Blog

What is the most common problem with water heaters?

close-up of a hose being attached to a water heater

The water heater was invented somewhere between 1868 and 1889, it depends on who you ask. But like most things we take for granted today, the water heater wasn’t available to every until the 1940s. Today, we take the water heater for granted and when it isn’t working, we don’t hesitate to have a water heater repair or replacement – same day if possible! 

For something that we don’t display in the living room or carry with us to show off, it is an invaluable part of our homes today. There probably isn’t a day that goes by that you don’t depend on your water being heated for something. From bathing to cooking to doing laundry, we need a water heater in our home. Many people don’t realize that a water heater can be repaired. 

Can you repair a water heater?

Sometimes, yes, water heater repairs are possible. It will depend on the problem and the age of the water heater. In many cases, a professional plumber can replace certain parts and get a few more years from a water heater. 

When is water heater repair an emergency?

A water heater leaking gas is a definite emergency. You should shut the gas off to the water heater and call a plumber immediately for water heater repair. 

A water heater leaking water from the water line and valve is typically not an emergency if you can tighten the connection. If you cannot tighten the connection or the water heater is leaking from the tank, that would be considered a water heater repair emergency. 

What are the signs of a water heater going bad?

 The more you know about the parts in a water heater, the better you’ll be able to diagnose problems. You’ll also know whether you can fix the matter yourself or if you need somebody that know how to fix a broken water heater, aka, a professional plumber. The following are signs that your water is going out and which is the better option – water heater repair or replacement. 

Water Leaking

This is the most common water heater problem because at some point, they all will begin to have a water leak. Why? Because they are made of metal and water is not friends with metal. It causes them to corrode and rust, develop fractures and microscopic cracks in the tank. 

However, the tank isn’t the only part of a water heater that can begin leaking water. Water leaking from the top of the tank could be that the water connections need tightening. Check the cold-water inlet pipes and hot water outlet pipes are solidly connected and aren’t loose or rattling. 

If water is leaking at the bottom, it is probably condensation, and that water repair is done simply by turning the thermostat up. Water that is spilling out of the overflow pipe or PRV (pressure relief valve), a water heater repair is possible. 

No Hot Water

“Why is my water heater not getting hot?” This is a common complaint that plumbers are called to fix. If the tank appears to be full of water but isn’t getting hot, checking the power source should be the first step. An electric water heater could have a thrown breaker and a gas water heater may be a pilot light problem. Both are water heater repairs you can do yourself. If the breaker isn’t thrown or the pilot light won’t stay lit, you need to call a professional plumber. 

Strange Odor in the Water

If there is a strange odor coming from the hot water, it is probably a bacterium building up, and turning the thermostat up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit will usually kill it. Never use the water when it is at 140 degrees, it can scald the skin. Wait an hour or longer and let that heated water kill the bacteria then turn the thermostat down and wait 4 to 6 hours before using it. If this didn’t get rid of the odor, you need to call a plumber for a professional water heater repair service.

Taking Too Long to Reheat

If your water heater is starting to take longer and longer to heat the water, try moving the thermostat up higher. If that doesn’t help, it could be either a dirty burner orifice or dirt vent flue that isn’t letting the gas flow. Simply clean these two parts and you’ll have a water repair done! If that doesn’t fix the problem, you may need to replace your water heater with a larger capacity. 

Low Hot Water Pressure

A common problem in older homes is the water pressure because the plumbing pipes installed were ½” size and today the standard is ¾” size plumbing. The allows a greater water throughput, and the only water heater repair that will fix that problem is replumbing the entire house. 

In newer homes, a water heater repair for this problem is to check the sink aerators aren’t clogged. The water inlet valve can be accidentally closed may be the problem. 

Too Hot or Too Cold

If your water heater has inconsistent water temperature and you’ve moved the thermostat with no success, it could be the thermostat is going out. A water heater repair for this problem is to clean or replace the thermocouple. 

What is the average life of a water heater?

A water heater can last between 8 to 12 years on average. The brand and quality of the water heater are a factor, the quality of the water where you live is a bigger factor, and if you follow routine maintenance of flushing the tank periodically will factor into the lifespan. If you need water heater repairs by the 8th year, replacing it is recommended. 

water heating in a storage room

In Closing – Who do you call to repair a water heater?

A professional plumber is the person to call for any water heater repairs or replacement. If you don’t a plumber you use, you can find several with an internet search. Advise them of the problem that you’re having, and they can give you an estimate of a possible water heater repair. 

Should I repair or replace my toilet?

toilet with an out of order sign

Taking Care of Toilet Problems

If there is one thing in your home that you wouldn’t want to live without, it is probably the toilet. You could; they did many years ago before the toilet was invented, but who would want to do that, right?  As important a part of daily life as the toilet is, it makes toilet repairs an absolute must. Fortunately, you can do many toilet repairs yourself, and toilet repairs from an experienced plumber are still affordable.

Can you repair the toilet bowl?

It seems unlikely, but yes, toilet bowl tanks will crack, and those cracks aren’t always visible at first. It could be a crack from the factory that never showed up until now, or a crack may develop over time, often due to extreme changes in temperature. 

Whatever the reason, before you can repair it, you’ve got to find the crack. Then you need to assess if it is a possible toilet repair, or if will you need a new toilet. A toilet bowl crack can be challenging to find, and the water leaking may only happen when the toilet is flushed. So, as you inspect the toilet bowl from the floor up and all around the bowl, flush the toilet. 

