How To Prevent Plumbing Leaks? Here Are Helpful Tips From A Plumber

Wednesday, April 19th, 2023

One of the best ways to prevent leaks in your plumbing is to know what actually causes the leaks. It’s also important to learn tips on preventing plumbing emergencies to avoid a costly repair or replacement. Read this article to know the causes of leaks and what you can do to prevent them. If you have questions, feel free to get in touch with a plumber in your area.

Why Does a Leak Happen?

Below are the causes of plumbing leaks. Call a professional immediately if you notice any of the problems below:

High Water Pressure

One of the top causes of leaks in your plumbing is high water pressure, which can potentially damage weak pipes and cause catastrophic damage. A plumbing emergency can cause you a fortune if you’re not careful. Check your home’s water pressure and make sure it’s just within the normal levels. Otherwise, we suggest you call a professional for a leak detection service. A plumber should be able to tell if there are issues with your plumbing and help you fix these issues right away.

Frozen Pipes

Protect your pipes especially when the temperature is freezing. When it’s extremely cold, the water inside the pipes can actually freeze and your pipes can expand and burst. Cover the pipes with insulating material to prevent leaks and costly repairs. Running water can also prevent your pipes from freezing so try to also open the faucet a little. Try not to turn off your heating as well; open the cabinet doors so that warm air can also circulate in that area and warm the pipes. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call a plumbing expert near you.

Tree Roots

Trees don’t really directly cause the leak but they can worsen it. Tree roots are attracted to moisture or water, so if it senses that there are tiny leaks in the pipes, these tree roots can actually infiltrate the pipes and cause major damage. If there are trees near your area, we suggest you contact a professional immediately so they can help you resolve the problem.

Clogs

Drain clogs aren’t only a major annoyance but they can also cause pipe leaks when not addressed right away and if you have older pipes at home. Resolve clogs ASAP by getting professional drain cleaning. Never use chemical-based drain cleaners as well for they can only damage the pipes.

Foundation Shifts

You have no control over this but you can get routine plumbing inspections so that a licensed professional can check the condition of your plumbing pipes. When a storm hits your area, we suggest you contact a plumbing expert to inspect your plumbing for any damages or issues that might lead to a costly repair.

How Do You Spot Leaks in Your Plumbing

How do you know there are leaks in your plumbing system? Check the signs below and if you spot any on the list, get in touch with a professional immediately.

High Water Bills

When your bills are suddenly higher this month and the water pressure is also low, do a water meter test to determine if there might be leaks in your plumbing. It’s easy to do the test: just do a separate water meter reading and call a plumber when the results are different. Our team can help you locate the leak and fix it for you ASAP.

Pooling Water

When you see standing water near the water heater or pipes, try to investigate further as the pipes or water heater may be damaged, and then call for help ASAP if there are problems. It’s also important to learn the signs of hidden leaks in your plumbing including water spots in the walls or in the ceiling. If there is a puddle of water in the yard and it didn’t rain, consider calling a professional to inspect your plumbing.

Noises in the Pipes

Strange noises in the plumbing pipes can also indicate leaks in your plumbing. Call us right away so we can investigate further.

Preventing Further Damage to Your Plumbing

Below are some steps you can take to avoid paying a fortune when the plumbing leaks:

Install Leak Detection Devices

Leak detection devices are safety devices that alert you when there’s a possible leak in your plumbing. Install these in your home to get notifications if there are abnormalities in your plumbing or possible leaks. Just make sure you connect these devices to your mobile phone or tablet to get alerts.

Install Several Shut-off Valves

It’s also better to put several shut-off valves near your water heater, plumbing pipes, and other appliances or fixtures, to make it easier to turn off your water.

Invest in Repiping

If you have older pipes in your home, we recommend investing in modern piping such as copper and PVC pipes. Both are less susceptible to rust and damage, making them the best option for your home. However, do make sure to only hire licensed professionals to install these pipes.

