What to Do Before Water Heater Installation in Longview, TX
When you need a new hot water heater, there are some steps you can take before the plumber arrives to save time for everyone involved. The first thing you need to do is locate the water shut off valve. Once you have turned off the main water valves, grab a bucket then drain the water line leading to the hot water tank. Once the water is shut off and drained from the line, locate the gas line valve and then shut off the gas to the unit (if you have a gas tank). Once the gas and water are shut off, the plumber can work more efficiently and quickly. Call Bird Dog Plumbing for the best water heater installation in Longview, TX. Water Heater Installation Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read moreWhat You Should Know About Dealing With A Gas Leak In Your Home
If you have natural gas coming into your home to run appliances like your water heater, stove or furnace, you may have to deal with a gas leak at some point. A natural gas leak is dangerous for two reasons; the first is that it is highly combustible and the second is that it can lead to asphyxia and death through the release of carbon monoxide into your home. For these reasons, it’s important for you to know how to identify a gas leak and what to do about it if you have one. Signs Of A Gas Leak You will likely smell a distinctive rotten egg odor. The smell comes from a chemical called mercaptan and it is added by natural gas suppliers to make it easy for homeowners to know if there is a leak. There may also be some signs you can see like a white cloud, mist or fog inside your home, bubbles in standing water, blowing dust or dead or dying houseplants. If the leak is large enough, you may even hear roaring, hissing or whistling. If You Suspect You Have A Gas Leak If you smell gas, you must leave your home immediately (taking pets, too) and call 911 and your gas supplier. You must take care not to light a match, turn any appliances on or off, use a telephone or cell phone inside your home, ring the doorbell, turn on a flashlight or start your car inside the garage. Gas Safety Rules To Follow At Home Here are some things you can do to ensure that you don’t have a problem with the natural gas in your home: Never use a gas oven to heat your home. Never move or attempt to repair gas appliances yourself. Don’t step on or place anything on top of gas lines connected to appliances. Keep combustibles, like fuel and paint, away from gas appliances. Don’t let children play with gas appliances. Have your heating and venting system checked regularly for blockages. Don’t enclose your gas meter. Protect Yourself From Carbon Monoxide If your natural gas appliances stop working correctly, carbon monoxide can be produced. Unlike natural gas, carbon monoxide is odorless and also colorless, and it can be deadly in large enough quantities. The most important thing you can do to protect yourself from this poisonous gas is to install carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Specifically, you should install a detector outside of each sleeping area in your home and, if they’re battery-operated, you must be sure to change the batteries regularly. A natural gas leak in your home is dangerous. Find out what to do in case of a gas leak and remember to call Bird Dog Plumbing in Longview, TX at (903) 225-2272 for expert gas leak repair. You can also visit us online at www.birddogplumbing.com to find out about our complete line of plumbing services. Gas Leak Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read moreWhat to Do to Help Your Plumbing in Longview, TX and to Prevent Damage
When you settle into a new home, one of the first tasks on your checklist should be to locate and familiarize yourself with the water shutoff valves. Knowing the precise locations of these valves can be a crucial step in preventing water damage to your property and mitigating potential emergencies. Here’s why it’s essential to identify and maintain your water shutoff valves: 1. Prevent Water Damage: Water shutoff valves are your first line of defense in the event of a plumbing emergency. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a leaky faucet, or a malfunctioning appliance, being able to quickly turn off the water supply can prevent extensive water damage to your home. This proactive step can save you from costly repairs and the inconvenience of dealing with water-related disasters. 2. Location Matters: Water shutoff valves are typically located in strategic areas throughout your home. You can find them under sinks in kitchens and bathrooms, as well as behind toilets. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the specific locations in your home so that you can respond swiftly in case of an emergency. 3. Ease of Operation: It’s not enough to know where these valves are; you also need to ensure they turn easily. Valves that are difficult to operate defeat their purpose in an emergency. Take the time to test each valve periodically to make sure they function smoothly. If you encounter any resistance or find that a valve is stuck, consider using a spray lubricant to loosen it and improve its operability. 4. Regular Maintenance: Checking the condition of your water shutoff valves is an essential part of home maintenance. Every few months, or at least a couple of times a year, inspect these valves to ensure they are in good repair. A routine check can identify issues like corrosion, leaks, or signs of wear and tear. Addressing these problems promptly can prevent a valve from failing when you need it most. By being proactive in locating, maintaining, and testing your water shutoff valves, you can safeguard your home from potential water-related disasters. This simple yet critical step can give you peace of mind and save you from the headache and expense of dealing with extensive water damage. In your new home, make it a priority to know where your water shutoff valves are, and keep them in good working order to protect your property and your investment. For more help with your plumbing in Longview, TX call Bird Dog Plumbing. Plumbing Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read moreWhen To Call For A Water Heater Repair If You Suspect a Leak
