What can I flush down the toilet?

ONLY toilet paper! Despite what any brand or packaging might tell you, only toilet paper will break down in water and safely flush. All other products such as baby wipes, sanitary products, contraceptives, dental floss and Q Tips etc., routinely clog drains and heavily tax the city sewers.

Why should I change my main water shut off valve?

This is hands down the most important piece of plumbing in your entire house and should be inspected and usually changed! We visit countless houses and witness old shut off valves (often buried in a basement wall) with broken or missing handles and often non functional. The ability to INSTANTLY close your water thanks to a modern ¼ turn ball valve is crucial. Contact us to change your main valve (a standard quick service call will take care of that ) and you will rest easy knowing your house has instant shut off protection.

Why should I turn off my main water valve if leaving for more than 48 hours?

Your insurance company probably mandates that you shut the water off if leaving for more than 48 hours and many will NOT cover flood damage should you not. Also consider investing in a WIFI automated shut off valve with flood detectors. This product consists of a small motorized main valve that is WIFI controlled and water detectors that can sense a leak or flood and INSTANTLY close the water to the entire house! It’s the difference between a massive and grossly expensive insurance claim and a few drops of water on the floor. They can be integrated with your house alarm in that every time you set the alarm and leave your house, the water is shut off. Contact us and we would be more than happy to explain in greater detail.

How often should I change my hot water tank?

Your hot water tank should be changed every 10 years and every 8 years if living in a condo. The risk of flooding with older tanks is simply not worth taking a chance with. And speaking of hot water tanks, consider buying rather than renting. An average 60 gallon rental is approx. $20 per month taxes included. That is $2400 for 10 years! You can have Integra supply AND install a much better quality commercial grade unit for approx. $1000 less. Contact us to save money today!

What is a Back Water Valve? Do I have one and if not do I need one?

A back water valve or BWV is a round “one way” door or flapper in your sanitary drain pipe. As you flush a toilet or run a shower, the water forces the door to open and allows the water to evacuate and proceed to the city sewer. Once you stop flushing or turn off the shower, the door closes. In case of a city sewer backup, your house is protected as the water cannot force its way back into your house causing extensive damage. Additional, it is an excellent protection against rats entering your house through your plumbing. We often receive calls about rats coming in through basement toilets in homes that have no BWV protection. Call us today to have your home inspected! 

Why should I schedule a plumbing inspection AND sewer camera inspection when buying a home?

Buying a home is quite possibly the single most expensive purchase you will ever make. While calling a qualified home inspector is always a great idea, consider calling a licensed plumber too. We have the insight and knowledge to save you thousands of dollars!

A sewer camera inspection is a must too! Replacing a main drain can easily cost between $7000 to $10,000 and knowing that your main drain is recent and in excellent working condition will allow you to proceed with your new home purchase stress free.

As well, having to retrofit your house due to old galvanized water supply pipes or even faulty 80’s PEX pipes can costs thousands of dollars and may even prevent you from having proper insurance coverage too. Contact us today to schedule an inspection.