The drainage system plays a critical role in your house. It essentially makes it safer, easier, and more convenient for you to manage the wastewater produced in your home. When your drainage system is working properly, the wastewater produced in your house quickly flows through it and ends up in a septic tank or a public sewer line near your house. Therefore, the drainage system is important in keeping your home clean and healthy. However, it is important to note that the performance of your drainage system really depends on how you take care of it. Indeed, a poorly maintained drainage system could develop problems that might negatively affect its performance and even put your home and family in danger. Therefore, as a homeowner, you have a responsibility to ensure that your drainage system is well maintained. However, although there are many drain cleaning solutions sold in stores, you should not just buy them and try to clean your drains on your own. Instead, you need to have a professional drain cleaning service provider you can trust to help you keep your drainage system in good shape by getting it cleaned professionally regularly. But why exactly is DIY drain cleaning discouraged? Below is a rundown of the benefits you can expect by getting your drains cleaned by a professional plumbing contractor as opposed to doing it on your own.
Protect Your Plumbing Infrastructure
A residential plumbing system is something extremely valuable. Indeed, the cost of a residential plumbing system could account for up to 15% of the total value of the average home near you. Therefore, as a homeowner, you need to do your best to ensure your plumbing system is well protected against needless damage. However, although keeping your drainage system clean is one of the ways of protecting your plumbing infrastructure, trying DIY drain cleaning solutions could have adverse effects on your plumbing system. For example, drain cleaning solutions sold in stores are made of highly corrosive chemicals. If used incorrectly, these chemicals could quickly corrode your pipes, meaning that they might force you to repipe your home sooner than expected. On the other hand, professionals use customized drain cleaning solutions that are tough on clogs but gentle on your pipes. Therefore, by trusting professionals to help you clean your drains, you can effectively protect your pipes from corrosion and add a few more years to their lifespan.
Stay Safe
Drain cleaning may seem like a straightforward job. However, the reality is that the job is not as easy as it seems. For instance, when you watch a plumber using a drain snake, you might be tempted to think that what they are doing is something simple, and you can try it as well. However, if you decide to try using a drain snake with your untrained hands, it has the potential to leave you with serious injuries. Similarly, as mentioned above, DIY drain cleaning involves handling tough chemicals that could damage your skin or even hurt your eyes. Therefore, instead of taking such risks, it makes sense to hire a professional drain cleaning service provider instead of trying to clean your drainage system on your own. Professionals perform such tasks every day, and they know how to handle drain-cleaning machines and chemicals without hurting themselves or other people. In any case, these professionals are well insured, and even if they get hurt while working in your house, you will not have to worry about the financial burden of their injuries since their insurance will cover them. Therefore, by hiring professionals you can effectively protect yourself and your family from possible accidents and their costs.
Protect the Environment
The wastewater that goes through your drains ends up in a septic tank or a sewer treatment plant. But eventually, it will be released into the environment. As it gets treated, the solid organic matter in it will be removed. This is essentially meant to make the water clean enough to be recycled. Unfortunately, the inorganic waste in the water may be more difficult to remove. For instance, if the wastewater has heavy metals, it will go back to nature with such pollutants. Unfortunately, some drain cleaning solutions may contain dangerous chemicals that could hurt animals and plants if they get released into the environment. Therefore, if you use such chemicals to clean your drains, you will end up damaging the environment. On the other hand, professional drain cleaning service providers use solutions that are safe for the environment. Therefore, by seeking professional drain cleaning solutions instead of trying DIY drain cleaning, you can effectively do your part in protecting the environment and making our planet a better home for everyone.
Save Time and Money
Many people try DIY drain cleaning solutions, thinking that they will save some money in the end. However, the truth is that DIY drain cleaning is not cheap at all. When you consider the tools and drain cleaning chemicals you need to buy. You will realize it might cost you more than hiring a professional. But to make matters worse, there is no guarantee that you will get in right. Therefore, you may fail to remove some clogs even after spending a lot of time and money on them, meaning that you might be forced to seek professional drain cleaning services in the end. On the other hand, by hiring a professional to help you keep your drains in good shape, they will get the job done in the most efficient way possible, which will save you a lot of time and money in the end.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, when you need to clean your drains, you need to hire a professional. If you are looking for a dependable plumbing contractor who can help you clean your drains professionally regularly, Clarksburg Plumbing is your best bet. Call us today to learn more about our company and the services we offer.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
Check out our reviews here.