Cold weather is on its way to East Texas and the last thing you want to have to worry about is a water heater repair. Unfortunately, there are a number of things that can go wrong with a water heater that will require a repair or a replacement of the whole unit. If you don’t seem to have as much hot water as you need or there’s water on the floor around your water heater, you may have a leak, which is one of the more common water heater problems. Here are some of the reasons your water heater may be leaking and how to know if they mean you’ll need a water heater repair: Condensation If your water heater is new, it may leak for a few days after installation. Often a new water heater sits in a warehouse for a length of time before making its way to your home. During that time, humidity can accumulate inside the insulated lining of the tank and once the unit is connected, heated and filled with water, this humidity is released – resulting in a small puddle on your garage floor. However, water on the floor after the first couple of days could be a sign of a problem that your installer should be notified about. Leaking Plumbing Connections Take a look at the plumbing connections on the top and bottom of the tank. Use a dry rag or paper towel to wrap around connection points to see if water is seeping out. If you find that it is and you feel brave enough to retighten or replace connectors, make sure you unplug the unit first and turn off the water inlet. For most people, this kind of repair can be daunting and it can also void a warranty so proceed with caution. Always make sure you have a plumber you trust on call in case you can’t fix the problem yourself. Leaking Pressure-Relief Valve The pressure-relief valve, or T&P valve, is a safety feature on all water tanks that allows for the release of water when the pressure gets too high inside the tank. The T&P is almost always clearly marked on the unit, either with a stamp on the metal body of the tank reading, “T&P Valve,” or with a warning tag or both. It’s also designed with a pipe that directs water away from the heater. If the T&P valve is leaking, it should be easy to spot as often the pressurized water escaping creates a spray as it leaves the unit. This is not a DIY repair. You should call in a professional plumber to replace a leaking T&P valve and to find out why it leaked in the first place. Ruptured Water Tank If the T&P valve, the connections or the lining of a new heater aren’t causing leaks, then it’s probable that the tank itself is ruptured either from age, rust or poor manufacturing. There really is no repair for a leaking water tank – it has to be replaced. Call your plumber and make an appointment for an evaluation of the problem. If your water heater is leaking, don’t wait until you’re taking cold showers in subzero weather to get help. For a water heater repair in Longview, TX, call us at Bird...
read moreDealing With a Clogged Drain in Longview, TX The Easy Way
If you want to try to unclog a drain by yourself, there are ways to do this. You may even have the products necessary right in your kitchen cabinets. Pour a generous amount of baking soda into the clogged drain. Then add about a cup of white vinegar. Let it sit there for several minutes. Once you notice the mixture begin to fizz, pour some hot water into the drain to flush out the clog. If you feel the clog is super stubborn, boil the water first before pouring it in. For more help with a clogged drain in Longview, TX call Bird Dog Plumbing so that you’ll never need to deal with a clogged drain again. Clogged Drain Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read moreHow To Know When It’s Time For A New Water Heater Installation
At Bird Dog Plumbing in Longview, TX, we know a thing or two about water heaters and water heater installation. We know that most water heaters work so well for so long that it’s easy to take them for granted – until they stop working. When your home’s water heater malfunctions, it can impact and interrupt many of the activities you do in your home on a daily basis, like doing laundry, washing dishes and bathing. So, what are some of the clues you should look for that might mean your water heater is about to disappoint you? You Have No Hot Water At All If you’re not getting any hot water out of any tap, check your circuit breakers or fuses first to see if one is tripped or blown. After that, check the reset button on your water heater limit switch, which will shut your water heater off if there’s a problem. If you replace a fuse, reset your circuit breaker or limit switch and everything seems to go back to working the way it should – the water is hot and the fuses and breakers don’t blow or trip again – then your system should be all right but if any of the problems recur, it’s time to call us at Bird Dog Plumbing. The Water Is Too Hot This is a serious issue because water that is too hot coming out of the faucet can scald or burn. It can be caused by a thermostat that may not be working properly or was set too high when the water heater was installed. Call for professional help immediately. You Don’t Have As Much Hot Water As You Expect Once again, your water heater’s thermostat may be the problem when you notice that the water turns cold halfway through a shower or when you seem to have to wait forever to get hot water for washing dishes after someone has taken a shower. The thermostat may need to be adjusted to a higher