5 Signs of a Gas Leak in Your Home

Posted by on Aug 20, 2019 in Gas Leak Longview TX, Gas Leak Repair Service Longview TX | 0 comments    As a responsible homeowner, its important to understand the potential signs of a gas leak. More than 60 million homes have natural gas. Although it may be the cleanest and most efficient fossil fuel, there are real dangers associated with a potential leak. A gas leak in your home can cause serious health hazards and costly repairs.   The following 5 signs are the most common indications of a gas leak: #1 – Shrubs and Grass Suddenly Turn Brown If gas leaks out of a pipe, the carbon monoxide replaces oxygen grass needs to survive. # 2 – Odor The smell of sulfur or rotten eggs may indicate a potential leak in the home. #3 – Dead Houseplants Brown or decaying houseplants may indicate a gas leak in the home. # 4 – Orange or Yellow Flames Normally the flames coming from the stove should be blue, not yellow or orange. #5 – Physical Symptoms Exposure to potential gas poisoning can cause dizziness, nausea, headaches, and difficulty breathing.   If you do suspect a gas leak, DO NOT use any appliances or try to repair it yourself. DO NOT light a flame or wait in your home for assistance. This could end up saving your life. For professional help, contact Bird Dog Plumbing today. We provide professional gas leak detection and repair in Longview, TX and all surrounding North Texas communities, including Gladewater, Hallsville and Kilgore. Be safe out...
read more

Small but Impactful Upgrades for Your Kitchen in Longview, TX

Posted by on Aug 13, 2019 in Plumber Longview TX, Plumbers Longview TX | 0 comments Your idea of a dream kitchen may be more attainable than you think. In reality, sometimes you can make the most significant impact on a room from small changes to freshen up the space, without the headache and cost associated with a complete remodel. The following modest projects can significantly increase the appeal and value of your home’s kitchen while keeping your wallet intact. From beginning to end, these simple projects should take anywhere from a few hours to a weekend to complete. Install Under Cabinet Lighting Usually, most kitchens come equipped with overhead lighting. Installing under-cabinet lighting is a small, but beneficial investment both aesthetically and financially. Under-cabinet light helps brighten the kitchen counter workspace while cutting costs associated with illuminating the whole room. They provided uniform well-distributed light that adds style and eliminates shadows at the same time. Don’t be afraid to shop around and find the most suitable lights for your cabinets. Switch out the Kitchen Hardware Switching out the hardware in your kitchen is extremely simple and cost-effective. Installing new cabinet handles and knobs can significantly enhance the look of your kitchen while only taking up at least, a couple of hours of your time. There is nothing better than clean hardware. Change the Cabinet Color If you feel your current cabinets are dull and outdated, a simple color change can make all the world of difference. Create a stunning new look by introducing a neutral color or wood stain, to deepen and enrich the definition and shape of your cabinets. This project is extremely time and cost-effective, considering the possible outcome and difference it may make. Install a New Kitchen Sink The sink is an important element of the space, which, over time, can become worn and dirty. Replacing the sink can drastically change the overall appeal and brighten up the kitchen as you would never imagine. Remember, whenever making updates that may affect the plumbing in your kitchen, work with a licensed and experienced plumber like Bird Dog Plumbing in Longview, TX. We can assess your current kitchen plumbing and consult with your on the necessary modifications or upgrades to make your remodel project come off without a hitch. Update or Add a Tile Backsplash Installing or updating a tile backsplash can be an opportunity to add invigorating textures, colors, and designs which completely transform the kitchen space. This very DIY-friendly project has...
read more

8 Tips for Buying a New Toilet

Posted by on Jul 22, 2019 in Plumber Longview TX, Plumbers Longview TX | 0 comments The bathroom toilet is one of the most important items in the home. It’s imperative your toilet is functional, cost-effective, and fitting, among other things. Purchasing a new one is not always as simple and stress-free as it seems. In fact, it can be a complicated process with a range of different variables to consider.  To find the best and most suitable toilet for you and your family. Consider the following rules of thumb.  1. Compare flush ratings. Compare “flush performance” across different models and brands to ensure efficiency. 2. Search for rebates on high-efficiency models. Special rebates can significantly reduce water consumption and annual costs out of your pocket. 3. Invest in a pressure assist toilet.  If a clean bowl and reduced water consumption are a priority, this is something to consider. 4. Make cleaning easier with a wall-hung toilet. This means fewer nooks and crannies to clean. 5. Consider height. Remember a higher bowl can be more comfortable for tall people, but harder for kids and shorter people to use. 6. Measure before you buy.  Measure the rough-in or distance from the hold-down bolts to the wall. This will determine what model and size of toilets are best suited for your home. 7. Beware of bigger bowls. Take account of the extra 2 inches on elongated bowls. A slightly bigger bowl can present possible issues when opening and closing drawers or doors. 8. Conserve water with a dual flush toilet. A dual flush toilet uses about 25% less water but is usually more expensive and limited when it comes to style and color.  For additional information or expert advice on toilet features like flushing mechanisms, sizes, shapes, water-saving efficiency, noise, comfort, and clean-ability, contact a Bird Dog plumbing professional in Longview, TX today. Call 903-225-2272 or get in touch online at...
read more

