Q: What’s the difference between a plumber-installed backup sump pump and one I buy at a big-box store? A: A licensed plumber installs a professional-grade backup system that’s built to last, properly sized for your home, and backed by a warranty. Store-bought systems are often “one-size-fits-all” kits with weaker pumps, smaller batteries, and limited run-time. Q: Why does the installation matter so much? A: A backup sump pump is only as good as its installation. A plumber ensures: Correct pump sizing for your sump pit and groundwater volume. Proper discharge piping and check valve installation. Secure electrical wiring and dedicated circuits. Testing to guarantee the system actually runs when the power goes out. A handyman or DIYer may skip these steps, leading to premature failure or flooding. Q: Are professional systems stronger than store-bought ones? A: Yes. Professional systems use heavy-duty pumps and deep-cycle batteries designed for extended pumping during storms. Many store-bought kits use smaller marine batteries that run out quickly, sometimes in just a few hours. Q: What about warranties and support? A: When installed by a licensed plumber, you’ll get a manufacturer’s warranty and workmanship guarantee. If something goes wrong, you have someone to call. With store-bought systems, you’re often on your own after purchase—especially if the installation wasn’t done to code. Q: Doesn’t a store-bought system save me money? A: It might up front, but the risk is higher. A cheap system that fails during a heavy rainstorm could lead to thousands in water damage. A professionally installed system is an investment in protecting your basement and home value. Q: Bottom line—why choose a licensed plumber? A: Peace of mind. A plumber-installed backup sump pump system is: Professionally sized and installed. Reliable during storms and power outages. Backed by warranty and service. Designed to protect your home for years, not just a season.

Your garbage disposal is one of the hardest-working appliances in your kitchen. It chews up food scraps, keeps your sink clear, and helps make cleanup quick. But it’s not invincible. The truth is, many clogs and breakdowns happen because of what’s put down the disposal —and even the most durable units have limits. Knowing what’s safe (and what’s not) can save you costly repairs and keep your plumbing running smoothly. At Reliable Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc ., we’ve seen it all—from disposals jammed with bottle caps to pipes clogged with pasta. Here’s what you need to know to keep yours in top shape. What’s Safe to Grind in a Garbage Disposal While disposals aren’t meant to replace your trash can, they can safely handle certain food scraps: Soft fruits and vegetables (apple slices, peeled cucumbers) Small amounts of cooked meat (cut into pieces) Citrus peels (helps freshen the unit—use sparingly) Cold water while grinding (helps move debris through pipes) What NOT to Put Down the Disposal Certain items may seem harmless but can wreak havoc on your disposal and plumbing: 1. Potato Peels & Starchy Foods When ground up, they turn into a sticky paste that clings to the blades and pipes. 2. Grease, Oil, and Fat These cool and solidify in your pipes, creating blockages that worsen over time. 3. Fibrous Vegetables Celery, corn husks, and asparagus fibers can wrap around the blades and jam the motor. 4. Eggshells The membrane inside eggshells can tangle around the grinder, and the shell grit can stick in pipes. 5. Pasta and Rice They expand with water and can fill the trap, causing slow drains or backups. Best Practices for Garbage Disposal Maintenance Run Cold Water While Grinding This helps solidify any grease so it’s chopped up and flushed away instead of coating your pipes. Clean the Disposal Regularly Grind a few ice cubes to knock debris off the blades, then follow with citrus peel for freshness. Feed Items Slowly Don’t overload the disposal—give it time to grind each batch. Keep It Running a Few Seconds After Food Clears This ensures everything washes fully into the main drain line. When to Call Reliable Plumbing If your garbage disposal makes unusual noises, clogs frequently, or won’t turn on, it’s time for professional help. We can clear the blockage, repair the unit, or replace it if needed. 💡 Tip from Our Team: Treat your garbage disposal like a helper—not a trash can. The better you care for it, the longer it will serve you. 📞 Call Reliable Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc . at (708) 633-9614 or schedule service online for expert garbage disposal repair and drain cleaning in Tinley Park and the surrounding suburbs.