Photo By Bespalyi at iStock
Factors That Determine How A Plumbing Company Will Install A Drainage System
Drainage systems play a vital role in our everyday life by channeling water away from our structures and walkways. Properly placing drainage systems ensures houses and other structures remain dry and stable. Properly placing a drainage system in your home requires proper attention to detail and understanding the different factors affecting the decision-making process. When you hire a plumbing company to install a drainage system in your home, they will take into consideration the following factors:
Topography and Landscape
The first factor to consider when placing a drainage system is the topography and landscape of the area. The location of the drainage system should be on a slope that directs water away from the structure. If the landscape is flat, the drainage system should have more of a lift to create the necessary slope that channels water. If your property is on a slope, the plumbing company must consider the potential for erosion and water runoff. They may also need to install additional drainage systems, such as French drains, to prevent water from accumulating in certain areas. Similarly, they may need to build retaining walls and other land features to keep the water away from buildings and walkways. When it comes to topography, the plumber will need to measure and adjust the slope of the drainage system accordingly.
Surface
Depending on the surface type, the drain must be installed at a certain depth to ensure it is effective and not damaged by any outside elements or other structures. For example, if you have a concrete slab foundation, your drainage system must be placed deep enough not to disrupt structural integrity. You must also ensure the piping below the slab is properly sealed and insulated. When deciding how deep to place their drainage system, plants must consider any surface materials (such as asphalt, gravel, or dirt).
Soil Type and Composition
When installing a drainage system on your property, the soil type and composition are crucial in determining the best approach for a plumber. Factors such as the texture, porosity, and saturation level of your soil can impact the effectiveness and longevity of your drainage system. For example, in areas with clay soil, it may be necessary to use drain pipes with larger diameters to prevent clogging. On the other hand, in sandy soil, a gravity-based system with slotted pipes may be sufficient. By considering these soil characteristics, a plumber can tailor their approach to provide an effective and durable drainage system, protecting your property from water damage for years to come.
Building Construction and Layout
The building design and layout should also be considered when placing drainage systems. Upon inspecting a building’s construction, plumbing professionals can determine how best to effectively design the home’s drainage system to channel waste and rainwater away from the property. For instance, a home’s roofing and gutter system significantly affects the drainage system, and it’s crucial to install gutters that can handle the amount of rainwater resulting from your roof’s size and slope. Additionally, the home’s layout and the location of fixtures like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms will determine where the plumbing lines will run, affecting how the drainage system will be installed. By ensuring these factors are considered, you can guarantee that the drainage system on your property is effective and long-lasting.
Local Building Codes and Regulations
Local building codes and regulations are essential factors that homeowners must consider when installing drainage systems in their homes. These codes and regulations ensure that every new home or property meets safety and health standards. Before beginning any drainage system project, it’s important to research the specific codes and regulations applicable to your area. Depending on where you live, the type of soil, the climate, and the slope of your property, there might be specific requirements for installing sump pumps, French drains, or any other drainage system. Moreover, failing to abide by the prescribed codes and regulations can result in costly penalties and potentially dangerous living conditions. Therefore, working with a licensed plumbing company or consulting the relevant authorities is crucial to ensure that your drainage system always complies with local regulations and codes.
Future Landscaping Plans
As homeowners, we tend to focus on the visible aspects of landscaping, such as lush green lawns, colorful flower beds, and towering trees. However, it’s important to remember that your property’s future landscaping plan can also significantly impact the installation and functionality of your drainage system. For instance, if you’re planning to add a large garden or new patio in the future, it’s crucial to factor in how excess water will be directed away from your home. By doing so, you can prevent flooding and water damage from wreaking havoc on your property and ensure that your landscaping plans won’t interfere with the proper functioning of your home’s drainage system.
Get A Drainage System That Works for You
Proper drainage protects your home from water damage and maintains a safe, comfortable living environment. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the above-mentioned factors when installing or planning a drainage system for your property. It is essential to engage the services of an experienced plumbing company‘s services to design and install a building’s drainage system. By doing so, the drainage system will work efficiently, provide long-term protection to your property, and meet all the local building codes and regulations. With careful planning and professional installation, you can enjoy a functional drainage system that works for you.
Call Us Today for Professional Drainage System Services!
At Clarksburg Plumbing, we specialize in designing and installing all types of drainage systems. Our team of highly experienced plumbing professionals can help you create a drainage system that meets all your needs while also meeting local codes and regulations. We also offer preventive maintenance services to ensure that your drainage system is always running smoothly. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you create the perfect drainage system for your property.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
Photo By skhoward at iStock
Maximizing Energy Efficiency With Professional Water Heater Installation
Water heaters provide hot water for bathing, cooking, and cleaning. If you have an inefficient water heater, you may incur high energy bills. Therefore, ensuring your water heater is installed correctly and works efficiently is essential. Water heater installation by an expert helps maximize energy efficiency and reduce energy costs.
