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Sump Pump Back-Up Battery Care.

Author: steve

Sump Pump Back-Up Battery Care.

We supply Sump Pump Back Up Batteries.

Sump Pump Check Up
at 847-234-9440.

HT Strenger Plumbing Technicians can repair all Makes and Models of Sump Pumps and Battery Back Up Systems.

When Power no longer Supplies your home (Usually in a Rain Storm), the a battery back up system is designed to automatically send power from the batteries to the sump pump. It essential that your Sump Batteries(s) are always at Peak Efficiency – We can check the Life of your Batteries and make replacements and suggestions.

We can also repair all pump and discharge sizes and everything usually on the first service call. We carry a complete line of residential pump’s, pump-batteries, and back up systems, In Our Service Vans at all Times.

Contact HT Strenger

Simple Sump Pump Care Information.

Replace your Back-Up Battery every 2 Years.

Most homeowners understand they have a primary (AC powered) sump pump in their basement or crawlspace to protect them from flooding. That’s all well and good, but:.

Power to your Pump

IF/WHEN the power goes out (or the fuse blows, or the circuit breaker trips, or the power cord gets pulled out), your primary pump won’t run and you will flood.

Primary Pump Failure is Inevitable.

IF/WHEN your primary pump fails due to a clog or other mechanical problem, you will flood.

Check your Float Switch

IF/WHEN the float switch on your primary pump gets stuck or doesn’t activate, you will flood. If you don’t have a backup sump pump, you don’t have a sump pump at all! That’s because ALL sump pumps eventually fail, and without a good backup system, you won’t know the pump has failed until you have a flood! Everybody with a sump basin should have both a primary and a backup system.

Add an Additional Battery.

Having a second battery connected to your backup system will give you approximately twice as much run time without AC power. If you live in an area that experiences long power outages, this is a nice feature to have….

Contact HT Strenger

We Stand Behind Our Work.

H.T. Strenger Plumbing has been serving the Lake Forest area since 1911. We are a family-owned and operated business with a reputation for providing high-quality, affordable plumbing services. Our experienced technicians are experts in all aspects of plumbing and sewer repair, and we offer a wide range of services to meet your needs.

“We do everything we can to ensure all of our customers are satisfied with our work. We will work with each customer to resolve any warranty problems that may occur.” All of our service work carries a thirty day warranty on parts.

June 27, 2024
HT Strenger Plumbing Resolutions for 2024

2024 New Years Plumbing Resolutions to Keep your Home’s Plumbing Flowing.

If you are still looking for a few New Year’s resolutions? HT Strenger has a few to suggest for your residential plumbing system. Below are some that will keep your plumbing flowing through 2024.

1- Drain Care – Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain. These slippery foes can solidify and cause major clogs. Let them cool and solidify, then toss them in the trash, keeping your pipes happy and healthy.

Slow drains can mean something is wrong with your pipes. If it gets clogged, it can lead to dangerous sewage leaks that can damage your home. These leaks are sometimes in places you can’t see and can cause a lot of harm.

2- Be Kinder and Promote Cleanliness to the Garbage Disposal.
An easy way to start the new year is to monitor what you are throwing down the disposal – the fewer food items that go through the better. Properly dispose of as many food scraps into the trash as possible. Coffee grounds, pasta, and potato peels are better off composted or tossed in the trash. Let your disposal focus on its forte – handling the smaller, softer stuff. Run cold water while using it and for a few seconds afterward to keep things cool and flowing smoothly.
Now and then, your disposal deserves a refreshing spa treatment. Toss in some lemon or orange peels and grind them up with cold water. The citrusy goodness will neutralize odors and keep things smelling sprightly. Protect your Disposal with a Drain Stopper to keep unwanted items out of the disposal.

3 – Every Year is a Great Year for Water Conservation.
One way to reduce water use in your home is to install low-flush toilets. Conserving water with reduced Shower Use is the fastest way to reduce water consumption.

4- Check for Leaks – Broken Natural Gas Lines & Water leaks are a big problem and can cost a lot of money to fix. Checking the areas where pipes, gas lines, and plumbing are located, & inspected like cabinets and under the floor, is important to find potential leaks early. These areas are not often looked at, so it’s good to check them regularly.

