Buying an Older Home? Have the Plumbing Inspected

June 27th, 2016 Posted in Plumbing Maintenance
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When buying an older home, it is important to know what home improvements may be needed in the future. Apart from the sale price, you must consider possible expenses that you could incur due to the age of the home. When was the last time the roof was replaced? Is the furnace or HVAC system in good shape? Are there any underlying issues you need to know about? While a home inspection may reveal some of these problems, it may not uncover everything. Plumbing is one of the areas you may want to have separately inspected before you buy.

If the home was built in the 1980’s or before, it is a good idea to have the plumbing checked out before you buy. From the interior plumbing to the sewer pipes and septic system, there are many components that can be outdated. Replacing a septic system or the sewer lines can cost thousands of dollars; interior plumbing issues can lead to water and mold damage, as well as the expense to replace pipes and fixtures. Some areas that should be inspected include:

  • Camera inspection of exterior sewer lines
  • Water heater – is it efficient? When will it need to be replaced?
  • Interior pipes, drains and fixtures
  • Septic system and drain field inspection, if applicable

Having a local, expert plumber inspect the entire plumbing system is worth the investment before buying an older home. It can alert you to any potential issues so you are aware before you buy. If there is a major plumbing problem, you have the option of negotiating with the seller to have the issue fixed, changing your offer price or deciding that this may not be the right investment.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221

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Don’t Wait for a Plumbing Emergency

June 27th, 2016 Posted in Emergency Plumbing
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Have you ever ignored a plumbing annoyance, just to have it turn into a plumbing emergency? If not, you are one of the lucky ones. It happens all the time. A toilet that frequently becomes clogged is plunged and handled as-needed, but never fixed. Then it overflows, creating a nasty mess, possible water damage and contaminating the home. Now, not only is there a plumbing emergency, it will cost much more to fix than if it had been repaired when the issue first started. Don’t let a small plumbing issue turn into a plumbing emergency. Here are a few common issues that should be fixed as soon as possible:

  • Leaking pipes. Under many kitchen or bathroom sinks is a bucket catching a drip. That drip will only get worse. Don’t wait for the pipe to burst or the seal to completely give way – call a plumber to have it repaired.
  • Clogged drains. Just like the toilet situation, if you have a drain that constantly becomes clogged, you should have it inspected. There may be a major issue that is causing the drain to back up, or you just need a professional drain cleaning.
  • Plumbing noises. Is there banging in your pipes or is your water heater making strange noises? Don’t ignore these signs that you may have issues in your plumbing. You could come home to a burst pipe or a water heater tank that has leaked hundreds of gallons of water into your home.

It is always best to be proactive when you have a plumbing issue. It will cost you less to have the issue fixed than to wait for an expensive plumbing emergency.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(678) 873-7934

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Why Boilers Are Still a Great Heating Option for Your Home

June 27th, 2016 Posted in Boilers
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In recent years, many of the newer homes are built with HVAC systems or furnaces versus boilers. However, there are many benefits having a boiler system for heating your home. Boilers use radiant heat, which many people find a more comfortable, even heat than forced air. They also help control humidity levels during the dry, cold months in some regions. Here are a few reasons that boilers continue to be a great option for heating your home.

  • Energy efficiency. Boilers are usually more energy efficient than many furnaces. Many people save hundreds of dollars in energy costs heating their home using a boiler over a furnace.
  • Cleaner air. One of the biggest advantages of a boiler over a forced air system is air quality. HVAC systems require filters to clean the air but mold, dust and allergens are still prevalent. Boilers help maintain a cleaner home, with less problems for allergy sufferers and those with respiratory issues.
  • Space savings. Those with smaller homes appreciate the compact heating elements of a boiler system.
  • Zoning. Heating zones in your home is easier with a boiler system, one of the reasons that boilers are more energy efficient.
  • Quiet operation. With boilers, the operation is silent. No blowers will turn on and off, offering a quiet home environment.

If you are replacing your furnace, you may want to consider switching to a boiler system for your home. The energy efficiency along with the many other advantages may make it worth the investment. Talk to your local plumber that offers boiler installations for more information on the benefits of using a boiler for your home heating needs.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing Inc
Sterling, VA
(703) 435-4441

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Is a New Water Heater in Your Future?

June 27th, 2016 Posted in Water Heaters
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Have you been considering replacing your water heater? Chances are, if it is still working, it is the last thing on your mind. Most homeowners are not concerned with their water heaters age or performance; that is, until they come home to a flooded home or step into a cold shower. Water heaters tend to last close to ten years, sometimes less, sometimes more. If your water heater is close to ten years old, you should be considering replacing it before it goes out.

There are a few good reasons to be proactive when it comes to replacing your water heater. One reason is efficiency. Many of the older models are extremely inefficient when it comes to energy use. You may be spending much more on your water heating costs than necessary. A new water heater can save you money, paying for itself in energy savings over time.

Another good reason to replace an old tank water heater is the possibility of leaks. It is common for these old tanks to rust and spring leaks. In a matter of a few hours or less, your home could be flooded with hundreds of gallons of water. Then, you will not only need to replace your water heater, you will need to repair water damage to your home and could possibly be facing mold issues.

One of the best options for new water heaters is a new tankless model. These new water heaters can save you up to 50% off your water heating bill, take very little space and eliminate the worry of a tank leak. Call your local plumber to find out more about the benefits of proactively replacing your old tank with a new tankless water heater.

