Blog



What to Look for When Hiring a Commercial Plumbing Company

Posted by on Mar 6, 2018 in Plumber Longview TX | 0 comments

What to Look for When Hiring a Commercial Plumbing Company

Running a small business is practically impossible unless you have a working plumbing system. Leaks can destroy inventory, cause property damage and create a significant inconvenience for your employees and customers. Attempting to resolve a plumbing problem on your own could make the issue even worse. Hiring a professional, however, is the best idea. But you’ll need to know what to look for when deciding on a commercial plumbing company. Look for a License and Insurance Although hiring a friend of a friend who does plumbing on the side may give you a lower price than a professional would, they likely can’t provide the same type of quality and professionalism of a certified plumber. To ensure your plumber performs services by code, look for one who has a license. Although licensing requirements vary by state, a plumber usually receives a few years of training before they can obtain the licensure. Having a license means they are qualified and experienced enough to work on your plumbing system. Hiring someone without a license increases your chances of receiving subpar work, which can not only threaten the health of you, your employees and your customers, but can also shut down your business. You’ll also want to make sure any plumber you hire has insurance to cover anything that goes wrong. For instance, mistakes that result in flooding could end up your responsibility unless your plumber has coverage. Don’t just take the plumber’s word for it: make sure they have insurance backing them. Diagnostics and Repairs When you’re facing a problem, you need someone to come and tell you what is wrong. Receiving an accurate diagnosis, however, is only the first step. You’ll also need someone to get things up and running again so that you can get back in business. It’s important for you to find a commercial plumber who can do both. Calling one person to determine the problem and then having to hire someone else to fix it doesn’t make a lot of sense. Along with the added money you’ll need to invest, you’ll also have to allow for more time to find someone else for the job, in addition to the time required for the repairs. Save money and time by hiring a commercial plumbing company who can do both, as well as guarantee quality work. Bird Dog Plumbing in Longview, TX, has helped many businesses with their plumbing needs. Contact us today to learn how we can do the same for yours by calling (903) 225-2272 or visiting https://birddogplumbingllc.com/. Commercial Plumbing Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...

read more

4 Helpful Water Leak Detection Tips to Prevent Damage to Your Home

Posted by on Feb 20, 2018 in Plumber Longview TX | 0 comments

4 Helpful Water Leak Detection Tips to Prevent Damage to Your Home

You may enjoy a high-pressure shower in the morning, but setting your water pressure too high can have negative effects on your plumbing system. This can make it prone to water leaks and the need for water leak detection in Longview, TX. Here are 4 helpful tips to lowering your costs and preventing water leaks in your home: Use a water pressure gauge to test your water pressure Have a regulator installed and set it for between 55-75 psi Replace old tube water supply lines with steel braided supply lines Use quarter turn ball valves when replacing old shutoff valves that don’t work Save yourself from the worry of a water leak when you aren’t expecting it. Call Bird Dog Plumbing today at (903) 225-2272 or visit us online at https://birddogplumbingllc.com/. Water Leak Detection Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...

read more

Prevent a Clogged Restaurant Drain From Closing Your Business Down

Posted by on Feb 6, 2018 in Clogged Drain Longview TX, Plumber Longview TX, Restaurant Plumbing Longview TX | 0 comments

Prevent a Clogged Restaurant Drain From Closing Your Business Down

Running a restaurant involves more than just creating and serving food. Restaurateur have to deal with mind-boggling details every day. These details may seem small, but they can make or break a business. The restaurant’s plumbing system, for example, is one of those fine points that can ruin an eating establishment’s reputation in an instant. When it’s not running correctly, it can cause shutdowns, unsanitary conditions and even illness. Unfortunately, a clogged restaurant drain is a common issue that can cause damage and a loss of revenue. With prevention and maintenance, however, you can keep your plumbing in excellent condition. Common Clogging Causes The combination of large pieces of food and plumbing pipes are a recipe for disaster. In the restaurant industry, however, the two often go hand-in-hand. No matter how hard you try to keep food from going down the drain, it’s probably going to happen. What’s worse is some foods, like rice, expand when saturated, blocking up the pipes even more. Cooking oil, grease and other fats can also cause drain trouble in a hurry. As they cool down, they begin to solidify and cling to the pipes and then itself, creating a clog. Add to that, soap scum and detergent, and you’ve got a substantial blockage that can create a giant, unsanitary mess. Preventing a Kitchen Disaster Training employees on proper food disposal is the first step in preventing a clogged restaurant drain. Advise them not to dump oil and grease down the drain, and show them your restaurant’s oil disposal method. Additionally, stress the importance of keeping food particles out of the drain. Grease traps are often useful in preventing buildups in the system. The trap collects the grease and separates it from the water, stopping it from creating a clog. Unfortunately, they aren’t always perfect, and grease can still create havoc. When this happens, you’ll need the help of a professional to get things running. Professional drain cleaners can often use small video cameras to enter the pipe and diagnose the problem. Depending on the type of clog you have, the expert will likely choose one of two methods. Typically, hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water to remove soft clogs.  A plumber will often clear hard clogs with an auger, which looks like a long steel cable with a corkscrew on the end. This process is also known as the snaking method. If your restaurant experiences frequent clogs, contact Bird Dog Plumbing in Longview, TX, to find out what we can do for you. Call (903) 225-2272 or visit https://birddogplumbingllc.com/ today! Clogged Restaurant Drain Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...

