Are you a homeowner who wants to save money on their plumbing? You’ve come to the right place. We talked to our experienced plumbers and asked them for helpful tips they care to share with homeowners on how to prevent costly plumbing repairs and save money on their plumbing. And here it is. Read these tips and contact a “plumber near me” if you have questions.

Plumbing Tips That Save Money

As a homeowner, one of your goals is to ensure your plumbing stays in excellent shape and that there are no issues that need to be resolved. Read the tips below; you should be able to avoid costly repairs when you religiously follow our tips”

1. Know Where the Location of the Shut-Off Valve

Some homeowners where this device is located and you need to know where this is. Why? You will need to shut off this valve when there are leaks in your plumbing to prevent further damage. You’ll need to also turn it off in case there are repairs or installations that need to be done. Most likely, the shut-off valve is installed in the basement, but some homeowners have several of these in their homes to make it easier for them to turn the device off in case there are issues with their plumbing systems.

Go to your basement and check if you have the shut-off valve. Make sure you know how to also turn this off. Educate your family members as well and ensure they know how to turn the valve off. Test it first as well to ensure it does work. If you’re having problems with the shut-off valve, please don’t hesitate to contact a “plumber near me.” Our plumbing experts are more than happy to help.

We also recommend you consider installing several of these in your homes, in case the basement starts flooding. Otherwise, it will be difficult to turn the device off. Call a plumber near me today if you need help with installation.

2. Switch to Tankless Water Heaters

Replacing your tank-type water heater with a tankless unit offers a lot of benefits. Below are some benefits of switching to the tankless water heater. Feel free to reach out to us if you have questions:

Energy-efficient. You save on your utility bill when you go tankless. With the tankless water heater, you don’t need to keep turning the water heater on to get hot water because it’s an instant water heater. It heats the water only when you turn it on and its heating element can heat the water faster, making it a more energy-efficient option. Go for this if you want to save some money.

Lasts longer. It can be very inconvenient to keep replacing water heaters every few years or so. The tank-type water heater lasts up to 10 years while the tankless water heater lasts 20 years. When you switch, this means you won’t have to spend money on another water heater every few years or so. Just make sure your tankless water heater is properly maintained to maximize its lifespan.

Minimize leaks. Are you worried about leaks in the basement? You can stop worrying about this when you switch to tankless water heaters. You can easily install the water heater on the bathroom wall, no need to get a bigger space for it in the basement. So without a tank, you don’t have to worry about leaks in the basement. Some homeowners would opt for the tankless unit simply for this reason. Do take note that you need to get a professional installation to ensure the unit is properly installed.

Minimal maintenance. You still need to properly maintain the tankless water heater but its maintenance isn’t as complex compared to the tank-type water heater. The water heater tank needs to be constantly monitored especially when you have hard water in your plumbing or when there’s low water pressure. You don’t have to worry about this with the tankless water heater installed. Just make sure you get regular plumbing inspections so that a plumber can thoroughly check your tankless water heater and ensure it’s still working properly.

Are there downsides to buying the tankless water heater? The only disadvantage is that it’s a little more expensive compared to the tank-type unit. However, because it’s more energy-efficient, you do get to save money in the long run. Contact a plumber near me today to determine your tankless water heater’s flow rate. Our team can also help you install this water heater in your home.

So is the tankless water heater worth it? Will you be able to save money for it? The answer is a big yes. For more questions about tankless water heaters, please talk to us today. Our team can also install other types of water heaters including the tank-type water heater.

3. Get a Sump Pump

If you own a basement, one of your biggest fears would probably be flooding in the basement. It can be really stressful especially when you also have appliances stored there. The solution to this is a sump pump. It’s highly recommended to install a sump pump if you have a basement and if you live in an area that gets a lot of storms.

A sump pump is a safety device that prevents flooding in the basement. You need this device to safeguard your home and protect it from water damage.

Call a plumber if you don’t have a sump pump installed yet. After installation, don’t forget to test the sump pump as well. You can test it by pouring water into the sump pit. The water should just be enough to turn on the float switch. The device should be able to drain the water from the sump pit. Call us if it doesn’t work so can inspect your device to check if it needs repairs or installations.

