7 Reasons Why You Should Hire Professional Water Heater Repair Services

1. Lower Energy and Water Consumption

When it comes to water heater repair, one of the best reasons to hire a professional is that you can save money on your water and energy usage. Heaters that do not work efficiently require more energy to heat water.

This, in turn, results in a greater energy use than is necessary. For your tap water to reach the temperature that you desire, you will have to leave it open for much longer.

You will have higher energy and water bills by the end of the month if you combine these two factors.

2. Professional Service

In turn, you should receive professional-level water heater repair services since you are paying for them. It pales in comparison to professional repair services even if you think you know how to fix a water heater.

A professional water heater expert can guarantee that the process will be safe from start to finish when they take on the job. Professionals are equipped with the necessary expertise, safety equipment, and tools to do the job.

In addition, water heater problems can be handled by a professional. He will perform a thorough inspection to identify the problem. He will then carry out the necessary steps to restore your heater’s functioning.

A professional can also determine if your old heater needs to be replaced. They will search for the best solution to solve the problem quickly.

3. Cost-Effective Solution

Hiring a professional is not just about fixing the problem quickly. Hiring a professional is not only a faster option, it is also a more cost-effective one.

Despite the fact that DIY might seem like a cheaper option, hiring a professional can save you money in the long run. You have a high chance of making a mistake if you fix your heater yourself.

Some mistakes are more costly than others.

4. Seamless Installation

In some cases, a water heater needs to be replaced. If you recently purchased a new home, perhaps you need to install one. If you want a reliable water heater installation, a professional can help.

Water heaters involve a number of complexities. The plumbing fixtures and wiring are different. It requires specific tools, knowledge, and expertise to install one.

5. Quality and Consistent Water Supply

You ensure your family gets a steady supply of hot water by hiring a professional. Your hot water is also of a high quality and safe.

When you hire a professional technician to repair your water heater, you can rest assured that it will work properly once more. Your home will be heated to your liking once again.

Winter is a critical time for this.

6. Reliable During Emergencies

Being without hot water when you need it most is one of the worst things you can experience. You can enjoy emergency service when you hire a reputable water heater expert.

We can have the expert at your house in just a few minutes. Your heater can be repaired by him, and you will have hot water again soon.

7. Warranties and Insurance

Last but not least, hiring a professional ensures your water heater’s warranty is not voided. There is a warranty on most water heaters. The warranty will be void if you attempt to fix it yourself or hire a person who does not have a license.

The warranty will not be voided if you hire a licensed and insured water heater expert.

6 Signs You Need Water Heater Repair

How to Handle a Broken Water Heater in Your Home

Water heaters tend to last around 10-15 years if properly maintained, but they can show signs of wear long before they actually break. If you start to notice leaking around the lines, it could cause damage to your flooring and drywall as well as cause the water heater to fail. Rust and sediment can also settle in the bottom of the water heater causing the water heater to fail, or you may have the wrong size causing the unit to burst without warning. Whatever the case may be, if your water heater breaks here are some tips on what to do next.

What to do When Your Water Heater Breaks

• Turn off the Water – Turn off the water valve on your water heater. If it won’t turn off, shut off your home’s main water supply. If your water heater has burst, locate the cold water supply pipe leading from your home’s main water line into the top of the water heater. Turn off the cold water supply line by turning the valve clockwise. This stops the flow of water filling the hot water heater.
• Turn off the Power – An electric or gas heating element can pose new hazards if left running. It can stay hot long after water is out of the tank which wastes energy and could also start a fire. Locate and flip the breaker for your hot water heater on your breaker box. If your hot water heater is gas-powered, turn off the gas line leading into it and leave the house until the natural gas smell is gone.
• Drain the Water Heater – Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of your water heater’s tank. Run the other end of the hose to a lower area where you can drain dirty water without risking more damage. Open the drain valve and flip the relief valve handle to prevent a vacuum from forming while the water drains.
• Rinse with Cold Water – After the water heater drains, open the water supply for a few minutes to flush any remaining sediment out of the water heater.
• File an Insurance Claim if Possible – Take photos of any structural elements or furniture that were damaged to help your insurance company determine the cost to repair or replace the items. Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove water from the area around the tank. Run a dehumidifier or floor fans to help prevent the growth of mold. Contact your insurance agent and be sure not to throw away your hot water tank as the insurance adjuster will need to see it to determine the cause of the burst and whether the company will pay for damages. When the insurance adjuster visits your home to assess the damage, show the photos you took and be ready to answer any questions he or she might have.

