Author: Kristen George

Gas Services

Gas Piping Inspection – A Safety Measure to Protect Your Building’s Occupants

Kristen George

NYC Gas Piping Inspection is a safety measure to protect your building’s occupants. The inspection includes a visual survey of exposed gas lines for evidence of excessive atmospheric corrosion, piping deterioration that has resulted in a dangerous condition and illegal connections.

Gas Piping Inspection

Local Law 152 requires all buildings except those classified as occupancy group R-3 to have periodic inspections by a Licensed Master Plumber (LMP) or qualified individual under LMP’s direct supervision. Inspections are required on a schedule based upon Community District.

In order to ensure your building’s gas piping is safe for its tenants, you must schedule a gas piping inspection. A failure to do so can result in a variety of problems, including poor air quality, fires, or explosions. This is why it’s important to have a qualified professional conduct the inspection and make necessary repairs. To be considered qualified, the inspector must be either a licensed master plumber or an individual who works under the “direct and continuing” supervision of a licensed master plumber who has met additional training requirements. A complete list of qualified inspectors can be found in the NYC rules linked above.

Those who are responsible for the maintenance of the plumbing system in a residential, commercial, or industrial building are required to hire an experienced plumber to perform a gas piping inspection. If you’re not sure who to hire, a search of the Master Plumbers Council database can help you find a qualified inspector. Additionally, if you do choose to hire an inspector, it’s recommended that you check both their current license status and disciplinary and voluntary surrender records.

Local Law 152 states that the City’s Department of Buildings, or DOB, requires certain properties to have their gas piping inspected on a regular basis. These inspections are designed to prevent dangerous conditions such as leaks and fires, and protect the safety of residents, maintenance staff, and city first responders.

Under this law, all buildings except for those in occupancy group R-3 (two family or less) must have their gas piping inspected at least once every four years. Fortunately, the process is fairly simple and requires no significant cost or time to complete.

The inspections must be conducted by a qualified gas piping system inspector who has been approved by the DOB. Depending on the type of building, the inspector must be a licensed master plumber or an individual who has been working under the direct and continuing supervision of a licensed master plumber who has completed additional training.

During an inspection, the inspector will test public spaces, hallways and corridors on floors that contain exposed gas piping or gas utilization equipment. The inspector will also need access to the point of entry to the gas service piping and to boiler and mechanical rooms. If the inspector finds any safety issues, such as a leak or improper installation, he will immediately shut off the gas supply and notify the utility company of the situation.

Inspection Report

Aside from identifying any conditions that could present a hazardous situation, the LMP must also walk the exposed gas piping in all non-tenant spaces, inspect for code violations and illegal connections, and test for combustible gases. The LMP must then provide the building owner with a written report of their inspection findings within 30 days of the inspection.

Once the inspection has been completed, the owner must submit to DOB a Gas Piping System Periodic Inspection Certification signed and sealed by the LMP who conducted or supervised the inspection. This submission must be made no later than the applicable DOB deadline (deadlines based on community district) or else a civil penalty of up to $10,000 will apply.

Local Law 152 of 2016 is a requirement that affects around 280,000 NYC buildings. This regulation aims to eliminate gas leaks and a variety of other unsafe conditions, like corroding pipes or illegal taps into the city’s pipes.

If an LMP finds any conditions that could pose a threat to safety, they are required by law to notify the building owner, the utility providing gas service to the property, and the DOB. The building owner is then required to correct the unsafe condition(s) and bring the building into full compliance with all City construction codes.

Despite the fact that gas piping inspections can be difficult to manage in these COVID times, it’s important to remember that the purpose of these inspections is to keep our residents, employees and tenants safe. It is critical that these inspections take place on schedule to avoid potentially catastrophic events, like the two East Harlem explosions that killed eight people and leveled several buildings back in 2014.

The best way to prepare for your LL152 gas piping inspection is to make sure that you have an experienced, licensed and insured professional conducting your inspection and handling your certification. Contact us now to get your LL152 gas piping inspection scheduled! We can help you meet the upcoming deadlines and avoid any unnecessary penalties. And if you’re not yet due for your LL152 inspection, we can assist in bringing your building up to date.

