There are few things worse than coming home to a puddle of water on the floor. However, if this happens you probably won’t be second-guessing that you need a plumber. When there is a leak it is a pretty straightforward decision to call a plumbing company. There are a lot of other reasons why you might need a plumbing company that you should also learn to identify. Learning some of these signs can keep you from coming home to find the aforementioned puddle in your home.

Of course, this is just a short list, and there are tons of reasons why you might need a plumber. If we were to attempt to write them all, this blog would be much longer. Remember, don’t avoid calling a plumbing company if your problem isn’t on this list. Always trust your gut, and if you think that something is going on with your plumbing system it is best to call a professional to help you out. With that in mind, here are some of the most surprising reasons to pick up your cell phone.

Sink Drains Slowly

If your sinks start draining slowly, this is a clear sign that something impedes the water flow. Ideally, water should flow down your sinks evenly and get pace with the water coming out of the faucet. If it doesn’t then you are going to need to get a plumber into your home to investigate the issue. If this is an isolated incident in one sink then there is a good chance that it is a local problem, but if multiple sinks are experiencing an issue, it is probably in your water main. Therefore, you don’t want to wait because you will soon have a larger problem.

No Water Pressure in Your Home

Most people think the worst thing that can happen is waking up to no water, but waking up to very little water pressure in a home can also cause problems you are probably not expecting. Water pressure often varies when there is a problem with your plumbing system, which is why varying or low water pressure is always something to call a plumber about. However, if you have no water pressure and all of the water in your home is a trickle then you have even bigger problems. Most of the time, this indicates an issue with your water main, and you need to correct that problem if you want to continue accessing your water normally.

Gurgling Water

Gurgling water is always a problem, even if it comes from different pipes than in use. Sometimes people notice that their toilet is gurgling when they take a shower, while other times, people hear gurgling in their sinks while they are empty. Gurgling is always a sign of trapped air, and air can only get trapped if there is a blockage that it can hide behind it. Don’t ignore this symptom just because it doesn’t seem like it will cause any major issues because eventually, if you don’t take care of the gurgling it will turn into a sewage backflow. It is always better to take care of a plumbing obstruction before sewage comes out of your sinks when you flush the toilet.

You Suddenly Have No Water

Of course, the one thing that is worse than no water pressure is no water at all. This can be an isolated event, or it may follow a sudden loss in water pressure. If it follows a sudden loss in water pressure then you can almost guarantee that it is linked to a problem with your main water line. This type of issue won’t resolve itself on its own, so you need to call a plumbing service and get to the bottom. Your home is not safe to live in if you don’t have water access, so don’t waste a single minute troubleshooting this very important task.

Toilet Keeps Running

Some issues don’t cause any immediate issues, but that doesn’t mean that they should be ignored. One issue that continually annoys homeowners but is something to pay attention to is a running toilet. A running toilet is a much bigger issue than you think it is because not only does it mean that your toilet isn’t working properly but also that you are probably wasting money on your water bill. A toilet that continues to run uses a constant amount of water, and it can easily add hundreds to your water bill by the end of the month. For this reason, you need to call a plumbing service right away if you notice your toilet is running so you can get this issue resolved before it costs you any money.

You are Thinking About Updating Your Gas Appliances

Finally, a lot of people forget that plumbing services are tasked with the job of updating gas lines and installing gas valves. Gas travels through pipelines which is why a plumbing company usually handles gas lines. Still, it isn’t always something a lot of homeowners think about when they are dealing with gas appliances. Gas updates are not something that you want to attempt to handle on your own; it is something that you should always call a plumbing company to handle.

If you are worried that something is going on with your plumbing system, then contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott today. We will schedule an appointment and get to the bottom of what is happening in your home.

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Helpful Tip: Know When It’s Time To Call A Plumber

No homeowner ever wants to call a licensed plumber because it usually means it’s going to cost them money. However, there will really be times when you need to call for professional help to ensure that your plumbing is in excellent shape and that there are no issues that will one day lead to a major plumbing emergency. Read further to know when it’s time to call a plumbing expert for your home or business.

