Insider Knowledge: A Plumber Reveals the Pros and Cons of Various Water Softener Options

May 23, 2023

Most cities in Texas struggle with hard water problems. For example, Fort Worth’s water has 140 Parts Per Million of hardness. This means that most folks in this area drink foul-tasting and smelly water.

Fortunately, with water softeners, you don’t have to worry about the effects of hard water. For starters, a water softener removes heavy minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and iron. It replaces the mineral ions in the water with sodium ions, making it soft. Thus, preventing buildup, scaling, and staining in your pipes, fixtures, and appliances. A water softener also reduces your water bill and even softens your skin and hair.

A plumber can help you mount a water softener in your home to improve your water quality. Water softeners are available in different types. In this blog post, you’ll learn about various types of water softeners and their benefits.

Salt-Based Water Softeners

Also known as an ion exchange water softener, a salt-based water softener has a resin that allows it to remove heavy minerals such as magnesium and calcium. Afterward, it releases sodium ions to finish the ion exchange process.

Once softened, water flows into this unit and into a separate tank. Although a small amount of salt is added to the water during this process, it’s hard to detect the salt, and you don’t have to worry about it damaging your water fixtures, appliances or even affecting your skin and hair.

Salt-based water softeners are commonly used in the United States because they can fit in all sizes of houses and are available in portable options. For instance, small mobile units are available for RV owners and campers.

Benefits Of Salt-Based Water Softeners

These softeners lower your heating bills by 30 percent.
They make your hair softer and easier to maintain.
Saves your dishwater and water heater from the devastating effects of calcium.
Prevents clogging in your plumbing system by removing excess hard water minerals.
Your shower heads, sinks, and toilets stay new, as they will have no crusty marks or scale buildup.
You’ll enjoy smooth and more moisturized skin after taking a shower.
No more cloudy dishes and glassware.

Cons Of Salt-Based Water Softeners

Salt-based water softeners need consistent maintenance. Without constant care, the system becomes useless.
A large amount of water is wasted because the cleaning cycle is long. Sometimes the wastewater may end up on the ground, killing vegetation. In fact, some municipalities in Texas are considering banning these softeners because of high TDS levels that can’t be treated by waste treatment plants.
You need a competent plumber to install these units, especially if the waste line has to pass under a driveway or sidewalk. Also, connecting electricity to the site can be costly.

Pro Tip

When shopping for a salt-based water softener, you should consider purchasing a metered system programmed to automatically restore the water softener after a particular volume of water goes through.

You can also opt for a timed salt-based water softener system that restores sodium ions as per the set schedule.

Salt-Free Water Softeners

Instead of an ion exchange process, salt-free water softeners use a template-assisted crystallization (TAC) system to neutralize minerals in the water.

This unit is ideal for homeowners seeking to improve their water quality without adding salt to the drinking water. You can also opt for a salt-free water softener if you are looking for a relatively maintenance-free unit.

Salt-free water softeners resemble salt-based units but differ in functionality. In these appliances, heavy minerals stick to the polymeric beads at the microscopic nucleation sites as water flows through the softener.

The minerals in the water stick to the sites and change into crystals through a neutralization process. Through this process, minerals cannot bind to anything while passing through the water.

After neutralization, the contaminants separate from the microscopic nucleation sites and move harmlessly through the water without causing scaling or mineral buildup.

Advantages Of A Salt-Free Water Conditioner

Low media consumption: While most whole-house units need between 5 to 10 liters of media to last for several years, the TAC media in salt-free softeners need to be changed once every three to five years.

Also, only a little media is required to sustain a full whole-house water conditioning system. In fact, salt-free tanks do not need to be filled with the media.
Low maintenance: If you need a low-maintenance system, consider purchasing salt-free water conditioners. Installation is simple, and you don’t need a plumber to mount this system in your home.

