Some Plumbing Basics for Back to School

It’s that time of year again when students of all ages are preparing to go back to school. It’s a busy and exciting time as families do all necessary preparations, and students get ready for a new year ahead. Whether you’re going back to school this fall, helping get students ready to go back or just taking advantage of some of the sales and promotions, it’s hard to not feel some of the energy of the season.

Today, we’re going to help everyone take part in some schooling this August by discussing a few plumbing basics and giving you an overview of how your plumbing system works.

Your Home’s Pipe System

The pipe system in your home is designed to bring water in and out of your home. There are actually two-pipe systems in your home - one for clean water entering and one for dirty water leaving.

Clean water is brought into your home under pressure so that there’s enough force to carry it upstairs, through bends and around walls. Dirty water leaving your home relies primarily on gravity to carry it down and out of your home.

The pipes in your home are made from a variety of substances. If you have a home built before 1930, it likely has some lead pipes, and if your home was built between the 1930s and 1980s, it likely has some galvanized steel pipes. Newer homes primarily use PVC, copper or PEX piping.

The Complexity of Kitchen Plumbing

For most homes, the kitchen has the most complex plumbing systems. While it uses the same systems as the rest of the house, there are more appliances in this area of the home, making it slightly more complicated to install and maintain.

Your kitchen’s refrigerator, sink, dishwasher, ice maker and garbage disposal all are part of your plumbing system. This means additional lines and hookups, especially for the kitchen sink.

The kitchen sink has the same basic components as other sinks in your house - a faucet and drain - yet it can also have hookups for a garbage disposal, dishwasher and any other added features your home might have. As a result, for many, the kitchen is the source of questions or issues when it comes to plumbing maintenance or installation.

The Importance of Drainage

As important as having access to clean water is, having an effective way to remove dirty water from your home is equally important. As a result, your home’s drain system plays an integral role in your everyday plumbing.

Your drainage pipes rely first on gravity to carry dirty water out of your home, but vents in your roof are also important to help carry dirty water down, out of your home and into a sewer system.

Additionally, your sinks have traps - the s-shaped part of the pipe under the drain - to help avoid clogs, to catch debris and to keep sewer gases from entering your home. For your system to work plumbing and avoid drain cleaning services, it’s important that all components are working properly.

While it seems complicated, your home’s plumbing is really centered upon some pretty simple components working together. Hopefully, this overview was helpful. If you have any questions about your home’s plumbing, call Apply Valley Plumbing Company today at (612) 387-1207.

Plumbing Tips to Help You Safely Celebrate The 4th of July

Although plumbing tips may not seem at all related to the 4th of July, plumbing is something to keep in mind even while celebrating with that hot dog today. Holidays are some of the worst times to have a plumbing emergency, as they all charge extra to come out on major holidays.

If you learn how to fix your own plumbing issues in your home or at least how to prevent them, you can focus on spending the day with family and not worrying about your plumbing concern. Read on to get the essential tips you all homeowners need for 4th of July and beyond!

Start With Your Kitchen Sink

The 4th of July is known mainly for its huge parties and sparkling fireworks. However, as fun as those parties and fireworks are, at the end of the day there is usually an increase in the number of dishes and silverware being piled into your sink.

In addition to more dishes, there is also an increased risk of food making it past your dish disposal and heading into your pipes. The number one plumbing tip to keep your pipes running smoothly is to make sure to buy a grease trap for your kitchen sink drain.

A quality grease trap does exactly what it claims, it “traps” the grease (and other food) from getting past your drain, into your pipes and, eventually, the Apple Valley sewer system. There are multiple types of grease traps out there which, combined with a difficult installation process, means it is often easier to just have a professional plumber install them for you. Professional installation also guarantees that it will be installed correctly, and many professionals include warranties on both services and products.

Know How To Handle a Toilet Clog

Clogged toilets are embarrassing, especially if you have holiday company over. As an increase in the people in your home also means an increase in the people in your bathroom on 4th of July, remember to follow this simple plumbing tip and make sure to keep a plunger next to your toilet.

Having the ability to plunge your own toilet as soon as the clog occurs can help you save money on costly repairs. If you’ve never had to unclog the toilet before, ask a trained professional to make sure you learn the correct technique.

Make sure to also verify what the right type of plunger style is for your toilet, as there are many different materials, sizes, and shapes on the market. Most hardware stores can give you this handy plumbing tip.