Corrective Actions

In the wake of several fatal explosions caused by poorly welded Consolidated Edison gas lines, the City of New York passed Local Law 152 in 2016. The law requires all buildings to have their gas piping systems inspected and certified.

Under this requirement, building owners must have a NYC Licensed Master Plumber (LMP) inspect their gas piping system once every four years. The inspection must include a visual survey of all exposed gas line from the point of entry into the building to the service meters. In addition, the LMP must also check public spaces to look for evidence of excessive atmospheric corrosion, piping deterioration that results in dangerous conditions, and illegal connections to the gas utility lines.

Depending on the findings of the LMP, corrective actions may be required to bring the building up to code. This can be anything from replacing a regulator to repairing a leak or clog in a pipe. Corrective actions must be completed, documented and filed with the LMP within 120 days after the inspection. If an inspector finds a dangerous condition such as a gas leak, the building’s gas will be shut off and the fire department will be called. All precautions must be taken, until the area is made safe.

If there are no dangerous conditions found, the building will be certified as in compliance with Local Law 152 and no corrective actions will be required. However, the owner must submit to DOB an Inspection Certification signed and sealed by the LMP who conducted the inspection stating that all conditions identified have been corrected.

A gas safety inspection will uncover clogs, blockages and other problems that could be damaging to your equipment and leading to inefficiency and high energy bills. In addition, a professional will be able to recommend ways to improve efficiency and help you save money on your electric bill. An annual inspection can also catch potential issues early, so you can address them before they become dangerous. In many cases, these problems are more cost effective to repair and easier to resolve than they would be if left untreated.

Certification

The Licensed Master Plumber (LMP) you hire should give you a Gas Piping Inspection Report within 30 days of the inspection. This includes the date of the inspection and a list of any conditions that need to be corrected. It also includes the test results from a pressure test that shows that your system is operating at acceptable levels. If you need more time to make the required corrections, then your LMP can file a one-time 180-day extension of the report due date with DOB.

Once you have made all of the necessary corrections, your LMP will need to certify your building’s Gas Piping System Periodic Inspection Certification with DOB. This can be done online through the GPS2 submission portal. This is an important step because any violations that aren’t submitted by the report due date may result in a civil penalty of up to $10,000.

In order to submit an inspection report, you must have a Licensed Master Plumber (LMP) or an individual working under the direct and continuing supervision of an LMP that has completed additional training. You can find a list of LMPs who have met this requirement by using the Know Your Construction Professional tool. This allows you to search for a licensee by name or business name and review any disciplinary actions they have had with DOB as well as any voluntary surrender records.

Your LMP will need to survey all exposed gas piping in your building from the point of entry of the gas lines into your property, as well as your building service meters. They will also need to survey the public spaces, hallways, and corridors in your building for signs of excessive atmospheric corrosion or piping deterioration that has resulted in a dangerous condition, any illegal connections, and non-code compliant installations.

The inspections must be performed by an LMP and conducted by a registered design professional (a registered architect or licensed professional engineer). A LMP can’t submit a gas piping system periodic inspection certification for a building that doesn’t contain a gas piping system.

Plumbing

Services Offered by Residential Plumbers

Kristen George

Plumber Cleveland OH covers many services, from clogged drains to water line repair. It’s important to understand how your plumbing system works so you can identify potential problems and call for help when necessary.

Your plumbing system brings clean freshwater in and carries wastewater out. It comprises hot and cold water supply pipes, fixtures, drain traps, vents, sewer lines, and septic systems.

Drain cleaning is one of the most common residential plumbing services plumbers offer. Every household has drains that carry waste and wastewater into the sewer line. Over time, these drains can become clogged with hair, soap scum, dirt, food scraps, coffee grounds, and other objects that block the flow of water. Regularly scheduled drain cleaning can prevent these items from building up and causing backups, which are both unsightly and dangerous.