Three common places a crack may occur and require toilet repair are: 

  • Above the water level: You’ll need to keep monitoring this because unless the water gets up higher than normal, you may never know there is a crack. 
  • Below the water level: This will be more challenging and almost impossible to find because of the bowl shape. If you can see the crack, you can’t do any type of toilet repair – it needs to be replaced. 
  • The invisible crack is a possibility that will show up in different ways: water standing on the floor around the toilet, or water is missing from the bowl. This type of leak will cause water to pool up on the floor at the base or slowly leak into the drain. This could be because the seal is worn on the underside of the bowl and isn’t the easiest toilet repair, but it is repairable. A hairline crack in the base of the toilet can be sealed with an epoxy. 

Can you repair a toilet tank?

If the tank has a hairline crack, an easy toilet repair is to use waterproof epoxy to seal the crack. If there is a crack where it bolts to the floor, you can try an epoxy seal there too. If that toilet repair doesn’t stop the leak, you’ll need to replace the toilet. 

Can you buy a replacement tank for a toilet?

Yes, you can purchase a replacement toilet tank at any home improvement center or hardware store. Replacing a toilet tank is a fairly easy toilet repair for DIY homeowners, saving you a service call to a plumber. 

It is essential to match the toilet tank with the toilet bowl, getting the same manufacturer brand and model so the installation goes smoothly and the toilet functions correctly. Nothing can be worse than finishing a toilet repair and finding that you’re still having the same problem, or worse, another problem! 

Where can I get replacement toilet parts?

Any hardware store or big box chain home improvement store will have toilet parts and toilet repair kits for the internal parts of the tank. You can also purchase for retail plumbing supply stores, where you’ll be able to get experienced plumber guidance. 

Do toilet repair kits come in different sizes? 

Yes, there are different sizes when it comes to toilet repair kits. Not all brands of toilets are the same and within the different brands, the toilets are often different too. When everyone is having to ‘jiggle’ the handle to stop the toilet from running, there are several toilet repair kits to choose from. 

Each one will have a chart or guidelines on what toilet it fits and information on how to replace a toilet repair kit. This can include information on how to repair toilet flange and other parts within the tank. You can also find a plethora of online videos that can walk you through the process of toilet repairs. 

plumber performing toilet repairs

The Big Question About The Household Throne

How do I buy a replacement toilet? And how do I choose a replacement toilet? Every homeowner will find themselves asking this question sooner or later. We will flush a toilet over 100,000 times in our lives. The toilet uses up to 30% of the water in our home. A few facts you’ll want to consider when purchasing a replacement toilet: 

  • Gravity-assisted toilet – the common type in most homes. The height and weight of the water in the tank facilitate the  flush. 
  • Pressure-assisted toilet –  there is an active mechanism that facilitates he flush using gravity to force the flush.
  • Vacuum-assisted toilet –  This type uses a vacuum to draw water with force into the bowl using the holes around the rim of the upper toilet bowl. 

There are one-piece model toilets that have an integrated bowl and tank, creating a compact unit. These are easier to clean and ideal for small bathrooms with limited space. Then there is the standard two-piece model, separate bowl and tank that fit together and is often less expensive than the one-piece style.

When it comes to the seat, there is an elongated shape and a round shape and then there is toilet height to be considered. If you have a home with small children, the standard 14” to 15” height would be recommended. The most comfortable toilets are 17” to 19” tall from the floor. You’ll need to measure the rough-in for your new toilet as well. This is the space between the outlet pipe of the toilet and the wall behind it. There are several different sizes within the different models, the correct rough-in is important in getting the right size of toilet for years of happy flushing and hopefully minimal toilet repairs.

The Most Common Garbage Disposal Problems

garbage disposal under sink

Garbage disposal issues

The holiday season is here! So, before you start baking and cooking, make sure you aren’t going to need garbage disposal repair in the midst of all that flour, sugar, and mess! Let’s call this this garbage disposal pre-holiday tune-up! 

First, how do you know which is the best way to go, a garbage disposal repair or replacement? And can you repair a garbage disposal yourself? Not just for holidays, but your garbage disposal is a convenience that has become an essential tool in your kitchen.  Prepping the food, baking, and cooking are easier when you can simply toss scraps in the sink and flip a switch. However, that takes a toll on this unit, wearing them out. 

The following are problems that your garbage disposal could have at some point. By learning these things now, you’ll have a better idea why garbage disposal stopped working and if you need to replace the unit or if garbage disposal repair is possible and worthwhile: 