Where is Your Shut-Off Valve Located?

Do you know where your shut-off valve is without looking? Most people don’t. However, if you are unable to get the toilet unclogged fast enough, or if you find your kitchen sink flooding, knowing how to locate and use your water shut-off valve is essential to not let your home taking on much water while you (or a professional plumber) diagnose the issue.

Take this plumbing tip from us! In most Apple Valley homes, the water shut-off valve is situated on near the base of the sink or toilet. The valve is normally oblong shaped or a round dial and comes in two different types (compression shutoff valve and ball valve).

Just rotate the valve clockwise until the water stops, and then turn the valve counter-clockwise once the problem has been resolved. This 4th of July, if it's been a while since a professional plumber has come to check out your place, make sure to schedule an appointment (with a qualified, Minnesota plumber) as soon as possible.

Following the plumbing tips, we’ve discussed today can potentially help stop a disaster today, but more routine maintenance of your home’s plumbing system is most important. Hopefully, the fireworks stay on your lawn and not in your bathroom tonight!

 

There are a lot of ways that humans could do a better job of taking care of the planet. Simple changes like picking up trash, turning off the lights when you leave a room, and conserving water could have a significant impact if we all pitched in together.

Wastewater treatment plants use a lot of energy, which creates pollution and degrades our air quality. One way that we can reduce the energy used by water treatment plants is to decrease the amount of energy that we demand from them.

The more we conserve water, the less water the plants will have to purify, which will use less energy. In the spirit of saving the environment, let’s explore some easy ways we can reduce our water usage to save our planet AND help our wallets.

Always Opt for Low Flushing Toilets

A low-flushing toilet is one that uses less water to wash away waste than older toilets. The primary way that your bathroom plumbing works is by using water, gravity, and pressure to wash away waste.

Very old toilets could use up to seven gallons of water in a single flush. Obviously, this was wasteful and costly. Low-flushing toilets use less than two gallons of water per flush.

Like many new inventions, some of the early models didn’t work as well as consumers had hoped. They often weren’t able to fully remove solid waste in one flush. Homeowners had to flush multiple times, which actually used more water than older toilets.

Newer low-flush toilets are much better and more efficient than the first versions. They have improved designs that allow for a quicker flow of water while still using under two gallons per flush. They also have smart design features like glazed pathways that reduce friction and help waste wash away more easily.

If you’ve been holding off on purchasing a low-flush toilet because you’ve heard they don’t work well, then your wait is over. New models are working great and saving owners money!

Remember to Check Your Shower Faucets

That drip in your shower may not seem like a big deal to you. After all, it’s just one little drop at a time.

However, if you were to collect those drops, you’d probably be shocked at the number of gallons that you end up with at the end of just one day.

You can conserve water and reduce your water bill by replacing your showerhead. If you choose a water-efficient fixture, you can reduce your water usage even further.

Many companies offer bathroom plumbing fixtures that use less water than older models. A showerhead rated to flow two gallons per minute or less is a feel-good choice that will help the environment and your finances.

Fix Pipe Leaks Quickly

Like a leaky showerhead, pipe leaks can add up to a significant amount of water in a short amount of time. The trouble with pipe leaks is that they’re not always as apparent as faucet leaks.

You may not see a slow pipe leak until it’s too late, and has done a lot of damage. If you want to check your house for water leaks, there are a few smart things you can try. First, you can check your water meter and then wait a few hours without running any water.

If the meter has gone up, you probably have a leak somewhere. Suspect that your toilet may be the leaky culprit? You could put a drop of food coloring in the tank and check back after about fifteen minutes. If the water in the bowl is colored, you’ve found your leak.

If you suspect that you have a leak, make an appointment as soon as possible. We can fix any leaks that you’ve identified and track down any that may still be hiding from you. You’ll save money on your water bill AND save money on costly repairs for the water damage.

What “Love a Tree Day” Is All About!

When it comes to the month of May, many people immediately think about Memorial Day. While it’s a noble holiday, there’s another one that could have an impact on your life as well. This holiday doesn’t muster up the full recognition it truly deserves. Of course, we’re talking about “Love a Tree Day,” this holiday takes place on May 16.

