15 Frequently Asked Plumbing Questions From Homeowners Answered By A Plumber | Helotes, TX

1/4/2023

Do you have questions about your plumbing systems? While it isn’t a must for homeowners to know everything about their plumbing, it’s always best to be well informed. So this is why we compile this list of commonly asked questions about your home’s plumbing. This is how a plumber in Helotes, TX responded to them. If you have further questions though, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us anytime. We’re always happy to help. Also, if you need emergency plumbing, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of San Antonio is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

1. Why do we need to install several shut-off valves?

When there’s a plumbing leak, the first thing you need to do is not call a plumber immediately, you’ll need to prevent further damage to your plumbing by turning off the water supply. Now imagine when there’s flooding in the basement and the shut-off valve is installed there, it’s going to be very difficult for you to turn off the water supply because of electricity. You might get electrocuted when you go near the water. It’s for this reason that we recommend homeowners install shut-off valves near the water heater or garbage disposal to make it easier to turn off the water and prevent water damage. It’s costly to get plumbing repairs and it costs even more to hire restoration companies. Install several shut-off valves to prevent further damage to your plumbing.

2. Is it necessary to get a routine plumbing inspection?

While it’s not required to get routine plumbing inspections, we do think they are necessary. It’s an effective way to ensure your plumbing is actually in top shape. Without regular plumbing inspections, you might never know there are issues that need to be addressed right away. It might be too late when you do notice these problems as they might have already progressed into something more serious, something that will cost you more money down the road.

When was the last time you hired a plumber in Helotes, TX for an inspection? If it’s been a while, call us today so we can thoroughly inspect your plumbing system and ensure everything is in good working condition. If there are problems, we sure will let you know and we’ll also provide you with permanent plumbing solutions. Our plumbing experts at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of San Antonio can also help with major repairs and installations, and emergency plumbing. Feel free to get in touch with us anytime and we’ll quickly dispatch a plumber to your location.

3. Why do we need professional drain cleaning?

We recommend homeowners get professional drain cleaning to ensure healthy drains. Remember, clogged or slow drains are also associated with other issues with your plumbing including pest infestation, water damage and unpleasant smells in the kitchen. You don’t want to deal with this especially when you have visitors at home. The best thing you can do is either properly care for your drains or contact a plumber in Helotes, TX for professional drain cleaning service.

4. Is it okay to use chemical-based drain cleaners for our drains?

This is an absolute no. Heavily advertised chemical-based drain cleaners are extremely harmful to pipes. They can also be a danger to pets and to children. Also, they’re not the permanent solution to unclogging a drain. Use the vinegar and baking soda solution instead because they are the safer option. You can also pour boiling water down the drains to get rid of the smaller food particles stuck in the pipes.

5. How can we prevent frozen pipes?

The best way to prevent frozen pipes is to insulate them when the temperature reaches the freezing point. You can just purchase some insulating material at your local hardware store or you can also call a plumber in Helotes, TX if you need assistance with us. Another way to prevent the pipes from freezing and expanding and bursting is to slightly open the faucets of warm water to flow through your plumbing pipes. And if you have the heating on, open all the cabinet doors to let warm air flow circulate in these areas. If you need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact a plumber in your area.

6. My water bill is suddenly higher this month. What’s wrong with this?

When the water bill is higher this month, this can indicate a leak in your plumbing. The best thing you can do is call a plumber in Helotes, TX for professional leak detection. Our plumbing experts can help locate the leak and fix the problem for you. Other signs to watch out for include low water pressure, and seeing water posts in the ceilings or walls. Make sure you get in touch with us immediately so we can help alleviate the problem.

Our plumbing team at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of San Antonio isn’t just highly trained, we’re also fully equipped to help us properly diagnose the problem and permanently fix it for you. Call us at your earliest convenience and our professional team will send a team to your location the soonest possible time.

7. Should we switch to tankless water heaters?

If your goal is to save money in the long run, then yes, we recommend installing tankless water heaters for your home. The only downside to buying a tankless water heater is that it costs more than a conventional water heater. However, there’s no standby heat loss, which means you only use energy when you turn on the tap or the shower. With the regular water heater, you need to constantly turn it on to have hot water. So in the long run, you can save money with the tankless water heater.

The tankless unit can also last up to 20 years and the regular water heater tank can only last up to 10 years. When you go with the tankless unit, this means you won’t have to keep buying a new unit every 10 years. Additionally, you only have to install the tankless water heater to your bathroom wall, saving you space. For installation though, please make sure to only hire a licensed plumber in Helotes, TX.