When to Call a Professional

Call us if you need help with the following:

Installing New Appliances

Are you buying new plumbing appliances? It’s always recommended you only hire a licensed plumber for it to ensure that the unit is properly installed. Also, some manufacturers would really ask homeowners to get professional installation in order for them to keep the warranty. You need the service warranty in case there are repairs that need to be done. Remember, repairs can be expensive. At least with the warranty, you won’t have to pay a fortune for it.

Some homeowners would use the manufacturer’s manual to install the unit, and although installation instructions are found there, we still recommend you only hire a professional for it to ensure that the unit is professionally installed. We’ve received complaints from homeowners about defective appliances because they installed them on their own. To avoid this, always hire a licensed plumber all the time.

This is where we come in. Our plumbing experts can install almost any plumbing appliance, from tank-type water heaters to garbage disposals or sump pumps. Our team is also fully insured, so just in case they make a mistake during the installation process, and the insurance company can take care of it. Avoid hiring unlicensed people to install the unit, for they don’t have insurance. When they end up damaging the unit, you may never get reimbursed for the cost.

Let us know if you need help with installing your plumbing pipes or water heater, and our professional team will get back in touch with you to discuss the process. We usually send out our professionals at the soonest possible time. We’re just an email or a call away if you need help.

Emergency Plumbing Services

Plumbing emergencies would usually involve flooding or leaks, and you need a professional for this. Never repair this on your own. However, the first thing you need to do though is not call an expert but turn off your water first to prevent further damage. As much as possible, install a lot of shut-off valves in your home to make it easier for you to turn off the water. Some homeowners just have one valve installed in the basement, and we highly discourage this because when the basement floods, it will be difficult to turn it off.

After turning off the water, call a professional immediately to take care of the problem. You may also end up calling restoration companies, especially when there are major leaks. A restoration company can ensure that no mold grows. Mold can cause health issues and can also jeopardize your home’s foundation.

While waiting for the plumbing expert, clean the area right away. You might also want to take photos first, especially when you’ll be filing for a water damage claim. Some flooding emergencies may be covered by your homeowner’s insurance.

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott is available around the clock. We provide emergency plumbing services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our team is also fully equipped, so if something else comes up during the appointment, we will do our best to take care of it as soon as possible. Our goal is to serve all homeowners and businesses in the area. Feel free to get in touch with us even during holidays or weekends when you have a plumbing emergency, and we will be there to help. We’ll ensure that all issues will be resolved promptly and permanently.

Sump Pump Installation

Do you have a basement? If you don’t have a sump pump installed yet, we recommend installing one to prevent flooding in the basement. A sump pump is a safety device that will safeguard all personal belongings stored in the basement. It helps prevent flooding, avoiding costly repairs and replacements. You need to install this, especially when you have a lot of things stored in the basement. Imagine when it starts flooding, you may not have a choice but to buy replacements for your other appliances, and this will cost you more money.

Let us know if you need sump pump installation, and we’ll help. Our team will make sure that the unit is professionally installed and efficient. After installation, we also suggest you buy backup batteries just in case and especially when you live in flood-prone areas. When there’s a power interruption, the backup battery will ensure that the sump pump will still work.

Renovations

Are you planning to renovate your bathroom or kitchen? You need a plumbing expert to ensure that all pipes, fixtures and other appliances are properly installed. Our team can also advise you on what type of plumbing appliances or fixtures to install. If you want to save money, we suggest you consider installing energy-efficient and water-efficient devices. Call us for help.

Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott Today

Do you need help with your plumbing? We have a licensed plumber who can help. We specialize in helping homeowners and businesses with major plumbing repairs, maintenance, installations, and inspections. Our team is also familiar with most brands. Additionally, we also provide leak detection services and professional drain cleaning. If you need help, our plumbing company is only one phone call or email away.

Call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott today for an appointment.

See our previous blog on this topic here.

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Why A Plumber Recommends Getting Routine Plumbing Inspects As Part Of Regular Maintenance

Whether you’re a homeowner or a business that wants to save money on your plumbing, we can say you can both benefit from getting routine plumbing inspections. True, this may cost you a little more, but it also ensures your plumbing is in top shape. Plumbing appliances or fixtures that are efficient will work perfectly and won’t give you problems. Read this article to know the benefits of getting routine plumbing inspections and why you need to hire a licensed plumber for it. For clarifications or questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us anytime. Our team is more than happy to help.

