Tag Archives: plumbing

  • 26
    Jul 21
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What is hot tapping in plumbing and when is it needed

What is hot tapping in plumbing and when is it needed?

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Keeping sewage and water pipelines are integral to businesses and the quality of living in households. But when upgrades or maintenance are required, turning off service seems like an inevitability.

However, hot tapping is a process that’s turning the plumbing world upside down. Through this method, service continues on existing pipes and systems while workers make repairs. Learn how hot tapping is revolutionizing the world of plumbing and utilities, and how this service can work for you.

What is Hot Tapping?

Also known as pressure tapping, hot tapping is a method whereby our technicians hook up a new branch connection to an existing or pressurized pipeline by drilling or cutting. Using specialized tools, workers can continue service of the pipeline while also making connections or repairing the original system.  Part of our method of service at EPS is to make sure we minimize the downtime required while completing a project.  We want your business or home to function as it should while we get the repairs done.

The advantage to hot tapping is both economic and environmental. Businesses aren’t hindered by a lack of services or utilities while the process also prevents the release of methane gas that’s found in sewage pipes.

Can A Live Water Main be Hot Tapped?

Another advantage of hot tapping is that it allows a live water main to undergo maintenance. Thus, we can hot tap a live water main while it continues to work unimpeded. Water main hot taps can range in size from a ½ inch to 48 inches depending on the functionality required and the size of the water main pipe (although the size of the water main is typically no bigger than 16 inches).

EPS Inc. dba Express Plumbing has been providing innovative approaches to engineering and plumbing in the Bay Area for multiple decades.  No matter how simple or complicated a project is, simply give our crew a call and we’ll give you multiple options.

Hot Tapping Vs Cold Tapping

The main difference between hot tapping and cold tapping is whether or not the pipe is pressurized. If the pipe is under pressure, workers use hot tapping; if the pipe isn’t under pressure, cold tapping is used.

The downside with cold tapping is that the pipe is taken out of service, which can have significant economic and environmental ramifications. However, cold tapping may prevent leaks or other issues that have a slight chance of occurring during the hot tapping process.

Choosing one over the other requires an assessment of the particular scenario, as well as which method requires the least downtime for residential and commercial customers of the service. That said, hot tapping’s ability to keep the line in service is one of the main reasons why contractors and companies choose it over a cold tapping process.

Hiring The Right Hot Tapping Contractor

Like many other types of underground repairs or underground infrastructure, choosing the right hot tapping contractor is the difference between the success of a lingering or even a failed project.

As a hot tapping contractor in the Bay Area, EPS Inc. has impeccable resources combined with the proper equipment and a team of skilled workers. Experience in hot tapping is also essential, as it can lower the time of the project and ensure it’s done correctly. Because of the complexities involved in hot tapping, customers and consumers shouldn’t settle for only some of these qualities. Our team at EPS Inc. offers these qualities and more.

Through hot tapping, governments and businesses can provide a much-needed upgrade to existing systems without lowering the chance for commerce or quality of living. If you’re in need of a hot-tapping experienced team or any other project that involves underground construction, heavy construction, drilling, plumbing, or civil engineering, give us a call, we look forward to serving you anywhere in the Bay Area.

  • 25
    Aug 20
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Risk Assessment, Performance and Failure of Elements in Underground Infrastructure

Risk Assessment, Performance and Failure of Elements in Underground Infrastructure

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Failures can happen in any construction or underground infrastructure project. Whether the catastrophe is the product of oversight, negligence, or poor planning, the result is a setback that can ruin budgets and blur time constraints.

Fortunately, risk assessment is a vital component of planning that any reputable company doesn’t take lightly. Here’s a look at how these we avoid failure through risk assessment, and why any underground infrastructure project requires timely planning and communication.

Why Do Some Underground Infrastructure Projects Fail?

Most underground infrastructure projects center around the flow of water, whether it’s sewer, water lines, or other piping. However, project planners must consider a number of potential issues in the planning phase of the project. Without this organization and forethought, the result can be disastrous. So why do some projects fail?