I f you’ve ever had a slow or clogged drain, you’ve probably been tempted to grab a bottle of store-bought chemical drain cleaner. The promise is appealing—pour it in, wait a few minutes, and watch your clog disappear. Unfortunately, what most homeowners don’t realize is that these products can do far more harm than good. Over time, they can damage your plumbing, harm your health, and even create bigger problems down the road. At Reliable Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc. , we want our customers in Tinley Park and the surrounding suburbs to understand the risks—and know the safer options available. Why Chemical Drain Cleaners Are a Problem 1. They Can Damage Your Pipes Most chemical drain cleaners use harsh substances like sodium hydroxide or sulfuric acid to dissolve blockages. While they might eat through the clog, they can also eat through your pipes. PVC Pipes: The heat from the chemical reaction can warp or melt them. Older Metal Pipes: Corrosion can weaken pipe walls, leading to leaks. 2. They Put Your Health at Risk These cleaners can cause: Skin burns from accidental splashes. Harmful fumes that irritate your eyes, nose, and lungs. Dangerous reactions if mixed with other household cleaners. 3. They’re Hard on the Environment Once flushed down, chemical cleaners enter the water system and can harm aquatic life. They also contribute to long-term water quality issues. 4. They Often Provide Only a Temporary Fix If the clog is caused by grease buildup, foreign objects, or a bigger sewer line issue, chemicals won’t fix the root cause—they’ll just temporarily punch a small hole in the blockage. Safer, More Effective Alternatives 1. Mechanical Methods Plunger: Simple, effective, and safe for your pipes. Drain Snake (Auger): A hand-cranked or motorized tool that physically removes the clog. 2. DIY Solutions Hot Water & Dish Soap: Works well for grease-related clogs in kitchen sinks. Baking Soda & Vinegar: Creates a natural fizzing reaction to help break up small blockages. 3. Professional Drain Cleaning When in doubt, call a licensed plumber. We use specialized tools like motorized augers to clear clogs completely—without damaging your pipes. When to Call Reliable Plumbing & Sewer Service If you’ve tried safe home remedies and your drain is still slow—or if you notice recurring clogs—there’s likely a deeper issue. That’s when professional inspection and cleaning can save you money (and headaches) in the long run. At Reliable Plumbing, we’ll diagnose the root of the problem, recommend the safest solution, and keep your plumbing in top shape. 💡 Tip from Our Team: Never mix different types of chemical drain cleaners—it can create toxic gas or cause dangerous chemical reactions.

Yesterday, I helped a homeowner with a completely backed-up kitchen sink. They’d already tried every DIY fix in the book with no luck. When I arrived, I discovered the culprit: powder-based dishwasher pods like Cascade. Over time, the powder inside these pods can build up in your drain lines. Once activated by water, it tends to form a thick, cement-like sludge that clings to the inside of your pipes. In this case, the blockage was so dense I had to use a specialized machine to break it apart and clear the line. This isn’t a one-off situation—I get calls like this all the time. Powder detergents (especially from pods) can be rough on your plumbing, especially if your pipes already have a bit of grease or buildup. Plumber's Recommendation: Switch to a liquid dishwasher detergent or liquid gel pods. They're much gentler on your plumbing and less likely to create long-term issues. Avoid an expensive plumbing call—change your detergent today! If you’re dealing with a backed-up sink or slow drainage in your kitchen, give us a call at Reliable Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc. We’re here to help!

If you’ve ever seen a bug crawl out of a sink or smelled something foul from an unused drain, you’re not imagining things. Insects, sewer gases, and even rodents can find their way into your home through dry or unused drains. In fact, one of the most overlooked ways pests enter your home is through dry plumbing traps—especially in laundry rooms, guest bathrooms, or basement floor drains that rarely get used. Here’s what causes it—and how to stop it before it becomes a bigger problem. 🪤 Why Do Pests Come Through Drains? Inside every drain is a curved pipe known as a P-trap. Its job is to hold water, which acts as a barrier to keep sewer gases and small pests from coming up the pipe. But if that drain isn’t used for a few weeks (or even days in dry weather), the water in the trap evaporates. Once that happens, it’s an open invitation for: Cockroaches Drain flies Silverfish Spiders Sewer gas odors In some cases, mice and rats have even been known to enter homes through the sewer system and come up through dry traps! 🧰 How to Prevent Pests from Coming Through Your Drains 1. Run Water in Unused Drains Weekly Flush each unused sink, tub, shower, and floor drain with cold water for 30–60 seconds weekly. This keeps the trap filled and functioning. 2. Add Mineral Oil to Slower-Evaporating Drains For drains you don’t use often (like basement floors), pour about a cup of water down the drain, followed by a few tablespoons of mineral oil. The oil slows down evaporation and keeps the water seal intact longer. 3. Use Drain Plugs or Caps If you know a sink or tub won’t be used for a while (like a vacation home or guest bathroom), seal it with a drain plug or cap to block pests entirely. 4. Install a Trap Primer For long-term protection, especially in basement floor drains, a trap primer is a small device that automatically adds water to the trap as needed. It’s a professional installation but worth the investment in pest prevention. 5. Get a Plumbing Inspection if You Notice Odors or Bugs If pests are already showing up or there’s a foul smell coming from your drain, it may be more than just a dry trap. You could have cracked pipes, leaks, or broken venting—issues that only a licensed plumber should address. 🏡 Reliable Plumbing: Your Partner in Drain Health At Reliable Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc., we help Tinley Park homeowners prevent costly and creepy surprises from neglected plumbing systems. Whether it’s identifying dry traps, installing trap primers, or fixing sewer line issues—we’ve got your back. 🧼 Keep Your Drains Full and Your Home Pest-Free Don’t let dry drains invite unwanted guests into your home. A few simple habits—or the right plumbing solutions—can make all the difference. 📞 Call Reliable Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc. at (708) 633-9614 or Schedule Your Drain Checkup Online today.