5 – TOILETS – If you’ve noticed that your toilet seems to be continually running, it’s essential to address the issue as quickly as possible. Not only can a constantly running toilet waste a considerable amount of water, it can also lead to a significant increase in your water bills.

6 – SUMP PUMP TUNE UP – Sump Pump Systems protect your home by removing excess water that surrounds it before it accumulates and causes severe damage to basements and crawlspaces. Ignoring a regular Tune-Up and upgrades is the #1 cause of flooding and structural damage due to Pump Failure.

7- WATER HEATERS – Basic maintenance can go a long way to an efficient running water heater. If you have not reduced sediment buildup in the tank recently now is probably the best time.

Plus checking your water heater periodically can help identify leaks that might occur unexpectedly and cause costly water damage.

Maintaining a regular schedule to drain and remove any sediment buildup can also help improve the heater’s energy efficiency.

8- WATER PRESSURE – Water flow with too much pressure can damage and break your plumbing equipment earlier. The excessive force of water can cause leaks or ruptures in pipes, fittings, and hoses.

9 -WATER FILTER SYSTEMS – Regular water filter maintenance is key to maintaining clean and safe water, avoiding a loss of service, or damaging filter equipment or other plumbing fixtures and appliances beyond economical repair.

10- Keep your Pipes from Freezing in the Winter.

11- Fix any small Plumbing Problems now before they become bigger problems.

10- JOIN the ANNUAL CLUTCH CLUB for comprehensive cost-effective plumbing services and Annual Inspection.

The HT Strenger Plumbing Clutch Club Plan provides you with an opportunity, after paying an annual fee starting at $249.00 plus a $25.00 one time set-up fee, you will receive an annual home inspection of your home’s plumbing system at no extra cost. Following our inspection, we will provide you with a free estimate of any repairs which may be necessary, which will be performed by us at your preferred program rates and times.

January 15, 2024
H.T. Strenger Plumbing – Quick Facts
HT Strenger Plumbing was founded in 1911.

Quick Facts:

Henry Strenger started H.T. Strenger as a Plumbing & Heating Service Company and operated his business from Wisconsin Street.
- 7 years later – Henry married Frances Pratt.
  —- With a growing family and a growing business- HT Strenger moved its operation to Western Ave.
- H.T. Strenger Plumbing eventually became one of the longest-running family-owned businesses in Lake Forest.
  —- The Lake Forest community has supported HT Strenger for over 110 years and H.T. still services Lake Forest and all the surrounding communities.
- In Fact Today H.T. …
  —- It is not uncommon for our Service Technicians to visit homes and businesses that we have been servicing for over 100 years. We have never taken for granted our loyal clients and will always strive to provide an exceptional plumbing value for all of our clients.
Fun Fact! Did you know that H.T. Strenger opened their doors the same year that the Titanic splashed into service? Third-class held approximately 700 passengers and there were only two bathtubs to accommodate them! #plumbing #Titanic #chicago #lakeforest #lakebluff #libertyville pic.twitter.com/uYF3Fydqj1

— HT STRENGER PLUMBING & SEWER (@htstrenger) February 8, 2023

Don’t wait to get your plumbing back in working order – contact us today to schedule an appointment with our trusted Lake Bluff plumber!

Contact HT Strenger

H.T. Strenger Plumbing has been serving the Lake Forest area since 1911. We are a family-owned and operated business with a reputation for providing high-quality, affordable plumbing services. Our experienced technicians are experts in all aspects of plumbing and sewer repair, and we offer a wide range of services to meet your needs.

“We do everything we can to ensure all of our customers are satisfied with our work. We will work with each customer to resolve any warranty problems that may occur.” All of our service work carries a thirty day warranty on parts.
February 8, 2024
Senior’s Discount – Save with 10% discount.

Senior Save with – “Across the Board Savings of a 10% discount.”

Contact HT Strenger

Seniors take advantage and get Top-Shelf Plumbing Services at a Built in Discounted Price!

HT Strenger has been a leader in discount options for Seniors since our founding.

Seniors can take advantage of this service discount on any residential plumbing services that we provide.

We are here for our clients in providing the best value at the most competitive price, call us to take advantage of the Senior Discount.