  • Cracks in the piping system
  • Corrosion
  • Obstacles to water flow such as tree roots or man-made objects
  • Positional deviation due to incorrect planning, natural disasters, or soil settling
  • Mechanical breakdown
  • Leaks

With so many variables, project managers must research and assess every potential failure as a way to avoid them.

When it comes to underground infrastructure engineering, experience matters!  EPS Inc dba Express Plumbing has been providing civil engineering and underground construction services in the Bay Area for over two decades.  We strive for perfection by having all the equipment and most experienced staff on each project we perform.  Our work is evident throughout the Bay Area above and below ground.

How Risk Assessment Prevents Failure in Underground Infrastructure Projects

Risk can never be wholly eliminated. But risk assessment can drastically mitigate any potential hazards. Therefore, every underground infrastructure project must undergo a period of risk assessment.

In particular, the advent of trenchless digging has posed a threat to many infrastructure projects, simply because what lies beneath the surface is relatively unknown. However, pairing a knowledgeable underground contractor with realistic project parameters and subjective judgment can lower the overall risk, while also creating contingency plans in unforeseen circumstances.  Ask our residential, commercial and municipal customers about the hundreds of successful projects EPS has performed throughout the Bay Area.

Following Up on Underground Infrastructure Projects

Building upon risk assessment, following up on the performance of underground infrastructure is tantamount to success and necessary maintenance. The methods of such performance testing vary depending on the type of project. But we conduct routine inspections to ensure everything works correctly.

In addition, governments and contractors work closely together and develop a plan to alert the public about projects and digging hazards. Most states now have phone numbers or websites that allow homeowners to inquire about utilities and pipes before they dig, effectively mitigating the chance for damage to existing infrastructure.

Why You Should Choose a Reputable Underground Contractor in the Bay Area

Although underground infrastructure projects can fail for a variety of reasons, the contractor plays a crucial role in success. Not only should municipalities choose a reputable contractor, but it should also search for companies that have dozens—if not hundreds—of projects to its credit. Furthermore, these contractors should also have the equipment to get the job done and an experienced staff. By combining all of these facets, the chance for underground infrastructure failure is far less, especially in combination with due diligence and risk assessment.

Through risk assessment and regular performance checks, underground infrastructure projects are a durable and dependable part of overall infrastructure. But only when you select the right contractor. With a reliable contractor, the risk of failure becomes an afterthought. The only aspect left is a product that improves the quality of life for citizens and government.

EPS Inc dba Express Plumbing is the go-to underground contractor in the Bay Area because no project is too small, too large, or too complicated for us to handle.  We rely on our fleet of advanced equipment and experienced staff to provide a successful completed project every time.

Have an upcoming project that requires expertise and precision?  Contact us to schedule a meeting with Nick Bechwati to discuss and answer all your questions.

  • 24
    Jun 20
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What is Heavy Construction?

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Heavy construction is a subset of the construction industry geared toward larger structures. Because of the amount of engineering and project management that goes into heavy construction, specialized equipment and highly experienced individuals are part of the successful completion of a project. In many cases, these are municipal and government projects. So how should companies and government entities plan for large-scale heavy construction? Read on to find out.

Heavy Construction Planning: The First Step of a Successful Project

Before starting any heavy construction project, planning is essential. This multistep process starts with a project initiation document or PID. This preliminary document estimates the cost of the project (budget), the necessary materials to complete the project, and how many workers are required. Without this document, construction firms cannot conduct a feasibility test of whether the project is profitable or doable.

EPS Inc. has been serving our municipal, commercial and residential clients for multiple decades. Our experience, manpower and equipment availability gives us the ability to be price when planning a heavy construction project. We are the Bay Area heavy construction company of choice for many municipality projects due to our commitment to quality and excellence.

Once the construction company drafts a PID, it moves on to more specific estimates of the resources required, as well as technical portions of the project. Using the PID, a more accurate and specific plan comes together, as well as a strategy to complete the project under these rubrics. Many times, construction software eases this complex step and crunches numbers to provide the information for a proposal or presentation.

Equipment and Manpower for Heavy Construction

Determining the equipment and manpower for a heavy construction project isn’t always easy. Volatility in economic conditions and other situations can cause variability. In this regard, estimates may change.

