The Ultimate Guide to Bidets and Your Plumbing

March 13, 2024
Bidet

Bidets have gained popularity as a luxurious addition to bathrooms, offering a cleaner and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional toilet paper. If you're considering installing a bidet, this ultimate guide will walk you through the selection and installation process, and what a bidet means for your plumbing.


What You Need to Know Before Purchasing a Bidet

There’s a few things to keep in mind when deciding which bidet is right for your home and plumbing system:


Electrical Considerations for Bidets

When considering an electric bidet seat, it's crucial to keep the electrical requirements in mind. The bidet seat needs a power source, but don't worry – all you need is a standard 110-120v, 15amp, 3-prong outlet, the kind you find all around your home.


However, because the outlet is in a bathroom where moisture is a factor, plumbing codes require a GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlet. This safety measure protects against electric shock in case water gets into the outlet. If there's no existing outlet conveniently placed near your toilet, it's a good idea to hire a qualified electrician to take care of this part of the installation process.


Determining Your Current Toilet’s Bidet Compatibility

Adding bidet seats to your bathroom is usually a straightforward process for most standard toilets with an elongated bowl. But if your toilet bowl is round your choices are more limited. We recommend measuring your toilet carefully before purchasing to make sure the bidet seat fits properly. (More on this below.) Alternatively, you might want to consider the convenience of a toilet that already has a built-in bidet seat (a bidet-toilet combination, also known as a smart toilet) for a guaranteed and trouble-free fit. 


What Types of Bidets Are There?

Before diving into the installation process, it's essential to select the bidet type that best suits your needs. There are several types of bidets available: 

  • Standalone bidets/bidet toilets: Standalone bidets are separate and permanent appliances for the toilet. They are usually the most expensive bidet option due to their premium features and technical needs.
  • Bidet toilet seats/bidet seats: Bidet seats are designed to be installed on your existing toilet. Bidet seats connect to the toilet for water and vary in features. Some offer water temperature control, different jet options, and a plastic or stainless steel nozzle for water spray. Styles include attached or hand-held remotes for controlling flow patterns, strength, and temperature. Certain models include heated seats, and there are manual and electronic options based on personal preference.
  • Bidet attachments: These are also compatible attachments for your toilet, and are the most affordable and renter-friendly bidet option. You can install your bidet attachment on the side of the toilet, a nearby wall, or any suitable spot in your bathroom, connecting it to the toilet for water. This space-saving option is hands-on but provides manual control over water pressure.


How to Measure a Toilet for a Bidet: Do You Have a Round or Elongated Toilet?

Choosing the right bidet also comes down to the measurements and type of toilet. This is because not every bidet seat is available for round toilets, our experience finds that they are universally offered in elongated toilets.


How to Measure Your Toilet

Measure from the center of the fastening/bolt holes to the front of the toilet. Generally, round seats measure about 17 inches or less, while elongated seats measure 17.5 inches or more. Measure from the fastening holes in the toilet to the front of the rim.


The standard distance between bolt holes is 5.5 inches but can range from 5.5 to 7.5 inches. If your bolt holes fall within this range, you're in luck, as most bidet seats are adjustable to fit this.


Another crucial measurement is the distance from the bolt holes to the front of the tank. Most bidet seats require at least 1.75 inches of space, although there are a couple of models that only need 1.5 inches.


For a comprehensive fit, consider the overall length of bidet toilet seats. Round toilet seats typically have an overall length of 19.5 inches, while elongated ones measure 20.5 inches. To ensure compatibility, measure from the front of the tank to the very front of the toilet.


Will You Need a Plumber To Install a Bidet?

While some bidet installations can be tackled by non-plumbers, hiring a qualified plumber often ensures the most successful outcome. Bidet attachments can be self-installed by utilizing the water supply line for the toilet. However, standalone bidets and smart toilets require professional installation. Connecting directly to the plumbing system makes them a less suitable DIY project.


Call Plumb Works for Bidet Installation

Look no further than Plumb Works for a hassle-free bidet installation. Our experienced team of plumbers is ready to ensure a seamless integration of your bidet, whether it's a straightforward attachment or a more complex standalone unit. We prioritize efficiency and precision in every installation, leaving you with a fully functional and professionally installed bidet. Give us a call at 404-524-1825 or schedule a service today!