  • No Noise: If your garbage disposal unit is a quiet one, that is awesome. Until it is quiet because it isn’t grinding. First, you need to make sure it is plugged in (usually under the sink). Then, push the reset button on the bottom. If the button is popped out, check the circuit breaker. If none of these is out of position, then you need to call a professional for garbage disposal repair, or you may need to replace the unit. 
  • Leaking: Water leaking from a garbage disposal is usually a problem with a seal inside the unit or at the sink. By learning how to repair a leaking garbage disposal, you could save yourself a repair phone call and postpone buying a new unit! If the leak is around the sink flange, you can usually tightened the unit there or apply new plumber’s putty around the flange for a simple garbage disposal repair. Sometimes, as a garbage disposal ages and wears out, or if something gets down inside the garbage disposal like a utensil, it can crack the unit and cause it to start leaking. In this case, you’ll need a replacement unit. Another area to check for possible leaking is where the dishwasher connects to the discharge drainpipe. There is usually a clamp at that connection, and it may need to be tightened, and check the bolts around the drainpipe, they may need tightening too. If these DIY garbage disposal repairs don’t work, then call a professional plumber. 
  • Slow Draining: If after running water and the garbage disposal for a bit, the drain isn’t draining, then it is probably the drain line. Chemical drain cleaners are a no-no with a garbage disposal, they can damage the disposal and you’ll have to clean those toxic chemicals and the wastewater out by hand.  First try pouring baking soda and vinegar in the drain, followed by boiling hot water, often that DIY garbage disposal repair is the cure. If that doesn’t get the wastewater draining, you’ll need to call a plumber. 
  • Garbage disposal is jammed: When the flywheel of a garbage disposal is jammed, you’ll know it by a humming sound. Before you attempt a DIY garbage disposal repair by un-jamming it, make sure you have turned it off and unplugged it. Underneath the garbage disposal is a small slot and usually a small wrench that fits that slot. Use this hex-head wrench or an Allen wrench and see if you can get unjam the unit by turning that slot. Check inside the drain where the garbage disposal is located and make sure a dish cloth, or food packaging, didn’t get wrapped around the blade. If neither of these seem to be the problem and the garbage disposal not jammed but humming you’ll need a professional garbage disposal repair, or maybe a replacement. 
  • Smelly: If the garbage disposal motor is spinning and working, but the blades aren’t moving properly, food can get stuck under the blades, and we all know what rotting food smells like! If this is the case, you’ll probably need to replace the unit. If bad odors are coming from the garbage disposal, it could be some foods didn’t get chopped up fine enough and didn’t wash down the drain. Put some lemons peels in the disposal and turn it on, this should help.  If not, it could be there isn’t any garbage disposal repair that will help you unit this time. 

After you have tried all these steps, and before you call a plumber for an emergency garbage disposal repair, with the unit off and unplugged, make sure the garbage disposal repair loose blades isn’t the problem. 

With a flashlight and Allen wrench, check that the blades are tight, but not too tight.  If they are loose, they’ll simply spin over the food waste you put in the drain. 

system needing repair

If the DIY garbage disposal repair didn’t work, who to call for garbage disposal repair? 

While a garbage disposal requires electricity to operate, this is a plumbing appliance.  Call a local plumber and explain what’s going on with your garbage disposal. Explain all the DIY garbage disposal repairs you tried and schedule that appointment.  Chances are they will come with a replacement unit “just in case”. Call (214) 402-5454 today for your garbage disposal repair in Dallas, TX.

Is your water heater costing you more than it should?

Hot water heater being serviced.

Signs of Water Heater Problems 

You wake up for work, hop in the bath for that nice warm shower as part of your morning routine, and BOOM! You got a cold wake-up instead! What was that all about? Yeah, you’re awake now, but you also know you may have a problem, and water heater repair or replacement was not on the agenda today. 

Maybe if you’d noticed a few things, you could’ve seen this about to happen and got the water heater repaired over the weekend. So what are some signs your hot water heater is going out? Here are some indicators telling you that water heater repair or replacement is going to be needed soon: 

  • Age – You probably don’t have a birthday party for your water heater; you save that for the cat and kids. However, you need to stay on top of how long you’ve had your water heater because by the tenth year, it is reaching the end of its life. If it’s a good quality water heater, repairs have been little to none, and the water quality is good, you could get upwards of 15 years. 
  • Puddles – You know the water is supposed to be inside the tank, right? So, when there are water puddles around the outside of the water heater, repair or replacement is needed. Before you call a professional for help, save yourself a little money by checking all the pipes and knobs and making sure everything is fitting as tightly as it should. 
  • Noises – A water heater will make some noises, but if it’s making noises more frequently and it’s getting louder, like an angry goblin coming from the closet, or you’re hearing clanking sounds and rumbling, you may have some sediment build up inside the tank. A good flushing will take care of that sometimes, but if you’ve never flushed it and the water heater is around 8 to 10 years old, water heater repair probably isn’t possible.
  • Rusty Water – If the water coming out of the faucets and spigots is a rusty brown or red, that could be from the water heater tank. Try draining it and let it refill again. If the water is still rusty, it is time for a new water heater installation. 
  • It’s Not Heating Well – Do you get one shower or one load of laundry done before you’re out of hot water? Have you adjusted the temperature on the unit and found it’s still not any better? You are beyond water heater repair at this point. Start shopping for the different types of water heaters on the market.

What is the average life of a water heater?

The average is between 8 years to 12 years, depending on few factors such as the quality of the water heater, the quality of the water, and how well you perform maintenance on the unit. If you never do the recommended flush routine, the sediment will keep stacking up inside the tank and affect its efficiency. Some areas have hard water, which has more sediment, and that can take a toll on any water heater. 

How do you know when to replace a hot water heater?

As it has been said, all good things must end, and that’s as true a statement with a water heater as with anything else. When it isn’t doing the job you need it to do, electric or gas water heater repair may be possible, but you need to be prepared for any of the following, because these mean it is time to replace the unit: 

THE AGE

As we mentioned earlier, you’re lucky to get 15 years from a water heater, especially if you never had to get water heater repairs! If it hasn’t gone out by its 15th birthday, you may consider replacing it anyway before it catches you with a cold shower one morning. 

HOT WATER VOLUME 

If your water heater doesn’t offer a good volume of hot water, it is time to get a new unit.

HEATING BILL INCREASES

A big part of your energy bill is used to heat water with the water heater. If that amount has gone up substantially lately, it could be because the water heater can’t keep up with the demand. It could also be too old or maybe even too small. 

CORROSION

If you’re seeing corrosion on the exterior of your water heater, that means it is leaking and there isn’t any safe water heater repair to fix that. Replace the unit soon! 

