Replacing the main water line in your home is a major plumbing work that can cost a lot of money and have a major impact on the overall performance of your plumbing system, says Louise Beck Management. When embarking on this project, you want to take every step to ensure you do it right.
A poorly executed water line replacement can have unexpected and costly implications for your plumbing and the entire building. This is because, in order to function properly, your home’s plumbing relies on a delicate balance between its different sections.
However, an improperly installed water line can impair this balance. It can upset the relationship between the two main sections of your plumbing: the freshwater and the wastewater system. Your main water line is the most essential feature of the freshwater system.
Functions of the main water line
Connecting your home
The main water line connects your home to the municipal water supply. It connects with the city’s water pipes and transports fresh water into your home.
Water distribution
The water line also distributes fresh water to the smaller water pipes that serve plumbing fixtures and appliances in your home. It ensures a continuous flow of water for all your household needs.
Pressure regulation
Adequate water pressure is vital for the safety, proper function, and longevity of the different features in your home’s plumbing. The main water line regulates water pressure to ensure that it is right.
Location of the shut-off valve
The main water shut-off valve is directly on the main water line. The shut-off valve gives you a way to turn off your home’s water supply in case of a plumbing emergency.
Due to its strategic location between your plumbing and the water company’s pipes, the main water line determines the quality of your water supply. If it is damaged, your home will suffer from no or low water supply, and your water may be contaminated.
This is why you only want to work with a top plumber when planning to replace your water line. If you are looking to replace the water line in your Chicago home, what are the things to look for in the Chicago plumber you hire for this job?
What to look for when choosing a professional for your water line installation
Licensing and certification
The plumber should be able to show that they have been adequately trained for this job. They must be duly licensed to operate in the city of Chicago. A reliable plumber will not hesitate to share these details with you. Do not rely on what the plumber says. Do your own checks to make sure their claims are true.
Experience matters
There are two kinds of experience you want to look out for. They must have a history of completing projects that are similar to your own. Secondly, they need to have been operating in their current location for a long time. You do not want to hire a newbie to install the main water line in your home.
Check for specialization
You are better off working with a specialist. A plumber who specializes in water line repairs, replacement, and installation will have a collection of skills unavailable to plumbers who do this kind of work occasionally. Also, the specialist can afford to invest in special equipment because they will use it over and over again.
Reviews, referrals, and references
Online reviews are less reliable than personal referrals. However, it is still a good idea to check the online comments about the company’s services. A reliable plumber should be able to give you a list of customers who can vouch for them. These should be people who live in your locality. Do make sure to contact them.
Staff, equipment, and materials
Do they have the right tools? Will they employ the latest technologies when installing your water line? What are their processes like? Are their staff full-time or part-time workers? All these offer a glimpse into the quality of the company. They give you an idea of what to expect if you work with them.
Insurance and warranties
Several things can go wrong during a water line installation. Does the company have enough insurance to protect you from these risks? Are their workers insured? Do they have liability and property insurance? If you have a problem with the job or a part they supplied failed prematurely, will they fix it at no cost to you?
Their payment terms
Finally, how does their quotation compare to quotations from other plumbers? How do they charge for their services? Is it time-based or a ballpark figure? Do they expect you to pay for the services upfront? All these help you determine the relative trustworthiness of the numerous professionals you speak to.
Lastly, will they provide some form of after-sales service?