WHY SHOULD I HIRE A PROFESSIONAL PLUMBER?
When you have a plumbing problem, there are many reasons you might want to repair it yourself—saving time and money are the most common. Yet even with all the online tutorials available, some plumbing issues can be quite difficult to tackle on your own, especially if you’re new to DIY home maintenance. Before you fully commit to a DIY plumbing repair job, there are several reasons you should consider hiring a professional.
1. SAVE TIME
While the DIY approach sounds like a time-saver, if you’re addressing a problem you’ve never faced before, you’ll spend a significant amount of time scouring the web for instructional articles and videos to help you on the way. Factor in trips to the hardware store, plus time to do the actual repair, and you’ll suddenly wonder where a whole weekend went. In general, it will take you longer to accumulate the knowledge, tools, and supplies you need to do the job than it would to just hire a professional plumber. How much is your time worth?
2. WARRANTY PROTECTION
When you have a professional come to make a repair, their work is typically under warranty. If something were to go wrong, they will come back to follow up with the repair. If you do the work on your own and something goes wrong, the issue can quickly get much more expensive.
3. PEACE OF MIND
Unless you have extensive experience in plumbing repair, you may find yourself questioning your work and whether it was done correctly. Not to mention, all the online tutorials can’t provide advice that is exactly appropriate for the age of your home, extent of the problem, or other unique characteristics of your issue. When you hire a professional, they’ll tailor the solution to the exact nature of your issue so you know it’s fixed correctly.
4. PROPER TOOLS
When you try to do a plumbing repair, you may find yourself spending more and more time making repeat trips to the hardware store for special tools or hardware. Are you really saving money buying a bunch of tools you may never use again? A professional plumber is already fully equipped with a range of tools and hardware, saving you the hassle of having to buy it yourself.
5. QUICKER REPAIRS
Do you really have time to address an emergency plumbing situation right now? Dropping everything to fix a serious plumbing emergency gets in the way of work and family time. If the repair is minor or less urgent, many homeowners find themselves putting off the repair “until they have time” and risking the problem worsening over time. Professional plumbers can be on site and get the job done in a matter of hours, leaving you free to maintain your own schedule without the added stress of more home repair projects.
When it comes to fixing major plumbing problems, give the professional plumbers at Roto-Rooter a call. Our experts are ready 24/7 to take on plumbing issues big and small, from dripping faucets and pipe leaks, to sewer & drain cleaning and water heater replacement. We also offer specialty services to tackle complex emergency repairs
THE BENEFITS OF A Kernow Plumbing PLUMBING SPECIALIST
Who can you rely on to get things back to normal when pipes burst open and the house floods?
When a leaky drain is the last straw, you need an expert that can repair it quickly and efficiently to minimize collateral damage.
Since 1935, Kernow Plumbing has been providing outstanding service for a full spectrum of plumbing issues. Our technicians are trained and certified to handle just about anything, from frozen pipes and blocked sewer lines to flood damage and water restoration. Every Kernow Plumbing plumber keeps the customer at top of mind, and our commitment to transparency means there are no hidden costs or fees that you aren’t aware of up front. Also, we have a huge array of plumbing tools and products to help boost your own home plumbing repair and maintenance efforts that are industry standard and widely used and trusted.
DEALING WITH PLUMBING PROBLEMS
There are a lot of things you can do. However, the smartest may well be to call on a professional to handle it. Of course, you may accuse us of being bias on this and you would be right, but we can make a solid argument why that is the right choice.
First, when you call in a professional you will have the issue resolved much quicker than if you try to solve it on your own. When a pro plumber comes into your home they can diagnose the issue much quicker and then have it fixed ten times faster because they have the knowledge, tools and experience to get the job done quickly.
Next, by trying to do it yourself you may be causing further issues to be dealt with. As well intentioned as you are if you drop parts down the drain or break some plumbing pipe along the way to trying to fix the plumbing yourself it will now cost you more money to have it fixed.
Finally, when you try to avoid calling us to come and help you there is a high likelihood that you are not going to get the job done completely correctly and this could cause issues in the near future. Even if it is fixed now, it may be temporary and the real issue may get larger and come back a lot worse in the future.