On this day we’re encouraged to look after and appreciate the majesty of trees and their life bearing properties. You can participate by planting a tree in your local neighborhood or park or just do your best to help the community. Much like us, trees also need quality water in order to survive and thrive, which is why paying attention to your water quality could be an easy way to celebrate this lesser-known holiday.

Trees & Life

It’s often said that trees are the lungs of the earth. Trees help clear out the excess carbon dioxide from the air and replace it with oxygen which is essential for all kinds of life on our planet. They also provide us with shade which can be essential in certain sunny areas.

Trees are an essential element in our planet that need to be protected. In order to grow to full maturity, trees need clean water, fertile soil, and a healthy amount of sunlight as well. Arguably the most critical need is clean water.

Trees can be surprisingly resilient amid a lack of good soil or quality sunlight. However, trees will quickly wilt and wither without water in a relatively short period of time.

Getting a Boost With Water Filtration

Polluted water isn’t just a danger for us but also for the plant and tree life in the area. In a world without potable water, there would be no tree life, ergo no oxygen in the air, which would entail the end of most life on our planet.

Clean water is indisputably the most important resource for human life. We can survive about 2 weeks without any food but only about a day or two without any water.

Think about this fact when you’re purchasing a water filter for your home. Don’t settle for the cheaper option in water filters, invest in a quality water filter for you and your family.

Not only will it improve your water supply, but also it cuts down on the need for bottles - adding another boost in the environment.

Celebrate Your Trees this May

On May 16, let’s all go out and make a positive change in our communities. Whether that means helping your elderly neighbor plant a new tree or watering the withering plants around the neighborhood, any small action can make a big change. May is considered the month of Wildlife in general.

This points to the importance of trees not only for human’s sake but also for wildlife itself. Trees are the home and shelter for much of the wildlife on the planet. Let’s dedicate to the nurturing of trees by watering them with clean water, and even preferably rainwater which can be more environmentally sustainable.

Water is the source of life. Its importance can’t be understated. If you suspect your water filter not working properly, be sure to give us a call. At Apple Valley Plumbing Company, we’re dedicated to our customers, and always go above and beyond to help you keep your home safe and your family healthy.

Spring Forward Into Clean Water With a Well Pump

With the arrival of warmer spring weather (that we keep looking forward to) the cold snows of a bitter Minnesota winter might warm up sometime soon. The landscape will soon change, with the rainbow of floral colors popping up all over the place. An effect of the hopefully melting snow is that wells will be full of fresh water.

If you haven’t already done so, taking advantage of your own well can secure your supply of fresh water, free of the chemicals and pollutants often found in city water. The key to setting up your own water supply is getting a sump pump. There are a few different setups that you can utilize, depending on your well situation.

Shallow Water Option: Shallow Well Jet Pump

For water supplies close to the surface, a shallow well jet pump can be a solid option. Designed for wells that are less than 25 feet underground, the setup is relatively simple and efficient.

Most setups feature the entire engine and jet feature found above the ground with a single pipe delving into the well itself.

Using suction to draw the water up, the pump creates a vacuum and atmospheric pressure brings the water up into a storage tank. Utilizing the natural pressure makes the shallow well jet pump very energy efficient.

Deep Water Option #1: Deep Well Jet Pump

The same concept of using atmospheric pressure to create an energy efficient pump can still be utilized for deeper wells, however, the complexity of the setup is ramped up. The installation of a deep well jet pump is called a double-drop system.

Unlike the shallow setup, the engine and the jet unit itself are separated. The electric engine remains on the surface while the jet component goes underground to keep the system functioning with greater depth.

Placement of the jet becomes crucial because the efficiency of the whole system is dependent on the amount of energy the jet needs to exert to draw the water up.

Deep Water Option #2: Deep Well Submersible Pump

Jet pumps draw the water up from the ground. However, deep well submersible pumps do the option, pushing the liquid up from the well itself. The setup is quite different, with the entire unit being submerged with the well. The pump then forces the water up in an efficient manner.

The biggest issue with maintenance is that a professional needs to address any problems since the unit is submerged. However, the advantage to these pumps is that they are sturdy and meant to last for 20 to 25 years, making them an incredibly dependable option.

With the fields of flowers in bloom coming with Spring, it is important to remember that before you pick a flower, you should know what you are looking for. Similarly, there are several well pump setups that can meet a variety of situations. Thankfully, the professionals at Apple Valley Plumbing can help get the right setup for you. Reach a well pump expert by calling (612) 387-1207.