Get Routine Plumbing Inspections

Never miss this because regular inspections ensure your plumbing is in top shape and there are no issues that can lead to a costly emergency. Contact us if you need routine inspections and we’ll send someone right away.

Get in Touch with My Professional Plumber Today

If you need the services of a plumber for our home or business, we’re just here to help. We are a trusted and dependable plumbing company that offers a wide range of plumbing services including routine inspection and leak detection. As a company committed to exceptional service, our plumbing experts would make sure all issues are resolved within the day and your plumbing is in top shape. Call us if you need major repairs or installations, and our team will schedule you for an appointment right away. Rest assured, we’ll never stop until all issues have been resolved and you’re completely happy with our services.

Please call My Professional Plumber today for an appointment.

See our previous blog on this topic here.

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The Major Types Of Motion Sensor Faucets A Plumbing Company Can Install In Your Home

Motion sensor faucets are one of the most popular trends in modern home design. Homeowners believe these touchless fixtures because they promote hygiene, reduce contamination, save water, and are just plain convenient. If you’re ready to upgrade your sinks with these amazing fixtures, a plumbing company can help you find the perfect solution. This blog post will break down the major types of motion sensor faucets so that you can make an informed decision.

Infrared Motion Sensor Faucets

Infrared motion sensor faucets use infrared light to detect the presence of hands in front of the fixture. The sensor emits a beam of infrared light which bounces off the surrounding objects and returns to the sensor. When an object, like your hand, interrupts the beam, the sensor instantly triggers the valve to open and release water. This type of faucet can be set up with different sensitivities, so you can adjust how far away your hand should be before the water starts running. It’s fascinating to think about how such a simple technology can greatly impact our daily lives.

Ultrasonic Motion Sensor Faucets

These faucets use ultrasonic waves to detect motion. As a user approaches the sink, the faucet emits high-frequency sound waves that bounce back and forth between the user and the faucet. When the user moves their hands closer to the faucet, the sound waves bounce back faster, triggering the water to turn on. This technology not only adds a touchless and futuristic element to everyday life but also promotes hygiene by reducing the spread of germs. Call a plumbing company to learn more about this incredible technology and get an excellent touchless faucet for your home.

Capacitive Motion Sensor Faucets

These faucets use a capacitive sensor to detect motion. The sensor detects changes in the electrical field around the faucet, and when something disrupts the field, the faucet turns on. When you place your hands under the faucet, the sensor detects the electrical charge your body naturally has. The faucet’s electrodes can hold an electrical charge, and when your hands come close enough, it triggers a change in the voltage that the sensor picks up on. This change is sent to a control unit, which opens the valve and allows the water to flow. Capacitive motion sensor faucets are a convenient and hygienic technological advancement that makes our daily lives much easier.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Motion Sensor Faucet

Before you decide to install a motion sensor faucet, there are several factors that you should consider. They include:

Sensitivity Settings

The sensitivity setting determines how close your hand needs to be for the faucet to turn on or off. Some models can be adjusted to turn on with just a wave of the hand, while others need to be placed almost directly beneath the spout to work properly. Check this setting before you buy a motion sensor faucet so you don’t end up with something too sensitive or not sensitive enough for your needs.

Battery Life

Most motion-activated faucets run on batteries, so it’s important to consider how long those batteries will last before needing to be replaced. While some models may require frequent battery changes, others can last up to three years without needing new ones. Consider your budget and how often you’d like to replace the batteries when shopping for a motion sensor faucet.

Installation Process

When purchasing a motion sensor faucet, it’s important to remember that installation isn’t always straightforward. Most people opt for professional plumbing company services if they don’t feel comfortable doing it themselves, but this can add an extra cost to the overall price tag of the product. If you decide to go with professional help, make sure you factor in the cost of labor when budgeting for your new sink fixture.

Price Point

When it comes to motion sensor faucets, you get what you pay for. Cheaper models may be prone to malfunctioning, while pricier models tend to last longer and have fewer problems. Remember your budget when shopping around, and ensure that your model isn’t too expensive or too cheap.

