Category Archives: DC Plumber

Three Reasons To Thank Your Local Plumber

The phrase, “first world problems” is an adage that has become conversational in modern day society. Living in America, there are certain things that people feel they are entitled to. Clean water, waste removal, and operational bathroom facilities are a few of things that people feel they should have, without question.  Although these things may seem minuscule to some, the work that others must put in to deliver these services is complex.

 

The Necessity of Clean Water

 

Water is something that every living creature needs to survive. But, years of torture on the environment, coupled with a growing population, has made it impossible to keep natural waters clean. Science has shown what the effects of untreated water have on the body. Many wouldn’t consider taking a drink of water from a muddy pond, but without DC sewer services you might have to. It is the job that these plumbers and service members do, that helps keep water safe for consumption.

The task of purifying water, and ensuring that water is delivered properly, takes interaction from two separate entities. Plumbers have the task of ensuring that your pipes are in working order, so your water can be delivered to your residence. If a pipe is busted, corroded, or clogged, this could adversely affect the water that is delivered into your home.

 

Imagine A World Without Waste Removal

 

emergency-plumber-in-dc

It is a warm Saturday morning, and after pouring yourself a cold glass of water, nature decides to call. You walk into your bathroom, carry out the deed and go to flush the toilet; but the water doesn’t move. You panic, and start looking around the toilet to see if there is anything you can do to fix the problem. There is nothing wrong with the toilet, the problem is your waste services.

Just think of how quickly the issue of no waste servicing could escalate over the course of a few days. It is hard to imagine living in a world without sewer service and septic tanks to ensure that your daily waste is properly disposed of. The odor alone from waste buildup is enough to make someone sick, add onto the fact that there is nothing to eliminate the buildup, and things could get bad fast.

 

Daily Showers Would Be No More

 

Could you imagine not being able to walk into your bathroom and take a hot shower in the morning to wake you up? Or even better, not being able to take a shower or bath because your utilities in your bathroom are not functioning? Operational toilet facilities are important to residents and businesses alike. The task that goes into ensuring that these facilities remain operational falls on plumbers offering sewer repair services.

Thankfully, we can all be proud that we live in the so-called land of entitlement, because we do not have to go without the things that many people take for granted. We can wake up, pour us a cold glass of water, eliminate waste whenever nature calls, and take our morning showers without worry. It is the plumbers that decide to work in this type of field that we should all be thanking. Without them, this world would be a dirty clogged up mess.

Five Tips To Make Your Plumbing Renovation Project Run Smoothly

Renovating your home can be exciting, but it also requires a lot of work. If you plan on doing the work yourself, or hiring an experienced contractor to perform the remodel for you, there is plenty that needs to be completed. When planning your renovation, it is vital to consider the plumbing renovations that will need to be done.

There are five things that you can do to make the renovation go smoothly. You should make it a point to hire a plumber at the onset of your project, make realistic location choices, be flexible with your design, leave an ample amount of time to get the project completed, and employ licensed professionals. These five things may sound simple enough, but they are overlooked often.

 

plumbing-service-dc

 

Hire A Plumber At The Onset Of Your Project

 

There is no telling what you will run into when renovating your kitchen or bathroom. You should not wait until after you have begun demolition to employ a contractor. A licensed plumbing professional can guide you through performing DC plumbing renovations, without endangering the plumbing system in your home. They can help you determine what needs to be replaced, allowing you to properly plan for their services in your renovation budget.

 

Make Realistic Location Choices

 

In most homes, plumbing lines are already set where they need to be. If you want to have a line moved so a fixture can be placed in a different spot, make sure your expectations are realistic. Pipes can always be moved to accommodate your location choice, but make sure that you are not making silly requests. Sometimes untrained people expect professionals to be able to perform tasks that are unrealistic.

 

Be Flexible With Your Design

 

You have a vision of what you want your project to look like once it’s completed, but sometimes it is impossible to get everything that you want. Whenever plumbing renovations are involved, you must be flexible with your design choices. Being flexible will allow your plumber to meet your expectations without compromising the plumbing system in the process.