4. Hire the Right Plumber

Never cut corners when it comes to choosing the “plumber near me” to work on repairs or major installations. Always choose the most qualified person to get the job done and that’s a licensed plumber only. You may think you can save money by hiring an experienced person just because he’s offering his services at a lower price. Keep in mind that this isn’t the best route because they may not have enough experience to permanently fix the job or they may not have the right plumbing tools to fix the issue. Go for a licensed plumber only to avoid problems down the road. Licensed professionals are highly trained and can get the job done right the first time. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that they can perform and they also have insurance. If they end up damaging your home or appliance, the insurance company can pay for the damages.

You can count on us when it comes to delivering exceptional plumbing services. Call us if you need a “plumber near me” and we will send someone over to your home or business right away. We’re serious about ensuring the issue is resolved on the same day and rest assured we have the right tools and experience to do this. Feel free to get in touch with us if you have questions about the services we offer. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth offers both residential and commercial plumbing services. Let us know if you need help and we’re more than happy to assist at any time of the day, especially during emergencies.

5. Take Care of Repairs Right Away

Is your water heater or garbage disposal acting up? Please make sure you correct the problem the soonest possible time to avoid issues and plumbing emergencies that will cost you a lot of money. You need to take care of repairs immediately to ensure your plumbing is in top shape and to avoid more serious problems that might also cost you your home. It’s best to call a “plumber near me” as soon as possible so they can thoroughly inspect your plumbing, diagnose the problem and recommend the best solutions.

Take note that some plumbing emergencies don’t also just happen overnight. They occur because the homeowner neglected their responsibility. Please don’t make this mistake. Call us right away if you suspect problems with your plumbing system so that we can help you. Our plumbers have been helping homeowners and businesses for several years; we have seen it all. We can fix any plumbing problem, big or small. Our plumbing team is also fully equipped so there’s no need for you to purchase your own plumbing tools because we can take care of everything.

6. Get Professional Installation

Some homeowners would resort to installing their own plumbing appliances and this is okay as long as you actually have professional experience. Otherwise, call a “plumber near me” to avoid issues associated with incorrect installation. Also, keep in mind that you could lose the warranty if you don’t get professional installation. This is because most manufacturers would require professional installation for homeowners to keep their warranty. It’s another reason to only hire licensed plumbers.

7. Don’t Use Chemical Based Drain Cleaners

Chemical-based drain cleaners may be able to help you get rid of a clog but keep in mind that these heavily advertised cleaners aren’t permanent solutions. They are actually harmful to your pipes. You may also injure yourself if you’re not careful. If there are children or pets at home, we recommend you skip using chemical-based drain cleaners to get rid of a clog. Get professional drain cleaning instead.

Also, try not to ignore slow drains because this usually progresses to a major clog. Use a drain snake to get rid of minor clogs. Pouring boiling hot water can also help you but you need to also be careful especially when you have older pipes.

8. Protect the Pipes

Did you move into an old home? If yes, we recommend hiring a plumber for a routine inspection. You need to know whether your pipes are made with galvanized steel, a type of piping which is susceptible to damage and rust. We would recommend you switch to modern piping to avoid problems.

When it’s winter, you need to also insulate the pipes so that the water inside them doesn’t freeze or you will have an even bigger problem. Just purchase an insulating blanket and cover the pipes with it; that should suffice. For maximum protection, slightly open the faucet so that warm water can flow through the pipes.

It’s also important to monitor your home’s water pressure. Remember: low water pressure accompanied by a high water bill can indicate leaks in your plumbing while high water pressure can damage pipes eventually because the pressure can severely strain the pipes over time. A water pressure regulator should regulate your home’s water pressure. For leaks, you need to get professional leak detection for it.

Call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth

Are you having problems with any of your plumbing appliances or fixtures? Why not call a licensed “plumber near me” for assistance? This is where we come in. Our plumbers are equipped with the right training and experience to get the job done right the first time. You can rely on us for we always prioritize our client’s complete satisfaction. We go the extra mile for our customers.

