Do you know how your plumbing system works? We’ve compiled frequently asked questions homeowners ask about plumbing in this article. However, should you need clarifications or further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our plumbers in Arlington, TX. We are more than happy to help!
Plumbing FAQs
How Do I Determine There Are Leaks in My Plumbing?
Do you have an outrageous water bill this month? That could be an indication that there is something wrong with your plumbing, a possible leak problem that you need to address. Check your plumbing appliances or fixtures and if there are puddles of water around them. If yes, contact a plumber right away to help you permanently resolve the issue.
Toilet test:
Another way to find out if there is a leak in your plumbing is by doing a toilet leak test. And doing this is simple — drop some food coloring into the tank and check the toilet bowl after 15 minutes. There is a leak in the toilet when the water inside the bowl changes. Make sure to call a professional to help you fix the problem.
Water meter test:
Checking the water meter can also help you determine a leak in your plumbing. First, you’ll need to take note of the reading in the meter and avoid using the water for at least 30 minutes. You also need to make sure no one else uses your faucet or water heater. Check back after 30 minutes and see if the reading has changed or not. If it has, it means that there is a leak in your plumbing. Contact a plumber in Arlington, TX, for professional leak detection if you can’t find the leak. Licensed professionals are equipped with state-of-the-art tools that help them determine if there might be hidden leaks in your plumbing. Mold growth in the ceiling or walls is also another sign that there might be leaks in one of your pipes.
What Do I Do When I Think There are Hidden Leaks in My Plumbing?
We highly recommend that you contact a plumbing company today for a thorough inspection of your plumbing. We have licensed plumbers that can check all of your plumbing appliances and fixtures to ensure they’re still in good working condition. Don’t worry; our plumbers can fix any plumbing problem, big or small.
Just a reminder: avoid ignoring even just a minor plumbing problem as that might lead to a costly plumbing emergency. Remember, water damage may also cost you a fortune in repairs and restorations. You can avoid this by taking care of your plumbing and by calling a plumber for a regular plumbing inspection.
Why Do I Need a Licensed Plumber?
Professional plumbers are highly trained and experienced in tackling plumbing repairs. They are also fully equipped to ensure that the problem is resolved on the same day. Most importantly, they adhere to plumbing codes. Also, they give out guarantees for your peace of mind.
Licensed plumbers are insured, so you won’t have to pay for the medical expenses if there are injuries or accidents. You will have to shoulder medical costs when the plumber you hire isn’t insured. All unlicensed plumbers can’t get insurance as they cannot perform plumbing tasks. Always hire a licensed professional if you need plumbing repairs, installations and maintenance.
In addition, please make sure that you don’t DIY plumbing repairs or major installations. It can be dangerous when you perform plumbing tasks on your own. If something goes wrong, you may end up paying for more repairs. You can avoid this by only working with a licensed professional.
Help! Are Our Pipes Frozen?
It’s common knowledge that below zero temperatures can freeze the water inside unprotected pipes. So when the temperature starts dropping, we highly suggest that you insulate those plumbing pipes. You can buy insulation at your local hardware store or contact a professional if you need more assistance. Better yet, why not slightly open the faucet so that warm water can flow through the pipes — it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes.
If you have an old water heater tank, don’t forget to buy an insulating blanket to avoid heat loss. Ensure that you insulate crawl spaces and the attic as well.
When your pipes are already frozen, please get in touch with a licensed plumber immediately. Frozen pipes are likely to burst and leak. Remember, water damage can cost you a fortune — ensure you get help immediately.
If, however, the pipes are already leaking water, please don’t panic. Before calling a professional, you need to turn off the shut-off valves to stop water flow completely. Then, clean the area and call a reliable professional in Arlington, TX, for assistance.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing has been helping out homeowners and businesses for several years. Our plumbing truck is equipped with all the tools needed to complete any plumbing task. We also offer 24/7 emergency service to ensure that all problems are taken care of.
Should I Buy a Tank-Type Water Heater or Tankless Water Heater?
Tank-type heaters are generally more affordable compared to tankless water heaters. However, you’ll need to have a bigger space to store the tank. Also, they only last up to 10 years and may need more maintenance than the tankless water heater. Tankless water heaters last twice as long.
When you go with the tankless version, you can easily mount the water heater on your bathroom wall. You don’t have to worry about water leaks from the tank as you don’t have to store the water. There is some heat loss with the tank-type as the water needs to be constantly heated. You only use energy with the tankless water heater when you actually open the faucet. While tankless water heaters are more pricey, you get to save money in the long run.
For installation, please make sure that you only call a licensed plumber. Poor installation can also lead to other problems with your water heater. Don’t install your water heater as it can be dangerous, especially when trying to install gas water heaters.
