The Most Important Factors To Consider When Hiring A Plumber
There are many issues that can make it necessary for you to seek the services of a professional plumber. Whether you want to fix a leak or you would like to repipe your home, you need to ensure that the job is done by a qualified residential plumbing contractor. Unfortunately, although there are a lot of plumbing service providers near you, it is not easy to find a good one. This is because there are many incompetent plumbing service providers whose services could leave you disappointed even after spending a significant amount of money on them. Therefore, when shopping for a plumbing contractor to help you handle any plumbing assignment in your house, you should be very careful not to hire an incompetent person. But what exactly can you do to ensure that you settle for the most qualified plumbing contractor in the city? Here is a rundown of some of the most important factors you should consider as you shop for a plumbing contractor near you.
Licensing
The plumbing industry is regulated by local authorities. This is because improperly done plumbing jobs can pose serious safety hazards to people and buildings. Professional plumbers need to undergo years of training and acquire some experience in order to get issued with the licenses that allow them to provide their services within the parameters of the prevailing building code. If you decide to hire a plumbing contractor who is not duly licensed, several things might go wrong. For instance, if your plumbing system has some valid warranties, you may end up voiding them. In other words, trusting an unlicensed plumbing service provider with your plumbing system could cause you to effectively lose the privileges your service warranties come with. Therefore, before you can choose a given plumbing contractor you need to demand to see their licenses. A good plumbing contractor will be happy to show you their license. Therefore, if you have noticed that the plumbing service provider you are considering hiring is unwilling to show you their licenses, you should not take the risk of hiring them.
Insurance
Plumbing jobs can be quite risky. Indeed, the person doing the job could sustain serious injuries. For instance, if your water heater has malfunctioned, repairing it could put the plumbing contractor involved at risk of sustaining serious burns or electrical injuries. Similarly, if there is a plumbing repair job that requires a plumber to access an overhead tank, it could put them at risk of falling and sustaining serious fall injuries. It is also important to note that there are some plumbing assignments that could leave sections of your home damaged. For instance, repairing a slab leak could cause severe damage to your home’s slab foundation and flooring. Good plumbing companies prepare for such risks by being insured and bonded. If your plumbing contractor is adequately insured and bonded, their insurance should cover the cost of the injuries and property damage they might sustain or cause. On the other hand, if you hire an uninsured plumbing service provider, then you may have to pay for any damage or injuries that may occur as they work in your house. Therefore, before you can choose to settle for a particular plumbing contractor, you need to ascertain if they are properly insured. If the answer is no, hiring them will be too risky and you shouldn’t do it.
Availability
You never know when you are going to face a plumbing emergency in your house. This is because plumbing problems can occur unexpectedly at any time on any day. Unfortunately, most plumbing issues can cause serious inconveniences and damage if they are not addressed promptly. Therefore, a good plumber should always be ready to swiftly respond to emergency calls. In other words, a good plumbing company should be willing to offer 24/7 emergency services. If you make the mistake of settling for a plumbing company that is not always available, you may be forced to stay with a disgusting plumbing mess for extended hours waiting for help to arrive. Therefore, before you can decide to settle for a particular plumbing contractor, you need to ask if they offer 24/7 emergency services. If they are not willing and able to help you all the time, you should continue searching.
Warranties
Even if you hire the best plumbing company in the city, there is a good chance that it may fail to resolve your plumbing issues satisfactorily. This is because the job will be assigned to a person who can make mistakes and even fail to meet your expectations. For this reason, a good plumbing contractor should be willing to offer a warranty for the services offered. The warranty is the document that plumbing companies use to express the confidence they have in the quality of their products and services. With a warranty, you can rest assured that your plumbing company will take responsibility should the issue at hand reoccur within a given time. On the other hand, if your plumbing contractor does not offer warranties, it will be hard to hold them accountable if their services fail to meet your expectations. Therefore, before you can choose to settle for a particular plumbing service provider, you should ask them if they are duly licensed. If the answer is negative, hiring them will be too risky and you should not do it.