We can take care of any plumbing repairs from fixing your leaky water heater to resolving issues with your drains to restoring your pipes. We also offer 24/7 emergency services so feel free to contact us anytime our team is more than happy to help. We also offer professional leak detection and drain cleaning services.

Call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth today for an appointment.

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Common Questions About Water Filtration Systems

It is not uncommon for a property owner to not realize that they need or could benefit from water filtration systems. Yet, these systems are powerful, highly effective, and a solid investment in just about any home. If you have put off getting one, it may be because you are unsure what they are or how they work. You may be unsure about what your benefits could be. The best way to find out is to contact a plumber specializing in them to provide a formal consultation. Here are some of the most common questions you may have, though, and answers to help you make the best decision.

Is There a Benefit to a Whole Home Water Filtration System?

It is very common for people to want to invest in a water filter that is placed right on their kitchen faucet or perhaps one that is on their refrigerator to help with filtering out water as it is poured into a glass. That is the first step in minimizing your risk of contamination, but it is not always enough.

A whole home system may be a better option. It can help to remove more of the sediment that is coming into the home’s water system, and that could be critical in minimizing problems with any of your systems, not just the water coming through the sink faucet but also the water going through the dishwasher and the washing machine. Having a whole home system can make a big difference in the quality of water you drink as well, often doing far more than what is commonly found in a single faucet system.

Is a Water Filter Good for the Environment?

Many of today’s homeowners are looking for ways to support the environment as a whole. Using water filtration systems may seem problematic. After all, they do require some electricity to operate. They can also produce some trash depending on the type you obtain due to the filters used in them. However, there are some outstanding products on the market today that can be great investments in the overall health of your family and still protect the environment.

For example, some systems offer a 100% recyclable filter system. That means you are not going to have to worry about contributing a lot of bulky material to the landfill. Not all systems are like this, but the best by far waste no water in their functionality, and they do not even use electricity. The very best models are also fully recyclable, making them an outstanding option overall for going green.

Will Filtration Systems Help with Bad Tastes and Odors in Water?

Many people turn to water filtration systems to remove contaminants knowing that this is healthy for them. However, these systems can also get rid of the foul taste your water has or the strange odor that seems to be coming from it. The key here is to remove the underlying particles and materials that could be contributing to it.

In addition, some of the best systems also have an activated carbon filter in them. These go one step further and allow you to remove more of the odors that are sometimes lingering. These tools are designed specifically to remove all flavor and impurities from the water, ensuring that your water is pure.

If your water quality is not what you want it to be, making the decision to install a filtration system makes sense not just for your health but to improve the aesthetics of your water, too.

Do You Need Water Filtration in Your City?

Many people know of the water problems that some cities in Michigan suffered from in recent years. Those are drastic problems, ones that carry a significant amount of risk to health and safety.

However, even if your system has a good water department present and it seems to do a great job keeping your water clean, that does not mean your water is pure. Even in some of the largest metro areas of Texas, you will find microbial cysts, sediment, mercury, and chlorine in the water. If you do not have water filtration systems installed in your home, all of those particles end up in your shower, your cooking water, and your cold glass of water. The key here is that even if you think your water is okay, it may still be possible to improve it significantly.

Also, note that you can find out just how pure your water is. You can learn about the water testing that is done by your city government or through third parties in your area. Even better, you can have a water test completed for your home, too. That allows you to have a clear indication of the health of your water from an unbiased source. For many people, this can create peace of mind.

How Do You Know Which Type of Filtration System Is Best for Your Home?

The good news is there are a lot of great options on the market for water filtration systems. Adding any system to your home will improve it to some degree, but some are better than others. You can invest in a premium unit designed to offer the highest quality of cleanliness and purity possible. Other options include value filtration systems, countertop units, and filtered shower heads are additional considerations.