BROWNISH – REDDISH WATER

As we mentioned earlier, if you’re getting brown or red-colored water from the faucets or spigots, and draining the water heater tank didn’t help, it is time to replace the unit. 

TOO MANY WATER HEATER REPAIRS

If you have had several water heater repairs over the past year, and it’s giving you trouble again, it’s time to save that money and put it towards a new water heater. 

Plumber fixing a hot water heater.

In Conclusion 

Okay. Now you’re convinced you need a new water heater. Do your research so you know what types of water heaters are on the market today and what is the best choice for your home and your family. These aren’t just electric and gas water heaters anymore. There are choices such as tankless water heaters and high recovery water heaters that may be more suited for a large, busy family. For help figuring out which choice is best, or help with water heater repair in Dallas, TX if there’s still some life in it, call Tribeca Plumbing, Inc. at (214) 402-5454 today. 

What is Faucet Repair?

water dripping from faucet

What is the most frequent failure part in a typical faucet?

When we consider that 19% of a home’s water usage is from the bathroom and kitchen faucets, consuming as much as 20 gallons of water each day, the faucet is used a lot!  As with anything that has that much daily usage, there is bound to be the need for faucet repairs or replacements. 

The rubber washers. Every bathroom and kitchen faucet can have multiple rubber washers, and there are two factors that cause them to wear out: 

  • Usage
  • Water

Worn out rubber parts on any faucet will cause it to leak either at the base, under the handle, or under the knobs. 

How do you fix a broken faucet?

When the kitchen faucet breaks, it is easy to pick up the telephone and call a plumber. Or you can do your own faucet repair  and save that money!  You’ll need a few common household tools like Allen wrenches, flat-head screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, and slip-joint pliers. You’ll also need the basic materials that are available at your local home improvement center:

  • A faucet repair kit
  • Water diverter for hot/cold
  • Packing grease

With these tools and materials gathered, follow these steps for a mixer-style water faucet repair: 

Turn the Water Off & Remove the Handle

Turn off the water under the sink then turn the faucet on so it can drain any water still inside. Next, put the stoppers in the drains to keep small parts and pieces from falling in.

With your Allen wrench, loosen the faucet handle setscrew and remove the handle. Set the parts out in the order your remove them so you have a line-up how to reassemble. 

Remove the Bonnet, Ball and Cam Assembly

Cover the slip-joint pliers teeth with masking tape and remove the bonnet, then remove the ball and cam assembly.

Remove the Springs

Using the needle-nose pliers, remove the springs and packing pieces the clean any buildup and sediment from inside the faucet.

Remove the Diverter and O-Rings

With both hands, grab the spout and move it back and forth until it is loosened, then remove it, the O-rings, and the diverter. Clean any buildup and sediment from the faucet face.

Reassemble

Place the new diverter into position and install the new top O-ring, followed by the others after coating them in the  packing grease. The packing grease protects the components of the faucet by protecting them from the high temperature. 

Connect the Spout

Press the spout into place, pressing with both hands firmly. If you’ve been considering updating your kitchen, now is the time to install a new spout. With the Allen wrench guiding them, slide the springs and packing pieces in place.

Finish Up

Position the faucet ball into the slot, install the cam and its packing reinstall the bonnet and handle.  Now turn on the water and if any leaks, backtrack your steps, usually an o-ring is out of position. 

How do you fix a broken faucet stem?

In every home, it is the bathroom faucet that gets used the most, next to the kitchen faucet. That repeated use causes the stem to wear out, then they drip water even with the handles in the “off” position, wasting water and money. 

If you can’t afford a plumber right now, the following steps will guide you how to do your own faucet repair by replacing the stems and stop that constant dripping of water and money:  

  1. Turn the water supply off under the sink then turn on both cold & hot water knobs to release any pressure & water left in the faucet & lines.
  2. Pop the caps off the top of the knobs using a flathead screwdriver. If there isn’t a cap, there should be exposed screws that need to be removed.
  3. Now pull the faucet handles of. This will expose the stems.
  4. Loosen the retaining nuts with the pliers if the faucet has cartridge stems. If the faucet has ceramic stems, loosen the mounting nuts. Then pull the stems out of the faucet body.
  5. If you haven’t already got the replacement stems, take the ones you removed to your local home improvement store or a plumbing supply store to get the correct replacement stems.
  6. Install the cartridge stems in the faucet body and place  new O-rings above the threads on the compression stem bottoms, coated with plumber’s grease.
  7. Use the retaining nuts to ensure the cartridge stems are securely in place, then install the packing nuts with a clockwise turn of the pliers till tight.
  8. Install the handles on the faucet stems and tighten the setscrews to secure the handles or install new ones.
  9. Turn the faucet handles on and turn the water back on under the sink slowly.

Why does my faucet drip after I turn it off?

The working part of a faucet is the valve which is located in the handle. This is what controls the on, off, temperature, and volume. As  you use the faucet every day, it wears the valve out and it loses the water-tight seal which allows the water to drip when you have the faucet turned off. Follow the steps we listed above for a DIY faucet repair. 

How do you fix a faucet that won’t turn off?

When you turn the faucet off, there are either rubber or plastic components inside that compress across the opening that stops the water flow.  When the water is still running after you’ve turned the knob off it is usually the cartridge, stem, or O-rings are worn out.  Follow the steps we have listed earlier in this article for faucet repair. If you aren’t able to do this yourself, turn the water off under the sink and call a plumber. 

How do I know if my faucet cartridge is bad?