Signs Your Sewer Line is Clogged

Posted by on Jul 16, 2019 in Clogged Drain Longview TX, Plumbers Longview TX | 0 comments The main sewer line is a crucial part of any home plumbing system. All of the home’s wastewater exits through the main sewer line, so it’s vitally important that it functions well.  Understanding how to avoid a clogged main sewer line and resolve an issue if it occurs can prevent unwanted damage and expensive out-of-pocket repairs. A clogged main sewer line is usually triggered by tree root infiltration, flushing the debris down the toilet or pouring grease down the drain. Avoid treating your toilet like a trash can at all costs, paying attention to what enters into the main sewage system. If there is a serious issue associated with the main sewer line in your home you will notice:  Multiple Drains are backed up.  One of the most evident signs of a clogged mainline is backups in other smaller fixtures within the home. A home sewage system is like a tree, with multiple branches or lines feeding into the main trunk. When a clog occurs in the main trunk, the water draining from smaller lines has nowhere to go but back up. Water Overflows into different plumbing fixtures.  In the event of a main sewer line clog, water will begin to backup and surface in other plumbing fixtures in the home. All of the excess water moves to the lowest point in the home, so to catch the issue before it poses a serious problem, regularly check the drains in the basement and lower floors for irregularities. If you’re unsure of a real issue, try flushing the toilet or using the bathroom sink, paying close attention to any potential rise in the water level, bubbles, or gurgling noises. Drainage in sewer clean out.  The sewer clean out is marked by a circular plastic or concrete lid labeled clean out. Once you find the cap open it up and verify the status of the water flow. If the water is standing still, it most likely means you have a main sewer line clog. If you’ve determined that you have a threatening main sewer line clog, turn off your main water valve which is usually located in a basement crawlspace, close to the water heater or in the garage. The next step should be to contact a plumbing professional to clean the clog main line and resolve the issue as soon as possible. For the best and most effective plumbing services...
read more

Tips to Installing the Perfect Outdoor Shower in Longview, TX

Posted by on Jul 3, 2019 in Plumber Longview TX | 0 comments https://animoto.com/play/8G7oJqq6zEM3yV55bSTjpw Embracing the concept of an outdoor shower is not only a mark of sophistication but also a practical addition to your living space. The best part is that with careful planning and a DIY approach, it can be a surprisingly affordable project. In fact, you could potentially create the outdoor shower of your dreams for as little as $580. Here are some cost-saving tips and considerations to keep in mind as you embark on this exciting venture: 1. Location Matters: The placement of your outdoor shower can significantly impact the overall cost. If you position it near your house, you can expect to save thousands in construction and plumbing expenses. This approach allows you to tap into your existing water supply and drainage systems, eliminating the need for costly standalone plumbing solutions. 2. Hose Line Connection: To save on installation costs, you can connect your outdoor shower to a garden hose line. This can be a budget-friendly solution if you don’t mind the idea of a refreshing cold rinse. By using the garden hose, you can bypass the need for complex plumbing work and keep your project costs in check. 3. Gray Water Disposal: When deciding on the location of your outdoor shower, it’s essential to be aware of local regulations and guidelines for gray water disposal. Some areas have specific rules in place for the disposal of wastewater, which can impact the design and cost of your outdoor shower. Understanding these regulations can help you avoid potential legal issues and extra expenses. 4. Weather Considerations: The elements can take a toll on outdoor fixtures. Freezing temperatures can damage pipes, leading to costly repairs. Rust and erosion can also affect the longevity of your outdoor shower. It’s important to recognize the potential challenges that your outdoor shower may face and take preventive measures, such as using weather-resistant materials and proper insulation. 5. Seek Expert Advice: When it comes to plumbing and installation, it’s wise to seek advice and assistance from professionals. While you can save money with a DIY approach, consulting a plumber or contractor who has experience with outdoor showers can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. They can guide you through the process, ensuring that your shower is not only functional but also built to last. In conclusion, the allure of an outdoor shower can be both affordable and practical if you approach...
read more