Style

Motion sensor faucets come in all shapes, sizes, and styles. While it’s important to choose one that fits your budget, it’s just as important to pick one that matches the style of your bathroom or kitchen. The right style can add an elegant touch to any room and tie together your space’s overall look. Consult a plumbing company for the best advice on which type of motion sensor faucet is right for you and your home and budget.

Features and Settings

Look for additional features such as adjustable temperature settings or spray modes for added convenience; these features may come at an extra cost but could be worth it, depending on what kind of functionality you need from your new faucet. Some models even come equipped with night lights that illuminate when it detects movement in dark rooms—a great safety feature for kids at night.

Durability and Warranty

Another important factor when choosing a motion sensor faucet is durability—you want one that will last through whatever comes its way. Look for products made with high-quality materials such as stainless steel or brass and check if they come with any warranty in case something goes wrong. Warranties are especially important if you use this product frequently. They provide peace of mind knowing that repairs or replacements won’t come out of pocket should anything happen unexpectedly due to manufacturing defects or normal wear and tear over time.

Want to Install Motion Sensor Faucets? Contact Us

If you’re ready to take the plunge and install a motion sensor faucet in your home, we can help. Our team of experienced professionals at My Professional Plumber is knowledgeable in all things plumbing and can guide you through the installation process so that everything goes smoothly. Contact us today for more information or to get started on your project.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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Comprehensive Guide To Plumbing Fixtures For Toilet And Bathrooms From Your Expert Plumber

Can you name your bathroom’s fixtures and their purposes without hesitation? Most homeowners cannot quote their bathroom fixtures or give their purposes. Most homeowners do not think about bathroom fixtures as long as the bathroom is fully functional and the plumber performs regular maintenance. Therefore, they are tongue-tied when explaining which part malfunctions when a breakdown occurs. Knowing your bathroom fixtures is essential when conversing with a water technician, especially over the phone. Bathroom fixtures are the backbone of your bathroom’s functionality and aesthetics. They help you set the tone and ambiance of the bathroom and bring out your personality. They vary from modern and sleek to classic and traditional. Finding the right fixtures goes a long way in your space. Therefore, this article different types of bathroom fixtures and help you pick the ones that are ideal for your home.

Types of Plumbing Fixtures for Your Bathroom

When searching for plumbing fixtures for your bathroom, there are many items to consider, and each fixture has many types to choose from. Therefore, by understanding the different fixtures, you can decide on the best fixtures that bring out your ideal ambiance in your home. Some of the common plumbing fixtures for your bathroom include;

• Shower and bathtubs
• Showerheads
• Sinks
• Faucets
• Toilets
• Sinks Bidets
• Bathroom Accessories.

Showers and Bathtubs

Showers are an essential addition to your bathroom. They enable you to quickly prepare for the day and enjoy some time under hot water. The types to choose from include corner, standing, and walk-in showers. In addition, these showers come in different materials, such as acrylic, ceramic, or fiberglass. Therefore, with the help of a plumber, you can choose a type and design that brings out your ideal design in the bathroom.

On the other hand, bathtubs allow you to enjoy time in the comfort of hot soothing water. They come in varieties such as freestanding, corner tubs, and alcoves. Also, some bathtubs have additional features, such as jets, for relaxation through a massage experience.

Showerheads

Although most homeowners confuse this plumbing fixture with the shower, they play distinct roles. A shower is essentially a standing pipe that transports water, but a showerhead is a cupping on the shower that helps dispense hot water. Showerheads are available in the markets in handheld, rain shower, and dual showerheads. In addition, there is an option to choose from finishes such as oil-rubbed bronze, chrome, and brushed nickel. If you want to take your showering experience a notch higher, some showerheads incorporate features such as multiple spray patterns and adjustable flow rates.