Another reason to regularly clean your drains is to prevent foul odors from coming from them. These odors can be caused by bacteria, fungus, and mold that grow in drain slime. These smells can spread throughout the house and cause health problems if not addressed. In addition, it is a good idea to have your drains cleaned before having guests over, as a stinky drain can be embarrassing.

Residential plumbers use various methods to clean drains, including using an auger or sewer snake and hydrojetting. The type of method used depends on the size and location of the clog. If the clog is in a drainpipe, a plumber can use a power cable to break it up and remove it. Having your drains cleaned regularly can prevent these odor-causing issues and ensure that all of the pipes in your home are functioning properly.

Residential plumbing is complex, but it is also important for keeping your home running smoothly. Regular maintenance and drain cleaning can prevent costly problems, such as water damage or clogged drains. Contact a qualified plumber to learn more about the plumbing systems in your home and how to keep them in optimal working condition.

Water heaters are an essential part of every home’s plumbing system. They provide hot water for bathing, cleaning, and washing dishes. When they stop working, it can be a major inconvenience. Fortunately, residential plumbers can install new water heaters quickly and efficiently. They can also repair existing ones.

Another common service provided by residential plumbing companies is appliance installation. This includes installing dishwashers, washing machines, and other appliances. It is important to have these installations done by a qualified professional to ensure that the appliances work properly and don’t cause any damage to the plumbing system.

Residential plumbing services also include rerouting pipes. This is a necessary service when homeowners remodel their homes or add extensions. It is also a common service for older homes with outdated plumbing systems. Newer pipes are usually made of PVC, which is more durable and easier to install than older copper piping.

Plumbing systems in commercial settings differ from those found in residential properties. Commercial plumbing systems are more complex and require more frequent maintenance than residential ones. This is because commercial buildings are occupied by more people daily, so they have higher water usage rates. This means the plumbing systems must be more resilient to constant use and wear and tear.

A residential plumbing system consists of water-supply pipes, fixtures, drain pipes, traps, valves, vent pipes, and a water storage tank. Its purpose is to supply clean, potable water and eliminate waste. The water supply and drain pipes are usually PVC, offering various advantages over other pipe materials. For example, it can withstand high temperatures and resist corrosion. It can also be joined together using slip fittings without soldering.

The water line that connects your home to the city water line is usually buried underground. As such, seeing or diagnosing problems with it can take work. Fortunately, your plumber has the tools to identify and address issues quickly before they become costly emergencies.

Some factors, including corrosion, tree roots, and soil movement, can damage water lines. Corrosion is often caused by minerals that build up in the pipes over time, leading to blockages and reduced flow. In some cases, these deposits can cause the pipe to burst. Tree roots may invade the water line if it is weakened by corrosion or exposed, often causing leaks. The water line may also be damaged by soil movement, which can pressure the pipes and cause them to crack or break. High water pressure can also damage the water line, especially if caused by a faulty pressure regulator.

Once a plumber has identified the problem, they can use plumbing video cameras to pinpoint its location. From there, they can employ trenchless repair methods to minimize disruption to your property and yard.

A residential plumbing company can help you choose between water line repair or replacement. Repairing a water line can be more cost-effective than replacing it if the damage is minor, such as a small leak or crack. However, replacing the entire pipe may be more economical if the damage is severe. Talk to your plumber about the pros and cons of each option for your specific situation. This will help you decide the best way to maintain your water supply and keep it running smoothly.

If your home’s drains seem clogging more frequently than usual, it could be time for a sewer line repair. Clogged pipes can lead to slow or incomplete water flow from sinks and tubs and smelly sewage back-ups in toilets. In some cases, the problem can even be visible above ground, with parts of your yard growing super green due to a lack of nutrients. Other warning signs include sewer odors from your drains and moisture-loving pests like ants around your home.

A licensed plumber can check the condition of your sewer line with a camera threaded through your plumbing fixtures. This allows them to identify cracks, holes, collapsed sections, and more. Once they have a clear picture of your pipe’s health, they can recommend the right repair or replacement option.