Call us to schedule service at 847-234-9440.

We realize that our valued customers are the reason why we have successfully provided plumbing services on the North Shore for over 100 years.

We pride ourselves on client satisfaction and we strive to provide high-quality service’s for you, your family, friends and neighbors.

“We do everything we can to ensure all of our customers are satisfied with our work. We will work with each customer to resolve any warranty problems that may occur.” All of our work carries a thirty day warranty and does not include factory defective parts.

We Service these Chicagoland towns and areas.

Antioch
Deer Park
Grayslake
Indian Creek
Lake Forest
Long Grove
Northern Chicago
Vernon Hills

Bannnockburn
Fort Sheridan
Green Oaks
Hawthorn Woods
Ivanhoe
Libertyville
Mettawa
Prairie View

Buffalo Grove
Gages Lake
Gurnee
Kildeer
Lincolnshire
Mundelein
Riverwoods
Waukegan

Deerfield
Glenview
Highland Park
Lake Bluff
Lincolnwood
Northbrook
Rondout
Wilmette

February 12, 2024
Garbage Disposal Trouble Shooting.

The garbage disposal under your kitchen sink gets a lot of work over its lifetime.

The kitchen appliance shreds food waste and other items into small pieces that easily pass through your home’s plumbing system. It can become frustrating when your garbage disposal is not working as expected, maybe worse yet leaking water.

CAUTION NEEDED: Never place fingers into the disposal drain and never reach into a garbage disposal – when operating or idle. Never attempt to dispose of non-organic material’s or metal objects.

Following are some of the most common reasons your disposal is no longer working:

Jammed disposal: This is the most common culprit. Food scraps, utensils, or other hard objects can get stuck in the disposal’s grinding mechanism, preventing it from turning.

Electrical problems: The disposal might not be getting power. Check if the circuit breaker is tripped, the GFCI outlet is reset (if you have one), or the power cord is loose.

Overheating: Garbage disposals have overload protection that shuts them off if they overheat. This can happen from running the disposal for too long or trying to grind up tough materials.

Clogged drain: Even if your disposal is working, a clog further down the drainpipe can prevent water from flowing freely and make it seem like the disposal is clogged.

Faulty motor: In some cases, the motor itself may be worn out and need to be replaced. This is less common than the other reasons, but if you’ve tried everything else and your disposal still isn’t working, it might be time to call HT Strenger Plumbing.

June 20, 2024
Call HT Strenger to Create Your Perfect Shower

Enhance your shower with quick fixes and upgrades

HT has what you need to create the perfect shower

SHOWERHEADS

Wall mounted showerheads.

HANDSHOWERS

Handheld shower sprays.

SHOWER FITTINGS

Showerarms, columns, hoses , brackets & more.

RAINHEADS

A luxurious, drenching shower experience.

SHOWER ACCESSORIES

Thoughtfully designed storage and safety solutions for your shower.

WATER FILTRATION

Install a water filtration system to improve the water quality in your shower.

Refresh your shower area without going into your walls.

SHOWER KITS

Convenient, pre-packaged shower solutions for enhanced style and functionality.

SHOWER COLUMNS

Replaces existing shower arm to add handshower capability; slidebar lowers to meet the whole family’s needs including bathing kids and pets.

TUB & SHOWER TRIM

Refresh the trim in your bathing space without replacing your behind-the-wall Kohler valving.

SHOWER DOORS

Great alternative to shower curtains; refreshes a bathroom in just one day.

Customize your shower for a personal unique experience.

SHOWER BASES

Low step over thresholds with non-slip surfaces providing a safe shower experience.

LUXSTONE

Build the shower you’ve always dreamed of today and have it installed in as little as one day.

DIGITAL SHOWERING

Unmatched precision, control and customization for your shower.

SHOWER VALVES

Behind the wall controls for your water temperature and pressure.

STEAM

Enjoy soothing, hot steam right in your shower with a steam generator and control.

BODY SPRAYS

Deliver a range of spray intensities; tilt to focus on legs, back or arms.

June 26, 2024
Easy tips to maintain your Sump Pump

Prevent Water Damage from a Faulty Sump Pump System.

Routinely Test your Sump Pump.

