Some homeowners don’t really know how their plumbing works which is why we wrote this article. This post covers essential plumbing questions every homeowner must know. We also included top responses straight from a plumber. If you have more questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Top Questions from Homeowners
Below are a few of the most common questions about your plumbing. Please take time to read each one including the answers straight from a plumber.
1. What Are Shut-Off Valves and Why Do We Need a Lot of Them at Home?
Shut-off valves are used to stop water flow to the pipes. These valves are turned off when a plumber performs repairs or installations or when there’s a plumbing leak. While it’s not required to install several shut-off valves, we highly recommend homeowners place these valves near the water heater, sump pump, dishwasher or plumbing pipes. In case there’s a leak, you wouldn’t need to go down to the basement to turn off the water. You can just easily turn them off if you have several valves installed in your home. Don’t forget to also test these valves to ensure they actually work.
2. Why Is There a Need to Install Leak Detection Devices?
A plumber recommends that homeowners install leak detection devices so that they get notifications or alerts when there’s a possible leak in their plumbing. Leak detection devices are safety devices that protect your home from water damage. Remember, water damage can cost you a lot in replacements, repairs and restorations. If there’s a serious leak, you might even end up calling a contractor to check on your home to ensure there’s no structural damage.
Contact a plumber to install a leak detection device. We can also help you determine which type of leak detection device to install for your home. Choose a unit that can also detect water fluctuations. Test the leak detection device regularly to ensure it still works.
3. Is It Necessary to Contact a Professional to Inspect the Water Heater?
Yes, we do suggest you hire a plumbing expert to professionally inspect the unit. The plumber needs to make sure everything is in excellent shape and the heating elements of your water heater are working. He can also check if you have clean water at home and that it’s not contaminated.
In addition, you need to also drain the water heater tank to remove the sediment buildup. Otherwise, it will accumulate and you’ll start to have issues with your water heater including losing hot water and not having enough hot water. If you have hard water at home or the water pressure is low, you may need to drain the water heater more than once a year. The recommendation is just once a year though. If you encounter a problem while draining the water heater, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with a plumber in your area.
4. Why Is My Water Bill High?
There are a few reasons why your water bill has suddenly skyrocketed. The most common reason is a leak in your plumbing. Do a water meter test to test for leaks or check your water pressure. You need a water pressure gauge to help you check the water pressure levels in your home. If it’s less than 40 PSI and you have a high water bill as well, there is probably a leak in your plumbing.
If you suspect a leak, call a professional immediately for professional leak detection. Don’t wait for a problem to progress into something serious that will cost you even more money.
Another reason you have a high water bill is that you have inefficient appliances. If your water heater is more than 10 years old, consider buying a new one. A toilet leak is also possible. Pour food coloring into the toilet and wait for about 15 minutes. Check the toilet bowl right after. If the water’s color has changed, that means there’s a leak in the toilet. Call a plumbing expert right away.
5. How Do I Prevent Frozen Pipes?
You can prevent frozen pipes by insulating them in the winter. Just get an insulating material at the hardware store and cover your pipes with them. Do this when the temperature has reached freezing or below zero degrees. If you don’t insulate the pipes, the water inside them will only freeze and this can really cause major damage to your plumbing especially when the pipes expand and then burst.
6. Should We Install a Sump Pump?
If you have a basement and your area is prone to storms, installing a sump pump is definitely recommended. Test your sump pump after every storm to make sure it works. You can test it by pouring water into the sump pit and wait for the float switch to turn on. Then check if the pump can drain the water from the sump pit. If it doesn’t work, contact a plumber right away.
7. Can I Use a Chemical-Based Drain Cleaner for My Drain?
Never use chemical-based drain cleaners because they’re not good for your plumbing pipes. It’s not recommended to get these types of cleaners especially when you also have pets or children at home. Use natural cleaners instead or get a professional drain cleaning service.
Call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth
If you’re looking for a trusted and reliable plumber, you’ve contacted the right plumbing company. We are an established company that provides a wide range of plumbing services to all homeowners and businesses in the area. Call us if you need plumbing repairs, installations or maintenance and we will send someone right away.
Call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth today for an appointment.
Check our previous blog on this topic here.