The Bottom Line
Overall, it is apparent that if you are looking for a dependable plumbing service provider near you, there are several factors you should consider to avoid settling for an incompetent person or receiving substandard services. If you are looking for a dependable plumbing service to help you handle any plumbing situation you might run into, Peach Plumbing & Drain is the answer. We have been providing residential plumbing services for a long time, and we are a household name in our community. Feel free to get in touch with us today to learn more about our company and services.
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Drain Cleaning Service: 8 Things That Should Never Go Down Your Drains
Every household relies on the drainage system mainly to remove wastewater and sewage from their homes. It also helps to prevent flooding and water damage by directing rainwater and other surface runoff away from buildings and into appropriate drainage channels. Unfortunately, misuse and neglect of drains can lead to clogs, blockages, and other drainage problems. Drain cleaning services are available to help homeowners maintain their plumbing systems and avoid costly repairs and damages.
Being mindful of what you put down your drains is one of the best ways to maintain them and prevent drainage problems. In this guide, we are going to look at 8 common things that should never go down your drain.
#1. Grease, Fats, and Oils
As tempting as it may be to pour fats, oil, and grease down the drain after cooking, it can lead to a buildup of thick, sticky residue in your pipes. Over time, this buildup can lead to blockages and even damage your pipes. The easiest way to prevent this issue is to collect used cooking grease in a jar or container before disposing it in the regular trash. Before washing pots and pans, use a paper towel to wipe off any residual grease. If the clogs still occur, contact a professional for drain cleaning.
#2. Coffee Grounds and Food Scraps
Coffee grounds may seem harmless and small, but it is one of the most common sources of household plumbing clogs. The gritty debris can accumulate in your pipes, causing a slow and stubborn blockage. Rather than rinsing them down the sink, put coffee grounds in your compost bin or trash can.
Likewise, food scraps should be collected and thrown in the trash, not the sink, as they can contribute to pipe blockages. Use a mesh strainer to catch food particles, preventing them from escaping down the drain.
#3. Hair and Soap Scum
Human hair or animal fur is often a common contributor to clogs, especially in the shower, bathtub, laundry, and bathroom drains. When hair and soap scum combine, they form a formidable duo that can wreak havoc on your drains. They reduce the pipe diameter and cause slow drainage or total blockage. Soap can also combine with other materials, such as dirt, to form clogs, exacerbating the issue.
To minimize the likelihood of clogs, switch to liquid soap or opt for a bar free of animal fats. Additionally, if feasible, bathe your pets outside. It is also crucial to schedule regular drain cleaning services to maintain optimal functionality.
#4. Pasta and Rice
Both pasta and rice expand when they absorb water, and the same thing can happen when they are sent down the drain. That can lead to blockages and put unnecessary stress on your pipes. For this reason, it is best to avoid washing pasta and rice down the sink or flushing them down the toilet. Instead, dispose of these items in the garbage and ensure your pipes remain clear.
#5. Paper and Hygiene Products
Toilet paper disintegrates quickly in water, making it safe to flush the toilet. However, other paper products, such as paper towels, napkins, and facial tissues, do not break down as easily and may cause clogs. Similarly, avoid flushing hygiene products, such as baby wipes, cotton balls, and feminine care products, as they can expand in the pipes and lead to blockages. Dispose of these items in the trash rather than flushing them down the sink or toilet.
#6. Toys, Jewelry, and More
Most of us are guilty of allowing small items like jewelry, toys, and coins to go down the drain on purpose or by accident. While it may seem like a harmless action, these small objects can accumulate and create blockages in your pipes over time.
If you have already experienced clogs, contact a professional to assess the issue and provide a suitable solution. An experienced plumber can easily locate the source of the clog using a video camera and use hydro jetting, snaking, or other methods to clear it.
#7. Chemical Cleaners and Other Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials, such as paint and chemical cleaners, should be kept off the drain. While chemical drain cleaners might seem like a quick solution to a clogged drain, they can do more harm than good. The harsh chemicals may damage your pipes, especially older ones or those made from particular materials like polybutylene pipes, which were commonly used in the 1980s and 1990s.