In most cases, you will not need any services from a plumber because salt-free water conditioners do not need salt or potassium to operate. Plus, they will have a minimal impact on your flow rate. Lastly, these softeners will save you on electric bills because they don’t need electricity.
Various applications: Individuals who want a whole-house system with vast filtration abilities can opt for a salt-free conditioner and a whole-house chlorine reduction system. They will enjoy better-tasting and smelling water and avoid scale accumulation in their home. The TAC media will also have an extended life span because of the lack of chloramines and chlorine.
Environmentally friendly: If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, consider installing salt-free water conditioners in your home. They can’t release wastewater since they don’t undergo regeneration cycles or dispose of chlorides into the waste stream. Also, they save water because the processed water by the softener flows directly into your home.

Disadvantages Of Salt-Free Water Conditioners

Zero soft water benefits: The major demerit of salt-free water softeners is that they do not provide soft water. Most individuals using this softener still use more dishwasher soap and laundry detergent and end up with mediocre results.

You will also clean soap scum stains from your bathtubs and sinks after using hard water. These softeners are not effective against very hard water.
Unusable on well water: Do not use salt-free water conditioners if your water source is well. Well water is mainly contaminated with iron and manganese, and these water conditioners are ineffective against these minerals.

The nucleation sites that facilitate the hardness of micro-crystal become blocked when iron coats the TAC media. Thus, the calcium and magnesium ions end up in your home’s plumbing system and form scale.

Dual-Tank Water Softeners

If your household uses a lot of water, it would be best to invest in a dual-tank water softener. Unlike a standard salt-based water softener, a dual-tank water softener has two tanks; thus, it can handle more water and significant amounts of heavy minerals.

It comprises two resin tanks; while the first tank undergoes a salt regeneration cycle, the other remains functional.

Advantages Of Dual Tank Water Softeners

Although commonly used in commercial settings, dual tank water softeners have become popular among most homeowners because they soften water repeatedly without taking a break. As one tank goes through a regeneration cycle, the other takes over. Thus, in apartments with many units, all renters are guaranteed soft water at any time of the night or day.
A higher water flow rate is another advantage of dual-tank water softeners. Unlike traditional units, you can use more fixtures and appliances simultaneously without affecting the water pressure.
Dual tank water softeners are also cost-effective and environmentally friendly in the long run. This is because they have a feature that uses little water and salt.
Finally, the resin in dual tank models lasts far longer compared to traditional softeners. This is because the tanks are used interchangeably, reducing overreliance on the resin in one tank.

Disadvantages Of Dual Tank Water Softeners

The initial price of dual tank water softeners is higher compared to standard water models.
Also, these tanks are complex to install and require complicated plumbing. Therefore, you need a licensed plumber to fit the unit correctly.
Moreover, dual tanks take up more space. Therefore, it is not suitable for individuals with limited space.
Lastly, dual tanks need intensive maintenance compared to traditional water softeners. Therefore, you’ll need a plumber to inspect them regularly to ensure they are in top-notch condition to avoid downtime.

Magnetic Water Softeners

If you are looking for a small water softener that’s easy to install, you can use a magnetic one. This type of softener prevents mineral build-up in your plumbing system by acting as a water descaler.

These softeners have a magnetic field; thus, they neutralize heavy minerals by removing negative or positive ions. This prevents the minerals from binding to each other; instead, they dissolve in the water.

Magnetic water softeners, especially plug-in models, are easy to install. Therefore, they are perfect for renters as no permanent change in the house will be required to mount them.

Pros Of Installing A Magnetic Water Softener

These softeners are a low-maintenance option. Hence, no need to hire a plumber to perform annual checks.
Magnetic water softeners have a long lifespan, and their filtration bed can last 40 years.
Magnetic water systems are less expensive than other softeners in the market.
Water processed by magnetic water softeners is safe to drink and irrigate plants because these systems do not use salt.

Cons Of Selecting A Magnetic Water Softener

Despite their low maintenance cost and being affordable, magnetic water softeners have the following demerits:

Inefficient: Unlike other options, water must flow within the field of magnetic coils to be softened.
Instead of removing minerals from water, these home softeners change the chemical composition of the water to curb scaling.
Magnetic water softeners may be unable to prevent scaling if the water sits for over 48 hours.
Lastly, little scientific evidence suggests these softeners are efficient at softening water.

