Understanding and Preventing Leaking Pipes and Slab Leaks
To prevent leaking pipes that can lead to overwhelming slab leaks, you need to understand the plumbing of your home. Signs of water damage are easy to see, but once this damage has occurred, restoration can be costly and stressful. Thankfully, your plumber can help you understand how to prevent leaks at home. Understanding Slab Leaks A large series of pipes are located under the foundation of your home. These pipes are essential for moving water and waste to and from your home. Over time, certain issues may cause these pipes to leak, resulting in a slab leak. Signs of Slab Leaks Since the pipes are under the home’s foundation, you will not be able to notice the leaks at first. However, you will see a few signs: Increased Water Bill – If there is a sudden increase in your water bill even though you are not using extra water, you most likely have an underlying leak that you should address and have a professional check out. Decreased Water Pressure – Leaking pipes under your foundation may also lower the water pressure in your home. This change in water pressure may occur over time with a slow leak, or the decreased pressure may begin suddenly. Visible Water and Water Damage – Lastly, if you notice damage to your first floor walls or floors, there may be a leak under the foundation. Also, puddling water around the home is a sign of a leak. Preventing Slab Leaks Protecting your home from water leaks is possible, but you may not know where to begin. Avoid using excessive amounts of chemicals to clean your drains. These chemicals may seem like smart options for removing clogs, but the toxic chemicals can be too harsh for your drains and pipes. Many of these chemicals corrode pipes over time, increasing the risk of leaks. You should also adjust the pressure coming out of your faucets and showerheads. Higher amounts of water pressure running through narrow pipes cause stress in your plumbing. This extra pressure and stress can lead to corrosion and leaks. Lastly, consider having your water tested to help reduce leaks. If pH levels are too low or too high, the water may have a corrosive effect on your plumbing. Over time, this corrosion may lead to plumbing leaks. With proper understanding and the help of a plumbing contractor, you can diagnose and repair leaks. To learn more about leaking pipes and slab leaks, contact Bird Dog Plumbing in the Longview, TX area at 903-225-2272 today. Leaking Pipes Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read morePicking Between Gas & Electric for your Water Heater Installation
It’s time for a new water heater installation to be done in your home in Longview, TX. The question is, how do you decide between gas and electric? Does saving money mean the most to you, or does being energy efficient? Here are how they stack up against to each other: Gas heater has a faster recovery rate Electric heater will not work during a power outage Gas heater is less efficient Electric heater costs more to operate Both have equivalent lifespans It’s time to talk to the specialists at Bird Dog Plumbing to help make your decision easier. Based on your current setup we can determine which option will be best for your situation. Call us today at (903)225-2272 or visit us online at https://birddogplumbingllc.com/. Water Heater Installation Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read moreTips on Leaking Plumbing: Should I Repair or Replace my Broken Toilet?