As long as you are going to own a home or rent an apartment, you should learn the phone number and other contact methods of your local plumbers. They will be on call and they are happy to help whenever with your plumbing problems. You would be wise to find a plumber with whom you are happy with and that can become your regular. When this becomes the case you are bound to be more comfortable calling them to come in and do some repair work when it is needed.
We here at Kernow Plumbing value our relationships with our customers and we would like to establish a long term relationship with you in which you always feel comfortable calling us for any of your plumbing needs. We will go the extra mile to make sure that we not only fix your problems but that we empower you to take care of some of the things on your own if you wish.
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WHY IS PLUMBING IMPORTANT? PLUMBING SERVICES YOU SHOULD KNOW OF
No one likes leaking pipes and puddles of water in their homes. That’s where plumbers become your go-to people. From working in commercial as well as residential areas, plumbers make sure that your drainage system is installed and working properly. Can you even for a moment imagine not having access to clean drinking and bathing water? Plumbers specialize in maintenance and repair work of your household water systems so that you never have to worry.
Why is plumbing important?
Plumbing is as important to your residential or commercial building as oxygen is to the body. Plumbing services ensure that water comes in and out of your house properly. Although plumbing is widely associated with water related services but that is not all that it pertains to- plumbing includes installation and maintenance of heating systems, water boilers, furnaces, washing machines and much more. A faulty pipe or leakage means excess moisture inside the house which can cause mold and fungus to grow. A clogged toilet or sink can hinder your daily routine tasks. So to ensure that your household is running proper and maintained plumbing systems, you need to get them checked every few months.
Plumbing services
If you reside in Cleveland GA, Metro Plumbing Heating and Air offer a variety of plumbing services which include:
- Plumbing repairs
- Drain cleaning
- Garbage disposals
- Faucets, Fixtures and Sinks
- Hydrojetting
- Leak detection and repair
- Clogged toilet repair
- Main line cleaning
- Bust pipe repair
- Sump pumps
- Water filtration
- Water softeners
- Water heaters
- Jet Vacuum sewer line services
- Sewer line camera inspection
- Septic tank plumbing
- Main line camera
- Sewer line repair
- Storm drain cleaning
To help you better understand, here are a few details about some services
Drain cleaning
Your sink or toilet drain can get blocked easily and if not fixed in time, it can elevate the problems and can even cause overflow of water. To clean a drain, it first needs to be inspected to find the cause of blockage and then a suitable action to resolve the problem needs to take place. Kernow Plumbing Heating and Air provide camera inspection service for a much better inspection.
Garbage disposal
A garbage disposal plumbing system can help you dispose of your waste in an efficient and environment-friendly manner. Powered by electricity, a garbage disposal system is attached to the sink and the trap. It gathers all the waste products and shreds them into small pieces, making it easier for the waste to run through the pipes.
Hydrojetting
If your drainage system is blocked and simple plumbing techniques haven’t worked, then hydro jetting will certainly do the trick — the method is simple yet effective; water is blasted through the blocked drains to unclog them. However, this method can only be carried out by highly professional plumbers.
Sewer line repair
Sewer line damages can be a living nightmare. They can keep you up at night and emit foul odor that maybe harmful for health. Whether you are certain or not, suspected sewer line damage requires immediate repair. It can weaken the foundation of your house, creating further problems for you. If you sense a weird smell around the house, get in touch with a plumbing professional in Cleveland GA.
Jet vacuum sewer line services
Earlier, the best way to deal with clogged sewer lines was to dig a hole in the ground, locate the faulty pipe and replace it. This method was time consuming and also damaging to the surrounding area. Then came in an efficient, environment-friendly and relatively cost-effective way to clean sewer lines: jet vacuum. Through this method, high-powered jets are sent through the lines, ensuring the line is cleaned and no damage is done to the pipe.
Sump pump
Natural disasters such as floods cannot be avoided, but there are ways to ensure that your house is not damaged by the excess water. Sump pump takes water from the base of your house and pumps it out. It is placed at the lowest point of your house, covering the entire basement area. It can also prove to be helpful in case of a pipe burst emergency.