Fortunately, a faucet cartridge will let you know it is getting worn out. Some of the typical indications are: 

  • Constant  water dripping
  • Adjusting the temperature
  • Hot water coming from the cold water outlet

How long do faucet cartridges last?

The lifespan of a faucet cartridge will be affected by how much it is used. A home with one or two people, the faucet doesn’t see as much use as a household with kids. On the average though, you shouldn’t need a faucet repair to replace the cartridge any sooner than 15 years, maybe even 20 years if it is a high quality faucet. 

new faucet installation

Can Washerless faucet be repaired?

When we hear the words “washerless” faucet, we automatically think it is free of needing any faucet repairs. Oh, but how we are wrong in that thinking!  This simply means there is not there isn’t washer in places where standard faucets have them, but they do have a gasket, an O-ring and other rubber parts that need replacing.  So, yes, a washerless faucet could still need faucet repair, and we have provided you steps here to replace those parts. 

If faucet repair wasn’t the fix and you’re going to replace your faucet, which faucets have lifetime warranty?  First, you need to understand that a Lifetime Warranty will generally cover the end consumer that uses the product in their residence. So, if you sell your house, the warranty doesn’t transfer to the new owner or is you’ve purchased it for a commercial setting, the warranty isn’t included. 

The best brands of faucets that will need limited to know faucet repairs are Delta and Moen with lifetime warranty. However, this will require you maintain your faucet with regular cleaning as they instruct in their paperwork. Call (214) 402-5454 for your faucet repair needs in Dallas, TX.

What is considered a plumbing emergency?

damage to internal plumbing

Keeping your plumbing at its best

Indoor plumbing isn’t a luxury for us anymore. Instead, it is just assumed it will always be there and we never think twice about it. Until we need emergency plumbing help, then we make that emergency plumber phone call. We explain our situation and then the response we get is scheduling an appointment for the next day. 

So, what is not an emergency when it comes to plumbing? If the plumbing problem can wait, you don’t have a really true emergency. Here is a list  of things that plumbers do not consider an emergency: 

  • Furnace tune-up
  • Water heater flush
  • Slow or clogged drains 
  • Remodeling
  • Plumbing inspections
  • Appliance installations
  • A leaking faucet
  • A running toilet

What’s the worse thing that could happen if you make an emergency plumber request, then they determine the issue wasn’t a true emergency? Well, the plumber will likely take care of the issue for you, but you’re going to pay for after hours or holiday rate.  

What is considered an emergency plumber repair then? The first thing you should ask yourself before making that phone call for an emergency plumber service is, “Can this wait till the next business day?” and “Is having a professional plumber come unclog my drain worth $100 an hour service call?”  Some true plumbing emergency examples would be: 

Flooding

When there is a risk of your home flooding because of a busted pipe, sump pump failure, backed up sewer, or failed water shut off valve. These are legitimate reasons that can justify an emergency plumber service call. 

Backed Up Sewer

If your sewer line is backed up and there is sewage puddling in the yard or under the house makes it inconvenient to use the basic household facilities or access running water. What justifies this for an emergency plumber service call though is the health hazard it presents. Exposed sewage is an extremely health issue that should have immediate attention. 

No Water

If you have encountered a plumbing issue where there is absolutely no access to running water and you have checked everything you can (non-payment water bill, city emergency cut off), can become a safety concern. 

Pipe Burst Possible

A frozen water pipe and/or water spigots can cause two issues: 

  • Busting and flooding
  • No water 

A frozen pipe keeps water from flowing and it can also expand and crack while frozen. Then when the water thaws, flooding prevails. If you have frozen pipes and notice it has crack, an emergency plumber call is justified if you don’t know how or where to turn the water main off.  

Is a clogged toilet a maintenance emergency?

A important component of your home’s plumbing is the toilet. In fact, it could be the most important next to having running water. So when that prized gem becomes clogged, is it worth an emergency plumber service call?  

If you have more than one toilet, no, that is not a plumbing emergency. However, if you only have one toilet in the house and you haven’t been able to unclog it with a plunger, make that emergency plumber phone call. 

burst pipe leak

Is a leak an emergency?

If you can see a leak, that could justify an emergency plumber phone call, but only after you have tried to shut the water off at the main without success.  If you don’t know where the shut off is located and how to use it, you should have your plumber show you. 

For a leak that is obvious, but is small, is that worthy of an emergency plumber call? Not is placing a bucket under will catch the leak for a while where you take care of it later or a non-emergency plumber appointment will suffice.  However, you do need to either address it yourself or schedule a plumber soon. Why? 

A leak is telling you that something is wrong, and often, if there is one obvious leak, there could be another leak somewhere else that you don’t see. An unseen leak is the worst leak possible. Plumbing leaks happen when the water pressure rises or there is a buildup of corrosion, limescale, etc. If there is unseen leaks, it is leaking somewhere that is going to cause mildew, mold, rot, and from there, you’re looking at extensive structural damage. 

Just a few drips behind a wall or in the ceiling will begin soaking through drywall. By ignoring these signs or putting off taking care of them, you’re creating an expensive mess for later. So, while your immediate issue may be put off with a bucket catching a few drips right now, don’t let it become an emergency plumbing and drain problem. Schedule your plumber sooner than later, just not necessarily an emergency plumber appointment. 

When you do make that emergency plumber call, how long do emergency plumbers take? When emergency plumber call out is made, a professional plumber will stay and work on the problem until it is fixed. There are emergency plumber cases that are solved with in an hour or two and others that take three or more hours. There is no set time frame because the plumber won’t know what they are dealing with until the arrive and assess the problem. Even then, once they start working on it, another issue may arise causing it to take longer. Call (214) 402-5454 today for emergency plumbing services in Dallas, TX.