Your toilet is one of the most important fixtures you have in your home. Leaking plumbing and problems with your toilet can become a huge hassle for you and your family. Clogs are the most common plumbing problem associated with toilets and quick and straightforward to fix. There are, however, other plumbing problems that can arise that require more expertise to solve and often, more money. Based on the problem you might be experiencing, you may have to decide whether to have your toilet repaired or replaced. There are several points to consider when making your decision. Toilet Repair Running water and leaks in your toilet are typically issues that can be repaired by a service professional. A homeowner can fix many of these plumbing problems by removing damaging parts and replacing them with new ones. However, if your tank to toilet bowl is leaking, you might be better off to have a professional plumber replace those parts for you. If you are not particularly handy, a small plumbing problem can become a big plumbing problem in no time. The following is a list to help you in deciding to get your toilet repaired. Consider having it repaired if your toilet: Is always running Will not flush all the way Is clogged Takes too long to fill the tank Is leaking water from the tank Toilet Replacement If you have a toilet that is in a constant state of disrepair, it’s probably time to think about having it replaced. There are a wide variety of toilets that are available today. Be sure to visit your local big box home improvement store or speak with a plumbing professional about all of the innovative features that come with newer toilets. One of the significant advancements in toilet technology is the creation of products that use up less water. These toilets reduce the amount of water your home consumes with every flush. This feature will help you to save on water bills each month, and it will also be helpful to the environment. Consider having it replaced if your toilet: Needs too many repairs Is experiencing a recurring problem Has a crack in the porcelain Is causing a significant increase in your water bill Has an object stuck in the drain that your plumber cannot reach Whether you need repair work, a replacement job or expertise on remodeling a bathroom, contact the plumbing experts at Bird Dog Plumbing in Longview TX. Call 903-225-2272 today! Leaking Plumbing Longview TxBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read more3 Simple Tips To Help You Fix A Clogged Sink
Unclogging a sink can be as easy as any other home remedy. Here are three simple tips you can use to fix a clogged sink. Use a plunger. Place a plunger over the drain, and pump it up and down repeatedly. Continue this process until the water drains. Use baking soda and vinegar. Empty the clogged water from the sink. Then, push 1 cup of baking soda down the drain. Pour an equal amount of vinegar in, and put on the sink stopper. Afterwards, run warm water to make sure the clog has cleared. Use a cable auger. Also known as a drain snake, this tool is for clogs found deeper in your pipes. Use a simple twist and push movement until the clog has cleared. If your clogged sink has a problem that does not work with these remedies, that’s okay; we’re here for you! Talk to professionals at Bird Dog Plumbing today, when you call 903-225-2272. Clogged Sink Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read moreBenefits of Trusting Professional Plumbing Services Over DIY
From clogged drains and backed-up sinks to a leak in your kitchen faucet, it is always best to trust professional plumbing services over completing maintenance and repairs yourself. You may think you have the skills needed to make adjustments and repairs to your toilets, sinks, showers, tubs, and septic system, but improper DIY can result in further damage and even more expensive repairs. Here are a few benefits you should know about calling in professional help when it comes to your plumbing system. Expert Experience Unclogging your toilet may be a simple task, but other issues related to your plumbing can be a bit harder to address. No matter what the signs and symptoms of your problem, a professional will have the experience needed for an effective and efficient diagnosis and repair. Expert Prevention Again, a clogged toilet is a standard and straightforward issue to resolve in most cases. However, the clog may actually be stemming from a more involved problem affecting your plumbing and septic system. As a homeowner, you most likely do not have the expert experience needed to address the cause of chronic clogs or other issues. A professional plumbing service offers thorough work that will ensure your issue is not related to another problem affecting your home. Also, professional plumbers will have the knowledge needed to maintain or make repairs to prevent problems that could become serious and expensive in the future. Expert Equipment The majority of households own one or more plungers, but most homeowners do not own the diagnostic equipment and tools to make effective repairs. While you may be able to purchase some of this equipment, the expense may not be a worthwhile investment since they are not items a homeowner frequently uses. Expert Pricing As stated above, purchasing tools to make repairs on your own will cost you a great deal of money. Also, attempting to do the work yourself may end up causing more problems, which can become costly in the future. If you do not DIY the repair correctly, a professional contractor will still be necessary. Any damages incurred from a messed up repair will cause you to spend more money in the future in hiring a professional to fix your errors. Whether you watch numerous video tutorials or read blogs written by contractors, DIY is usually not the best option when it comes to your home’s plumbing. For help maintaining, diagnosing, or repairing issues your plumbing and septic system are facing, contact Bird Dog Plumbing today at 903-225-2272. Longview Plumbing ServicesBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read moreKeep Your Plumbing from Flooding Your Home with Water Leak Detection