Posted on behalf of:
Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.
2120 McDaniels Bridge Rd SW
Lilburn, GA 30047
(770) 736-8283

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Three Great Reasons to Upgrade Your Bathroom Faucets

June 22nd, 2016 Posted in Faucet Repairs
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Are your bathroom faucets outdated and wasting water? You use them day in and day out, but when was the last time you really paid attention to your bathroom faucets? If they are looking worn or beginning to leak, it may be time to upgrade to new faucets for your sink, shower and bathtub. Here are three excellent reasons to invest in new faucets for your bathroom.

  1. An inexpensive makeover. If you don’t have the time or money to remodel your bathroom, upgrading the faucets is a cheap way to give your bathroom a makeover. Just replacing the hardware and maybe adding some matching towel racks can spruce up your old bathroom, giving it a whole new look.
  2. Leaks cost money. Did you know that one leaky faucet can waste up to 2,000 gallons of water a year? Don’t let your money run down the drain and waste valuable natural resources. Replace old faucets that leak with new energy efficient options, like those with the WaterSense label that are approved by the EPA. You’ll stop the leaks and use less water for years to come.
  3. New technology. Beyond just beautiful faucets that are water efficient, you can add new technology to your sink and shower. Thermostatic valves that keep your shower the perfect temp or motion sensors for hands-free water flow are just a few of the many new tech options that are available for your bathroom.

Changing your faucets can make a big difference in your bathroom, from the style to the efficiency and convenience. With the help of your local plumber, you can transform your bathroom with just a few changes to your plumbing hardware.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing Inc
Sterling, VA
(703) 435-4441

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Green Home Improvements – Plumbing

June 22nd, 2016 Posted in Water Conservation
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There are many ways you can improve the efficiency of your home to conserve water and energy, making it greener. One way is to use green plumbing options that will reduce waste every day in your home. Not only are green plumbing methods good for the environment, they can save you and your family money off your monthly utilities. Here are a few ways to go green when it comes to your home’s plumbing.

  • Plumbing fixtures. Upgrade your faucets and showerheads to water-efficient options. Look for fixtures that have the WaterSense label, a EPA sponsored program for water-efficient products. Just changing your showerhead can save half a gallon of water for every shower taken in your home.
  • Upgrade your toilet. Toilets are one of the biggest uses of water in most homes. Upgrade older models to water-efficient toilets that can use approximately 20% less per flush, saving an estimated 4,000 gallons a year in a home with a family of four.
  • Go tankless with your water heater. Tankless water heaters save energy by only heating water as needed, saving up to 50% off your water heating costs. Plus, tankless water heaters never run out of hot water like tank models and require less room in your home.
  • Irrigation. WaterSense also labels irrigation controllers that can help reduce your water waste when irrigating your lawn.

If you are ready to change your plumbing to green options, call your local green plumber for help. They can offer advice on the best water and energy efficient plumbing options for your home, plus install your new toilets, tankless water heater and other fixtures when you are ready to upgrade.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(678) 873-7934

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4 Reasons to Make Your Next Water Heater Tankless

June 22nd, 2016 Posted in Endless Hot Water
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How old is your current water heater? If it is over eight years old, the time is approaching when you will need to replace that old tank water heater. But instead of buying another large tank to put in a closet, basement or bathroom, why not upgrade to a tankless water heater? Here are four excellent reasons to ditch the tank when it comes time to buy your new water heater.

  1. Save room. No tank means a smaller water heater that takes up much less space. In fact, many tankless water heaters can be installed outside, keeping it out of your home altogether.
  2. Save energy. The genius behind tankless water heaters is that they only heat the water when you need it, versus keeping a full tank of water heated 24/7. This can save up to 50% off the energy you spend to heat your water.
  3. Never run out of water. Have you ever been the last one in line at your house to take a shower? Running out of hot water will never happen when you have a tankless water heater since the water is heated as needed.
  4. No water mess. There is always a chance a tank water heater will burst, flooding your home with hundreds of gallons of water. With a tankless water heater, there is never a risk of the tank leaking.

When it comes time to replace your old water heater, talk to your local plumber about installing a new tankless water heater. It is a great investment to reduce energy costs while getting the convenience of a low space appliance with never-ending hot water.

Posted on behalf of:
Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.
2120 McDaniels Bridge Rd SW
Lilburn, GA 30047
(770) 736-8283

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When to Call a Plumber for a Clogged Drain

June 22nd, 2016 Posted in Clearing Clogged Pipes
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One of the most common plumbing issues are clogged drains. Almost everyone has experienced a bathroom sink that begins to drain slowly or a kitchen sink that won’t drain at all. Most often this is an easy fix that you can handle yourself. Using a plunger or snake will often dislodge a simple clog and fix your draining issue. But when should you call a plumber? Here are some signs that you may need a professional clog removal:

  • Clog keeps returning. Do you have a sink, shower or toilet that keeps getting clogged over and over? Although you may be dislodging some of the clog, chances are there is something stuck in the pipes which is perpetuating new clogs to form. A plumber can inspect your pipes and clear away any debris that will cause future clogs from forming.
  • Multiple drain issues. All your drains in your house go to the same place. If you have multiple drains that are backing up or draining slowly, you may have a clogged sewer line or pipe. This will require professional attention immediately by a professional plumber.
  • Foul odor. If a drain is backing up or draining slowly and accompanied by a foul odor, call your plumber. You may have a broken pipe or other issue that is blocking your sewer lines and causing sewage to stay trapped in your plumbing.

Although you may want to save money by trying to fix clogged plumbing yourself, often you can make the problem worse if it is not a simple clog. When you have a stubborn drain issue, call in a local plumber to have the issue resolved right the first time.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221

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