However, the initial step of project planning can provide a solid estimate for the amount of equipment and manpower. A formulaic approach can help determine this number, as well as past projects. The idea is that a company with more experience in municipal and large-scale construction projects is more apt to provide a concrete idea for these numbers.

In addition, heavy construction firms must make seemingly smaller decisions that have a huge impact on a project. This includes aspects such as:

  • Whether to lease, buy, or use already purchased equipment
  • What subcontractors to hire
  • Whether to hire temporary personnel to meet the demand of the project
  • Where to buy wholesale materials
  • Other logistical considerations

By determining these needs, a heavy construction project can move forward without any hiccups. In this regard, trade magazines and journals are a vital resource to limit the amount of overhead and get the best workers for the job. Experienced firms may already have a team of suppliers and workers assembled to limit the chances for sunk costs.

Beyond these vital aspects, heavy construction companies must also devote a portion of their efforts to contingency plans. Few projects of this scale will proceed without a hitch. Therefore, a contingency or emergency plan can prevent a bleeding of resources and cash flow.

By choosing a company that has the necessary manpower, machinery, and expertise to finish a heavy construction project, governmental organizations and private builders can avoid any headaches during the process. With a well-constructed building delivered on time and under budget, all parties can enjoy the result of planning and project management.

When you rely on our EPS team, you’re in good hands. From manpower to equipment availability and experience. We get the job done! Contact us with any heavy construction project you’re planning, and we’ll be glad to assist you from start to finish.

  • 06
    Sep 17
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Join our Bay Area Water Conservation Efforts – Tips for the Family

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By now, parents throughout the country are relieved from the “back-to-school” rush.  Our Bay Area water conservation efforts have been implemented since we started in 1989.

As the #1 referred and preferred Bay Area plumbing contractor.  Our company is family owned and operated, we love the community we serve and always want to educate on preventative measures and tips to save our environment and save money for our clients.

Probably, the the last thing on your mind right now is water conservation, but we must remember the importance of saving water for our environment, and if that doesn’t interest you, how about saving money for yourself along the way?

Use these tips to make water conservation a fun learning experience for the kids, and something that will teach them good habits that last them a lifetime.

 

Water Conservation at Home

Must the faucet stay on the entire time while their brushing their teeth?  Once the brush and toothpaste is in their mouth, the average brushing time is two minutes.  Teach kids to shut off the faucet while brushing their teeth, this will save water and a hefty penny on your water bill

Conserve Water at School

Hygiene is a very important part of not spreading infectious diseases at school, remind kids to wash their hands before and after recess or anytime they eat, but also remind them to shut off the faucet while they’re scrubbing their hands.

This will help in the effort of conserving H2O and will quickly become a habit they follow at home.

Make the learning experience fun and rewarding.  It’s not a matter of you “have to do this” but “you should because”.

Discuss the details with the children and allow them to participate in these efforts that will help our environment and their future.

Debora Bekins, a Bay Area residential plumbing client said to one of our plumbers in San Francisco “I took my kids to the aquarium, and explained to them how important it is to keep our environment clean and healthy so we can enjoy things like this.  We wouldn’t want all these fish not to have water anymore, would we?”

That might be a little drastic, but not far off.  Whatever works for you and your family, do it.  Get the kids involved in your efforts and they’ll be so excited to share with their friends and teachers at school.

Water Conservation Tips for Mom and Dad

Set a good example by following the same instructions given to the kids

Fix leaks quickly and don’t let them get worse.  We are a 24 hour plumber!

Water your lawn early morning or late evening

Remember to turn off the sprinklers on rainy day

Go to a car wash that recycles water instead of washing it in the driveway

Don’t run the washing machine and dishwasher until they’re completely full

According to the EPA, the average American family uses more than 300 gallons of water per day per home.

If you implement these small water saving tips at home, you will not only be helping the environment but will also see a drastic change in your water bill.

“Maybe you could use the savings to take a trip with the kids to the aquarium or somewhere to enjoy the beautiful nature we so well need to protect and preserve.”

Let’s share and keep this conversation going.  Do you use any other methods of conservation? We would love to hear from you and share it with others in our Bay Area community.

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