January 30, 2025
When running a business, plumbing might not be top of mind—until something goes wrong. A burst pipe, a backed-up drain, or a faulty water heater can disrupt operations, inconvenience customers, and lead to expensive repairs. Regular commercial plumbing maintenance helps prevent these issues, saving businesses time, money, and stress. But not all businesses have the same plumbing needs. Let’s take a look at why maintenance is crucial and what specific industries should focus on.  Why Regular Maintenance Matters Neglecting plumbing maintenance can lead to serious problems, including: ✔ Unexpected Downtime – A plumbing emergency can halt operations, costing businesses revenue and productivity. ✔ Expensive Repairs – Small issues, like a slow drain, can escalate into costly repairs if left unchecked. ✔ Health & Safety Concerns – Leaks and water damage can lead to mold growth, contamination, and even structural damage. ✔ Regulatory Compliance – Many industries must meet health and safety standards for plumbing systems, especially with backflow testing . Backflow testing must be performed annually in the State of Georgia for all businesses that connect directly or indirectly to the public water supply. By scheduling routine maintenance, businesses can catch minor issues before they become major problems, ensuring smooth operations year-round. Industry-Specific Plumbing Needs Restaurants & Food Service For restaurants, hotels, and commercial kitchens, plumbing problems can be disastrous. A clogged grease trap or backed-up drain can lead to kitchen shutdowns and health code violations. Regular maintenance should include: Grease trap cleaning or new grease trap installation . Drain and sewer line inspections. Water heater checks for dishwashers and sinks. Healthcare & Medical Facilities Hospitals, dental offices, and clinics rely on clean water and functional plumbing for sanitation and patient care. Preventative maintenance in these spaces should focus on: Backflow prevention to ensure water quality. Regular pipe inspections to prevent leaks and contamination. Water heater maintenance for sterilization equipment. Office Buildings & Corporate Spaces Large office buildings see heavy restroom use, making plumbing upkeep essential. Common maintenance needs include: Checking for leaks in restrooms and breakroom sinks. Maintaining water pressure for multiple floors. Inspecting sewer lines to prevent backups. Retail & Shopping Centers Customer restrooms, employee break areas, and utility sinks are all essential in retail spaces. Routine checks should include: Leak detection in public restrooms (especially for Mom & Pop shops in metro Atlanta with 1-2 bathrooms on site.) Water heater maintenance for stores with in-house cafés. Ensuring floor drains are clear to prevent flooding. Industrial & Manufacturing Facilities Factories and warehouses use plumbing for both sanitation and production processes. Preventative maintenance should focus on: Inspecting high-use pipes for corrosion. Checking for leaks in chemical or waste disposal systems. Ensuring emergency eyewash stations and safety showers function properly. Places of Worship Churches, synagogues, mosques, and other places of worship often have large gatherings that rely on the plumbing functioning correctly. With your patrons in attendance for long periods, on-site kitchens, and regular community events, regular maintenance is essential and should include: Checking restrooms for leaks, clogs, and proper water pressure. Inspecting and maintaining water heaters for kitchens and fellowship halls. Ensuring baptismal fonts and other specialty plumbing features are in good working order. Keeping sewer and drainage systems clear to accommodate large services and events. Schedule Commercial Plumbing Maintenance With Plumb Works A proactive approach to commercial plumbing maintenance saves businesses from expensive surprises. Scheduling routine inspections, cleaning drains, and keeping plumbing systems in top shape ensures smooth operations and regulatory compliance. If you own or manage a commercial property, don’t wait for a plumbing emergency. Invest in regular maintenance to protect your business, employees, and customers. Contact Plumb Works today to schedule a service or set up a custom maintenance plan that fits your industry’s needs.
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October 31, 2024
As fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, it’s easy to forget that falling leaves can create significant problems for your storm drains. Both residential and commercial properties are at risk, especially when regular maintenance is neglected. In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of cleaning storm drains, how leaf buildup leads to overflow, and why keeping up with maintenance can prevent expensive repairs. The Problem with Leaf Buildup in Storm Drains Fallen leaves may look harmless, but when they accumulate in storm drains , they create blockages that prevent water from flowing freely. This can cause: Overflowing drains in parking lots Water damage to building foundations and basements Unpleasant smells, especially for commercial properties that haven’t maintained their storm drains in 5+ years Leaf buildup is often forgotten until it’s too late and the water starts overflowing. Regular cleaning is the key to preventing these issues. Why Regular Maintenance is Essential Storm drain maintenance should be conducted at least once a year, or every other year in lower-risk areas. This can include: Camera inspections to check for blockages or damage. Jetting lines to clear out leaves and other debris. Maintenance