Sinks and Faucets

Bathroom sinks include under-mount sinks, wall-mounted sinks, pedestal sinks, and vessel sinks. These styles come in porcelain, stone, ceramic, and glass materials. Therefore, depending on your style and bathroom layout, there is an array of options to beautify your space. Sinks come in double or single basins, while others have motion-activated faucets and built-in soap dispenser features. A faucet, or tap, allows you to access water in your bathroom. A plumber can install them in a shower, sink, or bathtub. They come in two major types; single-handle and double-handle faucets. You also have an option with taps with materials such as bronze, brass, and stainless steel available in the market. Additionally, some faucets have features such as water-saving aerators or touchless technology.

Toilets

Toilets are among the most used bathroom features in a home. Therefore, you should look for a comfortable toilet. When looking for toilets, you have several types, such as wall-mounted, two-piece, and one-piece. In addition, toilets can accommodate different users, with some varieties allocated for different heights. Some toilets have features like dual-flush technology to save water. Toilets also have accessories. Toilet accessories are small plumbing fixtures that bring together the functionality of your bathroom. Although they may seem insignificant, your bathroom cannot run efficiently without them. They include the following;

Shower Curtains and Rods

A shower curtain encloses a shower or a bathtub isolating it away from the toilet while the shower rod helps hold up the shower curtain. These bathroom accessories help keep water from splashing onto the bathroom floor. In addition, they act as a privacy curtain from the rest of the bathroom. Shower curtains are available in different materials and styles, such as plastic and fabric.

Toilet Holder

The other impactful accessory to the operation of your bathroom is a toilet holder. It is used to hold your toilet paper conveniently for easy accessibility. A plumber can mount them on the back of your toilet tank or the wall. They also come in various finishes and styles that will suit your taste.

Waste Basket and Mirrors

Wastebaskets hold the trash in your bathroom. They are available in various décor options, styles, and sizes to match your bathroom décor. Bathroom waste baskets are typically made of metal or plastic. Another essential bathroom accessory for your home is a bathroom mirror. They are crucial for personal hygiene and grooming. They come in different sizes and designs and are mounted on a wall.

Towel Bars and Rings

These accessories help to hang towels in your bathroom. They are usually mounted on the bathroom cabinet or wall, and they have a variety of finishes and styles to match your home’s décor.

Soap Dispensers

Soap dispensers and dishes help hold liquid soap and liquid soap, respectively. Therefore, they are usually mounted on the countertop or wall near the sink or shower. They come in materials such as metal, plastic, and ceramic.

Bidets

Bidets are a new bathroom fixture slowly gaining popularity with most homeowners. Bidets are plumbing fixtures designed to help with personal hygiene. They come in different types: bidet attachments, standalone bidets, and bidet seats.

Many bathroom fixtures can add glamor and style if you want to redecorate or renovate your home’s bathroom. Contact us at My Professional Plumber for help choosing the ideal home fixtures.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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Understanding The Terminologies Used By Plumbers

Have you ever been surrounded by people talking about something you do not understand? Having someone close to you discussing something that you should know about since it is in your home, but you do not, is like conversing with someone speaking a different language. To make it worse, the items a plumber will try to explain to you but you do not get, are found in your home. In contrast, imagine explaining what is not functioning over the phone to your plumbing technician, only for you to be stuck mid-sentence. You end up starting a description that does not guarantee that the other person on the line will understand what you mean. Therefore, it is important to at least have a basic knowledge of plumbing terminologies. It will help you stay aware of a conversation, which is handy when explaining something to the plumbing team on the phone. If you do not want to sound like a novice regarding your plumbing needs, below is a list of top plumbing terminologies.

Maximum Contaminant Level

The maximum contaminant level is the maximum number of contaminants that are allowed to be in your water. The laws within the state government determine how much contaminants should be in the population’s drinking water and still be safe for consumption. When the contaminants exceed a given level, past the allowed level, the water is considered too contaminated and unsafe for consumption. Therefore, you want to keep your home’s water contamination level far below the stipulated level so that your water is clean and portable.