The 5 Main Types of Plumbing Pipes for Your Home Plumbing System

1. PVC Pipes

Polyvinyl chloride pipes (PVC) are commonly used as part of a sink, toilet, or shower drain line. Its plastic tubing is ideal for this kind of usage because it protects the water from rust and corrosion better than other types of pipes. This capability also makes PVC pipe incredibly durable. Unless they are subject to some kind of damage, PVC pipes will last indefinitely.

PVC pipe is also able to handle high water pressure. This is why it can also serve as your home’s main water supply line. It is also a lighter-weight material, making it easier to work with than the more traditional galvanized steel piping options. PVC pipes contain a smooth inner lining as well, which protects against sediment buildup and makes them more resistant to blockages.

Drawbacks surrounding PVC pipe include limited size options, an inability to withstand hot water, and concerns over toxicity. Though PVC piping meets all standards set by the American National Standards Institute, there are concerns that it may introduce polyvinyl chloride chemicals into drinking water, potentially causing respiratory and reproductive issues. It is for this reason that some states have banned PVC plumbing pipes from transporting drinking water.

2. PEX Pipes

PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, piping also refers to an affordable plastic tubing commonly used for water supply lines. Similar to PVC piping, it prevents rust or corrosion from leaching into the water.

Professionals remain drawn to PEX pipes because they are flexible and easy to weave through walls, ceilings, basements, and crawl spaces. At the same time, they’re strong enough to withstand the pressures of your water supply. Cross-linked polyethylene pipe is also color-coded for hot and cold water, making it easy for plumbers to identify and organize when on the job.

3.  ABS Pipes

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) pipe is similar to PVC pipes in nature but easy to identify based on their black color. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene is also particularly resilient to cold temperatures. It is predominantly used for vent and drain lines.

Though this kind of plumbing pipe is easy to install, it can warp when exposed to direct sunlight. ABS pipes are also noisier than other types of plumbing pipes, causing disturbances among some homeowners.

4. Copper Pipes

Copper pipe has been a staple within the plumbing industry for decades. This type of plumbing pipe can last upwards of 50 years and is commonly found in sinks, showers, tubs, and other fixtures in new and old homes. Copper pipes remain popular among plumbers and homeowners alike because they are corrosion-resistant and best suited to protect the quality of the water.

Copper pipes are able to handle high water pressure and are tolerant of both hot and cold water temperatures. It’s also able to be recycled, making it a somewhat environmentally-friendly option.

That said, are a few drawbacks to consider. Because it is so rigid, plumbers cannot use copper piping in tight spaces. It is also the most expensive type of plumbing pipe. As the price of copper continues to rise, so will the costs of any project involving copper pipe.

5. Cast Iron and Galvanized Steel Pipes

Cast iron pipe and galvanized steel pipe are rarely included in new construction, though they are commonly found in homes built in the early 20th century. Still, cast iron plumbing pipes are incredibly durable and remain in use for parts of water distribution systems today.

Cast iron pipes were typically used as sewer pipes or other drainage purposes. Their popularity largely stemmed from the fact that they are heat-resistant and reduce the sound of moving water.

Unfortunately, cast-iron pipe is prone to rust and corrosion. Over time, this will affect its ability to maintain a clean water supply. These types of pipes have largely been replaced by copper or PEX pipes in residential plumbing repairs.