Certified plumbing services
The DIY blogs can sometimes be a life saver but can also add to your misery. You might come across a plethora of blogs suggesting ways on how you can unclog your toilet, drain and fix a leaking pipe like a plumber but the fact of the matter is that there are certain things that we cannot do on our own and plumbing is one of them. Plumbing is a tedious and difficult task and one wrong step can make matters worse for you; which is why it is highly recommended to get in touch with a certified plumber like Kernow Plumbing benefit of better cost, a plan according to your needs making it cost efficient.
Kernow Plumbing provides a wide variety of plumbing services. They are a family owned business and do not talk you into services that you don’t require. What makes their service truly exceptional is the ‘emergency plumbing service’ so if you need an emergency plumber, you can get in touch with a Kernow Plumbing professional. It is an insured company and can solve all your plumbing problems.
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Tips For Hiring a Professional Plumber For Water Pipe Repair Services
Do you have a broken water pipe? If yes, going for the repair immediately is quite essential for you. A plumbing crisis like a broken pipe or water leakage can occur at any time. These plumbing issues are always uninvited and if you do not timely treat these problems, you can get involved in a massive and expensive crisis.
As a cautious homeowner, you would immediately look for a water pipe repair service. Hiring a plumber not only helps you deal with your plumbing issues but can also help you decide on a little renovation and remodeling which will greatly enhance the value of your property. When hiring a plumber, it is important how you proceed with your hunt. If you want to hire someone reliable for the job, you must proceed with care. Given below are some of the tips that you need to follow when you are hiring a professional plumber for your emergency plumbing needs.
Table of Contents
- 1.Explore The Web
- 2.Take Recommendations From Peers
- 3.Check Licensing
- 4.Ask About Insurance
- 5.Ask For Previous Works
- 6.Ask About The Credibility Of Contractors
Explore The Web
The Internet is the best place to look for the best contractors working in your area. There are plenty of review sites available on the internet where real customers can publish their reviews after using a product or a service. You can read these reviews at any time when you require a plumbing service. All you are supposed to do is search for genuine review sites.
Take Recommendations From Peers
This is another must-follow tip when you are looking for professional plumbers. The word of mouth always helps whether you are looking for a plumbing company or an electrician. If someone does a quality job, surely the customers will appraise his work. You can make the call to your friends and colleagues to share with you the details of an expert plumber with whom they have personal experience of working.
Check Licensing
When you hire a plumber for repairing your water, you must know that he is qualified for the job. It is your right that you should know about the detailed qualification of the person who is working on your plumbing system. Usually, it happens that the license of the plumber gets expired and he does not bother to get it renewed. So, it is always better to ask your plumber to show his license. If he is credible enough, he would not mind you show his license.
Ask About Insurance
Whenever a plumber is working in your home, there is always a chance of injury, in case anything goes wrong with your project. If you choose to hire an insured plumber for repairing your water pipe, and any accidental injury occurs to him during the repair, you will not be liable to pay for the charges. You should ask your company if they have both liability insurance and worker’s compensation also. Having both these types of insurances will protect your interest.
Ask For Previous Works
When you choose to hire a trustworthy plumber, you can ask him to show you the photos and details of his previous work. It is always wise to take a look at the previously completed projects of a plumber as it gives you an overview of what kind of projects they usually take and you can have an idea if they will be handling your plumbing project or not.
Ask About The Credibility Of Contractors
When you are hiring a plumbing company for emergency plumbing services, it does not mean that you make a hasty decision. These plumbers are going to work in your home, so you need to make sure that the person who is coming to your home is credible enough.
Final Say!
Follow all these tips and you will be able to find the best plumber for repairing your broken water pipe and all other plumbing needs.
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8 REASONS TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL PLUMBER
8 REASONS TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL PLUMBER
Your plumbing is one of the most important systems in your home. Whether you need new plumbing installed during a home renovation, help with a plumbing repair or unexpected plumbing emergency, there are many reasons to hire a professional plumber. Here are the top 8 reasons:
1. Plumbers know what they’re doing. A Master Plumber has extensive training, knowledge and practical experience. From the installation of pipes to repairing leaks and other issues, a licensed plumber has the experience and skills to ensure the job done right the first time with permanent results.