When your plumbing fails, stopping the water damage is nearly impossible. Photo albums, wooden floors, and beloved furniture are all things an unexpected flood can ruin in the blink of an eye. There are preventive measures you can take to avoid water damage from plumbing leaks. Whether it be basement protection or a plumbing inspection, gaining advice from water leak detection in Longview, TX experts maybe the answer to saving your time, money, and your home treasures. When it comes to the pipes in your house, there are six things to do to prepare for the possibility of flooding: Are your electric panels above flood lines? If your pipes were to leak, it’s important to know where your electrical boxes and circuit breakers are. If they are above damage lines, this will help you to understand how you plumbing leaks will affect your power. This way, a bit of damage won’t control the electricity that runs the rest of your house. Where are your big electrical machines? Furnaces, heaters, washers, dryers, and other large machines should be in a place that protects them from potential flood damage. If you think your machines may be at risk or in an area that may flood, testing for water leak detection may be your best bet for your safety. Do you have insurance? Flood damage may not seem like a high priority in Texas, but many homeowners insurance policies cover plumbing and electrical system. Knowing what your insurance offers will help you to understand what they can do for you if your plumber fixes a water leakage. Does your sewer system have a back flow valve? Water entering your house is a nightmare itself, but adding sewage to the situation is more than anyone wants to handle. Know that your sewage has a backup valve in case of a flood to save your home from a horrible situation. If you don’t have a back flow valve, it only takes one call to your Longview plumber to ensure a dry house. Has your home had a thorough inspection? Often, a small leak in your plumbing can be the factor that causes the biggest damage to your house and your wallet. If you are unsure about the safety of your pipes, hiring a plumber to inspect for water leak detection can offer you answers and advice to your water damage questions. Prepare for and even prevent flooding due to plumbing problems by using Bird Dog Plumbing, the best water leak detection in Longview, Texas. To learn more, visit https://birddogplumbingllc.com/ or call 903-225-2272. Water Leak Detection Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read more3 Steps to Take Before Calling a Water Leak Repair Service
Determining if you have a water leak can be tricky, but by locating the leak you can expedite the fix by calling a water leak repair service in Longview, TX. The best way to determine if you have a leak in your plumbing system is by first checking your water meter. Here are the 3 steps to use your water meter to check for leaks: Assure no water is being used inside or outside your home. Check to see if the leak indicator is moving. If it’s moving, you probably have a leak. Alternatively, take a meter reading, wait for 1 to 2 hours, take another reading to see if it changes. If you see a change, you have a leak. Let the specialists at Bird Dog Plumbing help minimize the damage from an unrepaired water leak. Call us today at (903)225-2272 or visit us online at https://birddogplumbingllc.com/. Water Leak Repair Service Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read moreCommercial Plumbing Checklist from Longview TX Plumber
When selecting a team to handle your commercial plumbing needs, the question often arises, “How do I know which plumber is best for me?” The hundreds of competitive companies in the industry can make your decision overwhelming and seem nearly impossible. As the owner or operator of a commercial property, you must take many factors into account when choosing professionals to work at your place of business. Use the following checklist to help guide you when selecting a commercial plumber. Look for a plumbing company that has: Commercial Experience. Unlike typical residences, commercial properties are likely to have relatively complex structures and maintenance needs. Be sure to choose a plumbing team with ample experience in the commercial side of the industry. Prompt Response Times. Nothing is more frustrating than scheduling an appointment with your plumber and waiting at home for hours, only for the crew to show up just before the end of the day. Delayed assessment and repairs on your commercial properties can cost you, so be sure you choose plumbers who deliver quality promptly. 