Who’s supposed to pay the plumber? The tenant or the landlord?

Does the toilet in your apartment get backed up often? Is the washbasin drain clogged? Do you know the situations in which the landlord has to pay the plumber? Even though you don’t own your apartment, it’s your responsibility to take care of minor repairs, such as replacing seals and screws, at your own expense. However, when it comes to problems caused by plumbing malfunctions (like stopped up toilets or clogged sinks), the landlord is the one responsible for paying the fees. In fact, the landlord is obligated to pay for general maintenance on the apartment, including the inevitable repairs that become necessary as a result of normal wear and tear.

But be careful! If the damage is the result of negligence on your part as the tenant, the costs will be passed on to you. This would be the case, for example, if a pipe leaks or becomes clogged as a result of work you performed on it, yourself. You should be aware that any repair or maintenance work that is performed on a rental unit must always be approved beforehand by the landlord.

What are your responsibilities as a tenant?

As a tenant, you’re obligated to maintain the apartment in good condition. This includes the plumbing system! According to the Civil Code of Quebec, the obligations of the tenant toward the landlord include the following:

• To use the property with prudence and diligence (CCQ Article 1855)
• To make necessary repairs to the leased property in certain cases (CCQ Article 1864)
• To allow urgent and necessary repairs to be made (CCQ Article 1865)
• To inform the lessor of any serious defect or deterioration (CCQ Article 1866)

Under what circumstances does the landlord have to pay the plumber?

The landlord must assume responsibility for any repairs that are essential or urgent, unless the damage was caused by negligence on the part of the tenant. Urgent repairs include significant damage (e.g. a serious leak in the plumbing) that prevents the apartment from being used or maintained as it should.

Here are a few examples of situations in which the landlord must pay the plumber:

• When the damage occurs after the lease agreement has been signed, but is the result of improper maintenance on the part of the landlord
• When the damage is the result of faulty construction or a natural disaster
• When the damage is caused by the breakdown of the plumbing system (the landlord is responsible for the cost, as it’s the landlord’s duty to ensure that the apartment for rent is in compliance with current regulations)
• When the plumbing problem existed before the lease was signed, but wasn’t discovered by the tenant until afterwards

What to do in the event of a lawsuit

Do you have a problem with your water pressure or your water heater and your landlord is refusing to assume the cost of the repairs? Don’t risk withholding your rent payment hoping to pressure your landlord, as you’ll be breaking the law by doing so. The best recourse is to build a solid case with all of the necessary proof that the damage wasn’t caused through any fault of your own.

Should the tenant or the landlord call the plumber?

Since the plumber generally needs the landlord’s authorization to perform the work, it’s recommended that the landlord should be the one to call the plumber. Obviously, in the case of urgent repairs, the tenant may call the plumber, but the plumber must be given the landlord’s contact information.

Experienced plumber in Montreal

Are you looking for a competent plumber to unclog your pipes, perform preventive maintenance on your plumbing system or perform any type of repairs? The team of experts at Plomberie Roger Chayer has been offering quick, courteous service for more than 70 years. We also provide 24-hour emergency service. Contact us for a free estimate!

Choosing a hot water heating system

Whether you’re doing major renovations, changing residences or trying to reduce your electricity bills, it’s important to choose your heating system carefully. It really is possible to find an efficient system that offers maximum comfort at a reasonable price! But what criteria should you employ to ensure that you make the right choice?

Hot water heating: a system that meets your needs

Central hot water heating systems only appeared shortly after the thirties. That explains why most heating systems of this type are found in older homes, some nearly a hundred years old.

These days, few people are opting for hot water heating in their new homes, largely because of the elevated cost of this type of system. However, the latest models offer improved energy efficiency, upwards of 90 percent. Hot water heating systems offer numerous advantages that you’re going to love for years to come.

The benefits of a hot water heating system

Comfortable, economical and healthy (both for you and for the environment), hot water heating offers a stable temperature; the water circulating through the radiators and steel ducts never reaches the point where it will burn your fingers if you touch them (yet it remains hot for a long time!). Furthermore, since this type of heating doesn’t move the air like a forced-air system does, there are fewer particles, contaminants and other allergens circulating through the home.

For instance, cast-iron radiators diffuse part of their heat via convection (as well as radiation). As a result, they heat the objects in the room rather than the ambient air. The larger the radiator, the more radiant heat it will produce. Some people even compare the heat produced by these radiators to the warmth of sunlight!

Types of hot water heating systems and which one to choose

To circulate the water, there are two types of hot water systems: gravity-fed systems and forced circulation systems.

Gravity-fed systems

Without the need of a pump, these systems function because of the difference in density between the feed water and the return water. The water circulates naturally, and the heat is distributed uniformly throughout the home.