Similarly, paint, paint thinner, gasoline, and other hazardous substances can cause harm to the environment when they enter the sewer system or are released into rivers and streams. Strictly adhere to the instructions on the products before disposal or stick to enzyme-based drain cleaners, which are safer and more effective.
#8. Cigarette Butts and Other Trash
Cigarette butts are one of the most common items found in drainage systems. They can cause a buildup of tar and oil, leading to clogs in the pipes. To prevent this, smokers should dispose of their cigarette butts properly, either in an ashtray or in the garbage. Additionally, all other non-biodegradable waste should be put in the trash can.
Preventative Drain Maintenance
Preventive maintenance is the best way to keep your drains free of clogs. That includes regularly rinsing the sink and bathtub with hot water and avoiding high-viscosity substances, such as cooking oil, from entering the drainage system.
Additionally, installing strainers in the sink and bathtub to catch hair and other debris can help prevent clogs from forming. If a clog forms, some simple home remedy is often sufficient to remove it. In some cases, however, a professional drain cleaning service may be required to clear the blockage and restore normal flow. Regularly scheduled maintenance visits help keep drains clear and functioning correctly for years.
Contact Peach Plumbing & Drain today at 678-322-7236 to schedule a professional drain cleaning service. We will provide your home or business with the best service and expertise!
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
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The Importance Of Timely Plumbing Repair: Why You Shouldn’t Wait To Fix That Leak
Plumbing problems can be a real headache for homeowners. From small leaks to burst pipes, they can cause significant damage to your property, not to mention the potential health hazards caused by water damage and mold growth. While putting off repairs to save time and money may be tempting, this can lead to more extensive damage and costly repairs in the long run. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of acting immediately and calling a plumbing repair service in case of plumbing issues.
Benefits of Timely Repairs
Prevent Minor Problems from Becoming Major
Having a plumber inspect your system regularly can help you spot and fix problems before they worsen. With the help of a licensed plumber’s experience and training, you can avoid future breakdowns and expensive repairs by not putting off minor repairs. In the long run, you can save money and keep your water system running smoothly by scheduling routine maintenance and repairs.
Minimize Disruptions
If you have plumbing issues like clogged pipes or overflowing toilets, you may need to turn off your home’s water supply until a plumber can diagnose and fix the problem. This could prevent you from doing things like going to the bathroom or taking a shower. Repairing plumbing issues as quickly as possible helps to reduce the number of disruptions caused to your household.
Preventing Mold Issues
The presence of mold in a house poses serious health risks to the occupants. People living with Asthma and those with mold allergies are worse off when mold is present in the house. Mold particles can be found practically anywhere but can only grow when they land in damp areas. Wet walls and ceilings caused by plumbing problems provide ideal conditions for mold growth. The well-being of your loved ones is at risk if this happens. Calling a plumbing repair professional to fix leaks as soon as possible will help keep your house dry and reduce the likelihood of a mold infestation.
Protecting Your House
Your house is one of your most valuable assets. Protecting it from damage is probably one of your top concerns. Leaky faucets and burst water pipes can cause significant water damage to your house if not repaired immediately. Potential problems with the building’s structural stability could arise due to this, leading to expensive repairs. Timely repairs are an efficient method of protecting your house by limiting water spread to areas that must be kept dry.
Improved Water Quality
If you reside in a city or a semi-urban area, the water in your home likely comes straight from the utility company’s pipes. However, these pipes can’t last forever. All metal components in plumbing systems ultimately corrode and rust due to normal wear and tear. As the water flows through the rusty pipes, it absorbs the rust, resulting in rusty brown water with a metallic odor and flavor.
Rust can corrode pipes, which can lead to water leaks. When water pools due to a leak, bacteria like giardia, legionella, and cryptosporidium can contaminate the water source, causing sickness. Maintaining healthy pipes and ensuring consistent water quality requires contacting a professional plumber immediately after you notice a problem.