Reverse Osmosis Water Softeners

Reverse osmosis water softeners or RO systems use high pressure to filter water as it flows through a semipermeable membrane.

Instead of treating water, they work by eliminating contaminants. The applied pressure removes various dissolved water impurities such as bacteria and chemical contaminants.

RO systems are best for under-sink installation, allowing homeowners to access pure water at a single point. However, they can’t be used for whole-home water treatment.

Pros Of Reverse Osmosis Water Softeners

Low maintenance: After installing an RO unit, your job will be to change filters. Unlike other water softeners, this one is fully automated; hence, manual flushing, backwashing, or regeneration is unnecessary. Also, changing the filters is simple, and you don’t need a plumber.
Removes most contaminants: What makes these water softeners popular is the fact that they remove approximately 99.99 percent of the total dissolved solids in drinking water.
Improves taste and odor: RO units effectively remove fluoride, herbicide, Sulphur, Chlorine, and pesticides, which affect the water’s smell and taste.

Cons Of Reverse Osmosis Water Softeners

May require electricity: Some models of reverse osmosis water softeners, such as countertop RO filters, need electricity to operate. Fortunately, there are RO units that run without electricity.
Removes healthy minerals. Besides filtering impurities, these units eliminate beneficial minerals such as magnesium and calcium, which gives water an enjoyable Alkaline taste.
Slower filtration process: Another disadvantage of reverse osmosis water softeners is that the filtration takes place in stages; thus, you may not access filtered water immediately.
Wastes Water: This is the major con of RO systems. For instance, if you use a traditional RO unit, you’ll waste approximately 4 gallons of water for every liquid unit of filtered water processed. Fortunately, modern RO water filters are efficient but could cost more.

In A Nutshell

Water softeners are an excellent investment for homeowners in Fort Worth, TX, suffering from hard water. While selecting a water softener, it’s wise to buy one suitable to your preferences and specific needs.

Whatever type of softener you choose, you’ll enjoy the benefits of having soft water, lower energy bills, clean dishes and clothes, and longer-lasting appliances.

Have Questions?

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth, we can answer any of your questions on water softeners and provide installation and repair services. Our certified plumbers will also help you find a water softener suitable for your needs. Give us a ring now for more information.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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Benefits Of Upgrading Your Existing Sprinkler System and Add-ons A Plumber Can Add To Achieve These Benefits

A healthy, lush lawn can add value to your property and enhance the overall beauty of your landscape. A well-maintained sprinkler system is crucial to lawn maintenance as it ensures your lawn receives the right amount of water at the right time. If you have an older sprinkler system, it might be time to consider upgrading it. Upgrading your sprinkler system might seem like a major investment upfront, but it can save you money in the long run. In this blog post, we discuss the benefits of upgrading your existing sprinkler system and some add-ons a plumber can install to achieve these benefits.

Benefits Of Upgrading Your Existing Sprinkler System

Improved Efficiency

Upgrading your existing sprinkler system is more than just a cosmetic adjustment to your landscaping – it can lead to significant improvements in efficiency. With new advanced technologies, you can save money on water bills and ensure that your plants receive just the right amount of water. An upgraded system may feature smart controllers that monitor weather data and water usage, allowing it to adjust watering schedules automatically and provide water only when needed. These improvements can lead to a beautiful, well-maintained yard and an eco-friendly solution that saves you money in the long run. Don’t let a poorly functioning sprinkler system drag down the value of your property. Call a plumber to upgrade it and enjoy the many benefits of a more efficient system today.

Lower Water Bills

Are you tired of surprise water bills that leave you feeling like you’re drowning in expenses? Consider upgrading your existing sprinkler system to lower water bills and reduce environmental impact. The newest technology in sprinkler systems allows for customizable settings that can be programmed to optimize water usage for your specific landscape layout. This means you won’t be wasting water in areas that don’t need it, which can cause over-saturation and ultimately drive up your bills. No more wasted water or inadequate coverage. Instead, you can have a precisely functioning system that conserves water and keeps your lawn and garden lush and healthy. Ultimately, upgrading your sprinkler system saves you money in the long run and helps conserve water resources to protect the planet. Don’t wait any longer to start saving money and reducing your carbon footprint by upgrading your existing sprinkler system.