Portable

When a plumber tells you your water is portable, it is safe to drink. If your home’s pipes have a leak, obstruction, or crack, it might contaminate the water supply, and the plumbing technician will say that your water is not portable. Therefore, the best cause of action is to contact a plumbing technician to repair and clean the pipes. In addition, it is advisable to have regular drain cleaning services for your home to help keep your home water portable.

Flow Rate

The flow rate refers to how much goes through your pipes at a given time. Your home’s flow rate is measured by gallons per hour or gallon per minute. Therefore, when a technician says that your home’s flow rate has reduced, there must be something in the pipes; the water going through the pipe has reduced due to some unknown obstruction. Consequently, if you are experiencing water pressure problems with your faucets, ask the technician about your flow rate.

Pressure Head

Pressure head is a unit of measure that describes the vertical force in a one-foot depth of water. This term usually describes how hard and fast water moves in your pipes. Therefore, when describing this to you as a customer, this is a term that the plumbing professional will use frequently.

Effluent

Simply put, this is the liquid waste from your home in your septic system. A plumber will mostly use it because it is a nice term for what it is. Although it is a nicer representation of something that most people would not want to mention, it is among the least-known terms by homeowners. When you throw this in a conversation with your plumbing technician, you will have saved yourself the embarrassment of going to the dirty details of what you are describing.

Soil Pipe

This is another term that stands for something less appealing than it is. The soil pipe is the line that transports the waste from your toilet to your septic system. Therefore, keeping your home’s toilet flushing and functional is essential. The soil pipe is a term that you should master because it is among the most common problems you will be calling a plumbing expert to fix. Therefore, instead of saying my toilet is not flushing, you will use terms such as I think there is a problem with my soil pipe. Notably, you can keep most of your plumbing emergencies at bay by never flushing items such as feminine products and napkins. Nothing should go down the soil pipe other than human waste.

Bleed

Have you encountered statements such as, we need to bleed your drain? This can be a confusing and graphic statement without the proper knowledge. But in a real sense, it is less graphic than it sounds. To bleed a pipe or the drain, the plumbing technician releases excess air from your pipes. The technician will open a small valve at the end of your pipe to let the air out. Bleeding your drain is important, especially if you are experiencing water pressure issues or your home’s low flow rate. In contrast, bleeding a radiator or a boiler is the most common time when the term is used.

Gasket

This is one of the more complicated terms you’ll hear a plumber use. Mostly you will hear it used in a phrase such as blowing a gasket. The phrase originates from the small fiber or rubber-made ring. The ring is used to form a tight seal between metal fixtures. For example, when water squirts in all directions in the bathroom, it could be because the sink gasket has slipped out of place. In contrast, gaskets can act as gap fillers between plumbing metal pieces that do not fit together. Therefore, when experiencing a spraying or leak when you turn on the faucet, the water technician will install a gasket to stop this from happening.

Flow Control Valve

You must have run across this term as a homeowner who interacts with a plumbing technician. A flow valve is a device that minimizes water flow in your home. A technician will install a flow control valve to minimize your water bill.

The right terminology is handy when calling a plumbing professional to your home. It will help you communicate better and understand what the technician means when using these terms. Call us at My Professional Plumber today for your plumbing needs.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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Assessing The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Trenchless Pipe Repairs: An Expert Opinion From A Professional Plumbing Company

As a homeowner, you may have fixed a few plumbing issues, and nothing scares you; except for sewer line repairs. Drain and sewer lines are often hidden behind walls and buried deep in the ground, making it hard to detect problems.

Slow drains, clogged toilets, and a foul smell you can’t locate could all indicate a damaged sewer line. The line could leak if you find a patch of extra green and healthy grass. Raw sewage can have severe health effects and damage the environment and should be addressed immediately.

There are two ways to fix a sewer line, but a trenchless pipe repair method is the most effective. In this blog, you will find out what a trenchless pipe repair is, its pros and cons, and if it will work for you.

What Is Trenchless Pipe Repair?

Your home’s sewer line connects to the local sewer system via a long pipe buried in your yard. When this pipe is damaged, the homeowner is responsible for fixing it. In a traditional sewer line repair, a plumber digs a trench along the length of the damaged pipe, removes the pipe, and lays a new one. The trench is often deep and several feet long.