Timely Repairs Can Help Reduce Expenses
Unexpected repairs can add up quickly, based on the severity of the issue. It’s essential to fix a problem as soon as possible because the cost can skyrocket if it’s allowed to fester. Even a simple issue can become a significant hassle in no time. That’s why plumbing experts recommend acting quickly and decisively when plumbing problems arise. It will keep the issue from spiraling out of control and may save you a lot of money.
Timely Repairs Can Help Maintain Water Pressure and Quality
Quality water is essential to your health and happiness. If you suspect that sediment or mineral particles may have settled in your pipes, a professional plumber can help you pinpoint the source of the problem. As a bonus, they can prevent water pressure in your pipes from ever becoming too low or too high, causing annoying fluctuations in flow.
Extends Your System’s Lifespan
Pipes can last much longer with timely repairs than they would otherwise. The typical American sewage system will last between 17 and 100 years. That’s a considerable gap to bridge. The two most significant factors determining how long it will last are the components you use and how well you care for your plumbing system. A plumbing repair expert can help ensure your plumbing system lasts for years.
Consequences of Putting Off Repairs
While a plumbing problem may seem minor initially, putting off repairs could lead to a much larger issue. Below are some reasons not to put off repairs:
- Leaks: As much as burst pipes can cause a lot of damage, they are usually fixed quickly. But tiny, unseen leaks can be just as disastrous because they go unnoticed and cause damage for years before anyone fixes them. Therefore, it is highly suggested that property owners pay for a regular maintenance plan with a trustworthy plumbing company.
- Mold growth: When water leaks go undetected for too long, mold, mildew, and bacteria flourish. Mold particles grow in damp, dark places. Furthermore, if the source of the leak is the sewer system, you risk introducing disease-causing bacteria and other contaminants. Any sign of mold or fungus requires the immediate attention of a qualified plumber.
- Property damage: The combined effects of water leaks and mold development can be devastating. If you have any of these issues in your home or business, the value will plummet, and your health could be at risk. The expenses associated with mold remediation can be over $20 per square foot. If there is structural damage, the cost of repairs could skyrocket. In the long run, you can save much more money by hiring a plumbing repair expert to diagnose and fix issues promptly.
Stop the Drip Before It Turns into a Flood
It is crucial to prioritize repairs to avoid more significant and costly problems down the road. Neglecting even minor issues can lead to extensive damage and inconvenience for you and your family. Don’t wait until it’s too late!
If you need bespoke plumbing services Peach Plumbing & Drain is your best bet. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your plumbing system is in top condition. Remember, investing in regular plumbing maintenance and repairs now can save you from more significant expenses and headaches in the future.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
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Communication Strategies When Talking To An Emergency Plumber
When it comes to plumbing emergencies, there is no time to waste. You need to act fast and communicate effectively with the emergency plumber to ensure a timely resolution to the problem. Good communication can differentiate between a small issue and a major disaster. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on communicating effectively with a plumber to finish the job quickly and efficiently.
Organize Your Thoughts
While it’s understandable to be in a hurry when you have a plumbing emergency, it’s important to take the time to organize your thoughts. Before you call an emergency plumber, take some time to gather your thoughts and organize the information you want to convey. List the symptoms or issues you are experiencing, and note any recent changes or events that may have contributed to the problem. This will help you articulate the issue clearly and succinctly to the plumber and ensure they have all the information they need to diagnose and fix the problem.
Be Clear About the Problem
It’s important to be as specific as possible when describing the problem to the plumber. Use clear language to describe the symptoms or issues you are experiencing, and provide accurate details about where the problem occurs. For example, instead of saying, “My bathroom sink is leaking,” you could say, “There’s a steady stream of water coming from the base of the faucet, and it doesn’t stop even when I turn off the valve beneath the sink.” Describing the issue clearly will help the plumber understand the severity and complexity of the problem, which will help them develop a plan for fixing it.
