Imagine this: You’re relaxing on a Saturday evening when you suddenly hear the sound of rushing water. You run into the kitchen to find a pipe under the sink has burst, and water is gushing across your hardwood floors. In that moment of panic, every second counts. Do you know how to stop the flow?

The most important piece of plumbing knowledge any homeowner can have is the exact location of the main water shut-off valve. This valve controls the entire water supply to your home. Turning it off stops the leak at the source, preventing thousands of dollars in water damage.

For our neighbors in Chicago, where frozen pipes are a winter reality, finding this valve before an emergency happens is a critical part of homeownership. Here is everything you need to know to locate and operate your main shut-off valve.

For many Chicago area homeowners, especially those living in the surrounding suburbs or rural areas, the source of waste disposal is an everyday thought—until something goes wrong. Understanding whether your home relies on a municipal sewer system or a private septic system is critical, as the maintenance, costs, and responsibilities for each are vastly different.

Here is a straightforward guide to help you identify your system and learn how to care for it properly.

For homeowners in Chicago, a reliable sump pump isn't a luxury—it's a necessity. With our heavy spring rains, high water tables, and sometimes unexpected storms, a functioning sump pump is the single most important defense against basement flooding and the resulting water damage, mold, and costly repairs.

However, your sump pump is often out of sight, and therefore, out of mind. Don't wait until the next big storm to realize your system has failed. Follow this simple 5-step maintenance checklist to ensure your sump pump is ready to protect your home year-round.

Your water heater is arguably the hardest-working appliance in your home, laboring day in and day out to keep your showers warm and your dishes clean. But like any appliance, it has a finite lifespan. Ignoring the age and condition of your water heater can lead to cold showers, frustrating leaks, and, worst of all, basement flooding.

For Chicago homeowners, proactive replacement is key to avoiding a winter emergency. So, how do you know when your trusty water heater is nearing the end and it's time to say goodbye?

When the inevitable Chicago deep freeze hits, most homeowners worry about burst pipes. And rightly so! But often overlooked is a more common, insidious winter issue: frequent and frustrating drain clogs. It’s not just the temperature outside that’s changing; the plumbing dynamics under your home are shifting, too.

If you find yourself plunging more often than you’d like once the snow flies, you’re not imagining things. Here is why cold weather turns minor slow drains into major winter plumbing headaches.

When your sink is slow, or your tub won't drain, the immediate urge is to reach for the nearest solution. For many homeowners, that means grabbing a bottle of chemical drain cleaner from the cupboard or the local hardware store. It promises a quick fix, but that instant gratification often comes at a high price—for your plumbing, your health, and your wallet.

For Chicago homes, where older pipes and stringent local codes are a reality, choosing the safest and most effective method for clearing a clog is crucial.

There are few plumbing emergencies as disruptive and distressing as a main sewer line clog. Unlike a simple drain blockage under a single sink, a main sewer line clog affects your entire home's plumbing system. It can lead to wastewater backing up into your sinks, tubs, and toilets, posing a significant health risk and causing extensive property damage.

Knowing the warning signs is crucial for acting fast. The sooner you identify a main sewer line problem, the less severe the damage will likely be. If you're in Chicago and suspect a major blockage, here’s what to look for and what steps to take immediately.

A clogged drain is a homeowner's worst nightmare. When a simple plunger isn't enough to solve the problem, you need to turn to a professional. But when a plumber arrives, they might offer two very different solutions: drain snaking or hydro-jetting. Both methods are effective for clearing blockages, but they work in fundamentally different ways. Understanding the difference can help you make the best decision for your plumbing and your budget.

For Chicago homeowners, understanding local plumbing codes isn't just about following rules—it's about ensuring your home is safe, functional, and up to legal standards. Unlike many other cities, Chicago maintains its own specific plumbing codes that can differ significantly from national standards. Ignoring these regulations can lead to costly fines, future repair headaches, and even safety risks. Here's a breakdown of what every homeowner should know.

Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza, world-class architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods — but it also has another claim to fame that isn’t so positive: the highest number of lead service lines in the country. Thousands of Chicago homes, especially older ones, still have lead pipes carrying water from the city’s mains into their houses.

At Angel Sewer & Plumbing, we’ve worked with countless Chicago homeowners who are concerned about lead in their plumbing. If you’re unsure about your home’s water pipes, this guide will help you understand the risks, what to look for, and the steps you can take to protect your family.

If you’ve ever stepped into the shower expecting warm water and been greeted with an icy blast instead, you know how quickly a water heater problem can disrupt your day. In Schaumburg, IL, where our winters can be harsh and our plumbing systems work overtime, having a reliable water heater isn’t just a convenience — it’s essential.

At Angel Sewer & Plumbing, we specialize in water heater repair in Schaumburg for all types of systems — gas, electric, and tankless. Whether your water heater is leaking, making strange noises, or not producing enough hot water, our experienced team is here to help. Here’s what every homeowner should know about water heater repair, common issues, and when it’s time to call a professional.

Let’s face it — most of us don’t think about our drains until there’s a problem. A slow sink, a backed-up shower, or that funky smell coming from the kitchen… sound familiar? While it’s easy to ignore your drains until something goes wrong, regular professional drain cleaning can help you avoid major (and expensive!) plumbing issues down the road.