Test your pump every 90 days. In Chicagoland weather changes and temperature fluctuations dramatically influence the water surrounding your home’s foundation.

This one tip can make sure your pump at a minimum will be ready to drain water away from your home.

Simply fill your pump pit with water and monitor the pump discharging the water. Watch and listen for broken or clogged pipes. Watch for secure water flowing through the system. The pump should activate smoothly and with little effort. Listen for a smooth transition to the resting non-discharge state. If your pump does not properly discharge the water, contact HT Strenger Plumbing for immediate service.

Clean the Pump and Remove Debris from the Pit.

Carefully unplug your Sump Pump power cord. Remove the sump pump pit cover to gain access to pump and pit basin. Look for and remove debris and dirt, sand, or any item that can impede the flow of water into and out of your sump pump or preventing your float switch to move freely vertically.

Check for Worn, Loose, or Broken Parts.

Look for abnormally corroded parts, test fittings for tight fits and possible weak spots in materials leaking water.

Inspect water discharge lines.

Visually inspect for simple discharge pipe angles and listen for water possibly returning back into the sump pit from a faulty worn out valve.

Check Back-Up Battery Voltage and Battery Age.

Battery backup systems depend on the stored strength in the Battery that powers up your Pump when your home loses electrical services during strong rain storms.

We suggest replacing your Sump Pump between 3 to 5 years of service if your pump works regularly during the year.

If you observe water on your basement floor or wet carpeting, strong odors, or noise from the Sump Pump Pit.

Contact HT Strenger at 847-234-9440.

Prevent Water Damage in your Home !

Despite the frequency and impact of preventable water damage, many homeowners are un-prepared, according to insurance companies data.

Click for More Information

June 27, 2024
Valuable Plumbing Tips & Information for all New Homeowners

Understanding the basics of plumbing is essential for any new homeowner couple. Quickly identifying and potentially addressing minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs.

Familiarize yourselves with your home’s plumbing system, you will save money on plumber expenses and prevent costly water damage. A basic understanding of plumbing allows you to make informed decisions about home maintenance and improvements.

While it’s crucial knowing when to call a professional, a solid foundation in plumbing can provide peace of mind and save you from unexpected plumbing emergencies.

Here are some tips & information to get a handle on your homes plumbing system.

1. Always have an Emergency – Around the Clock – Licensed Plumber on your Speed Dial.

Introduce yourself to your Local Licensed Plumber – They can make sure you are covered in any Emergency Situation. Plumbing Service Companies with 24/7/365 plumbing services will be there when or if they are needed.

Our Local Service Number is 847-234-9440

2. Locate your home’s Main Water Shutoff Valve.

A burst pipe can cause a lot of damage to your home. To help prevent this, it’s important to know where to turn off the water. This is called the water shutoff valve.

If your home has a basement or crawlspace, look for the valve on a wall near the front of your house. If your home doesn’t have a basement, check the garage or near the water heater.

Learn to operate it and check valve handle for ease of motion to on/off.

3. Locate all Individual Shutoff Valves.

Beyond the main water shutoff, most sinks, toilets, and appliances have their own individual water valves.

These valves are usually located behind the fixture. Being able to turn off water to just one area can be helpful when fixing a leak or dealing with an emergency.

It’s a good idea to know where all of these water valves are located in your home.

This information is especially important when you first move in.

4. Recognize the Signs of a Plumbing Leak.

If you notice puddles of water forming near a wall, it could be a sign of a water leak. Other indicators include discoloration or texture changes on the wall or ceiling. A musty smell often accompanies water damage and can signal the growth of mold or mildew. If you hear water dripping sounds, it’s likely that the leak is ongoing.

These signs are often indicative of a more serious problem. It’s important to address water damage promptly to prevent further issues and potential health risks associated with mold growth.

5. Have an Emergency Plumbing Kit.

Having these basic tools on hand can save you time, money, and frustration when dealing with plumbing issues.

Instead of relying on harsh chemicals, consider stocking up on non-chemical plumbing tools. A cup plunger can tackle clogs in sinks, tubs, and showers, while a flange plunger is designed for toilets. For minor blockages, a hand-crank drain snake can be a lifesaver. An adjustable wrench comes in handy for removing the P-trap under your sink. A utility bucket is essential for catching water from leaky pipes. Don’t forget plumber’s tape for fixing leaky showerheads and duct tape as a temporary fix for larger leaks until the plumber arrives.