 

Leave An Ample Amount Of Time To Get The Project Completed

 

It takes time to renovate a home’s plumbing system. Even highly skilled plumbers will still need an ample amount of time to be able to get your renovations done correctly and safely. In some cases, permits may be required to move piping systems, which can take a little bit of time to obtain. You should include waiting times for permits into your renovation schedule.

 

Employ Licensed Professionals

 

Licensure is important when it comes to plumbing renovations. Although it seems unimportant to hire a plumber who is licensed to fix a leaky faucet or a clogged drain, larger projects require a licensed professional. Licensed professionals will not only have the proper experience to complete your job, but they will also carry insurance if something were to happen while they are completing your renovation project.

Plumbing renovations are a great way to design your home to adhere to your personal preferences. Keeping the previous five tips in mind, when planning your next renovation, will ensure that it is done right. Remember that renovations take time, planning, and money to be done properly.

Three Reasons To Hire Sewer Services

The importance of maintaining a functional plumbing system is often overlooked by homeowners. If the plumbing system in a building is properly maintained, an expert will rarely have to be called in to render services. Overtime, a neglected system can cause problems that will get worse as time proceeds. Proper maintenance can stop problems from occurring, but most people do not understand how important their sewage systems are until it’s too late.

The pipelines that are used in sewage systems are delicate. If the system is not adequately maintained, it can cause a company offering sewer services in DC to have to intervene to rectify the issue. There are three reasons to consider employing a professional if you begin to experience sewage issues. A professional service can properly diagnose the sewage problem, clean out blocked pipes, and help eliminate further damage to the piping system.

 

Properly Diagnose The Sewage Problem

 

Clogs within the sewage system occur when something is blocking the one of the pipelines. If a clog is not fixed promptly, this could cause the pipes that are being blocked to crack or burst under pressure. Pipes that are cracked or burst will need to be rectified by a professional. They will identify the cause of the issue and resolve it.

 

Clean Out Blocked Pipes

 

affordable-dc-plumbers

 

Clogged pipes happen for a variety of different reasons. The most common reasons why they occur is because of objects being flushed down the toilet that should be disposed of by a different means. Baby diapers, tissue rolls, and tampons are commonly flushed down the toilet, instead of being disposed of properly. If these items are flushed down the commode, they can cause massive problems.

It is vital that only things that are intended to be flushed down the toilet are disposed of in this matter. In most cases, only toilet paper should be put into a toilet, because it will disintegrate over time. Once an item has obstructed the flow of water, it can cause any water that is flushed into the pipes to come back up, because it has no way to pass through.

 

Eliminate Further Damage To The Piping System

 

If a clogged pipe or sewage leak is not fixed immediately, the issue can spread throughout the property. The sewage can spew over to the front lawn of your residence, basement, or any area that water is being fed to. Homeowners that attempt to fix the problem on their own, without any plumbing experience can cause further damage to their piping system.

Trained sewage professionals know what to do to ensure that further damage does not occur. These professionals will identify the cause, use their specialized equipment to fix the issue, and help eliminate any further damage to the piping system. They understand how the system runs and operates, making the task of fixing the issue seamless.

As mentioned before, the sewage system in a dwelling is complex and delicate. Maintaining the system and getting it properly fixed if anything goes wrong helps ensure the safety of your household. Raw sewage has been linked to adverse health complications. It is important to get any sewage related issues fixed properly to avoid further damage to your dwelling and your health.

 

Three Common Plumbing Repairs In The Home

Owning a home can be a joyous experience, but being a homeowner also comes with its headaches. As a homeowner is it your responsibility to fix any problems that could arise in the dwelling. A common repair issue that occurs in a residence comes in the form of plumbing issues. Some of the issues can be rectified on your own, but others will require intervention from a plumbing professional.

If the problem occurs in an inaccessible area, or will take a lot of time to fix, DC plumbing repairs should be done by a reputable company. DIY projects have gained a lot of popularity, but you cannot fix something yourself if you do not have a clue what you are doing. There always comes a point with DIY tasks where your scope of practice does not cover what needs to be done. This is when professionals will need to be called in.

