be one or more screens, and potentially some plastic or rubber spacer washers. Take out all of the screens, and soak them in conventional white vinegar for at least an hour. Alternatively, you could use a commercially-available calcium-lime deposit removal product. Stubborn deposits may require gentle brushing with a stiff-bristled brush. 

Rinse the screens and replace them, then try the faucet once again. If you’ve noticed an increase in water pressure that may have been the issue. If it still doesn’t feel right, there may be other issues at work still. 

Low Municipal Pressure

While not very common anymore, there are still some areas where it seems like no matter what, the pressure coming to the house from the street just isn’t enough. For situations like this, there are solutions, they just require additional equipment.

In situations like these, a homeowner will commonly install some pressurization equipment, such as a pressurized holding tank. This allows them to have guaranteed pressure delivered to all fixtures in the home, without needing to rely on modern municipal pressure regulation. There are also in-line pressure boosters that may or may not apply to all situations, though they are a more affordable option than a pressure tank.

Enjoy Increased Water Pressure With Our Help

If you have tried these tips and aren’t seeing the results you want, or if you just don’t want the hassle of dealing with it and would prefer to simply delegate the task to a local professional, Emory is here to fill that need. We have been serving residents and businesses in the San Diego area for many years, and we’re ready to help you tackle plumbing projects of all sizes and scopes. Reach out today for more information about getting started boosting your water pressure.

How to Hook Up a Gas Stove

Getting a new stove is always exciting, but one of the first chores that need to be done is installation and connection. With an electric stove, all you need to do is plug it in, but electric stoves can’t match the performance of gas, and gas stoves require a bit more complex installation process.

With a gas stove, you’ll need to hook up the gas line, which needs to be done flawlessly or it can create an incredibly dangerous situation. This leaves many homeowners to wonder just how to safely connect a gas stove, or who they can call to perform a gas hookup for their stove. We’re going to cover the full gas stove install process, as well as what you can do if you’d be more comfortable with professionally handling it.

How To Hook Up A Gas Stove

Pull Out The Stove

You’re going to need some room to work, so pull out the new stove to allow access to the gas service line. The gas line supplied with your appliance will generally be a flexible line, which means you’ll need to make accommodations for moving from one thread type to another, but we’ll get to that.

Wrap The Threads

You will need to make sure you have plenty of Teflon tape on hand since you’ll be wrapping at least four connections. Be sure you have the gas-safe Teflon tape, which generally comes on a yellow roll. There are two types of thread tape, one for water and one for gas, so you must use the right one to prevent leaks. Also, you’ll hear this again, but if you see a bevel on the end of some threads, those never get Teflon tape.

Attach Gas Line Connector

To your rigid pipe, you’ll be attaching one of the flexible-to-rigid connectors you have. The pipe thread side, or the side without the bevel, will need Teflon tape. Never attach your flexible hose directly to the rigid pipe; even if the diameters match, the thread is different and will never seal properly.

Add An Elbow

On your range, the gas port will have a female inlet in most situations. To make this accessible to the flexible hose you’ll need what’s called a street elbow, or a street 90. Into that elbow, you’ll be attaching the other flexible-to-rigid connector that came with your appliance’s gas hose. Be sure that the male end of the street elbow and the male pipe thread side of the connector have Teflon tape on them.

Tighten The Gas Line

Tighten down the nut at each end of the flexible line. The pipe threads that the flexible line connects to should not have any Teflon tape on them. They are meant to seal gas tight with the flexible tube itself, and the tape can prevent that.

Check For Leaks

Checking for gas leaks is the last and most crucial step in the installation process. You’ll need to turn on the gas to test it, so turn the handle parallel to the pipe, and spray all joints created with a gas leak detector solution. Warm soapy water can also work in a pinch. If any bubbles are spotted it means you have a leak and the joint will need to be redone.

Let A Trusted San Diego Plumber Hook Up Your Gas Stove

Sometimes, hooking up a gas stove can be relatively simple, but in other cases, it can be more of a hassle than you plan. If you want to avoid the project entirely, while still ensuring that it gets done safely, turn to Emory Plumbing. Reach out today and speak with your trusted local plumbing partner about your project needs.

Tips for Installing a Kitchen Sink Drain Pipe

Tips for Installing a Kitchen Sink Drain Pipe

Kitchen sinks get a lot of use, and in some cases, abuse. Making sure the drain beneath the kitchen sink is incredibly important for the function of the kitchen in many households, and installing one can be a complex job that can take all day for the DIYer. There’s a lot to consider, but there are some ways that you can help the process to go a little smoother.

We’re going to go through the process of how to install a kitchen sink drain pipe, so you know what to expect. We’re also going to go over some tips as well, that will hopefully help you to get the project done a bit quicker than you might have otherwise. In the end, we’ll also talk about what your options are for getting some expert local help with your plumbing needs.

How To Install A Kitchen Sink Drain Pipe

While many homeowners may never have to worry about the drain assembly beneath the sink failing, there are some situations where that very thing can happen. In many cases, it’s due to some flaw that happened during the previous installation that became worse over time. In others, it may happen due to physical damage, which can happen easier than you might think. 

If you’re looking at possibly needing to replace the kitchen sink drain pipe, here’s the basic process:

  1. Measure, and double-check, the drain outlet height to ensure that the trap arm will have an appropriate slope.
  2. If the drain outlet is higher than 16” from the base of the cabinet or floor, you may want to consider lowering it, which can be a complex job on its own.
  3. Install the sink strainer and the garbage disposal.
  4. Install the tailpiece and waste pipe.
  5. Install the trap.
  6. Check the tightness of all connections.
  7. Run water through all components while watching for any signs of leaking.

Tips For Installing Kitchen Sink Plumbing

Be Sure Your Trap Points The Right Way

The space under the sink is cramped and it might be tempting to orient the trap in the wrong direction. The sharp bend should be beneath the tailpiece, otherwise, it will not fit properly. The poor fit will prevent a good seal when tightening down the slip-nuts, and will almost certainly result in a leak.

Don’t Use Teflon Tape

Slip-nut washers and joints are designed to be watertight when used for drains, but they are only designed to do this when used properly and when the washer creates a good seal. Taping the threads prevents the nuts from tightening down enough to force the washers to seal, and if a seal is managed, it won’t generally last. Teflon tape is only needed for certain connections with metal pipes, which are less malleable than plastic pipes, which makes plastic pipes better at sealing without tape.

Don’t Overtighten

Slip-nut joints are common targets of overtightening. Not only can you generally get a good grip on the large, white nuts, but using slip-nut pliers multiplies the force even more. This can result in leaks and even stripping the nut to the point that the threads are destroyed. Get them to hand tight, then finish by just barely snugging it up with the pliers. 

Trust A Local Expert With Your Plumbing Needs

If installing a new kitchen sink drain pipe sounds like more time and trouble than you want to deal with, you can always reach out to a trusted, local expert. We can handle all of your plumbing needs, no matter the size or scope of the project, and will address any concerns you may have.