Digging alone can take a few hours to several days, depending on the soil and any obstacles in the way. Trenching is a tedious process, requiring several workers. It is also invasive and leaves your yard looking like a construction site.

On the other hand, trenchless sewer repair does not require all this work. A few technicians can do the job in less time, on the same day, without disrupting your home life. The two main types of trenchless repairs include pipe bursting and pipe lining.

In both methods, the plumber first digs holes to access the pipe. Pipe bursting is the process of bursting the damaged pipe and replacing it with a new one. In pipe lining, a plumber lines the pipe with an epoxy mixture. After it has cured and hardened, you have a new pipe inside the old one.

Pros of Trenchless Pipe Repair

Cost-Efficient
Because no excavating is involved, trenchless repairs can be cheaper than traditional methods. You won’t have to pay for extra labor and large equipment. The process may still cost the same or even more than excavation. That is because it’s a highly specialized method and requires specific equipment.

However, you’ll only have to do minimal landscaping and restoration. A plumbing company may also offer a fixed price for pipe lining and bursting, as it often charges per foot. In traditional repairs, there is always the risk of unexpected issues that could increase the price.

Minimal Property Damage
Trenchless pipe repairs are cost-efficient because they do not require extensive restoration. Traditional methods require the removal of trees, pavement, or any other obstructions. Digging trenches is unsightly and may ruin your perfect yard.

With trenchless repairs, you will not have to replant trees and flowers or restore your lawn. Nor will you have several technicians trampling around your yard.

Time-Saving
Trenchless repairs can be done within one day, whereas traditional works may take a week or more. Waiting for the resin to cure can take several hours in pipe lining. But this is nothing compared to the long excavation process.

Little Disruption
Having a crew of strangers working on your property for several days can be stressful and noisy. You also won’t be able to use the kitchen sink, toilet, shower, or any fixture that has a drain when they are digging up the pipe.

A trenchless repair allows you to continue your daily activities almost without any interruptions. Plumbers are equally happy, as this makes their work easier, cleaner, and less smelly. Trenchless repairs are particularly suitable for urban areas where excavation would affect your neighbors, traffic, and businesses.

Long-Lasting
All trenchless methods replace the damaged pipe with robust and durable piping. These materials don’t rust and can last for at least 50 years. You can get this done once and then almost forget about it. You’ll still need regular plumbing maintenance to prevent blockages.

Cons

Requires Professionals
Trenchless pipe repair can be challenging, and not every plumber has the needed training or certification. Here is where you have to do your homework. Ensure the plumbing company you want to hire has the experience and equipment to do trenchless work.

Not everyone advertising trenchless repairs has the expertise to do so. Pipe lining is particularly challenging if the sewer line has several twists and bends. An intersection may get blocked and will require additional repairs.

Not Always Possible
Unfortunately, trenchless repairs are not the cure-all to plumbing ailments. An old plumbing system may require a complete replacement.

The service also won’t work for collapsed, burst, or severely damaged pipes, as they often affect the surrounding environment. In these cases, you will have to go for the traditional method.

Higher Costs
These non-invasive methods usually have a much higher upfront cost, which may not work for every budget. Consider your options carefully before committing.

Need Professional Help? Call My Professional Plumber!

At My Professional Plumber, we provide a wide range of plumbing services. From plumbing repairs to garbage disposals to filtration systems, we are your go-to partner for all things plumbing.

Our plumbers are trained and insured and always do a job right the first time. Call our plumbing company today to schedule your service visit.

Conclusion

Trenchless pipe repairs can just be what your plumbing system needs. A fast, hassle-free solution to an ugly problem, this method can save you time, money, and headaches.

And once it’s done, you have practically indestructible pipes, which are strong enough to withstand tree roots. To ensure you get the best service, hire a reputable plumbing company. They can tell you whether trenchless repairs are best for your problem.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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