6. Avoid and Prevent Clogged Drains.

To prevent clogs, avoid putting anything but water and toilet paper down the toilet. Keep food scraps, grease, and oil out of kitchen drains. Use mesh drain covers in sinks and showers to catch hair and soap scum. For general drain maintenance, pour a pot of boiling water down each drain once a month to help clear away buildup.

7. Observe during rainstorms how water moves away from from your home.

Water during rainstorms should move away and not towards your home. Proper Drainage and landscape pitching can keep water from damaging and filling your home with overflow water.

8. Test and Observe your Sump Pump for smooth operation.

To test your sump pump, first ensure it’s plugged in and the area around it is clear of debris. Manually activate the pump by lifting the float switch; it should turn on and pump water out. Regularly inspect the pump, float switch, and discharge pipe for any clogs, damage, or obstructions to maintain optimal performance.

Listen and observe pump when discharging during rain and snow melt. Look and listen for smooth quiet operation.

9. Request a Plumbing Inspection from a State Licensed Plumber.

Introduce yourself to your Local Licensed Plumber – They can make sure you are covered in any Emergency Situation. Plumbing Service Companies with 24/7/365 plumbing services will be there when or if they are needed.

July 25, 2024
Be Prepared for Illinois Extreme Weather
Take a look at these helpful tips to keep you and your home safe and secure during extreme weather conditions we can experience in North-Eastern Illinois.

Severe Storms.

National Weather Service – What to do after a Severe Storm.

Protect Your Home from Severe Winds.

Helpful Tips Before a Storm.
1. Move Items Inside – Lawn Furniture and Unsecured Items can be dangerous when picked up from the storm’s wind and cause additional damage.
2. Make room in the garage for Cars and other items for Protection.
3. Close interior doors to reduce wind and debris damage if windows should shatter & break.
4. Check Your Sump Pump System. Is it powered on and is the pit free of debris?
5. Close the draperies and window shades completely. The combination of Wind & Hail can break glass. This will keep glass from spreading throughout the room.
Hail Storms.

What to do if in a Hail Storm.
1. Seek Shelter: if you are outside, protect yourself from falling hail
2. Find shelter and remain inside and away from windows
3. Do not use Telephones or Electrical Outlets during a severe Hail storm where lightning is present you may be at risk of electrocution.
4. If Driving – pull over to a safe place away from the roadway and stop driving. Close your sunroof shade and position yourself away from the sunroof to avoid shattered glass.
Hail Damage FAQ’s

Additional Resources.

Extreme Winter Storms

Prepare Before a Storm.
1. Fully charge cell phones, electrical appliances, and flashlights.
2. Set your furnace to 62 degrees or higher and set the refrigerator to the coldest setting.
3. Find your Main Water Shutoff and know how to close the valve in case of a water pipe freeze or breakage.
4. Fill cars with fuel & extra generator fuel if needed.
5. Shovel your home ventilation system clear & laundry vent.
Don’t Let a Winter Storm take you by Surprise.

Freezing Dangerous Temperatures

Prevent Water Pipes from freezing and how to thaw them.

Before Cold Weather sets in.
1. Set your home furnace/ thermostat to at least 62 degrees for daytime and night.
2. Shut Off all outdoor water sources and disconnect hoses.
3. Insulate Outdoor Spigots.
4. Find your Main Water Shutoff and know how to operate the valve in case of a water pipe freeze or breakage.
5. Insulate exposed pipes with Blankets or Pipe Insulation in unheated places like attics , garages, and plumbing fixtures that have piping on outside facing walls
6. Run your faucets at a trickle until the weather warms up.
Tornadoes

Tornado Aftermath.
1. Check on family and neighbors who may need assistance.
2. Reconnect with family members who are probably concerned.
3. Inspect gas, electrical and water lines Be careful for damage.
4. Document property damage with photos and videos. Receipts for repairs made to prevent further damage.
5. Do Not Touch power lines, always assume downed power lines are live.
FEMA MAP – National Risk

FUJITA Scale – NWS
October 17, 2024