The Importance of Energy Efficiency in Water Heaters
Energy efficiency is essential as it reduces overall costs of operation. Water heaters are essential in homes and businesses and should be efficient. Understanding the role of energy efficiency in water heaters can help us make informed decisions when choosing these devices. Energy efficiency is beneficial in the following ways:
Lower Energy Consumption
Energy-efficient water heaters consume less energy than their less efficient counterparts. This lowers utility bills and decreases the demand for power plants, leading to a smaller carbon footprint and a more sustainable energy infrastructure. Clarksburg Plumbing provides energy-efficient water heaters that don’t use much power during operation.
Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions
By using less energy, energy-efficient water heaters contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions. This helps combat climate change and reduces the overall environmental impact of heating water for daily use.
Cost Savings
Energy-efficient water heaters may have a higher upfront cost but offer significant long-term savings on energy bills. Over time, these savings can offset the initial investment, making energy-efficient models a more cost-effective choice. Experts from Clarksburg Plumbing install water heaters correctly, minimizing the chance of incurring costs related to poor installation.
Longer Lifespan
Energy-efficient water heaters are often designed with durability in mind. This means they can last longer than less efficient models, reducing the need for frequent replacements and lowering the overall cost of ownership. Clarksburg Plumbing offers high-quality services to ensure your water heater lasts long.
Improved Performance
Energy-efficient water heaters often perform better, delivering hot water more quickly and maintaining consistent temperatures. This results in a more comfortable and convenient user experience. Clarksburg Plumbing provides maintenance services to ensure your water performs at peak efficiency.
Reduced Strain on the Electrical Grid
Energy-efficient water heaters help reduce the strain on the electrical grid by consuming less energy. This can help prevent blackouts and brownouts, ensuring a more reliable power supply.
Increased Property Value
Energy-efficient appliances, including water heaters, can increase the value of a property. Homebuyers increasingly seek energy-efficient features, making these investments attractive to potential buyers.
Water Conservation
Some energy-efficient water heaters also incorporate water-saving technologies, reducing water waste and conserving this valuable resource.
Reduced Reliance on Fossil Fuels
Energy-efficient water heaters can help reduce our reliance on fossil fuels by using less energy, promoting a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
Benefits of Hiring an Expert to Install Your Water Heater
Hiring a professional is an excellent decision to save you time, money, and potential headaches in the long run. While it may be tempting to attempt a DIY installation, there are numerous benefits to entrusting this task to an expert. Here are the advantages of hiring a professional to install your water heater.
Safety
Professionals are trained to handle the various risks associated with the process, such as gas leaks, electrical hazards, and potential water damage. They know the necessary safety precautions and can ensure that your water heater is installed correctly and securely, minimizing the risk of accidents or malfunctions.
Proper Installation
A professional installer has the experience and expertise to install your water heater correctly. This includes proper positioning, secure connections, and adherence to local building codes and regulations. A correctly installed water heater will function efficiently and have a longer lifespan, saving you money in the long run.
Time Efficiency
Hiring an expert to install your water heater can save you significant time. They have the necessary tools and experience to complete the job quickly and efficiently, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of your new water heater sooner. This also frees up your time to focus on other important tasks or projects.
Warranty Protection
Many water heater manufacturers require professional installation to maintain the warranty on their products. Hiring a professional ensures your warranty remains valid, providing peace of mind and protection against potential issues.
Expert Advice
A professional installer can provide valuable advice on the best type of water heater for your specific needs and preferences. They can help you choose the right size, model, and energy source, ensuring that your new water heater is efficient and cost-effective.
Proper Disposal
Professionals know the proper disposal methods for old water heaters, ensuring that your old unit is removed and disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. Clarksburg Plumbing has highly skilled experts in disposing of old water heater components.
Compliance with Local Codes
Professional installers are familiar with local building codes and regulations, ensuring that your water heater installation complies with all requirements. This helps you avoid potential penalties for non-compliance.
Troubleshooting
If any issues arise during installation, a professional installer has the expertise to quickly identify and resolve the problem. This can save you time and frustration and prevent potential damage to your home or water heater.
Quality Workmanship
Hiring a professional ensures that your water heater installation is completed with high quality and attention to detail. This can help prevent future issues and extend the lifespan of your water heater.