8. Why do we need to install a sump pump?

You need to install a sump pump if you have a basement and your area is prone to getting storms. This device can help prevent flooding in the basement. However, you do need to make sure the device works by testing it and by regularly maintaining it. We also recommend you get backup batteries as the power is likely to go out during a storm. For the installation of a new unit, contact us today.

9. Do we really need garbage disposal?

Yes, if you need help in effectively managing your food waste. You can prevent clogged drains when you have a garbage disposal installed. As to the type of disposal to install for your home, contact us today. Our team can help you make an informed decision. We can also properly install the unit for you.

10. How can we save money with our plumbing?

There are many ways to save money on your plumbing. You can conserve energy and water, and eventually save money by installing energy-efficient water heaters and other appliances. You might want to also consider installing dual flush toilets and low-flow showers to conserve water. And of course, you can save money by taking care of your plumbing. Get routine inspections to ensure your plumbing is in excellent shape. Otherwise, you might end up with a catastrophic plumbing repair that can cost you a lot. Other ways to save money include hiring a licensed plumber, to perform major repairs and installations. Installing leak detection devices, garbage disposals and sump pumps can prevent flooding. If there’s no flooding, you get to avoid paying for costly repairs.

11. What are the best ways to prevent water damage?

We’ve already discussed the importance of insulating the plumbing pipes come winter. You need to protect them to ensure the water inside the pipes doesn’t freeze. When it freezes, the pipes can expand and then burst. If the pipes happen to be in your kitchen or bathroom, expect a flooded home. And this can cost you a lot in repairs, restorations and also replacements.

If you have high water pressure, please make sure to call a plumber to fix the problem. High water pressure can severely damage the plumbing pipes; it can eventually lead to a costly plumbing repair when not addressed right away.

12. Why do we need to hire a licensed plumber?

Licensed professionals have the right credentials and are trained to properly carry out the tasks. They’re also highly experienced, making them experts in the field. A licensed plumber also prioritizes your safety and the safety of your home. They’re fully equipped to provide the right services and ensure the safety of your property. You need to hire a licensed professional if you want to make sure the problem is indeed permanently resolved. The last thing you want to do is to hire another plumber because the previous one you hired didn’t get the job done right the first time. You won’t have to worry about this when hiring a plumber. Our plumbing team at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of San Antonio will never leave your home unless we’re certain everything is really fixed and there are no issues unresolved.

13. What kind of services do you provide?

We provide a wide range of plumbing services both for homeowners and businesses in the area. We can help repair water heaters, plumbing pipes, garbage disposals, water main or your sump pump. Our plumbing experts can also do major plumbing installations and maintenance. Additionally, we can also help with professional drain cleaning services and leak detection. Most importantly, we provide 24/7 emergency plumbing services. We’re available even in the wee hours to ensure you’re getting immediate plumbing service when you need it. Call us today and we’ll quickly dispatch a plumber to your location immediately.

14. Can I install appliances on my own?

Manufacturers do provide instructions on how to properly install the unit. And some homeowners do try to install them on their own to save money on the installation costs. This is okay but there’s also a risk involved. For example, some manufacturers might require you to get a professional installation to be able to keep your warranty. Also, a minor mistake during the installation process can affect the efficiency of your unit. To avoid more problems and costly repairs, it’s better to hire a plumber for it. This way you’re certain the appliance is correctly installed. You have peace of mind that your unit will not suddenly malfunction.

15. We have a neighbor who offers plumbing services for a cheaper price. Should I hire him?

When it comes to major plumbing repairs, we always suggest you only hire a licensed professional. DIY enthusiasts are not properly trained and experienced to handle plumbing problems, so they may likely make a mistake. When this happens, you will have no choice but to hire another plumber and this can cost you more money too. Also, they don’t have insurance so if they get injured on the job, you will have to shoulder all the medical expenses. You can avoid all these by hiring licensed professionals for all repairs or installations.

Contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of San Antonio Today

Do you need a plumber in Helotes, TX? We’re available around the clock to provide assistance. Our plumbing experts can handle any plumbing repairs. This includes everything from fixing major plumbing appliances to doing maintenance and professional drain cleaning services. Please reach out to us today and we’re more than happy to help. We are an established plumbing company committed to providing exceptional plumbing services at every appointment. Call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of San Antonio today.

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