3 Basic Factors To Consider When Buying New Plumbing Fixtures And/Or Materials

Just like in any other business sector, the plumbing industry is home to countless products and brands. And just like in every other manufacturing industry, all these brands vary in quality and cost. In the grand scheme of things, high quality plumbing products are expansive and vice versa. One of the most fundamental considerations when sourcing for any type of plumbing fixture, installation, or materials is the intended or expected site of installation or deployment. Plumbing products are created or produced from a wide range of raw materials. In addition to quality, cost, and installation/application, you should also consider the environmental friendliness or eco-friendliness of any plumbing product. The following discussion focuses on the three major decision factors for all plumbing purchases and plumbing upgrades.

Cost Vs Quality

The cost of most plumbing installations and materials is very much dependent on their quality. As such, you should always consider and evaluate the quality of any item in relation to its cost. The quality of most plumbing products is easily discernible from its warranty guarantee, its regulatory approval and certification, particularly by mandated government organizations like the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), and the general brand reputation.

Although professional companies offering Fredericksburg emergency plumbing services will help resolve any hitches in your plumbing system following the installation of low quality plumbing components, you will end up incurring service charges because of bad purchase decisions. As such, you should always try to achieve some balance between the cost of a particular plumbing product and its quality to enhance its functionality and longevity.

Site Of Installation Vs. Construction/Composition

The functional suitability and overall longevity of a given type of plumbing component depends on its material or bodily makeup/constitution. The item’s physical construction is also an integral factor in the computation of its price. For instance, plumbing pipes are mainly produced from either metal, plastic polymers, or concrete. Polyvinyl Chloride or PVC (plastic) pipes are relatively cheap as compared to the other two types. They are also quite strong, durable, and versatile in design and installation. For outdoor plumbing needs, you should choose hardy fixtures, and materials that are not easily corroded and those that can withstand harsh weather and environmental conditions. Specialized plumbing installations like water heaters should be outfitted with insulated pipes, which are capable of carrying very hot water without being damaged.

Environmental Friendliness

In order to promote environmental conservation/preservation, you should do your best to curb resource wastage. This means that you should always go for plumbing installations, fixtures and appliances that are energy and water efficient. Energy efficient plumbing products prevent energy loss or wastage and you can easily pick them out by looking for the Energy Star certification mark of EPA. Same case with water efficient plumbing fixtures and appliances; they are all certified and marked by EPA. In some cases, Eco-friendly plumbing materials are recycled or made from recycled compounds. You should adopt stringent green measures, such as an unwavering preference for nonpolluting plumbing products to reduce your carbon footprint. In addition to ensuring minimal resource loss in your plumbing system, eco-friendly systems are also supposed to protect you from unprecedented system faults or breakages. In other words, all your plumbing products must be of exemplary quality to ensure optimal performance. Low quality plumbing installations can malfunction any time leading to unprecedented system faults. Additionally, system defects like leaking pipes cause water loss and leaking sewer systems causing hazardous waste spills and pollution, thereby undermining your environmental conservation/preservation efforts

How to Choose a Plumber for Your Home Plumbing Needs

Plumbing issues can be quite troublesome and, if left unattended, can lead to costly damages to your home. Hiring a reliable and skilled plumber is crucial to maintaining a fully functional and safe plumbing system. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? In this article, a professional plumber from The Cajun Plumber will guide you through the process of selecting a plumber for your home plumbing needs.

1. Gather Recommendations and Research Online

Start by asking friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations. Personal referrals can be a reliable source of information, as people usually share their experiences, both positive and negative, with particular plumbers or companies. Online reviews on platforms such as Google, Yelp, and Angie’s List can provide valuable insights into the quality of work and customer service provided by local plumbers. Keep in mind that while one or two negative reviews should not deter you, a pattern of negative feedback is a red flag.

2. Check for Proper Licensing and Insurance

In most regions, plumbers are required to hold a valid license to practice their trade. Before hiring a plumber, verify that they have the necessary licensing, which indicates that they have met the required education and training standards. Additionally, a licensed plumber is more likely to be familiar with local building codes and regulations.

Insurance is another essential factor to consider. A reputable plumber should have both liability and workers’ compensation insurance to protect both you and their workers in case of accidents or damages during the project. Ask for proof of insurance before signing any contracts.