Better System Monitoring

Keeping track of your sprinkler system can be a hassle, especially when you’ve got a busy schedule. But with a little upgrade, you can monitor your sprinkler system easily and efficiently. Upgrading your existing system gives you access to better monitoring capabilities that allow you to track the performance of each sprinkler head. This means you can easily detect leaks, assess water pressure, and adjust the output of each head as needed. No more manually checking for damaged heads or worrying about wasting water and money on over-irrigating. By investing in an upgraded system, you’ll see improvements in both water conservation and the health of your yard. Plus, with remote control access on your mobile device, you’ll have total control over when your system needs to run – for ultimate flexibility and convenience. Why not upgrade your existing system and enjoy the many benefits of better monitoring? Contact a plumber today to get started.

User-Friendliness

Upgrading your sprinkler system can lead to a user-friendliness you never knew possible. Gone are the days of fiddling with knobs and valves, trying to figure out which one controls which zone. With a modern sprinkler system, you can control everything from your phone or tablet with just a few taps. These systems also come equipped with intuitive user interfaces that make it far easier to set up schedules and adjust settings to meet your specific needs. So if you’re ready to say goodbye to the hassle of a clunky old sprinkler system, hire a plumber to upgrade to one that’ll simplify your life and give you more time to enjoy your beautiful lawn.

Minimizing Plant and Soil Erosion

Erosion is a natural process influenced by wind and rain, but a poorly functioning sprinkler system can exacerbate the problem by overwatering certain areas and leaving others dry. This leads to soil erosion, which can damage plant roots and affect their ability to grow. With better control over the water distribution, you can ensure that the water is targeted only at the areas that truly need it. This prevents water from flowing into unwanted areas and avoids soil runoff, which can carry away valuable topsoil and nutrients essential for plant growth. By minimizing erosion, your plants can thrive, and your soil quality can be maintained, making your yard or garden healthier and more beautiful. Get a professional plumber to install a modern sprinkler system for improved water conservation and greater lawn protection.

Reducing Maintenance Costs

Maintaining a functioning sprinkler system is crucial, not only for the health of your lawn but for your wallet too. Constant repairs, replacements, and other fees associated with keeping a traditional system up and running can add up quickly. Luckily, upgrading your existing sprinkler system may be the solution to reducing maintenance expenses. By hiring a plumber to install a modern system, you can benefit from improved durability and efficiency, resulting in fewer repairs and replacements. Additionally, newer systems often come equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, allowing for quick identification and resolution of any issues. So not only will you save money, but you’ll also have greater peace of mind knowing that your system is functioning to its fullest potential.

Aesthetic Appeal

A beautifully maintained lawn with vibrant green grass and blooming flowers is a sight to behold. However, achieving this aesthetic appeal requires more than just watering your lawn – it requires a reliable sprinkler system. Upgrading your existing sprinkler system is a wise investment that ensures your lawn is properly irrigated and enhances its visual appeal. With technological advancements, modern sprinkler systems distribute water evenly, conserving water and preventing over- or under-watering. In addition, some sprinkler heads are designed to pop up when in use and disappear when not, preserving your lawn’s clean and neat look. Investing in an upgraded sprinkler system is beneficial for practical purposes and will result in a more visually appealing outdoor space that you can enjoy year-round.

Top Add-ons To Help You Get The Most Out Of Your Sprinkler System

Today’s sprinkler systems come with all sorts of features and accessories to help you get the most out of your system. From rain sensors to soil moisture monitors, plenty of options are available to customize your setup and ensure it meets your needs. The following are a few of the top features that can be added to your sprinkler system:

Drip Irrigation

If you want to save even more water, consider adding a drip irrigation system to your existing sprinkler system. Drip irrigation is a method of providing water directly to the root zone of your plants using a slow and steady drip. This method can reduce water evaporation, runoff, and weeds while improving plant growth and health. Drip irrigation is ideal for garden beds and shrubs and can be added to your existing sprinkler system without replacing it entirely.