Be Honest About Your Situation
Being honest about your situation is crucial when talking to an emergency plumber. If you have attempted to fix the problem yourself or if there is a pre-existing issue you have not disclosed, it is important to be upfront and honest about it. This helps the plumber identify the problem’s root cause and develop an effective solution. Honesty also helps build trust with the plumber, which is important in emergencies.
Stay Calm and in Control
Emotions can run high when dealing with a plumbing emergency. Perhaps you’ve been dealing with the problem for days, or maybe it’s caused a lot of damage to your property. However, staying calm and in control can be a beneficial communication strategy. By taking a deep breath and speaking clearly, you’ll be able to convey important information about the issue at hand without adding confusion or unnecessary stress. Maintaining a level head will also help you make smart decisions about the problem and any necessary repairs. So, the next time you’re faced with a plumbing emergency, remember to take a moment to compose yourself before reaching out for help. Your peace of mind and the situation’s outcome will be much better.
Listen Carefully
Communication is a two-way street, so listening carefully to what the plumber tells you is important. They may ask you questions to clarify the issue or gather more information, so be patient and provide as much detail as possible. If the plumber suggests a course of action or recommends a repair, ask questions if you don’t understand, and ensure you are clear on what needs to be done. However, do not interrupt the plumber while they are sharing information, and take notes if need be so that you can remember.
Provide Access to the Plumbing
Make sure the plumber has access to the plumbing that needs attention. Move any furniture, fixtures, or other items blocking the plumber’s access to the plumbing. Additionally, ensure that the plumber has a clear path to the plumbing and that all relevant areas are unlocked to allow easy access. This will enable the plumber to save time and ensure a quick resolution to your plumbing emergency. You also want to ensure that all family members and pets are out of the way while the plumber works.
Communicate Your Requirements
Sometimes, plumbing emergencies can disrupt your schedule or affect important aspects of your life, such as work or family obligations. If you have any specific requirements, such as needing the plumbing repaired as soon as possible or avoiding damaging certain areas of the house, communicate them clearly to the plumber. This will help them prioritize and tailor their services to meet your needs.
Follow Through
After the plumber has completed the repair, take a few minutes to review the work and make sure everything is functioning properly. If you notice any issues or have further questions, don’t hesitate to follow up with the plumber. Clear and open communication can prevent future plumbing problems and ensure that you are satisfied with the work that has been done.
Be Respectful
Most importantly, be respectful. Plumbers often work long hours or in challenging environments, so a little appreciation goes a long way. Thank them for their time and for resolving the issue quickly and efficiently. This will make them more likely to provide you with good service in the future and help build a positive relationship between you and your plumber.
Proper Communication Is Crucial During an Emergency
Effective communication with an emergency plumber is essential in ensuring your plumbing emergency is resolved quickly and efficiently. From being clear about the problem and being calm and polite to providing access to plumbing and communicating your requirements, these communication strategies will make it easier for you to communicate with a plumber effectively. You will turn a stressful situation into a manageable one and ensure the problem is fixed with minimal hassle and expense.
Looking for a Plumber Urgently? We Are the Company to Call!
If you need a plumber urgently, don’t hesitate to call us at Peach Plumbing & Drain. Our experienced and knowledgeable team is available 24/7 to provide the best plumbing solutions for any situation. We are committed to providing high-quality service, ensuring safety and customer satisfaction. Contact us now for prompt and professional plumbing assistance.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
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Tips For Green Plumbing In Your Home: Advice From A Professional Plumber
Nowadays, going green is something that is strongly encouraged worldwide. Most homeowners are always looking for new ways to ensure that they use water in an eco-friendly manner that will benefit future generations. Green plumbing refers to techniques and methods to lower water consumption by investing in environmentally friendly plumbing modifications and taking the necessary steps to reduce water consumption. Using ecologically safe fixtures and appliances and practicing eco-friendly habits can reduce greenhouse emissions, energy and water waste. A licensed and certified green plumber can identify the best way to minimize household water consumption and upgrade your existing fixtures to more energy-efficient models. This article discusses tips to make your home plumbing more environmentally friendly.
