While these bugs are harmless, they can be a bit annoying.  Besides the obnoxious hum (or roar) of their mating call, the cicadas are coming in great numbers, having the potential to outnumber humans 600-to-1.  Leaving behind shed skin and later their dead bodies, there is a lot of potential for insect debris to get into your mechanical systems, drains, and pools, and cause problems at your facility.

Throughout the next month, it will be important to stay vigilant with outdoor maintenance on HVAC equipment, drains, and pools.

HVAC

• Put screens up around cooling tower to prevent cicadas from getting into the tower and reducing airflow.
• Clean cooling tower strainers to prevent clogs from cicadas, keeping the flow rates and efficiency of chiller intact.
• Frequently clean insect debris out of intake air pathways of air-handling units as well as inside filters to keep a good flow of air and good indoor air quality (IAQ).

Drains

• Clean up around area drains, roof drains and any other outside drains to help prevent clogs from bug debris.

Pools and Ornamental Fountains

• Clean pool and fountains often.
• Clean pool and fountain basket strainers or filters often.

W. L. Gary Company, Inc. announced the promotion of Justin Polhemus to Coordination Manager.  Polhemus will be responsible for overseeing and leading W. L. Gary Company’s in-house CAD department.

“W. L. Gary strives to be the mechanical contractor of choice in the DC area based on the quality, timeliness, and efficiency of our installations.  Our Coordination team plays a significant role in helping us achieve these goals,” explained Hans Allen, Project Executive at W. L. Gary Company.  “Justin has the leadership and vision to keep W. L. Gary in the forefront of the CAD and BIM aspects of mechanical contracting.”

With 15 years of experience in the commercial plumbing and mechanical industry, Polhemus began his career as an apprentice, working his way to lead mechanic, project coordinator, and coordination department manager.  For the past 10 years, he has been coordinating and designing commercial plumbing and mechanical systems using BIM.  He has been involved in the coordination and design of many high rise buildings in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area, implementing prefabrication to assist in a smoother installation process.  Polhemus is currently a member of Steamfitters Local 602.

About W. L. Gary Company, Inc.

Founded more than a century ago, W. L. Gary Company, Inc. is one of the oldest plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning providers in the Washington, DC area.  This family owned and family operated business is known for its high quality workmanship and attention to detail.  The company’s mission is to provide solutions for our customers, opportunity for our partners, and support for our community.  W. L. Gary Company currently serves over 1500 customers in the Washington, DC Metro Area and employs 150 people from around the region.  It has been recognized as a MSCA GreenSTAR Contractor for its work in energy savings and stewardship.  For more information about W. L. Gary Company, Inc. visit its website at www.wlgary.com

Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act

On January 4, 2011, the Federal Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act was signed, amending the Safe Drinking Water Act.  This act redefines “lead free” as “not containing more than 0.2 percent lead when used with respect to solder and flux and not more than a weighted average of 0.25 percent lead when used with respect to the wetted surfaces of pipes, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings, and fixtures.”

The act does allow for some exceptions as to when “lead free” products must be used:

1. pipes, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings, or fixtures, including backflow preventers, that are used exclusively for nonpotable services such as manufacturing, industrial processing, irrigation, outdoor watering, or any other uses where the water is not anticipated to be used for human consumption
2. toilets, bidets, urinals, fill valves, flushometer valves, tub fillers, shower valves, service saddles, or water distribution main gate valves that are 2 inches in diameter or larger.

Existing infrastructure does not need to be changed out to meet these new “lead free” standards.  However, if a leaded component is removed for any reason, it must be replaced with a “lead free” component or risk penalties.

Anticipated vs. Intended

Maryland has had a similar “lead free” law in place since 2012, while California and Vermont have had one since 2010.

While these states have had these laws in place for a couple of years, a slight change in wording in the federal law could cause some changes in interpretation and implementation.  In the states’ laws, the wording excludes having to use “lead free” plumbing parts in systems where the water is “not intended” for human consumption.  Under the federal law, however, the exceptions to lead free plumbing are in systems in which water is “not anticipated” for human consumption.  This slight change in wording makes the federal law a little more open to interpretation as to what may or may not apply.

Prepare Now

• Make sure you understand the law – which products are included and which are exempt
• Start looking at “lead free” products and identifying if they are compliant with the new law (the wetted surface contains less than 0.25% of lead by weight)
• Start thinking about projects you are planning, particularly ones that will be installed after January 4, 2014 to ensure you are planning for proper, compliant parts
• Keep in mind, there will most likely be a pricing difference.  “Lead free” plumbing products tend to be a bit more expensive, particularly metal ones.  Brass and bronze are both alloys of copper and other metals.  Lead was added to make it more machinable and easier to work with in the manufacturing process.  When you lower the amount of lead present, these metals tend to be harder and therefore wear out the manufacturer’s machines faster, adding to the cost of production and the retail price we will all pay.

You can be sure that we will be staying up to date on these and other changes in the industry and work hard to keep you informed.