read more

4 Situations When You Need a Plumber to Repair Your Toilet

Posted by on Jan 23, 2018 in Plumber Longview TX | 0 comments

4 Situations When You Need a Plumber to Repair Your Toilet

Some toilet problems are easy fixes that even the least mechanically-inclined person can do, but sometimes the problem goes beyond one’s expertise so calling in a plumber to repair the toilet in Longview, TX is necessary. Having a toilet out of commission becomes problematic if it lasts too long, even if you have more than one available in your home. Here are four situations that may require the services of a plumber to fix: Water is accumulating around the base of the toilet Tank is taking excessive time to refill Experiencing irregular running water Toilet is constantly running Get your commode back up and running quickly with the help of Bird Dog Plumbing. Call us today to schedule an appointment at (903)225-2272 or visit us online at https://birddogplumbingllc.com/. Repair Toilet Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...

read more

Snap, Crackle, and Pop: Noisy Signs You Need Water Heater Repair

Posted by on Jan 9, 2018 in Plumber Longview TX, Water Heater Installer Longview TX | 0 comments

Snap, Crackle, and Pop: Noisy Signs You Need Water Heater Repair

Your water heater is an important part of your home and family’s needs, so it is important to learn the signs that you are in need of water heater repair. While all appliances make noise during operation, loud snap, crackle, pop, and bangs coming from your water heater are signs of distress. Understanding the causes of these noises will help you know when and if it is time to call in the professionals to repair your water heater. Causes Of Snap, Crackle, and Pop The snap, crack, and popping noise from your water heater is most likely due to the buildup of sediment in the tank. Of course, you may be wondering what the residue is and how it came into your tank. As the water moves from your main water source into your home’s plumbing system, loose minerals will also run through your system and into the water heater’s tank. The sediment settles at the bottom of the tank heating and hardening over time. As the sediment heats and hardens, it will decrease the appliance’s ability to move heated water into the home. Your water heater will not work as efficiently, so you may notice an increase in energy and water bills. Also, the hardened sediment will cause your water heater to make unusual sounds, such as the loud banging, snapping, popping, and crackling. Flushing Treatment and Repairs The sediment in the water heater tank is not necessarily dangerous to your water or your health, but it can harm the actual appliance. If the hardened sediment stays in the water heater over an extended period, the constant heating may cause the tank to crack, leaking water in your home and decreasing the water heater’s basic function. Even small water leaks can add up to a great deal of waste and costly water damage. Thankfully, flushing the tank is effective for restoring the water heater back to an efficient and functional state. If you are noticing these loud noises, contact your plumber for water heater repair that includes a complete flushing of the tank. Many homeowners are capable of flushing the tank on their own. However, your plumber will conduct a detailed inspection that will help reduce the risk of a complete water heater failure. Your water heater should not be making a snap, crackle, pop, or bang. If you hear these unusual sounds, contact the professionals at Bird Dog Plumbing at 903-225-2272 for water heater repair in the Longview, TX area. Water Heater Repair Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...

read more

3 Tips for Preventing Freezing Pipes and Needing Water Heater Installation

Posted by on Dec 19, 2017 in Plumbers Longview TX, Water Heater Installation Longview TX | 0 comments

3 Tips for Preventing Freezing Pipes and Needing Water Heater Installation

Frozen pipes decrease your water supply, cause expensive leaks, and can even lead to an entirely new water heater installation in severe cases. Since the winter season is approaching quickly, you will need to learn how to prevent these plumbing problems. Here are a few ways to protect your plumbing from the freezing temperatures that can lead to costly leaks and repairs. Heat Your Home You may think that heating your home is only necessary for your family’s comfort, but ensuring your home remains warm is also important for your plumbing lines as temperatures begin to drop. Heating your home, even when you are not there, will reduce the risk of frozen pipes. Of course, you do not need to run the heat at the highest temperatures possible. For the best protection without going overboard, make sure to set your thermostat to at least 50 degrees or higher. Let Faucets Drip Water will build up in your faucets over time. In the spring, summer, and fall, when temperatures are warmer, this build-up creates pressure that does not pose many issues. However, in the winter when temperatures are lower, the water in your pipes may freeze, causing enormous pressure that can lead to pipes bursting. Frozen pipes and bursting pipes will cause you to experience water leaks in faucets, pipes, and your water heater. This pressure can also cause your water heater to rupture, increasing the risk of water damage on the floors and walls of your home. In most instances, this requires extensive cleanup of the water damage and a new water heater installation. Allowing your faucets to drip slightly when temperatures are at and below freezing temperatures will prevent pressure and frozen pipes. Insulate Pipes There are many ways you can insulate your plumbing lines. To get started, invest in a few rolls of electrical heating tape. Wrap exposed, easily-accessible pipes with this tape before the winter season arrives. In other areas of your home where pipes are more challenging to reach, such as in the basement or attic, invest in a foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to cover these pipes. Or, consider having the walls and doors in these areas insulated with spray foam or traditional batt insulation. Adding insulation may require some time and energy, but it will be a worthwhile investment for protecting your home and plumbing lines. To learn more about preventing frozen pipes and reducing your risk of needing a complete water heater installation, contact Bird Dog Plumbing in the Longview, TX area at 903-225-2272. Water Heater Installation Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...