Should you decide to go the tank-type, please don’t forget to maintain your unit so that it stays efficient. You need to flush out the sediment build-up at least once a year or frequently if there is a higher concentration of hard water in your plumbing. Please don’t hesitate to contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing today for other issues.
Should I Use Chemical Drain Cleaners for My Bathroom and Kitchen Drains?
Please, you need to avoid these heavily advertised cleaners like the plague. They don’t just pose serious health risks, but chemical drain cleaners can also damage the pipes, especially when you still have older pipes installed at home.
For cleaning the drains, use boiling water, vinegar and baking soda. Always use natural cleaning solutions to avoid problems with your drains. Better yet, contact a plumber in Arlington, TX, for professional drain cleaning. We have tools that can help us completely eliminate any debris or dirt building up in your pipes. After the appointment, you can expect healthier and cleaner pipes.
Is It a Good Idea to Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances and Water-Saving Fixtures?
Yes, as much as possible, buy energy-efficient water heaters, dishwashers, garbage disposals, or dual flush toilets. You get to save water and energy with these appliances. If you’re thinking of selling your home in the future, these types of appliances can significantly increase the value of your home.
For installation, please make sure that you only work with a licensed plumber to avoid problems and keep your warranty intact.
What Are the Most Common Plumbing Problems?
You’ve all encountered a plumbing problem at some point. Depending on the issue, you may need to get in touch with a licensed plumber, right away for assistance. Below are some of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face:
Leaky faucets – This usually results from poor installation of your faucets or when your faucets are made with low-quality plumbing materials. Please only work with a licensed professional to ensure that your plumbing fixtures are correctly installed. Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, for we have years of experience tackling all kinds of plumbing problems.
Low water pressure – Low water pressure could indicate a problem with your plumbing. For example, there could be a possible leak, or your sewer lines are damaged. We suggest contacting a plumber in Arlington, TX, for a plumbing inspection. High water pressure is also a problem as it can potentially damage the pipes. To correct it, buy a pressure regulator to regulate the water pressure. You can also contact a professional for further assistance.
Running toilet – Some homeowners would ignore this, thinking it isn’t a serious issue. Please, contact a professional asap, or you’ll be wasting hundreds of gallons of water if you don’t fix a running toilet. You’ll have skyrocketing water bills if you don’t address the issue right away.
Slow drains – This is usually the first sign of a major drain clog. We highly recommend that you get professional drain cleaning to fix this problem. Remember, drain issues can lead to water damage and pest infestation. You can avoid this by calling a professional today!
No hot water – Do you have the correct water heater size? How many household members are using your water heater? Did you flush out the mineral buildup in the tank? When buying a new water heater, the number of people using the water heater and the size are factors to consider. Make sure you have the right size to ensure that you don’t ever run out of hot water. Also, make sure that you remove the sediment buildup by flushing the tank. When minerals stay inside the tank, the efficiency of your water heater is affected. Contact a professional today if you need help.
Can I Get My Own Plumbing Tools?
Yes, it’s okay to purchase basic plumbing tools such as a drain snake or a plunger. You can use these for unclogging your drains. However, you need to make sure that you know how to use them. Also, get high-quality plungers as they work better. If you have zero experience with plumbing, we suggest you call a professional instead to avoid problems.
What Is a Plumbing Emergency?
You have a plumbing emergency when there is a risk of flooding in your home or when there is a gas leak. To avoid flooding in the basement, consider installing a sump pump. Don’t ignore minor plumbing problems, especially hidden leaks, as they lead to a plumbing emergency.
If there is a gas leak, please don’t attempt to fix it on your own. Open all the windows and doors to proper ventilation. Go outside and then call a reliable plumber in Arlington, TX, to help you resolve the problem.
Avoiding clogged pipes:
First, you need to regularly clean your drains with hot water, vinegar and baking soda. It’s also essential that you avoid grease, large food particles, and other debris from getting into the toilet, bathroom sink and kitchen sink. To help you manage food waste, consider installing a garbage disposal.
Is It Time to Get a New Toilet?
You can unclog the toilet using an auger or a plunger. However, if you encounter continuous clogs or you’ll need to flush it multiple times after each use, we suggest that you consider replacing your toilet. Go with a low-flow or dual-flush toilet to save water. And always work with a licensed professional to help you install your bathroom fixture.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth
Do you need a plumber in Arlington, TX, today? Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth is a plumbing company committed to providing exceptional plumbing services for homeowners and businesses. We offer a wide range of plumbing services, including water heater installation, professional drain cleaning and leak detection. If you need an emergency, feel free to get in touch. We’ll quickly dispatch a professional to your location at the soonest possible time. Call us today for an appointment.