Plumbing camera proves effective on large-scale residential project
Problem: A large-scale inspection task was undertaken by Harkins Builders to assess the integrity of plumbing pipes from the stack to the toilets in a Maryland residential project. The conventional approach, which could have involved removing 408 toilets or cutting open ceilings, was neither feasible nor cost-effective. Initial attempts to visually inspect with drain cameras and borescopes proved inadequate due to the inability to navigate the tight bends within the toilet plumbing.
Solution: Fiberscope.net by MEDIT introduced the project team to its MiniFlex plumbing camera system, which features a highly flexible push cable capable of making extremely tight bends. The supplied unit demonstrated its ability to effortlessly descend through the toilet and into the plumbing stack, which allowed it to complete inspections across 408 toilets.
Result: The MiniFlex was instrumental in identifying 52 instances of broken or cracked pipes. The team managed to conduct comprehensive inspections without the need for disruptive and costly alternatives. 877-613-2210; www.fiberscope.net
Efficient fixtures save over 1 million gallons monthly at apartment complex
Problem: At the Jones Apartments in Arlington, Texas, an initial assessment by Sustainability Solutions revealed numerous leaks on the property, contributing to high water and sewer expenses.
Solution: Indio Management and Windmass Capital partnered with SAS to upgrade the property with 399 new ultrahigh efficiency Niagara toilets and bathroom fixtures. The property replaced outdated 1.88 gpf toilets with Niagara’s The Original 0.8 gpf models, upgrading showerheads from 1.68 gpm to Niagara’s Earth 1.25 gpm showerheads, and installed 0.5 gpm aerators throughout the property that replaced 1.5 gpm bathroom aerators. This comprehensive overhaul extended to a total of 224 units.
Result: Post-installation, utility bills revealed expenses were reduced by nearly 65%, saving over 1 million gallons of water per month and significantly reducing maintenance issues. The facility achieved a return on investment within the first eight months. “Our experience was great,” says Steven Morris, a representative of Indio Management. “Customer service was attentive, communicative and very helpful.” 833-812-0908; www.pro.niagaracorp.com
Graywater pump provides solution for outdoor kitchen
Problem: New Jersey plumbing contractor Christopher Gonzalez needed to provide drainage for a homeowner’s outdoor sink and dishwasher. The challenge was finding a product that could handle harsh winters without needing to break the concrete.
Solution: Since Gonzalez was looking for a pump with a heavy-duty compact design that could be discreetly concealed beneath the sink, Saniflo’s technical team recommended the Saniswift Pro. The installer-friendly design also features a pair of 2-inch low inlets with time-saving, built-in check valves, one on either side of the unit. These side inlets are positioned lower than those found on conventional drain pumps, further easing installation. Once connected the graywater from the sink or dishwasher enters the unit, a pressure switch activates the pump motor. Once the water is discharged, the pressure switch deactivates the unit — until the next time drainage enters the unit. The immediate removal of the waste helps eliminate unwanted odors. If the system needs servicing, it can be done without disconnecting any piping to the unit. The top cover has two removable screws providing ready access to the internal electrical components, motor and impeller. When it comes time to winterize the kitchen, the pump can be easily disconnected and brought inside.
Result: According to Gonzalez, the entire installation, including running the drain piping from the fixtures, took about three hours. From previous experience installing Saniflo products, he says he’s confident that the homeowner will enjoy their outdoor kitchen. 800-363-5874; www.saniflo.com
Tankless water heater a fit for wildlife foundation outreach facility
Problem: In addition to the foundation’s conservation work, the Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation operates an outreach facility in Blackstone, Virginia, that hosts veteran groups who come to the rural location to hunt, fish and hike. Since the facility is not in use every week, Burton wanted to replace its standard gas tank water heater with a tankless unit that would provide hot water on demand rather than heating water continuously.
Solution: With help from local contractor John Testerman of John Testerman Plumbing in nearby Sandston, Virginia, Burton chose a ProLine XE Tankless Condensing Gas Water Heater with X3 Scale Prevention Technology from State Water Heaters.
Result: It was important to Burton that the unit did not require routine maintenance as he is not at the facility every day. With the X3 Technology, he no longer has to worry about scale-related maintenance. The technology allows mineral particles to pass through harmlessly while constantly protecting the heat exchanger from scale buildup. This eliminates the need for regular descaling maintenance and extends the unit’s life. 800-365-8170; www.statewaterheaters.com