Sometimes, a plumber can use a trenchless method that avoids excavation. They insert a felt sleeve or tube coated in tough, flexible epoxy resin into the damaged section of the sewer line. The plumber inflates the sleeve with air or water pressure, which presses against and seals the hole, creating a new pipe within your old one. This is an especially great option for homes with old pipes that have deteriorated or experienced root intrusion.

In other cases, a plumber may dig a large trench and replace the entire section of pipe. This is the most cost-effective and quickest option to get your home back in working order. As with any major plumbing project, the price can vary, so shop and get multiple quotes. In addition, it’s a good idea to ask if the plumber requires permission from neighbors or local authorities if your sewer line runs under their property.

The water line is an essential plumbing system component, connecting the main water supply to the rest of your house. It’s buried underground and links to your water meter and the main shut-off valve. Eventually, it’ll need to be replaced.

It’s important to have a properly functioning water line for ample fresh water for cooking, drinking, and washing. If your water line needs repair or replacement, contact residential plumbing companies for help.

Many factors can determine whether your water line requires repair or replacement. The age of the line and the material it’s made of are a few examples. Repairing galvanized or lead pipes is not legal so that you may need a complete replacement.

Another important consideration is how much the repair or replacement will cost. Generally, replacing your water line is more cost-effective than repairing it continuously. A professional plumber can help you weigh the pros and cons of both options so you can decide what’s best for your home.

If you need to replace your water line, a professional plumber can help you choose between traditional and trenchless methods. A conventional replacement will require digging a trench along the length of the line, while a trenchless method can avoid this. The primary factor in determining which method to use is the water line’s location and any obstructions like rocks and tree roots.

Several types of water pipe are also available, each boasting its price range, lifespan, and maintenance requirements. For example, PVC piping is budget-friendly and easy to install, but it’s less durable than other types of pipes and can crack in freezing temperatures.

Septic Tank

Grease Trap Servicing Costs

Kristen George

Grease Trap Servicing is essential for restaurants, and they are required by local code to catch fatty waste before it enters the sewer system. However, they require regular cleanings and record-keeping to be effective. Please do so to avoid expensive sewer blockages and fines.

It is important to hire a professional who is licensed to clean, service, and pump grease traps as well as transport and dispose of grease trap byproducts. Here are some tips to help you choose the right one for your business.

grease trap servicing

A grease trap is a key part of any restaurant. It helps to keep plumbing problems and health hazards away while also preventing FOG from flowing into the sewage system. This waste is one of the leading causes of sewer overflows in the country, costing restaurants thousands of dollars each year. If you don’t have a grease trap, your city could fine you.

However, a grease trap can only work properly if cleaned regularly. Usually, this is every three to six months. But the frequency depends on how much food your restaurant serves, as well as the size of the trap.

The most common sign that it’s time to clean the grease trap is a foul odor, which many factors can cause. The odor can be due to cooking fats, oils, and grease that have hardened inside the trap. It can also be caused by a clog in the incoming line, which will cause the trap to overflow. If the odor persists, you should call a plumber for help.

Another sign is the presence of grease flakes on the floor around the trap or in the kitchen area. This is a sign that the grease trap needs to be pumped out or clogged. The flakes can be caused by the same things that cause the odor, or they may be a result of other problems in the kitchen.

It is important to have your grease trap pumped and cleaned regularly, as this will prevent the build-up of solids and grease. To do this, a truck with a large liquid holding tank will come to your restaurant and pump the contents of the grease trap into the tank. The truck will then take the waste to a special grease disposal site and dispose of it.

Keeping your grease trap and interceptor clean will save you money on plumbing repairs, prevent foul smells in the kitchen, and help your business meet local requirements. Moreover, it will protect your customers and staff from the risks of foodborne illnesses.

There is a lot of different equipment needed for grease trap servicing. This includes various tools for cleaning the grease trap and a vacuum truck that will remove the accumulated grease and haul it away for disposal at an approved facility. It is important to have proper training on how to use these tools properly.

Failing to clean your grease trap regularly can lead to unpleasant odors and other problems in the kitchen. You may also risk a sewer backup or costly plumbing repairs. Many municipalities require restaurants to keep their grease traps clean to prevent these issues.