2. Plumbers have the proper tools and materials. When you hire a professional plumbing companies in Edmonton they will arrive with all of the tools and materials required for the job. This saves you hours running back and forth from the hardware store picking up parts and buying tools you’ll never use again.
3. Edmonton plumbing companies offer multiple services. Hiring a professional plumber gives you access to a wide variety of services to install, repair or maintain your plumbing system. Installing new pipes, replacing old pipes, identify blockages, repairing leaks, installing major appliances – they can take care of all those things for you. Learn how to fix a leaky faucet.
4. Plumbers can find hard-to-find problems with your plumbing. Sometimes a seemingly simple problem like a leaky pipe can have a hard-to-find root cause. Edmonton plumbers can more easily find those hidden issues, checking your entire plumbing system to identify the root cause and ensure all repairs are completed so the issue does not reoccur. Learn how to troubleshoot plumbing problems.
5. Professional plumbing services help protect your property. You think you have resolved the plumbing issue, but then come home to a basement or bathroom full of water. Water can do extensive and expensive damage to your home. Hiring a professional plumber will ensure those things don’t happen, protecting your property, giving you peace of mind and saving you money from costly repairs.
6. Plumbers can help prevent havoc. Having a plumber come in for repairs and regular check-ups of your plumbing system will not only maintain it’s function, it will also detect problems early before they cause a disaster and expensive damage.
7. Plumbing companies offer on-going customer support. If you’ve had a repair done by a reputable plumbing company, you now have access to expert advice and professional services should you come across another issue or plumbing emergency. They will be there for you, providing exceptional customer service.
8. Plumbers can save you from an unexpected plumbing emergency! Plumbing emergencies can cause extensive water damage or be incredibly gross! A professional plumber will offer emergency services and will come to your rescue in a very short period of time. Most plumbers offer immediate response to your plumbing emergency 24/7.
Find the best plumbers in Edmonton
Hiring a Plumbing Contractor to rough in plumbing for new construction or major home renovations will ensure your plumbing system is working properly, efficiently and to code. Kernow plumbers will also respond to plumbing emergencies, fixing the problem before it results in more costly damage and making sure your plumbing system and fixtures are in good working order. Renovation find contains the best plumbers in Edmonton. They have a proven reputation for exceptional customer service and quality workmanship.
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7 Preventive Winter Plumbing Tips
Plumbing Tips for Homes in DC, Maryland & Virginia
Winter is coming. Is your home ready? Winter weather and freezing temperatures can be hard on your plumbing, but a few simple steps can help protect it. As you prepare for the coming cold season, protect your home from frozen and burst pipes with these seven steps.
1. Fix Plumbing Leaks
Leaving leaks during the winter is never wise. Leaks, no matter the season, add to wasted water and utility expenses, so the sooner you address them, the better. Should the leaky area freeze in the winter, the water will expand. This increases the size of the leak and the amount of money you must spend to repair it.
2. Keep a Dripping Faucet
Before you go to bed if the temperature is forecasted to dip below freezing, turn on a faucet with pipes running along an exterior wall for a slow drip. This keeps the water flowing, which reduces the risk of freezing. It also protects against burst pipes if the water does freeze because it prevents pressure from building up between the faucet and an ice formation.
3. Open Cabinets
Open the cabinets that hide your pipes, like the cabinets under your sinks. This allows more heat to flow to them, which can prevent freezing. This is particularly helpful for cabinets and pipes along exterior walls.
4. Add Pipe Insulation
Add pipe insulation on exposed pipes in your basement, along exterior walls, and outside your home. Wrap pipes in insulation tubes made from fiberglass or polyethylene to add a layer of protection against freezing. All unheated areas of your home that have pipes need pipe insulation on the pipes.
5. Disconnect Any Outdoor Pipes
Disconnect outdoor pipes by loosening the hose and turning off the valve leading to the outdoor water spigot. This prevents water from running to exterior lines, where it is more liable to freeze. It also eliminates the risk of water remaining in the hose from damaging the faucet. Store the hose indoors so it does not suffer damage over the winter months.