How does leak detection work?

leaking pipe  in wall

How common are water leaks?

Not all that long ago, when your home or business had a sewer leak or water leak, leak detection wasn’t always easily found. Today’s plumbing technology has brought some excellent leak detection and repair methods that our grandparents never would think possible. 

On a city or public level, they are staffed with equipment for leak detection on water mains, so they stay on top of them. The average home loses as much as 20,000 gallons each year because of leaks. While some of that is attributed to dripping faucets, showerheads, or running toilets, there are unknown leaks too. With leak detection equipment, this could be eliminated and would protect one of our valuable resources. 

What do you do if you suspect a water leak?

Because you just noticed a water leak doesn’t mean it just started.  A water leak can go undetected for days, months, even years.  If you suspect that you have a water leak, your first step should be contacting a professional plumber immediately. Since you don’t know how long this leak has been happening, you don’t want to delay getting repaired. 

A water leak ignored is asking for trouble in the way of expensive damage to your home. From foundation problems and more, a busted pipe or small leaking pipe can add up fast with the water bill and the cost of repairs. If the water leak is obvious, a busted pipe, you can turn the water off at the main located at the water meter. Take the time now to know where you water meter is so that you can get to it easily in case of water leak detection of a busted pipe. 

How can you tell where a water leak is coming from?

Water is a basic ingredient in our homes. We take for granted that it will always be there, safely contained, and useable in the pipes, appliances, sinks, tub, etc. Water can also become an enemy too when it is going places it shouldn’t, causing damage and havoc. 

Yes, we’re talking about plumbing leaks, which are unfortunately, pretty common in homes. Every home, even a new home, will experience a plumbing leak some time. Not all leaks are noticed or obvious either, which is why we need to do our leak detection using the following steps: 

Water Bill Monitoring

Your monthly water bill is probably fairly predictable. So, when you get one that is higher than normal and you know you haven’t filled a swimming pool or did the football team’s laundry and you can’t find a leak, you need to call a plumber that has leak detection capabilities. 

Water Meter Watching

When you suspect a water leak, you can watch your water meter to get an indication using these steps:  

  • Turn all water using appliances, faucets, and spigots off inside and around your home.
  • Go outside and look at the water meter, write down the numbers on the dial. Wait one hour and check the meter again. If the numbers changed, you have a water leak. It could possibly be in places you can’t see, so your next stop would be to call a plumber for leak detection help. 

Inspect Your Appliances and Fixtures

If the water meter testing indicated a leak,  check inside the cabinets under all the sinks, check for any water puddles around the toilets, tubs, and showers, look around the dishwasher, washing machine, and water heater. It may only be a loose connection, or you may need to replace a connection. 

Green Grass Patches

You want your lawn green and lush, but not in patches.  When you notice you have some patches that really green and lush that grows faster than the rest of the law, you probably have water leak in a buried line.  A plumber with leak detection equipment can find that leak faster than you can digging your lawn up. 

burst pipe outside

Can plumbers detect leaks?

Yes, when you believe you have a leak, an experienced plumber will be able to find leaks that you’re not able to see with leak detection equipment. This equipment enables them to accurately find leaks quickly and get right to the problem area. This includes leaks underground and within your foundation or under your home. 

The leak detection equipment that plumbers utilize today includes video inspection that includes a leak detection with infrared camera connected to a fiber optic  tool that sends the picture to a small monitor. With this equipment, the plumber will be able to pinpoint the problem and get it repaired. 

So, yes, there is leak detection equipment for the home, several different companies offer them, and they vary based on certain features with wide range of prices. What is the best water leak detection system?

There are several different leak, and detection company products that are focused on this equipment. They have spent years studying undetected leaks causes and issues, to find way that can help homeowners. Insurance companies love these companies of course, it saves them thousands of dollars in claims. Consumer Affairs has listed the following as being one of the best for specific reasons as noted: 

  • A water leak detector by LeakSMART Water Leak Detector Starter Kit
  • A smart water leak detector  by Flume Water Monitor
  • A Wi-Fi water leak detector by Honeywell Lyric
  • A wireless water leak detector by Zircon Electronic Water Detector
  • A budget water leak detector by Glentronics Watchdog
  • A plug-in water leak detector by Eve Water Guard
  • A water leak detector w/automatic shut off by Grohe Sense Guard Smart
  • A home kit water leak sensor by Fibaro HomeKit Flood Sensor
  • An emergency water leak detector by Govee Water Sensor
  • An underground water leak detector by 2M Ultrasonic

Any of these water leak detection tools are great for homes of all ages and sizes, and especially older homes where the age of the pipes may be unknown.  For your water bill and for the sake of a protecting one of our natural resources, the expense of these is well worthwhile. Need plumbing leak detection in Dallas, TX? Call (214) 402-5454 today!

How Often Should Gas Lines Be Inspected?

gas line along home

Heating your home with gas

Inspecting gas lines aren’t something that most of us think about, especially on a daily basis. However, gas line inspection is important to maintain safety and optimal performance. While gas still remains to be one of the best choices in a heating source, it still brings questions about those who aren’t familiar with the product.

The question is, do you do your own gas line inspection, or should you hire a professional gas inspector? You can do it either way but hiring a professional in the case of gas line safety is recommended. What does a gas inspector do that you wouldn’t know to do when it comes to gas line inspection?