3. Look for Experience and Specializations

Experience is crucial when it comes to plumbing work. A plumber with several years of experience is likely to have encountered a wide range of plumbing issues and will be better equipped to handle any unexpected complications that may arise during the project. Make sure to ask how long they have been in business and about their experience with projects similar to yours.

Some plumbers may also have specializations in specific areas, such as repairing water heaters, installing gas lines, or handling complex sewer problems. If your project requires a particular expertise, it’s essential to choose a plumber with the relevant experience and training in that area.

4. Request Multiple Quotes

Obtaining multiple quotes from different plumbers allows you to compare prices, services, and timelines to make an informed decision. While the cost should not be the sole determining factor, a reasonable and transparent quote can help you avoid potential hidden fees or unexpected charges. Be cautious of any quotes that are significantly lower than others, as this may indicate a lack of experience or poor-quality workmanship.

5. Assess Communication and Professionalism

Good communication and professionalism are vital aspects of a successful plumbing project. Pay attention to how promptly the plumber responds to your inquiries and whether they are courteous and respectful. A reliable plumber should be willing to answer your questions, explain their recommendations, and provide clear information about the project’s scope, cost, and timeline. Professionalism also extends to the plumber’s appearance and punctuality, as well as the cleanliness and organization of their workspace.

6. Verify References and Ask for a Written Contract

Before making your final decision, ask the plumber for references from recent clients. Speaking with past customers can give you an idea of the quality of the plumber’s work and their level of customer satisfaction. Finally, insist on a written contract that outlines the project’s scope, materials, timeline, and payment terms. A detailed contract can help protect both you and the plumber and minimize potential disputes.

Conclusion

Choosing a plumber for your home plumbing needs is a critical decision that can impact the safety and functionality of your plumbing system. By following the steps outlined in this article – gathering recommendations, checking for proper licensing and insurance, looking for experience and specializations, requesting multiple quotes

The Advantages of Hiring Plumbing Contractors

“Why should I hire licensed plumbing contractors when I can get it done cheaper?”

This is a question that we’re asked frequently.  But if you’ve turned on your faucet today and clean water has flowed, or if you’ve flushed your toilet and it didn’t back up, then you thank a licensed plumbing contractor.

Often people believe that they can save money by cutting corners and either doing their own plumbing, or hiring an unlicensed handyman.  And, quite honestly, sure…that IS something that you can do, however, here are five reasons to consider hiring a plumbing contractor:

1.  They are licensed.  The Florida Plumbing Contractor licensing process is so rigorous that only 30% of people taking the exam pass the first time.  There are two parts to the exam (business and finance and trade).  In addition to passing the exam, licensees must submit a personal credit report with a net worth of $2,500-20,000, depending on the classification.  As licensed plumbing contractors, All American Plumbing Services has the training and experience necessary for basic repairs, reconstruction and new construction.

2.  They are experienced.  Florida plumbing contractors must document at least 4 years of prior experience, as well as taking and passing continuing education classes throughout their careers.  This means that we’re up to date with the codes necessary to keep you safe and do the job right.

3.  You’re protected.  By hiring a licensed professional, you can be assured that certain legal and financial standards are maintained.  For instance, in order to be licensed, each candidate must pass a criminal background check.  Additionally, a minimum of $100,000 worth of bodily harm insurance and $25,000 worth of property damage must be carried by all licensed plumbing contractors.

4.  Legalities.  Most plumbing work is required by law to be done by a licensed professional plumber.  If you hire someone who isn’t, not only are you risking shoddy workmanship, but depending on the situation, you could be creating a dangerous situation for yourself and those around you.

5.  Your insurance might not cover unlicensed work.  Using someone who’s not licensed could void your insurance policy.

These 5 reasons for hiring a licensed plumbing contractor give you a peace-of-mind knowing that you are protected from a legal or insurance fiasco. In addition, knowing that you have built a relationship with a credible, experienced and dependable plumber to take care of challenging or simple plumbing situations when they arise is priceless. So go ahead and buy the generic peanut butter, toilet paper or soda, but don’t skimp-out on who takes care of your plumbing no matter how nice the handyman down the street is to you.