However, gravity-fed systems are gradually losing ground to forced circulation systems, as the former type offers lower energy efficiency because of the significant fluctuations in temperature that can lead to slow water circulation.

Forced circulation systems

This is currently the most commonly used type of hot water heating. Driven by a system of pumps, the circulated water can generate up to 1.5 MW of thermal power (for residential buildings).

Among the most popular forced hot water systems, you’ll find the closed loop system (low installation costs), single duct system, and two-pipe system (direct return or reverse return).

To stay warm this winter, seek the advice of a specialist!

Are you thinking about replacing your current heating equipment with a hot water heating system? Plomberie Roger Chayer inc. will give you all the valuable advice you need to make the best choice, given your particular situation!

References: 

http://plus.lapresse.ca/screens/16853dba-1d32-406a-a8ed-8e3bdd478ff8__7C___0.html

https://www.ecohabitation.com/guides/2536/les-systemes-de-distribution-de-chaleur-a-eau-chaude/

No hot water? It’s a water heater problem!

You’re just about to draw a nice hot bath when you notice that there’s no hot water! It’s an aggravating problem for those of us who are so used to having hot water that we take it for granted. But where there’s a problem, there’s a solution. And in this case, the solution resides in the hot water heater.

The most common water heater problems

The lack of hot water in your home may be the result of various technical or electrical problems. Unfortunately, despite the fact that your hard-working hot water heater serves you faithfully, it isn’t infallible!

Whether you have an electric or gas water heater, here are a few potential solutions to the most common problems.

Pas une goutte d’eau chaude?

If your water is icy and you have a gas water heater, check to see if the pilot light has gone out. You may have to clean the burner or even replace the thermocouple, if necessary. If your water heater is electric, make sure that the thermostat isn’t broken. If it is, you’ll need to call a plumber to replace it..

You only have a little bit of hot water

If your water is hot, but there isn’t enough of it, you can check several different things. Generally, you can attribute a reduced quantity of hot water to the following:

• Excessive use of hot water—if you have a large family and you have to fight over the hot water, perhaps there simply isn’t enough to go around!
• A leak in the plumbing system—check all of the faucets in the bathrooms and kitchen.
• Improper thermostat setting—the temperature should be set above 49° C (120° F).
• Dirty equipment—if you have a gas water heater, the burner may be obstructed and due for a good cleaning.
• A broken heating element—if you have an electric water heater, you may need to replace the heating element.

No hot water: other possible causes

Various other things that can cause your water heater to malfunction (and diminish your quality of life!) include the following:

• Electrical problems—the voltage may be too high, the wires may not be firmly connected or there may be a short circuit somewhere.
• Fuses that often burn out—there may be rusted contacts, the wires may not be firmly connected or the power supply wiring may be insufficient for your needs.
• A dripping discharge valve—if the valve is simply open, you can shut if off yourself. However, if it’s broken, you’ll need to call an expert.
• A dripping pressure relief valve—there are several things you’ll need to inspect carefully. If it’s leaking, it may be improperly attached or broken, the thermostat may be deficient, there may be excessive water pressure or there may be thermal expansion in the water system.

Regain your usual comfort with the help of our qualified plumbers!

Are you experiencing problems with your water heater? Call on the experts at Plomberie Roger Chayer to perform the necessary maintenance and repairs on your plumbing system! Contact us for a free estimate!

How to install a dishwasher

In the vast majority of homes, a dishwasher is an essential part of the furnishings. However, when it comes to installation, a dishwasher requires a little more attention than other household appliances.
In some cases, it may be necessary to call on the services of a plumber. In any event, correct, methodical installation will guarantee that the dishwasher functions well for many years to come.

Setting the stage for a successful installation

Dishwashers are most often built in underneath the kitchen counter in a space set aside for that purpose. If there is no reserved space, you should know that a standard dishwasher is 35 inches high, 24 inches wide and 24 inches deep. There also needs to be extra space behind it for pipes, insulation and adjustments (which you’ll make by screwing or unscrewing the legs to ensure that the dishwasher sits level).

You may also want to place an anti-vibration pad underneath the dishwasher, depending on the evenness and composition of the flooring. Obviously, you shouldn’t install the dishwasher until you have successfully completed all of the preliminary steps.

Please note that, if the dishwasher is far removed from the water supply lines and drainpipes, you may require the services of a plumber and an electrician.

Another tip: if you are replacing an existing appliance, it’s always best to use new pipes and connectors, even if the old ones appear to be in perfectly good condition. Make sure you have the proper tools on hand, including a multi-bit screwdriver, a nut driver, a level, a socket wrench, pliers, a pipe cutter, a wrench, a tape measure, a drill and a bucket.

The three essential steps

The actual installation of the dishwasher consists of three steps:

1- Connecting the water supply

2- Connecting the drainpipe

3- Connecting the electricity

The parts you need to make these connections won’t necessarily be included in the package with the appliance. You may need screws, hose clamps, a drain hose, molding, caps, Teflon tape, a hot water supply line, connectors, etc.