 

Leave It To The Professionals

 

The layout of the piping system in your home can be difficult to decipher. For many homeowners, the thought of completing repairs on their own can be daunting. A professional that is employed in this line of work, understands how the piping system in your home operates. If there is an issue, they can point out its exact cause without having to guess what the problem could be.

A basic plumbing system consists of a supply side and a drain side. Water is fed into the home through the supply side and it exits the residence through the drain side.  Between the supply and drain side, there are networks of pipes that supply various areas of the home. It is within these networks that the most common plumbing repair issues occur. Leaks, clogs, and fixture repairs are the most common household plumbing problems.

 

Leaks

 

Leaks occurring within a home can be visible or invisible. They may create a pool of water around a supply source, such as the kitchen or bathroom sink, or the tub. Leaks can also be spotted on the walls, causing a stain to appear in the area. After the source of the leak has been identified, the plumber can then begin repairing the issue.

 

Clogged Drains

 

DC camera inspection

 

There are a lot of products that can be purchased from local retailers to help unclog drains. Even though these products exist, they do a minimal job of helping with basic clogs. If the clog is deep within the piping system, or the lines are old, a DIY clog product that can be purchased through a retail provider may not suffice. Clogs occurring in the tub or sink will need to be rectified by a professional servicer.

 

Fixture Repairs

 

The term fixture repair refers to replacing a faulty fixture, such as a toilet, faucet, or showerhead. The complexity of the home can determine if these fixtures can be replaced by the homeowner, or if a professional company should complete the task. If you are unaware of how to replace these fixtures, it is in your best interest to call someone to assist. When in doubt always refer out.

Qualities Of A Good Emergency Plumber

Most people can fix minor plumbing issues that arise in their homes without calling a professional, but there will always come a time when a professional’s expertise is needed. Every household should keep a list of emergency numbers handy, whenever something occurs in their dwelling that they cannot fix. When hiring a plumber, it is imperative to do your research.

The plumber that you employ should possess certain characteristics that set them apart from their competitors. Often, people pay too much attention to price, instead of considering the other qualities that a professional should possess. The DC emergency plumber that you choose to hire should possess the following characteristics: professionalism, experience, reliability, and proper credentials.

 

Professionalism

 

Professionalism should always be displayed by the plumber that you employ. The individual or company that is dispatched to your residence should be able to answer any questions that you have regarding the service. An educated plumber will be able to explain the problem to you, answer questions you may have concerning the issue, and provide tips that can help you avoid the problem in the future.

 

Experience

 

Proper skills and experience will ensure that your job is performed correctly, the first time. Plumbing is a hands-on job, where most the job is taught through doing the task. The more experience the professional has, the better it is for your job. The job can be completed quickly and accurately, helping you eliminate the chances of the same issue occurring again. The emergency plumber you employ should be able to rectify any plumbing related issue, because they have fixed issues just like yours in the past.

 

Reliability

 

When you call or schedule to have a plumber dispatched to your residence, you want to ensure that they will come. A reputable company will put their customers first. They will show up at their assigned time, and complete the task at hand without any qualms. Reliable plumbers can be dispatched to your residence whenever an issue arises, be it day or night.

 

Proper Credentials

 

plumbing-reno-dc

 

It is possible to find a handyman to fix your plumbing related issues. However, if you want the job done right the first time, a reputable plumbing service should be who you should call. Plumbing companies will hire the best of the best to perform your job. Typically, these individuals will possess certain credentials to be able to perform the plumbing task they are assigned to.

There are a few classifications of plumbers. There are apprentice plumbers, journeymen plumbers, and master plumbers. Apprentice plumbers are individuals who are still learning the craft. These people will practice underneath a master plumber, until they have received the proper credentials needed to practice on their own.

Journeymen plumbers are right above the apprentice position. These individuals will have experience in the field, but not enough experience to be considered a master. Master plumbers are the best of the best. These individuals have earned this title through schooling and on the job experience. A master plumber is a highly skilled individual that has usually dedicated their lives to the profession.