When a plumbing emergency hits—or you're planning upgrades like a new water heater or bathroom remodel—finding a trustworthy plumber can make all the difference. But with so many companies out there, how do you know which one is legit? At Reliable Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc., we've seen firsthand how homeowners in Tinley Park and surrounding suburbs can get burned by unlicensed, uninsured, or inexperienced plumbers. Here’s what to look for when choosing the right professional for your job. 1. ✅ Proper Licensing & Certification A licensed plumber is more than just a formality—it's your first sign of a qualified professional. In Illinois, all plumbers must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). A legit company should have no problem sharing their license number and credentials. Tip: Check their license status online or ask directly. If they hesitate, walk away. 2. ✅ Insurance Coverage (Liability & Workers’ Comp) Always ask if the plumbing company carries general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. This protects you, your home, and the workers in case of an accident or property damage. Without insurance, you could be on the hook for repairs or medical bills if something goes wrong on your property. 3. ✅ Transparent Estimates & Pricing A reliable plumber will give you a clear, upfront estimate before starting any work. That includes breaking down parts, labor, and any potential add-ons—without hidden fees. At Reliable Plumbing, we believe in fair, honest pricing—and no surprise charges once the job’s done. 4. ✅ Solid Local Reputation & Reviews Look for a plumbing company with a strong track record in your area. Check Google reviews, Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings, and community Facebook groups. Do they respond professionally to feedback? We’re proud to serve Tinley Park, Orland Park, Mokena, Oak Lawn, Frankfort and many of the surrounding suburbs with many 5-star reviews from satisfied customers. 5. ✅ Experience With the Job You Need Not all plumbers specialize in the same types of jobs. If you're dealing with sewer line repairs, sump pump installations, or repiping, make sure the company has done similar work and can provide examples. We’ve handled everything from backed-up kitchen sinks to full bathroom plumbing overhauls—no job too big or small. 6. ✅ Written Guarantees or Warranties A reputable plumber stands by their work. Ask if they offer a warranty on parts and labor. It’s a sign they believe in the quality of their service—and won’t disappear if problems arise later. Reliable Plumbing offers service warranties because we do the job right the first time—but we’re always here if you need us. 7. ✅ Professionalism From First Call to Final Cleanup Legit plumbers show up on time, communicate clearly, wear clean clothes, and treat your home with respect. Clean vehicles, quality tools, and even how they leave your space after the job says a lot about how seriously they take their work. Ready to Hire a Licensed Plumber in your Area? Don’t leave your plumbing to chance. Whether you need emergency repairs or are planning a renovation, Reliable Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc. is here to help. ✅ Licensed ✅ Insured ✅ Locally Trusted ✅ Fast, Friendly, and Fair

Why I Started Reliable Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc — And Why I Chose Tinley Park, IL

When something goes wrong with your plumbing system, it’s not always easy to tell whether it can wait or if you need emergency plumbing services. At Reliable Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc., we’ve seen it all—from midnight burst pipes to Saturday morning sump pump failures. If you’re dealing with any of the signs below, it’s time to search for a licensed plumber near you right away. 1. Water Pooling Around Your Foundation This could mean a sewer line repair is urgently needed. A damaged sewer line can wreak havoc on your home’s structure and should be inspected immediately. 2. Sudden Drop in Water Pressure Whether it's in the shower or kitchen sink, a loss in water pressure can signal a pipe leak repair issue that needs attention. 3. Unpleasant Odors from Drains Smelly drains are more than just annoying—they might indicate a clogged sewer line. Fast and effective drain cleaning can clear the issue before it worsens. 4. Water Heater Making Strange Noises Don’t ignore banging or rumbling sounds from your water heater. These could mean it’s time for a water heater repair or even a replacement. 5. Frequent Toilet Backups If your toilet is clogging regularly, there might be a deeper issue in your system. Clogged toilet problems are common and easily solved by a professional plumber. 6. Visible Mold or Mildew A hidden leak can cause mold to grow in walls or ceilings. You’ll need a expertise plumbing service to locate and repair it before it damages your home further. 7. Gurgling Drains When your drains gurgle after flushing or running water, it might signal a vent or sewer problem. It’s best to have a plumbing inspection right away. 8. Slow Drains Throughout the House One slow drain might be an isolated problem, but multiple slow drains suggest a need for thorough drain and sewer cleaning. 9. No Hot Water Running out of hot water quickly? You may need a licensed plumber to check your water heater system for sediment buildup or faulty parts. 10. Sump Pump Failure Your sump pump installation may be outdated or malfunctioning. A quick professional replacement can save your basement from flooding. Need Reliable Emergency Plumbing Services? At Reliable Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc., we provide affordable plumbing solutions. Whether you’re searching for an emergency plumber near me or need help with routine maintenance, our expert team is here to help. 📞 Call us now or schedule your service online. We’ll be there when you need us most.

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.