You might not give much thought to your plumbing until you have a clogged sink or a leaky pipe. But the truth is, your home’s plumbing system is essential to your daily life. From the kitchen to the bathroom, plumbing is responsible for delivering clean water and removing waste. And when something goes wrong, it can be a major inconvenience. That’s where a residential plumber comes in. A qualified plumber has the training and expertise to handle a wide range of repair and installation projects. Here is a detailed look at what they can do.
1. Detect and Repair Leaks
One of the most common reasons to call a residential plumber is for help with a leak. Leaks can occur in pipes, fixtures, and appliances. And while some are easy to fix, others can be more challenging. A qualified plumber will be able to quickly identify the source of the leak and make the necessary repairs.
Common leak locations include:
- Under the sink
- Behind the toilet
- In the shower or tub
- At the water heater
- In the laundry room
If you have a leak, don’t wait to call a plumber. The sooner you get it fixed, the less damage it will cause.
2. Install or Replace Fixtures
Another common reason to call a residential plumber is for help with fixture installation or replacement. Fixtures are the devices that bring water into your home and take it away again. They include items like sinks, toilets, showers, and tubs. If you’re renovating your bathroom or kitchen, you may need to install new fixtures. And if your old fixtures are worn out or broken, you may need to replace them. A plumber can help you choose the right fixtures for your home and budget and then install them properly.
3. Inspect Your Plumbing System After Remodeling
According to Houzz, the average cost of a master bathroom remodel is $11,700. You wouldn’t want to spend that much money only to have your new bathroom fall apart a few months later because of plumbing issues. That’s why it’s important to have a professional inspect your plumbing system after any remodeling project. A plumber can identify any potential problems and make the necessary repairs or adjustments.
Even if you’re not planning a major renovation, it’s good to have your plumbing system inspected every year. This is especially true if you live in an older home that uses steel pipes. Even though steel can store or transport water for up to 150 years, it will eventually corrode. This can lead to leaks and other problems. A qualified plumber can check for signs of wear and tear and make repairs or replacements as needed. This can help prevent small problems from turning into big ones later on.
4. Clear Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are another common plumbing problem. They can happen in any sink, toilet, or tub in your home. And while you may be tempted to try to clear the clog yourself, it’s best to leave this job to a professional. Plumbers have the tools and training to quickly and safely remove even the most stubborn clogs.
However, there are a few things you can do to prevent clogged drains. These include:
- Don’t pour grease or oil down the drain.
- Use a hair catcher in your shower or tub.
- Run cold water for a few seconds before using the disposal.
- If you have a garbage disposal, run it regularly.
- Don’t put coffee grounds, eggshells, or bones into the garbage disposal.
- Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet.
Residential plumbers can also help you with more complicated projects, such as installing a new water heater or repiping your home. They have all the necessary tools, including a torque wrench. A torque wrench is a tool invented by Conrad Bahr in 1918 while working for the New York City Water Department. It applies precise torque to bolts, screws, and other fasteners. This is important because it helps prevent damage to the pipes.
Remember, when it comes to your home’s plumbing, you can’t afford to take any chances. It’s better to call a qualified, experienced plumber to handle any problem, big or small. Not only will this save you time and money in the long run, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that your plumbing is in good hands.