Grease traps are designed to stop fats, oils, and grease from entering the sewer lines. When left unchecked, these substances solidify and cause drain and sewer line blockages. This causes sewage back-ups in your restaurant and can result in serious fines from the city.

Keeping your grease traps cleaned and emptied regularly is critical to the safety of your employees and customers. During this process, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for handling and transporting the grease. Also, it is a good idea to take photos or diagrams of the different parts of the trap so you can put them back together once they are cleaned and ready for re-installation.

Some restaurants try to save money by using solvents or enzymes that allegedly break down the fats and oils in their grease traps. While these chemicals might work to an extent, they are not recommended as a long-term solution. They can damage the trap’s structure and cause it to malfunction or fail. Additionally, they can lead to dangerous fumes for employees and customers.

It is important to choose a qualified company to handle your grease trap maintenance. A professional service will arrive on-site and perform a thorough cleaning and inspection. They will then pump, scrape, and wash the grease trap. They will also inspect the piping and pumps to make sure everything is in working order. They will also provide a history report for your records.

Grease traps are designed to do exactly what their name implies: catch and separate fatty oils, greases, and sludge from wastewater. The separating of these substances allows the wastewater to pass through into the sewer system and be disposed of. If these traps become too full, they can cause backflow that could contaminate the city’s sewer lines and result in costly fines. Having an experienced team of professionals regularly clean a commercial kitchen’s grease trap can prevent this problem and keep the restaurant running smoothly.

A professional service will come to the site and use a truck with a large tank to pump out the contents of an indoor or outdoor grease trap. After the contents have been pumped out, the specialists will clean the interior and exterior of the trap. They will also test the trap to ensure it is functioning properly. This is a critical part of the process as if a trap has been left too long between cleanings, it can develop clogs that will slow the wastewater drainage and produce an unpleasant odor.

The technicians will also make sure that the trap has been cleaned thoroughly by performing a liquid depth test on the trap. The technicians will then dispose of the grease and sludge safely. They will also provide a report to the client detailing the date and time of the cleaning, as well as the status of the trap. This will help the business to stay compliant with local, state, and federal regulations regarding grease management.

Aside from a rotten odor, a backed-up grease trap will likely close down the kitchen for days, which means lost sales and potential food contamination issues. Contacting a reputable, experienced grease trap maintenance company is always the best option. These professionals will know the appropriate laws for your area, as well as have the experience to get the best possible results from your trap. It’s important to find a company that offers a detailed work plan and a 24-hour service hotline to handle any emergency.

Several factors can impact the cost of grease trap cleaning. These factors include the size of the trap, the type of waste disposed of, and the frequency of cleaning. A professional should be able to provide you with a precise cost estimate based on these factors. They should also be able to explain any extra charges that may apply.

When choosing a service provider, it is important to consider their experience and reputation. You can do this by asking for references from previous clients and reading reviews online. Lastly, it is important to get quotes from multiple companies before making your decision. This will ensure that you are getting the best price for your services.

Grease traps are designed to capture fats, oils, and greases before they can enter the sewage system. If not cleaned regularly, they can cause blockages in pipes and drains. This can result in expensive repairs and fines from local authorities. By following regular maintenance and cleaning routines, you can avoid these problems.

It is important to note that cleaning a grease trap requires specialized equipment and techniques. The process involves removing the accumulated fat buildup within the trap and disposing of it according to municipal regulations. In addition, cleaning grease traps should be done by licensed professionals to prevent health and safety issues. Failure to comply with municipal regulations can result in heavy fines and potential environmental damage.

If you are looking for a company to clean your grease traps, you should choose one with years of experience and is reputable. It is also helpful to choose a company that offers a guarantee on their work. This will give you peace of mind that the job will be completed properly and on time.

Cleaning a grease trap is typically more costly when the device is not cleaned regularly. This is because the grease trap needs to be pumped and emptied to perform properly. It is also important to note that the location of the trap can affect the cost as well.