Which one is right for you? To find out, set up a water test with your local plumber. That will give you an honest look at the quality of your water. Then, work with your plumber to choose the best option for you. Some things to keep in mind include the following:

• The type of problem with your water. When you want the best level of cleanliness, consider the use of a reverse osmosis water purification system, as this can remove the highest level of contamination possible. If you do not have anything very harmful in your water, you may benefit from a lower end model.
• What are your concerns? In some situations, people are very sensitive to concerns with their water. If you can taste something or smell something that seems off, it is best to invest in a higher quality system that can remove more of the odor and taste from your water. If you have a health condition that requires the best level of purification possible, go with the higher end model.
• What is your ongoing budget? Some systems require replacement components over time, including filters but also other components. When choosing a model, be sure you have considered the initial cost to have it installed and the ongoing costs to manage and maintain it.
• Where are the problem areas in your home? Some people value just having a showerhead that offers water purification, while others just want something in their kitchen. If you are just concerned about drinking water, that is another investment option.
• What did your water tests show? Let your plumber take a closer look at what is in your water as well as what your concerns should be based on the water quality in your area. You may live in an area without a lot of concerns, or your street may have a high level of contaminants. It is often best to let your plumber offer recommendations.

Water filtration systems range in price and function. There are many options on the market that can be very affordable and easy enough to use, but you’ll want to be sure you are buying a high-quality product that is installed professionally in your home to get the most out of it.

How Does the Water System Help with Bacteria?

As you consider all of your options in water filtration systems, recognize that not all operate in the same way, and some are far more efficient and thorough than others. One of the most important factors to keep in mind is the system’s ability to remove bacteria from the water you and your family drink.

A whole house water purification system will provide the ability to do this in most cases. These systems will have filters in them that can pull out more of the risk factors. That is due to the carbon filter design that often incorporates zinc and copper into it. This addition helps to get rid of bacteria in a healthy way without adding any additional chemicals to your water.

Do not assume that the water coming from your city is free from bacteria because it is most likely not. Though the amount of bacteria in most areas will be very low and considered safe by most standards, some people may still struggle with even this low risk. That could indicate that your water puts you at risk for health complications if you do not invest in the right type of purification system.

Does Adding a Water Filter System Add Value to Your Home?

It is nearly always the case that improving the condition and quality of your home can add value to it. Though your local real estate market plays a role in what this type of system can add in terms of value, most property owners will see that home buyers will appreciate the presence of these systems.

It is important to choose a quality system that is well respected and then to have it professionally installed. You also want to be sure you maintain it over time. Your plumber can provide you with ongoing support in doing that.

Do You Need a Professional to Install a Filter System?

The short answer is yes, you should have a trusted and experienced plumber install your water filtration system in your home. While some types of filters may not require this, there are several benefits to having a professional do this:

• You know you are getting the right type of system for your home. That is important because it ensures the money you invest in your system is worth it.
• You ensure it is installed properly the way the manufacturer requires it to be installed. This is ultimately going to give you the best ability to get a system installed that provides the highest level of protection for your home.
• Select a professional with experience in these systems, and you can be assured that it will make a big difference in your life and the quality of water you and your family drink. It also can provide you with more peace of mind.

It is a good idea to turn to a professional for most types of whole home systems. However, they can also make recommendations and update your home’s other filtration systems as well.

How Do You Know You Need One?

Water filtration systems can offer a wide range of benefits to your home. You may want to have one installed if you:

• Have a water test conducted that shows unhealthy levels of materials in your water system
• You are unsure that your water is clear, or you know there is some discoloration associated with the water
• There is a strange odor or smell coming from your water, and you are unsure what is causing it
• Your area has experienced concerns with water quality in recent months or years, or your neighbors have reported it to you
• You have staining on your sink or other surfaces from the water running

In each of these cases, investing in a quality upgrade with a filtration system may be worthwhile. If you are not sure if it could help you, simply contact your plumber to find out. They can offer suggestions and recommendations for you, reducing the risk that you end up with a problem down the road.

Put Our Team to Work for You Today

Turn to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth to learn more about the available water filtration systems in your area. Let our plumbers offer insight and guidance to you about the type of filter systems that may be best suited for you.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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Plumbings Questions (And Answers From A Plumber) That Can Save Your Home From Water Damage

Most of our articles involve giving out plumbing tips to help homeowners save money on costly repairs. In this article, we’ll provide you with questions you can ponder about your plumbing. As a bonus, we also included answers from a licensed plumber. The goal of this article is to ensure your plumbing stays in excellent shape, giving you peace of mind.