Three Big Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

If you are in the process of remodeling your home or simply upgrading appliances, you probably spend plenty of time researching which brands and types will offer the most bang for your buck. Before you purchase all of your new appliances, did you stop to consider your water heater?

Chances are, you have a traditional water heater that holds water in a tank, waiting for your use. As great as these systems are, tankless water heaters are gaining popularity--and for great reason. We’re going to take a look at the cost of these water heaters and why you should choose to upgrade to tankless! Keep reading for more information!

Environmentally Friendly

Part of the reason that tankless water heaters are becoming so popular is the fact that they are far more environmentally friendly than their more traditional counterparts.

Basically, tankless water heater systems heat water as you need it which removes the need to constantly keep a tankful of water hot. This alone saves a significant amount of energy.

Also, with traditional water heaters, when you want hot water, you have to turn the faucet on and wait for the water to warm up. This is because the water from the tank has to flush all of the cold water out and move from the tank to that remote faucet. Again, because a tankless system is on-demand, you will see less wastewater and less time spent waiting for the hot water you want or need.

Cost Savings

If you strictly compare price tags and the cost of installation, you will find that a traditional water heater is cheaper--but not necessarily by much. When you take into consideration a few other factors, tankless water heaters quickly become the more attractive option:

• Traditional water heaters have a lifespan of 8-12 years, and typically the average is 10 years. Tankless water heaters can easily last for 20 years, meaning fewer replacements.
• Traditional water heaters require maintenance and often need repairs once they are up in age. Tankless water heaters are virtually maintenance-free and aren’t known to require repairs.
• Also, keep in mind that your family will no longer argue about how long someone spends in the shower or who has to bathe last. The sanity saved by this fact is enough for most people!

Space Savings

Unfortunately, traditional water heaters require a tank to operate. This tank requires a significant amount of space in your closet, attic, garage, or basement. A tankless water heater is about the size of a large computer.

Although you may install it in the same place that your old water heater was, you can rest assured that your tankless system will not require the same amount of space.

The best way to decide whether a tankless water heater is right for you is through plenty of research. If you are still undecided, we understand. Apple Valley Plumbing is here to answer any questions you might have as well as to help with estimates of the cost of installation. If you have questions about tankless water heaters, we have answers! Call Apple Valley Plumbing at 612-387-1207 to have inquiries answered and to schedule an appointment!

Home Safety And Your Plumbing

It’s natural to think of your home’s safety as the security alarm you arm before bed, your dog that barks at any would-be intruders, or even a water filter. However, your home can face a number of safety issues and the one that everyone forgets about is plumbing.

Your home’s plumbing and pipes are responsible for carrying water to you and your family with no extra contaminants. In addition, they are designed to carry away the waste that your family naturally creates.

Because of this, the pipes in your home should be seen as important as your security system. Keep reading to find out about several types of pipes that are available to you for your next remodel or repiping service!

PEX: Cross-Linked Polyethylene

PEX can be considered a newer type of piping in comparison to numerous others that are on the market. However, it is hardly ‘new,’ as it has been used in homes for numerous years. PEX is generally cheaper than copper piping and easier to install. It also does not require certain types of glue that require ventilation. It is highly unlikely to burst due to freezing temperatures and is not affected by the acidity in water.

Stainless Steel Pipes: An Older But Viable Option

Stainless steel pipes are known for their ability to resist rust and corrosion. In addition to this, they can handle high and freezing temperatures making it a great choice for outdoor areas. Generally speaking, stainless steel pipes are easy to fabricate and change, and can be made thinner than most other types of pipes.

This allows for you to use less support as there is less weight from the pipes. Also, because there are numerous finishes available, stainless steel pipes are an aesthetically attractive option if they are left exposed in the home for a modern look.

Brass Pipes: Not Just For Band Instruments

Brass is another option that has been used for decades in residential and commercial plumbing jobs. This is because it is extremely durable--they do not crack, corrode, or disintegrate.

Brass piping is resistant to hot water, which makes it ideal to use with a hot water tank and they are actually fire-resistant! The biggest benefits of brass pipes and fittings are the fact that they are versatile and malleable.

You can find brass pipes and fittings in an array of shapes, sizes, and lengths and if you there is a need, you can easily shape or mold them.