setting. One or both of your heating elements could be bad or there could be loose wiring to one of them. Your Water Looks Rusty Or Smells Funny Two things inside your water heater can cause your water to look rusty or even black; one is a buildup of scale on the heating elements and another is a disintegrating anode rod. The purpose of the anode rod is to keep the inside of your water tank from rusting. When the water smells bad, usually the culprit is your city water supply; but sometimes, it can be caused by a buildup of bacteria inside the water tank. Your Tank Or Pressure-Relief Valve Is Leaking A leaking pressure-relief valve is damaged and must be replaced. A leaking water tank usually means that you’ll need a new water heater installation because it isn’t cost-effective to try to repair a leaking tank. If you suspect that your water heater has developed a problem that requires a repair or a new water heater installation, call us at Bird Dog Plumbing in Longview, TX at (903) 225-2272. To find out more about our complete line of plumbing services, visit us online at www.birddogplumbingllc.com. Water Heater Installation Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read moreWhen to Call a Plumber in Longview, TX For Your Washing Machine
Calling a plumber might be the last thing you think about on a daily basis. However, to prevent damages due to washing machine flooding, you might need to contact a plumber. Check your washing machine hoses every couple months or so to look for cracks, obvious leaks and other deformities. Change these hoses when you notice that there might be a problem or a potential problem. At the very least change them about every 5 years. If you don’t feel comfortable changing the hoses yourself, call a plumber in Longview, TX to take care of it for you. Plumber Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read moreOut of Sight, Out of Mind? 5 Signs You Need Gas Leak Repair Service
Cleaning and furnishing your home may be priorities, but making sure your home does not require a gas leak repair service is imperative for your family’s safety and health. In just the last 3 years, an estimated 3 deaths and 1,000 injuries were related to gas. Since gas is invisible, you may consider the gas to be out of sight and out of your mind. Unfortunately, this belief can be very dangerous. Here are 5 common signs that you have a gas leak at home. Rotten Egg Odor A periodic foul odor in your home is normal. However, if you notice an odor that is similar to rotten eggs, it is most likely due to a slow gas leak. Utility companies add sulfur to natural gas for a reason. If a leak occurs, the sulfur creates the rotten egg smell, alerting you of the leak and ensuring you receive a gas leak repair service efficiently. Fast repair is essential since the gas and sulfur could combine with electrical sources. If this interaction takes place, there will most likely be a fire or explosion. Health Problems A slow gas leak will also affect you and your family’s health. You may not even realize these health problems are related to an exposure to gas, but they can be very dangerous. Here are a few health problems that may develop due to gas exposure: Headaches Nausea Fatigue Depression Chest Pain Breathing Difficulty Dizziness Itchy, Watery Eyes Skin Irritation Ringing In the Ears Nose Bleeds If you are suffering from one or more of the above issues, consult your doctor immediately. In addition, contact a professional to test your home for gas leaks. Dead Landscaping If gas is leaking around your home, it can affect your grass, trees, flowers, and shrubs. Gas will block the plant’s source of oxygen in the air, causing it to discolor and eventually die. If dead plants and vegetation is surrounded by green and healthy landscaping elements, you probably have a gas leak outside your home. Bubbles In Puddles You may have some standing water around your home due to a recent rain or excess moisture. This standing water should not have any movement. If you notice bubbles in the standing puddles of water, it could be due to the presence of gas. Hissing Noises A hissing sound coming from gas appliances, a gas fireplace, or near the tanks or lines outside your home is a key sign that you have a slow leak. This sound is the gas slowly seeping out, which can quickly affect your home and your health. Gas leaks are serious issues that should be addressed immediately. Contact Bird Dog Plumbing in the Longview, TX area at 903-225-2272 for an inspection and a gas leak repair service. Gas Leak Repair Service Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read moreHow a Clogged Restaurant Drain Can Become a Problem
When you run a restaurant, a fully functional kitchen is your livelihood and a clogged drain can cause a lot of problems. There are several common culprits that cause drains to become backed up. Whether at home or a business, a clogged drain can be a big problem. Foreign objects in a drain can be a big plumbing problem. Kitty litter, paper towels and hygiene products can end up in the pipes and cause a backup. Hair can cause drains to become clogged as well. If something inside the pipe is broken, a professional can help seek out the issue and resolve it as soon as possible to get things running smoothly once again. The most common plumbing problem professional kitchens face is grease and fat getting into the drains. Grease and fat don’t do well in pipes and end up solidified. This backs up the drain and has to be removed by a plumber. If your business relies on a fully functional kitchen, this can get in the way of your bottom line. These are some of the things that can lead to a clogged restaurant drain. By calling Bird Dog Plumbing, you can get your business back up and running. Clogged Restaurant Drain Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read more