Questions to Ponder On

Below are questions you need to ask yourself about your plumbing. If you have a favorable answer, that means your plumbing system is in excellent shape. For those with little to no clue about what we’re talking about, you need to get in touch with a licensed plumber so that he can discuss with you everything to be done to keep your plumbing in top shape.

1. Do You Regularly Maintain Your Plumbing?

When was the last time you contacted a plumber to get your entire system inspected? If it’s been a while, we suggest you contact us today so that our plumbing experts can check on the condition of your plumbing appliances and fixtures.

You need regular plumbing maintenance if you want to avoid repairs that can cost you an arm and a leg. In some cases, you may also end up calling restoration companies to ensure your home is dry and no mold can grow.

The best time to get routine plumbing inspections is when you go on a long vacation or if it’s been a while since you had your plumbing checked. Remember, some plumbing emergencies don’t just occur overnight. They gradually develop into something that may no longer be manageable. You may have no choice but to completely replace your plumbing system.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you want to have peace of mind, call a plumber today for a routine plumbing inspection. You need this in your home.

2. Do You Have a Sump Pump?

Or another question: Do you own a basement? If you do, it’s highly recommended to install a sump pump to prevent serious flooding in the basement. A sump pump is a safety device that prevents water from getting into your basement. You need this if your home has a basement and you live in a flood-prone area. However, try not to install this on your own. You need to call a professional to help you install this safety device. Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Our plumbing team can help you choose the right sump pump for your home and install your new unit.

Once installed, it’s also important to test your pump to ensure it does work. How do you check it? You need to pour water into the sump pit and make sure it’s just enough to turn on the float switch. The switch should drain the water from the sump pit. If it doesn’t drain the sump pit, we suggest you call a plumbing expert right away to inspect the unit as there’s likely something wrong with it. Depending on the issue, we might ask you to either get it repaired or purchase a new unit. If your sump pump is old and is no longer efficient, our team may ask you to get a replacement.

If your home is located in a flood-prone area, make sure to also get some backup batteries. You need the backup batteries in case the power suddenly goes out. The backup battery ensures your sump pump will still run.

Do you need more information about this safety device? Or are you ready to install one for your home? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us so we can educate you on what you need to know and help you make an informed decision.

3. Do You Winterize Your Plumbing?

If your answer is no then you’re in big, big trouble. When the temperature reaches below zero or is freezing, the first thing you need to do is insulate your pipes so that the water inside them doesn’t freeze. When the water starts to freeze, it’s also important that you thaw the pipes right away or the pipes can expand and then burst.

Remember, water damage can cost you a fortune in repairs and restorations. Some homeowners may even end up losing their homes. If you don’t want this to happen to you, make sure that you learn how to prepare your home for winter. Do you have an old water heater? Get an insulating blanket and cover the tank with it to conserve energy. Don’t forget to also insulate the basement and crawl spaces. Most importantly, you need to also protect your outdoor plumbing and all exposed pipes. You can get insulating material at the hardware store or go ask a plumber about what you need to do to better protect your plumbing during winter.

If you won’t be away for the winter, why not slightly open the faucet so that warm water can flow through the pipes? Don’t forget to open the cabinet doors if you have pipes underneath the sink. The warm air should also warm up the pipes underneath.

The key is in knowing how to protect your plumbing so that the water inside the pipes doesn’t freeze. When this happens, the pipes can expand and then burst. And this is the last thing you want to happen in your home.

4. How’s the Water Pressure in Your Home?

Do you also have a water pressure gauge? You need this device to know your home’s water pressure levels. It must fall between 40 and 60 PSI, which is the normal level. Anything higher than the figure above is a cause for concern. Some homeowners don’t really care when the water pressure is too high; perhaps they even like it because it means they have a lot of water. What they don’t know is that a water pressure that’s too high can actually damage the pipes eventually. If you don’t correct it, you might end up with a flooded home.