Rain Sensor

Most sprinkler systems are programmed to function irrespective of the weather conditions. However, a rain sensor can detect when it’s raining and automatically turn off your sprinkler system, preventing overwatering and helping you save money on your water bill. Not only is this environmentally friendly, but it’s also convenient – you won’t have to worry about turning off your system during those unexpected rain showers.

Sprinkler Head Upgrades

Sprinkler heads are the most visible part of your sprinkler system and a key factor in how efficiently it functions. Upgrading these heads can improve water distribution water coverage, reduce excess water, and extend the life of your system. Today’s sprinkler head designs include fixed, rotary, and specialty heads that enable you to customize the water output to match the needs of your lawn. Some sprinkler heads are even designed to regulate water pressure, which can result in reduced water waste and lower water bills.

For example, rotary nozzles provide more even coverage compared to traditional sprinkler heads and can save up to 30% more water. They operate at lower pressure and require less maintenance, making them a more sustainable and cost-effective solution. If your sprinkler system is still using the older models, consult a professional plumber to learn more about the best options for upgrading depending on your specific needs and landscape.

Soil Moisture Sensors

Are you tired of guessing when your lawn needs watering? Or maybe you’re hesitant to turn on the sprinkler system during a rainy week, not knowing if your grass is really in need. That’s where soil moisture sensors are a helpful add-on to your sprinkler system. Soil moisture sensors measure the moisture in the soil and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. These sensors are ideal for separating areas of your lawn that require different watering schedules based on their soil type, exposure to the sun, and other factors. By adjusting the watering schedule to match your lawn’s specific needs, you can conserve water, reduce water waste, and save money on your water bill.

Multi-Zone Valve

You might invest in a multi-zone valve if you have a big lawn or garden with different watering needs. A multi-zone valve can divide your sprinkler system into different zones, each with its watering schedule, duration, and frequency. This means you can customize the watering for each zone, depending on its sun exposure, soil type, plant type, and water needs. A multi-zone valve can save water, reduce plant stress, and promote healthy plant growth and development.

Auto Timers

Do you ever forget to turn off your sprinkler system and wastewater? Or maybe you get too busy to turn it on manually, and your lawn suffers. If either of these situations sounds familiar, auto-timers may be the solution you need. When you add a timer to your system, you can schedule the times you want your sprinkler system to run, making it convenient and easy to water your lawn without worrying about it manually. Auto timers can be easily integrated into most existing sprinkler systems. With their programmable features, you can customize watering times based on the specific needs of your plants and soil. By investing in auto timers, you can expect healthier plants and a more beautiful lawn while saving time and money.

Pressure Regulators

You’ve invested in a quality sprinkler system to keep your lawn and garden lush and green, but have you considered adding a pressure regulator for optimal performance? A pressure regulator is a device that helps regulate the water pressure that goes through your sprinkler system. If the water pressure is too high, it can cause damage to your system, and you’ll also end up using more water than you need. Hire a plumber today to install a pressure regulator to ensure your sprinkler system operates optimally.

Make Your Sprinkler System More Efficient

Upgrading your existing sprinkler system can help improve the efficiency of your lawn care system. It can lead to lower water bills, reduced environmental impact, and improved convenience if you add new technology. If you are considering upgrading your sprinkler system, talk to a plumber to help you choose the best system for your needs and suggest add-ons to improve its efficiency. With the right setup, it’s possible to make your sprinkler system more efficient and save money in the long run.

Jumpstart Your Sprinkler System Installation Today With Our Services

Are you ready to upgrade your existing sprinkler system? Are you looking for a plumbing professional who can handle the installation process from start to finish? Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth is your go-to source for sprinkler system installation and maintenance. We have the experience, resources, and expertise to install your new sprinkler system quickly and correctly. Contact us today to jumpstart the installation of your new sprinkler system.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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10 Helpful Tips From an Experienced Plumber

Do you frequently have issues with your plumbing system? Perhaps you’re not taking better care of your plumbing. We suggest you read this article for helpful tips that save you money and ensure you don’t encounter problems that will cost you a fortune in repairs, replacements, and restorations. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with a plumber in your area. That’s what we’re here for. We’re always available to help if you need plumbing assistance. Call us at your earliest convenience, and our team will schedule you for an appointment ASAP.