The dishwasher must be connected to the hot water. If there’s a nearby supply valve, hooking it up is easy. All you have to do is connect the end of the flexible hose to it.

First, insert a seal ring and then tighten securely. Open the valve to make sure the connection is good. It’s recommendable to coat the threads of the water supply line with silicone grease or to wrap them with Teflon tape. If there is no nearby water supply valve, you can use a saddle valve or you can cut the pipes and make the connections.

In either case, it’s preferable to entrust the job to a plumber.

Connecting the drainpipe is generally simple. Attach the dishwasher drain hose to the drainpipe, specifically to the lateral inlet of the existing PVC backflow preventer. Use a hose clamp to prevent any leaks. If there is no existing connection, once again, it’s best to call on the services of a plumber.

The electrical connections for the dishwasher must be properly grounded and include a circuit breaker. The wiring must be connected to the back of the dishwasher junction box using a strain-relief cable clamp. Distinguish the dishwasher’s three wires (white, black and green) with the ends stripped.

Use standard wire nuts of the correct width to join the wires of the dishwasher to the residential wiring (white to white, black to black and green to the ground wire). Replace the cover on the junction box. Avoid using an extension cord.

The pros at Plomberie Roger Chayer are very familiar with all kinds of installations, whether old, new or unusual. So to ensure your peace of mind, call on our services

Water pressure problems: causes and solutions

If you’re experiencing problems with the water pressure in your home, various factors may be to blame. While it’s often possible to resolve the problem yourself, a lack of water pressure may also be a sign of a significant malfunction that requires the services of a qualified plumber.

What are the causes of water pressure problems?

If you’ve noticed that the pressure of the water coming out of your faucet isn’t as strong as usual, it’s well worth the trouble to investigate the source of the problem.

Here are a few things you can check yourself to help you determine whether it’s a minor problem or a major one.

Test the pressure of all your faucets

Check to see if the lack of pressure is affecting all of your faucets (in the kitchen, bathroom, outdoors, etc.).

Turn on the cold water and then the hot water for each faucet. If the drop in pressure only affects the hot water, the problem is almost certainly related to your water heater.

If your water heater is to blame

Your water heater isn’t infallible; after years of loyal service, it isn’t uncommon for it to show signs of obstruction or corrosion. If you believe that your water heater is causing your water pressure problems, contact your plumber. Trying to repair a water heater when you aren’t a specialist can prove to be risky. On the other hand, your plumber is perfectly equipped to determine whether it needs to be repaired or replaced.

Look for hard water deposits

If the problem is limited to a single faucet, either the faucet or the filter may be clogged with hard water deposits. To find out for sure, follow the steps below:

• Unscrew the end piece of the faucet.
• Check the filter for hard water deposits.
• If there is a lot of scale, submerge the end piece and filter in a solution of white vinegar or replace the filter.
• Before screwing the end piece back on, turn on the faucet. If the water pressure is still weak, the problem isn’t with the filter.

Determine if the problem is affecting the whole system

If the lack of water pressure doesn’t appear to be confined to a single faucet, the problem must be affecting your home’s water system in its entirety. In that case, you can do the following:

• Inspect the pressure regulator and the shut-off valve; modify the water flow if possible, and if the valve is defective, replace it.
• Look for water leaks (in the toilets or elsewhere).
• Check the water heater—if the low pressure is affecting only the hot water, the shut-off valve may be partially closed.

Look for water leaks

Over time, toilets are particularly prone to leaks, whether visible or not. These leaks lead not only to higher water bills but also to reduced water pressure.

How to verify if one of your toilets has a leak

• Remove the lid of the toilet tank.
• Put a few drops of food coloring in the water.
• Let it stand for one hour.
• If the color has disappeared, a leak is responsible! In that case, you will need to replace either the gasket or the entire flushing mechanism.

You may also find water leaks in your basement or your pipes. If you hear dripping water, you may find leaks that are often easy to repair.

However, if you still have a problem with your water pressure despite all your efforts, contact Plomberie Roger Chayer. Our expert team is available to assist you seven days a week.

What are the different types of plumbing pipes?

To most of us, a pipe is just a pipe. But to the certified plumbers at Plomberie Roger Chayer, who have been performing plumbing installations, maintenance and repairs for nearly 70 years, every pipe has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, depending on the material it is made from.

Even if you aren’t a plumber, knowing the different types of plumbing pipes can prove to be very useful if you’re contemplating renovations or maintenance work. If you’re unsure about something, your plumber can guide you in choosing the right material, taking its cost, flexibility, use and durability into consideration.