CPVC: Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride

You might be wondering if CPVC and PVC pipes are the same. They’re not quite the same, but can be considered family. In fact, CPVC may be looked at as PVC’s older, tougher brother. CPVC has been chemically altered to allow for greater resistance to temperatures up to 200 degrees. It is possible for this type of material to corrode, however, it takes far longer than many other types of pipe.

Cast Iron: Not Just For Cooking

Cast iron pipes may get a bad reputation for being cumbersome and heavy. However, those two factors are also what causes it to be long-lasting and durable. Also, because these pipes are so dense, they are always quiet--you’ll never hear running water or wake the baby by taking a shower. These pipes are ideal for handling large amounts of water at high pressures.

Which One Should You Choose?

Deciding on a type of pipe to use in your home is definitely not a choice to make lightly. It can affect your home and family’s health and will determine the ease in which remodels take place or how often you may need to replace your pipes. This is why it is important to make a call to Apple Valley Plumbing when you are considering new pipes for your home!

Call us today for an assessment and consultation of your current situation! Take a minute to share this article if you’ve learned a thing or two about piping materials!

What’s Causing Sewer Issues in Your Home?

Showers, dishes, handwashing, toilet flushing, clothes washing. Each of these activities has something in common. Do you know what it is? If you guessed that they all use water, that is partially correct.

The fact is, each of these activities and every process in your home that uses water, creates wastewater. The wastewater created is sent down the drain and it’s never to be seen again--at least not seen again as grey or black water.

Generally speaking, most water that is used has been recycled at some point or another, whether it is through a septic tank or a sewage system. We are going to explain each of these as they are the two most popular choices for wastewater disposal! Keep reading for more information!

Tanks of Sewage?! Well, Not Exactly

If your home uses a septic tank for wastewater, you may assume that everything is sent into the septic tank system and floats around until the tank is full.

That is only about halfway true. Septic tanks allow for the solids to sink to the bottom, forming sludge. The fats and oils rise to the top to form scum.

The water that is left between these two layers is relatively clear and as more sewage is added to the tank, the water seeps out into the drain field.

The drain field is composed of punctured pipes buried in trenches. The water slowly leaches out, allowing for the surrounding soil to remove nitrogen and phosphorus. After this happens, the water is clean and is reabsorbed into the environment. (Don’t worry about the grass or environment--nitrogen and phosphorus act as a natural fertilizer, allowing for lush, green grass!)

City Sewage Systems

If your home does not use a septic tank, there is a pretty decent chance that it is connected to a municipal sewage system. A sewage system isn’t too much different than a septic tank but can have a few extra ‘steps’ or stages.

The first stage of a sewage treatment system will be similar to a septic tank. The sludge and scum are formed, removing up to 50% of the contaminants. If that is the only stage of treatment, the water is treated with chlorine.

If the facility has a second stage, it consists of using bacteria to remove up to 90% of the remaining contaminants. The wastewater is then chlorinated or treated by a third stage which consists of more chemicals. This third stage will remove nitrogen and phosphorus and may use filter beds.

Other Waste Disposal Methods

While septic tanks and sewage systems are the most popular types of sewage and waste disposal, there are also composting toilets, cesspools, and options between electric and non-electric biotanks.

Composting toilets have the benefit of creating natural fertilizer while allowing liquids to evaporate; cesspools require a good deal of maintenance but allow solid waste to remain in the tank while liquids ‘percolate’ and leach back into the ground.

Finally, electric and non-electric biotanks can be installed when septic tanks are not functional and sewage systems are not accessible. We hope you’ve learned a thing or two about waste disposal and water treatment and if so, share this with your friends! If you are noticing problems like slow drains or overflowing toilets, you may be due for a drain cleaning! Call Apple Valley Plumbing to schedule an appointment today!

Choose Apple Valley Plumbing For Your Home Needs!

Before you automatically search for a plumber near me, trust the experts that always put customers first. At Apple Valley Plumbing Company we are your reliable Apple Valley plumbers. We work quickly and offer quality plumbing solutions to even your most complex residential plumbing needs.

Whether you’re dealing with a water leak or a clogged drain, you can rest easy knowing that we’ll be there to help. Part of owning a home means knowing who to call when things go wrong - and at Apple Valley Plumbing Company - we want to be those people.