Cost Savings
While hiring a professional may seem more expensive upfront, it can save you money in the long run. A properly installed water heater will operate more efficiently and require fewer repairs, reducing energy and maintenance costs.
If you want to maximize energy efficiency and reduce energy costs, our company, Clarksburg Plumbing, is here to help. We have years of experience installing water heaters and can help you choose the right water heater for your home and budget. We offer many services involving water heaters. We are committed to customer satisfaction, and you can trust us to provide reliable and efficient water heater installation services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward maximizing energy efficiency in your home.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
Photo By LeoPatrizi at iStock
5 Crazy Signs You May Need To Call A Plumber
There are two things that are guaranteed in life: taxes and death. If you are a homeowner in Texas: you will one day need AC repair, and you will one day need a plumber. As a homeowner, all of the home repair tasks fall on your shoulders, which means you need to pay attention to the signs around you that something is going array. A lot of homeowners stress out when they find a leak or a clogged pipe, but if you find these kinds of signs, you have waited too long for intervention. The goal is to discover signs you need help from a professional before anything happens to hurt your home.
If you know what to look for then you can stop problems before they become huge stressors. While it may be a guarantee that one day you will need a plumber when you take control of the situation, you can avoid requiring the aid of an emergency plumbing company. This alone is enough to help you save hundreds of dollars. When it comes to home maintenance, everyone wants to save money, so take a minute to review these signs and take action if you see any of them occurring within your home.
Rising Water Bill
One of the first signs that you need to call a plumber is a rising water bill. If you aren’t consuming more water, but your water bill continues to rise, you probably have a leak hidden somewhere in your home. Just because you can’t find a leak doesn’t mean that there isn’t one hidden behind your walls, ceiling, or in the slab under your home. If you don’t do anything about the situation, eventually, water damage will pop up, alerting you to the location of the leak, but by then, the repairs will be extensive. It is better to head your water bill and have a professional investigate the issue more deeply.
Sweating Water Heater
Many people notice that their water heater is sweating and think that it’s because of condensation. However, this is not a thing. There is no reason why your water heater should be releasing any water. If you notice that it is sweating or the ground around your water heater is wet there is a much better chance that there is a small leak somewhere. It doesn’t take much of a crack to cause a leak, and it doesn’t take much of a leak to lead to water damage. With those facts in mind, if you have any indication that something is going on with your water heater you need to call a professional plumbing company. Other potential signs can include a large amount of water in the drip pan or rusty spots on your water heater.
Low Water Pressure in Your Home
There are a lot of reasons why you may have low water pressure in your home, but they all lead back to your plumbing system. Low water pressure can make it difficult to clean your home and your body. Nothing is more frustrating than the low water pressure in the shower, and while sometimes the reason may be something simple like a clogged aerator white, it could be a much larger problem. For instance, if you are noticing low pressure in more than one fixture, then there is probably something going on within your plumbing system. Oftentimes a cracked or broken pipe can lead to lowered water pressure and wasted water, which is why it should be investigated promptly.
Faucets Keep Dripping
A lot of homes have dripping faucets, but most homeowners look the other way because they don’t think it’s a big deal. In reality, a dripping faucet can cost you a lot of money when you add up how much water is lost per year. For instance, if your shower faucet drips at least ten drops every minute, you will end up paying for an extra 500 gallons of water by the end of the year. Not only is that wasted water, but it can add a very measurable amount to your water bill. It is easy to ignore a dripping faucet that doesn’t seem to be causing any major issues, but when you do the math, it gets a little harder to look the other way. Keep in mind that while some dripping faucets are easy to repair, some stem from larger issues such as pressure buildup behind the fixture or outdated fixtures. Allowing a professional to take a look at the problem and fix it can save you a lot of money in more ways than one sometimes.
Your Drains or House Smells Like Sewage
Have you ever walked by a sink and caught an instant waft of sewage-like odors? Does the first floor of your home near the floor drain in the utility closet sometimes smell like a water treatment plan? If you answered yes to either of these questions, it is probably a good idea to have a plumber out to your home. When there is a backup or a clog hidden deep in your pipes it will force the smells and odors back up. This is why sometimes you can smell a clog before you actually see physical evidence of it. Trust your nose, and get professional help if you start to notice consistent sewage smells.
If you are worried that you may have a plumbing emergency brewing in your home, don’t wait to get help. Contact Clarksburg Plumbing today to schedule an appointment with a trained professional.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
Photo By pixelfit at iStock
Water Heater Replacement: Understanding The Different Types And How They Work
Water heaters are designed to last a few decades before replacement. However, you may want to upgrade to the latest models with better performance and improved energy efficiency after some time. When shopping for a new water heater, one of the most important factors you need to consider is the type. There are five options you can choose for your water heater replacement, including conventional storage, tankless, solar, condensing, and heat pump.