To keep up to date with regulations, new technology, money-saving tips, and more, sign up here for our email list.

Little did they know that was exactly the problem, roots!  Through a video inspection of the pipeline, we discovered that the roots from the tree in the front yard found their way to their sewer line and grew.

Tree roots are responsible for seeking out water, oxygen, and nutrients to sustain the entire plant.  Whether you are in a residential property or commercial property, sewer lines carry exactly what roots are searching for, a fairly constant flow of water, oxygen, and nutrients.  Roots can access pipes made of terra cotta or cast iron through some very tiny spaces.  Roots can be small and hairlike at first, slipping through a small crack in the pipe or even through the joints in the pipe.  Once the tiny roots climb into the pipe, they will continue to grow unless they are stopped.

The roots can take over the pipe.  Sometimes the cluster of roots alone can clog the pipe, but sometimes, even if the roots have not completely stopped up the line, they can catch the contents flowing through the sewer line, including fats, oils, and grease, creating a backup.   When the sewage cannot get through, it backs up in the building, as it did in our friend’s house.

If you are having problems with your sewer line, the first thing to do is it to figure out the cause, whether it is roots or something else.  Sometimes the answer can be found in a visual inspection, but other times a video inspection of the interior of the sewer is needed.  Once the problem is identified, the right solution can be implemented to resolve it.

How to fix the problem

Short Term

Depending on the degree of the root infiltration, chemicals can be used to help stop the growth of roots.  Copper sulfate can be flushed down the toilet periodically to help limit root growth within the sewer line.

If the pipe is pretty clogged, it is probably best to start by having the pipe cleared by machine cleaning or hydrojetting.  These methods will cut out the roots, but the roots could grow back over time.  It would probably be beneficial to keep up maintenance on your sewer line either with chemicals or periodic cleanings.

Long Term

Depending on how much damage the roots have done to your system you may need to make a more drastic fix. If you do not want to be concerned with continued maintenance, you can go with the more permanent solution of replacing the pipe with PVC.  PVC is glued at the joints so it is completely sealed, meaning roots are unable to penetrate it.  Sometimes the pipe can be repaired at the point of infiltration of the roots through a trenchless method which means a lot less digging to make the repair.

Ultimately it is best to consult a licensed plumber and discuss the options that you have.  If you have had root problems in the past, it might be a good idea to have your sewer line video inspected and look into scheduling routine maintenance to avoid the mess of a sewer backup in your building.  Contact us; we’d be happy to help.

The valve is open when the water flows in a normal direction. The valve closes to prevent water from flowing in the reverse direction.

Backflow Preventer

Backflow preventers play an integral role in keeping the potable water in your system clean for you to use.  Have your backflow preventer checked to make sure it is in good working order before starting up your irrigation system.

Hose Bibs

It’s time to dewinterize your outdoor hose bibs and yard hydrants. Check your hose bib for any cracks resulting from freezing. If there are no visible cracks, turn it to the off position and attach your hose. Go inside and turn the water on slowly. Return outside and turn on your hose bib to make sure the water runs freely. If there are any leaks or a problem with the flow, your pipes could have frozen this winter. Have a professional take a look at it.

Excess water from perimeter drainage pipes flows into the sump pump pit. When the water level rises, the sump pump turns on and pumps the water out of the pit up through the vertical drainage pipe and away from the building.

With the possibility of heavy rains, make sure that your sump pump is working.  To test it, you can dump a bucket or two of water into the pit.  Your pump should turn on, dispense the water, and shut off.  If it does not function as it should, have it checked by a professional.

Also, if you have a battery backup for your sump pump, make sure it is operational.  If you don’t currently have a battery backup, you may want to have one installed. Electricity can be affected by storms, which is when you will need your sump pump the most.

With trees flowering, birds building nests, and plants growing, it is important to check your gutters, down spouts, areaway drains, and plumbing vents for debris.  Clean all these areas up to prevent clogs and problems with your plumbing systems.

W. L. Gary Company can assist you with any of these maintenance items, especially if you encounter a problem.  Contact us today.

This year, W. L. Gary Company, Inc. celebrates 90 years of incorporation.  We celebrate our forward-thinking founder, Walker, who incorporated his business at a time when very few companies did so.  With this forethought, as well as the dedication of employees, clients, and partners over the years, a legacy was built.

W. L. Gary Company, Inc.’s mission to provide solutions for our clients, opportunities for our partners, and support for our community, is still closely aligned to the values and goal of our founder.  We are proud to continue serving the DC metropolitan area and we thank all of those who have helped make our company a success.

Throughout April, we will be sharing some of the experiences and memories of our long-time employees that reflect this mission.  Follow the link below or check out our Facebook page throughout April to see these updates.

90 Years Reflections

Read our full Company History

There are a few things you can do to get your AC system and home or building ready for cooling season.

1. Clean up around outside unit.

If you have an outdoor unit, make sure the area around it is cleaned up.  Air flow through the outdoor unit is important in running an efficient unit.  Clear away branches and leaves.  Cut down overgrown grass or plants.    Throughout the season, periodically check to make sure the area is still clear of debris.