The Importance Of Plumbing And Sewer Services

Plumbing and sewer services are essential to the health and safety and the health and safety of your family. And if you own a business, you have to consider the safety of your customers and employees as well. Plumbing and sewer services ensure the water in your home or business is safe for use. Plumbing and sewer services also efficiently carry waste and wastewater away from your home or business. If improperly handled sanitary water and sewer gases can pose serious health risks.

 

Examples Of Sewer Services

 

DC sewer service

 

A professional plumber can provide a variety of sewer services including sewer and drain cleaning for both your home and your business. They can also use specialized cameras to spot breaks or clogs in your residential or commercial sewer lines that are invisible to the naked eye. Professional plumbers can remove blockages in sewer lines whether the lines are made of cast iron or ceramic materials.  Professional plumbers can replace or repair sewer mains if necessary as well.

 

Hiring A Master Plumber Instead Of Doing It Yourself (DIY)

 

Hiring a professional master plumber to provide sewer services and repairs will ensure that the job is done accurately and efficiently the first time around. This will save you money in the long term because you won’t have to hire a professional to fix mistakes that you could possibly make while attempting to do the work yourself.

 

Finding Sewer Services In Your Area

 

The easiest way to find professional sewer services in your area is by word of mouth. You can ask friends, neighbors, family members or coworkers for a trusted recommendation in your area. If you’re looking for sewer services in DC for example, asking someone who you know and trust will ensure that you have a positive experience. You can also use the internet to search for a professional plumber that provides these services. However, this method will require more research on your part because you have to verify that the company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and offers the services that you need, at an affordable price. You should also make sure that the company you choose puts everything in writing and provides exceptional customer services. The company should be willing to accommodate your schedule and they shouldn’t hesitate to show their license upon request. And if the company provides free estimates, that’s great too.

 

Preventative Plumbing Maintenance

 

Having a professional plumber inspect the plumbing system of your home or business on a regular basis can prevent the need for costly repairs in the future. Some examples of preventative plumbing maintenance tasks include repairing small leaks, and performing routine water heater repair and maintenance. Routine preventative plumbing maintenance can help your home or business conserve water as well. And conserving water will help save money on your utility bills. Your home or business will not only be greener but you’ll be saving some green too. These are just a few of the reasons why the importance of plumbing and sewer services cannot and should not be overlooked.

 

Décor Trends For 2017

If you want to give your home or office a fresh new look for the New Year, there are quite a few popular options to consider. Here are some of the most anticipated interior design trends for 2017.

 

Green Is The New Black

 

Green will be the most popular interior design color choice in the New Year. And you don’t have to limit yourself to any specific shade either. Whether it’s emerald, mint or chartreuse, green is definitely the new black this year. So, don’t be surprised if you see the color pop up in any shade in accessories, knick knacks or upholstered furniture.

 

Texture

 

Texture is yet another highly anticipated interior design trend for 2017. While in the past homeowners have chosen to favor bright colors, they are now beginning to choose simpler color palettes with textured elements. Elements of texture are now being spotted not just in fabrics, but also in art, wall treatments, and lighting as well.

 

Organic Patterns And Prints

 

When it comes to fabrics and prints for your home, interior designers are predicting a rise in the popularity of organic patterns and prints. Interior designers are also predicting that worn or vintage prints will once again gain popularity too.

 

Ceramics

 

You’ll probably see more homes decorated with ceramic objects in 2017. The presence of ceramic objects will give your home an earthy artistic feel that’s becoming very popular at the moment. Whether you’re talking vases, lamps, or light fixtures, you’re sure to see a lot of ceramics in the near future.

 

Layers And Colors

 

You’ve probably heard the term less is more. Well, in 2017, it seems that the opposite will hold true. Instead of a minimalist approach as in years past, homeowners and interior designers alike will start to favor layers of prints and colors throughout their homes.

 

Living Finishes

 

Instead of filling your home or office space with brass and chrome, it seems that unpolished brass and unfinished metals will become more popular this year. Designers and decorators are now favoring living rather than shiny finishes.

 

Raw Wood Textures

 

Raw wood textures are gaining more popularity over the polished, finished looks of the past few years. You’ll see more raw wood popping up in furniture, accessories and cabinetry this year.