Advice for Homeowners

Read through the advice below and let us know if you have any questions.

1. Know Where Your Shut Off Valves Are

Do you know where your shut-off valves are located? These devices are usually installed in the basement, but we suggest you get in touch with a plumber to install a shut-off valve near your plumbing appliances to make it easier for you to turn them off.

It’s important to know where the valves are because these devices are the first thing you need to turn off if you’ll be doing repairs and installations and when there are leaks in your plumbing. Turning the valves off stops water flowing through the pipes; this will prevent further damage to your plumbing if there are indeed leaks.

Knowing where these things are located isn’t enough though. Do make sure that they really work. Test them from time to time to ensure they will function. When you see damage, contact a plumbing expert to take a look at it and suggest repair as needed.

How many shut-off valves are installed in your home currently? If you only have one, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us so we can install them near your water heater, plumbing pipes, garbage disposal, or sump pump devices. We can test them for you as well to ensure they do work.

2. Educate Household Members on How to Take Care of Your Plumbing

If you live with children in the household, we make sure that you educate them (And everyone else) on how to take better care of your plumbing system. For example, teach your kids how to properly use the toilet. They’re supposed to flush only human waste down the toilet, not toys or bathroom tissue. It’s also better for them to know where the shut-off valves are located just in case there are leaks and you won’t be home.

To ensure your drains stay healthy, don’t forget to inform them not to throw anything down the drain. All food waste must be disposed of properly. If you don’t have a garbage disposal yet, we highly suggest you install one soon. Garbage disposals can help you effectively manage your food waste.

Talk to us if you need help deciding which type of garbage disposal to install in your home or when you’re now ready to install one. Our team can help you make an informed decision. If there are kids in the household, it might be better to get a garbage disposal that lets you close the lid before it runs. For all other plumbing issues, we suggest you talk to us today so we can assist.

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth has a team of skilled and experienced plumbers who can take care of anything. We also offer a wide range of plumbing services, including water heater repair or installation, plumbing inspections, professional drain cleaning service, and leak detection. Call us if you need help, and we’ll be there to assist you right away.

3. Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances

Do you intend to save money on your plumbing? One of the many ways to do this is to switch to energy-efficient devices. Talk to a plumber if you need information on which type of plumbing appliance or fixture to install in your home. You can conserve energy and save money when you install energy-efficient devices like a tankless water heater. Dual flush toilets and low-flow showers can also help you conserve more water.

4. Protect Your Home by Installing Safety Devices

Are you worried about water damage? You can protect your home by calling a plumber to install safety devices that include a leak detection device and a sump pump. A leak detection device can alert you every time it detects leaks in your plumbing or when it detects abnormalities in the system. You do need to make sure the devices are connected to your phone or tablet so that you get the alerts. While they can’t stop the leak, leak detection devices can prevent further damage to your plumbing by shutting off the water when there’s a leak.

For homeowners with basements, we advise you to consider installing a sump pump to prevent further damage. Having this device installed can safeguard appliances stored there and protect your home from water damage as well. Imagine when the basement starts flooding, and a lot of your personal belongings are stored there. It’s going to cost you a fortune when the basement starts flooding, and you don’t have a sump pump installed. We also recommend you install this device if you live in a flood-prone area.

To learn more about sump pumps or when you’re ready to install one for your home, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today. We are happy to discuss with you the benefits of installing safety devices in your home.

5. Learn the Signs of Leaks in Your Plumbing

You can prevent water damage if you know how to spot leaks in your plumbing. When you do spot these leaks, we suggest you get in touch with a plumbing expert immediately so that they can perform an inspection and resolve the problem.

Some of the signs that indicate there might be leaks in your plumbing include low water pressure, higher bills, noisy pipes, seeing pooling water near the pipes, and seeing water spots in the walls or in the ceilings. Call a professional immediately if you notice any of the signs. You can prevent a costly repair if you do something right away.