6. Seal Off Your Crawl Space
A ventilated crawl space is often a problem in the winter. Seal off crawl space vents with thick cardboard and duct tape. This will protect any pipes that run through the crawl space. In addition, seal the access to the crawl space to prevent cold air from entering the space. If you have a basement instead of a crawl space, inspect the windows to ensure they are not letting cold air in.
7. Drain Your Water Heater
Over time, hard water causes sediment buildup in the water heater. This sediment turns into rust, which you could end up drinking or cooking with. As you prepare the home for winter, drain the water heater to remove some of the sediment. If you find that the water coming out is rusted, consider purchasing a new water heater before it gets too much colder. You need to know you have reliable hot water when the winter months hit.
Getting your home and your plumbing systems ready for winter isn’t hard, but it does require a little bit of attention. To make sure you’re getting everything right, consider partnering with the pros at Kernow PLumbing. Reach out for an estimate today
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What Are The Types Of Plumbing Systems?
Whenever someone thinks about plumbing, they usually think about their sinks, showers, and toilets. However, plumbing is more complicated than that.
All plumbing systems are connected to a series of pipes that have two uses; for us to use and to get rid of waste. Here’s what you need to know about the different types of plumbing systems.
THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF PLUMBING
There are three different types of plumbing systems; sanitary drainage, stormwater drainage, and potable water. Each of these systems has its own unique functions and purposes. Here is a more in-depth look into how these systems operate.
SANITARY DRAINAGE SYSTEM
A sanitary drainage system is what helps get rid of wastewater. This system contains a series of pipes that were designed to specifically dispose of waste. This waste comes from things such as doing the laundry and putting food down the drain. Once the waste enters the pipes, it is then transferred to a local sewer system.
STORMWATER DRAINAGE SYSTEM
You may have noticed those little holes on the sidewalk. Those are known as storm drains. These are used to carry excess water away from a house. Back in the day, the water that went down a storm drain used to go into a sanitary drainage system. And in some areas, they still do. These days, however, rainwater is sent to a storm sewer instead.
Your gutters also play a pivotal role when it comes to draining rainwater. However, if they’re not maintained, it can lead to serious issues.
Here are a few common signs of malfunctioning gutters:
- The paint starts peeling off the house
- The gutters are cracked
- The gutters are split
- Your home has sustained water damage
POTABLE WATER SYSTEM
A potable water system is what enables people to use water within a building. This system is comprised of various pipes that are connected to a single system. A valve can be located on this system, which is used to cut off the water supply. Furthermore, there is also usually a meter that tells you how much water is being used throughout the building.
Plumbing may seem cut and dry, but in actuality, it’s can be complicated. If you’re in need of plumbing service, contact us at kernowplumbing.net for immediate assistance.
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The Three Major Types of Plumbing Systems
A look at the three major types of plumbing systems in order to gain a better understanding of the field of plumbing as a whole.
An Overview of Plumbing Systems
The plumbing in any building serves two main purposes. The first is to bring water into the structure for human use, and the second is to remove wastewater of various types. There are three main types of plumbing systems: potable water, sanitary drainage and stormwater drainage. A good commercial plumber in Las Vegas knows how to do plumbing work within these three systems according to local building codes.
Potable Water System
The potable water system brings water into a structure; this water comes from the community water main. There is a valve on the water main itself for each structure that can be used to shut off its water supply. From there, a single pipe brings water into the structure, and it is then distributed to individual fixtures through a network of pipes. A meter keeps track of how much total water enters the structure.
Sanitary Drainage System
The sanitary drainage system removes wastewater from a building. It consists of pipes that take out human waste and fecal matter as well as wastewater from cooking, laundry, etc. The sanitary drainage system is connected to a series of vent pipes that go through the roof vertically; this allows for the venting of gases and for the entire system to operate at atmospheric pressure. The sanitary drainage system ultimately takes wastewater to the community sewer system.