 

Kitchen And Bathroom Renovation And Remodeling

 

kitchen remo DC

 

And if you’re thinking of giving your home or office space a face-lift in the New Year, it’s important not to overlook your kitchen or bathroom. Hiring a professional plumber to assist you with your improvement project will help keep the renovation or remodel both or schedule and on budget. A professional plumber will even be able to help you decide which of these interior design trends are right for your space. They can also help make your new kitchen and bathroom more energy-efficient by installing low-flow toilets, faucets and well as state of the art appliances.

 

Plumbing Services For Your Business

 

Contacting a professional that provides DC commercial plumbing services is a good idea, as they will be able to assist with the remodel, keep all your plumbing and HVAC up to code, and are familiar with zoning regulations.

 

Whether you’re redesigning your home or office interior, or renovating or remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, there are many new and exciting trends to consider this year.

Ideas For Upgrading Your Bathroom In The New Year

If you’re looking for some ideas to upgrade your bathroom for the New Year, it’s a good idea to hire a professional plumber to help and advise you. But before you pick up the phone or start researching on the internet searching for a professional DC plumber, here are a few ideas that can make your ordinary bathroom feel more luxurious in 2017.

 

 Glass Shower Enclosure

 

When you think about renovating or remodeling your bathroom, you may want to start with your shower. To make your bathroom feel more open, choose to install a glass shower enclosure instead of a plain old shower rod and curtain.

 

Steam Showers

 

Another way to upgrade your shower and make it feel a little fancier is to add a vent in the ceiling of your glass shower enclosure. This creates the same effect as a steam shower, but it’s less expensive than a traditional steam generator. These vents can also open or close, just in case you don’t want every shower to be a steam shower.

 

Shower Benches

 

local DC plumber

 

Shower benches are a great option if you have problems with mobility. They can be installed directly into an existing shower and can be customized with tile in order to match the rest of the space. These benches are specifically designed to be waterproof and can also include built- in shelves for toiletries like shampoo, body wash, razors and soap.

 

Handheld Shower Heads

 

Handheld shower heads are yet another option if you struggle with mobility.  They are an easy way to make your shower experience easier and more relaxing. If you enjoy a full-coverage shower experience, rain showers are perfect for that. They also give the illusion of standing in the rain.

 

Heated Floors

 

There’s nothing more uncomfortable than stepping out of a hot shower onto a cold floor. So consider heated floors when you’re discussing the renovation or remodel of your bathroom with a professional plumber. They can be quite expensive, but your bare feet will thank you.

 

Vanity Storage

 

You’ll need plenty of storage in your newly renovated or remodeled bathroom to store all your belongings and avoid clutter. A large mirror is also a great investment. Consider carefully where you install lights, as certain places may cast less than flattering shadows on your face.

 

Reasons To Hire A Professional Plumber For Your Bathroom Renovation Or Remodel

 

A professional plumber can discuss these bathroom upgrade ideas with you and help you decide which ideas are right for you and your family. A professional plumber can also help keep your renovation or remodeling project both on schedule and on budget. Making the most of an existing space can be difficult when you’re overwhelmed with options. A professional plumber can help you with this too. Choosing the right lighting, tubs, sinks, and plumbing fixtures is yet another decision that a professional plumber can assist you with. They can also install low-flow faucets and toilets so that your new dream is as environmentally friendly as possible.  So keep these tips in mind if you’re considering a bathroom upgrade in 2017.

How Do You Know When You Need Emergency Plumbing Services

Plumbing emergencies can jeopardize the health and safety of you and your family. But how do you know if the plumbing problem you’re experiencing is a plumbing emergency and not just a common plumbing problem? Here are a few situations that should be considered plumbing emergencies. If you experience any of these situations, you should consult the help of a professional plumber as quickly as possible.

 

Drainage And Sewer System Backups

 

Clogged sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers can be a sign of a serious plumbing emergency. If left unattended for too long a clogged drain can quickly go from draining slowly to overflowing or flooding. A professional plumber can help you assess and fix these situations before they turn into an emergency.

