Plumbing in Aurora, IL

A deeper look at how Aurora conditions shape the plumbing work owners actually need.

Aurora's plumbing maintenance picture is shaped by two factors that interact in predictable ways: building age and climate. Approximately 61 percent of the city's housing predates 1980. In that inventory, galvanized supply lines are common on the East Side and West Side. Galvanized pipe corrodes from the inside out as iron oxide accumulates on interior walls over decades. A 1 inch supply line can effectively become a half inch line after 40 years of mineral buildup, starving fixtures throughout the building. The fix is a full copper or PEX repipe, which restores full pressure and eliminates the ongoing risk of pinhole leaks and burst sections. IDPH licensed plumbers must perform repipe work and coordinate inspection with Aurora's building department.

Sump pump reliability in Aurora deserves a dedicated section in any property owner's plumbing plan. The Fox River passes through downtown, and the elevated groundwater table it sustains extends across much of the older residential core. A primary sump pump without a battery backup or water powered backup leaves a basement vulnerable during power outages, which tend to coincide with the same heavy storms that are overwhelming the drainage system.

Installing a battery backup sump alongside the primary unit is the single highest value plumbing investment for most Aurora basement owners.

Water heaters in Aurora face moderate mineral hardness in the municipal supply. Sediment accumulates on the tank floor, insulating the heating element and forcing longer run cycles. A water heater that is not flushed annually typically fails two to four years earlier than its rated service life. Annual flushing during a preventative maintenance visit extends life and reduces energy cost. When replacement is necessary, 40 gallon and 50 gallon gas units are the most common size in Aurora's single family and two flat stock. IDPH licensing is required for water heater installation in Illinois.

Drain and sewer work on Aurora's older lots requires attention to below grade lateral conditions. Mature trees in Pigeon Hill and the West Side's established neighborhoods send roots toward clay tile sewer laterals that were installed in the mid 20th century. Root intrusion is detectable through camera inspection before it causes a complete blockage. Bridgepoint offers drain camera inspection as a standalone service or as part of the preventative maintenance program.