Deciding on which water heater to install can be challenging, especially with limited background in plumbing. Plumbers at Clarksburg Plumbing assess your usage based on the household size to help you determine the best fit.
What are the Types of Water Heaters?
There are two types of water heaters, tankless and traditional tank systems. However, these two can be subdivided into different categories based on the heating mode. The five main types of water heaters include:
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are fast gaining dominance in the industry due to their reliability and energy efficiency. They don’t have storage tanks and rely on super-heated coils fitted at the water points to provide hot water on demand. Households that run multiple hot water mixtures simultaneously should consider getting a tankless water heater as they provide an endless supply.
The best part about these units is that they are designed with 80% efficiency compared to traditional tank systems. With this option, you don’t have to worry about high utility bills since you don’t have to constantly heat your water when the temperature drops. Aside from their reliability, these units are relatively more durable, with a lifespan of up to 20 years.
Traditional Storage Tank Water Heaters
Traditional storage tank water heaters are the most popular option in homes in the United States. It comprises a storage tank, heating element, and piping that connect it to the faucets and showers. These water heaters come in varied sizes, with each tank’s capacity pegged on how much hot water you need. Having a small water tank or a large household is not ideal since you are likely to run out of water, especially when you run multiple hot water fixtures. This means you have to wait at least an hour for the tank to fill up and for the water to heat up before using it.
The hot water tank is insulated to prevent heat loss, preserving the water’s temperature. Your plumbers will also point out two valves or pressure and temperature control. The temperature control valve helps maintain the temperature at 50 degrees Celsius. Any temperatures above this are not safe and may cause burns. The pressure control valve is designed to maintain the pressure at 150 psi to reach all needed areas.
Most people prefer the conventional storage tank water heaters during water heater replacement due to their affordability and ease of installation. Working with a reputable plumbing company such as Clarksburg Plumbing means you can have your system up and running in at least three hours.
Solar Water Heaters
Solar energy is one of the best ways to promote sustainable living and lower utility bills. Solar water heaters are becoming a favored option, featuring an insulated tank and a solar collector. These units depend entirely on solar energy with roof-mounted panels that transfer heat using a closed roof system. Solar water heaters offer the cheapest solution to supplying hot water in your home, saving you up to $400 in operational costs.
These units are also fitted with insulators to prevent heat loss, keeping your water hot at all times. With proper maintenance, the units will serve you for up to 20 years before major repairs or replacement. However, it’s worth noting that these units perform exceptionally in areas with ample sunlight. This means you may have to switch to electric or gas water heaters when there is no sunshine, especially during winter.
Condensing Water Heaters
Condensing water heaters are arguably the best option for property owners who rely on gas to power and heat their homes. These water heaters use gas as their main energy source and are offered as either tankless or storage-tank variants.
Tankless versions of condensing water heaters work like tankless water heaters to provide instant hot water. Here, water is heated directly as it rises through the pipes to deliver hot water from your faucets; this way, you can enjoy a constant supply of hot water.
Condensing water heaters are considered one of the most efficient models, with a 98% efficiency rating. With regular maintenance and servicing, these units can serve you for 10-15 years before replacement.
Heat Pump Water Heaters
Technology is evolving in multiple industries, providing homeowners with alternative options for their water heaters. One of these is the heat pump water heater, also referred to as a hybrid water heater, which works best in areas with temperatures between 40-80 degrees Celsius. People from relatively cold regions may not benefit from this water heater as it generates heat from the ground and surrounding area, unlike other options that need energy sources.
Heat pump water heaters don’t generate heat directly and rely on electricity to transfer heat from point A to B. This feature makes the hybrid water heater one of the most efficient water heaters on the market. Before buying this water heater, it’s best to have a water heater replacement expert analyze your region for compatibility.
Enjoy Exceptional Service at Clarksburg Plumbing
The secret to water heater replacement is durability, reliability, and efficiency. You don’t want to replace your old unit with something with a higher operational cost and low performance. Most people look to upgrade to models that offer the best services at a reduced cost. It’s advisable to windows shop for different water heaters, weighing their pros and cons to help you make informed choices. Have a professional plumber assess your needs and help you make a decision that not only fits you but stays within your budget.
At Clarksburg Plumbing, we offer a wide range of water heater services, including installation, replacement, and maintenance. Contact us for more on our services.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