Service Apple Valley - Since 2013

Since opening our doors we’ve been dedicated to all our customers in Apple Valley. Although that’s our base of operations, our plumbing care extends beyond that area and now includes:

• Eagen
• Rosemount
• Lakeville
• Farmington
• Burnsville

We always have someone available on the phone that can help you determine whether our services are the best fit for your home needs. We offer free phone consultations and always listen intently in order to help you find the quickest solution to your plumbing needs.

Our Expert Plumbing Services

Once you give us a call and schedule an appointment for your home, you’re always going to get the very best plumbing services for your home. While we offer a full range of services - some of our most requested services include:

• Drain Cleaning: Is your kitchen sink taking eons to drain after you wash the dishes? No matter the reason we have drain cleaning services to get your plumbing flowing in no time.
• Burst Pipe Repair: A burst pipe is a plumbing emergency that can cause significant damage to your home. We always offer fast response times to limit the damage to your home and restore your comfort as quickly as possible.
• Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling: While we’ll always be there when you need us most, we also offer plumbing services that can help upgrade your home too.

No matter what plumbing needs you may have in your home, you can rest easy knowing that our expert staff is here to help you.

Make The Call: Choose Apple Valley Plumbing

Responding to a plumbing issue doesn't have to be a stressful situation when you work with our plumbing professionals. On every service call, you can expert personalized solutions and a helpful attitude from your first call.

We also offer upfront pricing to take the guesswork out of services and custom solutions. Because every home is different, you want to be sure that the repair route you take is right for your properly.

Additionally, we guarantee your satisfaction and always clean up after ourselves, leaving your home cleaner than we found it. At Apple Valley Plumbing our goal is to be the very best local plumbing company you’ll always depend on. So the next time you’re dealing with a plumbing issue give us a call and experience the Apple Valley difference.

What Does It Mean to Have a Near Perfect Plumbing System?

While there is no such thing as a "perfect" plumbing system, since we don't live in a perfect world, there is such a thing as a near-perfect plumbing system! As long as you keep your home's or business's plumbing system properly maintained, there is no reason your plumbing shouldn't work like new for many, many years.

What exactly does keeping your home's or business's plumbing system adequately maintained mean? Well, keeping your drains clean, maintaining a balance in your water pressure, and protecting your drains with screens and hair blockers are all very easy ways to ensure your plumbing system stays closer to "perfect" for longer.

Prioritizing Regular Drain Cleanings

Taking preventative measures like having your drains cleaned regularly is a great way to ensure your plumbing system doesn’t encounter any severe damage. Proper drain cleanings performed by a licensed professional can have many benefits for your plumbing system, including:

• Eliminating or preventing slow drains caused by a blockage in the drain
• Reducing foul odors caused by debris like food or hair that has become lodged in your pipes
• Getting rid of severe clogs further in the line
• Lowering your risk of dealing with a plumbing emergency
• Giving your plumber a chance to identify potential plumbing issues before they become a costly plumbing disaster

Professional drain cleanings can be extremely helpful to you as a home or business owner. Over the counter liquid drain cleaners, however, should be avoided, as they can sometimes end up doing more harm than good to your plumbing system.

Keeping Water Pressure Balanced

Maintaining a properly balanced water pressure in your home or business is also extremely important.

While having low water pressure is an annoyance no one enjoys, having water pressure that is too high can put you at risk of leaks, broken pipes, flooding, and a waste of water.

To make sure you are not putting your water pipes at risk, while also not sacrificing an adequate flow of water from your faucets, you'll want to keep your water pressure at an intermediary "Goldilocks" point.

Making Use of Hair Blockers in Your Drains

Keeping your drains free of clogs is another way to keep your plumbing system in peak condition.

One way you can prevent clogged grains is by using hair blockers or other screens to keep hair out of your shower or floor drains, and food debris out of your kitchen drain.

These screens can be purchased at most home improvement stores and are fairly inexpensive.

Knowing and Adhering to Your Town’s Requirements

In the event that your plumbing system ever does need extensive repair like a major repiping job, it is important to consider what kinds of permits your local government requires you have for the project.

For example, the city of Apple Valley, MN usually requires a building permit for all repairs or installations to plumbing systems, as well as a list of inspections that must take place during construction and after the job is complete.

You should always contact your city’s department of building inspections for specific details about the required permits and inspections before beginning a project.