Benefits of Regular Plumbing Inspections

Below are the benefits of maintaining your plumbing appliances and fixtures. Make sure you religiously adhere to them to avoid costly repairs.

1. You Get to Maximize the Service Life of Your Appliance

Plumbing appliances have a service life and will need to be replaced when they’re no longer efficient. However, if you don’t maintain your plumbing appliances, you may need to replace them sooner rather than later. It’s important to regularly clean and maintain the appliance so that it stays in excellent shape and you won’t have any issues with it.

The manufacturer’s manual may provide you with information on how to regularly maintain the unit. Strictly adhere to your maintenance schedule to ensure your appliance stays in good condition. If you suspect any issues with your unit, please contact an expert immediately for an inspection. You can maximize and possibly extend the life of your appliance or fixture when you regularly maintain it.

2. You Can Avoid Costly Repairs

Do you know how much plumbing repair costs? If you never maintain your unit, the repairs may cost you a fortune. In some cases, you may need to completely replace the unit. You wouldn’t want this to happen because of the costs associated with them. The only way to avoid a more costly repair is to get routine plumbing maintenance or inspections.

Get professional maintenance when you have major plumbing appliances that include the water heater tank or garbage disposal. During the appointment, the plumber will carefully inspect all important components of your unit. He will try to spot any problems that will need to be addressed and will make sure everything is good to go.

For the water heater, homeowners must maintain the unit by draining the tank to get rid of the sediment buildup because the mineral buildup can affect the efficiency of your unit. You may notice that you constantly lose hot water, or the water turns cold right away. Hiring a plumbing expert to professionally inspect the unit and ensure its heating elements are in good condition can also prevent a costly repair and replacement. Leaks can jeopardize your home’s foundation, and you may even contact restoration companies to prevent mold growth. You can prevent this by getting regular plumbing maintenance.

3. Ensures Your Plumbing is Efficient

An inefficient water heater will consume more energy and eventually lead to more costly replacements, especially when the water heater tank is damaged. You can maintain the efficiency of your water heater with regular plumbing maintenance. During the inspection, a professional will do the necessary repairs to keep your unit efficient, helping you save money on your utility bills. Do the same for your other appliances. Refer to the manual first on how to maintain it, or contact plumbing experts on what to do next.

4. Maintains Your Drains

Never use chemical-based drain cleaners when it comes to your drains. Use natural cleaners instead. Contact a plumbing company for recommendations on which cleaners are best for your drains. For clogs, use a drain snake or better yet, get a professional drain cleaning service. Our plumbing experts are equipped with drain cameras to help us see the interior of the drains and assess the damage and recommend the best solution.

5. Avoids Plumbing Emergencies

If there’s one good thing about a plumbing emergency, it’s probably the fact that most of them don’t just occur without reason. They usually happen when the homeowner fails to maintain their plumbing system. Protect the pipes, especially during winter, and don’t forget to maintain the water heater because flooding in the basement will cost you a lot. Contact your plumbing company if you’re looking for ways to better protect your plumbing system.

Why Hire a Licensed Professional

Hire a licensed plumber only because he’s fully equipped and well-trained to perform almost all types of repairs or installations, including emergency plumbing service. Find someone who also has insurance just in case there are accidents, and he ends up damaging your unit. When this happens, the insurance company can compensate you for the damage.

Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott Today

Do you need a plumber to help with major repairs or installations? You’ve contacted the right plumbing company for it. We are a trusted and dependable plumbing company in the area, helping both homeowners and businesses. We offer a lot of services that include the installation of your major plumbing appliances, emergency repairs, and routine plumbing inspections. If you need help with your drains, our plumbing team also offers professional drain cleaning services. If you suspect leaks in your plumbing, we have plumbing experts who will also perform professional leak detection. We’ll help you locate the leak and fix it for you.

Our ultimate goal is to provide high-quality plumbing services at every appointment. This is why we never cut corners when it comes to installations and repairs because we understand how expensive it is to contact professionals. You can trust us, for we’ve established ourselves as the best plumbing company in the area. We’re also fully insured for your peace of mind.

Call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott today for an appointment.

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A Pro Plumber‘s Guide To Spotting Plumbing Problems In Vintage Homes

If you own an older home, you are likely aware of the unique challenges of maintaining an aging plumbing system. As pipes and fixtures age, they become more prone to leaks, clogs, and other issues that can be costly and frustrating to address.