Low water pressure can also be a sign of defective plumbing fixtures. When there’s low water pressure in your home, check if it’s just for one fixture as you likely will just need to tighten it. However, when you get low water pressure in all fixtures plus a higher water bill, we recommend calling a professional for leak detection. Our team will thoroughly check your plumbing to locate the leak and fix it for you.

6. Know What to Do During a Plumbing Emergency

During a plumbing emergency, the first thing you need to do is not call a plumber right away. You need to first turn off your water to prevent further damage to your plumbing. This is why we suggested you install several shut-off valves to make it easier for you to turn off the water. If the valves are in the basement and your basement starts flooding, it might be difficult or impossible to turn the water off.

After calling a professional, don’t forget to take pictures of the damage as you might need this for your homeowner’s insurance. Clean the area right after while waiting for the plumbing expert to arrive. You can rely on us when it comes to emergency plumbing services for we operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can call us in the wee hours and our team will quickly dispatch a professional to your location to ensure you get the right help.

And as mentioned, we suggest you consider installing leak detection devices and a sump pump (if you have a basement) to help you avoid or prevent water damage. If you need more information about this, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us anytime.

7. Watch the Water Pressure

Do you own a water pressure gauge? This device lets you check your home’s water pressure levels. Your home’s water pressure levels must fall between 40 and 60 PSI only. Anything lower or higher must be addressed. When the water pressure is too low, this could indicate leaks in your plumbing. Watch out for other signs, such as seeing water spots, and check your water bill as well. If it’s higher, there is likely a leak. You can check for leaks by doing a water meter test. Just do two separate readings and make sure they’re the same. If the readings are different, it’s highly likely that there’s a leak in your plumbing.

Another way to know if there’s a leak in your plumbing is to get a professional leak detection service. Our team can help you locate the leak and resolve the problem for you.

When the water pressure is too high, consider getting a water pressure regulator to help you regulate your home’s water pressure levels. Too high water pressure can strain the pipes, so it’s best to do something about it right away. If you have older pipes, consider getting them replaced with newer and modern pipes. Choose the type of piping that’s less susceptible to damage and rust to avoid problems down the road.

8. Don’t Ignore a Leaky Toilet

Remember, a leaky toilet lets you waste hundreds of gallons of water when not addressed. You can test for leaks by doing a food coloring test. Just drop food coloring into the toilet tank and wait for about 15 minutes. Check the toilet bowl after to see if it changes colors. When it does, that means there’s a leak in the toilet. You need to call a plumber immediately to help you fix the problem. If you have an old toilet, it might be best to get a dual-flush toilet or a low-flow toilet to conserve water and save money. For installation, though, make sure you only hire a licensed professional.

9. Get Professional Drain Cleaning

Are you always having issues with your drains? While installing strainers and cleaning your drains with vinegar and baking soda lets you avoid clogs, it’s always better to get professional drain cleaning to ensure your drains are in top shape. Hire a licensed plumber to do this; our team of experts is equipped with drain cameras to help us see the interior of the drains if you need to resolve a clog.

As much as possible, avoid using chemical-based drain cleaners to resolve a clog, as this isn’t the solution. These types of cleaners can only harm the pipes and cause a lot of damage.

10. Replace Older Pipes

If you live in an older home and have old pipes installed, we suggest you try to replace them with newer pipes. Talk to a licensed professional to get the best advice on which type of piping is best for your plumbing. Our team can also help you install these pipes.

Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth Today

Do you need a plumber for your home or business? Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth is an established plumbing company in the area that offers a wide range of plumbing services to all homeowners and businesses. Our plumbing team can help with any plumbing-related problem, from a leaky pipe or water heater to clogged drains or a leaky toilet. Talk to us if you need help so we can send someone to inspect your plumbing system. After inspection, we’ll let you know how we can help resolve the problem. We also offer a leak detection service if you suspect leaks in your plumbing. And a trusted plumbing company, rest assured you can always rely on us with plumbing repairs, installations, and maintenance.

Call us today for an appointment.

See our previous post on this topic here.

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