The first thing to realize is that a professional gas line inspection is done by somebody that has been educated and trained in Ways to check gas lines and all issues related to gas lines. A professional gas pipe inspector will examine all gas pipes connected to all gas appliances including the cooking, heating, water heater, and more. They have studied the federal environment association and specific local building codes to know what to look for in the ways of leaks, pressure problems, and spills.

The duties of gas line inspection consist of the following main function: To establish and follow with extent practices and processes in a language that has been taught by the proper institution that meets the requirements of a set of criteria in place for a quality control system. A professional gas line inspection will include the following steps in summary:

1. Preparation for the gas line inspection

  • Get an update on the location
  • Check pertaining documents
  • Set the inspection process up
  • Co-ordinate with the property owner, construction, or co-inspector
  • Organize the inspection including inspection timetable and items to check
  • List areas of attention specifically needed

2.  Collect data and describe evidential facts

  • Meet with management and staff
  • Make notes
  • Visit the premises
  • Observe
  • Check documentation
  • Verify information
  • Observation

How do you check a gas line?

A professional gas line inspection will be done with the exact and proper equipment and tools. As a homeowner, you can take the following steps for at-home gas line inspection or leaks yourself, but never attempt to do your own repairs:

  1. A mixture of soap-and-water solution sprayed on each gas line connection.
  2. Once the gas is turned on, check for bubbles.
  3. Any bubbles form, using a pipe wrench and tighten the fittings slightly then recheck.
  4. If there appears to still be gas leaks, disassemble the gas fitting, and check the flare.      

How do you detect a natural gas leak?

Natural gas is an efficient and relatively safe, convenient source of energy that is used by over half the homes in the country. Homes use natural gas for bathing, cleaning, cooking, and heat water. To use it as safely as possible and as efficiently as possible, routine gas line inspections and installation are important. At any time you discover any of the following, have a professional gas line inspection done promptly:

  1. Sounds of hissing or whistling.
  2. Bubbles, clouds, or dust in standing water.
  3. Visible gas line damage.
  4. House plants dying.

A gas leak is rare but there are health risks involved with the explosive potential of this highly flammable nature and vapors. Natural gas isn’t the only possibility of a gas leak. Gas leaks can come from radon which can cause significant health issues. There are combination detectors that every home with or without natural gas use should have installed for this very reason.

How do I know if I smell gas?

The following odors are indicators of a possible gas leak and suffice to have a professional gas line inspection at the earliest chance possible:

  1. A rotten egg odor – some say a garlic-like odor.
  2. Blowing or hissing coming from a gas connection.
  3. Dying and discolored plants or vegetation.
  4. Dirt blowing from the gas connections.
  5. Standing water with bubbles.
gas burner on stove

Are there gas leak detectors?

Yes, and for anyone that lives in an older home, having a gas leak detector is as important as having a fire extinguisher.  Fortunately, gas detectors are not as expensive as you may think and what expense you have placed into the purchase will be worth the peace of mind and an invaluable ROI.

Gas line maintenance and inspection are key in having the safest use of natural gas. While it is a safe source of energy, there are dangers that justify routine gas line inspection with a professional that Gas line inspection and repair service to be assured that all is in proper working order. Gas burns cleaner heats faster and is better for the environment and personal health.  Natural gas is used in most of the country’s restaurants for these exact reasons. Call (214) 402-5454 today for your gas line inspection in Dallas, TX.

Water Softener System

an barrel of salt blocks for the softener

Remove Hard Water

It’s important to have water quality that is safer to drink and use with the various rooms of your property. Depending on where you live contaminates and conditions of hard water will range in severity. With a water softener, you can ensure that water is transformed to become more drinkable. There are ultimately different systems that will match with different homes and different numbers of occupancy, get in contact with a professional to get set up with a system that’s right for you. Until then, here is some general background information regarding water softeners that may prove useful to you.

What exactly does a water softener do?

Essentially a water softener will have hard water undergo ion exchange by removing the calcium, magnesium, and other minerals from drinking water and exchanging them with sodium or potassium. There are resin beads inside the softener which will trap and conduct this process.

How long does a water softener last for?

A water softener can last anywhere from 10-15 years yet will require periodic maintenance and service in order to last a longer amount of time. 

How long does it take to get soft water after installing a water softener?

After getting a water softener installed you’ll have softened water upon use yet you’ll start to have scale removed from your pipes in two weeks.

Will a water softener clean my pipes?

A water softener will work to eliminate the hard water scale from inside your pipes and appliances as it works to reduce the amount of magnesium and calcium in water which plays an active hand in pipe corrosion and clogs. Additionally, softened water will work towards getting rid of the soap scum left behind when cleaning with hard water.

What should I look for when buying a water softener?

If you’re in the market for a water softener first determine what the appropriate size will be for your property. You can do this by multiplying the number of people in your home by the gallons of water they use each day. (A helpful point of reference is that usually 80 gallons per person is used each day on average.) Multiply that number by the grains of hardness in your water to see how many grains will need to be removed each day.

View of water softeners in industrial plant

What is the best water softener?

  • Best Overall: AFW Filters Iron Pro 2 Water Softener
  • Runner Up: Fleck 5600SXT 64,000 Grain Water Softener
  • Best Bang For Your Buck: iSpring ED2000 Whole House Electronic Descaler
  • Upgrade Pick: DuraWater 64k-56sxt-10al 64,000 Grain Water Softener
  • Salt-Based Pick: Fleck 5600SXT 48,000 Grain Water Softener
  • Salt-FreePick: Watts Premier OneFlow + Salt-Free Filtration System
  • Magnetic Pick: YARNA Capacitive Electronic Water Descaler System

How do I know if my water softener is working properly?