Whether you are a new homeowner or have been living in your older home for years, it is essential to know how to identify plumbing issues so you can take action before they cause further damage.

In this article, you’ll discover helpful tips from a professional plumber on recognizing common plumbing issues in older homes and what you can do to prevent them. So, if you want to keep your plumbing system in top shape, keep reading!

Check for Leaks

When checking for leaks in older homes, it is vital to know that leaks are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners encounter. Leaks can occur anywhere from pipes to faucets and fixtures.

That’s why it’s essential to be vigilant for any signs of water damage or mold around these areas. If you are uncertain about what to look for, a plumber can help you identify leaks in your home.

A musty odor in the affected area is one of the most noticeable signs of a leak. It can be due to the accumulation of mold and mildew resulting from surplus moisture caused by the leak.

Other signs to look out for include damp spots on walls or ceilings, peeling or bubbling paint, or a sudden increase in your water bill.

If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial to address the issue immediately. Delaying repairs can lead to severe water damage, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Watch Out for Slow Drains

If you notice that your sinks, showers, or tubs are draining slowly, you could have a plumbing issue. Slow drains are a common problem in older homes, and they can be due to a buildup of debris and sediment in the pipes. This can be due to years of use, improper disposal of waste, or even tree roots invading the pipes.

Ignoring slow drains can lead to more severe problems down the line, such as complete blockages and backups. The issue can be messy and expensive, and it’s always best to address it promptly. A professional plumber can identify the cause of the slow drain and provide the necessary repairs to prevent further damage.

Inspect Your Pipe

Inspecting your pipes is essential in maintaining your plumbing system, especially in older homes. Over time, pipes corrode or get damaged, leading to leaks, blockages, and other plumbing issues.

When inspecting your pipes, look for any signs of damage or corrosion, including rust, discoloration, or flaking. These signs could indicate that your pipes are old and need a replacement. Corroded pipes are more prone to leaks and other issues that can lead to costly repairs if ignored.

It is fundamental to note that not all signs of damage are visible to the naked eye. Plumbing technicians use specialized equipment to detect hidden leaks and damage within your pipes. Regular plumbing inspections can help identify potential issues before they become serious problems.

Check Your Water Heater

Water heaters are vital in most households. However, with aging properties, water heaters can be particularly prone to issues due to wear and tear over time. Here are a few things to keep in mind when checking your water heater:

• Signs of leaks: Check around the base of your water heater for any signs of water pooling or dripping. If you notice any leaks, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to your home.
• Corrosion or rust: Inspect the exterior of your water heater for any signs of corrosion or rust. These can indicate internal damage that could lead to leaks or other issues later.
• Proper insulation: Ensure your water heater is well-insulated to prevent energy loss. It will help you save money on your energy bills and extend the life of your water heater.
• Age of the water heater: The average lifespan of a water heater is about 10 to 15 years. Older water heaters are more prone to issues and are generally less energy-efficient than newer models.

Pay Attention to Your Water Bill

Monitoring your water bill charges is a great way to catch potential plumbing issues early on. If you notice a sudden increase in your water bill, it’s worth investigating to see if there is an underlying issue. Here are some steps you can take:

• Compare your bills: Compare your current water bill to previous ones to see if there has been a significant increase.
• Check for leaks: Check your pipes, faucets, and toilets for leaks. A leak can waste a significant amount of water, causing your bill to increase.
• Consider your water usage: If you’ve been using more water than usual, such as filling a pool or watering a garden, it may be due to an increased water bill.
• Contact a professional plumber: If you cannot find the cause of your sudden hike in water bills, it’s best to contact a plumbing contractor to identify the issue.

Expert Plumbing Tips for Homeowners!

Are you seeking top plumbing advice? Our team at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott has you covered. From preventative maintenance to proper garbage disposal usage, we have tips to keep your plumbing system running smoothly. Our technicians can also address your plumbing installation, replacement, and repair needs. Contact us 24/7 for all your plumbing needs.