Stormwater Drainage System
The purpose of the stormwater drainage system is to carry rainwater away from a structure. In older structures, rainwater simply drains into the sanitary drainage system, but in buildings that are more modern a separate system of drains carries water into the community storm sewers. Gutters are a part of the stormwater drainage system visible from outside the structure; other components, such as drains and pipes, are below the ground.Share this post!
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7 Tips For Planning Your Plumbing When Building A New Home
Building a new home requires dedicated planning and considerations before starting with the construction process. If you’re building a new house, you need to consider not only the decorations but also the plumbing, HVAC systems, and construction materials that’ll be used.
It can be stressful and troublesome if you build a home without the right preparations. For instance, a poor plumbing system can cause leaks and major water damage in the future. To avoid problems, you need to ensure that plumbing systems are properly installed.
Here are excellent and safety tips you can use when installing a new home’s plumbing system.
1. Secure Permits
The first thing you need to do before installing a plumbing system is to obtain and secure the right permits. It may take you some time to process everything, but securing permits will help ensure that your home meets all code guidelines and safety requirements. For you and your family’s safety, a permit allows professionals to inspect and check any mistakes in your plumbing design and prevent pipe malfunctions in the future.
2. Think About Your Plumbing Needs
It would be best to consider your present and future plumbing needs when designing a plumbing system. It means that you need to decide where your drain lines, plumbing, and sewer are installed to ensure functionality. Incorporate every present and future water needs in your plumbing system while you can still access it easily and avoid spending money on repairs in the future.
You should also consider your outdoor plumbing needs to ensure that you have enough outdoor plumbing faucet connections that you can use around your house. Consider seasons as well to make sure that your pipes are sturdy and will last despite extreme weather conditions, especially during winter.
3. Centralize the Plumbing System
When installing a plumbing system, installing everything in one place for easier maintenance and repairs in the future is crucial. Some of the appliances you should install together include the following:
- Water Softener
- Water Heater
- Furnace
- Sewer Connection
- Sewage Ejector Pit
- Sump Pump
You can install these together in the basement as it’s the most convenient space to put your system without being an eyesore. If you don’t have a basement, you can install them on the main floor, and inside a utility closet so they’re still properly tucked away.
4. Consider Water Softeners
If you have hard water issues, installing water softeners would be perfect for your home. You should also consider installing one even if you don’t have issues right now to ensure that you’ll be able to solve this type of issue in the future. It’ll be challenging to install water softeners in the future so save yourself from extra payments by installing one while building your home.
Always think from a long-term perspective when installing something for your home. By thinking of your future needs, you can save money and avoid stress from needing to install new appliances for your system.
5. Wet Wall Sharing
Sharing a wet wall can help you save money when building a home. What exactly is a wet wall? A wet wall houses the sewer lines, water supply lines, and vent stacks. Houses typically have separate wet walls for different rooms like bathrooms and kitchen to house the pipes, but you can save money by sharing a wet wall instead. You can make a layout where bathrooms share a wall or a kitchen and laundry room share a wet wall.
You can save money by having a shared wet wall because it’ll reduce the labor and materials you need to install them. It’ll also be easier to maintain and repair your plumbing if the pipes are together in one place.
6. List Down Rooms That Need Water Access
It would be best to consider all the rooms that need water access when designing your plumbing system’s layout. The top 3 areas you need to consider are the bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry area.
- Bathroom
Consider how many bathrooms you need when designing a house, and it’s best to evaluate them individually. Will you have a guest bathroom? A bathtub? A Jacuzzi? A Shower? It would be best to list down what luxuries your bathroom will have along with the necessary toilets and sinks.
- Kitchen
When designing the kitchen, you need to consider the appliances you will have in the kitchen. You want water lines for your refrigerator, dishwasher, and sink. You should also consider the future renovations you might have, such as adding a kitchen island that needs a plumbing line if you want to install a sink in the future.
- Laundry Area
The laundry area is as important as the bathrooms and kitchen. You need to put the washer connections in the right place so they’re easier to install and use. You should also have a proper drainage line in the laundry area to avoid water buildup on the floor whenever you’re washing the clothes.
Aside from these 3 priorities, you should also have a proper plumbing layout if you want a garden, an outdoor tub, and a pool. Prepare a layout for everything, even the ones you currently don’t need, to make future installations easier.