Welded pipes

COPPER

Highly popular, copper has replaced lead ever since the latter was prohibited because of its toxicity, and until recently, it was the only material available. Having been used for so long, this metal is tried and true. Used for heating and water distribution, this type of pipe, which is valued for its resistance and efficiency, can be made from hard-drawn copper (non-malleable) or annealed copper (malleable). Some municipalities won’t accept any other type of pipes, and installing them requires the expertise of a plumber, who must cut and weld them.

Non-welded pipes

PVC

You’ll find polyvinyl chloride (PVC) chiefly in drainpipes. The joints are glued rather than welded, making these pipes easier to install. This light polymer, which won’t rust, is available in a chlorinated version, which can be used for hot and cold water supply. These pipes are distinguished by their resistance to heat, pressure and chemicals.

PEX/XLPE

There are several reasons why cross-linked polyethylene (PEX or XLPE) pipes are becoming increasingly popular, particularly their low cost and their simplicity of installation, which requires no welding, just a simple collar. Approved by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), PEX pipes are primarily used for hot and cold water supply with a different color to distinguish each one. Many prefer this semi-rigid, non-porous material to copper, as it doesn’t have the tendency to become scaled with hard water deposits. However, since people only started using it recently, it’s too soon to tell if it’s superior to copper or not. The pipes can be connected using flexible connectors called “speedways,” which must be replaced approximately every twelve years.

MULTILAYER

For fail-proof water tightness, this type of pipe is composed of three layers. Two of those layers are made of PEX: the innermost layer to prevent hard water deposits and corrosion and to withstand exposure to chlorine, and the outermost layer to protect the pipe from sunlight. The middle layer, made of rigid, airtight aluminum, helps the pipe maintain its structure. Multilayer pipes are generally connected using threaded couplings.

FLEXIBLE PIPES

These pipes, which are versatile but more expensive than PEX or PVC, are equally suitable for drainage or for water supply and are often employed in two specific contexts, namely in complicated cases and in emergencies. They may be composed of several different materials, including vinyl, aluminum and polyester.

How to turn off a home’s water supply when there’s a leak

You’re enjoying a peaceful sunny day when all of a sudden you hear suspicious noises coming from the basement. You go downstairs to find the source of the strange sounds, and to your horror, you discover a major water leak. In no time at all, you’re back, armed with towels to sponge up the water accumulating on the floor in a sea that keeps growing right before your eyes. Our first tip: drop the towels and go turn off your home’s main water supply valve. If you’re wondering what the main water supply valve is and where it’s located, this article is for you!

The main water supply valve

Les causes of water leaks are numerous and varied. First, think about all the household appliances that use water, such as the dishwasher, washing machine and hot water heater. Did the pipes burst underneath the kitchen sink or did the washing machine hose finally succumb to the water pressure? Your first reaction should be to cut off the home’s water supply. How? By simply closing the main water supply valve. But where is it located? There are two possibilities. If the municipal network provides your home’s water supply, the valve will be located on the front wall of the basement. On the other hand, if your home’s water comes from a natural source like a well, the valve will be located near the system that provides the water supply. To prevent any possible damage resulting from water leaks, it’s important to inform the home’s occupants, including children, of the location of the main water supply valve. But did you know that each piece of equipment has its own shutoff valve?

How to cut off the water supply to your fixtures

Did your spouse ask you to swap out the old kitchen faucet for a more up-to-date model? Before doing anything, make sure that you fully close the valves that supply water to the faucet so you don’t end up with water all over the kitchen floor. Located underneath the sink, these valves are attached to the hot and cold water supply lines. The same procedure is recommended for the water heater, the dishwasher and the washing machine.

Regularly checking the condition of the pipes and hoses is another good way to ensure that everything is working correctly so you avoid any unpleasant surprises down the road.

Strategic tools to prevent leaks

Are you going to be away from home for some time? You can rest easy thanks to water leak detectors. These compact, easy-to-use little devices, which may plug in or run on batteries, depending on the model, will alert you in the event of a leak. And using them couldn’t be simpler. All you need to do is install them near any at-risk equipment or appliances, and they’ll let you know if they detect any accumulation of water. Are you a techie who loves home automation? You’ll be happy to know that there are WiFi leak detectors available on the market. They can link directly to your smartphone so you can access and control them remotely.

Water leaks also mean repairs

Once you’ve stopped the leak and cleaned up the mess, it’s time to start thinking about repairs. If you’ve reached this point and you’re wondering what to do next, don’t make things worse by trying to repair the damaged pipe or hose yourself; instead, call a plumber. By entrusting the repairs to a expert en plomberie, you can rest assured that the work will be done correctly.

Did a pipe burst in the middle of the night? At Plomberie Roger Chayer, our team offers 24/7 service to ensure your peace of mind. Whether you need advice, an installation or repairs, contact us and it would be our pleasure to come meet with you.