is especially critical if your home or commercial property sits below street level. Properties at a lower elevation are more susceptible to flooding, and clogged storm drains can make this worse. If your house or business is above street level we recommend you perform storm drain maintenance once every 2 years unless you notice frequent leaf buildup in the storm drain grates on your property. The Dangers of Waiting Too Long All it takes is one large storm for clogged drains to cause a sewer overflow. While overflow often occurs in parking lots, the worst-case scenario involves water backing up into your building’s foundation or basement. This can lead to structural damage, mold, and costly repairs. For commercial properties, water damage can also disrupt business operations and create liability concerns. Property owners who neglect maintenance for five or more years might even notice persistent foul odors, which could indicate significant buildup and the presence of trapped debris or stagnant water. How to Prevent Overflow After a Storm The best way to prevent storm drain overflow is to stay on top of regular maintenance. However, if a storm hits and you suspect your drains may be blocked, it’s important to act quickly: Check for standing water in low-lying areas or parking lots. If you notice an overflow, call a professional to inspect and clear your storm drains immediately. After heavy storms, consider scheduling a post-storm inspection to ensure everything is functioning properly. Protect Your Home and Business With Plumb Works Storm drain cleaning is an easy task to forget, but it’s crucial for avoiding water damage and keeping your property safe. By maintaining your drains yearly or every other year, you can rest easy knowing your property is protected from the dangers of leaf buildup and storm drain overflow. Whether you own a home or a commercial building, regular inspections and maintenance will save you from costly repairs in the future. Don't wait until after the next big storm— schedule your storm drain cleaning with Plumb Works today!
October 16, 2024
 We are excited to announce that Plumb Works has been recognized as the 2024 Residential Contractor of the Year, an accolade that speaks to our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service and superior workmanship. This accolade, awarded by Plumbing & Mechanical Magzine, is given to contractors that foster long-standing customer relationships, a strong work ethic, and a deep-rooted commitment to quality service. You can read the full article here . What This Award Means to Us At Plumb Works, delivering quality service to our Atlanta community is at the core of everything we do. Our team works diligently to ensure each customer receives reliable, efficient, and friendly service, whether it’s a small plumbing repair or a large-scale project. Receiving the 2024 Residential Contractor of the Year award is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our plumbers, and we are truly honored by this recognition. Our Commitment to You This accolade is a reminder of why we do what we do. We believe that every home deserves dependable plumbing services that leave you confident in your system's performance. Whether you need routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or a complete overhaul, Plumb Works is ready to help. As we celebrate this recognition, we want to thank all of our loyal customers for your trust and feedback. You inspire us to improve and grow every day. Experience Award-Winning Plumbing Services with Plumb Works If you’re looking for a plumbing company that’s as dedicated to customer satisfaction as we are to solving your plumbing problems, look no further. Call Plumb Works today or fill out a form to schedule your next service and see firsthand why we’ve earned the 2024 Residential Contractor of The Year.
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Jerome Sabol and Josh Czerniak, two key members of the Plumb Works team, joined guest host Belinda Skelton on the July 14 episode of “Lenz On Business,” a one-hour business talk show on 95.5 WSB, Atlanta’s news and talk. One of the city’s leading plumbing companies, Plumb Works has been in business since 1989. The company proudly bears an A-plus rating from the Better Business Bureau. Sabol and Czerniak drew about their knowledge and experience, and chatted about the business and an array of timely issues and practical tips listeners can use. They discussed a range of topics including what listeners can do themselves and what they absolutely need a plumber for. As for the former, Sabol recommended listeners check out the Plumb Works Academy website (PlumbWorksAcademy.com) with its array of how-to videos. Skelton asked the pair about Plumb Works’ annual service contracts and if they’re worth the investment. “It can be very important to have your plumbing system evaluated once a year, and that’s what is included in our service agreement,” Czerniak said. “We’ll walk through your entire home, look under every sink, check your water heater, the temperature of your water, your water pressure, all the ins and outs. It’s like having your vitals done when you go to the doctor.” Other subjects of conversation included the importance of water heater service, summer plumbing renovation dos and dont’s, whole-house water filtration systems, garbage disposals, underground leak detection, and much more. Schedule a Plumbing Service With Plumb Works If you have questions or would like to schedule a service visit with a Plumb Works professional, visit the schedule service page or call 404-524-1825 .
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