You may be able to tell that your water softener is working properly by conducting a soap test. Add pure liquid soap like Castille soap to a pool of running water in a sink and see if it lathers and bubbles. With soft water, it will do this yet with hard water this same soap won’t function properly.

Do water softeners need maintenance?

A water softener will require maintenance periodically such as adding the right type of water softener salt into the system as needed. As most water softeners are fully automatic and provided they are properly sized with your home, they can operate for years with minimal maintenance. See what needs to be done with your particular system specifications by speaking with a professional about these details upon installation.

Is it bad to let your water softener run out of salt?

If you forget to top off your water softener the softening resin will stay saturated which will bring the ion exchange to an abrupt halt and allow hard water minerals into your pipes, fixtures, and appliances once more. In order to avoid this make sure to periodically refill your brine tank with salt. 

Should my water softener recharge every night?

Regular regenerations with your water softener are recommended as it will keep the resin bed active. Regeneration should be done every two to three days yet with highly efficient water softeners you’ll see regenerations every day or even multiple times a day.

Get in Touch With an Expert About a Water Softener For Your Property

When you’re looking to have a water softener for your property it’s best to get set up with a professional who will best be able to match the right kind of system with the specifications and needs of your property. A water softener installation will be easy to maintain and you can discuss instructions of care with your installer. Ensure that your pipes, appliances, and fixtures are being taken care of with softened water running through them. Get better water quality today with the addition of a water softener system. 

If you’re interested in a water softener in Dallas, TX call Tribeca Plumbing, Inc. at (214) 402-5454 for a great system!

What Do I Need to Know About Toilet Installation?

toilet installation

What Do You Need to Install a Toilet?

Toilet repair and installation is an important service that requires tools and materials. But what exactly are the necessary materials? To begin with, brass toilet bolts, caulk, a flexible water supply, plastic shims, a toilet flange, and more are necessary. Due to the fact that toilet installation is a plumbing service, it is important to secure a plumber first and foremost. While some websites claim that installing a toilet can be done by a DIY-er, this is simply not true or safe. In order to make sure that the operation goes off without a hitch, it is critical to secure a certified and insured plumber.

What Does Rough-In Mean for a Toilet Installation?

Are you wondering what a rough-in toilet installation entails? Please review the following bullet points to learn more.

  • To begin with, the measures for the area must be correct. Make sure that the toilet will fit the space. In order to do this, measure the rough-in size. This is the distance between the wall behind the toilet and the center of the drainpipe or the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor.
  • This measurement should be done before the old toilet is removed. 
  • You will measure the wall behind the toilet to the center of one of the closet bolts. These are bolts that hold the toilet down. 
  • If your toilet has four bolts, then you can measure it to the center of one of the rear ones. Next, you will measure from the center of the mounting holes to the back of the new toilet you’re considering. You will compare these two measurements. If the base of the new toilet is smaller than the distance between the rear bolt holes and the wall, the new toilet should fit.

Do All Toilets Fit the Same?

Are you wondering whether all toilets fit the same? Actually, most toilets will have a twelve-inch rough-in. If you have a toilet with a ten or fourteen-inch rough-in, you should know that these toilets are a little less common. Because these toilets are less common, you won’t have as much of a toilet selection to choose from than if you have a twelve-inch rough-in. Nonetheless, a reputable plumber will be able to install your need toilet regardless of the dimensions of the rough-in.

How Long Does it Take to Install a New Toilet?

If you are scheduling a new toilet installation? If so, it will be important for you to understand how long the process will take so that you can schedule accordingly. According to leading plumbing experts in the industry, it takes between one to four hours for a proper toilet installation. This time range depends on the difficulty of the toilet installation.

Can an Elongated Toilet Replace a Round Toilet?

Technically speaking, an elongated toilet seat will fit on a round toilet, nut the fit and the comfort of the toilet overall will be compromised. This is because an elongated toilet seat will potentially overhand a round toilet seat. This would be fine except the rim of the toilet will be visible within the opening of the toilet seat.

With regard to an actual toilet installation, an elongated toilet will not usually fit in the same space as a round-front toilet. If the plumbing fixture is specially designed, it could work, however.

What is Toilet Installation?

The best person to consult concerning your new toilet installation is a certified and insured plumber or plumbing company. Plumbers are individuals who are specially trained and have the right tools and experience to manifest a superb toilet installation.

What is 3 Bolt Toilet Installation?

Are you looking for more information pertaining to 3 bolt toilet installations? There is a proper way to tighten toilet bolts. This means that if you tighten the bolts too much, you can pull the closest bolt out through the flange which could potentially break the flange or the porcelain. That is why it is important to secure a plumber for such plumbing installations because if anything were to go wrong, a plumber would know how to solve the plumbing conundrum.

Toilet Install

If you are searching for toilet installation services, it will be important to be discerning with how you go about selecting your plumbing company or plumber. Please be sure to ask a friend or neighbor for a referral or search the internet for a plumbing company with good reviews that ranks highly.

toilet installation

Toilet Installation in Basement

If you are looking to install a new toilet in your basement bathroom, it will prove to be a great idea to consult with a plumber and relay all the information pertaining to where the toilet will be located. A good plumber will discuss if a pump is necessary and install your toilet for you with great efficiency.

Are you in need of a new toilet installation in Dallas, TX? If so, we can help. Please reach out to us at (214) 402-5454 to set up an appointment today.