2. Change filters.

Clean filters are important for efficiency and good indoor air quality (IAQ).  Start out the cooling season with a clean filter.  The EPA suggests checking your filter every month and changing it when it is dirty, at least every 3 months.

3. Change batteries.

Change the batteries in your thermostat to ensure it is and will work properly.  If you didn’t change the batteries in your smoke detector and carbon dioxide detector when you changed your clocks this past month, change them now.

4. Schedule pre-season check-up.

Your system should be checked by a professional at the beginning of cooling season to make sure it’s ready for operation.

5. Install programmable thermostat.

If your building or home is unoccupied for a portion of the day, install a programmable thermostat.  Set it a few degrees higher during the hours no one is home so you do not waste energy cooling an empty building.

6. Seal and insulate ducts.

According to the EPA, the deficiency in your duct system can cause a loss of 20 percent of the air in your system.  When air leaks out of the ducts, it causes the system to work harder, wasting energy.  Check connections on all accessible ducts, like in attics and unfinished basements, and at vents and registers.  Make sure they are sealed with mastic sealant or metal tape and well insulated.

7. Seal and insulate your building’s envelope.

Cool air can escape and hot air can enter through leaks in your buildings or home’s envelope.  By sealing these leaks and insulating your building or home, you can save up to 20% on your heating and cooling energy bill.

Water conservation not only has a global impact, it can greatly impact your building or home.  Water efficiency means lower water bills, lower energy bills, and possible recognition for your stewardship through “green” awards, such as LEED and ENERGY STAR.

You can play a major role in reducing the amount of water people use in the building.  Creating a “green” team and a “green” culture in your building can get people engaged in your efforts for a more water efficient building.   While sometimes it can be difficult to change people’s habits, you can start to curb the amount of water occupants consume by changing the fixtures they use.

So how much water can be saved by changing out fixtures?

Let’s look at the amount of water used by bathroom fixtures in an office building.  For this example, we are looking at an office building with 500 occupants, 300 males and 200 females.  There are a total of 35 toilets, 15 urinals, and 30 lavatory faucets in the building.

Toilets

If all of the 35 3.5 gpf toilets are upgraded to 1.28 gpf toilets, 63% less water will be used per flush, which is over 430,000 gallons of water saved in a year.

Urinals

If all 15 1.0 gpf urinals are upgraded to pint flush (0.125 gpf) urinals, 87% less water will be used per flush, which is over 34,000 gallons of water less a year.

Faucets

If all of the faucets, or at least all the aerators, are upgraded from 2.2 gpm to 0.5 gpm faucets, 77% less water will be used per minute, which could total as much as 330,000 gallons of water saved in a year.

With all of these upgrades, this building could use almost 800,000 gallons less water a year!  That means they could save in excess of $12,000 a year!

The quantity of exact gallons that can be saved will vary from building to building depending on occupancy, hours of operation, number of visitors, number of fixtures and frequency of fixture use.

If you are interested in  further exploring what these types of upgrades could mean for your building, get in touch with us, we’d be happy to help you find the best water efficiency solution for your building. 

Do you know how much water your home or building could be wasting because of a leak?

This week, take the time to check your building and home for leaks.  Some leaks may be easy for you to fix yourself, while others might require some assistance.  Don’t hesitate to give us a call to help you locate and/or fix leaks in your building or home.

Can you imagine life without a toilet or indoor running water?  Can you imagine walking miles to collect and then carry a large jug of water so your family could drink, eat, and clean?  Can you imagine watching your child get sick and die from drinking a basic necessity of life, water?

This is life without plumbing.  And, unfortunately, this is a reality for millions of people around the world.

• 783 million people lack access to safe drinking water
• 2.5 billion people lack improved sanitation
• About 200 million hours are spent each day globally collecting water
• 3.4 million people die each year from water related diseases, most are children under the age of five

Over the years, this situation has been improving thanks in part to the efforts of global organizations, like the United Nations and the World Health Organization.  But there is still a long way to go to make sure that everyone obtains their basic human right to safe drinking water and sanitation.

American Standard Poster from early 20th century http://www.americanstandard-us.com/store/plumber-protects/

When functional plumbing is engrained as part of everyday life, it becomes easy to take plumbing, clean water, and the plumbers who make it possible for granted.  It all begins to simply fade into the walls and underground where the pipes are buried.

Today on World Plumbing Day, let’s take a moment to consider how fortunate we are to have what is considered a luxury in many parts of the world. Thank the people that make this possible, the plumbers, utility workers, and organizations who are working to bring clean water and plumbing to all people.

As a mechanical contractor, we are proud of the work that we do in the plumbing industry to keep our community safe and healthy and we enjoy helping our customers be stewards of the environment. We applaud plumbers everywhere who take their role to “protect the health of the nation” seriously.

Take a little time this week to thank a plumber for the clean water and plumbing we enjoy!

Header Image courtesy of africa /FreeDigitalPhotos.net