Installing Low-Flow Fixtures
Low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets are excellent ways to save large quantities of water usage without sacrificing water pressure. These plumbing fixtures contribute much to the development of the green building concept. They are designed to reduce the amount of water they expel, and you will save thousands of gallons of water each year. By investing in low-flow plumbing, you can also save tons of energy. This is because you are using less water than before. For example, a low-flow showerhead will not use as much water as a standard one would, and you will save energy in the long run.
Low-flow fixtures help reduce your utility bills. They will allow you to use less water and electricity. This means you will pay less money on your utility bills; hence you will save more. You can use the saved money to buy a new system, such as a tankless water heater. An experienced and licensed plumber can help you choose and install the right low-flow fixtures for your home.
Fixing Leaks Promptly
A leaky pipe or faucet wastes a lot of water and increases your water bills. Repairing a dripping tap not only benefits you but also Mother Nature. Little drops of water leaking every minute might seem small, but they add up over time. An excellent method to know whether your home has leaks is by checking your water meter before and after one hour when no water is being used. If you realize that the meter readings are different, your pipes are probably leaking. You can place a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank to check whether your toilet leaks. If the color shows up in the bowl, it indicates that your toilet is leaking. Hire a professional to fix leaks promptly, and you will help conserve water resources and money.
Consider a Tankless Water Heater
If you are using a water heater that is more than ten years old, consider upgrading it with a tankless water heater. A tankless water heater can help your home reduce energy and water use by 30 percent. These heaters can have your hot water ready in seconds, so it does not need to store hot water like traditional water heaters. This will help you save more power and energy in the long run. Tankless heaters are convenient and will keep your home supplied with hot water. While conventional water heaters have a lifespan of 10 years, tankless water heaters are durable and can last for more than 20 years. Therefore, you will save more money by replacing water heaters less often. A plumbing professional can help you install a Tankless Water Heater, and you will stop spending more on energy bills.
Recycle Greywater
Greywater is wastewater from washing machines, hand basins, baths, and showers, accounting for 70% of household water use. When handled properly, you can redirect greywater from the laundry and the sink to water your garden or flush your toilets. If your house is metered, recycling greywater can reduce the volume of water you use, and thus you will save much on your water bills. It’s best to use a skilled plumber who is a qualified greywater installer.
Rethink Your Choice of Appliances
Older appliances tend to use too much water, which can lead to higher water bills. If your water heater or dishwasher is more than ten years old, then it is time to upgrade them. With many new technological advancements in the last few years, most new appliances are more eco-friendly. This ranges from water-saving toilets, efficient washing machines, and dishwashers to solar hot water systems that can help save on your power and water use. You can seek advice from a professional plumber, who can recommend the best water- and energy-efficient appliances.
Make Pipe Insulation a Priority
Insulating your water pipes can prevent heat loss and reduce the energy required to heat your water. In addition to that, it prevents frozen pipes during the winter season. When water pipes are insulated, hot water will take a short time to reach your shower heads and faucets. Insulated water pipes are energy efficient and eco-friendly. They help reduce water bills, save water waste, and improve your lifestyle. An expert can help you insulate your home water pipes.
Hire Green Plumbing Services to Do the Work for You
Think about the expert you are hiring. Green plumbing services are trained in all things about green plumbing, from giving the best guidance to remodeling your existing plumbing system to installing water and energy-efficient plumbing fixtures in your home. You can also look for specialist credentials and see whether they have up-to-date knowledge about green plumbing practices.
Let Peach Plumbing & Drain experts help you incorporate green plumbing into your home. We strive to offer eco-friendly plumbing options that will work with your lifestyle. Our highly trained professionals take pride in caring for your plumbing needs, from installing water-efficient fixtures in your home to fixing leaks in your water pipe. We have spent years earning a reputation with our customers for being trustworthy, quick, and efficient. Give us a call now for more information.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.