To Wrap It Up

To safeguard the plumbing system of your older home, you should check for potential issues and act on them urgently. Hiring an expert to inspect and maintain your plumbing system can prevent leaks and other problems, saving you time and money in the long run.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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Why A Plumber Thinks Homeowners Should Go Tankless

How old is your water heater? And are you still using a tank-type water heater in your home? We highly recommend you consider switching to tankless water heaters, especially when your top priority is to save money on your plumbing. This article discusses the benefits of switching to tankless water heaters. For installation, ensure you only hire a licensed plumber for it.

Benefits of Going Tankless

Below are the advantages of switching to a tankless water heater. If you still can’t decide whether you should switch or not, feel free to get in touch with a plumber in your area. Our team is happy to discuss the benefits of switching to tankless water heaters.

More Savings

Compared to the tank-type water heater, you’ll be able to save money when you go tankless. And this is because you’re not wasting energy with the tankless unit. Unlike the conventional water heater, you won’t have to keep the unit plugged in all the time. You will only use electricity or gas when you need water, making the tankless one of the best energy-efficient options for your home.

This means no energy is wasted, and you save money on your utility bill. Also, if you plan to sell your home in the future, you may be able to increase the value of your home when you go tankless. This is because it will be more appealing to new homeowners. Potential homebuyers these days prefer a more energy-efficient home because they can save money and it’s helpful to the environment.

To install your new unit, though, please hire a licensed plumber only. You might lose the warranty if you don’t get it professionally installed. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott can install all types of water heaters, including the tank-type water heater. We can also give you advice on what flow rate to get to ensure you’ll never run out of hot water ever again.

Lasts Longer

If you’ve ever used a conventional water heater, we’re sure you’re aware that you will have to replace the unit every few years or so. This is because the tank-type water heater can last up to 10 or 15 years when it’s properly maintained. However, the unit tends to get less efficient every year. You might also start to have issues with the water heater, especially when you don’t maintain it properly. Some homeowners end up replacing their units early because it keeps acting up, and they pay high utility bills for it.

The tankless water heater, on the other hand, can last up to 20 or even 25 years when properly maintained and installed. Also, because there’s no standby heat loss with this type of water heater, this means you get to save money in the long run, and you don’t have to keep buying a new water heater every few years or so.

Picking a new water heater can be tedious, but you can avoid this when you go tankless. Talk to us if you need more information about tankless water heaters, and our team is more than happy to help.

Reduces Leaks

If you have a basement with a tank-type water heater installed, then you’re aware that it can get a little scary, especially when the water heater has issues, and you have appliances in the basement. You don’t have to worry about a leaky tank when you go tankless. A tankless water heater is a small, compact unit that can be installed on the bathroom wall. You can also store it in a cabinet in the bathroom, depending on which type of unit you want to purchase. Most importantly, you get to reduce and even eliminate leaks in the basement when there’s no tank to worry about.

Some homeowners prefer to go tankless simply because they want to avoid leaks. You can do this too. The only disadvantage of buying a tankless water heater is the cost, and it’s more expensive than a tank-type water heater. But because of the benefits you get, you do get to save more money in the long run.

Requires Less Maintenance

If you have a tank-type water heater, there’s a need to flush the tank at least once a year to get rid of the sediment buildup. When the mineral buildup isn’t removed, it’s going to accumulate in the tank, and this means you will have less space for your hot water. This is when you start to have issues with your unit. You’ll notice that you may constantly lose hot water or you get fluctuating temperatures. You can resolve this by draining the water heater tank, but you need to religiously do this, or the sediment can also end up damaging the tank. When it starts to leak, you will have no choice but to get a replacement. You may also end up paying for costly repairs.

Additionally, you need to hire a plumbing expert to professionally inspect the unit. He will need to check all the heating elements of the water heater and if you have clean water. You don’t have to do all these when you go tankless. Yes, you will still need to maintain the unit, but it doesn’t require a lot of maintenance when compared to the regular water heater.

Get in Touch with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott ASAP

Do you need water heater installation, inspection, or repair? We have a plumber who can help! Let us know if your tank-type water heater is more than 10 years old, and we’ll advise you whether to get it repaired or if it’s better to get replacements. Most of the time, it will be more affordable to buy a new unit instead of paying for repairs regularly. Our team is familiar with most brands and can install all types of water heaters. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Prescott, we also offer plumbing repairs, leak detection services, emergency plumbing, and drain cleaning services.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to set up an appointment.

See our previous blog on this topic here.

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