7. Accessible Shut-Off Placement
You may want easy access to your main shut-off valve in case of emergencies. While others typically place them on hard-to-reach areas, you should opt for an area with easier access. By doing this, you can quickly shut off your plumbing system in case there’s a leak, a ruptured pipe, or even when you just need to do the regular maintenance check. You can prevent major water damage and save money if you can easily access your plumbing system’s main valve.
Takeaway
It can be costly to install new plumbing lines in the future. Avoid unnecessary spending by ensuring that your new home’s plumbing system design that’ll meet all your current and future plumbing needs! Ensure that you have a safety permit, a centralized plumbing system, and backup water softeners if you need them in the future. These simple tips will help you design a well-working plumbing system that will last long.
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Just Starting Plumbing Courses? 5 Tips for Beginner Plumbers
There’s so much to learn and remember at the start of trades training. Plumbing courses are no different. From technical terminology, tool names, building codes, and procedures, to just learning the names of your classmates—it can feel overwhelming at first.
However, with good instruction, hard work, and hands-on practice, your understanding and confidence will grow. Before you know it, you’re finished pre-apprenticeship training, completing your apprenticeship, and earning your Certificate of Qualification.
But in the meantime, what are some ways to ease your transition from plumber newbie to experienced pro?
Follow these 5 simple rules, and you’ll do just fine—not just in plumber courses, but throughout your entire career.
1. BUY THE BEST TOOLS YOU CAN AFFORD – AND MAINTAIN THEM
A quality pre-apprenticeship plumbing program will supply students with tools they can use during training, and take with them to begin an apprenticeship.
However, throughout your career, you will need to add to this collection—and any good plumber will tell you, it’s worth investing in the best tools you can get.
A high-end, properly maintained tool will have a big impact on the quality of your work (and will go a long way to prevent frustration and wasted time).
And don’t forget, this includes attire: good socks, boots, safety gear, and the right clothing for working in cold temperatures.
2. MAKE SAFETY YOUR TOP PRIORITY
What’s the golden safety rule of plumbing? Keep your hands out of your eyes, nose, and mouth—and never bite your fingernails!
You’ll be exposed to chemicals and bacteria, so protecting yourself with gloves and safety glasses is key. Of course, you’ll also need to pay close attention when working in confined spaces and at heights, and be sure to follow the safety procedures you’ll learn in plumbing courses.
Your employer and co-workers should make safety a top priority, but ultimately, it’s up to you to protect yourself, apply best practices, and keep alert.
3. ALWAYS CHECK YOUR WORK
Your employer and clients will always expect the job to be done right the first time. Nobody likes call-backs. It’s normal for small details to go unnoticed when you’re just starting out—so take the time to double-check your work.
Invest a few extra minutes to test out the drain you unclogged, the seal you repaired, the pipe you installed…and know your local plumbing codes and standards like the back of your hand.
4. SHOW UP ON TIME (STARTING WITH YOUR PLUMBING COURSES)
Think it’s no big deal to show up to class a few minutes late? Think again. Your instructor, and later on, your employer, will not take kindly to unreliability. What you lack in training and plumbing skills you must make up for in hard work, respect, and dependability.
Plan to arrive early, and make sure you’re ready to learn (and work) with the right tools, a good night’s rest, and a positive attitude.
And even after you’ve gained many years of experience, timeliness will continue to play an important role in delivering superior customer service.
Whether you’re responding to an emergency or making a routine maintenance visit, showing up on time is important for building trust with customers—and proving you’re a true professional.
5. OBSERVE THE PROS CLOSELY DURING PLUMBING TRAINING
You’ll go through several years of instruction to become a certified plumber. Make the most of your trades training and apprenticeship to soak up everything you can from seasoned pros.
This starts during plumbing courses, where you’ll train with plumbers with many years of experience. Keep your eyes and ears open for opportunities to pick up new skills, extra tips, and avoid common errors.
Building the habit of observation and continued learning will serve you well during your entire plumbing career. There’s always something new to discover, and not just from fellow plumbers.