 

Water Heater Repair Or Replacement

 

A water heater is an essential part of any residential or commercial plumbing system. The water heater is what delivers hot water to your home or business. Your water heater gets used more frequently when the temperature drops, but it should be tested and maintained on a regular basis to ensure maximum efficiency and conserve water in your home or business. And since proper water heater maintenance will conserve water, it will also save you money on the utility bills for your home or business. Either a shortage of or the absence of hot water is a sign of a problem with your hot water heater. Having no hot water puts the health and safety of you and your family at risk. And if you own a business, it can make your fellow employees, and customers sick as well. So if you’re experiencing one or both of these issues, you should consider it an emergency and contact a professional plumber immediately.

 

Leaks

 

emergency plumber DC

 

A leak might seem like a minor problem. But if it’s not repaired as quickly as possible, it can lead to even bigger plumbing problems. For example, a leak in your wash machine hose, can lead to a major flood in your home’s laundry room. A professional plumber can assist you with the repair of all types of leaks in your home or business including drains, pipes, plumbing fixtures, and toilets. A professional plumber can even help you with the heating and cooling (HVAC) system in your home or business too.  If you have a leak in your home or business, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a professional plumber right away.

 

Reliability

 

If you do have a plumbing emergency like the ones described above, you can count on a professional plumber to resolve the problem quickly and efficiently without disrupting your daily routine or your busy schedule. A professional plumber will also provide exceptional customer service and be willing to answer any questions that you may have.

 

Finding Emergency Plumbing Services In Your Area

 

If you’re looking for emergency plumbing services in your area, word of mouth is the best way to find them. If you need a DC emergency plumber for instance, you can ask a friend, family member, or a neighbor for a recommendation. You can use the internet as well but in an emergency you may not have the time to do all the extra research that will be required. These tips should help you determine if you’re experiencing a plumbing emergency and how to find a professional plumber to help you.

 

 

The Importance Of Regular Routine Water Heater Maintenance

Your water heater is an essential part of the plumbing system for your home or business. Because your water heater is the device that delivers hot water throughout your home or business, it’s important to keep your water heater in good condition. Your water heater should be both tested and maintained on a regular basis in order to ensure that it’s running efficiently. A professional plumber is the best person to test and maintain your water heater.

 

Save Money On Utility Bills

 

Keeping your water heater in good condition will help your home or business save money on your utility bills. And since your water heater is used more frequently when cold weather strikes, saving money on your utility bills is pretty important.

 

Types Of Water Heaters

 

There are many different types of water heaters such as gas, electric, and hybrid water heaters. A professional plumber has the skills and knowledge to repair or replace any type of commercial or residential water heater.

 

Routine Upkeep And Maintenance

 

Regardless of the type of water heater that you have routine upkeep and maintenance are essential in order to keep the unit running properly. You should have a professional plumber test and flush your water heater on a regular basis typically in autumn before the weather gets too cold. Testing the water heater ensures that it’s running like it should. Flushing the water heater is the process that removes the sediment that can build up in the unit over time and cause it to run slowly or to break down.

 

Other Simple Tips To Get The Most Out Of Your Water Heater

 

There are a few simple things that you can do to both conserve water in your home or business while getting the most out of your water heater. For example if you run your wash machine and dish washer only during the evening hours it can reduce the stress on your water heater and save water at the same time.

 

Spacing Out Your Showers

 

water heater repair DC

 

Taking showers one right after the other, not only puts unnecessary stress on your water heater, but it also causes the hot water to run out faster. And since no one likes a cold shower, it’s a good idea to wait at least ten minutes between showers. And if you have overnight guests in your home, politely ask them to do the same.

 

Find Water Heater Repair In Your Area

 

If you need to find a professional plumber to make water heater repairs in your area, word of mouth is the best way to go about this. If you’re looking for DC water heater repair, for instance you can always ask a friend, family member, a neighbor or even someone you work with for a trusted recommendation. You can use the internet too but that may require more research and effort on your part. Word of mouth recommendations are a quick and easy way to find a company that provides the specific services that you need. And when you ask someone you know for a recommendation you can also ask questions about pricing and customer service that may not be shown on a company’s website.