24-Hour Emergency Services. Look for a company that has multiple plumbers on-call at all times. You never know when you will have an issue at your commercial property. Make sure your plumber can complete repairs at any time and that other plumbers are also available to come work, depending on the magnitude of the job. The Manpower to Handle your Needs. As mentioned above, make sure there are multiple individuals able to come work on your properties when necessary. Beyond that, make sure the company’s entire team is large enough to fulfill your needs in a timely manner. This guideline is especially important if you manage multiple properties simultaneously, as handling multiple properties will require a large team. Repair AND Installation Services. Life is unpredictable. A simple fix always has the potential to turn into a major issue or even system replacement. Make sure your commercial plumber can handle installation just as easily as a minor repair and avoid having to call in a second team to get the job done. An Insured, Licensed, and Bonded Business. As a commercial property owner, it is your responsibility to ensure the safety and security of those using your facilities from any potentially harmful actions of a plumbing company. Make sure your contractor has insurance to cover any incidents or accidents the company or employees could cause on your property. Furthermore, your contractor should have an official plumbing license and a bond that includes any claims you, the property owner, could make against the company. If you are currently in search of a reputable, trustworthy commercial plumbing service, look no further than Bird Dog Plumbing in Longview, Texas. We are dedicated to providing prompt, high-quality service to maintain or repair your commercial properties. For more information about our services and commitment to our customers, visit us online at https://birddogplumbingllc.com/ or give us a call today 903-225-2272. Commercial Plumbing Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read more4 Destructive Outcomes of a Small Leak Without Water Leak Detection
A small water leak may seem like a minor problem, but without proper water leak detection in Longview, TX, it can lead to some hefty financial and health complications. Some of the potential problems a small, hidden water leak can lead to are: Increased water bill costs Fungal growth in walls and floors can cause health complications Structural problems from water-saturated wood Breeding ground for insects and mites Having your home consistently checked by a professional for all leaks, even the small ones, can save a lot of future issues. Give Bird Dog Plumbing a call today at (903) 225-2272 to have your property thoroughly inspected. Or visit us online at https://birddogplumbingllc.com/ for more information. Water Leak Detection Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read moreBest Tips on How To Save Money by Installing a Water Heater
For most Longview, TX, families, water heaters are one of the biggest energy consumers in their home. If you are looking to have a new water heater installed in your home, be sure to take the time to carefully choose the water heater that is best for your situation. There are two major types of water heaters that are available. Storage Tank Water Heaters Storage tank water heaters are the most popular type. These heaters have an insulated tank that heats and stores water until you need it. They are available as a natural gas or electric appliance. Natural gas storage tank water heaters may cost more to purchase but they use less energy and will cost less money to use than electric water heaters. Tankless Water Heaters Tankless water heaters use coils to heat your water on demand. Since they do not use energy to store hot water, they are more energy efficient and generally cost less to operate. They do however have a limited amount of hot water that can be provided per minute. They are best for homes in which water is drawn for only one use at a time. These appliances are typically installed in homes that use natural gas. They can be powered by electric energy; however, an installation upgrade may be required to make that possible. When you’re out looking for a new water heater, look for an appliance that has an ENERGY STAR® symbol. This symbol tells you that the appliance you are considering meets or exceeds the requirements needed to be energy efficient without compromising on performance levels. If you are considering the costs of water heater services, it’s necessary to think about both the immediate installation and the future operating costs involved. Some water heaters cost more to install. In the long run, however, they are more cost-effective and cost less to operate over time. The following is a list of factors to consider when deciding on the best new water heater for your home: The efficiency rating of the heater The installation costs The annual operating costs The average life span of the heater How to use your newly installed water heater more efficiently: Drain a small amount of water from your water tank once a year. This will reduce the amount of sediment that could build up in the tank. Excess sediment will force the system to work more and force you to pay more for wasted energy. Have an insulation blanket installed over your water tank. These blankets reduce potential heat loss and help to maintain a consistent water temperature in your tank. Your washing machine and dishwasher consume a large amount of energy and water. Be sure to wait until they are completely full before you run them. This will save energy and money. Have a low-flow shower head installed in your shower. This will help to reduce the amount of hot water you and your family members use in the shower. Less hot water used means more money in your pocket. Be sure to set your water heater gauge to a lower level if you go away for an extended amount of time. No sense keeping water hot if you are not going to be there to use it. If you are looking to have...
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