read more

Gas Leak Detection: Five Things to Look For Before Calling a Pro

Posted by on Dec 6, 2017 in Leak Repair Service Longview TX, Plumber Longview TX, Restaurant Plumbing Longview TX | Comments Off on Gas Leak Detection: Five Things to Look For Before Calling a Pro

Gas Leak Detection: Five Things to Look For Before Calling a Pro

Natural gas is clean and good for the environment, but also highly combustible so knowing proper gas leak detection in Longview, TX is important for the safety of...

read more

Do You Need to Repair a Toilet That’s Constantly Running?

Posted by on Nov 21, 2017 in Plumber Longview TX, Restaurant Plumbing Longview TX | 0 comments

Do You Need to Repair a Toilet That’s Constantly Running?

A few different issues can cause a running toilet, most of which require only simple repairs: Worn-out or broken flapper. A flapper that’s worn from use or mineral deposits allows water to leak from the tank into the toilet, causing the running. Water may be too high. When the water is too high, it will go into the overflow tube and cause the toilet to run constantly. Lower the tank level. The refill tube is out of whack. If the refill tube is too long or out of position, it can cause the toilet to run. If you continue to have issues with a running toilet or need professional help with any of these fixes, Bird Dog Plumbing is here to repair your toilet in Longview TX. Call 903-225-2272. Repair Toilet Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...

read more

4 Signs It’s Time to Start Researching New Water Heaters

Posted by on Nov 13, 2017 in Plumber Longview TX, Water Heater Installer Longview TX | 0 comments

4 Signs It’s Time to Start Researching New Water Heaters

Bathing, washing dishes and doing laundry are all important tasks in your household, but you may not understand how water heaters are essential for your home and family. This imperative appliance is not intended to last forever, so there will most likely come a time when you need to purchase and install a new one. If you are noticing one or more of the following signs, it may be time to replace your water heater. Older Age It is important to learn when your water heater was installed before you can determine if it is approaching time to replace it. Of course, each type of water heater has its own expected lifespan. If you have a traditional water heater with a tank, you can expect a lifespan of around 10 years. Tankless water heaters are capable of lasting up to 20 years with proper maintenance. If your water heater is approaching the 10- to 20-year mark, it is most likely time to consider a replacement, especially if you are noticing other issues. Loud Noises/Rusty Water All appliances will make sounds from time to time and your water heater is no exception. However, if you are noticing loud, rumbling noises, there may be a serious issue that should be addressed. Over time, dirt and sediment will build up inside the tank. As the water heats, the sediment will harden, eventually corroding the tank and plumbing lines. Without draining and flushing out the tank and water lines, this sediment can cause the tank to crack, leaking water all over your home’s flooring and walls. The sediment and corrosion can also cause water to appear rusty in color. Rusty water can stain your sinks, tubs, clothes and dishes, but it can also be dangerous to consume. Flushing out sediment that has been in a tank for many years is difficult, so investing in a new water heater may be the smartest solution. Water Leaks Lastly, drops or puddles of water around your water heater are a sure sign you need a replacement. This moisture is most likely caused by small cracks that stem from the heat expanding the tank. Over time, these small leaks can add up, causing serious water damage that is expensive to repair. In addition, even a small amount of water can increase the risk of mold growth, which is hazardous to you and your family’s health. Your water heater is an imperative part of your home’s function and family’s needs. For help researching and installing water heaters in your home, contact Bird Dog Plumbing in the Longview, TX, area at (903) 225-2272. Water Heaters Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...

read more

Prevent Water Leaks and 5 Other Ways to Reduce Your Water Bill

Posted by on Oct 24, 2017 in Leak Repair Service Longview TX, Plumber Longview TX, Water Leak Repair Service Longview TX | 0 comments

Prevent Water Leaks and 5 Other Ways to Reduce Your Water Bill

Whatever your reason for wanting to save money on your water bill, there are measures you can take to reduce the strain on your wallet while also giving the added benefit of helping prevent water leaks in Longview, TX. When you reduce water usage, there is less use of the systems that use water and consequently reduces the risk of a water leak. Beyond simply taking shorter showers and turning the water off when not in use, here are five ways to reduce your water bill: Use the dishwasher Wash clothes in cold water Insulate water pipes Keeps bottles of water in the fridge Fix existing water leaks Bird Dog Plumbing can help you reduce your water bill. Call us today to schedule an appointment at (903)225-2272 or online at https://birddogplumbingllc.com/. Prevent Water Leaks Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...

read more