You need to also be careful when the water pressure is low as this usually indicates a leak in your plumbing. When it’s low, we suggest you check all of your plumbing fixtures. If only one fixture has low water pressure, you might just need to tighten the faucet. When all fixtures have low water pressure, there is likely a leak in your plumbing. It’s better to get professional leak detection so that a licensed professional can locate the leak and fix it for you.

Additionally, you might want to consider installing leak detection devices to get alerts when the device detects a possible leak in your plumbing. But make sure that you connect the leak detection device to your mobile phone and tablet to continue getting alerts. A leak detection device can also detect abnormalities in your plumbing and you’ll be alerted to it as well.

While a leak detection device doesn’t literally stop the leak, it can prevent further damage to your plumbing. Just make sure you test it first to see if it does work. Call us if you need more information about leak detection devices or if you’re ready to install one for your home.

5. Are There a Lot of Trees Near Your Plumbing?

Are you aware that tree roots are attracted to moisture? They don’t cause the leak but a tiny leak is enough for these tree roots to completely infiltrate the pipes, causing a lot of damage. If there are trees near your home, we suggest you get in touch with professionals who can advise you on what to do with these trees. Although it isn’t environmentally-friendly, in some cases, you might be asked to get rid of these trees or it’s going to cause a lot of damage to your plumbing. If you decide to plant trees, make sure that they’re far from your underground plumbing.

6. Do You Use Chemical-Based Drain Cleaners?

Chemical-based drain cleaners are never good for pipes because they can damage older pipes. They can also be harmful to your health. A plumber would never recommend using them especially when there are children and pets in your home. These types of cleaners aren’t the permanent solutions to clogs. Although they can sometimes work, the problem may still likely recur. It’s better to get professional drain cleaning to ensure your drains stay healthy and clean.

Should you decide to really use these heavily advertised cleaners, make sure children can’t access them. For professional drain cleaning services, please don’t hesitate to contact a plumber today.

7. Do You Know How to Maintain the Water Heater?

If you have a tank-type water heater, it’s crucial that you learn how to properly maintain this. Once a year, you need to flush the water heater to get rid of the sediment that can build up in the tank. When not removed, this sediment will only affect the efficiency of your water heater, causing problems and possibly water damage. All you need to do is drain the water heater to remove the sediment build-up. It’s recommended to do this only once a year. However, when there are high levels of hard water in your plumbing, it’s recommended to drain the water heater at least twice. The sediment will only build up faster when there are high levels of hard water in your plumbing or when the water pressure is low.

When the sediment stays inside the tank, this can significantly affect the efficiency of your water heater. Your unit will only work harder which will lead to higher bills. Also, you’ll start to have issues with your water heater such as not having enough hot water or inconsistent water temperature. When this continues for months, it might lead to a catastrophic leak. When the tank starts to leak water, you will have no choice but to get a new water heater.

Should you get a replacement, we recommend going for the tankless unit as it’s more energy-efficient. You can conserve more energy and save money as well. Also, you can save space. Tankless water heaters also last longer compared to tank-type water heaters.

8. Do You Know the Signs of Leaks in Your Plumbing?

As a homeowner, it’s important to know the signs there might be leaks in your plumbing. You need to also know what you can do to avoid leaks. As mentioned, one of the signs to watch out for is the water bill. There is almost always a leak when your water bill has suddenly skyrocketed and you haven’t been using a lot of water. We recommend calling a plumber right away for professional leak detection.

Hearing strange noises in the pipes can also be a sign of leaks. Watch out for hidden leaks such as water spots in the walls or in the ceilings. And of course, check if there’s pooling water in the yard or in the basement or near your water heater. If you suspect a problem, we suggest calling us immediately so that we can further investigate the problem, provide you with a diagnosis and recommend the most cost-effective plumbing solutions.

Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth Today

If you’re looking for a highly reliable and trustworthy plumber in the area, we can say you’ve come to the right place. We are a plumbing company that’s committed to excellence. It’s been our goal to ensure all problems are resolved within the day and are permanently fixed. Our plumbing experts will never leave your property unless we’re certain everything is good to go. Call us if you need help with water heater repairs, drain cleaning service, leak detection and emergency plumbing.

Get in touch with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth today for an appointment.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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