When you’re out on a job site, keep an eye on HVAC techs, electricians, and carpenters to understand related aspects of the building and maintenance process. After all, all of these systems are connected, and it helps to have a sense of the big picture.
Haven’t started training yet, and looking for a top-rated pre-apprenticeship plumbing program?
Your next step is to speak with Admissions. An Admissions Advisor will guide you through the Plumber program, costs, financial aid, how to apply, and more.
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The 5 Main Types of Plumbing Pipes for Your Home Plumbing System
1. PVC Pipes
Polyvinyl chloride pipes (PVC) are commonly used as part of a sink, toilet, or shower drain line. Its plastic tubing is ideal for this kind of usage because it protects the water from rust and corrosion better than other types of pipes. This capability also makes PVC pipe incredibly durable. Unless they are subject to some kind of damage, PVC pipes will last indefinitely.
PVC pipe is also able to handle high water pressure. This is why it can also serve as your home’s main water supply line. It is also a lighter-weight material, making it easier to work with than the more traditional galvanized steel piping options. PVC pipes contain a smooth inner lining as well, which protects against sediment buildup and makes them more resistant to blockages.
Drawbacks surrounding PVC pipe include limited size options, an inability to withstand hot water, and concerns over toxicity. Though PVC piping meets all standards set by the American National Standards Institute, there are concerns that it may introduce polyvinyl chloride chemicals into drinking water, potentially causing respiratory and reproductive issues. It is for this reason that some states have banned PVC plumbing pipes from transporting drinking water.
2. PEX Pipes
PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, piping also refers to an affordable plastic tubing commonly used for water supply lines. Similar to PVC piping, it prevents rust or corrosion from leaching into the water.
Professionals remain drawn to PEX pipes because they are flexible and easy to weave through walls, ceilings, basements, and crawl spaces. At the same time, they’re strong enough to withstand the pressures of your water supply. Cross-linked polyethylene pipe is also color-coded for hot and cold water, making it easy for plumbers to identify and organize when on the job.
3. ABS Pipes
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) pipe is similar to PVC pipes in nature but easy to identify based on their black color. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene is also particularly resilient to cold temperatures. It is predominantly used for vent and drain lines.
Though this kind of plumbing pipe is easy to install, it can warp when exposed to direct sunlight. ABS pipes are also noisier than other types of plumbing pipes, causing disturbances among some homeowners.
4. Copper Pipes
Copper pipe has been a staple within the plumbing industry for decades. This type of plumbing pipe can last upwards of 50 years and is commonly found in sinks, showers, tubs, and other fixtures in new and old homes. Copper pipes remain popular among plumbers and homeowners alike because they are corrosion-resistant and best suited to protect the quality of the water.
Copper pipes are able to handle high water pressure and are tolerant of both hot and cold water temperatures. It’s also able to be recycled, making it a somewhat environmentally-friendly option.
That said, are a few drawbacks to consider. Because it is so rigid, plumbers cannot use copper piping in tight spaces. It is also the most expensive type of plumbing pipe. As the price of copper continues to rise, so will the costs of any project involving copper pipe.
5. Cast Iron and Galvanized Steel Pipes
Cast iron pipe and galvanized steel pipe are rarely included in new construction, though they are commonly found in homes built in the early 20th century. Still, cast iron plumbing pipes are incredibly durable and remain in use for parts of water distribution systems today.
Cast iron pipes were typically used as sewer pipes or for other drainage purposes. Their popularity largely stemmed from the fact that they are heat-resistant and reduce the sound of moving water.
Unfortunately, the cast-iron pipe is prone to rust and corrosion. Over time, this will affect its ability to maintain a clean water supply. These types of pipes have largely been replaced by copper or PEX pipes in residential plumbing repairs.
Conclusion
Different plumbing pipe types are reserved for different purposes. For a successful career as a plumbing professional, you’ll need to know which to use for specific plumbing systems. Find out what it takes to get HVAC certified!
Learn everything there is to know about plumbing in residential, commercial, and industrial structures with our associate degree program in plumbing and heating technology. Students will be introduced to basic theory and practices of heating and plumbing and receive hands-on experience in a laboratory setting.
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